The Johnsons

Goodbye Kindergarten!

2010-06-06T18:06:00.000-07:00

Jessilyn & Mrs. Terebessy
Cheeseball!

So proud!

Jessilyn & one of her besties, Abigail

My big girl is a kindergarten graduate! I cannot believe it...she is growing up so quickly. She has had a great year at Emerson! Her teacher was awesome! Mrs. Terebessy is one of the veteran teachers, and she was absolutely wonderful! For graduation, she made each of the students an individualized diploma with personal pictures from the entire year. She spent about 1 1/2 hr. per diploma-her Memorial Day weekend wasn't so exciting...but that's why we love her...all the special things she does for the kids. Jessilyn really loved school this year. She is Little Miss Social. It seems like she know absolutely everyone in her school-not just the kindergarteners. When I pick her up, go eat lunch with her, or walk through the halls with her, she says HI to everyone she walks by. I love that about her. Her teachers have complemented how well she gets along with the other kids. They have complemented her on being friends with everyone, not just a select group. She excelled academically also. She made it into Project Think and QUEST-the top tier of her grade, in her school and in the entire district, respectively. Her brain moves faster than her hand, perhaps her mouth...so things like handwriting aren't really all that important to her. She writes as fast as possible, to get it onto paper as quickly as she can. That really bothers the perfectionist/control freak in her momma, but we're both working on it. She loves to read, and is quite the little artist! She has enjoyed all the class pets, from frogs, to caterpillars, turtle, rainbow colored chicks, butterflies, preying mantises...the class named the large frog "Taco," because his breath smelled like he'd just eaten a taco! hehehe They also had eggs that hatched...they dyed the eggs while they were in the incubator, and the chicks hatched with dyed feathers! I didn't know you could do that...what you learn in kindergarten, right? Anyway, Jess has had a great year, and we're trusting that her next few years in Leander will be just as great. I love that we have a Father who cares about all those details...I trust she'll be just where she needs to be!

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-06T15:24:00.000-07:00

Pretty girls (Maddie, Skyler, Jess)

Silly girls!!

Mommas

Kiddos

The guys

Fun in the shower

Reese and Caleb watching a movie

Sky and Les

Some friends of ours have a family cabin in Ruidoso, so our life group families all headed to New Mexico for the weekend. We had such a fun weekend! After a scary drive to Ruidoso, we got to the cabin...it was fan.tas.tic.!!! There was plenty of room for all five families, very secluded so the kids could run around, deer in the back yard, 70 degrees...just perfect.

Friday night, the boys shamefully lost a game of Guesstures, so they got to cook breakfast on Saturday morning...yummy breakfast burritos. We went into town and ate out for lunch on the patio, then walked around downtown for a while. We fed the kids hot dogs for dinner and put them to bed early, then cooked out steaks for the grown-up dinner. We had some great convo, lots of laughs, and made fun memories. We made the guys play Taboo Saturday night.
The boys lost.

Again.

They cooked breakfast.

Again.

Pancakes, sausage, and bacon. Yum.

Sunday, the guys and kids rode four wheelers while the moms and babies went into town. We met up at the horse races. Reese had a little accident on Sunday evening. She and a tree had a smack down. The tree won.

Ouch!

The weekend was so fun. What a blessing to be able to spend one last weekend with our besties.

God has blessed us tremendously with the friendships we've made here in Midland. Great women, great men, great couples, awesome kids to be friends for our girls...

man, are we gonna miss you guys! We love you!

Thanks for a great weekend Branden and Sherry!

Bulldog Baseball

2010-06-06T14:16:00.000-07:00

The cutest fans ever!
They love their Daddy!

HeAvY trophy!

Way to go, Dawgs!

Tired little fan!!

We had a great season this year! Randon moved up to be the varsity assistant this year (rather than JV coach), so he got to be with a lot of the same boys again instead of getting a new group. Randon's been really tight with most of these boys, and he really loves them! He's been with many of them for four years now. Baseball is different than football in that you become so much closer with the boys and their families just because of the smaller numbers. The parents of this team have watched my girls grow up (I was pregnant with Reese when we started here!) We lost a heartbreaker series to Burleson. The boys played so well, and it was so fun to watch them!! We sure will miss MHS Baseball!

The baseball picnic was hard this year, saying goodbye. Randon got some great gifts...a scrapbook made by one of the moms, a MHS flag signed by all the boys, and a framed pic of the team. There were lots of tears and hugs...we will miss MHS for sure!!!

This is a poem the head coach, Barry Russell wrote. He reads it to the boys each year, and this year, he had Randon read it. He was really choked up, but he made it...

The Game of Life

I hate to lose you son, you'll be leaving me today.

And chances are we may never meet again along the way.

But before you go, I'd like to leave you with just a thought or two,

About the things I've tried to teach you in this short year or two.

I was there when you got that base hit, and acknowledged all the cheers.

I was there when you struck out and tried to hide your tears.

As I watched you climb your little mountains, with your troubles and your strife,

I thought of how much baseball is like the good old game of life.

You'll strike out many times my son, but a winner never quits.

If you'll just keep a level swing, you'll get your share of hits.

You can build your batting average with a winning attitude,

With respect for all your fellow men and never being rude.

Play life by the rules God has laid down, and He'll reward you well.

And someday you'll have a story of success to tell.

Well, we've played our game together, and I do believe we've won.

This world has gained a fine young man, but I hate to lose you, son.

Our Pretty Little Dancer

2010-06-06T12:42:00.000-07:00

This year was Jessilyn's first year in dance. She took tap/ballet at an awesome Christian fine arts studio. Three little church friends were in class with her, so as you can imagine, they had some fun! Her recital was May 1. Pops, MiMi, Marlie, and Gran all came down to watch her performance. We had a great weekend.

I never took dance, so the whole recital thing was very new to me. Luckily I have a good friend who is a pro at this kind of thing, so she prepped me. She told me I had to curl Jessilyn's hair, buy her makeup, glitter, and flowers for the recital. Good thing for friends like Les!

For me, the day was VERY stressful! We had to be at dress rehearsal at 9:00 in the morning, left there, slammed down some lunch with the fam, went to the hotel to get ready (b/c our house was being shown all afternoon), then ran back for the performance. Let's just say I was definitely ready for a glass of wine at dinner that night!

The day was a completely different story for Little Miss Spotlight!

She loved every. single. minute.

She loved the makeup.

She loved the hair.

She loved the costumes.

She loved the stage, and she especially loved the curtain!

She loved having an audience.

She loved the pictures.

SHE. LOVED. IT. ALL!!!!!

That night as I was tucking her into bed, I asked her what she thought about her first recital. Her response:

" It was perfect! I wanna dance foREveR!!"

...That's what I was afraid of...

In curlers the night before

My little fairy princess at rehearsal (pre-make-up)

Coloring in the dressing room

Tap pictures

Maddie, Skyler, Jessilyn, and Ella Kate

Jess, Maddie, and Ella

During the ballet performance

Tap performance

With her flowers after the recital..all smiles!

Thanksgiving 2009

2010-01-30T09:09:00.000-08:00

So I'm a little late, but what's new, right?!? We had a great Thanksgiving this year! We started the festivities with Reese's school feast. She was quite the cutie pie, if I say so myself. Jessilyn had been sick, so she got to skip school and come celebrate with her little sis. Fun sick day, huh! Then we headed up to Amarillo for Thanksgiving. We had lunch at Mom and Dad's and Dad's family came over. This was the first official holiday in the new house, and man was it nice! So much room to cook! The day after Thanksgiving, we went down the the camp to celebrate with Mom's side of the fam. Randon's parents, niece, and nephews came with us. Stacy and Misti were working on their house, so they missed out on a lot of fun. We ate, played games, and hung out in the dining hall. Next to the dining hall, they have a big empty room with hardwood floors, so Uncle Mark brought his DJ stuff, and we had our own dance! It was so much fun. The kids learned the bunny hop, the chicken dance, and the hokey pokey! Too cute. The kids also got to ride on one of the camp horses. It was a beautiful day to spend in the canyon! That weekend there was a big snow in Amarillo. So we stayed until the last possible minute and let the girls play in the snow. They built their first snowmen with Daddy. I was impressed with their skills! Jessilyn made her own snowman in the backyard, too. We had a great week full of family fun and memories!!!

Crazy girls!

MiMi and Reese

My two cutie pies!
Reese and Zachary
Jessilyn and Marlie
Fun cousin times!
What an angel!
Love this one!
Honery!!!
Typical.
Family pic attempt...
Daddy and Jess
Mimi teaching Reese some moves
Shea
Jessilyn's Snowman
Pretty impressive!
Great job, Jessilyn!
Working hard

Fall Catch-Up

2009-12-17T09:46:00.000-08:00

I had the idea that I would catch the blog up, event by event. But, obviously that is not happening! So I thought I would do a catch-all blog to get everyone up to speed with our crazy fall, then maybe make an entry back into the world of regular blogging. Our fall was a busy one! Both girls started school, Jessilyn in kindergarten, and Reese in 3 year-old preschool. The first day of school was an exciting day in the Johnson house! A few weeks later we went to Amarillo for the weekend to celebrate Hutton's 1st and Marlie's 2nd birthdays. We missed Hutton's official party, but still had a great time celebrating! A few weeks later, my MaMa went to meet her heavenly father! As much as we miss her, it was such a sweet time for our family. During her sickness, much time was spent with her, and new memories were made. The weekend of her funeral, our family had such a special time just being together...telling stories, looking through photo albums, reading her Bible and devotional books, making memories...MaMa and PaPa have left an incredible legacy, and we are so blessed by our family!! A few weeks later was a surprise 35th anniversary party for Mom and Dad. More of that incredible legacy... What a fun time we had that weekend! Jessilyn played her first season of t-ball. One major plus was that all of her games were on Saturday evenings, so Daddy could come to every single game! She really enjoyed it, and was a pretty good little player. She also started dance class at a fantastic Christian fine arts studio, and Reese began her first year of gymnastics. She was a little apprehensive at first, but she has warmed up, and now absolutely loves it. I just realized I have no pictures of dance or gymnastics, those will have to come later. Along came Halloween (spent with PaPa), then soon after Thanksgiving. During all of this, Dad was having a not-so-great football season that ended in not making the playoffs. For those of you outside the coaching world, it's not good when you don't make the playoffs!!! Not good for the boys, especially not good for the parents, and therefore, coaches, and therefore wives, and therefore families...you get it! Christmas season is now upon us, along with all the parties, programs, and activities that entails. More on that to come...

Jessilyn riding a pony at a birthday party

Hutton opening gifts

Jessilyn at Marlie's party

Silly cousins!

My cute little punkins!

Say cheese!

Reese's class trip to the local pumpkin patch

T-ball medal

She makes her daddy proud!

Jessilyn with another coach's kid on mismatch day during Red Ribbon Week

The girls at our church's fall carnival (before a game)

My sweet little flower and bumblebee

Our Halloween creations

Going for a ride on the four-wheeler

Sea World

2009-11-14T16:29:00.000-08:00

This summer, my sisters, the girls, and I took a quick little girls' trip. Jessica and I met in Dallas for one day while Jaclyn was working, then met her in Temple and saw her new apartment, then went to San Antonio. We spent the first day shopping, then took the girls to El Mercado in downtown San Antonio. Jessilyn got her face painted, and they each got a new little mexican dress. We went to the Tower of Americas, then to dinner and the river walk. It was a long, but very fun day. After that we spent two days at Sea World. It was a quick trip, and the girls had a blast having "girl time" with their aunts. One evening, we drove to our old house that we lived in when Dad was in medical school. It looked much better than we were expecting, and they have painted it a lovely, very "San Antonio" shade of turquoise. haha

Visiting with Macye and Bryce while in Dallas.

Sweet sisters! (pretty cute, too!)

Showing off their new dresses.

A little face painting.

Jessilyn posing with the cast of the ski show

Close-up of our attempt at a picture at the entrance...typical

New sunglasses

At top of the Tower of Americas

They love their aunts!

Reese's #3

2009-11-14T14:26:00.000-08:00

My little Reesey turned three in August. Yes, I said August...don't judge. We had a fun party at a local kid-sized gym. It was a blast! I think the kids had a lot of fun. When I asked Reese what she wanted for her birthday, all she would ever tell me was "A big dragon and a little monkey." Your guess is as good as mine. So, we had a "monkey" themed party. The only thing I could find decor-wise was a monkey mylar balloon. I made some monkey cupcakes, and there you have it. It was a great day!

She wanted her cake to be a pink monkey.

Jessilyn made her practice blowing out her candle on her birthday donut. She wasn't too into it...obviously.

Sweet cousins!

All the little monkeys

Ready to open gifts

New monkey sleeping bag from Pops & MiMi

Going for a ride on her new scooter.

My Man is OLD!

2009-08-25T09:27:00.001-07:00

July brought a trip to Amarillo. Randon's mom's family was having their annual reunion, Randon's birthday, and Fourth of July. We celebrated Randon's 30th, that's right, I said THIRTY!!!, birthday. We celebrated with his family on his actual birthday, then the next day with my family. The next day was July 4th, and we shuffled back and forth between family celebrations. I headed home in the middle of the week to work, then went back. While I was home, I painted Reese's room. We moved her from a toddler bed to a full size...she has a new Big Girl Room. We had a great time in Amarillo swimming, fishing, golfing...it almost felt like a real vacation!

We're Back!!!

2009-08-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

That's right...NEW POST button. Let's just say this particular computer mouse hasn't clicked on that button for a while now. But school has started and we're getting into a new routine (hopefully one that includes more frequent blog entries). Our summer has been crazy busy! I have a lot to catch you up on, so hold on and enjoy the ride....
Here....
we.....
GOOOOOOOOO!

Jessilyn turned 5 on June 15! We had a great party. This was her first "friend" birthday party since we've moved to Midland. For the past two years, we have just celebrated with family in Amarillo. But Little Miss Social has now made way too many friends to not invite them over for a party. MiMi and Marlie, and Gran and Gabe all came down. We played on the water slide, drove the Jeep, jumped on the trampoline, and threw water balloons. Opened WAY too many gifts, then topped it off with cookie cake and ice cream sundaes just before some nasty weather blew in. Jessilyn got her first American Girl doll, Kit Kittredge. She was SOOOO excited! What a great day, and what a great girl! She truly is a little light that shines full of the joy of Jesus! I love her!!!!

Sparkles Soccer Fun

2009-04-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

Last night Jessilyn's soccer team "The Sparkles," had a soccer party. Midland has a new semi-pro soccer team called, brace yourselves, "The Sockers." So witty... Anyway, Jessilyn's team got to go down onto the field before the game started and were each individually introduced. They were even on the jumbo-tron! Then they got to walk out onto the field with the pro players and stand with them during the National Anthem. Jessilyn's walking partner was Chuck, and when we left at halftime, he had scored the only goal. She must have been his good luck charm! We ate hamburgers and hotdogs. There was also the sweetest snow cone stand you've ever seen. You just got a cup of plain shaved ice, then the flavors were in little dispensers like fountain drinks. The girls could pick their own flavor, any flavor(s), as much (or as little-even though that wasn't the case for any of them) as you wanted. That's a little slice of heaven for 4-5 year olds, I tell ya! The girls had a great time, and Jessilyn thought she was pretty hot stuff! Good times...

Jessilyn is #4, with the white long sleeves on...the one trying to strangle her friend in the last pic.

Jessilyn's First Sewing Project

2009-04-16T14:04:00.000-07:00

I was making some curtains for our room last week, and Jessilyn kept begging me to sew. I asked her what she wanted to make, and since it was Easter week, she decided she wanted to sew a cross. I helped her line up the needle, explained how to keep it straight, and showed her how to turn corners with the stitches. I kept helping her until she told me, "Mom, you just have to show me one time, then I can do it by myself!" So I backed off and let her go all on her own. She did great! She only went off the material one time, and her stitches were pretty straight. I wish I had used a contrasting thread color so you could see it better (you can click on the pic to zoom in), but here is the finished product.

Happy Resurrection Sunday!!

2009-04-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

This was our first time to not be in Amarillo for Easter. I was a little bummed at first, but we had an absolutely wonderful weekend! Saturday we went to Randon's game, then came home and dyed eggs, then baked resurrection cookies. If you haven't heard of these, they are so great for little ones! The ingredients go along with the story of the crucifixion, and you read corresponding scriptures as you mix them. You make the cookies on Saturday night, then put them in the oven and tape the oven shut. (You don't actually bake them.) Then on Easter morning, you open the oven and take the cookies out. Each cookie is supposed to represent the tomb, and when you break the cookies open, they are hollow inside, just like the tomb was empty! We did this for the first time with Jessilyn last year, and she absolutely loves this tradition!

Sunday we had an amazing service at church. We ate lunch with another coaching family and hunted eggs. Then we went over to some sweet church friends' home, and let our kids run around until they were exhausted while the dads watched the Master's. It was a great day.

The most exciting part of Easter this year was how much Jessilyn really got into it, and to see how much she really understood. She loves to "teach" Reese about the resurrection eggs. Her version is one of the sweetest things I've ever heard. We talked on Good Friday about why this was a sad day, and how heavy the remembrance of His death should be, and how we would be able to celebrate on Sunday because of His ultimate victory over death! Jessilyn is asking so many questions, and her spirit is so softened...I don't think it will be long until she asks Jesus to be her Lord and King! We are having conversations about salvation more and more often. Nothing blesses my heart more than to see her love for the Lord! I am overwhelmed at the gift of being a Mommy, and my cup overflows when I think of the warrior Jessilyn will be for Him!

Happy (Late) Birthday Mayce!!

2009-04-16T11:24:00.000-07:00

This post is for our friend Mayce. She turned the big 5 yesterday! (Sorry this is late, Mayce, but our computer wasn't working yesterday) Jessilyn made her friend a birthday cake out of play-doh. Hope you like it!

From Jessilyn to Mayce (exact words):

I miss you Mayce. I hope you had a good birthday, and sometime we'll try to come up there and see you and Bryce. I miss you Mayce.

(Sorry Stacy...I guess Jessilyn isn't interested in meeting Blake. Ha!)

LOVE YOU MAYCE!!!

I'm Your Favorite!

2009-04-09T16:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the girls got in trouble for being tacky to each other. I made them both apologize to the other, then say "I love you," then say "You're my favorite sister." Here's how it went:
J: I love you, Reese. You're my favorite sister.
R: I'm your favorite sister.
Me: No, Reese. You're my favorite sister.
R: I'm your favorite sister.

Oh, well...I give up. Anyway, she is. Jess just told her so!

Just In Case....

2009-03-28T07:44:00.000-07:00

Just in case you were wondering if Jessilyn really IS a drama queen, listen to this conversation from this morning.

J: My life stinks.
M: Why would you say something like that?
J: Because. First, Daddy has to be a meany guy, Gabe drags me around all the time and makes me play puppets when I don't want to, MiMi tells me I'm only getting toilet paper for Christmas, and Reese always messes up my toys that I set up.

OOHHH, the perils of being a four year-old!!

Daddy's Girl

2009-03-24T16:13:00.000-07:00

Reese is such a Daddy's girl! This was our conversation this morning as I was getting her dresssed.

R: (Tattle-telling) Daddy didn't put lotion on me after my bath last night.
J: Oooh, Daddy's in big trouble! Does Daddy need a spanking?
R: (Her face turns serious all of a sudden) NO!!! He is the best daddy we could eber hab!

How sweet, and for the record, he IS the best daddy they could ever have!!

Random Pics of Our Randomness

2009-03-13T13:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some random pics from the past few weeks. Up until this week, the weather here has been amazing! We took advantage of one warm afternoon for the girls to wash their car. They are each wearing their new swimsuits from Gran.

(Please pay no attention to our garage...on the agenda for spring break!!)

This is Reese kickin' back, watchin' a little TV, and lookin' like a gangsta! Go Dawgs!

Jessilyn got to spend the night with a friend one night last week. Daddy was in Lubbock for baseball, so Reese and I enjoyed some girl time. We took a shower, and then I dressed her in her towels to look like me in mine. Pretty stinkin' cute, I must say. I wish I could edit a little black box to cover the innapropriate flashing!

Snuggle time!!

These pics are for you Amy Wright, just to show the complete juxtaposition to the pics of your boys playing outside...Jessilyn arranged her dolls and dog in my planter while I was working in the yard, then had a photo shoot (these pics were taken by her). This is how girls play outside. After this, she used a hand rake to draw designs in the dirt.

This is what happens when a two year-old tries to pour her own salad dressing. There is not only salad under there, also green beans and chicken pot pie. And, that was no regular bottle of salad dressing, but a Sam's special Vidalia Onion Vinagrette...probably 72 oz. or something crazy...

What would you think of me if I told you we made her eat it all with a spoon for punishment?

Just kidding. We wouldn't do that...She even got new food without dressing on it!

Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T09:20:00.000-08:00

First off, I am amazed that I am posting about Valentine's on Valentine's Day, and not sometime later this summer. Randon has baseball today, so we celebrated last night. Last night Randon took all his girls out. He bought us each flowers, and took us to a little local Italian restaurant. We had a great time, and the girls were absolutely thrilled to get their own flowers! After dinner, we came home and had desserts that Jessilyn and I had prepared-lemon tart, and chocolate covered strawberries. We put the girls to bed, and Randon and I watched a movie. This morning, we decorated the dining room, and the girls woke up to a Valentine's Day breakfast treat-donuts! Fun times...

Jessilyn making strawberries

Daddy and his girls

All the girls

The girls with their flowers

Mommy and Daddy (picture taken by Jessilyn)

The girls' breakfast table

Yummy donuts!!

Jessilyn showing off her new jewelry (check out the earrings...she was so excited for "mommy" earrings)

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

(two more new posts below...)

Don't Worry, Mom

2009-02-14T09:09:00.000-08:00

Last week the girls were playing outside and I had the back door open while I was fixing them lunch. Out of nowhere, I heard Jessilyn scream, "Ooooooh my Goooddddddd!" (d sound emphasized) I felt my blood immediately begin to broil. I calmly said, "Jessilyn, please come here." The following conversation proceeded like this:

Me: "What did you just say?"
Jess: "What Mom?" (with a completely innocent/oblivious face)
Me: "What did you just say?"
Jess: "Don't worry, Mom. I said 'Oh my Goddddd, not Oh my gosh'." (not sure about the
double quotation rules...my English teacher would be so proud...)

We have always told Jessilyn that we don't say "Oh my gosh," but we've never explained the reasoning behind the rule. Obviously, it was time to do some explaining!

Catch Up

2009-01-30T13:30:00.000-08:00

So I'm finally getting around to posting pics from Christmas. We had a great Christmas this year! We spent the afternoon at my Aunt Tina's house with my mom's family on Chrismas Eve, then went to the Christmas Eve service at Messiah's House. We spent Christmas Eve night at Randon's parents, and all day Christmas with his family. It was so nice to be in one place all day long, and not have to run from house to house! The day after Christmas we left with my family for a ski trip in Colorado. We had a great time. This was the first time in years my entire family has been able to be together for a trip. It was much needed! We had a great time with all our families! There are lots of pics, and they aren't in chronological order, so please be patient with me.

Sisters

Rob and Marlie (what a cutie pie!!)
Sleepy cousins (Hutton, Reese, and Marlie)

View from the front porch of our cabin

Little Miss all ready to go sledding

Making snow angels

Cynthia and Hutton

The Meeks Family (#2)

Daddy and his girls (typical Reese picture pose)

Pops, Mimi, Jessilyn, Reese, and Hutton
(where's Marlie?)

Pops & Mimi

One of my all time fav pics!!

This was Jessilyn's first time to ski. She was so excited. We had watched the Jon & Kate Plus Eight skiing episode over and over to prepare. Uncle Jered and Daddy took her for a lesson on the street in front of our cabin the day before. She was such a pro! When we went to watch her lessons, we couldn't find her anywhere. After lots of searching, we were told she had been doing so well that her instructor had taken her up to the real lifts! She had such a great time, and we had so much fun with her!

Jessilyn and her ski instructor

She's a pro!

What a cutie!

Daddy and Jess

Dad & Jess on the lift

Mommy, Jessilyn, and Aunt Jaclyn

Aunt Jaclyn and Jessilyn.

Here's the story: Jessilyn was headed straight off the edge of the mountain, and wasn't planning on stopping! I freaked out and froze, Randon couldn't get to her, Jered was above us up the mountain...so Aunt Jaclyn skied in to save the day. They both busted in the process, got buried in deep powder, and we all laughed our heads off (after we got over the fear of our daughter skiing off the side of the mountain!)

The end of a great day of skiing...the look of pure joy when you finally take your ski boots off and put on your tennis shoes! There's nothing better!

Same pose with Dad

Reese fell asleep watching a movie on the ride home

The Johnson Fam headed back to Texas

Practicing on the street in front of the cabin

Pops, Mimi, and kids

Reese clearly not thrilled about bundling up

Jess, on the other hand, eating it up!

This is how Reese put Hutton to sleep

Reese and cousin Jay Garrett

Girls leaving milk & cookies for Santa

My little Reese was exhausted. She fell asleep coloring.

My two favorie girls!

Me, Jac, cousins Megan and Morgan

Why?!?!

2009-01-30T06:54:00.000-08:00

So as I was fixing the girls' oatmeal this morning, I was once again irritated by something...the fruit packages are color coded: blueberries n' cream=bluish/purple package, strawberries n' cream = red package, bananas n' cream=yellow package....and peaches n' cream=blue package?!?! Why not orange? Does this perplex anyone besides me?

Quiet Time?!?!?

2009-01-14T10:10:00.000-08:00

I would love any tips, tricks, advice, schedules, etc. from my mommy friends...
How do you work your quiet time with the Lord in every day?

I am trying to rework my schedule. I am somewhat of a perfectionist, and when I think about getting up early every morning to try to fit in my quiet time AND work out time before the girls get up, I am automatically defeated in my mind, and don't even attempt it. To get both of these done every day, I would have to get up around 5:00, and let's be honest...that's NOT happening, especially every day.

I have been very unfaithful in both areas, and really want to change that. So, any pointers? What works for you? What hasn't worked?

Date Night

2008-12-14T19:21:00.000-08:00

All dressed up!

Last night was date night for Mommy and Jessilyn. We started this last year, and decided it had to be a yearly tradition! We went to dinner (Jessilyn's choice), then to the Nutcracker. We went to eat at Olive Garden. Fettucine al-fer-a-do is Jessilyn's favorite. We had a great time. I don't know how many times she said "love you, Mommy" just over dinner. She was absolutely giddy, and I loved every minute of it!

Funny faces at dinner
Is there anything better than this face?!?

We then went to the Nutcracker. Watching through her eyes was purely magical. She was glued to the dancers the entire time. She didn't miss a minute, and was asking questions about the story line throughout. She is infatuated with Clara. In the second half when the Sugar Plum Fairy was dancing, Jessilyn was more concerned with seeing Clara (who was just sitting on the throne watching, nothing else). Too funny! They served Christmas cookies during intermission. Yummy! After the Nutcracker was over, we went to Starbucks for coffee and hot chocolate. Jessilyn went and sat with a group of teenagers while we were waiting on our order. She, not for one minute, ever even considered the thought she wasn't as old as them! I think next year Reese will be old enough to get in on the action. We're still debating if Dad has to go, or if it will just be a girl thing. What's your vote? She had a great night, and I had an even better night...watching memories being made through her eyes. Nothing better!

Love you, Jess!!

Here's some more Jessilyn silliness, just for fun!!

Random Pics

2008-12-08T20:13:00.001-08:00

Here are some random pics from the last month or so that I haven't yet posted

Jessilyn and Reese both got new haircuts. Jessilyn likes to tell everyone she got a "bob," and Reese "kinda got a bob, but really just a trim, because you can't tell she got her hair cut." I found a cute place for them to go. They get to sit in a firetruck or police car and watch a movie.

Jessilyn's hair

Jessilyn sitting so still

Jess in her first Christmas program at church
(my camera sucks...listening Santa?!?)

Jessilyn singing

Reese fixing MiMi's hair

Dress up fun!

We call this our version of a "knocked up 80's prom queen"

Let me explain: The girls went to a mermaid birthday party. The little girl's mom sewed mermaid tails for each of the girls. This is Reese's tail, but she likes to pull it up like a tube dress! It looks just like an 80's prom dress to me, and her cute little belly makes her look...well, knocked up! I can't explain where she learned this pose...I won't even try.

Reese getting her first hair cut (and apparently really enjoying it)

Lollipops are always a good distraction
Cute little Reese!

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-08T19:49:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving in Amarillo this year. The day we got into Amarillo was absolutely beautiful, so we took Jessilyn, Reese, and Marlie to the park. Marlie had a blast! Pops and MiMi came along. My mom swears she told us she wasn't going to cook this year (in the small rental house), but none of us weem to remember that conversation. Anyway, we did end up cooking...it was wild, crazy, cramped, and FUN! Everyone was home, there were pack-n-plays in every room, and we had a blast! Dinner was wonderful! We spent Friday with Randon's family. Randy cooked a great meal, and we had lots of fun rocking out on the Wii. Saturday we attempted to get pictures of the four grandkids in their Christmas outfits and pajamas for Christmas cards. BTW, whose idea was that?!!? We took something like 650 pictures, and got maybe 10 good ones (no good ones of all four together). I didn't even get a great one of my girls together. (You'll never guess which one wasn't cooperating!?!? If you can't, you'll know when you get your card!) Saturday night we went to church, then had a Wii party with my family. We were NO good, but it was amusing to listen to Cynthia sing and watch Jessica and Rob tag team on the drums. Sunday was some laid back, card playing fun with my family. Then we headed out to Stacy and Misti's for a great dinner, then got on the road back to Midland. All in all, a great weekend and way too much great food!

Jessilyn and the big man Hutton

Aunt Jaclyn and Reese

Daddy and Jessilyn doing "The Spider"
(takes you back to elementary days, huh)

Marlie swinging

Reese swingingJohnson Family

Jessilyn in her element!

Daddy's girl!

My Big Eight!

2008-11-25T16:19:00.000-08:00

I was tagged by Jody and Jennifer, so here goes:

8 TV Shows I Love To Watch:
1. ER
2. Grey's Anatomy
3. Brothers & Sisters
4. The Hills (don't judge me)
5. John & Kate plus eight
6. Dancing with the Stars
7. Oprah
8. The 700 Club (I sound like my mom!)

8 Favorite Restaurants:
1. Kabuki (Amarillo)
2. Abuelo's
3. Chili's
4. PF Chang's
5. The Cheesecake Factory
6. Posada's (I miss this place, Jessica!)
7. Ruth's Chris
8. Wall Street Grill (Midland)

8 Things That Happened Today:
1. Paid bills (yuck!)
2. Put up fall decorations
3. Got down Christmas decorations
4. Put up all Christmas decorations except tree (ran out of time)
5. Argued with Randon about getting tree out, then about our messy garage
6. Untangled Christmas lights for Randon (trying to kiss up)
7. Went to buy milk for cereal (for dinner!)
8. Packed for Thanksgiving

8 Things I am looking Forward To:
1. Going to Amarillo
2. Cooking for Thanksgiving
3. Seeing MaMa
4. Going to church at Messiah's House (with Randon, for once)
5. Getting pics of girls for Christmas cards
6. Finishing Christmas shopping
7. Randon's Christmas break
8. Ski trip (first time for Jessilyn-more posts to follow I'm sure!)

8 Things On My Wish List:
1. Sleep
2. Energy
3. DSLR camera
4. DVD video camera
5. Lose weight!
6. Finish last details of house
7. Trip for 10th anniversary next summer
8. Get out of debt!

8 People I Tag:
1. Cynthia
2. Meghan
3. Stacy
4. Jill
5. Sarah
6. Emily S.
7. Erin
8. CeCe

I usually never do these when I'm tagged, and now I've done two in a row! Imressive...

I Was Tagged

2008-11-21T11:02:00.000-08:00

I was tagged (like a month ago) by my friend Erin. Here is the 4th photo in my 4th file, then the 6th photo in my 6th file. I do not have my picture files organized well at all, so it is pretty random!!

This is a picture of my girls at Maw's house last year. Every year the girls on my mom's side of the family have a brunch the weekend before Christmas. Last year it was at Maw's house. There were lots of little ones around. The girls and their 2nd cousin(?) Kenzie were feeding the chickens. Maw's house holds some of my favorite memories from when I was a little girl. I have always loved those chickens running around in the back yard!!

This is a picture from when I was painting Jessilyn's room. It was the first room to work on after our move to Midland. She was helping me paint in her bikini!! She was so little :(

So there you have it, Erin!

Killing Giants

2008-10-24T11:36:00.000-07:00

Today at MOPS, the girls learned about David and Goliath. In the car, Jessilyn was looking at her papers and pretending to be the teacher. What she said was too funny...

Jessilyn: "OK class, let's tell the story of David and Goliath one more time to help us remember. It is very important to remember not to throw rocks at anyone except giants and mean people."

Do you think she got the point of the lesson?

P.S.-I was so excited yesterday about potty training. The part I forgot: last night Reese got out of bed at least five times. Everytime I would raise my voice and threaten her with a spanking if she got up again, she would get her classic little Reese smile (those of you who know her know just the smile I'm talking about), and say in a sheepinsh little voice, "Reese potty." They learn so quickly how to manipulate, don't they?

Snack Time Fun!

2008-10-23T15:59:00.000-07:00

Jessilyn decided she wanted to make her own snack today. She wanted to "mix something with m&m's. So I let her get creative, and what she came up with was pretty good! She mixed Cheerios, peanuts, broken up pieces of chocolate drizzled rice cakes, dried cranberries, m&m's, and mini Nilla wafers. Her and Reese loved shaking it up, and they especially loved eating it! (This was a vast improvement from last week. On two different days she asked if she could get herself a snack. The first day, she was eating caramel apple dip straight from the bowl by the spoonful, and the next she was snacking on a bag of bacon bits!! Healthy, right?!?)

On another note, Reese wore panties in public for the first time with no accidents-to Jessilyn's gymnastics practice! YEAH!!

What's Your Take?

2008-10-14T19:43:00.001-07:00

So I need some input from all of my wise, godly Momma friends...

Yesterday Jessilyn got in trouble for aggravating Reese and then lying to me about what I clearly saw her blatantly do. She got two spankings-one for the big sis bullying and another for the lying. I explained to her what she did wrong, why she was being punished, then made her think about her actions. After her "thinking time," I went in, talked to her, loved on her, then prayed with her. I explained to her that when we mess up and do something wrong, we should pray about it. Pray for forgiveness, thank God for loving us unconditionally, thank God for the lesson, and ask for His strength not to repeat the offense. Here is my dilemma, my thought I have been pondering ever since. Should I be teaching her to pray for forgiveness every time she messes up, to confess each sin?

I believe we are all already forgiven by the blood of Jesus Christ. Salvation is our acceptance of that forgiveness. I understand Jessilyn hasn't yet accepted that gift. But I do not want to plant the seeds of condemnation and guilt that can come with the teaching that we must "confess every sin." I know as a young child, I really struggled with this point. I remember worrying about every single thing I had done wrong that day and trying so hard to remember every little detail. (I realize I tend to have a little of a compulsive personality, but so does my sweet Jess.)

So, my question is...How do you balance teaching a soft heart, one that is easily convicted of wrongdoing without (possibly) opening the door for guilt, self-condemnation, etc.? What's your take?

SluMBeR ParTy!!!

2008-09-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

Jessilyn went to her first slumber party this weekend. She had the best time! Her friend Amaris lives down the street from us, plays on our soccer team, and goest to our church. Amaris had a girl party-she invited three little girls and their moms. We had dinner (mini corn dogs and friendship salad), made crafts, and had desert. Then the moms went home and the girls spent the night. Cece (Amaris's mom) brought all the girls to church the next morning. Jessilyn painted a letter "J" and made a tie-dyed pumpkin shirt. The girls were adorable and the mommys had a great time, too.

They sent the cutest invitations I've ever seen. Cece let Amaris plan the whole party, so the invitation was in Amaris's own words (in italics), with her mom's translations (in bold). Portions of it went like this: The girls have to be here in like 11 minutes, around noon. Around 6:00. The entire invite went on like this, telling what time, plans, what to bring, etc. Very creative!

I must mention that Cece was exactly 39 weeks the night of the party. How brave/crazy is she?!?! Thanks Cece and Amaris for a great night!!!

The girls eating dinner (Notice the bowl in the middle-fresh whipped cream. The girls ate the entire bowl...mostly with their hands!)

Desert time!

My cutie pie!

Amaris, Jessilyn, Ava (fellow Sparkle), and Ella

Jessilyn's Artwork

Jessilyn's T-Shirt

Weekend in Amarillo

2008-09-26T13:05:00.001-07:00

The girls and I went up to Amarillo a few weekends ago to meet Hutton and for Marlie's first birthday party. I can't believe she is already one! It is crazy to line up Reese, one year later Marlie, and one year later Hutton. The Meeks kids better slow it down!! We had a jam-packed weekend of fun! We also snuck in a trip to the fair-thanks Pops for the fun night!

The birthday cutie pie

Dig in!!

She wasn't crazy about the toys!

All the kids (minus Randon-darn football!)

Reese loves her Uncle Rob!!

I'm not sure how this happened, but I didn't get one picture of Hutton on my camera! We were constantly taking pics with him, I guess my camera just never got into the pile. URRGH! He's perfect, though-take my word for it!

GOOOOO Sparkles!!!

2008-09-26T12:40:00.000-07:00

Jessilyn started her first year of soccer. She is doing really great. She scored the first goal of the first game. (She likes to tell everyone she scored the first goal of the season). She scored two of the team's six goals at the first game, and assisted on another. The next two games haven't gone quite so well. I think at the third game we literally got beat about 40-0. (Since it is non-competitive there is no official score. Everyone wins! ha,ha I don't remember sports being like that when I played!) The other teams just seem to have a much better grasp of the game than we do, but we're slowly catching on. Jessilyn does really well, and is having a lot of fun!! She has a little friend from church on her team, and one of the other coach's daughter is also playing with us. If nothing else, it makes for some great entertainment on Saturday afternoons! On a side note...it has worked out where Randon is getting to make it to quite a few of her games. I was very nervous about how that might go, but God really blessed us with a great schedule!

Sparkles Soccer Diva!

Bend it like Beckham, baby

All the girls

She worked up a sweat!!

We love you, Jessilyn!!

Reese is 2! (1 1/2 months ago)

2008-09-26T12:19:00.000-07:00

The birthday girl in her cool shades (upside down)...that's how she rolls!

So we all know I am not the greatest at this blogging thing, but oh well. Reese's b-day was Aug. 15. We had to do something in Midland so that Randon could be there because football had already started. So my parents, Randon's parents, and Randon's brother and his family all came down to Midland for the weekend. We had a lot of fun! It was very low-key. We didn't invite any friends, just family. On Sunday afternoon the girls and their cousins went swimming at Randon's parent's hotel. They had so much fun. Then we came back to the house for presents and cake. Sometimes I am jealous of the cute ideas other moms come up with for their kids' parties, but for me the big parties are way too stressful. I like the simple, relaxed parties. And to be honest, I think simple is good for our kids every once in a while. They don't get that much anymore! Thanks to all the fam for coming down-we had a great time!!

Sister baking, err, eating birthday brownies

The birthday girl and her daddy

Reese and Aunt Misti splashing

Opening presents

So Tired...

2008-09-22T20:17:00.000-07:00

What a long day! I worked today-off at 5:00. Sped to Fazoli's, shoved spaghetti down the girls' throats as fast as I could so that we could be to Jessilyn's soccer game at 6:00. Watched her game (which, by the way, was HILARIOUS!), then sped to church for a bible study that started at 7:00 (got there about 7:20). The bible study is a Kay Arthur precept study on John, which in and of itself is exhausting. She crams a lot of info. into two hours! Then home for baths and bed....

Which brings me to my question...how do you moms of multiple older children do it?!?!? I don't know if I am cut out for the sports, music, church, youth group, etc., etc., etc. lifestyle!

And for a second question:
Has anyone else done any of the Kay Arthur precept studies? This is my first one? What did you think?

Hopefully, I'll make it to blogging about Jessilyn's soccer later this week-really amusing. And I still have to catch up on Reese's b-day, my new newphew (http://www.meeksfamilyblog.blogspot.com), Marlie's b-day, etc....but for now I have to go to bed!!

The Great Flood of 08

2008-08-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

So, here is the update on the house. We had a pipe bust in our kitchen ceiling. Yes...I said ceiling!!! Our ceiling caved in, and water seeped to every room in our house except for the master bath. We had to replace all the flooring and a few walls. It was a crazy summer, working nonstop...but I can honestly say it has turned out to be such a blessing! God is so creative! We needed (and I really wanted) new floors, and now we have them!

We have worked on every house we've lived in, but this is now my favorite. It is definitely still a work in progress, but I'm the most proud of this house.
Reason #1-I really hated this house when we first moved in. I really struggled with contentment when we first moved to Midland. I hated our house, and felt really trapped because I knew no one and stayed in my house all the time...lots of time to ponder all the things I wanted to do (but couldn't). I have worked hard to find cheap and creative ways to improve, and have learned some new things along the way. I even made my own Roman shades! Now I am really happy with where we are, and have learned to be content with what we have/haven't gotten finished.
Reason #2-This is our first home away from Amarillo and parents....hence, the first home we have really done on our own. I am so grateful for the past two homes, and for all the help we had with them. But this home holds a special place because we've done it all on our own. I feel like a grownup!!

And I must give kudos to my awesome hubby! He worked his cute little booty off this summer, and went right into football season with no rest! He has done some amazing work and been very patient with me in the process (despite a very difficult tile choice on my part!) He has done it all-ripped up old (possibly Asbestos-infested) floors, painted, laid laminate floors, installed an R.O. system, laid tile floors, installed baseboards, installed new toilets...the list goes on and on. I love Randon's work ethic, and how hard he works to take care of his girls! I love that he is a "man's man." He's not afraid to take on a new project, and he really likes to do things on his own. It makes me one proud Momma! I love you Babe!!

Here are some "before" pics:

Kitchen ceiling

Don't you just love the old (tile?) floors?!?!

Our family room (full of fans)

Here are some "during" pics:

I'll have to take some pics of things put back together...maybe later:)

Happy 4th Jessilyn!!

2008-08-31T20:21:00.000-07:00

We were in Amarillo for Jessilyn's birthday this year. For one gift, she got to go with Jaclyn and I to get her first pedicure. She loves all the prissy, girly stuff...this was no exception! She decided she wanted the family to go to Wonderland. We had a little picnic, opened presents and ate cake, then went to ride all night long!! She had so much fun with her cousins. She thought she was so cool because she rode some of the "big" rides with them. (And also because she wore a swimsuit with shorts through the entire park for the one water ride-HAHA). I still remember how cool Wonderland was when I was her age, and it is apparently still just as great!

First pedicure
Birthday Diva!!
Riding the boats
Surprisingly, Randon still fits!!
Pure joy! I love you, sweet girl!!

Happy 75th MaMa!

2008-08-31T20:11:00.000-07:00

We celebrated my MaMa's 75th birthday in June. It was a surprise party, and many of our family members came to Amarillo to surprise her. She was diagnosed with cancer this year, and she has been absolutely amazing! Her strength and dignity amaze me. What an exapmle! We had a great time. Jessilyn was my little photographer, taking pics of anyone who would let her. We love you MaMa!

MaMa, Mom, her sisters and brother
Jessilyn loves MaMa!
Three Generations
Could she be any cuter?!?!?

Still Alive!!

2008-08-31T15:07:00.000-07:00

The Johnsons are still alive. We have been MIA all summer long, so I will try to catch you up on the past few crazy months! Going back to Jessilyn's surgery...she came through like a trooper! She was so tough it was amazing! The poor thing was so sick for a good three days. She laid around my parents' house completely limp, no energy, completely dehydrated, couldn't even hold down a drink of Sprite. I have never seen her so sick. We went to the ER Wednesday around 11:00, and she was in surgery that night around 9:30. God is so good...what a blessing that we were in Amarillo. One of her ER nurses was an old youth worker of mine from Southwest. My dad got to go back in the OR with her and hold her hand until she went under, and my cousin was one of her OR nurses. She came through the surgery great-her appendix hadn't ruptured yet and there were no problems. When she got to the pediatric floor, her child life specialist was an old volleyball friend of mine (we love you Lizzie!!) She was released Friday afternoon, and was at a birthday party in Midland Sunday night. She was awesome and now has a cool scar she likes to show everyone. (She calls it her "inzizzion"). TOO CUTE!

Headed to OR with Pops
First meal...YEAH-Jell-O!!!!
Going to the playroom
Going HOME!!!

Where do I even start?!?!?

2008-06-20T21:09:00.000-07:00

So for those of you who may not have heard, we have had a very eventful week! I will have to back track to catch up on Jessilyn's birthday (which was also Father's Day-but Randon sort of got the shaft!), etc., but here is a brief synopsis of our week.

Sunday-Father's Day, Jessilyn's 4th Birthday
Monday-Randon leaves town, Jessilyn starts puking
Monday night-More puking
Tuesday-More puking
Tuesday night-More puking
Wednesday-A little more puking, lots of crying, trip to the ER
Wednesday night-Emergency appendectomy for Jessilyn!
Thursday-catheter for Jessilyn (NIGHTMARE), phone call from Midland that morning-our pipes had burst, and our ENTIRE house was flooded!!!!!!
Friday-Jessilyn out of hospital, Randon back to Amarillo

I'll backtrack and fill in some more details soon, but for now this is all my brain can handle. Trying to stay up until Randon gets here...not too sure I'll make it......pray for us!!

Holiday, and I do mean HOLIDAY, Weekend

2008-05-27T17:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Memorial Day Weekend, and Randon and I celebrated in a unique way...no kids! The girls went back to Amarillo with MiMi on Thursday, and we'll head up to Amarillo next week to get them. That's right...two weeks with no kids!

The first day they were gone we were having our plumbing worked on, so we had no water. No kids, no water (therefore I couldn't do laundry, clean, work in the yard, etc.) - I had no idea what to do, so I went and painted pottery. It was really nice.

Saturday night Randon and I went out to a little concert. It was a local guy who sings old country music. We people watched, made fun of people, and did a little dancing. It was so much fun. Thanks Mom-we had a lot of fun!

Sunday night we went to the drive-in movie to see Indiana Jones. On Monday, I was sick and never even got out of the recliner. We had previously decided we would work on the house. I had begun texturing our entryway on Sunday. So on Monday, Randon was my little electrician. He put up four new light fixtures and a new ceiling fan. The new fixtures really do make a big impact for just a little $$$. I must say, I am very impressed. (We won't mention how he hung the front porch light upside down. Shhhhh) He jokes that he should take up being an electrician as a second job. He says if he got paid by the hour, we could be rich!! Here are some pics of his handiwork. Thanks, Babe!

Class of 2008

2008-05-27T17:30:00.000-07:00

So last week was Jessilyn's first graduation ceremony. She graduated from her three year-old preschool class. The kids were very cute. Jessilyn got to receive her diploma then walk across the stage to get a hug from her teacher, Ms. Brooke. Then her class had a little luau. Lots of fun! Thank you MiMi for coming to watch. We love that it is so important for you to be a part of the girls' special moments. More pics...

The beautiful grad

All smiles

Jessilyn and her best friend Briley

Jessilyn hugging Ms. Brooke (or vice versa)

Yeah Aunt Stinky!!

2008-05-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

So the weekend after Mother's Day, we made a mad dash to Waco for Aunt Jaclyn's graduation. What a fun weekend! It is always so fun when the entire family is together. Those times are becoming more and more rare as all of our lives continually grow crazier. Graduation was Saturday morning. It was a lovely FIVE hours with two toddlers, an infant, and a prego! We're dedicated, Jaclyn-don't you forget it! Randon almost had to beat up an elderly handicapped man because he was determined to take Rob's wheelchair spot. I love you, Babe!! More dedication. Dad then treated us all to a wonderful steak lunch, the girls did a little shopping at our favorite store (we'll miss you, Spice!), then we got to go pack and clean Jaclyn's apartment. Wait, when did we volunteer for that?!? Again, more dedication.

J/K Jaclyn-We love you and are truly so proud of you! You have truly blossomed over the past four years, and we're so excited to see what God's got up His sleeve for you!! Here are som pics...

Pops and his girls

Skittles fans for entertainment (thanks, MiMi)

Photography of new cousin by Jessilyn

Dad, Mom, and Jaclyn

Love ya Stinky!!!

Am I the Only One?

2008-05-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

So, I have been trying to be a little more eco-friendly lately. Part of that included buying the reuseable grocery bags. So as I approach the register to pay for my groceries this morning, I realize, "Crap! I left all my bags in the car!" So, I ended up bagging my groceries in plastic bags, while my $10 worth of canvas bags lie forgotten in the back of my car. Please tell me I am not the only one who has done this!!!

Mother's Day

2008-05-27T07:18:00.001-07:00

I had a great Mother's Day this year. We went to church, then Randon took me out to luch at Abuleo's...yummy!! Then we came home and...drumroll....I got to take a FOUR hour nap!! What else could I ask for? My gift was a new digital picture frame. Randon downloaded a slideshow so that I could have pics in my room at work. Oh yeah, for those who don't know, I got a job! Praise God! I work two days a week. I really like it. I've been there for almost two months now. Thanks Randon and girls for making my day so special. I am so blessed!!

Catching Up

2008-05-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't written a new blog in over a month!! I am such a slacker! Sorry to those few people who read this...I'll try to do better!

I have a lot to catch up on, so my plan is to have several "mini-posts". So here goes....

Reese went to the dermatologist earlier this month, and it turns out her rash was just a really bad case of eczema. We were given some Rx ointments, and it cleared up completely in about two days! She is back to her gorgeous, perfect self. Here are some before/after pics.

Jessilyn had a little program at her preschool. They did lots of nursery rhymes. Then they recited their character traits (responsiblity, integrity, etc.), and a corresponding verse for each trait. I absolutely loved her school this last year. They had so many different things to keep their little minds sparked and learning. She had a science lab, computer lab, library, chapel, Spanish, gymnastics, movie theater...all this on top of her regular classroom. She really enjoyed her year. She had a wonderful teacher and made some new friends. I have decided not to enroll her again next year. God really convicted me that I needed to keep her at home (it will be her last year before kindergarten!!) and take more responsibility for teaching her myself. Please keep me in your prayers as I prepare this summer for what we'll jump into next year. I'm not worried at all about her not learning what she needs to-I'm more worried about being structured and disciplined. Honestly, I think that might be part of God's plan here...isn't He sneaky?!? :) He knows where I need work! Pray that I will be faithful. Anyway, here are some pics...

Jessilyn was "Little Miss Muffett"

Doesn't she look scared?!?!

Luau, Luau, Luau

2008-04-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

Last night our life group leaders' little girl had a luau birthday party. I took the girls to get little outfits for the party. Anyone who knows my girls can guess exactly what happened...Reese would have absolutely nothing to do with dressing up, while Jessilyn ate it up and was a big cheese! Jessilyn even had to have the coconut bra, and to be honest, I'm a little concerned about how excited she was to be wearing a bra! Enjoy the pics! Happy birthday Piper!

LaLoo Titter

2008-04-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

My girls aren't the type to just jump out of bed "bright-eyed and bushy-tailed." (Is that how the saying goes?) Anyway, Tuesday morning Jessilyn was lying on the couch, sipping her chocolate milk (a habit we must thank MiMi for), and watching Disney. Reese walks up to the couch, and says "UUGGHH," which in her language I'm positive means "Dear Sister, please help me onto the couch with you". Right?!? Anyway, Jessilyn pulled her up, put her arm around her, and they snuggled up to each other. So sweet...Then Reese turns her head to Jessilyn and says, "La loo titter." (translated "Love you, Sister"-for those of you without toddlers) Jessilyn's eyes immediately lit up, became huge with excitement, she opened her mouth wide in shock, and said, "Mom, Reese said I Love You!!"

These are the moments that you truly cherish as a mom! I love to see that sister bond growing between them each day. I pray continually that they will be the best of friends as they grow up! Thank you God, for these moments each day, that remind me what a gift being a mommy is! Thank you for entrusting your little angels to me. I am truly blessed!

Sorry For the Absence

2008-04-14T14:04:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been so long, I've been on somewhat of a blogging hiatus. Our lives have been busy, but to be honest, I've just found other things I would rather do than blog. I will try to catch everyone up...

We went back to Amarillo for Easter. What a fast, busy, but wonderful weekend! We were able to visit my Aunt Doris just after her brain surgery, were able to go to church (so great to see everyone!), and were able to spend many great hours over some vicious games of Kanasta at Mom and Dad's. The weather was typical Panhandle weather, so my poor girls froze in their cute little Easter dresses from MiMi, but they sure looked precious doing it! We had an indoor egg hunt on Easter morning, then got on the road back to Midland (tears...)

The girls riding their scooters at Gran and Papa's.

Jessilyn, Reese, and Marlie in their cute little dresses!

Mine and Jaclyn's Easter Bunny art (what a cute canvas!)

I had a wonderful little treat the next weekend. My sweet friend Stacy had me to her home for the weekend, and we went to Pink Impact-a women's conference at Gateway. What a great time we had! The speakers were wonderful, worship was AHHHmazing, and the fellowship was so sweet. I got to spend Saturday with my cousing Meghan. Thank you Stacy for being the greatest friend ever! And thanks to Gran for loving on my girls while I was gone...what a blessing!

The next weekend was Reese's little surgery. She did great! I'm a bad mom, and forgot to take my camera to the hospital, so I don't have any pics. She was really cute just before they took her back. She'd been given a shot with some Demerol in it to help her relax. She kept trying to stand up on the hospital bed, would wobble around, say "WHOA!", then lay back down. It was really cute! The poor baby couldn't have just had a quick little surgery without making it even more complicated. She broke out into this funky rash the days before the surgery, was teething (her last two little baby teeth), and then had mad diarrhea the rest of the afternoon! I felt so ad for her. Despite all the setbacks, she bounced back really quickly. We were at Randon's game the next day, and she's been doing great ever since. One funny side effect is that she has become really loud! I guess she can finally hear herself, and she thinks it's really great!

Jessilyn spent her first night with a friend the night before the surgery, so that we wouldn't have to drag her to the hospital at 6 am. I was a little concerned about how she would do, but she had a blast. This weekend, she had the same little friend spend the night at our house. I can't believe she is old enough to have her first sleepover! They slept in the tent in Jessilyn's room, we had pancakes and bacon for breakfast (Jessilyn's favorite), baked Snickerdoodles, then went to Randon's baseball game. What fun!

Jessilyn and Noie "sleeping" (wink, wink)

Speaking of Randon, his team is having a great season. They won their 20th game last week, and have only lost one game this season. I'm a proud wife! Daddy coaching his two best players!

It's Official...

2008-03-07T17:51:00.000-08:00

We went to the pediatrician on Wednesday and guess what...Reese still has an ear infection! So yesterday we went to the ENT, and it is now official-she'll have tubes put in on April 4, so please keep us in your prayers. I'm really OK with this...I just want her to feel better. I know they are still bothering her. She constatly has her fingers in her ears, and if she can find anything else to stick in there (keys, bobby pins, Q-tips) she will, as long as she thinks we can't see her-SCARY!!!

Randon is crazy busy with baseball, and is also fighting a sinus infection. It doesn't help that it's been so cold and windy here for the past few days!! I had an interview for a p/t job last week, and I'll have a working interview on Tuesday. If I get the job, I'll start on Thursday. The dentist is very nice, and he is very open about his faith. They start each morning with a prayer meeting. I must admit, I'd like to get the job, but I know that he's praying about who he hires, and I know I'm praying...so I'll be at peace whatever the outcome, because I am confident it will be God's will.

Just for laughs, here are some cute things Jessilyn has said this week....

This morning she came into my room and told me that Reese was "just jacking around." WHAT?!?!?

We started using a little prayer model for when we say our goodnight prayers with her. One part of the prayer says, "One thing I would like God to change about me is..." Her prayer was that God would change her into a fireman. Not too sure she got the point, but maybe with some time..

Reese said "sister" for the first time yesterday. Jessilyn was VERY excited! I also got Reese's hair into pigtails for the first time yesterday. This is the best picture I could get of the "little sweetie". (Can you hear the sarcasm through the computer screen?)

Here is a funny Reese story. At least it's probably funny to you...I didn't find it very amusing! I wasn't feeling too well the other morning, so I decided to shut the door behind me when I went into the front bathroom. I learned my lesson. Reese decided to go play in my bathroom. The results speak for themselves...

Here is a picture of the girls swimming at the hotel with PaPa and Gran last weekend in Lubbock.

My children are such a precious gift!! Be blessed.

Jessilyn's Coming Home!!

2008-02-24T11:08:00.000-08:00

I get to go pick up Jessilyn in just a few hours. Today has been one week since she left! My house has been so quiet! She has been in Amarillo last week, then went to Waco over the weekend. I've talked to her a few times...when she'll grace me the opportunity...and she's having an absolute blast!! She thinks she's so grown up, when she's away from us, it's like we don't even cross her mind. She doesn't ever want to talk to us on the phone, because she has way more important things to do!

I've also found myself kinda bored this week, believe it or not. I felt really on top of things. Which makes me laugh....I remember one week when Jessilyn was a baby. Randon came home from work to find me crying while cooking dinner. I had been trying for THREE days to clean my house, and was so frustrated that it still wasn't done. I had a complete breakdown. (Poor husbands, how do they ever put up with us new Moms-or us as moms in general, because it seems like I've lost my mind at least once every day since Jess was born!!) Anyway, after I shared my breakdown with my mom, she felt sorry for me, and took Jessilyn for the entire next day, and I finally got to clean my house!! Back to this week...one kid seems like a cakewalk!! It's amazing the grace God grants us to get through everyday life!

Reese has taken on a completely different personality without Jessilyn around. She usually is quite content to do things on her own, but she has constantly been at my feet . She has been more playful, more talkative (probably because she acturally has the opportunity to talk), and more cuddly. It's really been fun to watch!

Randon left this morning for Arizona, so for now it's just Reese and I. I better go, so I can enjoy my last few hours alone while Reese is napping, because soon Jessilyn will be back, and well, I better go take a nap...I know what's coming!

Please Pray for Reese

2008-02-20T13:03:00.000-08:00

We had a great weekend. Sunday was baby dedication at church, so mine and Randon's parents came in to visit. We had a lot of fun. We didn't do much exciting, but it's always great to be with family!

Then Monday came... Reese went in for her 18 month well check and guess what?!? She STILL has an ear infection!! We're going on 3 1/2 months now...come on! After some debate with the doctor, we decided to try an antibiotic shot...one shot a day for three days. Today was day three...thank God we're through with that! First, we've had to be at the doctor's office for no less than an hour every day this week, just for a shot! Today Reese started screaming the second she saw the nurse walk in...she's no dummy-she knew exactly what was coming. The doctor said that these shots are very painful, and judging by Reese's reaction, she was right. Then after the shot, we had to wait for 15 minutes to make sure she didn't have any reactions. Mind you, Reese also screamed those entire 15 minutes, which makes for some interesting stares from those wondering the halls of the pediatrician 's office! Then in the car, she would continue crying for another twenty minutes or so. We would then come home for a nap, which has been at least 5 hours each day. The poor thing is exhausted!

As a mom, my heart breaks to see my little baby in pain. I want to be able to make it go away. We're really struggling with what to do. We don't want to be "those parents" at the doctor, insisting on other options, arguing that what we've been doing is obviously not working, asking for a second opinion, etc. But, I worry about the effect of all the antibiotics in her system (we've been on 5 different ones back to back since Halloween). They say there is also a danger of hearing loss from the fluid in her ear canals. The next option, as best we can tell, is a referral to an ear/nose/throat doctor to look at inserting tubes in her ears. I know this is medically a minor treatment, but it is still surgery, and that is always scary when it is your child! Please join us in praying for her ears to heal completely!

Meanwhile, Jessilyn is missing out on all the fun here. She is in Amarillo, and will leave tomorrow to go to Waco with Pops and MiMi to see Aunt Jaclyn. What fun they will have! I am so thankful for the gift of grandparents. I still look back with such fondness at the memories I have as a little girl with my grandparents, and I know she is building cherished memories that she will always hold dear. What a blessing we have in our family!

Happy late Birthday Rob! There was a day, not so long ago, we feared you wouldn't be around for another birthday...thank you God for the miracle that is Rob! We love you and are so proud of the strength and courage you have shown over the past year. We're excited to see what God has in store for your little family!

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-15T08:06:00.000-08:00

My attempt at getting a picture of the girls in their Valentine's outfits for school. No surprise which one wouldn't cooperate!! (Love you, Reese!)

Jessilyn and her friend Karen at her first Valentine's Day party. What fun!

Daddy wearing his special Valentine from Jessilyn.

Mommy's turn. Of course I'll be yours Jessilyn!

On Thursday, Jessilyn and I got busy baking a strawberry cake for Daddy. I love making these memories with Jessilyn-probably even more than she does! Thanks for the cooking sets, MiMi. Enjoy the pics!!

Here are the finished products. Jessilyn might be a little Martha Stewart in the making!

A cake for the babysitter, one for Reese, and one for Jessilyn.

Daddy's special cake from Jessilyn.

Mommy's special cake for Daddy. (We're trying to make him fat!)

Mommy and Daddy got to go out for Valentine's.

Our church had a Valentine's dinner and dance for the married couples. It was a scary flashback of middle school dances-picture station, ackward guy/girl groups, not many people dancing, the ELCECTRIC SLIDE!!! It was so sweet to see the little old couples shaking it out on the dance floor! One couple there had been married for 53 years!! Amazing. We had so much fun! Thanks Mom for encouraging us to go-you were right!

P.S. - The matching outfits were NOT planned!

My First Blog

2008-02-06T15:00:00.000-08:00

OK, so I'm going to try this again-I started a website for the girls, with very good intention I must say, when we first moved to Midland. I did well for a while, but then...well, life happened. So as I have enjoyed reading the blogs of our friends, I became envious. I thought, how great it would be to have a place to keep up with our lives, a place where family could visit us, a place where I could ramble endlessly, and a place where you could all see my beautiful girls! So enjoy, and be blessed, because we sure are!

The girls are doing great! Jessilyn just got a haircut, a cute little bob, and she is absolutely precious! I don't like the fact that now she looks like she should be in kindergarten, but she already acted that way, so I guess, in that respect, it fits. (I probably used way too many commas in that sentence, but what do you do?) She is still going to preschool 3 days a week, and is doing really well. She got her first progress report last month, and did great in all areas but one-she wasn't very strong when it came to standing up for herself. This is an issue of mine I really pray I don't pass on to her, so that has become a new prayer request you can join in on with us. One of her favorite activities is to do her "homework". She doesn't actually get assigned homework, but she likes to pretend like she does. Isn't it amazing how soon we become discontent with where we are in life? If she could only realize how much she'll despise homework one day, she wouldn't be in such a hurry. On the same token, I was having a conversation with Mom just yesterday in which I was complaining about how cumbersome it is to try to really clean your house with little ones (and with a husband!). She lovingly and gently reminded me that although her house is always clean now, it is also always empty. Teach me Lord, to be content with this season of my life, to enjoy the blessings of everyday, and to learn from the frustrations. Thank you Jessilyn, for your reminder, and please don't be in such a hurry to grow up! Anyway, (getting back on topic) Jessilyn likes to cut, glue, color, and write at the kitchen table. It is very cute when she asks me to please not interrupt her until she is finished with her homework!

Reese is growing so fast! She is now talking. She says Mommy, Daddy, Pops, MiMi, PaPa, ball, bo-bo (not sure how to spell?), poo-poo, bath, dog, door, please, night night, baby, bye-bye, hi, and she attempts I LOVE YOU. She has been struggling with sickness since Halloween. We have just finished our fourth different antibiotic, and today she's running fever and feeling bad again! It is so frustrating as a parent to have a sick little one...you feel so helpless. I am frustrated myself, because I feel like by now she should really be doing much better. Please pray for healing for her ears. Reese is the child you can never turn your back on. She just has a curiousity that Jessilyn never had. Although she keeps me very busy, she is also so much fun! Her orneriness makes me laugh. She has so much personality already, I can only imagine what she'll be like in a few years! She loves her sister very much, and already tries to imitate her. One of my favorite things is to see the two of them giving each other a hug. There is no friendship like that of sisters! I thank God for giving them that gift!

Hope you enjoy the update and pictures. Love you all!

Remember, I'm new at this...I can't figure out how to put captions under the pics, so here's what the pictures are: Reese singing with Jessilyn, Jessilyn's haircut, the finished product, girls eating lunch outside, and Jessilyn's first attempt at making her bed by herself (pretty good!). Maybe I'll get my stuff together!