Greetings from Krystal's

My post won't be long, but is informative..I love coming home..I have mentioned that before, but I do not like that my parent's still do not have the Internet..they have a laptop, but no Internet..I think and hope that will change very soon, but for now, I am sitting in the car on the Krystal Wi-Fi free Internet access! Yes..folks I am..and I feel that people are looking at me...am I that dependent on the world wide web??? Humm..crazy huh?!? Well, that is why this isn't going to be long..and I must go, since I didn't charge the battery..and well, there is no plug in the car! Baaahaaa..hope everyone is having a great week!

December 23, 2008

Well, as I sit here typing, we are in Huntsville, spent the night at Kenny's mom's old house and his brother did too. We had a blast night, playing UNO until 3 in the morning..yes..3 in the morning..I am so tired this morning, but Brylee has returned from staying with Reba and she is in full force this morning. I can only imagine what tomorrow will be like. Growing up as a child, Christmas is filled with so many memories. In fact, I watched a couple from 1989 and 1992 the other night. Times have sure changed! I don't know that change is always a good or positive thing, but things happen, people change and I know that God is in full control of it all and nothing surprises Him..He is not surprised at where we are, who we are or what we have become. It snowed that year on Christmas and boy, was I excited, I had a Maw-Maw with me..who is no longer, I had cousins I no longer see, I was way skinnier than I am now, life seemed really good. things happen for whatever reason, life is not certain, and my weight is def. not a certanity..;) But, now I have a wonderful husband, beautiful daughter, new cousins were born, am truly happy and couldn't think of a thing to ask for Christmas! Could it be any better? True happiness is a beautiful thing and when we recognize it and claim it, our lives are at peace..and isn't that what the whole Christmas season is about? A birth of a Savior who came for you and me and will ultimately bring us PEACE? I hope you all have a Merry Christmas and recognize your true blessings for what they really are!

Just Wondering

Just wondering if they could possibly show these movies anymore this holiday break??
Seriously, there are SO many other great movies that could be airing, but everytime we sit down, these two are playing? Just wondering!?!

Yummy Treat

Just wanted to share a SUPER easy treat you might you could use around the holidays...My friend Christie told me about these and they are soooo good..All you do is take ham, and pat it dry (makes it easier to spread the next ingredient), pineapple cream cheese...roll those babies up and cut them for a delicious treat!

Blog/Christmas Break

I have so much I could blog about, but feel that this time is the time of the year where we should focus on the Reason for the Season, Our Lord and Savior's birth, family and friends and focus on the new year and how we can serve HIM and be strong in HIM...so to say that..IF I have something fantastic to blog about or actually have a free moment that is not taking away from anyone I love, I will pop back in, but if I don't, please forgive me and try to understand! HA



From the Hill Family to yours, We hope you all have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! I love all my blog friends and I look forward to what we can discuss during, after and about the holidays!!!

Peace and Love,
Brooke

~Poison Control...Is Your Friend~

I know, 2 posts in one day! I must be A.) bored out of my mind or B.) have a ton going on....Hummm...you be the judge...

I thought I had posted before about poison control...but can't seem to find it..wait..wait..had a thought..yep here is a blog from Jan. 13, 2007..it was on my myspace blog...

This "almost 2 year old" is going to be the death of me! She has been sick, so I kept her out of school from Wed. afternoon through Friday, so 2 1/2 days of just me and her! Kenny had an away ballgame on Thursday, so that made for a really long day! The 1st day was okay, b/c she didn't feel well, so we pretty much had a peaceful day of just lounging...well, believe me, she has came alive!!! She learned a new trick at the playground today from some strange little kid who decided he was going to be Brylee's boss..by telling her "NO NO" pointing his finger while doing it...when we got home this afternoon, she thought she would give it a whirl,,her whirl, needless to say, ended up in time-out in a chair! She is amazing...about 2 months ago, I had to call poison control b/c she had chewed a hole through a hydrocortizone tube..has anyone ever called them??? Well, they take your name, address, number and child's name and bday..tell you all is fine, and call back to check on you later...but the whole "record of my call" scares the heck out of me...b/c what if I needed them again? Now, I am the bad mother who can't keep track of her child's dietary intake! So, anyway, all in these 3 days, brylee has dumped a whole box of cheerios out, climbed up on the dining room table and attempted to swing from the chandelier (sp), dumped every single toy out she owns, unfolded clothes I folded, will not eat anything but JUNK, still sleeps with us (which is really our fault), and to top it off..here's the best part: While she was quietly in her room, I had let her have an old purse to play with...and she managed to find one of those "Silica Gel...DO NOT EAT" packets..and you guessed it...she was chomping away like it was candy! I immediately panicked, and went to the Internet first before I dialed that dreaded 1-800- YOU-R-A-BAD-PARENT...poison control number...and everything I found said it is just highly baked sand..and the reason it says that is b/c of the choking hazard...so I took a breath and reminded kenny that we need to watch her better. But, she is so dang fast and into EVERYTHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope we are hitting the terrible 2's early and will leave them just as quickly!

Ok..fast forward to today..that was 2 calls I have had to make..and tonight made 3...yes, people I had to call my sweet little lady and ask about medicine overdose..b/c stupid me gave her motrin for her fever at 3 and again at 7..and if you read it, the bottle clearly says every 6-8 hours..but she informed me ever so sweetly, that you actually could take it every 4 hours..it could just be harsh on the stomach is why they tell you 6 hours. She was so sweet and I am sure she will call me back soon!

Seriously people, do you think my name and number has an asterisk by it??? Something that means next time she calls, turn her in? Anyways..glad to know I didn't overdose her..and if you read all of the calls..it's when Kenny isn't here..at a ballgame..so I think he needs to quit, and be the "Mom" in our lives! I am stinkin at it!

Just another Saturday

Hi Friends!

Not too much going on around here today..just cleaning, washing clothes and monitoring Brylee's temperature..she began about Wednesday with a cough..nothing serious just a little cough, so I gave her some cough meds...and yes again, we welcomed demon child Brylee into our home..something about it just wires her up to a whole different level..I have several special education diagnosis I could give her during that time, but won't...it literally transforms her and she becomes defiant. At school yesterday, I was told that she told the teacher no several times, hit another student and just simply wouldn't listen..Trust me, Brylee has her days, but this is totally out of character for her and they know what the day will be when she is on meds. Last night, she decided to "play baton" with the broom and knocked the fryer with COOL oil in it off...thank God it was cool, but cleaning up oil in any fashion is a pure mess! After cleaning, we are all still sliding into things. It is funny, but I have seriously almost pulled a muscle a few times. Also last night, I was watching the 20/20 on Caylee Anthony (I hope they find out what happened to her and who is responsible)...and lo and behold a remote came flying and hit me in the head...when I looked over at Brylee and asked her what in the world was she thinking, she said " I not want it"...
?????
I am definitely puzzled, what, just because you don't want it, you throw it at me???She said sorry, and layed down and called it a night! This morning, I noticed she felt a little warm..so we took her temperature and it was 101. Not much, but a fever..she seems fine, is playing and running..coughing a good bit, but seems okay..I am just going to continue to watch it and see how the night goes..Hopefully she will get much better and not need a visit to the doctor Monday.

Kenny is finishing up his last night at the Andalusia tournament tonight..3rd night..I know they are all tired and ready to rest (whether they will ever admit it or not).

We are planning on doing a "Tacky Christmas Sweater" contest at school on Wednesday. It should be very exciting since we are teachers, and you know teachers have one for every day in December! LOL...any ideas on how we can judge for the prize..b/c principal approval pending, there will be a prize..just not sure how to judge..I am sure it will be close!

Also, wanted to ask for prayers for my cousin's girlfriend's mother. She has battled cancer several years and had surgery this week. While in surgery, she had a heart attack and still has not woke up. Today, she had a stroke. So, I know the family would appreciate any and all prayers..her name is Donna Chestnut...when you pray!
~Blessings to you all!
Brooke

Brylee..our Little Singer!

Last night was a wonderful night at church..Brylee's 3 year old Petite Praise class sang during family fellowship supper. They were all so excited and Brylee insisted to us that she would be singing "Let's go riding in an automobile, Let's take a ride in the car, Listen to the music go Boom Boom Boom as we travel near and far". Baaaahaaa..she is a pure mess. I was super worried she didn't know the songs because I haven't heard her practice any, but she did know the words and did not stand like a knot on the log. The pastor had bets on the music minister's son that he would not sing, but he proved them wrong. All of the kids were super cute! When Bro. Billy saw me not eating, he asked me why? I told him I was popping pepto because I was nervous for Brylee. Seriously, I think I had eaten something that had me messed up! But, I have always had a case of the nerves before things..so who knows!? Here are a few pics of Brylee singing, and her WONDERFUL choir leaders...









Afterwards, they had a cookie and hot chocolate party..it was very sweet of them to do it and the kids just loved it! I was afraid of it all being cancelled due to the MONSOON and storms that kept coming yesterday. Our kids at school stayed in the hallway for about 30 minutes yesterday and the high school stayed in central locations all day. I knew yesterday when I was awaken by an orange sky that the day would be different..i thought maybe I was just losing my mind and wanted to go get a camera, but it was in the car. So thankfully, my friend Natasha did capture it and I wanted to share her pic with you...

Did anyone else see it? It was def. strange and I think Natasha's son described like " Being On Mars"...I totally agree with him! The weather is so scary around here since we did have the tornado the first year we were here, and 9 lives were tragically lost. Around here, the wind blows, or thunder sounds and we all get a little edgy. Rightfully so! We know that God is in total control though and He will take care of us.

Oh, Oh, I almost forgot to mention...Brylee received a special call last night after her performance..it was SANTA CLAUS!!! He was calling to check on her and see if she was being good and find out what she wanted..aka(Uncle Jim Beam)..he called and wanted to know if it would scare her..and I said Oh goodness no..might scare her into being good! LOL..so she talked to him..here are a few pics of her special call..


Our weekend begins tomorrow..thankfully so! I am ready to rest so that we can knock out next week and be out until January! One of the things I love about teaching is the breaks we get..it gives me the extra boost I need to make it through the year. I do get sad for some students because I realize their situations and how their Christmas may not be what most kids are, but you know, they are generally so happy and in such great spirits throughout the season. I had a group of students write letters to a "Recovering Soldier" in Walter Reed Hospital..in hopes that they will pass them out randomly to let them know we are thinking about them and praying for them during this time. The students were great at this! Some of the letters were hilarious, and some were just plain sweet and thoughtful! One student let her soldier know that "Mrs. Hill is doing fine" LOL..I think she thought it was a friend of mine..so I guess that patient will be like "Who is Mrs. Hill", but I hope he gets a good kick out of it! I love ALL the students I work with..they are so great and make my job so worthwhile and fulfilling!!! Gotta run!

Happy 13 Years to US!!!

I know what you are thinking..what? They haven't been married 13 years! I was in their wedding, I went to their wedding, SHE isn't old enough to be married 13 years. Well folks, it is not a wedding anniversary, it is the first night Kenny and I talked on the phone, which is when I consider we started dating. It was December 8th, 1995. Wow, it just seemed really weird to type 1995...and in less than a month we will be typing 2009! Time truly flies when you are having fun! In those years, we have been through so much..at first, our parents weren't too crazy about the idea of us dating for obvious reasons, and then things happened, my grandmother died, Kenny went off to college, we moved to the mountain when my dad's plant shut down, and my parents began to see Kenny for who he was and not so much for skin color. All of this was in a 2 1/2 year time span. Not over night people! I think people are raised certain ways and see no different in their perfect world until something comes up and makes them deal with it head on. After researching the Bible on it and realizing for many years they had believed just wrong doctorine, they accepted him and began to weed out their true friends and family. And beleive me, there are still some who believe our relationship is just wrong, and have absolutely nothing to do with us accept speak if they see us..and that is okay! Seriously, I have always said, just don't push your beliefs on me and I will not push mine on you. I understand that some people can't get past it and never will..do I still love them? ABSOLUTELY!!! I do and always will! IF they needed me for any reason, I am there! and I hope they know that! Our relationship has brought many changes to my family. After being in a church for my whole life, a church my own grandpa started (he has been retired from there many years), daddy a deacon, SS teacher, VBS leader, Mom was treasurer, organ player, grew up singing and loved it with every ounce of our souls, but when mine and Kenny's relationship came about, well, let's just say they were none-too-accepting. And that is okay! Their reasons I will never understand, but it was time for our family to move on. My immediate family were the only ones of our family still left. Not knowing where we were going, or what we would do without the strong hold of the ONLY church we had EVER known. But, when my daddy resigned, we knew that God had a plan for our lives and that He was the one "who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine" Eph. 3:20, we as a family held on. And let me tell you HE has!! and HE continues!! My family found their church home and have been active since joining...Daddy is now a deacon there, AWANA leader, Brylee was dedicated there and they are learning and growing so much in Him! Kenny and I both went to college, got our degrees, moved to Daphne, worked in schools and he coached, purchased our first house, had our first baby, Brylee, and moved to Atlanta and now we are here! We have family we adore so much and are blessed to have in our lives..and the ones that choose not to participate b/c of that, well, they are just missing out on a lovely time! And we couldn't be any more happy than we are and where we are in our life. Sure we have had our ups and downs, our struggles and trials and I know we wouldn't be where we are now without the mighty hand of God in our lives. He was and continues to be our Savior and our Hope in the life we live. I know that we both have grown closer to Him and learn to trust Him for the daily things we sometimes take for granted. Our church, church family, friends and family are huge parts in our lives and WE are here still together 13 years later, and are enjoying a "MOMENT IN THE LIFE OF A HILL"...I leave you with a few pictures of our earlier days..please note..that IS me in the pictures!!! Some I have blonde hair, some I have long curly hair, some I have straight brown hair...and most I am several pounds lighter! LOL..and the one with the blue dress is not our wedding..it was my senior prom! :)







Blessings to you all,

Brooke

1st December Post

Well, this is my first December post..I mentioned last post about the "Elf on the Shelf", while I think this is a great idea..and we will start it next year, I think Brylee is a little too young to fully "get" the idea..but I have to share a few stories from school. We have several Elf's floating around..and even some students have their own..(and they have them there, which is against the rules, b/c you can't touch them) that's the part Brylee won't get...but I have one student who has been on his ABSOLUTE best behavior..he thinks the Elf's eyes are following him..and today, a crow came out of nowhere and sat on the window sill..the class believes the Elf sent him to check on them..in a kindergarten class, the Elf is sitting on the behavior chart watching it! It is so hilarious! What will we do to make them behave when he flies back for the year? We headed out to the Christmas tree lighting ceremony for Enterprise tonight..wasn't too cold if it wasn't for the wind..our children's choir from church sang..which is Kindergarten and up...(Brylee's class is the Petite Praise..and they will sing next Wed. for Fellowship Supper)...but she begged me to sing tonight..I of course told her she couldn't b/c it wasn't her group. Ms. Annette (our children's director) asked Brylee if she wanted to come sing..and she said yes..well, this is what she looked like...

So, needless to say, she lasted about 5 minutes and came running to me. And sat in my lap for the rest of the ceremony. It should be interesting to see how she acts next Wed. Santa came in this year on a horse drawn carriage and Brylee got to sit in his lap for the first time this Christmas season. She of course froze up and wouldn't even talk to him..so I had to coach her along on her recent list she gave me which was a Spongebob Doll, Kitchen, Cow and Baby Doll. He thought he could handle the request. She kept her finger in her mouth the whole time....

At least there were no tears, screams or wails! I couldn't have handled that! Did you read today where they are taking the BRATZ dolls off of the shelves and they can't sell them anymore? If you don't know what they look like, here is a pic of some...
I can't say that I am complaining about it. I have never like them or promoted them to Brylee..they look so provocative and well, they are not the image I won't for my daughter or for the average girl. Apparently, the guy who designed them worked for Mattel when he came up with the idea and they are outselling Barbie..so they sued him and won. They are going to leave them up until after the holidays.I think that our girls today need to truly understand what beauty is and where it comes from and what is Christ centered beauty..not what the world thinks. Sure it is nice to be attractive and have wonderful outside beauty, but the true inner beauty is what makes a woman beautiful..and I desire to teach that to Brylee...so no hard feelings on our end towards the removal of the doll.

We also had the Christmas parade last Tuesday night..I just wanted to share a few pics from it..2 hours long..100 entries later..and the best part was towards the end..are you ready????



Yes..my friends..it is a porta potty..rolling down the street..I still haven't figured it out..it was definitely motorized..just not sure what the motor was apart of..and it even did wheelies! So, if you ever get the need to advertise your POT, I guess you should drive it down the road! Kelsey and Brylee had a blast watching and staying warm!


Okay..until something else Blog worthy happens..Just a Moment in the Life of a Hill!!

How was your Thanksgiving?

We are finally home sweet home..I say that bitter sweetly, as I love visiting home, especially for the holidays, but I also love to get home...to our home! I do hope that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with lots of turkey and love! We are so blessed and have such special friends and family to share it with. I don't know if anyone else is this way, but I tend to get stressed and experience an overwhelming amount of anxiety around the holidays, because I feel so rushed at times. Kenny and I have so many "spots" to hit and that is what I feel like we do, just "hit" them..Seriously, we really need a about 5 Thanksgiving Days and 5 Christmas' to spend with our family! I wouldn't be so stressed..and I would feel like we have been fair. I attribute much of it to the fact we don't live at home..we always try to see everyone, which just creates havoc. I do not mean to complain, and I know it sounds I am..we are so blessed and are so thankful for ALL of our family..and I sound ungrateful..please forgive me..if we didn't get to see you this time, because paths didn't cross, we will try our best next time! I know there are a few things I am going to make a point to do when I come home for Christmas..here are a few:

* Visit with my BFF Kerry and Sawyer (he's growing too fast)
* Have lunch with ISI Lisa (We say we are going to do this..and never do..it's on like a chicken bone next visit!)
Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. ~ Proverbs 27:17 Lisa is a dear friend of whom I thank God for bringing in my life..all the time..she is such a strong Christian and has so much wisdom to share..although we have not always agreed on everything..our disagreements are in love and out of respect for each other..does that make sense?? And you want to know the crazy thing..we have only met in person one time! Yep..one time..everything we do and say reflects each other..and we know we were born sisters at birth! LOL..seriously, we have so much in common..and share many of the same beliefs...I believe and know that God calls us to choose our friends wisely..(Proverbs 12:26), and she my friend is a woman after God's own heart who desires to do His will and serve Him in all she does..great friend! Sorry, side note, but in my thankfulness attitude lately, she is a top!

Ok..back to things to do...
*Eat some chicken salad from Unclaimed Baggage...
*Shop at the Bag for some great deals!
*Shop around the square..Hammer's in particular.

That's just a few things I hope to accomplish as I get back to the Boro! I was fortunate this visit to enjoy a fun-filled relaxing weekend with my momma...my daddy had to work..boohoo..got to see him for a bit, but just wasn't the same..my momma and us had a great time though..and she was a super, much needed break for Brylee..there is nothing that child can't do around her. Brylee also got to meet for the first time her new puppy, Flippy

and her new cousin Jaden (who is an absolute angel doll).

We enjoyed some basketball, chat with my good friend Leigh, and ate a Pikeville Burger..Yummy! Our Thanksgiving meal turned out wonderful as usual!

Thanks to Kenny's precious aunts..headed to Kenny's mom's on Saturday and back home today.


Brylee got to help cook with Reba..and made some very CHEESY eggs..poor thing..I took a bite and about choked..Reba made me some more that were a little less velveetaey! LOL

We are gearing up for the Christmas holiday..do you have any traditions you would like to share??? I have wanted to begin one with our family..and have several like decorating the tree..reminiscing over the ornaments..and talking about Jesus' birthday to Brylee...we go to Kenny's mom's for Christmas Eve, my parents for the morning, Kenny's aunts for a late breakfast and my grandparent's for the evening..it always a special time..and I remember growing up actually seeing snow on some Christmas' mornings..wonder if that will ever happen in Brylee's lifetime? Doubt it..at least not in south AL..I am buying the Elf on the Shelf..have you heard of this??? He is an elf who comes to your house in early December to report back to Santa how you are doing..neat things you can do with him..like he can get into things over night..etc...and he watches you until Christmas..love the idea..just wondering if I can get an Elf for all year long???? Will let you know how this goes..I am going to get him today..I think Brylee will like him when he shows up at our house..several teachers do it with their classes each year and it is a hoot! I also am getting my Great-Grandmother's nativity scene collection this year. It will be such an honor to display it and have it for Brylee to care for and watch Baby Jesus in the manger. Such a special time of year and I do not want to take one second for granted on teaching Brylee the important things in life..till my next time...just a moment in the life of a Hill!!!!

How to Stay SANE!

I received the following in an email from my partner in crime..Chrisite T...we keep eachother in check! LOL..she knew I needed this good laugh when she sent it..and I just had to post it..if I emailed it to you, sorry..read it again..I promise you will laugh again!

How to maintain A Healthy Level Of Insanity


1. At Lunch Time, Sit In Your Parked Car With Sunglasses on and point a Hair Dryer At Passing Cars. See If They Slow Down.

2. Page Yourself Over The Intercom. Don't Disguise Your Voice!

3. Every Time Someone Asks You To Do Something, ask If They Want Fries with that.

4. Put Decaf In The Coffee Maker For 3 Weeks . Once Everyone has Gotten Over Their Caffeine Addictions,
Switch to Espresso.

5. In the Memo Field Of All Your Checks, Write ' For Marijuana'

6. Skip down the hall Rather Than Walk and see how many looks you get.

7. Order a Diet Water whenever you go out to eat, with a serious face.

8. Specify That Your Drive-through Order Is 'To Go'.

9. Sing Along At The Opera.

10. Five Days In Advance, Tell Your Friends You Can't Attend Their Party Because You have a headache..

11. When The Money Comes Out The ATM, Scream 'I Won! I Won!'

12. When Leaving the Zoo, Start Running towards the Parking lot, Yelling 'Run For Your Lives! They're Loose!'

13. Tell Your Children Over Dinner, 'Due To The Economy, We Are Going To Have To Let One Of You Go.'

And The Final Way To Keep A Healthy Level Of Insanity

14.PICK UP A BOX OF CONDOMS AT THE PHARMACY, GO TO THE COUNTER AND ASK WHERE THE FITTING ROOM IS.

Songful Saturday

You know I have mentioned before how much we LOVE our church..and one of the best parts is our choir..they are on it and bless us each week. Yes, I used to be apart and have had some dear people ask me to get back in, but with Kenny's basketball season, it is hard for me to make practice, and I am one of those that if you are going to sing in it, you should make it to the practices, and I absolutely love sitting with Kenny during services....so maybe when Brylee is a little older I can get back into it, or if I can convince Kenny to join too :0)..here is a video for my Songful Saturday..The guy doing the solo is our new music minister Bro. Darin, his sweet wife is on the keyboard, and our Assistant Pastor is leading with his wife on the piano..they were the couple who were going to be Brylee's grandparents if my parents couldn't make it to grandparents day! Such SWEET people!!!!

Turkey Shirt, NKOTB, Christmas..kinda random :)

Brylee and I got creative Sunday evening..after a little inspiration from our friends Kristin and Kamryn..We made us a turkey shirt and she wore it to school today..she loved it! It turned out cute..and I think we will make a Christmas tree too! I remember having sweatshirts with the paint on them..and at one time, they were in style! probably as much as my New Kids on the Block jacket huh???
Seriously, do you know how much money I could get for that thing??? That was one of my most fave Christmas mornings! Too bad after the New Year when I returned to school..they weren't so cool anymore!

Got my Christmas cards in this week..and they are so cute! I will recommend my photographer/artist anytime! She is a full time teacher and does this on the side..pretty good, she is! Gotta run..got a FBA/BIP to prepare for tomorrow night! Have a good one ya'll!

Did manage to get a few shots of Brylee this morning after church..this is her Thanksgiving outfit from last year, but it still fits..so better believe we will be sporting it! It was cold this morning..which makes me smile..means Christmas is around the corner..just wanted to share these pics...Also, got to go to dinner with some girls from work the other night..we enjoyed a meal with a girl who worked with us for 2 years..she is getting married in January..I am keeping her book..;) Go me..well, I am keeping her metal frame that people will sketch their name in..neat I idea..if I can figure it out! She is beside me in the pic..and I work with the other sweet ladies! We had a hoot that night! Thanks Girls!

MIA

So sorry to my 2 blog readers who have let me know they miss me! LOL..I have to admit..my blogs will be hit and miss these days due to basketball starting..with Kenny practicing or playing everyday..my parental responsibilities have been stepped up. Doesn't leave much "puter" time as Brylee calls it. We had a pretty uneventful week..Monday we had a good family night of playing in the living room and 9th grade basketball. We went from the 9th grade game to a different gym for the 8th grade game. Brylee loved every minute of it and especially enjoyed seeing her favorite cheerleader Ryan..who took her backstage for a snack during half time..thanks Ryan! She loves you! On Tuesday, Kenny practiced and Brylee and I stayed in our PJ's all day! It was pure blissful! On Wednesday, I had to go to the dentist to get an unknown procedure completed..I say unknown, b/c when Kenny and I first moved here, I went to the dentist and had a cleaning. Yes, that was the last cleaning I had..I HATE THE DENTIST. I don't like the flossing, scraping, drill, drill sound, brushing, shots, and yes I don't even like the squeaky clean feeling afterwards. So I avoid the dentist at all accounts. When we went (back then) I remember him saying we'll have to watch that tooth..looks like a cavity trying to form. (My ticket to not go back unless I had to). Well, after 2 weeks of pain..I had to go on Wednesday..and was scared of the outcome..filling? crown? root canal????? And like a dummy I youtubed and watched a root canal..and from watching it, I was hoping that wasn't the "unknown". I even quit chewing on that side..and it got better..almost cancelled my appointment. I prayed before I went and had several friends pray..seriously..the dentist is one of my biggest fears..my kids at school were ragging me hard about it. So I got the strength and headed out the door..as I get there and sign in..I am really worried about the anxiety that will build up as I ususally have to wait to see them. I decided I need to pee..went into the bathroom..looked in the mirror and gave myself this whole spill about grow up Brooke..you are a big girl..put your big girl panties on and do this! I went to the waiting room and they called my name..humm..that was fast..long story short, the dentist was great and eased my fears..with a little happy gas to go along with it..I had broken off some of my previous filling and food was getting down in the tooth. He took that filling out and put a new filling in. I kept feeling it and he kept giving me shots. I think he gave a bout 15..no seriously he gave so many that I couldn't feel my tounge until 9 oclock that night. And the procedure was at 1...I survived..and felt calm the whole time..I know God gave that peace..I've joked about the happy gas having that effect..but honestly, there isn't enough gas in the tank to calm my fears!

Thursday and Friday were a bit more normal. On Tuesday night, we heard that a former stuedent of Kenny's from Daphne was missing..and we began to pray for her safe return. Unfortunately I hate to report, but she was found Friday evening murdered. Daphne is such a quaint place, and we truly loved living there. It breaks my heart to know that something that horrid could take place there..but it makes you realize it can and does happen everywhere. One of the most heartbreaking facts about it is that her parents were in the search team that found her. Her story can be found on www.wkrg.com and you can also leave the family comments and words of encouragement. I held Brylee a little closer Friday night as you can imagine!

Today..practice again..and then just relaxing the day away. Church tomorrow, and then it is Monday..hope you are all having a great weekend!

Pray for your Babies!!

My "Motivation for Moms's" quote for today goes with my Pray 7x7 button to the right. It is "Pray over your children while they are sleeping. With a heart like Hannah, give them over to God." One of my favorite blogs to read is Angie Smith's blog.And she had the suggestion of praying 7 times over your children a day. I began yesterday..and Brylee sat quiet and patient as I did. I was rushed this morning..and sadly didn't get to do the beginning ones..but will make up for it this afternoon...I challenge you to do the same for your children...prayer is so important and something they really need for us to do!

~Songful Saturdays~

Since Saturdays are usually a hard time to post..I thought I would do a "Songful Saturday"...just to share a few of my favorite songs that have got me through in life. For my first "Songful Saturday"...I chose this song a lady at my church used to sing many years at church...she had been through many things in her life and this song served as her testimony. I have often thought back to it and remembered later in years that, "God is the same in the valley as when we are on the mountains"

31 Years ago today, my sweet husband was birthed into this world! I have enjoyed the many stories his mother has told me throughout the years about Kenny and have enjoyed watching home videos of him growing up! We both grew up in the same town, but didn't know eachother until high school. Kenny and I had very different, but same lives growing up. I mean that in so many ways. He had parents who divorced, mine stayed together (which makes them different), but we both had parents who LOVED us more than life itself. Something that I see passed on as we raise our child together. Kenny was your all time athlete that was always the "cool" guy! Everyone loved him and even this morning..he recieved texts from guys from high school wishing him a Happy Birthday...I couldn't believe they remembered..but I guess he has that impression on some people! LOL Kenny had a friend write him the other day and told him what a good friend he considered him to be. Apparantely in college, the guy didn't have any money and Kenny offered to buy his books for him for that particular class. The guy was going through a tough time and he remembered that Kenny did that when his other "so called" friends never offered to even buy him something to eat. He thanked him for that and wanted him to know he still remembers it to this day and cherishes his friendship. Kenny has always been this way. Kenny has been the inspiration and rock of this family during hard times. He has a sense of humor that keeps Brylee and I going and ALWAYS on our toes!He continues to amaze me everyday with his love for the Lord and his love for his family. His students love him, his friends love him, his family loves him, his child loves him and his wife loves him! I think too often I take him for granted..and on this day wanted to give a place on my blog! We love you baby and HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

**Update..didn't get to finish this until Saturday..how did we celebrate you ask??? We had a wonderful dinner at McDonalds, and then rounded the evening out watching Madagascar 2 with Brylee! Another example of what a good father he is!

THANKFUL THURSDAY

I must give my friend Lisa props for me doing this..she did it today and said her friend "Brooke" does these and it inspired her, well, guess what, her friend Brooke has been slacking. And I was just realizing how much I have to be thankful for today. Thanks Lisa for reminding me of the importance of my blog!

1. I am so thankful to serve a risen Lord who is on the throne and who I know is going to take care of me and my family!

2. I am thankful that I realized today just how wrong I was about a situation. I am thankful God opened my eyes and allowed me to apologize to that person and let them know they owe me no apology! They answer to God, not to me or anyone else! Glad for my notes from a previous sermon that made me think about that!

3. I am thankful for my wonderful hubby who will have a birthday tomorrow! Expect a great post about him!

4. I am thankful for a healthy daughter! She is so amazing and brings SO much joy to our lives! I see parents who struggle everyday with children with disabilities and it just breaks me and makes me realize and thank the One who allows Brylee to be healthy!

5. I am thankful that my grandmother is still here today. It is her 75th birthday today and I am so thankful to have here in my life. I love to call and just chat with her..she is so funny..my aunt did a blog about her b/c of her birthday and it is also my Aunt's bday..go give her some love..anyways..she was talking about my grandmother pulling pranks..just a few minutes ago, I called to wish her happy birthday..she didn't answer..so I thought I would call and chat with my dad. I call his phone and she answers and acts like I called her! She is so silly!

6. I am thankful for 2 Christian,God loving, still married Parents!

7. I am thankful for my job and the children at it I love so much!

~WHAT ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR?~

MCK Miracle

In case you haven't followed this blog, it is in my sidebar for you to click..Proof that God is still in the miracle business!!!

Halloween Memories

While I am DEFINITELY glad Halloween has come and gone..I got to laughing while reading a friend's post about how she was embarrassed to give out tootsie rolls, (which would have been a favorite of mine). And how she didn't have many people come to her house..I think the reason is probably that not many trick-or-treat with strangers anymore, I know we are usually at a church function or go to people's house we know..but nonetheless, it reminded me of mine and Kenny's 1st Halloween in our house in Daphne. I had bought a bag of candy well ahead of time and could not find it for the life of me..so the doorbell started ringing..what was I going to do, I went into the garage to look for some ideas..and there they were staring me in the face..flavored juice popsicles, but they weren't frozen. We had went to Sam's and had a massive amount of them...so I started handing those babies out! And the kids went wild..I heard some as they were walking away, "Hey that house on the corner is giving out popsicles"...so that turned out to be a great idea. Just wanted to share that funny!

3 Costumes..and Halloween is Over!

Well, I have to say I am super glad that Halloween has come and gone..Brylee is not much on dressing up, doesn't like things on her face or head..and is a very indecisive child. Since we began talking about a costume, she wanted to be a butterfly (did NOT specify a color)..We were in Target and she fell in love with a Ladybug and a mermaid..well, the mermaid was a little showy and not very modest at all..something we are trying to teach her as we go, so I said are you sure about the ladybug, well, she put it on one time, didn't even get a pic of it..and it "hurt" her arms. I start searching for the perfect butterfly..and found it, well this is what Brylee thought of it...

Seriously, she said it itched her and she didn't want to wear it. I didn't want her to be uncomfortable in it, since she would spend the majority of the day in it, due to her school festival, so we headed to Walmart at about 9:30 Thursday night and the only one they had left that would fit her was a pirate princess..she wouldn't wear the hat at school, but did while she trick or treated. I have included a few pics from the day/night. She ended up going home to "hand out candy"..when a kid would come up, she would say, "What do you say"..then she would give them candy..too cute!

I want to say first of all, it has been a sad day in more ways than one, and a sad day for 2 dear families. While, it is sadness these two families are definitely feeling, it has to be a glorious day in Heaven as they welcomed 2 of it's most precious angels! Angel Talkington and Riley were both welcomed into Heaven's gates last night and today! Both of these sweet girls have been fighting a battle for their life in different ways for the majority of their lives. While I am sad to say I didn't know these girls as personal as some of my friends did, I feel like I have been apart of their fight as I have prayed for them when our mutual friends have called on Christians to pray for them as their conditions have worsened. Life as we know it is so sacred, precious and it is situations like these that make us stop and realize how much each day counts, how each moment counts and how NOTHING should be taken for granted. I can't help but smile as I think of how they are probably running and skipping with no breathing problems or physical ailments at all, as they run down the streets of gold..it almost gets you into shouting mode! How free and happy they must truly be! I can't imagine being in their families position right now, and I know there aren't any words that comfort in times like these, but I pray that they feel the Savior's arms wrapped around them and hugging them ever so close! I wanted to post two pics of these dear sweet girls who were full of so much life and were loved by so many people..and who touched people in ways that only showed Jesus' love in the truest sense..please join me praying for their families!

A Great Weekend with the Parents

Well, we enjoyed this weekend so much! My parents came down on Thursday and just left this afternoon..we all enjoy their company so much and always have good laughs and fun! On Thursday night..mom cooked and I think Kenny really enjoyed a good home cooked meal! Friday, Brylee was thoroughly excited that she did not have to wake up and go to school..she loves school, but would much rather stay with her Nenne and Poppa. We went out to eat on Friday night and then to where else??? Walmart!

It was so funny, I posted that on my Facebook..and our music minister's wife's parents were visiting too..and that was the same thing they did. I mean, what else is there to do here? Saturday began with yardsaling, CHOCOLATE gravy by my Diddy, and then we headed to the city Fall Festival. Crafts, food, games and music lined the streets of Etown. We had a ball! The weather was perfect and the entertainment was splendid. (We saw the music minister's family at the FF too!) Not much to do here if you can guess..LOL..They had a firetruck..which Brylee Loves..and I figured she would be so excited!!! NOT...SHE WAS SCARED!!! So, her Daddy got on it with her and she was okay then...



Poppa even got his chance on riding the Boll Weevil Choo-Choo..the owners go to our church, so we are very fond of the train. It is usually at all of our church events..so since Kenny and I have had the pleasure of riding it many times,we let Poppa in on the fun!

After the festival, we headed home for some college football, and for Momma's chili!!! YUMMY! Kenny and Daddy had several games they wanted to watch, so they took Brylee's tv out and put in in the Living room..we had 2 TV's going during the game..it was hilarious! After the first round of games, Poppa and I took Brylee to church across from our road to trunk or treat..she had a blast! Although, I don't think she is too impressed with her costume! LOL

After that, we headed home and ate chili and enjoyed the rest of the night together. Woke up Sunday and headed for an awesome service! The Lord just blessed us all and spoke to us through the Word! We ate at our fave spot and then headed home for mom and dad to pack..boo hoo! I decided while I had my Daddy here to carve a pumpkin..my first so I thought I might need his assitance..and if I must say so myself, I did a pretty good job! Here's a few shots...Kenny was in "Supervisor" Mode... LOL