Roller Skating

When was the last time you laced up a pair of roller skates?

Aside from today, I think I was around 12 years old and listening to Slippery When Wet in a friend's driveway. She had a pink Sony tape player propped in her bedroom window so we could sing "Livin' on a Prayer" as we practiced shooting the duck.

Today Justin Bieber took the place of Jon Bon Jovi and a wooden rink replaced that concrete rectangle. The biggest difference, however, was the pain from falling. My 33 year old bones do not bounce like those of a preteen. I only fell once (and blame it 100% on my son, Dylan) but will feel the bruise for days to come.

Despite feeling ancient (from the pain and when the rink DJ called Will Smith's 1995 hit "Miami" a classic) I thoroughly enjoyed roller skating. I wonder what other kid activities I've been missing? Being a parent sure is a great disguise!

Thankful Thursday

I'm thankful for Emory's blood platelet count being normal (for the 1st time in a year!)

I'm thankful for Kris' endoscopy results being nothing of concern.

I'm thankful my brother is helping my mom with her retirement and social security because the details of it all drive me bonkers.

I'm thankful Dylan is growing into a thoughtful little boy who loves to learn.

I'm thankful for girlfriends who make me a laugh.

I'm thankful for this rainy day so I have time to snuggle.

In a Big Country

Share In A Big Country by moe.

The original was by the 80's band Big Country but I LOVE this version by moe. It makes me want to drive around with the windows down:)

The Best Vacation Ever

Hubby's parents took us to St. Thomas. I know, how lucky could a girl be?! I was a little worried about Emory on the plane but she did wonderfully.

Dylan was a traveling pro...Ipod and all.

God delivered this beautiful gift the first morning.

Meet Iggy. He looks a little scary but this lizard actually lives a life of luxury.

This is Iggy's home.

Our favorite day was spent scuba diving from a 60 ft. sail boat.

This was our captain. His name is Jack (as in Jack Sparrow).

We all loved traveling in the open air cabby. I like to think that Hubby was saying he loved me but actually he was attempting a hang loose sign...too many drinks on the boat.

I love this picture of Emory and her Mimi.

Hubby and I even got to go on a date. This was the first time I wore make-up all week. Now thats what I call a vacation!

I'll close with a few more of my favorite pictures from

The Best Vacation Ever!

Scarlet Fever

Both of my kiddos have scarlet fever. I'm not kidding. Who gets scarlet fever anymore? I feel like Paw should be riding out on his horse to tell Doc he needs to come quick. Thank God for modern medicine.

For a few days I tried to keep Emory away from Dylan with grand thoughts that the yuck wouldn't spread. No such luck. Since Tuesday we have gone through four boxes of Klenex, a bottle of Children's Tylenol, and are working our way through two antibiotic prescriptions.

Both kids finally feel like playing with each other. This morning Dylan said to me, "Mom, I gave Emory a little hug yesterday. I wanted to take away some of her germs so she wouldn't get too sick," and my heart melted.

2011

Things I learned in 2010...

Tell family and friends you love them. (Every. Chance. You. Get.)
Life is hard or will be eventually but not always.
God is good.
Children are joy.
Fresh air is soothing.
Health is important but only one piece of the pie.
When pushed you become stronger and smarter.
Tomorrow can be better.
Love conquers.

May 2011 bring you health, happiness and love!

Wiggle Time

Taking a treasured toy to wiggle time at church is a big deal. We spend a good portion of our Sunday morning trying to find the perfect piece to share with Preacher Doug. Dinosaurs, trains, baby dolls, and teddy bears usually make the cut. This past Sunday, however, Emory grabbed a plastic guitar.

Preacher Doug admired Emory's choice and handed it back to her smiling and said, "Just like daddy, huh?" Emory put the strap around her neck and made her way through the other children who were trying to get a glimpse of the remaining toys. She walked down the aisle until she got to Hubby and said, "I play like you, Daddy." With her eyes closed tight Emory strummed that plastic guitar like she's been rockin' since birth.