Just Clown'in Around!

On December 6th, I was a banner clown in the Neiman Marcus Adolphus Christmas parade hosted by Children's! It was a blast! Yes, the morning started out extremely chilly, but by the time the parade rolled through, it was a beautiful day!

The morning started out like this! I had to be at the hospital by 5:30 AM (Yes, AM!) in order to pick up my costume and have my face painted! So, I had to leave our apartment at 4:30, which put me getting up at 4! I know, 4 AM! Anyway, I got to the hospital at about 5:35, due to some unexpected camera issues! I got a red and silver sparkle costume, my face painted, and rallied together with some of my co-workers/friends to grab a quick bite before getting on the TRE train to head downtown! Several of us from the PM&R (Physical Medicine & Rehab) dept. made our hats! I think they all turned out really cute!

Once I downed a bagel and some apple juice, we all headed to the TRE train! We had been told before that their would be unexpected passengers on the train and to stay in character! So, we did! When we got on the train, you should have seen the eyes of everyone, especially the children! We loaded on and started singing Christmas carols and having a great time!

We quickly arrived downtown where we had to head to our designated areas! Being a banner clown meant that I had to rally with the other banner clowns, get my banner, and wait in an organized line until my time arrived to start walking!

Walking was the BEST! You should have seen the eyes of the kids as all of the characters, clowns, ballons, and floats headed their way! There were so many "Merry Christmas" wishes being sent! I loved every minute of it and can't wait until next year! Hope you enjoy the pictures that Brent took! I think he did a fabulous job!

Here was the Santa balloon!

Here's me carrying my banner!Frosty the Snowman!

A view from down the street! Aren't the balloons fun?The parade logo balloon!

Babies, Babies, Babies!

So, as I have mentioned, we have 2 babies due in March! Well, not we as in Brent and me, but our Moody/Family gang! Kelcie and Taylor are having Eastin Reid, and Brandon and Mandy are having Conner Brandon! I am so ecstatic about these boys!

Yesterday evening, we had dinner with the Gartrell's (Will, Carol, Brandon, Mandy, and Aiden), and afterwards, they came over to our place to visit. During the visit, Taylor and Kelcie came by. If was fun to see Mandy and Kelcie stand side by side with their cute and round tummies! They are only about 1-2 weeks apart!

As the Gartrell's were getting ready to leave, I hugged and kissed Aiden! He was very quick to remind me that all of his kisses were being saved for the baby that I would have to give his back! This reminded me of the cute story Mandy told me over Thanksgiving. Aiden approached Mandy one day and told her to open up her mouth. She did, and then he blew a kiss in and said, "Quick, Mom, swallow!" She did and then asked why. Aiden said, "I am sending the baby kisses!" Isn't that great? I love this!

So, I told Aiden he could have the kisses back, but they had to go to Conner! He agreed! Needless to say, Aiden will be a great big brother!

To Eastin and Conner, I am so blessed to have the two of you as nephews! I know God has wonderful plans for you and the lifes that you will have! I can't wait to meet you and see your faces! When Aiden was born, I held him in my arms and made a very important promise, and I promise this to you, too! "I promise to always love you and provide you with plenty of chocolate!" I love you, Aunt Ash!

One Crafty Christmas!

So, as some of you might know...I am an occupational therapist at a pediatric hospital in Dallas! I love my job! Not everyone knows what an occupational therapist does though! I find it interesting to ask the kiddos what they think my job is during the initial evaluation. Here are some of the answers that I have heard:
1. To make kids feel better!
2. To help them ride a bike!
3. To make their arms and legs work!
4. To help them have fun!

In some ways, all of these are right, but there is more to it! Here's my simplified explanation of what I do. An occupational therapist helps a person learn or relearn how to use their arms and hands for functional tasks that they need to or want to complete throughout their day! And, for those who cannot use their arms/hands, then I help teach them adaptive ways for functioning through adaptive techniques and/or equipment.

Most of the kiddos that I treat have some sort of fine motor delay; therefore, their treatment plan includes a goal requiring drawing/writing, cutting, buttoning/unbuttoning, and Theraputty (which is similar to what you might get if you mixed Play-doh and silly putty). With goals like these, I try to come up with crafty ideas that are themed with the time of the year. Infact, Halloween was a blast. Our clinic did a "Super Kids" theme. Each therapist dressed in our custom made super OT, PT, ST shirt (depending on their title), and we wore capes and masks. In order to help incorporate the kids, I took large trash bags and cut them down the seams. This gave me to capes our of each bag. The kids were allowed to use construction paper, scissors, crayons/markers, and glue to decorate their cape. As an added bonus, I drew up some masks (Spiderman and Batman) for the children to add to their homemade "superhero" costume.

With Christmas around the corner, I have already made many many crafty plans. For each week, I have come up with one or two activities for the kids to complete. I have listed each idea below. Please remember that most of these activities can be adapted for any child of any age. Just be creative!

Frosty the Snowman!
On white construction paper, have the child draw or trace 3 circles (1 small, 1 medium, and 1 large).
Using black/brown/ or the color of their choice, draw a top hat, gloves, scarf, two eyes, and a nose.
Cut out each item and glue them together on a whole sheet of construction paper.
Have the child personalize their snowman by naming him/her and writing the name at the top or bottom of the paper!
**Another cute idea is to use paper plates (1 dessert size, 1 dinner size) instead of the paper, but I am trying to teach most of my patients to draw shapes, so I use the circle idea!

Reindeer Craft
Trace the child's hands on construction paper.
One another piece of construction paper, trace one of the child's feet.
Cut out each hand and foot.
Glue the two hands to the top of the foot.
Using the foot to serve as the reindeer's face, have the child draw the eyes, nose, and mouth.
**You can use fun squiggly eyes, draw in a bell collar, or some holly to add a little character to reindeer if you wish!

Santa Face
Trace your child's hands on 2-3 pieces of white construction paper.
Using manilla construction paper, have your child draw/trace a large circle.
Cut out the hands and glue them in an overlapping pattern around the base of the circle (making Santa's beard)
Using a pencil, curl the finger portions of the hands to add some "curl" to Santa's beard.
Have the child draw and large triangle on a red piece of construction paper.
Cut the triangle out and glue to the top of Santa's head.
Using cotton balls, add some "fur" around the base of Santa's hat and the tip.
Have the child draw Santa's face.
**Again, you can give Santa some character by using squiggly eyes!

For more wonderful and cute Holiday craft ideas, go to www.enchantedlearning.com!

This is also a wonderful time of year to do for others! So, I came across some interesting information and decided that I would get my patients involved and encourage anyone and everyone to participate. Macy's department store is donating $1 to the Make a Wish Foundation for every Santa letter "mailed" in their special mailboxes located in their stores!

I had already planned to ask each child to write a letter to Santa, so I was thrilled to hear that I could actually "mail"/donate them to a good cause! Anyone of any age, size, or shape can participate. You can use any paper, or you can download their specialized stationary from the website. If you go to www.macysbelieve.com, you can find out all of the information about this holiday donation. Just think, by writing a letter to Santa, you are helping to donate $1 to a wonderful foundation that just happens to grant wishes of many the children that I treat! And, it is at no cost to you! It truly is a gift that keeps on giving!

So, today, I encourage you to find a way to do for some one else during this holiday season. Whether you adopt an angel, donate to a food drive, or write a letter to Santa and mail it at Macy's, remember the true meaning of Christmas! Merry Christmas to you and yours! May God bless you this Holiday season and provide you with happiness, joy, and cheer to last you throughout your year!

Tis the Season to be Merry!

If you haven't met me, then I should start off by saying that Christmas is my favorite time of year! Why? Well, let me make a list...

1. Chistmas music on the radio
2. Fun with family and friends
3. Santa
4. Food...food...and more food!
5. Christmas lights!
6. Giving gifts!
7. The nostalgia in the air!
8. Caramel Apple Cider from Starbucks! Party in my mouth!
9. Shopping!
10. Making Memories!
11. Cold weather!
12. Fun wrapping paper!
13. Christmas decorations! (I, typically, decorate the weekend after Halloween! Try it...it's fun!)
14. Making Christmas crafts with my patients!
15. Letters to Santa!
16. The smiles you receive from strangers just because it is Christmas!
17. Fun Christmas movies! (See my list of favorites below!)
18. Holiday Sales!
19. Time off of Work!
20. After dinner naps!
21. Christmas Dishes!

I could keep going, but well...by the time you finished reading, Christmas would have come and gone! I have to give my parents the credit for instilling in me this love and appreciation for Christmas! First of, I should say, that luckily...I do know the true meaning of Christmas! Our family has always loved celebrating the birth of Jesus, and we have always celebrated in many many BIG ways!

First, my Dad is referred to as "Clark Griswald" around the holidays because of the amount of lights that he used to decorate our home with! Let's just say, there was a reason why we were on the front page of the town newspaper, not once, but twice! It was awesome! I didn't particularly care for staying out until dark and freezing my rear off while helping decorate, but the end result always made it worth it!

Mom always made decorating the inside of the house fun, too! She would always put on some Christmas music or put in a Christmas movie, and then we would bust out the tree, garland, white twinkly lights, stockings, and Santa pictures! Mom and Dad did a great job of filling our home with Christmas cheer!

As I have moved out on my own, I have enjoyed decorating our home and continuing family traditions! One tradition that Brent and I have continued is watching a Christmas classic: Christmas Vacation! While it isn't a family friendly movie, it is enjoyable for adults!

Here are a few other Christmas movies to try out!
1. Christmas Vacation! (Our family enjoys quoting this one year around!)
2. A Christmas Story!
3. Burl Ives' Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer (the old claymation is fun! I used to watch this every year on CBS!)
4. Home Alone
5. Elf
6. Miracle on 34th street (new and old)
7. Family Man
8. The Family Stone
9. The Santa Clause
10. It's a Wonderful Life!

There are so many! To get started, try these! And...stay tuned! For December, I am going to try to post some fun Christmas activities and tips for places to shop and find fun deals after the holidays!

My Little Man!

Me and Aiden cuddling on the couch!

First, I would like to apologize for taking a long brake from blogging! This past month has been a whirlwind... good, but a whirlwind! First, as stated in the previous blog, we found out that Kelcie and Taylor are having a boy. Secondly, Brent celebrated his 29th birthday! Happy Birthday, Sweetie! And, thirdly, we found out that Brandon (Brent's brother) and Mandy are having a boy, too! We are still so excited about these two beautiful boys that will be entering our lives come the spring!

I am so excited about being an aunt again! And, as I have been thinking about these two little ones, I have been reminiscing about another little man in my life!.....Aiden! Aiden is my almost (come Dec.) 5 yr old nephew! For the past 5 years, Aiden has been the "little man" in my life! While Brent and I have been blessed with several kiddos to love, spoil, and play with, Aiden has been our little man!

For fun, I decided to post some pictures of Aiden through the years! Aiden is going to be a big brother come March, and everyone seems to be a little concerned as to how he is going to react to the change in dynamics with the family! However, I know what it is like to be the older sibling, and I think that Aiden is going to be a pro!

Last weekend, Brent and I were at his parent's house! Aiden had just woken up from his nap and decided that he needed a Capri Sun with Uncle B (Brent)! When they came into the living room, Aiden walked over to me with his arms open wide! I was sitting on the couch, so naturally, I picked him up and squeezed him for a bit. We were sitting there, and I said to him,

"Aiden, you are going to be the best big brother the baby could ever ask for!"
And, he responded (in his sigh-like, most calm voice) "I know!"
This is Aiden! So very matter of fact and honest!

So, here is to Aiden...my "little man!" Thanks for always being a wonderful playmate, making me smile and laugh, for being a strong wrestler, and for always eating Oreos with me! I love you, little man!

Aiden about 14 mos! Isn't he precious!

Aiden and me snuggling! He has always been so squeezable!

Uncle B feeding Aiden lime! Those Gartrell boys love limes!

Aiden looking at himself on the camera screen! He was always facinated by this!

Aiden and me wrestling on my bed! He is so tickelish!

Aiden and me taking a break to smile for the camera!

Aiden and me making pancakes! It facinated me that he could tell me everything that we needed in order to make them from scratch! He is so smart!

Aiden drinking milk during one of our "Oreo" dates!

Aiden and Uncle B sharing some ice cream at May Fest!

Aiden and Uncle B laying in the fort they built during our sleepover!

Aiden being goofy! I love this face!

One Proud Aunt!

So, for those of you who know me, know that I am anxiously awaiting for the Spring for 2 BIG reasons! Well...actually...they're little reasons! 2 Babies! I am having a nephew (for sure...we found out this week!) and another baby! My nephew, Easton/Eastin Reid (I heard the spelling is still being decided!) is due the first week of April, and the other baby is due mid March!

Brent and I are thrilled about the two little ones entering our lives, and we look forward to loving them, playing with them, and spoiling them!

Taylor sent me a pic of the sonogram that he and Kelcie received on Wednesday when they found out they were having a boy! While it is hard to make out everything, you can see this very distinctive foot! It is the most precious foot I have ever seen! I believe my response to the text message was "I'm in love!" and I am.

Anyone who knows me knows that I adore children. Heck, I work with children of all ages and most with special needs. But, nothing compares to the children that I am blessed to call family. I already have several kiddos in my life that I love to spend time with and spoil, so adding to the bunch thrills me!

For every child that is in my life, I pray that God watch over them, keep them safe, and bless them for all their days! And, since we now know that I will be for sure having a nephew, I pray this:

Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for this miracle that you have provided our family! Thank you for blessing us with his life and all that he will be! We know that because of your love and dedication to us as your children, you will provide him with all that he needs...your love! We ask that you keep him safe and out of harm. We ask that you use us to do Your will in his life!
Lord, we thank you for all that you do for each of us and our growing family! We ask that you watch over Kelcie and Taylor throughout the remainder of the pregnancy and help them as the prepare for this bundle of joy! Lord, please use me in any way to help them as they prepare for his arrival and throughout his life, whether it be emotional support or free babysitting (which I am completely happy to do!)
Thank you again, Lord for allowing me to be an Aunt, again! This truly is one of my happiest joys in life!
Amen!

Easton/Eastin Reid, I cannot wait to see your face, hold you in my arms, kiss you, love you, and eventually, tell you all kinds of stories about the trouble your Daddy used to get into! I know that you and I are going to be the best of friends! I love you and thank God for you each day!

Happy 80th Birthday, Pawpaw!

Last Saturday was a really fun time! On October 2, my Pawpaw turned 80! Last Saturday our family (most of us), gathered at Mom and Dad's house for a birthday party! It was so much fun! To begin, I should give a little bit of a family tree for those of you who may not know!

My Nanny and Pawpaw have been married 56 years come this December! They have 4 children: Diane, Pattie, Gary (my Dad), and Rickey! Diane is married to Kevin and they have 3 children: Kyle, Julie, and Heather. Kyle is married to Dana. Julie is married to Ben, and they have 2 kids: Cason and Kinley. Heather is married to Grayson, and they have 2 girls: Avery and Emere.

Pattie is married to Bill. They have two children: Craig and Benay. Craig is a teacher/coach in Howe, TX and is dating Macy! Benay is living in Tennesse and pursuing her dreams in music production.

My Dad, Gary, is married to Carol, and they have an angel of a daughter....okay...just kidding! Obviously, they have me as a daughter, and I am married to Brent. Taylor is their son, who is married to Kelcie. Taylor and Kelcie have baby due in April.

Rickey lives in Granbury, and like my Dad, works for AT&T.

Most of us were able to come in for the party, but with our family continuously growing and living in several states, it is becoming harder and harder for us all to get together at one time! We are shooting for Christmas this year! Here's our attempts at a family photo!


From Left to Right: (Front Row) Kevin, Diane, Pawpaw, Dad, Nanny, Mom, Pattie, and Bill. (Back Row) Dana, Kyle, Emere, Heather, Grayson, Avery, Kelcie, Taylor, Me, Craig, Brent, and Macy!

We ate burgers/hot dogs and cake (of course!)! Here are a few pics from the day!

Nanny holding Emere!

Brent and Avery take a brake from playing!

Pawpaw feeding Emere!

Dad (Gary) reading a book with Avery!

Pawpaw blowing out his birthday candles!

Mom (Carol) holding Avery as she licks the icing off of the candles! This is my kind of girl!

Heather and Diane!

Dana and Kyle!

Heather and Grayson!

Pattie, Bill, Macy, Craig, and Diane!

Macy, Taylor holding Avery, Kelcie, and Dana!

Avery and her Papa!

Emere and Me!

It was such a great day! As we all sat in my parent's living room, watching Pawpaw open his gifts/cards, I started thinking about all of the many memories I have of this man! First of all, there are several things that you should know about him. Pawpaw has always been a hard worker, he loves anything technical (especially computers and cameras), and his love for his family has always been apparent through his actions and his words!

As a child, we lived in Granbury, and Nanny and Pawpaw lived next door! For a while, they had a garden, and I remember Pawpaw tending to the garden and mowing his lawn! He still mowes his yard, which I find enduring and inspiring! There are men 20 years younger than him who can't mow their yards. While I hated the days that Mom and Dad would wake us up to go help mow the yard, I liked it because I knew that at the end of the day, I could walk over to Nanny and Pawpaw's house and have a bowl of ice cream with Pawpaw!

Growing up at any family function, Pawpaw was the guy behind the camera! Whether he was taking pictures or videoing, he was the guy behind the camera, capturing a moment to remember! Infact, I think this might have been the first family gathering in history where Pawpaw didn't have a camera in his hand! (Of course, there were two great granddaughters to be holding instead! So, you can't really blame the guy!)

And, finally, all my life, my Nanny has told me that I am stubborn like my Pawpaw! I'll take that! Pawpaw may be stubborn, but he is the same man today that he was yesterday! He still believes and lives by his Christian morals and values. No one talks poorly about his friends or family without Pawpaw standing up to defend them! To me that is honorable, not stubborn!

So, this blog is dedicated to Pawpaw! Happy Birthday, Pawpaw! May every man and woman live their life for the Lord and be blessed with 80 years! Here's to many, many more!

Hair Cut!

So, I finally did it! I cut it all off! My hair that is! I am 8" shorter and about a 100lbs. lighter! Okay, maybe not 100lbs, but a huge weight has been lifted off of my head! It was amazing how almost immediately I felt relief! I have been planning on cutting off my hair for some time now! I have worn it long for the past 6+ years for several reasons!

1. I was in college and couldn't afford a hair cut every 6 weeks to keep a cute short style.
2. I was getting my masters and was too lazy to care for my hair properly.
3. I decided to start caring for my long hair in preparation for donating it!

The idea of donating my hair is a courageous and inspiring story (not about me, but someone else I find very special!) But, to begin, I should say that several years ago I heard about Locks of Love. It is a hair donation charity, that accepts hair donations to be made into real hair wigs for people with cancer who have lost their hair. I always thought it was such a wonderful and simple way for anyone and everyone to give back and help another person! I started researching Locks of Love in 2007 when my aunt, Pattie, was diagnosed with breast cancer! Pattie had such a difficult experience through her surgeries and treatments! As a result of chemotherapy, she lost her hair and decided to purchase wigs.

At Christmas, Pattie and I were talking about everything that she had experienced thus far and she explained that loosing her hair was one of the worst things for her! She explained that she realized that loosing her hair may seem petty to others, but that she felt a true loss. I explained that I didn't find it petty at all because I feel that for most (myself included) our hair is a large character in our physical identity! From that moment, I decided that I had to do something! I didn't think that finding the cure of cancer was likely to come from me, so I decided that I was going to start caring for my hair in preparation of donating it!

Locks of Love requires 10". That is a lot of hair for someone with a head of hair like me! But, I wasn't too concerned about growing it because luckily my hair grows fast. But, I was dreading having to care for all of that hair up until I cut it. But, not to worry, Brent saved the day! He had heard about Pantene Beautiful Lengths. This is another hair donation charity that accepts 8" for the same exact cause as Locks of Love. I felt relieved!

Now, if you know me, you know that I have a ton of hair! To say that it is thick is an understatement, plus when you grow it out, it starts affecting your lifestyle! Before cutting it, I was spending 1 1/2 hrs. washing, blow drying, straightening, and styling it! Actually, I had started wearing it curly because it was taking so long to care for it!

So, on Monday, September 8, I cut it all off! I decided that this was a way to give back and help those like Pattie enduring the pain of chemo and loosing her hair in the process! So, here is to Pattie! I donate my hair in honor of you and your courageous and fight against cancer. You are not just a survivor, but a conqueror because of your hard earned efforts!

For an update....Pattie's cancer is gone and her hair is growing back!

And the two became One!

Saturday, Aug. 30,2008 was a special day for two reasons!

1. It was my mom's birthday! No, I won't reveal her age, although it is nothing to be ashamed of! I believe that the only thing to be ashamed of as you age is not your age, but neglecting to live your life to the fullest!

2. My little brother, Taylor got married! He married a beautiful and sweet girl....Kelcie! They had a beautiful summer wedding (indoors....thank you, God!) I had the privilege of being a bridesmaid...and thank you, Kelcie for choosing a dress that granted me many compliments!

It is hard to believe that Taylor is married! Not because he isn't old enough or mature enough, but because he's Taylor! I remember the day he was born! That was a great day! I got a little brother and a real life doll to play with! What 4 (almost 5) year old girl doesn't want a real life doll to play with! What they don't tell you is that the baby grows and starts talking (or more like talking back!) Taylor and I had your typical sibling spats, but what I am discovering as I talk to others is that we don't have a typical sibling relationship now! You see, Mom and Dad used to fret that Taylor and I wouldn't be close because I was nearly 5 years older and we are of the opposite sex, but I think it has worked in our favor! You see, we have provided one another with an understanding of the opposite sex, we respect one another, and we have fun together! We don't always agree, but we do have the ability to get through it and work it out! I think that Taylor and I are fortunate (or at least I know I am) that I am able to call him my friend as well as my brother!

His wife is great, too! I never had a sister before, so to have a sister-in-law is fun! The more time I spend with her the more I realize how much she and I have in common! She and Taylor compliment each other really well, and I couldn't be happier that Taylor chose her to be his wife!

Congratulations to the happy couple! May God continue to bless you and your relationship as you grow in Him and in love! I love you and wish you all the best!

On another note...when Brent and I got married, Taylor snitched and told where we had hidden my car! So, instead of having one car to clean up, we had two! Brent and I have always promised to payback the "favor!" So, Brent found Kelcie's car hidden at her Grandmother's house, but we decided to provide a little extra "fun!" We decorated their bedroom and left many surprises! Hope they enjoy the many surprises to come! Love`Ash

Blissful Marriage

On Saturday, Aug. 16th, Brent and I celebrated 5 years of marriage! 5! It is hard to believe that I am old enough to say that I have been married for 5 years, but I am! We decided early last week that we would drive down to San Antonio for a long weekend! We had such a good time shopping, eating, relaxing, etc.
Without going into great detail about the weekend and all of its events...I would like to share with you how wonderful my husband, marriage, and the friendship that we share is. First, Brent and I have always been able to laugh with and at each other (although let's face it...he is typically the one laughing at me!) Either way, we have a very special relationship that I thank God for each day! It is nice to say that I married my best friend and actually mean it! For those of you who don't know Brent....he is honest (with others and himself), extremely smart, easy going (he doesn't let much bother him, which in return sometimes drives me crazy!), loves his family and friends, and often puts others before himself.
Brent has always been good at the little things in our relationship (flowers, "love you" notes, and sincerity), but he is really great at the big things (surprises, anniversaries, birthdays, etc) I love that Brent and I have always and are always taking the time to do for one another! I think that that is important in a relationship...to do for the other and strive to make them happy and feel loved and important!
I surprised Brent with Jerry Seinfeld tickets in July (which was a blast!) And, although I told Brent that his present could count for both of our anniversary gifts, he surprised me this weekend and bought me a really nice camera. Recently, I was bit by the photography bug! I know, I know, the little bug must have jumped right off of Mom and hoped onto me! I am loving this camera! I am really excited about getting to spend some time playing and experimenting with it!
All of this too say....there isn't a day that I don't thank God for Brent and our marriage! We were both blessed with parents and grandparents that were true examples of what marriage and true love and commitment are! We were so pleased to be able to honor these couples and the years of their marriages at our wedding 5 years ago! We pray that God will continue to bless our marriage, just as he did for these couples!
So, this post is dedicated to Brent! Sweetie, thanks for 5 years of a blissful marriage! I know that I am better with you than without you! You always make me smile and you truly are my favorite! I look forward to the future that God has planned for us! Happy Anniversary!

Not Ours, but God's Will Be Done!

I am a planner! I am not sure if I instinctively inherited this from my parents or if it comes to me naturally, but all of my life, I have been a planner. As a child and even now as an adult, it isn't out of the ordinary to see my mother with her list. Typically, it is a list of things to do around the house or a grocery list, but she works off of a list. My Dad is a planner, too. His just works in a financial way, most call it a budget. Laugh if you must, but now that I am an adult with financial responsibilities, I appreciate my father's ability to financially plan. So, as you can see, it is in my blood to be a planner!

However, the older I get, the more I realize that sometimes, you can't plan for certain events that may in occur in one's life. I am learning this more now in my life than ever before. Today, in our sermon at church, we continued discussing the series "The Barbarian Way." (Refer to previous post for the series description.) Our pastor, Shane, discussed that far too often we as Christians, because of our human nature, get in the way of God's plan. Not to say that God is the reason for all of life's circumstances, but that we as humans often get consumed by our own plans, that we fall in the way of God's.

I can only speak for myself, but when my plans fail, I am often frustrated, disappointed, and quickly trying to recover myself by planning yet another plan. As I grow as a Christian, I am trying to learn to stop planning so much, and to let God take control and plan my life.

Without going into detail because I don't think that it is my story to tell, my family has encountered unexpected turn of events that is affecting all of our lives plans. While we each are feeling our own disappointments and hurt, we are all rallying together and trying to fall back into God's plan.

As I get older it is more and more apparent to me that I often turn to God in moment's of despair. And, in these moments, I cry out to him to save me and to help me through these moments. And, here I am again, crying out that God help my family and me. But, because I am a growing Christian, I am also learning to cry out to God more throughout all moments of my life and ask that he take full control of my life and to bless the path that I am to follow.

So, this is dedicated to those of you, finding yourself traveling down an unexpected path, crying out to God to save you and to help you through these moments. I, too pray that God continue blessing you, giving you the strength and patience that you will need to endure those trying times, the comfort and peace to help you along your way, and His everlasting love and devotion that will allow you to grow and remain on the path in which He has planned for you!

I leave you with this...one of my favorite scriptures:
"Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."~ Romans 15:13

Humbling Beginnings!

This past week and a half has been mind blowing, exhausting, exciting, fantastic, a wonderful learning experience, and most of all....humbling! To recap...I recently started working for a well known pediatric hospital in Dallas! I LOVE IT! The first two days were your basic boring orientation and computer based training. The rest of the time I have been getting acquainted with departmental policies, paperwork, and the ins and outs of things! It has been exhausting trying to get myself back on a schedule! But, all in all, I love it and it is awesome!

I feel blessed that God has given me this opportunity! I feel blessed that God has allowed me to go to school, get both of my degrees (without putting myself too far into debt), all the while being happy and healthy! I am blessed, and I realize that I don't deserve these blessings! I'll explain....

Our church is starting a new series called "The Barbarian Way!" We are following a book written by Erwin Raphael McManus. (If you haven't read it...DO!) Without doing a complete song and dance about the book/series...I will summarize it for you! Basically, the gist is this...we as Christians are called to follow God 100%...not 95%...not 90%...BUT 100%. And, when I say follow, I don't mean get in line with what people are telling you what God wants you to do or believing the cultural-istic view points of the Christian world. This means...you give of yourself (and your life) completely! You do what he calls you to do regardless of how it affects you! Secondly, (and I think this is deep, honest, and true!) just because you follow God, does not mean that you are entitled to a blessed life! He promises you a future with Him, but not a life filled with blessings and answered prayers! This book/series is honest, blunt, and in someways brutual!

Since I started reading the book, I can't put it down! For those of you that hate reading, don't worry it is only approximatley 150 pages! I think that all Christains should read it, if for nothing else than to remind yourself of what we as Christians are expected and called to do and be for God, not what he is to be for us!

With all of that said....I mentioned in the first paragraph that I have felt very humbled in my new job and I have! While begining this book, God has reminded me that the blessings that I have been given were not earned or deserved. Simply, He blessed me! In the past week, I have worked with children who had gun shot wounds, physical impairments, mental impairments, etc. And, while I could sit and easily find the blessings in their lives as well...I realize that I never have a right to complain or be disappointed if God doesn't bless me with the things that I pray for or the things that I believe I deserve because I have plenty!

Today, I encourage you to do three things:
1. Go buy and start reading "The Barbarian Way" By: Erwin Raphael McManus.
2. Remind yourself everyday of the blessings God has already given you.
3. And, finally, remember what God has called you to be as a Christian. Someone who is willing to give of themselves completely and (if need be) make an ultimate sacrifice, just as He did! Remember, we were never promised a blessed life here on earth, but an eternal life with Christ!

God bless each of you and all my love!

Living by Patpat's Example!

I thought of my Patpat today! Typically, you can sum up who a person is in a few words or sentences, but with Patpat, it just isn't that simple! So, here's for trying! My Patpat was my mom's Dad. He passed away two years ago this August. All of my life, I have been told that I look like my grandfather (without makeup, of course)! Infact, we had several things in common....we both have a huge sweet tooth (often sharing donuts for breakfast and anything chocolate for dessert!)...we enjoy working with and for children...and...we loved spending time with our family!

Patpat was the most giving, sweetest, and kind hearted person! He very rarely met a stranger, and if by chance he did, he treated them as if they had been friends for years! He would offer you his shirt, shoes, pants, and anything else you might need! You never left his home hungry! In fact, you typically left overstuffed! He had a cheerful smile and a loving and playful spirit! I really miss him! I think of him daily, but today this was especially true!

Today was an exciting day! I started my new job! I am an occupational therapist for one of the state's leading pediatric hospitals! I am thrilled about it! Today, of course, was Day 1 of orientation, but I am excited about being able to jump in and start working with all of the kiddos!

Today's orientation was a typical orientation with discussions and lectures on mission statements, benefits, security, services, etc. And, although it wasn't a thrilling fun filled day, I found myself very excited about being apart of this growing family! A common theme in most of the lectures was that of the desired attitudes and mentality of the employees..."to be hospitable to all, help facilitate the best possible outcome for each patient and their family, to provide a friendly atmosphere, and to do for others!" It wasn't until the fourth or fifth time that I heard this that I caught myself instinctly saying to myself..."just act like Patpat!" I'll admit as soon as it registered, I started tearing up! "Just act like Patpat!" That was perfect!

Patpat was always catering to the needs of others! He would go above and beyond the call of duty and always met you with a smile! "Just act like Patpat!" So, as the day continued, I kept telling myself, "Just act like Patpat!" And, that is what I intend to do, and I know that with this in mind, I will be successful in carring out the facility's mission and moto!

So, today, I encourage you to do the same! "Just act like Patpat!" Be willing to do for others! (Yes, even when you don't feel like it!) And, smile more often! (You will find that smiling will help improve your attitude as well as others!) I'm sorry if you never knew my Patpat! Not to brag, but you really missed out! However, it doesn't mean that you can't learn from his example!

Putting a Habit to End!

I once read that it takes two full weeks to quit or start a habit!

I will admit that I have several bad habits! Shocking, I know....but true! Some of the habits are new, some not so new, but mostly the habits I have are old! And, while I have tried to quit these habits, I have always found my way back to them!

Two of my most embarrassing habits are twirling my hair and biting my fingernails. I hate....absolutely hate....that I do both of these! Both of these habits started at a young age. Infact, there are several childhood stories of my hair twirling. For instance, as a toddler, I insisted on twirling the hair of which ever parent was putting me to bed. As the story goes, my Dad eventually had to switch the side in which he would lay next to me because he was developing a bald spot! Sorry, Dad! (What a good, Dad, right?!) Now that I am older and a little wiser, I have discovered that the hair twirling is actually a sensory seeking habit (there's some occupational therapy lingo for you!)

But, the nail biting! I really really don't like the nail biting! It is sometimes painful, unsanitary, and the hands never look all that pretty. I have bit my fingernails since I was a child, a young child, so young in fact, that I can't remember how old I was when I started. As a child, my parents, grandparents, and other family members took it upon themselves to try and help me stop with different tactics. There was the bad tasting fingernail polish, the threat of putting some sort of hot sauce on them, and of course the almighty bribery! However, I always seemed to fall right back into the habit.

The other day I was looking at my nails. Disgusted with myself that after 25 years, I am still biting my nails! I decided I had to quit. I decided to do a little analyzing of the previous tactics and attempts and determined that I would have to take it slowly! So, after much thought and consideration, I am taking it one fingernail at a time! Now, before you starting laughing (like Brent did! Although, I should note he is very supportive and encouraging through this process!), I am resisting the temptation and making a concious effort to avoid biting a designated fingernail for 3 days. If I am successful, I am moving on to another fingernail, and so on and so forth. So far, I am successful! I started with my ringer finger on my right hand (for all of you medical personnel out there= 4th digit on R UE). After three days, I had growth and felt comfortable to move on to the ringer finger of the left hand. (The reason to my method is a result of my OCD with symmetry! Thanks, Mom!)

Growing up, whenever I felt overwhelmed by the occurrences and situations in my life, my Mom would always say, "Just take it one day at a time!" So, I am! Even though it has only been 5 days, I feel pretty successful! And, therefore, inspired and intrigued to continue on! I have told myself that if I make it to all ten fingernails, I will treat myself to a mani/pedi! It will be my first official manicure!

Bad habits are the worse! And, when I think of my habits, I find myself dwelling on the bad rather than the good! Of course, when we have a good habit, we find ourselves calling this a routine, don't we? I believe that I do have some good habits, as well! But, as I sit here thinking about them, I can't seem to recall what they are! I think that stems from the fact that we are often finding the negative in ourselves rather than the good, so I will have to get back to you on that!....Wow! There's another bad habit! God created me! And, while I am human and naturally imperfect, shouldn't I be able to find the positives in myself just as easily as I do the negative! (There's another blog entry for another day!) So, whatever the habit may be, I believe that it is better for us to focus on finding the solution rather than dwelling in the habit.

Today, I encourage you to pick a habit that you would either like to stop or start! And, taking it one day at a time, dedicate your energy and time into completing the process! I will be praying for you and hope that you find much success!

Kicking and Screaming All the Way to a Close and Loving Friendship!

Today's post is dedicated to my cousin, Alycia! (I was blessed with really wonderful cousins!) Alycia is 5 years older than me and was the person I idolized as a child! As a kid, I would count down the days until she would come and stay with us during the Summers.

Alycia and her husband, Kirk have been married for 8 years and have two beautiful and (on most occasions) adorable kids. Kade is 7 and Kynzie is 3 going on 25! I called Alycia for one of our daily chats this morning and could hear the kids in the background. They were headed to town to run some errands and the kids were having a fussing and fighting match in the back seat! I didn't get all the details, but from the stressful tone in Alycia's voice, I could tell it wasn't pretty! From what I could tell, Kynzie was crying because she and Kade had been picking at one another and when she realized that Kade just might have won this match, she started crying!


All of this got me to thinking about me and my brother, Taylor! I have many memories from my childhood! Some good, some not so good, but mostly great! However, on occasion I can remember a few that would be thrown into the "could have done without that" pile! The occasions that I speak of would be those "rare" (sense the sarcasm) times that Taylor and I would fuss and fight!

Here's the history (for those of you who may not know!):
Taylor is my younger brother by almost 5 years! When he was born, I was in heaven. How many 5 year old girls have a real life baby to play with? It was really exciting when he started walking and talking because then I could teach him to do new and fun things! This was also the time that he gave me my name "Sissy!" But, once we got into the developmental stages of him realizing that he didn't have to obey my every command and could use the things that I taught him against me, well things slowly started to collapse!

During the Summer following the 5th grade, my Mom took 1 day/week job at our church. On those days, I was in charge of watching Taylor and making sure that we completed the list of chores. I think that I should mention that it was early into the Summer that Taylor realized that he could get out of doing chores (thus leaving them for me) if he ran next door and spent the day with our Nanny! As you can imagine, this started a long chain of fussing and fighting with one another. I can remember yelling and screaming at him, chasing him around and around and around the living room, pinning him down to painfully tickle or pinch or whatever seemed appropriate (or torturous) at the time!

On into my junior high/ high school years, Taylor took every possible moment to embarrass or tattle on me! He was your typical younger brother who did what he felt he needed to do to blackmail or agitate me! I don't want to paint the wrong picture because I have always loved Taylor, but I (as his older sister) and ONLY I reserved the right to punish him as I saw fit. (I think the fact that my parents also reserved the right goes with out saying!)

As Taylor and I have grown, we have become closer and closer through the years! While we occasionally butt heads, we mostly enjoy being around each other. And, in trying to find the bright side to all of the fussing and fighting from our younger years, I see now that it was developmentally necessary for our relationship to grow. It took each arguement, tickle fight, arm slappying, and occasionally kicking and biting to understand who Taylor was then, and thus leading to who he is now!

So, I say this to Alycia and all of the other Moms and Dads out there who struggle with children who occasionally fuss and fight! It is normal for siblings to not always get along! It is normal for siblings to scream, yell, hit, tickle, irritate, and annoy one another! And while correcting them and disciplining them is the right parental choice, please know that the way they act towards one another today is not an indicator of the type of relationship they will share or how they will treat one another in the future!

Alycia, you are a wonderful mother who strives to do right and good by her children and family! You always put their needs and desires first never once thinking of yourself! On the rare moments that your children are arguing, remind yourself that they do love one another, these moments of them being "little" are precious and they won't always argue like this, but mostly, remember that they do love each other because of the example they have in you! You have taught them to be loving towards one another by being the wonderful loving mother that you are!

As a side note...Kade and Kynzie typically get along just fine! Infact, one of the sweetest things to hear and see is when Kynzie announces to others that she loves her Bubba! We love your Bubba too, Kynzie, and we love you!

The Begininng!

All of my life, I have been the type that has found comfort and stress relief in writing! Whether it be a source of creativity, my thoughts, or documenting my life's events in a journal, I found it to be enjoyable! So, I decided to start a blog of encouragement! I believe myself to be a positive person who strives to encourage myself and others! This is where I will discuss my life events and through my words, I will try to be encouraging!

Recently, I have felt a need for a change! Which is odd because my life is in full "change mode!" Brent, my husband, and I are house hunting, and I start a new job in two weeks! And, from my experience those are two huge changing factors in one's life! But, I've been in need of something different! Whether it be a new hobby or a temporary change in scenery! So, I decided that blogging would be a great new hobby! I will find some relief in my itch for change through my blogging experiences!

I also find it some what comical that I would be desiring any more change because I typically find comfort in routine! Not that I don't like change, but in some ways change can be very stressful! There are several important individual's in my life that are experiencing change in almost every possible way! Take for example, my cousin, Benay! (http://benaydennis.blogspot.com/)

Benay has recently made the decision to pick up and move to Tennessee to start a new career! WOW! Right?!?! But, how exciting! While it is nerve racking to take in the idea of a new city, new home, new people, etc....I think of it like this....a new experience, new friends, a new Christian family, and definitely a new blessing! Benay is really excited, but naturally nervous! So this is to you, Benay!

Here is the history, for those of you who may not know.... Benay is my cousin, who is younger by 3 years! Throughout childhood, our parents did an excellent job of making sure that we were able to spend a great deal of time together! It was not unlikely that each Summer, Benay and I would spend a week or so together! We spent many hours in pink sponge rollers, making jewelry, dressing up, dancing, singing, cheerleading for the annual Thanksgiving football game between the boy cousins and jumping on the trampoline! Needless to say, we have many many memories together! And, as we have grown, we have continued being there for one another! I sewed beads onto her Sr. prom dress and she was my maid of honor!

The Benay that I know is fun, vivacious, sweet, sincere, funny (no...scratch that...she's hilarious!), goregous, talented, faithful, intelligent, hard working, and so much more! But, most importantly, she is a blessing to all who know her and with God on her side, she can do anything! Benay, I know that you are going to soar through this new experience and blossom into the woman that God created! Remember that those of us back in the great state of Texas, love you, belive in you, and will be praying for you always! We hope that you will continue to call us and share your experiences with us, or that at the very least, you will continue blogging about your experiences! I love you always and wish you all the BEST!

And, to the rest of you! Let Benay be an example of being eager to experience the plans God has for you and to not let the unknown stop you from experiencing His blessings!