White Christmas...

What are the chances on getting a White Christmas? Well, it happened this year...but, we were out of town! All we got is rain, rain, and more rain! So, basically we were at the wrong place at the wrong time. My Dad probably said it best. He used to say, "Knowing my luck...when my ship came in, I will probably be at the airport!" Well, that is kind of how I felt!

Well, I was wondering if there would be any snow left when we got home. I am proud to report we had a White Christmas too as you can see in the picture I have supplied.

I hope everyone had a great Christmas...and I wish you a Happy New Year!

Fortune Cookie...

Today I got Chinese take out for lunch. Don't tell Kelley! I am supposed to be saving money and not eat out as much during lunch. So, our little secret!!!

Well anyway, my Fortune Cookie read..."In silence man can most readily preserve his integrity."

Uh oh!

"She Did Great!"

Many of you know my Mom was to have surgery yesterday. Over the past week, my Mom had been so sick...and I am sure anxious on having her surgery. I would be also. To be honest, she really had doubts if she would be able to survive the surgery.

There were so many of you praying for her. I received phone calls, text messages, emails, and even notes on Facebook..."Praying for your Mom and family." That means so much for anyone going through an event like this.

For over two hours, our family visited in the waiting area when we were asked to meet with the doctor in a small conference room. We walked down a long hallway...in my mind thinking and praying for my Mom. As we sat down in the conference room, the door slowly opened and the doctor walked in..."She did great!", she said. EXHALE! What a relief. God is so good!

Now I am hearing she may be leaving the hospital today. Wow! Hard to believe. Thank you Lord...and thank you for those that kept her and us in their prayers. God is Good!

My First Deer, and Getting the Monkey Off My Back - All in One Day!!!

I have never been much of a hunter. Ok, I have never been a hunter. Are you happy now? Anyway, my father-in-law has been working with me as sort of a project to form me into a hunter. I believe this made the third year he has taken me deer hunting. Every year I have taken shots with the result...NO DEER! Would this year be different?

On November 26, 2009, at 8:50 a.m., this all changed when I killed my first deer ever, a doe. I could not believe it. For awhile there, I thought I would be an ammunition company's best friend - Keep shooting...use those bullets...No results.

The shot I took was from about 70 yards. To be honest, when I first shot I did not believe I hit her by the reaction of the deer. But, upon further inspection, we found a blood trail that led us some 50 yards or so into the woods. There we found my first deer! Ah, the thrill of the hunt...the Fruits of my labor! The monkey is finally off my back! I killed a deer! Me...the great hunter!

Now, I want my next deer. The Christmas hunt is coming up!

Watching Your Kids Grow...

We all know our kids grow up too quick at times. Where did the years go? Many want their children to stay young for as long as they can. The truth is your kids will get older. We did and they will as well.

But, there are some signs of growth in a child that makes you feel proud. Case in point...Morgan. In the morning I take both girls to school. Recently, Morgan has been reading to Lizzie Kate from "The Beginner's Bible." Little does she know, she is also reading to me. Morgan said, "I am up to page 86! Isn't that good dad?" I told her, "That's great!"

I am so proud she is reading well, but I am more proud that she is reading from a Children's Bible. It is a win-win situation. Lizzie Kate listens as Morgan reads. I hear her mention names that Morgan read.

Now, maybe Dad needs to read his Bible more.

Black Calculator...Black Stapler...Black Taco? With pepper jack sauce...

Put me in the column as someone who bit on the media blitz from Taco Bell for their new Black Jack Taco...with pepper jack sauce!

I must admit I have studied Taco Bell's commercials for some time now. They have come a long way. I never understood when the bell went forward why the clanger inside did the same...it should have went backwards. They have since fixed that problem.

Their new commmercials have been very creative...enough so that they enticed me to try the Black Jack Taco. I would recommend it...with pepper jack sauce!

What is That?

Just wanted to share a funny thing that happened to me last night. As many of you know, Morgan has the flu. She is better tonight, but we did have some issues last night.

The Tamiflu she was taking upset her stomach, and she, eh...ok, I will just say it...She vomited, ok! And we did not always hit our mark, so there was clean up involved. If you know anything about us guys, before we clean up a mess we first try to analyze it. I was thinking out loud while looking at it, trying to figure what made Morgan throw up. I said, "What is that?" Lizzie Kate standing by me said just matter of factly, "I think it's vomit." I laughed inside, and told Lizzie Kate..."You know, you are probably right."

The Flu Bug has arrived....

Well, the flu bug has officially visited our house. Morgan is sick as we speak. She has just been feeling awful. Kelley is on day duty for the first couple of days, and I will officially be on call starting Wednesday morning for the day shift. Pray that none of the rest of us gets this thing.

From what I hear, we are not alone. Doctors offices are packed, and the pharmacy business has been doing just fine thank you. As I am writing this, Morgan got sick again. It is definitely true...no one likes seeing their kids sick.

Say a prayer for her today. She told me, "Dad, I don't like having the flu." I don't like her having it either.

Happy Birthday Dad...

Dad, I know you must be enjoying your time in Heaven. We miss you here on Earth!

Happy Birthday...I love you!

1934-2001

Mom is out of the hospital...

Mom finally got out of the hospital last night. She had been in the hospital for about a week and a half. I could tell she was ready to leave. She kept getting frustrated over getting tangled up in her oxygen, and IV cords. Plus the covers and the pillows were never quite right.

Thanks to those that said prayers, sent flowers, plants, and cards, made visits, etc. Every act of kindness has been appreciated. I can see where these things would make a difference to someone in the hospital.

She may be home, but still is not feeling the best. Keep her in your prayers.

Philip...Unplugged...

This weekend was different for me. First of all, I left my phone charger at work. We do not have a home phone, only cell phones. So, basically I was without a phone for two days after my phone ran out of juice. The Internet on my computer was also acting up all weekend. So, that form of communication was of no use to me. I guess I should have broke out the 'ol quill pen and oil lamps. Oops, no stamps. Oh well!

It made me think how we have come so accustomed to having our cell phones, our computers, and yes even our Facebook. We are all in our own little world as we hit the keys on our keyboards. Being without these things, I took notice of how many people have their head glued to their cell phones. Amazing! It is almost comical watching people. It seems like we are texting, calling, or in Facebook all the time. I will be honest, I was having withdrawals and almost bought me another phone charger. Desperate times call for desperate measures.

You ought to try living without these things sometime. Take a weekend like I did. See how it works for you. I am betting you will almost have to check into rehab!

Well, the problem is solved. I returned to work, the phone is fully charged, and I am back into the rat race! I am no longer unplugged!

I Was Walking Through the Jungle and I Saw a...

I just have to show off some of the artwork by my youngest daughter Lizzie Kate. This is a piece entitled, "I Was Walking Through the Jungle and I saw a..."

Lizzie Kate's teacher walked me through the piece. On the top row you will see the following animals...a Giraffe, an Elephant, a Panda Bear, and an Alligator. Then a little lower on the page you will see an Owl, a Butterfly, a Panda Bear, a Lion, and a Monkey. But, the last animal drawn is the one I find the most interesting...a Dead Duck! The "Dead Duck" is the animal in blue, at the bottom-middle of the page.

Lizzie Kate's teacher asked her what each animal was, where she could label it on her paper. They got to the last animal. Lizzie Kate was asked what kind of animal is this? Lizzie Kate said it was a Dead Duck. Her teacher wanted to know why she drew a dead duck? Lizzie Kate said, "Duh, the alligator ate it!"

Makes sense to me.

9-11-2001...We Will Never Forget...

No, we will never forget 9-11-2001. We will never forget where we were, or what we were doing on that day. Eight years ago, so many Americans lost their lives tragically to those who promote hate. In minutes, lives were changed all over the world. What a tragedy.

I remember being at work when I found out a plane had flown into one of the World Trade Center Towers. I then found out the other tower had been hit. How can you make any sense of this? Later, the Pentagon was hit, and yet another plane went down in a field in Pennsylvania. Our Nation...Our World has never been the same since. It was hard to believe this had happened.

Like many, I was hanging on every word, every picture I could find. You prayed for hope...for survivors. But, good news was hard to find on that day.

I know many of you prayed on that day, and the days following the attacks. You prayed for those families that lost loved ones. You prayed for our country. You prayed for our leaders. Well, you can continue to pray. Because our nation, our leaders, our troops, still need your prayers today.

If you see someone in our Armed Services, tell them you appreciate all they do for our country. Show support to our Fire Fighters and Police Officers as well.

But also...

NEVER FORGET.

The Psychological Make-up of a Child...

Today, I left work early to take both of my girls to the doctor for their flu shots. Lizzie Kate had the option of getting s shot, or she could take the Flu-Mist option. I thought since it was painless, that the Flu-Mist option would be best for her. Morgan took the shot.

Well, apparently Kelley had Lizzie Kate psyched up and ready to take the flu shot. After it was over she kept telling me that she wanted the shot. She wanted the shot and a Scooby Doo band-aid. There was nothing I could do about it now. I thought I had done what was best for her, but I guess not!

The nurse was nice enough to find a Scooby Doo band-aid for us, but Lizzie still wanted that shot. I thought I made a good decision. Well, I guess this time, Father did not know best!

A Surprising Discovery...

I trust everyone had a great Labor Day weekend holiday? Kelley, the girls and I headed south to Texas to see her Aunt Diane and her new house. It was also good to see Diane's daughter Natalie, and her husband Damion with Harper, their beautiful baby daughter. Kelley's Mom Sadie was there as well. Throw three dogs in the mix and my girls had a party.

Diane also had Jerry Brown and his wife visiting her this weekend from Louisiana. Diane lived there prior to moving to Texas. After talking to Jerry Brown, you find out real quick that he makes friends easy. My daughter Lizzie Kate sure liked him. After Jerry met Lizzie Kate, he told us that he had a niece named Lizzie Kate who was about the same age. Kelley told him that she always thought we were original ones with that name. He said that their Lizzie Kate was Elizabeth Katherine. He said he thought she was born in May. Here is the crazy part! Later, he called and talked to the other Lizzie Kate's mom and found out that they have the same birthday too...May 19th! Can you believe that? And as Paul Harvey used to say..."And now you know the rest of the story!"

What an amazing discovery! Jerry said it seemed like something out of the "Twilight Zone." We had a great laugh and were all amazed by this new revelation.

I am sure glad we met Jerry and his wife. We would have never known this story if we had not met them. Some things are just meant to be.

Talking Theology with a 4 year old...

Sunday night we had the Lord Supper at our church. During the service, Lizzie Kate wanted me to hold her, so I did.

She actually acted pretty good until it came time to take the Lord Supper. I know the Lord Supper is an important and serious service that should not be taken lightly, but it is also a time when children ask questions...

"What is that in your mouth?"
"What are you eating?"
"What is that?" (She asks as she sees the juice in the cup)

Now, what do you tell a 4 year old who asks these questions? You know what the bread and the cup represents, but talking Theology to a 4 year old can be tough. I finally said it is a cup. She kept asking me the same question, not liking my answer. I finally said it is juice...grape juice. Let's just say, that is not the right thing to tell a 4 year old.

My Thoughts and Playing Catch Up...

Why on Earth have I not blogged as much lately? I get tired of saying, "I'm just real busy!" Come on soldier get up and get blogging!!!

I thought I would just put down some thoughts, or some things I tend to ramble about from time to time. Ok, and away we go...

Thought #1: I think I am going to invest in night vision goggles or glasses. Have you ever tried to walk around in your house at night with no lights on? You tend to find sharp objects, or other things that can test your religion if you happen to walk on them. My latest encounter was last night when I kicked a Gremlin-like creature, which I am sure came from a Happy Meal. Plus, I don't think I would look that scary in goggles???



Thought #2: I am really proud of our Life Group at church. A year or so ago, our Life Group (Sunday School Class) was all but thought dead. But, God had other ideas. God sent John Ciesla and his wife Angel as teachers and the class has taken off. The last two weeks we have had 27, and 24 in attendance. Isn't it amazing what God can do?

Thought #3: My St. Louis Cardinals are rocking!!!!!!

Thought #4: And on a sad note...I have been told by a co-worker, Ashley Edwards, that a wirehaired dachshund by the name of Chanel has died this past Friday. Chanel held the Guinness World Record for oldest dog. The dog celebrated her 21st birthday on May 6 – that's 147 in dog years, according to the Guinness Web site.

Morgan's Birthday!

I meant to blog more on Morgan's birthday. She had a great party. A white limo took her and her guests to Fort Smith to eat pizza. Everyone had a great time riding in the limo. I did not get to ride in the limo. I failed to make the cut!



After an outing to eat pizza, Morgan and her entourage returned home for some cake and ice cream. Then of course she opened her presents. I think I am going to see if I can have the same kind of party for my next birthday!

Happy Birthday Morgan!!!!

Just wanted to wish a very happy birthday to my oldest daughter Morgan! Morgan is 7 today. I hear she has big plans tonight.

Morgan, I hope you have a great time tonight. I LOVE YOU!!!

More on her big night tomorrow.

Mark Darr for Lt. Governor...

I would like to invite my vast readership of my blog to visit my brother's website, http://markdarr.com/. My brother...Mark Darr is running for Lt. Governor of Arkansas in 2010.

On Mark's website you will be able to find out more about him and his stance on the issues. And, in the event you need more, and more information of Mark until you just can't stand no more...just kidding! I believe you can get linked up with him on Facebook, and Twitter. Who knows - maybe he will give you a "Tweet." I think there is also a place to donate, or give money to his campaign. Hey, we are sons of a Baptist Minister. You know we would have to pass the plate!

All I ask is that you look over his website, and get any information you may need on him.

Also, I wanted to pass this on. Mark is having a Northwest Arkansas kickoff on Sunday August 30th at MAD PIZZA from 4-6pm. Free food and drink!!! Donations will be accepted toward his campaign.

"Baby It's Cold Outside"...

Last night I was taking my Mom to meet my sister in Dardanelle. Every month my Mom has her doctor visits, and takes her chemo treatments.

In between one of our conversations, I decided to scan the radio stations to listen to some music. For some reason I stopped on a station that was playing..."Baby It's Cold Outside." I started thinking...Baby It's Cold Outside??? I told Mom, "Can you believe they are playing that song as hot as it is outside?" Well, I do not know if I was in the "Twilight Zone", or in a time warp! Because the next songs in succession were..."Silent Night", "White Christmas", and I finally had to change the station after "I'll Be Home for Christmas" came on!

Either someone was in a deep state of confusion, or they were playing a cruel joke on someone. I changed the station, moved on down the road, and turned down the air conditioning. Suddenly I felt a little chill in the air!

Say a Prayer for Morgan Today...

If you can, take some time and say a prayer for Morgan today. She has had a hard time after her tonsils and adenoids were removed last week. We have had a struggle getting her to eat, or drink anything. She is afraid she will get sick any time she eats anything. Psychology is definitely at play here! If anyone tells you this is an easy surgery for a young child...DO NOT BELIEVE THEM!!!

Wishes now cost a quarter!!!

As many of you have been told, we are now in a "recession." Even though some things have went down in price, many items have increased in price. If you have read some of my posts on Facebook, you know I have had a little fun talking about the price of bananas - Which I might add are still .64 cents a pound at a Wal-Mart near you!

Well, I have learned something new from Lizzie Kate. The "Caker" and I went to the local Chinese restaurant for some take out. Immediately, upon entering the restaurant, Lizzie Kate asked for a quarter. I figured she wanted a gumball, so I gave her one. But, she did not want a gumball...she wanted to "make a wish!" Now, normally I am better prepared when we go to places that have "wishing wells." I try to have plenty of pennies in my pocket for just that reason. I do at times hand out nickels and dimes for wishes, but quarters?

Due to our visit today, I thought I would let everyone know that "wishes" are not immune to the recession we are having. Wishes will now cost you a quarter!

If I Could Go Back in Time...

Have you ever thought, "If I could go back in time - I would have done something else, or done that differently?" The other day while driving to work a scary thing happened...I started to think. (Insert laughter here.) I started to think...Wouldn't it be neat to go back in time and see events that took place in my father's life? Things I would have loved to have seen...

• I would love to see various scenes of him growing up as a kid. To see what shaped him.


• To see the era he grew up in.


• I would have loved to have seen when he surrendered to the ministry.


• I would have loved to heard his first sermon.


• To see Mom and Dad's Wedding.

Those were just some of the things I thought of as I was driving to work. Not sure what triggered me to have those thoughts, but I enjoyed them to tell the truth. None of us can go back in time to do things differently. But, I guess we can daydream a little and wonder how things took place.

Now...Back to the future.

Times Like I Have Never Seen...

I have always been a news junkie. I feel like it is always best to be informed on what is going on in the world around you. But, I am almost to the point that I want to take a break from watching the news. One word...Depressing!!!

Today, the news is filled with people losing their jobs, their homes, families falling apart, etc. I received an email from a friend named Jessie. He has just been told that his job was being eliminated. He has been with his company for 12 years! I cannot imagine!

Please keep the Winters family in your prayers! My prayer is that God will open a door quicker than the one that closed!

God Heal our Land!

2 Chronicles 7:14

Time Flies...

Where has the time went? Time truly does fly! Just wanted to post a few things that has happened in my absence...

Morgan's t-ball team the Cheetah Girls came in second place this year. They finished up with an epic battle with the Razorbacks. The game went into extra innings before ending in a tie...20-20! Congratulations to the Cheetah Girls and Morgan!

We just got back from visiting Destin again. Kelley's parents and sister went with us this year. The first two days were murder heat-wise...as was the case for most of the South during that same stretch. But, the water was unbelievable! I have never seen it so clear! What was surprising is how cool the water was. When you first got in there the water made you stand up, but then it felt great once you got used to it! We all had a great time!

I also would like for you to keep a friend of mine in your prayers. His name is Jeb Baldwin. He has been deployed and will be away from his family for some time. Keep him and all of our Armed Service Members in your prayers daily!

I will try to be a better blogger in the days ahead. Peace...out!

Another Thought on T-Ball...

Yes, patience is a virtue. Coaching t-ball reminded me of a scripture in the Bible...

My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry,

James 1:19

This may come in handy when I think the umpire blows a call!

Things I have learned while coaching t-ball...

I have come to realize a few things while coaching t-ball this year...

• Each player is in their own little world.


• You get to see things that make you happy, smile, and make you laugh.


• The coaches are more into it than the players.


• A Homerun does not have to go that far.


• Most of the time 5 runs is easier to get than 3 outs.


• Players like to kick dirt.


• Players like to give you "five."


• Patience is a virtue.


• Sometimes everything seems like it is in slow motion.


• This is not the Major Leagues...even though we (coaches) treat it that way sometime.

But, no matter what...you want to always make them (the players) feel like they won!

It's More than just about winning...

Last night at Morgan's t-ball game, I had one of those "proud to be a father" moments...really the entire game.

Morgan is on an all-girl team, the Cheetah Girls. Last night they played an all boy team called the Razorbacks. The Razorbacks came out hitting and put 5 quick runs on the board. It looked like it was going to be a long night. I think I heard a few people say, "We are not in the same league."

But, after that, the Cheetah Girls gave the Razorbacks a run for their money. They played hard the whole night before finally losing 14-12. I was really proud of every girl's effort even in losing.

Now, the "proud to be a father part." Morgan came up to bat...brought the bat back and forth eyeing the ball. Then, she took her swing and hit it toward third base. The pitcher picked up the ball and fired to first. Morgan would have beat the throw anyway, but the ball got away from the first baseman. I was coaching first base, and once the throw got away, I said..."Go, go, go, go, go!" It was like it was all in slow motion at that moment. As Morgan was heading toward second base, I saw her looking back at me. She reached second with me yelling..."Go on! Go on! Go on! Morgan rounded second and headed to third. The Razorbacks threw the ball to their third baseman...it got away...With a slight delay Morgan then headed toward home! In a foot race she was safe! Safe at the plate! She rounded the bases. A "t-ball" Homerun! Holy Cow! How big did my head swell?

Angel Ciesla told my wife that I would be able to live off of that for a long time! You know, she is right! I was proud of Morgan, but I was also proud for every girl on that team last night. Last night every girl played their hearts out against probably a more superior team.

Sure they did not win the game, but it's more than just about winning.

My Visit to St. Louis...

My brother and I left Northwest Arkansas at 6 a.m. Saturday and made our way to St. Louis to see the Cardinals. Mark ran into someone at the gas station that sold us some tickets for the Saturday game...padded seats mind you. We already had tickets for Sunday's game thanks to the generosity of my wife Kelley, but we wanted to take in another game while we were there.

The first game the Cardinals blanked the Royals 5 to 0. The second game...not so lucky. I believe the Royals won 3-2. I tend to forget the score when the Cardinals lose. We had good seats for both games.

We met an interesting character attending the Sunday game. Mr. Six with Six Flags was there. He has a very interesting dance and entertained the fans.

My Birthday Present...

This weekend my brother and I are going to St. Louis. We are going to see our beloved Cardinals play the Kansas City Royals at Busch Stadium. This is my birthday present Kelley gave me...two tickets to see a Cardinals game.

When Kelley gave me the tickets she kept saying, "Now, I do not want to go. I want you to ask your brother if he will go with you." Well, I was not about to fall for this "trick." I guess I asked Kelley if she was sure she did not want to go about a million times before I asked my brother to go. Thank you Kelley for the great gift!!!

I know many of you are doing things during the Memorial Day weekend. I pray that everyone of you be safe in all you do!

Happy Birthday Lizzie Kate!!!!

Today is a very special day...it is Lizzie Kate's birthday. Lizzie Kate is now 4 years old. It is hard to believe that she is already 4. She has been a tough little girl growing up. She like Morgan, has my heart. I love them like any good father would love his children. I have been blessed.

Kelley took some cupcakes and treat bags to Lizzie Kate's daycare, and they had a little party. Lizzie Kate has been wanting those cupcakes all morning.


So, Happy Birthday Lizzie Kate!!! I love you!!!

I had fun at the "Minor '09er!"

This weekend our family attended a reunion on top of Mt. Magazine, which was dubbed "The Minor '09er. This was on Mom's side of the family. I would estimate we had 100 or more people that attended. It was really great seeing everyone! I saw people I bet that I had not seen in over 30 years.

Colleen Dow did a great job on the "Memory Books." Gary and Alan Davis were the cooks for the event. Great job guys! I loved that brisket.

Now, let me just say everything is top notch at Mt. Magazine State Park. The views are out of this world. We decided to spend the night in the lodge since my sisters and brother decided to do so. The rooms are very spacious, and again the views. The lodge has an indoor swimming pool and we made good use of it. The restaurant was a little slow, but I think it is because of the number of people we threw at them. The food was good. We were hungry and glad that it finally appeared. While we were eating, I noticed a rainbow had appeared outside. I think everyone in the restaurant went outside to take a picture. That was the highlight of the dinner.



Sunday, the weather turned out great! We had to check out the views one more time before we left. I think Morgan wanted to stop at every overlook on our way home. The weather allowed us to have the the best view possible.












For those that like to take day trips, I would say that Mt. Magazine State Park is worth the drive. You just get a peaceful feeling up there.

E.T. Revisited, 27 Years Later...

Last night was a typical night. Lizzie Kate, our resident "night owl", wanted to stay up and watch a little TV before going to bed. Surfing through the channels as I often do, I noticed we were getting HBO for some reason. The classic "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial" was showing. I pushed the "Info" button to see when the movie was made - 1982! I could not believe it had been 27 years since we first saw that lovable space alien phone home, and say the words, "Ell-i-ot" and "Ouuuuccchhh".

Anyway, Lizzie Kate was glued to the television and asking all kinds of questions. "Are his fingers dirty?" "Is he (E.T.) chocolate?" There were more, and I was laughing hysterically inside. Lizzie Kate kept watching until she finally fell asleep.

This morning she woke up and the first thing wanted to watch E.T.! When I told her I did not have it, she started crying, saying..."I want to watch E.T.! I want to watch E.T.!" Well, I may be cruising for a bruising, but I bought the movie today.

Look for our household to be watching E.T. many times in the days to come!

The Day my Dad went to Heaven...

May 8, 2009, marks eight years since my dad left this earth and went to Heaven. On reflection, this is a bittersweet day. I miss him being here with us, but I know he is in a much better place. A place where there is no more pain, and no more sorrow. My dad is in a place he preached about for so many years. I bet Heaven is even better than he imagined!

I never do forget this date, but I will have to admit it did slip up on me a little this year. This morning I had just dropped Morgan off at her school, when I heard the song "Finally Home" by Mercy Me come on the radio. When I heard the lyrics...it hit me...today was May 8th. The lyrics start like this:

I’m gonna wrap my arms around my daddy’s neck

And tell him that I’ve missed him.

And tell him all about the man that I became

And hope that it pleased him

There’s so much I want to say

There’s so much I want you to know

Chorus:

When I finally make it home

When I finally make it home

My dad lived his life for the Lord. What a Man of God he was! I wish he was here, but then again why would I want to wish him out of Heaven? I think I will have some Mexican food sometime today. That was one of his favorites!

One More Morgan T-Ball Story...

We all have kids, and we all have funny stories to tell about them. We have also heard that "kids say the darnedest things." Well, my kids are no exception.

Kelley was driving Morgan to her first t-ball game the other night, when Morgan said, "Mom, can we eat at the Confession Stand tonight after the game?" I mean, do we ask for forgiveness for that which we buy right then? Well, you know what they say? "Confession is good for the soul!"

Cheetah Girls and Morgan win their 1st Tee-Ball Game!!!

Ah, memories...It has been a long time since I have hung around a ballpark. Last night brought back a lot of memories, and it involved a game I love - Baseball!

Even though this was Morgan's first ever t-ball game, you would have thought that she had played this game forever the way she looked in her uniform. As I was walking her to her field, I asked her if she was pumped! Morgan said, "What does that mean?" Are you fired up I said! "Yes" Morgan said.

The Cheetah girls scored 5 quick runs and never looked back as they won 15-11! Needless to say Dad was proud. Morgan played 2nd base, and also pitcher. She got a hit every time she batted. Yes, she plays the game the way her dad used to! Well, truth be known she is probably better.

Morgan's team may not win every game, but I will still be proud of her. I am glad she likes to play the game I love!

You talk about being busy...

The other day I started thinking about what I have planned in the next couple of months. This weekend I have "Relay for Life", where I will help with games. April 28th is Morgan's first t-ball game. May looks to be a very busy month as well. In May I have two cemetery decorations, a family reunion, t-ball games, and will also help put together a Group Administrator Meeting for work.

My point is that we are so busy in life. I guess it just goes with the territory of getting older. Speaking of older, where do all the years go? My mother showed me a picture of me in the Second Grade in my yearbook the other day. The picture was in black and white...black and white! I do not think color was invented back then.

In other matters, my mom got some good news regarding her cancer treatment the other day. The medication seems to be working, and right now she is not needing surgery or chemo. She sure could have got a worse report! Thank you God. Thanks to everyone fro their prayers!

Yes, I am wearing a tie!

Isn't it funny how we are perceived by what we wear? People tend to size you up, and place you in a class of people by what you wear. The comments you may get can be hilarious.

Let's take today for instance. I decided to wear a nice shirt, and my new tie Kelley bought me for Easter. That's right...a tie! Now, I do not have to wear a tie to work, but I decided to wear one just for today. I received the following comments:

"Hey, nice tie!"
"Did someone die?"
"Where are you going?" I just decided to wear a tie I said. "No, really...where are you going?"

And then there is my favorite..."Do you have a job interview?" My response was, "Yes, I have two of them. One in the morning and one in the afternoon."

I had co-workers come up and say there have been those asking why I was so dressed up today? Everyone scrambling for information. All because I decided to wear a tie.

You are still a Princess to me!

There is no easy way to sugarcoat this...Lizzie Kate got her hair cut yesterday! I say no easy way to sugarcoat this, because some have said when you think of Lizzie Kate - you think "hair!" What I would not give to have her hair now! I am a little short in that department lately!



Kelley set up an appointment to have Lizzie's hair cut. Kelley told me that Lizzie Kate was worried what I would think about her hair after she got it cut. She knew I thought she had "Princess hair," and I told her that many times.

They cut off over 10 inches off of Lizzie Kate. The hair is being donated to "Locks of Love." It makes Lizzie Kate's haircut even more special.



When I saw Lizzie Kate later...I gave her a big hug and a kiss. I told her I loved her new hairstyle. See, I not only loved the Lizzie Kate with "the hair." I also love the new look Lizzie Kate. Both Lizzie Kate and mMorgan will always be a Princess to me!

Things can get kind of hectic...

If it seems like I have been kind of M.I.A. for awhile when it comes to blogging, please forgive me...I have had a lot on my plate!

I want to thank everyone for the prayers, the thoughts that my family has received regarding Lizzie Kate. Again, she is still doing fine. Continue to pray for her as she will have another CT scan in a month or so.

My mother needs your prayers as well. She is having another biopsy tomorrow in Little Rock. I am sure her test results will eventually narrow down the treatment plan for her. Lift her up and ask that God be close by her side during this whole process.

Another thing that just consumed me lately is my new role in calling Deacons to see if they can serve for the Lord's Supper at our church. This was all new to me. I do know now that I really worried too much over this, when I should have turned it all over to God. I worried and worried, wondering if I was going to find enough men to serve for three services! But, you know...once I went to church, things started to fall into place. Next time I am going to tell myself to not get so worked up over this. I am going to try to lean on God more. I truly think we have all been there one time or another!