Bountiful Blessings

I Think I am Dreaming!

2009-12-10T17:12:00.000-08:00

Today something happened that I didn't think ever would! I finished this semester with an A in Algebra. I can NOT tell you how SUPER excited I am!!! I worked really, really hard for that A and am extremely proud of it!! WooHoo!! I was terrible in math in high school....I mean TERRIBLE!! I wish I would have had the yearning and discipline that I have now back when I initially enrolled in college at *insert a throat clearing here* 18 years of age!! That seems like forever ago!! Better late than never I guess!! I hope my enthusiasm for school continues as I pursue my dream of becoming a teacher! I don't ever want to lose my drive!! Now it is time to enjoy a nice holiday break with my family until the Spring Semester resumes January 11th!! Yay!!

Praying for Good Weather

2009-12-06T14:17:00.000-08:00

Well, today was suppose to be the day that we took our family pictures. I was so excited but, thanks to the rain and the mess they had to be postponed!! So sad! Oh well, hoping for beautiful weather next Saturday so we can try this again! At least we have every one's outfit picked out!! Should be a fun day!! I love my beautiful family and you can NEVER have enough photos to capture the memories! Praying for a beautiful day on December 11Th.

I GOT LOST!!!

2009-12-01T22:19:00.000-08:00

Okay Everyone,

Did you miss me??? I got lost, lol!! I don't know how often I will be able to blog but, I am going to try to update more! I haven't blogged in (well) FOREVER!! Can't really catch you up but I will try to promise to update more often from here on out!

I was challenged yet again by Heather to lose some weight. I am soooo bad!! I fall off the band wagon WAY too easily! This is only 30 days so, I am going to give it my all!! I am going to do Jillian Michael's 30 day Shred! If you want to join us, we are starting today December 2 and will run through December 31st. Come on y'all!! We can do this!! I don't know about y'all but I sure could use to lose some weight before the new year begins!!

Praying to stay strong and determined for AT LEAST the next 30 days! Anybody in??

Random Picture Challenge 7.0

2009-03-01T20:51:00.000-08:00

Here are the rules:

11th folder
or
September 2007
11th picture

Ok...so here is my 11th picture of my 11th folder! Horrible! It just so happens to be the before picture for Heather and I of when we started Weight Watchers together in September of 2008! Wow! What a picture! Thanks for the motivation picture challenge!

A Teacher's Legacy!

2009-02-26T11:48:00.000-08:00

Today, I want to pay tribute to an amazing teacher that definitely left a legacy. My fourth grade year at Jefferson Elementary, I had the joy and honor of being in the classroom of Evannoa L. Hall. I can't even begin to describe this woman. She had a passion beyond words for her career and for those in her classroom. You have to know what an impact Mrs. Hall made not only in my life but in the life of my family. She was the kind of teacher that was there to not only educate her students but there to teach us life lessons. Let me preface this story that I am getting ready to tell you by saying that not only did I have the pleasure of being in her classroom but, my brother did as well. He was in Mrs. Hall's class the year before me 1985-1986. That was the year that we started to learn just what kind of teacher she was and what to expect from her. My brother (who went by Bryan at the time) went up to Mrs. Hall and asked "Mrs. Hall, can I go to the restroom?" and she replied..."sir?" so again he asked "can I go to the restroom?" to which again she replied..."sir?" getting a little frustrated and maybe a little concerned that he wasn't going to make it my brother again said "Mrs. Hall, can I go to the restroom?" and much to his amazement she again said...."sir?" Needless to say, this continued for at least 5 minutes before my brother finally said "Mrs. Hall, may I please go to the restroom?" and she gladly replied, "sure"! Hilarious!! She was trying to teach David that when you are asking to go to the restroom you need to use the word "may" versus using the word "can" because "can" is asking if you are capable and "may" is asking permission. This alone made a huge impact not only on my brother but on myself for the coming year. I knew when I was in her classroom exactly how to ask. This is still something that I think of today. With having the honor right now of being in the classroom when students come up and ask me "Mrs. Washburn, can I go to the restroom?" I reply..."I don't know can you?" and then I proceed to tell them that they need to be asking permission to go versus trying to find out whether they are capable. What an impact she made!

When I was in her classroom the following year (1986-1987 her last year before retirement at age 71) my most memorable moment was involving not only my least favorite but my weakest subject math. Bless her heart, Mrs. Hall struggled with me! Needless to say, I was less than desirable in the math department. She would talk to me about learning my multiplication tables and I just couldn't get there. I struggled in a major way. For some unknown reason, she decided that she would try to give me incentive, which I now know would be considered bribery. She started telling me that if I would learn a set of my tables (my 2's, my 3's, my 4's etc.) she would give me some Sour Cherry Balls (candy that at the time I just thought was the best). Well, it worked! I memorized all my multiplication tables and in record time. I wish I could say that I retained them as well as I should have but not true.

Mrs. Hall had a great 30 years at Jefferson Elementary and my brother and I are proud to say that we were a part of her passion of teaching and refuse to believe that we are the reason she decided to retire right after having The Keith kids back to back, Lol! To Mrs. Hall and all the teacher's that impacted my life and inspired me to become a teacher myself, I say thank you!

Evannoa L. Hall
Sept. 23, 1944-Feb. 20, 2009

Thank you Lord!

2009-02-25T21:33:00.000-08:00

Here lately, I am feeling like a new person! A better me, of sorts! By the grace of God, I have changed a lot of things about me, a more disciplined me! I am working on my weight (13 lbs. down thanks weight watchers), I have been investing in my marriage by walking through The Love Dare (from the movie Fireproof) with my hubby (thank you God), I have re-organized my budget (that seems to be working wonderfully, thanks Heather) and I recently started a new routine for keeping up with my chores here at home (that I am really loving, thanks Angie)! On top of all that, I started the process of going back to school to get my teaching degree (It is about time!) I am not sure how all of this came about ALL AT ONCE but, they are all welcomed changes! I believe that God is really working on me! I believe that He is saying...."Hello my child, I am ready (at anytime) for you to become the Godly Woman that I created you to be! I am ready for you to get your life organized in such a fashion that you can achieve the things that I have in store for you and use the blessings given to you for My glory!" Thank you God for opening my eyes at the time in my life where I was ready to receive it! Thank you for loving me and continuing to work on me on a daily basis. Thank you for not giving up on me and for waiting for and encouraging me to be the person that you created me to be! Your grace is amazing and sufficient! Thank you Lord!

P.S. Pray for Bryan through all of these changes! I am afraid it can be a little overwhelming.

Thirteen Years Ago Today!!

2009-02-18T18:49:00.000-08:00

My Baby Girl is 13 today!

I can not believe it! Thirteen years ago today, I was holding my first born and admiring my precious baby girl! She was more gorgeous than I could have ever imagined and I felt so blessed! I woke up this morning wondering why time goes so quickly. I can not even grasp the thought that that sweet little angel in my arms thirteen years ago is almost taller than me and is a teenager! It brought me to tears this morning just thinking about it! I have to admit that I love these years though. She is becoming such a beautiful young lady and I enjoy our time together so much! If I could tell everyone one thing that I have learned about motherhood it would be to enjoy every waking moment. Don't let life become routine. Make a memory every single day of their life and cherish it always! Just yesterday I was holding my angel in my arms wondering what it was going to be like having someone so little to love and to take care of. Well today I am feeling so overwhelmed with joy and heartache at the same time. I love watching her grow but then again, I want to keep her right where she is! God has truly blessed me by giving Brittanie to me and I praise Him for everyday that I have her!

To my angel,

"Sister", I love you more than you will ever know! When I was your age your Nana used to tell me "I love you too much, I don't think you will ever know how much I love you until you have your own children" and now I know what she is talking about! I am so proud of the young lady that you are becoming. Everyday that I get to wake up and call myself your Mom I feel blessed! Thank you for all of the memories and I can't wait to see what the next 13 years bring! I love you! Mom

Sissy opening her presents

All my babies celebrating the #13

Brittanie with our friends Toni and James Ingram

Brittanie with our friends The Bouvier's

Sissy with Connor James Bouvier opening their gift

Morgan and Carson Ingram celebrating with Sissy

The Applebee's gang singing Happy Birthday to my Baby!

Special Friends

2009-02-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

Today I had the pleasure of taking one of my best friends to lunch for her 32nd birthday! As I sit here thinking what I could write about today to go along with this amazing picture, I am perplexed! I don't really know what I could say to express what her friendship and love have meant to me over the past 19 years! You know there are lots of crazy memories that I could tell you about that would make you laugh until your ribs hurt (and do us on occasion) but you still wouldn't fully understand what she means to me! There is absolutely nothing in my life that she has not been through with me whether it has been a trial or triumph. We have essentially grown up together and now are watching our kids grow up together. Heather, what a joy it was to watch as you received some of God's most prize possessions and have become an incredible Mom. It was wonderful to watch you finally meet and fall in love with the man that treats you and loves you like I always felt you needed to be treated and loved! I enjoy still every single conversation we have and every minute we spend together! I wouldn't trade for your friendship for anything and you will hold a forever place in my life and my heart! Thank you for your friendship! I love you girl!

A Fresh Start

2009-02-08T22:06:00.000-08:00

This was an incredibly tough weekend and we are hoping for a fresh start for the new week! There are lots of things going on this week and I am praying that Mr. Sickness has left our home! My suspicions were correct! We had a super tough weekend! Thursday night was horrible! Friday was even worse than that! I was a mess and poor little Brackston just couldn't hardly even move! He slept on the bathroom floor for 20 hours straight! Poor baby! We finally got him to move to the couch and his vomiting had slowed down some but his fever was still pretty high. Bryan and I had been talking back and forth to his Mom all day. We considered taking him to Urgent Care at Scott and White during the day but, as the day went on we thought we had come through the worst of it. At about 10:20 P.M. or so I looked over at him and thought he was having a seizure! He was shaking uncontrollably and I ran over and couldn't get him to respond to my voice or even look at me! It scared me to death! Bryan got on the phone with his Mom again and I said "hang-up, that's it...we are taking him to the E.R.!" I was a wreck! We all looked crazy sick but, we were going! We got there and they tested him for rapid strep and an upper respiratory infection! They did a chest X-ray and found nothing! They came in and told us that it was just a bad viral infection and that the shaking was caused by his fever trying to fight off the infection! The doctor told us he should start getting better fairly quickly and then told us to go home and get some rest because we all looked pretty bad! Thanks Doc, LOL! Anyway, Saturday was pretty rough but seemed to be a better day for Brackston! I felt like we were in the clear! Today, he woke up with a fever again! What in the world is going on here? Can a Momma get a break?!! Poor Baby!! It is almost 12:30 AM now on Monday morning and he is still coughing up a storm in there while he trying to sleep! I just hope and pray that he wakes up in the morning a happy camper! I really don't like this time of the year! Can we please just skip to spring and summer? Well, I am going to call it a night in order to prepare for whatever comes my way tomorrow! Praying that everyone stays healthy!

It's Official!!

2009-02-06T01:36:00.000-08:00

It's Official!! The bug has officially reached and infected The Washburn Family! I am afraid that this is not going to be a fun weekend AT ALL! Bryan, got sick first with what he was told by the doctor's was the worst kind of flu that is going around! His first concern was us! He was worried that we would get it! I told him "Babe', you don't worry about us we will be fine. You just get better!" Well, I guess I was wrong! I started feeling badly yesterday evening and Brackston joined us at about 1:30 this morning! I just can't breathe....but, my little man is sleeping in the bathroom he feels so bad! Poor baby!! I so don't like when he is sick! I feel helpless! So anyway, here is your warning!! Stay away from the Washburn's house for the weekend! We are probably not going to be your best option for a fun outing! Keep us in your prayers! I gotta go my poor baby is crying and calling my name!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-02-04T08:39:00.001-08:00

Oh no...my teeth are falling out!

Look at that gap!

Beautiful toothless smile!

A Weekend To Remember

2009-01-25T19:46:00.000-08:00

I was blessed to be able to spend the weekend with my beautiful baby girl at our annual Mother/Daughter Retreat at the fabulous Camp Peniel. On Friday afternoon we headed towards the Marble Falls area with our sweet friends Toni and Morgan. The drive was filled with lots of joy and laughter. This is our second consecutive year that we have been able to enjoy this amazing experience. Last year TBC was one of the several churches to take part in the camp's event however, this year we were super excited to have the entire grounds to ourselves.

Our weekend was filled with an enormous amount of fun activities and amazing worship.

Together we enjoyed a fun trail ride, a plunging ride on a zip line, and a little archery lesson.

Probably my favorite activity that was scheduled for us was the rifle shooting experience. Neither Brittanie nor myself have ever fired a gun. We were instructed by the amazing Don. He diligently instructed us on exactly what it was that we needed to do to hit the bullseye. Brittanie did great her first attempt.
I on the other hand was lousy. Initially we were given 5 bullets each and somehow I managed to miss the target on every single shot. I could not handle the disappointment. I was taught as a child if at first you don't succeed try and try again so, try again I did! I received a few extra pointers and I was on my way to shooting off another 10 bullets. This attempt was intense and precise. The work paid off. I managed to hit the target with every single shot. Go Me!! I can't wait to shoot again!

Along with these scheduled activities we also enjoyed a frigid hay ride followed by some tasty s'mores by the fire, a mean game of Mother against Daughter volleyball, and our game of choice for the weekend Catchphrase.

This game was hilerious and I just loved sitting in a circle enjoying laughter with my baby and sister's in Christ.

Combined with all these fun activities was incredible worship and life lessons spoken to us by the amazing Linda Strom. She encouraged us to love our daughters where they are right now and for who they are because this time will be gone before we know it. This weekend my God of grace reminded me why I was chosen to be the Mother of one his most precious gifts. He gave me the opportunity to see my baby shared her love for her God along with her passion for music and led us in worship and dance.
What an amazing pride that I felt at that very moment. Every single moment spent with my gift from God this weekend I will truly cherish in my heart forever. She is a beautiful creation given to me for only a short time and I yearn to appreciate every single second with my angel. I love you baby girl!

These girls were inseperable...Brittanie, Morgan and Reagan

Here are some of the girls that enjoyed the weekend with Mom.

"As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem.: Isaiah 66:13

Cold......Brrrrrrrr......

2009-01-15T06:47:00.000-08:00

Holy Cow it's cold!!! I am so not a winter person! I like to be comfortable! I can't even get warm in my own house! I have adjusted the thermostat a gagillion times (which I don't like to do because it will cause the bill to go up) and still can't get warm!! AAAAHHHHH!!!! Help!!!!! The only place that I have found that I can get comfortable is in my bed and that's not such a good idea because then, I get absolutely nothing done!!! Sometimes it's ok to have days like that but, I am ashamed to admit I had one of those days yesterday and quite honestly I can't afford to have two in a row! I think I've got it....if I would get off this computer and do some activity around the house I would probably warm up.....and maybe get some things checked off my to do list! Wow, I am a genius! Ok, maybe not a genius but it does seem like a pretty good idea but so does a nice hot bubble bath! Don't you just hate the decisions you have to make as an adult? Anyway, I am off to do whatever it is that I decide to do to be productive today and I hope that you all stay warm :-)

Thought for the Day

2009-01-12T08:12:00.000-08:00

ATTITUDE
by
Charles Swindoll

"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think, say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. It will make or break a company...a church...a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we embrace for that day. We cannot change our past...we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play the one string we have, and that is our attitude...I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you...we are in charge of our Attitudes.

My Mother, My Friend

2009-01-09T12:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the best Mother a girl could ask for!! I love you Mom!! Look at that sweet picture. You gotta love that, "Sissy, please hurry and take this picture, you know I loathe having pictures taken of me", look! Seriously, I completely love this woman with every ounce of my soul! From birth she has given nothing but her whole-heart to everything that crosses her path and my brother and I are no exception. She has always been there from kissing boo-boos when I was little to still continuing to pick up the pieces today when my life seems to be falling apart (though most of the time she reminds me that it is a fear or worry that should not be because God is in control.) I am blessed to be the child of such a Godly woman and leader for our family. She is our prayer warrior and rock in our family. I praise God that I am her daughter and that she is my Mom!

Momma,
I love you more than you know and appreciate you more than words can express. You have made me who I am today through prayer and example. I yearn to be more like you and I cherish our friendship and your loyalty to love. I am inspired by your amazing spirit and love for the Lord and your family. Thank you for everything that you have sacrificed for me personally and for all the decisions that you made with my best interest at heart. I long to love my children the way that you have loved David and I. I feel blessed to call you mine!

P.S. I probably should have warned you to bring tissues with you to the computer! I love you!

Thank you God for brothers!!

2009-01-08T18:53:00.000-08:00

Happy 34th Birthday Bub!!!

Today is my only brother's birthday! I am truly blessed to have you in my life. You are one of my best friends and your phone calls brighten my days!! For those of you that don't know, my brother and I are super close and about 8 years ago he moved to California and left me here. One thing is for sure, though I miss him terribly our conversations definitely don't suffer. We talk several times a week and sometimes daily! He is one of the true lights of my life and I don't know what I would do without him! I love the way my children's face lights up when they get to see him and vice versa! He is an amazing Uncle and I couldn't ask for anything more!! I have so many amazing memories growing up that I won't bore you with but, let me just say that I couldn't have asked for a better friend, role model and support system. I truly hope that one day my children have the love for their siblings that I do for mine and share the kind of friendship that we share.

I love you man!!!!

Holy Muscles!!!

2009-01-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

Today Bryan and I started working out at a local gym!!! I was SUPER excited that he was home to go with me!! We worked out really hard!!! Like, REALLY hard!! I was under the impression that we were going to start out slow and ease into it but, WRONG again!! We walked for 30 minutes on the treadmill, then I rode the bike for 15minutes then moved on to the free weights. Wow, Bob and Jillian would not be impressed!!! I have no idea how to workout on free weights. My poor hubby was trying to help me but, I have never used those in a workout before. Anyway, after making a complete dummy of myself on those we moved on to the weight machines. At least those have a picture to illustrate the correct way to use them. That was a little bit better! We walked out of there 2 hours after going in and I was just bouncing and totally proud of myself. But NOW is a TOTALLY different story!!! My legs are KILLING me!!!! SERIOUSLY KILLING ME!!!!! I am anxious to go back tomorrow so I can stretch them some more. I have been told and experienced that working them out the next day will help with soreness. I would like to go tomorrow morning but, I have to work so, tomorrow I will suffer through my day and workout promptly at 3:15 :-) I can see it now......I am going to be one toned, smokin hot mom and wife!! I can't wait!!!

A New Year A New You

2009-01-04T14:57:00.000-08:00

"New Year's resolutions are easier to keep when you rely on God"
After thinking about a New Year's resolution and seeing this sign, this year I decided to write all the things down about me that I would like to change and pray about them. Of course I have the same changes as a lot of people and that is to take better care of myself, lose weight, excercise etc.... That is definately one thing that I am going to strive for this year however, my main goal this year is to rely on God to help make the person that he created me to be. Previously I have been really good at saying God, please take control of this in my life and then I treat it like a fishing pole that I just casted and reel it back in and try to control it myself. Do you ever do that? Today while sitting in church there were a lot of things said that made me realize that I need to trust. Pastor Gary quoted J.Hudson Taylor saying "God gives the very best to those who leave the choice to him"! That was really powerful! He said that we don't need to test God...we need to trust God and then we will realize that He is trustworthy. You know every year I decide there are several things that I need to change but this year I am just vowing that I am going to be in The Word every day and letting God guide my life and my family. Then and only then will I be doing what is right and what is in His image. Don't question the care and goodness of God, just trust Him with the very life that He created for you and be a living sacrifice for Him. Pastor Gary shared this poem with us today and it really hit home so I thought I would share it with you. My prayer for you and your family this year is that you Let Go and Let God. Trust Him with everything from the smallest to the largest of things and He will give you strength to make it through.

Broken Dreams
Submitted by: TonyaB
Author: Unknown

As children bring their broken toys
With tears for us to mend.
I brought my broken dreams to God
Because He was my Friend.

But then instead of leaving Him
In peace to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help
With ways that were my own.

At last I snatched the back and cried,
"How could You be so slow"-
"My child," He said,
"What could I do? You never did let go."

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T07:20:00.000-08:00

Bryan and I bringing in the New Year together!

Happy New Year from The Washburns! We got to bring the new year in with some of our best friends and had a blast. I have been truly blessed for the last week and a half and have gotten to spend it with my husband...uninterrupted!! He took some vacation time and we have had a great time together. I can not blog long today because we are headed of to go deer hunting, just he and I! I am super excited because as I have said before, I love spending time with him in that little box. It is QUALITY!!! Just thought I would say Happy New Year and share a few photos with you from our fun evening! We wish you joy and happiness in this new year! By the way, no time now but soon I will blog about my New Years Resolution's!

I love dancin with my honey

The Washburn's and The Bouviers!

My favorite part of the new year

Bryan and his work buddy Paul

Bryan, Paul and I

Bryan with our buddy Bouvier

Are we not the best looking party crowd you have seen?

We had a blast Bouvier's!!! Thank you so much for ringing in the New Year with us!

CHRISTMAS BLESSINGS

2008-12-25T09:30:00.000-08:00

From our family to yours, wishing you a blessed Christmas season and praying for your family to be safe and have a joyous New Year!

Bryan, Jeniece, Brittanie, Kyle and Brackston

Nature In Lights

2008-12-20T20:16:00.000-08:00

I love that they don't forget the true meaning of Christmas

Tonight the kids and I had the pleasure of enjoying the amazing christmas lights display that is done every year by the Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area with one of my sweet friends from high school and her little girl. We had a blast!

These kids are too stinkin cute

There were some fabulous displays and some really funny ones too. There is basically one for everyone. They have santa surfing to santa playing basketball and the even entire display of The 12 days of Christmas. We had a blast singing that one as we drove through it. Towards the end we took a tour of Santa's Village where the kids got to have photos made with Santa himself. They seemed to really enjoy it!!!! We loved spending time our friends and getting in the Christmas spirit together.

Tree decorating by the elves

He shoots......He scores! You go Santa

God Bless our Troops serving this Christmas season

Empty Me

2008-12-17T06:49:00.001-08:00

As this year ends and next year is quickly approaching, I look back and wonder what I could have done differently to be a better model of Christ's love for us. Wow, is that an overwhelming thought. I start everyday with the best of intentions but instead I let life get in the way of who my focus should be on. After thinking about what I could do to change, this song came to mind. Take a second and listen while reading the lyrics.

I absolutely love what this song says and represents! It's powerful and moving! I can't think of a better prayer for not only myself but for all those that I love as well. As we finish this holiday season and bring in the new year I pray that God does Empty Me of all my selfishness and fullish things in this life that takes me away from him. This is not only my prayer for myself but, for you as well. Have a blessed holiday season.

Dark Golden Brown

2008-12-16T16:24:00.000-08:00

Ok ladies, I made the decision to bite the bullet and color it!! I hesitated for quite awhile today but, I finally did it. I am actually pretty pleased with it too. It isn't to much different than what it was but it looks a lot more even. The last color that I had put on it was grown way out so the bottom half had a red hint and the top half was my natural color (plus a little grey)! I still have one stubborn hair that decided it wasn't going to color so, that one shall stay grey I guess!

Anyway, I really am pretty pleased with the outcome and so I just wanted to share. My favorite thing about my new color is that it kind of reminds me of a smooth dark chocolate bar. Mmmmmmmm.....it makes me just want to go out and get one :-).

To color or not to color that is the question

2008-12-15T18:18:00.000-08:00

Ok, I am about to admit something that you are all probably going to laugh at. I have been pondering on my hair for quite some time now. I have been coloring my hair for awhile, like probably 6 years or more. Well, I decided about 6 months ago that I was going to try to just let it grow out. I decided this so maybe we could save money and for several other reasons. I guess I should mention that I always color my own hair and do not have it professionally done because, well......I can't afford it.

Anyway, upon deciding to let my color grow out, I started noticing significant grey hairs arising. Well, my hubby has been acquiring some grey of his own and it looks very sexy on him. He has hints of grey in his hair but, you notice it most in his goatee. I love it so, I decided to embrace my grey and just stick with my decision to grow it out. Now I am second guessing my decision. I have seen several ladies that have let their hair grow and let their greys shine and they look quite a bit older than they did. One lady in particular made me decide I might need to rethink this whole thing. I really don't need to look or feel any older than I already am. I am not scared of getting older, nor do I mind the idea however, there is no reason to rush the inevitable.

Why is it that men turning grey makes them looked distinguished but, women turning grey just make them look old? I am still trying to decide what to do. I did go buy a box of color today and I am seriously thinking about just taking the plunge and coloring it again. Why are decisions in life so hard? Seriously, it is really sad for me to admit that I am contemplating this for so long. I need to just bite the bullet and go. I will keep you guys updated and let you know. Hopefully I make the right decision.

Just too cute to leave out

2008-12-13T21:09:00.000-08:00

Some how, I left out that sweet picture of PaPa Wayne and Brackston. I am not sure how that happened but, it did. PaPa Wayne has been an important part of Brackston's life! Wayne has been dating my sweet Mother-in-law since before I have been in the family so, he is Brackston's PaPa Wayne!!! We love you Wayne and thanks for loving our boy!

Hunting Washburn Style

2008-12-13T20:11:00.000-08:00

So, today was Washburn family day at the farm. Bryan wanted to go hunting and he has been kind enough this season to ask me to go a couple of times with him. I have to admit, I really enjoy going! I think the reason that I enjoy going is because, there is very little noise and it is incredibly peaceful out there and because I am in trapped in a little box with my husband and he can not get out until the hunt is over hee, hee, hee!! I guess it is kind of selfish reasoning now that I think about it. It's not very often that we get time together to just sit there with nothing else to do but stare out a window and enjoy the wonderful nature that God had provided. Well, today we decided to bring Brackston to the stand with us for a couple of hours. That was a crazy decision!!! Bryan is really trying hard to train him to be his hunting buddy but, it is a little difficult for a 5 year old who is a little hyper to be quiet and still!

This baby is very intently looking for deer, shhh......

After spending time (45 minutes to be exact) in the stand with Mommy and Daddy, PaPa Wayne came and rescued Brackston and together they went searching for the BIG buck. Brackston loves his PaPa Wayne!!! Once Brackston was out of the stand, Bryan and I were serious now!!! My hubby was determined that today was the day.....of course I was determined to get some good pictures hee, hee, hee! Love you babe'!

Well, unfortunately we did not even get to take a shot at a deer but, there is always the next hunt! I really do enjoy going to the stand with Bryan and spending some quality time together! He sits there and intently looks through his binoculars looking for the perfect buck and I just sit there intently looking at the perfect gift given to me from God, my hubby! I love my man!!!

Well, we went back to the house and took one last picture before heading home. Brackston loves hanging out at the farm with his Grandma! We love you Mom, thanks for letting us hunt.

After our trip home, Brackston decided his day was over and that he had worked really hard at training to be the cutest hunting buddy ever! I don't believe I have ever seen a cuter picture representing a hard day's work at the farm!

Thought of the Day

2008-12-11T08:02:00.000-08:00

Faith is not believing that God can...It is knowing that he will!!

God is amazing and in times like these we have to believe that God can and will take care of those that believe.

A Big Thankyou!

2008-12-09T18:50:00.000-08:00

I owe a HUGE thank you to one of my closest friends, Heather for helping me bring a new look to Bountiful Blessings! Thank you so much honey, I love ya :-)

California Sunshine

2008-12-09T14:22:00.000-08:00

On Thursday December 4th, I received just the best Christmas present ever! My only brother and only nephew came to visit! Oh how I love these two guys!

For those of you that don't know, my brother and his family live in northern California so we don't see them as often as I would like but, it sure does warm my heart to see them. Unfortunately, this time around I didn't get to see my sweet sister-in-law. That was kind of sad for me because I love her dearly and I have only gotten to spend time with her four times since she and my brother got together like 9 1/2 yrs. ago. I am hoping that she will make the next visit! We did a whole lot of nothing while they were here which was FABULOUS!! Last time they were here there were tons of things on the agenda and we were running crazy with no spare time to just sit and laugh so we made a point this time to just relax! Austin has grown so much since I saw him last and is talking up a storm.

He says some of the cutest things. I just love when children start to talk and have their own little vocabulary! One of the funniest things he did while he was here was call Brackston by the wrong name. From the second he laid eyes on him, he called him "Nate" which was hysterical. The first time he said it, David (my brother) told Austin that isn't Nate this is Brackston, he is your cousin!

David told us that Nate is one of Austin's little friends that he plays with a lot at home that is about the same size as Brack. We would tell him "Austin, say Brackston" and he would say it and then turn around and call him Nate. This went on the whole time he was here, like when he would talk to Brackston he would say "football Nate" and "hi Nate". It was so stinkin funny. At first Brackston was like "hey, my name is not Nate it's Brackston" but as time progressed he just decided he didn't care what Austin called him. The funniest part of the story was that the last day they were here Brackston came home from school and Austin saw him, his face lit up and Brackston said "Austin, Nate is home" and Austin went running towards him and said "hi Nate" with a huge smile. It was adorable. He was very excited to see Nate!

Anyway, we thoroughly enjoyed our time and had some great family time. Hopefully time flies until we see them again!

Who Are We?.......Falcons!

2008-11-18T08:24:00.000-08:00

Hey all you Falcon Fans!! I just wanted to let you know that our faithful Falcons are going to the Toy Bowl!!! Yeah!!! This last Saturday was our play-off game against The Belton Warriors! It was a great game with a victory with a final score of 40-28 buying our ticket to the Toy Bowl! For those of you that don't know little league football has a championship bowl, just like the Big 12! Every year that Kyle has played for the Falcons they have made an appearance in the Toy Bowl! These little guys play just as hard as those bigger boys, if not harder!! They are a lot of fun to watch and they love being out there playing their little hearts out! So, this Saturday our Fighting Falcons will represent and have to bring their A game. They will be playing against the #1 team in the league The Temple Longhorns. They can guarantee that the #2 team in the league will come prepared to fight until the end!!!

WHO ARE WE?.........FALCONS! WHO ARE WE?.......FALCONS! WHO ARE WE?.....FALCONS!

I SURVIVED!!

2008-11-12T06:36:00.000-08:00

I don't know how many of you know but, I have been subbing long-term for a very energetic 3rd Grade class for the last 6weeks. I SURVIVED!!!! I really did enjoy working everyday and having the same kids. I truly got a feel for what it will be like to be a REAL classroom teacher! What I did learn in the last few weeks is that I do want to go back to school to get my teaching degree but, I will lean towards Jr. High and teach something that I have a passion for like Language Arts. I will keep you all posted on my journey. Hopefully, now that I am not fulfilling all the classroom teachers responsibilty I will have more time to blog! I am spending today doing absolutely NOTHING responsible. I was going to spend the day with my amazing husband but, instead he is having to go to work to provide money for our family. So, what is equally exciting?????? You are right, driving to Granbury (on a whim) just to spend the day with my Mom!!! There is nothing that I would rather do more!!! I love girls days!!! I haven't gotten to see her much lately and I am going to just drive up there and do whatever, just she and I!!! I am off!!!! Have a great day and hopefully, I will chat with you all again soon!

The Chipmunks Rock

2008-10-31T20:52:00.000-07:00

Featuring Alvin, Simon and Theodore

Happy Halloween from The Washburn Family!!! I know it has been forever since I posted. I have even been accused of forgetting that I had a blog. Well, I just thought I would share some of our photos from this evening. We just decided to do some trick or treating and hang around the big town of Belton for the evening. We wanted to go to the football game but, we waited too late and tickets were all sold out. Anyway, we had fun for the most part and the kids looked great!!! Thanks to my Mom, the kids looked GREAT for another Halloween!!! I couldn't do Halloween without her I don't think. Tonight the kids were the Lovable Chipmunks! Brittanie starred as Alvin, with Kyle as Simon and Brackston as Theodore! They were simply adorable and got lots of comments!!! We had fun with it!! We topped our evening off with dinner at Burger King and dessert at Maggie Moo's!!! Yummy!!!! Well, I will do my best not to let 3 weeks pass before my next post but, I am exhausted and need some sleep!

Partying All Night with The Chipmunks

The night is young!

Our first photo as The Chipmunks

Ready to Party

Time Flies!!

2008-10-13T18:14:00.000-07:00

Brackston's first report card!!

I can not believe that we have already flown through the first six weeks of school. Today was Parent/Teacher Conferences and I got my baby's first report card. It is super cute!! I love kindergarten report cards. They just remind me of the simple days when all you had do document was an E for excellent, and S for satisfactory or the dreaded N for needs inprovement! Bubba did great and his teacher was very positive! She said he is a great kid and is incredibly bright!!! Yeah!!!! I am not sure how I got blessed with three bright kids but, I sure will take it. They even recommended him for GT (gifted and talented). Isn't that crazy?? I didn't even know that they did that in kindergarten. That seems awfully early to be setting those kids apart but, I guess if they need extra work and to be challenged, I say FABULOUS!!! The funny part of the conference was when the teacher mentioned that we had the little cutie in the class. She said that ALL the girls are concerened with whether Brackston is coming to school today or "where is Brackston, Ms. Rackley"? She said it is absolutely hysterical. She said that we better get ready because, he is quite the lady's man. Wow, a little early for that too!!! Oh the days of young love, LOL!!!

The Road To Success

2008-09-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

Ok...so I know that I haven't written in awhile but I wanted to update you! I did join weight watchers last Saturday so, this week was my first weigh in and it was a success!!! I got on the scale this morning and was told I had a great week! I lost 5.4 pounds!!!!! YEA!!! Hard work does pay off!!!! This week was one intentional bite after another. I was very disciplined and I am happy for a good start to my life change. I am moving through this week with hopefully the same success. This week our meeting talked about dancing and moving to the music to get exercise. I love, love, love to dance, I just don't get to much. I am going to do my best to incorporate it more in my week. Maybe I will get up a little earlier and try to walk to tunes or just get up and turn some music on and move to the music in my living room. We also were reminded of a song that I will leave you with that will hopefully inspire you to get moving and enjoy each day regardless of what is going on in your life. The journey continues..........

MOTIVATION AT IT'S BEST

2008-09-16T19:14:00.000-07:00

BIGGEST LOSER ROCKS!!! I totally love this show!!! These people all remind me of me at my worst (which would be now!):-( I get so motivated watching these people bust their tail on TV and I think, I can do this!! Then I walk over and get something else to eat, whether it be a second helping or dessert. It is a terrible admission, I know!! I have been thinking about what I could do to loose this weight once and for all! I pretty much decided that I was going to join all of my friends in Weight Watchers! My thought was I can't stop if I have people to hold me accountable. I have 3 friends that are currently successful in the program in 3 different stages. One is getting ready to hit her 40 pound mark (you go girl), one has been in since June and doing well and one just started!! I am very blessed to have friends that support me and drag me along when need be!!! I am also incredibly blessed to have a husband that loves me regardless but, you know what, he deserves more. I want him to be proud of me but, more importantly than that I want to be here to love him for another 75 years!!! I also want to inspire my children to be the healthiest they can be so our family can be happy and healthy together! I will keep you all posted on my progress!!

Such A Proud Mom

2008-09-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

My Beautiful Tiger

Today for the first time in 6 years, my baby girl suited out and played to the best of her ability!!! I was tickled pink!! As many of you know, she hasn't played an organized sport since she played soccer when I was pregnant with Brackston so, I was super stoked to see her enjoying a team sport! This was her first game of the season and they did an incredible job!!

GO #22!!!

READY, SET.....

My Girl started the game off!!

She is ready for action!

The game was back and forth the whole time but, what I loved the most is that all of the girls on the court were having a blast! There is nothing better than watching your child enjoying what they are doing and succeeding all at the same time.

Final Score, GO LADY TIGERS!!!

Totally A proud Momma moment. I thought I would share some pictures so you could see my beauty in action. Today she had 8 loved ones there cheering her on and she would love to see her cheering section grow!! We would love to see some of you at the next game!!!

GO BIG RED!!!

From one star to another

2008-09-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday cheering on Brittanie, today cheering on Kyle!! GO FALCONS!!! Kyle had his first football game of the season today! They won BIG!!!! Yea!!! He did great, and even played a new position today. He typically plays corner back or wide receiver but, today starred as safety! You go boy!

Run Kyle!! Go #24

Kyle starring at safety

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL

2008-09-06T07:49:00.000-07:00

Fight Mighty Tigers

Tiger Pride
(Left to right) Kyle's buddy Andrew, Kyle, Brittanie's friend Ashlee and Britt

TO TIGERS!!
Ok, so last night was our first Tiger football game. It did not go so well, sniff sniff. We were all there proudly wearing our red and white and ready to cheer them on. We actually all went because my baby girl was making her first appearance on the field in uniform playing until her little hearts content!! Go Baby Girl!!! I was so proud!!! I can't believe that it is time for my baby to be out on that field. It seems like just yesterday that it was me out on that field holding that flute high and now I am the band parent, Scary!!! Anyway, they did a phenominal job play Na Na Hey Hey, Goodbye!!!!! It sounded great! The junior highs stood on the field with the Belton High Marching 100! Yea!!! The down fall, I tried to take pictures of my baby while she was on the field but, it was a no go!! They were horrible so, we have to settle for the only one I got, sniff sniff!! Needless to say the half time performance was the most exciting part of the night. Our mighty Tigers fell to Round Rock McNeil 35 - 6! Oh well, there is always next week. Go Tigers.

Go LBMS Band!! WHEW!!

Brackston and The star of our show

Run Away Hamster

2008-09-03T04:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, so many of you know that we (our kids) have hamsters. One for each of them! Brittanie got hers first (for her birthday)and her name is Belle. Kyle and Brackston got theirs at the same time, given to us by a friend who was having to get rid of them due to putting their house on the market. The boys hamsters names are Jesse, and Jordan (affectionately known as vicious). Well for the third time now Jesse has gotten to run loose around the house. The first time was much like this time and Brackston (who keeps a very close eye on his and Kyles) looked and looked and looked for Jesse and says "Mom, Jesse is not in her cage again!" Oh, not again!!! The first time was incredibly traumatic for Kyle and Brackston. We blamed Brackston for opening the cage and we cried and had no clue what to do. Belle is our first hamster and she has never even tried to get out. Anyway, after panicking for quite awhile, BK and Bryan finally got then bright idea to leave the cage open because they said she might come back for food. Smart thinking!!!! About five hours after discovering that she was missing Brackston was watching a movie in his room and he comes running in to me and says "Mom I got a surprise, come here!" I quickly went into the boys room and Jesse was in her cage getting some food. Poor Jesse her freedom was taken in an instant. Basically, the same thing happened again last night. When we got home Brackston was checking in on the hamsters and Jesse was M.I.A. again!!! Dang, Jesse!!!! Stay in your cage!!!! We have got to find a way to lock that thing!! Oh well, I guess that is my next mission, finding some way to secure my little Gramsters!!!! LOL

Missing You

2008-09-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

Today I remember one of the most important men in my life, my Dad! My Dad passed away over 8 years ago. Today we would have celebrated his 53rd birthday. On days like today I wonder how my life would be different if he were still here with us. I know that I would laugh much more because of his incredible humor and wonderfully infectious laugh. I remember just sitting there and watching him laugh and laughing right along with him because his laughter was so amazingly funny. The last movie that we got to see together was American Pie and this is the last memory I have of times like that. He always knew how to lighten the mood and was definitely the life of the party. I also know that Daddy would be proud of Me and my babies. He was an incredible PaPa and now he would just love my third bundle of energy (who often reminds me of his PaPa). I loved him with every ounce of me and admired his hard work and dedication to our family. I have lots of wonderful memories of my Dad but one of the fondest is my dance with him at my wedding. As we danced around the floor he told me how much he loved me, how proud he was of me and how he and Momma would always be here for me. I remember that moment like it was yesterday. We danced to a wonderful song that always makes me think of Daddy when I hear it so, I added it to my blog today for you to enjoy in honor of my Dad. I love you and miss you Dad.

Amazing Love

2008-08-27T18:25:00.000-07:00

The love of my life

Have any of you had those days where you just feel so incredibly blessed to be happily married? Today, I feel just amazed by the love that I feel for my wonderfully caring, supportive, and may I add adorable husband! When I met this man over 6 years ago I had no idea what God had in store for us. After just getting out of a bad marriage and seriously doubting whether I even wanted to date again, much less get married again, I just couldn't have even dreamed this kind of love. I know I am getting kind of mushy but, his eyes melt me and that smile just brightens my day. His humor is timed just perfectly and his laughter is infectious. I love the touch of his hands, his strong embrace and sweet soul. I am just amazed and often feel undeserving of the second chance at love. What an amazing God we have that gives us second chances and the desire to love completely again. This is what God planned for man and woman. A marriage full of love, support and growth together. It is not an anniversary or even valentine's day but simply a day when I just feel blessed to be loved by such an incredible man. Thank you God for creating this love for me. I love you babe'!!

Officially a Big Boy

2008-08-25T18:41:00.000-07:00

Brackston sitting at his chair on the first day of kindergarten

My baby woke up this morning just rambling! LOL :-) The first thing out of his mouth was "I sleeped good all night Mom and now I am a Big Boy!" "I am going to Big Boy school today." "I am going to wear new clothes and I get to eat breakfast and tell my brother and sister how my day went!" As you can tell my baby's primary language is random. He was so excited today that he just couldn't stand it. I was pretty excited too. The morning went well, he got ready for school in a super fast record and was ready to walk out the door! He didn't want to wait for even the sun to rise. It was hysterical! I loved seeing his excitement. We walked to school today and he walked right up to his class but then, hid behind the wall to make his teacher look for him (always the little entertainer). When she peeked her head around looking for him, she said "Good Morning Brackston" and his face just lit up. He ran right to his seat and sat down ready to start the day. I stood there and took probably 20 pictures and kept saying "Ok, baby Mommy is going to leave now" (I know I said it at least 10 times). He looked so happy to be there, I just couldn't help but stay longer. Anyway, when I finally did leave I was about 15 steps from his classroom when the announcements came on and I wanted to see his reaction to his wonderfully animated principal's voice so, (yep you guessed it) I walked all the way back to his classroom to sneak a peek. They were reciting the pledge so, I stuck my camera around the corner and took another picture.

Brackston and his class reciting the pledge. (He is way in the back right!)

I know, I am a nut case!! I did finally leave and didn't cry not one bit. I was so proud!!! Go Mom!!!! The chaos came at the end of the day! I have signed him up for after school daycare (that picks him up from school) so on the days I work he will have somewhere to go. This is also the Pre-K that he went to so, he is familiar with them and they are familiar with him (too many changes are not good for him or for me.) I really wanted to pick him up for school on his first day but, I thought it was more important for him to get used to his routine so, I chose to go ahead and let him go to after school daycare. At 2:45 (when he got out of school) I looked at the clock and thought, oh my baby finished his first day..(sniff, sniff)! I hope everything goes smoothly with him getting on the daycare bus for the first time. Well at about 3:15, I get a phone call from my emergency contact (one of my best friends) that says "Oh, did the school get in touch with you?" I said "....Uh....no...why?" She said "Brackston didn't get on the bus today and he is still at school!" "AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH...ARE YOU SERIOUS?" I freaked. I got off the phone with her and immediately called the school. After no one answered I called the daycare and they said "No, I think he got on the bus, the school did call us and confirmed that he was suppose to be on the bus. His bus has not gotten here yet but I believe he is on there." When I got off the phone with the daycare I finally got the message from the school on my phone (you gotta love technology...can't live with it, can't live without it) that said "Mrs. Washburn this is ..... at Miller Heights Elementary...we are calling in regards to Brackston's transportation after school. We were told that he was suppose to be on the bus for Belton Education Station but we do not have anything from you in writing (UHHH...WRONG!!). That bus has already been here and left so, we need someone to come get Brackston. Are you kidding me?? My 5 year old missed the bus and now has been sitting at the school since 2:45 (it is now 3:25!) and has no idea where his Mommy is on the first day of kindergarten!!!! I could scream!!! I tried the school again and still no answer. So, I prayed and paced and waited about 10 minutes and called the daycare again to see if his bus had gotten there and if he was on it. I about wet my pants with excitement when they picked up the phone and confirmed that my poor baby was there safe and sound. I can't believe it....I was crazy with knots in my stomach but, super glad that he was ok! After working in the school system and knowing what the end of the first day of school looks like for the poor staff at these schools, I felt for them. Can you imagine being responsible that all those little bodies get in the right lines, the right bus and the right cars. It amazing that they all get through it. Anyway, after picking him up and him describing his day to me, it sounded like it went well and he is ready for another day tomorrow. Hopefully with a little less excitement. When praying tonight, he prayed for his family as always naming us off one by one and then says "And dear Lord...I want to thank you for letting me go to Miller Heights today....and that's all I have to say..In Jesus name, amen." Is that the sweetest thing or what? How adorable, and what a blessing. He does a Momma proud!!!

Brackston age 5 First Day of Kindergarten at Miller Heights Elementary

Cutest Kindergartener Ever

2008-08-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

Brackston with his Kindergarten teacher Ms. Rackley

Look at that adorable face. Tonight was meet the teacher night and my little man was super excited!! He played shy (which we all know is like crazy) for a slight second but, then he warmed up! He was a bit overwhelmed by all the girls in his class. When we were there all the other students that were there were all girls. He was so funny!! His reaction was super cute. He told his teacher "What are all these girls doing in here, I don't know any girls." It was hysterical!! His teacher laughed and I found that to be the best time to inform her that he might possibly be the entertainer of the group. She laughed and said I think that is great, every class needs one. So, maybe she will be a good teacher and will appreciate his humor and quirkiness!!! Let's pray that she is incredibly patient and is good with loving my baby boy!! I will keep you updated and will report back. We start school officially on Monday so, I will send more photos then.

Fun with family

2008-08-10T22:46:00.000-07:00

Our family spent the last few days with my family in Hempstead. Wow, we had such a great time!! We very rarely get to go on a trip with all 5 of us. Bless his heart, Bryan is normally working hard for our family so, we normally have to go without him or we are without a couple of the kids or something. Not this time. Bryan took vacation and we all got to go as a family!! Yea!! What was the event you ask? We went for a family fish fry!!! Gotta love those! My cousin Jason and his sweet girlfriend Kim hosted a party in honor of my cousin Billy (a.k.a Buck to those of you that knew him when he was a little guy)! He is in the Army and home on leave from Alaska before leaving to join our forces in Iraq fighting for our country. I am so super proud of him. He has become an amazing man and I loved spending every second possible with him. I am blessed to have him as a cousin and lucky to call him a friend. These last few days were filled with lots of laughter!! I love getting together and reminissing! Here are a few pictures of the weekend! Billy leaves for Iraq in September so please, remember him in your prayers.

Billy Ray Kirkham proudly serving our country

My hubby Bryan with my cousin Billy

My cousin Jason, Me and my cousin Billy

My goofy cousins Billy and Jason

My beautiful baby girl with her baby cousin Madison (my cousin Jason's little girl)

Billy with all 3 of my babies, Kyle, Brackston and Brittanie

Kim and Me (Sorry about the photo, I left my make-up in Belton)

My cousin Jason and his adorable girlfriend Kim

They grow up too fast!!

2008-08-05T20:17:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to share today that babies grow up too fast!! Today, I registered my youngest of three for Kindergarten. I can not believe that he is already going to school. I always thought I would be extatic to send him off to school but, now that the time is here I am really kind of sad! He will be attending our neighborhood elementary school, Miller Heights! We all went today as a family to register him and he was beside himself. He wouldn't quit talking about it. He wanted to meet the Principal and see his class and wanted to know who his teacher was. It was so funny to see how excited he was. I think Bryan and I have enough anxiety for all of us. Brackston doesn't seem to have any fears! He is ready and counting down!! Earlier this week Bryan and I walked him down to the school to just see the outside and play around on the playground a little. He hasn't quit talking about going to big boy school since!!! We will go August the 21st for meet the teacher night and then my baby will start school officially August the 25th. I took a picture of Brack in front of the school today and I thought I would share so you guys could see how big my baby is getting!! We are really excited for this new phase in our lives but, I imagine that it will not pass without a few tears from his Mommy (sniff, sniff)!

The Proud NeNe

2008-08-01T21:30:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted in awhile. Things have just been crazy. I have so much to tell you guys but, today I have decided to focus on one of the true joys of my life, my nephew. Those of you that know me, know that I waited for what seems like forever to have a niece or nephew. I have only one brother and I didn't think he was ever going to marry and make me an aunt. Looking back I am very glad that he waited for just the right one. I am blessed with an amazing sister-in-law who is beautiful, hysterical and an incredible wife to my brother and mother to my adorable nephew. My sweet David Austin is growing so fast. He is 1 year and 5 months old. That almost kills me to say that, I can't believe he is so big. Anyway, he has started talking and my brother downloaded a video on youtube that I thought I would share with my new blog friends. Have fun watching this quick video of my baby! Talk to you soon.

Clean Choppers

2008-07-24T19:47:00.000-07:00

Holy cow, I can't believe that I am getting ready to admit this to Blog and everybody but I went to the dentist today for the first time in 3 years!! Terrible, I know!!!! Let me explain. I have never gone this long without going to the dentist. For pete's sake all I was going for was a simple cleaning. I have gone all of my life very regularly and never (Praise God) had a problem, not even a cavity in 32 years. So the reason behind the prolonged visit was crazy! Here it goes....the dentist that have been going to since I can remember (at least 25 years) retired and turned over his business to his son. Now you must understand, it is not like this came as a shock to me. I was aware that it was coming and he had actually been preparing for Paul to take over like 6 years prior but, when the actual announcement came in the mail it is like I completely shutdown and decided that I was not going back for awhile!!! I know, I am retarded!!! I have absolutely nothing against Paul its just that his Dad was such a sweet heart and always told me I had perfect teeth. Anyway, it was time to make an appointment for my 3 kids for their dentist appointment (with another dentist) and I started feeling incredibly guilty because I hadn't been in what I thought was only 2 years. So the same day I called for my kids' appointment I decided I should bite the bullet and call for one of my own. Much to my surprise, they were closed for the week!!! Yea, I was off the hook!!! I listened to their recording and it said they would be back on Tues. the 22nd. So, I decided I would call back then....well maybe. Tuesday came and I was dreading the call but I somehow siked myself up to make it. Are you kidding me they didn't answer so, I did the responsible thing and left a message with my name and number asking for an appointment and a return phone call. Well Tues. came and went with no return phone call. What do these people want from me, to come to their office begging for a teeth cleaning?? I don't think so, I am not nearly that desperate for it. When I woke up yesterday, I knew that I had to call and try this one last time. Bite the bullet girl, pick up the phone and say "yes, my name is Jeniece Washburn and I need to make an appointment for a cleaning please." Yes, Ma' am, I am aware that it has been awhile since I have been in. I am also aware that it will probably be awhile before you can fit me in but I wanted to go ahead and get in your first available cleaning with Laura (my favorite hygentist). You see normally they schedule at least 3 months in advance. She paused for a moment and said "actually Mrs. Washburn Laura had a cancellation and we can get you in tomorrow morning at 9, would that be convenient for you?" Holy Cow.......I thought I would at least have some time to prepare myself. Well, I put a smile on my face and said Wow that is wonderful I will gladly take that appointment!! AAAAHHHH!!! I got up this morning and brushed like I had never brushed before fearful of the prognosis! I suffered through a groosomely long cleaning and my mouth hurt before Laura was even finished. When she completed the cleaning I said, "Oh my gosh my mouth hurts" and she said "well honey it will because we just did 6 cleanings in one. It was Sept. 2005 when you were last in." How embarrased was I? I felt like a MAJOR reject. Anyway, as if I hadn't bared enough I had to wait to see the new dentist, Paul! Although I have known him most of my life, I was still nervous what he might say because his Dad always said my teeth were perfect. He finally came in and said "I haven't seen you in awhile, how are you?" I said "well I will be better when my mouth stops hurting." He just laughed and said "Let's have a look." He was quiet for a couple of seconds and said "ok well, which ever end of the toothbrush you are using turn it over and use the other end." Huh???? I didn't get that statement at all and I guess by the look on my face the hygentist knew that I didn't get it (this in a horrible dentist joke). She started laughing and Paul said "you my dear have perfect teeth!" Yea!!!! How exciting! Needless to say I left there in pain but very excited to have been diagnosed with healthy teeth and they felt great!!!! I did find out that I got extremely lucky because with the exception of today's appointment they were scheduled out until February of 2009!! Amazing!!! You will all be proud to know that I did make my next appointment!! Yea Me!!!!

Incredibly Out of Shape

2008-07-22T19:14:00.000-07:00

In the last couple of days I have realized how truly out of shape that I am!! Yesterday, I spent the day helping a great friend move. You know how you are told to lift with your legs to keep from hurting your back? Well does anyone care about my poor legs??? Hello?!!! I could barely even move today when I woke up. My legs were crazy sore. How ridiculous, huh? It seems crazy for someone of my age to be so out of shape. So just to you know stretch out my legs I opted to go on a walk this morning for 40 minutes. After I got back they didn't hurt nearly as bad but they were majorly pulsating!!! Retarded!!! I am going to give it my best shot to continue walking! I think that it made me feel better throughout the day. You gotta love aging and not taking care of yourself in the process. I am going to do my best to be on my way to a fabulous new me!!! Before you know it, I will be SMOKIN'!!! Wish me luck!!!!

Welcome Back Beautiful

2008-07-20T21:34:00.000-07:00

Today was exciting because my baby girl came back from her mission trip!!! She had what she calls an amazing experience!!!! I was so excited! When I asked her to tell me of her experience the first thing she told me was how touching the appreciation shown by the recipients of the wheelchair ramps. She said one specific one rolled up his ramp with tears in his eyes and she just lost it. You know I love how amazing God is! His grace and love is so amazing. Today in church our associate pastor said something that really stuck with me. He said that most of the Bible is written in stories and that is no accident. Our lives are lived by stories and a story that my baby experienced this last week showed her what is was like to be an angel in someone else's world and represent God's love to them. I am so grateful that she had the opportunity and that God worked in her. I pray that she will be the young lady that God would have her be and that she seeks him with every breath that she takes and every decision she makes. All of this was also a reminder to me that I need to be a better steward of what Christ has given me in my life. My wish for all of you is that if God gives you a mission that you joyfully fulfill it in His love so that you may share His love with someone else.

Deep Thoughts

2008-07-19T20:11:00.000-07:00

Have you ever just wanted to change everything about your life? I have really been praying about all the decisions that I need to make to make my home a better place to be. There are so many things going on in my brain that I can't even straighten it all out. I just wish I had someone here to make all my decisions for me and it would be much easier. See the problem is I know what it is that I want in my life and the way that I need to go about it but, there is someone in the way that I can't avoid. The dreaded ex!!! He is not going to make all these changes easy because a lot of these changes involve my two oldest kids which are his as well. Unfortunately, I make all the changes that I want to make without him cooperating! This may all end up in a mess before we are all finished. I am thinking, well I know that the only thing that I can do is pray about it because that is the only way that I will feel OK about the decisions that are being made. Being deep in thought hurts my head!!! Anybody else feel that way? Oh well, life goes on and I am sure that there are lots more hard decisions down the road!

Grocery Store Greatness and a well behaved child to boot !!!!

2008-07-18T15:46:00.000-07:00

Today was my first trip back to the grocery store on our new budget and boy was I scared. I was sitting here planning 3 meals a day for 5 people and was very nervous about whether it was even possible to feed that many people that much on our food budget. For the first time in well ever, I shopped extremely frugal and bought almost all generic brand products with the exception of a few things that were specifically named in some of my new recipes. I wrote every single thing down that I needed to buy before I left home. Then when I put that item in my basket I wrote down the price beside it. I stood there in Walmart (like a MAJOR dork) and calculated what I had spent. I initially got the wrong amount and almost started to freak-out but I decided I would try again and luckily the second time I got a MUCH better total. I even thought that it was too good to be true so (third times a charm) I tried it again and much to my amazement I came up with the same amount that I did the second time around. I was still leery so I didn't really believe it until I got to the register and the checker said.......that will be $88.22 please! What?!!!!!!! I can't believe this, seriously I just bought groceries to feed 5 people 3X's a day and it only cost us $88!!! I am super excited!!! May be this whole cooking at home thing really will work because there is no way that our family would be able to eat out even twice for that dollar amount. Hooray for planning, the dork accomplished a huge feat!!!!!! :-) As if this wasn't enough to make me smile all day (maybe even tomorrow), I left there to go pick up the little man. This week has been fantastic for him!! Mon, Tue and Wed he had fabulous days! Thursday we had a little attitude with our teacher so we weren't so fortunate that day. Hoping to end the week well I walked in this afternoon and he was on track (this is a good thing!)!!! Yea!! I can't believe it, do you know how long it has been since he has almost gone an entire week without getting in trouble......................NEVER!!!! I am so glad that God touched my heart and said you my child need a change in your life and here is what you and I together are going to accomplish! How incredibly blessed I feel today to have a God full of grace and family and friends encouraging me.

Welcome To The Family

2008-07-17T15:20:00.000-07:00

Hi y'all!! I am really excited to be a part of the blogging world! I have many friends that I am excited to join that will hopefully pull me through this new experience. We are in the midst of making alot of changes in our household. I am trying with the encouragement of friends and just for the sake of sanity trying to be a better Mom, Wife and Child of God. Just to catch you up on our life we are previously a family that runs, runs, and then runs some more. I rarely get my responsibilities at home taken care of first and ashamidly admit that I very rarely cook at home. I guess with that discription it isn't hard to guess that I am not in the best shape of my life and also not the healthiest I have ever been. After spending a few days with a beloved friend who I admire, I was inspired to be a better Me. I realized how incredibly blessed I truly am but that I was not doing God's work in my home. After soaking up just what I need in my life I came back home ready to conquer my home as I knew it. Boy are my kids in for a shock!!! My three kids were with my Mom for her week in the summer while this was all going on by the way. I had about a day and a half to get my plan together before my kids came home and luckily my hubby came home ready to help me make the changes. He was really pumped that I was so gung-ho about making this place less chaotic! One of the first changes I wanted to make was to start cooking at home mostly rather than going out (both to for health reasons and to save money)! We are also changing our discipline tactics (especially with our youngest). I am also trying to do what I feel like I should have been doing all along which is take care of my family to the best of my ability. My God is BIG and can help me do anything!!! I have been praying like nobody's business and it is working. I have woken up every morning (since my apiphany if you will) with the motivation and yearning to do my best that day for the blessings God gave me! Things are going very well and our little monster is even behaving better. PRAISE GOD!!! I truly believe that is due to consistency in discipline, a better diet and obviously the power of prayer.
Talk to you soon