A little Faith and a lot of Tim!

Last night was just an incredible night! Hubby and I went to see the sold out Tim McGraw & Faith Hill concert. We bought the tickets in February as our Valentine's gifts to each other. And, might I add, it was well worth the wait.
The concert was "in the round," meaning the stage was in the center of the arena and there truly wasn't a bad seat to be had. They worked all sides of the stage equally. The evening started off with their duet "Like We Never Loved at All." First, she came up through one end of the stage on a rising platform. Then, he followed on the other end. They sang the song beautifully, but never acknowledged each other at all. Their backs were to each other the entire time. After thunderous applause, Tim slowly descended back under the stage.
Faith then sang for an entire hour. She sounds just as wonderful in person as she does on the radio. She's amazingly beautiful and really got the crowd into her performance. She even joked with a young girl who was holding up a brightly colored sign that read "Faith your fine, let Tim be mine!" She politely told the girl, "It's ain't happening!" She sang lots of her recent hits including "Mississippi Girl," "The Way You Love Me," "This Kiss," and her new one, "Fireflies." Finally, the moment I'd been waiting for...Tim comes up through the center of the stage. Yee-Ha!! He is THE man in country music as far as I'm concerned. I've been a huge fan since he first hit the country music scene in 1992. Speaking of that year...he started the evening off with his very first #1 hit, "Don't Take the Girl." He continued to rev up the crowd with, among others, his hits "Live Like You Were Dying," "Something Like That," and my personal favorite "Real Good Man." He's an energetic performer and a real treat to watch. He talks so sweet about Faith too. After he'd entertained us for

well over an hour, the arena went black. He then appeared in the center of the stage with Faith. They were seated back to back and sang "It's Your Love," "Let's Make Love," and a new one that's not been released yet, "I Need You." While singing the last song, they sat facing each other, shared one microphone and gave it their all.
I'd love to go see them again, but since tickets are $75+ each, I guess I'll have to wait a while. I guess I'll just have to settle for singing along with my Tim cd's and driving my family crazy.

Years Meme

I stole this cute meme from Everyday Mommy. I don't think she'll mind though, since she stole it too. :)

20 years ago I . . .was 15 years old and fell for my "first love."

10 years ago I . . .had been married for 5 years, was getting ready to graduate from college and find out I was pregnant (for the first time) three weeks later.

5 years ago I . . .was a stay-at-home-mom of my 4 year old and 6 month old sons and loved going to my "mommy & me" group.

3 years ago I . . .along with my family, was uprooted from our home sweet home in West Virginia and relocated to the south due to my husband's new job.

1 year ago I . . .was completely devastated by the loss of my Papaw from lung cancer.

So far this year I . . .have made some wonderful new "mommy" friends.

Yesterday I . . .nursed my sick hubby through a 48 hour virus.

Today I . . .kissed and hugged my children as they left to spend a long weekend at their Grandma and Grandpa's.

Tomorrow I will . . .sleep in (yeah!) and eventually clean house.

In the next year I will . . .watch my baby go off to school and wonder how to fill my days.

In the next minute I will . . .wash my face and go to bed. Nighty, night.

The "crud" has left the building!

For the past week our house seems to have been an incubator for the "crud" that is going around our neck of the woods. It started off last Wednesday night with Payton. He complained of his "belly hurting" that evening. Seeing as how this a common childhood complaint and, in his case, is usually related to not taking the time to go to the bathroom, I wasn't too concerned. He fell asleep that night on the couch while watching TV with me. Darrin gently carried him to bed, laid him down, at that was all she wrote...up came supper! That explained the belly problems. He continued this several more times into the earlier morning of Thursday. (I always feel so bad when either of the boys are sick like that. I know it's just the worst feeling and there's not a lot I can do to help them really.) He missed two days of K4 but by Friday night he was on the mend and ready to hit the road... on his bike that is. Next was Garrett, as I mentioned in a previous post. I took him to a friends birthday party on Saturday and thirty minutes later he called wanting to come home because his stomach was hurting. Sure enough, two hours later, the crud had claimed it's second victim. His lasted a little longer though. It held on until Monday afternoon. So, he missed one day of school. At almost the exact moment he declared he felt "much better," a wave of stomach cramps came over me. Oh no, I thought, mommy's can't get sick! The crud had no mercy and couldn't have cared less who I was. Not to leave anyone out, it attacked hubby early the next morning around 1:00 a.m.-ish. As of today I'm feeling fine and can only hope that hubby will be feeling better by in the morning, as he was showing signs of improvement at bed time. Can I just say..."na na na na, na na na na, na na na na, GOODBYE!" You will not be missed!!

Parenting a child who has ADHD & LD

In 1997 I gave birth to a wonderful little boy. I had a normal pregnancy with prenatal care and all. I was three days past due when the contractions finally started. I was admitted into the hospital at 3:00am and he finally arrive at 6:30 pm. Yep, 15 1/2 hours of labor...ouch! After I had pushed for 3 solid hours my OB/GYN finally came to the conclusion that a c-section was going to be necessary for me to give birth. (duh!) I feel those three hours changed my unborn son's life forever. As a child he was different than my friend's children. He never, ever played with toys in the normal sense (and still doesn't). He found enjoyment in trying to discover how the remote control worked or getting into my kitchen cabinets. He had plenty of baby toys, he just wasn't interested in them. He never crawled and didn't walk until he was 13 months old. He started speaking later then normal. Until he was around 5 years old, only my husband and I could really understand him. When he started kindergarten he didn't know many colors or shapes. He only knew a few letter of the alphabet. He could only write one or two letters in his name. I had tried and tried to teach him these things but he just didn't get it. Although I was a first time parent, I knew something wasn't quite right. I just didn't know what it could be or how to explain it to people.
By the end of his kindergarten year, I knew he was well behind the other students. However, it was a huge time of change in our lives as a family. Darrin had been living in Greensboro, North Carolina for 3 1/2 months while we stayed in West Virginia to complete school. He had taken a new job and we joined him in NC the day school was out. Could the separation from Darrin be to blame for his lack of interest in school? His teacher thought so. Once he started first grade, and our family was back together, I thought he'd catch up. I was wrong. It quickly became evident that there was something bigger going on here. I approached his first grade teacher about my concerns. She confirmed them. After much testing his problems were finally diagnosed. He had ADHD and LD's (learning disabilities) in written expression, oral expression, reading comprehension and math computation. Since that time it's been a struggle. But knowing what his problems areas have definently made it easier to deal with. He now has an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) that allows for certain accommodations in the classroom. We also tried several medications before finding the one that worked best for him. He now takes 3 doses of Focalin 10mg a day. After much debate, I decided that he needed to be retained last year (in second grade) to catch up with his classmates. His teachers wouldn't tell me one way or the other what to do regarding this. They said it was my decision. That surprised me! However, after I made the decision, they told me they whole heartedly agreed with me. He now loves school. He has only missed one day this year and that was because he had pink eye. He was mad at me that day because I wouldn't let him go. He loves his teacher as well. She just "gets" Garrett!
He now wants to know if he can stay in second grade again next year and have the same teacher. What a turn around. He still struggles, especially with math. However, with the IEP in place and the twice weekly private tutor we have secured for him, he's doing the best he can do, and that's all we can ask. We're truly proud of him. He never uses his ADHD or his LD's as a crutch. He just pushes on and gets through despite them. If you suspect your child may also be suffering from ADHD or a learning disability, there is hope. The first step, of course, it to get a diagnosis. I have another blog about this very subject if you'd like more information. I've just recently listed links for numerous ADHD and LD resources on the web. Or, feel free to email me personally. I'd be more than happy to help in any way I possibly can.

p.s.-- I'm happy to report that Garrett only has 10 more days of school. Then, in the fall, he will be moving on to the 3rd grade with the rest of his classmates! Way to go, Bubby!!

• Free "Parenting ADHD Children" online course
• Coping tips for parents of children with ADHD
• 7 myths about ADHD
• ADHD an - overview
• The fast about ADHD - a quiz
• LD fast facts
• Learning disabilities - an overview

What a Day!

Boy, what a Saturday I've had already and it's only noon! At 9:00 a.m. we had neighborhood kids ringing our door bell wanting to know if the boys could play. Who let's their child go to someone's house at 9 o'clock in the morning for Pete's Sake? Of course I told them (while standing there in my pajamas) that the boys could not play because it was WAY too early. Besides, we had a birthday party to get ready for. One of Garrett's classmates was having a birthday party at 10:00. Have you ever heard of having a party so early in the morning? I mean it's Saturday, the day of sleeping in. Not today, that's for sure. I got the gift wrapped and dropped Garrett off just at 10:00. Payton & I came home and whipped up some cinnamon toast for breakfast. Just as we sat down to eat, the phone rang. Who was on the other end? Garrett...crying and asking me to come and get him because his stomach was hurting. Okay, I knew this must be serious. He would never leave a birthday party and pass up cake unless it was bad. We left immediately, picked him up, apologized to the birthday boy's mom and came straight home. Garrett went straight to our bed and got comfy cozy. Payton & I then sat down to finish our breakfast. The plate on the table was empty! Every single piece of toast was gone. I guess Chasie had a nice snack anyway. Well, it was for the best I guess, because Garrett screamed at me at that very moment. I ran upstairs and found him hugging the commode. Poor guy....that's the worst feeling and I hated that I couldn't do anything for him. After cleaning him up and getting him back in bed he asked me to stay with him. It just warms my heart that when either of the boys aren't feeling well they want mommy by their side. As we laid there watching "Spongebob Squarepants" the phone rang. It was my husband calling to tell me that he'd arranged a sitter for tonight and he was taking me out. Can you believe this?? Of all days for him to get a romantic bone in his body. He said he had it all planned out and wasn't telling me anything. Then, I had to enlighten him to the day's occurrences. Needless to say he was bummed. He said, "well maybe he'll feel better by this evening." "Yeah, right!" was my reply. I don't think we're going anywhere this weekend. So, now it's 4:59 and I'm just now able to finish this post. The boys are both napping and I'm trying to squeeze in a little house cleaning before they wake up. I certainly hope you're day has gone better than mine. Enjoy your weekend (for me)!

Verb Meme

I ran across this at MommyBrain's blog & thought it was unusual. So...here's my version...

I am: a country girl at heart
I said: "Yes" to my son all day because he was sick
I want: a clean house
I wish: my husband didn't snore
I hate: it when my kids bicker
I miss: my Papaw
I fear: sailing in the ocean
I hear: "Mommy or Mama" at least 100 time every day
I wonder: what our boys will be when they grow up
I regret: not keeping in touch with friends
I dance: only in the car (while my boys laugh at me)
I sing: almost every song I hear
I cry: when I watch a sappy movie
I am not always: on time
I made: fried squash & corn bread for supper (told ya I was a country girl!)
I write: poetry
I confuse: my kids (I mix their names up a lot)
I need: to get out of bed earlier
I should: be asleep right now (it's after midnight)
I start: planning for everything way in advance
I finish: what I start, eventually
I believe: my husband was meant for me
I know: I'll see my Papaw again
I can: make my boys laugh
I can't: sleep well without our two Yorkies on our bed
I see: my dog laying on his back, sound asleep
I blog: as often as I can
I read: the newspaper every morning at breakfast
I find: empty candy wrappers everywhere
I like: living in the south
I love: snuggling with the boys on the couch before bed time

Okay, now it's your turn! Let me know if you play along.

Spring Soccer is over :(

Payton's first soccer season officially ended today. His team won 5-1. He scored 3 of the goals! They had a great season, losing only 1 game. After today's game we had a pizza party and the coach handed out trophies. Payton proudly added it to his collection when we got home. We get a few weeks off and then Tee-ball season starts. When school starts back (Aug. 17), he'll start fall soccer. He's such an athlete and just seems to have the knack for any sport he attempts to play. Great job, Tater. Go Golden Lions!

p.s. -- I'm not quite sure what's with the goofy face he's making!

Happy Mother's Day to me

This, my tenth mother's day, was great! We spent the weekend in Pilot Mountain, N.C. with my in-laws. Darrin's brother also came down. Going to the in-laws may not seem like a nice way to spend your special day, but it is for me. They're really and truly great people. I guess I lucked out in that department. They've known me since I was three years old! Anyway, we spent the day Saturday at "Mayfest" in downtown Pilot Mountain. There were tons of booths to browse around in, a few carnival rides and inflatables for the kids, a rock wall just waiting to be climbed, a huge car show and tons of food. The boys even took time to make their very own sand art creation (they both picked aliens). It was perfect weather too. Not too hot, just comfortable. I was even lucky enough to find my own mom's day gift there! I got a handmade ring, necklace and earrings from one of the vendors. They are just gorgeous and I love them. Darrin had also given me something I'd been wanting for a while before we left...an under the cabinet radio/cd player for the kitchen. I enjoy listening to music while I'm cooking, cleaning, etc. Sunday we went out to eat of course and then gave Darrin's mom her gifts. He got her a Longaberger purse and a pair of earrings (I'm sure she knew I actually picked them out). We hung around just visiting until 8:00 and then made the three hour trip home. It was really a great way to spend the weekend and we really enjoyed it. I hope you all had a great Mother's Day as well!

Mother's Day...a little early

When Payton came home from K4 on Friday he was so excited that he could hardly stand it. He had a brightly wrapped package in his hands and was just dying for my to open it. Although it was for Mother's Day he didn't want me to wait two more days. So, I gladly obliged him and hurriedly opened it. Inside was a nicely decorated frame with his picture on one side and a drawing of he & I on the other. The picture was taken a few days before by his K4 teacher. It just so happened that that was the day he and his dad went wild and fixed his hair in a mohawk! Priceless, right? That's not all either. He then handed me a little booklet with a bright pink cover. It was entitled: "K-4 Moms." All of the kids in his class were asked questions about their moms for mother's day and then their teacher wrote down their exact answers. This is Payton's "Mommy Fact Sheet:"

Age: oh...I don't know that...maybe 10...no, that's a little boy...I think 13
Height: Bigger than that mirror over there
Weight: 40 one hundred and one pounds
Hair Color: blind...no, blonde. Does that mean she can't see?
Favorite color: pink
Favorite food: I would say some scampi's and salad
Favorite drink: Coke
Favorite place to go: Wal-Mart
Likes to: eat...I mean, go to stores...and lay around
I love her because: she is so darn pretty!

"So darn pretty!" How sweet is that? He was sitting in front of me on top of my desk while I was reading it. When I had finished I said, "Aw, Payton, that is so sweet." I leaned forward to give him a kiss and guess what he did? In true Payton fashion, he pooted!! He just thought that was so hilarious.....and I did too actually. Thanks, Tater Tot.

p.s. -- the "scampi's" he's referring to is shrimp scampi and I do love it.

The Evolution of Dance

A friend of mine emailed this to me and I laughed the entire 6 minutes it played. I wanted to share it with you. The bad thing is, I actually remember doing a lot of these! I bet you do too.

Payton's soccer picture 2006

This year is Payton's first year playing soccer. He is playing at the YMCA and is on the "Lions" team. He is #1...well I mean his jersey number is 1. He was too happy about that. Their team motto is: "Lions, kings of the soccer field!" His coach has told him that he's always the fastest one on the field and has tried to help him harness that speed. I really think he'll develop into quite the little athlete in years to come. Not only does he like (and is pretty good at) soccer, but basketball and baseball are in his repertoire as well. Stay tuned for more sporting news as tee ball season starts in June!

"Bumps"...from the eyes of a 5 year old

Payton was in the garage a few days ago drawing on the floor with sidewalk chalk. Harmless, right? I thought so too. After about 10 minutes of perfecting his art, he walked into the house and proudly announced, "Mom, I drew a picture of you. You've gotta come see it!" Of course I happily followed him out to the garage to see the beautiful portrait he'd created. He opened the door, pointed to the floor and my mouth flew open! Take a look...you have to look past the oil stains, but they're there....

Did you see them? I asked him what in the world those were? He looked at me like I was from Mars and said, "Those are you're bumps!" Well, I guess he's observant, right?

Family Night at K4

Payton & his teacher

Payton & his best friend, Josh

Last night was "Family Fun Night" at Payton's preschool. First we visited his classroom and saw all of the things he and his classmates have been working on. We also got to see a scrapbook that is a "work in progress" that his teacher is making for each child's parents. She has taken pictures throughout the year of all the activities, field trips, etc. that they have done. Isn't that so sweet (and so much extra work on her part)? Then, we all went into the sanctuary (his K4 is in a church) and listened to each class sing several songs. Payton's class sang "Who Let the Letters Out?" It's to the tune of "Who Let the Dogs Out?" but the words are different. It went something like this: Who let the A out? a-a-a (making the short a sound); who let the B out? b-b-b (making the b sound), etc. They did the entire alphabet. It was just adorable. They did a few others as well, but that was the high light. Finally, we all went into the gymnasium and had refreshments. It was such a fun evening and Payton really enjoyed being the center of attention of course. He only has three weeks left of K4. It's just unimaginable that he'll be going off the kindergarten this fall. Boo hoo!! :(

I've been tagged...

Andria tagged me so here's my list of 5's...

5 Things in Your Frig: Coke (of course), juice boxes, Trix yogurt, watermelon and sweet tea.

5 Things in Your Purse: cell phone, date book, check book, lipstick and Hot Wheels cars.

5 Things in Your Closet: stored winter clothes, luggage, purses, cane (for when my back goes out) and shoes.

5 Things in Your Car: car seats, umbrella stroller, toys, fold up chairs (for watching Payton's soccer games) and travel pillow.

Now, do you wanna play? How about you Rose, Becky or Dawn?