As the Dryer Turns....

Thankfullness....

2011-11-21T09:35:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving is this week....

when you think of the day that comes once a year what comes to mind first??

A Gathering with the family, cheerfully dining in a picture perfect way....

the head of the household saying a prayer to start a wonderful meal. A perfectly fried Turkey that has been injected with an awesome seasoning.....along with dressing, casseroles galore, pumpkin & pecan pie. A parade.....that will have millions of people attending in person and millions more watching on TV live.....hundreds of wonderful floats and floating balloons.....

Or your heritage.....how this very nation celebrated the very first Thanksgiving....Pilgrims and Indians....and the untied meal they had among the different lifestyles and skin colors they sat down together Gave Thanks.....and enjoyed a meal with strangers.....However you spend your time or your day......it is up to you and your opinion. Each person has convictions and different traditions to how they choose to spend their time on this ONE day out of the year to GIVE THANKS.

This is the only day that American sets aside out of the 365 days in the year to celebrate our heritage and to celebrate that special day at Plymouth Rock. We as Americans have way too much to be thankful for than just this one day out of the whole year.

Our freedom we have daily to go as we please throughout our land. To worship and serve who we feel led to, and pray any time we choose. God has given us way to much to be Thankful for than just one day out of a year.

In the past year I can think of many times I was thankful for something Great that happened in my life. I personally have WAY to much to be thankful for too much to even mention on this post. But I know there are so many who don't feel as thankful or as fortunate this holiday season and most days of their life.

There are those who are lonely......
Those who have lost family members and
have broken hearts because their loved ones are gone... Those who have no shelter and never know when there next meal may be......

Regardless of what you may have and what may be going on there are SO many that have days that are so much worse than any of us can imagine. We as Americans have so many comforts and so many freedoms and yet there are still those who suffer daily in our land.

For the families who will have one less plate at the dinner table because they were taken from this Earth too soon for us to understand. There are those who have no family at all because all of their family has past on from this life and so they surround themselves with friends. There are those who don't talk to or get along with family members and therefore the strife leads to broken families.

So many reasons why there are lonely people in America today suffering and in a land where we have on hand anything you could want or need at anytime!! Yet so many broken hearts and homes. Why?? Because we are all human and we all make mistakes and all have faults.

There is only one person who can heal the broken hearted and heal the broken homes....not just on Thanksgiving day but each day of your life. When you cry out to God....he will heal your heart just as He will heal our land and our lives. So this Thanksgiving when you go about your traditions and your life...remember those less fortunate and those who are suffering because of a loss of a family member or are just alone.

We are so BLESSED beyond words.....if we would take the time to look around. So many Americans are too bust trying to keep up with others and all the latest gadgets. Yet they loose sight of those who may be in the same workplace, next door neighbor and even the person who checks your groceries out at the store. So many people suffer and are overlooked by Americans who are more concerned with their lives and their needs and not the needs of their fellow men!

Blessings are what we have when we Love the Lord and serve others instead of seeking our own ways to look for healing our hearts and homes. Lean on the Lord for your healing this Holiday and seek His desires for your heart and home.

Happy Thanksgiving....

Mollie

When Life deals you Lemons.....

2011-11-13T23:00:00.004-06:00

There is an old saying "When life deals you lemons make lemonade!" I am sure you have heard of it. Meaning that no matter what comes your way make the best of it. Every one's life is different. No two people have the same life, even if they are siblings. And I have noticed in life...no matter how much you may have in common with some people. It is NOT still the same life. Some people make the best of each situation and are over flowing with lemonade!! And others choose to see the sour side of the fruit....they look for all the bad things this lemon has handed them and would rather see it go rotten than use it!!

When you see the glass of lemonade half full rather than half empty it is a lot more refreshing on a parched mouth. Regardless of the sour taste, and if you are thirsty enough you will drink the whole glass and be thankful no matter what.

If you see the glass half empty, you may see that you really wished you had more because there is never enough and the sour taste is never pleasing to your sweet liking!

Similar to LIFE.....Lemons and Lemonade.....In any situation you go through in Life....you could pick apart every detail of every part of a situation and never will it ever be good enough. And try to think of how YOU could make it better or YOU would do something better than others!!

OR...you could use it as a tool....maybe God has you in a place or a situation or are uncomfortable or not happy about. If you choose to see the Good in all of it and use it for the good....you could fill up a LARGE glass of lemonade from that lemon. Instead of only seeing the negative and getting a few drops.

There may have been something in your life that has given you a sour taste in your mouth your whole life, abuse, anger, fear, failure. And you have a sour spot every time a thought or feeling comes back about the problem. Well, have you ever eaten or drank something too sour, and then the drank some cool refreshing water to get the sour taste out of your mouth?? Similar to situations, God is our Living Water....when you thirst and Go to Him....he will take away your sour bitter feelings!!

It is YOUR life and YOUR choice.....you can choose to be sour and Bitter over things or you can choose to take your lemon....squeeze life for all it is worth live it to it's fullest and be BETTER in any circumstance and situation you may come against!!

Mollie

Happy 90th Birthday to Papaw!!

2011-11-07T12:30:00.009-06:00

Two of my favorite men......my Dad and my Papaw..... My Dad is a great example for me and he learned from his Father how to being a loving example to his Family through Christ.....I am so blessed to have these two men in my life today!!
I am thankful for my Papaw he is a great Christian man an shows his faith in he daily walk with his Savior. He raised his family in church and has been a follower of Christ most of his life. He showed by example how to love your wife as your best friend. He and my Mamaw raised their boys and taught them by example of how to live a life FULL of Love!!

Here are some pictures and moments from his 90 years of Life.....

The first picture of him that we have......sitting in the yard with the chickens.....he laughs every time he sees this picture!!

When he was a school boy

He loved the sport of Baseball

His High School class reunion of 70 years was this year.....this was his High School picture.

He served our Country in the Army in World War II......here are some memories from the War...

He and my Mamaw eloped when she wasn't even out of High School.....there love produced: 3 boys......and 6 grandchildren......and 10 great grandchildren!

His Love of his Life......my Mamaw....

He LOVED to Fish......and had many fishing adventures and friends to share in his Love!!

This is one of my most favorite pictures of my dad and my Papaw....sitting on the porch after a little football game in the yard.

Here he is with his 3 sons.....my dad is the youngest!

He was a mail carrier for his home town. We were visiting with him not long ago about his job with the Post Office. He said, "I've been retired longer than I worked for them!" WOW not too many people can say that.

My Mamaw passed away 2 years ago.....he has mourned her death as anyone who was married to the love of his life and his best friend of 68 years!! They would have been married 70 years this week.

I took this picture of him waving at us as we drove away......at the house they have lived in since 1977.....the year I was born. He since has moved to a retirement center and has new friends to play cards and socialize with. He is still doing wonderful- at his last check up his doctor told him he is in GREAT shape for 90!! I wish him many many more years!!

Mollie

Take cover.....evacuate.....a Storm is Coming!!!

2011-09-01T21:51:00.010-05:00

I am no meteorologist but I do have to admit I have always loved and found storms very intriguing. It can go from the nicest prettiest day and begins to get cloudy and all of the sudden you realize it is much more serious than you first thought.Have you ever watched a storm brew, the clouds get dark, the wind gets stronger and then it gains more and more strength and before you know it.....you are in the middle and it is POURING DOWN RAIN ON YOU!!They are accompanied by lightning and thunder most often.....which lightening can do much damage alone.....causing things to catch fire and be burned. Or often death if is were to strike a human and not a structure.And Storms come in all shapes and sizes......some small and skinny.....in a field all alone. Not to much damage and may have not been on the ground for long.Or others can be huge and fierce and headed straight for you in your home and all you can do is hold on and take cover!! Not knowing what the next minutes may hold in your life.If you were in a hurricane, it would be impossible to stand on the beach with out getting washed away, in fact when you saw the waves you would really try your hardest to run to safety. But then the flood waters would set in from too much rain.....and the waters could rise and do so much damage.Then when all the clouds pass and the rains stop......you see daylight and you come out to see the damage. The destruction takes your breath away, you don't even know where to begin. Your emotions are running wild and overwhelming..... Seems like every road you try to travel on leads to no where.....and there is no way out of town?

The flood waters rise higher and no matter how hard you try, you cannot escape the damage.

You try to lean on each other for support.....it is some what comforting. But there still something missing.....

Some things seem virtually impossible to move or get out of your mind!And if you have ever been in a fire.....and burned......well those are literally scars to remind you daily..... That although the flames are gone......now you are burned and hurt very badly!

What if this storm and this fire.....was in your life and in your heart and body not just something you see and hear about on TV.....

So what do you do where do you go......but to your knees.......there is a man one and only who died on a cross made from a tree his Father created and on that cross he died and he bled so that you would have life more abundantly. His Love for you will comfort you through any storm.....and even if the pain from the rain is pouring down and it seems as if the flood waters are rising...

And when the bravest of the Brave feel that all is lost and there is NO HOPE......He has promised us Hope if we turn to him and trust in Him.Then you will wake up to the sunrise.....and be thankful for the day and each day He gives you!! Because after every storm the sun must rise again. And even those who have Faith as small as a mustard seed.....he will honor that. And He loves you too!!

So....how long has it been since you read the REAL BOOK of LOVE.....and found a scripture in His word that has the bandage that is just the right size and shape for the Hurt and suffering you have occurred in this storm.Because you never know when there will be another storm.....and if you stay on your knees daily, draw closer to Him.....He will be there to guide you through your next storm..... And He can be your Best Friend to Hold the Umbrella to protect you from Harm!! Do you Know Him? Message me if you don't know Him and you really need to seek some refuge from your storm of life.....

Mollie

Wordless Wednesday....baseball style!!

2011-05-18T07:08:00.000-05:00

Mollie

Roots

2011-05-17T22:40:00.004-05:00

I have been wanting to post this thought for awhile. As you can see by my absence from the blog- I need to post something!!! Sorry....life happens each day....and I don't want to miss a moment!!

There have been many storms here in the south this spring- and Thank you Jesus we have been safe and not had any damage, unlike so many unfortunate people. In the middle of all theses storms you see very dramatic pictures. It is those pictures of trees- HUGE trees that have been just simply blown over from winds!!

Roots all up in the air and the HUGE trees- very old trees laying on their side. Or worse on someones house or car. I was having a conversation with my husband about those trees. He said many Oak trees roots don't go deep into the ground- they stay closer to the top of the ground. Pine trees etc have deeper roots and are harder to fall over. When the roots of a tree are not deep into the ground it doesn't take much to knock a 50 year old tree down!!
I found these pictures on the Internet to explain more of what I am talking about. Amazing how big and old these trees may have been- yet their roots didn't grow deep enough to allow them to with stand the strongest storms!! What a waste of 50 years or more of growth!! It takes a long time to get this big when your an Oak!!

I started to think how much this is like our Faith and our relationship with Christ. When a storm hits you- whether it be a thunderstorm or F5 tornado of life. If you roots in the word and in prayer with a strong solid relationship with God it is Soooooo much easier to blow you down. Knock your feet out from you and simply destroy you!!

When you rely on the Lord daily for encouragement, strength, comfort and wisdom- you are ready to face any battle He may put before you and your legs would be less likely to fall out from under you. If you are knocked down- the best thing to do is climb up to your knees and talk to the Lord as if He was your best friend. Cry out to him and He will hear your cries. God knows you like no other person. You can go to him when you get a busy signal from your best friends phone.....you don't have to leave a voice mail.....he doesn't have call waiting. He has a direct line to your heart. He sees your heart- good and bad and loves you anyway!!

There are people in life who may reject you and people in life who may just plain HATE you. In fact there are people in life who will go put root killer on your roots!!! But, God is here to show you love and by this He has promised Eternal Life to those who show love to Him and have a personal relationship with Him.

You see, if your roots are deep with God- when the storms of life come......you have a ROCK (2 Samuel 22:2) that will hold on to your roots and pull you back up on your feet quicker. When trials come and you feel as if there is no hope......rely on God, He will direct you path. Your path may not be the path you have planned- But God has a plan already mapped out for you!! Trust in Him and He will show you the way!! Psalm 16:11

Mollie

He Is With You

2011-04-18T13:41:00.000-05:00

GREAT SONG!!!! I pray it blesses you today!!! Mollie

Potters Hand

2011-04-15T08:57:00.002-05:00

Life has been so busy lately, and this song reminds me of how we are made for a purpose and in His image so fragile and how even in a moments notice and in the blink of an eye- your world could be turned upside down. God is always there for you and He will be the only to stand by you and hold your hand even when the World turns it's back and people let you down. He is always faithful! God is Good all the time!! Mollie

Reflecting....

2011-04-04T06:14:00.000-05:00

Easter is this month.......I have been reflecting lately on what He did for us. This video came to mind and I wanted to share. The song is actually 4 minutes or so long.....IT is worth every minute of listening to! Jesus is the Reason for the Season! Mollie

I want to be in Complete Denial

2011-03-23T06:32:00.000-05:00

I love these pictures from last Spring. My friend Stacy is so talented and she was able to capture our family in moments that we will have for a life time!!! I love getting pictures made- because that is one time that can capture a memory you will never forget- because the picture will remind you!! With two boys we have found that pictures aren't always easy to come by- but Hey who said Life was Easy??

Last week I ran into a guy who knows my husband, but I have never laid eyes on this man!! He said "Those are B's boys...right??" I said "yes sir that is my husband." He said it would be hard from him to NOT DENY them. I agree- you can tell by this picture with both boys and their daddy!! I LOVE this picture- MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!!!

They look a lot like him- and what one doesn't have of his feature they have mine- and it makes them look a little different. What is funny- the one who looks the most like him acts the most like me....funny how God has a good sense of humor!! In the same way God created these boys to look like their daddy- and NO WAY in this world would B think to NOT claim them!! The will probably never get away from looking like B or myself. In the same way their actions will be also. Genes are so cool- T will make looks and faces that look my dad!! The whole family comes out eventually- even the skeletons in the closet!!

In the same way- Matthew 16:24 says to deny yourself and come to Follow God. There are things in this life that are so hard for me to deny......

Each day as Christan's we are to deny the things that hold us back from serving God more- and things that may hinder our growth with the Lord. Each and everyday we serve him we MUST deny the things of this world. I struggle each day with denying thing of this world.

When you look at the BIG PICTURE- it is plan and clear that the BIG things in LIFE are actually the Little ones........in my case the little people and their daddy!!!

For me to deny the things of this world is give more to my God and in return it gives me more with my Family!! When there are struggles- and there will be.......focus on the Finish Line. There is HOPE so HOLD FAST!!!

Have you ever seen a Runner in a Track race just steps from the finish line.... look down at their feet.....nope they are focused on one thing......the Finish Line. When is the finish?? Only God knows......He is the author and finisher of all things.

Our time on this Earth is so short compared to the Days we will spend by his side in Glory!!!
And as this picture shows......Life is NOT perfect!!! Things may not go our way- but who is saying that it is not God's way!!!

I cannot imagine ever denying my kids- even when they have their moments in public when I feel like walking away from them and saying "who's kids are those screaming in the store!!" I could never deny my children- and as much as I love my children and the love a mother has for their children is not even explainable!!

Can you imagine How much the Father would hate for us to deny him- or put the things of this Earth before Him?? Ouch....yep- I said it.

I have felt soooo good denying Facebook- for Lent. But at the same time- I have had my weak moments when I need to just check real quick to see how someone was doing because I know they were going to have a procedure and just real quick....for a teeny tiny moment.....then it turns into a.......WOW look at this moment!!!

So, when you feel as if you are unworthy, broken and you have hit rock bottom......He still loves you and He is the ONLY one to forgive you and never judge you or look back!!! Come as You are!

It is Hard......especially when you carry on a conversation with a 3 and 5 year old all day and just "NEED AND OUTLET!!!" Well, that is God- He is your outlet of LIFE- PLUG into HIM and I promise.....he will give you all the Light to Shine on the World!!!!

Mollie

(Thanks Steven for the Matthew 16- great sermon Sunday)

Superman BUSTED!!!

2011-03-22T06:28:00.000-05:00

Faster than a speeding bullet......not hardly!!!

I walked passed the play room and caught a glimpse of Superman trying to FLY!!!

Oh to be a fly on the wall at our house......they get tired of keeping up and just die!!!

Mollie

Bloom where you are planted

2011-03-21T06:32:00.000-05:00

I mentioned yesterday that I LOVE spring.....YES I DO!!! I love to see a little bulb buried in the fall- grow to be a beautiful flower!! You know when I was first pregnant with T and we enjoyed each and every month getting closer to the arrival- my belly growing and feeling him kick. I finally realized.....I know what a flower feels like now!! Just glad some one didn't come along with a weed eater and knock me over....much like my beautiful Lily's often get taken down too soon!!

When I see these pictures from my flower beds last year- I am reminded of how we are sooo much like flowers. I planted these bulbs in the ground in the fall. And the winter was cold and hard snow fell....ice many times too!! But they were protected. Much like our Mother's womb- God knows when he plants that little tiny seed in a mother's belly that is will grow to become a full term baby and be delivered.

Well, if you don't place the bulb the correct way.....they won't grow that next spring!! Yes, I am speaking from experience! It takes a whole year for the bulb to turn around and get in the proper position to come out. In that way I am so glad that doesn't happen with birthing children- I was ready when 8 months got here....let alone having to go 9 months!!!

I think it is so neat how God made the bulb to turn.....or even the ugly old bulb to turn into a beautiful flower. How he knows each hair on our head- our thoughts even before we think them. He knows us because HE created us. Did he know where we would be today- with our trials we are going through?? Yes!!

Just when we feel like no one cares.....He cares- ALWAYS!! Days when you feel alone....he is there reach out for him. Even with all the fear from the World events happening- they seem more and more.....read your Bible. God already knows about it all!!

When you see a Green stem on a flower- it is the life line to that beautiful bloom. When you cut it- the flower cannot grow any more. It is dead! Same way we are without Christ centered life. When you keep Christ the life line of your day- you will BLOOM where he has planted you!!

How beautiful a stem is when MANY blooms are there.....

It changes the looks dramatically!! And people want to look at the beautiful blooms not just the green stem. I have many flowers in my flower beds- I do not do much work.....leave that to God. I am so glad God does all the work- year after year. I try to keep the weeds out- I cut things back in the fall and winter- but it is mostly his work!! I enjoy seeing them bloom- but flower beds just aren't my thing. And with two boys....we are much more into digging things up and not planting things.

Although there is one thing I do want to PLANT in them. The firm foundation that Jesus Christ was born lived a perfect life and Died for their sins and sickness!! He will come back to get us all and reunite us with those gone before us.

We have been reading this book to our boys. IT IS WONDERFUL!!!! I told B I wish I would have read this when I was a kid- or even a new Christian.....it is SO EASY to understand Who God is and How and What he wants in our life. T is loving it- and I am once again how kids can be sponges and that they LOVE to learn!! We will have to go over it with C when he is older- but I am still surprised how much he can grasp!!

I have this CD in my car and I have to say when it comes to this SONG.....I hit repeat every time it is over. It really hits my heart. How God can always be there for us- Seems like when I have problems I always tell them to Him. As if He didn't know it was coming. But He wants us to be there for Him also. Not just a prayer at meal time or bedtime, a prayer on our knees crying out to him to tell Him how much we truly are grateful for everything He has given us. We need to cry out to him with our petitions of LOVE not just of problems.

Tito- preacher from Peru came recently to our church and he said "Don't tell God how Big your Problems are- Tell your Problems HOW BIG YOUR GOD IS!!!" We should not take anything for granted- Not One Day!! I can say I have taken WAY TOO MUCH for granted not just lately, but in general as a Life style. We get in our comfort zone or routine and things seem to be a ritual and not a REAL THING.

I want to BLOOM where God has planted me......I want to PLEASE Him and not man!!! When I look around at our town and see so many who may die not knowing him. I want to reach them all- but it takes more than one person. God is a BIG GOD......and when HIS people who are called by His name HUMBLE themselves seek his FACE- and turn from their ways- HE WILL HEAL OUR LAND......YOUR TOWN!!!!

It makes me sad to see pictures of Japan- how many lives were lost with out knowing God?? What if America had another 9/11......was that not a BIG enough wake up call for America?? God is real- He is Here,,,,,,do you know Him today??

So when God plants you in some flowerbed with a lot of weeds.......work through the weeds- choke them out don't let them choke you out- so you can BLOOM where God has planted you!!

Happy Spring!!

Mollie

Happy Spring....Achoo!!!

2011-03-20T22:11:00.005-05:00

Spring here in South Arkanas.....means....Pine Pollen!!! A lovely cloud of yellow- just floats in the air....and it is so nice to go outside and enjoy the great temps and beautiful days. But if must.....beware of the cloud of YELLOW DUST!!!

My Allergies have always been bad.....since I moved here- in fact I do not remember having to carry around a box of tissue when I was younger. Seems like all my sneezing started when I first came to visit in 1996. Easter weekend- B brought me home to meet parents, grandparents, aunts & uncles!!

Ever since then Spring has not been good to me!! I have found however my BFF....NETI POT!!!! I absolutely love the fact that my friend Renee told me about this little thing she saw on Dr Oz!! Can we say GROSS,,,,,,but complete and total relief to a nose that is out of control at spring time

I honestly do not like flower beds all that much- but I do like mine to look good. So, I do have to brave the out doors- not to mention keeping these two boys couped up inside all winter long. I love day light saving time- longer days!!!

Spring and Fall are both my favorite season because of the temperatures- but not necessarily because of all the outside work!! Even though I may have to use my Neti Pot more in spring than fall....and have a box of Kleenex by my side- I am so thankful for my health and ability to go out and enjoy all that God has created!!

I do Love Easter- one of my favorite holidays.....and I enjoy it even more the older my boys get and they realize the REAL MEANING of the holiday. I feel as if I am a flower in bloom in spring- getting out more and enjoying the air- as long as I can avoid the cloud of yellow!! My favorite flower is Lily's and I have my whole porch lined in them- these are pictures from last year when they bloomed!! I Just love them!!

Do you like spring?? What is your favorite flower??

Mollie

Silent Sunday....

2011-03-13T17:12:00.001-05:00

Prayers for the People of Japan......

Mollie

Work.....

2011-03-07T22:09:00.005-06:00

I have done a bible study in the past for young college girls in our town. Similar to Titus 2:3 it says the older women should teach and guide the younger women. And YES...I am an older woman in this case.....33 years old considered "older" I know never thought I would see the day!!

However, I do feel honored and definitely not worthy when the bible study rolls around I get to attend- visit with college girls and meet new friends. For the past few years I have taught on the subject of staying at home. I have a guideline of Proverbs 31 Virtuous woman. How the Bible shows that she is ultimate woman for us to follow.

Here is the Job Description for a Modern Day Virtuous Woman.....

A creative and patient person to cook, chaplain, good listener, fashion consultant, decorator, recreation expert, teacher, chauffeur, psychologist, nurse, artist, gardener, economist, communication advisor, entertainer, purchasing agent, lawyer, accountant. No Pay, but Excellent Benefits!!

....Now do you happen to know anyone like that- with all that qualification!!! It goes on to say in the scriptures Her children raise up and call her blessed- her husband also!! Many have done well but she excels them all!! Yes indeed I would say so.

Do I try my best and my hardest ever day- well, look back at last weeks post and gather your answer from there. I do know I also want to do what is right and pleasing to the Lord and NOT man. Does it matter to me what others think....no.....but I do wonder and it is always in the back of my mind.

I love the song....Legacy if you have never heard of it- listen to it....NOW!! As a Christian and a mother I want my kids to say "Our mom was the BEST!!" and have no regrets when they are older. I already have regrets and my kids are 3 and 5!!!

When they are 20- I want them to say I am glad our mom spent time with us- and I am glad she was there for us.......they will not say "we had the cleanest house on the block" or "Our mom was bad with a mop!!" I highly doubt they will even remember many details about the house....or housework rather. They will remember good moments and bad.....I pray the good out weigh the bad!!

But my way of looking at those regrets are.....the past is behind us today is a new day and lets take one day at a time in a new direction. If I were to just give up and not focus on the future- we would get no where...FAST!!

When I decide to draw a line in the sand and say from this day forward.....I mean it!!

I mentioned my Fast last week for Lent. Well, Lent actually begins tomorrow. You can read here the things I have given up. I did start last week and I have been doing great!!

One of the things I gave up was social networking.....I really struggled with this last year during Lent. It was always in the back of my head.....I wonder....hmm..... This year- I have been glad and almost good riddance to the thing!! It can be so time consuming and such a time waster!!

I then find myself back pedalling the whole rest of the day trying to catch up....because I looked down and 30 minutes of my day has passed by me trying to see what everyone else is doing. Where they are eating....etc??

I thought to myself one day....IF I were at a paying job...with real green cash of course. My Boss would have fired me by now....for all the social activity I have done. Not with my children. Granted my kids have come to an age where they can entertain them self....it is nice at supper time and times when I usually need to get some important thing accomplished.

But, when I am just standing around wasting time.....that is valuable moments that are wasting away. They are only little once....you have heard me say that a hundred times I know.....but it is so true!!

Last week after looking at all my daily things I had accomplished I thought- wait a minute! I spent way way too much time away from them.....and we were under the same roof!! Then there were the days we were outside together the next day to make up for it. Yes that was good.

But, if I want them to be the husband and father that God wants them to be- they are training from now on.....it is so hard to have to marry some one and train them. I have heard way to many horror stories!!

Another thing I have been convicted of lately, IF I were to speak to my co-workers or Boss the way I speak to my family some times.....whoa.....I might have made it two days on the job. I do love Kevin Leman he has so many GREAT books!!! He has a series How to have a....New Kid- New You- or New Husband by Friday. Giving a step by step daily guide how to change them!!

And in every book it tells the same thing....Attitude, Behavior and Character. When you change your attitude and behavior......hmmm everyone else starts lining up along for the nice peaceful ride on the same train!! Choo Choo....the Happy Train of Life!!

So, that is where I am now....the happy train!! If you want to jump on board let me know....otherwise this train is taking off!!!

Do I care about what people think about my house, kids, life, not too much anymore!! I am not out to offend anyone- but I do want to please one and only person....GOD!! {Romans 8} Then everything else will line up.

ALL ABOARD......this Train is leaving the station.....

Mollie

Weekend full of Fun!!!

2011-03-07T14:50:00.004-06:00

This weekend was very busy and very FULL of Fun all at the same time.

Saturday we spent time as a family and got a lot accomplished. Grocery shopping, errands supper out that night- and then on to our Cousin A's 7th birthday party at the bowling alley.

I was very impressed with how T bowled.....my mom took him this summer when I was in Peru and he still remembered and did a great job. C did pretty good too- for a 3 year old. The adults had a lane and B and I got a chance to bowl too- mine stayed in the gutter most of the time.....but hey it was Fun right?!?! A got lots of fun new toys and clothes at her "Princess Party"- we all had a great time!!

Then Sunday after church we had three guests for lunch- my friend Erin and her twin girls A & L came to eat soup and salad. The are soooo precious and their mom is pretty cool too!! Their daddy was out of town on business.....we will have to have them over again sometime when he can come too!!

OK.....I am pretty sure.....this is A on the left and L on the right.....I think.....maybe......NO WAIT- It is L on the left and A on the right.....Yeah that is right......pretty sure?!?! Are they not beautiful and who doesn't LOVE a bumbo seat.....we had one with C- and we were so glad we did. They are so neat for the babies to sit in and are very useful!!

Today we have had a productive day.....I bought theses wooded pieces from Hand Writing without Tears. The boys loved them!! I let them play and see how many letters they could make and then to see if they could make their names. It was fun. T is writing very well, although he starts most of his letters at the bottom and then goes up- or just and awkward direction. He seems to be left handed also- but writes better using his right hand....ugh....so hopefully this curriculum will get me and him both straight as far as writing goes!!

We also started "hooked on Phonics" level 2 to help C learn his alphabet- His teacher at pre-school says he knows the sound of most letters, just doesn't know the LETTER!!! I think that is because we work with T more on sounds than letters.....back to the drawing board when reading books now.

This book is an intro to letters and sounds plus reading. It has a DVD you watch- book you read- and workbook also. I went through A-H with boys today- T is very ready to read, in fact he can read some words- and sounds them out if he cannot. He spelled LOEPOP "lollipop" with the wooden letters from HWT it was cute.

Well, this starts my second week of fasting Facebook- and honestly, I can say it has been worth every minute of each day. I told B yesterday- I feel like the old me is back. I may never go back to it. As a confirmation last Monday, the first day of giving it up- T told me "mama you have not had your phone in your hand as much and you have not been cranky!!" talk about feeling as big as a pebble!!

I guess I didn't realize how much I held my phone and looked at text messages, fb and everything!!!! I can say that my mind is resting better at night and I feel much more refreshed when I wake in the mornings. This morning we all slept in......it was nice- and as you can see by the pictures above- Mondays are PJ's day in our house!!!

We don't leave the house and it is nice.......it is a day I actually feel like a stay at home mom!!!!

I read this post from my friend Meredith back in November- but it has crossed my mind many times since about facebook. I will elaborate more on this in my post tomorrow!!

Mollie

A Day in the LIfe of Mollie......Friday

2011-03-04T22:20:00.002-06:00

I am taking a day OFF!!!!

After looking at all these post this week- I do have to mention, since we did have guest in our house I crammed one month of cleaning into one week. I usually don't do that much cleaning in one week- my house looks so good, I have lots to do today so I will wrap up a day in the life today. Next week I think I will catch up on my recipe blog and add some of my cleaning tips and systems that work for me.

7:00 wake, shower
7:30 wake boys snuggle
7:45 get boys dressed and ready for school
8:00 pack lunch for boys
8:15 leave for school
8:30 arrive at school drop boys off
8:35 Meet with friend about a possible future idea for our family-
pick up B's paycheck
9:30 Go to gym and work out
10:30 Go sign T up for T-ball this spring
11:00 return home, shower make up, fix hair
11:45 leave for town- go to bank make deposit
12:00 Meet my friend Whitney for Lunch
1:00 Hair Appointment with Ashley.....think I am going a little lighter!!
3:30 Pick up boys- ~~Go for a Walk with Erin and the twins on the Farm Road~~ (Amanda and Erin got a chance to walk earlier in the day and honestly- after my work out I don't think I could have run or walked even if some one was chasing me!!)
4:45 Home
5:00 bath boys and get dressed
6:30 Friend house for a get together
9:00 Home in Bed

WEEK is OVER!!! whew.....at least I got today off.....notice NO LAUNDRY- NO MEALS!!!

WANT TO WISH OUR NIECE A HAPPY 7TH BIRTHDAY TODAY!!!!

looking forward to her party tomorrow night

Mollie

A Day in the Life of Mollie.....Thursday

2011-03-03T22:00:00.000-06:00

Today was a good "stay at home mom" day. We stayed at home all day and had friends to come and play. We ate, visited and enjoyed all that came to our house today....GREAT DAY!!

6:00am Wake up- shower

6:20 Read Bible- Pray- put on first load of laundry

7:00 Sweep and Mop floors- bathroom, laundry room, kitchen, living and dining room. (this was on my to-do list yesterday, seeing how we were outside for almost 6 hours, it was put off until today!)

8:00 Boys wake up so I sit and snuggle with them and watch cartoons

8:30 back to floors

9:00 get dressed, make up hair- switch laundry out and put on 2nd load

9:30 start preparing food for guests

10:45 food all prepared, just straighten up prior to guests.

11:00 PLAY DATE!!!! 6 moms, 11 kids.....all under 5!!!

2:00 Most guest have left and one of my very most favorite friends Crystal stops by with her 2 boys- my boys ages- she needed me to watch them while she took care of some business.

3:00 all guests have gone except boys best friends M& C Crystal's boys. OUTSIDE WE GO!!!

3:15 Boys all play good together so I opened windows and doors and went back into the house to clean up a little from the party.

4:30 Daddy is home!!! EARLY TODAY- what a treat!!

4:45 Daddy is on duty now- so I go inside and work on supper and finish picking up toys in the play room. Switch 2nd load of laundry to dryer.

6:00 Crystal comes to get boys and we go inside for baths and supper

6:30 Supper Sweet baked Potato and Fresh Salad. Light side tonight!!

7:00 Clean up kitchen and do dishes

7:15 Boys sit on couch with daddy.....watch Dukes of Hazard

7;45 Bed, Bible story and prayers for boys.

8:00 B takes shower- gets dressed to head out for Mississippi

8:45 I kiss B goodbye and watch til the taillights fade into the dark.

9:00 Talk to my mom on the phone while I fold 2 loads of laundry

9:45 Finish up on laundry and sneak into boys room to put it away and hang it up.

10:00 sit down to type this......realizing this has been the longest week of my life now that I see it all in print!!! I feel like this...... I am going to bed now!!!

Mollie
P.S. Please Pray for my friend Crystal- her Papaw is drawing near the end of his journey on Earth.

A Day in the Life of Mollie.....Wednesdays

2011-03-02T22:45:00.000-06:00

I always love to see comments on facebook that say "Mondays....Ugh!!!- Wednesday- whoo hoo Hump day half way there!!- Then Friday the same people are saying TGIF- Glad this week is over!!"

I often wonder- when you work at home......you never have a Monday- because everyday is the beginning.....Wednesday- there is NEVER a middle of WHAT....craziness?? Friday.... that means it is the weekend- and weekends are so busy that the house gets even messier!!!

But then if you look at each day and each chore like this it make it easier to accomplish......

A kitchen sink Full of dirty dishes means that you have plenty of food on the table for your family. And a healthy family to eat it.

A hamper full of Dirty clothes and never ending laundry....my family is healthy and able to get these clothes dirty and I am thankful for the sweat and hard working husband I have to work so hard- the least I can do is wash his clothes.

A house Full of clutter- is a mother who has been having fun playing and tending to children and let the house go- because they will always sleep.....and you can catch up later. They are only little once.

I gave my mom a fridge magnet and she still has it "Let the dust bunnies gather and cobwebs grow because before you know your children will be grown" I didn't grow up in a clutter free home- but I grew up in a FUN home and a home where any one was welcome any time day or night. And the Love of God was shown to all who came through the doors of that grey home.

My Prayer is that I will have a home like that. Cleaning is important- but the lives of my family are so much more valuable!! I try to do my most deep and extensive cleaning on days when my kiddos are at school- so days we have together we can enjoy!!

Enough said about that Here is Wednesday-

Well....last night I stopped at 9:30 and went to bed!!

I wish I could tell you I went to bed then- Nope, I laid down and I have been having ear trouble (part of the dr appt Monday) so I could not handle laying down....so I came back into the living room- got a book and read it until I fell asleep!! That was at 11:30pm......

2:15 am- C wakes me up screaming......"I need to go to the bathroom!!" (I have told him night after night- if you need to go....get up and go!!!!)

4:00am- B leaves for work and tell me good bye.

6:30am- Alarm goes off.....I get up wash my face put my contacts in and go straight for coffee!!
Read my Bible and then look over my GA lesson for girls tonight. (I study lesson Sunday afternoons usually- then review Wednesdays)

7:00am C wakes up- sit with him watching cartoons and read my devotional for the day via my blackberry and Proverbs 31 Ministry

7:30 put first load of laundry on.

8:00am T wakes up sit with him and watch cartoons for a few minutes- glad to see some one got to sleep in!!! He is my snuggle bunny- so this time is most important for him!! Although if you notice a pattern from day to day- I try to sit at least 15 minutes on busy days- to an hour on days we don't have to leave the house and snuggle with boys and watch cartoons. LOVE IT!!
8:30am fix breakfast and eat it Eggo Waffles and fruit

9:00 unload dishes from last night and re-load clean up kitchen dinner prep- pot roast, put in crock pot for day.

9:30am lay out boys clothes and they get dressed as I get dressed- do hair and makeup, pack care for town- Library books, sack lunch for park, bread for ducks, jackets in case cooler weather.

10:15 Boys get in car, I buckle C in and we head to Story time.

10:30 Story Time every Wednesday at 10:30 at our county library- it is FREE and entertaining for kids, and I have met some of my very best friends over the past 5 years. We have attended every since T was 6 months old!!One thing story time is teaching is the importance of reading- I love it when I walk into a room and see T reading "batman" to C.....C love batman!!!

Mrs. S reads stories and then they do a craft- last week they did President's day, and made Abraham Lincoln hats......I sent the following picture to our parents on my phone last week because T wore his Abe Lincoln hat the whole rest of the day. I was the chauffeur for President Lincoln all day....what a treat!!

12:00 Leave Library after checking out books head to the state park for a picnic, feeding ducks and nature hike. Lots of FUN!! Love this weather- we haven't been to the state park since September!!We had a great time!!!! Got exercise and enjoyed the time together!!!

2:30 head home from the park- stop to get and icee and snack.

3:00 home, boys beg to play outside in yard......even after being outside for over 2 hours already!! They play outside and I sweep up back porch as they play. Run in and out of house (love the fact I can LOCK them in the back yard keep back door open and I can step inside and start supper) *boiled chicken for meal prep for Thursday *switched laundry out and started 2nd load *sit and watch boys play as I review GA lesson again.

5:00 pick up back yard, put dog in kennel and come inside- STRAIGHT TO BATH TUB!!!

5:30- Supper is ready and I look up and C is asleep on couch......poor baby!! I wake him up we eat supper- Roast, carrots, green beans and salad.

6:00 leave for church

6:15 arrive at church visit with church family

6:30 Boys go to mission kids class and I teach GA's (Girls In Action) a mission class for girls ages 2nd grade- 6th grade. 12 girls on an average. Good time!!

8:00 leave church head home- Call B and he just made it in the door, boys persuade me to go to DQ and get ice cream cones!! While in the drive thru T says "need to go the bathroom" so we make a trip inside- and we leave at 8:30!

8:45 arrive home.......hugs and kisses from daddy- he meets us at the car!

9:00 jammies and good night books, stories, brush teeth, bible story and prayers for boys

9:15 B takes shower, and goes to bed- I put his coffee on for 4 am and make his sandwiches for next day.

9:30 I shower and come back to living room to type all this.....not like I am already worn out from doing it all already!!! Here is me at the end of the day.....
10:30- finish blog post, read a chapter in a book and go to bed by 10:45.......zzzzzzzzzzzz.........

Since I have been exercising I can tell a HUGE difference in taking a hike with boys today than last fall when I was 10 lbs heavier......ready to see how much energy I have when I shed the next 20!!

Gotta get rest.....having a playdate tomorrow.

Mollie

Move it or Lose it

2011-03-02T09:07:00.001-06:00

Well, in this case it is move it and lose it!!!

I joined a gym......first time in over 8 years!!! I did exercise by doing water aerobics during both pregnancies- and it proved to be great for the big D-Day!! Longest I had to push was with T and it was 20 minutes!!
Then after I had the kiddos I just stopped working out- even had 3- yes THREE exercise machines in the shop!!! I would try, then give out- seemed it was so hard because I could never find time!! Or I would never MAKE TIME!!

I honestly think that I had a FEAR.....big problem!! Not until just recently did I realize how fearful I was. Until the Lord revealed it to me one day while I was working out. I explained to the man who runs the gym about this experience from my past......READ HERE if you haven't heard.

As I started working out He came up to me one day and wanted to know exactly what and how it happened? I told him the story and he said- make sure and take it easy!! So I really have- in fact I took it too easy at first. Probably looked a little lazy to the gym rats!!! I would show up- ride the bike for 5 minutes then get on elliptical for 15 and leave....hahaha!! What a wimp they were probably thinking??

I know I need to loose weight- I know I have a problem with over eating.....preferable JUNK!! In fact I have taped pictures of me that I look so awful in on the pantry cabinet doors just so I would not open the cabinets to get junk food out. Similar to this one......blegh!!! T took this picture of me without me knowing.....we were at a nature walk. This is one reason I like to be behind the camera!!

But not until I had a doctor visit a few months ago because of this pain in my hip- I have to go to the Chiropractor weekly because I am in so much pain!! He recommended going to my family doctor to check it out. So I visited him- he looked at me, looked at my chart- and said " I really think if you loose 20-30 pounds it will solve the problem- along with diet exercise and a multi-vitamin you can do it!" {He was being nice.....I really need to drop 30-40!!!}

In all the years- all the doctors visits I have had I have NEVER EVER been told I need to loose weight!! I have always been able to eat anything any time and never gain a pound........UNTIL I had children at the age of 30!!!!

I would eat foot long sandwiches from Subway at age 22 like it was a cracker!! It is called metabolism.....the older I get the less I have apparently!! So as I choked back tears- literally started crying in front of the doctor- I was so embarrassed!! He looked at me and said "Join a gym- if you don't do it for your self do it for you kids, you want to be around for them and to be able to play and enjoy life!!"

So I left the office that day thinking, there is no way I can join a gym with the hours my husband has- plus what a waste of money if I can only go twice a week.

I had breakfast with my friend Renee a few days later- told her about the "crying" I did, and she mentioned some multi-vitamins for ladies.......because the crying may have been hormonal too!! ha!!

Then she told me how she joined this gym in town similar to this one. And it was open 24/7 so if B got home early one day I could go and then the days my kids are in school I could go then too!!

So I joined and I have been going- twice a week, and tried to go 3 times a few times but life happens. I can tell you this- I feel soooooo much better.

I am taking it slow and in fact now I am up to a good hour or hour and a half work out.

First and foremost I have Praise music on my MP3 player.....so as I work out I am uplifted by encouraging songs about How God can help you through any battles and any struggles!!! And he can- so therefore I have memorized I Corinthians 6:20. Talks about taking care of our bodies!!

Then I do this routine.....

I ride the bike for 10 minute warm-up

Work out on the Elliptical for 20-30 minutes

walk on treadmill for 5 to cool down

life some small weights for arms, shoulders and chest

do some leg weights for inner and outer thighs.

Then lay 10 minutes in the tanning bed!!!! hahaha.....incentive to go!!

My Goal......I bought 2 Easter Dresses last year- I tried them on in the store they looked great and a month later Easter morning......NEITHER ONE FIT!!!! Oh my.....talk about a melt down!!

I ended up wearing one- with a camisole and not buttoning the jacket and having to PRAY the zipper didn't break!! But I still looked like I stuff myself in the dress. And the one I really wanted to wear was pink and black flowers. So here my closet has held this dress for a YEAR waiting to be worn- I am going to wear it this year.....if I have to tape it on the front of me!!!

This week's fast has started off great too- NO COKES!!! I have replaced it with 8- 8oz glasses of water......therefore if you happen to see me and my eyeballs are floating- or perhaps I run you over trying to get to the bathroom. You will understand because I am on my way to that PINK dress!!!

Do you work out? Exercise? What do you like to do??

Mollie

A Day in the Life of Mollie.....Tuesday

2011-03-01T21:30:00.000-06:00

Just a side note on all these posts of day in the life of series....am I tooting my horn- I enjoy seeing what others do when they blog day in the life......plus I am running out of stories!!!

Just trying to give some of you and idea on how my life goes. How we live in our house may differ from yours a lot of not much at all. It definitely was different from diaper changing and feeding babies days!! Although, I did forget to mention the times I helped wash hands- wipe noses- bottoms etc. with the boys. I did leave out details....if that is hard to believe!!!

For the most part my boys are very independent and can feed and dress themselves- it is new season for us!! Much different than days of mom doing it all.....teaching them to be independent young men now.....chores and responsibilities galore!!

Here are pictures of what my house looked like before and after- Before was Monday Morning.....and After was this evening after I de-cluttered and cleaned today....ahhhh that's more like it!!!

Play roomBoys RoomDining RoomOur Bedroom

Living Room

So here is Tuesday.....

2:00 am My hard working husband goes to work- a load to Mississippi He usually comes and kisses me and tells me to have a good day- No telling what I say to him- Sometimes "good night!"

3:00 am C wakes up needs a drink- I tend to him and he is content and back to sleep in no time.

5:00 am T wakes up to come tell me he needs to go to the bathroom- he then sneaks under the cover on our bed and sleeps on his daddy's side. Awake enough to realize a friend is having surgery at 5:30 say a prayer for him.

7:00am- Wake up- wash face, put contacts in, text my husband "good morning I love you!" and get COFFEE!!! I then sit in my chair drink my cold coffee....(another post some day) and open my Bible- read Isaiah 55.

7:20 finish packing boys lunches.

7:30 wake up boys for school. any other day they would be up at 7 you know!!! Then we sit and watch cartoons while they drink their milk.

7:45 lay boys clothes out for them to get dressed. I then go get dressed, brush my hair, and try to look half way presentable for gym!

8:00 Go help boys finish getting ready and put their shoes on- pack the car.

8:15 get in car go to school. Drive boys to school we call Daddy talk to him on speaker phone. Then put our Full Armor of God on head to toe and pray for the school day to go well and we will learn a lot. I drink all natural shake on the way to take boys.

8:30 Arrive at school drop boys off.

8:35 leave school- usually head straight to gym- go drop off car for oil change and detail. My friend Crystal meets me there and gives me a ride home.

8:45 we head home and I get a call from a friend who's husband had surgery earlier and found out it is Cancer at 34....sitting in Crystals car we hold hands and pray for comfort peace and healing for my friends Alan and Tammy as I talk on the phone to Tammy.

9:00 finally get out of Crystals car- go in house- put on load of laundry.

9:05 Log on to Facebook to update the prayer group for Alan and check emails.

9:30 leave for gym in husband's truck to go work out.

9:45 arrive at gym (I am soon going to add a post on my work out and what all I do- stay tuned maybe next week)

11:30 done working out. head home.

11:45 fix lunch make a few phone calls all while changing load from washer to dryer and adding second load of laundry

12:00 Eat lunch- sliced chicken sandwich and salad. I studied my bible study as I eat.

12:45 Start cleaning......de-clutter first then work on bathrooms. Here is a list of things I did- not in this order but just random Bathrooms (2)- showers, toilets, sinks counters, floors around toilets (ugh...boys!!) washed all rugs in bathrooms. Unloaded and loaded dishes, picked up all clutter in every room- and placed it where it belongs.

3:30 My Taxi.....Crystal arrives to take me to pick up my car. Thanks ;) girl!!!

3:55 Get car and pay for it- wow looks great too!! Poor people- sea of GOLDFISH!!!!

4:00 run a few errands

4:30 pick up boys from school.

4:45 pick up Icee for boys

5:00 run to grocery store- I figure we can go to park tomorrow so I add this trip today.

5:45 Home from store to play outside until dark......put dog up in kennel.

6:45 come inside and straight to bath for boys. I fold one load of clothes while boys bath and just sit and talk and watch them take a bath......we usually take showers- because the "little tub" they call it is 6 foot by 4 foot Jacuzzi tub. Not to easy to clean- so since it was freshly cleaned, they took advantage.

7:30 removed boys from bath and got them into "jammies"

7:45 at sliced turkey sandwiches for supper with fruit.

8:05 Daddy arrives home.....after over 800 miles logged for the day

8:10 Daddy sits and eats with us- his supper was brisket, beans, and corn on cob.

8:30 finished with supper- Daddy reads boys books and bible story and we put boys to bed.

8:55 exit boys room I take shower and B watches weather channel to see what is in store for his Dallas trip in the morning.

9:15 I put coffee on for B set it for 4am and then get in bed.

9:30 Bed for me and B........zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz......

I got a lot accomplished but I am so tired!! And to my mom......I never got the chance to call you back- apparently you understand why?? ha!!

Mollie

A Day in the Life of Mollie....... Monday

2011-03-01T00:15:00.004-06:00

Today is my first of the week for A Day in the Life.....

So this is what we did on Monday- now unlike most Mondays we did make a quick trip to town. Other than that- it was pretty much the same.

7:00am- wake both boys usually sleep thirty minutes later than me.....no today. So we all sat and cuddled on the couch for awhile- They drink milk, I have my coffee- and I read a devotional.

7:30- Put on first load of laundry (I have a laundry schedule for each day)

7:35- start breakfast- waffles (whole wheat Eggo) and fruit.

7:45- eat breakfast with boys- while watching cartoons. I check my email, and respond to any messages at this time.

8:15-clean up from breakfast- unload dishes- and re-load breakfast dishes.

8:30-strip beds and start second load of laundry. Switch clothes to dryer.

8:45- play pirate ship with boys, then become a prisoner for a few minutes.

9:15- shower, get dressed and do hair and make-up. All while stopping numerous times to talk to boys about not hitting- and sharing. Had to put both boys in time out for arguing.

10:00-TV Off- dinner prep- make meatloaf for supper and place in fridge for later.

10:30 get boys dressed and ready for the day. T can dress himself. C still needs little help.

10:45- make beds- Boys make their own, but I help.

11:00- finish hair and switch second load to dryer and add third load of sheets to laundry.

11:30- fix lunch, sliced chicken sandwiches and apples slices and grapes for them- Fresh Salad for me with chicken.

11:45- eat lunch

12:00- I finished lunch and start cleaning kitchen again. I then took the magic eraser and wiped down all kitchen cabinets. (one thing I try to do weekly)

12:15- get dressed- good thing because the Mailman drove up as I was walking back into kitchen with a box of books from here that was too big for the mailbox.

12:30- helped boys put on shoes. Started Fourth load of laundry.

12:35- start working on getting out the door to make dr appt.

12:45 buckle boys in car and drive off to town ( I try to leave 15 mins to get anywhere- we get there on time or just moments before)

1:00 arrive at doctor- sit in waiting room with my bag of tricks (books, flash cards, color books, I Spy book are best!!)

1:15 get called back to see doctor

1:45 left doctor appt with good report- no sickness just post nasal drip. He gave us sample nose spray.

1:55 Walgreens for quick list of groceries. One bathroom trip while in there.

2:25 Leave Walgreens headed to Korner Store- Boys reward an Icee for good dr check-up and behavior in dr office.

2:45 Return home.

2:50 sit boys down at table for snack of crackers and Icee's while watching cartoon

3:30 boys have quiet time in their rooms (sitting on their bed reading books while listening to music) I take time to do my Bible reading and bible study. T came out of his room 4 times- 3 to go to the bathroom and 1 to tell me he was done reading.

4:20 get meatloaf out of fridge place in oven. clean up kitchen

4:30 Look up and my husband drove up in the driveway- always a pleasant surprise!!!

4:35 Go to boys room and tell C he may put his books on shelf but T must stay 10 more minutes because he didn't obey and got out of bed without being told.

4:40 C and I walked out to greet Daddy in the driveway.

4:45 walk inside talk to T and explain to him why he got in trouble for not obeying.

4:50 B played with Boys in playroom- I get rest of supper going (sweet potatoes to cut and boil in water)

5:15 Sit at table and work with T on his homework due for school tomorrow am

5:20 B fell asleep on couch because he had gotten up at 2 am and was going to go back to work after supper.

5:30 Play with boys in play room- the box that came in the mail is now a pirate ship and also my laundry basket. Played hide n go seek and got found a few times!! Trying to stay quiet so daddy can rest. I hang up play clothes that were played with today. Help boys pick up room and playroom.

6:00 took meatloaf out of oven- go back and play with boys

6:30 get plates for supper ready. Deer Meatloaf, sweet mashed potatoes and salad. Need to post it here soon

6:40 sit down and eat supper with family at the table. After I finish eating I do a kids or family devotional. Then we work on flash cards with boys on what ever need work on at the moment.

7:15 Supper over- clear table- boys all take plates to kitchen and help put things away ketchup etc.... before supper they help get them out too.

7:20 Bath water is running and boys are getting ready to get bath by daddy while I get pj's and vitamins ready.

7:30 Bath over boys dressed in pj's and sit on couch B reads them their book of choice and they drink a glass of milk. Then he read a bible story from Their Bible the same Bible that his daddy read to him.

7:45 boys in bed we take turns saying prayers with each boys and telling "stories of when we were little" at their request.

8:00 we exit boys bedroom- sit on couch to watch end of Notre Dame basketball game. B makes a phone call to realize his load it not ready- so he says he will go to bed and get up at 2am again.

8:15 He goes to bed we visit in kitchen for just a moment while I make his sandwiches and he sets his coffee on automatic coffee maker. I then put dishes in dishwasher and clean up kitchen.

8:30 I pick up lap top to type what you are reading while watching TLC 19 kids and counting. Michelle is my Hero!!

9:30 Finish typing post then, will fold 1 pile of socks and hang up a load of laundry of boys clothes that I had to do yesterday because I was behind on laundry.

10:00 folding.....watching a moms dvd to preview for our new moms group

10:30 folding......hanging up

11:00 folding.....hanging up......do you see I was very far behind!!

11:15 finish folding and watching.

11:30 shut off TV go make boys lunch for tomorrow school. debated unloading dishes....nah!!

12:15am.....bed.....are you realizing now I am a night owl!!! I do get to sleep in til 7 am though!!

all in a days work....

See ya Tuesday!

questions leave in- comments sections I will do my best to answer.

Mollie

15 years....flash of love!!

2011-02-24T19:34:00.000-06:00

This story started 15 years ago this week....

On a date that we both had looked forward to for a looong time- because one of us was shy and the other stubborn.....it took a few months for this to happen!! This Oklahoma girl who apparently by the pictures spent WAY too much time in a tanning bed, and this tall basketball player from Arkansas started something......they never knew would follow them 15 years now down the road!!After a good game and a WIN of course- we met outside the locker room and went across the street to an Italian restaurant. It seemed like we hit it off just like we had known each other our whole lives. Even though we lived 6 hours apart and a couple of states.....we had a lot in common. It was a good night. GREAT and PERFECT first date!! I knew from the beginning this was the man God had intended for me- He did too, just didn't tell me until after we wed.

The part of the story that we will never forget it- the End. When he drove me home that night, I was still living with my parents being just a few months into my 18th year of life. I really didn't like that awkward front door goodbye.....not a kiss on the first date person. So to take the pressure of him and myself, I offered to get out walk myself to the door and then I would flash the porch light at him to let him know I made it safely!

I after sharing with him- that I had a great time and looked forward to getting to know him more. I jumped out of his 80's model Red Chevy truck and ran as fast I could in 20 degree weather to the front door- unlocked it and ran inside......flashed the porch lights to let him know. He then flashed his head lights and I watched as the Chevy break lights drove out of sight. I was in L-O-V-E.....love!!!Years went by and we would flash the lights at each other- Three and a half years went by and we found ourselves in the yard of that house with the flashing porch lights and said vows to each other. Til death do us part.....For better or worse....we promised and it has been great!!!

When we were first married we lived off a highway- I would wait to hear the Freighliner ease through our little small town and standing at the door I would watch as he passed and flash the porch lights to him and he would flash back. Then I would stand at the door say a little prayer for his safety and watch as the lights faded into the darkness. Being a Truck drivers wife is not a glamorous life, but was a good life built of trust, honesty and true love being loyal til the end!

Years went by and through many light bulbs later we moved to another house- and as I stood and waved each time he left for work I would flash the lights. I was either holding a new puppy, rubbing a growing belly full of a bundle of joy inside or holding a new baby boy taking his little hand and waving bye to his daddy. Then a few years later that little boy could reach the light switch himself, and I hold his baby brother as we blow kisses- flash lights and show daddy how much we love him as he drove off to work.
I guess somewhere along the way we named the "flash of lights" I love you......meaning every time we flickered those lights we knew the other one was ok and we loved them. I still get butterflies when I see that 18 wheeler drive up or better yet- I can hear him miles away....something about a truck drivers wife's ears!!

I am thankful for my hard working husband- he spends many nights away from home. He knows when he does come home where he is welcome to be himself and knows love awaits him behind those flashing lights!!

He has driven well over a million and a half miles since we have been married 11 short years- and guaranteed every mile was covered in a prayer either by me- him- or our family!! When God is the center of your marriage, he will be the one to hold you together in the storms of life!!

As I flashed the lights tonight, waved and watched his taillights fade into the darkness.....My heart is joyful that God has brought us here today from a little flash of a porch light by two kids who just fell in love!!

So if you happen to be in Arkansas some day- and you drive down a highway and see a Red Shiney Kenworth driving off and porch lights flashing......you will know there is a lot love in this house!!

Mollie

Thoughts for Thursday

2011-02-24T09:08:00.005-06:00

Easter is coming soon- and with that the Lent season. Each year I usually choose something to give up- and in return I spend more time with God and focus on the real meaning of the cross.

For 3 years I have given up Facebook, in fact last year I even temporally deleted my account. I usually announce on my status I am giving up facebook for lent- see ya after Easter!! This year I have chosen to do so even before Lent season. I am going to give it up March 1st or before.....maybe even today?? I don't know exactly- I am getting fed up with all the craziness!!!

I feel as if some things I can live without- facebook is one of them. I do absolutely love the fact that I can keep in touch with people from all over the world. One of my very first friends who found me of facebook- we were best friend in the 3rd and 4th grade!! I have not seen her in years- she found me on facebook, we keep in touch better now. She and her husband are missionaries in another country, so it is neat to see she and her boys are doing half a world away.

I also have kept in touch with one of my interpreters we used in Peru this summer- it is great to encourage her and keep her built up in a country with so many lost people. To see her is a breath of fresh air in Peru. I have been encouraged by so many who tell me my comments are positive or my scriptures are just what they have needed. That is a great feeling that I can work through such a worldly thing for God. Then of course I LOVE to tell funny stuff the boys do- brings back good memories for moms who kids are grown, and just gives others a laugh. One of the reasons God created me.....Joyful Laugh!!!!

I do however feel the need to look at my phone- it is worse when you have it right at your finger tips....I am going to drop the app on my phone for this reason. I feel as if some days I have talked more to people or kept up with people on the computer than- looked at real life people in person!! C walked over to me the other day with a toy gun and said "Hold up your hands and DROP THE PHONE!!"

When I lay down at night, my mind doesn't rest well. I think of things of others that I wonder "hmm wonder if they got that done, or that meal was good at that new restaurant.....etc!!" and then I find myself looking at pictures from Christmas 2009 just to look because they are there??

You might be thinking by now- Hello is there Rehab for this Facebook addict?? haha!! I know exactly, If you know me well, my motto is ALL or NOTHING!!! That pretty much sums it up.

I do get most of my prayer request from facebook- and for this reason I am not going to announce I am leaving on my status. Just here! Because I feel if they really have a need they can email me. I have a few "groups" that I have started on there- prayer groups for a friend with Cancer, and also our new moms group. I will have to keep up with those.

When you read the Link above I have attached to "Lent" it will make more sense to those of you who don't know what in the world I am talking about. I am also giving up a few other things I have struggled with.....ummm..... Coke!!!! I love my coke- but know it is soooo bad for me!!! I need to loose weight and get in better shape not just for bathing suit season....but for Life!!!

Ok so if you are a reader of this blog- and believe in praying.....Please add me to your prayer list.

I appreciate your prayers and support!! If you have any prayer request please email them to me at dryerturns@hotmail.com I will support and pray for you also.

I John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

Mollie

Keep your Eye on the Ball- a baseball story

2011-02-23T15:36:00.004-06:00

Spring is almost here.....and Spring in the United States means......BASEBALL SEASON BEGINS!
My husband played baseball until he went to college to play basketball- they even say he was a better baseball player than a basketball player....hmmm I saw him play basketball- He was pretty good at that!! Our Family loves baseball.... T received his first t-ball when he was days old from Coach Cecil his daddy's former coach and our friend. He has no other choice than to love the sport as we do!!!

T is so excited this year he is 5 and T-ball is the game. He likes to wear his daddy's old baseball uniform around the house. I took this picture with my phone last year I believe. He has grown a lot since this time last year.
Sign up begins soon- I am looking forward to spending many many seasons from here on out at the diamond- cheering on my little guys!! We still need to get a correct bat- we have had 2 t-ball sets. Both came with plastic bats- so it is time to get a "real" bat.

As I was sitting in the grass this week watching B teach and talk to T about baseball. It was amazing how serious both of them were. B is a great teacher- very patient very good listener and excellent coach!! His main focus was to tell T "what ever you do- don't ever take your eye off the ball when you are playing. You will hit the ball and catch the ball better if you never take your eye off the ball!" And he did- he would occasionally look over at me while batting and swing and miss!! He would say "whoops- took my eye off the ball!" I think he will make a pretty good player-following in good footsteps!! It was hard for me as a mother to sit back and not say anything, honestly it is hard for me to sit anywhere any time and not say anything!! Those who know me well- know what I mean. As I was watching my little boys Father teach him and coach him in something he has yet to play. I was reminded of my heavenly Father- how he is gentle with us and teaches us in different ways of his Glory. In the rising of the Sun- we can see God's Glory and in the smallest bloom on a flower in a field of dead grass- we know there are good things to come to those who wait. God was showing me how I need to sit back and enjoy the Father & Son moment.

A few hours later at supper we sat down to our plates full of food to eat, I told T how proud I was of him and how well he was doing. "Practice makes perfect!" that is what they say so I explained to him if he was going to play- he needed to practice as much as he could. Now that the weather is getting nicer- it will be easy to practice!! Then we talked about keeping your eye on the ball, I shared how in the Bible Peter walked on the water. He said "I thought ONLY JESUS could walk on water?" I said yes, he can and only he can- but once Peter did!! I told him how Peter got out of his boat and started towards Jesus (Matthew 14:22-36) and always keeping his eyes on Jesus he did great. Then when he became fearful he lost sight of Jesus and fell into the water. When the storms of life hit us where do we turn- our friends, phone/facebook to tell the first person the story of how bad it is?? God already knows and he knows the outcome too!! When you seek Him first He will honor your prayers and your cry to him.

Keeping your eye on the ball in baseball is not easy with all the noise in the crowd and distraction from other players. Much like life, when we focus too much on others or too much on things in stead of God- we loose sight of the MOST important thing....Him!! I want to encourage you- if you have lost sight of God or if you have never seen him and his glory in the things I have mentioned. Stop today and Focus on Him- for he is your creator. I can tend to get very busy with life and get busy with other things, and when I don't take time for Him- my days seem longer, more mishaps and much more unwanted stress/strife and drama!!!

I shared with a group at a soup kitchen in Lima, Peru on how we must get out of our comfortable boats and walk across to Jesus grab his hand and hold on- I literally JUMPED like I was leaping out of a boat!!!! He is the way, the truth and the Life- No other way will you have peace, joy and comfort!! I can honestly tell you that my Joy comes from Him!!!

So here I sit watching my little 5 year old playing baseball keeping his eye on the ball- and praying that one day his eyes will be on Jesus and his heart forever his!!!

Mollie

My LOVE Story

2011-02-13T23:09:00.002-06:00

For many of you who know me.....it is obvious that I am truly and madly in LOVE with a certain man. He is my ALL, He takes my breath away, He gives me laughter- LOVE- and tons of JOY!!!

For years I tried to fill my life with people who I thought would help me.....they always let me down and usually I ended up hurt. I met him- and I know each day may be a struggle, but walking with him by my side.....it is easier. When you love some one and they LOVE you back, nothing gives you a better feeling.

This man is my soul-mate, I feel his arms around me when I am sad or need comforting and He is always there to pick up all the pieces and help me back on to my feet. He wipes my tears when I cry. He carries me when I cannot walk, He comforts me when I need him most!

He doesn't judge me for who I am or crazy things that I do.....He is always forgiving and understanding. I can have the worst day ever- and He understand and comforts me. I can have the BEST day ever and He rejoices with me.

He LOVES my laughter and my smile- it makes him smile too!! He loves me for WHO I AM- not for who people wish I were! I will not change for anyone but him.

I LOVE this man with all my heart- ALL my soul and one day I know I will meet him face to face........

You see, I have never met him face to face actually, I feel him- I know he is there. I can see him in his works, from the rising of the Sun to the setting of the Sun. In the spring he makes all things dead come to life again. And he is the reason I live and breathe.

He is my heavenly Father, the love for Him that I have surpasses any love I have for anyone I love here on Earth- He is ALWAYS with me and ALWAYS for me. The GREAT thing about him is HE has enough LOVE for you that he has for ME!!! He created you to LOVE HIM TOO!!

I know that it may sound odd to have so much love for someone who I have never met face to face- but when I see his work in my life, it is rewarding and it gives me butterflies that one day I will see him. I will see him, and all those who I have lost before I was ready- it was their time to go home and I do miss them so.

My heart rejoices for the day I will see loved ones and friend who have left this world for an eternal life with him. To think of all the wonderful people we will see brings JOY to my heart.

I do love him so, I do know that I will live forever with him in Eternity- do you know??

If you died today- where would you spend eternity??

Here are a few of my favorite songs to share with you and my Love for Him-
Oh How He Loves Us
I can only Imagine
Spoken For

This one they sang in church yesterday- It is a major wake up call to parents to show us that we are responsible for the future generations!!
Lead Me

One more thing.....when you come to know Christ....it is a simple prayer- but a LIFE changing experience!! You know who you are......so Please do not wait another day!!

Mollie

Marvelous Mondays

2011-02-13T22:44:00.007-06:00

It seems as if Mondays are by far my biggest day to clean and organized from the weekend. Most people may dread cleaning up- but for me it is therapy some times. My husband is home most all weekend, and somewhat during the week. He does not have a 9-5 Job so we never know when we will be blessed to see him- but weekends are a given.....unless of course it is Fall....deer hunting season!!

Monday morning it looks as if a BOMB has exploded in the house. I am a stay at home mom, so you would think I have all week to clean up and sit around and eat bon bons- watch soaps!! Oh it is so glamorous.....once you spend a day in the life of a s@hm you realize.....it may be more work than it is cut out to be.

Many of my friends ask me "Don't you get bored of just staying at home- not working?" OR like my husband who travels for his work A LOT...."I cannot sit in this house ALL DAY....I do not see how you do this??" So my friends and Family- This week I am going to give you a run down day to day of this week and let you know what I do.

Many moms may not have as much on their plate, many may have more.....but just to those who wonder about my bored moments.....

This week you will see why I love Monday mornings......and most Mondays- because we do stay at home and we do get to stay in PJ's all day!!!! Although this week was a little different we had to get dressed by noon for a quick doctor visit- then back home....my cleaning will be set aside and pushed in where ever I can squeeze it!!

Each day this week- I will write down every moment of every day what we do where we go....and so on. I am anxious my self to see how it looks on paper- because I can tell you on foot, I am usually ready to CRASH by the end of every day.

I will try to have as many REAL LIFE PHOTOS as possible!!! Pictures are worth a thousand words!!

I also started a fast today of facebook and not to mention I started a little "diet" or actually I am counting points like weight watchers. It is just showing me more how I eat and what I eat. The Girl Scout Cookies that came in are my worst nightmare.....Samoas.....UGH need I say more!!

I have been working out at a local gym that works to my time and schedule being a stay at home mom with a husband who works odd hours. I have been going to a place much like this one.

I can tell a difference- but at the same time I wanted to eat better so my burning of calories would not be a loss......when I drive home drinking an Iced Mocha from McD's!!!! Hello- may as well not even work out. Make a huge difference when you write every thing down that you eat.......hmmm can be scary too!!

OK so starting tonight I will sit down and log my day for you to see tomorrow morning.....and the rest of the week and so on. Today has not been a "normal" Monday due to the doctor visit so- you never know what will change from day to day. We did have a good check up- I took the boys in for this cough they have had for a few weeks- he said it was just a little post nasal drip.

We have been blessed to avoid all sicknesses so far this season!!! Praying we stay well too!!

Looking forward to a day in the life this week- I hope you enjoy it!!

Mollie

Silent Sunday

2011-02-13T07:47:00.000-06:00

SWEET DREAMS........

Mollie

Let it SNOW.......again!!!!

2011-02-12T12:34:00.001-06:00

Here in the south we are lucky if we get one good snow day!!! Usually we get a good day of sleet or ice. I remember last year when we were expecting our "snow" day B and I were getting ready to go away for the weekend. I was so sad thinking- I will miss C's first real snow day....and do you know what- it snowed a day early. I think God knows the desires of our hearts and honors even the simple and small little prayers.

This year we have gotten 3 snow days!!! First one being more sleet than snow.....second one was good- great packing snow for snowballs and a BIG snowman....third one I didn't even take the camera out...it was a small dusting of an inch or two!! So here is a review in pictures of our snow days!!!Me all bundled up in my wool coat.....I wear once a year.....in the snow!!!First snow.......when it was coming down still......we were all excited!!!Redneck sled.......Daddy pulled the boys from his 4 wheeler with a "clean" trash can lid. Living in the south causes much improvising with sleds!!! Our first snow/sleet man!!!
The second snow.....C was getting tired of falling down and bless his heart he had so many clothes on he could not get back up......he would say "we go inside??" This is the same child that BEGS to go outside all the time!!!

He enjoyed eating the snow.......white snow of course!!

T was loving throwing snowballs!!!! And had quite and arm on him!!!

Snowman #2.....Roscoe the cowboy snowman!!!

B and I talked about since He would only have one snow day a year his experience with building snowmen was not as good as mine- so he said "show me how you build one!!!" There ya go big boy......You roll the whole yard up!!!!! We had a great time making this one- and it took about an hour!!!

The second sled improved also- we used a wind catcher off a Big Truck B's dad brought by. IT WAS AWESOME!!!! We almost passed the 4 wheeler- got some major hang time too!!!

Perfect size for adults but the boys had a good time going slower when mama wasn't on there to hang on to them!!We were running out of snow.....but it was still sliding on the grass just as well!!!! Think we found a new toy!!! We have enjoyed the snow....but I would have to say I am so ready for Spring- my very favorite season!!! And not to mention all the baking I am doing- whew.....this cold weather makes me bake more and then of course some one has to eat it all!!!

Mollie

Show us your life......Hair Tips!!!

2011-02-11T06:30:00.002-06:00

Well, since I have been on a little break away from blogging- thought I would join back in Kelly's Fun little Friday Show us Your Life.

For more great tips stop by there to see what others have in linked to her blog!!

I did hair for 10 years prior to my having two boys.....and now find my self too busy to do any one's hair but theirs.....or mine!! In fact I have a beauty shop right behind my house- it would be very easy to go back to work. I feel as if my time with my children is so much more important right now than my customers. Although I love and miss so many of my clients- I love my family so very much more!!

I did however blog on a few tips and showed step by step advice

from a hairstylist back months ago.

Here are the links to those post:

How to do a Bang Trim

How to trim your husband or son's hair?

My Hair style- short stacked bob and how to style it

Tips for getting a successful Kids hair cut!!

If you have any questions feel free to email me, I will try my best to help out.
And the best advice I can give you is- if you don't feel confident doing your own or your families- DON'T!!!! Save your self the pain and money and just go to your regular stylist!!

Mollie

10 things on the Tenth

2011-02-10T21:54:00.000-06:00

Even though my friend Meredith has ended her ten things on the 10th.....I still think it is a good thing for me right now- especially since I am so behind on blogging......

So here are TEN THINGS I HAVE DONE while on my break of blogging!!!

10. Cleaned and organized every drawer, closet, cabinet in our house!!
Hoping on doing some organizing post soon- with pictures and tips!!!

9. Worked on my Beauty shop aka "the STORAGE" building!! Cleaning out all the cabinets and throwing away many many things!! And the attic- while up in the attic getting out Christmas decor- I thought, no better time to take everything out and sort all old stuff and get rid of it!!!

8. Bought and re-arranged Living Room Furniture.The "old" couch went to the playroom- just needs a good slip cover. It is a good sleeper sofa underneath- so it is also a guest bedroom now.Kinda hard to see the new couch in this picture....but B is really enjoying it!!! 7. Loading my car once a week with items to take to consign at a new consignment store here in town.....first one too might I add!! I tripled my commission the second month from the first. And the third month it was 7x the amount of the second one!! Whoo Hoo!!

6. Went on a much needed vacation and retreat with my mom.....scrapbooking!!! First time we had been since 2002....it was great!! 5. We Bought boys Bunk Beds....needless to say......THEY LOVE IT!!!!!

4. Moved boys to one room instead of two bedrooms.....and closets!!! 3. Changed T's bedroom to playroom

2. Help to start a moms group in our community.

1. Finally feel for the first time in 3 years that I have finally got my house back in order and I am back on schedule and a good cleaning routine!!! I have found the secret key to a happy life- simple life is a good life!! The less you have the less you have to take care of- the better and the more time you have for the most important things in life......Family!!

For the past 3 years I have felt out of sorts and completely unorganized!! I realized that when I am out of sorts then it reflects on the outside as much as the inside!! I re-grouped and for the first time in a long time I can kick up my heels and enjoy life!!

Mollie

Cowboy Fun!!

2011-02-08T11:55:00.000-06:00

HOWDY PARTNER....... For months C would dress up like a cowboy......so his party theme was a cinch!!! He wore his hat and carried a gun from dawn til dusk......but had a smile that would melt your heart!!!

Luckily our theme at bible school was also western so I had plenty of decor already!!!

We did choose to go to a bounce house- and let the kiddos jump around. We choose not to do gifts for the boys birthdays and to ask guests to donate to the mission work of T.E.N. in their efforts to give to orphanages in Peru and Africa. C was able to raise 400 dollars from friends and family to help other kids. We are so thankful for friends and family and all they did to support this effort!!

There was a 2 story slide that was C's favorite- so the grown ups took turns walking up and sliding down with him or other kids!! FAMILY FUN!!!!

His friends and cousins all ready to JUMP!!!

T enjoyed climbing into the Lions mouth!!!

JUMPING WITH FRIENDS!!!! I am telling you that nothing this boys does with out jumping or running, we could not have chosen a better place- well worth the money!!!

We did give him a tractor from T for his present and a truck that looks like daddy's!!

He was so happy- he loves Trucks!!!

C is my free spirited very independent child. He is my second born so of course he probably gets away with a lot more than the normal. But at the same time he is caring and loves his brother!! He loves to go hunting with his daddy- and cries now if he is left behind. His red head gives him lots of looks from ladies......they love the hair!! And he loves the attention!! I love that each and every time I pick him up from his bed he pats my back as I pat his- and he tells me "I wuvs you mama" melts my heart!! Looking forward to seeing what he will LEAD in his future- he is a born leader!!!

Mollie

Party time!!

2011-02-07T15:57:00.000-06:00

We had a BLAST at T's 5th birthday.... in August. I am so behind on blogging it is not even funny. I am having to write stories down.....so I remember to tell them later!!

We decided to have another fun in the sun party!!! It was a blast for the kids last year and no better way to cool off from the HOT days of Summer....than the big water slide!!!

Our cousins Big AG and Lil AG were serving drinking from the sand box.....chocolate or vanilla shakes!! Umm Yummy!! Are they not the cutest waitresses ever!!! B enjoyed a shake as they went around and served every one!!!

This year T wanted a Camo Hunting party his request for gifts.....rubber boots and work gloves!!! He is his daddy's boy!!! This year for BOTH boys birthdays we talked with them about giving to others- since my trip to Peru I visited a few orphanages and my heart has been heavy for those kids since I left. When I returned to look at all my kids have and all we take for granted I talked with them about taking donations for their birthday instead of gifts. T agreed and C is always just happy to be along for the ride!! So T was happy with his rubber boot and gloves and he collected over 400 dollars for the Orphanages in Peru and Africa through T.E.N. I was so blessed by the support from our family and friends!!
C enjoyed the card that Mimi and Bobo gave T!!! The shades were a party favor!! The chair a gift from aunt Lala..... C is one cool dude!!!

I love to decorate......even if it was a hunting theme......no frills and bows......but that's how we roll!!All T's friends got to come in out of the water slide and sing to him.......good memories!! Then instead of opening gifts- we had a video made of the past 5 years of T and tried to get lots of funny shots and family members in the video. It was fun to watch!! blowing out the candles.....

My very favorite part about a summer party......out door eating!!! Easy to clean up!!!!

The Hunter....looks like he is shooting the 5 from here!!
More out door eating!!!

The Birthday Boy!!!!

T is my firstborn and he is so special in his own ways- we have been blessed that he is extremely thoughtful and very caring for others. Unselfish in every way, and a very smart boy. He love Jesus and he loves his brother.....He wants to be just like his daddy when he grows up.....but yet still loves to sit in his mama's lap each and every morning when he wakes!! And I will rock him as long as he lets me!!

Love you T!!!! Mollie

Silent Sunday....

2011-02-06T07:51:00.000-06:00

Picture taken by: Cloud Dust

Holidays....in review

2011-02-05T10:36:00.000-06:00

Quick little review of the holiday seasons......we had Thanksgiving here with B's family and my mom, dad, sister, brother in law and niece came to visit also!!! So we had a great time with the WHOLE family!!

For twelve years now we have alternated Christmas and Thanksgiving holidays since we live 6 hours away from my parents and 2 hours away from my sister and her family- we can't make both families houses the same day!! It has always worked out good that way. Since we have had children we have also alternated Easter and Mother's Day in the spring. Here is a picture we took of my side of the family this fall. First time since 2008- I would say it was over due!! Not bad for setting my camera up on a tri-pod and running to get in the picture!!

My sis, mom and me Thanksgiving morning......if the food wasn't good at least we had a good time and looked good fixing it!!

B's side of the family.....Our family with his sister, niece, aunt, uncle, mom, dad, grandmothers, and grandpa. Thanksgiving day at his mom and dad's house.

We spent Christmas in Oklahoma......glad we got spend 3 days seeing and spending time with my Papaw......he was 89 in November!! We LOVE our Papaw!!!

Poppie's gift to the grand kids was......a guitar like his.....so now he has his own band!!! Got to love on my girl- my niece lil AG.....love her and getting to play dolls with her!!! Not my best picture.....but it WAS Christmas morning!!!

The Christmas morning excitement is still the same because Santa came to Oklahoma instead of our house. And cookies and milk taste just as good right??

T asked for a Transformer Bumblebee and C a Batman castle....he LOVES batman!!! So they were both so excited Christmas morning to see that Santa had come to visit!!

and he played and played and played with his batman castle for 12 hours straight!!!!! Santa got his monies worth in the first day!!! Then when we arrived home we opened our gifts.....from us to the boys!! We gave the boys bikes this year....lots of fun!! We barely made it home before dark to ride the new bikes!!

I love the aftermath of Christmas presents everywhere.....signs of life and healthy children!! C didn't want to go outside and ride.....we had to pry him off the batman castle.....T on the other hand was SUPER excited and could not wait!!!

This is our Family Christmas photo for 2010.....the night before the tree came down....we posed of it via self timer on the camera!!! I think the boys get a kick out of watching me RUN to get in the picture!!My 33rd Birthday is 5 days after Christmas my boys gave me a new purse!!! I love it!!!

We got a few snow days in January and daddy got to stay home from work due to icy roads!!

B was getting the boys ready to pull behind the 4 wheeler....courteous of Uncle Charlie and his "clean" trash bin lid. When you live in the south and you rarely get snow....sleds are few and far between....you must be very creative. I saw everything from trash bin lids, knee boards, laundry baskets, ice chest and a Dodge car hood that people were using as a sled!! BUT we have the 4 wheeler to do it- where there's a will there's a way......even if it is the redneck way!!!

Jingle Bells Jingle Bells Jingle all the way!!! Oh what fun it is to ride on a trash can lid pulled by daddy's 4 wheeler...HEY!! The boys laughed and sang that song the whole time!! I rode a couple of rounds and felt it the next day.....trash bin lids don't have that much cushion on them!! But it was fun while it lasted!!

The boys built a snowman.....made of sleet!!! Frosty the Sleet man....had Hershey kiss eyes, peanut butter cracker button, and a carrot nose!!
The little boys had a good time on the 4 wheeler with my big boy too!!

That is a wrap of what we have done of the few months of my lack of blogging we have still stayed busy!!!

So far so good!!!

Mollie

Our first visit from the Tooth Fairy

2011-02-03T14:23:00.000-06:00

Well, this post was one I was thinking would wait a few years....but when you least suspect things! It was in June (keep in mind I am behind in posting stories!) we had vacation bible school and I noticed an ugly bump above T's tooth right in the front. Didn't think much of it, so a week went by- took him to the doctor. I was leaving for Peru the next week- so I just wanted to take extra precaution. The doc looked and said "looks like a little ulcer- it will go away" Not to worry. I left on my trip. When I returned- one of the first things I noticed besides the foot T had grown while I was gone, was that thing was still there- and gotten bigger!! I did however stay at a mission house with some dentist missionaries- mentioned it to them, he said "oh that is an abscess- he needs a root canal!" Oh MY!!! On a five year old in the front- talk about scary!!

So, I took him to the dentist when I returned and he said "this is an abscess- the tooth needs to be taken OUT NOW!!" I was not prepared.....I had NO CAMERA- WAIT MY PHONE!!! ha!!

Bless his little heart with the clown nose for gas......he didn't realize what was going on until the dentist pulled out the pliers!! Then he grabbed the dentist hand!!! Luckily the dentist was a pro and got the job done!! T shed a few tears.....but then when I told him to feel it with his tongue he thought that was cool!!

I promised him some ice cream too!! That heals all....right?? Here is his toothless grin!!!

He got his ice cream and we headed home.....he also got to choose a prize from the treasure chest....

BUBBA TEETH.....only appropriate when you life in Arkansas!! The sweet thing about what he did was when they said he can pick a prize out- he said in a sweet voice "Can I get one for my brother too?" Melted my heart!!

So, when we arrived home we put the tooth in the little container for a keepsake.

Then he wrote the sweetest note to the tooth fairy telling her how he wanted to keep his tooth to show his friends! Now at the same time let me tell you I was NOT ready for this tooth fairy thing- and so I had no stories prepared or had not put much thought into it. He didn't even know of such a thing until the nurse and dentist mentioned "tooth fairy" and they added that when you get a tooth pulled she "pays double!!" Gee Thanks people!!

So we went into all the details and he tucked it under his pillow- so excited! He then started asking millions of questions as kids do about everything. But I felt terrible having to "LIE" to my son- and yet tell him NOT to lie!! I was a bit bothered by this.

So sweet dreams for him as he slept..........
The next morning when he found his dollar He was THRILLED!!! So excited and yet so FULL of questions again and again I was puzzled and stumbling all over my lies......digging a grave for me and all my teeth!!!

Then a few days later......another tooth fell out!! Lions, Tigers and Bears OH MY!!! Two days later- another tooth!!! Yes 3 teeth in two weeks he lost.....I felt like I was loosing my baby!!! But at the same time the second tooth brought more questions from him and more lies from me.....YET another note and another dollar from the "fairy"

His questions were deep- like how does she fly into my room?? Does she know Jesus?? Does she have friends & family?? Where does she live?? How does she fly?? I had no clue how to answer the questions- so he was catching me in lies!!!

But when the question came that I just had to completely stop in my tracks and tell him the truth- the SAME way we believe in Santa!! His question was "So is the tooth fairy with me all the time like Jesus- does she love me like him?" I told him right then and there "T I am sorry I have to tell you the truth- it was ME I put the dollar under your pillow and I made up the tooth fairy, my mama did it for me- and it is just pretend." ahhhhh I felt such relief!!!

His response- "Oh ok like Santa- just a make believe person!" Exactly, it went smooth and by the third tooth- he forgot to even put it under his pillow and we gave him a dollar for his piggy bank!!

As a parent you live and learn- and I have found that honesty with the boys is the best way. If they cannot believe me....who can they believe? If I tell them a lie about something then should they always believe me?? So far.....we are still on 3.....but have many loose ones still!!

Mollie

Ok.....I think I am back this time.....I think??

2011-02-01T23:13:00.006-06:00

Well, I have taken a BIG break from blogging to purge.....and my friend we have a new house- feels great too!! Although I had over 3000+ square feet to clean every inch.....house and extra beauty shop included. I have found a new love......consignment!!!

There is a new consignment store in town- and I find myself taking things up there every week or so. I clean out a closet and find unwanted things and put them in my trunk and on the two days a week they take items.....I am there!!! Unless I feel as if they just need to be donated- then I donate to a local battered women's shelter.

Here is another secret I have been keeping.....I have a love for organizing and feel as if God is showing me a new direction in my life. I really really have a strong desire to HELP people who are just so far in disarray they don't know where to begin. I have read a dozen books on it and have many ideas myself, and feel as if I can relate in a personal way.

But I have seen STUFF own us over the past few years. When you have STUFF....like items to dust, furniture, toys, too many clothes!!! They own you and your time. As a mother my time with my children is so valuable, I would much rather be on the floor playing a game then on the floor scrubbing it or cleaning a commode!! Do ya know what I am talking about??

So over the past few months of my purging I was asking myself the same questions "do I really need this?" " can I live with out this?" "what is the purpose of this item?" and so on....

Then I realized it was also clothing- I would find myself hours on end washing, drying, folding, hanging up, and what mother does not feel as if she does laundry 24/7!!! Never ever ending job!!

Well, the less clothes you have the less you have to do- RIGHT? So I narrowed down are clothes- other closets less than others.....no comment!! It really hit me when I packed my kids suitcases when I wen t to Peru- I packed them for 11 days......laid out outfits and packed extras for each grandma's house. And do you know with 11 days worth of clothes, and extras undies socks and all......they STILL had many clothes hanging in the closet!!!

This picture of the boys closet it after combining two closets......they still have PLENTY!!!

My system was to pick 4-5 church outfits- that is all......they are allowed to wear the same thing to church twice!! Then 4-5 play outfits and 4-5 nice outfits.....that is all!! WOW what a difference it makes in laundry. I can stay on top of things- instead of being behind and thinking well, they still have plenty in the closet to wear!! Amazing what a few outfits can bring in at a consignment store too!!

I also got rid of all my extra clothes in the attic. We really feel complete- So I parted with all the baby clothes and maternity clothes I owned. I would much rather sweet little baby boys and mamas to be wearing them than to be stored in a Rubbermaid container in an attic until they were out of style!!! That my friend was 8- YES EIGHT containers!! I'm surprised the ceiling had not fallen in!!

I also went through sorting and throwing away many many items that serve no purpose at all- just collecting dust. Therefore, if I am dusting I am spending valuable time away from my family- and so I got rid of it.

After doing all that I then would organize things- Here are some pics of my pantry aka a shelf in my laundry room. When things are organized I don't spend as much time looking for it and I can go grab it and focus on the task. Also, when I am organized for my meal planning- I can look at what I need and write a grocery list much much faster!! When I don't have a list I will buy double of something we don't even need....been there....YES me too!! Do you really use 3 jars of PB at one time??

If you are thinking WOW she is obsessed with this......well yes!! You are right, but I have just felt so overloaded and felt the need to rid my life of excess things that weigh me down. I would much rather spend and hour with my family than an hour on my house!! So I really felt the need to go through the whole house and take a look around.

Do I care if I have the prettiest or most decorative house on the block? Nope. Do I care if I have the most fashionable clothes on my kids in every color they make? Nope. Do I even care what people will think if they see me wearing the same clothes over and over again? Nope. Because what matters is that 30 years from now- if my kids can look back and say "I want to be like my parents and focus on what matters most!" This is what will matter most. If I spend time with my kids they will remember that a whole lot more that what they wore or what our house looked like. My Family and children are worth more to me than any of the things in my house put together cost in money.....and they will be around longer too!!

I pray that this time I have taken and effort I have put forth in our home will inspire me to stay focused on the journey we are taking as a family. It is not about WHAT we have it is about WHO we serve and I feel as if my calling in life is to share with people- mostly moms the balance in life and how to balance the home.....all comes from the moms heart. Where is your heart- is it in stuff of others thoughts towards you?? Or is it on the ones who matter most in your life??

So, bare with me as I do a little catching up from August til now......stay tuned!! Looking forward to blogging again!! And Thanks to one of my very favorite friends who inspired me to pick it back up- when she said "I keep checking to see if you have posted something." It made me want to write and express my feelings again!! I am Thankful God has blessed me with great friends who appreciate who I am!!

Mollie

months in review.....

2010-12-14T10:20:00.008-06:00

I know I have not posted much in the past few months.....hopefully this will catch you up and also explain WHY I have not had the time....

C has a new bed....we took his side rail off of his crib and he loves it!!! My baby is such a big boy!! I explained to him the same way I did T- "when you sleep you are to stay in your bed- and not get out, until the sun comes up and then we will watch Mickey Mouse clubhouse! If you do get out- you will get a paddle." Do you know he has NEVER gotten out of the bed....one day he tried on a nap time- I paddled him and put him back into bed. Never ever again....I am so proud of my big boy!!

He is also completely 100% potty trained....I feel light going in places without a diaper bag now....it is nice!! Let me tell you also, to potty train you MUST give up all things and give it 100% as a parent.....that was the hard part for me!! It helped though- going to school with all of his friends....peer pressure!!

We went to Oklahoma for Labor day.... we toured the Broken Arrow Historical Museum! It was great. I am a native of Broken Arrow, OK and my mom is on the historical society there. They have done a lot of work and it was very interesting to see all the people I knew who were "famous Americans" from Broken Arrow. If you are ever in town you should go by and see it!!Many of the exhibits in the museum were hands on for the kids. Really neat!!Went to the Fair.....I also made 2.....TWO field trips to the fair- 2 separate times and took the boys my self this time. We love the fair!! So if you are counting that is 3 trips total!!!B killed an 8 point deer first day of black powder season.....cousin lil AG was visiting and she and aunt Lala got to see the harvested deer in person....prior to a skillet!!! We took Family pictures with my side of the Family......with a tripod.....good thing I ran fast enough to get in the picture!!!The 3 cousins.....all with blue eyes!!!

Then as I mentioned earlier I went on a field trip to the fair.....well....also I have been to the fire station, police station and a few others!! I love that they go on so many field trips and get the kids out and into the community to see what goes on. They also go visit the nursing homes and share hugs with all the old folks.....brings them smiles!!

They are having such a good school year- and LOVE school. C still may cry every time I drop him off- but I think he is doing it to make me feel good!! ha!!

Then on to Halloween.....Trick or Treat for Mr. Incredible and Spiderman!!! We still only go to a few houses....just close friends and family. Our church has a trunk or treat- that is always fun too!! Class Halloween Party for T....

Class Halloween Party for C....

Our local University had a trunk or treat on the Farm....so we put our spurs, chaps, boots, and hats on and rode over for a good time!!

While the weather was still nice we make a weekly trip to the park, duck pond or walking trails...

Me and the boys made a trip in the middle of the week to see Grana and Poppie in Oklahoma.....we took a trip the the Zoo and also to a museum for kids. That was a fun filled few days!!!

One of my friends had twin baby girls.....I have enjoyed getting to know her better along with the new babies....this was at a shower for the girls!!

Thanksgiving day with all the family.....this is B's side of the family. We ate at his dad and mom's house.....my parents and my sister and her family came. We had a FULL HOUSE!!

Cooking Thanksgiving Morning with my mom and sister....in our new matching aprons!!! LOVE THEM!!!! LOTS OF RECIPE PICS for the kitchen blog!!!! Just need to take the time to post them!! Once again B killed another buck.....this time his biggest ever!!! It was a 9 point....in fact it is at the taxidermy and we will get it in March some time. Looking forward to hanging it on the wall in our living room!! The boys are completely ate up with their daddy and HUNTING!!!

B and his 9 point....

Ok that is a wrap for the past few months.....I have been working on a few other stories and also my recipes for my kitchen blog. Seems like I was thinking I would have all this time when the boys started school to get so much done!! I find myself CLEANING or running errands the whole time!! I have gone through the whole house and cleaned every drawer, closet, nook and cranny out!!! I feel like my house is now in order....if I can keep all the clutter of toys up.....they are only little once so, I know there will come a day when I would wish I could step on a toy solider!!

I do have a 1800 square foot shop in my backyard I am working on getting in order next.....ugh!!

Work is never ending!!! In January it will be 8 months until T starts Kindergarten.....where has the time gone!! I want to cherish these next few months as if they would never end!!!

I will try to update as much as possible.....we have had a dozen meetings with Santa already this year- and two class parties this week.....It is the MOST wonderful time of the Year!!!

Mollie

Beauty is in the eye of the Beholder

2010-11-18T09:42:00.000-06:00

Yes, I know another TREE post- I am building a fence! I just love Fall and I am reminded about these pictures I took trying to capture this tree at the edge of our driveway. It is a Catalpa Tree and a BIG one at that!! When we moved here in the spring it was in FULL BLOOM- beautiful white blossoms. I can remember how they were all over the driveway and carport. What a beautiful site to see when you look out the back door of the house.Then with in a few weeks the blooms were gone- and replace with WORMS!!!! I kid you NOT!!! Nasty little WORMS EVERYWHERE!!!! I remember driving down the road and watching one slide up my windshield a little at a time- until plop there he went a flying worm!!!

Seriously, I was thinking- wow looks can be deceiving?? This beautiful Tree with BIG blooms and just weeks later worms eating all the leaves!! Not to mention the waste from the worms!! I had to warn people when the came to my house- don't park under the tree.....and especially leave you windows down!! Cars would have worms and worse- worm poop all over them. How Gross!!The worms work their way down the tree- eating all the leaves.....so by end of spring- NO LEAVES on the TREE!!! And the leaves might I add are BIG leaves!!! Here T is holding one up- there were bigger ones, he just chose this one to hold. That is a lot of worms- and waste.

I had people coming to knock on my door- "Can I have some worms out of that tree..." So, I hear they are great fishing bait too- seeing how are house is on the way to a Lake.....worm oh excuse me WORD got around about the WORMS!! I threaten every year to put a sign out- FREE WORMS!!!

It has proven to be good entertainment now that we have two boys......and YES, I have picked a many of them up and put them in a jar!! Named those little jokers too!!The cool thing about the tree is- it takes the BEST Halloween pictures, kind of spooky and weird looking. I have taken many pictures of this tree- with a FULL moon behind it.

One man even stopped by and said "WOW that is the biggest Catalpa Tree in South Arkansas!" So I let him take a picture too- B begs to differ, now that we have one we notice others.....there are many others just as big.

But we think our is special. I think it would be a great climbing tree- when it is worm free. It has that crook in it. I haven't given permission for that yet either....

I know Zacchaeus climbed a sycamore tree- but it does remind me of the story. He was a short little man, and he heard Jesus was coming to town. So to get a better look he climbed a tree. Then Jesus noticed him- saying "Come down from there- I want to come to your house!"

So he hosted Jesus for supper- and all the town folk were so jealous. Seeing how Zacchaeus was a tax collector and had stolen their money. But, as he and Jesus visited he learned how he had done wrong and Jesus forgave him and then Zacchaeus gave back twice as much as he stole from the town people. What a Great God we serve!

What a neat day that he had- spending it with Jesus. Oh to sit at his feet and hear all the stories he has to tell. I love to tell stories- this blog is evident of that. But I love my Lord even more- and Love to read his word and hear great stories he has shared.

Have you read your bible today? Here is a good place to start.....Romans 12

Mollie

He will never LEAVE us!

2010-11-17T23:16:00.000-06:00

I love Fall....the leaves changing colors and then they fall on the ground. Just so beautiful! These thoughts crossed my mind the other day while I was watching the boys play in the yard.

I took these pictures as the thoughts were flowing and this one in particular I actually got the moon in.....not bad for a cell phone picture! Just as a Family Tree- all the leaves are different colors and sizes- most the same shape, because that is our heritage. Psalm 127:3 But the world would be boring if all trees stayed the same green shade all year long. Not to mention families, if we were all of the same personalities and attitude life would be boring. There has to be a humorous one or a boring one in the bunch some where.
And just as all are different so are our thoughts and feelings. God makes us each his own in his own image- but what a broad spectrum of people there are in each family. We all have to leave the home and grown our own seeds and then plant them where they land.

And what a bountiful place a Forrest is with all different trees and all different ages of all trees. Proverbs 11:30 So times when we grow up we may look back on our past- and wonder how and why we are the people we are now. If it were not for my parents giving me a good Godly background- I may not even be a christian. They showed me through Godly examples and taught me how to live. Do I live the same way I grew up? Somewhat- but then we have other influences or circumstances that shape us the way we are now.

Then some don't want to grow- they just choose to stay on the ground and like to be trampled on and do not ever see a future. That is living in the PAST. I have made past mistakes, I have been wrong, I have sought God in those times and asked his forgiveness. I then turn from that way- and choose to go a new way. Getting Rid of the old and making room for the new. Just as the Trees in the Fall do.

When you let go of the past- there is a FUTURE! Proverbs 23:18 If you hang on to every little thing you did wrong or every little thing some one else did wrong to you- you are just hurting yourself and you will go no where!

Then your yard will be cluttered with all theses leaves from the past to remind you daily. If you choose to get a RAKE and pick them all up- throw them in a garbage bag and rid them for good. Better yet- BURN THEM UP!!!! Then that is TRUE forgiveness! Forgiving and FORGETTING is hard, but what would Jesus do? Ephesians 4:32

He created us in his image to be like him- Genesis 1:27

If I were to choose not to forgive those who have done me wrong, then I am passing anger, bitterness and resentment on to my offspring. Then I am choosing not to forgive and allowing it to eat me up inside. Have you ever seen a Tree get rotten in the inside and just fall to the ground- what a waste, you can't even use it for firewood it is so rotten!

When you release it to the Lord- he will wipe away ALL sins! Thoughts may come to try to destroy- but it is up to you to take control of those thoughts and feelings and conquer them with scripture and prayer.

He will NEVER LEAVE US.....therefore why should we leave him. Joshua 1:5 When we need him most we cry out to him- but when HE needs us most, where are we?? Not only should we be there for Him daily, but hourly and support the thoughts and feelings he has for us. When we try to lean on our own understanding- we will always FAIL! He wants us ALL- and Needs ALL of us!

When you commit to him, you will not be disappointed. There will be disappointments in your life by man- but never with God. His Will may not be ours, so therefore seek His Will in doing all things.

If you have something you are holding on to and need to ask forgiveness- just sit down and pray to God, ask him then release it to him. Write it down in a note and mail it to the person that it may concern, maybe you don't have the nerve to mail it. But it makes a difference just to get it off your chest.

I try to be a very forgiving person- I do not want to leave this World with heavy burdens and unforgiveness. I try to forgive and forget and find it very hard- but when I seek his will on it, his timing and his word is ALWAYS right on time.

I encourage you this Thanksgiving Holiday season- to walk in Love and forgiveness. We are not promised how many days or hours and this may be the last time you are around your whole family, or a group of friends. Make it count and make good memories!

Mollie

Mama's don't let you babies grow up to be cowboys.....TOO LATE!!!

2010-11-08T18:23:00.005-06:00

These are my little cowboys who are growing up too FAST!!!!
My friend Stacy took these pictures along with the others I posted awhile back. She is just wonderful. And so talented- captured the little smirks and glances I wish I could bottle up, and I know I will cherish these pictures for years to come.
C's expressions will crack you up- he is either HOT or COLD!!! You can read him like a book. But, he loves to show his mean face.....grrrrr!!

Their outfits are such a bargain, I have to share! This summer our theme at Bible school was Saddle Ridge Ranch. A friend of mine at church had this set of leather chaps, vest and spurs!!

She said her boys were grown and they enjoyed wearing them and she thought they may fit one of my boys? So, I put them up and was going to purchase another pair (you cannot have JUST ONE around here....two of everything!!!)- come to find our our local western store had the SAME one for 59.99!!! Oh my!!!

My patience paid off- a friend of mine was having a garage sale and gave me a night before pre-view!!! There on the hanger in PERFECT CONDITION was the SAME outfit!!!! FOR A DOLLAR!!!! So not only are these outfits cheap for me they were PRICELESS memories for little boys to dress up and play. The hats and shirts I did buy at the local western store.

I just love T's toothless grin- he has lost 3 teeth this summer and has grown a "foot" he definitely is going to fill his daddy's shoes......FAST!!!

His smile will tell you the story of his life......Little B!!! He is just like his daddy- laid back, calm, cool, collected- smooth & slow!!!! Although, then he opens his mouth and he reminds you of his mama- ask one question- get 100 answers!!!

One day I picked him up from school I asked him "how was your day?" He said "I can't talk- I am just tired of talking- all day we talk at school!!" ha!! I can see the future of report cards and progress reports flashing back to my past...."Mollie needs to realize this is not social time- this is study time....she talks too much!!"

Hard to believe that theses little cowboys were just little babies not to long ago- my how they grow so fast. I have been so blessed to stay at home with them and enjoy seeing them grow!!

T is 48" tall and weighs 58lbs.

C is about 38" tall and weighs 35 lbs.

A BIG "YEE HAW" for all our friends and family out there-

and Wishing you a great Thanksgiving season.

I am so very Thankful for my GOD who has provided me with a wonderful husband and two terrific kids. They keep me busy- but I would not have it any other way!!!

Mollie

To be absent from the blog.....is to be pleasantly purging!

2010-10-26T15:21:00.005-05:00

If you know me well, you know that I do love to clean & organize. So....since the boys have started pre-school two days a week- I have been on a binge! Even nook and cranny in the house. Clean it out and wipe it down- then throw away or donate what needs to be done.

I have almost completely finished the whole house. I mean NOT a drawer, closet anything over looked!! Therefore, I am setting out to accomplish this goal- so other things to get pushed to the side....blogging :(

I have a lot of catching up to do. I do love to tell my stories and share my life in the blog- but have you ever gotten in a little funky mood when you just need a "break" I guess that is what I have done lately. When I get "funky" I like to clean- I don't get to "funky" that often! It is not that I don't have anything to say.....HAHAHA!!! What a day that will be....when I am gone from here!!

I have been trying to get a few other things together and organized- out side of my daily domestic engineer life. Church activities and I don't know I think that seeing how fast my boys are growing up and seeing that this is T's last year at home with me.....kinda makes me want to play one more game of guess who- or candy land. Even if it take a half a day to get up off the floor when we are through. It will be worth it when they are grown and I will be able to say I am so thankful that I was able to be there for them.

Not to mention EVER since I got back from Peru in June I have worked with C to toilet train....ugh!!! That is just a post in itself- talk about opening a CAN OF WORMS....or should I say underwear of Poop!!! He is finally this week really getting the hang of it- are laundry is getting less and less of plastic pants!! I can see the lights coming on- it just happens to be one of those that takes a while to get bright though, you know the ones that come on at dark and go off at dawn.....there own time!!! Just like the Bible says there is a time and a place for all things!! As long as he is not going to Kindergarten in 3 years in diapers- I think I will be OK!

Here are the latest pictures of the boys my friend Stacy took- Awwww I just love her and her talents!! She is awesome. Can't wait to see these hanging on my wall in the house!! Love Love Love the last one with boys by the old Ford truck.

I hope to start catching up soon on the blog- like I said one last project....My Room & My Closet.....dum dum dum!!!! Clothes galore!!!! The rate I have been going should not take long......so we will see you soon!!

~The Soul of a Child is the loveliest flower that grows in the garden of God.~

Mollie

Happy 3rd Birthday Cowboy!!!

2010-10-07T08:47:00.005-05:00

He's rough, He's tough......He is COWBOY C!!!!
His expressions on his face will make you laugh. His little grin will put a grin on your face. And from day to day who knows what he will want to dress up and pretend to be. No matter who he pretends to be.... he is my second born!!!

This cowboy is 32" tall and 35lbs. He runs most places and LOVES to JuMp!!! He is so full of Life and A LOT of ENERGY!!!! When he hits the sack, he sleeps all night and take good two hour naps- to recharge that cowboy courage!!

His humor is dry must like his daddy's and so when you laugh at him either says "NO STOP LAUGHING!!" Or he tries to hide a timid grin. His teacher in pre-school says he is doing great and loves school. Even though he cries every time his mama leaves, but we all know Cowboys love their mamas!!

I know when this Cowboy grows up he will definitely be good at sports and the LEADER of the pack. His leadership skills are VERY GOOD.....and he likes things to go his way!!

It has been a short 3 years- but so far he has made his mark in a lot of people's lives. He is very loving and even if it takes a little for him to warm up- he usually loves to give kisses and hugs!!

No matter what he ends up being in life or where he goes, my prayer each day is that he is saved at a young age and live each day for the Lord. I know that When HE is on FIRE for GOD- EVERYONE will KNOW!!!

We Love You C!!!!!!

Mollie

A Hunting he has gone....

2010-08-05T06:48:00.001-05:00

Well, our BIG game hunter is having a birthday today....

His favorite color is camo....

He wants a Hunting Party- so to go along with the theme....

Here is a look back at our Hunter over the past five years.....2 months old- not really liking the camo idea....4 months old......looks like has had plenty of deer to eat!! At age 2 wishing he was in the woods with daddy!!Big deer at age 3 daddy killed the deer but T wanted a picture!! At age 3 with all the hunters!

Age 4 ....Daddy's Big deer last fall.

With his 22 he won at the NRA banquet. All he wants for his birthday this year is to win another one. Check out his story from last year by clicking HERE!

On a Coon Hunt with BoBo, Daddy & Clay

Squirrel Hunting with Clay....and two adults!!

Here He is NOW the BIG 5!!!

We look forward to spending many many more years in the woods and where ever he leads us with our little Hunter who is growing up!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY T......WE LOVE YOU!!!!

Mollie

Would do it all over again....

2010-08-04T12:04:00.000-05:00

Seem like yesterday when I would look down and see this.....if I could see past the HUGE belly!!

I have only had my blog for a little over a year now so I never have really shared my FIRST full-term pregnancy story. Seeing how this is T's 5th birthday tomorrow- thought I would share.

After two miscarriages and many many fertility treatments and procedures, I finally just gave up!! God if you want me to have a baby it is just gonna take a miracle......that is was!!

In the fall of 2004 I started exercising and did it a little too much, I found my self looking like this and walking in these lovely casts for 10 weeks.....YES TEN!!!To get the whole story read HERE. Ugh....talk about a TEST from God, I had no were to go but UP!! I did however work, sitting down on a stool....take more than both ankles having stress fractures to slow me down!

But, I found myself in the word more, on my days off I would stay home feet up instead of running around like I did ALL the time!! Trying to get every one pleased instead of pleasing the Lord!!

It was the day I got my "boots" off that I also found out in a random blood test that I WAS PREGNANT!!! I took a picture of myself on the phone with the doctors office.....it is hilarious!!

I then had a picture perfect pregnancy from then on.....gained a little too much weight of course....but I was happy and baby was healthy. Here are some ultra sound pictures of Baby T.

I was in my last trimester and the baby dropped and one morning I woke up and my belly just started to itch.....and itch......and itch......I was thinking man this baby is scratching his way out!!

Went to the doctor the next day for a weekly check-up I had PUPP a terrible itchy rash that only happens in 1% of pregnant women!! Lovely, I kept telling my self, you only have a few more weeks!!! It was making me go INSANE!! I was taking oatmeal baths, cortisone cream like it was no ones business....going through a tube of the cream a DAY!!! I did end up in the ER because I thought, there has got to be a CURE.....NOPE......delivery of baby!!!

By that time I was googling "how to go into labor early!!" HA! Not really but I was taking all the advice I could get. My mom had come down to be with me by that time- first baby, first grand baby.....you know the over prepared people!!

I then went into labor went to the hospital....only to get sent home.......UGH!!! Until my water broke. I was 38 weeks pregnant.....PEOPLE PLEASE!!! I was back in the hospital......very nervous B by my side. He was checking monitors and biting nails all at the same time!!

And 6 hours and three days later after I went into labor.....there was a problem.....

The nurse came to check me and she rushed out of the room...quickly- then my sister passed her in the hallway on the phone with the doctor. The nurse said come quick I don't understand it?? So without being alarming my sister came into the room- and sat and prayed.

Nothing is more scary when a TEAM of people walk into you room with an big machine and say we think the baby had turned or something is wrong. My heart stopped. ALL of this and now there is trouble. Oh God please please don't take my baby or me!! Then after a little ultrasound and a lot of feeling under the covers....don't you just HATE that part....UGH!!

The doctor looked at me and said 20 years I have done this and NEVER seen this.....you had two bags of water.....the first one the had already broken was empty- NOW we need to break another one.....with the baby inside!! My My.....isn't it neat how God protects our babies he creates!!

I know without a doubt in my mind he gave me EXTRA protection to keep that baby in my body. Now the rash.....saving that question for when I reach the pearly gates...."what in the world was THAT??" But I know that extra bag of water was from him. It did explain all the question in my last weeks of "are you having TWINS!!!" It really looked like it and if I had two bags of water- I definitely had room for another one!!

And with that water breaking T was born 6 hours later.....a healthy 8lbs. 5oz. and 21 1/2 inches long.

Perfect in his image he created a wonderful healthy baby for my arms. I was so happy tears of sorrow turned to JOY, and we literally just sat and stared at T the rest of the night. We could not believe he was here and we could hold a baby of our own!!I love these two pictures of B with T.....we both sat and stared at the poor baby just thinking....I cannot believe he is here- and for months we did this. I guess when you want something so bad, by the time you get it- it is hard to believe some times that your prayers were answered!!To see the JOY on his daddy's face when he was holding him the day after he was born.....priceless!!We were both doing so well, we got to go home with in 24 hours after he was born!!

Now, the rash- it did NOT go away.....in fact didn't get rid of it for 6 months......like one in a million women don't get rid of it......I was happy holding my baby and itching like a dog with flees for months.

GOD was so good to me- how could I complain. Now when I look at my legs and see those scars from my rash- I am reminded by our test God gives us. Through 4 years of waiting and wanting a baby, then weeks of itching non-stop until I gave birth....only to itch even more after giving birth....God was with me all the time and he taught me the patience I would need for when child #2 came along.

Because since it took so long to have T we thought- T is just so good we would love to have a dozen......18 months later here I was pregnant with C......and now that he is almost 3......WE ARE DONE!!!

I think he completes us......in a good way!!

Mollie

Refueling....

2010-08-04T08:21:00.000-05:00

You know how it takes fuel to the fire to keep something burning.....kinda like a marriage it takes dates, to stay in LOVE and connected with the person you fell in love with. No doubt about it I Loooove my husband. I am so glad that we got to go on a date Saturday night. Our anniversary was Friday and we had planned on taking the 6 hour drive to my parents- then out to dinner and a movie for a wonderful date night!! Then spend a wonderful weekend together as a sweet family.....and they lived happily ever after.....right?

Well, it was not all that picture perfect because well.....we live a normal life!! Don't let me miss you lead you in thinking I live a life with no mistakes and everything was happily ever after!!

As we were 4 hours into our 6 hour drive- My 8 year old Tahoe....that I have NEVER EVER had any problems out of started to clunk and clank and not have any power. Here we were on a Turnpike in Oklahoma....aka middle of no where!!! It was ONLY 100 degrees outside, I no bottles of water of and about 100 million goldfish snacks left.....I immediately got scared, MAD and stressed all at the same time. Ever been there??

I was scared thinking Oh my we are stuck in the middle of no where.....sure some one may stop and help but I have two small children to keep cool and keep safe!! Then I was MAD because, I had told B that there was a noise in my car weeks ago....and nothing was done about it (I'll get to more of that later) Then I was stressed thinking- well there goes the car, weekend, marriage- you name it was going out the window along with the COLD air we were loosing each mile down the HOT road!!

Well long story, little shorter!! We did make it- going 45 MPH max by the time we reached my parents the 6 hour drive turned into 8!!! We got there in just the right time to go to bed!! Date night was off- and we looked ROUGH!! Wind blown was mild to say the least.

But it taught me an important lesson.....when you hear something wrong with the car.....check it out yourself!! I should have taken it to a mechanic- instead of the unwanted stress and what could have been even worse. I drove it all the time- I knew what it did and didn't do- so it is my responsibility!! It was in the shop all day Saturday getting a new catalytic converter.

Saturday night came and Finally, I was ready to go on a date with my husband of 11 years!! Grana and Poppie took good care while we went to a dinner and movie. It was good fuel for our marriage seeing how it is so hard to talk about much with 4 little ears listening.....we don't know what will ever be repeated!! And at the same time, we like to sit and talk about the past years and how far we have come. In any relationship it takes communication- which is fuel to help keeping it run at it's best!!

We love to spend family time together which is good for the fuel to help our relationships with the kids and there future. If we don't talk to them now.....they will not talk to us later!! I have been reading a GOOD book. My Hearts at Home by Jill Savage. It is a MUST read for Moms, even if you are not staying at home- it has definitely been some gas and wood to add to my fuel in my fire!!

If we don't take time away from our children for time for us- we will not be the parents that God wants us to be. Don't get me wrong, they need us- but when we take time to be alone and talk and discuss our future then we can focus on what is best in the long run for all of us!!On that note.....boys started pre-school yesterday. Two days a week I will be alone with NO CHILDREN or HUSBAND!!! What to do.....possibly get my thoughts together so I will be worth while in the long run.....why YES!! Maybe even go get spa day or lunch with a friend....do you understand the importance of getting toes done and a good meal??

Most mom's might cry or have sad feelings, granted I did- they are getting older and each day I try to cherish as if it was our last. I tried to take a sweet little picture of the boys by the back door....yeah right getting two boys to stand still and smile while holding a lunch box.....what was I thinking??

But I also am reminded by there favorite movie and my favorite scene.....Guido and his pit stop!! Watch this clip here and you will see what I mean.

In the BIG race it is important that Guido's speed and all that practice he put worth his best job to help out his team- so they could WIN the big race!!! It paid off and he was able to do his BEST!! I love that little fork lift!!

Call me crazy but I was about half giddy walking to the car thinking- Oh My...my house will NOT know what HIT it!! Had to fight the spiders and dust bunnies for the broom and cleaning supplies. I feel as if I have been lost and my house has looked as if a bomb had gone off months ago and we have been surviving!!Each day I would do daily chores.....but slowly I just keep putting off due to lack of interest because I was worn slap out!! Maybe it was the heat, maybe it was the kid who decided he doesn't want to take a nap anymore (which in turn gives me NO alone time at all!!), or maybe, maybe it well.....OWN UP GIRLFRIEND!!! God gave you this day and these kids- suck it up and do your job!! ha!!Really I was just in a FUNK.....I have no clue how or when I got there but.....IF I choose to stay here it will only do more damage. So dust the pants off and jump back up.....cause this mama's ain't gonna let the little things get her down!!

I HAD TO CHOOSE it was MY LIFE and I need to take CHARGE!! So.....I sent the kids to school!!! ha!! Really, I realized- as a MOM I need to re-fuel so I will have enough fuel to make it day to day and week to week!! I took all day yesterday and cleaned my house....and I mean cleaned....all but the kids rooms!! ha!! I'll show them who is boss.....actually they WILL be the boss one day so that is also my job to teach them to clean!!

But it is not just the clean house I gained it is also time alone- that way when the little rascals get home I will be ready for one on one- and FULL of FUEL to spend it all with them!! And in return won't feel as if I deserve time alone and time to think to function!!

Time alone also to spend with my friend, Jesus- not only can you talk and walk with him in the garden alone....but also in your home as you are sweeping the floors!! It takes fuel from his visits and his peace to make it daily!!As I was cleaning and as I was picking up the remnants from the bomb that exploded this summer. I was thinking, God thank you for my mess.....thank you for my roof over my head and a husband who works to pay for it, thanks for this pile of dirty clothes and the life that lives in them to keep them dirty, thank you for the dirt I am sweeping off this floor....for this is also a sign of life that walks through the door of this home- Bless every last shoe or foot that tracked this dirt in, and thanks for all the dirty dishes for this is a sign that we have our belly's full and don't go to bed hungry. It is the simple things in life that we see as things that might set us back in life- but you see if it were not for the little things, we would probably not have the BIG things!!

Speaking of BIG things this portrait my friend Stacy took of our boots (also at the bottom of the blog) It will remind me that those boots that were once size 9 and 12......will grow up- although the feet may get bigger the person who wears them is the same. As a mother of those little feet I am responsible for their steps now, and for fueling up there tanks with all the GOOD stuff for one day that stuff will reflect in their lives as the BIG stuff!!

By the way only took me a few couple of hours and hernia's to get that monster up there at the TOP of my entertainment shelf!! But I do like the way it is a constant reminder to me no matter how old they get.....they once were little and it took little steps to get where we were going!!

The electric dryer is turning but it is all filled up with Gas right now!!

Mollie

11 years down....many more to go!!

2010-07-30T06:29:00.000-05:00

Eleven years ago today I held hands with my very best friend on Earth, told him I wanted to grow old with him and we each made promises we have kept and will keep forever!!

The dress doesn't fit anymore, the styles are out of style, flowers are dead....but our rings are still on and our hearts still beat strong for each other.....butterflies and all!!

I have been so blessed to have B in my life for 14 years and to be married for 11 of those years. We definitely complete each other- we are honest with each other- we love to be around each other and laugh til we cry some moments. I have been so fortunate to carry and give birth to two wonderful miracles and I think it is so cool that God created them for us to raise for Him!!

May we have many many more years of happiness & Joy!!

Mollie

my friend Stacy took these pictures

Summer is OVER for US!!

2010-07-27T16:24:00.007-05:00

WOW....that was FAST!!! Seems like only yesterday when I looked at my calender for May, JUNE, and JULY....nearly passed out seeing all we had planned!!

I am so behind on my blog, cleaning, you name it I am behind.....I feel like I am swamped from being soooo busy this summer!!

I am ready to start back to a life of NOTHING!! Well, maybe not nothing- but a lot less of busyness!! Here is a wrap up.....

*Of course my Mission Trip to Peru for 9 days and boys at their grandparents!! Still trying to get the kids back UNspoiled....and back into a routine/schedule of some sorts!!

*Swimming lessons for both boys.....they did GREAT!! My friend Lori taught them- she was wonderful!! Notice anything missing from T's picture....YES our first lost tooth!! Tooth fairy came and gave him a dollar....he is proud- I will post a story soon about this!!

*Bought both boys scooters.....that was fun til it got to hot to go outside.....and the helmets those were their ideas....after the first crash- T wanted elbow and knee pads- well to get those you have to buy the helmet too!! Only ones I could fine.....spiderman!!

*Couple of play dates.....with some good friends- gave hugs to some who moved to Germany!!! We miss you Katja & kiddos!!

*Took a mini vacation to Joplin Mo, to the Home of the 4 states Trucking aka...Chrome Shop Mafia.....we picked up B's new custom hood and bumper. He has that truck looking so good!! The boys got to spend their first night in a hotel.....super excited they were!! They slept in the same bed and all until 2am when we heard THUD!! C slept in a BIG bed for the first time. Funny there were two note pads and pens.....so they immediately grabbed those and started playing with the phones!! We stayed there one night then on to Grana & Poppie's in Oklahoma- there we went swimming and had a good ole' time as usual!!

*SAID Y-E-S TO VBS.....TWICE!!!! As if one is not enough to wear a person out!! I taught 2nd grade at both and I have decided that is my very favorite group to teach....they still laugh at my goofy jokes and hug me!! The first VBS was at our church and the other for a mission project for a sister church in a smaller town. If was a great feeling getting to see kids loving God and learning about how GOOD he is!! Saddle Ridge Ranch.....Yeee HAW!!!

* T caught his first fish.....still talking about that one!! The 4 oz Brim that almost got away!!

*The summer is ending and that means a birthday for this Hunter.....He is having his 5th Birthday next week!!! So hard to believe seems like just yesterday when I was in labor for 3 days had a terrible itchy rash PUPP and could not even see my swollen feet for my HUGE belly!! I will share with you next week about all that fun stuff!!

Until next time......

Mollie

Shopping.....sewing seeds

2010-07-27T12:05:00.000-05:00

One last fun story about Peru....I know I left you sitting on the edge of your seat!! I enjoyed my mission trip so much- I wish everyone could go....even if it is not out of the country! Just do something good for you community and reach out to those in need around you.....they are there you may never know the people you run into at the store.

A couple of weeks ago I paid for my meal and then the car behind me's meal too.... in the drive through at KFC. I just felt led to do that- even if she had a much nicer car than mine.....who knows maybe she was borrowing it?? That made me have a wonderful feeling-to be able to bless some one..... and was all for the Glory and Honor of God! When we were shopping in Peru at the Indian Market, the man here in the picture asked if I was a Christian....I replied "well yes, why do you ask?" He responded and said: because you can see it in you face....your smile and eyes- you have what most people here don't have!" He was also a christian. I gave him a hug because that just made my day. Here I was in another country to let my light shine for the Lord and it showed!!

But I need to carry it on over here now that I am home! Each and everyday do a good deed- just for the Glory and Honor of HIM not for my Glory....but in return I will be blessed!! You never know your worst day may be someones BEST!!

I also bought this purse and Shaw for my two nieces from this lady in a village we visited on Sunday- what a blessing to get to see the hands that made such a pretty thing!!

I love to shop so when God calls me to shop.....I will shine for him!!! I just wish he called me to shop more often!! ha!

Be Blessed today and show some one that you care!!

Mollie

Speechless.....yes me!!

2010-07-07T11:40:00.001-05:00

Yes, me I love to talk!! That is why I have my own BLOG- don't cha know!! HA! But there are FEW moments I have found myself speechless....until this trip to Peru. Seems like every time I was turning around- I was finding my self in this position.

And if you haven't noticed.....I also love to talk with pictures......it helps you feel like you are there or can see a visual of the situation. Well, this post has NO picture, just a story.

When I left for Peru, I had no idea my life would come in contact with so many people that would change my life- not just that I was going to tell them about some one to help change theirs!!

I honestly, have never ever led anyone to the Lord. I will witness, share with them the good news- then invite them to church and the rest is up to the preacher and then God! I am not meaning that rude either, I just never have had sat down and talked with people one on one about all the details.....until now!

We were asked to do one on one sessions with the Peruvians and a translator. I had talked in the park with people, prayed with them but this was more of an interview type. The first one was a young girl who was 17- she was already saved so I talked with her about having a prayer life and reading the Bible daily. That was pretty simple, and I felt pretty positive about it.

Then the next day a woman, I will call her Mrs. C. She and I had one on one time, with the translator of course. She was very sweet, and we started out- how was your day, what have you been doing today? Just simple questions. Then it jumps to the serious ones....Do you know who Jesus Christ is.....do you know what he did for you??

And she understood so much- but when I got to the question "Tell me what you need to do to go to Heaven?" Her answer was....."behave well.....I guess??" This 50ish woman looked as if she behaved well, she was dressed nice and looked very clean. So apparently she felt as if she was going to heaven.

I then told her the TRUTH, and that the ONLY way to heaven was through the Father. She needed to have a relationship with him and know him personally, he died on the cross for her and when he died he died for her sins and her sickness. I explained to her how each day we need to go to him and talk to him just as he walked the Earth today- and make him your best friend.

She agreed that she was a sinner and that this was a step in her life she wanted to make. To become a NEW creation with Christ. So I led her in a prayer. As I held her hands and shared with her how her life would never ever be the same again. I had tears in my eyes. Knowing that she changed my life spiritually I grew just as she was a baby christian starting out.

It was really a great experience for me and I know that God sent me for Peru.....if only for that one reason to meet Mrs. C and to lead her to my Father just as I was led many years ago. My job was done....my divine appointment was to meet and talk with her.....I was very happy with that.....I could go home!

But wait.....I was not speechless yet?!?!?

The next night it was our last night and we were going on a special trip where we were asked not to take pictures. It was to an meeting at the hospital, a support group for people who were HIV positive.

As I walked up, my breath was completely taken away by what I saw.....each and every night we were in Peru.....they were there with us also. These poor people had this terrible sickness....and yet for most of them it was not their fault. Infidelity is a major problem in Lima. Seems many think nothing of it to share partners.....therefore, there are many people who are living with this sickness.

I walked into the room and saw many familiar faces and the one that made me speechless and took my breath away was Mrs. C......this lady I just led to the Lord the very night before. As I sat across the table and held her hands and led her to the Lord.....not knowing that she was very very sick. She may live for 15 more years with this disease or she may die from her next cold? Only the Lord knows......but I know and she knows that now she has eternal life, and all her sins and sickness were hung on that cross along with the man who died for her to have Eternal Life!!

Do you know him? Do you want to?

E-mail me if you have any questions......

Mollie

Take advantage of situations.....

2010-07-06T06:07:00.000-05:00

One thing I learned in Peru, is something I can use and do more when I am home. Witness more often. Yes, I can witness by good words and good things doing- actions speak louder than words. But, when you are in a crowded bus, or squeezed into a taxi, make every moment counts.

I feel as if every moment in your life could be a divine appointment from God.....therefore, take FULL advantage of it. When you are in a taxi......even though you feel like a sardine......don't act like a stinky fish. Show God's love and give them a smile or tip....and in our case every time we got into a taxi we gave them a little booklet called a track......tells great stories of Jesus and how he died for everyone!!

Then there is the BUS RIDES......there were many!! So even if we had to hold on as we were walking just to risk handing out tracks......we did. The thing I found MOST surprising was everyone in Peru was very interested in the tracks....if they saw you handing one to some one and not to them- they would look at you or some would even hold their hand out to receive one!! That was awesome. Then most everyone of them would sit and READ the whole little booklet until the end of the trip and then tuck it away in a safe pocket. That was cool, I thought.

Most of the time if you did that here in the states......they would be on the ground. You either do or you don't believe......but Peruvians have NEVER heard!!

I have decided to take the tracks out of my bible that have been there.....for special times and start leaving them in restaurants or giving them to people in the park when my kids are playing. I do love to wear Christian t-shirts.....gave most of them away in Peru. But, I just love to witness in this silent way. Some times a phrase on a shirt can start a conversation of a life time....an Eternal Life!!

I know I have had many many opportunities to witness here at home, and NOT taken advantage of it. But at the time I don't think I had grown spiritually enough. And not that I am some spiritual giant now....I just think this trip was what I needed to grow my FAITH even more!!

Maybe before I was almost scared to be rejected.....afraid of the unknown. But I do know one thing- Jesus is coming back soon......that is unknown is when he is coming back! I want to be ready and I would rather be rejected as he was than to not know how some one stands with there faith, and that I may have missed a divine appointment he had planned for me!

I am so glad God led me to go.......my life will forever be changed......

Mollie

Jump in the Waters GREAT!!!

2010-07-05T22:50:00.003-05:00

One of my first "OH WOW!!!" moments in Peru was Sunday. A day we were told we would go to a church service and see a baptism. Something I have done many times!!

So we were picked up on a bus and taken on a very long bus ride to a village.....but prior to the church service we made a stop at the Pacific Ocean. They said the baptism would take place here!! Wow I was not expecting this. Remember it was also there early winter which was about 55-60 degrees......can you imagine how cold the water was??

So we parked they bus and walked until we could not see the bus any more.....to the shore line. I have seen the pacific ocean before, but never touched it!!

As we stood and waited, I heard the story of the young man who was to be baptised. He was a translator for a large group. The prior day he was saved and some one in that group lead him to a relationship with Jesus Christ. That was awesome! Here he was hired to help translate about some one he had never heard about- only to find he needed him himself.

The pastor from the visiting church shared a few words, and a young man shared his testimony. Then on to the BEST part. I love to see a baptism.....and each time I get chills all over my body! Seeing how it is a physical sign of how Jesus can wash away our sins and cleanse us. When you are dipped down in the water and then brought up.....you are all clean!!

Even though when you are saved it is immediate when God forgives you of your sins as soon as you repent......every little last one!! It is still just cool to feel clean!! Just as we bath each day we need to go to God each day and ask forgiveness even for things unseen or unheard.....he knows our thoughts!!

As I stood and watched the waves crash up on to the shore and watched the people fight the waves to get to a good part in the ocean to prepare for this special moment. I thought back to when I was baptised.....I can remember the lady who came to me prior and said I cleaned out the baptistery and turned the heater on so the water should be nice and warm.

I was humbled by this young man, and another young woman who walked out against the waves in the ocean.....it doesn't matter where God can cleanse you anywhere. Even though it was cold.....and I know it was because we were standing so close the waves hit out feet. They took a huge step of FAITH by walking out among all these crashing waves and cold water......to be baptised.

If a picture is worth a thousand words here one I will never forget.....

Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation the old has gone, the new has come!

2 Corinthians 5:17

AMEN!!

Mollie

Home is where the Heart is......

2010-07-05T13:30:00.006-05:00

One thing that really is going to stick in my mind forever while I visited inner city Lima, Peru. The homes and the way of life they have come to accept. Until you leave the United States of America.....it is hard to really appreciate all that you have or all the freedom that we have.

Seeing how yesterday was the celebration of our freedom and we can celebrate all that we have here. It was hard no to reflect back on the homes that I saw in Peru.

When we were given the tour of the homes, we were told prior to that we needed to make sure our facial expressions didn't reflect our emotions. I have been in some rough homes here in the States- but was NOT prepared to see what I was about to see.

Most of the homes we saw were the ladies who had been in our bible study meeting all week long. They all were very clean, well kept and super sweet. You could tell in there faces most of them had a relationship with Jesus Christ. You could just see it on their face!! When you walked the streets and saw so many empty sad faces it was a relief to see this bunch of ladies who had the JOY of Jesus on their faces.

When we arrived at their homes it was the same way, they were so proud of what they had. Then they gave us a tour of the neighbor hood. Each house had a different personality much like in America. They were painted different colors, had different decor. But one thing that was the same.....dirt floors and roofs made of plywood or cardboard.....not to mention NO running water in any of theses houses.

There was ONE watering center for 100+ people to share!! AMAZING!! The simple things like water that we take for granted. Before I left for Peru- the man across the road from us cut a water line and therefore they had to turn mine off to fix the line. I was OUT of water for an hour or so.......that was such an inconvenience for me. Seeing how I had to turn off my washer, and dishwasher.....that would just delay the chores for the day. Shame on me!!

Then when they showed us how they take a bucket of water to and from their home for bathing, cleaning, cooking etc. When that is out they take it back to the same place they got it from and pour it in a drain.....that filers back to the same water they got it out of the spout.

They have been given money through a Baptist missionary fund to get the running water they have- but they now must pay to get each home one spout of running water. This is what the men are working on in this picture. They will still not have sewer or septic- that must still be disposed in the same place all the other water is emptied.

Each home did have electric. In fact while we were touring I hit my head on one of the electric wires. They are very low and very exposed. In fact in this picture you can see the lady on top of her house taking clothes off the clothes line.....I wasn't for sure which was a clothes line and which was electric lines at first.

A few years back in 2000 there was a very bad ice storm that hit the area we live in.....most of South Arkansas was paralyzed by the storm. Not having electric, for some up to a month or more. I can remember B and I living in an all electric home at the time.....and after one night we were prepared to go stay somewhere else when we realized we could not handle being without heat or the comforts of our home in the state we were in. We barely made it without electric for a little over 24 hours.

Although we still had running water, and all the comforts of our home. It was just almost unbearable to live just that short time. I was reminded by that as we walked from home to home and looked at all they don't have, yet all that we DO HAVE and if we are inconvenienced one or more days we are just PUT OUT by it!!

I didn't realize how good we really had it until I saw this neighbor hood I walked through. Most of the homes you had to step down into- because they had to bring in so much dirt to help put the water system in. And when I say step down, I mean a BIG step. They didn't mind it, because now they have water.

This kitchen was cooking on a propane stove......and this is the kitchen they use everyday. How would you feel if this is what your kitchen stove looked like?? For me it would be hard to have company to want to show your clean kitchen off to?!?!

Then how about this.....washing your clothes in a bucket.......no Kenmore or Whirlpool here!! I never heard one complaint. In fact I asked some of the ladies if I could video tape them, and they were just laughing and talking. Much like we would if we had company. You could tell they were a tight community- that stuck together.

When we have hard times here in America, we stick together. Remember that Tuesday morning, September 11th? We stuck together and we bonded in a new way, you could not turn down a street without seeing an American flag. We united as ONE and worked together for good.

My how things have changed, I take my freedom for granted- I try not to seeing how I am a daughter of a veteran.....granddaughter too. I know that many have fought and died for my freedom. But it is the small simple things that were revealed to me that we take for granted. Water, electric, sewer, any kind of floor except dirt!

I find myself wanting the nicest, newest of everything- when I realized how they lived on so little and how they made it work. It made me sad for them- but at the same time, I know that there is not much I could do for them.....except pray that God helps them make it through each day.

It is hard not to forget those faces and those homes, but it has changed my perspective on ALL that I have been blessed with. GOD has been so GOOD to us.....it is hard not the thank him and give HIM ALL THE GLORY!!

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on the things above not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears then you also will appear with him in Glory.

Colossians 3:1-4

Mollie

God speaks all languages.....even when we can't hear!

2010-07-02T08:46:00.001-05:00

This is one of my favorite stories that will stay with me forever. I love God and I love to share that with everyone. While in Peru, we were asked to prayer walk and walk the streets praying aloud and silently for many things.

As I walked along the prayer walk- I asked God to bring people into my path while I was there, that I would make an impact on their life and they would do the same for me.....all for the Glory and Honor for God!!

On this particular day....I was walking with my translator and another Peruvian woman. We stopped and asked random people if we could pray with them- and what needs we could pray for them?

I saw theses workers.....working very hard replacing bricks in the sidewalk. And I really hated to bother them, and take them away from their job.....but I really felt led to speak with one. As I knelt down and tapped him on the shoulder and my translator spoke in Spanish for me. I asked him "Excuse me.....I am Mollie- from United States." At that time he looked at us puzzled and then pointed to his mouth and ears.

He then spoke with a muted voice to which we only understood that he was deaf and mute. My translator looked at me and said "he is dumb and can't speak." I was determined to let him know about my Jesus. So with the little sign language I know- I told him my name and that I loved Jesus.

He was SUPER excited that I knew sign language and could communicate with him. I gave him the time of day- and did not ignore him as if he were "dumb" I then told him I would pray for him and that Jesus loves him. He responded to me and said "yes- I pray to God and I love him too!!"

I then look at my Spanish translator and said "God knows no boundaries.....he is a God of all languages!" My translator was FLOORED!! He said " I was going to walk off- you did not need me...but I could not because that was one of the greatest things I have ever seen!"

Each day while in Peru, God showed me he is a BIG GOD and can do mighty things- and we don't ever need to underestimate his POWER!!

Mollie

I am back and will never be the same again!!

2010-06-29T12:22:00.012-05:00

Well, I can now cross something out on the TO DO LIST.......Mission Trip. Although I can say after going- that it is not something I wouldn't mind to do all over again! I loved it- Honestly, I did not have time to get home sick. I did miss my family- but I also knew I was in Lima, Peru for 7 days so I did my best to put my feelings aside and be his hands and feet.

Here is a sneak peak into what happened in those 7 days.

I will give longer more detailed...you know me.....in the next few days!!

We met in Lima, Peru......
Our Leaders....Missionaries who live in Lima (in the long sleeve blue shirts)- met us at the airport and there we also met two other members ( C & J the couple to the left) of our team of 5

Lived out of a suitcase for 7 days......and slept in a twin size bunk bed.........Here is the Team......

J & C (from Mississippi) T, Me & D ( from Arkansas) You could not have asked for a better mix of people- we laughed, I cried ( that's a whole 'nother can of worms), we shared testimonies, we really got along like we had known each other always! God was totally in Control!!We then hit the streets......Inner City Lima, Peru. We walked the streets they walk everyday......Took public transportation like they did everyday......Some smaller than others.......Tight squeeze most of the time...... Then kept on walking......into the nights........because that is what HE would have done......
We met them on the streets.......saw their faces and eyes up close......Even if we didn't speak the same language, or speak or hear at all.We saw where they lived.....Saw homes that were different than ours....... Saw stoves that looked different than ours.......

witnessed how they washed their clothes.Then we prayed with them........We told them about Jesus and how he cares for them and desires to be their friend.We also saw things we couldn't bare at some times......heartbreaking at times.......

Then there were the smiles I will never forget.......The games we played- I will never forget......The HUGS that I will never ever be able to forget.......

who knows how long it will be before they recieve another one.......We gave to those who needed it the most.......(THANKS LISA for your donation!!!)We witnessed a new christian be baptised in the Pacific Ocean......

got so close our feet got wet..... Then we walked some more........because his work is not done.....

I pray that my foot print in the sand last longer than my 7 day visit. May the Lord bring many more people to go and share with those who have never heard.......

Mollie

2010-06-17T06:32:00.000-05:00

WOW it has been a month since my last post.....whew.....I was going to do a wrap up of all we have done......but NO TIME FOR THAT!!! I will catch you up later in the month!!

I am leaving tomorrow for a mission trip. We will fly out on Friday at 6am in the morning to Lima, Peru and not reach there until 10:00pm!!!

From Saturday the19th until Friday the 25th a team of 5 of us will be ministering to the homeless, HIV positive, children in orphanage and various other bible studies and church services. We will conduct pray walks around the capital of Peru, and pray for all the many people who have not heard the GOOD NEWS!!

I have prayed prepared and I have left it in God's hands. He is my creator and for him I live and breathe each and every day!! I pray that we can be a bright light in their dark world.

My assignments are to share my testimony with a group of women, help in a drama presentation, activity with children at a VBS, and share a bible story with life application. I pray that I be his hands and his feet- that I get out of the way and let him lead me all the way!!

I will miss Father's Day with B and the boys.....this is sad but on the other hand we will be visiting and orphanage that very same day. I was asked by a friend, Jeff -if when we go I would hold this little baby boy that he fell in love with back when he went in March. Jeff said as he held this 6 month old child, his arms were getting tired after a half of an hour and he was wishing someone would come and get him....then he said the Holy Spirit slapped him in the face and reminded him to show God's love to this poor child who has no parents to hold him!! I cannot wait to get my hands on that little boy!!

As I type....I am weeping......I feel as if God has blessed me so much in my life!!! I just wish everyone could have the joy and love I feel from Jesus Christ.

My boys, will be with B and also taking turns between grandparents in Oklahoma and Arkansas. We are so blessed to have such wonderful supportive parents to help us out. I don't know who is more excited the grandparents or the kids!!

Thank you for the prayers, support and Love during this journey in my life- I have NO CLUE what I am doing going to Peru, and leaving my children and husband....but the Lord has many many great things in store for all of us!!

When I do return I will be FULL of stories and cannot wait to share pictures and tell stories!!

GOD IS GOOD!!!

See you soon......

Mollie

Catch Up.....busy week....busy weekend!!

2010-05-16T16:36:00.012-05:00

With only a month left before I leave for a week long missions trip to Lima Peru.....time I am spending together with family friends is such a blessing!! I know God has great things in store for me in Peru, at the same time- I keep thinking I want to spend as much time as I can with my family & friends!!

I can say that this past week and weekend I accomplished just that!! Family & Friends GALORE!! Here is a re-cap for you.......

Shed tears of joy & tears of pain over this bad boy....

I bought it at Hobby Lobby last week.....love love love it......sat on my bookshelf in the Living room.....well IT DID!!!! Ugh.....having boys I don't know why I even try to have "pretty" things!!

I found it in the store and then found out it was 50% off......Jumped for JOY with tears knowing it would look so good in my house!! Then when T brought the base to me without the top and tells me "Mama C broke your pretty!!" Tears of sadness fell!! They weren't from my eyes!!!

Oh well, maybe I can glue it......add it to the list of GLUED ITEMS!!! HA!! Mother of BOYS!!! One day I will look at all my pretty things in and empty house that was once filled with laughter from little boys!!

Took time to see my beautiful Lily's bloom....my favorite flower!! Lily is MY FAVORITE FLOWER!!! U have many planted in my flower beds.....looking forward to seeing more bloom soon!! Along with other flowers!!C insisted on shaving with Daddy.....every stroke I heard...."mama dook at me's!" He used and old razor with NO BLADE!!! T shaves with daddy every chance he gets.....but when C saw what fun it was.....well he wanted right in!!

Visited a local farm FULL of fun and loving animals.......Mrs. H has a wonderful "petting friendly" farm for kids!! C got to ride "Shorty" the pony. B put him on there he said "I need my gun!!" He was a REAL cowboy!!!Mrs. H & T gathered eggs......then C came up and grabbed one.....never in my life have I ever seen an 88 year old lady move so fast!!!! I was right with her only from a different angle- she caught him first... then we both looked up and laughed!! She said "I knew what was coming next!!" And to think she has only spent and hour with C!!! HA!! Learned which came first.....the chicken or the egg??? Feed a baby Lamb & baby pig by bottle!! She has ducks, goats, sheep, pigs, all kind of birds!! And you can pet almost every one of them!! Mrs. H is the hardest working lady I have met in a long time- she takes care of all these animals by herself!! Wonderful lady....loves kids. She asked if the boys could have a COKE?!?!?! Seeing how they have NEVER EVER had a real COKE in their lives.....I thought- you know there is a time and a place for everything!! Special occasions.....how can you turn down a real COKE from a glass bottle!! How cool is that!! Nickel a piece too- that's my kind of price!! We will definitely go back and visit.....takes you back to the good 'Ole days!!
Had the chance to see eye to eye with a Budweiser Clydesdale's.... . and their dog.....They actually had some "public showing times" but we just crashed in when we had the chance. They came to our town festival as I remember 4 years ago....we just went in the barn and watched them work with the very large and beautiful horses. It was fun getting to see them bath and groom the animals. Amazing how much work goes in to taking care of theses large horses.

Keep in mind B is almost 7 feet tall.....this Horse is TALL!!! T said "daddy you can ride this horse!!" They are just so pretty to see in person if you ever get the chance- GO!! All of the handlers and workers were so helpful and glad for us to come and watch them work!!

The boys loved seeing the horses!!!

Was Humbled by these hands & tiny feet......My Friend R had her Baby E at 27 weeks gestation. She weighed only 2lbs and 6oz.....she is now 4 weeks old and a hefty 3lbs and 10oz. She is precious and so tiny. When you see all the wires and monitors it is overwhelming to imagine what her mom is going through. I know the only way she is making it day to day is by God's Grace.....which happens to be the baby's middle name.

R was the leader in a bible study I attended when I had only one toddler and was expecting C. She was such a sweet and kind person- so full of FAITH and she inspired me so much when we got a chance to visit her and her sweet baby at the hospital in Little Rock. Please keep them both in your prayers- hopefully she will be able to come home in a few weeks Lord willing to her sister & brother too!! Keep her husband in your prayers too being 3 hours away from his wife with the other children!! Only God can carry them all through!!CELEBRATED a 1st BIRTHDAY....We drove to Little Rock to see out newest little cutie pie celebrate his 1st Birthday!!! Baby T.K. his mom & B are cousins. Here we are with all 3 boys....little blurry- but you try to get them to all look at the same time and smile....STILL!!! Boys....they are all gonna be a MESS in a few years!!We had a great time seeing him open his gifts.....or his mom rather.....don't ya just love those first parties......the kids is just happy to be there!! HA!! He did like his CAKE.....and J did great making it!!! She is a teacher....she has that crafty side down!!He loved every bite.....this is my favorite picture....could you just eat those cheeks up too!!! HOW CUTE IT HE!!!

Saw a HUGE step of many more in school.....Today we saw our little Niece AG graduate Kindergarten, she is an official 1st grader.....How cute it she!!! We are super proud of all her accomplishments. We love her & her mom Aunt Cole!!

How pretty is she.....we gave her some FLOWERS for her accomplishments!!!

And that's a wrap.....so you can see now why I haven't had time to sit and post anything.....not to mention 4 doctor visits in the last week. This week is not looking much slower!! HA!

I am remembering that each day each moment I spend with the boys and friends & family are cherished as if it were the last!! I am looking forward to my trip to Peru and

know I will come home with much much more respect for our Freedom of many things!!

Have a GREAT week!!

Mollie

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-08T16:18:00.008-05:00

What a wonderful day to celebrate.....Mother's the ladies who make the world go round. If it were not for a Mother, none of us would be here. So many years, I struggled with this holiday. Seemed like it was so hard to sit in church and not being a mother to a child on Earth- I was so empty inside. Seeing how I have 2 babies in heaven before I ever had one on Earth to hold in my arms.

I don't take my job as a mother lightly. It is important and each day I am blessed to be with my boys. I am so thankful for 2 healthy boys, I could never imagine my life without them!!

I do know how so many people can not see the Happiness in the holiday....whether their mother has passed away, they have lost a child too soon or they long to be a mother. My prayers are for you today. I have felt those emotions myself on this very same day. Seeing how I lost my first baby on May 10th....it often falls on Mother's day.

I was reading this book recently and ran across this great poem. I would like to share and dedicate to all the women who read this post. God has a special plan for everyone. All things are in God's timing and his Will...not ours. If we trust in him and fully rely on him to lead us....he will show us the way.

Continue On

By Roy Lessin

A Woman once fretted over the usefulness of her life.

She feared she was wasting her potential being a devoted wife and mother.

She wondered if the time and energy she invested in her husband and children would make a difference. At times she got discouraged because so much of what she did seemed to go unnoticed and unappreciated.

"Is it worth it?" she often wondered.

"Is there something better that I could be doing with my time?"

It was during one of these small moments of questioning that she heard a still small voice of her heavenly Father speak to her heart.

"You are a wife and a mother because that is what I have called you to be. Much of what you do is hidden from the public eye. But I notice. Most of what you give is done without remuneration.

But I am your reward.

Your Husband cannot be the man I have called him to be without your support. Your influence upon him is greater than you think and more powerful than you will ever know, I bless him through your service and honor through your love.

Your Children are precious to Me. Even more precious than they are to you. I have entrusted them to your care to raise for Me.

What you invest in them is an offering for Me. You may never be in the public spotlight.

But your obedience shines as a bright light before Me.

Continue on.

Remember you are My servant.

Do all to Please Me."

Happy Mother's Day, to all the Mom's, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, and Mother's to Be one day!!

I pray you all have a wonderful day!!

Mollie

Teaching kids to organize their toys

2010-05-05T15:20:00.004-05:00

Ok, here are the incriminating pictures I told you I would share. Oh My....what a mess!! This is T's room....before & after. I have worked with him since he has been here on "when you get something out....put it back!" This was the two weeks that we were running around crazy.....I did not follow through with all our chores those few weeks. So, this is what happens. NORMALLY....normally....his room looks like the after pics when we go to bed or nap.

Starting with Step 1 STORAGE: To teach your kids to have a home for every toy....even if it shares a home with other "trucks, balls, etc" Everything needs a home. I can hand T a toy and say go put this in it's home and he knows where it belongs!!

Step 2- SORT....when we clean we sort into piles....trucks, balls, stuffed animals, etc. Then put all away at the same time....instead of making numerous trips across the room.

Step 3- DON'T DO IT FOR THEM.....I HELP them, but as I help they are helping......if they start playing with toys, I remind them stay on task.....and when we are done we will get toys out and play. If they refuse to clean keep in mind they might be too tired, or not feeling well.....so save it for when they are feeling better. If it is BAD memories it will not work!!

Step 4- Make it fun.....sing the clean up song "Clean up Clean up everybody do your share....Clean up Clean up pick up toys everywhere!" Even C at age 2 can sing it. When I start singing....they immediately start picking up.

Step 4- Rewards!!! Have a Popsicle or Ice cream sandwich for reward....or quarter for chore jar....stickers....what ever works for your child. Now that we have done this for so long.....his room stays clean- BUT when I need to go and straighten up, a pat on the back works!! We have a HUGE Wooden TOY BOX for large toys.....stick horses, swords, stuffed animals. It is nice to throw a lot of things in but not too much- so you can still keep it some what organized!!

Look at that happy helper......he jumped into every picture and posed!! HA!!

I keep an empty plastic bag hanging on the door knob and throw away all color pages, and just TRASH I happen to find. I also like to wear something with pockets.....and put small things that don't belong or even things I don't want them to see me throw away. Honestly, every time we clean.....I throw away every little "happy meal" toy we get.....usually because it is broken too!!

I also try to find any TOYS are things we haven't used in awhile.....and remove.....usually they are never missed!!

Storage bins.....My dad made this and the toy box from scratch. If you are lucky and have a handy man in your family.....I just saw a storage solution in a pottery barn magazine....and showed it to him. HE gave it to him for his second birthday! Bought the LARGE bins at Wal Mart. On each Bin is a PICTURE and words of what is in them, since he cannot read yet.....he knows the pictures. They are BALLS, RESCUE TRUCKS, CONSTRUCTION TRUCKS, TRUCKS, SKATEBOARD RAMP & TANKS, HANDY MANNY & MICKEY MOUSE things. Those are our bins now. The cards are removable- so you can change them as they grow out of the toys. This storage unit is also on caster wheels....so I can remove it and vacuum behind and under it. WE LOVE IT!!! It is wonderful to have.

I also have little....shoebox size bins under his bed. For all the little tiny toys, toy soldiers, matchbox cars, toy bugs!!! There are 6 small bins. They also have pictures on them to help him keep them straight.

Like I said, we have done this for 2 years. But I firmly believe that if you don't teach your children to clean up after themselves, it enables them- especially boys!! Boys really have NO natural instinct to clean up after themselves I believe....I live with 3 of them!! And it also makes your job harder.

This morning we had a play date with some kiddos.....right before they came, the living room was already cluttered....I asked T to take his bin.....pick up all toys and go put them in there right home. I explained to him that we want our house to be clean for company, and there would be little babies who could get hurt if they played with big kids toys.....he completely understood.....and BOTH BINS were empty before guest arrived.....I then hugged his neck gave him a HIGH 5 and told him I appreciated his help. Honestly, that took 10 minutes off of my job!!

Ok, so that is my "system for toys!" It works for us......what works for you??

Mollie

Help Clutter Free you living space of TOYS!!!

2010-05-03T23:51:00.003-05:00

Have you ever walked through your living room at night and stepped on a small toy....that made you do all kinds of crazy gyrations just to try to avoid the next toy.....one step away!! Or maybe some one calls on the phone, says they are on their way to your house.....be there in 10 minutes!!! You run through the house like a mad woman- throwing toys in all sorts of places, kicking them under the couch...closets.....etc.

I have, and some times it can be embarrassing.....the sea of toys. Most people are understanding- usually when they see two toddler boys......they know it was probably clean that morning. Actually, my living room can go from completely toy free to completely TOY CLUTTER in 1 minute FLAT!!!

With the addition on Maizie our Lab puppy in December. She helped show me how many toys they left out. I have always tried to help boys pick up toys prior to nap & bed time, that way when you wake.....new start!!! Seems like the little puppy, would chew on toys of all kinds- then I was afraid she would choke on them. Also, the boys would get upset when there toys had CHEW marks on them too!!

Here is a little system I have started, not thinking it would stay and work really really good! Mostly just to keep out of harms way of the puppy!!

I found these two "bins" at Wal-Mart. I labelled them each with their name. Placed them on a table in the Living/Dining Room. They both know which one is theirs too!! If I happen to walk through the room and there are toys lying vacant on the floor- I can pick them up.....walk by the bin.....throw them in it......and move along!!

When it is time for the boys to go rest....they are to take their bins into their rooms and put all the toys up in there proper home. They LOVE it!! I have to admit....I do too!!!

I took pictures of a messy room this week, and hope to post a story this week on how quickly I was able to help show T how to organize and put things up.....on his own. Our HUGE rule at the house is when you get it out....put it back....in it's home!! When they have a million toys it is hard to keep them all straight. Then they will come and ask...."where is my black monster truck?" Well, if it isn't put up in the right place.....it is missing!!

I think I am the Queen of BINS.....I absolutely LOVE some bins and organizing!! Like I said, Hopefully I will get to post some more this week!!

Mollie

Family Pictures

2010-05-02T04:04:00.000-05:00

I love love love love.......to get pictures made with the boys. I did more often when they were little......almost every two months or so.....they just grow so fast- you have to capture it!!

My real life friend Stacy, who also has a blog HERE. She took the boys pictures last fall....like the one above- of the boys on the fence. I was SO IMPRESSED with her picture taking skills thought we would try her again....with Daddy present this time of course.

Stacy is one of the MOST talented people I have ever met. Not only does she stay at home with 2 of her 3 kiddos, she sews, she teaches dance, she teaches twirling, and takes pictures!! I can barely stay at home with 2 kids.....she can runs circles around any stay at home mom I know!!

Most importantly she is a woman of God- and give God all the GLORY and HONOR for all her many talents!! Here is a glimpses into the evening we had with Mrs. Stacy.

This one by far is one of my favorites....those little boots.....I could eat them up- of course I had to buy RED ONES!! I love this one of ALL MY BOYS!!! Each one all different- but could not imagine my life without ANY of them!!

If you have kids- you know how hard it is to get them to pose.....the thing I like about Stacy is- she prefers just to let them be....and follows them around...... Boys will be boys.This by far was the HARDEST photo shoot I can ever remember being at, Stacy was so patient!! The boys were in RARE form and the only other time I remember SWEATING while taking pictures was when C turned 6 months old......and he kept CRAWLING OUT of the room!! Ugh!!

We laughed the whole time.....at the time my friend Denise was taking our pictures. She is the one who took the pictures of the boys with the cheerios box at the bottom left of the blog. In a different but similar way- Stacy and Denise are a lot a like.....such talent!!You try to get everyone to look at the camera......smile......But it is those moments that will steal your heart when you capture the TRUE picture of what being a mother is ALL about!! These are the moments you live for and the ones you will never forget!!And when they wont stand still and smile you sit back and look at how much they have grown and that they are friends and can hold on to each other's hand and not yours. This is my FAVORITE!!That's when at the moment when this picture was taken.....seems like frustration.....but in reality we can look back and laugh!! Remember when the boys would NEVER sit still......and they are teens now and won't get off the couch to take out the trash.......or they are in college and only come home every so often and sit on the couch.....then one day they will walk alone down and isle and take the hand of some very fortunate wonderful young lady, I pray for her everyday!!

There are days when we think we can't make it and going to loose our minds as moms and dads of toddlers!! But this is just a season of life......and we will not get today back ever.....spend it wisely and spend your time wisely......pleasing to the Lord!!

Have a WONDERFUL weekend!! God Bless!!

Mollie

Funny Friday

2010-04-29T22:13:00.003-05:00

I know I haven't been here much this week. I have felt BLAH!! Lack of sleep for sure.....both kids have been climbing in my bed EVERY NIGHT this week?? B has been gone ALL week at night too!!

So, to finish off this week- thought I would give you a laugh to last all weekend long!!

The weather has been sooooo nice this week so we have played outside a lot. And thanks to my trusty new fence.....I can actually walk back in and check on laundry or supper....etc....the never ending mom jobs!!

On Tuesday I got supper going- then off to the back yard to play. I checked the mail first with the help of my two always present & willing to help, helpers who if it was not for JUNK mail some days they would have nothing to argue & fight about all the way to the mailbox!!! "I get the Mail..." I make them split holding a letter a piece always making sure they get JUNK....not to accidentally loose important bills!!

We walked back to the house, I then unlocked the back gate, laid the mail DOWN on the table on the back porch. I usually look through the mail on the way back but for some reason I just handed them their "MAIL" and walked along. They placed theirs on the table to and off to play!!

I sat and enjoyed the presence of Maizie and her puppy breath....then I told the boys "I am going to go inside and check on supper." I walked out of the gate- locked it behind me. So glad there is a LOCK they cannot reach....it would be awful if I had to worry about them getting OUT and into trouble OUTSIDE of the fence!!

I then proceeded in the house, leaving the back door open so I could hear them and half way see them through the fence. As I was mixing up cornbread they interrupted me 100 times as usual. I walked to the fence talked to them and then came back.

T then told me "Mama, some one sent you money in the mail today!" I didn't think much of it- seeing how I didn't see the GOLDEN envelope we have been looking forward to receiving from Uncle Sam....you know the one with Lady Liberty on it.....TAX RETURN!!!

So, I figured it was some stupid "fake check" he was talking about that you get from a car dealer that says some stupid gimmick on it!! Honestly, the child has NEVER opened the mail EVER?!?! I really didn't think much of the comment. I just responded "Oh good- be there in a minute to look at it."

I slid the cast iron skillet full of cornbread in the oven, washed my hands and headed out the door. As I approached the gate- My eyes got bigger and bigger I know, because I almost TRIPPED on my own JAW!!

There was T standing with a CHECK out of the envelope......covered in DIRT from the IRS!!! Oh My!!! He was so proud.... "Look mama I helped you open the mail, and I found a check for you- someone sent you some money for your missions trip!!" As I quickly removed the check from his hands and thought, the bank is NEVER gonna take this?? I looked at the table, there on the table was a WHITE envelope that was torn beyond recognition!!

I have NO IDEA how that check made it out alive......and then to get a tour of the backyard- dip in the mud hole. Oh, to be a fly in the backyard. I told him how important it is to not open any one's mail......and then was still shaking my head in disbelief......WHEN DID THE IRS CHANGE THERE ENVELOPES???? Has it not always been in a GOLDEN ENVELOPE!!! I WOULD HAVE NEVER LEFT LADY LIBERTY IN THE BACKYARD.....EVER!!!

Luckily, the bank took our dirty laundered money......but they had NO CLUE where that check had ever been!! Have a Good Weekend....Keep it CLEAN!!!

Mollie

Gymnastics Watch Day.....

2010-04-27T20:47:00.013-05:00

Here are some of the highlights of "watch day" from T's gymnastics class today. He had a class with Mrs. T last summer for a week. We decided it helped him so much that we enrolled him in a class for the school year. He goes once a week for an hour. The class is small with about 6-8 boys and is at Mrs. T's house in her garage....pretty cool!!!

We can tell a HUGE difference in his running, jumping and even his "braveness" as in more courageous to jump off things. It has helped his motor skills a lot.

Most of ALL......HE LOVES IT!! Check out those LONG LEGS.....Don't think I could do this even if I tried my hardest!!
Back Handspring on the tramp-o-line.....he weighs 50+ pounds......Strong lady!!!

Hand stands....or Cart wheel.....they both look a little the same.....from this advantage.....

Here are some of the other boys in his class.....

Push ups.......

Jumping Jacks......

Boys listening to instructions on a backwards roll....

The SEAL crawl....
Round off.....off the mats......FUN!!!

BOMB!!!

Smart teacher gives the kids a freeze pop....makes them do a one handed cart-wheel....then she cuts it open!! HA! Gotta Love it!!

He has done so well, we are so glad Mrs. T has taught him so much- Thanks!!
Mollie

Finger Painting FUN!!!

2010-04-22T05:36:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we did a little painting project.....started out with paint brush.....ended up FINGER PAINTING!!! WHOO HOO!!! PARTAY!!!!

I forget where I saw the idea but I thought it would be cool if they painted a canvas in the colors of my living and dining room, then I could hang it up in my house- and cherish it forever!! Well, I found a great deal on some canvas at Hobby Lobby- so I then thought we could make some to share with others too!! SO......we did.....here it is.......so much fun!!!

C is so funny here.....hhhmmmmm....do I paint my hand?? the canvas?? my hair?? He did end up with a streak of BLUE in the front.

When they were just using their brushes- it was showing a lot of WHITE....so that is when I said- "hey just use your hands and rub it in." It was as if you could have heard a pen drop- they were like....mama- you want us to make a mess?? COOL!!!
C was like this is too cool- He kept looking at his hands saying "I make mess....I make mess!!" Seeing how that is his FAVORITE pass time!! He was in Heaven!! T was okay with it- he wanted to wash his hands asap!!

Check out those grins!!! PRICELESS!!! I LOVE IT!!!!

Well, I took C to the other room to wash his hands- and came back T had taken the brush and started to write all different letters in the paint. Gave it a really "different" look!! That is what he thought looked good- So I know the people who receive them will also think that is cool!

I just set them up on some boxes to dry in the shop. I am going to write

a little note or poem on the back.

The FINISHED Project......Saving them for some special people......for a special day????

Mollie

Puzzle Time

2010-04-19T15:18:00.004-05:00

Well, I have not fallen off the face of the Earth- I am BAAAACK!!! Just really really busy catching up on things around the house last week- after being gone so many weeks prior!!

Last week the weather was just too nice to stay inside.....so we didn't we stayed outside almost all day every day!! Boys just LOVE to be outside. T already has a BUG collection!! Hopefully I will get to sit down a post a story on it this week.

And I reeeeaaaaallly need to catch up on my recipe blog....been taking lots of pictures just need to add them and the recipes!! Have you ever bought some thing.....put it back for birthday or Christmas.....then pulled it out on a rainy day!! Yep...that's exactly what I did today.

I bought this book of tangram puzzles for T & this Melissa & Doug (YES my favorite) one for C. They LOVED them. And it took up about an hour that we would have spent out side- due to the rainy weather.....we stayed inside and put puzzles together!!

Not to mention it is busy work- for busy hands to be doing something useful!! I know we own at least 20+ puzzles. From LARGE floor puzzles to 100 pieces dinosaur puzzle (only one 100 pieces one) Most of the ones we like are non other than Melissa & Doug!!! They are SO DURABLE.....and if you have boys......you know what I mean. A puzzle piece might just become a hammer or a sword....never know??

What do you do for inside play on a rainy day??

Mollie