I am especially fond of you

Emma

2012-02-01T06:57:00.000-06:00

I love you sweet girl. Oh, to turn back the hands of time for just a little bit. This was a good time...

March 1, 2006--February 1, 2010

Today is the Day

2012-01-26T13:46:00.006-06:00

UPDATE:They ran the story!

Click HERE to watch the news segment.

Ok, the skies are blue, the sun is shining! It's a gorgeous day here in H-town! Tune in to KHOU channel 11 at 4 TODAY for the "What's Right" segment and see the Emma's Hugs story.

In the news

2012-01-24T19:15:00.002-06:00

Edited to update:
If you tried to catch the Emma's Hugs story on KHOU Channel 11 news at 4 today 1/25/12, you didn't miss it. The weather in the Houston area was severe today, so our story got bumped so everyone could see the effects of the weather. Bummer! We will post the new day the story will air as soon as we know it.

source

Sherry Williams, an anchor from KHOU, Channel 11 in Houston, Texas, followed Emma's Hugs respresentatives, Kelvin and Christy Dunnam (that's us) around Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital a couple of weeks ago. She was doing a story for their "What's Right" segment in which they feature weekly reports that highlight positive, inspiring stories in our community. They saw first hand what Emma's Hugs does. In case you're new around here, Emma's Hugs is the charity we founded in Emma's honor. The mission of this organization is to provide parking assistance for families in the Texas Medical Center. The story should air tomorrow, Wednesday, January 25, on the 4 o'clock news. Hopefully it won't get booted to another day because of all the bad weather forecasted for tomorrow. If you're in the Houston area, we hope you will watch, or set your DVR!

We're adopting

2012-01-20T22:54:00.000-06:00

We are adopting! We had our home visit tonight. Meet Princess.

She's an adorable black cocker spaniel. A really great foster family brought her over and Stephanie, the director of the cocker spaniel rescue group, came along to tell us all about life with a cocker spaniel. It was a sad good-bye when the foster family left...for them and her. They have had her since November. I can't imagine not wanting to adopt every dog they foster! Thank you Leigh Ann, Brad and girls for doing such a good job with her. She is a very sweet girl. She is still looking around the house for them, but I hope she begins feeling at home in her new forever home very soon. She seems to like the kids and found Kelvin's lap comfy indeed. Luke has big plans of taking her to the dog park tomorrow. We'll head to the store in the moring to get the essentials, and she will probably be worn smooth out from playing with three very energetic kiddos by tomorrow afternoon.

Hope you all have a good weekend!

Batten Disease is mean

2012-01-15T22:30:00.002-06:00

Please pray for my friends, Jenni and Andy. Their precious little girl, Celia, died this afternoon. She had infantile Batten Disease, just like Emma. I know they are extremely happy now, playing, running, jumping, flying. But I know too that Mom and Dad now have a whole in their hearts, one that will probably never completely heal.

Please remember all the families who have lost children to Batten Disease. There have been a lot lately. Batten Disease is mean. Like someone on my friend's blog said, "it plays dirty..."

Dirty:
-unethical
-not sportsmanlike
-unpleasant
-extremely unfortunate; thankless
-stormy; rough

Batten sure does play dirty.

Yes, it does. I fully believe a cure is insight. My heart aches deeply that Emma and Celia and so many others like them will not benefit from a cure, but I am hopeful for ones like Will and Christiane. Please continue to support the efforts of Batten Disease Support and Research Association and Beyond Batten. Tell your friends about Batten Disease. Encourage your representatives to give more funding to rare diseases. Participate in fundraising events. Do what you can. And remember to pray for miracles and believe they can happen.

O Christmas Tree

2012-01-15T00:20:00.004-06:00

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree, You look lovely in my living room! (yes, still!) I am sooo lazy when it comes to unpacking and that sort of thing. I guess taking down the Christmas tree falls under the same category. I plan on staying up late tonight and getting it down...probably.

Kelvin and Carleigh are hunting this weekend. The other two kiddos and I have been holding down the fort. We had a good evening with my good friend and her little girl last night. I made some

Chicken Enchilada Soup

Brown 1 onion (finely chopped) and 1 bell pepper (also finely chopped) in olive oil
When onion is transparent, add 3 TBS minced garlic
DO NOT BURN THE GARLIC
Add 2 large cartons of chicken stock
2 cans of garbanzo beans
2 cans of zucchini or two large fresh zucchini chopped
1 large can of Glory brand seasoned green beans
1 large can of pinto beans (Ranch if you like or refried if you want a creamy soup) I added a can of black beans too!
2 cans of Rotel original (1 can of plain tomatoes if you like a little less kick)
1 large can of white hominy
1 package of enchilada sauce mix
2 bags of Tyson grilled and cubed chicken breast (comes in freezer section precooked or you can use a rotisserie chicken)

Simmer and serve. You can top with grated cheese, sour cream and cilantro.

Don't you just love soup? I especially love the kind where you just dump a bunch of good stuff together in a pot and simmer. Mmm Mmm good!

I also made some tomato basil soup the other day which Luke and I finished off this evening. I could eat soup every day.

So, my friend and I spent the evening perusing Pinterest and awesome blogs. There are so many creative people in this world! I love seeing all the wonderful ideas out there. Luke's good friend spent the night and Cora loved playing with my friend's daughter, so everyone had a great time. Love nights like that.

This morning, after Luke's friend went home, the kiddos and I loaded up and made the trek to Sugarland for a dog adoption day. I had already contacted one of the board members for the rescue group who was hosting the adoption day, so it was nice meeting her in person. All of the foster families were so kind and willing to answer all of our questions. We really thought we wanted a Springer Spaniel, but it doesn't seem to be working out with that group. It's been two months now, and we are no further along than we started. This new group, a cocker spaniel rescue group, seems to be on the ball. We are scheduled for a home visit Tuesday! (incentive to get the Christmas tree down.) Luke fell for a sweet cocker spaniel named Princess today. Her fur is smooth and black, and not curly, which is the main reason he likes her. Kind of funny to me since he's my boy with a head full of curly hair. Who knew?! Her foster family was precious and had very good things to say about her. She was so calm and lovey dovey. Anyway, I reminded him our entire family has to agree that she is the one for us before we sign on the dotted line. He understood. We shall see. Cora was extremely distraught that we didn't bring Princess home with us today. Luke wanted to brainstorm different names for the dog since Princess is so...girly! I told him I wasn't sure that was such a good idea since she isn't a puppy and is probably quite used to her name and that she is a girl after all, but that we would talk about it.

When we got back to our hometown, it was time for one of our good friend's birthday party. They rented a RoadGamer truck and had laser tag set up in the church gym. They also has some balls laying out for dodge ball. At one point during the party, it seemed that all the kids were playing dodge ball. My friend commented that wasn't that how it always happens...spend a bunch of money on fancy stuff, and the kids go for the simple thing. They loved the game trailer and the laser tag though. Everyone had a great time.

Well, I guess I'll go make another cup of coffee and bring down my Christmas ornament boxes now. Hope the weather is as beautiful where you are as it was here today. Wishing my friends Dane, Holly and Mark an awesome run in the Houston Marathon tomorrow! Have a fabuloso weekend!

Ouch!

2012-01-12T23:14:00.002-06:00

I. am. so. sore! That is all.

The gym

2012-01-09T13:06:00.000-06:00

I made it to the gym for my assessment and to kick off the start of my 30 day free membership. I guess that's all it will be at that particular gym, because they are mighty proud of their facility...not in the budget. Maybe I'll give the other gym in town a try again after the free 30. Anyway, I had an assessment and will have a free personal training day tomorrow with an adorable gal named Audra. She had an inspiring story to share of how she went from 200 pounds to the tiny little thing she is today. I think I can do it. I'm not 200 pounds, but I'm not anywhere close to where I want to be either. I am inspired though, and that's huge, right? I think so. Big problem with me is that I like to eat...a lot! I like to cook, I like having people over and cooking for them, I like to eat what I cook, and a little just doesn't do it for me most of the time. When I'm in the yucky part of my cycle (and there only seems to be a few days that aren't yucky) I like to eat even more. So, I'm praying those habits are replaced with good ones, and I won't be starving and ready to eat a half a cow with my smaller portions and less food in general. I'm on my way to fit and 40 (ugh)! I still can't get used to that number. Good thing I have 337 days, 4 hours, 54 minutes! :)

Firsts

2012-01-07T16:50:00.000-06:00

We had a couple of firsts yesterday.

Cora got her very first haircut. She was so excited. I told her a few days ago I made her an appointment. On the way to the hair dresser, we had to run an errand, and Cora fell asleep. Needless to say, she was not nearly as excited about her haircut once we woke her up after we arrived.

Carleigh had an appointment to get her hair trimmed yesterday after school. Cora was wide awake for that one. I had to chase her all over the salon. What a difference an hour makes! Veronica said, "Now, that's the Cora I know!" Carleigh's hair turned out very nice. She said she wants a straight iron. I said maybe for her 10th birthday that is in June. Did you care so much about hair and nails at 9? I don't remember either one being a big deal at that age.

Well, yesterday evening while we were at Target, Carleigh reminded me that she needed a bra. Can you believe I just typed those words?!? She is 9 1/2 years old, for crying out loud! I'm not liking this whole growing up thing...at. all! So, we scooted back to the little girl bra and panty section and picked out her little tank top bra. I didn't make a big deal in the store, but inside I was dying! This is killing me. How did she get to be 9 1/2 so fast? And when in the world did little girls start growing up and maturing so soon? I didn't need any undergarments until I was almost 11! Ugh! I wish I could rewind the clock and enjoy the days when she was little more. I will try to slow down time just a little and enjoy the days to come. There are so many changes to face...I don't think I'm ready.

Mighty Hunter Boy

2012-01-07T00:00:00.002-06:00

I forgot to share with you Luke's deer and hog. At 7 years old, he shot his first deer, an 8 point buck! He went hog hunting on Kelvin's cousin's property down the highway the day after Christmas and shot a 300 pound hog! He is my mighty hunter boy!

Resolutions

2012-01-06T00:00:00.047-06:00

I usually have quite a few things I like to think about changing when a new year rolls around. This year is no different...except that I only have

340 days, 20 hours, 22 minutes

from the time I began composing this post before I turn 40! I cannot believe I just wrote that number! I distinctly remember, like it was only yesterday, turning 30. I had our first child six months before. I didn't really like turning 30 all that much. Lots has happened in my thirties. I believe I have changed more during this decade than any other in my life. Some good, some not so much.

Anyway, I told a friend the other day, "I want to be 40 and fit, not 40 and flabby! (The latter of which, is my current state, unfortunately! ugh!) During a fundraising event I attended in December, and I'm chuckling as I write this, because it was called A Chocolate Affair, and we ate wonderful chocolate treats, I won the silent auction bid on a 30-day membership to a local fitness center. So, next week, I will march my flabby self into the fitness center and cash in my 30-day membership, including the personal trainer to tell me what to do to get myself on the right course! Yay me!

So, that's one of my goals or resolutions this year. I would also like to read more, memorize another chapter in the Bible (I've almost completed Colossians with my friend Rachel), eat less but better foods, read to my kids more, love them better, get outdoors more, drink more water and wine, take better care of myself, get to know something new about the love of my life, be intentional and purposeful in my everyday living, and make some changes around my house and yard.

I would like to learn how to sew...more than pillows. I would love to have a sewing mentor who would come to my house and teach me the ins and outs of sewing. I want to make my kids cool and cute things to wear...especially Carleigh, since a lot of the clothes available for her are more than hoochy! I want to make slip covers for my furniture and curtains for our rooms.

I would like to learn how to knit or crochet or whatever it is called. Maybe that dream will come true. A couple of friends of mine and I meet every week, and one of them is trying to line someone up to come teach us. Very cool!

I think it might be kinda cool to do a triatholon. (crazy, I know.)

I would like to be at peace. I feel completely unsettled. I yearn for a deeper relationship with the Father and others in my life.

I feel like my kids are growing up too fast. I want them to stay little for a while longer. I want to mold them into God-fearing, God-loving, and bold witnesses for Him. Sometimes I think I would love to homeschool them.

I want to slow down life. I don't like to hurry, but it seems like I am in a constant state of hurry. It makes me tired.

I want to be a better steward of our finances. I want to do a better job of meal planning, watch for sales on essentials, find coupons for the things I need, start special accounts for Christmas, clothes, and entertainment. I hate money. I wish we didn't have to have it.

How about you? Any resolutions or changes for 2012?

Epiphany

2012-01-05T00:00:00.013-06:00

I've learned recently that some do not take down their Christmas decor until after Epiphany. Seems I'll be joining those in this tradition this year. (I know you're not suprised. Just thought I would share. And besides, I didn't really get everything out until a week or so before Christmas...so what's the hurry?) We went to the deer lease for the New Year's weekend. It was good to get away. Seeing as how I wasn't here, I didn't get our Christmas decor down. I'm not sure that would have made much difference, but it's a good excuse, nonetheless.

Not knowing much about Epiphany, I decided to do a little research. I found this prayer and thought it was wonderful...

An Epiphany Prayer
(click for source)

Father, we thank you for revealing yourself to us in Jesus the Christ, we who once were not your people but whom you chose to adopt as your people. As ancient Israel confessed long ago, we realize that it was not because of our own righteousness, or our own superior wisdom, or strength, or power, or numbers. It was simply because you loved us, and chose to show us that love in Jesus.

As you have accepted us when we did not deserve your love, will you help us to accept those whom we find it hard to love? Forgive us, O Lord, for any attitude that we harbor that on any level sees ourselves as better or more righteous than others. Will you help us to remove the barriers of prejudice and to tear down the walls of bigotry, religious or social? O Lord, help us realize that the walls that we erect for others only form our own prisons!

Will you fill us so full of your love that there is no more room for intolerance. As you have forgiven us much, will you enable us with your strength to forgive others even more? Will you enable us through your abiding Presence among us, communally and individually, to live our lives in a manner worthy of the Name we bear?

May we, through your guidance and our faithful obedience, find new avenues in ways that we have not imagined of holding the Light of your love so that it may be a Light of revelation for all people.

We thank you for your love, praise you for your Gift, ask for your continued Presence with us, and bring these petitions in the name of your Son, who has truly revealed your heart.

Amen.

And Amen.

Inspiration

2012-01-04T00:46:00.000-06:00

The Inspiration

The Ice at Discovery Green is dedicated to Houstonians Jack Bennett and Evelyn Hoop Bennett. Jack and Evelyn met in 1936 on the ice at Houston’s old Polar Wave Ice Palace, just blocks away from Discovery Green. The couple fell in love on the ice, married, and continued to skate their entire life, well into their 80s. Until recently, the distinguished Mr. and Mrs. Bennett glided around the ice hand-in-hand, Jack in his coat and tie, and Evelyn always graceful in a stylish dress and pom-pom-topped skates. A true love story on the ice. A truly inspiring couple for skaters of all ages.

Some friends of mine and I took our kiddos ice skating last week to Discovery Green's outdoor rink. It was loverly! I so enjoyed watching them ice skating outside. Cora wanted to skate too, but I think she would have been run over...literally! Isn't the story above precious!? I just love a sweet story.

Carleigh and Luke taking a break to say "cheese" on the ice.

Carleigh and one of her good friends, Chloe

Our Balcony Girls

(minus one who couldn't come along)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.001-06:00

Love,

The Dunnams

Caved

2011-12-28T01:39:00.001-06:00

I finally caved. After years of the kids begging and finally Kelvin ~~guilting me into it~~ encouraging me that it was a good idea, I agreed to get the family a dog. I told Kelvin I would get to pick the breed because I would be the one staying home with him/her the most. After discussing what I did and didn't like and researching a bit, Kelvin suggested we go with an English Springer Spaniel.

We have some friends who foster golden retreivers, so we thought it would be a good idea to adopt a dog from a rescue group. I didn't want a puppy. This mama is just too tired to go through all that's involved with raising a puppy. Who knew this process would take soooo long or be so involved?! We've been waiting since Thanksgiving. I didn't realize I would have to complete an application or have a home visit. I really wanted to have the dog for the kids by Christmas, but this did not happen. Since the rescue group is run by volunteers, they do as they can. We're hoping they can make something happen soon so the kids don't drive us batty asking when the dog is coming. We'll be sure to post photos of our newest addition as soon as he/she arrives!

A bit of Christmas here and there

2011-12-27T14:15:00.000-06:00

Here is a glimpse into our home during Christmas time...

Christmas Card

2011-12-24T19:00:00.001-06:00

So, it's that time of year. Time to take the perfect family photo, make it into the perfect Christmas card, and mail it to all of your friends and family. Only our family photo will never be perfect again, because one of the members of our family is no longer here to smile alongside us. It's hard this time of year. It's hard during a lot of times of the year. It's hard learning how to keep on moving through life when all you want it to do is stop. I haven't had the energy the past couple of years to send out Christmas cards (or New Year cards as I'm better known for.) Maybe this will be the year. Maybe. Until then, please know we love you all so very much. We appreciate your kindness, your love and your unending support. Thank you. We wish you all the merriest of Christmases and the most blessed new year.

Meals and crafts

2011-12-24T00:09:00.000-06:00

So, my ENTIRE day was spent wrapping up lose ends on the Christmas list. I didn't have time to cook the tomato basil soup for today. I barely had time to push through the crowds at the grocery store to get stuff to make chili cheese dogs, which is what we ended up having for dinner tonight. Maybe next week I can fit in the soup and sandwiches that were on the menu for tonight...we'll see. Or maybe we'll fast next week since we've all eaten so much JUNK!! The kids made the adorable sugar cone Christmas trees with one of our precious babysitters today. They also made the cinnamon star oranments from the Truth in the Tinsel Advent e-book. It smelled soooo good when I walked in the house from the retail zoo.

Yes, Cora's nose, hands and anywhere else she could stamp herself is red. She loves putting stickers and stamps all over her body! She got extrememly upset with me when I tried getting the stamp off her face this morning. Carleigh loves anything that has sugar in it, as is demonstrated perfectly in the photo of her licking the butter knife. Love those kiddos!

Hope you're anticipating the birth of Emmanuel, God with us, as much as we are. Trying to decide what the perfect birthday breakfast would be on Christmas morning...a birthday breakfast for a King. Any suggestions?

Menu for the week of Christmas

2011-12-21T07:11:00.002-06:00

******edited to update*********
Here is the menu this week.

Sunday I found some chili in the freezer, so I thawed it and added some roasted tomatos, black beans, pinto beans and spices and had dinner for Monday. Don't you love it when that happens?

Monday
chili

Tuesday
pasta with chicken and squash and a little pesto

Wednesday
~~Tuscan Tuna and White Bean Salad~~ Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwiches

I chopped up some rotisserie chicken, slivered some almonds, added some mayo, Dijon mustard, a dash of curry powder and a dash of ginger, and stirred it up really well. I spread it on some honey wheat bread and put some salad leaves on each one. It was pretty yummy. It wasn't the Tuscan Tuna and White Bean Salad (recipe below), but it filled our bellies just the same. It was a busy day in the Texas Medical Center yesterday, and I didn't have time to go to the store for groceries. Emma's Hugs gave out over 330 days of parking yesterday!

Ingredients for main dish

30 oz. cannellini or white kidney beans, drained and rinsed
6 2/5 oz. chunk light tuna in water, (sold in pouches rather than cans)
1/4 red onion, finely diced (1/2 cup onion)
1 Tbsp. capers, chopped if desired
2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. red wine vinegar
1/4 lemon, juice only, 1 Tbsp.
1/8 tsp. black pepper, or to taste
10 fresh basil leaves, chopped (or use fresh flat-leaf parsley)

Ingredients for side dish - GARLIC TOAST

3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil (s)
1 tsp. minced garlic, (about 2 cloves) (s)
1/4 tsp. kosher salt (s)
1/4 tsp. fresh or dried rosemary (s)
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional) (s)
6 slices sourdough, French or challah bread (s)

Ingredients for side dish - GRAPE OR CHERRY TOMATOES

4 cups grape or cherry tomatoes (s)
1/2 cup ranch dressing or other dressing or dip (s)

In a large serving bowl, combine the beans, tuna, onions and capers.
In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, lemon juice and pepper, pour it over the tuna mixture, and stir thoroughly to combine. Gently stir in the basil and serve it immediately or refrigerate it for up to 3 days before serving. (Prepare the Garlic Toast, if you are serving it, while the salad chills. The salad is delicious on top of the toast).
Scramble Flavor Booster: Add a little lemon rind and/or red pepper flakes to the dressing mixture.
Tip:
Cannellini beans, like many other beans, are low in fat and high in protein. They are known for their off-white color, smooth texture and nutty flavor. You can substitute great northern or white navy beans for cannellinis.

SERVE WITH GARLIC TOAST & GRAPE OR CHERRY TOMATOESTo make Garlic Toast, preheat the oven to 400 degrees. In a small bowl, combine 3 Tbsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. minced garlic (about 2 cloves), 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, 1/4 tsp. fresh or dried rosemary, and 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional). Cut bread, such as sourdough, French or challah, into 1/2-inch thick slices (you only need about 6 slices). Brush the olive oil mixture evenly over the top of the bread. Bake it for 7 - 10 minutes until it starts to brown.
Serve it with grape or cherry tomatoes with your favorite dressing or dip, such as ranch or hummus.

Thursday
English Muffin Pizza Joes
Ingredients for main dish

6 whole grain English muffins, split
3/4 lb. 95% lean ground beef, turkey, or meatless crumble
1 cup red pasta sauce
1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced (1/2 cup)
1/4 yellow onion, finely diced (1/4 - 1/2 cup)
1 Tbsp. dried Italian seasoning
1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Ingredients for side dish - GREEN SALAD WITH GRAPES, GOAT CHEESE AND APPLE-DIJON DRESSING

1 head Boston, Bibb, or other soft leaf lettuce (s)
1 cup red grapes, halved (s)
2 Tbsp. goat cheese, crumbled (s)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (s)
3 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar (s)
1 Tbsp. honey (s)
1 Tbsp. grainy Dijon mustard (use wheat/gluten-free if needed) (s)
1/4 tsp. kosher or sea salt (s)
1/8 tsp. black pepper (s)

Heat the oven to 400 degrees. Spray a large baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or line it with a silicone mat or parchment paper. Put the English muffin halves on the baking sheet, and bake for 5 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, brown the beef over medium heat for 8 - 10 minutes, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. (Meanwhile, prepare the salad, if you are serving it.) Add the pasta sauce, bell peppers, onions and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking for 5 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally.
In a small bowl, combine the cheeses. Top each muffin half with about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture and 1 Tbsp. of cheese. Bake it for about 5 more minutes until the cheese is melted. Serve immediately.
Do Ahead or Delegate: Make the beef mixture, combine the cheeses, and refrigerate both.
Scramble Flavor Booster: Add some minced garlic or garlic powder to the meat when browning it.
Tip: If you want to preserve the texture of an English muffin (the "nooks and crannies") when halving it, try splitting it open as opposed to slicing it. You can do this by gently inserting your fingers or the tines of a fork about a 1/2 inch into the side of the muffin and then slowly pulling the remainder of the muffin apart.
SERVE WITH GREEN SALAD WITH GRAPES, GOAT CHEESE AND APPLE-DIJON DRESSING
In a salad bowl, combine 1 head Boston, Bibb or other soft lettuce, cut into bite-size pieces, 1 cup grapes, halved, and 2 Tbsp. goat cheese, crumbled. To make the apple-Dijon dressing, whisk together 1/3 cup olive oil, 3 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar, 1 Tbsp. honey, 1 Tbsp. grainy Dijon mustard, 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, and 1/8 tsp. black pepper. Toss the salad with 2 - 4 Tbsp. dressing and refrigerate any remaining dressing. (The dressing should make enough for about 2 salads).

Friday
Tomato Basil Soup with grilled cheese and bacon sandwiches

Saturday
Seafood Gumbo for Christmas

I also made an apple crisp with some vanilla ice cream for dessert last night. It was goooood! I hope to get around to making these cute little sugar cone Christmas Trees.

Luke really wants to make some gingerbread cookies, so I'm buying the ingredients for these chocolate orange snaps today.

Hope your home is full delicious smells and tasty treats!

the shepherds

2011-12-18T16:00:00.004-06:00

Why the shepherds? The first group of people that we know of that were given the most important birth announcement of all time were the shepherds. They weren't known for their wealth or their high place in society...in fact, just the opposite. They were a group out in the fields, away from the crowd, raising animals that would probably be used for the sacrifices at the temple in nearby Jerusalem. Why did God choose them? Why not the crowd in the city? Were they too busy to hear from Him that night? Were they too preoccupied? Too worried about the census? Too busy taking care of family and friends visiting for the census? Or was God more concerned about telling the world, that His son had come to the earth as a baby, wrapped in clothes and was lying in a manger? That His kingdom would be for all, even the lowly shepherds. I don't know what the answer is. Our pastor mentioned the shepherds this morning, and it made me wonder why them? I'm glad it was them. I'm glad He came and provided salvation for all. That we don't have to be of high status or have extreme wealth to know Him. I love this season we get to spend time reflecting and praising Him for his sacrifice.

Christmas vacation

2011-12-16T23:04:00.002-06:00

The kids are officially on Christmas vacation! I'm looking forward to the kids and I catching up on their Truth in the Tinsel Advent projects. They have looked so forward to doing them, and the evenings have gotten away from us with different activities. I like how they are focused more on Jesus this Christmas.

I still haven't finished decorating our house. I just don't have the energy and excitement I once did. Before Emma passed away, I never understood how someone could be blue at Christmas, but now I do. I hope tomorrow is the day of completion though. My other children would like to see the halls and walls and shelves and everything else decked out for Christmas.

I got something at the Nutcracker Market this year.(Actually they were sold out, so I had to order it later. It just came in today. I was like a giddy school girl opening the box from Twelve Timbers!) I am so excited about it. I think it is beautiful. It is simple...perfect.

All I had to take a photo with was my cell phone. ugh!

So, this is it...

the reason we celebrate and anticipate.

A child...wonderful counselor, mighty God, everlasting Father, the Prince of peace.

He is Emmanuel, God with us.

I wish for you a weekend full of hope and peace. A time for quiet reflection. I time to remember the child...Emmanuel.

Winter Snow

by Audrey Assad

Could've come like a mighty storm
With all the strength of a hurricane
You could've come like a forest fire
With the power of heaven in Your flame

But You came like a winter snow
Quiet and soft and slow
Falling from the sky in the night
To the earth below

You could've swept in like a tidal wave
Or an ocean to ravish our hearts
You could have come through like a roaring flood
To wipe away the things we've scarred

But You came like a winter snow
You were quiet
You were soft and slow
Falling from the sky in the night
To the earth below

Oh, no, Your voice wasn't in a bush burning
No, Your voice wasn't in a rushing wind
It was still
It was small
It was hidden

You came like a winter snow
Quiet and soft and slow
Falling from the sky in the night
To the earth below

Falling
To the earth below
You came falling
From the sky in the night
To the earth below

The Christmas Story

2011-12-13T13:46:00.002-06:00

I saw this on Jessica's blog. Isn't it the most adorable thing ever!? I love their sweet little voices. Enjoy!

Good Weekend

2011-12-12T13:30:00.002-06:00

Did you have a good weekend? We did. Friday Kelvin and I got to do some shopping with Cora. It was fun spending some time together with just her. We survived the Houston traffic, ate some yummy Mexican food, and even bought a couple of things. Then we headed home, got the big kids, took a breather, and headed back to Houston for a night with the kiddos. We ate at a quaint little Italian food place in Rice Village that we like called Gugliani's, and got some hot tea and hot chocolate after dinner to enjoy some of the Christmas lights in the area. Good times!

Saturday was the last football game and last time Carleigh would cheer for the season. It was a brisk morning, so we were all snuggling and trying to stay warm for the 9 o'clock cheer session. By Luke's game at 11, the sun began peeking his head out, so it was as cool. The kids did a great job! Luke is an awesome rusher! He made some incredible plays and scored a couple of touchdowns too.

Saturday afternoon we got to spend time with the Dunnam family. Kelvin's aunt and uncle have the perfect set up for our big ole group. The kids had a ball riding in the barrel train, on the camo golf cart, climbing up into the tree fort and riding the horse! Of course, I forgot the camera! Kelvin's cousins have children a little older than ours and some a little younger than ours, but they all had a good time playing together. I wish we could spend more time hanging out.

Saturday evening was spent saying our good byes for now to one of Kelvin's former bosses as he and his family head over to China (not China, Texas) to start up a new plant there.

Sunday was spent resting the morning away. The kids wanted to make a popcorn garland for their new little Christmas trees for their bedrooms, so I made a batch, and we started threading.

I think Cora ate more than Carleigh and Luke strung!

What a doll!

Finished product on Luke's tree

After all our hard work, we got dressed and headed to a Christmas parade. It was so much fun seeing friends and watching all the fun floats go by. Carleigh and Cora loved the candy. Luke's not such a fan...of candy or parades. He came around though. Next year I'm taking along a thermos of wassail!

Sheer delight!

Cora was so excited to see the parade start! It's so much fun having a little one around during Christmas. Everything is so exciting and new...like it should be.

Eagerly awaiting with bag in hand ready to load it with candy!

Cora's boyfriend, Hudson. Michelle and I are planning the wedding now. ;)

Carleigh, Michelle and Cora

cool float

The kindergarten center's float...Christmas in the Jungle

As I was catching up on Facebook yesterday morning, I learned my friend Clarissa's little Haylee is in the arms of Jesus now. She had Batten Disease like Emma. Though I know Clarissa is comforted by the fact that Haylee is in the arms of Jesus and running and jumping and playing, there is still a great sadness. Will you please say a prayer for Clarissa and her sweet family? Thank you.

Wishing you a week full of the Love of Christmas.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior,

who is Christ the Lord.

2011-12-10T07:00:00.001-06:00

2000 Decembers Ago

by Joy Williams

Did it feel like a night any different
Than at least a million before
Was there an air of expectation
Like there was some kind of something in store

Did the sky have to hold back the thunder
Did the moon find no reason to glow
Could the children somehow sense the wonder
2000 Decembers ago

Were the sheep as amazed as their shepherds
At the new Son that lit up the sky
Did the willow trees whisper excitement
To the rivers and streams passing by

Did the joy ricochet off the mountains
Till it filled up the valleys below
Did all the world sense love abounding
2000 Decembers ago

Was anyone able to look at the stable
And not see a child but a king
I wish I could hear back over the years
As heaven and nature sing
Heaven and nature sing

Did the walls of the barn start to tremble
With the glory they could not contain
Did anyone wake with the feeling
Of peace that they could not explain

Oh, the love must have been overwhelming
As it warmed everyone in its flow
For all of the earth is still telling of
2000 Decembers ago

Was anyone able to look at the stable
And not see a child but a king
I wish I could hear back over the years
As heaven and nature sing
Heaven and nature sing

I love the lyrics to this song. Can you just imagine? What must it have been like that night 2000 Decembers ago? I can't imagine giving birth in a stable. I wonder what Mary's labor was like. She was so young. I wonder if Joseph was a comforting coach or if she was completely alone giving birth to the Savior of the world. I was blessed with Kelvin by my side the entire time, encouraging me and wiping my forehead. We opted for an all natural birth for all of our children, so he was a crucial part of my success in carrying that desire through. I wonder what it was like to give birth to the very one who was there when she was created. I wonder what it was like to look deep into his eyes, knowing they had seen her before. I wonder what it was like to nurse the babe who created the very body from which he came. I wonder how it must have pained her so to see him some 33 years later hanging on a cross...to watch him die. I can imagine the whole in her heart, the depth of her despair. I wonder how overjoyed she must have been when he didn't need the grave clothes anymore!

I love that we were given such a precious gift. That it is so very and completely different from any other offer...

Unto us a Savior is born. He is Christ the Lord.

Christmas time is here

2011-12-08T20:44:00.001-06:00

Luke played football this year, and Carleigh cheered. We have had such a good time watching them on Saturday mornings. Today was their last practice, and Saturday is their last game. Luke has had a blast. He is an awesome rusher, and you should see him cutting back and forth for a touchdown! Carleigh has done an awesome job cheering. She got the star for leadership last week, and it was the perfect description for her. I am so proud of both of them.

We finally got the tree up the day before yesterday. The kids kept asking if we were ever going to get the Christmas decorations out this year! We're nowhere near done, but at least the tree is up and somewhat decorated.

If you are a friend of Kelvin's on Facebook, you heard the funny story about our ~~lime~~ orange tree. When we bought it, the lady told us it was a lime tree. For years we have tried using our awful limes. This year we left them alone more because we were too busy to harvest them than anything. Anyway, as you can see, this year, our limes made some really lovely oranges!

Our neighborhood is known for the beautiful lights. Last weekend the neighbors helped each other install arches over the street. Everything is so pretty at night.

Our house.

We have enjoyed some cool weather. The kids and I have been snugglin' by the fire with our hot chocolate...not much better than that!

Hope you're having a blessed Christmas season.

I'm so excited about this

2011-11-29T22:31:00.000-06:00

click on the picture for lots more!

I can't wait to start making Christmas memories with my kids this year. What do you like to do for Christmas with your children? For Advent? Can't wait to hear and see all of the cool ideas.

Merry Christmas

2011-11-28T11:46:00.002-06:00

Hope you all had a fabuloso Thanksgiving. We did. Way too much food, per normal. Maybe one year we'll get it right. Our family spent the long weekend at the deer lease. My mighty hunter boy gave it a good try, but there was no deer for the shooting this go around. We'll give it another go after Christmas. He was so cute though. He sprung up out of bed ready to go, even though it was 6 in the morning! One morning, he wasn't as quick to spring out of bed. Kelvin asked him if he was tired and Luke responds, "I'm so tired, I couldn't even hear the people in my dreams talk!" He keeps me in stitches!

I am trying to get in the mindset now of enjoying every moment of the Christmas season. Carleigh sings at our town's historical museum tonight. I can't wait to see her in her choir dress and white tights.

I'm looking forward to Advent this year. I had a box in the porch waiting for me when we got home last night. I can't wait to share it with the family.

click on the photo to read about this Advent wreath

Merry Christmas!

Thankful day 13

2011-11-23T22:04:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for time with my boy in the kitchen today. He helped me make the cranberries for Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow. He was awesome with the zester tool! I think he might be a future Iron Chef.

I am thankful for girls singing to Christian radio in the backseat...and for a two year old that mocks everything they do.

I am thankful for the time the big kids got to spend with Kelvin at the gun range yesterday and for what a wonderful job they did!

I am thankful...

I've never had to miss a meal

for parents who loved God, each other, and their children (in that order)

for a husband who is patient with my ups and downs

for children who say I love you

for my little doll in Heaven

for my aunt who is demonstrating what it means to "honor your mother" so beautifully

for friends who lift me up

for a break in the everday to focus on the extraordinary...because isn't it all?

May the Lord bless you and take good care of you.

May the Lord smile on you and be gracious to you.

May the Lord look on you with favor and give you his peace.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Thankful day 12

2011-11-21T10:45:00.000-06:00

I missed a couple of days, but I'm back now.

I am thankful I got to watch Carleigh perform with her honor choir at one of the high school bazaars Saturday. What a joy!

Sorry for the poor photo quality. I'm using a little flip phone until we can get that situation settled. (No the other phone didn't work. :( )

I am thankful for time with friends around the fire pit.

I am thankful for good food.

I am thankful for time alone with my oldest child.

I am thankful for Luke's laugh.

I am thankful for Cora's excitement as she discovers new things.

I am thankful for a group of girls who have been together, most of them since birth, who love each other and the Lord. It's neat to watch them grow.

I am thankful for my husband.

Thankful day 11

2011-11-17T22:21:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for my friend, Dena, who is the director of a beautiful ministry called Christian Women' Job Corp. She does a fabulous job of training women and giving them hope when there doesn't seem to be any. I was honored to be a part of their Fall 2011 graduation ceremony this evening. I sang, I Don't Want To Go, by Avalon, upon the request of the graduates.

I don't want to go somewhere,
If I know that you're not there.
Cause I know that me without You is a lie.
And I don't want to walk that road,
Be a million miles from home.
Cause my heart needs to be where you are.
So I don't want to go.

Without your touch,
Without your love,
Filling me like an ocean.
For your grace is enough,
Enough for me
To know that I don't want to go somewhere
If I know that you're not there.

I am thankful that the ladies had the courage to make the step toward freedom and hope.

I am thankful they followed through with the entire program.

I am thankful for the spark in their eyes, bounce in their step, and confidence they exuded knowing they truly are princesses, becuase they are daughters of the true King.

I am thankful He gives us a hope and a future, and that He who began a good work in us will complete it!

Thankful day 10

2011-11-16T22:15:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for precious moments with each of my children today...they make me smile.

I am thankful for the courage of the pilgrims so long ago, leaving the comforts of home, loved ones behind, to venture to a new land so they could worship the one true God freely.

I am thankful for a country that sets aside a day to recognize the sacrifices of the pilgrims.

Thankful day 9

2011-11-15T19:06:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for Amoxicillin that will make strep throat go away from our three little ones.

I am thankful for thinking it was a good idea to keep Luke home from school today and take him along with Carleigh and Cora to the doctor.

I am thankful we don't have carpet in our bedroom...makes cleaning up the mess from a sick baby girl last night much easier.

I am thankful I didn't have to drag all three kiddos along with me to my doctor's appointment today.

I am thankful I do not have strep throat.

I am thankful for pizza and for a husband who picks up the pizza from the restaurant and brings it home for dinner.

I am thankful for the time our family spent watching The Secrets of Jonathan Speery today and for the precious message it shares.

I am thankful the message didn't bounce off the hearts of our little ones, but rather, sank in.

I am thankful for the warm, yummy smell of banana nut muffins and how it makes my house feel. (Too bad they didn't taste better. That's what I get for trying to reduce the sugar!)

Thankful day 8

2011-11-12T16:06:00.000-06:00

I am SOOOOOOOOOOOO thankful my knight in shining armor is home from his elk hunt in Colorado. I missed him terribly!

I am thankful I got to see Luke make the coolest touchdown ever this morning (photos to come later.)

I am thankful I got a little cat napping in today.

I am thankful for my clean house. It's taken a while and I still have a very long way to go, but slowly I am chipping away the organization projects around this place.

I am thankful for the weekend!

Thankful day 7

2011-11-11T22:06:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for all the military men and women who make so many sacrifices for our country. I am proud to live in this great nation, and I know it wouldn't be nearly as great had so many not given so much.

I am thankful I got to go to Carleigh's Veteran's Day program this morning...what an inspiration!

My dad got to come to the program too! He served in the Navy. Marvin, Kelvin's dad, served in the Army. I am so proud! I wish I could've grabbed Luke for the picture. His class got away too fast. I always get a lump in my throat when the different branches of the military stand to be recognized. What an honor to be a part of today.

I am also thankful for the fun girls day I had with my friend Lesley at the Nutcracker Market in Houston. It was fun hanging out and eating and shopping and eating and talking and talking some more!

I am also thankful Kelvin is on his way home from a looooong week of elk hunting. I am thankful everyone is safe and had a good time despite the fact they didn't get an elk.

Thankful day 6

2011-11-10T21:08:00.001-06:00

Today I am thankful for a clean house...well, mostly. The couch is still loaded with clean laundry that needs folding. Hopefully I'll get to that tonight.

It's been kind of a downer day really. Today marks 12 years since my sister-in-law, Lori, was killed at the hand of her ex-husband. I can't believe it still. My children are just about the same ages as her children were when their world was turned upside down and inside out. I can't imagine their fear.

I am thankful for my mother-in-law who has suffered so but continues to get through each day.

I am thankful for my oldest daughter whose heart is so sensitive to others. She is singing in a Veteran's Day program tomorrow at school and is so excited. Luke is excited to watch Carleigh's program. I love them.

I am thankful for Cora's excitement when she sees me at school or when I return from something and she wasn't with me. Her Thanksgiving Day lunch was adorable.

Thankful Day 5

2011-11-09T23:30:00.001-06:00

I am thankful for good food and good friends. Lesley makes the best sliders you ever did eat! I enjoyed our time visiting this evening. I am thankful our kids play so well together.

pretty girls

I am thankful for massages. I like them A LOT!

I am thankful for fall decorations. They make my house feel warm and cozy....a good thing even if it is 80 degrees out.

I am thankful for people like Hillary Scott from Lady Antebellum who was raised right and does really good stuff with her money.

I am thankful to have known Bruce Brown. He left a mighty good legacy. Hate that we're having to say goodbye. Glad to know we'll meet again one day. Please say a prayer for the love of his life, Debbie and their boys and grandbabies. It's never easy to be the ones left behind.

Thankful Day 4

2011-11-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

I am so thankful for the rain. Everything is still so parched. It's good to have rain.

I am thankful for fun memories.

I am thankful for productive days. Finally able to see my dining table after a month of Emma's Bayou Bash aftermath stored in my dining room.

I am thankful for friends who send me uplifting messages.

I am thankful that I will probably have a new-to-me cell phone tomorrow. It's been a looooong couple of weeks without my smart phone with all of my contacts, calendar, email accounts, GPS, etc., etc. I didn't realize just how much I relied on that little gadget until it was no longer working.

I am thankful my children appreciate soldiers and want to write them letters and send them care packages.

I am thankful Carleigh is excited about singing with her choir in the Veteran's Day program at school on Friday. She was a little hesitant about joining the choir. I told her she didn't have a choice in the matter, me being a former choir teacher. Glad she came around.

I am thankful for little snuggle bugs like Cora and big snuggle bugs like Carleigh and Luke. Sad Luke isn't so keen on snuggling very much anymore.

Thankful Day 3

2011-11-08T00:35:00.000-06:00

I am thankful for pedicures and belly laughs. They always make me feel better.

I am thankful for girlfriends who share my concerns and worries.

I am thankful for little girls who lose teeth and understand that the tooth fairy got confused because of the time change and missed her tooth last night.

I am thankful the tooth fairy remembered tonight.

Thankful, day 2

2011-11-06T23:30:00.000-06:00

Today,

I'm thankful for yummy soup and friends to share it with at the spur of the moment. On the way out of the parking lot at church this afternoon, I asked some friends and their little ones over for lunch. They said yes. My dining room is still a storage space for all things Emma's Bayou Bash, so I threw up a folding table in the living room and spread a pumpkin tablecloth over it. I told Shelly and her crew to ignore the basket of laundry next to the couch, and we chowed down on the soup I made before church this morning. It was pretty darn good, if I do say so myself! The kids seemed to have more fun playing together than eating. :)

I'm thankful for an unexpected phone call from my one true love.

I am thankful for the promise of eternal life for those whose trust is in Jesus. Please pray for our sweet friends, the Browns. Bruce didn't have such a good report earlier today.

I am thankful for down time with my kiddos today. It was nice to hang out this afternoon and evening and not worry about anything.

Thankful

2011-11-05T22:54:00.000-05:00

I have seen friends on Facebook and several blogs taking the opportunity to celebrate thankfulness this month. I thought I would join them...

I am thankful for a God wo know we need change and provides it with the seasons. We have had a gorgeous fall so far. The air has been crisp on several occasions, and we had a wonderous sunset the other day during football practice. I even noticed as I drove over the highway the other day that the leaves on the bothersome tallow trees had changed and made a very pretty roadside scape. I love fall.

I am thankful for Kelvin and our children. They are the reason I get up every day.

I am thankful for pretty things that inspire me.

I am thankful for my parents and my mother-in-law.

I am thankful for an extra hour of sleep tonight.

Rainy Night

2011-10-27T22:25:00.000-05:00

I love a rainy night,
I love a rainy night,
I love to hear the thunder,
Watch the lightning as it lights up the sky.
You know it makes me feel good. (especially after a several month drought!)

It's so funny how we all get so excited when it rains now. It has been a rough season of drought. So many fires, loss, dry ground, cracked slabs, parched souls, exposed lake bottoms. It's been a pretty harsh spring and summer, and now fall. The couple of times it has rained has been like manna from heaven. Thank you, God, for the rain.

We're looking forward to a beautiful weekend with cooler temps. Luke plays his first ever football game, and Carleigh is cheering. What more could we ask for? Sunday will be our church's first Trunk or Treat. My Yukon XL will be in the mix. Our theme is The Great Pumpkin. I'll project the Charlie Brown classic on the side of my vehicle and decorate with pumpkins galore! I've purchased some yummy chocolate candy treats, because what's the point otherwise?! I will have to get some candy corn though, as I just learned, or was reminded yesterday, that Luke loves candy corn! Who knew!? Apparently I should have!

Crash

2011-10-24T00:43:00.000-05:00

You know how when you eat too much sugar and you're on a major high for a little while, but then you come crashing down when it wears off? That's what I feel like. Not sure if it's all due to the fact that I stayed up late into the night and woke early in the morning for more than a month preparing for Emma's Bayou Bash that has me completely worn out, or that some pretty rotten PMS is kicking my bootie, or that I have been kinda down in the dumps missing my sweet girl, but all I really want to do is stay in bed...all day or all month would be great! I feel sort of like I'm in self-destruct mode by the way I'm eating and gaining weight. I'm hoping to be up early in the morning to get in some exercise before the day gets started. I think I'm ready to dive in and start taking better care of me and my household. I cooked a couple of times this week. I made some wonderful soup last night while the big kids and Kelvin carved some pumpkins. Our sweet friend, Dee, sent us the recipe...

Chicken Enchilada Soup

Brown 1 onion (finely chopped) and 1 bell pepper in olive oil
When onion is transparent, add 3 TBS minced garlic
DO NOT BURN THE GARLIC
Add 2 large cartons of chicken stock
2 cans of garbanzo beans
2 cans of zucchini or two large fresh zucchini chopped
1 large can of Glory brand seasoned green beans
1 large can of pinto beans (Ranch if you like or refried if u want a creamy soup) I added a can of black beans too!
2 cans of Rotel original
1 large can of white hominy
1 package of enchilada sauce mix
2 bags of Tyson grilled and cubed chicken breast (comes in freezer section precooked or you can use a rotisserie chicken)

Simmer and serve. You can top with grated cheese, sour cream and cilantro.

It was a huge hit! Hoping to make some more hits this week. I love fall...pumpkins, soup, cooler weather (well, sometimes. Forecast calls for 88 degrees tomorrow), football (Luke is playing flag football this fall), hayrides, smores, time by the firepit (if the burn ban ever lifts), and dreaming of leaves turning colors (because we don't have that here.)

Five little pumpkins sitting on a gate...

the first one said, "oh my it's getting late!"

*The second one said, "we don't care."

The third one said, "there are leaves in the air."

The fourth one said, "I'm ready for some fun!"

(Sorry it's so blurry. I still thinks it's cute!)

The fifth one said, "let's run and run and run!"

Then Whoooooosh... went the wind,
And out went the light!
And the five little pumpkins rolled out of sight.

*Yes, Luke is using crutches. He was chasing Cora and sprained his ankle. It's always something. :)

A glimpse into Emma's Bayou Bash

2011-10-19T19:35:00.000-05:00

Here are just a few of the photos from Emma's Bayou Bash...

Some of our awesome cooking team

Carleigh and me at San Jacinto Harley Davidson...start of the motorcylce ride

One of our parking attendant volunteers

Wonderful food serving team

Auction tables

Cuddles and her friends

The kiddos' lemonade stand...they raised over $200!

Junction Jack paid us a visit!

Jack Saunders and Market Junction provided some great music for the day

Yummy cake!

It was a great day full of fun and a lot of good people. We raised over $57,500 between our sponsors and donors on the day of Emma's Bayou Bash. Thank you for your support!

If you didn't get to attend Emma's Bayou Bash but want to make a donation, please visit our website at http://www.emmashugs.com/, click on the donate tab and follow the instructions provided. Thank you for your consideration.

Emma's Hugs gave out several "hugs" at MD Anderson Cancer Center yesterday. All of the recipients were very grateful for their parking chip loaded with $115. Such a blessing to know our little one is still making an impact.

It was good

2011-10-12T17:02:00.000-05:00

Saturday was a really good day. Emma's Bayou Bash was a Huge success. It was a success before Saturday even rolled around, really. We had an amazing support team helping us plan and execute, we had 33 sponsors who provided what we needed to make Emma's Bayou Bash a reality, and we had numerous people sign up to volunteer to work at Emma's Bayou Bash. Businesses donate time and services, individuals donate items for the auction, and a bunch of work horses came out to cook gumbo, set up chairs and tables, hang signs, lay out auction items and bid sheets, making the event a reality. We are still working on the financials, but on the day of Emma's Bayou Bash, we raised approximately $35,000!! Before the event kicked off we had over $17,000 in sponsorships. We are very pleased, to say the least. This was the first year Emma's Hugs was responsible for the planning and executing of the event, and it was a huge undertaking! We had some very big shoes to fill. The generous friends who gave their time and resources the past two years to make the first two Emma's Bayou Bashes successful are held in even higher esteem in my book now.

So, it seems we have our work cut out for us in the days and months ahead. We will be giving away lots of parking chips in the Texas Medical Center. If you know of anyone in our area interested in volunteering with our organziation, please send their name our way. Visit http://www.emmashugs.com/, and click on the contact us tab to leave a message or contact information. Thank you for the prayers and support from all of you out there in blog land. We love you.

Visit us on Facebook (click here) for pictures of the event. I'll post some here as soon as I can catch a breath.

Counting Down

2011-10-06T08:51:00.000-05:00

My oldest little darling came downstairs this morning announcing there are only 48 hours until Emma's Bayou Bash! Praying those hours are especially efficient and productive. Will you pray the chicken arrives in time? You know, the 600 pounds of chicken for the chicken and sausage gumbo! If I sound a little frazzled, you have observed correctly. I need a full time nanny, housekeeper and chef for the next couple of days. My poor kids and husband haven't had a meal cooked by me in I don't know how long. Next week, I plan on cooking every day! I appreciate all the prayers and well wishes for Emma's Bayou Bash. I can't wait to report back to you how successful the event was. We (our planning team) have prayed every day at 3:06 p.m. for God's blessing on the event. I really feel like it has made all the difference. Please join us today and tomorrow at 3:06. Why 3:06? Emma's birthday is March, 2006. Check out the Emma's Bayou Bash 2011 facebook page for photos of some of the incredible auction items!

Missing blogland

2011-09-28T00:46:00.000-05:00

I miss blogging and blog hopping. Things are going well with the planning for Emma's Bayou Bash. I think I'm starting to get tired. In the middle of the night last night, I found myself in the bathroom staring at the counter wondering where my medicine was. I don't take any, so it wasn't there. I crawled back into bed very confused and asked Kelvin if I was taking medication. I don't think he appreciated being awakened from his slumber. After he didn't know what I was talking about, I said nevermind and went back to sleep, shaking my head in complete frustration at the whole thing. I continue to pray the 3rd annual Emma's Bayou Bash is successful and God-honoring. Because really, I can bust my backside and all of the other wonderful volunteers we have can do the same, but if this whole thing isn't bringing honor and glory to Him, why bother? I covet your prayers as we tie up loose ends the next week and a half. Thank you.

So, what are you up to this weekend? Me? Oh, just my 20 year reunion!! What in the world?!? I am completely amazed that I am in this time of my life. Time has flown by...especially the past two years. I wish sometimes I could roll back the time just a little bit so I could savor the moments a little while longer. I'm looking forward to seeing friends from days gone by. It should be a great weekend. I hope to remember my camera and take some photos of good friends. Hopefully I'll remember to post them before the next reunion!

Auctions and Gumbo and Sponsors--oh my!

2011-09-19T14:05:00.002-05:00

I am up to my eyeballs in Emma's Bayou Bash 2011 (click to go to the Facebook page) stuff! It's very exciting to see all the pieces fall into place. So many friends of Emma's Hugs are working hard to make this event successful! I can't wait! There are tons of details that go into planning an event of this magnitude...I had no idea. I still don't think I do. I wake up in the middle of the night a lot of times thinking about something I hadn't thought of before. I'm nervous I'll forget something major...like cups! I hadn't thought about cups until the other day. Glad I did. One of my good friends from high school is providing them through her company. We have so many awesome sponsors and businesses that are coming through for us. It's going to be a great day. I hope everyone comes out and supports Emma's Hugs, helping us carry on Emma's legacy. I miss her more through all of the planning. Please don't take this the wrong way, but as much as I love what Emma's Hugs does, and as wonderful as I think the charity is, I would much rather have my 5 year old here with me, healthy, playing with her sisters and brother and telling me all about kindergarten. I hope that doesn't sound awful. I look at the little girls her age, playing soccer, walking through the halls at school, dressed up in cheerleading outfits or leotards, and my heart aches. I will never completely understand why on this side of heaven. I know it will be revealed to us one day. But for now, I have to trust that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing...carrying on and serving others, as we remember our precious Emma.

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17

Slowing down

2011-09-06T12:47:00.000-05:00

There's nothing like a stomach virus to slow you down...ugh! After spending a loverly long weekend at the deer lease, Kelvin got sick in the middle of the night Sunday with a stomach virus, and I got it when we arrived home yesterday evening. The only good thing about stomach viruses is that they are usually gone within 24 hours...thank the Lord!

We took the kids out early on Friday to beat the holiday rush. I stopped by HEB (wishing and hoping every day we had one of those nice big HEBs in our town) and bought a few essentials, including frozen pizza and grapes for dinner, and we headed to the lease. We're pretty much in the middle of no where out there...no cell phone service, no wifi, no TV, it's pretty much bliss! We have to drive up to the top of a hill if we want to use the phone...pretty cool.

Counting down as the sun drops further and further...

On the way out Friday, we called some friends who live pretty nearby to where we were headed and asked if they would like to join the weekend fun. To our delight, they did! Saturday, we all headed to the Chisolm Trail Winery and stomped some grapes! Never had a sensation quite like that on the bottoms of my feet before. We all shared one of the fire oven pizzas before heading over to the annual Doss Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry. That is one operation of which I am in complete awe. There are probably over 3,000 in attendance, not including the 150 or so volunteers! Holy cow! Kelvin asked one of the ladies helping us how she got to volunteer. She said her parents used to own a busniness in the area and knew the volunteer coordinator, so that's how she got to volunteer. She considered it an honor to be there helping. What an outlook! It was yummy, per normal. I loved watching the babies and kiddos get their groove on to the oompah of the two person German band. Nothing quite as cute as a one and two year old dancing...love!

Sunday we woke up and headed into town to meet our friends for breakfast and a swim before they headed home. We ate at the Old German Bakery on main street in Fredericksburg. It was packed! The food was great, as was the conversation and company. The weather was beautiful Sunday morning, and the kids had a ball swimming in the hotel pool. Did you love the hotel pool when you were little like I did? Hours of fun!

A beautiful eagle carved out of an old tree. Luke loves it!

The rest of the day Sunday was spent enjoying a cool drink and ultimate nachos on the patio of another great restaurant on Main Street, visiting with a couple of Kelvin's uncles, and driving around the lease taking in the beautiful country.

Sunday night wasn't all that great for Kelvin. He was in pretty bad shape until mid morning yesterday. We headed home for what seemed like the longest drive ever because of the detours everyone was having to take to dodge the wildfires. Texas has not seen a drought like this in decades. It is so dry...dangerously so. Please say a prayer for those who have lost their homes and for the families who have lost a loved one in the fires. God bless the firefighters!

So, here I am at home, with stomach cramps and frequent trips to the bathroom. It's good to be still sometimes. I just wish it were under different circumstances. Hope you have a beautiful week.

Emma's Bayou Bash 2011 updates

2011-08-30T16:47:00.000-05:00

I wish I could add hours to the day so I could blog about all the wonderful things that are happening for Emma's Bayou Bash 2011. I'll just hit some of the highlights...

we have AWESOME volunteers. We are truly blessed with great people helping us organize this event.
we have some really cool items for our live and silent auctions...trip to Costa Rica, fire pit, tickets to a Texans football game, spa packages, some very nice sponsorships and much, much more!
we have the best gumbo chef in the South! I can't wait to dig into that stuff!

Everything seems to be working smoothly. I think I forgot to share with you that our planning team is praying for God's blessing on Emma's Bayou Bash every day at 3:06 p.m. Won't you join us?

Kindergarten

2011-08-24T10:37:00.000-05:00

Today should have been Emma's first day of kindergarten at Wee School with Mrs. Berger. She said she was ready to retire a few years ago when Carleigh had her, but I told her she had to stay until our crew came through. Mrs. Berger is still at Wee School, and I missed going down to her class after I dropped off Cora in the 2 year old class this morning. Days like these are hard. I wish I could stay in bed and turn off the world around me, but that's not really an option. Today I am going to some of my favorite businesses asking them if they would like to be one of the sponsors for Emma's Bayou Bash or if they would like to donate an item for our auction.

I miss my little m.

Emma's Bayou Bash 2011

2011-08-23T10:21:00.000-05:00

So, this is what is consuming all of my time lately. Of course, it's totally worth it. Doesn't this flyer just make you smile? I think it's so cheery (is that a word?) and festive! Everything is coming together. The motorcycle ride begins at San Jacinto Harley in Pasadena once again! YAY! I'm praying for good weather so we can have tons of riders out supporting Emma's Hugs. Won't you join me? We also need some big ticket items for our live auction. If you know anyone willing to donate, please have them contact me. And as always, if you want to make a tax deductible donation, there is a "donate" button on the left side bar. :)

Feel free to distribute the flyer above on your blog. Click here to join us on Facebook too!

To date, Emma’s Hugs has given over 7,800 days of parking! That’s over $94,000 worth of parking chips!

I can't wait to see how God blesses this event! We've already had so many generous people step up to the plate with printing, volunteer hours and donations! I am blown away with the kindness!

Oh, we should have t-shirts available next month. I can't wait to show you the design! Our friend, Jordan is awesome! She is extremely talented, and we are blessed to have her helping us out with graphics and design work...LOVE her!

Thanks for you for your support! Stay tuned for updates...

Overwhelmed

2011-08-17T07:31:00.000-05:00

As I clicked through the devotional page this morning, Overwhelmed is what caught my eye. I can relate...I thought. This little paragraph kinda slapped me in the face...

We all know how God turned the pain of Jesus’ journey into joy for each of us. And it all started with an action… not just of Jesus saying yes, but of Jesus giving thanks.

And so, as I lay in the quiet with my own pain, feeling the natural inclination to be overwhelmed, I take action as He did. I give thanks for the gifts that come from pain. I give thanks for the people and the moments and the experiences. I give thanks to a Savior who was willing to go through the pain so that the hard I live through could also be redeemed. By Sara Frankl, Gitzen Girl

Read the rest here.

I hope you have a good day. I hope I can slow down and be thankful, even in the midst of pain and feeling overwhelmed.

Weekend

2011-08-15T13:44:00.002-05:00

Sorry about not getting around to posting any photos last week. I'm still tired from all the events of the week. I can't believe school starts a week from today! HOLY COW!! I'm not ready for summer to come to a close. I am ready for a reprieve from the suffocating heat we've had though.

We went to some friends house the other night for dinner. The kids all had a total blast. We had a great time at their house. Kelvin and I both fell in love with how beautiful it is!

Looking into the kitchen area from the den. I love the beams and the wood ceiling in the kitchen.

View of the dream pantry in the background and our friend frying up the shrimp at the stovetop, complete with their little boy climbing the cabinet. I felt right at home.

Not the best photo, but this is looking into the den from the front entry. Those windows are gorgeous!

They live on a lake, so they have perfect view.

View of the fireplace in the den. Not sure what was happening on the left of this shot.

I'm still trying to figure out my new camera.

I loved sitting by the bar in the kitchen talking, sipping on a yumilcious drink, and watching them mix up our delightful dinner...shrimp ceviche (to die for recipe from Goode Seafood Company), fried shrimp, peas and corn-on-the-cob from the farmers market, carrot soufflé, and homemade peach pie for dessert! OOOOH WHEE! It was devine! I ate way too much, but it was sooo worth it.

Looking down into the den from upstairs.

Room to the right of the entry with storage (I would use for toys) and a great aquarium.

We talked and ate and talked and ate some more...perfect!

Gotta love that face!

Cora's little buddy!

We still have one more summer fun trip planned before school starts! Can't wait! Happy Monday!

Studio Ainsley and Emma's Hugs

2011-08-11T16:13:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to remind everyone in the Houston area, especially Richmond-Rosenberg, that Studio Ainsley's Fifth Anniversary Celebration is benefitting Emma's Hugs this Saturday, August 13. Check out the flier below for more details. Hope to see you there!

Prayer Please and other random stuff

2011-08-07T22:53:00.002-05:00

I'm very tired. I'm not at liberty to discuss details, but someone very special needs some very big prayers. Thank you.

We ate some yummy seafood at our favorite seafood dive today with some of our favorite friends. Couldn't ask for a better combination!

I wish I could figure out how to load photos to the blog from my new camera quicker. It's slower than Christmas to make that happen. There has to be a better way!

Tomorrow is STOMP music camp at church for the kiddos. I know they'll have a great time! Tomorrow is also Luke's first soccer practice for the season! Looking forward to a great soccer season! He is such a little Pelé! It's so funny to hear him talk about his superior skills at this point in his life. There is very little modesty. We need to work on that. He will tell his friends he is certain he is the best at one thing or another...and so serious! It just cracks me up.

One of my very sweet friends got married yesterday evening. She and her husband met at the ball park a couple of years ago while their kiddos were playing baseball. The wedding was at the ball park where they met. It was such a cool ceremony. I am so happy for them. The wedding cakes were adorable! I wish I had a photo to share with you, but I didn't think about taking my camera. The bride's cake was three layers. They were white with a bead of red around the edge of each layer, and the topper was a baseball in a bed of grass, all in icing, of course...so cute! The groom's cake was a very thick square, chocolate cake with a baseball field in icing on the top. Both were great and tasted good too! :)

Did I mention Emma's Bayou Bash is Saturday, October 8? :) Well, it is, and it's going to be great! If you live around here, please come. Emma's Bayou Bash is a fundraising event for Emma's Hugs. To date, Emma's Hugs has given away well over 7,800 days of parking...that's over $94,000! WOWZA! We need everyone's support to keep helping families with parking who find themselves in long-term settings in the Texas Medical Center. Thank you for your support! Oh, and we need some live and silent auction items. If you have any connections with friends or business owners who will donate, please contact us at emmashugs@yahoo.com to inquire about receiving a donation letter or sponsor packet. Emma's Hugs is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, so all donations are tax deductible. Looking forward to bringing you more information and updates as we have them.

Hoping to post some pics to the blog next week...stay tuned!

Zoom!

2011-08-03T00:03:00.000-05:00

Here we are, another week out, and I haven't posted anything. For shame. I can. not. get over how fast the time goes by.

On a different note, if you live around our neck of the woods, mark on your calendar Saturday, October 8. It's the date for Emma's Bayou Bash! We had our first planning meeting last week, and though therd's a lot to be done, by George, I think we can do it! Please pray for God's favor on this event. I believe He has His hand on Emma's Hugs. It's a unique organization that touches lives like none other. I believe the people of our community feel a connection to Emma's legacy and want to continue to support the charity founded in her honor. But, I certainly don't want to do something, especially pour a lot of blood, sweat and tears into an enormous event that isn't what He had in mind. Know what I mean?

I'll give you updates as we kow more. Thanks for the prayers, and we hope to see you there!

Spa-jama Party

2011-07-27T14:11:00.000-05:00

We had such a good time at the spa party. Because I didn't read the invitation close enough, I didn't realize we were supposed to wear our pjs until we walked in. OOPS! Carleigh was not pleased. Oh well, she got over it. :)

soaking her hands to prepare for the manicure by Mom

Green is your color!

Ah, this is the life!

Green is my color too! What a cute manicurist!

Yummy food! Apricots with goat cheese and almonds, fruit and veggie tray, and tortilla pinwheels.

Good friends! One of my closet friends Jana and her little girl Addison came too!

Our adorable host, Asha and me

Strawberry Bruchetta...you have to try this. Sooo good!

This post isn't laid out the way I wanted to be, but hopefully you get the idea. My computer (both of them actually) was doing some funky stuff! UGH! I guess it's time for a trip to the computer guy.

Have a great day!

Whew!

2011-07-26T16:28:00.000-05:00

How is it that a week has already passed since I last posted? My how time flies. Tonight, Calreigh and I are going to a friend's house for a mother-daughter spa night! Doesn't that sound fun!? The guests are taking their favorite appetizer, and our friend has a massage therapist coming for the grown ups! I can't wait! I hope to remember my camera and take some good photos to share with you. Come back soon to check it out!

Tuesday

2011-07-19T20:19:00.002-05:00

July 19, 2011, is my parent's 31st anniversary! Congratulations, Mom and Dad! I am so happy for them. What a good example they have been!

Today I invited my friend, Jami, and her kiddos to go with me and mine to drop off the Orek for it's annual service. We all enjoyed some mucho bueno Mexican food at Lupe Tortillas! While in the area, I thought it would be fun to paint some pottery. Unfortunately, the pottery painting place we ventured into wanted your first born for payment. The prices were out the roof! So we decided to head back home and go paint some much more affordable pottery locally. Before we left, we ventured into Justice to see if they had any jeans that would fit Carleigh. She is too big for the 7/8 but too little for the 10/12 at Target and Old Navy. Well, not so much at Justice. The 10 was just a little bit tight across her backside. How did THAT happen?! (Big sigh) I wish I could slow down the clock just a bit. I'm not ready for my little girl to get big yet. I digress. Anyway, the kids were thrilled with their creations at our local pottery painting place, and it didn't break the bank, so the mamas were happy too. It amazes me how different their creations look these days. They have really begun to fine-tune their skills. One more summer fun item checked off our list!

In front of the red barn at the elk camp in Colorado.

Summer Fun

2011-07-16T14:28:00.001-05:00

We returned from a wonderful time in beautiful Colorado last weekend. I can't believe we've already been home a week! We're feeling better now. I went to the doctor. He gave me meds to treat bronchitis. The meds and all the vitamin A and C and other stuff I'm taking seem to have helped. Being a couch potato for a week has been fun, but I'm ready to get back into the summer swing of things. Anyway, back to the vacation. Kelvin left first, driving up to spend some time hiking and hanging out alone. He was way overdo for some downtime...alone. Hope he had fun. I know he met some new friends and enjoyed helping set a new flag pole while he was in San Isabel.

photo found here

We joined him several days later. He picked us up from the airport in Denver. It was pretty nice not having to spend tons of time in the car with kiddos who ask every two minutes how much farther, I have to admit. We all drove to Steamboat Springs to meet up with our dear friends, the Parkhouses at their place.

The kids ( and Kelvin and I too) were thrilled to see the snow on the way to Steamboat! It was cool to stop and let the kids stomp around in it. Snow in July...who knew!?!

The kids have a ball playing together. Jack and Bailey, the twins, are the same age as Carleigh, and Luke fits right in the mix. Kelvin and the kids and I all enjoyed the 4th of July with a great ride up to the top of Mt. Werner for a look around from high above Steamboat. We even saw a baby moose!

The baby moose! Can you believe it!? How cool is that? We saw him while riding the gondola.

The fireworks were beautiful that night too.

It was fun hanging out and snacking while we waited for the fireworks.
I made a batch of the Apricots and Goat Cheese Bites Sandy posted on her blog. They were delicioso!

Before leaving Steamboat, Kelvin rented a bike for Luke so he could try out the cool pump park just outside our friends' condo.

We then headed West to Delta, Colorado, where we spent a few days at the elk camp where Kelvin goes elk hunting. We loved playing in the ice cold creek, hiking around, fishing, hanging out and riding Mr. Hank's horse.

We even finished reading aloud the first book in the Little House series while we drove. The kids (and Kelvin and I) enjoyed it so much! It's always hard coming home to the humidity and heat after spending time in the gorgeous cool mountains. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted. We can't wait to go back.

There's still much to do for rest of summer...

sleepovers
water park fun
tubing
ice skating
outdoor theater
eating more watermelon
drinking more watermelon daiquiris
reading aloud more of the Little House series
going to the library
grilling
splasing in the blow up pool
making pottery
and more...

For a free summer fun download, click here. I saw the summer fun download link on Ann's blog a couple of weeks ago. Hope you're having a wonderful summer!

Working on new post

2011-07-11T19:09:00.000-05:00

Hello. I know it's been a little while since I last posted. We've been on a glorious vacation, and since we've been home, I've been sick. Bummer! Kelvin and Carleigh are dabbling with being sick as well. Double bummer! I'm working on a post of our vacation to share with you. Until then, have a great week.

Independence Day

2011-07-02T02:50:00.000-05:00

What a blessed country we are! We are free! Free to speak, free to think, free to dream...

I have been praying for freedom for so many in my life right now...freedom from addiction, freedom from the evil one ruining a marriage, freedom from pain, freedom from despair...

I would like freedom from anger, freedom from exhaustion, freedom from laziness, freedom from flab, freedom from irritation...

I look forward to Independence Day. I hope you have wonderful plans for celebration. I hope the drought around our part of the country doesn't prohibit fireworks, but I'm afraid it probably will. I hope you find ways to bring spark to your life. Won't you join me in taking time to thank God for our freedom and for those who gave their lives so that we may celebrate? Click here to go to (in)courage for a great devotional about freedom.

Aren't these adorable?! I'm going to have to try to make some for next year.
Click on the photo to go to the clever lady's blog who made them.

God Bless America

Marvin and Lori

2011-06-28T22:20:00.001-05:00

Today is my father-in-law and his daughter and my sister-in-law's birthday. I miss them. I wish they were here to celebrate. I would have loved a piece of Lori's favorite, strawberry pie. I don't understand a lot of things...them not here is one of them.

Happy Birthday Marvin and Lori. I'm sure your party must have been over the top today!

Sweet Summertime

2011-06-26T22:00:00.001-05:00

We've had such a good time this summer. We kicked it off Memorial Day weekend, even before school was out, at the deer lease. Fredericksburg was having a crawfish festival, and we indulged. The kids had a ball on the rides. It was so hot that weekend...102 degrees! Our little deer camp house only has one little window a/c, and we all piled into the "bedroom" where it was blowing full blast to take a nap. We were all squirming around and someone said it was hot. Kelvin looked at the thermometer and jokingly remarked that it was a cool 90 degrees in our room! It did cool down nicely at night, and the mornings were very nice. I got in a couple of pretty long walks. If not for the coolness of the morning, I would have collapsed for sure!

The kids were finished with school on June 2, and the next day, Kelvin's friend from work and his wife invited us to spend some time with them at Lake Sam Rayburn. The kids had the BEST time fishing. We had such a great time.

Carleigh went to Girls camp the 13th through the 17th and had a blast with her good friend, also Carli. They share a birthday as well! They are so cute!

We had a great time celebrating Father's Day with my dad. Kelvin cooked a super yummy fried fish dinner, and we had Dad's favorite, coconut creme pie for dessert. One of these days I will get brave and bake one myself. I cooked a yummy waffle breakfast for Kelvin for Father's Day, and we had a good time lounging around the house.

Last week the kids attended VBS at my friend's church. They had the best time Shakin it Up! The theme was adorable...kitchen, recipes, learning about God's love and how He wants them to live for him. The songs were great. I enjoyed so much watching them sing on Friday for the parents. My friend and her kiddos came over for lunch on Friday after VBS, and the kids had such a good time. Luke was in hog heaven with two other boys in the house! He was not a happy camper when they had to go home. I enjoyed visiting with my friend of too many years to count! No matter how long it has been since we saw or talked to one another, we always just pick up right where we left off. I love her! Her birthday is tomorrow! Happy birthday, Amy!

We went to a friend's birthday party yesterday. They rented one of those mumbo jumbo water inflatable slides, and the kids had an absolute blast! Even Cora went down over and over again! After we left the party, we headed straight over to another good friend's house to visit and swim. We all must be part fish! We swam until 8:30 p.m.!! Cora actually fell asleep while floating with my friend, and we laid her on the lounge chair. She was out like a light for at least 2 hours. The other kids swam and flipped and dove and did handstands and swam some more. Kelvin finally joined up with us and we all ordered pizza and enjoyed each other's company. I love summer nights!

Today, our friend with the slide said the company couldn't come pick it up until tomorrow, so come on over for round two! The kiddos had a blast again! I will have to get my friend to send me a picture. I went down a few times myself yesterday and admit it is tons 'o fun! Good times!!

Tomorrow starts our church's VBS. We also have a lunch and swim invitation. I'll be busy the next several days planning and getting ready for our vacation to God's country...Colorado. WE LOVE Colorado! It. is. gorgeous. If you've never been, you need to go in the summer and in the winter. It is lovely both times of year. Of course, we can't wait to get a respite from this record breaking heat! Luke can't fathom that the places we're staying don't have air conditioning, but we've tried to explain to him we won't need it being so high above sea level. I can't wait! We'll also get to spend a couple of days with our good friends. The kids love seeing their friends, and we do too!

Summertime is the best. No schedules. Late dinners. Backyard campouts. Living room campouts. Spur of the moment get-togethers. My new favorite...watermelon daiquiris! You've gotta click on the link and visit Sasha at Lemonade Makin' Mama for her recipe. I didn't have any watermelon rum, so I used Malibu rum, and it worked great! Let me know what you think. I make a big batch without any grown-up stuff in it and give some to the kids. They love the watermelon smoothie! Another friend suggested watermelon pops. Two enthusiastic thumbs up for these too! Just blend together watermelon and a squirt of lime in a food processor and pour into a popsicle mold or plastic cup with popsicle sticks and put in the freezer for a couple of hours until frozen. YUM-O! This is the stuff you've gotta love.

We still have to fit in the water park, sleepovers, ice skating and many more evenings outside with friends or family and good food, good drinks, and good conversation. I love summer!

So, what have you done this summer? What are your plans? Where are you going for vacation?

Have I mentioned that I love summer? :)

20 years ago

2011-06-22T16:49:00.000-05:00

On this day 20 years ago, I said "I do." As a dreamy-eyed sixth grader, I had a crush on a mega fine eighth grader named Kelvin. I actually remember riding home on the bus one day and thinking about how wonderful it would be to be his girlfriend. A few years later, after my ugly duckling phase of bad hair and crooked teeth, that boy named Kelvin noticed a "new" girl at church. He asked his sister who I was and after a few weeks or months (I can't remember the exact time line), we were sitting next to each other at a youth conference. After the conference each night, the youth group would stop by Whataburger on the way home. Kelvin and I went to different high schools in the same town. Homecoming was around the corner for each of us. I knew who I wanted to take. At Whataburger after the youth conference one night Kelvin told me he had something to ask me. I told him I something to ask him too. We both asked each other to our homecoming dances. After that first date, we were forever together. The October of my senior year, one day Kelvin began talking about his day and how much he had been thinking about me and us. It was all very sweet. He then pulled a beautiful ring from his pocket and asked for me to be his wife. I said yes, of course.

I remember being so happy on our wedding day. I never shed a tear. My mouth hurt from smiling so much. Kelvin is the love of my life, my soul mate, my best friend. We have shared great joy and deeper pain. I am so glad he is the one I am sharing my life with. I am amazed at the man he has become. I love his creativity, his adventure, his zeal for life. I love the way he loves me, comforts me, makes me laugh and cares for our family. I love that he is so generous. I love him more now than ever before. I look forward to the years ahead.

‎20 years ago, the wedding invitation said, "This day I will marry my friend, the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love." Kelvin Dunnam has made me the happiest woman alive. I am blessed, truly blessed.

This is the photo on the front of our wedding album. Please excuse my poor photography.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T12:23:00.000-05:00

Happy Father's Day to the special men in my life!

For my wonderful father..
Thank you for sweeping my mom off her feet and becoming the father my sister and I needed. Thank you for providing so wonderfully for our instant family of six...for riding your motorcycle to work in the rain so we could have the car, giving to families in need when no one knew, working overtime to pay for braces among other things, taking us in the boat to water ski on the river and the bayou, showing us how to love our future spouse. I love you!

For my wonderful father-in-law...
I miss you, Marvin. You were such a good dad. Not only did you raise your own children, you raised your grandchildren too. You were such a good example for my husband. You showed him how to respect a lady, to honor your parents and elders, to take pride in our nation, to love the outdoors, the patience it takes to hunt, and much more. I wish you were still here. I know my husband misses his friend.

For the man of my dreams and father of our beautiful children...
I am blessed beyond measure to share the task of raising our children with you, Kelvin. You are such a fabulous father. Our children have a fun-loving, silly, smart, respected, energetic, man of God who loves them to the moon and back father. I could never have imagined what an awesome father you would have been before we had children. You amazed me with your love and support through each labor and delivery. You were incredible the way you stayed by my side the entire time, holding my hand, encouraging me, and then glowing at the first sight of each child. What a sincere honor it was to watch you hold each one for the first time, to whisper words of love in their ears, to so gingerly change them and cradle them. How fun it is to see you play with them now...wrestling around on the floor, teaching them to fish and tube and hunt, encouraging them to step out on faith and try new things. Demonstrating to them a dependence on God. Thank you for loving our children. That they never question that love. That they feel safe and secure because of you. I love you more the life, Kelvin. You are a wonderful daddy.

Backyard Campout

2011-06-13T17:05:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend we had the most fun! Kelvin chose a very nice tent last year for his 20th anniversary at work. He popped it up, along with Luke's adorable giraffe tent he received a couple of years back for his birthday, and we had us a good ole backyard campout! Kelvin made a splendid fire, the kids roasted marshmallows, we gazed at the stars, and we all climbed in our tents for the night. The kids did great! I slept surprisingly well, but I felt like I had been run over by a train the next morning. If we would have had one of those blow up mattresses, it would have been much better. Maybe next time. I'm glad our kiddos like to do things like camp out in the backyard. It's one of those things that makes me smile...

This morning, I sent our big girl, Carleigh, off to Girls Camp (GA Camp-Girls in Action) with her friend, Carli. I can't believe she is old enough to go to camp. I remember going to GA camp. We had so much fun. One year, I remember it rained during our free time, and they let us swim in the lake in the rain. We slid down the muddy bank into the lake and had the time of our lives. She will do great and have fun, I'm certain. I hope she misses us just a little bit. Cora already misses her. I hope and pray most of all she learns more about the depths of God's love for her and how to be kind and love her friends. I can't wait to hear all about her experience!

Joining Ann and others and giving thanks for...

#42 campouts in the backyard
#43 limes, cilantro and cucumbers on a hot summer day
#44 squeals of delight from kids playing in the pool
#45 babies with blue lips after playing in the pool when the sun goes down
#46 gruffy voice of my boy
#47 Cora's inquisitiveness
#48 the feel of my true love's lips against mine
#49 the smell of the grill burning
#50 star gazing
#51 dreaming about the future with the one I love
#52 scripture in my memory..."He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross."
#53 time with friends
#54 sunsets

Summer Fare

2011-06-11T21:31:00.000-05:00

Tonight we had a yummy dinner. Most of us thought so anyway. I love summer. I love all the seasons. I think summer is great though, because there isn't much of a schedule, it stays daylight for a very long time, and we enjoy being outside and grilling. We had this for dinner tonight...

Grilled Chile-Lime Shrimp
Prep: 20 minutes
Marinate: 20 minutes
Grill: 5 minutes

Ingredients

1 tsp. finely shredded lime peel
1/4 cup lime juice (about 1-1/2 limes)
1 jalapeño seeded and finely minced* (I left this out since the kids were eating this, but I think it would be great with it!)
1 Tbsp. garlic, minced
2 Tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce
3 Tbsp. olive oil
1 tsp. chili powder
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
2 Tbsp. cilantro
1 Tbsp. honey
1-1/2 lb. medium shrimp (about 6 per person)

Directions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high. In medium bowl, combine all ingredients except shrimp and stir well. Peel shrimp except for tail, and devein. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Place shrimp in large resealable bag. Add marinade. Through bag, rub marinade into shrimp. Place in refrigerator for 20 minutes. Halfway through, turn bag and give shrimp another marinade massage. (Do not marinate longer then 20 minutes, or the acidic lime juice will cook the shrimp.

3. Place shrimp on cutting board and nestle them together in groups of six. Using two bamboo sewers for each group, skewer the shrimp together (this is nice for presentation, keeps shrimp from falling into the grill, and makes them easier to turn).

4. Grill shrimp on an oiled grill rack 2 minutes per side, or until opaque. Serve with Toasted Couscous with Grilled Mango and Zucchini, see recipe. Makes 4 servings.

5. *Hot chile peppers, such as jalapeños, contain oils that can burn skin and eyes. Avoid direct contact as much as possible. Wear plastic gloves. If using bare hands, wash hands well with soap and water.

nutrition facts
Calories211Total Fat (g)6Saturated Fat (g)1, Monounsaturated Fat (g)2, Polyunsaturated Fat (g)1, Cholesterol (mg)259, Sodium (mg)320, Carbohydrate (g)4, Total Sugar (g)1, Protein (g)35, Vitamin C (DV%)10, Calcium (DV%)9, Iron (DV%)23, Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

We also had

Summer Fruit Salad

Photo by: Photo: Jennifer Davick; Styling: Buffy Hargett YIELD: Makes 8 to 10 appetizer servings
HANDS-ON:20 MINUTES
TOTAL:20 MINUTES
COURSE: Appetizers, Salads

Ingredients
1/2 cup bottled poppy seed dressing (I forgot to buy this, so I just drizzled some lime juice and balsamic vinegarette on ours. It was yummy!)
2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
2 avocados, thinly sliced
4 cups loosely packed arugula
2 cups halved seedless green grapes
1 mango, julienned
1 cup diced fresh strawberries
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Preparation
Whisk together dressing and grated ginger in a large bowl. Cut avocado slices in half crosswise; gently toss with dressing mixture. Add arugula and remaining ingredients; gently toss to coat. Serve immediately.
Pair with: Tramin Gewürztraminer, Italy or Vouvray.
Southern Living JUNE 2011

I absolutely LOVE cilantro and lime. They are both so refreshing! We've had record breaking hot temperatures around our parts lately, so anything refreshing is a very good thing!

So, what's your favorite summer fare?

Happy 9th birthday, Carleigh

2011-06-07T09:31:00.000-05:00

I spent some time reflecting on the labor and delivery of my first child the other day. It really seems just like the other day when I had my first. Carleigh turned 9 on Sunday. I am struggling with how fast the time has gone by. It's too fast. A friend Kelvin works with invited us to spend the weekend with him and his wife at Sam Rayburn. He is a fishing guide there and wanted to take the kids fishing. They didn't just go fishing, they went catching! I would say Carleigh had a pretty exciting 9th birthday on the lake! We also spent some time tubing. I love hearing them squealing when Kelvin is pulling them around on the tube or knee board. FUN stuff!

Last night we had the FAM over for dinner and cake. We had a fish fry with some those of yummy fish they caught! Fresh fish...mmmmm! We devoured what Kelvin cooked. It was SO good. Carleigh wanted a beachy/luauy theme for her party, and my friend made the cutest cake.

If you recall, in November, Carleigh shot her first deer...an awesome 8 point buck. We had it mounted for her, and surprised her with it on her birthday. She was so excited. It was just precious!

She's still celebrating! She got to spend the night with Grammy and Papa. I'll pick her up in a little while. I think she had a great 9th birthday. I hope she agrees.

Batten Disease Awareness Weekend

2011-06-03T11:00:00.001-05:00

This weekend is Batten Disease Awareness Weekend. If you're new here, Batten Disease is what stole our precious daughter, Emma, from us way too soon. I miss her every day. My heart breaks just a little bit every time I look at her photos. I yearn to hold her, kiss her, stroke her hair, hear her voice. I yearn for things she never got to do...talk, go to the pre-K class at Wee School, ride a bike, go to homecoming, graduate.

Batten Disease is one of the thousands of rare diseases that don't get much attention or funding. Maybe if enough people learn about it, that will change. Could you please post something on your blog or Facebook page about Batten Disease this weekend? You can click here to read Jenni's post about their daughter, Celia, who also has Batten Disease. There are many organizations and businesses listed on her post trying to help raise awareness and money to go toward a cure or treatment for Batten Disease. Thanks for taking the time to read.

Thanks for loving our daughter. My prayer is that others like Emma will learn to ride a bike or go to the homecoming dance because when they are given the diagnosis of Batten Disease, the doctor will also give them the good news that there is a cure.

Please visit Batten Disease Support and Research Association and Beyond Batten Disease Foundation for more information about Batten Disease and how you can help.

Thank you.

Apple doesn't fall far from the tree

2011-06-02T08:59:00.000-05:00

Don't you just hate it when something you did as a kid comes back to haunt you? Well, when I was a brilliant teenager, there was a day when I thought my mother didn't do a darned thing all day. In a heated conversation between the two of us, she suggested I sit down and write out a list of the things she did and the things I did. I'm sure she thought I would see the light as I was composing my list and come begging for forgiveness for my arrogance. To her dismay, and now my embarrassment, the list was quite unevenly distributed. Talk about crushing my mom's spirit...shame on me!

Well, I have to say, I am in t-r-o-u-b-l-e! At least I was a smarty pants teenager when I made my list, and at least I had some responsiblity by that point (job, washing my own clothes), but Carleigh is only days away from 9 years old. One of her chores is unloading the dishwasher. I have not been very consistent with making her do it lately. The other day I asked her to unload it. Oh my, did I get an ear full! After having heard enough, I sent her to her room to cool off and write a report about her behavior while she was there. It consisted of phrases such as, "Dishwashers are just a waste of metal for the whole world," and "God gave us our hands for a reason!" Followed by, "I'll unload it but don't put soooooooooooo (took up 3 lines) much in there!" The second part of her report was dedicated to her behavior. She agrees that her behavior was bad, but she was frustrated and couldn't help it. Here's one of my favorites..."Just like you kind of go over the top when you get mad or frustrated at me or Luke or Cora..." (Oh boy! Nothing like having the mirror shoved in front of your face!) Here's another favorite, "I had told Luke 2 to 4 times!" and "It gets really earting (irritating) when you are only 8 to 9 years old." She did close by saying she was very sorry about all that happend that day.

Prayers please! :) Think I need to spend some serious time on my knees begging for the tools necessary to deal with these precious gifts.

So how about you? Have you had any "apple" moments lately?

Iron Man Update

2011-05-24T12:11:00.000-05:00

Friday night our family stayed the night in the Woodlands so we could watch our friend, John start his Iron Man early Saturday morning! What an honor to be his friend! I wanted to share with you his post-race report. Words escape me...

Iron Man Texas – May 21, 2011
If IronMan had not decided to have an inaugural race in The Woodlands, located just about an hour north of Houston, I am not sure if I would be writing this race report. The timing was somewhat eerie. But after completing two IronMan 70.3 races in 2010, what would be the difference? So I signed up. I can assure you that two halves do not equal a whole.

Since January 2011, my life has revolved around getting ready for IronMan Texas. I was told that the time commitment was enormous, and boy were they right. I had help from Coach Trent in getting my training on the right track, however, I couldn’t have executed it without my accountability training partner, Robin. Many mornings when the alarm clock went off, I would surely have turned it off and went back to bed if it weren’t for her. In addition, I met some amazing new friends during this journey. Trying to name them all here would take half a page. But I would like to point out just a few. Philip and all the folks at that work and ride for Shama Cycles are simply fabulous people. I learned a lot about cycling from them and they kept my bike tuned up and working efficiently. Trent, Andrew and Muddy organized a terrific IronMan training camp, where I learned a lot about strategy, nutrition and trying to educate me on a race that was simply hard for me to comprehend. And finally, Cindy and Ronnie who introduced me to a great team called Tri4Him. God was working when He called for our paths to cross and my perspective on triathlon in my life and why I train and race and participate in this awesome sport have been transformed forever.
When the week of the big race came, it seemed like the past 6 months just flew by. My mind raced with doubt…am I ready? We (Robin and I) got our packets on Wednesday and then came home to do some final packing before heading up to the Woodlands on Thursday. Got some dinner at PF Changs Thursday night and over to the athlete meeting. Thursday flew by so fast! Friday morning, there was a practice swim in Lake Woodlands. The water temperature was 79 degrees and at that point, wetsuits were not going to be legal. However, I could wear one, but just not be eligible for slots to the IronMan World Championships if I posted a fast time. I knew there was NOO way…so wearing a wetsuit entered my mind. However, I thought I would be too hot, so I made a decision to not wear one.

Friday afternoon was spent checking in my bike and transition bags and then heading back to the hotel and relaxing. Friday Evening I had dinner with Robin, her husband, mom, step-dad, Christy and her kids, Luke, Carleigh and Cora. Aimee was bringing the girls up that evening after the athletics banquet at Sydney’s school. Kelvin, Christy’s husband, arrived in The Woodlands, later that afternoon. Kelvin and Christy are Emma’s parents. Recall, that Emma’s Hugs, is the organization that I wanted to bring attention to and help raise money for as they help families in need when they have loved one’s in the hospital in the Texas Medical Center. It meant the world to me that they made the trip up to see the race.

I finally fell asleep around 9:30 that evening. I guess I was sleeping pretty hard as I didn’t even hear Aimee arrive at the hotel room. My wakeup call rang at 3:45. After a bagel and peanut butter, some orange juice and a Starbucks Double shot, Mike drove Robin and I to transition for one final check of tire pressure and put some final things in our transition bags. Then…off to the swim start. It was about 1 mile from transition, so Mike drove us there, too. At the swim start, I saw my friend John, who convinced me about 4 years ago that I should train for a marathon. Who knew that it would evolve into this? Met up with my family, Kelvin and Christy, Robin and her family who were all wearing their Emma’s Hugs/Team Mohr t-shirts. We had a prayer devotional with Tri4Him, I put on my skin suit, swim cap and goggles and headed for the water.

It was crowded and right as I got ankle deep in the water, the gun sounded to start the race. I was trapped by all the people behind me trying to fight to get into the water, the people in front of me trying to wait for people in front of them to start swimming and a boat dock on my right. I swam under the boat dock and was free of the chaos. I got into a steady swim pace and then started getting poked and prodded from all direction by folks who wanted to make the 2 hour 20 minute swim cut off and become an IronMan just as much as I. I found my way out of the chaos, held onto a kayak for a minute, caught my breath and then resumed. The rest of the swim was uneventful until we hit the canal heading up towards Discovery Green Park. The canal was about 75 meters wide with concrete walls on each side. When you put a bunch of swimmers in there, the water was like swimming in the ocean. The swim down the canal was about 2/3 of a mile but I made it, and exited the swim, total distance swam was 2.4 miles in 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Now was time to get ready for the bike. The transition tent was like a sauna!! I wanted to get out of there as fast as possible. I got to my bike, loaded up my pockets with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, cans of starbucks double shots and granola bars. Aimee and the girls were right next to where my bike was racked, so I got to hear them cheer for me before I headed out on the long bike ride.

As I was about to mount my bike, someone tapped me on my shoulder and asked if I had white sunglasses. I said yes…and when I looked down at my bike, they were gone. She said they fell off back in transition. So, with bike in hand, I headed back up stream to go look for my sunglasses. And they were no where to be found. I started asking people in the crowd for a pair of sunglasses and to no avail. I finally came to the realization that I was going to ride this 6 hour bike ride with no sunglasses. UNTIL…I saw Triny and Wendy on the side. In a state of panic, I told them, “I lost my sunglasses!!”. Wendy handed me her sunglasses and I was off. (THANK YOU WENDY!!) The first quarter of the bike ride was uneventful. I saw David on the road and my mother and father in law. Crossing mile 25 or so, I saw Robin’s pink bike ahead. She said a police man stopped a group of about 100 riders at a stop light to let traffic move through. I couldn’t believe it!! We chatted for a minute, I gave her some of my peanut butter and jelly sandwich and I peddled on. The ride to the north was beautiful as we entered Sam Houston State Park and Forest. The part off Osbourne road was my favorite part of the ride. Through the trees, down hill and FAST! Once we turned and began heading south again, the head wind emerged. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be, but I was 65 miles into the ride. At about mile 70, my chain dropped off my gears as I was shifting to get up a steep hill. So, I had to stop and get that fixed. At mile 92, I had a flat tire and had to change that. Coming back into the transition area after 112 miles of biking, I felt pretty good. I saw Aimee and the girls as I headed into transition to get changed to go run a marathon. I finished the bike in 6 hours and 19 minutes.
So far, my race was going entirely as I had planned it. All I had left was 3 loops of a 8.5 mile run course left between me and my IronMan. My plan called for taking it easy on the run, keeping my heart rate in the 130’s for the first 10K and see how I felt. This put me at about a 10:30 min/mile pace and at that time I knew it was going to be a long day. I am used to running 8:45 min/mile to keep that same heart rate. However, in hindsight, that is what I should have expected for the hot temperature and the high humidity. So I stayed true to my plan to run based on my HR and ignored my pace. The nutrition I packed in my fuel belt got messed up by sitting in the sun for 8 hours or something happened to my sense of taste. But none the less, it made me sick to drink it. I ditched my fuel belt during the first loop of the run and changed my nutrition plan. I started drinking the nutrition at the aid stations and continued taking my salt tablets. Running by the Tri4Him cheer zone in from of Landry’s at mile 7 or so, where Aimee and the girls were camped out, too, was a refreshing relief. They were the best cheer zone on the run course! I knew I’d see them again at Mile 15 and 24 and that kept me motivated to just get back to that spot 2 more times. The sun came out during the second loop. I saw so many runners on the side of the road hunched over, throwing up. All I could do was offer them a squirt of cold water on the drape of their neck from my water bottle and pray for them as I went down the road. Many I am sure had to be taken off the course. My heart rate rose to the 150’s just walking. At that point I went into defensive mode. I filled my water bottle up with ice water at every aid station and pushed through the second loop taking my salt tablets, drinking my water and pouring the rest over my head. At the beginning of the third loop I saw Philip and John who I mentioned earlier. I tried to stay close to them, but I just couldn’t go any further. I wanted to stop so bad, but I was determined to finish. As the sun went down, I got some strength to begin running again, but it was more of a moderate shuffle than a run. Running a marathon is challenging. Running a marathon after riding 112 miles is exceptionally hard! Running a marathon starting at 3:00pm after riding 112 miles when the temperature is 90 degrees with 60% humidity is darn near impossible. I saw my friend Robin when I hit the 25 mile marker as we turned the corner. The thought of her being there at the beginning when we signed up and right there at the end of my journey carried me that last 1.2 miles to the finish. I hit mile 26, stopped and kissed Aimee, Sydney and Ashley before making that final, memorable trip towards the finish line. My friend Wayne came to watch me finish, too. As I ran towards the finish line, I heard those famous words from Mike Reiley…”John Mohr…YOU ARE AN IRON MAN!!”. My friend Triny caught me at the finish line and made sure that I was OK. I glanced back at the clock…13 hours and 51 minutes. But the time was irrelevant at that point. I am an IronMan and the journey changed me forever.

There are things throughout life that we are told that add meaning and sense of accomplishment to our lives: “Job well done!!”, “Congratulations!”, “You did it!”. “You are an IronMan” is one that I will never forget. It has added meaning, but most of all it has added purpose through efforts with Emma’s Hugs. If we can take things that add meaning to our lives and augment them to add purpose, what a different world we would live in.

While “You are an IronMan” will be added to the list of phrases that describe what I have done, it will not define me. “You may kiss the bride” and “It’s a girl!” are the phrases that form foundation of my life as it exists today. Because of those phrases and the people behind them, I am who I am today. I could not have completed this IronMan journey without my family’s support. I have missed soccer games, volley ball games, campouts, making breakfasts after sleepovers and many others during this journey. And I hold deep regrets for those losses. But tomorrow is another day and I look forward to a 20 mile bike ride. And when I roll out of the driveway, I look forward to heading down the road and seeing where God takes me with a new perspective on life.

...I found myself in tears as I read John's account. All the work and training! Inspiring!

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Meet John

2011-05-20T10:48:00.000-05:00

I am SO embarrassed! I started this post last year and really thought I finished and posted it. I seriously need some exercises to do for my memory. It's bad...really bad. So, this will be a continuation of the post I started last year in June...

For a while now I've needed to share some really great stuff and haven't ~~had~~ made the time (for shame) to tell you about all the wonderful things going on with Emma's Hugs. We have had several, tons really, donations come through our website. Many came because of the work of our friend, John Mohr. He. is. AWESOME!! He just got back from Hawaii where he did the 1/2 Iron Man! The guy is incredible, I tell you. His training for the Iron Man included many marathons, 1/2 marathons, triathalons, and the like, all at which he promoted Emma's Hugs with his gear. If you're a runner, biker, workout enthusiast, or just like cool workout gear, we can hook you up! He also designed a fabulous jersey for his Iron Man. You can have one too if you would like to join Team Emma's Hugs or get a team of your own together. So with all of his training, and then finally going to Hawaii, he sent out a challenge for his friends and family to donate $73.03 to Emma's Hugs, the amount of miles he would go for the Iron Man. Over $2100 came in! (Scream and jump up and down!)

So now, for the post I was going to do today...

John has continued to share the vision for Emma's Hugs, and sent out the beautiful message below to his friends and family the other day. I thought I would share it with you too...

I set a goal about 1 year ago after finishing my first half-IronMan triathlon to complete a full IronMan before I turned 40. Just about 10 months before my 40th birthday and 1 week before the race, I have come to the realization that I am crazy! What would ever motivate someone to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and then run a full 26.2 mile marathon, and do it all in less than 17 hours? Two words…Emma’s Hugs. Emma’s Hugs is an organization that was started in September 2009 by our friends Kelvin and Christy Dunnam. It is named after their daughter Emma, who died February 1, 2010, 1 month shy of her 4 year old birthday, from Batten Disease. The mission of Emma’s Hugs is to offer random acts of kindness, as simple as paying for parking, for families with children or adults hospitalized in the Texas Medical Center. A very simple act that goes a long way for families who just want to park their car so they can be with their family member and not have to worry about the financial burden this can place on them. To date, Emma’s Hugs has provided over 16 1/2 years (that is right…6,029days!!!) of parking. But the impact is much greater than the value of the parking. To offer a non-selfish act of kindness offers a glimmer of hope to families who may be in financial crisis, or health, family or spiritual crisis. 1 John 3:17 says, “If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Last year we raised just over $3000 for Emma’s Hugs. But most importantly, we were able to make people aware of this awesome organization. During the Houston Triathlon last September, I spent 5 minutes of the run talking with another athlete about Emm a’s Hugs because he asked about my triathlon jersey (which has the Emma’s Hugs logo). When arriving at the bike to run transition in Hawaii 70.3, I was greeted by a HUGE Emma’s Hugs banner draping over our balcony at the hotel for everyone to see that my kids made with crayons and a sheet that they took from the bed in our room. Tri 4 Him, a Christian triathlon team, has chosen Emma’s Hugs as their “race for a reason” for the year. There have been groups who have run 5K’s to ½ marathons to marathons wearing Emma’s Hugs race gear to help raise money and awareness. Getting on board with this organization is contagious when one learns of what they are doing for others. Please consider supporting me this year in my IronMan quest with a charitable, tax deductible donation to Emma’s Hugs. These donations will allow them to continue to bless people through the legacy of Emma Dunnam. A $100 donation can provide a week of parking for a mom and dad that just want to be with their sick child or a wife or husband supporting a spouse in cancer treatment. In reality, some families have children or loved ones in the hospital for months. (That is $400/month…just to park their car!) The more money we can raise, the more people we can bless. If you can donate more, THANK YOU!! If you can only give a little, THANK YOU!! You can donate online at the Emma’s Hugs website by clicking the “DONATE” tab on the home page. Please put my name and Tri 4 Him in the Special Instructions box. You can also find Emma’s Hugs on Facebook (and you can follow Kelvin and Christy on their blog at, http://www.emmadunnam.blogspot.com/.

Thank You,

John Mohr

Inspiration

2011-05-16T13:23:00.001-05:00

We had a packed weekend. It was all good though. Kelvin completed the course work at Lee College for his Associate of Science in December. The college only does one graduation ceremony a year, so he had to wait until this spring to participate in the ceremony. He went back to school to earn his degree the summer Emma was diagnosed with Batten Disease. She is his inspiration. I remember him telling me he felt like he needed to go to school to earn his degree for Emma since she never would be able to. He is such an inspiration himself. There are days when I truly don't know where his energy comes from...working full-time, continuing to be a wonderful husband and father, and carrying slightly under a full load at school is enough to make an average man collapse...Kelvin is anything but average. So, Friday night, Kelvin walked across that stage, and his mom, children and his proud wife were all there beeming. He transferred to the University of Houston Downtown's College of Business in January and will complete his studies for a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Supply Chain and Logistics.

After the ceremony Friday night we had some wine and cheese and a deee-licious triple layer chocolate mousse cake which we shared with his mom, grandmother, aunt and our good friends who live down the street. Kelvin brought down his degree and a pencil sketch that hangs above the desk in our study and proposed a toast. He is so eleoquent. He said something to the effect that without inspiration, it is hard for someone to complete a task. Emma is his inspiration, and for her, he {and all of us} is grateful. Tears stung my eyes (and his) as we cheered.

Saturday afternoon we headed to Beaumont to help my mother-in-law get ready for a graduation party for our nephew, Andrew. He graduates from high school on Saturday the 21st. I can't believe it. I was there the day he was born. He has also worked hard to receive his Eagle Scout, an accomplishment which we honored at the party as well...

My friend did a fabulous job on the cake, don't you think?

Slumber

2011-05-11T09:05:00.001-05:00

I'm on the couch with my laptop on my lap and my littlest by my side. She is snoozing, paci halfway hanging out of her mouth, and I hear a tiny little snore as her belly goes up and down with her breath. She woke too soon this moring, telling me she was sleeping in her bed but wanted to sleep in mine. Her big brother and sister were up and getting ready for the school day, and she heard them and wanted to be with them. So now, she is completing her night's sleep. I hate to wake her and get her ready for her preschool day, so I might just sit here and watch her a little while longer.

I'm a little bit sore this morning. Yes, I'm still exercising some, but that's not why I'm sore. As I was getting up from the couch yesterday evening, and making my way outside, my foot slid right out from under me, and I landed smack on my side. My hip/thigh area hurts, and my neck is a little sore as well. How in the world that all happened, I don't know, I'm just kinda glad there wasn't anyone in the house to witness it, for I'm certain it looked pretty funny.

The big kids only have a half day of school today. I'm not sure why exactly, but it is true nonetheless. They have next Friday, May 20th off for a bad weather day. Why didn't the school calendar people ask me when planning that day off? Wouldn't it make more sense to have put that on the Memorial Day weekend holiday? Then we would have a four-day weekend. Oh well, they didn't, and life will go on.

The littlest is starting to stir, so I think I will get off the couch now and make her lunch. They are having a campout style lunch today. The teachers sent home a sack decorated with her name on it and asked that I pack her lunch in it for the campout. How cute is that?!

Happy Mother's Day to Christy

2011-05-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

(author warning- kelvin)

Do you have a favorite magazine? Do you subscribe to it, look forward to getting it in the mail, and get a little sad when you've read the last page? Christy likes Coastal Living and Southern Living. For me, it is Newsweek (I like to read what the "other side" has to say!). Do the lives of people in your magazines seem perfect? Is every child smiling? Is every room decorated to the hilt? Are the waves the perfect blue with white caps that appear to be painted on with a brush? Do the pictures of every plate of food contain 5 colors from 4 food groups? And how about the articles??? Obviously if you write a magazine article you must be a leader in your field and you must know everything, right? Even the authors who share their short-comings do so for our benefit as they share with us how they cured their mortal temptations or traveled the globe on a dime. Never do we see citations in magazine articles, so these folks are obviously field-experts.

Living with Christy and watching her manage our home and tend to our children is sometimes like living in a magazine- the pictures are always perfect and the articles are inspiring. Each meal does have 5 colors from 4 food groups (last night was grilled rib eye steaks smothered in homemade crawfish etouffe, steamed mixed vegetables, Mediterranean salad with homemade dressing, French bread, peach tea, and chocolate dipped strawberries along side some to-die-for chocolate cheesecake desserts...and I must mention it was all set on the back porch with candles on the table and overhead which accented the beautiful table setting- with an occassional smell of burning oak coming from the firepit). Her children always leave for the school bus with a full "love tank" and nutritous lunches that the teachers take note of. Christy always answers the phone at the editor's desk with an energy that lifts the spirits of the lucky caller. To write an expose' highlighting her volunteer hours with Emma's Hugs and Blue Bird Circle Clinic after taking wonderful care of her church, husband and children would convince readers she wears a big "S" on her chest. She could write an editorial piece about the challenges of reviving a defunked HOA and the fun times that involves (sarcasm intended)...and explain her desire for her children to grow up in a better neighborhood. Yes, in "Dunnam Living" each picture is perfectly framed and the articles are always uplifting.

H-o-w-e-v-e-r, you should see the work she puts into each edition. The pressroom is hot and loud. Her arms and hands stay covered in ink. For each "perfect" picture or life-story that we see she has trashed 20 others. The 5 AM Edition is never finished before 3 AM. Her fingers bleed. She tries to work quietly so as to not bother anyone else. It is only the extreme demands of life that give her any rest from mourning her little angel in heaven. Tears wash away the salty sweat from her eyes. If there is anyone who doubts the glossy pages of her "Life Magazine" it is her. But, only her. For those of us who read her life-works on a daily basis, we are lifted by her energy; we fill loved; we can work harder; we are inspired to climb higher; we see more in life than we did before; she adds salt to our lives.

Christy,
You are an awesome example to our children and especially me. You are admired from several continents (literally) and even by those you have never met, but most importantly within our home. Your children love to draw your picture. Your work is dirty, but the product is perfect. You are a Mom.

As always, I will also remind the blog followers that you are an absolute hottie and I will continue to chase you as hard as I did when you were 18! (sorry folks...just can't help myself...that girls drives me crazy...can't think straight when she walks in the room!)

Happy Mother's Day!

k

Yummy Dinner Idea

2011-05-05T23:37:00.000-05:00

Tonight was yummy dinner night. I made a recipe I saw on the Yahoo scrolly thingy on our home page. Evidently there is something called Shine from Yahoo. Who knew? Now I do. Anyway, there were a week's worth of delicioso recipes the other day, and I cooked one of them for dinner tonight. You've gotta try the Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Vegetables...to die for! Even the kids liked most of it. Carleigh wasn't too keen on the red bell peppers, and Luke didn't care for them either, but they gobbled down the squash, asparagus and shrimp with the wild rice-orzo! As long as I hid her asparagus in each rice bite, Cora ate it too. She didn't much care for the squash and bell pepper though and spit out one bite on Carleigh's plate. What a great big sister! The recipe didn't call for squash, but my friend brought me two beautiful yellow squash from her garden, and I couldn't resist using it. It gave the dish another gorgeous color and us another yummy veggie! I just seeded and cubed it and added it in with the other veggies. I would also suggest decreasing the amount of chicken broth to about 1/2 to 3/4 cup instead of a full cup. I'm not sure I was supposed to have quite as much liquid as I did, but it was still gooood! The recipe says to serve it with quinoa, whole-wheat couscous or linguine. I had a little bit of wild rice and a little bit of orzo (I think that's what it was), so I combined them, and it was perfect!

So, what did you have for dinner? Do share.

I'm on a roll

2011-05-04T07:10:00.000-05:00

Or maybe I should say I have a roll (or two.) But what I meant is that I went for a walk/little itty bit of a run with my good friend, Jessica and her sweet little one yesterday morning. The weather was gorgeous. It wasn't much of a workout for my friend, but I felt like I had been put through the wringer! But this morning, instead of pushing snooze and going back to my happy sleepy place, I got up and put on my workout clothes, and did my Core Secrets Workout dvd. :) So, I'm on a roll! Just hoping I can keep it up. I really need to take better care of myself. I take good care of my family (most of the time), and I'm pretty good at taking care of other people and organizations, but I don't make the time to take care of myself...follow up with doctors appointments, take my vitamins, exercise, eat what I should. But today's a new day, right? I'm still breathing, as Sarah Mae shared yesterday. I can keep going. I can make a change. I need to lose about 15 or 20 pounds, or at the very least, tone up and stay active. I can do this. My 20 year reunion is in the fall. I have some movtivation, don't you think?

How about you? What do you want (or need) to do for yourself?

You (we) can do it!

I'm worn out

2011-04-30T22:22:00.000-05:00

Cora passed out on the kitchen floor

There are things happening all around me that are zapping my energy. I feel like someone has pounced on me like a bunch of spider monkeys. I think I could sleep for days without waking up, but that's not very practical with little ones pulling on me and vying for my attention. I am continually praying for restored marriages, freedom from addiction, peace and comfort for those who have lost loved ones, peace in the midst of the storm of bad news, provision for those who have lost it all...literally, comfort and healing for those who need a physical touch from the Great Physician, peace among families, and a calm spirit and cool head (as opposed to a hot one) to deal with people who are not so lovely to deal with.

Have you ever been there? Of course you have. Haven't we all? Sometimes it just seems like when it rains, it pours. There is SO much sadness all around us. We are in a drought around our part of the world, and that's how my spirit feels...parched. I'm really missing my sweet girl too...her little button nose, her soft skin, her sweetness. My third little step in the line of our children is gone, and I miss her. My heart aches for her. My arms yearn to hug and hold her.

Spirit of the living God, fall fresh on me.

Studio Ainsely Supports Emma's Hugs

2011-04-28T07:00:00.004-05:00

Hey all you Houstonians! Maca, with Studio Ainsley is giving a portion of the proceeds from her 5 year anniversary celebration coming up in August to Emma's Hugs. Especially if you live in the Richmond-Rosenburg area, please stop by and take advantage of having some beautiful photos made of your family but also share in supporting Emma's Hugs. Check out the flier below. If you have any questions, I'll do my best to answer them, or you can give Maca a call. You can find her contact information on her website and blog by clicking here or here.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T10:58:00.001-05:00

His face says it all...

Some things I've been doing

2011-04-26T16:20:00.001-05:00

Here are a few of the things I've done around the house lately (or not-so-lately. I just don't always remember to post everything in a timely manner.)...

In the winter, I made the cutest ruffles to lengthen Carleigh's velour pants that were just a tad too short. She's at that awkward clothes stage where her legs are long and require a size that will swallow her waist. I'm not too big on shopping, so maybe they're out there, and I just don't know it, but why do the girl sizes go from a 7/8 to a 10/12? Does that seem like a huge leap to anyone besides me? Anyway, here is a pic of the pants with one side done and other not so you can see the before and after...

Something else I've done is reclaim the small armoire from Carleigh's room and paint it black. I'm planning on organizing it with all of our craft, scrapbook, and sewing stuff. I also painted the backside of the long mirror with chalkboard paint. It's just been sitting in Carleigh's room with all of Emma's clothes still folded in the drawers. I couldn't bring myself to empty it for a long time. Now Cora is big enough to wear the cute clothes. It's bittersweet. It's sweet that Cora can wear her sister's hand-me-downs, but I sure do wish her big sister was here for me to say, "you wore that when you were little, Emma!"

The verse is for our new Balcony Girls group. Click here to find out more about Balcony Girls.

Got the idea for the knobs at Maple and Magnolia.

Here are some flip flops I made for our friend's 1/2 birthday. What's that? You don't celebrate your 1/2 birthday? Well, you should! (Long story about how I can't get my act together. I'll share at a later date.)

Another thing I've accomplished is sorting through and organizing our large armoire. It is now designated for Cora's toys on the bottom section (since she doesn't have her own room yet) and the big kids' coloring/activity books and games on the upper section.

Oh boy, what a mess! Sorry about the poor quality of photos. These are taken with my cell phone. I couldn't get my camera to download anything. Ugh!

Might not look a whole lot better, but it is organized now!

The next project in the works is removing the cabinet above the bar, as well as the fur down, and replacing it with some lighting and possibly a pot rack. I had a pot rack in our other house and loved it. I would also love to remove the fluorescent light box taking center stage in our kitchen, patch the hole, then add some recessed lights in it's place...oh, what a beautiful day that will be! I. hate. fluorescent. lights! I would rather cook in the dark, than have on the fluorescent light.

So, what are you up to? Any fun transformations around your house?

A peek into my life

2011-04-21T22:15:00.002-05:00

Here is a peek into a day (or two) in the life of me...via my cell phone...

On our way home from the Rotary Fish and Shrimp Fest last Saturday. It was gooood! Cora and Luke had fun. Carleigh was playing at a friend's house. She was digging through Carleigh's purse on the way home and found these shades...you look marvelous, dawling!

Luke had a ball checking out the firetruck and S.W.A.T. vehicle at the festival. He looks adorable in the firefighter hat!

My mega fine man driving home with a belly full of fish and shrimp! YUM-O!

I couldn't resist! Aren't those piggy tails the absolute cutest thing you have ever seen?!

Lovin' the money she received in the mail for Easter yesterday from some very special friends. She was swaying back and forth, so my photo is a bit blrry.

Saturday evening Carleigh performed with one of our high school's drill team during their stage show. The girls got to participate in a dance clinic and showed us what they learned during the stage show performance. She was so cute! Our future "Star!"

My precious friend, Rachel and the cork board I made her for her birthday yesterday. I was honored to join her and our other sidekick, Jana and Rachel's mom for lunch at a fabulous tea room, Teapot Depot.

Lunch was soooo yummy! Of course the company was even betta!

Three amigos!

I stole this idea from Big Mama. LOVE her. She is hilarious!

Worst Blogger

2011-04-19T22:29:00.000-05:00

I won't be winning any awards for the best blogger...maybe the worst, though. I can't believe how fast the days rush by. I look back over the past week and I'm almost breathless. Sometimes I wish we could go away, far away, where there are no schedules, laundry, phones, computers, or TV and just be. The ocean, the mountains, Italy, Australia, it doesn't really matter. I'm just tired. I want to recuperate, sleep, eat, play with my kids, rejuvenate, talk with my husband and rest. Summer is just around the corner, and it is so welcome. I haven't won the best mom award lately either. I continue to be who I don't like, continue to screw up. I yell, I'm unorganized, I forget, I say things I regret and cannot pull the words back into my mouth.

Thankfully, there is One who forgives and restores, and gives grace and mercy when it is so desperately needed. Thankfully, we have this holy week to remember and reflect upon the most wonderful gift He gave. Thank you, Jesus, for loving me in spite of myself. For giving, becoming one of us yet remaining sinless, taking the sin of the world upon your shoulders to provide a bridge to God for us. Thank you that you continue to forgive my terrible parenting, my disheveled self, my crazy life. Thank you.

Thankful today for gifts #42 through #51 ...

a friend who took the challenge with me to memorize Colossians.
One chapter down.
the energy of our children
the sweetness of our eldest
innocence of youth
new friends
graciousness
good recipes shared with good friends
encouragement from a friend
a husband who stands firm
healing.

Joining with Ann and others in counting One Thousand Gifts...

Save Our Marriages

2011-04-14T21:19:00.001-05:00

Lord,

My heart is heavy tonight. I cannot contain the tears. So many marriages are crumbling around us. Dear, dear friends are separated from their soul mate, the one with whom they made a covenant before you and with you, oh Lord, to unite as one flesh. Oh God, please intervene. Show them a marriage more abundant. Save them from destruction.

"In the original creation, God made male and female to be together. Because of this, a man leaves father and mother, and in marriage he becomes one flesh with a woman—no longer two individuals, but forming a new unity. Because God created this organic union of the two sexes, no one should desecrate his art by cutting them apart." Mark 10:9

So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.

Love never gives up.

Love cares more for others than for self.

Love doesn't want what it doesn't have.

Love doesn't strut,

Doesn't have a swelled head,

Doesn't force itself on others,

Isn't always "me first,"

Doesn't fly off the handle,

Doesn't keep score of the sins of others,

Doesn't revel when others grovel,

Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,

Puts up with anything,

Trusts God always,

Always looks for the best,

Never looks back,

But keeps going to the end.

Love never dies.

I Corinthians 13

Giving Thanks

2011-04-11T21:21:00.002-05:00

Giving thanks for
#30 our sweet Cora who sings, "Jesus Loves Me," in the car, into the microphone, in the backyard or wherever suits her fancy
#31 friends who encourage me
#32 strangers who do the same
#33 calm amidst the craziness
#34 unexpected gifts (thank you, Jessica)
#35 cool spring night with the one I love
#36 sausage on the fire pit
#37 Refiner's fire
#38 Committing Colossians 1 to memory
#39 my friend who did as well
#40 rising above
#41 Jesus paid it all...o praise the one who paid my debt and raised this life up from the dead

Joining Ann and others in giving thanks today.
Won't you join us too?

Once upon a time...

2011-04-06T13:41:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time, there was a sweet mommy who had two sweet little girls, and was left to raise them on her own. The oldest little girl, Christy, was in first grade, and the youngest little girl, Cindy, was a toddler. The mommy did the very best she could as a single mommy, but she was very lonely, despite the company of her precious little ones, and prayed, begging God to bring her a Godly husband. After many months of praying in desperation, one of the mommy's friends from work told her he had a friend she might like to meet. So, one day, the man's friend knocked on the mommy's door. She was very nervous, but opened the door, and to her delight, her knight in shining armor was on the other side! It was love at first sight, and after a few weeks of courting her, the knight in shining armor asked for her hand in marriage. The sweet little girls were thrilled! They really liked this man, and were excited to think they would have a new daddy. So, the couple made plans to get married, and joined their families together just a few short weeks later! The little girls were a little bit confused and sad to know their last name did not change when their mommy's did, but they pretended it did anyway. After a couple of years, the mommy and daddy asked the little girls what they thought about the daddy giving his last name to them. They were delighted and could not wait! So, the mommy and daddy, the little girls and their new little brother went to the court house. They stood before the judge and the little girls, Christy and Cindy, said, "Yes sir," when asked if they would like to take the name of their new daddy. The judge explained that the big word for what was happening was "adoption." The little girls and the rest of the family were very happy. God had made them all a great big family! They all wore blue shirts with a picture of their house on the front with the words, "God made us a family," and on the back was the first AND last name of each family member. It was all very sweet, and it took place on April 5, 1982. Every April 5 thereafter has officially been known as Langston Day for the mommy, daddy, little girls and little boy.

What a blessing for my mom to have found her knight in shining armor and a wonderful daddy for her little girls all wrapped in one great package! I am forever thankful! Happy Langston Day (a day late)!

Baptism

2011-04-05T22:00:00.000-05:00

Sunday, Carleigh and Luke were baptized. We were all so excited!

Carleigh went first. They were both a little bit nervous, but they did great! You never know what Luke has up his sleeve, but he didn't pull anything like doing a canon ball entry or shakying his hair like a shaggy dog when coming out of the water. I'm sure if the seed would have been planted he would have been tempted. He kept trying to look under the curtain while we were all backstage and the praise band was leading music.

Their sweet little souls are so precious. Jesus said we should all come to him just as little children. I hope and pray Carleigh and Luke's walk with God is made stronger every day. I pray they will be giants for the Lord. I have to remember too, that they are watching Kelvin and me. Oh Lord, that I would be a good example for these children. "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." Psalm 19:14

Living a Life of Thanks

2011-04-04T08:21:00.001-05:00

Giving many thanks for...

#23 "His peace guards my heart and mind." Phillipians 4:7 And again, His Word is just what I needed and showed up at the perfect time.
#24 Bountiful blessings at church yesterday. Our Carleigh and Luke were baptized. Many friends and family stood in their honor. I was so proud I almost burst!
#25 a man, my man, who has stood by my side during a rough week.
#26 friends with encouraging words and uplifting texts.
#27 a 2 year old who sings, "Happy Birthday" to herself.
#28 daylight into the evening
#29 promise of a risen Savior.

Joining Ann and others in giving thanks today.

Won't you join us too?

Bogged Down

2011-04-02T22:53:00.000-05:00

I've been a bit bogged down this week. It's been pretty rough at some points. I wish sometimes the Pollyanna world in my head could be real. I wish everyone spoke to each other with kindness and love, and when they disagreed with each other, they took the time to sit down and talk and share their differences. For the coming days I am claiming "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future." Proverbs 31:25. It sure would be easier not to, though. If you think about it, can you say a little prayer for me? Thanks so much!

Have a beautiful Sunday. I know we will. Carleigh and Luke are being baptized in the morning. Oh glorious day!

Happy Birthday, Cora!

2011-03-30T00:42:00.001-05:00

~~Yesterday~~ (I started this post on Monday. One of these days I'll finish a post the same day I start it!)Sunday, March 27, our little fireball turned 2! Holy moly, how did that happen?!? I can. not. believe. it! I rolled in from our annual church ladies retreat around 1:30, hugged all the kiddos, chatted with my number one fan, and got going on getting ready for her little birthday party...dinner and cake with the fam. We had a good time! She is so adorable. After finding the cah-uest ladybug pillowcase dress, I went with a ladybug theme for her cake. My sweet friend, Melissa made it, and it was deelish! I also asked her to make some cookies for Cora's class. The kids thought they were great! Here are some photos to show off our little birthday cutie!

Birthday Hugs and Thank Yous!

Cute little ladybug decor

Loves to do her trick in her new tutu!

Adores her Aunt Paula!

Wearing the birthday crown at school!

Hop over and visit

2011-03-22T07:50:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, my sweet friend Lesley, who has such an inspirational testimony about how God is bringing her family together, invited me to write on her blog for her Marriage Monday feature. I'm so honored. This was so much fun! I hope you'll hop on over and check it out! Lesley's writes at Estes Family Moments. Click here to get there.

So, how was your spring break? We had a very relaxing week. It was full of sleeping late (LOVE), playing outside, visiting friends, cooking good food, and Rodeo Houston! Yee Haw! Kelvin and I got to go Friday night with his mom and nephew to see Alan Jackson. We had the best time watching all the rodeo fun. I love the barrel races and mutton bustin the most. Those little kids holding on to the sheep for dear life are adorable. When asked what he wants to be when he grows up, one little guys said, "Batman!"...so precious! Don't you wish you could bottle up times like these?

I wish we would have gotten Luke registered for this event last year. I think he would've given them a run for their money, especially since he tries this almost every. single. time we're at the deer lease! Sunday we were blessed with more Rodeo tickets and took the family. Our seats were great! They got a kick out of the bull and bareback riding (hee hee) and had a blast cheering on the chuck wagon races. We had a perfect end to our spring break as a family.

Continuing to count 1,000 gifts

2011-03-21T11:42:00.000-05:00

#11. scriptures that come at just the right time...
#12. "...He will make you happy and give you something to smile about." Job 8:21
#13. spring break
#14. chore buckets
#15. the butterflies I still get when I see Kelvin
#16. the bright green on the new leaves.
#17. salvation
#18. adorable 8 and 9 year olds at a tea party
#19. a firepit sizzling with fajitas on top of the grill
#20. a baby girl who holds my face in her hands
#21. Luke's scruffy voice saying his memory verse
#22. cool breezes and warm sunshine

Studio Ainsley and Emma's Hugs

2011-03-20T22:23:00.000-05:00

Following is some exciting news I believe I forgot to share here...

"We are so excited to partner with Emma's Hugs this Spring to bring you the ARK Project (Acts of Random Kindness)! This is a joint effort between Emma's Hugs and Studio Ainsley to raise funds and awareness of Houston families in need of a HUG!

When you complete a session between March 1 and April 22, 2011, designate your session as an "Emmas Hugs" session and 20% of your session fee plus 5% of your final print order will be donated to this amazing organization. Additionally, your session images will be entered into a drawing for select images to be included in a Gallery Reveal Gala, held at the Studio on the evening of Friday, May 6, 2011. At this event, we will unveil our favorite images at a special Gallery Opening and allow our guests to cast paid votes for their favorite photo. The winning image will be used by Studio Ainsley for the remainder of the year as the official "spokesimage" on all advertisements and our website home page. All net proceeds will be donated to Emma's Hugs.

This is a local and very worthwhile charity that needs our support. Help us spread the word about this incredible opportunity to help our friends at Emma's Hugs raise funds to continue to be a blessing to families in the Texas Medical Center!

Space is limited, so contact the studio today about reserving these special sessions! Email info@studioainsley.com or call 832-344-0010. We look forward to seeing you this spring!"

~~Maca, photographer, Studio Ainsley Photography

We would love to see your photograph at the Gala on May 6!

Repost: Flat Stanley

2011-03-14T14:35:00.000-05:00

They will present the project on Monday, March 21, so please send the photos this week. Thanks!

Carleigh's class is doing a Flat Stanley project. Since you all live in our town, across the state, all over the U.S., as well as on the other side of the world from here, I thought it would be fun to extend the invitation to you to participate in Carleigh's project...

Dear Friends and Family,
In school we read the story, Flat Stanley. It is about a little boy named Stanley that is smashed by a bulletin board. He wants to visit a friend in California so his parents fold him up, put him in an envelope and mail him away!

Below is a photo of my Flat Stanley. You can print out a copy of him and take him on an adventure. He can visit some popular sites in your area, (my class loves to learn about other places!) or he can just go with you on your everyday routine. Please take some pictures with Flat Stanley in them and email them to my mom at christydunnam@gmail.com along with any other fun or important information we can learn about the places he visits! We will be locating each city Flat Stanley visits on a map. We can't wait to hear all about the adventures!

We will begin sharing our class projects on March 21, so don't delay!

Thank you so much for helping us out!
Love,
Carleigh

We can't wait to see what happens with this project. Thank you in advance for your participation! I will be sure to post some photos that come in...hopefully we'll have bunches!

Weight of the world

2011-03-11T09:41:00.000-06:00

Are you as tired of the sadness as I am? The sick babies, the hurting sisters, the crumbling marriages, the negativity, the rudeness, the destruction, the catastrophies...

We don't even watch the news, literally, and I see so much pain. When I opened the laptop this morning I saw the headline about the tsunami in Japan. Just last night Kelvin told me about the church? (I'm not sure that is the proper term for this group) who protests at soldiers' funerals. I read this week about the family in Pennsylvania who lost all but one of their seven children in a house fire. My sister continues to struggle with indescribable pain. My grandmother is forgetting more every day. Little ones at Texas Children's Hospital are awaiting heart and lung transplants or fighting off cancer for the second or third time. It all makes me want to say, "Come quickly, Lord Jesus!"

But then I see the beauty among the ashes...
#1. the way my 23 month old says, "bess you, Mommy" when I sneeze
#2. my husband's sense of humor
#3. notes from my 8 year old daughter
#4. my 7 year old son's wild curiosity
#5. a love note from my 8 year old
#6. a joke from the joke book
#7. a belly laugh
#8. a long kiss from the one I love
#9. the way Cora puts the back of her hand on her forehead and says, "I hab beber?"
#10. the azaleas blooming...

Joining with Ann in counting 1,000 gifts...

Playground bench

2011-03-08T13:54:00.000-06:00

In memory of our sweet daughter, my MOPS group purchased a bench for our playground at church. These people are so precious. There is good in the world, and we have seen it from so many people. Here is another example...

Helping Haitian Women

2011-03-04T17:11:00.000-06:00

This morning at MOPS, my friend Aleesa displayed some beautiful purses and bags.

So peaceful.

Mine has this pretty stenciling on it.

Isn't it pretty?

They were for sale. And then she gave a testimony as to how these bags and purses were made and where the money goes. It's a beautiful thing, this ministry called Heartline and Haitian Creations.You've heard the old proverb, "Give a man a fish and he won't starve for a day. Teach a man how to fish and he won't starve for his entire life." Well, this ministry has applied this to women in Haiti. Orginally this husband and wife went to Haiti to open and run orphanages, but they saw the problem was that the women of these precious children had no skills, no way of providing for and keeping their families together. So, the husband and wife decided they would provide the skills these women needed. They don't teach them to fish, but they do teach them to make jewelry or sew. The ones who sewed the gorgeous bags we saw at MOPS today will get half of the money made from the purse. It's a wonderful ministry. Please take the time to watch the video below. Maybe you can help one of these women today. (Don't forget to mute the music at the bottom of our blog first.)