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  • Big Easy Wedding

    Three weekends ago, I roadtripped with my extended family- my mom, siblings, aunts and cousins- to the Big Easy aka New Orleans aka NOLA.  We left out on JJ’s birthday to enjoy of a weekend of celebrating my older sister’s wedding!  I was very excited to say the least.  It had been a while since I’d seen my sister and even longer since I’d seen her fiance, whom I had bonded with met three years ago.
    Plus, I was looking forward to the food!  I celebrated Thanksgiving with them one year.  Let me just say his family can throw down.  They also know how to treat company right!  They opened their arms and welcomed me and Moo (then a baby) into their family with nothing but love and happiness.  So, I was also looking to see some familiar faces and catch up with everybody.
    At first, I wasn’t sure how well the actual traveling part was going to go because we had four little kids with us.  13 hours in an enclosed space sitting down isn’t exactly their cup of tea.  However, to my pleasant surprise the kids did very well.  No major meltdowns at all.  Now, it did end up taking longer than 13 hours to get to New Orleans because we made several stops along the way to get gas, for food, to use the restroom, etc.
    Let me tell you riding in the back seat of a passenger van is like being on a roller coaster.  You literally bounce and rock over every little bump in the road.  That was good for JJ because he sleep peacefully in his carseat for almost 8 hours.  He likes being rocked and bounced to sleep.  But for me and my little sister it was a game trying not to get a neck sprain or not bumping your head.  I got some sleep but in intervals.
    The best part about riding in the passenger van with everyone was that we had some good laughs.  My aunts kept us rolling with funny stories from their childhood and stories from being a mom.  We laughed until we literally cried.  And I totally forgot how good loaded hash browns from the Waffle House could be!  Y’all I went in one in Alabama and I was in pure heaven.  If they would have had more than one cook and the wait wouldn’t have been so long, I was going to order two more to go on the road.
    Anyways, we reached New Orleans and everyone got to meet my sister’s fiance for the first time.  I think he was a little overwhelmed at first to be meeting everyone all at once but they loved him instantly.   They loved him even more after he cooked a delicious spaghetti and meat sauce complete with fresh peppers and seasoning for us.  After lunch, we divided up.  
    My baby sister and I went with the maid of honor to pick up our dresses for the wedding.  I was the matron of honor by the way.  Then we had to go pick up shoes.  That almost turned into a major problem because the DSW we went to didn’t have the shoes my sister and the maid of honor needed for the wedding in stock anymore.  But we found a similar style and just agreed that I would give my baby sister my shoes so she could match the other bridesmaids and that would leave me and the maid of honor wearing the same shoes.  That was perfect because our dresses were also different from the other bridesmaids too.
    That night we all went shopping.  We had to get flowers for the bouquets and some other stuff.  I was definitely feeling tired and ready to pass out by that point.  But with the help a cocktail, I made it through a late night session of putting together bouquets and wedding favors.
    Me and the maid of honor before the wedding
    The wedding turned out great the next day!  Everyone was super emotional and there was definitely some makeup retouching.  At one point I had cried and dabbed at my eyes so much that my lashes came off during the reception.  I’m so happy that my sister has found her soul mate.  I’m even happier that she has a life partner who understands her and accepts her for who she is-flaws and all.  That was something she has been wanting for a long time and now she has it!
    The ceremony. My mommy was the officiant!

  • Bible 365: Week 21

    Happy Memorial Day!!  Hope that everyone took the time to celebrate and/or honor the courageous men and women have fought and continue to fight for our freedom and safety.  Moo, JJ and I have been hit by a really bad cold bug.  I’m talking wheezing, runny noses, watery eyes and sore throats.  I haven’t had a decent sleep in three days, but since the Mr was home today, I passed out and sleep for hours!  So pardon the late night post.
    With today being Memorial Day and a day to honor our past and present military men and women, I couldn’t think of a more appropriate Psalm than Psalm 91.  It’s a Psalm about the safety of abiding in the presence of God.  When I was a kid, my mom would pray Psalm 91 and the prayer of Jabez with us every single day.  And if she was out of town or on a rare occasion that we stayed over at a friend’s we’d still pray the Psalm 91.
    This Psalm reminds us that God is our place of refuge and a fortress at all times.  It says that, ” He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler.  You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday” (Psalm 91:4-6).
    I know that it takes a lot of strength and faith for our soldiers to do what they do.  They’re willingly going into the enemy territory and putting their lives at risk for millions.  It’s comforting though to know that God is always with them and that “He shall give His angels charge over you” (Psalm 91:11).  I’m beyond thankful and grateful to an American and to have this opportunity to celebrate those who fight for me and my family.
    So, I will definitely be praying the Psalm 91 on behalf of all our military men and women tonight and every night.  These soldiers need our prayers of safety and I am more than willing to intercede on their behalves.  It’s the least I can do in return for what they do for us.
    How did honor our military heroes today?
    Week 22 Readings
    5/27: Psalms 107-109
    5/28: Psalms 110-112
    5/29: Psalms 113-115
    5/30: Psalms 116-118
    5/31: Psalm 119
    6/1: Psalms 120-124
    6/2: Psalms 125-129

  • Bible 365: Week 21

    Happy Memorial Day!!  Hope that everyone took the time to celebrate and/or honor the courageous men and women have fought and continue to fight for our freedom and safety.  Moo, JJ and I have been hit by a really bad cold bug.  I’m talking wheezing, runny noses, watery eyes and sore throats.  I haven’t had a decent sleep in three days, but since the Mr was home today, I passed out and sleep for hours!  So pardon the late night post.
    With today being Memorial Day and a day to honor our past and present military men and women, I couldn’t think of a more appropriate Psalm than Psalm 91.  It’s a Psalm about the safety of abiding in the presence of God.  When I was a kid, my mom would pray Psalm 91 and the prayer of Jabez with us every single day.  And if she was out of town or on a rare occasion that we stayed over at a friend’s we’d still pray the Psalm 91.
    This Psalm reminds us that God is our place of refuge and a fortress at all times.  It says that, ” He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler.  You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday” (Psalm 91:4-6).
    I know that it takes a lot of strength and faith for our soldiers to do what they do.  They’re willingly going into the enemy territory and putting their lives at risk for millions.  It’s comforting though to know that God is always with them and that “He shall give His angels charge over you” (Psalm 91:11).  I’m beyond thankful and grateful to an American and to have this opportunity to celebrate those who fight for me and my family.
    So, I will definitely be praying the Psalm 91 on behalf of all our military men and women tonight and every night.  These soldiers need our prayers of safety and I am more than willing to intercede on their behalves.  It’s the least I can do in return for what they do for us.
    How did honor our military heroes today?
    Week 22 Readings
    5/27: Psalms 107-109
    5/28: Psalms 110-112
    5/29: Psalms 113-115
    5/30: Psalms 116-118
    5/31: Psalm 119
    6/1: Psalms 120-124
    6/2: Psalms 125-129

  • Thankful Thursday

    “I know why families were created with all their imperfections.  They humanize you.  They are made to make you forget yourself occasionally, so that the beautiful balance of life is not destroyed.”

     ~Anais Nin
    I’m definitely thankful for the imperfections of my family sometimes.  In all honesty, not having the perfect family has made my life better in many ways.  I’m a more humble and grateful person because of our imperfections.  I don’t take things for granted and know that every moment should be cherished no matter how minuscule or grand it may be. 
    Me and the Best Man
    I’m thankful that this past weekend, our family had to opportunity to come together to celebrate my older sister’s wedding in New Orleans.  I’m telling you, a 13 hour road trip will definitely strengthen the bonds of a family.  We laughed and fussed but when it was all said and done, nobody wanted the trip to end.  We all enjoyed each other’s company and the adventure.  I’m already thinking about where we can go to take our next road trip.
    This trip showed me how important it is to not only make memories within just my own little family but to also put forth the effort to make more memories with my extended family.  My aunts and uncles aren’t getting any younger.  We don’t have huge family dinners like we used or even all get together under one roof for the holidays like we used.  And I miss that and I didn’t realize how much I was craving it until our New Orleans trip.
    I’m thankful that my sister had a beautiful wedding and that I was able to be a part of it and help make her day even more special.  I wish her and my new brother in-law a lifetime of wedded bliss and happiness!
    What are you thankful for this week?

  • Thankful Thursday

    “I know why families were created with all their imperfections.  They humanize you.  They are made to make you forget yourself occasionally, so that the beautiful balance of life is not destroyed.”

     ~Anais Nin
    I’m definitely thankful for the imperfections of my family sometimes.  In all honesty, not having the perfect family has made my life better in many ways.  I’m a more humble and grateful person because of our imperfections.  I don’t take things for granted and know that every moment should be cherished no matter how minuscule or grand it may be. 
    Me and the Best Man
    I’m thankful that this past weekend, our family had to opportunity to come together to celebrate my older sister’s wedding in New Orleans.  I’m telling you, a 13 hour road trip will definitely strengthen the bonds of a family.  We laughed and fussed but when it was all said and done, nobody wanted the trip to end.  We all enjoyed each other’s company and the adventure.  I’m already thinking about where we can go to take our next road trip.
    This trip showed me how important it is to not only make memories within just my own little family but to also put forth the effort to make more memories with my extended family.  My aunts and uncles aren’t getting any younger.  We don’t have huge family dinners like we used or even all get together under one roof for the holidays like we used.  And I miss that and I didn’t realize how much I was craving it until our New Orleans trip.
    I’m thankful that my sister had a beautiful wedding and that I was able to be a part of it and help make her day even more special.  I wish her and my new brother in-law a lifetime of wedded bliss and happiness!
    What are you thankful for this week?

  • 2 Already

    Dear JJ,
    Happy Belated Birthday!!  I meant to write this on your birthday, but we were roadtripping to the Big Easy (NOLA).  Anyways, I can’t believe that you are TWO now!  I’m still trying to figure out where the first year went and now I have to think about the second too.  I can’t even begin to tell you how much joy you have given me, Daddy and Moo (and Auntie Cat).
    Everyday, I feel blessed that you (and your sister) chose me to not only be your mommy, but your guide, nurturer  protector and provider.  I’m thankful for the hugs and kisses you enjoy passing out now.  My heart melts to pieces when you lean over or pull my face in for a kiss on the cheek.  I love how you always want me in your line of sight and need to be with me almost 24/7.
    I’ve learned with your sister that these days are fleeting.  Soon you’ll be wanting to go off and do your own little toddler thing without me hovering over you.  You’ll make friends and will probably become too cool for kisses.  I hope not though, but if so I’ll settle for a hug.  You’re still giving me near heart attacks with your Dare Devil antics.  
    I have to admit that you’ve slowed down on the dangerous stunts a little bit.  However, every so often a chair calls your name and you just have to climb into, stand on it and then try to jump off it or climb higher onto something else.  You are definitely getting more rowdy.  You’re always trying to wrestle with your sister and other kids.  Maybe, a few days of hitting the park will help to get some of that energy out of you.
    And you’ve traded Diego and Baby Jaguar in for Mickey Mouse and the gang!  This is a shocker because I never saw this coming.  You used to go so hard for Diego, but not anymore.  It’s all about Mickey.  We can’t go anywhere and spot a Mickey because you’ll go bananas trying to get to it.  Guess, we better take that trip to Disney Land before you outgrow your Disney phase.
    Your hair has gotten longer but is still super curly.  Daddy still wants to cut it off, but I’m keeping my foot down on this.  I said we would take you to get a little trim but not a fade or anything that involves clippers.  I’m hoping that you outgrow your asthma and allergies.  They’ve been acting up pretty bad since Spring got here.  You’re a trooper though and never let either keep you down for long.
    This feels surreal.  A part of me is still in denial about the fact that your birthday has come and gone.  But alas, Year 3 has started and as much as I want to, I can’t rewind the hands of time.  Instead, I can continue snapping pics and writing journals in an effort to freeze and preserve moments from your childhood no matter how big or small or simple.
    At the end of the day, just know that you are loved little man!  We wouldn’t trade you for anything in this whole wide world.  Here’s to Year 3.  May it go by a little slower than Year 1 and Year 2!

  • 2 Already

    Dear JJ,
    Happy Belated Birthday!!  I meant to write this on your birthday, but we were roadtripping to the Big Easy (NOLA).  Anyways, I can’t believe that you are TWO now!  I’m still trying to figure out where the first year went and now I have to think about the second too.  I can’t even begin to tell you how much joy you have given me, Daddy and Moo (and Auntie Cat).
    Everyday, I feel blessed that you (and your sister) chose me to not only be your mommy, but your guide, nurturer  protector and provider.  I’m thankful for the hugs and kisses you enjoy passing out now.  My heart melts to pieces when you lean over or pull my face in for a kiss on the cheek.  I love how you always want me in your line of sight and need to be with me almost 24/7.
    I’ve learned with your sister that these days are fleeting.  Soon you’ll be wanting to go off and do your own little toddler thing without me hovering over you.  You’ll make friends and will probably become too cool for kisses.  I hope not though, but if so I’ll settle for a hug.  You’re still giving me near heart attacks with your Dare Devil antics.  
    I have to admit that you’ve slowed down on the dangerous stunts a little bit.  However, every so often a chair calls your name and you just have to climb into, stand on it and then try to jump off it or climb higher onto something else.  You are definitely getting more rowdy.  You’re always trying to wrestle with your sister and other kids.  Maybe, a few days of hitting the park will help to get some of that energy out of you.
    And you’ve traded Diego and Baby Jaguar in for Mickey Mouse and the gang!  This is a shocker because I never saw this coming.  You used to go so hard for Diego, but not anymore.  It’s all about Mickey.  We can’t go anywhere and spot a Mickey because you’ll go bananas trying to get to it.  Guess, we better take that trip to Disney Land before you outgrow your Disney phase.
    Your hair has gotten longer but is still super curly.  Daddy still wants to cut it off, but I’m keeping my foot down on this.  I said we would take you to get a little trim but not a fade or anything that involves clippers.  I’m hoping that you outgrow your asthma and allergies.  They’ve been acting up pretty bad since Spring got here.  You’re a trooper though and never let either keep you down for long.
    This feels surreal.  A part of me is still in denial about the fact that your birthday has come and gone.  But alas, Year 3 has started and as much as I want to, I can’t rewind the hands of time.  Instead, I can continue snapping pics and writing journals in an effort to freeze and preserve moments from your childhood no matter how big or small or simple.
    At the end of the day, just know that you are loved little man!  We wouldn’t trade you for anything in this whole wide world.  Here’s to Year 3.  May it go by a little slower than Year 1 and Year 2!

  • Bible 365: Week 20

    Almost to the halfway mark!  We’re still in the book of Psalms. In week 20, we read Psalms about fellowship, praise and mercy.  I’m telling you, if you ever need to be lifted up, this is the book in the Bible to come to.  There’s a Psalm for almost everything.  
    “O God, You are my God; early will I seek You; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water,” says Psalm 63:1.  This couldn’t be more true for me.  Lately, I’ve been making the effort to get up early before the kiddies awake to do my Bible study.  I can focus better on what I’m reading and understand the word better also.
    Never forget that God is awesome.  Psalm 66:5 reads, “Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men.”   Many times we’re so busy dwelling on the negative things that we forget just how wonderful God truly is.  I mean think about it.  He is pretty awesome.  He’s the giver and creator of life.
    He made the Earth in seven days.  Seriously, we give ourselves as humans too much credit.  The truth of the matter is that without God nothing would be possible.  We wouldn’t even be alive!  And if that isn’t enough, Psalm 68:5 tells us that “A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy habitation.”
    And when we are in trouble He know our “foolishness; and my sins are not hidden from You” (Psalm 69:5).  Despite our faults and transgressions, He will still be there for us like He was for the Israelites.
    Again, thank you to everyone who continues to support and read these Bible 365 posts!
    Week 21 Readings
    5/20: Psalms 85-89
    5/21: Psalms 90-92
    5/22: Psalms 93-95
    5/23: Psalms 96-98
    5/24: Psalms 99-101
    5/25: Psalms 102-104
    5/26: Psalms 105-106

  • Bible 365: Week 20

    Almost to the halfway mark!  We’re still in the book of Psalms. In week 20, we read Psalms about fellowship, praise and mercy.  I’m telling you, if you ever need to be lifted up, this is the book in the Bible to come to.  There’s a Psalm for almost everything.  
    “O God, You are my God; early will I seek You; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water,” says Psalm 63:1.  This couldn’t be more true for me.  Lately, I’ve been making the effort to get up early before the kiddies awake to do my Bible study.  I can focus better on what I’m reading and understand the word better also.
    Never forget that God is awesome.  Psalm 66:5 reads, “Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men.”   Many times we’re so busy dwelling on the negative things that we forget just how wonderful God truly is.  I mean think about it.  He is pretty awesome.  He’s the giver and creator of life.
    He made the Earth in seven days.  Seriously, we give ourselves as humans too much credit.  The truth of the matter is that without God nothing would be possible.  We wouldn’t even be alive!  And if that isn’t enough, Psalm 68:5 tells us that “A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy habitation.”
    And when we are in trouble He know our “foolishness; and my sins are not hidden from You” (Psalm 69:5).  Despite our faults and transgressions, He will still be there for us like He was for the Israelites.
    Again, thank you to everyone who continues to support and read these Bible 365 posts!
    Week 21 Readings
    5/20: Psalms 85-89
    5/21: Psalms 90-92
    5/22: Psalms 93-95
    5/23: Psalms 96-98
    5/24: Psalms 99-101
    5/25: Psalms 102-104
    5/26: Psalms 105-106

  • Thankful Thursday

    “Life without thankfulness is devoid of love and passion.”

    ~John Henry Jowett 

    This Thankful Thursday is very special.  Why?  Well, two years ago today, I gave birth to my handsome and amazing JJ!  I am beyond thankful to be celebrating his second year of life.  He’s given me so much joy and showed me that there’s always room for a heart to grow.
    He keeps me on my toes because he’s way more adventurous and outgoing than his sister was at his age.  And he’s showing no signs of slowing down.  I’m thankful that he’s healthy, smart and very loving.  He’s changed the lives of this family forever.  He’s made me more confident in my parenting skills.  He’s taught Moo how to share and what bonding is really like.  And for my husband, I think that the birth of our son is helping him to prove to himself that he’s not his past.
    I’m also thankful that today we’ll be heading to New Orleans to celebrate with my older sister and soon to be bro in-law for their wedding this weekend.  I haven’t been to New Orleans in a while and I’ve missed them both terribly.  I’m over the moon happy for them and that I get to take part in their special day serving as her matron of honor.
    I’m thankful that she’s found her life partner and that he appreciates her.  I’m thankful for this opportunity for our family to get together and enjoy a mini vacation together.  It’s going to be memorable for sure and a weekend we’ll all cherish.
    What events in your life are you thankful for?