Tim, Brandi, Kadyn and Kamden

Roots Photography Workshop

2009-06-17T18:01:00.000-07:00

Well, needless to say, the blog has been lacking. It has taken a backseat since the arrival of the baby. However, today I did something that is blogworthy :-) I took a photography workshop at an awesome studio here in Wichita. Gingeroot Studios has two amazing photographers that presented a workshop on composition, exposure, and some basics of photoshop. I have been desperately wanting to learn more about photography and how to use my camera. I was skeptical that this would be way over my head but they did such a job instructing that I would recommend to anyone!!!

Go to their website to check out some of the amazing work they do. In the meantime, you can see what I learned. Not too shabby, yet still so much to learn!!!

Baby's Coming Today

2009-03-13T06:16:00.000-07:00

It is finally here! Baby Kyson will be arriving sometime today. It seems like the weeks have flown by but then I remember that I found out I was pregnant in July and THAT seems like a long time ago. We are all very anxious to meet the little guy (wondering who he will look like, what his personality will be like, etc.) Tim is patiently pacing around the hospital room and I am anxiously waiting for them to come in and bump up the pitocin some more :-) Katie and Danny from our bible study are just across the hall expecting their first baby. It is so neat that our kiddos may just share the same birthday. I guess the race is on to see which one of us delivers first.

We are so thankful for a trouble free pregnancy and just pray that the delivery and health of the baby will be the same. We are so blessed!!! Next update, hopefully pictures.

Finally, An Update

2009-02-08T18:08:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally am taking a few minutes to update my blog. Where has time gone? It seems like Thanksgiving came and now it is almost Valentine's day. Lots has been going on. Christmas was great. I hope to upload some pics from the holidays sometime soon. Hopefully this week. We had a quiet new year. We have been counting down the days for the baby to arrive and believe it or not, we are just about 30 days out. I can't belive that our family is going to increase in just a month. We have so much to do and so little time.

The nesting phase has begun! I am trying to get organized as much as possible and hopefully will get a little painting done. The kids are out of school on Friday and Monday so hopefully we will begin the process of transforming each of their rooms and getting all of their things in place. I haven't begun washing any of the baby things so, I will be adding that to the mile long list of "things to do".

I have started 2 additional blogs. One is for the handstamped jewelry and one for the floral shop that I work at. Check them out sometime...

www.handstampedsilverjewelry.blogspot.com
and
www.folktalesfloralandgifts.blogspot.com

December 11 - Karston Grant Smith

2008-12-11T22:20:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that 5 years have passed since our second son was born this very night. Just the day before, our world came crashing down! I remember it just like it was yesterday. I stayed up the entire night before knowing that something was just not right. Why hadn't I been feeling movement? There was definitely something wrong. I am scared to say the words. Surely a glass of orange juice would wake him up... We were just 2 weeks away from delivering our sweet baby boy, Karston. Maybe I was having signs of going into labor. My head was spinning, I felt out of control. I knew that I would have a doctors appointment in the morning and be able to hear his heartbeat. I tried to sleep but couldn't. The next morning it was confirmed and we were admitted to the hospital for delivery. How do you deal with this chaos? How do you ever recover from somethings like this? Can you ever heal from this wound?

Well, 5 years later and there are still feelings and thoughts not far from what we experienced that night. As December approaches, the anxiety level increases at our house. We are going through the motions of preparing for the holidays...decorating the trees, baking for neighbors, the hustle and bustle of shopping, etc. All of these very things we were doing then, we continue to do each year. The memories are still very close to the surface and will always be. Even as wrapped in sorrow and grief as we were, we can sense Hope that we will see Karston again. I remember coming home from the hospital and being so grateful for Kadyn and being together as a family. It was very important for us to remind not only Kadyn, but our family, friends and ourselves that God was carrying us through the most horrible time in our lives. We were working on getting things back together with His help!

I remember in the back of my mind, yet I don't believe I ever said the words, I can't ever go through another pregnancy. But God had other plans for us! He knows my strength, actually he GAVE me much more strength than I thought I was ever capable of having. Sixteen months later, Kamden came into this world. And now, we are being blessed with our 4th little boy in just a few more months. God is GOOD! And, in the midst of what we feel like is total uncertainty and chaos, He is in control! He brings peace! He brings HOPE!

So, take time this Christmas to laugh at little harder, make a few more memories, spend time with family, reflect on how life events have changed you and made you who you are, enjoy the present and most of all remember to celebrate His birth!

Update!

2008-10-13T11:28:00.000-07:00

So, it's been a while since I've posted. Okay, almost a month. Things have been extremely busy!!! With all the football, baseball, Holiday Galleria stuff, etc. we are barely keeping our heads above water. This past week was better. Time for catching up. This week is slower too. However, we are exhibiting at Market Square this weekend. So, there is some prep for that.

Best of all, look what I got for my birthday! A new camera!!!! I am so excited and have been taking pics left and right. It is so cool and snaps so many pictures very quickly. I think I am going to have to take a class to learn how to use everything on it. We went to the park on Friday since the kids were out of school. I had Tim clear both of my media cards for me yesterday while I was at work and apparently I didn't save the pics from the park. There were some really cute ones of them playing a feeding the ducks.

I did get to play with my camera at both the football game on Saturday and the baseball game on Sunday. Kadyn did some pitching for the first time. So, I of course had to get some shots of that. Now, if I can just learn photoshop!

Update on the baby... I am now 16 weeks pregnant. It is killing me that we could actually know right now what we are having but my doctor didn't schedule my sonogram until just before my next appointment on November 3. The heart rate is still high 165. I am feeling so much better these days. I just am very ready for bed at 8:30 every night. We will know very soon whether we are set with the things we have or if we will need to buy some pink things!

Holiday Home Decorators and Hand Stamped Jewelry

2008-09-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

I, along with the two other girls I work with, are officially counting down to our busy season. October 2- 5 is the Holiday Galleria. This will be our first year to exhibit. We began "Holiday Home Decorators" 3 years ago. This is hard to believe. Kamden was about 7 months old. Together the three of us decided that there was a need for seasonal residential decorating. So, we boosted up each others confidence levels (kinda) and began pounding the pavement with fliers offering our services. Before we even got home to take calls, the answering machine had messages waiting. Okay, now what? We were definitely flying by the seat of our pants!!! But, it all turned out good, actually GREAT!!! Better than we could of expected. We had 3 significant sized jobs and a few other small things. Not too bad for the amount of marketing we did.

Year two, we went completely by word of mouth and with return customers. We did no advertising at all. Again, a pretty successful year considering. This year, I guess you could say that we are going "BIG TIME!!" We submitted our application to be accepted into the Galleria and we got accepted! Now, panic time. Will we have enough stuff. We don't want to appear small town. We have to display talent and class. Can we do it?!?!?! I guess time will tell. Only a few more weeks until the showdown. We have 7 weddings this months too. So, in between all of this chaos, we have to be in the Christmas Spirit! The weather has been helping. We are actually praying for chilly weather the first week in October!

One of the new things we are trying as an extra to put some $$ in our pockets is Hand Stamped Jewelry. We just purchased the tools to make the jewelry. Here is one of the first ones I made for myself. Let me know what you think. We have seen these charms worn on a simple silver chain but I liked it on the turquoise stones. I am also making some shirts with a cross or peace sign appliqued and some funky stitching. I have two in the works. I will post a pic when I get one done. In the mean time, here is a pic of the jewelry. Let me know what you think. Is it a hit or not?

Pillow Talk

2008-09-11T09:07:00.000-07:00

Well, let me just start off by saying that last week, I was asked to step "outside the box." I had just left my doctors appointment and received a call from a number that I didn't recognize. This isn't completely unusual on my cell phone. I answered and it was the small group coordinator from the church. He started off by saying, "Brandi, I need a favor". Okay, what could that be? He continued by asking me if I was aware of the new series the pastor was beginning this weekend at the church. "Pillow talk", I asked. Yep, that's the one!! Pillow talk is a new series that began last week...everything you need to know about sex and marriage. He continued by telling me that he was looking for couples to interview and he knew that Tim and I would be perfect for this. I was speechless!!!!! I immediately felt my face getting hot and a just continued to listen because I didn't know what to say. He continued by saying that the media team at the church was discussing couples that would work for this and he said that they knew we would be perfect. The only thing I could say was..."Uh, uh, well, ummm, I, well....you should probably call Tim and ask him" (and I was praying that Tim would have the perfect excuse for us NOT to do this). He began hysterically laughing and then preceded to tell me that they only needed us to do a little clip to preface the sermon. All we had to do was follow the script. So, we did! Here is the clip if you would like to see.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2787402815359298515&hl=en

When we got to the church, we found out that we were going to a "remote" location to shoot this clip. Lance told us we had to ride with him there so we wouldn't bail out last minute. So, we ended up at a sweet ladies house to shoot this adventure. (Not to mention her 13 year old son had to hold the mic during the shoot). It was quite the adventure!!!

We had several people attend the service with us on Sunday! You really should check out the sermon. If you want to, go to www.newspring.org. I am sure that the latest sermon has been uploaded by now. It is going to be a great series and we are looking forward to hearing the message the next 4 weeks.

Garage Sale Craze

2008-09-04T04:58:00.000-07:00

Since the news of our new arrival in March, I have begun the nesting process. Well, maybe not exactly but I guess the fact that we are going to have to convert one of our storage bedrooms in the basement to an actual bedroom has finally hit. So, in my efforts to go through our junk, I decided that maybe a garage sale wouldn't be a bad idea. My friend Christina and her husband just bought a new house and will be moving soon. So, in talking with her, we decided between the two of us, we could get rid of some junk!! Plus, they currently live at the perfect location for a garage sale. Lots and lots of traffic!

This proved to be true. Last Thursday and Friday, we threw our stuff out on her drive and began the two day adventure. Thursday was ridiculously hot and miserable and we wondered why we decided to do this. We both had some fairly large items to get rid of. So, the traffic was not a problem. We even sold a ton of clothes. I figured, I would drag them out and since the Goodwill is just around the corner from her house, I would just drop them off after it was all over. My big ticket items were my old washer and dryer, a recliner, a childs saddle, and some drapes.

Thursday ended fairly successful. We still had most of the bigger items left. Friday was a much nicer day! It was very cool and much more enjoyable than Thursday. At one point, we had to drag everything into the garage because of a little thunderstorm that rolled through. We did end up getting rid of about 85 - 90% of the junk. YEAH!!! The best part of the day was when the guy who bought our washer and dryer left with it in his car. Yep, that's right! He put both of them in his car. Christina had gone inside to put her little one down for a nap. We had her camera out earlier taking pics of the boys playing with a catapiller and in the rain. So, luckily her camera was right there. She came out just in time to help the guy tie down his treasures. Would you believe that he had to travel 100 miles like this? These pics have made for some good conversation. We definately had a good laugh!!!!

Back to School, etc.

2008-08-19T06:48:00.000-07:00

We started back to school Wednesday, August 13. I think Kadyn was ready. I know that I am ready for the routine. Kamden was sad that his brother isn't here to play with him all day. Kamden and Hannah are getting some good playing time in lately.

As usual, there is lots going on. We had a baseball tournament this weekend and took 2nd place. It is so fun to watch. The boys are really connecting and we are moving in to Fall ball (kid pitch). We played 4 games on Saturday. It sure makes a long day for Kamden and the other little siblings. But all in all, it is a good time!

A little more news (if you haven't already heard), we are expecting a baby in March! We have been so busy lately, and I have been so exhausted and not feeling so great. These feelings all started when we went to a funeral out of town. I thought I was just getting car sick (from my brothers driving). I had a terrible headache and just felt like I might have the stomach flu. One of the baseball boys had it and then a few days after the funeral, Kadyn got it. Well, I got it (I think or thought). No one else in our family got sick. So, after the flu, I never felt better. A week later, we were preparing meat for our baseball team party and I kept telling Tim that I couldn't stand the smell of the meat. After smelling it for two days, I couldn't take it any longer. That evening at the party while everyone else was eating the meat, I couldn't even stand to watch. I told him that night that we had to go get a test and sure enough...It was positive!!!

Baby Wyatt is here!

2008-06-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

Brady and Jaime's baby arrived yesterday June 20 at 12:10pm. He weighed 7 lbs and 13 ozs. Very healthy little boy. His name is Wyatt Halston (Sp?). They are all doing well. I will post some pictures as soon as I have a little more time with a computer. We are still without! I am headed to Dallas tomorrow to market. I am so excited. Will post more Tuesday or Wednesday.

Out of Commission

2008-06-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

We are officially out of commission for a while. Our house was hit by lightening yesterday and got our computer. A few other things were effected to. I guess we will wait to see what happens from here. Hopefully we will get everything fixed soon!

The Saga of a Baseball Widow...

2008-06-15T12:38:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been forever since I've posted!!! We have been so incredibly busy. June is flying by!!. Kadyn turned 8 on June 2. Of course June is packed full of weddings which means flowers, flowers and more flowers (probably a florists most profitable month). I think we have a minimum of 2 weddings each weekend. And of course, there is baseball. We have about 2 games a week and are playing in a tournament every weekend except one in June. I have officially become a baseball widow since Tim is coaching. We can't go anywhere without running in to someone that we have to talk baseball with. We can't have a conversation without baseball. We can be talking about where to vacation or what to have for dinner and it never fails, somehow baseball always, and I mean ALWAYS comes up! Don't get me wrong, baseball is wonderful. And, I wouldn't want it any other way. Tim is a great dad and is so involved with everything the kids do. It's just that, well, it is all about ball right now. I think we probably have another 6 weeks or so before season is over. We've had a great time this year. What an awesome group of kids and such supportive parents. Anyway, the saga continues...

Prep for Surgery

2008-05-23T08:36:00.001-07:00

The Hospital Stay...

2008-05-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

Monday morning we had to be at the hospital for Kamden's surgery at 6:30 am. What a night prior. I finally made myself go to bed at 11:30 and then at 2:00 I was wide awake. I had myself so worked up I almost got sick. I just hoped and prayed that we were doing the right thing and he seemed so young to have to undergo anesthetic. Everything got off to a good start. We had talked to him about what would happened. My worst fear was that when we could no longer be with him prior to them "putting him under". He is such a mama's boy and is very cautious around other people. Anyway, we got there and did the paperwork. They took us to our room and gave him a gown to put on. This was an experience! He really liked the freedom of not having underwear on (enough said)!! The took us to pre-opt. He got to take Milo (his monkey) with him. He didn't want them to wheel him down in his bed. Finally we talked him into it and he was okay with it. Once in pre-opt, they put a monitor on his finger (which he had pulled off in about 5 minutes). We called Kadyn and Hannah. We had to talk to everyone including Jaime and Brady. I, on the other hand, was practically having an anxiety attack. Tim was holding together pretty good. My heart goes out to parents who have to deal with surgeries, etc. on a regular basis. Kara, a friend of ours from church who is on OR nurse, stopped by to see how things were going. She talked to Kamden a little bit to let him know what to expect. Then, they gave him his medicine to "relax him" and began rolling him to the OR. Once we got to the double door, we had to let them go ahead and take him on from there. We both gave him hugs and kisses and told him that he would have to go on by himself from there. He began crying hysterically and I finally told the nurse that she was going to have to take him from me. He is a strong little booger and I think she was surprise at his strength. We kept telling him that it would be alright. We will see him in a little bit. And, the nurse gave him back to me. I couldn't believe it. We had to go through it all over again. The worst part was that I could still hear him crying down the hallway. Thankfully, Kara, was in another OR that backed up to where Kamden was. She was able to go over and help calm him down a little bit. So, now for the wait. They said it would probably take an hour. They called from the OR and said that they began the surgery at 8:45 and at 9:05 the Doctor came out to tell us that everything went fine and that he was already in recovery. Another 20 minutes of waiting and I was able to go back and hold him. It was such a strange feeling to see him in that state. I was able to rock him for another 20-30 minutes and then they loaded us up on a bed and rolled us to a room and Tim got to be with us then. He was in and out of sleep for about another hour. He woke up and ate a couple of popsicles. He watched the Diego movie that we brought and then ate some more popsicles. By 1:00 we ordered him Mac and Cheese and he ate it all. Wow, what a breeze!?!? They gave him some more pain medicine and he finally decided to sleep a little bit. We all needed it!! He had rolled around so much and tugged at his IV so much that he had practically pulled it out. So, he had to have another IV while awake. We thought this would be a big deal but he did a great job. He was more upset that we were holding him down than the fact that they were putting the IV in. Shortly after, Kadyn, Gram, Brady, Jaime and Hannah arrived to visit with an icee for him. He wasn't much for visiting. The Loritab that he was taking made him a little mean and very irritable. He wasn't in the best of moods and hadn't had much rest. The watched some more Diego with him (Tim and I can't stand Diego - the sound of his voice is like fingernails on a chalkboard - we are pretty much sick of him:-)). The night went pretty smooth other than the fact that our nurse was terrible and we couldn't get any help. After pushing the call button it was anywhere between 45 to 1 1/2 hours before anyone would even answer. He had pulled on the IV several more times and managed to get a kink in it. The IV machine was continually beep and the nurse would come and mess with it and get it to stop just long enough for her to walk out of the room (or escape the floor) and it would began all over again. Finally around 3:00 an IV tech came and fixed it. We were able to sleep fairly sound until around 5:30. We thought we would be able to get out of there first thing in the morning but because of some miscommunication (imagine that), we didn't get to leave until 11:30. Finally, we got home around 1:00 and Kamden slept most of the afternoon. We were all relieved. Now, he is not eating as well, no more Loritab just Tylenol, and an antibiotic. He will still cranky but getting better. If we are outside, he must not think about it. First thing in the morning is rough and it gets a little better throughout the day. Hopefully by this weekend, he will be feeling a lot better.

Thanks for all the prayers!

The Three Little Pigs

2008-05-23T07:10:00.000-07:00

For Kamden's birthday, Gram took him, Kadyn and Hannah to Wichita Children's Theatre to see the production of The Three Little Pigs. It was wonderful!!! They loved it! Hannah got a little scared of the big bad wolf (mostly because it was during nap time and she was very sleepy). Every since we've been to the play, the little ones are constantly playing like they are the pigs hiding from the Big Bad Wolf and also saying "little pig, little pig let me come in", "not by the hair of my chinny, chin chin", "well then I'll huff and I'll puff and I'll blow your house down". It is so cute! I am going to have to get some video of it.

After it was all over, we had to make a few stops. What I haven't posted about (which could be an entire posting on it's own), is that my mom is preparing for their Alaskan Cruise. So, everytime we are in Wichita, we have to make a quick stop to either Dillards, Eddie Bauer, or wherever their might be a sale. I am beginning to think that she is going to outfit everyone on the ship. I feel sorry for dad, having to carry the suitcase that she will be lugging along on this trip. So, while she shopped, I entertained the kids outside. Hannah and Kamden were Best Friends! Kadyn could of cared less. He HATES shopping and was ready to get home. But a little bribe and a promise of ice cream did the trick.

Mothers Day Tea

2008-05-22T15:50:00.000-07:00

At Kadyn's school, every year the music teacher puts on a tea party. This is to teach manners. We are so lucky to have Mrs. Haynes for a teacher at our school. She goes above and beyond what is expected of her! Our musicals are out-of-this-world! The music instruction is much like what I remember growing up. But, not something that you see all the time. Anyway, the kids get to invite one guest and we had party sandwiches, fresh fruit and veggies, cookies and of course tea! They always sing a song for us and those who play an instrument can play if they wish. It was a great time! Here are some pics!

Tonsillectomy

2008-05-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

Kamden will be having his tonsils and adenoids out on Thursday morning. This little guy has been consistently getting sick about every 6 weeks with a sore throat, high fever, terrible breath and cranky!! Actually he has been to the doctor for this 9 times since last April. I do know that there have been a few other times he has had the same thing going on but, we rode it out. So, hopefully, this is the answer! We will be in the hospital overnight and should be home Friday sometime. Please remember him in your prayers!!!! I am a little nervous about him being put under but trying to think positive about the results and how he won't have to continually fight this every 6 weeks!

Photo Shoot This Morning

2008-05-06T17:17:00.000-07:00

Here is what we did this morning. Jaime, Hannah and baby posed for a few shots this morning. They are pretty much raw but I am hopefully going to get some help editing tonight. Anyone willing to give me a photoshop lesson? Doesn't Jaime look amazing pregnant!?!!!! She only has about 4 weeks to go before the baby arrives. We can't wait to meet that little stinker!

Happy Birthday Aimee!!!!!

2008-05-06T07:24:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox free ecard

Ready for SUMMER!!!!

2008-05-01T09:33:00.000-07:00

Look at Hannah's tummy...Can you tell that the water is freezing!?!?

It is HOT in the house today! I am not turning on the air yet. I guess it is suppose to be 85 degrees today with storms tonight. That means tomorrow will probably be cooler and the heat will possibly kick on over night. So, I am hibernating in the basement thinking of how I can get my furniture from downstairs to fit upstairs, doing laundry and dreaming of a new paint color (since my upstairs furniture will clash with my downstairs wall color). Okay, so I am slipping in a little computer time in here and there as well. I came across a pic of Kamden and Hannah last summer. It cracks me up and makes me excited for warmer days and popsicles...(Oh, and new babies! I know someone that is having a baby this year, every month from April to November). Actually, I am waiting right now to hear if Addison has been born yet. My friend, Shelley, from church and her husband Chris are to have had their baby girl this morning. No news yet. I can't wait to meet her. Our new niece, Callie, arrived April 10. This is Tim's sister Soriya's 2nd. In May, Tim's brother Stephen and his wife Emily will be having a little boy. Jaime and Brady will be having a boy in June and on and on....

Blog Makeover!!

2008-04-22T21:32:00.001-07:00

If you read my previous post, you know that my BFF Aimee is on a mission to make over my blog. I have to admit when I first entered the blogging world, I didn't know how often I would post or if it was something that I would even keep up with. Well, needless to say, I am obsessed now. I do long for a quaint blog layout. Compared to others...well, my just doesn't compare!

Aimee's latest efforts in getting my blog "made over" consists of giving a shout out to an awesome blog designer. The blog is called Fabulous K and it is under my other blog links. She posts about fun things related to blogs, fashion, home decor, you name it. I love her shabby chic and funky flair!!! Check her out sometime. While your there, let her know that I seriously need a makeover and well, maybe consider one for your blog!?!?

Name That Blog Contest

2008-04-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

My BFF, Aimee is having a contest to re-name my blog! She is giving away one of her handmade bracelets (your color choice) to the person who comes up with a new name for my blog. I really need a new name!!! Go to Aimee's blog to enter. Thanks!
I would enter of picture of Aimee and myself together here but we are always too busy taking pics of our kiddos that I don't think we even have a picture together?!
Anyway, please enter!!!

Kamden is 3!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-04-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

On Monday, April 14, my baby turned 3. Why does he look so big all of the sudden? He is such a sweetheart. He has become so funny lately. He says the most hilarious things, imitates his brother all the time, and his imagination has become really amazing...Hannah and him pretend all the time. Just the other day, they were going to the Eiffel Tower and then to the Pyramids and of course they go to work and to school (complete with backpacks or "packpacks"). They are lucky to have each other (so close in age). I grew up with my cousin, Justin. We are 6 weeks apart in age. Kamden and Hannah are 6 months apart. Justin and I were inseparable! Sometime Kam and Hannah are and other times not. But, I know they will always be good friends.

Monday, we had to run to the store to get a few last minute things for his party. He sang Happy Birthday to himself all through the store and all day long. To the top of his lungs, I might add!

We had a pretty low key party on Monday night. We just had cake and ice cream and a few friends over. It was Kamden, Kadyn, Hannah, Olivia, Easton, Maddux and Roger. Kamden wanted a fish for his birthday and a fish cake. So, he got a fish for his room and named him Horton. He also got a fish cake as ordered! He had a great day!

Luv ya buddy!

Here is some video of him singing to himself and of his new fish "Horton"

7 things you may not know about me...

2008-04-17T06:46:00.000-07:00

7 things you may not know about me...

I have been tagged by Jennifer (whom I've never met), to come up with 7 things you may not know about me. Since I've never met Jennifer, it would be easy to come up with 7 things she doesn't know about me but since I am pretty boring, it might be difficult coming up with 7 things that the people who know me don't know about me... I'll give it a shot!

1. I would love to be a professional photographer and learn photoshop. It may sound a little morbid but I would love to be able to do newborn berevement photography and birth photography. We would of used a berevement photographer if we would of known one when we lost our son Karston. This is something that I have thought a lot about over the past 4 years and recently realized that there is acutally an organization called "Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep" that offers these services. When reading the blog of Angie Smith (Bring the Rain), I found that NILMDTS is an organization that provides these services. Check out her blog sometime... She is an amazingly strong woman of faith that lost her daughter a couple of weeks ago.

2. I was born in Fort Hood, Texas but grew up in Lamont, Oklahoma. I went to a very small school and graduated with 14 in my class. I had a great childhood growing up in such a small town with all my cousins within walking distance to play with whenever we wanted. I'm really not even sure if my mom knew where I was all the time but that was in different times. As long as I was home by the time the street lights came on, everything was okay. I barely even let my kids out of the house without me.

3. I would have 10 kids if my husband would comply... I love my boys to pieces but would love to have another baby (maybe a girl?!?! or another boy would be fine too!).

4. I absolutely hate roller coasters or any amusement park rides. I can stomach the ferris wheel barely. I hate heights!!!!!!!

5. I had a really bad car wreck when I was 14 years old and totaled my dads truck and sent the passenger to the hospital with a severe concussion. However, it never effected me getting my license (An advantage growing up in a small town). The only trouble I got into was at home.

6. My plan for a career was to obtain my degree in Music Therapy. After 2 years of school and totally "in love", I got married and changed my focus to Human Resource Management. Big mistake! Not the getting married part, the changing my degree.

7. In 1993 I was Miss Deer Creek - Lamont and competed in the Miss Cinderella Pageant. I actually placed in the top 10 and won a scholarship in the talent competition.

Hat's Off

2008-04-12T07:38:00.000-07:00

Rock Chalk Jayhawk!!!! This is the reason KU won the championship!!!

The cake Eric decorated. WOW!!
Stacy, Mary and Keely

Mary and Jessica

Mary as a blonde or Hannah Montana!?!?

Mary and her daughter Jessica
All of us!

Last Saturday there was a hat shower to honor and support Mary in her fight against breast cancer. She is so amazingly strong!! She continues her fun and bubbly self with a smile always on her face:-) She received so many different hats and scarfs! Hannah Montana hat to "Save the Ta-Ta's". She modeled each and every one of them. Keely's and her husband Eric made a beautiful cake to celebrate. Here are some pics to share. Please continue praying for Mary and her family!

Pinewood Derby...Lady Luck is on our side!!!

2008-03-25T12:39:00.000-07:00

The competition. Kadyn's car second from right.

Painting very carefully!
With a little help from Kam
Good Job Kadyn!!!

He did help earn the trophy, kinda! (Does buggin count?)

The Winning Car!

Last night was the boy scouts Pinewood Derby. Of course we didn't know that it was on Monday night. Tim thought it was Wednesday night and that we had a couple of days to work on the car. If you read my earlier post, you know that boy scouts has not been one of our favorite programs. Also, at the Blue and Gold banquet, we flopped a cake and had to scramble last minute to get one down. Then, once Kadyn saw all of the other amazing cakes, he was embarrassed. So, needless to say, we really had to try and make up for it this time.

Tim has been researching online all kinds of different tips in putting your car together, etc. Well, Tim calls about 10:00 and I ask him, "are you sure that this derby isn't tonight?" He said he didn't think so. I ask again if he was sure. He said, why don't you call the leaders wife and find out for sure. Guess what???!?!? It was last night. So, I began scrambling around. The car had pretty much been completed minus the paint job. Tim told me that Kadyn wanted the car red and to have flames on it. So, I look up some pics on the internet and see some sample designs. I spent my entire day yesterday drawing a flame pattern on his car so that he could paint as soon as he got home from school. When Kadyn hit the door, we began painting like crazy. Luckily the wind was blowing 90 MPH yesterday, so that aided in drying the paint quickly. The car looked pretty awesome. Tim got home with the clear coat to spray on it. Guess what! The clear coat caused the paint to all run together. We were able to take a black sharpie and trace the flame pattern again. Not too bad. Then, to put the grafite on the wheels...it got all over the paint and smudged everything again. Kadyn still thought it was the most awesome car ever.

I had to go to work at the GAP so I didn't get to go. The weigh in began at 6:00. I had to make a trip to the post office before we began everything to make sure that the car was under 5 ozs. Kadyn's car weighed in just 1 gram, that's right 1 gram under 5 ozs. Sheeze, that was close. I guess the first few races were pretty close. Kadyn's car was winning. The next race, he won just by a hair. Tim said after that, it really kicked into gear (must of been all that grafite) and it smoked everyone. He won the entire race!!! Luck was definitely on our side! He was so excited! He had to call me at work and tell me all about it. When I got home last night he was still awake...so excited he couldn't sleep! So, here are the pics...

Easter

2008-03-25T06:20:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday, we drove to Oklahoma for the day. We had a fish fry with all the family. It was a great day. It is such a comfortable feeling being with everyone. The kids all played and ran around. We always have the best food. It is always a great time. After lunch, we filled and hid the Easter eggs. I should of taken a picture of how many eggs there were. Each year, there is always more and more. We were at JJ and Kevin's house this year. They just built a beautiful new house east of Lamont. They had a lot of room to hunt eggs, just not much to hid them behind. It didn't matter, they still had a ton of fun. Kamden and Hannah had to empty their baskets and go back for more.

The bigger kids had been riding 4-wheelers all day. I had to be the mean mom because I don't allow Kadyn to ride. They scare me to death! I know that when I was a kid we were crazy on the 3-wheeler but as a mom I know too much now. I just remember at the beginning of his Kindergarten year, one of the girls in his class was killed in a 4-wheeler accident. It was a sad, sad time. Anyway, I felt so bad because everyone else was getting to ride... so, I caved and he got to drive slowly where we could see him. After a couple of turns, I could see that he was already becoming more confident. I went inside. There is a path through some trees and a little drop that they were riding through over and over. He lost control and the handle bar caught a tree and threw him around a little bit. The handle bar jabbed him in his side and he scrapped up his shin pretty good. Thank goodness he was alright. I think he was more scared that I was going to be mad at him.

I have say, I nearly had a heart attack when I heard there was an accident. Being a parent is the hardest, stressful yet most rewarding job there is. I love my boys so much that it scares me! The thought of them getting hurt just about kills me!

Anyway, I took lots and lots of pics on Sunday. We even had a little photo shoot with Haley's dog Jackson. He was so cooperative, sunglasses and all. The little kids had a lot of fun playing outside and with the animals. Chase, the cat was very cooperative too. I know that he got put in a choke hold more than a few times. Here are the pics. Enjoy!

Easter Eggs

2008-03-24T23:34:00.000-07:00

Saturday, we just had a lazy day for the most part. When I got home from work on Friday night, Kamden's temp had spiked up to 104.4. After a dose of Motrin and a cool sponge bath, we got his fever down and he slept the rest of the night. Saturday, Tim had to go into work for a while. We decided to dye our Easter Eggs which was an experience with Kamden. He is very independent these days and likes to do everything by himself. The eggs turned out pretty good. I tried having the boys hold up their favorite egg so that I could snap a few pics. Kadyn dropped his favorite egg and it cracked. Kamden dropped his too, several times but it never seemed to crack. After about the 10th time, it did crack. Before it was all over, I think each egg had a crack. Oh well, we had fun! We invited some friends to church tonight. The church we go to has 3 services. One is on Saturday night. Because of the church growth and the anticipation of the Easter crowd, they were encouraging regular attenders to come to the Saturday night service. Our friends, Eric and Keely and Olivia, Easton and Maddux went with us as well as my friend and workout buddy Tamara and her kids Ethan and Elise. It was packed. We enjoyed the service, and the kids enjoyed Kidz World and the carnival that followed. We found out that they were expecting 20 two year olds but actually had 63. Can you imagine 63 two year olds? It was chaotic, but fun!

More Spring Break Stuff

2008-03-24T22:37:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, my friend Aimee and her boys came down from Kansas City to vist us for a couple of days. We always have so much fun with them. Aimee and I met about 11 years ago when we worked together at Koch Industries with some really great people in the Recruiting department. We made some really great memories during our time at Koch. We worked some long hours, but we always managed to have a good time. Everything from throwing Skittles over the top of the cubes and hitting the other recruiters on the head while phone screening? The crazy contract recruiters that they managed to find?!! Going to Tanner's after work and sneaking the shot glasses out in our purses? Deciding where to go for lunch every day was an adventure we looked forward to? Driving Thru at Arby's just to pay them for the food that we would drive off without. An occasional trip to the Mall and back in an hour (plus a few). And on the side, our brilliant idea of starting up a scrap booking store (before there were even scrap booking stores - we really lost out on that million +). Funny that neither of us scrapbook now that we have kids. I am blessed to have Aimee as friend. She is an amazing person!! She has been so helpful during difficult times and given great advice and encouragement to me. Back in the day when we worked together, neither of us had kids. We were friends then but motherhood and life events have brought our friendship to a different level!! My entire family adores their entire family including (the late Brandy, the dog, Peanut, Max, Ruby and Rocky, who we haven't had the opportunity to meet). Her two boys and my two boys are not far apart in age which makes for some fun times!!!

While they were here, we were able to rock out to Guitar Hero, play some serious LEGO Star Wars, some Webkinz, the Wii, Blockus, tour the Sedgwick County Zoo with the new Penguin exhibit, see a Komodo Dragon (breathe fire, ha!), play in the sand, jump on the trampoline, feed the neighbors dogs a few foam rockets, eat pizza, tour Valley Center on our way the the skating rink, and rollerskate. We had a great time! Kam got sick while they were here which put a damper on things a bit. Poor little guy seems to get sick about every 4-6 weeks with sore throat and fever. So, we had to throw a trip to the doctor in there for a strep test.

I have lots of pics. I will probably have to spread them out over several posts. Maybe even a little video clip too.

Thanks guys for the visit! We can't wait to come see you all next!

Another PT Job

2008-03-24T22:13:00.000-07:00

I got a call from a friend of a friend of mine about potentially working for her a few hours a week. Her family owns a Home Health Care company and was looking for a reliable person. She said that I would pretty much be able to set my own hours and work as little or as much as I wanted. Okay, doesn't sound too bad. It would be nice to have some extra money to do things with the kids this summer.
Now, I am not really sure why I get myself in these situations. First of all, I have trouble saying "no". That is, to anyone and everyone. Also, I guess that I like to spread myself as thin as possible. So, I am suppose to be a stay-at-home mom who works as a PT florist, PT Gap employee, occasional daycare provider, and now home health care aide?!?!
Well, I told her that I would be on board as long as I didn't have to do any wiping or any bathing. I mean, yes, I do this everyday with my own kids but, taking care of an adult in this area was NOT my thing! (I never have had to do this but I am SURE that it would not be my thing!)
So, they set me up with someone who just needs 4 hours of housekeeping a week. Mainly just cleaning and laundry. I go and meet the gentleman that I will be working for. We talk about what he would like for me to do each week. No problems, I can handle this. It might be nice cleaning for someone else. Getting things done from top to bottom without any interruptions. I might really be able to accomplish a lot in 4 hours. We go through his list...he tells me that there are only 2 things that I don't need to bother, the top drawer in his nightstand and a box over in the corner of the bedroom. I say " alright, you don't have to worry about that", he continues..."well, it isn't really illegal", I tell him, "I won't even ask"... he continues, "I just don't want you to bother those two places", again, I tell him, "I won't ask and you don't have to worry about me bothering it". Things went fine. It only took about 2 1/2 hours. When I got home I told Jaime about what he said to me about the off limit spaces. She asked me if I looked! I said, "are you kidding me, I am not looking." I don't want to know what he has hidden. I can take a guess what he has in there and that is as far as it will go.
So, I am stilling cleaning for him, so far so good. Although, I think there would be better money in just cleaning for someone personally, not going through a Home Health Care Service. We will see what happens. I am not sure if I am going to even have time for this. We have 17 weddings booked for this year. Of course the majority of them are in the summer and come July, we have to start planning for our Holiday Home Decorating business. It will be here before I know it!

Spring Break

2008-03-24T21:55:00.000-07:00

First day into spring break, I called Mom and asked her if spring break was put in place to torture "mothers"! Mom said that is was just to prepare me for summer! I love my boys and they love each other but we are all having a little too much of each other. All I wanted was to get a few things done before we would go see "Horton Hears A Who". You would of thought I asked them to do the impossible....wait! Anyway, I guess the weather didn't get us in a very "springy" mood. It was cold and drizzly. Friday warmed up enough for us to throw a few baseballs. Kadyn had a friend over to stay the night. Then, Saturday, Grandma and Grandpa Tebow came up to visit and see the great grandkids. Because of all the sickness going around, we hadn't seen them since Christmas. Kamden and Hannah entertained them. Hannah got a new set of vegetables that are velcroed together. It came with a knife so you can actually cut them apart and make a sandwich. It kept their attention for a long time.

Rollerina

2008-03-24T21:41:00.000-07:00

So, it's been a while since i've posted. Guess I have been staying busy enough!!!! I haven't had anything too interested to post lately. So, I guess I will do a little catching up.

These pictures are from the early part of March. Just after our last basketball game, there was a skate party for the kids. Unfortunately, I was tied up with Bunco that night. So, Tim and Eric took the kids (including the 2 year olds) to the party. Here are a few pics!!!

Funny thing about the skating rink is that people who hung out there when we were kids are still hanging out there. Hmmmmmmmmmmm! Guess that they haven't heard it's not so cool as an adult. Anyway, they had some pretty funny stories about the people who hang out there.

It was Kadyn's first time to skate at an acutal rink. Kadyn had a two week session in gym that was roller skating. It was Kamden's first time to skate ever!

Prayers...

2008-03-01T08:55:00.000-08:00

Asking from all believers to say a prayer for my friend Mary. Mary is a friend of a friend of mine that I have gotten to know. This week she found out that she has breast cancer. She is a fighter and although scared, she is ready to face this head on! Keely told me that Mary went to work this week and the lady she was cleaning for asked her what she is doing at work that she shouldn't be there because she was sick. Mary's response was that she was "not sick, but has an illness", one that she is fighting. The next seven months are going to be rough but I believe that God is the author of our lives and we need to talk to Him. Prayers, Prayers, Prayers!!!!!

Just a little over two years ago, there were three young parents in Kadyn's preschool class that all received a cancer diagnosis. Tiffany, 31, Breast Cancer. Chris, 31, Metastatic Melanoma. Brandi (me) 30, Melanoma. Of all three of us, I am the only one still here. I am so blessed! My diagnosis was not anywhere near what the other two faced but how strange that 3 young individuals (3 parents in a class of 14) all were facing cancer. After Tiffany completed her treatments and thought she was on her way to recovery, she developed pneumonia and was hospitalized. It was then they found the cancer had spread throughout her body and she only lived about 1 more week. (Tiffany and Mary were best friends). Chris had a spot on his arm that wouldn't heal and continued bleeding. After removing it, they found it was malignant and then later that it had spread. He went though treatment and was in a lot of pain. About 7 months later, he passed away. Tiffany had 2 small children and 2 step children. Chris had 2 small children. 6 kids left without 1 of their parents. They need prayers too. Mary has a forth grade daughter (again, prayers for her).

When I hear about someone I know battling cancer, it makes me a few steps back and reflect on life. I am so grateful for our time here on earth and so feel so blessed with my family, friends and surroundings.

Who Let The Dogs Out!!!

2008-02-25T22:12:00.000-08:00

Kamden was enjoying the birthday card that Grandpa and MoMo sent Tim for his B-day. Here is a video clip of him.

(Can you tell that I finally figured out how to add video...I am kinda excited!!!) I can't figure out how to turn the video yet. I will work on that...........

Happy Birthday Daddy

2008-02-25T21:09:00.000-08:00

I Let My Little Man Down...

2008-02-25T20:47:00.000-08:00

Tonight was the Boy Scouts Blue and Gold Banquet. I guess it is a birthday party for the origination of Scouts. The boys and their dads were suppose to make and decorate a cake(with a boy scout theme) that would then be auctioned off benefiting the boy scout program. I have to admit, we usually can be pretty creative in this area. I have made a cake that was a fish, a baseball, a dump truck, an army tank and a few other things. Well, since we didn't roll into town until late yesterday afternoon, I told Tim that I would just bake a cake and they could decorate it as soon as he got home from work. So, I start baking the cake (a 2 layer chocolate cake). I've done this a million times. I don't know what in the world happened but, I couldn't get the cake out of the pan. I greased and floured the pan as always. But, the cake wouldn't come out of the pan. Okay, after lots of work, I did manage to get it out of the pan and piece it back together. I surely can do some sort of patch job with the icing, right?!? The next layer was worse... Tim got home. I said, this thing starts at 7:00 right! He said, let me call the leader and double check. It was 5:15, maybe 5:20 . "It starts at 7:00 right? No, it is at 6:00" So, I whip up a cake mix that I happened to have in the cabinet, run take a shower, come back and mix up a second batch of icing, finish getting ready, pull the cake out of the oven, take it outside to cool (thank you Lord for the extreme temp. drop this afternoon), give it a whopping 3 minutes to cool, throw the cake on the cardboard, ice the cake - still warm and use the chocolate frosting to make a tiger cub paw print on top, run out the door at 6:06pm. So, we are late but, we made it! We walk in and Kadyn immediately stops talking and tears well up in his eyes. I ask him over and over what was wrong. Finally he tells me that he doesn't like his cake. I have to tell you I didn't realize that it was a competition and the competition was pretty tough. The winning cake was an entire camping scene complete with a log cabin made of pretzels. Kadyn is so much like me. He doesn't like to disappoint. To top it all off, I didn't let him buy his cake back in the auction. Several of the kids bought their own cakes back but, after having a birthday cake and a flopped cake to greet us once we arrived home, the thought of another cake was enough to make me puke!! What a night! He did get a ribbon for "trying his best". So, I have to make it up to him somehow. Did I mention how much we love boy scouts (can you sense the sarcasm). I know it is a great program but, well I better not say anymore!

Great Getaway Pics

2008-02-25T20:38:00.000-08:00

Great Couples Getaway

2008-02-25T07:18:00.000-08:00

This weekend was a couples retreat with our church. We spent two nights at Big Cedar Lodge in Branson. It was a nice time. A big change for us to go away without our kids. This would be our 1st time. Everyone did great. Kadyn was anxious for us to get back Sunday though and a little weepy before we actually got to Grams house to pick them up.

We left on Friday at 10:00. We carpooled with Brady and Jaime. The weather wasn't the best. We had a little bit of ice on Thrusday and a dusting of snow over night but not too bad. It seemed to be a quick trip there. We had lots to talk about on the way and well...we were excited to get away. We tried coming up with a name for their baby, listened to Rodney Carrington's new CD, came close to being affixiated with the fumes coming from the front seat (Brady and Tim), got lost 2 x's, came close to being involved in an explosion (did I mention that we diagnosed by brother with IBS), and finally arrived safe and sound (but barely... not only does Brady have IBS but he struggles with some serious ROAD RAGE!!!!).

We got our rooms and unloaded our things. There was a nice surprise for us in our rooms. Kelly and Rick had a little presentation for everyone in their room. A DVD series "Love Affairs", a book "The Five Love Languages", Chocolate, Coffee, Pretzles, Jelly Beans and some sparkling juice. So sweet of them!!!

Next, we took off to plan what we would like to do for the evening and following day (eventhough shopping would of been enough for me - we had to please the guys somehow). We stopped in to a ticket place to look at a couple of shows. Of course we stopped at a place that was happy to give you free tickets if you listened to their 90 presentation on timeshares. Tim and Brady said that they didn't mind going. Brady said it wouldn't take that long....Anyway, we ended up with tickets to the IMAX (The Deep Sea ) and tickets to the Titanic Museum. So, that evening we went to the IMAX which was cool, a 6 story screen. Then we went to Dick Clarks American Bandstand Diner. We were hoping for some live music or something kinda fun. Well, they said that there was live music starting in 45 minutes in their nightclub downstairs. So, were in! I think the guys thought we were in a strip club - kinda looked like it! So, we ate and waited for the music to start. No such luck, they pushed back the time because the second band wasn't going to show. So, it started getting really smoky so we went back to our rooms.

The next morning we hit a GRAND COUNTRY BUFFET! Yummy!!! (Did I mention that my brother has IBS and there seemed to be a huge issue with gas on this trip?) 9:00 was our timeshare tour. We got lost on the way there. "Friendly Pete" gave us wrong directions to get there so, we were about 15 minutes late. We stepped out of the car with a little motion sickness after turning around so many time and up and down the hills there. Okay, so this shouldn't be too bad after they realize that we really aren't serious about buying into the time share, they are going to let us go...right?!?! Are you kidding me!!!! I swear it must of been 2 1/2 hours before they released us from this hostage situation. Just when we thought we were free to go, they bring in one more GREAT deal. AHHHhhhh!!! Oh well, a little shopping after this will be good therapy. So, that's what we did next, shopping and then to the Titanic Museum. The Titianic was really neat. It was sad (like the movie) and kinda eerie being enclosed in the ship. Next, a little more shopping and then to dinner for Tim's birthday. We went to the College of the Ozarks were they raise their own beef, chicken, churn their own butter, grow their own fruits and veggies! AWESOME!!!! Sooo good!!!! We then had a social with the other couples from our church. I guess there were probably about 25 couples there. We had each individually done a video clip at the church and they had put these all together on a DVD for us. Hilarious!!! Then we played the Newlywed Game. Fun times!!!!

On Sunday morning, we checked out and had a gourmet breakfast at one of the restaurants at the lodge. (I think we ate more this weekend than we normally do in a full week)! There was everything from Prime Rib to Salmon to Salads and Cheesecake. It was amazing. Brady had an oyster on the half shell on his plate. I told him that I had always wondered what that tasted like. He said, go get you one. I told him I really didn't know how to eat one and didn't want to try in such close dining quarters. He loosened it from the shell and popped it into his mouth. With a horrible look on his face, he said that he thought he might get sick. He said it tasted like a jello jiggler that he had used as toliet paper first. The rest of the trip he was sick to his stomach (no wonder he has IBS).

The ride home wasn't as fun as the ride there. We tried coming up with a name for the baby again, only got lost once and then Tim and Jaime slept.

The boys were so excited for us to be home. They made Tim a birthday cake that had LOTS and LOTS of sprinkles on it. We missed them tons!

It's good to be home and back to the norm!!

Who Does Kade Look Like?????

2008-02-19T21:13:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Family website - Free genealogy software

Who Does Kam Look Like????

2008-02-19T21:07:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Family tree research - Free genealogy

Valentine's Day

2008-02-19T07:55:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I know that I am way behind on posting. Valentine's Day was almost a week ago but a lot has gone on this last week. Between preparing flowers, to class parties to finding childcare, it has been crazy. So, to prepare for Valentine's day flowers, we started on Monday. The flowers came in Tuesday and had to be processes. (I am beginning to not enjoy flowers as much as I used to). My poor hands after de-thorning 500+ roses, having my hands in water non-stop for 3 days. Tulips, Daisies, Orchids, Carnations and Roses, Roses, Roses, Roses!!!! I do have a ton of fun designing for this holiday. We put a lot of thought into each and every order trying to make each one unique but once mid-night rolls around and there are still tons of orders to fill, creativity becomes limited and the giggles set it.

Kamden worked with Taisha and I at her shop for most of the day on Wednesday. He is such a little trooper. We actually put him to work. He likes to sweep up all the leaves and stems, etc. that we toss on the floor. He did a lot of coloring. He was thrilled when we pulled out the candy to make some candy bouquets. He loved taping the sticks on to the candy and well, mostly that he got to eat some of the candy. I think Tim is concerned with Kamden spending too much time with me up there. Kamden might be too in touch with his creative side and I don't think his dad is too fond of that.

Well, Mom picked up the Kamden and took the boys home with her after school. So, we kicked it in to high gear and were able to leave the shop around 1 ish. We started back at 8:00 on V-day morning. Things ran pretty smoothly. The worst thing is that most men wait until on there way home from work to pick up some flowers for the wifey. So, there is always a rush at the end of the day.

My romantic valentine's ended up with a quick run to Dairy Queen. (I was too tired to cook anything, and every place in town was packed...so Dairy Queen it was). The boys loved it. We had teacher/parent meeting that evening too. We had to rush back to make the meeting. So, after all was said and done, everyone was in bed early. What better gift?!?!

This weekend Tim and I are going to Branson with our church and Brady and Jaime to Big Cedar Lodge for a couples retreat. This is the first time that Tim and I have been away together without the kids. So, I guess this is our V-day present to each other and it is also Tim's 34 birthday on Saturday!!

The big 40!!

2008-02-19T07:33:00.000-08:00

Gosh! I can't believe that I have friends that are 40 or soon to be 40! Of course I am still MANY years from that. What can I say, I choose mature friends:-) So anyway, my friend Shawna turned 40 about a week and a half ago. She was hoping her husband had a big bash planned for her but he wasn't making a big deal. He had invited a few couples to go to dinner at Abeulo's and then to Fox and Hound for some drinks afterwards. What she didn't know was there was an entire room filled with her friends and family. She was surprised to say the least. Stacey did a good job!!! We didn't get to stay long. Kamden was sick again with tonsilitis. But, we had a great time while we were there.

I have pics but for some reason can't get them to upload. AHHHhhhh! Maybe later!

Just a folktale...

2008-02-08T05:39:00.000-08:00

Kids say the funniest things. Most of the time I am the trying to tell Tim what the kids have said. Sometimes it is more funny to me (like one of those "you had to be there" moments) than it is to anyone else. I remember one time when Kadyn was just 2 and we were having dinner. We were chit chatting about our day and Kadyn was telling us about the latest episode of Stanley. He was talking about a Koala and I said "Oh, you mean and Koala Bear" and Kadyn said "No, Mom...Koala's aren't bears, they are marsupials. We about fell over. We have a genius on our hands. Who does he get this from.

So on Wednesday night when I got home from work, Tim had a story to share with me. Kamden really isn't into watching much TV (which is great) but, he has starting showing some interest in a couple of shows. He likes the WonderPets and Deigo and Dora. Lately he has been telling us how he doesn't really like Swiper the Fox. We are trying to get him to stay in his bed all night but he is afraid of Swiper. He tells us when he is 3 he will stay in his own bed (Only a couple of more months). Anyway, Tim was have a little talk with him about Swiper and how he shouldn't be scared that he was just pretend and is only on the TV. Kamden told his dad that he knew..."Swiper is a folktale". Now where in the world did get this from. Neither of us have told him that. So, the next day, I asked him about it. He told me the same thing. So, I called Tim to tell him and Kadyn was listening to me. Kadyn said, "Mom, I just had a little talk with Kamden about Swiper and told him not to be scared that Swiper is a folktale." Thanks to Kadyn for handling this situation for us. It seems to be working. He is such a GREAT kid!!!!

God Is Silent

2008-02-06T21:48:00.000-08:00

Busy day today. We got about 4 inches of snow last night and unsure of the road conditions, I opted out of going to the gym this morning. My niece, Hannah, got to stay with us today. I have a couple of Uppercase Living Shows to close and I had to work at the Gap tonight. When I work late, I always come home a little keyed up and not ready to go to bed. I had to stop off at Target for some milk and bread. So, when I got home everyone was already asleep. What better to do than throw in another load of laundry and get on the computer. Of course, I have to post something on my blog. I know that Aimee expects 2 post a day...sorry to let you down:)

We are getting ready to go on a couples retreat with our church in a couple of weeks. So, I was looking at the church website to see if there was any info out there and looking at the topic of the upcoming series that Pastor Mark will be delivering. "God is Silent". There is even a website you can go to and read or post about when you have felt God is silent in your life or why you think he has been silent. http://www.godissilent.com/ I am really looking forward to hearing his message....

Tim and I began going to NewSpring 4 years ago January. We were struggling after the stillbirth of our son, Karston. We found so much hope in the messages that we received through the sermons. It took us 3 years to build the strength to talk to the pastor and ask some tough questions. So many times, during the really tough times, it is hard to keep your eyes on the Lord, even when you need Him most. It is so easy to get caught up in asking yourself what you did wrong. What we have learned is that God isn't silent, we just have to be willing to open up our hearts and allow Him to help you heal and to guide you.

You can go to the church website and even download the sermons if you are interested. Pastor Mark is an amazing speaker. I know that you will be touched by the message. Check it out!
http://www.newspring.org/

2008-02-05T03:58:00.001-08:00

Wow, what a gorgeous day. Monday was amazing! The temp was around 68 degrees. I love it! I am so ready for spring. After Kamden got up from his nap, we headed outside to play. We did a little cleaning out the garage, some basketball, soccer, and baseball. We played in the backyard with Aspen and on the swingset and trampoline. We were wearing t-shirts - it was that warm. By 5:30 we had to throw on a jacket but we stayed outside as long as possible. Here are some pics. I had to take these to add...I really don't have anything interesting to say so, the pics will speak. As I am typing this morning and the reason I am up so early is that we are in the middle of our first thunderstorm of the season. The best part is that Aspen is terrified of thunderstorms and now missing. She will come back. I can't leave to go and find her. Tim is at the gym and the boys are sleeping. So, periodically, I whistle and hollar for her. So far, she is still missing. We are suppose to have up to 6 inches of snow by the end of the day. This crazy weather.

BUNCO

2008-02-04T07:12:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics of one of my BUNCO groups. This group is fairly new. We kicked off in September. We started with 12 of us. Last month, we played with 16. We had such a great time on Saturday. I think everyone is getting to know each other really well. Several of us really let down our hair :) These pics aren't the best but here they are.

Cindy our hostess had to share a story with us that I just have to pass along. It is hilarious. I am sure that I can't tell it as well as she did but here it is. We were all cracking up...

Cindy, her husband and the three kids had all gone to see the movie "One Missed Call" I haven't seen the movie but from what I understand is that the person checks her caller ID and it says one missed call. She listens to her message and it is her own voice screaming. Then, she is murdered and the time of death is the time of the missed call (might not be exactly correct but close). Once they got back, Cindy and Shane decided to mess with Cassie (their 7th grade daughter). Shane was wrestling and tickling her and they recorded her screaming and saying "stop, stop, stop". Then they called her cell phone and left her a message with her recorded voice. Later she came out of her room and said, "listen to this", "this isn't funny", "who did this"??? So, Shane said, "I don't know, I think we should call 911. So, he dialed 911 and didn't press the talk button. But, in the midst of all the wrestling around, 911 was called. They hung up. Well, you know what happens, 911 calls you back. Cassie was screaming in the background and they heard it. They tried to explain what happend. Meanwhile, one of their boys was outside and came in and told them they had company. The sherrif had come to check things out. He came inside and they were trying again to try and explain everything that had happened. Cassie's phone rings, the caller says "We are coming to get you". Then, her oldest son is running around the house banging on the windows (he has so idea that the sherrif is there). He then sneaks in the front door (which they never use) and goes into Cassie's room. The Sherrif tells them he is going to have to search the place. When he opens the door to Cassie's room, Ben (the oldest boy) jumps up and makes a huge roaring noise (thinking that it is his sister)....Ooopps!

We were laughing so hard. They were sure that they were going to be fined but luckily, they weren't.

Finally, a snowman

2008-02-04T06:59:00.000-08:00

Saturday was packed full!!!! 8:00 had to finish up the flowers for the wedding, 12:00 Kadyn's basketball in El Dorado (they won!!), 6:30 BUNCO!! I promised the boys after naps, we would build a snowman. It was beautiful outside. The snow is never very good for a snowman right away. We have to wait for it to start melting before it actually sticks. So, conditions were perfect (where is their dad). So, we get started...Tim gets home just at the perfect time. They were excited!!! So was I. I had no idea how I was going to lift a giant snow ball to make this perfect snowman. It was a good thing he came home, it took both of us to lift it. Aspen (our dog) enjoyed being out with us and she loved eating the snow. She loves this weather. I am ready for spring!

Snow Day

2008-02-04T06:40:00.000-08:00

Thursday, School was closed because of the snow. Yeah!!!! (I think). I didn't realize how scheduled Kamden and I are during the week. I guess we kinda have a routine down. With Kadyn home, there was drama. Fighting over what they would watch on TV, what toys they can and can't share, etc., etc. I had a wedding to work on for the weekend so, mom got the boys for the afternoon. They never fight at her house. (Good thing or she might not want them there). Wednesday night, I had to work and when I left, it felt fairly warm to be expecting a snow storm. I actually thought that we probably wouldn't get anything. So, when mom called at 7:30 and asked what we were doing, I told her getting ready for school. She asked why and wondered if I had the TV on. Sure enough, no school. Here are some pics. The kids wanted to go outside and play and build a snowman but it was too cold and the wind was fierce.

More Pics

2008-01-30T14:38:00.001-08:00

2008-01-30T13:33:00.000-08:00

More Wedding Pics

Here comes the bride....

2008-01-30T05:16:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago was the Bridal Fair in Wichita. Taisha, the florist that I help, and I exhibited for the second year in a row. It is an experience, to say the least. I would of never guessed the amount of time, hard work and planning that goes into this event. It is a huge deal to find the latest color trends and color combinations to create the perfect bouquets. But, I love it all. It is kinda like planning a wedding all over ago.

Here are some of the pics of our booth and a few of the bouquets. And....if you know of anyone getting married in the area, tell them about us :-)

I do it myself....

2008-01-28T12:18:00.000-08:00

Before all the sickness interrupted our regular routine, we had a very eventful day. Our new routine beginning this year is 5:00 am, Gym for me while everyone else catches a couple more hours of sleep. My niece, Hannah, stays with us a couple of times a week while her mommy is at work. She usually arrives at 6:30. So, as part of our new routine, Tim is up at 6:30 to tend to Hannah until I get home usually around 7:00. So far, things are working out. This particular day, things started out rather smoothly. Around 7:30, Kadyn surfaces and gets ready for school. Now we do this routine everyday but somehow having another two year old in the mix can make things rather challenging because two year olds like to "do it themselves", even when you are in a hurry. Kadyn did make it to school on time. Kamden and Hannah were doing really well playing together without much fighting. So, I decided it would be okay if I ran downstairs for a quick minute to start some laundry. As I am sorting some clothes, I hear them giggling and stomping around upstairs. Sounds like they are having some harmless, innocent fun....I mean, they aren't fussing or fighting right?!!?. So, I get my laundry started and head upstairs. It was at that very moment that I thought that a mom should be armed with a video camera at all times. The look on their face was priceless. I didn't know if I should laugh or cry. They thought they were going to be in BIG trouble. So, here is what happened... One of the precious little angels decided to have a snack. I am sure the other one wasn't but a step behind as well. Anyway, there was a small bowl setting in the middle of the kitchen floor (a bowl which wouldn't hold much more than a cup or so). They must of thought that rice krispies sounded good. Now, I buy the kids cereal that comes in the bag since I really don't have a place to store cereal boxes and the fact that it is cheaper. Anyway, I had just bought a new SUPER SIZE bag of Rice Krispies and had only served one bowl full to Kadyn that morning. So, the bag was, needless to say, extremely full!!!! The little ones, manhandling this huge bag of cereal, attempted to pour themselves a "little" snack into their "little" bowl. Well, I guess you can say, this back fired. I would guess that more than 3/4 of the bag of cereal was on the floor. I am sure that they were shocked at first but when they discovered that they could slide around on the "ice kisspy" it became so much fun. Then one discovered that you could stomp on them and this was fun too. Did they stop there, no, the next idea was to throw them in the air like snow. How could mommy/Aunt Brandi be upset with these two precious angels... The look on their faces when they saw coming up the stairs probably kept me from setting them in time out for a very long time. There were Rice Krispies everywhere...under the fridge, under the stove, on the cabinets, etc. I am still finding Rice Krispies. AHHHHhhhhh. Well anyway, they did get to help clean up the mess. Some punishment. They loved cleaning it up. They had to "do it myself". And, there was some fighting over the broom and dust pan of course. So, here are some pics...