The Degenhart Family

An Update From Alex

2012-02-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

Some things I love these days:

My scoot and zoom. Thanks Nana!

Anything (or nothing) in a styrofoam cup with a lid and straw

Trying to "help" William in the kitchen.

Ditching my highchair (and bottle) for the big kid table and a fork!

Church

Mardi Gras parades!!!

My brother. Most of the time anyway.

O Christmas Tree

2011-12-10T07:24:00.000-08:00

When Will came home from work the Monday after Thanksgiving William was on a mission. He made us all get in the truck and immediately go to Home Depot without eating dinner.

He insisted on picking out the tree and pushing the cart through the checkout and to the car all by himself.

He decorated in a frenzy with no deisre to hear the story of each ornament. After all, it was the day he had been waiting for all year.

It was New York Central Day!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-30T07:49:00.000-08:00

Turkey for 12 at my house!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T18:24:00.000-07:00

Here are the obligatory pictures of my kids in their Halloween costumes. William shocked us all by wanting to wear his pirate costume instead of his train engineer costume. Go figure.

Alex, of course, wore a fisherman costume that was William's. Or at least he wore parts of it.

Mid way through trick or treating William was "done" getting off of the hayride to go get candy. Alex, however, barreled off the side of the trailer and straight up every driveway with his hand held out and a big smile on his face at every stop. Will said, "that kid is going to be the life of the party." I think he is right.

Roux Dat?

2011-09-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

On Sunday afternoon I had an after church meeting and Will was in charge of both kids. I walked in the door around 4:00 to find a little action going on in the kitchen. I think we managed to keep all the bugars out of the pot. And just so you know, if you ever need to substitute tilefish for redfish in a John Besh courtbouillon it is to die for!

An Update from William

2011-08-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

I have been hanging out with my Dad a lot lately. We went to the circus and he took a video of the elephants on his phone that I get to watch almost every day. We have been working on Miss Sippee too. I helped him change some tires and we both had to make our best concentrating faces to make it happen. Mom even got us matching shirts with Sippee's name on them! Of course we have been fishing but since mom isn't around there aren't any pictures of that. I caught a big redfish last time! Daddy time is great!

Versed Before and After

2011-07-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

How Things Work

2011-06-14T19:34:00.000-07:00

William, how does the DVD player work?

My Little Space Cadet

2011-05-23T11:29:00.000-07:00

End of the year preschool programs can be anything from disastrous to hilarious. You've been there, the boy picking his nose on the front row, the girl screaming at the top of her lungs for Mommy, the lovely "singing", all while the teachers scramble around trying to look they they have a handle on the situation. Take all that and add a little codeine to the mix. Poor William was still recovering from his tonsil surgery and had been awake since 4 am. However, he would not hear of missing his program so there he was with a blank stare on the stage. The teachers tell me he never sings and hates circle time (singing and dancing). So when the director handed him the microphone everyone was shocked to hear him belt out his best version of "Little Red Caboose" loud and clear. I guess we'll just credit the narcotics!

In My Next 30 Years

2011-04-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

It started about a week ago when I attended a Senior Voice Recital at Loyola with my friend Jena. There was this young, carefree, highly dramatic, super talented soprano giving her final performance at college before jetting off to New York to pursue riches and certain fame as a star on Broadway or at the Met. Ah, those were the days.

On the eve of my 30th birthday it got me thinking. If any number of things had been different could I have done the same? If I had figured it all out earlier, had more time at school, or had more confidence in myself, would I still be singing a wedding or a funeral every now and then (something serious singers hardly condescend to do, right?) between diaper changes and loads of laundry? Surely God has given me a certain degree of talent or people wouldn't ask me to use it, albeit infrequently. Am I wasting my gift?

Before you start to worry that I am writing the next Kate Chopin style sob story let me assure you that I came to my senses quickly. The problem is that no matter what you are good at the world defines success at it in terms of your name in lights and wads of cash in your bank account. But God defines it quite differently. He is concerned with the attitude of our hearts. Success is achieved when a complete reliance on God allows Him to use the gifts he has given you for His glory and His purpose in His time and in His way. Since this biblical success often lacks immediate tangible gratification sometimes it is easy for me to have thoughts like the ones I had at the recital but it doesn't change the truth.

1 Peter 3:15 says, "But in your hearts revere God as Lord and always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." Obviously, this verse is talking about being ready to share the gospel at all times. But often for me this "answer" comes in the form of a song or at the very least my song will sometimes prompt someone to ask for the answer. This is success.

So I will gladly spend my next 30 years singing God Bless America at a Veterans Day Luncheon, You'll Never Walk Alone at a cancer survivors event, The Lord's Prayer at a wedding, or Jesus Loves Me to my children. And I know that in each instance God has placed me and gifted me to give His "answer" to all who are listening. What has he gifted you to do? I guarantee it is something.

Equine Adventure

2011-03-24T18:29:00.001-07:00

When I was a child I received a set of stories about a country vet who made house calls in England. James Herriot had all kinds of interesting stories to tell about the animals that he treated and a profound understanding of and awe for All Creatures Great and Small , as he so titled his work. Today reminded me of his stories. Despite struggling to take blood from 7 restless horses, a task that is not her usual or shall we say favorite, Dr. Troxler (I always forget to call her that) was in action at her best and we got to tag along!

It took about 10 minutes for William and "Missy" to fall in love and an hour for William to finish feeding her hay.

Then the kissing commenced.

Next some riding.

There were bunnies, baby cows, roosters, cats, a huge John Deere tractor,and even a 3 day old foal. But tonight I am guessing that when I ask William who he wants to pray for he will mention a certain little filly. Can you even dare to imagine Creation before the Fall? For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God. Romans 8:20-21

Alex's Update

2011-03-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

Hey guys. So here's what's new with me these days:

Mommy makes me take a lot of goofy pictures. So humiliating!

But the silver camera is fascinating!

Nana gave me my first haircut this week.

I decided crawling was cool.

Green Beans are yummy and they match my outfit too!

Shahbaz Bhatti

2011-03-02T11:01:00.000-08:00

Don't worry, I had never heard of him until today either. In short Bhatti, a Pakistani politician, dared to speak out against an anti-blasphemy law which requires the death penalty for anyone who speaks ill of Islam or the Prophet. Soon Bhatti was receiving regular death threats from the Taliban. He could have been silent on the issue, besides no one had actually been executed on the charges in years, but he continued to insist against the law despite the threats. Why would he do this? I'll let him tell you. Bhatti taped this video and gave it to the BBC with instructions only to air it in the event of his death. That day has come. He was gunned down in broad daylight by the Taliban in his driveway.

The video brought tears to my eyes. Bhatti, like Daniel, knew that to proclaim Jesus as Lord was a violation of this law and yet he continued to do so and to stand up for the rights of others to do the same. He was ready to die for it. He had no security detail and "looked only to heaven for protection." I rejoice for Bhatti's life and his witness, I pray for his family and for his country, and I look forward to meeting him someday in the presence of the one he died proclaiming.

Friday Afternoon Fun

2011-02-18T18:27:00.000-08:00

Ok, so this was last Friday. It was still way fun. I picked up Sydney and William at school and we made our way slowly to BooKoo bounce. Did I mention that they will crack you up with their conversations in the car?

We found a funny sign at Sonic. Only in New Orleans are there signs addressing the"bad guys." Hope they can read.

I think the kids went down the big slide at least 50 times.

Thankfully we left without espresso or a puppy, just 3 really tired kids.

2011-01-31T15:17:00.000-08:00

Fairly Entertaining "Not So Great" Pictures

Acute Otitis Media with Effusion

2011-01-10T08:49:00.000-08:00

The good news is that Alex has been sleeping from 10 pm to 7 am for about three weeks now. The bad news is that William has been waking at night for a few hours for the same time period. His ears are giving us real trouble! Poor guy has had something like 8 rounds of antibiotics in the past 5 months and you know you have to do something when your baby looks at you with tears in his eyes and asks you to "make him feel better." So after lots of middle of the night praying (what else can you do sitting in the dark between 3am and 5am) we made an appointment with the ENT.

What I find interesting is all the advice and reasoning I have been getting. It goes something like this:

" Did you breastfeed your babies? Because I did and my kids never had ear infections."

"Has he had any vaccines? I haven't given my kids any vaccines and they are fine. You know vaccines are causing a rise in all of these ear infections in kids these days."

" Have you thought about seeing a Chiropractor? I swear mine helped open up my son's tubes."

"Those antibiotics are going to kill his immune system."

"My daughter is on an all organic diet and she is never sick anymore."

Mind you, every single one of these pieces of well intentioned advice has come from the lips of a Christian friend who I know cares about me. No one has yet to tell me that it is all that sin in my life that is making my baby sick but, come to think of it, no one has suggested or offered prayer either.

It is human inclination to "solve" the problem. Our flesh immediately wants to "fix" issues big or small. I find myself doing this all the time. But God draws us to himself. He seeks to teach us to lean on him and trust in him (Proverbs 3: 5-6). To cast all our cares on him (1 Peter 5:7). Doing so may mean a miraculous recovery or it may mean learning a lesson in patience or perseverance. Either way "We know that all things work for good for those who love the Lord and are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28) Maybe more importantly, God's answer to an issue will reveal his glory one way or another if we will only have eyes to see it.

Maybe if I had a breastfed, vaccine and antibiotic free, organic eating, chiropractic patient for a son he would be completely healthy. But for now I think I will stick to praying for patience and wisdom for the doctors and myself and healing for William. And the next time someone comes to me, formally or casually, with a problem I will try to remember to point them to God first and go easy on my advice.

Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

Alexander

2011-01-05T19:22:00.001-08:00

A full range of emotion . . .

in less than 60 seconds!

Nativity?

2010-12-13T15:15:00.000-08:00

I guess the wise men brought some friends this year. Oh well, "to infinity and beyond" seems appropriate in the context of the life of Jesus. I guess they can come along.

Thanksgiving Weekend 2010

2010-11-28T15:22:00.000-08:00

This weekend marked the 2nd annual Thanksgiving streetcar ride down St. Charles to our favorite French Quarter spot Bayona. William behaved quite well and really enjoyed the ride. He told Susan Spicer that he was most thankful for "spicy rice" aka jambalaya.

On Friday we cooked turkey just so we would have some. Then, of course, we cheered the Tigers on to victory over Alabama! Ok, so I was the only one really glad about that but so be it. It was a fairly mellow Thanksgiving

and for that I am thankful.

Train Fever

2010-11-12T19:30:00.000-08:00

It sometimes seems like a cruel joke or at the very least one of life's great ironies. For years in a row I went on vacation based on where the O-scale model railroaders were having their annual convention. Don't get me wrong we took some cool trips and made a few memories. The drive all the way up Cape Cod and the mock Saharan safari in the mighty Lumina come to mind. But I think part of me was relieved to walk out of the the train show in Dallas where we sold most of Dad's collection thinking, "that is the last one of those I will have to attend!"

Oh contraire! Last weekend there I was again in a room full of round, middle aged white guys playing with the toys of their childhood. I immediately recognized the smell of smoke pellets and the deafening sound of the trains racing around the tracks. The only difference this time was that I was the only woman there under the age of 50, so the middle aged white guys were a lot more talkative.

William wore his hat and scarf as usual. He spent hours playing and looking and screamed bloody murder when we had to leave. There is no doubt in my mind that he would be glued to his Dadoo's side. And if that could have been the case maybe I really wouldn't have had to ever go to another train show again!

Race For The Cure

2010-10-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

Saturday's Race for the Cure in City Park was surprisingly fun even if I did have to walk with one strapped to my chest and one screaming in the stroller.

Aunt Amber ran her first 5K and she did great!

There were lots of silly pink costumes and inspiring signs on people's backs about who they were running in celebration of.

William was not happy about being in the stroller even if the Mayor did walk right next to us smoozing all the way. But the pink cupcakes made it all worth it in the end.

As did the Abita and jambalaya . . . and Amber's first taste of raw Oysters at Remoulade!

Oh, and I happened to win a $50 gas gift card. Thanks Shell!

We finished the day watching Auburn win and then Will and I got to go on a little date. Aunt Amber loves big and we were so glad to have her. We couldn't have asked for a better sister.

The Pumkin Patch

2010-10-12T07:58:00.000-07:00

Well . . .sort of.

Two Weeks of Blessings

2010-10-01T14:52:00.000-07:00

A sweet baby boy.

With sweet little hands.

And sweet little feet.

A very proud (and sometimtes even quiet) big brother.

10 full days of help from SuSu, Big Al, and Nana!!!

Postpartum date at Superior. A tradition, I guess.

Lots of visitors bringing lots of food.

Not to mention beautiful weather and a great husband. God is good. All we lack is sleep.

C'est Fini!

2010-09-09T05:42:00.001-07:00

Well, all but the pictures that go in the frames. Aunt Candace may have to help me with that part. Why is it that making the room is my favorite part of pregnancy? It is all so sweet and cute before they get here and start crying and depositing bodily fluid on things. On second thought I'll take the bodily fluid if it means no more giant uncomfortableness. Bring it on!

Sunday's Activity

2010-09-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard Will has been restoring his old BMX bike from 1985 or so. He has wanted to take William to a race ever since he started. Well, it just so happened that the Louisiana State Championship races were being held on Sunday afternoon at the Gretna BMX Raceway. Of course he doesn't mention a thing about it until we are in the car leaving church but it is a nice day, I don't have anything better to do, and why the heck not.

He made William change into his extra t-shirt. I guess he thought his 3 year old wouldn't fit in wearing his monogrammed church outfit! But for me there was no choice but a nine month belly and white linen pants. As I sat there praying that my water wouldn't break I had a great time people watching. Every sport/hobby has its own quirky culture and this one is no exception. I swear that the New Orleans West Bank version of Joy from the TV show My Name is Earl was sitting next to me!

The good news was that the Gretna BMX Raceway has the best jambalaya ever! William loved the races and cheered the whole time. He kept asking to go home and get his "Rocket Bike" so he could ride it on the "bumpy dirt track." I was hoping for golf but I am afraid this may be in his future. "After all, there is an under 5 category," as Will pointed out. To which I replied, "Sure and his race name can be William "Sippy Cup" Degenhart!"

Bitter Water

2010-08-05T13:54:00.000-07:00

When you attend a church that teaches more or less straight through the entire bible you don't miss out on the seemingly more obscure and bizarre parts. Last Sunday was one such case as Numbers chapter 5 came up.

To make a long description short, in the last part of the chapter God commands this:

Israelite man wakes up one morning and suddenly feels jealous of his wife.

Man takes woman to the priest.

Woman stands before God.

Priest sprinkles dirt from the tabernacle floor into a bowl of water.

Priest writes a curse on a scroll and washes it off into the same water thus making it "bitter."

Priest speaks more curses and commands woman to say "Amen."

Woman drinks said water which, depending on the translation of a few Hebrew idioms, will cause her to become barren/cast out of the camp/struck dead/stoned if she has indeed committed adultery.

If woman is innocent, no big deal, nothing will happen.

The night before this particular sermon it just so happens that the power had gone out. The air had been off all night and the temperature in the room was near 80 with no breeze. I was already uncomfortable in my small upright seat with Alex kicking up a storm. Just about the time the preacher was reaching a climax to his description of this dramatic scene I seriously thought I might DFO! Luckily the nursery door was right by my chair and I slipped out for a drink of water and a little breeze. I am sure he had some great point to make about how wonderful grace is and how thankful all this makes us for Jesus who fulfilled the law but I missed that part. It was the conversation in the car on the way home that was funny:

Will: Did you have to go to the bathroom during the sermon?

KK: No, I was hot and thought I was going to pass out.

Will: No way! That would have been so funny! I would have stood up and yelled in my best Southern Baptist voice something like "Preacher! Preacher! It worked!"

KK: Nice.

Not Destin But Still Fun!

2010-08-01T17:14:00.001-07:00

Galveston worked out well for an alternative beach trip this year. Will went early and got in some fishing before William and I showed up. William spent about 6 hours a day on the beach for 5 days. It was his best year so far!

Homecoming

2010-07-11T17:56:00.001-07:00

Thursday morning William and I drove home to find that everything at my house is having babies--the birds with their nest in my wreath, the sago palms, and two other mommies on our street. I guess we fit right in.

After dinner as I was washing the dishes I heard a loud banging on the door. When I looked out the window I saw Will sprinting across the front yard with a fire extinguisher in his hands. Turns out the house 2 doors down was on fire and he and the neighbor were doing their best to slow it down. In a matter of 3 minutes they had to back off because of the smoke and thankfully the fire department was there shortly after. The firemen made us stay outside for a good 3 hours as the wind was threatening to spread the flames which tore through the house and collapsed the roof within 20 minutes. William thought it was all very exciting with 6 fire trucks and all. Just another reminder of how stuff is just stuff and it can be gone in 20 minutes or so! Thankfully no one was home.

Togetherness

2010-07-09T07:04:00.001-07:00

Friends . . .

and Family.

My Garage

2010-07-02T06:28:00.000-07:00

The lack of urgency in response to this spill is breathtaking! Environmental and economic impacts will soon include impossible laundry and curious 3 year old hands and feet. Heaven help us if the K-9 rolls in it! Can I get a top kill? A junk shot? What happened to the BOP? Somebody throw some napkins on this thing! Ok, just a trip to Auto Zone will do.

This one is really funny is you haven't seen it!

Father's Day

2010-06-21T09:14:00.001-07:00

I am not in a wordy or emotional mood today for some reason so here is the short version.

Today I miss this guy. (Not really any more than any other day.)

But that guy knew this guy so it's all good.

There you have it. Happy Father's Day!

Potty Training Update

2010-06-08T13:28:00.001-07:00

The Good:

It took 6 months and an entire 42 ounce bag of M&Ms but William is wearing big boy pants all the time and goes without prompting or help on the big potty.

The Bad:

Somewhere in the process he lost an appreciation for wearing clothes.

The Ugly:

His wiping needs a little work. Tell me how this is better than diapers again?

Now I know why I am feeling so much kicking!

2010-05-15T07:43:00.000-07:00

Backwards and in Heels

2010-05-08T20:32:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those. I'll probably regret telling you all this tomorrow but here goes!

At 6:30 am on a Saturday my mildly morning sick self is up making breakfast and packing lunch for Will, William, and Doug who are going fishing. I had a hunch that something was up with William but I didn't really have a choice and had to be at work so I sent him off with Daddy.

At 9:30 am I arrive at work and other than standing for 7 hours and dealing with a lady who thought it would be ok to tuck merchandise in her pants everything was fine.

By 4:30 pm I am leaving work and want nothing more than to go put my feet up. But the boys will be hungry when they get home so I go to the store and get dinner on the table for their arrival at 7:00 pm. When they show up William is red in the face, burning up to the touch, and shaking all over. The thermometer reads 103. Off we go to the urgent care center while Will washes the boat and worries to death that he has damaged the motor somehow.

By 8:45 pm William had his antibiotic shot for an awful ear infection, gone with me to drop off the prescription at the drugstore, gotten an icee for being a big boy, eaten a snack and crashed in his bed.

Sometime between 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm I manage to eat for the first time since breakfast and clean up the kitchen while Will snores on the couch. Then, back to the drugstore around 10:15 to pick up his medicine. Only, wait for it . . . Children's Tylenol and Motrin are recalled and there is none to be found. But wait, it gets better! The "system" is down and unless I want to pay the cash price of $120 for his prescription I will have to come back tomorrow when they can process the insurance. Home again I go. So here I am finally in my PJs at 11:00 and over my little hormone induced crying fit.

There is some kind of saying about Ginger Rogers, something about her being able to do everything Fred Astaire did backwards and in heels. That is what I am thinking now about my mom. She did everything I am doing as a mom times 4 while holding more than full time job and complaining a lot less than I do. I sent her a card that said something about the woman that I am being because of the mom that she is and I signed it "well at least the good parts." So happy Mother's Day to my mom and all of you who manage to do it backwards and in heels.

Family Fun Day

2010-04-24T19:28:00.000-07:00

Valero has a great Family Day every year. This year was as fun as ever especially since William was really old enough to get into it. The activities included swimming, boats, fishing, a petting zoo, pony rides, mini golf, jump houses and lots of good food. William's favorite by far were the bunnies. He was so gentle. He went to bed tonight wearing his new shark hat too.

Fore!

2010-04-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

Today's visit to the driving range was a big hit. William listened carefully to Will explain and demonstrate and then did exactly what he observed--two practice swings with good follow through before he hit the ball. I would love it if golf became his sport. Low risk of injury, beautiful weather, beautiful courses, golf carts, drinks with little umbrellas in them for mommies, I could go on and on! I think this may need encouragement.

This just in . . .

2010-04-15T08:55:00.000-07:00

Will's latest comment:

"If he comes out black I am definitely naming him JJ!"

Oh help!

A Boy!

2010-04-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, much to the relief of the owner of First Look Ultrasound in New Orleans, the baby uncrossed its legs and showed us his man parts! I for one was not surprised but I think Will really was. It was fun to have Jena , Sydney, and Nicholas with us for the big reveal and a boy is great with me!

Now it is on to the task of picking another boy name. Too many Davids, too many Johns, I was supposing I needed to start from scratch. Of course every time I ask Will he can't come up with anything serious and gives me some silly suggestion like Rocky or Justice. So I looked up what William Warren means just for starters and came up with determined guardian/protective friend respectively. After a little more research I have two possibilities:

Andrew Costin - Valiant Warrior/Steadfast

Will's Grandfather was William Warren Costin and you can use Costin as a variation on Constantine.

Nathan Randolph - Gift of God/Strong Shield

I kind of like Randolph for a middle name. Aren't there some Randolphs way back in the back of the genealogical bus? I might prefer Andrew for a first name so he may end up Andrew Randolph but I am taking votes and suggestions, other than Rocky Justice of course!

Best Friend's Bungee Birthday

2010-03-28T16:51:00.000-07:00

Daddy was kind of a show off with his flips. William jumped for an hour. Mommy didn't think it was a good idea for her. But we all had fun!

Baby Degenhart 2

2010-03-11T18:58:00.000-08:00

In case you haven't heard yet we are expecting! Today all 3 (or I guess 4) of us braved the doctors office for the first ultrasound. I thought it would be good for William because it might help him understand what is going on. I also thought it would make the situation become more real for Will who has been too busy to function properly much less worry about why his wife is lying on the floor intermittently while trying to cook his breakfast.

For William I was right. He was so excited about watching the baby on "TV" that he told everyone about it for the rest of the day (after reciting the pledge of allegiance first, of course). He also declared firmly to the ultrasound tech that "it is a sister," a prediction I have been unable to coax out of him as of yet. We'll see about that in May.

For Will it was a little harder to gauge. His only comment was in the waiting room; "If they hurry with this we might could go to Puglias!" (the local offshore fishing store). I guess I should give him the benefit of the doubt for waking up in the middle of what is his night to be there.

I am a little farther along than I thought at 12 weeks and 5 days. The new due date is September 18th. We saw some acrobatics and the tech remarked that she doesn't see one climb up the uterus very often. She was able to get a heartbeat at 162 and we saw all the arms, legs, fingers, and toes. I think I could see ultrasounds all day for 20 years like the tech and still be in awe of God's amazing work each and every time. I'll just have to remember that feeling when I'm lying on the floor intermittently in the mornings!

WHO DAT!

2010-02-09T17:04:00.000-08:00

On Wednesdays

2010-01-09T19:06:00.000-08:00

We play hard . . . . and sleep really well!

What will your Mommy say Syd?

Goodbye Old Friend

2010-01-06T19:44:00.000-08:00

Whoever knew I could be so sentimental about a vehicle. We finally sold "green truck". Twelve years and over 250,000 miles! Amazingly it sold within 3 days of listing it on Louisiana Sportsman (he had something like 20 calls!) Memorable events that involve green truck include:

Lifting the mower in and out of the bed as Will and I mowed 10-12 yards a day in the summer of 1998

Watching it drive away the day he left for college (SuSu drove of course)

Taking a nap in the cab instead of making my first duck hunt due to fog on the river New Year's Morning 2000

Driving from Atlanta to Shreveport in an ice storm while pulling a boat and wondering if the 4 wheel drive was ever going to kick in

Being carried out the door and into the passenger's seat as we left our wedding reception.

Using it to move into out first tiny little house.

Watching Arty and William get excited in the evenings because they could hear it coming from 4 blocks away.

Putting all of that great experience getting the Burb to turn over on a cold morning to get it started recently.

I am sure that Will has a very different list of memorable events but oh well. We let William "drive" it one more time and took a picture. Some lucky high school kid will get it now and that seems appropriate enough to me! So long Green Truck!

Links

2009-12-16T20:30:00.000-08:00

You just have to read this about my niece Anna Grace! Amazing!

In other news I am now working at a fun place called The Basketry. Check it out if you need to ship a gift basket somewhere. I think I spent way more than I made over Christmas but it is fun and it sure made Christmas shopping easy!

Thanks to Melissa Palmer for the awesome pictures a few weeks ago!

Will is very very busy at work and William's Christmas program is tomorrow. I am sure there will be some video of a rousing rendition of "Jingle Bells" soon. Well, that is about all I have time for tonight. More later.

Its begining to look a lot like Christmas!

2009-11-28T12:48:00.000-08:00

Not bad for one girl in one morning if I do say so myself. Attics, ladders, broken strings of lights and a busy 2 year old are no match for KK!

2009-11-10T15:53:00.000-08:00

Just in time for Christmas its Rudolph! William was running full force down the driveway and tripped on his own feet. Luckily he caught himself with his nose? It bled for what seemed like forever and I really hope it doesn't scar him permanently. Poor guy! And all I really wanted for Chirstmas was a good family picture.

We are having a lot of terrible two's type activity lately. I might as well be talking to a brick wall when I tell him not to do something and he is sitting in timeout a lot! It helps for me to remember that we are both just learning how to be more like Jesus slowly everyday in every temper tantrum situation. We pray at night for Mommy to stay patient and for William to "listen and obey". This, of course, is only possible through the Holy Spirit. Patience has never been my best virtue!

Mama called the doctor and the doctor said . . .

2009-10-23T14:01:00.000-07:00

Encore! Encore!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-21T15:18:00.001-07:00

We didn't go to school on Tuesday just to be safe about this nasty stomach bug but we did manage a trip to the pumpkin patch in Montz. The tractor ride was really fun and we were able to find a pumkin that wasn't rotten among the slim pickin's. It was a beautiful day and a good way to get out of the house!

Two Left Hands

2009-09-29T19:16:00.000-07:00

Today I found this in William's school bag. I discovered it around noon and thought to myself, "this is so sweet" as I put it on the frig. It was laminated and I imagined myself keeping it forever so I could remember his little hands even when he was older. This mommy pride lasted until Will got home and I showed it to him. All he could say was,"well I hope you only want to remember his left hand!" That totally ruined it for me and I couldn't believe I didn't notice! At least he didn't cry at school today.

Car Wash Flashback

2009-09-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

He is so much bigger now and so much more actual "help". He helped pull weeds for an hour last night!
Last Year
This Year

Laundry Day

2009-09-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

In his mind he really is helping! I guess he doesn't realize that he is putting dirty clothes in the dryer.

Time for School!

2009-09-05T18:58:00.000-07:00

On Friday I got to go to visit my new school! Mommy seems really excited and Daddy even took off work to come and check it out. I think I will fit right in with my class of 7 other 2 year olds and I already like Ms. Sherri.

I really liked the diggers on the playground.

and I am glad my friend Sydney will be there to take care of me.

But when it was time to leave the playground I was not happy! Can't wait to go back Tuesday!

One Man's Trash

2009-09-01T19:50:00.001-07:00

Back by popular demand?

Recently Will's mom moved out of the home where Will grew up. They had lived there for 25 years! I met Will there and I still remember sitting in the driveway after he drove off to go to college 4 states away. But that is another story.

The big project before SuSu and Big Al left was a massive garage sale. Candace helped me and brought some stuff and Jonny and Amber brought a lot of stuff too! Here are some treasures I snagged from their "junk."

Some lovely ambiance for the window over the spa tub! Love it!

A little spray paint and some polyurethane make for a new coffee/train table in the living room.

Let's just say I have plans for this one yet.

All in all it was a great success. Between all of us we made over a thousand dollars. I think everyone was pleased.

Men at Work

2009-07-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

All that digging sure made us thirsty! Wheew! Sorry about the yard Nana.

Somebody's Getting Married

2009-07-19T20:05:00.001-07:00

My "little" brother got married on Saturday. It was beautiful and fun as I knew it would be. I had no idea, however, how emotional I would be about it. I am not usually one to cry at weddings. It wasn't just about how proud I know Dad would have been or how much he would have basked in the moment of his only son's big day or how much he would LOVE Amber! There was a little of that, but mostly I was the one who was proud and basking in the moment and loving Amber. All the little stories about how much trouble I got Jonny into as a kid and how he would do anything I told him to do flashed before my eyes as I watched him at the front of the church all grown up. I was honored to sing for the wedding and totally unprepared for the possibility of trying not to cry in the middle of singing a song! So here's to Jonny and Amber . . . love ya'll!

Hurricane Season

2009-07-14T12:06:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year again. Today I am collecting important documents, stocking the pantry, taking a few pictures, and making a list of things to put in the car for an evacuation.

I came across this picture from 2005. That is Katrina on the Weather Channel just off the coast of Cuba. I took the picture to document the TV and the piece of furniture for insurance purposes and didn't realize what was on the TV. Funny! It took me back for sure and made me realize just how much my perspective has changed since then.

We had just moved in and hadn't even unpacked when we evacuated. We had no idea where the water would go, or how bad it would be, or even if our flood insurance coverage was active yet so of course we were worried. When we returned I never will forget holding hands in front of the fireplace and thanking God in prayer that we suffered almost no damage. Maybe God knew we weren't mature enough yet to handle a total loss. I don't know, but we certainly learned at lot from the experience.

In the months to come we would go and see the homes of friends that took on 12 plus feet of water . We saw the home of our pastor who had 3 children and a pregnant wife, a family who was left with only the clothes in a suitcase. I listened as my BSF leader's circle told unimaginable stories when we finally met in November. It could have been us, and it still might be. Living with the prospect of losing every material thing I own during any given summer has turned out to be a strangely wonderful thing. I think that now I really understand how unimportant all that stuff we spend so much time and money and effort on really is. I understand it from facing the reality of it and not just giving a principle that sounds right some lip service. I think that now I could respond like the Cox family did, with praise to God for all that he has done and will do in and through the situation.

I may still like to paint and decorate or even get a nice new floor but it doesn't have a hold on me like it might have in the past. It isn't my worth. It doesn't define me. It is truly freeing in a way and for that I thank God for the lessons of Katrina.

"What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For the world in its present form is passing away." 1 Cor 7:29-31

Roll Times Good The Let

2009-07-02T19:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm so down cuz I'm home alone.

I talked to the wife, but it was on the phone.

Usually when the sun goes down,

Daddy comes home and William turns 'round (in circles).

Today there was only a lawn to mow...

With a schizo neurotic dog in tow.

I miss my peps and I know it's only a matter of time til William says

"wanna wanna, wanna, go home"

Stinky

2009-06-12T19:14:00.001-07:00

So I'm taking out the diaper champ trash when I suddenly feel a little pang of guilt about how all these diapers were used in just one week. I was imagining them in a landfill rotting for years and years with millions of other children's bags of diapers. "Maybe I should get on this potty stuff a little harder and sooner for the earth and all," I thought. I am not a heartless "kill the earth" wife of a big oil employee after all. I understand that I am called to be a responsible steward of God's creation until Jesus comes to restore.

But then I had another thought about the diapers. In the not too distant future the federal government will probably regulate what kind of diapers I can use and how many and when my children have to be potty trained and perhaps how many kids I can even have. I am sure they will take care of it all for us . . . no need to worry! So I wheeled to trash can down to the end of the street holding my nose.

A Crazy Pirate?

2009-06-08T12:56:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday we loaded up and went to the member's only party at the zoo called Zoobilation. It was very crowded but a lot of fun. We even managed to find some live music after dinner. William had a blast "dancing" on the stage with the pirate. His moves need a little improvement. I am really surprised he did not fall or throw up after turning for so long.

Five Years

2009-06-01T11:28:00.000-07:00

Saturday was our 5th Anniversary. I thought for sure Will would forget. We had already celebrated a little with our trip to San Antonio earlier in the month and I wasn't planning on any big deal that night even if he did remember. But he did. He went to whole foods and came home with everything to prepare a delicious meal; redfish and mussels in a sauce piquant, veggies with a gastrique, cheesecake, even white wine just for me!

As he was cooking I was telling William about Mommy and Daddy's anniversary. All he could manage was "Happy Birthday" but he knew we were celebrating something. Before we put him to bed we both promised him that Mommy and Daddy will always be married until we die. It sure did make me think about my vows and how much they meant and mean, especially with another life in the mix!

Then we ate, just the two of us with the candles lit looking at old pictures. I think I actually preferred it to going out even if we did have to do the dishes.

Pieces of Flair

2009-05-06T18:54:00.000-07:00

Anything sticky is a sticker, even an old piece of black duck tape and the label off of the 5 year old leather couch. And what do you do with a sticker? Put it on your shirt of course! William walked into the kitchen as I was cooking with a shirt full and exclaimed "Sticus!" I have no idea where all that stuff came from.

Happy Birthday times 2 !

2009-04-25T18:34:00.000-07:00

Today William is 2! He had a great time singing Happy Birthday to himself all day long. I'm not sure he exactly got it but he was on to the fact that he was getting more attention than usual. Of course I was remarking about what was going on at any given moment with my body on this day 2 years ago.

I'm not sure what is going on, maybe the calm before the storm that is terrible 2, but William is on a super sweet kick. He says "sorry momma" at the slightest hint that he might have done something wrong or even that I might be unhappy for any reason. He loves to give kisses and hugs. He almost always asks please and says "oh thank you" even to strangers at the store. Will's favorite is the grin he gives when Will looks at him. He is a pretty great little guy and I am so glad that God has blessed us with him! Happy Birthday Bud!

Luckily it is Amber's Birthday too! She and Jonny are on their way back from Jazz Fest with shrimp for dinner. We love you Amber and are so glad that you will be joining the family officially in July!

Treasure

2009-04-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

Candace and I spent most of Thursday morning hunting for the Holiday in Dixie treasure. She remarked as we were traveling from library to library, "We should go on the Amazing Race together!" to which I replied "minus the two two-year-olds!" We didn't find it and I don't think anyone else has yet. Unfortunately we are both not in Shreveport to look anymore. So I guess these guys really were the real treasure for us that morning!

Sweet Boy

2009-04-21T18:44:00.000-07:00

I got William all dressed up and took him to Norton Art gallery to take his picture because I am too cheap to hire someone. Not too bad . . .

Sweep sweep sweep sweep mop!

2009-04-19T18:31:00.000-07:00

Fun times at Nana's with the cousins. Believe it or not no one got hurt. Oh, and Nana was proud. More to come later . . .

It beats the other place there ain't no doubt!

2009-04-17T17:59:00.000-07:00

This one is for the Harrigans and Chaneys! How's this for Hellenistic Metaphysical Dualism?

Ohm Debo!

2009-04-08T11:02:00.001-07:00

I guess Home Depot wasn't very busy this morning because William had attracted a crowd of workers. They were all hovering around him and getting him to say "I love Home Depot!" over and over again. He was happy to oblige. We also came home with a new prize possession that I though he might insist on sleeping in this afternoon.

One For The Record Books?

2009-04-06T19:22:00.000-07:00

Last weekend the Chaney's came to visit and we had a great time eating, running, going to the zoo, etc. On Saturday during nap time Candace was reading an article from Runner's World magazine out loud. It was something like Most Embarrassing Race moments. I laughed and went eeew at several of the incidents described. Little did I know that the very next weekend I would have one worthy to submit to the magazine myself.

I had been training for the Big D Texas half marathon for three months and the big day had finally arrived on Sunday. I had eaten a little too much crawfish the day before and had to visit the port-a-potty minutes before the start. The first 7 or 8 miles were great, a little hilly and a lot windy but I was doing great. Then around mile 9 I had to Go! and I had to Go right then!

In the middle of a very nice historic neighborhood there were some ladies cheering outside their home. I walked up and before I could even ask one of them saw my face and said "Do you need a bathroom?" I nodded and she took me inside. I was already embarrassed enough but then to my sheer horror the toilet stopped up when I went to flush!!!! The thought raced through my mind "try to fix it." But I didn't want to risk an overflow! I had no choice but to march outside and tell her what happened. I was mortified! She was so gracious and told me it was old and slow and it wasn't my fault. I knew that it was. She cheered me on to go finish the last 4 miles and told me not to worry about it. I did finish (even if it was in 2:28:54) and I did worry about it. Definitely one for the magazine.

Green Truck - Black Truck

2009-03-23T18:20:00.000-07:00

As you probably already know we are the "proud" owners of not one, but two trucks, affectionately known as Green Truck and Black Truck. William could care less about Mommy's car and lives to ride in Black Truck or Green Truck. I have even been kicked out of the garage. The daily exchange goes like this:

William: Ride Black Truck?

KK: Not now honey, maybe when Daddy gets home.

William: How bout Green Truck?

KK: Daddy drove that one to work so we can't ride in it now.

This morning he got his wish. We returned a saw to a rental place and he got to ride in Green Truck. As We were driving down I-10 it went like this:

William: Momma?

KK: Yes honey?

William: I love Green Truck!

2009-03-09T11:24:00.000-07:00

William is saying all sorts of funny things lately. He picks up phrases from TV, the radio, other kids, anywhere! It started with "Fox News" and has grown from there. Here is a list that is far from comprehensive.

"Ohm Bepo! " If he sees the Home Depot store or logo.

"Ooh, nice body" while rubbing his tummy after a bath

"Rush Limbaugh! Rush is right" I promise I didn't teach him

"Obama The President" Will did teach him that one

"Yeah! good song" after any song including during church

"Oh crap" I let it slip once and he latched on oooops!

"Jacob and Eeeesaw" I guess he has a favorite bible story

"Sydney's House" whenever we are going that direction

I think he is going to have my mouth, Heaven help him!

Weekend Warriors

2009-03-04T19:42:00.000-08:00

Last weekend was busy! We managed to tile the back splash all in one weekend. It turned out pretty well for a couple of amateurs, I thought. William kept "helping" and he also kept telling Will, "good work Daddy!" New floors are in the works next.

I also ran the coldest race of my life on Sunday morning at the Elmwood Classic 10K. It was 35 degrees with at least a 25 mph wind in my face most of the time. I don't think I have ever been that cold before! Somehow I managed to finish it in 1:03:50 which is a pretty good time for me but nothing compared to those serious track club nuts. The boys were sweet to come and meet me at the finish in the cold.

Friday's Flowers

2009-02-27T13:00:00.000-08:00

Check it out! I grew these in my garden! As you can tell I am very proud of myself. It was a small victory for the day anyway. Flowers always make me think of God and the beauty of his creation. I mean where did he come up with snapdragons?

2009-02-21T19:34:00.000-08:00

Last night we braved the French Quarter believe it or not. It took us two hours to get door to door from our house to the Bourbon Vieux Room on Bourbon Street for a private party. If you don't like crowds (and I don't) this is your worst nightmare! Thankfully, the upstairs balcony and party room had clean restrooms and great food. It was a good time but certainly the only way I would ever do Bourbon Street the Friday before Mardi Gras.
It was really strange to people watch. Those on the balcony seemed to be on a strange sort of power trip, manipulating and harassing those below who seemed determined to procure a worthless piece of plastic or two . . .or three . . . or twenty at any cost. Oh, and I was informed by a man in a black T-shirt with scripture all over it and a bullhorn to his mouth that God did not love me because I was there. Hmmmm. Strange city!

Little Drummer Boy

2009-02-15T18:55:00.000-08:00

We are home from Shreveport tonight and two things are on William's over-tired mind: "love you Nana" and "Unca Yoni Drum." He also discovered that cake is good this weekend. Thanks for sharing the cool train birthday cake Zeke!

2009-02-13T12:10:00.000-08:00

So just to catch up. . . Last weekend SuSu and Big Al came down for a much anticipated visit. We had a great time. This is a really bad picture of Will and me at dinner (closest to the camera again!) SuSu and Big Al decided to take William home with them to Shreveport for a few days and I was giddy with the freedom! I came up on Wednesday and we are spending the rest of the week here, complete with a trip to Tyler to see Memaw and a rehearsal and 3 church services. We will head back on Sunday and look forward to a little uneventful routine.

2009-02-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

William had a mellow Super Bowl 43 experience tonight. He sat inside the box/basket at the end of the couch and watched the first half. He only occasionally blurted out things like "foofall yeah!" and "ball whee!" He also watched the half time show with great interest. Who knew he would be a Bruce Springsteen fan?

St. John Parish's Finest

2009-01-30T17:28:00.000-08:00

Last night I was cruising down Fairway Boulevard with my music cranked up. I was totally in the zone until I turned the corner and saw a cop car sitting in the dark and the sheriff with his radar gun sticking out the window. He flagged me over. I decided not to stop thinking, maybe he wouldn't follow me! Thankfully, I was right and as I ran by, close to his open window, he yelled, "I got ya at 5 miles per hour, pick it up eh!" I quickly replied "If I were on a bike you would give me a speeding ticket!" After all the speed limit is a ridiculous 20 mph! So I finished the 4 miles and vowed to get my watch fixed so I could work on picking up the pace next time. I think that was one bored cop.

Happy 30!

2009-01-19T10:56:00.000-08:00

This is Will around the time that I met him. The picture was taken at his 18th birthday party 12 years ago! Yesterday he turned 30! When I think about how long I have known him and all that we have been through together I really do feel like we kind if grew up together in a way. This, of course, has it's advantages and disadvantages.

We dropped William off for the day (thanks Troxlers) and went to church. Then I took him to the Quarter for jazz brunch at Arnaud's where we ate enough to feed a small village. I don't know if he had a good time, he was tired from a fishing trip the day before and would probably have liked to lay on the couch instead, but I needed to feel like I had made it special. Anyway, I do love you, honey!

Interestingly enough, we came upon a protest that had stopped a streetcar from moving at all. These people were all in black and white checkered head scarves with Palestinian flags holding signs that did not speak well (to put it mildly) of Christians and Jews. Hmmmm . . . I could give you an earful as to the effectiveness of such an endeavor in saving Gaza from attack but I will leave it open for your own interpretation.

Like Father Like Son

2009-01-12T18:59:00.000-08:00

Who needs pants anyway?

2009-01-11T12:31:00.001-08:00

My "job" at church is to pick the music for the services and get it ready for the week. To go about this I usually read through whatever passage of scripture Kevin is using. Then I might reference my old BSF stuff or some other light commentary and start looking through files prayerfully to see which songs will best compliment his teaching. It is kind of a guessing game to see if the songs can fit just right with the direction Kevin is going to take his sermon.

Recently we started over in Genesis. (To a certain extent he teaches straight throug the bible. We recently finished Revelation). So it was Genesis 4 and 5--Cain and Abel and some long genealogies. I really struggled to find a fit. The long list of names that are hard to pronounce didn't bring any tunes to mind. But I knew from studying at BSF that those lists don't always include absolutely every name in a line of descendants and that God mentions the names he chooses for a purpose that we don't always understand at first. Still, no songs. There is no Chris Tomlin hit about Methuselah or Lamech out right now. So I picked a few things about sin and repentance and stuck with a real solid basic gospel theme.

Turns out the sermon was all about how the gospel runs through this story as it does in almost all old testament stories. God, in his great love, had already written his plan for the redemption of fallen humanity. Kevin particularly addressed the list of Hebrew names in Genesis 5 by matching them with their English meaning.

Adam - man

Seth - appointed

Enosh - mortal

Kenan - sorrow

Mahalalel - the blessed of God

Jared - shall come down

Enoch - teaching

Methuselah - his death shall bring

Lamech - the despairing

Noah - rest and comfort

Read all together you get: Man appointed mortal sorrow. The blessed of God shall come down teaching. His death shall bring the despairing rest and comfort. The gospel message in a nut shell! This may be a big duh for some of you but I had never heard it before and thought it was so neat. I always thought "wow, who would name their child sorrow or despairing." But as usual God is concerned with not just the part, but how the part functions in the greater whole to bring about his glory and his message. He uses "sorrow" "despair" as well as "rest"and "comfort" in us (his parts) to create a whole (the body of Christ) that tells the story of his love to those who don't know him. So in the end my questions about the list got answered and the songs fit just fine.

Gen 4:26 At that time men began to call on the name of the Lord.

Rom 10:13 Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

A visit and an outing

2009-01-04T17:26:00.000-08:00

Nana came to visit! No conference, no football game, just a visit! It was great. We hung out with the Latino's that night and Nana got a taste of what a "Yat" New Year's Eve is like(shock and awe fireworks included). We did absolutely nothing on New Year's Day and loved it. On Friday we drove out to Houmas House Plantation to take the tour. I must admit it is the best one I have been on so far. William was very good and had a great time running all over the gardens and around the 400 year old oak trees. That night we had boiled shrimp and crawfish at Kenner Seafood. We were so glad to have Nana and so sad when she had to go.

Christmas Update

2008-12-31T13:05:00.001-08:00

Well Christmas was a blurr as usual. A four hour rehearsal and 3 Christmas Eve services got it all started. Christmas morning was really laid back and we needed that. Will helped William open his presents at Nana's house while Nana and I made breakfast. Then began the real madness! Packing up everything, waiting for the Hills to eat dinner, quick presents with cousins, a ride home for the grandparents, and off to Plain Dealing. In an effort to please everyone, I don't think we managed to please anyone. We left Shreveport too early and got to Plain Dealing too late. Then a nasty stomach virus ravaged the festivities and we didn't even have dinner as planned on Friday night anyway. We were so crazy I only got 2 pictures!

The one success to report is the "written plan." Before we left, Will and I sat down and planned out the 4 days--where we would sleep, eat, etc. Since we had discussed it before, we managed not to fight at all about it and we weren't rambling around town looking for a bed late at night on Christmas Eve. Maybe the written plan will read"stay home" next year!

Its begining to look a lot like Christmas . . .

2008-12-20T14:16:00.001-08:00

The Dreaded Christmas Bread

2008-12-17T19:32:00.000-08:00

I always say I am not going to make Christmas Bread. It is kind of a jelly roll with a cream cheese filling. Somehow I always end up trying, thinking to myself, "this time it will come out right." Well here I am at it again this year. I did better with the rolling out but my loaves still look a little funny. I am so far from my sister and her 80 some odd loaves she gives out. I was lucky to get four made. Oh well. In other news Sydney came over yesterday and she and William had a great time. Love this party pic!

Snow

2008-12-11T13:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday afternoon the temperature was 75. It was raining when I woke up at 6:30 this morning. As I was feeding William breakfast the wind gave a howl and it all turned to snow! Of course this was the one morning I had somewhere important to be. William had an appointment uptown to see the face surgeon. William really didn't care too much about the snow other than being excited to learn a new vocabulary word. Arty wouldn't walk on it so I am still waiting for him to go outside to do some business. We managed to make it to the doctor who told us to watch the lump on William's face and come back in a month for an MRI if it is not better. It was still white around here even after the sun came out this afternoon. We probably had about two inches in the yard. I have decided that snow is great as long as you are looking at it from inside. It doesn't make for fun driving especially in a place with so many bridges and drivers who are unaccustomed to it.

Handy Man Part 2

2008-12-10T18:26:00.000-08:00

Once again something around the house broke. This time it was the dishwasher. Will went right to work fixing it with a little help from his sidekick who intermittently would stand up and announce, "cool!" I don't know that this video truly captures the intensity with which these two were working but maybe it gives you an idea. In any case the dishwasher works and that is all I needed.

Cacophony

2008-12-04T13:28:00.000-08:00

Today is the first Thursday of the month and like every first Thursday of the month the neighborhood warning sirens tested at noon. Only today they sounded for 3 minutes instead of 1. Something about a new system. This tripled the time that Arty howled and William cried. Oh well, its still funny even if I am the only one laughing.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T17:40:00.000-08:00

William had a great time in Plain Dealing for Thanksgiving. The flag on the number 9 green was of particular interest as was the golf cart. We made a day trip to the farm in Henderson on Saturday to see Memaw. This was the scene in the back seat on the way home.

To The Rescue

2008-11-23T13:58:00.000-08:00

Saturday morning was getting to be a tough one. Daddy was hunting and William and I had spent a long week together in the house. William had a little cabin fever. Thankfully the Laplace Volunteer Fire Department was having an open house right down the street. William climbed into all sorts of vehicles and equipment as the firemen eagerly explained what they do. We had jambalaya and popcorn and even came home with a "cool hat."

The New Old Truck

2008-11-19T18:18:00.000-08:00

You just have to know Will really well to understand why he would fly one way to Tulsa, Oklahoma to buy a 1997 Chevrolet truck with 40,000 or so miles on it to replace the 1994 GMC he has had since he graduated from high school. He has been pondering a truck purchase since well before I had William and this is the result. I will admit it is nice even for its age. But I will certainly be sad to see the old green truck go. Maybe I will get him a car seat as a truck warming gift!

Busy Boy

2008-11-12T17:33:00.000-08:00

Today was just one of those days. I don't understand why Mom kept telling me "NO!" and "STOP!" But I will tell you that those candy corns I found in the little dish by the door are Yummy!

Flat Stanley's Weekend

2008-11-03T17:37:00.001-08:00

Flat Stanley finally had a few adventures. This weekend he spent some time downtown.

He began late in the afternoon with some antique shopping on Royal Street in the French Quarter. People have been living in the Quarter for almost 300 years! KK found a lovely 1930's pearl and diamond drop necklace. Maybe Uncle Will will get it for her for Christmas!

After dinner, Stanley stopped in to hear a jazz band on the way to Jackson Square. This band had a bass, guitar, saxophone, drums, and a trumpet.

This picture is a little dark, but Flat Stanley saw the St. Louis Cathedral when he got to Jackson Square. It is the oldest Catholic Cathedral in continual use in the United States.

These signs are just off the Mississippi River and tell about when and how New Orleans was founded and named. If you click on them I think you can read them just fine. More on the river when Flat Stanley goes to work with Uncle Will.

We topped off the evening at the original Cafe Du Monde with beignets and Cafe Au Lait. To make a long story short that's French for coffee and doughnuts. Flat Stanley got a little powdered sugar on his face but it was worth the mess.

The Obligatory Halloween Pictures

2008-10-31T18:34:00.000-07:00

Big thanks to SuSu and Big Al for the fisherman costume, to Nana for the "cool shoes" we wore earlier in the day, and to Aunt DD and Memaw for the glow in the dark shirt!

Dad has his fishing buddy!

William wasn't very excited about the hat, but the fishing pole was a hit!

Arty was a pirate for the fifth year in a row.

Snacks

2008-10-30T13:32:00.000-07:00

I just can't hold this one in. The 30 minute infomercial last night sent flames shooting out of my ears and smoke seeping from my eyes just in time for Halloween! I'll just start with the part that really got me going.

In the series of sob stories that were purported to typify "average" American situations, the one I was supposed to identify with was the first. Rebbecca Johnston is a mom just trying to buy snacks for her kids. Snacks! Snacks? Wait a second! Lets put this in perspective. Go back less than a century and you would find Americans who stood hours in line for a meal (maybe their only in a day) of bread and runny soup, or Americans who thought a lump of sugar was a luxury. And we are supposed to believe that these are hard economic times? No snacks?

Take a look at global poverty right now. This is a poverty much different from the roof over the head, heating and a/c, phone service, running water, and (a lot of the time) flat screen television American "poverty" of today. The UN's Human Poverty Index, for example, factors in illiteracy, malnutrition among children, early death, poor health care, poor access to safe water, vulnerability to famine or flooding, lack of sanitation, exposure to disease, a diet poor in nutrients, and the absence of education in defining global poverty. All this while earning less than $1 a day. This is perspective!

If Rebecca's family really is "typical" and we investigated her in the gestapo-like manner that government agencies have investigated poor Joe The Plumber for asking a simple question, we might find a history of living beyond means or massive credit card debt. Besides, what happened to the outcry against childhood obesity? What kind of snacks are we talking about? Won't hydrogenated fat and too many calories kill her children? Shouldn't the government require only healthy snacks in the Johnston household?

Rebecca's family has some tough challenges that I do not seek to diminish. But I would ask all of us all to sit down and consider some perspective before we buy into the media hype. For starters sit down and calculate the amount you pay in all taxes ( income, payroll, sales, everything) and compare it to your household budget (what you spend on food, fuel, bills, etc.). The taxes will almost always be more. What kind of charitable contributions could you and would you make to organizations that have a much better track record of results in bettering our nation and our world if you kept more of that tax money? For that matter what kind of snacks of her choosing could Rebbecca buy if she had more of that money? Is the answer to her struggle more taxes for more government programs that haven't worked to date? Should the government take some of the "windfall" profits from the great satan oil companies and write Rebbecca a check so she can buy snacks?

I could keep going and going but I will stop here. I believe that we live in the greatest nation yet conceived on the planet and that every single one of us is blessed tremendously. But God is and always will be the provider that the US government is not and can never fully be. God will supply our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19) , snacks or no. I will render unto Caesar what is Caesar's (Matt 22:21) , albeit not with a smile, and pray that God's Spirit, living and working in individuals, would continue to spread. After all, that is the real answer until HIS government is fully revealed.

TV Time

2008-10-28T19:12:00.000-07:00

William really doesn't watch much TV. He would much rather inspect some moving parts or see what he can find new in the bathroom drawers. But every now and then a commercial will catch his attention. For instance, he really loves the catchy jingles on all of the FreeCreditReport.com ads. They make him dance and I find myself singing them to him in the car. Today he found a new one he likes. It was a commercial for a Polaris Ranger, kind of a cross between an ATV and a golf cart. He watched it splash through the mud and run over some hills. When it was over he looked over at me and exclaimed "cool!" Then he jumped off the couch and resumed practicing his gross motor skills in the living room. Such a boy! I guess I need to be careful what is on the TV even when I think he isn't paying attention.

2008-10-25T17:38:00.000-07:00

Two of my favorite people were born on the same day. Memaw (my Dad's mom) and Anna Grace (my niece) both have birthdays on October 22nd. Luckily I got to be with them both on Wednesday in Shreveport for the celebration. Anna Grace is 4 and Memaw has 90 in her sights but the same joyful, playful, and creative streak runs through both of their hearts. Notice Memaw has her tiara on too! Happy Birthday Anna Grace and Memaw!

A Good Railgate

2008-10-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

Well, despite the Gamecocks loss we all had a good time in Columbia last weekend. Will's Dad and Mary Nell hooked us up with a bed to sleep in, tickets, food, and even a babysitter for two nights! It was great! Will's college buddy, Grady, came by the cockaboose and the accapella women's chorus even stopped by to sing the Alma Matter. I was so proud that Will knew all of the words and not just the "health Carolina" part. Way to be an informed fan , honey. We saw all kinds of family and the kids were so cute. We will definately have to do it again soon. Oh, and we came home with Flat Stanley. More to come on that soon . . .

Fore

2008-10-13T18:51:00.000-07:00

This evening William had a little golf lesson with Dad. He loved it as you can see. Mind you, all this took place with absolutely no nap today! For some reason I had to put the two videos in separate posts so scroll down. Sorry.

2008-10-13T17:53:00.001-07:00

The Louisiana Children's Museum

2008-10-08T11:17:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun time with Jena and Sydney yesterday at the Children's Museum. I have never seen William play so hard. He drove all kinds of vehicles and loved the shopping cart in the grocery store. Oh, and Sydney got some new glasses at Dr. Peeper's eye clinic! We have to take our cousins when they come!