Playing a special game with her Paw Paw...
Psalm 63:5 "You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy."
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Championship Week
Reading the subject, one might ask, "What championship do you speak of? The playoffs haven't even started in the NFL yet." Well, this championship is much, much more important. It is the championship of the Nac Attack fantasy football league. The Nac Attack league consists of friends from college (SFA) and we are going on our 7th year. It is a "dynasty" league meaning that we keep players from year to year and the focus is on building a young and talented team that will be good for several years. While I was dominant in our league early on, I have fallen off the last couple of years. But, this year... this year things are finally back to normal.
I am in the championship this week against Nathan Holman. And it is a true, clash of the titans...
I am in the championship this week against Nathan Holman. And it is a true, clash of the titans...
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Now this is a deal!
Ok, so I have been seeing on several people's blogs recently this great deal from Shutterfly . It's helpful to keep up with friend's blogs. :) I love cards, invites, you name it from this site. It's great! They are so creative and fun. You can receive all types of styles and find the perfect gift or way to preserve your memories year to year.
They are giving away 50 free cards . Best deal yet!! Especially at a time when we are buying gifts, candies, and the list goes on and on. I even bought my cards early, but this deal is way better. :) I love all the designs and the creativity the add to make your cards, calendar, or announcements that much better. :)
I love the design Merry Blossom which gives a homy and warm Christmas greeting for your Christmas Cards.
Check out this deal and don't miss out. :)
Now having our sweet girl, utilizing the Calendars , creative Photo Gifts, and birthday or Christmas cards will be well worth it to you. I promise.
Especially if you have a little one you are wanting to show off and how beautiful they are. :) I know that is a huge incentive for me. :)
Make this year special and send out cards. Blog about this deal and then you can enjoy cards to make this time of year that much more special. :) I know you will be happy you did.... I know I am! ;)
They are giving away 50 free cards . Best deal yet!! Especially at a time when we are buying gifts, candies, and the list goes on and on. I even bought my cards early, but this deal is way better. :) I love all the designs and the creativity the add to make your cards, calendar, or announcements that much better. :)
I love the design Merry Blossom which gives a homy and warm Christmas greeting for your Christmas Cards.
Check out this deal and don't miss out. :)
Now having our sweet girl, utilizing the Calendars , creative Photo Gifts, and birthday or Christmas cards will be well worth it to you. I promise.
Especially if you have a little one you are wanting to show off and how beautiful they are. :) I know that is a huge incentive for me. :)
Make this year special and send out cards. Blog about this deal and then you can enjoy cards to make this time of year that much more special. :) I know you will be happy you did.... I know I am! ;)
Monday, November 15, 2010
Creation
A few weeks ago Tim and I went to Enchanted Rock. Of course as we pull up there was a line of cars as usual(for us short due to us leaving early and getting there at a good time :)) We were laughing at how so many people are so excited to wake up early on a Saturday morning, drive 1 1/2 hrs just to climb a big rock. hee! Doesn't sound overly fabulous to some, but it is. :) It got me thinking about the past few places we ahve been to for fun family outings. Bull Creek Trail, Greenbelt trail off mopac and 360, playgrounds (due to the fabulous weather), and now Enchanted Rock.
What do all these things have in common....God's creation. Think about it, we pay thousands of dollars to go to Hawaii, why? God's creation. The weather is beautiful year round, the ocean breath taking, Diamond Head energizing, the sea turtules fun, and the sky at night reveals just a glimpse of the beauty of God. I have been to Hawaii and besides going to see my sister and her family, I went to enjoy the beauty of God's creation.
When you see how breath taking nature alone is, God just becomes bigger, better, and more beautiful than I can imagine. As beautiful and mighty God's creation is, God is so much more than that. God is in control of the waves and the birds and takes care of them, I am reminded of how much more God is taking care of his people. "Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, you I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive i the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!" (Luke 12:27,28)
What a loving, beautiful God we serve. I am so thankful to know this amazing God. He loves us so much. So, so much. He does wants you to know and experience his love and wants you to know how much he delights and rejoices over, "The Lord your God is in your mist, a might one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exalt over you with loud singing." Zephaniah 3:17,18
What do all these things have in common....God's creation. Think about it, we pay thousands of dollars to go to Hawaii, why? God's creation. The weather is beautiful year round, the ocean breath taking, Diamond Head energizing, the sea turtules fun, and the sky at night reveals just a glimpse of the beauty of God. I have been to Hawaii and besides going to see my sister and her family, I went to enjoy the beauty of God's creation.
When you see how breath taking nature alone is, God just becomes bigger, better, and more beautiful than I can imagine. As beautiful and mighty God's creation is, God is so much more than that. God is in control of the waves and the birds and takes care of them, I am reminded of how much more God is taking care of his people. "Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, you I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive i the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!" (Luke 12:27,28)
What a loving, beautiful God we serve. I am so thankful to know this amazing God. He loves us so much. So, so much. He does wants you to know and experience his love and wants you to know how much he delights and rejoices over, "The Lord your God is in your mist, a might one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exalt over you with loud singing." Zephaniah 3:17,18
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Horse Races
We embarked on a new family adventure.... the horse track. Tim has been going to horse tracks here and there since we lived in Dallas. He did such a great job sharing with us how everything works and we were impressed. :)
Neela enjoyed running around, seeing the goats, sheep,and rabbits in the front and watching the horses. They did have kid friendly activities like face painting and balloon animals which looked really fun.
Neela enjoying the livestock when we first walked in. She was so excited. The kids were allowed to touch the animals, but I didn't let Neela.... they were a little dirty. :)
Neela watching very closely...
Fun memories
Neela enjoyed running around, seeing the goats, sheep,and rabbits in the front and watching the horses. They did have kid friendly activities like face painting and balloon animals which looked really fun.
Neela enjoying the livestock when we first walked in. She was so excited. The kids were allowed to touch the animals, but I didn't let Neela.... they were a little dirty. :)
Neela watching very closely...
Fun memories
17 Months
On October 12th, Neela is officially 17 months old. I can't believe it. I can't believe just a year ago she was barely rolling over, trying out puree food, nursing, and not mobile! This girl has truly stolen my heart and has forever changed my life.
Since she turned a year old, it's been so fun to see her personality develop, and does she have personality! :) She definitely has a soft, gentle, cuddly, girlie side... but she also has a spunky, goofy, want my way or else side! :) All in one little sweet package. She is such a talker and a singer now. She is great at repeating words we say and jsut gets so excited when she says it. She carefully watches our mouth as we say the word and then says it! Amazing! What a quick learner. :) Her favorite songs right now are "Row Row Row your Boat", "The horn on the bus goes BEEP BEEP BEEP", and "ABC". "ABC" she knows the melody and a few letters, she sings BEEP BEEP BEEP, alot, and loves singing "row row row".
Discipline has been a change. I an still reading Sheperding a Child's Heart. Totally have not been consistent lately, but this keeps me accountable to do so. :) She is definitely learning the work "NO". She does not say it as much as we do. We say "No Maam". She does stop sometimes, but there are times when she tests us. So we have started using a wooden spoon and gently hit her on the hand or arm. (the first time I definitely hit her sweet little hand too hard and felt horrible!!) She now sees the spoon when we say "no" and usually immediately stops. I am learning how to parent and discipline her so she does not fear me or does not follow out of fear but out of obedience. I am not completely sure what this looks like, but I know God is leading me in this area. I am so desperate for Him to lead me and as he leads and disciplines me as I disobey and is so gently in leading me back to Him I desire to do the same with Neela. As I write this I can think of daily times I am just too tired and don't lead Neela well. I desperately need God's guidance and wisdom in parenting. I am loving every step of the way.
Tim is so cute, sometimes he comes to me very serious and wants to discuss our strategies and the example we are to Neela. He takes it very serious and loves Neela all the more. He is such a great Dad. He is more knowledge in some areas of parenting than I am. I love that he desires for Neela to know who God, to fall in love with Him daily, to find refuge in Him alone, and know how precious and beautiful she is.
All this to say, I love Neela. I love the gift of children and parenting. It's stretches me in more ways I thought possible, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. God is sweetly drawing me to rely on Him and to dwell on His promises that He is my strength when I am weak. As I seek wisdom, He will give it to me.
Happy 17th month Birthday Baby Girl! Daddy and Mommy love you!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Dad's 60/ Captain Jones Celebration
We had a fun celebration a few weekends back. My Dad turned 60 years old this year. Crazy I know! Also, my older sister Shubhra is in the army and is now a Captain in the army. That's crazy too!
The evening started with honoring my sister Shubhra. She has worked really hard and make alot of sacrifices to be where she is. She has been away from her family, off to trainings and even to Iraq for 15 months. HUGE sacrifices. We are so thankful the Lord protected her and guided her through these last few years.
We are so proud of her and love her so much!
Later in the evening we celebrated my Dad's 60th birthday. What a fun time to reflect on his life and all his accomplishments.
We love you Dad!
The evening started with chatting away and catching up with one another, then eating yummy burgers by Tim, army trivia game, Dad's life trivia game, and then ended with dances from the nieces and nephews.
What a fun time!
The cook of the evening.
Fun gift idea, everyone signed a picture frame of Shubhra and Dad. It turned out great.
Captain Jones
Our dual snacks.
Birthday Boy and his lady. (My dad and mom)
The kids doing a dance they put together as a tribute to Dad and Shubhra. So cute. Brings back memories because my cousins and I used to do this when we were young.
The guys.
The ladies.
The evening started with honoring my sister Shubhra. She has worked really hard and make alot of sacrifices to be where she is. She has been away from her family, off to trainings and even to Iraq for 15 months. HUGE sacrifices. We are so thankful the Lord protected her and guided her through these last few years.
We are so proud of her and love her so much!
Later in the evening we celebrated my Dad's 60th birthday. What a fun time to reflect on his life and all his accomplishments.
We love you Dad!
The evening started with chatting away and catching up with one another, then eating yummy burgers by Tim, army trivia game, Dad's life trivia game, and then ended with dances from the nieces and nephews.
What a fun time!
The cook of the evening.
Fun gift idea, everyone signed a picture frame of Shubhra and Dad. It turned out great.
Captain Jones
Our dual snacks.
Birthday Boy and his lady. (My dad and mom)
The kids doing a dance they put together as a tribute to Dad and Shubhra. So cute. Brings back memories because my cousins and I used to do this when we were young.
The guys.
The ladies.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
4 years
Tim and I have been married for 4 years. Wow, so much have we experience in four years.
- We have lived in 3 different cities (Nacogdoches, Dallas, and now Austin)
- Tim completed DTS (Dallas Theological Seminary)
- I have had four jobs
- Tim has started his own business
- we had our first child
- Started a church (North Village Church)
- Paid off our car
- Have a new car (mini van... a post coming soon :))
- Do ministry in our apt complex
- Traveled to Seattle, Virginia, India, Disneyworld-Florida, and Las Vegas
- Met Kirk Cameron
- Have gone to 20+ Dallas Maverick games
- Been to a Cowboys game
- 2 Dallas Cowboy training camps
.... and so much more!
So thankful for a husband who desires to know God more daily and glorifies God. Amazing father who Neela adores. Yay!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you.
So I am totally wasting timet tonight on facebook. I ran across this note I did on facebook 2 years ago and enjoying reflecting back. It's one of those "random facts" list about yourself.
Here is the list from 2 years ago:
1. I have been married for 2 ½ years to a loving, gentle, fun lovin man that I simply adore!
2. I am currently 7 months pregnant with a baby girl. We can’t wait! My due date is May 11th.
3. Tim and I are helping start a church with Hill Country Bible church in Austin. We are moving to Austin in May after he graduates from Dallas Theological Seminary.
4. I have this weird fear that if I go to sleep with mascara on that my eye lashes will fall out. Weird I know. I know this can’t happen, but in the back of my mind…
5. I suck at grammar. I have a smart husband that helps me out by proofreading everything I write. (except this )
6. I am currently a kindergarten teacher and love it! I enjoy their innocence, curiosity about the baby, the 100’s of hugs and “I love you” everyday, and seeing their minds full of delight when they are learning new concepts.
7. I love to read, but usually end up falling asleep if it’s at night.
8. I am obsessed with Gilmore Girls. I know people think it’s a weird show, but I love their quick wittiness.
9. I take joy in sending cards, but I don’t do it as often as I would like. I miss the date or get preoccupied with dumb things.
10. I have never been snow skiing and really would like to go someday. But I do love vacations in warm, sunny climates
11. On our honeymoon, I was swallowed several times by a current and had trouble getting out of it. It was scary and hilarious all at the same time. At dinner that night, a guy walked up to our table and said, “I just want to congratulate you for surviving that wave on the beach today! My friends and I were laughing.” I was super embarrassed.
12. I crave, especially now that I am pregnant, Big Macs from MacDonald’s. I know it’s one of the worst foods I can eat, but it sure is yummy. I could probably eat a Big Mac once a week if I didn’t know how bad they are for my health.
13. I love spending 1 on 1 time with girls and just talking and living life together.
14. I have an older sister, Shubhra, who is a First Lieutenant in the Army.
15. I have a younger, Sameer, who is in a band called Flyleaf.
16. One of my favorite books is “Save Kind of Different as Me” by Ron Hall
17. I really enjoy cooking and trying new recipes or simple recipes from friends, but I have put that on the back burner since I have been pregnant. I am dead tired after a day with my energetic kindergarteners.
18. I guess I am a pretty predictable gal because my husband can complete my sentences or he knows what I will say or how I will respond when he says something. I get a kick out of it!
19. Tim and I said our own wedding vows, and in my vows I committed to support the Dallas Cowboys because this is a huge passion of Tim’s. This showed Tim I was serious about supporting him and being committed to him. Hee! Hee!
20. I am obsessed with music. It does not have to be anything particular, I just love to move and groove. I wake up in the morning and the first thing I do is turn the radio on, I get in the car it’s the first thing I do, when I’m getting ready for bed or cleaning our place I have music playing. It truly is an obsession!!
21. My favorite vacation is when Tim and I went to Seattle. We spent a week downtown checking out the sights and being intentional about talking about our marriage, praying together, and just being flat out goofy! My favorite day is when we rented a car and drove to Mount Rainer. Breath-taking! We spent the day hiking and enjoying God’s creation.
22. My number one passion in life is to know God, be obedient to His leading, and my life to reflect His glory.
23. My car is a 1996 Geo Prism and it has 311,000 miles on it! And it’s still going strong with no problems! Thank God!!
24. My favorite book of the bible is Ephesians.
25. I hope you enjoyed a few random facts about me!!
Here is the list from 2 years ago:
1. I have been married for 2 ½ years to a loving, gentle, fun lovin man that I simply adore!
2. I am currently 7 months pregnant with a baby girl. We can’t wait! My due date is May 11th.
3. Tim and I are helping start a church with Hill Country Bible church in Austin. We are moving to Austin in May after he graduates from Dallas Theological Seminary.
4. I have this weird fear that if I go to sleep with mascara on that my eye lashes will fall out. Weird I know. I know this can’t happen, but in the back of my mind…
5. I suck at grammar. I have a smart husband that helps me out by proofreading everything I write. (except this )
6. I am currently a kindergarten teacher and love it! I enjoy their innocence, curiosity about the baby, the 100’s of hugs and “I love you” everyday, and seeing their minds full of delight when they are learning new concepts.
7. I love to read, but usually end up falling asleep if it’s at night.
8. I am obsessed with Gilmore Girls. I know people think it’s a weird show, but I love their quick wittiness.
9. I take joy in sending cards, but I don’t do it as often as I would like. I miss the date or get preoccupied with dumb things.
10. I have never been snow skiing and really would like to go someday. But I do love vacations in warm, sunny climates
11. On our honeymoon, I was swallowed several times by a current and had trouble getting out of it. It was scary and hilarious all at the same time. At dinner that night, a guy walked up to our table and said, “I just want to congratulate you for surviving that wave on the beach today! My friends and I were laughing.” I was super embarrassed.
12. I crave, especially now that I am pregnant, Big Macs from MacDonald’s. I know it’s one of the worst foods I can eat, but it sure is yummy. I could probably eat a Big Mac once a week if I didn’t know how bad they are for my health.
13. I love spending 1 on 1 time with girls and just talking and living life together.
14. I have an older sister, Shubhra, who is a First Lieutenant in the Army.
15. I have a younger, Sameer, who is in a band called Flyleaf.
16. One of my favorite books is “Save Kind of Different as Me” by Ron Hall
17. I really enjoy cooking and trying new recipes or simple recipes from friends, but I have put that on the back burner since I have been pregnant. I am dead tired after a day with my energetic kindergarteners.
18. I guess I am a pretty predictable gal because my husband can complete my sentences or he knows what I will say or how I will respond when he says something. I get a kick out of it!
19. Tim and I said our own wedding vows, and in my vows I committed to support the Dallas Cowboys because this is a huge passion of Tim’s. This showed Tim I was serious about supporting him and being committed to him. Hee! Hee!
20. I am obsessed with music. It does not have to be anything particular, I just love to move and groove. I wake up in the morning and the first thing I do is turn the radio on, I get in the car it’s the first thing I do, when I’m getting ready for bed or cleaning our place I have music playing. It truly is an obsession!!
21. My favorite vacation is when Tim and I went to Seattle. We spent a week downtown checking out the sights and being intentional about talking about our marriage, praying together, and just being flat out goofy! My favorite day is when we rented a car and drove to Mount Rainer. Breath-taking! We spent the day hiking and enjoying God’s creation.
22. My number one passion in life is to know God, be obedient to His leading, and my life to reflect His glory.
23. My car is a 1996 Geo Prism and it has 311,000 miles on it! And it’s still going strong with no problems! Thank God!!
24. My favorite book of the bible is Ephesians.
25. I hope you enjoyed a few random facts about me!!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Hidden Wives by Claire Avery
This is a book I read a few weeks ago. It was such a great book. It was so interesting to learn more about fundamental mormons. It's fiction but backed on a true story. I was shocked by so much. Totally recommend it!
Below is the summary on this book.
Fifteen-year-old Sara and her beautiful sister, Rachel, are too young to legally drive a car—but are approaching spinsterhood in Utah’s secret polygamist Blood of the Lamb community. Having long since reached the “age of preparedness,” they will soon be married off to much older men chosen by the hidden sect’s revered Prophet.
As Sara, chosen to become her uncle’s fifth wife, grows more distraught over her impending incestuous marriage, she begins to scrutinize the faith she has followed blindly her entire life. But for Rachel, who will be married to one of the many powerful community leaders vying for her hand, disobeying the Prophet means eternal damnation. Her friendship with the newest member of the community, the young and handsome Luke, starts as an attempt to save his agnostic soul, but ends with the pair falling helplessly in love. When Rachel is forbidden to see him, her absolute faith in the Prophet is severely tested.
When Rachel’s future husband is finally announced, violence erupts, and the girls must find the strength to escape the only life they have ever know…before it’s too late.
Claire Avery has woven a stunning tale that could be ripped from today’s headlines. Shocking and empowering, Hidden Wives is a page-turning debut that will stay with the reader.
Below is the summary on this book.
Fifteen-year-old Sara and her beautiful sister, Rachel, are too young to legally drive a car—but are approaching spinsterhood in Utah’s secret polygamist Blood of the Lamb community. Having long since reached the “age of preparedness,” they will soon be married off to much older men chosen by the hidden sect’s revered Prophet.
As Sara, chosen to become her uncle’s fifth wife, grows more distraught over her impending incestuous marriage, she begins to scrutinize the faith she has followed blindly her entire life. But for Rachel, who will be married to one of the many powerful community leaders vying for her hand, disobeying the Prophet means eternal damnation. Her friendship with the newest member of the community, the young and handsome Luke, starts as an attempt to save his agnostic soul, but ends with the pair falling helplessly in love. When Rachel is forbidden to see him, her absolute faith in the Prophet is severely tested.
When Rachel’s future husband is finally announced, violence erupts, and the girls must find the strength to escape the only life they have ever know…before it’s too late.
Claire Avery has woven a stunning tale that could be ripped from today’s headlines. Shocking and empowering, Hidden Wives is a page-turning debut that will stay with the reader.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
4 Years Baby!
Tim and I have been married for 4 years. Wow, so much have we experience in four years.
- We have lived in 3 different cities (Nacogdoches, Dallas, and now Austin)
- Tim completed DTS (Dallas Theological Seminary)
- I have had four jobs
- Tim has started his own business
- we had our first child
- Started a church (North Village Church)
- Paid off our car
- Have a new car (mini van... a post coming soon :))
- Do ministry in our apt complex
- Traveled to Seattle, Virginia, India, Disneyworld-Florida, and Las Vegas
- Met Kirk Cameron
- Have gone to 20+ Dallas Maverick games
- Been to a Cowboys game
- 2 Dallas Cowboy training camps
.... and so much more!
So thankful for a husband who desires to know God more daily and glorifies God. Amazing father who Neela adores. Yay!
Dallas Cowboys Training Camp 2010
Birdwell Family Tradition: Dallas Cowboys Training Camp
I love that Tim loves the Cowboys. I knew it from day one. This has never been a surprise to me. It's been fun for this to be an important bonding activity we do in our marriage. So to honor this commit I made in my vows, we have made it a family tradition to go to the Cowboys Training Camp every year. (well, if it is in driving distance. If not, then we will try to work it into our family vacation that year :))
We took Neela when she was almost 3 months old and now as a 1 year old. She definitely enjoyed it more this year. :)
It was hilarious, 3 people approached us and asked us if they could take a picture of Neela because they thought she looked/is so cute. It was so cute because Neela would kind of pose saying, "Yeah you're right, I am cute." :)
Neela following in her Daddy's steps.
We stayed at the La Mansion off the River walk. (The same hotel we stayed at after our wedding) It was so fun! Neela loved walking out our room to the balcony and walking around.
Pool time at our hotel.
Can't wait till next year!
I love that Tim loves the Cowboys. I knew it from day one. This has never been a surprise to me. It's been fun for this to be an important bonding activity we do in our marriage. So to honor this commit I made in my vows, we have made it a family tradition to go to the Cowboys Training Camp every year. (well, if it is in driving distance. If not, then we will try to work it into our family vacation that year :))
We took Neela when she was almost 3 months old and now as a 1 year old. She definitely enjoyed it more this year. :)
It was hilarious, 3 people approached us and asked us if they could take a picture of Neela because they thought she looked/is so cute. It was so cute because Neela would kind of pose saying, "Yeah you're right, I am cute." :)
Neela following in her Daddy's steps.
We stayed at the La Mansion off the River walk. (The same hotel we stayed at after our wedding) It was so fun! Neela loved walking out our room to the balcony and walking around.
Pool time at our hotel.
Can't wait till next year!
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Virginia Trip
At the beginning of July two of my really close college friends, Lisa and Diana, and I went to go visit our close friend Faith in Virginia. She has lived in Virgina almost 2 yrs now and we had yet to visit her, so we took a trip. We had a great time of touring Charlottesville, Virginia, hiking, wine tasting at the vineyards, and touring Washington. All in all, a good trip. :)
It was my first time to be away from Neela for 5 days! It was really hard, but good for me in the end. I was able to let loose a little, spend quality time with friends, and get a little extra reading in. :) But I was definitely ready to be back home with my little girl and my man.
Virginia is full of beautiful vineyards! We went wine tasting to 3 different vineyards. It was so fun! Of course Faith, the preggo girl, was unable to participate. :) We did wine tasting at Jefferson's vineyard, Dave Matthew's vineyard, and a really nice place that served their wine like this:
We had a fun hike at the Shenandoah National Park. It was so beautiful! We were attempting to hike to a waterfall, but it turns out the waterfall went dry. :( but we had a great workout!
See all the beauty behind me!
As beautiful as Virginia is, Texas still has bigger desserts. :)
The last day we toured Washington and stayed the night there. I am not a huge history buff, but I really enjoyed all the history found in Washington. It makes me proud to be an American. :)
Here are a few pics:
It was my first time to be away from Neela for 5 days! It was really hard, but good for me in the end. I was able to let loose a little, spend quality time with friends, and get a little extra reading in. :) But I was definitely ready to be back home with my little girl and my man.
Virginia is full of beautiful vineyards! We went wine tasting to 3 different vineyards. It was so fun! Of course Faith, the preggo girl, was unable to participate. :) We did wine tasting at Jefferson's vineyard, Dave Matthew's vineyard, and a really nice place that served their wine like this:
We had a fun hike at the Shenandoah National Park. It was so beautiful! We were attempting to hike to a waterfall, but it turns out the waterfall went dry. :( but we had a great workout!
See all the beauty behind me!
As beautiful as Virginia is, Texas still has bigger desserts. :)
The last day we toured Washington and stayed the night there. I am not a huge history buff, but I really enjoyed all the history found in Washington. It makes me proud to be an American. :)
Here are a few pics:
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Welcome Home
Below is a blog from a Wive's Tips blog on tips about loving your husbands.
Enjoy!
Welcome Home
Filed under: acts of service — The Generous Wife
Make your husband's transition from work to home as peaceful and nice as possible. Maybe take a little time to tidy up the living room or put on a fresh blouse. Give your kids a little bit of attention, so that they don't rush dad the minute he walks in the door. Turn off the TV and put on some soft music. Do whatever will make you and your home a welcome respite after a long day at work.
A prudent wife is from the Lord. Proverbs 19:14b NAS
(prudence: cautious practical wisdom; good judgement; careful forethought; discretion)
Be generous! Lori
Enjoy!
Welcome Home
Filed under: acts of service — The Generous Wife
Make your husband's transition from work to home as peaceful and nice as possible. Maybe take a little time to tidy up the living room or put on a fresh blouse. Give your kids a little bit of attention, so that they don't rush dad the minute he walks in the door. Turn off the TV and put on some soft music. Do whatever will make you and your home a welcome respite after a long day at work.
A prudent wife is from the Lord. Proverbs 19:14b NAS
(prudence: cautious practical wisdom; good judgement; careful forethought; discretion)
Be generous! Lori
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
2010 4th of July
It's funny how your life changes SO much when you have a baby. I know I say this often but it is so true.
We had a very laid back 4th celebration this year.
We went to church, came home and took naps, I went an laid out by the pool for an hour, ate dinner, and by this time Neela was sleepy for bedtime so we did our nightly routine and she was off to bed. This meant no fireworks.
So Tim and I compromised by vegging in front of the tv and watched the entire movie of Braveheart. No fireworks this year, but maybe next year. :)
FREEDOM! :)
Neela lookin super cute in her 4ht of July outfit. :)
Happy 4th of July!
We had a very laid back 4th celebration this year.
We went to church, came home and took naps, I went an laid out by the pool for an hour, ate dinner, and by this time Neela was sleepy for bedtime so we did our nightly routine and she was off to bed. This meant no fireworks.
So Tim and I compromised by vegging in front of the tv and watched the entire movie of Braveheart. No fireworks this year, but maybe next year. :)
FREEDOM! :)
Neela lookin super cute in her 4ht of July outfit. :)
Happy 4th of July!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Tim's Birthday!
July 9th was Tim's birthday!! We had such a good time celebrating his life and all the awesomeness that he is. :) We had dinner at Gloria's Restaurant at the Domain.
Family picture for the night!
Tim had a good time with his close friends and partying it up! :)
Our friends Marshall and Shannon and fam came from Sugarland to visit and came with us to celebrate. We have had the privelege of seeing them twice this summer! We always have such a blast with these folks and wish they lived closer. :)
Shannon and I had a few bonding moments this night. :)
Neela found a friend in Noah. (Marshall and Shannon's little boy)
Family picture for the night!
Tim had a good time with his close friends and partying it up! :)
Our friends Marshall and Shannon and fam came from Sugarland to visit and came with us to celebrate. We have had the privelege of seeing them twice this summer! We always have such a blast with these folks and wish they lived closer. :)
Shannon and I had a few bonding moments this night. :)
Neela found a friend in Noah. (Marshall and Shannon's little boy)
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Happy Birthday Mom!!
My mother celebrated her 60th birthday on July 5th. What a sweet, fab mother I have. I am so thankful for the example she is to me of being a mother.
I was just talking to Tim the other day about my childhood. Don't get me wrong, my parents are not perfect, but they did try to be Godly, loving parents and I am so thankful. I remember coming home from school daily and my mom always had a snack out for us on the table. I'm not talking about just chips from a bag or something pre-packaged. I'm talkin about rice krispy treats, or full sandwiches, a fruit or veggie tray, etc. We did not go hungry in our home. :) And the cool part was, we were always welcome to invite any and as many friends over as we wanted. My parents loved having people over, letting them stay as long as they wanted, and eating as much as they wanted.:)
Also, we had bible study/prayer time as a family. I was not a big fan of it as a kid because it would be late or I would just be tire or just not interested, but God was working. I was shown so much scripture. And we sang hymns that to this day when I hear "Old Rugged Cross", "What a friend we have in Jesus" or I'll fly away" I am always taken back to this time.
Thanks for being a fab mom! love you!
I was just talking to Tim the other day about my childhood. Don't get me wrong, my parents are not perfect, but they did try to be Godly, loving parents and I am so thankful. I remember coming home from school daily and my mom always had a snack out for us on the table. I'm not talking about just chips from a bag or something pre-packaged. I'm talkin about rice krispy treats, or full sandwiches, a fruit or veggie tray, etc. We did not go hungry in our home. :) And the cool part was, we were always welcome to invite any and as many friends over as we wanted. My parents loved having people over, letting them stay as long as they wanted, and eating as much as they wanted.:)
Also, we had bible study/prayer time as a family. I was not a big fan of it as a kid because it would be late or I would just be tire or just not interested, but God was working. I was shown so much scripture. And we sang hymns that to this day when I hear "Old Rugged Cross", "What a friend we have in Jesus" or I'll fly away" I am always taken back to this time.
Thanks for being a fab mom! love you!
Lazy...
Ok, so I have totally been just plain lazy at blogging these last few months. I have a few blogs that are half written from April! I need to get on those and complete them. :)
Just wanted to write this to keep myself accountable. :)
Hope everyone is having a fab night.
Just a verse I am currently meditating on:
"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22,23
Wow, I am just reminded and filled with joy as I think about this verse. I am thankful knowing my Savior who's love is SO GREAT and his compassion never fails in good, hard, or lazy times. :) He is sweetly drawing me to know Him more and giving me a love for others in my life. Sweet Lord knows what I need.
Night to all!
Just wanted to write this to keep myself accountable. :)
Hope everyone is having a fab night.
Just a verse I am currently meditating on:
"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Lamentations 3:22,23
Wow, I am just reminded and filled with joy as I think about this verse. I am thankful knowing my Savior who's love is SO GREAT and his compassion never fails in good, hard, or lazy times. :) He is sweetly drawing me to know Him more and giving me a love for others in my life. Sweet Lord knows what I need.
Night to all!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Psalm 8
Psalm 8
1 O LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
above the heavens.
2 From the lips of children and infants
you have ordained praise [b]
because of your enemies,
to silence the foe and the avenger.
3 When I consider your heavens,
the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars,
which you have set in place,
4 what is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
5 You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings [c]
and crowned him with glory and honor.
6 You made him ruler over the works of your hands;
you put everything under his feet:
7 all flocks and herds,
and the beasts of the field,
8 the birds of the air,
and the fish of the sea,
all that swim the paths of the seas.
9 O LORD, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
Friday, July 16, 2010
Neela's 1st Flyleaf concert
In April, Neela had her first (outside my tummy) Flyleaf concert experience. She loved it! Well, we brought her into the arena and it was so loud we stayed for a few seconds and then pushed the stroller right back out. :) Oh but she loved it. As soon as she heard the music she started dancing and enjoying herself. My parents were so kind to watch Neela outside the arena so we could enjoy the rest of the concert.
We had a blast. We had fun enjoying Flyleaf's new songs and jamin out with all our friends sitting around us.
Flyleaf on stage.
Sibling pic.
Neela's first experience of "chillin" on the tour bus. She enjoyed herself for sure. She played all over Sameer Mamu and wanted to explore everything.
Neela with Sameer Mamu.
Neela with Lacy.
We brought our friends Mickael and Franck. They had a blast.... I think. I know they really enjoyed hanging out on the tour bus and chatting up a storm with Sameer.
Flyleaf jamin out!
The whole gang!
We had a blast. We had fun enjoying Flyleaf's new songs and jamin out with all our friends sitting around us.
Flyleaf on stage.
Sibling pic.
Neela's first experience of "chillin" on the tour bus. She enjoyed herself for sure. She played all over Sameer Mamu and wanted to explore everything.
Neela with Sameer Mamu.
Neela with Lacy.
We brought our friends Mickael and Franck. They had a blast.... I think. I know they really enjoyed hanging out on the tour bus and chatting up a storm with Sameer.
Flyleaf jamin out!
The whole gang!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Neela's 1st yr video
Tim, being the fabulous father and hubby that he is, he made this special video for Neela's for her 1st birthday. It's a collection of pictures and videos of her 1st year of life. It is so cute and holds special memories for our family.
Sit back and enjoy.
Sit back and enjoy.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Neela's 1st Birthday Bash!
Neela's invitation for her 1st birthday party!
Neela being busy at her party. :)
The cake Chad, my brother in-law, made for Neela alone. :) She felt so special. ;0
Neela eating her cake. Funny story... She really didn't know what to do when the cake was placed in front of her. She touched the cake very gently and was feeling it, but did not make a dent. So I pushed her fingers a little into the cake, she licked her fingers, and it was over from there. :)
She ate mostly icing, but loved it. We reaped the benefits of that later that night at 3am with a hyper baby jumping on our bed and then threw up icing. :) She has yet to have that much sugar, but it was so fun for her and us. A memorable day.
Here is another picture of the freakin amazing cake my brother in-law Chad made for Neela. What a memorable cake for her 1st birthday. I have his contact info if anyone would like to use his talents for a future event!
I made 13 frames for each month of Neela's life to see how she much she grew each month. They turned out pretty darn cute! :) (13 because I made one for the day she was born)
A few more...
The proud parents
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