La Familia Mortin

Anthony turns 18!!

2010-12-04T16:03:00.001-08:00

I remember the day all too well. Contractions started December 3rd early in the morning, shortly after midnight I was driven to the hospital, it turned out to be a long night, the sun rose and still no baby. I'll never forget the relief I felt when the anesthesiologist FINALLY made it my way with his supplies to help me feel better. A long morning turned into a long day and I ended up having a cesarean section. I never did learn the gender of my baby-by choice. I wanted to be surprised, however, I must confess that I was wishing for a boy. Chris was graduating from AIT that same day, he flew in from Baltimore, MD and checked in at Fort Hood where he would be stationed.

Christopher Anthony Mortin was born December 4, 1992 at 4:33 pm. The journey has been much too short, but I've enjoyed the privilege of being his mom and the great "mommy" memories he has given me, and the ones I've yet to experience. He's 18 now and while I will always be his mom, my role will shift from being nurturing to supporting. Don't get me wrong, there will always be hugs and kisses, but nurturing a son who is 3 years old has different needs from an 18 year old.

It's been a great family day with you Anthony, just like old times. Happy Birthday Anthony, dad and I love and respect you and are proud of the young man you are. As you walk with God, time and experience will mold you into the man God destined you to be. With love, Mom & Dad.

Is December really here??

2010-12-01T11:21:00.000-08:00

Wow, December has officially arrived! The days are like a rushing wind. But while the days are busy, I did want to take some time to share how grateful I am for my family and how humble I am with Gods Hand being with us. Earlier this year, we experienced our first lay off, I will never forget that "after work" phone call. I know God has many names, but I actually had the humble privilege to know Him as "Sustainer". And although Thanksgiving is behind us, I strive to be thankful, because it's that thankful attitude that really makes the difference on a daily basis! Without Him I am nothing, and even at times I may be struck down can not be destroyed because greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world. So thankful for where this 2010 year has taken us and thankful for where we are today! So thankful for His wisdom and His Spirit, His grace and His mercy, and of course His guidance as I continue my growth as a wife, as a mother and as a servant. (And yes, Chris is back at work and I must also share that he's only been with the company 9 months and has already rose to a new challenge within the company!)

There has been quite a bit of change in the past months, but probably the most recent is that we've welcomed a little one into our home, it's a boy! I am enjoying my family, Anthony and Anna are coming upon 2 years of dating, Anthony is READY to graduate, as for the rest of us, we are well!!

"Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old.
Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth;
Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert." Is. 43:18-19

New Beginnings

2010-08-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

Summer break has come and gone with the first day of school well under way. The last few days have brought "new beginnings" to our family. Anthony is now a senior in high school and it occurred to me on that Thursday morning of that first day of the new school year, I had that silent conversation in my head as I was helping the kids preparing for the big day, 'that this would be my last "first day" of school with Anthony.' Yes, he may have a first day in college sometime in the future, but as far as grade school goes, this is it!! A sad and exciting reality for me. I did have success in snapping a shot of Anthony and Mariah before heading out the door, I wanted to take more, but in dealing with a teenager...... I didn't want to "over" do it.

Anthony the "Senior"/ Mariah goes to 7th

Anthony driving away to school...

As I continued my conversation with myself, it also occurred to me that if Mariah was an average girl, that she and Anthony would be attending the same school for the first time since he was in the 1st grade and she was enrolled in early learning for special needs, she was just 4 years old!! Wow, I want to burst into tears now, where did the time go?? Looking back now, at that time I could have never know what challenges faced us and our little Mariah. She has proved to be one of the strongest individuals I have ever known, I am not speaking of the physical strength, but of inner strength and will.
Oh, before I forget.....Mariah is now saying 2 words!!! (when she wants to that is...). One afternoon, I heard her say "bye truck", she saw a truck driving by and just wanted to say "bye truck", to me it was AWESOME and immediately had to share that with her speech therapist!! THAT'S BIG NEWS! Saying all that, I am thankful for this new school year and am looking forward to great progress in Mariah's learning. She has a great team of players working with her. Together we can overcome some of those obstacles, I am confident in that.

Me & Mariah........

Finally, I've got one more who had a big day. Tate started "The Beginners" Sunday School Class, I am very excited about him participating and learning about Jesus! It was a big day for me too to be honest, it's bittersweet. Life is moving right along, it stops for no one, so jump on board and enjoy the moments.

Tate's first day of "Beginners" Sunday School

Ms. Kim with Tate showing off his "cross"
Well done!

Remember to love the Lord your God and enjoy your families because those are the greatest treasures we can ever have.

A "Special" Rodeo Time

2010-07-03T12:49:00.001-07:00

Every July, a very special and dedicated organization, "Arkansas Support Network" and the folks at Parsons Rodeo Grounds hosts a special time just for families with children of special needs. By the way, ASN is an awesome resource for families who have children with disabilities. Anywho, the kids rode horses, got to pet the animals, there were balloons, pizza & drinks for everyone and of course, let's not forget, the carriage ride!

There were familiar faces, faces of parents I see on a weekly basis making their kids' speech, OT, & PT sessions at the therapy clinic, as well as Mariahs' past schoolmates, although she couldn't say much, her expression said, "I remember you".

As we waited in line, I noticed how everything was at a much slower pace. You see, children like ours need extra time to move and get around. Parents were patient and willing to pitch in to help load and unload kids who had to be placed in & out of their wheelchair, it was as if we were a team which made this outing extra GREAT! The kids had a fun time, parents (and grandparents) were taking pictures as if this was their childs first birthday! Lots of smiles everywhere and in the background you could hear--"look at the camera, look at the camera!"

By what I observed and of course my own experience, I sensed that this was one of the few events we can take our kids that was specific to their needs, because not everywhere can you get that kind of spirit and support. Although, I only knew a few people there, I felt like I knew them all because I can relate to the hardship of having a special needs child, don't get me wrong, Mariah is like a ray of light, but total caretaking can have it's toll on a person. I'd like to share what a special woman who attends our church shared with me (she had been praying for me) and it really touched my heart. In a card, she wrote "The care you give to your daughter, I'm sure has a very special place in God's heart". Those words have literally "fueled" my days and were needed at a time when I really needed it most, for I had never thought about it that way.

So if you have a loved one you are caring for (I am not just speaking of special needs children here), whether it be a spouse, parent, child or a sibling, I pass these words along to you my friend --"The care you give to your loved one, know that your act has a special place in God's heart!"

Welcome 2010!

2010-01-12T07:47:00.000-08:00

Here we are in yet another new year. Do I really need to say, "My how the time flies?". It was a great 2009, of course, we had our trials, individually and some as a family, but we had our triumphs too, I am thankful because it is in those times, good and bad, that we grow as a family and as a person.
While driving the other day, I was reflecting and realized that it has been 10 years that I left the work place to be a stay at home mom, I couldn't help but tear up, my time with them has been precious and priceless, I couldn't have given them a greater gift and to myself for that matter. It has been a financial sacrifice but we wouldn't have it any other way. What a blessing!! So what is going on with our family now. Well, Chris and I are embarking our 17th anniversay. We continue our walk with God and have great expectations for our youth group whom we love dearly. Chris continues to workout, still plays the drums for the praise and worship team at church, and I really appreciate all that he does and not just what he does around the house (or cars) or even his role as "father", but as a godly leader of our home. I enjoy our Saturday mornings, when we can just enjoy coffee, each others company and Gods Word, without the normal rushes of weekday routine. God has done a great work in us. As for me, I keep busy running this house, and now taking the time to get some extra pounds off. I have lost 11.5 since March, I have returned to my pre-pregnancy weight! Now, I am challenged to lose another 13 pounds and I WILL get there!!

"Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." So what else is going on? Well, let's see...........

Anthony is now 17!! He is a junior in high school, and is officially driving. I am not as nervous as I was before, but there are still some "control" issues I have. He has a girlfriend, Anna, whom he met in church, they are coming on their one-year anniversay. He is still hanging a job at McDonalds, and is returning to high school football for his senior year. He played his 9th and 10th grade year, but took a break this year to play basketball. Senior preparations are already underway, I got the "senior ring" catalog in yesterday, I am feeling a bit emotional, but in a good way!!

Alright, who's next? Ah yes, it is ...............

Mariah, she is 14 and a half!! She is still a "half-pint" and weighing in at a "whopping "67 pounds!! Mariah is good, still battling epilepsy, but we are perservering. She takes her meds and supplements, we also have her on a gluten-free, casein free diet, and I believe the combination has helped her. She is in school, we have outside speech, physical and occupational therapy twice a week at an awesome childrens therapy facility. We are in the process of programming a "Go-
Talk" device to help her communication needs, I am really looking forward to that. She has the "teen blues" from time to time that we have to deal with, some days are just sooooooo dramatic. Her fav's are still blues clues, riding the bus and playing alone. I literally have to make her be around us (are we that bad Mariah??) but before bedtime I do allow her to have her alone time with toys and books, I know she needs that! Okay, who's next?...........

Tate! He is full blown "Mr. Toddler"! He is every bit of 2 (well 2&4mons). He is really picking up on words and being very expressive. He is busy, wants to be on the go any time the front door is opened, he is playing with cars and has discovered a past time favorite 'Toy Story'. It was new when Anthony was just a boy, so it is nice to see that fascination with 'Toy Story' again.
We enjoy our grocery shopping day, especially our visit to Ozark Natural Foods, that's the place I shop for Mariahs gluten free foods, anyway, Tate is part of the kids club there and he gets a surprise treat at each visit, keeps him busy while I get the shopping done.

All in all, we are well and just busy being a family. I hope everyone is well, and perhaps will start your own blog this year. May you and your family have a blessed 2010!

"Short term goals=mini victories=mini battles=war won!!"

Mortin Christmas 2009

2009-12-25T14:56:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Birthday to Jesus!! This morning we woke up to a white Christmas outside, but before everyone began stirring, I was up making breakfast, taking pictures, lit some candles, brewed a pot of coffee (coffee is wonderful, isn't it?), and placed gifts under the tree. Typically, parents put gifts under the tree days before Christmas, but not me, I stored the wrapped gifts in my garage, one might ask "why"?. Well, if you have little ones, you might know the answer. About 2 years ago, I became frustrated to find gifts unwrapped by Mariah, and then having to rewrap them, so to stop the insanity, I decided they would go in the garage until the morning of Christmas- a simple solution.

After I had some alone time with my coffee, I turned some Christmas music on, by the way, one of my favorite songs is "Mary did you know?", a very touching song to my soul. There are many artists out there singing it, but I particularly enjoy the one sang by Kenny Rogers and Wynonna Judd, take a few minutes to enjoy this one yourself, it is featured on my playlist below.

One by one, the kids came out of their room and the excitement of the morning had them curious and "giddy". You know what happens next, its gift wrap, colored tissue and gifts all over the place. I was in a race for every moment, trying to get as many pictures as I could before the batteries to the camera die, gotta love those right?? I remember looking around and feeling so blessed to be in a cozy warm house with my family, having everything we need. God is Good!
Then it was play time, the kids were wired! We were finishing the steaming process of the tamales and lunch time was right around the corner.

We had a fiesta spread of tamales, rice & beans with Chris's homemade salsa, then for dessert I had prepared a scratch chocolate cake and an ice cream cake, I think it is more of a pie. We wanted to keep it simple for Christmas, unlike Thanksgiving, we did not want too many dishes to prepare. I also made up some goodies as stocking stuffers like, fudge, cookies and popcorn balls. And I could not forget my Mariah, I made her some gluten free cookies and she devoured them!
I like what Chris said as we were bowing our heads while giving thanks for the meal, he said "...until you return for us, we will always remember this day and why we celebrate Your birth...", these words stuck in my head and I am humbled today and thankful to Jesus our Lord because He is the Reason for this Season- Merry Christmas.

Kids Krusade 2009

2009-08-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

I am a week behind in getting this posted, but oh well.....Last week was an awesome week, we had a 4 night kids krusade at our church last week and it was a blast. Brent Pickens has a childrens ministry of puppets, paintings, shares stories from the Bible, and many other things to reach children for Jesus. Between the krusade, back to school, and 3 days a week of therapies for Mariah, it was a busy week, but even if this kids krusade was all week, I would have mustered the strength to get there because it was so much fun!!! I felt so privileged to have gotten a photo of my kids with "Andy" the puppet, and I was actually a bit surprised at how compliant Anthony was when I told him to get in the picture, I thought for sure he would say, "Mom, why.........", he really surprises me sometimes!

Gardening

2009-07-29T10:35:00.000-07:00

I enjoy the summer and along with summer there is ofcourse, yard work. This year we decided to give it a go and plant a few things in the front and back yard, it is has been about 7 years since we planted a garden. It is nice to observe the plants and watch them grow, although I must admit it has become more of Chris's project than mine, we all chipped in to prepare the grounds, the mulching and cleaning. That is enough for me, I've got enough things to keep me busy. Last November, we started a compost pile in which we put all seeds, peels, egg shells in a pile outback and we really enjoy doing that, plus it is beneficial to the ground and your trash won't stink as bad. Try cantaloupe peels in your trash, it will really make your house smell sour, Ewww. Anyway to our surprise, we have a huge butternut squash plant that is producing alot of squash for us. That was actually on our Thanksgiving Menu last year. My plans for the squash is to cut it up and freeze it, also I am going to experiment with it and try a butternut squash soup. The other day, I was making a salad to go with our dinner, it was nice to say, "Honey, can you bring me some tomatoes off the vine please", there is a satisfaction of eating and enjoying the fruit of your labor. I am looking forward to cutting open the cantaloupe and the watermelons!

grape tomatoes

squash

peppers

watermelon

canteloupe

WaterPark Fun

2009-07-20T15:05:00.000-07:00

We went to Branson, We went to Branson!!

The kids and I headed to Branson, MO for a weekend of fun in the water. Mommies loaded up their kids, packed snacks and headed out for some fun in the sun, while the men went camping. The kids really enjoyed themselves, especially Mariah, she loved the waterslide. While we were there we checked out "Hard Luck Diner", a really neat place to eat and kid friendly too. The waitress or waiter actually sings to you too! The waterpark was really fun and has everything you need, no need to leave the park for anything. We didn't get a picture but Amy and I went down the large waterslide and it was awesome. Branson has alot to offer for family entertainment, in my opinion, it is like a mini Nashville, TN, and is a quick drive too. Hope to go back soon, I want to check out "Dixie Stampede" on the next trip.

"Taterbug"

Chloe & Tate

Mariah

Kaitlyn, Mariah & Chloe

Nic & Ahna

THE KING OF POP

2009-06-26T22:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had no intention of blogging about Michael Jackson, the news about his passing away yesterday swiftly spread around the country. Of course, my heart went out to his family, and knew that it was a tragedy. But today was a different day, I dug around for some Michael Jackson cd's that I knew we had somewhere, and found 'em. I don't ordinarily listen to mainstream much anymore, my taste is music has changed since my earlier years, but today, I thought I'd play back some songs, but what I did not expect was to break down. I listened to music from "Off the Wall", era 1978-1981 and of course, from "Thriller", era 1982-1984. His voice is unique, and at that time he was like none other. It brought back memories of my early childhood, I kept up with him from age 7 to age 11. I was the girl that cried at his appearances on MTV, Grammy Award Shows, etc, I would clip articles about him, tape pictures and posters of him on my wall, watch his videos and learned his dance moves, sing to his songs. It was also a time when my parents divorced and playing the songs back reminded me of those times, but, it also brought back to my memory the times me and my cousins would dance to his music in front of aunts and uncles, some fun times I guess, using a hairbrush as a microphone. The picture I have posted of him is the way I want to remember him, I put some of my favorite songs of his on my playlist as a tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

Botanical Gardens

2009-04-29T13:45:00.000-07:00

Today, Tate and I joined Mariahs "green class" at the botanical gardens. Since they help with the schools recycling program, they earned a trip to the garden. The flowers were lovely and vibrant! This morning I thought we were going to be rained out, but we rode it out and stayed dry!! There were lots of hands to help out so I was able to spend time with Mariah. We had lunch on the grounds and the view was lovely. Tate is worn out and is down for a nap!!

Flash Back Friday 6/17/1991

2009-04-24T13:01:00.000-07:00

Wow! Let's go back to the year 1991. I can't remember the last time I got to do a FBF post, and am so excited to post one today!

Anywho, we were living in Austin and just turned 18. Mom threw me a little b-day party and I invited a few friends most of them from DQ. Back then I did the "perm thing" in my hair and would spray my bangs as high as I could get them, yeah boy!!! Nope, you won't see Chris, although I already knew him, we were just friends and he was not invited (he was probably working at DQ that day). Can't believe in just a year and a half later I would be married to him and be a mom for the first time. MY, MY.........

Anthony & Anna

2009-04-22T08:09:00.001-07:00

Anthony went to his first prom, he was Anna's escort for the evening, she graduates this semester. They had a good time, and in a couple of years, he will be attending his own prom. He's growing up, it seems like just yesterday that he was going to Parson Hills Elementary. Today he officially has a drivers license and is working parttime. He really is the heart of the family that keeps us laughing, I value his crazy sense of humor. Sometimes I have to remember to laugh, so easy to get caught up in "to-do lists" and keep a household running.

Anthony and Anna have been boyfriend/girlfriend for 3 months now. They met in youth group at church. We keep an eye on him, and her too!!!! It is nice to have church family keep an eye out for us too, parents need help to keep their kiddos on track. Before I sign off, I have to acknowledge the photographer, Seana, she did an awesome job.

Getting Ready for Easter

2009-04-10T16:53:00.000-07:00

I came across this neat idea for the eggs I was going to be coloring tonight. Too Cute!! Found it in the Good Housekeeping Magazine, and I thought, "wow, what a neat way to jazz up my eggs for the kids, by the way, yes, i will be hiding these. Maybe not outside, because I think it is going to be a rainy day, we will have to see. Honestly, I did not do much crafts with Anthony or Mariah, but I find myself enjoying this with Tate. He thinks the eggs are balls. Mariah colored some eggs at school, they are sitting on the candlesticks.

I put together a family basket of goodies for us all to enjoy. I also have a menu in place, tomorrow I will be preparing some of our dishes for our meal so we can enjoy our day of rest and celebrate Christ's Resurrection Day!!

Here's our Easter Menu:
Grilled Salmon with Blackeyed Pea Salsa

Jasmine Rice

Brussel Sprouts

Homemade Crustless New York Style Cheesecake

Wish our families could be together. Have A Blessed Resurrection Day from my house to yours.

"But the angel answered and said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for He is risen, as He said." Matt 28:5-6

Happy Birthday Mariah!!

2009-03-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

Today Mariah turned the big "14" and we celebrated her special day at Fun City!

She really enjoyed herself and I think once we sang "Happy Birthday" to her that she realized that this was about "her", she was very tickled! Mariah's little guests were Chloe and Lauren, Nicholas and Anna, and of course little brother Tate, even daddy popped in on his lunch hour to eat and play. By the time it was all over, we parents needed a nap along with the kids.

In preparing for her birthday, I've reflected on some memories I have with Mariah. Most everyone knows Mariah is autistic and has epilepsy. It has been a journey, good and bad, and will continue to be. At times I become frustrated with what she can't do, but then I begin to appreciate all that she can do, like give hugs, kisses, laugh, and snuggle. Simple things I know, but as parents these are vital to our soul. There are parents with special needs children who are just physically unable to do those things. How they must crave that affection from their children. Remember those families tonight in your prayers and keep Mariah in your prayers too!!

She has a big heart and loves us the best she can.

What Matters Most

2009-02-12T07:02:00.000-08:00

Here's my first blog for 2009! So much for making blogging one of my new years resolutions. Oh well.......
Last week was a very emotional week for my family, especially for Anthony and I. Anthony lost 2 friends last week in a tragic fire accident. Five boys were having a sleepover in a barn/guest house, a haven for teenagers and guests. Most of you all know we had an ice storm sweep through our area and many people were without power and of course, heat. A generator was said to have malfunctioned and caused a fire. Three of the boys made it out safely and the other two were upstairs and did not make it. Although I never personally met the boys, as a parent, I was crushed at the news Anthony had texted me, my heart broke. I, like the hosting parents of the sleepover, have had boys over at my house, Anthony has had sleepovers at other homes. We exchange boys casually, never even thinking we would not see our children again. This hit too close to home for me. I've heard the old saying, "Everything happens for a reason". But I am really struggling with this one, I went before the Lord and am confused. What did we gain by losing such wonderful boys, who were achievers in school and participated in sports, who lifted the spirits of others, who were fun to be around? I don't get it. Their time was much too short. One thing I have realized is that I want everyday to count with my kiddos, especially Anthony who is 16 now, although I will always be his mom, my role will soon shift as he becomes a man and will need to make his own decisions, so I've got to make it count! I told him, "you may get tired of me telling you I love you everyday and giving you extra hugs, but two moms don't have that opportunity any longer." Moms-be a light in your home, I know there are stresses in life ( some of it we create on our own), make time for the things that matter most, be a legacy for your family and friends. I Love You Ant!

Election Day 2008

2008-11-03T20:30:00.000-08:00

Well, the eleventh hour is here and the countdown is over. Tomorrow is election day, get out and vote, it is your duty!!! I have been tuned into Fox News, and will continue to all throughout the day tomorrow. I am excited and filled with anticipation, there is so much at stake in this election. Go Vote!!

Happy Birthday to Tate!!

2008-10-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

Tate turned ONE!! Glad to finally to be sharing a blog with everyone. Now that my little guy has been walking, he is keeping me busy and I'm just trying to keep up and keep the household afloat. So if anything is going to be on the "back burner", one of them is going to be blogging. Plus my camera is on the blink, it works when it wants to, a result of it being dropped one too many times. Anyway......... We celebrated Tate's first year with a small party, he had is own personal cake. I was more excited about the cake than he was, he did not show much interest. I was really looking forward to cleaning up the mess, you know with frosting in his hair, in between his toes. Nope! It did not happen. He was not all about opening gifts either, he just wanted to crawl around. Now he's walking, climbing up furniture and will soon be talking, he is babbling so much.

Lake Fayetteville

2008-08-28T20:32:00.000-07:00

This week my hubby has been home with Tate and I, and this morning we decided we'd check out the trail at Lake Fayetteville. It was nice to spend a leisure day together. Tate has been especially enjoying his daddy home with him, he is a daddy's boy. Earlier this week, we visited the library and had lunch at Wilson Park, a really nice and shady park, it is actually quite impressive. We discovered walnut, pecan and hickory nut trees, oh yeah, we know all the spots now-we will be back!!

Look At Me!

2008-08-12T05:57:00.000-07:00

Greetings to All! I have a milestone to share with you. Tate has been working on this one for a few days now, and this past Saturday, he came to a standing position all on his own!! The video is a bit dark, but very cute to watch. Tate is 10 and a half months now, he is sipping from a cup now really well, he likes to eat fresh fruit, he's not much on baby jar fruit. His babbling can get pretty loud and he's growing all too fast. Next month, he'll be a year old, I am clinging on to the memory of the day of his birth and the early months. I considered us to be a pretty close bunch, but I have found that having Tate is our lives has brought us even closer.

Going Home

2008-07-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

Well, it is Thursday-almost midnight, and I just loaded my car. I am heading to Texas for a BIG family reunion. Just wanted to post a quick blog, I miss blogging, unfortunately though, if I want to blog (or do anything online) it has to be about this time, for my little guy likes to crawl under my desk and get into anything he can possibly get his hands on. You might say, "so why don't you blog during his naptime?", well, he's not much of a napper, thirty, forty minutes and he's ready to go again!! His battery does not need much charging. Anyway, where was I........oh, yeah, going to Texas. I am really looking forward to my visit, going to see lots of family and friends, however, as I was preparing for this trip this week, I realized this visit is going to be quite different from my past ones in that there will be no grandparents to see and hug this time around. Their voice, their face, smiles, are all now memories. I am missing them right now.

There's a song that reminds me of my childhood days, it is called "Flies on the Butter" (corny title I know), by Wynonna Judd. I make sure that CD is in my car for my Texas road trips, when I get close to home I play it and ponder on my youth. And one thing is for certain, as the songs says, "there's a blacktop road,
a faded yield center line,
it can take you back to the place,
but it can't take you back in time......"
If you ever get the chance, listen to that song, I know you will be able to relate to it, God Bless and Have a Safe Weekend!!

"Coffey" with my Coffee

2008-07-08T06:20:00.000-07:00

Good Tuesday morning to ya! I am having a little "Coffey" with my coffee this morning. Anyone hear of Coffey Anderson? I had not until Chris discovered him one night on GodTube.com and am now a fan. I am not sure what church he is from, but I do know he is from my homestate "Texas". This guy gets me in the groove for the day. I am reminded (which I need daily) of what I am here for, to save souls and to glorify Him, to love Him and to be obedient to Him, and when you exercise those things the rest of your walk with Him falls into place. This guy is refreshing, it is evident that he loves the Lord and has a desire to worship. I have a video below to share, the title of the song is called "All Ye", so scroll down and check him out, remember to pause the playlist so you can hear the song clearly. WARNING: You might cut a little rug, the song is sure to make you want to dance!

The Three Amigos

2008-06-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

I love this picture!! Every Sunday, these girls are sure to keep Tate company. Here is Tate with his best buddies Chloe and Lauren, daughters of dear friends of ours from church. I try to keep my camera with me tucked in a pocket of Tate's diaper bag at all times, don't want to miss out on something.

Chloe and Lauren are always thoughtful and faithful to stop by the nursery to say hi to "Baby Tate". As they were playing, I thought I'd snap a few pictures, the moment was too darling to miss. I know my friend Amy will be surprised, this is a great picture. Who knew I would have a little one to play with her little ones.

Look Out! We Have A New Driver

2008-06-19T06:48:00.000-07:00

Well, here I am, embarking yet another new season of my motherhood-Anthony is now driving! Anthony seems to be the only one truly excited about this new beginning. For me it is all too new, a bit scary and yet another sign that my boy is growing up. I took him to take his test (2nd time, shhhhh) and this time he was thumbs up when he came out of the building with a smile from ear to ear!!! I was happy for him, I sure did not want to see him dissapointed (again). We drove to an empty parking lot across the Razorback baseball field, I let him practice a little behind the wheel, it was actually kind of fun, we had a good time laughing!

Before signing off, I'll leave you with something to laugh about. Tate and I were waiting in the car for Anthony and I saw that Tate could use a new diaper. Well, we had some time to burn, so before putting a new one on, I thought I'd let him air out for a minute, well, let's just say it was raining outside and inside the car that day!!!

fbf2

2008-05-30T05:56:00.000-07:00

Let's go back to the year 1999. Aren't they precious! WOW, the time has flown by. Anthony was in the 1st grade and Mariah was in Pre-K. School was just starting and I remember taking that picture while waiting for the bus, we lived about a mile from the school and it was the neighborhood bus stop. This was taken while we still lived in Texas (actually we moved from there later that same year). The other was taken on Halloween, we went to a Harvest Festival at Shoreline Christian Center, it was great fun!

It's a Boy and a Girl!!!

2008-05-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

I am officially a new aunt today! My nephew, Nic, and niece, Ana, were offically adopted by my brother and sister in law, Lee & Jessica! Just look at them, they are so full of life. "Children are a heritage from the Lord".
As I was getting ready to meet all "The Watsons" this morning, I began to think about how God has adopted us into his family, how He redeemed us through his Son, Jesus Christ and how we are joint heirs with Him, it's a great day!

CONGRATS TO LEE AND JESSICA!

Ant's 9th Grade Graduation

2008-05-23T11:14:00.000-07:00

Tate and I woke up early this morning to make Anthony's 9th grade graduating ceremony. Anthony is leaving Ramay and going to FHS! It really hit me this morning when they announced "The Class of 2011". Well, that is not very long from now and soon there will no longer be school functions for me to attend for my first born, that reality is a "tear jerker" right about now, I am proud of the young man he is becoming. He is a great brother to Tate & Mariah and helps out with each of them. He likes to annoy us at times and other times he cracks us up with some of the funny things he says, he can be quite the character. We love him!!!

Anthony was recognized for "achieving the high standard of excellence in Physical Science, Algebra 1, and US History". Way to Go Ant! He played football for the Ramay Indians the last two years and is now really excited and pumped up about playing for high school, where they are known as the "Fayetteville Bulldogs". Great Job Son!!

Tate's Crawling!

2008-05-21T13:45:00.000-07:00

He's crawling! And he can't be stopped. Tate is eager to explore and touch what ever is in his path. He's really getting to be a handful, or should I say an arm full. He's changing all the time and is doing something new each day.

Everyone here is good, getting ready for school to be out, not much longer now. Looking forward to a great summer!!

My Mother's Day

2008-05-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

This year was my first Mother's Day as a mom of 3 and my hubby was sure to it that the mother of his children had flowers to celebrate her special day, I think having kiddo #3 is making him a "softie". After church service I finished lunch off with a sweet, moist strawberry lemon cake - I had to have my dessert ya know!!

My duties as a mom can be challenging (as yours can too), Anthony is in sports and keeps me pretty busy,(and somehow needs to be picked up at tate's naptime, hmmm), then there's Mariah, she is my special girl with special needs, since she is not vocal, we play the "guessing game" and sometimes I am not such a good sport about it, then I have the little guy, Tate, who is 7 months old and is now crawling, teething, and won't take a pacifier. Each is different and I love them dearly.

My sisters embrace each season of motherhood because you will only get the experience once with that child. I dedicate this song "Find Your Wings"to my kiddos, it's every parents desire.

FLASHBACK FRIDAY!

2008-05-09T05:59:00.000-07:00

It's "Flashback Friday"! I got the idea for this from my "cousin-in-law" Lori, and I am excited to go back in time and share a bit of our past with you all. I am short with my time on the computer as Tate wants all attention on him, he is moaning at me as I type, OH ME!

So, here we are at the age of 18. This was taken at the airport in Austin, TX. Chris had just graduated from army basic training. I look at this picture and I see the grace and goodness of God! Let me tell you, we have been married now for 15 years and we have seen the GOOD, the BAD, & the UGLY! We were just kids thinking we had it all planned out, I find it quite humorous now!

A Trip to Gentry Safari

2008-04-26T19:43:00.001-07:00

It was all about Mariah when we joined her class in Gentry for the Drive-Thru Safari, we were almost rained out, but just as soon as it started, the storm passed. We had a great time looking at the different animals, feeding and petting the baby goats. Mariah really enjoyed herself. We will have to do this trip again.

Tate's 1st Toofie!

2008-04-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

We have a tooth! And another one is on the way. I have bittersweet emotions about this because my little boy is now enjoying baby food and of course with that, he will need less of his mommy's milk. Tate is 6 months now and has almost mastered sitting up, he really likes the view from the sitting position, he's getting to be quite the wiggle worm. Speaking of wiggle worm, Tate is part of the Baby Bookworm Club at our local library, where we go to hear a short story just for babies his age.

Tate's Dedication

2008-02-27T13:40:00.000-08:00

Alas! On January 27, 2008 at the tender age of 17 weeks we dedicated our baby Tate to the Lord, although, I had long before dedicated him while he was in the making inside the womb. My pregnancy was an absolute breeze and I am so grateful for this little soul that I have been blessed to share life with. We all just adore him.