My most favorite Christmas of all was Tyler Dan's first Christmas. He was eleven months old and we were able to go out to West Texas and spend some time with my dad's side of the family. It snowed, which I was completely ecstatic about, and Ty took his first steps in my grandparent's living room. We had my little black and white cocker spaniel Raider, and I had this little red and white sweater that I put on him when he went out in the snow...it was super cute. That was also the Christmas that we went to the Christmas Eve Candlelight service at the Methodist Church and then went and sang Christmas Carols at the nursing home where my great-grandmother was staying.
I have a lot of great pictures from that Christmas -- one that makes me smile is the one of all of us sitting in the living room, opening presents, and Ty and Raider are in the floor playing. Ty is trying to eat Raider's new bone, my Papa was in his chair, wearing his red "Christmas Shirt", my Mimi had on a fabulous green outfit with a Christmas tree on it -- she looked very pretty and stylish as she always did. My aunts, uncles & cousins were sitting around, laughing, smiling & everyone was healthy and happy. There was a ton of great food in the kitchen & peanut brittle in the Christmas tree cookie jar. It was just really a great time.
When we got back, we had Christmas with my sister and her husband. That was when Ty got his "Teddy" -- the brown stuffed bear that he slept with til he was about 8 or 9, and took every where he went. I made homemade dog treats for Raider, my sister's dog Missy, and my dad's shop dog Brown Dog --- that was a lot of fun & something that I haven't done since, though I do not know why. Maybe Maggie Mae will get some this Christmas!
Now, all these years later, our family has changed in so many ways, so I am glad that I have that memory. I believe it's what the holidays are all about -- making memories to look back on and being with family. Again, as always, I thank God for all my family and that I have the blessing of knowing that I am loved. A lot of people don't have that -- I am very lucky!!
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Christmas Memories
I have been thinking a lot about Christmas and when I was a little girl growing up next door to my grandparents and surrounded by my dad's family. So, I thought that I would blog a little about that time and some of the memories I have.
The first memory I want to share is one that makes me smile and wistful, all at the same time. It took place when I was about 9 or 10 years old & it probably is something that most people wouldn't think twice about, but it meant the world to me, and has ever since.
We usually drew names on that side of the family and I honestly cannot remember who got my name that year. But, I do remember one special present that I received and it was totally unexpected. My Aunt Charlotte gave me a small bottle of "Tribe" parfume, which was in a black, pink and turquoise bottle and smelled amazing. It just really meant a lot to me because it wasn't expected and because it made me feel important to her and loved. But that is who my Aunt Charlotte was -- even if you had only just met her and spent maybe thirty seconds in her presence, you left feeling like you were one of the most important people on Earth. I have thought a lot about that Christmas over the years and that simple gesture which she had probably forgotten about. In fact, when I was recently going through some of my storage tubs, I found the empty bottle and smiled. One of the conversations we had had when I saw her last July was how she had downsized each time she moved. I thought to myself, "I can move a million times but that twenty year old bottle of parfume will always go with me."
As I sat at my sweet Aunt Charlotte's funeral a few weeks ago, I remembered that Christmas again, as well as the many other holidays I spent with her. As I saw all the people who were in attendance, I smiled because I realized that each one of them more than likely had a similar story to tell. A small act of kindness, thought of and forgotten in a moment, meant the world to someone else. I prayed that somehow I could be even half the woman she was and that I would be mindful of even the smallest gestures, even from strangers, and make a point of not getting caught up in the selfishness and greed that is the way of our world today by reciprocating any chance I had.
I often listen to, sing, or think of the song Homesick by Mercy Me, especially the lines "In Christ there are no goodbyes, and in Christ there is no end. So I'll hold onto Jesus, with all that I have, to see you again..." -- I love knowing that God promises that if we are faithful, we will spend eternity with him, and I love knowing that I will spend eternity with my aunt & that eternity in Heaven will be a million times better than any Christmas here on Earth!
The first memory I want to share is one that makes me smile and wistful, all at the same time. It took place when I was about 9 or 10 years old & it probably is something that most people wouldn't think twice about, but it meant the world to me, and has ever since.
We usually drew names on that side of the family and I honestly cannot remember who got my name that year. But, I do remember one special present that I received and it was totally unexpected. My Aunt Charlotte gave me a small bottle of "Tribe" parfume, which was in a black, pink and turquoise bottle and smelled amazing. It just really meant a lot to me because it wasn't expected and because it made me feel important to her and loved. But that is who my Aunt Charlotte was -- even if you had only just met her and spent maybe thirty seconds in her presence, you left feeling like you were one of the most important people on Earth. I have thought a lot about that Christmas over the years and that simple gesture which she had probably forgotten about. In fact, when I was recently going through some of my storage tubs, I found the empty bottle and smiled. One of the conversations we had had when I saw her last July was how she had downsized each time she moved. I thought to myself, "I can move a million times but that twenty year old bottle of parfume will always go with me."
As I sat at my sweet Aunt Charlotte's funeral a few weeks ago, I remembered that Christmas again, as well as the many other holidays I spent with her. As I saw all the people who were in attendance, I smiled because I realized that each one of them more than likely had a similar story to tell. A small act of kindness, thought of and forgotten in a moment, meant the world to someone else. I prayed that somehow I could be even half the woman she was and that I would be mindful of even the smallest gestures, even from strangers, and make a point of not getting caught up in the selfishness and greed that is the way of our world today by reciprocating any chance I had.
I often listen to, sing, or think of the song Homesick by Mercy Me, especially the lines "In Christ there are no goodbyes, and in Christ there is no end. So I'll hold onto Jesus, with all that I have, to see you again..." -- I love knowing that God promises that if we are faithful, we will spend eternity with him, and I love knowing that I will spend eternity with my aunt & that eternity in Heaven will be a million times better than any Christmas here on Earth!
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Count Your Blessings -- Day 22
I haven't been keeping up with this and there is a reason. But, regardless, today I am thankful for a safe trip back from West Texas. I am thankful that I got to spend time with my sister and niece. I am thankful that we got to eat at Cracker Barrel -- my all time favorite place to eat in all the world!! :) I am also thankful for my job which allowed me to buy the super cute Texas Tech Snowman Christmas wreath @ said Cracker Barrel, which will be proudly on display in my classroom. :) Finally, I am thankful that we are home, because that means I get to go get my sweet Maggie Mae tomorrow!! Yay!! :)
Friday, November 11, 2011
Count Your Blessings -- Day 11
Today, I am thankful for dreams. I had a dream last night about my Papa. It was Christmas and we were all together and he had on his red "Christmas" shirt. I feel like dreams are the closest thing we have to being able to be with the ones we love who have left us. I dream about my Mimi and Papa often. Even though I always wake up a little sad because reality sets in, I still feel like I have had a visit with them and it makes my heart smile to remember the good times. Even though I am not quite ready to leave this world, I know that someday I will get to spend eternity with them and I cannot wait!!!
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Count Your Blessings -- Day 10
I am thankful that tomorrow is Friday! My favorite day of the week by far!!! I get to wear jeans to work and the chance of me donning a sweatshirt is probable! It also signifies five school days until THANKSGIVING BREAK!!!!! Whoo-hoo!!!! I am excited about that week off. I can't stop thinking about it, lol!!! I have plans to hang out with my fam, friends, shop, decorate and cook -- all my favorite things! I really love working for a school district!! Yay!!
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Count Your Blessings -- Day 8 & 9
Well, I did not post last night because I felt really, really horrible. I came home and laid in my bed and was out by 8pm. But, I think all the rest did help because I felt better today, so I am thankful for that. I am also thankful for the time I did get to spend with Ty yesterday. We drove to Corsicana to run some errands, and even though I felt horrrible and was grouchy, he was still very sweet. He helped me buy groceries and even came home and put them away for me.
So, I am taking two "posts" to mention just how amazingly lucky and unbelievably blessed I feel to have my son in my life. I have never once regretted any decision I ever made regarding him and I am so glad that God chose me to be his mother. I was 19 and scared and didn't have a clue and questioned God more at that time than I ever have before or since. But, I understand truly what He meant when He said that all things work together for the greater good. I know I am obviously bias, but I have the best kid ever. Yeah, he is flawed...he doesn't like school that much and he doesn't do everything that I want him to do right then, but he loves God, he loves me and he is kind, considerate and compassionate. He truly is my best friend!!!
So, I am taking two "posts" to mention just how amazingly lucky and unbelievably blessed I feel to have my son in my life. I have never once regretted any decision I ever made regarding him and I am so glad that God chose me to be his mother. I was 19 and scared and didn't have a clue and questioned God more at that time than I ever have before or since. But, I understand truly what He meant when He said that all things work together for the greater good. I know I am obviously bias, but I have the best kid ever. Yeah, he is flawed...he doesn't like school that much and he doesn't do everything that I want him to do right then, but he loves God, he loves me and he is kind, considerate and compassionate. He truly is my best friend!!!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Count Your Blessings -- Day 7
Today, I am thankful that I am not full-blown sick, which is where I feel I am headed. I am thankful for over the counter medicine. I am also thankful that if I am getting sick, it is now, and not during Thanksgiving week. I have looked foward to having that whole week off since we got the calendar and I really, really want to enjoy it (without hacking up a lung or two as I did over Christmas break last year!) I am also thankful for the two very sweet janitor ladies who try very hard to keep our school clean and sanitized. They are the best!! :)
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Count Your Blessings -- Day 6
I am thankful for the opening prayer that was said this morning at church and the lesson, which was looking at Jesus as a humble servant. It continually amazes me that He went through what He did, just for me. I am so thankful that I have hope and that I am not lost. I am also thankful to my parents who raised me up to love our Lord, and that they came from Christian families as well! I am also grateful that I can read and have the Bible to read daily. :)
The Messy Chef
I found this recipe on Pinterest last night and decided to make it. It is a pumpkin bonanza at my house these days!! It just looked so easy and I had all of the ingredients on hand, except for the cake mix. So, after church this morning, I picked one up at Brookshire's. It cost me a whole 2.63 plus tax. This is about the cheapest recipe I have made all year!
I was going to take a picture first before I started, but I forgot, as I was trying to start laundry and defrost the salmon for lunch. I did get a pic of the afterwards. I will just admit that I have always been a messy cooker. :) For the longest time, my mom and I made a deal that if I would cook supper then she would clean up. It worked out for both of us because I love to cook & hate to clean and she was working and too tired to cook ususally. See -- getting along is all about compromise, lol!!!
Well, here is the recipe and the cake before it cooked and after. I made some adjustments in that I used chocolate fudge cake instead of yellow. We aren't big cake eaters here and dislike yellow cake at that. But, we can eat the heck out of some chocolate. Also, I put some ginger snap cookies in the food processor and used that instead of graham crackers. And, we don't like toffee, so I left that off as well. I honestly don't think it would be as good if we had used the yellow cake mix anyway, And, it really needed some vanilla ice cream to top it off. But regardless, it was great!
PUMPKIN DUMP CAKE
1 15 oz. can of pumpkin puree
1 10oz. can evaporated milk
1 cup light brown sugar
3 eggs
3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 box yellow cake mix
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
1 cup coarsly chopped graham crackers or pecans
1/2 cup toffee bits (optional)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 baking pan lightly with cooking spray. In a large bowl combine the pumpkin, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir to combine. Pour into your prepared pan. Sprinkle your entire box of cake mix on top, followed by your graham crackers and toffee chips. Pour your melted butter evenly on top. Bake for 45-50 minutes until center is set and edges are lightly browned.
I was going to take a picture first before I started, but I forgot, as I was trying to start laundry and defrost the salmon for lunch. I did get a pic of the afterwards. I will just admit that I have always been a messy cooker. :) For the longest time, my mom and I made a deal that if I would cook supper then she would clean up. It worked out for both of us because I love to cook & hate to clean and she was working and too tired to cook ususally. See -- getting along is all about compromise, lol!!!
Well, here is the recipe and the cake before it cooked and after. I made some adjustments in that I used chocolate fudge cake instead of yellow. We aren't big cake eaters here and dislike yellow cake at that. But, we can eat the heck out of some chocolate. Also, I put some ginger snap cookies in the food processor and used that instead of graham crackers. And, we don't like toffee, so I left that off as well. I honestly don't think it would be as good if we had used the yellow cake mix anyway, And, it really needed some vanilla ice cream to top it off. But regardless, it was great!
PUMPKIN DUMP CAKE
1 15 oz. can of pumpkin puree
1 10oz. can evaporated milk
1 cup light brown sugar
3 eggs
3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1 box yellow cake mix
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
1 cup coarsly chopped graham crackers or pecans
1/2 cup toffee bits (optional)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 baking pan lightly with cooking spray. In a large bowl combine the pumpkin, evaporated milk, sugar, eggs, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir to combine. Pour into your prepared pan. Sprinkle your entire box of cake mix on top, followed by your graham crackers and toffee chips. Pour your melted butter evenly on top. Bake for 45-50 minutes until center is set and edges are lightly browned.
Precooking
Postcooking
The Mess!
(some of that stuff I didn't even use for the dump cake -- I bought the frosting and the bread pans for something else)
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Count Your Blessing -- Day 5
I actually have a few today!!! Yay for having lots to be thankful for!
1). This blessing, I think, is the one that excites me the most! Tonight is when we "fall back!!" I love this time of year because it means I gain an extra hour of sleep. That alone deserves its own blog post! If you know me at all, or read any of my Facebook posts, you know I am a girl who likes her sleep! It is hard for me to sleep and I have to have the perfect conditions (absolute silence and darkness) -- so sometimes I do not rest well. An extra hour always makes me feel better though.
2). I got to watch a lot of TV today, and that has become a rarity. I caught up on all my Grey's that I've had DVR'd forever, as well as weed through my BH 90210 and watch those episodes I kept. All while in my favorite TTU pajama pants! (I also watched the TTU/UT game, but that was NOT my favorite time of the day, lol). I even watched "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" on TBS. Yay!!
3). I also had time to finish a book I have been working on for a while. It is called Look Back by Lisa Scottoline. It was a book I bought at the school book fair. It was an okay read. It was really good at hooking you in the beginning, got pretty boring in the middle and super predictable at the end. But, it was definitely different than anything I have ever read. Because I have finished this book, I can now finish the two Christmas books I have.
4). I used a recipe I found on pinterest to clean the microwave and it really worked!! In a microwave safe dish, take three cups of water and add in a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Cook on high for five minutes. The steam makes it easy to wipe out the microwave and the vanilla makes the house smell great!! I actually did not have any vanilla but did use orange extract and it was fabulous! I even wiped down the counters with it. The kitchen smelled liked the holidays!! I am thankful that other people are so crafty at making their own household cleansers that don't have harsh toxic chemicals!!
5). Last week Ty and I cleaned out his binder and we put away some papers he thought he didn't need anymore. Friday, I checked parent portal and discovered that yes, indeed, he did need them. So, we pulled them out tonight and he was going to do them. Yay for a mom who knew better than to throw any of that work away, and YAY for them being completely finished!! All he has to do is turn them in -- they will be late but at least they are not zeros.
I had a really good and productive day. I am thankful for that!
1). This blessing, I think, is the one that excites me the most! Tonight is when we "fall back!!" I love this time of year because it means I gain an extra hour of sleep. That alone deserves its own blog post! If you know me at all, or read any of my Facebook posts, you know I am a girl who likes her sleep! It is hard for me to sleep and I have to have the perfect conditions (absolute silence and darkness) -- so sometimes I do not rest well. An extra hour always makes me feel better though.
2). I got to watch a lot of TV today, and that has become a rarity. I caught up on all my Grey's that I've had DVR'd forever, as well as weed through my BH 90210 and watch those episodes I kept. All while in my favorite TTU pajama pants! (I also watched the TTU/UT game, but that was NOT my favorite time of the day, lol). I even watched "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" on TBS. Yay!!
3). I also had time to finish a book I have been working on for a while. It is called Look Back by Lisa Scottoline. It was a book I bought at the school book fair. It was an okay read. It was really good at hooking you in the beginning, got pretty boring in the middle and super predictable at the end. But, it was definitely different than anything I have ever read. Because I have finished this book, I can now finish the two Christmas books I have.
4). I used a recipe I found on pinterest to clean the microwave and it really worked!! In a microwave safe dish, take three cups of water and add in a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Cook on high for five minutes. The steam makes it easy to wipe out the microwave and the vanilla makes the house smell great!! I actually did not have any vanilla but did use orange extract and it was fabulous! I even wiped down the counters with it. The kitchen smelled liked the holidays!! I am thankful that other people are so crafty at making their own household cleansers that don't have harsh toxic chemicals!!
5). Last week Ty and I cleaned out his binder and we put away some papers he thought he didn't need anymore. Friday, I checked parent portal and discovered that yes, indeed, he did need them. So, we pulled them out tonight and he was going to do them. Yay for a mom who knew better than to throw any of that work away, and YAY for them being completely finished!! All he has to do is turn them in -- they will be late but at least they are not zeros.
I had a really good and productive day. I am thankful for that!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Count Your Blessings -- Day 4
When I have done the thankfulness posts in the past, I have always tried to find at least one thing from my day that I can be thankful for, that doesn't include the stuff that I thank God for everyday, such as my family and friends, my health, my job and the material things, like a car that runs, food to eat, a nice house, pretty clothes...all that kind of stuff. But there are just days when I have to set aside that rule and be extra thankful for certain things. Today is one of those days. I am glad I have such great friends. I am truly blessed by all my friends, who make me laugh, allow me to cry and accept me for who I am. I would be lost without them. Yay for friends!!!
Instead of a pic of me and my friends, I thought I would post a pic of my favorite show about friends. Well, actually, "it's a show about nothing"...but their random conversations remind of a few I have had with some of my friends over the years!! Also, I love how even at the very end, they were still together!
Instead of a pic of me and my friends, I thought I would post a pic of my favorite show about friends. Well, actually, "it's a show about nothing"...but their random conversations remind of a few I have had with some of my friends over the years!! Also, I love how even at the very end, they were still together!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Count Your Blessings...Day 3
Staying with the stress reliever/cooking theme a little...today I am thankful for the Food Network channel and more specifically the show Chopped (which I am watching as I type this). I have learned so much from this channel and this show. I love being able to taste a sauce that is a little bland and know how to fix it. I always say that I am not creative, but it's not altogether true. I think I am creative in my writing and in my cooking. I should have been a food critic...that (other than a librarian) would be my dream job!!
So, yay for food, television and the man who came up with the modern stove!!! :)
So, yay for food, television and the man who came up with the modern stove!!! :)
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Count Your Blessings...Day 2
Today I am thankful for stress relievers. I came home today, sort of early, because Ty wasn't feeling well and he had some work to do from when he missed school.
I was able to make "maybe recipe #1" -- otherwise known as three cheese tortellini with a pumpkin sauce, topped with fried rosemary and Parmesan cheese. These are the recipes I am trying out over the next few weeks to see what I am going to make myself for dinner on Thanksgiving.
I got the sauce recipe from a Martha Stewart pasta recipe I found online. I kinda followed it, but not really. The reviews said that it was really bland, and I hate bland food. So, I cooked the rosemary in the oil a little longer and I also added more cheese and a few extra spices. I put a little cumin, cinnamon, sage and black pepper. It actually turned out really good & even Ty said he thought it was really good.
I even enjoyed eating the pasta. The three cheese tortellini was super yummy!! With the sauce, it didn't seem as heavy. All in all, I think it was very relaxing to make my yummy "maybe" Thanksgiving dish.
Here are pics of the sauce and the pasta & then some plated up. De-Lish!!! :)
I was able to make "maybe recipe #1" -- otherwise known as three cheese tortellini with a pumpkin sauce, topped with fried rosemary and Parmesan cheese. These are the recipes I am trying out over the next few weeks to see what I am going to make myself for dinner on Thanksgiving.
I got the sauce recipe from a Martha Stewart pasta recipe I found online. I kinda followed it, but not really. The reviews said that it was really bland, and I hate bland food. So, I cooked the rosemary in the oil a little longer and I also added more cheese and a few extra spices. I put a little cumin, cinnamon, sage and black pepper. It actually turned out really good & even Ty said he thought it was really good.
I even enjoyed eating the pasta. The three cheese tortellini was super yummy!! With the sauce, it didn't seem as heavy. All in all, I think it was very relaxing to make my yummy "maybe" Thanksgiving dish.
Here are pics of the sauce and the pasta & then some plated up. De-Lish!!! :)
The sauce cooking -- the camera doesn't really do it justice. It looks pretty gross here, but it tasted very yummy!
Once the pasta was added....
All plated up...
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Count Your Blessings, Name them one by one...Day One
The past few years, I have taken time in November to post things that I am grateful for as my status on Facebook. However, in all fairness, I try to do that all the time, so I won't be known as a Debbie Downer to all my Facebook friends! It's so easy to get caught up in the everyday disappointments and discouragements that bombard us, but if we do take just those five extra minutes out of our day to reflect on what is good, it truly does restore a broken spirit. So, shout out to Brooke for giving me the idea to blog it instead of just post a status! Yay for friends!!! :)
I got the title for this series of posts from one of my favorite songs we sing at church. It is one of the very first hymns I can remember singing and it always makes me feel peaceful inside. I know that I am blessed beyond anything that I deserve and I am truly thankful to God for all that he has given me. So, with that being said...
Day 1
Today, I had to take Ty to the doctor for a follow up visit regarding his concussion. By the time we actually got to the doctor, I was in a pretty foul mood due to a series of incidents, which truly, in the grand scheme of things, weren't that big of a deal. I just chose to let them bother me. I was a little grouchy when we ate lunch at Chili's where even the Cajun Shrimp didn't lighten my mood, and then...
...we made a brief, unplanned side trip Home Depot.
We walked in and my first sight was the plethora of artificial Christmas trees on display, along with all the yard and other types of holiday decorations for sale. I literally felt my soul smile. It was my first (of many, I am sure) Chevy Chase seasonal moments. Ya know, the one in Christmas Vacation where he had worked so hard putting up the lights and was too goofy to realize the power source was in the garage. So he finally gets the lights to work on the house and the choir sings "hallelujuah" & tears of joy stream down his face.
In a sense, that is what happened to me.
My disposition changed immediately and I began to be glad that I was enjoying a beautiful day with my healthy, "concussed" child instead of being separated from him while we were at school. I pondered on the fact that four christmases from now, he will be one semester away from leaving me for good! I also thought how we should never take a day for granted because there are many people that are no longer in my life that I would give anything to just spend five minutes with again. So, I sucked it up & ultimately found the cutest musical Ferris wheel with all these adorably tiny little animals on it that plays about eight different Christmas tunes. Of course I purchased it and it is now proudly on display amongst the Fall decor -- I am seriously considering busting out the Christmas for my room and the bathroom like -- this weekend!! I never think that we have enough time to enjoy the Christmas decorations as it is.
So, for day one, I am thankful for the fact that stores are so anxious to capitalize on any monetary gain, that they don't even wait for Halloween to end before they bust out all the holiday decorations. Granted I have been perusing the aisles at Wal-Mart for a few weeks now, but today was different. Looking at the decor, smelling the winter scented candles and listening to my iTunes created cd's of Christmas cheer on the way home did me some good -- on a day when I really needed it.
Here is a snapshot of my musical Ferris wheel -- it is my new favorite decoration!!
I got the title for this series of posts from one of my favorite songs we sing at church. It is one of the very first hymns I can remember singing and it always makes me feel peaceful inside. I know that I am blessed beyond anything that I deserve and I am truly thankful to God for all that he has given me. So, with that being said...
Day 1
Today, I had to take Ty to the doctor for a follow up visit regarding his concussion. By the time we actually got to the doctor, I was in a pretty foul mood due to a series of incidents, which truly, in the grand scheme of things, weren't that big of a deal. I just chose to let them bother me. I was a little grouchy when we ate lunch at Chili's where even the Cajun Shrimp didn't lighten my mood, and then...
...we made a brief, unplanned side trip Home Depot.
We walked in and my first sight was the plethora of artificial Christmas trees on display, along with all the yard and other types of holiday decorations for sale. I literally felt my soul smile. It was my first (of many, I am sure) Chevy Chase seasonal moments. Ya know, the one in Christmas Vacation where he had worked so hard putting up the lights and was too goofy to realize the power source was in the garage. So he finally gets the lights to work on the house and the choir sings "hallelujuah" & tears of joy stream down his face.
In a sense, that is what happened to me.
My disposition changed immediately and I began to be glad that I was enjoying a beautiful day with my healthy, "concussed" child instead of being separated from him while we were at school. I pondered on the fact that four christmases from now, he will be one semester away from leaving me for good! I also thought how we should never take a day for granted because there are many people that are no longer in my life that I would give anything to just spend five minutes with again. So, I sucked it up & ultimately found the cutest musical Ferris wheel with all these adorably tiny little animals on it that plays about eight different Christmas tunes. Of course I purchased it and it is now proudly on display amongst the Fall decor -- I am seriously considering busting out the Christmas for my room and the bathroom like -- this weekend!! I never think that we have enough time to enjoy the Christmas decorations as it is.
So, for day one, I am thankful for the fact that stores are so anxious to capitalize on any monetary gain, that they don't even wait for Halloween to end before they bust out all the holiday decorations. Granted I have been perusing the aisles at Wal-Mart for a few weeks now, but today was different. Looking at the decor, smelling the winter scented candles and listening to my iTunes created cd's of Christmas cheer on the way home did me some good -- on a day when I really needed it.
Here is a snapshot of my musical Ferris wheel -- it is my new favorite decoration!!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Ty update
It has been a crazy week! He had One-Act play auditions and he made it, although he doesn't remember that because he got a concussion Thurday night at his game.
I saw the play. Riesel's JV was huge and one guy that looked as big as my dad shoved Ty back about ten yards and threw him to the ground, then another lineman landed on him. I saw his head bounce when he fell, but I really didn't think much about it after he got up and went to the sidelines. Next thing I know, the coaches are standing around him and I hear the AD saying, "I need you to take a deep breath for me." They walked him off the field, and I remained calm, knowing that if they needed me they would come get me. And after about five minutes (although it seemed like an eternity) here comes the coach. He told me Ty was having a hard time breathing and he was cold, so they had him in the shower trying to get his body temp up. It was cold, rainy and windy so that probably had a little something to do with it. When the game was over, I went in the field house and the coaches told me he was having a hard time remembering who they were, what day it was and all this. One coach asked him what day it was and Ty said "Tuesday" and the coach said, "no, it's Thursday" and Ty said, "Are you sure?" :)
So, I watched him -- woke him up every three hours through the night and he woke up Friday feeling fine. We go to school, the coaches and the athletic trainer/"concussion management team" look at him -- he seems fine.
Then, during my seventh period class, my classroom phone rings and the secretary tells me to call the hs prinicpal. I do and he tells me Ty is not being Ty -- can't remember stuff, feeling dizzy, lathargic and has no strength. So, I rush over and get him and off we go to the Ennis ER. He has a CT which reveals no bleeding in the brain. Doc says he just needs rest and no sports for at least a week.
So, all though he was as goofy as all get out -- he got to miss school and he got Taco Bell for dinner. Not a bad day. His normal teenage self returned today and I had to kick him out of my room for being a brat...lol.
I saw the play. Riesel's JV was huge and one guy that looked as big as my dad shoved Ty back about ten yards and threw him to the ground, then another lineman landed on him. I saw his head bounce when he fell, but I really didn't think much about it after he got up and went to the sidelines. Next thing I know, the coaches are standing around him and I hear the AD saying, "I need you to take a deep breath for me." They walked him off the field, and I remained calm, knowing that if they needed me they would come get me. And after about five minutes (although it seemed like an eternity) here comes the coach. He told me Ty was having a hard time breathing and he was cold, so they had him in the shower trying to get his body temp up. It was cold, rainy and windy so that probably had a little something to do with it. When the game was over, I went in the field house and the coaches told me he was having a hard time remembering who they were, what day it was and all this. One coach asked him what day it was and Ty said "Tuesday" and the coach said, "no, it's Thursday" and Ty said, "Are you sure?" :)
So, I watched him -- woke him up every three hours through the night and he woke up Friday feeling fine. We go to school, the coaches and the athletic trainer/"concussion management team" look at him -- he seems fine.
Then, during my seventh period class, my classroom phone rings and the secretary tells me to call the hs prinicpal. I do and he tells me Ty is not being Ty -- can't remember stuff, feeling dizzy, lathargic and has no strength. So, I rush over and get him and off we go to the Ennis ER. He has a CT which reveals no bleeding in the brain. Doc says he just needs rest and no sports for at least a week.
So, all though he was as goofy as all get out -- he got to miss school and he got Taco Bell for dinner. Not a bad day. His normal teenage self returned today and I had to kick him out of my room for being a brat...lol.
Thanksgiving for One
This year will be a first for me. I will be cooking a Thanksgiving meal for me, myself and I. Why? See, I am a picky eater and as I get older, I become even more and more picky. It's nothing that I am doing intentionally, I just really have a hard time eating certain foods now. It's all mental, I know and I am honestly scared there will come a day when I refuse to eat anything thing at all, and I will end up in some institution rocking back and forth saying the word "peas" sixty-three times in a row, washing my hands one hundred and thirty times before turning the lights on and off fifty-seven times.
This year, I decided I would sponsor a turkey from the Farm Sanctuary. His name is Payton and he lives on a 300-acre no kill sanctuary in California. He is super cute! So, I can rest easy that there will be one less defenceless animal out there in a crowded, feces infested cage with broken legs because they cannot support the weight of their super growth hormone injected bodies. Yes, I know the Bible says that animals were put here for human consumption, and never have I ever tried to make anyone feel guilty about eating meat. I just believe that for me, I feel better physically and emotionally if I do not.
I really blame my Mimi for this -- when I was around eight, we were driving to Muleshoe and we passed by the slaughter house. I asked her what it was and she told me, going into lengthy detail about the process. Of course, it made me super sad and I didn't eat a lot of red meat from then on. Every once in a while, I do get a craving for a big juicy burger, but it generally is when my hormones are being crazy. In 8th grade, I stopped eating pork all together -- no bacon, ham or pork chops and I really don't miss it. It was then that I started with the turkey bacon because it was supposed to be better for you and I would occasionally eat chicken. It has really just been in the last few years that my tastes have changed and I really just like veggies. I especially love eating raw veggies. And, honestly, to me the black bean veggie burger and the veggie bacon are better than the real stuff. I do like shrimp and salmon, but that's about all the seafood I can handle. And, surprisingly enough, the more veggies I eat, the less I am liking pasta. It makes me feel really heavy and gross when I eat it. Now, if I could just feel that way about chocolate and cheese enchiladas, I wouldn't have to worry about my weight ever again!! :)
All I can say is that God made me special -- he understands me if no one else does and I'm okay with that.
So, what does this all have to do with Thanksgiving? Well, my family, as much as they love me and don't make fun of me when I cry about how mean the food industry is to the poor, helpless cow, chicken, pig or turkey, they like meat. So, I told my mom she could have Thanksgiving dinner back. I am just going to fix me some pasta probably with some fresh veggies and they can have whatever they want and I won't have to pay for it or eat it.
I am a devout holiday traditionalist, so this a huge step for me. But, I'm telling myself it will be okay and I am looking forward to it! Sponsoring turkeys will just become my new tradition.
For those who are curious, here is a picture of the turkey I am sponsoring. I haven't received my certificate in the mail yet...so this is just the pic off the website. But, maybe next Thanksgiving, I can go visit him. That'd be super fun!!
This year, I decided I would sponsor a turkey from the Farm Sanctuary. His name is Payton and he lives on a 300-acre no kill sanctuary in California. He is super cute! So, I can rest easy that there will be one less defenceless animal out there in a crowded, feces infested cage with broken legs because they cannot support the weight of their super growth hormone injected bodies. Yes, I know the Bible says that animals were put here for human consumption, and never have I ever tried to make anyone feel guilty about eating meat. I just believe that for me, I feel better physically and emotionally if I do not.
I really blame my Mimi for this -- when I was around eight, we were driving to Muleshoe and we passed by the slaughter house. I asked her what it was and she told me, going into lengthy detail about the process. Of course, it made me super sad and I didn't eat a lot of red meat from then on. Every once in a while, I do get a craving for a big juicy burger, but it generally is when my hormones are being crazy. In 8th grade, I stopped eating pork all together -- no bacon, ham or pork chops and I really don't miss it. It was then that I started with the turkey bacon because it was supposed to be better for you and I would occasionally eat chicken. It has really just been in the last few years that my tastes have changed and I really just like veggies. I especially love eating raw veggies. And, honestly, to me the black bean veggie burger and the veggie bacon are better than the real stuff. I do like shrimp and salmon, but that's about all the seafood I can handle. And, surprisingly enough, the more veggies I eat, the less I am liking pasta. It makes me feel really heavy and gross when I eat it. Now, if I could just feel that way about chocolate and cheese enchiladas, I wouldn't have to worry about my weight ever again!! :)
All I can say is that God made me special -- he understands me if no one else does and I'm okay with that.
So, what does this all have to do with Thanksgiving? Well, my family, as much as they love me and don't make fun of me when I cry about how mean the food industry is to the poor, helpless cow, chicken, pig or turkey, they like meat. So, I told my mom she could have Thanksgiving dinner back. I am just going to fix me some pasta probably with some fresh veggies and they can have whatever they want and I won't have to pay for it or eat it.
I am a devout holiday traditionalist, so this a huge step for me. But, I'm telling myself it will be okay and I am looking forward to it! Sponsoring turkeys will just become my new tradition.
For those who are curious, here is a picture of the turkey I am sponsoring. I haven't received my certificate in the mail yet...so this is just the pic off the website. But, maybe next Thanksgiving, I can go visit him. That'd be super fun!!
Saturday, October 8, 2011
S-T-R-E-S-S-E-D!!
I haven't posted in a while and I thought it might help to relieve some pent up stress I have been feeling lately.
I am frustrated with a few things -- mainly work -- but it will all work out in the end, as it always does. It's really that I am disappointed about a few things, on top of the fact that I am feeling some pressure. It will get better, though. I know it will, it's just the living through it that kinda sucks. I really am not complaining -- I know that there are people in the world who have it way worse than me & even my situation could be way worse. It will all be okay.
ON THE BRIGHT SIDE.... It is officially fall and the weather has seemed to cooperate a tad. I love this time of year. It is glorious!! I look forward to it every year and I hate that I have to go through summer just to get to fall. Summer is definitely my least favorite time of year -- eventhough it is when I get a break from work. I hate being hot!! I love hoodies, sweatpants, hot chocolate, apple cider, pumpkin... I like winter and spring of course, my fall had me hooked from the get go!
Ty has been crazy busy and missed two days of school this week because he was sick. I think what he really needed was some rest. His body just shut down from lack of sleep. He is in bed by 10 and up by 6:30 now -- but in between that is football, school, football, baseball (on MW) and then homework. His grades have remained pretty solid and he is taking the PSAT next Wednesday. I am anxious to get the results of that!
Later this month, my BFF from high school is coming into town for a friend's wedding, so I am going to get to see her and her sweet babies!! I am so excited! Girl time with my bestie always makes me feel better.
I decided to scour the internet and find pics of fall things I love to add here. I wish I had taken them myself, but clearly Texas doesn't believe in seasons. So, I hope you enjoy them as much as I did looking for them! Happy Fall Y'all!!
I am frustrated with a few things -- mainly work -- but it will all work out in the end, as it always does. It's really that I am disappointed about a few things, on top of the fact that I am feeling some pressure. It will get better, though. I know it will, it's just the living through it that kinda sucks. I really am not complaining -- I know that there are people in the world who have it way worse than me & even my situation could be way worse. It will all be okay.
ON THE BRIGHT SIDE.... It is officially fall and the weather has seemed to cooperate a tad. I love this time of year. It is glorious!! I look forward to it every year and I hate that I have to go through summer just to get to fall. Summer is definitely my least favorite time of year -- eventhough it is when I get a break from work. I hate being hot!! I love hoodies, sweatpants, hot chocolate, apple cider, pumpkin... I like winter and spring of course, my fall had me hooked from the get go!
Ty has been crazy busy and missed two days of school this week because he was sick. I think what he really needed was some rest. His body just shut down from lack of sleep. He is in bed by 10 and up by 6:30 now -- but in between that is football, school, football, baseball (on MW) and then homework. His grades have remained pretty solid and he is taking the PSAT next Wednesday. I am anxious to get the results of that!
Later this month, my BFF from high school is coming into town for a friend's wedding, so I am going to get to see her and her sweet babies!! I am so excited! Girl time with my bestie always makes me feel better.
I decided to scour the internet and find pics of fall things I love to add here. I wish I had taken them myself, but clearly Texas doesn't believe in seasons. So, I hope you enjoy them as much as I did looking for them! Happy Fall Y'all!!
Saturday, August 27, 2011
First Week of Freshman Year...
was a busy one to say the least!! He has to be at football pretty much every morning by 7:00, so that he has time to get ready before having to be out on the field by 7:30. This is great because it means I am actually to work on time! I can't promise as much when football is over, lol!
Monday, he said he wasn't nervous, but I think he was. I was a little nervous to begin my new year as well, but we both had a great day. I will admit that I was sad if I let myself think about the fact that that group wasn't around. I started my teaching the year they were beginning sixth grade. So, for the last three years, those kids were the faces I saw everyday. It was an adjustment for me to say the least, but I do really enjoy my new bunch of 8th graders.
Every night we've been getting home between 6-7:00-ish. He's had a little bit of homework and then Thursday night was his first game. They won 28-20. Afterwards, we had the community pep rally, which was a lot of fun for the kids and the parents seemed to really enjoy it as well.
Friday night the Varsity had a game in Rio Vista, so he was one of the "water boys" and I went along for moral support. It was a long drive but well worth it. It was a great game with the exceptions of some very bad calls against Rice. But, the Varsity guys are a great group and fought hard! I have the fullest confidence that we will have a great season.
Today, I got to sleep in until 8am. It was amazing!! I went to Farmers Market with my mom and then ran some more errands -- came home around 12 and Ty was actually up! That was amazing as well!! I think we both also took a nap today as well -- it was a long week!
I have a feeling the next four years will not slow down much. But, I look forward to it!!!
Monday, he said he wasn't nervous, but I think he was. I was a little nervous to begin my new year as well, but we both had a great day. I will admit that I was sad if I let myself think about the fact that that group wasn't around. I started my teaching the year they were beginning sixth grade. So, for the last three years, those kids were the faces I saw everyday. It was an adjustment for me to say the least, but I do really enjoy my new bunch of 8th graders.
Every night we've been getting home between 6-7:00-ish. He's had a little bit of homework and then Thursday night was his first game. They won 28-20. Afterwards, we had the community pep rally, which was a lot of fun for the kids and the parents seemed to really enjoy it as well.
Friday night the Varsity had a game in Rio Vista, so he was one of the "water boys" and I went along for moral support. It was a long drive but well worth it. It was a great game with the exceptions of some very bad calls against Rice. But, the Varsity guys are a great group and fought hard! I have the fullest confidence that we will have a great season.
Today, I got to sleep in until 8am. It was amazing!! I went to Farmers Market with my mom and then ran some more errands -- came home around 12 and Ty was actually up! That was amazing as well!! I think we both also took a nap today as well -- it was a long week!
I have a feeling the next four years will not slow down much. But, I look forward to it!!!
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| First day of High School August 22, 2011 14 yrs old |
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Ty's Practice Game
Last night, the JV and Varsity boys had their practice and a little intersquad scrimmage that the parents were invited to watch. So, naturally, I showed up even though it was 900 degrees at six o'clock in the evening. I was glad I got to watch -- as most of you already know I love football and I am super excited that my son is playing. He changed positions a little this year and right now is slated to be a defensive lineman (guard -- I think...he stands to the left of the center.) I love watching football -- that doesn't mean I know the names of the positions. However, he did teach me the sign for the Stack 2 play, which I was SUPER excited about. Now, I just have to pay attn at games to see if the coaches call it!
It was a little hard to tell who was who while they were out there, but I did manage to get some shots of him during their practice. I didn't take any of the scrimmage part.
It still amazes me that he is old enough to be in high school. He looks so big in the pictures and yet he looks so little...*sigh* -- my baby's not a baby anymore!! :(
It was a little hard to tell who was who while they were out there, but I did manage to get some shots of him during their practice. I didn't take any of the scrimmage part.
It still amazes me that he is old enough to be in high school. He looks so big in the pictures and yet he looks so little...*sigh* -- my baby's not a baby anymore!! :(
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Taking a water break.  It was ridiculously hot in the stands. I can imagine what it was like in full pads out on the field.  Waiting to get some more water.    Next Saturday, he has a scrimmage and I am pretty excited about that, too. I can't wait for cooler weather -- big sweatshirts, gloves and hot chocolate under the "Thursday Night Lights" -- it's the stuff Texas dreams are made of!! :) |
Granny's Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
This is a recipe handed down from my great grandmother to my mom to me. It has been a while since we made it, but it is very, very tasty!
1/2 cups margarine or butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 can pineapple, drained
walnut halves
maraschino cherries
1 package (18.5 oz) yellow cake mix with pudding
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Heat margarine in a 13X9X2 pan in oven until melted. Sprinkle brown sugar over margarine . Arrange pineapple on top. Decorate with walnut halves and cherries. Prepare cake mix as directed and pour batter over pineapple in pan. Bake until cake springs back when touched lightly in center, about 45 to 55 minutes. Immediately invert pan on heat proof serving platter. Remove pan; cool cake completely. Top each serving with sweetened whipped cream if desired.
1/2 cups margarine or butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 can pineapple, drained
walnut halves
maraschino cherries
1 package (18.5 oz) yellow cake mix with pudding
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Heat margarine in a 13X9X2 pan in oven until melted. Sprinkle brown sugar over margarine . Arrange pineapple on top. Decorate with walnut halves and cherries. Prepare cake mix as directed and pour batter over pineapple in pan. Bake until cake springs back when touched lightly in center, about 45 to 55 minutes. Immediately invert pan on heat proof serving platter. Remove pan; cool cake completely. Top each serving with sweetened whipped cream if desired.
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