My How Things Have Changed

Christmas 1984

There was a time, back in the early to mid 80's, that I spent virtually every weekend at the skating rink.  That was the place to be.  I spent countless hours walking and skating around and around and around with my friends.  Then, the rink put in a one screen theater.... wow!  That was big time for our little neck of the woods.  That was the very theater that I saw one of the best movies ever made, Top Gun.  Seems just like yesterday really.

At this very minute, I'm doing the same thing.  Sort of.  I have no skates on and I've been relished to a booth in the back corner, but I'm here... at the rink again.  This time I'm the mom, not the kid.  How did that happen?  I still love to skate but have nicely been asked not to by my two loving children.   They are afraid I'll embarrass them.  What?!  I'm still cool, aren't I? 

Apparently what passed at cool in 1984 is now equal to dorky.  Either that or the fact that I'm simply a mom is enough to permanently place me in that category.  I guess I can relate.  After all, I would have just died had my mom donned a pair of skates back in the day.  Like totally!

I suppose I'm going to have to pass the torch, whether I want to or not.  It's their turn to experience the fun the rink can provide.  But they can be sure of one thing, I have a good memory.  I know the dangers it hides as well.  I'm going to be lurking in the back, watching closely to keep them out of trouble.  My torch's light is officially extinguished.

Don't Look to the Left

The third week of December the boys and I were lucky enough to spend time with family in West Virginia. We did a little early Christmas celebrating and fully enjoyed our time there. That Sunday I attended church at Toneda Baptist. That is the church I grew up in, was baptized in and Darrin and I were married in. It's a wonderful house of God full of wonderful people. I am always so thankful when I get the chance to return and am always welcomed back "home" with open arms. However, that particular Sunday was different.

That Sunday was the first time in all of my 37 years that my Mamaw was not sitting beside in the pew. She has been ill since the summer and unable to attend church. Of course I knew before I went that she wouldn't be there. I also knew that my mom, brother and his family would be. I never thought twice about sitting in the third pew from the front without Mamaw. It just never dawned on me that that would be a problem.

At first, when I sat down, it wasn't an issue. I was busy chatting with my family and giving hugs to my church family who I hadn't seen in a few months. However, as soon as the service started, I glanced to my left. She wasn't there! There was an empty space in the pew and an even bigger one in my heart. It was hard to sing with joy or listen to the pastor's message. My mind was focused on my Mamaw's absence.

I had felt that emptiness only once before. On May 23, 2005, my Papaw passed away. The first time I went back to church after that was extremely difficult. But, Mamaw was there to greet me with her loving smile. This time however, both of their seats were empty. I know that things change over time, but I am not ready for this change. I want my Mamaw healthy again. I want her back in her seat when church is in service. I want to hear her singing those old familiar hymns with me.

I pray daily that God will touch my Mamaw's frail body. That he will restore her health. She turned 86 on Nov. 9, 2008. I know her time here on earth is limited at this point. However, I'm just not ready to let her go yet (like I have a say so in the matter). She has so much more to do...... she has great grandchildren to watch grow, she has countless stories left to share with me, and she has so much love left to give. I know my Papaw is probably ready for her to join him in his heavenly home, but those of us left here are just not ready to let her go. Surely he'll understand.

In the meantime, I'll continue to go to my old home church every chance I get. I'll continue to smile as I greet my church family. And, I'll continue to praise the Lord with song. However, I will not look to my left until Mamaw is sitting beside me.

I'm blessed with the best in-laws!

There have been quite a few things in my life that haven't gone as planned. Things that I had absolutely no control over that adversely affected me. However, there is one thing that went perfectly right! The Lord saw fit to give me the best in-laws ever. They have been a part of my life for 16 years now. They truly are a set of second parents. Actually, my father-in-law is more like a father. He is an absolute blessing. Just before writing this post I called to ask my m-i-l a quick question. She wasn't home so he and I chatted for 30 minutes. Yes, 30 minutes. How many of you have done that with your f-i-l lately? This past Valentine's day I even received a card just from him. The front of it said, To my Daughter. And yes, it made me cry. If you have an amazing f-i-l like mine, be thankful...and let him know you are thankful. If you don't, pray...God still works miracles.

Mom, it's raining in the pantry!

Yes, that is an actual sentence recently uttered by our nine year old son. How is that possible? Well, actually it was pretty effortless for our six year old son to accomplish. You see, we sent him upstairs to start his bath water. He knows exactly where to point the handle to get the perfect temperature. He also knows that the water is not to go above his belly button (while sitting in the tub of course). Now I know what you're thinking and no, he did not overflow the bathtub. Hubby went upstairs to check on him and immediately noticed water coming from under the closed bathroom door. Upon opening said door, water gushed out into the hallway. Tater Tot was seated comfortably in the tub and apparently could not hear the water over-flowing in the sink because the water was still running in the tub as well. When hubby showed him what he'd done, he was so very upset and apologetic. "I just wanted to see if my boat would float," he said. His Gee had given him a new pirate ship a few days before. He ran water in the sink to see if it would float before putting it in the tub. He then got into the tub, forgetting to turn the water off at the sink. Inside the entire vanity was soaked. The clean towels I'd just put in a few hours before to the toothbrushes and toothpaste floating in the drawer. And, as you can see from the picture, the water was not just contained to the bathroom. Now, you know how to make it rain in your pantry. Although pretty cool in the effects department, not so good for the cereal boxes actually in the pantry. Needless to say, Tater Tot is now supervised any time he's in the bathroom!

Breaking the Bank -- Update

Just one word of advice......If you have health insurance be thankful, be very thankful! Last night I strolled into CVS to pick up a one month supply of prescriptions for me, hubby and Bubby. Five minutes later, I walked out in disbelief. That was the fastest $381.67 I have ever spent. Like I said....be thankful! We certainly will be when May 1st comes around. Until then, I'm quarantining my entire family. I absolutely refuse to let anyone get sick between now and then. So, if you plan on visiting, please don't take it the wrong way when you see the basket of medical mouth & nose masks by the door. Just slap it on and come right in!

P.S. -- I've been asked if we've checked into continuing our health insurance through COBRA until our new insurance kicks in. Yes, we have. It's only $1,423.00 a month! So, we're going to take our chances.

Black Friday...as seen through my eyes

**Please note -- I try to keep my ranting and raving to a minimum. However, the following post is one I needed to get off my chest. If you're not in the mood to listen to someone standing tall on their soap box, feel free to scroll on down to the next post.

Here's a look at Black Friday from a different perspective. This is a look at the busiest shopping day of the year from the wife of a retail manger... After spending as much time as possible with my in-laws yesterday (Thanksgiving) we drove the three hours home and arrived at 9:00 p.m. My husband, unable to sleep, was up until 2:30 a.m. After sleeping just three hours, he had to get up to be at his store by 6:00 a.m. There were 48 people waiting in line for the doors to open at 7:00 a.m. It is now almost 1:00 and he only has 8 more hours to work! Since the doors will not close at 9:00 p.m. when they are supposed to (there will be people in there until the last possible minute) he will make it home around 10:30 tonight. That's a 16 1/2 hour day, people! He will make it home just in time to go to bed, get up at 7:00 a.m. tomorrow and have another 13 hour day. What am I trying to say here? Well, let me tell you....I have never and will never shop on Black Friday. I realize I could save a few bucks, but the negatives heavily out weigh the savings. By standing in line at 5, 6, & 7:00 a.m., you are only encouraging the retailers to open earlier next year. That means the poor souls who have to work at these businesses will have less and less time with their families all in the name of corporate America. Please don't get me wrong here, I am most thankful for my husband's job. He provides very well for us. But, is Black Friday really necessary? Couldn't the stores just open at their regular time and offer the same great savings then? I know the man who writes my husband's checks will be extremely happy with the sales his store generated today, but do you think he put in a 16+ hour day today? Nope, no way! He just gets to reap the rewards and count the money you gave him at 5:00 a.m. this morning.

The Orange Post

This evening as we were preparing to eat supper, Tater Tot wanted to help set the table. Without even being asked, he began getting the plates out of the cabinet. My back was to him as I stirred the contents in the pan. However, I was ready to compliment him on his helping me when...........CRASH! I knew I had been lucky too long and what I had feared would happen finally did.

My tangerine Fiestaware plate laid shattered on the counter. You see, I have a service for ten, each a different color. For 13 years we used the Corelle dishes we received at our wedding shower. Then, two years ago, I decided I wanted "real" dinnerware. I chose Fiestaware because it is made in our home state, good ole West Virginia. Anyway, back to the story......Tater immediately began to cry and ran straight to his room. I didn't even have a moment to say anything. I quickly went up to his room to console him. I found him on his bed, covers pulled over his head, sobbing. I gently uncovered him and cradled him in my arms. With nothing but understanding in my voice I said, "It's okay, honey. I know it was an accident and I'm not mad. Thank you for trying to help me set the table." He composed himself long enough to say, "Mommy, I know you're not mad, but that was my favorite plate!" Then, he began sobbing again.

After we'd eaten, but were still sitting at the table, he hopped down. He got a notebook and pencil and came and stood beside me. He asked, "How do you spell... I'm sorry for?" I told him as though I had no earthly idea why he'd asked. He wrote the letters as carefully as he could and then disappeared to his room. He came back down a few minutes later, handed me the above picture and said, "Actually, I'm sad because it was my favorite plate and because the plate was yours." I may be one plate shy of a set, but at least my Tater Tot is still in one piece (and as sweet as ever).

3 + 1 = 4

For the past three days I have been totally out of commission. I mean absolutely useless. I thought it was just a cold, but it turned out to be oh so much worse. The tissue box is no longer attached to my right hand. The lip balm and vapor rub are put away. I'm on the mend (knock on wood). During this miserable time, my hubby really stepped up to the plate and became Mr. Mom. He was solely responsible for everything! From getting the kids off to school, doing homework, taking our oldest to his tutor, keeping the house straight, doing dishes, supper time, bath time and then bed time. He made it through, just as I knew he could. It always makes me feel so good (and makes my head swell) when he says, "I don't know how you do it. There's no way I could be you every day." Oh please, stop, stop (which really means keep going, keep going). Although he didn't do things exactly like I do, they still got done. So what if the kids didn't do their homework within thirty minutes of walking in the door from school? Does it really matter that they wore their "play clothes" to school? And, I guess Ravioli is okay for supper, right? My point is this...I learned several years ago (thanks to said hubby) that not only does 2 + 2 = 4, but so does 3 + 1! As long as the end result is the same, it doesn't really matter how you get there. Thanks, honey, for filling in for me. You really were a life saver. Now you can go back to your day job and I'll take it from here.

P.S. - I just had to share the get well wishes I received from my boys....

From Bubby. He signed everyones names...even the two dogs!

This one is from Tater Tot

Remembering 9/11

My morning began hurriedly. I rushed to get myself, Garrett (then 4 y.o.) and Payton (then 11 months) ready to go to a weekly bible study that I attended. We got there just in time....right at 9:00 a.m. I took the Garrett to his class and dropped Payton off in the nursery. I rushed back downstairs as not to miss any of the worship songs we sang to start the morning off. Shortly there after we were dismissed to our classes. As we settled in our teacher took prayer requests, as usual, and then began to pray. Just after she began we heard the door to our classroom slowly open. This was quite odd as no one would usually interrupt a prayer. As we all peeked to see who it was, she spoke in an extremely soft voice and asked us all to come back out into the worship room. We could not possibly imagine what was going on. This was highly unusual. All 75+ women came back to the room we'd left only minutes before. We took our seats and waited in silence. Then, the bible study leader appeared before with a most solemn look on her face. She explained that an airplane had just hit one of the World Trade Center towers. We all gasped, knowing it had to be a terrible accident. We began to pray to the Lord for those in the plane as well in the tower. Before we could even be dismissed to return to our classes, we were told that another plane had crashed into the other tower. Cold chills just shot right through me (exactly as they are right now as I'm typing this). Something was terribly, terribly wrong. What was happening? We were all dismissed at that time to collect our children and return home. I quickly went to get Garrett and then went to straight to the nursery and scooped up Payton.

During the ten minute drive back home, so many thoughts were racing through my mind. I just couldn't imagine such a thing happening on purpose. There was little said about it on the radio, it was too soon. No one knew what had really happened, much less explain it. I ran into the house and immediately turned on the TV. There it was, the first pictures I'd seen of the towers...smoke pouring from both. I knew the chances of me knowing someone in the planes or the towers was highly unlikely, but still, I cried. Cried for the loss of lives, for the children who wouldn't see their mommy or daddy that night.

I needed to talk to my husband. Normally he worked just five minutes from our house and would have come home on such a horrific day. But, today that wouldn't happen. He was two hours away in Pittsburgh, PA at a job interview. I had no way of reaching him. I just wanted to hear his voice and know for certain that he was okay.

Like most of America I sat glued to the TV for the rest of the day. I just wanted a reasonable explanation for what had occurred. We all got that explanation but it was far from reasonable. I'll forever remember that day. I'll remember where I was, how I felt, the tears I shed. I'll also remember those who lost their lives that day...in NY, DC and PA. I'll remember their families, who's lives were forever changed. I can only pray that now, five years later, they have some sort of peace. I pray that the Lord has brought joy into their lives again. I shall never forget that all of those who met the Lord that day are heroes. God bless.

"Big Fancy House"

This little story comes to you courtesy of Tater Tot, our five year old....



While driving home from school yesterday we passed a really small, run down house. He inquisitively asked, "mommy, how come those people want to live in that tiny house instead of a big fancy house like ours?" I then explained to him that some people don't have a choice. They don't have much money and can't live in a house like ours. A small house is all they can afford I went on to tell him. He was silent for a few seconds and then said, "Awwww, is that why Nana and Papa live in a little house? They don't have any money?"

Now, let me explain. Nana and Papa are my in-laws. They retired the first of the year and down-sized because they wanted to. They live in a nice brick ranch with three bedrooms. It's the perfect size for the two of them. On the other hand we live in a two story with about 2,500 square feet. When the four of us go up to visit with Nana and Papa it is a bit cramped so I guess that's why he thinks their house is too small. Isn't it funny how the mind of a five year old works? I was sure to call Nana last night and tell her that her grandson thinks they're poor. She got a kick out of it too.

The Day I Knew Was Coming...

I've known for several years that this day would eventually arrive. I thought I was prepared for it, but I was sadly mistaken. While my oldest son, Bubby, was completing his math homework tonight, he came into my office in tears. He was getting so frustrated. He uses Touch Math but was having trouble remembering the touch points. "I wish I could just be like everyone else. I wish I could read good and do math and everything," he said. It just broke my heart. Like I said, I knew this time would come sooner or later. Up until now he just wasn't aware or wasn't concerned that his academic ability is lower than that of his peers. He has three learning disabilities (dyscalculia [math], dysgraphia [writing] , & dyslexia [reading]) which affects every aspect of his life as a student. He goes to one hour of Resource class daily and we have a private tutor for him two days a week. I also work with him every day at home on math and reading. I stressed to him that it is not his fault that he has these problems. God made him this way for a reason. I just hate that he's beginning to feel pressure from his peers and doubt his self worth. Few things could break a mother's heart more. I guess the reason for this post is just to encourage those of you who are also affected by LD's. And, for those of you who aren't, thank God. But, also remember, that school work doesn't come to all children easily. Some struggle on a daily basis with the simplest of grade level tasks. Be patient, understanding and kind. Offer tons of praise and encouragement to them, they truly need it and will thrive on it. For more information on this topic you can visit the following websites:

• LD Online
• National Center for Learning Disabilities
• Schwab Learning
• ADHD & LD Guide (my other blog)

First Day of School 2006

Bubby, the seasoned third grader

Tater Tot, the BIG kindergarten boy

Tater saying goodbye to mommy

A celebratory visit to Chuck E. Cheese

Well, am I glad that's over! The morning started bright and early at 6:30 a.m. for me. The boys soon followed at 7:00. I made blueberry muffins for them....not a bite was taken. They were just too excited and ready to get to school. No time to eat. Hubby took today off so we could both be their for Bubby's first day back and Tater's first day of kindergarten. Bubby did fine. He walked right into third grade like he owned the place. No mushy goodbye's from him. Tater, however, decided that maybe kindergarten wasn't for him. He asked if I could just stay. After learning that I couldn't, he bravely pushed back the tears and gave me a big hug...no kiss though ("not in front of my new friends for Pete's sake!"). There are two kids in his class that he already knows which is great. I must admit it was hard for me to leave. Hubby took me out for a nice breakfast at Cracker Barrel to take my mind off of it. At 2:30, when we picked the boys up, they were both smiling. Whew, thank goodness. The first words out of Tater's mouth were, "That was fun!" Thank you, Lord. They asked to go to Chuck E. Cheese to celebrate the first day of school, so of course we took them. Tomorrow will be my first day at home alone as Hubby will go back to work. I sure hope I find something to occupy me!

Lady of Leisure

Well, I'm home from West Virginia anyway. I left for WV with two boys and two dogs. I returned with just the dogs! Tater decided that he wanted to spend a little more time with Gee and Paw in WV. Bubby then decided he wanted to spend his last week of summer vacation with his Nana and Papa in North Carolina. And...who was I to say no? So, I suppose for the next few days I'm a lady of leisure. Yesterday evening when I returned home, hubby and I went out for a nice quiet (and delicious) meal at Red Lobster. I just love their shrimp scampi! I spent the entire day today doing absolutely nothing and it was beautiful. I slept in, watched a little tv, caught up on some blog reading, etc. Now we're heading out to eat again. Tonight it's going to be Chili's (we only eat there for their "molton chocolate cake" dessert). Starting tomorrow though I do have some work to do. I have a house to clean. After all, hubby has been here a week alone! No, really, he did a fantastic job of keeping it neat and tidy. I just need to do the detail work...dust, vacuum, etc. My in-laws will be coming down on Thursday to bring both boys home and then stay for a few days to visit. Then, next week, school starts. So hard to believe that the summer is all but over. Where in the world did it go?

My very own office!

Yeah!! It's finally a reality. I have my very own in-home office. For the past 15 years my "office" has consisted of a small desk where ever we could find a place to stick it. Most recently that has been in the bonus room with the boy's toys, etc. Not very conducive to bill paying really. Now, I must say, I'm inspired. I'm ready to conduct business and run our home from command central. I have a new desk and lateral file with tons of room. I have a reading corner with a nice wicker rocker (stolen from our screened in porch). I also have plenty of room for books and related material (thanks to my mother-in-law). My hubby was even kind enough to install a new hardwood floor and ceiling fan. This room was previously our dining room. A room that was only used once a year if that. (we just prefer to use our kitchen table) Now it will be used on a daily basis. Surely you can see me smiling....I'm just that happy! :)

My two dogs have a hide out under the desk too. See the bean bag? They love it! (click here to see "before" picture #1)

My reading corner. The floor plant is from my Papaw's funeral 1 1/2 years ago. (click here to see before picture #2)

Bookcases my mother-in-law gave us (that's Bo in the corner of the picture)

A Salute to My Grandmother

Me & my Mamaw

Garrett & his Nana

Garrett spent the last 1 1/2 weeks with his Nana & Papa (Darrin's parents) in North Carolina. He was in absolute heaven. He's always been closer to her than any of his other grandparents. She just "gets" him I think. Anyway, when the time came for him to come home this past Monday, he was so very sad. He begged us to please, please just let him stay one more night and things would be so much better. I felt so bad for him. I can't imagine how hard it must be to not be able to see your Nana whenever you want. After all, Garrett's is 3 hours away from her. That's a little too far to just pop in when ever.

I was so very fortunate growing up to have my grandparents just a mile up the road. I could see them whenever my little heart desired. I could easily walk from my house to my Papaw's new car lot as it was only about 100 yards from my house. Spending time at Mamaw and Papaw's was always the best times for me. She doted on me from morning 'til night. Breakfast served to me on a tray, picnic lunches under the maple tree in the front yard, playing church and using the stairs as the pews, playing beauty shop, tucking me in and saying my nightly prayer with me....it was just a dream. I spent tons of weekends up there and most of my summer days as well. I only wish Garrett were able to do the same. Grandparents are such a tremendously important part of a child's life and our boys are missing out on that. If that could possibly be changed we would, but we sort of have to live where the work is, huh?

Over the Hill...

**ANNOUNCEMENT**

Danny (my brother-in-law) is officially over the hill and old as mold! He turned the big 40 on July 13th. While in North Carolina this past weekend, we helped him celebrate this milestone. We decorated with black everything...banners, streamers, balloons, you name it. We didn't want to go too far as it will soon be mine and Darrin's turn to take that trip over the hill. However, Danny took it all in stride and we all enjoyed the evening. His favorite gift you ask? Well, his hat of course. We couldn't get him to take the thing off all night! Right, Danny??

Surprise....you're over the hill!

Not wanting to burn the house down, we just used a few "40" candles on his cake.

I printed some really cool stuff off of the web for him. He found out who shares his birthday, what was popular when he was born (movies, songs, etc.), the cost of things when he was born, etc. Here are a few of the sites I used if you're interest.

• Birthday Facts
• Boy the Bears age guide
• Year by Year
• Time Capsule

Happy 40th, Danny....

I hope it's your best year ever!

Just Another Day in Retail

There are so many activities going on today in our area. Family Fun Fest with rides for the kids, downtown is going all out with blow ups and stuff, the local university is hosting a whopper of a show...however, my family and I can not be a part of any of it. Well, I suppose I should rephrase that. The kids and I could but without hubby. Now what fun would that be? You see, he works in retail and has for the past 15 years. I suppose it's a good thing that he's always been in retail so I don't know exactly how much fun we're missing. It's not just today but every legal holiday except Christmas and Thanksgiving days. They're open 363 days a year. I can only imagine us spending the day together as a family, watching the kids enjoy themselves, eating hot dogs, listening to live music and ending the night with fireworks. Hopefully we will get to do the fireworks thing tonight though. He works until 9:00 pm and they don't start until 10:00. The boys and I are in high hopes that we'll make it in time. I know I should just be thankful that he has a job (that's what my Mamaw tells me anyway), and I am. I truly am. For it was only 3 short years ago that he didn't have a job (for 3 months). But, sometimes I think it would be nice if all retail bosses, owners, etc. would just ban together and declare a national "family day". Close everything for pete's sake. The U.S. population can do without Wal-Mart and furniture for one measly day! Okay, sorry for the ranting. I hope you and yours have a wonderfully exciting July 4th. If you're lucky enough to be spending it with your family, then you're lucky enough.

We're dog sitting again

We've been dog sitting for a friend for the past three days. He's a yorkie and his name is "Bailey." He's not quite a year old yet. Bo and Chasie have had a blast playing with him. And, of course, we made room in our bed for him right beside Bo & Chase. We're even in talks with his "mom" about adopting him for good! After all, you can never have enough Yorkies. I'll keep you posted.

Bailey resting on Payton's bed

Bailey & Chasie getting acquainted

He already knows to smile when I get the camera out!

The Fathers in my Life

Yes, you read the title of this post correctly. This post is about the fathers in my life. You see, I've had five. The first, of course, was my biological father (left). He and my mother divorced when I was only 3 years old (1974). Therefore, I never remember living with him. And, although I grew up only 1 mile away from him, we never had the father/daughter relationship that every Hallmark card seems to portray. I was never "daddy's little girl." He remarried soon after the divorce and had a new step-daughter and, soon, a new son. I did spend time with him and my step-mom, but we've never been really close, unfortunately.
The next "father" in my life was my first step-father (right). He and my mother married when I was 5 years old (1976). He was the ideal dad...so much so that I even called him daddy. On my school papers I would even write his last name as my own. His parents welcomed me and my two older brothers as their own grandchildren. We had a wonderful "family" until around 1984 (when I was 13 years old). I came home from school one day and was told that he and my mother were getting a divorce. What? Just because they no longer wanted to married meant that he would no longer be my dad? How unfair was that?
It wasn't until 1994 that my mother remarried again (left). By this time I was 23 and had been married for 3 years myself. However, he and my mother seemed truly happy. We welcomed him with open arms. They are still married and he's been a step-father from a distance. My husband and I have always lived at quite a distance from them. I consider my father-in-law (below) as another "father." I dropped the "in-law" part years ago. He's been in my life for 15 years, which is more than any of the others really. He means a lot to me. I know I could count on him 100% if I ever needed anything. I'm so very blessed to have such a wonderful man in my life. Lastly, comes the one constant in my life...my paternal grandfather (Papaw). He was the one man in my life who has been there for me from birth. He never faltered, never wavered and most importantly never left me. He provided food, shelter and clothing for me in times of need. He set a positive, Christian example for me. He spoiled me and loved me unconditionally. He was the main father figure in my life until he was called home by God on May 24, 2005. Without his guidance I would not be the person I am now. I miss him terribly
but am thankful that God let me borrow him for 34 years. You see, when Father's Day rolls around each year, it's tough for me. They don't really make cards to fit my situation with all of my dads. I do send my "real" dad a card...usually just a funny one...that's all that fits. None of this..."when I was little you were always there for me," or "I'll always be your little girl." To my first step-dad, I still send cards too. He was a very important figure in my life during my formative years. I still talk to him once or twice a year as well. My current step-father gets one too. Boy, it's getting harder and harder to find those step-dad cards! My father-in-law definently receives one thanking him for being the wonderful man he is. And, up until last year, my grandfather always got a very special card. He got the "like a father to me" card. I would gush on and on about what he meant to me. I just wanted to make sure he never doubted my love and appreciation for him. Oh, there's one more "dad" in my life...my husband. He's a fun and amazing father to our two boys. I'm extremely grateful that our children will grow up knowing one, and only one, really great dad. Some people may think that I should feel lucky to have had so many "fathers" in my life. I don't know about that. Don't get me wrong, I love each of them in a special way, but the little girl inside of me just wishes I could have grown up being "daddy's little girl" and having him tearfully walk me down the aisle at my wedding. But, this is the hand I was dealt, so I've become acustomed to it I suppose. Anyway, happy father's day to all of my fathers, both here and the really special one in heaven. I love you and will see you soon!

**I read this years ago on a church's sign and it has stuck with me: "Any man can father a child, but it take a real man to be a father!"

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)!