How many pillows does it take to make a 35+ weeks pregnant mommy "comfy?"

Let's Count Them
1...ha,ha,ha
2...ha,ha,ha
3...ha,ha,ha
4...ha,ha,ha
5...ha,ha,ha
6...ha,ha,ha

7...ha,ha,ha
8...ha,ha,ha

8 pillows to make a beached whale feel comfy in bed!

Meet my friends!

The "Contractions" Pillow-When we are having lots of contractions, we elevate our feet. The contractions usually come in the middle of the night so it is always tucked inside my sheets.

The Snake: This pillow I have been using since November. Its purpose has changed plenty of times. Currently, the top of the snake begins at the top of the bed-left side. (This is more like the middle of the bed and Michael sleeps on the edge.) The top portion is my tummy support for when I am sleeping on my left side. (I only last an hour sometimes 2 on a side before I have toes jammed in my ribs.) The middle is back support, and the end of the snake it tummy support for the right side. Tummy support is something much needed now as I am guessing these guys are close to 12 lbs.

I have other normal pillows that support the rest of the team.

I know...just crazy. With all that work, we still only sleep 2 hours at a time.

It is good practice.

Try This Thursday

It's Thursday and it is the day that I am going to share fabulous finds or favorites. (I read about this idea from Jennifer's blog and decided to try it, too!) For today's favorite it is a must have for winter weather and flu season. We are constantly washing our hands to keep the germs away especially right now where everyone has the flu! I love this stuff because it is like a vasaline wash for my hands. They always get so chapped between the hand sanitizer and a gillion of washings.

Try This...

C.O. Bigelow's Chapped Hands Cleanser

Found at your Bath and Body Works for only $12.00!

P.S. 35 weeks and counting!

The Bed Rest Blues

Da, da, da

Been sitting in bed, for more than a week or 2

Been dreaming about my old self , in a pair of high heeled shoes.

I got the blues. I got the been too long since I have seen the sky blues.

I wish I had some fabulous blog update, but there isn't much going on in our world. We have been sitting in our house since January 18th. They appreciate the rest because there has been no big changes. Yesterday we went in and found out in less than a week lefty deceided to take a trip up to the top of my stomach. (Yes, that would be those powerful movements I have been feeling.) The hills are alive in Leah's tummy. When they move it looks like mountains on my belly. We are taking it a day at a time and have almost made it to 35 weeks. They are growing leaps and bounds and so am I. We have had lots of visitors that help make the days go by a little faster. So Feb. 28th or sooner we will have some new little ones.

Weapons of Mass Destruction

Desperate times call for desperate measures.

My big ol' bump has impaired my ability to swing my leg over for some much needed pedicure TLC. Typically, I would go to the professionals for this type of emergency. However, given our new state my "professionals" are limited to my hubby, my cat, and my dog. I have been begging Michael for weeks to trim my toenails and give them a paint job. My little feet are the things I stare at the most right now as they are propped up. Today he took the clippers and found 10 little innocent victims.

Watch out! I now have the slanted toenail "do." They are cut at the perfect angle to be a sharp little spear. Michael thinks maybe it will be the new "it" look.

I think the troops will be invading my home any minute looking for these new

Weapons of Mass Destruction!

The Okra Store

When I was a little girl, this was one of the first things I could "read." At two years old, I knew the star meant gas (Texaco) and this meant Okra store. After church every Sunday we would visit the "Okra Store" and on the child's plate I would have my favorite:fried okra. We grew from a child's plate to a Luann to a Vegetable plate and okra would always be on it.

The boys will never know the "Okra Store." We have cut any fried food from our diet to avoid heartburn. So they haven't tasted the delicious batter around the perfect bite-size veggie! Wednesday they are closing the Luby's in Abilene. :( If I could get out, I am sure Michael and I would make a stop by "The Okra Store" for some turkey and dressing and of course...okra.

Goodbye, Luby's.

Notes From Leah's Belly

Tonight I caught "Notes From the Underbelly" and the first 5 minutes were straight out of Leah's Belly Diary. LOVED IT!

1. Belly Update: We are still at a 1! Good Babies! ***** 5 stars for you guys!

2. We have never had "cravings." Lots of aversions, lots of puke. However, we do always enjoy hot chocolate or Apple Jacks when we have it around.

3.As of 33 weeks (almost) we have had no swelling of the feet or hands. It makes me feel good to still wear my jewelry when I can wear nothing else of my own.

4. Belly Swelling-oh, BOYS! I thought I was big in November. I thought December was uncharted territory. Now...I am a host home for 8lbs of kids plus the other good stuff.

5. Sleep-Last night was the first night in 3 nights I was able to sleep for 2 hour intervals! Oh, it was nice.

6.Kisses and Love-We miss our daily belly kisses from my sweet class at school. I miss teaching like crazy and am looking forward to being back at work one day.

7. Mr. Mercer-My superstar hub set up my classroom for this week. He put away all last weeks centers and materials, dressed the room for this week, stuffed my daily bins, and rotated the job board. I was on his earphones for 1 hour and 15 minutes telling him where and how. Impressive time, Mr. Mercer.

8. You've got Friends-We have have been so blessed by all of our friends and family bringing us food, activities, or helping hands through this pregnancy.

Thank you.

*More notes coming soon*

Sgt. Leah's Bedrest Band

(Beatles LOVE Cirque De Soile Show-Leah and the band-they are in this picture. Just 5 weeks new!

Move Over, Ringo!

Mama's got a brand new band. I think we have some drummers getting lots of practice on this tum-tum of mine. This morning they were playing, flipping, fighting-something with lots of movement. Lefty got the hiccups first. Then Righty got hiccups. My tummy was a one body band. The left side went "boom" and then the right side went "boom." I felt like I was in the middle of a rock n' roll concert or the paddle of an intense game of Pong. Those little guys. ;)

We are doing well. Friday was AWESOME. I hadn't felt that good in 4 ever! Saturday was not awesome. Today is good. The belly is growing and changing shape. It is a lot easier to carry "the wide load" to the bathroom vs up and down the halls of school. I really hope this rest slows these little determine ones down. I have been super nervous about standing up and my water breaking or something like that.

The painter has a couple of touch-ups on their room and then the walls are done. Michael has built some fabulous shelves just by my description of what I wanted. I know, SUPERSTAR HUBBY! My mom is almost finished with the bedding for the first crib. We are learning how to share early and using 1 crib for the first little while. So next week I will be able to call in my helping hands to come help decorate and organize.

I guess we can put 2 stickers on their obedience chart for listening to me and staying in the tummy for 2 days so far.

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers.

Time to Listen to Mommy!

Ok, boys! This is the first lesson of your little lives. And a VERY IMPORTANT one.

STAY INSIDE MOMMY'S TUMMY!

and don't think about coming out.

We went to the Dr. on Thursday and I had dilated to a 1 and was thinning. "To bed, to bed!" the doctor said. So I am here at home, praying those boys listen to me. I have lots of helping hands everywhere buying last minute things for the babies. Thank you helping hands. Tuesday we will go back to the doctor. We are praying the rest will keep us holding at the 1. She told us if we were at a 2 we would go to the hospital. So boys, it is not time for your birthday yet.

Keep roasting.

I feel like "The Mitten."

We have been reading Jan Brett's "The Mitten" this week at school. For those of you unfamilar with the classic tale let me help you.

A little boy's grandma makes him white mittens-per his request. (The things Grandma's do even if it isn't the best idea. ;) ) He goes outside to play and loses one of his mittens. A mole finds the mitten and gets inside. Another animal comes along and squeezes inside. At the very end there are 8 animals squeezed inside of this tiny mitten-including a big brown bear. A little mouse tries to squeeze in and ends up making the bear sneeze. The big bear sneeze makes the mitten explode and all the animals go everywhere!

The tiny mitten is no longer tiny.

T.B.F.K.A.M. (The body formally known as mine) is being stretched and pulled every which way to fit my little 8lbs of babies. They almost are 4 lbs each (3 lbs 14 oz and 3 lbs 11 oz) and continue to squeeze in. I am just wondering how much longer till I explode?! Hopefully not with that next sneeze! :) They continue to grow and do well. School is a challenge when you teach 4 year olds and never sit down and are always on your feet. But, as my dad always called me-I am a "Little Hause" and we are pressing on. SLOWLY...

WITH A WADDLE, WADDLE,WADDLE -"I'm bringing sexy back..."

Mommy is SO Proud of You Guys!

Hip, Hip, Hooray!!!!

We made it to a major milestone for twins!!!! Today is 30 weeks! I am so proud of these little boys. They have been working very hard to grow inside such a small space. (I only measured 5 ft. tall last week. Am I shrinking, too?) On Monday, we learned that one little one had turned so they are both head down...for now. Like I have mentioned before, these boys are extremely active and LOVE to flip-flop. I do not think they are going to be petite like me. I feel like I am growing Little John Henry(s). Michael didn't know about John Henry, so I had to sing him the song from elementary days.



We have four weeks to grown to reach another milestone and then come what may. The doctors want 6 1/2 lbs EACH. Ok. I mean that is more than I weighed as a singleton 2 weeks late and all, but, ok.

Flip-Flop and we're out!

Double the Fortune

Fortune Says: Good things come in twos!

9 weeks to go.

:)

Holiday Greetings and Wishes

All of our printing (stationary, address labels, note cards, ect.) is done by the Bartlett Street Paperie.

http://www.bartlettstreetpaperie.com/home.html

She is fabulous! We used to teach together and I just love the BSP!

All I want for Christmas

This is something I have been meaning to do for 2 weeks and I am just now getting to it. (And I really should be writing lesson plans...) Put on your thinking hats and guess that Christmas Carol!

* 1 "Comfort and Joy"

* 2 "And a Happy New Year! "

* 3 Still Dreaming...

* 4 "How lovely are your branches"

After much frustration with blogger, so ends the caroling quiz.

We had a blessed holiday and are looking forward to this exciting new year.

Merry Christmas!

(I will figure out the Xmas card thing soon.)

Le Hopital x duex

I have been trying to think of some fabulous blog...but no such luck.

We made our first visit to Labor and Delivery.Not how we expected...in the middle of the night.
We were having some minor contractions, but it is all "normal." They kept us overnight, but the boys are doing great. Everything was ok and they gave me the all clear to keep working. I am slower than a snail, but we are continuing to make it to school. Today was our party and I am soooo glad that is finished. At my school, the teacher is responsible for planning, organizing, and running the party. Right before the party we had 2 get sick. It is always exciting!

Today we went to one of our Dr.'s and they each weigh 2.7 lbs!! I also had the sugar test. Major gag. I also got really woozie and really tired. So the lab had me lay down in the xray room.

We are ready for the holidays. Lots of rest is needed and it is a lot easier said than done. We are just thankful that everyone is doing well. I am ready for lots of days in the jammies, hot chocolate, and riding around looking at lights. I would love to do all the other fun things that require walking (shopping, visiting friends, going to the movies, ect) but I continue to be real strick on myself and limit my feet time. It seems to be doing us good. Not to mention I have the BEST HUSBAND IN THE WHOLE WORLD. He does everything so after school I can just rest.

10 weeks left till we meet the misters.

I will try to figure out how to post our Christmas greetings for all those sweet reader friends I have no address for.

Happy Holidays!

Hello Blog World!

Ok. It has been a long time since I posted. I am not able to sleep right now, so I thought I would take advantage of this time and greet my readers (or lack there of) again.

Since Sep.24th...

1. We moved. We have moved closer to work (yea!) and have been there for about a month. Given the fact that I am much like an elephant (fat and slow)...We are still unpacking. The painter is still painting and finally beginning the BOYS' room.

2.THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN! Yes, Michael and I are welcoming 2 little boys into the world Feb. 28th or before. They are very active. The 8'o clock hour is right baby's favorite time to exercise. He is a gymnast doing lots of somersaults. He even does the wave. Not sure how he does it, but my stomach looks wavy. Quiet one is not as active, but just when I begin to worry he makes his presence know. We have lots of appts. all the time. So far so good.

3. Full speed ahead. Still working full time. I have had to cut back on my dancing moves-I just can't robot like I used to. The kids are very sweet and compare me to the old lady (You know the one that gets fatter and fatter-"Just like you!" they say.) or now it is Santa Clause. I am super super busy there. The work load is always overwhelming plus I am writing 14 weeks of lesson plans and doing the prep. If you don't teach Early Childhood, you don't have the joys of prep work. I have 4 weeks down and lots to go...

4. Good-bye sweet car. Hello Mommy car.
We are saying goodbye to my Jetta and hello to the SUV. I like the SUV, but nothing will ever be as precious as my first new car-Little Jetta. I love the VW world.

5. Finally registered. When we went to Ft. Worth for the holiday, we went to Babies R Us. (Our town does not have any baby store other than Target and Walmart.) Where I thought this would be lots of fun like Wedding Registry was 5 years ago, it was not. I had the Baby Bargains book in tow, all my notes from my mommy friends, their suggestion list, and a store full of foreign material. Double the kid, double the confusion. Michael and I realized we are way out of our league. Don't even get me started on the breast feeding section...

6. Growing Each Day
My belly sticks out more and more. Sorry...I will not be posting pictures of this on the web. If you would like to see how fat and fabulous I look, come and see me. But, I am not inviting the world to witness my uncomfortable state. Let's just say I do not look like the prego moms in the catalogues. I will say my feet are still nice and trim for now. Whoooh. That is one of my biggest fears. I can not say goodbye to my shoes. I have had to leave them on the shelf and my new friends with flats, but I see them everyday and look forward to our sweet reunion.

I have found the camera and the cord now. However, the batteries are now dead. So house pics later. Maybe.

It is hard to take time to post because I am never on the home computer for fun. I will try to be better about it.

Thanks for asking and thinking about us. We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers and have been very blessed.

Hope the Thanksgiving Holidays were special for you and your family. Ours were and we even had snow!

Super Sister!!!!

This is my Super Sister!!! Over the last 16 weeks she has cooked, cleaned, loved, die-cut, complete bulletin boards, shopped, and now packed for me. What would I have done without her???? I know she isn't thrilled about being in Abilene right now, BUT we 3 are!!!!

ps- My kids asked today about a picture of us. They asked, "Is this your mom?" Nope, that is my sister. They see things in such a funny light.

Just Make Me Smile

Oprah today made me smile. JT, (oh, how I LOVE jt!) Reba, and Kelly Clarkson sang their hearts out today. I found myself just smiling the whole way through!

We had a rain shower today. :) Rain is good!

I felt good.

Help is on the way. I am getting lots of helping hands for my classroom. A special thank you to my sweet staff and administrators for taking care of the 3 of us.

I love Michael! He takes such good care of all of his babies. Ruff, ruff-Zeke
Meow-Mavie

Just put on a happy face. :)

ps-I just had to add this!!! Production on the Sex in the City MOVIE started TODAY. This May is when we can expected the film. HMMMM...schedule babysitter for May!

What a change a week brings!

I am feeling much better. I have finished the meds and each day feel better. My tummy feels like it is growing, too. I think those babies are getting ready to stick out. :)

Tonight is open house so I thought I would upload post move-in pics of the classroom. It is going to be a great year!

Welcome to room 3!

my teaching corner

Back to Work

Sometimes work is the best medicine!

I went back today. It was hard, but good. I had many "oh, no" moments, but I made it out alive. I move a lot slower for sure! But, actually so do my 4 year olds. (only when we walk in a line...)

Everyone was soooooo sweet offering a helping hand or a sweet smile. All of my kids missed me which surprised me because it is only the 3rd week of school. Yea! We have formed a bond. (Poor things. The big long absence is coming soon. ) Even the parents were excited to have me there. I just have a really good class. They even bring me McDonald's ice cream cones made out of sand. Yum.

They all wanted to know where my babies were and were sad to learn that they are still growing. We talked about that they wouldn't be here until it gets cold.

I am slowly feeling better. Still dehydrated, but functioning and really pushing the liquids. It may be a long 5 or so months.

Never thought I would say this, but I was glad to be back at work.

My 1st ER Visit

Stats:
duration:6 hours (lucky compared to some)
condition: All of us are well. We got to hear the heartbeats for the first time. I am just taking some more meds to make things right.
opinions: The ER is NOT FUN! I would rather die, but I have to think about the others involved. I could of thought of 18 other ways to spend $100.

I was really hoping for an IV to get me back on the right track, but they didn't give me one! :(
We are just praying everything works and we don't have to go back like the Dr. instructed us to if things don't get better.

So it looks like I won't be having that 5 day week yet. I didn't make it today and tomorrow is up in the air.

Ahhhhh...
Home Sweet Home.
Bed Sweet Bed!

The Aliens Are Coming

Last night the aliens came. They told me I was part alien and they were taking me and the babies away.

Well, my body feels like foreign place-that's for sure. I have had many nuts-o dreams and I am sure there are a lot more to come.

The Classroom Before Me

(last year 5 days before school started)

I weeded out a lot.

(Have you noticed-there are no closets. All of my storage is over head except for 1 cabinet.)

I guess the nice way of describing this room is

VINTAGE.
After pics coming soon!

School is going well. I am sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo tired. We have had 2 4 day weeks so far. By Thursday, I am zonked. Friday I can barley move. I feel like a 90 year old woman walking around. Everyone tells me I need to sit. But, 20 4 year olds don't allow for sitting time. Teaching early childhood doesn't have sitting time. I haven't made it back to the gym, but I have been getting quite a workout doing head, shoulders, knees, and toes, the freeze, and phonercise. I think it gets my wiggles out more than them.


This is my 1st 5 day week. I am praying I make it. Maybe I need to get one of those chairs on casters and the helper of the day can push the teacher!!!

2 Lemons make LEMONADE!

The past 13 weeks have been full of surprises.

1. We are pregnant. We found out at the beginning of July.We had been waiting on them for a while and June was our lucky month.

2. There are 2! Yes, TWINS!!! We found out when we went in for our 8 week appointment.

My little surprises-

3. My PawPaw had twin sisters. They died back in 1909 and almost 100 years later the gene returns!

4.Pregnancy and twins make me very so sick. I spent 5 weeks at home. No lie. I didn't leave the house. Just nausea and good porcelain time. I even LOST 6 lbs. Who knew those last 5 lbs could be solved by pregnancy. I am taking meds 2x a day and now have finally gotten back to my

pre-pregnancy weight. Yea!

5. They have grown so much!!! They are the size of lemons now.Here they are:twin a and twin b

So come February (I am due Mar. 13th, but since they like to come early...) we will go from a family of 2 to 4!!!

Viva Las Vegas!

The Strip

We have finally returned from all of our travels. Laundry is calling my name. But, the vacay was GREAT!

We spent the 4th of July with my grandparents in Ft. Worth. My parents, Analee, cousins, and my uncle and aunt also came. I heart Grammy's. The homemade chocolate ice cream is soooo yummy!

Over the weekend we went down to Houston to see more family and friends. Oh yeah, we ate too! Lupe Tortilla is heavenly!!!! Gosh, I miss good Mexican food.We returned for 2 days so Michael could work and be at meetings and such.

Then we drove back to Ft. Worth to catch our flight to Vegas. I was surprised by how much fun I had!!!

*The highlights*

*the pool at our hotel-We stayed at the MGM grand. The "grand pool" as they call it consist of 6.6 acres of pools! It was so much fun. I wish I had more time to enjoy it.

*the food-When you live in Abilene, great food is hard to come by. So vacation always means good eats. We ended up eating at a lot of Wolfgang Puck's establishments. Hmmm...my favorite was the Chinese fusion place. I heart Chinese food!

*the shopping-I love the Forum Shops at Caesar's. Kate Spade decided she wanted to be part of my purse collection. :) (For those of you that don't know, I have a purse collection. It is one of my favorite things to buy. It is right up there with my shoe collection.)

*star sightings- I saw Dillon from General Hospital. Michael saw Carrot Top

***the entertainment-We went and saw Mamma Mia (very cute), a magic show, and the Beatles' LOVE cirque du soleil!!! Incredible! It was the best show I have ever seen! I have never seen anything like it. It was in a theatre in the round and you felt like you were part of the show. It was very interactive. The music was great. I loved all the artistic representation. Just, WOW!

@ the Beatles LOVE theatre

I loved it!Back to the world of West Texas. A couple more weeks to enjoy my summer.

Forecast: Scattered Showers

Boy, it has raining a lot! Raining with blessings!!!!

Kanyon is scheduled to go home at the beginning of the week. We have praying for this little man and he sure has worked hard. He has grown up into a little man!!!! We rejoice with the Phillips!!!!!

Other friends have received long awaited jobs, husband's return dates, and much more!!!

I finished summer school! Yipee! Summer, summer, summertime has begun!!!

Walking Humbly with God

"He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do
justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Micah 6:8

This verse has been a daily plan for so many people. It was PawPaw's favorite verse. I remember how the verse prefaced the celebration of his life so many year ago. This verse was also a favorite of a precious sister at Clear Lake that passed away from cancer last night. At first I thought "lost the battle," but that is not fitting at all. She was a fighter. She was courageous and always had a positive spin on her battles. I have spent the last week or so reading daily updates and mentally preparing for today. I guess what is so different about cancer these days is you LIVE with it. It may not take your life immediately, but you spend years living with it. And she did. Her little girl who just finished Kindergarten has only known as Mommy with cancer, mommy with no hair. How blessed am I that I was able to grow up with my parents.

This verse must be a fighters verse. PawPaw lived with lupus and She lived with cancer.

We just continue to shower this family in our prayers of peace and ask you, too.

Get Therapy!

Just look into the bullseye... Put your feet up on the cart and roll. (Of course you would need your husband to push you. )

Target was my therapy for today!

Dinner for 1=99 cents (Popcorn and a Coke or lemonaid in my case)

Shaving Cream=$1.81

JT's CD=$13.88

hundreds of square feet of entertaining and therapudic merchandise=priceless

I love Target. Sometimes I think my subconscious forgets things at other stores just so I can visit the Therapist. Today to recuperate from a long day at work and working out, I strolled the hours of the nearest Target.

Another kind of therapy-Baby therapy!

Congrats to Pinsons! Baby Sam is here. We have been praying for this little guy and we are continuing to keep this family of 4 in our prayers as he continues to grow and as mommy recovers.

You say goodbye. I say hello!

I'm a Reader, not a writer.

I am not doing so well at the blog thing. I am much more of a reader than a writer. One month later here's what has been happening-

I finished school! Yea!!! My 4th year is completed. I looked at my teaching certificate the other day for something and realized it expires in January! Yikes! I need those 150 hrs. to renew. Anybody know how that works really?

Had a little wedding cake-Miss Mary got married! We had a great time driving to Tyler. She was so beautiful. All the girls look great. Little Reese was such a cutie. Mindi looks precious prego.

Started summer school-I signed up to keep me busy during the month of June. Michael is usually busy with Youth stuff, so I thought this would be perfect! Well, I am teaching 3rd grade! 4 grade levels difference. I have really had to learn a new wheel. 2 more weeks to go.

I am also helping teach the 1st graders at church. I love this age. I missed them this past year. This has been a lot of fun.


I am excited about July. Lots of trips planned. Time to see friends and fam. Can't wait.

I am going to try to be a little better at blogging. But like I said, I am a reader.

Time for a new post

5 more days!!! I am so excited to be almost done with my 4th year of teaching!!! I have never looked forward to summer as much as this year.

May has been quite busy. We had family come in for Graduation and my 21st B-day. ;) It was lots of fun to entertain a house full of guest. We even made a video card for my cousin that has to have massive surgery on her hip. The singing cousins made a superstar performance!

This week we worked liked a dog for Graduation. Whoo, glad that is over.

Now, just 5 days to go.

Prayers for Jayde

Jayde continues to fight, but she needs our prayers. She is such a little fighter and the Lord is holding her tight. I can't wait to meet these little guys who are so strong and so much braver than I am. If you want to keep up with the twins, just follow the link.

http://thephillipsphamily.blogspot.com/

My Special Friends-PRAYERS NEEDED

Please be praying for my little friends: Samuel, Reese, Jayde, & Kanyon! I love them so dearly and their mommies are very precious to me.

Samuel is such a fighter and is continuing to grow in his mommy's tummy. Mommy has been extremely ill and hospitalized (in and out) since September! She has hyper-emesis which is non-stop nausea, vomiting, and EXTREME cramping. I went to visit her this weekend and I am still so amazed at how she is such a survivor and fighter. I can see where Sam gets it! She is very inspiring.

Reese continues to bake in Mom's tum even though we are anxiously awaiting her arrival-She is already a week overdue. We continue to pray for a safe birth for mom and baby,

My other 2 friends are new to this world and came quite a bit early! They are 26 weeks and weigh only 1 lb 9.8 oz and 1 lb 12 oz. Please be praying for these fragile little lives as they are little fighters, too.

Just shower my little friends in prayer. They so desperately need it. I love their mommies and these little guys soooooooooooooo MUCH!!!!

I just blew in from the windy city...

Yesterday was quite exceptional. I got to experience the West Texas Gusts. They were so powerful they broke the glass door at the nail salon where I was yesterday-Just blew open the door and all the glass shattered.

Once I got home I discovered that the backyard fence blew down,too! Luckily, I had anticipated such and put Zeke up before I left. I am glad I did bc I would hate to have come home and he be gone.

The orange skies have passed and blue ones have returned. (I didn't have a filter on the lens-It was really that orange! )The sun is yellow once again-bc yesterday is was crazy weird.

The fence doctor will come Monday!

Over the Last Month...

Every MLK, the most fabulous girls-My girlfriends get together for GIRLS WEEKEND! Even though we were dealing with icy weather, piercing loud security alarms, and more we had a wonderful time. Fireman Dan (my personal friend from the 1402 days) even came by to save the day!

All the girls are prego!!!!!

Hanging out and enjoying the down time.

Girlfriends 4 ever! Melania and Kynlee meet.

PICTURES FROM MICHAEL'S PARTY

SURPRISE!

Doggie Days

Sunny, Sunny, Sunny, Sunny, It is sunny in the sky!

It has been a cloudy and snowy winter. For this Houstonian, it has been very, very cold. Even my 4 year olds have told me they are ready for it to warm up. Actually, their new favorite song is Sunny, Sunny. They LOVE it when it is warm and sunny because that equals our favorite time of the day=RECESS!

Zeke, our dog loves it too. He gets to be out and play. Today we took him to the park and he got to play with his Xmas present from his aunt-Chunk it toy. It is a blue launcher that hoist the tennis ball high in the air. He has to really huff it to catch it. After 15 minutes, we were already on our way home. He was tired.

Zeke playing at the park

Body Jam?!???

How do you really make your body jam?
Well, the gym knows...

I have been going to the gym with Kate lately. Tonight we did body jam class. I just have to laugh the whole way through because never in my whole life through have I moved liked this! Even 1402 Washington Dance Nights. :) Sorry class, you have to look at me.

I think I will stick to hiphop alphabop with the 4 year olds. I can bring a mean head, shoulders, knees, and toes.

Heaven

Over the weekend one of the little girls at the school I am teaching at was killed in a drive by shooting. It is just so tragic, yet very common in the lives of the little ones I teach.

Being 4 years old, they talk about everything and process a lot verbally. This morning they were talking about the little girl that was shot.

One little boy said,

"She is in heaven now,but it takes a long time to get there." :)

They began to discuss heaven. What is it? Where is it?

One little boy said,

"It is up in the sky"

Another little boy said,

"No. It is where the grass is and then you turn into a zombie"

Did you break the code: graveyard


I wonder what they will talk about tomorrow morning.

The Queen Bee!

I am such a proud teacher! 4 years ago I had my first Kindergarten class. They have grown up so much and are now big 3rd graders. They will always hold a special place in my heart as my first class.
I just happened to check in on my old school and saw pictures of my little friend WINNING the spelling bee! Hydroperiod was the winning word and it was from the intermediate book! She was a smartie in Kinder and still a smartie today.

I love my first class. They were the perfect class for a first year teacher. All of them were SUPER SMARTIES! I had 2 students that year reading the Junie B. novels IN KINDERGARTEN!

Good Luck to my special friend as she goes to compete on the county level.
You go girl!

Goodbye 2006, Goodbye House.

December 27th we finally closed on our 1st home. We are thankful that this day finally came after 14 months on the market. I am also a little bit sad that we said goodbye to our 1st home. It was a fabulous home and we will really miss it.

I am glad 2006 is over. It was a year full of challenging moments, growing pains, and groans. I am praying 2007 is full of more challenges, but maybe not as hard to get through.

I have rearranged my classroom in attempts to start fresh. I am almost done. Why do I do this with only 5 months left in the year? Michael asked the same question. I am hoping that this will help. We shall see next week.

We had a great Christmas full of travels and family. It was so great to see everyone. My sister and her husband were down. He leaves for his 8 month tour in Iraq this month. Please keep them in your prayers.

Happy New Year, friends!

Do you know who Jesus' girlfriend is?

In the world of my 4 year old class everything revolves around boyfriends and girlfriends. (Another whole blog in itself...)

Yesterday at lunch my aide and I overheard our students having this conversation:
Boy: "Hey. Do you know who God's kid is?"
Girl: "No."
Boy: "It is Jesus."
"Do you know who Jesus' girlfriend is?"
Girl: "No."
Boy: "Her name is Mary."
Girl: "Ha,Ha, Ha (giggle, giggle-You know the "g" word was mentioned-GIRLFRIEND!)

In a 4 year old's eyes, everybody needs a girlfriend. Forget the important role of having a mother. They are too much!

Babies Here, Babies There, Babies Everywhere!

I have a wonderful dear, close group of friends. I enjoy all of our visits together, girls weekends, even when we can meet for cheesecake.

Many of them are already mommies and I have lots of new little best boy/girlfriends.

Now many of them are prego.

I am so excited to love on all these little guys!

Congrats to all my Mommies!

It was. :(

So it was too good to be true. The deal went south today due to the couple not being forthcoming with all of their information and not begin approved for financing.

The facts:
How many days the house has been on the market: 1 year, 1 month
Total offers: 1-fell through
Tired and weary believers: 2
Doors to open: 1, any one

Too Good To Be True?

Ok. So it has been a while since Aug. 27th, my last fake post. And even longer since I thought of something to say.

Today I might have something good to pass along...

We finally have received an offer on our house. We spent the last week counter offering back and forth with each other. Today we received a contract! No high hopes or really any expectations. I will be truly excited and relieved once we sign on the dotted line in a couple of weeks.

It is truly fitting as 1 year ago in October we put our home on the market. Michael had the stomach virus and was throwing up. I had to take care of all the wonderful details alone. And here we are 1 year later receiving a contract. Michael has the stomach virus again and is throwing up. I have been running around town today to tie up all details.

We will see in the weeks to come.

I guess we will be here in Abilene after all.

Brain Research

You Are 65% Right Brained, 35% Left Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning. Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others. If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic. Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet. The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility. Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way. If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art. Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Are You Right or Left Brained?

Michael and I are the complete opposite! How funny... no wonder we are a match made in Heaven. :)

(Hooray! I posted!)

Another month, still no change

But maybe it is on the horizon. ????

But there is a lot of change going on at my old school. It is like Kindergarten caught the baby bug at my old school with 3 teachers prego so far. Whoo. I got out just in time. hee-hee

Let's hope by August 21st I will finally have some change to report.

I am returning to the City!!!!!! This wkend I am hanging with the girls in a metro area!!!! This brings me much joy. I love the City, any city. Yipee.

My student is a star!

Check out the Foley's ad for this week's sale. On page 7 one of my students is working it!

See the important things I taught in Kinder: how to smile for the camera and always look "Good!"

I feel like proud Grammy or something.

http://www.foleys.com/gifts/OnlineShopping/FO?Dsp=133&sb=fo_0622

One month later... Still no change

Nothing new to say.

Still no change a month later.

No job.

No sell.

No, no, nothing.

Still no change

That sums it up-no change.
Everything is still not working out.

majorly stressed and busy with winding up the school year and life in houston

Barnum, Bailey, and MERCER??!!!

Yes, my class has joined the circus. At least for the last 2 days.

I have had a professional clown as a sub for the last 2 days. No lie. I have been testing this week so I have been right out in the hall to enjoy the "circus." The last 2 days have almost sent me through the roof. LOD, LOD, LOD! But, did they have fun! They told me, "We have never had this much fun. We have a man teacher!"
They were bringing toys to school, drawing all over the chalkboard, and not doing any work. FUN, FUN, FUN.
I was gritting my teeth as I heard all the whooping and hollering coming from my room and echoing down the hall. Keep in mind we are all testing. It was very so loud!
"Oh GOODIE! A BACKPACK FOR ME!"
"IF YOU LOOK IN THE CENTER OF YOUR TABLE, YOU WILL FIND A SUR-PRIZE!!! A JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Too bad that Mean Mrs. Mercer will be back tomorrow and we will actually have to learn and do work. :(

I have been waiting to write because I wanted to have some new news like a job or a house selling. But negative to both. :(

I HATE MOVING!

Why is this so hard?! For over 6 months it has been a stream of continuous "no," "not now," "wait!" I have had my fill. I GIVE UP! I just want to give up already!I have tried REALLY hard to keep positive and make things work. But, we aren't receiving any encouraging news. I am ready for just one yes. Just one. This stinks. Like booty.
To make it harder, I LOVE everything I am leaving. I love the house I am trying to sell, I love the job I am giving up, and I love the city I am leaving.
WHY, WHY, WHY! aRGH!!!!!!!
Moving is for the birds.

BUY ME!!!!!!

A lovely home 30 minutes away from Galveston

Perfect!

Buy me, please. I love my owners very much, but they have to move away. If I could move to Little A, I would. I have to stay here in Houston waiting for new owners. It gets kind of lonely. I feel like nobody wants me. People come through me and say how pretty I am, but no one wants me. It really hurts my feelings. I would understand if I was older with wrinkles, but I am brand new. Oh, somebody buy me!

Like a thief in the Night

My heart is heavy for one of my past co-workers. She died tragically in a car crash Thursday night due to another drunk driver. The other driver was going the wrong way and crashed head-on into her car. She was killed, but her children will live. They are severely injured and are needing surgery.
I am actually teaching in her old classroom. She left her stamp with the flowers she would paint on the walls in each room she was in. She loved books and teaching. She was to return to our school next year after taking a leave when her family relocated to England for a short while. They just returned to the states back in February.
It is just tragic. We never know when we are called to leave this world. My school has seen many losses this past year. I just continue to pray for the family and my co-workers.

Her legacy will live on in all the little lives she dedicated herself to teaching. She has changed their lives forever.

Blessings on the Kings.

Spring Break

Last month has been so unique. It has been filled with sickness, another sickness, Open House (LOTS OF LATE NIGHTS), and Spring Break. Michael took vacation and came to spend it with me! We went to San Antonio and had a great trip. Here are a few pics from our break.




La Maison Hotel- Our room was the one right above the sign. We looked out to the river. We also heard all the late night fun! :)
J.Lo stayed here when she filmed Selena.












Michael and I went to the SBC center to see
the Spurs play. Eva Longoria was a no show.
I looked for her the whole game!



We went to the Majestic Theater to see
Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat by the
touring Broadway company. The touring
company included Amy Adams as the narrator.
Amy was on American Idol. It is an AMAZING
theater! They won't let you take pictures
inside, but the details are unbelievable.


We ate all vacation all the many yummy places. We shopped. We rested. It was just everything a Spring Break is made to be.

OH NO! FLY AWAY BIRDIE!

But, he didn't make it! I hit my first animal today on I-45. This bird was in the middle of my lane and he didn't make it. After a couple of thumps and a bunch of feathers seconds later, I was so sad to see my first catastrophe. Sniff, Sniff.

I wish it could have flown away.

No Shopping for me~

Today is President's Day and we had to go to work. So while the rest of the world was off and shopping I was telling my kiddos about the 2 presidents Washington and Lincoln. Some of my kids refer to ole' George as "George Bush Washington." Hey, they made the connection. :)

Today was my first day back after missing a whole week. It was a whirlwind getting back in the swing of things. But,
Guess who's back, Mrs. Mercer's Back. Back Again, Tell a Friend. Guess who's back...

I missed a fun weekend with my girls who I MISS TERRIBLY! I missed getting together with one of my favorite red-heads and I missed the March of the Siggies! I missed seeing my cousin and aunt who were visiting my cousin. I missed out on a fun car trip. I just missed out!

Happy Valentine's Day

Meet My Date!

Some people prefer to wine and dine on Valentine's Day. A day full of sweets, card, and love!
Not me. For the past 2 years I have had porcelin instead of diamonds. Last year, Michael and I went out to eat and right after we got back from dinner I got the stomach flu. :) Still won't eat Pei Wei.

This year, I have been sick for almost 5 days with the fever, aches, chills, and the infamous nausea. This time I am alone. I have had to call in reinforcements today as it was my lowest point yet. (I am trying to blog to keep my mind off other things-at this point I am trying anything!)

But the true valentine story is yet to come... The best present EVER!

After feeling so bad and not being able to care for myself today, I told my husband- I NEED YOU! So at this moment, my knight in shining pickup (with doggie in tow- another story. Coop didn't like Zeke. He was evicted. I am glad cause I missed the little guy. ) is coming to my castle of disease to rescue me. Or at least get me a cup of ice chips. ISn't he wonderful!! After making the 12 hour drive 4 days ago, he left after work and is drivin through the night to help his sick wifie girl. Through sickness and health! I know even though I am going to miss a really fun weekend with all my girlfriends, my family, and even an interview (shucks!) at least I have my sweetheart on Valentine's Day.

Oh, Kindergarten Let Me count THE SICKNESS!

I have had some weird things over the last 3 years in Kindergarten. Pink eye like 20 times. The fabulous stomach flu. But, this one tops my list. Fifth Disease! It is a flu like virus most common in children. Commonly known as "The Slapped Face" sickness because after the virus runs its course, you get a lovely bright red rash on your cheeks! Spread by all the sneezing and hacking going on in my room. I have "felt the spit" many times this Winter season. Since Saturday, I have felt like the flu. Gross, Gross, and alone! After going to the Dr. today, he let me know that 1-it is not the flu 2-no cure or meds for what I have. Just lots and lots of IB Profen. Tonight, my cheeks are a lot rosier than normal. Yup, just as I thought. Fifth Disease! What worries me though is Michael went to bed EXTRA early with the same exhaustion that I felt on Saturday night. Now this could be normal exhaustion. I mean the ppor man drove 12 hours to see me this weekend. Then he worked ALL DAY Sunday only to be kept up at 2 am when I was about to puke! Or it could be the disease...No, no, no! Don't let Michael be getting it too! We are suppose to see each other for a long weekend, but if he has this- I don't know if I can get it again?! It is a good 4 days off your feet and out of work. But one thing is for sure- I won't be seeing my friends over the weekend that are with child. VERY DANGEROUS FOR ANY PREGNANT LADY. Sorry girls, I will be a lunch in spirit. :(

He's Gone.

*tired to post yesterday. technical difficulties*
Sniff. Sniff.
I didn't think I would miss the little guy, but life without his little green eyes looking at me is kind of lonely. He made the 6 hour drive to Abilene without a flaw. But Zeke is a great traveler. Remember, he made the "Great Evacuation" and went 24 hours in his little carrier. However, this time he made the last 1.5 hours INSIDE THE CAB! Michael said he just curled up on the seat. He would lick Michael's hand and then go back to sleep.

While the boys were traveling, I was getting sick. I am still battling the mysterious. I think it is Fifth Disease. It is floating around the Kindergarten hall. I have had a fever, aches, and chills. I am waiting for my rash to appear in a couple of days to confirm my suspicions. Michael just thinks it is another bug. Well, I hope it is, too.

Also, my car is in the shop. Thursday I was driving to work and the oil light came on. When I got home, I checked the oil and there WAS NO OIL ON THE STICK. Michael drove it to the shop the next day and they told him about a temporary pan. After much invesigation, Michael determined Wal-Mart had damaged the car a year ago when he took it there for oil change. (This was a point of tension cause I told Michael not to take my car to Wal-Mart. It is now a big "I told you so." Cheaper isn't always better.) Michael has filed a claim with Wal-Mart but until then we have to foot the 500 dollar bill. To make it even more complicated, I HAVE TO HAVE A CAR because there is no one to take me to work anymore. Lucky for us, my parents left yesterday on a 7 day cruise. So I am borrowing their car.
Crusin in a Lexus. :) Not bad, at all.

This living on your own was tough this weekend with all this car stuff and sickness. I need my husband!!!!

Happy Birthday, honey. I took him to the coolest birthday among emus. :) We went to one of my student's birthday parties and it was a wildlife park and they have all these exotic animals just running around. They come right up to your car. It was funny.

I'm Moving, Too!

Ruff! Ruff!
I am moving to Abilene too. I am going to live with my new friend Coop Campbell. I am so excited! I will have a friend to run around with and chase. I promise Mom, I won't dig up their yard or run away. I will keep Dad company. I hope he walks me around ACU and maybe I might even meet some more new friends!! I will miss you Mom.
Love,
Zeke

Dear Zeke,
I am happy for you! Daddy misses you so much and Mommy just can't play with you as much as Dad does. I will see you in 2 weeks. XXXOOO
Love,
Mommy


(This is me and Daddy evacuating Houston.)

I am really relived that Zeke is moving. I just can't take care of him the way he deserves-not to mention HE WONT GET MY WORK CLOTHES MUDDY EVERY MORNING~~~

bYE,bYE Zekie!

101

Yesterday, February 1st marked 100 day of Kindergarten! I made it!!!! It has been a long road, but we celebrated yesterday with a few low key centers. Actually, it was all day. You know, counting to 100 takes a LONG time. We made froot loop necklaces. Instead of our normal Math Work Places we had 100s day work places that they enjoyed.

Can you name 100 people you love? Well, we can. My picture is our class heart full of 100 people.
Even "Mrcr" (that is me) made the cut! I am loved!

My weeks seem to get busier and busier. I lose a husband and triple my responsibilities. Go figure. I am enjoying my Beth Moore study despite the EVIL Galleria traffic (and 2 hour commute) to get to her. She is so funny. Tuesday she told the sweetest baby story that made even me tear up.

Still waiting for our house to sell. It showed today and I just know they are the ones because I can't keep doing what I am doing. Something has got to give. I know an easy fix- Does anyone want a cat or a dog or both!!!??? My husband would be heartbroken, but I would at least get some sleep. The cat keeps me up all night long. I got about 3 solid hours last night-Thanks mavie!

Well, it is day 101 and I am ready for day 102. I get to see my #1 this weekend! :)

1, 2, 3, 100!

p.s. Any cures for Sharpie on a new sweater?

I just have nothing new to say!

I know it has been such a long time since I posted, but I have nothing to say. I might be retiring from the blog world.

Just business as usual. Work, Housework, and sometimes Hubby time.
Things are good though. Just praying and waiting for our home to sell! It has been quite FRUSTRATING, but we know it will sell at the right time.

School is great, but really busy.

Counting down the days till Spring Break-a whole week with my precious husband!!!!!

Yipee!

I get to go see my hubby this weekend! Yea! I thrilled and can't wait to have an adventure in Abilene.

Other good news, one of my students moved away :( but now I only have 21! One makes all the difference in moving around and fitting into my tiny room.

I got to go shopping yesterday for the first time in a long time and by some snazzy clothes.

I got to spend the night with Mee-Maw and take her to church the next day. We had a good ol' time.

I have been leaving on time at work. WOW! First time in 3 years that I am able to let some things go. Maybe it's that I am not returning...

2006 HAS BEEN GOOD!

Seeking his kingdom. The things I need have been given to me!

End of an Era

As you all know, my Houston days are coming to a close. As we are relocating to Abilene, everything that I have come to know and deeply LOVE as "home" is changing. I also was born and raised here in H-town, so I have a deep love and passion for the city. I along with other true Houstonians actually love the humidity. (It is so much easier to breathe than dry air!)
But, things keep changing around me so fast I just don't know how much more I can take!!!!

They have closed my old summer stomping grounds-AstroWorld and are auctioning off my favorite rides of the early 90's. Can I get a "Greased Lightning?!" Analee and I had summer passes and in elementary we would spend all day there having a good ol' time.

The kicker of today though is...
DARCY IS LEAVING THE BEAUTIQUE! Yes, it is true. The lady I have come to trust with the lovely locks of mine for the last 10 years is starting her own salon. I can go in and sit in her chair and say with confidence, "Whatever you think." and still come out looking good. 2 Years ago I even gave in to the color world and she took these virgin locks and made me blonder. (That look can be achieved-not natural.) She even chopped off my long, long locks after we got married and gave them to locks of love.

oh man, too many things changing for me to keep up. I will just hope that this is the last of the monumental changes in my life. Haha!

Leavin' On A Jet Plane

Sunday was our 1st day at Highland and it was a great start. Everyone was very friendly and intersted in both of us. We are excited to be there and begin our ministry! In fact, Michael has already started work... in Nashville at the NCYM conference.
We got to see a big dust storm and the clouds of smoke on our way to the airport last night. We both left on a jet plane and are back at work.
It is hard to say goodbye at the security walk throughs. I wish you could say goodbye at the gate.

I have many report cards to work on tonight- comments and all.
Back to Work. :)

Seeking God's Kingdom

"Seek God's Kingdom

and all the other things you need will be given to you."

Luke 12:31

Tomorrow Michael and I take one giant step of faith-We leave for Abilene. Nothing has really fallen into place since Michael has accepted this job, actually. It has been one hurdle followed by a challenge and nothing is nice and neat. We are both really sad about living apart. (Hey, I thought we were done with this when we got married!) But, despite the 3 years now of being out of Abilene and being together, we have come full circle and are back in our traditional mold of long distance. I know it will be fine, but my heart will long for my hubby who I love so dearly. We have been full of tears lately.

We want our house to sell, but no bites during the holidays.( Which I wouldn't expect it to anyway) I am just praying that this will be answered with the new year and be one of things God will give to us. It is hard to try to begin a new chapter of your life when you really can't because of your responsibilities elsewhere. It is especially hard for me because I have no place to call my own there and help me make the real life connection with the move. Michael has already set up his office and has a new job. So he is excited and has some sense of belonging already. Without a home and a job for me I am just floundering about without any real since of "home" not to mention, I have huge for sale sign in front of my home.

And then all the other stressful details that have kind of imploded at this time to just make life a little more complicated.

Tonight I told God I just needed some of his wisdom and flipped open my new bible (this really neat magazine style bible my dad gave me for Christmas) and He told me Luke 12:31:

Seek God's Kingdom

and all the other things you need will be given to you.

So with that to say, here we are seeking... And trusting that all these other things will be provided.

Here is to a new year of Seeking His Kingdom.

Happy 2006!

Party, Party, Party

La Te Da!
This week is full of parties! I love parties! I love the cookies, stories, and of course the outfits.

We kicked off our Holiday week by going to our Young Couples Christmas Party which was really a SURPRISE goodbye party for us. It was so sweet and sad. A little sweet and sour if you will... But we will miss them a lot, a lot, a lot!

Saturday Michael and I had a pajama day party!!!! We slept in and bumed around till noon!!!!! It was so great. It had been ages since I slept that much. But I guess we needed it. We went to the galleria for some holiday shopping which is like a party for me.

Wednesday we will have a High School party! I am sure there will be some cookies there too!
(It might be a good thing Michael is leaving in January so I can start working off all these cookies.)

We have our class party on Thursday and I am not as excited about that one. The kids are always SOOOO excited and are sometime out of control. I am also worn out after that!

Friday is a party all day because it is OUR LAST DAY OF 2005! Can I get a what, what!!! It is also my team party which will be lots of fun to. I have to come up with a good gift for the Chinese Christmas exchange!

Saturday kicks off the 1st Christmas for us too. We will have Christmas with Michael's mom.

Party, Party, Party! :)

not much to say...But so much to do

I have been soooo busy in all areas of my life but none of it is really eventful enough to write about. But I will anyway!

Work is nuts-o! Always is at this time of year. I don't think I will ever get done the things I have to complete ASAP.
The Kids are SUPER excited. Always are at this time of year.
Will Christmas Break get here already?!

My husband is leaving soon. Sniff, Sniff...
I am at a loss without my sidekick.

We have said our goodbyes at church. Another Sniff, Sniff.

Christmas Shopping-So not done!
Christmas Cards-So not done!

I want and need to catch up with so many people, but the timing never seems to work out.

With life so uncertain and chaotic I find myself relying fully upon Him. He is my one constant and giving me peace as the transition seems to become overwhelming at times. Not to mention heartbreaking...