Turkey Day 2009

This year Thanksgiving was held in Tulsa, at the home of Aunt Linda and Uncle Steve. One of Aunt Linda's neighbors was gracious enough to let us stay in their house. It is a second home that they only use when they come to visit their children/grandchildren. It was perfect---only a couple of houses away, had 4 bedrooms, a large playroom, and TONS of toys. The family only had one request, and that was for all of us to make a donation to our local Salvation Army. I think that can be done (I have 5 bags of stuff I have been meaning to take). What a great way to spend the holiday.

Thanksgiving can be a double edged sword for those of us in the coaching world. The Rebels have had a great season, and we were in the semi-finals for the state playoffs. This meant that Justin had to stay in Fort Smith during the holiday (only driving over for a few hours of family time on Thursday). I took the boys over on Tuesday evening so we could have lots of time with the family. We arrived without any major issues and found that Aunt Linda had a corn chowder and pizza soup waiting. The kids were so excited to be out of the car and playing with the girls. After dinner we played a rousing game of "Catch Phrase". I think this is my new favorite game. Britni claims the one we played was an older version and better than the new. I just know that it was really fun!

Wednesday was relaxing and fun. We hung out, the kids played, and one of Megan's childhood friends came over with her two kids. Russell was really happy about having a new guy to hang out with. The kids took full advantage of the clear weather and played in the bouncy house/yard for a long time. We picked up a tasty lunch at Zio's (or as Chester calls it "Z-10") and then down for naps. That evening we were supposed to go to Megan's surprise 30th brithday party, but the location was moved at the last minute, and kids weren't allowed in the new location. Instead, we ate at a neat little place called "Joe Momma". It had specialty pizza and other delectible dishes. I had some of the best bruschetta I have ever tasted. The others had a variety of things from Chicken nachos to hot and spicy pizza to PB&J (on "hard" bread). Uncle Steve took over entertaining Russell. He taught R some new tricks like wet willies, blowing the paper off your straw, and spit balls. I had to pull out my "teacher face" on the last one, but it was all in the name of survival.

Turkey Day came, and we celebrated at Steve and Linda's house. It was also Grandmother's birthday. We tried to get her to sit and relax, but she insisted on fixing a few of her signature dishes. There were already lots of cooks in the kitchen so I took the role that I know best--teacher. I helped the kids make Thanksgiving place mats. We traced their hands for the turkeys, and they colored them. Then we wrote what they were thankful for on little pieces of paper and glued it to the mat. We covered them with sheet protectors (couldn't find contact paper), and voila--instant place mat. It was pretty cute to hear what the kids were thankful for: Addison:"that I can go shopping", Delaney:"Butterflies and Ladybugs", Russell:"outside", Wilson:"Football", Cayman: "my whole family".

Like I mentioned earlier, Justin was able to stop over for a few hours of eating and visiting. Everyone was happy that he made it for lunch, and football, even if he couldn't stay for all of the games. After all of the eating, the guys took the kiddos back to our house for naps and football, while the girls stayed at Aunt Linda's house for naps and Ellen. That evening we drove thru 2 million Christmas lights at one of the area churches. It was pretty amazing, and it really inspired Justin to decorate big this year--JUST KIDDING. It was neat, though, and the kids really seemed to enjoy it. When we drove by the Nativity scene, Wilson saw the camels and said "Yee haw". Yep, I bet that is what the wise men said while riding to see the new born king "Yee Haw"!

Unfortunately, Friday brought a closeing to all the festivities. The Archer family flew out kind of early, and the rest of us left right before lunch time. We stopped by the Bass Pro shop so the boys could check out the largest carps I have ever seen. We also saw lots of "stuffed" animals, and I tricked Wilson into thinking I was going to feed him to a bear. It was hilarious (at least it was to me and the older gentleman sitting there watching us). After the quick drive home, naps, and some playtime, we listened to the Rebels pull out another great win. In the last few seconds of the game we scored a touchdown and extra point, putting us in the lead 24-23. For the 3rd time in 4 years we are heading to LR for the State Playoffs. We will be playing Harber--which in my opinion is a good thing since we know them. I am so proud of the Rebel players and coaches. It is such a good feeling to know that all of the hard work of the season is paying off. We will be making the trek to War Memorial stadium on Saturday to watch the game. GO REBS!!!!

Happy Halloween

This year for Halloween Russell decided he wanted a scary costume. When we went to shop for the perfect one he fell in love with the wolf. Of course he did, with all things considered it is a great costume. Wilson, on the other hand, is terrified of the costume (remember he is also terrified of dogs), and cries, screams, and runs everytime Russell puts on the mask.

Every year Papa T (Fimple) puts on a seriously awesome Halloween party for the kids (and parents) of all the coaches. This year he didn't disappoint anyone. He had 3 blow ups--1 for the smaller kids, 1 really big castle with slide, and 1 that was two slides side by side. He had TONS of food, the costume contest (for kids and adults), and a special treat for the kids and their dads. Papa T gives out some unbelieveable prizes for the costume contest. He tries to let all of the kids win something, and so he has like 10 different categories. Russell won the "Most Halloween Spirit". He got a Mc Donald's gift card. Unfortunately, Wilson didn't win anything, but he didn't seem to care because that meant he could take his costume off. We didn't get any pics of Justin and I dressed up, but we both walked away with prizes. Justin was dressed as Hanibal Lector (orange prison suit and mask--I drew some tatts on him). He won "Most Halloween spirit". I was dressed as the grandmother from Red Riding Hood (since Russell was a wolf). I got "Cutest Adult outfit. Our prizes were gift cards to Cracker Barrell. In the years past, Papa T had a treasure hunt for prizes also. This year, however, he took a different approach. The kids got to throw whip-cream pies in their daddies' faces for a dollar. Wilson didn't like the idea so much, but Papa T still gave him the dollar. It was really hilarious to watch those daddies get it!

At daycare they dress up like farmers for the fall parties. We don't really have any farmer gear. We decided that plaid shirts and jeans would have to do. The boys looked like some of the nicest dressed farmers I have ever seen. Russell filled up his sticker chart at school and got a new toothbrush. He just wanted to let everyone know that he really does know how to listen, even if he doesn't always practice the ability.

The Sadler's hosted the coaching families to their house for a weenie roast before Trick or Treating. They got to fill up on Rebel dogs, chips, and S'mores before all the candy. Really I think it was a chance for them to get out some energy, and let the parents have some quiet before the craziness. We walked over to a near-by church for Trunk or treats and then off to the real deal trick or treating. It was so much fun to go as a group with the other coaching kids.

All in all it was a really good time! We have more candy then we know what to do with. I am thinking of new things to do with all of it--besides eat it all myself! I hope everyone had a Spooktacular night!

Football Friday

Being a coaches wife is not what I thought I would be, and I am most certainly not the traditional one. When am I ever traditional? I love Friday nights, though. I love coming together with my "family" and cheering on a team of boys (and my sweetie) that have worked so hard. I love the excitement of the band (which also provides plenty of entertainment for the kids) and watching the boys play with their friends!

We get there kind of early because it would be too much trouble to come all the way home and back in about an hour. The boys eat their supper (a Happy Meal) picnic style while watching the teams warm up. The big disadvantage is that we are in the end zone with the opposing team kicking field goals. I am sure it is humorous to anyone watching us scatter.

I really feel like we have a football family. I think it is really important for all of us to support each other because until you have lived the life of a coaches wife, you have no idea. There are many jobs that can compare, but the uniqueness of coaching is wonderful. I am so grateful for the other girls. I have different relationships with all of them, but each one is vital to me. I look to them for so much, and they have been good football mentors for me. We are bonded with a glue that allows us to undertand and admire another individual.

The kids have so much fun during the game. They might play on the track with Wilson's wagon, or they might play in the grass. They all like to imitate the Dixie Bells. Pappa T always delivers the snacks (way more than they could ever finish), and we all try to bring a variety of entertainment. We cheer, we dance, and we might ban people to the concession stand if we think they are bad luck.

While I listen to the game, I think about those of my "family" that are out there, may it be playing, coaching, or cheering, and I am thankful for everything you add to my life!

Oh for Pete's sake!

I have gotten into the habit of letting Russell "read" me a story before I read the treasured pick of the night. One of our favorites is "Pigeon finds a Hot Dog". If you don't know about the Pigeon books then you need to find out! Last nite's rendition took the gold medal.

Up to this point Russell has just mimicked what I said (the key is to do funny voices for each character). Last night, Russell "read" the whole book to me, including voices, and he remembered about 85 percent of the words.

At one point in the book, the pigeon is fed up with the duckling and shouts, "Oh for Pete's sake!" Russell had gotten all of the other phrases, so I figured this would be no biggie. He reads, " Oh for Pizza Steak!" I laughed so hard! He was so proud of himself.

Just wanted to share a small moment in my funny world. Hope everyone out there is as good, in health and happiness, as I am!

Ryan and Shannon's wedding

Over Labor Day weekend, Russell and myself had the pleasure of attending one of the nicest (if not THE NICEST) wedding I have ever seen. I never had any doubts that the wedding would be perfect, but the degree of perfection was unbelieveable. In case you don't know, my wonderful older brother, Ryan, married the sweetest person, Shannon. They are the perfect couple that balances each other in the best ways.

The weekend was plum full of activities that started as soon as we arrived. We left Fort Smith about 6 am, flew to Dallas (thankfully making a short connection), and then on to Indianapolis. Russell had a great time on the flights, and he really enjoyed the Sky Mall magazine.

Grandpa Ralph was waiting for us when we arrived, and Russell was very impressed that Grandpa had even thought about a seat for him. We headed to the hotel (the Old Train Station) to check in and maybe chill before all of the festivities began. Ryan had prearranged for Russell and I to sleep in a train car. Little did I know that he meant a for-real train that was now being used for hotel rooms. Russell thought it was the coolest thing. I thought the fact that the room was named the "The Greta Garbo" room was pretty neat too. They had all kinds of plaster statues around the hotel. They were all very realistic looking.

We didn't have long before Nana and I were to meet the girls for the Bridemaid luncheon/tea party. We dolled up and headed downtown to Tea Cozy. I hadn't ever been to a real tea party, and the nice staff at Tea Cozy gave us the background information on how tea parties were started. It was such a cozy spot to have a girly luncheon. They even had hats for each of us to wear. All of the bridesmaids, moms, aunts, and sisters were able to take a little time, before the rush started, to visit and breathe.

While the girls had their time, the boys went to a resturaunt/arcade. They very graciously took Russell with them. I don't know what they expected, but from all of the stories, Russell was the game master. Ryan made sure that all of the boys pulled the tickets won so that Russell could get some really good prizes. He was able to get a motorcycle and Woopie Cushion. Yes, I said Woopie Cushion. Ryan made sure to ask parent permission before giving it to him, and Russell enjoyed blowing it up and making everyone laugh.

Friday evening we had the rehearsal and dinner. The church had a wedding Friday night that we were after, and the priest made sure to speak to the bride and groom about the importance of the ceremony the next day. Once inside, the planners were efficient and strict in their delivery of instructions. Russell made sure to shine when it was his time, and he even offered up a few laughs with his comical ways. After the rehersal we headed downtown to the dinner. The spot was ultra chic, and we had the whole upstairs to ourselves. The groomsmen and bridesmaids made the appropraite speeches, and the bride and groom gave out presents. We were treated to a sentimental slide show of both the bride and groom growing up. Russell surprised even me with his exceptional behavior. He had already made good friends with the guys at the arcade, and so he decided he would rather spend his time with them then his mom. It was a late night for Russell (who didn't get a nap that day), and so he crashed in Grandpa and Nana's room while Ryan and I went to hang out with friends at the local Irish pub.

Saturday started out with a nice breakfast in the hotel resturaunt. Russell ate the biggest stack of pancakes I have ever seen. We had to get ready early since the wedding started at 2:30. We made our way over to the "guys" room to find that one of Shannon's family friends had packed lunches for everyone including Russell. She must know kids because she had a Lunchable with everything included just for him. He felt like "one of the guys" since they were all eating to gain their strength *Before we left FSM, Russell saw me with my dress on and asked where I was going to wear it. I told him that I was wearing this dress to the wedding. He replied, "Well, you can wear that, and I will wear my tux, and we can get married." * We rode the party limo over to the church and took more pictures. The photographer was AWESOME. He really took some different style shots that turned out unbelieveable.

The wedding itself was the most beautiful, most serene, most uplifiting event I have ever attended. It was a Catholic wedding, which includes mass, and so it lasted about an hour. Of course, Russell had the ever important job of "ring security". I also had a job, reader, that I think turned out okay. It was kind of nerve wracking to know that I had to walk in front of everyone just to get to the podium. The church itself was amazing, the priest was insightful and funny (telling stories of football), and the newlyweds were beaming. Willy really helped me out by making deals with Russell about how they were supposed to behave. It also helped that Ryan bribed Russell with $10 if he did a good job. He did perfect. I didn't expect anything different since he is all about being the center of attention, but you just never know with a 4 year old!

After the wedding, the whole wedding party boarded the party limo to tour Indianapolis and take pictures. It was a really neat idea, and I really enjoyed seeing the sites. I had previously packed Russell's backpack full of toys and things to entertain himself, but what do you think he wanted to play with? THE WOOPIE CUSHION. I think he asked every person on that bus to blow it up and sit on it! The photographer took some really interesting shots all over town, and then we headed off to the reception site. It was neat because the reception was in the old Train Station. It had beautiful stained glass windows and was very spacious. They had cocktail hour from 5:30-6:30, and then we were treated to a superb meal of steak and chicken, mashed potatoes, and veggies. The wedding party walked down to Black Eyed Peas "Tonight is gonna be a good night" which totally fit the whole party. A few people stood to give toasts including a very touching toast by Shannon's dad. Then came the dancing! It was a blast. Shannon's parents had thought ahead and had babysitters in a room at the ajoining hotel (our hotel). With no nap for the second day in a row, I decided it was in everyone's best interest if Russell went to the room to play with the other kids. The party lasted until the wee hours of the morning, but I made it to about 11:00. Ryan and I called the HOGS (to show em how it was done), and he did his best beat boxing performance to date.

Sunday morning was quiet as to be expected. We were able to see the newlyweds before our flight out, and they complimented Russell on his stellar performance. To say that the weekend was perfect doesn't even begin to explain the experience. It was the most spectacular wedding I have ever had the pleasure of attending. Ryan and Shannon took a wonderful trip to the Greek Isles for 2 weeks and are now home enjoying the abundance of presents they received. I know that God will bless them with a happy union, and I am proud to say that I have a new sister!

Brotherly Love

As the boys get older, they are becoming the best of friends. Really, I promise, most of the time they really like each other. I actually caught a few good pictures of it.

Right now, we are really enjoying the art sibling rivalry. We fight over everything. It could be something as "insignificant" as the Best Buy ad in Sunday's paper. Even better is the fight over who gets which sippy cup in the morning. *Yes, I am still allowing Russell to drink out of a sippy cup. I am having a hard time stepping up to a cup without a lid*. Most of the time it is a fight over a coveted Hot Wheel, Spider Man, what TV show we will watch, or the type of fruit snacks to get at Wal Mart. There are those moments that I glance through the fog of time, and for see some roo-tootin' good fights brewing. The balance usually tips to the side of surprise--just depends on who isn't looking. Russell has good speed for his age, and he also has wisdom on his side. Wilson, on the other hand, has brute strength. I couldn't count on both hands and feet the number of times that Wilson has layed Russell flat out. I think Wilson may end up on the O-line.

Russell has really been asking a lot of questions lately. If you have been around him for more than 5 minutes I am sure you got the third degree. He has been saving the really tough questions for me, on the ride home from school/work, when my brain is so worn out I can't think of anything intelligent to say. For example, "Mommy, why do people go to Heaven." "Well, God wants them to come home with Him." "But mommy, I don't want to go to Heaven and leave you." "Don't worry, you won't for a long time." "But why not mommy, doesn't God want me to visit." "I am sure God would love for you to visit, but He really wants you to stay with me and daddy." "But He is your boss right?" "Yes, Russell, God is everyone's boss." "Who is God's boss" Anyhow, you get the idea! It is exausting, and I usually end up saying the fantastic phrase "I don't know Russell, I just don't know!"

Wilson is really growing--and I don't mean his belly any more. He has really shot up in the past few months. He is starting to loose that famous Budda belly that everyone loved so much. It makes me a little sad to think about him growing into a young man. He usually has the most even temperment (thanks to Justin), and he loves to snuggle. He is so sweet to everyone he meets, and he esp. loves babies. He likes to tickle their feet and will often try to feed them whatever is near. I was hoping his love for babies would somehow transfer to animals so that we could finally get a dog. Not so much. He is terrified of all animals to a certain extent. He likes them as long as he knows that they can't get him, come near him, lick him, sniff him, or run around him. Russell is getting pretty exasperated with the whole situation. I finally had to promise Russell that by the time he turned 8 we would get a pet.

On another note, we are coming up on the year anniversary of my mom's triple aneurism. She is doing really good. She recovered almost all of her memory, balance, strength, and health. I am just so thankful for all of the prayers during that time, and I know that she still has a purpose here! She looked so good out there dancing with Ryan at the wedding! I am so proud of her progress, and I am so thankful that my dad was able to take care of her.

Hope all of you are doing well.Happy, healthy, and having fun!