Brock, Kassidy, and the Sundance Kids

Not a Fan of the Snow!

2011-02-26T18:02:00.000-08:00

Remember a few weeks ago when it snowed? Not THE BLIZZARD, before that, it snowed, JUST snowed (a little...not like 20 inches). Anyway, Cash got to go "play" in the snow. It was his FIRST snow (not counting THE CHRISTMAS EVE BLIZZARD OF 2009).

By the way...maybe next winter we shouldn't be so surprised, and get all crazy, and act like the world is coming to an end when THE BLIZZARD comes!

Well, it did not take long for Cash to decide that he is NOT a fan of the snow...

He started out okay...curious, but cautious...

Then came the disappointment...

Next, it was full on anger, sadness, tears...

and lastly...he got his point across! I'm sure if he could talk, he would have yelled at me to put that camera down and take him back inside out of this retched snow!!

okay, little guy, I'm sorry...I'm pretty sure after the past two BLIZZARDS, I'm not really a fan of the snow either!

Cowboy in Training!!

2011-02-26T16:42:00.000-08:00

Every Friday Tytus' class goes to the library at school and they each get to check out a book. A couple of weeks ago when he got in the car to come home he said, "Mom, the book I got at the library is all about where I'm going to go to college. And it teaches me where I'm going to go to class and everything I need to take to college!!" He was very excited.

And I was very excited when he pulled this book out of his backpack. We read it over and over that week. And learned about Edmond Low Library, Old Central, Pistol Pete, dorm rooms, the Student Union, and we sang the fight song about a hundred times!!

Now that's one smart Cowboy! Go Pokes!!

Monthy Mission

2011-02-26T12:58:00.001-08:00

One of the women in my Bible study has a son that is in the service and was just deployed. All the ladies gathered supplies and cards to send to him and the other men and women serving with him. So the boys and I decided to make some cards to show our gratitude to our troops.

They each wrote a message inside and colored a picture on the back, and then I wrote a letter of thanks on the inside.

The boys were pretty proud of what they made. (Beau is going through this make-funny-faces-at-the-camera stage!) And it was a good opportunity to talk to them about how people serve our country and how we can serve others.

And here is the finished project. I thought they turned out pretty cute! Making cards and sending items to our troops needs to be something that becomes a habit.

T-Man's B-Day Party

2011-02-26T11:57:00.000-08:00

I'm finally getting around to posting some pictures from Tytus' birthday parties. He wanted to do and Ironman party (even though he's never seen the movie and doesn't really know anything about Ironman!)

But first...do you know what happens when you don't have enough oil that a cupcake recipe calls for? And do you know what happens when you accidentally put too much water in the batter???

You get cupcakes that look like THIS!!

They ooze out over the top of the paper liner, they get nice and golden brown on top, and they are very airy and light in the center!

They might not be packed full of flavor...but with lots of sugary frosting and tons of sugary sprinkles they end up tasking quite yummy!

Tytus took these to school on his birthday to share with his friends...I'm pretty sure they didn't mind that I forgot how to read and follow instructions when I was making them.

Okay, back to the parties...

Like I said...he's really into Ironman!!

Daddy picked out this very special gift...

T-Man's first real gun. It's just a BB gun, but, I'm sure this is the first of many guns in the future. (God help me raise three boys!)

And then we went bowling with friends and family. He's showing off his COOL bowling shoes!

The boys (minus Eli...it must have been his turn).

The Daddies

Bratt and the babies...Journey, Cash and Lanie

I can't believe he's FIVE...I might have said this before, but I just can't believe it!

He LOVES his new guitar from Eli!

Grandma gave his the coolest tree swing! It will be perfect hanging from a tree near the bardominium!

Then it was time for games...

unless you are Beau...and then it was time for more cake!!

And here's how it all went down! Take a good look! Yeah, that's right...we whooped the guys! Take another look...those are SINGLE digits folks!!

And the Birthday boy did great! He beat everyone except for Jade! Good Job T-Man!

Bad Hair Day???

2011-02-07T16:39:00.000-08:00

Ever just have one of those days?....

You just can't bear to look....

Don't let it get ya down...

You have a lot to be thankful for!!!

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22

Progress As Promised!

2011-02-06T11:21:00.001-08:00

Once life settled down a bit after the holidays, it was time to start construction on the inside of the barn. The plans are drawn up and we are fully committed to finishing out part of the barn as living quarters. The plan: build the "barndominium" (as we like to call it), put our house in MO back on the market, and as soon as the Loma Linda house sells break ground on the house. Anyone that knows us knows that our "PLANS" are made to be changed...we like to keep everyone on their toes! Construction of the "barndomium" is proving to be going a bit slower than we had hoped for...THE BLIZZARD, has not helped, but oh well...as long as it's livable by May 1 then I'm good!

Brock's dad, as always, has been a big help. Along with his expertise, he loaned us the Bobcat the trencher, and extra man power. Best of all the boys love when he's around!

We all know who the big boss is!

Cash even got in on some of the action...not sure if he was throwing the rocks or eating them, but either one is a safe bet!

I think most men will think of any excuse to run heavy equipment. When we built our first house, I got to run the skid steer...I haven't gotten a turn since then...I wonder why?

The electrical lines are ran and the plumbing is in! Exciting stuff, I know. I told Brock that all I wanted for Valentine's Day was a concrete slab...maybe a card if he could squeeze it in, but most importantly a slab!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

2011-01-10T19:40:00.000-08:00

Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaappy New Year!!!!!!! (that's me shouting it out like everyone does when the clock strikes midnight on NYE!....at least I think that still happens. I'm pretty sure I haven't really celebrated/stayed awake on NYE in the past five years!)

So, anyway, it's a new year.

What? I'm a week behind? Everyone else started a new year over a week ago?

Oh, well, not me...and that's just the way it is! No one is going to tell me when I have to start a new year, wipe the slate clean, get organized, start a diet, right my wrongs, change bad habits, quite cold turkey!!!!!!

I've made it official that from now on I will not start a new year until at least January 8th...it is essential for me to have what I am proclaiming as "Transition Week". This extended year end allows me to gently transition from one holiday to the next at my own pace and not that of others, or the media, or the calendar as far as that goes! It's sort of like tacking on week 53...or better yet, week ZERO!

The end of a year is a very busy time for everyone and the past five years for our family have ended with some events that could be categorized as, well, eventful (ok, some might say stressful, but since I started a new year today I am committing to be more positive!) I tend to have a bit of anxiety around the holidays (some that know me VERY well might say "more than a bit", but I'm staying positive!) and the thought of turning over a new leaf right in the middle of winding up Christmas activities and preparing for Tytus' birthday and all the fun and family and traveling and tonsillectomies (okay, that doesn't happen every year) that is a part of this time of year tends to make my head spin!

From now on there will be no leaf turning until Transition Week is complete!

So, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I'm looking forward to sharing all of the goals I've set for this new (just now beginning) year!

Flashback Friday!

2011-01-07T19:34:00.001-08:00

Since Tytus' birthday was yesterday and we are celebrating it through the weekend, I thought I would dedicate another post to him! This picture was taken the first time I was able to hold him exactly five years ago to the day...barely! It was almost midnight on January 7th, 2006 and I remember it like it was yesterday. I hadn't gotten to hold my baby yet and he was almost two days old, so I convinced Brock to go with me one more time to the NICU before trying to get some sleep (it was a long walk from my room to the NICU and since I had a c-section I wasn't really suppose to be walking that far by myself). When we got there the night nurses had just started their shift and one of them asked me if I wanted to hold him. Of course I said YES! I only had a few minutes to love on him because I was technically not suppose to be holding him yet. We were the only people in the NICU other than the nurses and they were all busy checking on babies and getting organized for the night. Brock and I just sat together and held our first child for the first time...and cried. It was a moment I will never forget and one of my favorite of my life.

Happy 5th Birthday T-Man!

2011-01-06T19:50:00.000-08:00

Your twinkling blue eyes...

Your mild temperament and quiet confidence...

Your thoughtfulness and attention to all that is around you...

Your wittiness and creativity...

Your kind heart and sweet spirit...

are just a few of the things that have made the past FIVE years so AWESOME!

Thanks T. for being the blessing that God made you to be.

We love you,
Daddy, Mommy, Beau and Cash

Christmas Time Festivities

2010-12-31T19:27:00.000-08:00

WARNING: THIS IS A LONG ONE!!

The month of December flew by as it always does, filled with parties and baking and shopping and decorating. It seemed as though Christmas kind of snuck up on me this year. I have to admit that my glass of Christmas cheer seemed to be half empty this season, but even in spite of my internal "Bah-hum-bugs" we managed to squeeze in some festive fun!

Because we live in The Less-Than-Spacious Rental on D. Street and all of our Christmas decorations are in storage, we kept the hanging of garland and tinsel to a MINIMUM!

I let the boys be in charge of putting up the (three-foot) Christmas tree and all of the decorating. And for the first time, I relinquished all of my decorating control!! A big step for me, and the joy it brought to the boys made it totally worthwhile.

They carefully hung each ornament and ribbon (and stuffed animal and Dr. Seuss book).

Once something was put into place then that is where it stayed...at lease until the next day when they would rearrange everything!

Tytus took this picture of Beau next to the tree (and vase??). He was obviously very proud of his work...he even fixed his hair for this photo session (I guess wearing a shirt was optional!).

I bought the boys this Nativity scene to which Tytus so precisely placed each person and animal admiring the baby Jesus!

And we colored Christmas pictures for our friends and family....

he can't color worth a darn yet, but he's as cute as can be...and he always wants to be a part of the activity.

T-Man takes it pretty seriously...

but not as serious as Beau...yup, you saw it...a PURPLE Christmas tree...the boy still LOVES purple!

Cash really likes to color...just not on the paper (oh, well).

Tytus had a Christmas assembly at school...

The Pre-K class led the other grades in songs and poems. Tytus line was something like, "Please join us in a moment of silence. Ready, begin."...you couldn't hear a word he said, but he's come a long way from crying hysterically like he did at the VBS program! He did a great job and sang loud and proud on "Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer."

Tytus with his "best friend" KC.

And we made gingerbread houses.....

Projects like this are serious business to Beau...constructing something with sugary, delicious treats...what could be more important to a three year old than that?!

Thank goodness for Tytus or I would never be in a picture with my children (not that I'm that eager to be on the other side of the camera!) And on a completely unrelated note: someday I'd like to count how many photos I am in wearing that beloved O-State hoodie that I somehow managed to steal from my sister and hang on to it all these years...I'll get back to you on this one...I know you are waiting with baited-breath!

Not sure Cash was that much help with the house construction, but once again..."How cute is this kid?!!"

The finished product! Next year......Daddy is in charge of the gingerbread house construction!!

And Beau had a preschool Christmas program...(which lasted all of seven minutes!)

He did a fantastic job! He walked around for weeks with his "I'm way too cool to practice singing this song" attitude, then surprised us as usual by knowing every word! He seemed a little confused as to why Mrs. S. felt the need to clutch onto his shoulders during the performance (as did I), but he shrugged it off and kept on singing!

We worked for hours making cookies for the "cookie exchange." Then as soon as it was his turn to choose which cookies he wanted to take home...he ran straight to the cookies we had made rather than "exchanging" them for others brought by his classmates! We were in and out of there in 25 minutes flat!!

And Tytus had a Christmas Pajama party at school...

they had a book exchange, which seemed to confuse and frustrate most of them as they really just wanted to keep the book that they had brought!

and he got to sit and Santa's lap and tell him what he wanted for Christmas...thank goodness I was there for this! I had no idea all he wanted was a "Slinky-dog" from Toy Story 3! Thankfully my sister was not finished with her shopping either and could join me on the "dog" hunt.

At this point I will refrain from sharing my Scrooge-like feeling towards Santa!

We saw Santa again...Man, that guy is EVERYWHERE! Beau and Cash wanted NOTHING to do with him, so this is the family picture with Santa this year!

And we went to The Christmas Train with the Becks...which is officially going to become an annual Holiday event for us.

IT WAS COLD!!! and it's impossible to get a good picture of five kids.

Look closely...yeah, that's Kyle on the carousel!

Look at those chubby cheeks....have I mentioned how cute I think this kid is?!?!

The Boys with their best bud, Eli. Those three have so much fun together!

Ahhh, how sweet! We love these two.

and Journey Faith came too!

The Gang loved The Christmas Train. It will definitely be a family tradition from now on, as well as the coloring pictures for friends and family and making gingerbread houses and baking cookies...I may even allow the boys to decorate the tree again. Okay, let me clarify...I will let them decorate their own three foot Christmas tree again next year and keep the big one all to my controlling self!

Naptime Hide and Seek

2010-12-30T12:55:00.000-08:00

I can see why you might think that this is a comforter wadded up on the floor (the dirty clothes next to it certainly don't help in leading you to believe otherwise!). Sure at first glance that's what I might think too. And, indeed that is what I thought when I went looking for Beau one recent afternoon. It was naptime and as usual his instructions were to go lay down and I would be in to tuck him in and give him kisses a few minutes later. But when I went to fulfill my duties, he wasnt' in his bed, he wasn't on the top bunk, nor was he in my bed, the bathroom, or hiding in the closet!

Thankfully, Beau is a snorer...his "log sawing" led me to this pile of bed covers. He had sneakily hid under his comforter, but was so exhausted that he fell asleep before he had a chance to jump out and surprise me! I'm telling you this kid was completely covered with covers!! I couldn't see even an inch of him.

I gently lifted him onto the bed and uncovered his face. (How does one sleep with a blanket over his face anyway?) But not until I snapped a picture! Trust me, I made sure his airway wasn't blocked first!

He napped all afternoon as usual (and then we had a little chat about when and where to hide from Mommy).

SUPRISE!....Momma Turns 30!!!

2010-12-18T07:35:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh...Thirty! I've been anticipating entering this decade for the past few years....and now it's here! And was I SURPRISED at how I got to celebrate!! My sister, mom and inner circle (with a little help from Brock) pulled off a wonderful suprise evening just for me. I unknowingly threw some kinks in their plan along the way, but they adjusted and we had a most fantabulous time complete with mani/pedis, Mexican food, high school scrapbooks (YIKES!), and of course dessert! I LOVE these women...Carissa, Jade, Bratt, Shanna, Kandy, and Mom...THANKS for a very special evening. I can't wait to see what the thirties have in store!

The (Big Red) Barn!!

2010-12-04T07:26:00.000-08:00

She's Finished!!!

Isn't she pretty?! I've always wanted a red barn....I think she's pretty!

I especially like these (umm, what are these called?)...anyway...I really like this detail.

The boys are so excited about the barn too! Tytus asked to have his picture taken with her.

You can do lots of things with a barn...store a tractor and all your equipment. I think that's the main idea. I'm leaning a little more toward parties, barn dances, maybe even a good ol' fashion box supper...ooohhh, maybe someday one of my sons with meet and fall in love with a wonderful woman and it will have always been her dream to have a big wedding reception in a big red barn and then I will fall in love with her too and call all my friends and we will start cleaning and preparing and throw one giant wedding party reception!!! oh boy, did I get side tracked for a second...

You could even live in a barn...

(to be continued!)

Halloween

2010-11-16T13:34:00.001-08:00

{The following picture of Beau was originally placed later in this post, however when I was proof reading I somehow accidentally deleted it. Then I was a bit frustrated and gave up! So try and be flexible when reading this one...it's been a while since I posted and I'm just thankful to FINALLY have a Halloween post up...even if it is three weeks later and scrambled!}

The boys and I spend Halloween at Grandma's house this year. This was the first year that Brock was not able to be with the boys on Halloween (however, thanks to modern technology it was kind of like he was with us)...it was also the first time we legitimately 'Trick or Treated' (meaning we actually went door-to-door asking for candy, rather than going only to a couple of friends' and families' homes and showing off our adorable children!!), and it was the first year that I lost all control in the costume department!

I wanted the boys to be Coach Gundy and two OSU football players....and they did not. Basically I contended with winning one out of three!

Even without going with coordinating costumes they still looked adorable and had a really good time.

Tytus chose Buzz Lightyear. Thankfully Mom found a costume at Wal-Mart a couple of days before Halloween! He was as happy as could be and I was just fine with not dragging out my sewing machine and/or hot glue gun and throwing together a home-made costume!

{and this is where the picture of Beau as Spider-Man is suppose to go...if anyone out there in blogger world can help me...please do so!}

Beau was Spider-Man...again! oh, wait, I stand corrected...last year he was Spider-Man...this year he was "the REAL Spider-Man"! The boys is having a bit of an identity crisis! Oh well, who cares when you look as cute as he does!!

And Cash...oh thank you, Cash...for not being able to talk yet and express your own opinion on the subject! Cash so willing went as Coach Mike Gundy! He played the part very well and was a big hit at the neighborhood party...

He wore his headphones so that he could talk to the guys in the booth...he decided this year that he needed some help calling plays...

He has a really good arm (just like he did back in the Barry Sander days) and he had to get in a few passes...

He carried his 'Playbook'...just in case his new offensive coordinator wasn't getting the job done!

Even though I wanted the big boys to wear their football uniforms and they did not, they still played football (rather than playing on the playground with the rest of the children)...

and tackled one another over and over...Now, how cute would this have been if they were wearing their uniforms? Okay, I'll get over it (or next year I'll forget to give them options!)
just kidding!

We left 'Coach Gundy' at home...because let's face it "he is a man" afterall, and T-Man, Beau and me set out to gather as much candy as we could!

And that we did!!!!

YOUR O-S-U COWBOYS!!!!!!!

2010-10-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

Earlier this season we took the older boys to an O-State football game (will post more on this later). They had a blast and now when we watch them on TV they have to play their own game, complete with pre-game warm ups, running out of the tunnel, first downs, touchdowns, "waving wheat", halftime, and of course Bullet!

First you've got to get pumped up for the big game with lots of growling, jumping up and down, and 'smack talk' (3 and 4 yr old style!)

Next you have to do your stretches and take some practice snaps!

Then it's GAME TIME!! So everyone has to line up in the 'tunnel'. Mom makes some pretend smoke and puts on her announcer voice...."And here they are...YOUR O-S-U COWBOYS!!"

(I know it appears that I lock my kids in a cage...I would NEVER THINK of doing something like that!!! But it's the only place in the backyard that has a gate that they can bust open and run through...it is important to be as authentic as possible...use your imagination people!!)

Then you run around the 'field' followed by 'Bullet'! Did you miss Bullet? He's there...the 'horse' in the background...okay, it's really Cash...somebody has to be Bullet!!

And when it's halftime you huddle up with Coach Gundy (a.k.a. Mommy) to draw up some trick plays...

and get your picture taken, because you are just so adorable (I mean, TOUGH) in those helmets and jerseys!!

I LOVE MY OSU COWBOYS!!!!!

Cool Cowboys Wear Purple

2010-10-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Brock took the boys to get Beau some new Cowboy boots. Tytus had just recently gotten a new pair after growing out of his, which meant that Beau also got a "new" pair of boots. However after wearing his "new" boots for a day it was obvious from the red sores and blisters on his feet that Beau can no longer wear his older brothers' hand-me-downs!

I'm pretty sure it was love at first site when Beau saw these beauties in the store. Purple has been his favorite color for, well, since the time he decided that one of the colors would be his "favorite." He is proud of it and he is proud of his new purple boots! I do have to agree that this is a fine lookin' pair of boots!!

He has rarely taken them off since bringing them home. He wears them everywhere and with every ensemble!

He was very excited the first day he could wear them to preschool...but when I picked him up I could see right off that something was bothering him (he is a bit like his momma...it's pretty easy to tell if something has upset him!)

Beau: "Mom, nobody even noticed my NEW PURPLE BOOTS today!"

(I was a bit caught off guard by this statement...most people notice an adorable little cowboy in his boots. and PURPLE boots at that, AND this was the first time I had ever heard him use the word 'noticed'...very grown up and appropriate for the subject at hand!)

Me: "oh man, buddy, I'm sorry...Did you show them to your friends and teacher?"

Beau: "YES, and they didn't even smile!!"

Me: "Well, I guess not everybody knows a great pair of boots when they see them."

Beau: "Yeah....I guess I'm just cool."

I think it's safe to say this cowboy is not lacking in confidence.

It won't be long before all the "cool" cowboys are wearing PURPLE!!

Zucchini-Carrot Bread with Creamy Honey Spread

2010-10-07T12:51:00.000-07:00

I am sooo excited because this is my first time to ever post a recipe!!

I'm not sure what has taken me so long, because I love to cook, and I cook a lot...maybe that's why...when I cook a lot, I have to clean up a lot, and I don't have the time to blog about my cooking for all the cleaning (and all the children!)

My sweet friend Amanda from Joplin (urr, Webb City!) asked for this recipe and although she probably won't be whipping it up anytime too soon because she is having her third child TOMORROW, I am dedicating this one to her!!!

Zucchini-Carrot Bread with Creamy Honey Spread

1 1/2 c. shredded zucchini
1 1/2 c. shredded carrot
1 1/2 c. sugar
2/3 c. vegetable oil
4 eggs
1 1/2 c. all purpose flour
1 1/2 c. whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking soda
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp salt
3/4 tsp ground cloves

Spread
1 package (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
1/4 c. honey
2 tsp grated orange or lemon peel

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease bottoms only of 2 (8x4-in.) loaf pans or 1 (9x5-in.) loaf pan with shortening or cooking spray.

2. In large bowl, mix zucchini, carrots, sugar, oil and eggs with wire whisk. Stir in remaining bread ingredients. Divide batter evenly between pans.

3. Bake 8-in. loaves 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, 9-in. loaf 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pans on cooling rack. Loosen sides of loaves from pans; remove and cool completely.

4. In small bowl, beat spread ingredients with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy. Serve with sliced bread. Cover, refrigerate any remaining spread. Wrap loaves tightly and store at room temperature up to 4 days, or refrigerate up to 10 days.

ENJOY!!!

Flashback Friday!

2010-10-01T21:40:00.000-07:00

In celebration of the Cowboys 3-0 record and the recent nailbiting win over Texas A&M, I thought it appropriate to post some past pictures of us enjoying our team!

Our first game as a family of five!

We tailgated that day with the Becks and some of their friends that own this very cool and very orange bus...the boys had a blast!

Pistols Firing!!

Cash's first OSU experience. At four WEEKS old we took him to the opening game against Georgia. My friend from Joplin custom made me an orange and black sling for the occasion and Cash obviously liked it ...he was perfect, sleeping the entire game!

Getting some lovin' from Grandma at the Miller's tailgame party.

Paxton is an ultimate fan. He loves going to games with Grandma and getting totally painted up.

At first I thought this was a picture of Paxton's first OSU football game, but now I realize it was his first Bedlam baseball game in Bricktown...

oh well, we love our Cowboys no matter what sport!

Here's a real throwback...I can't remember if it was Bedlam or Nebraska, but I know it was ESPN College Gameday and we won the game!!

Ahhh, so young...so in love...so, why doesn't Brock have an orange shirt on?!?

Our great friend Ellie who is a Texas A&M allum...she can't help it, I still love her!

Jeepin'

2010-09-29T18:27:00.000-07:00

Since moving into the rental, many of our things went into storage (otherwise known as one of the barns at Brock's parents' house!). One of those items is the Jeep.

Now it's kind of an unspoken rule at any of the Eubanks' households that if you leave your vehicle there, whether it be a truck, car, four wheeler, Mule, horse!, etc., it is most likely going to get driven! That was the case with the Jeep this summer. When the weather was just right for jeepin', Brock's brother Craig (with permission) took her top off and took her for a ride!! (whoa, that did come out exactly how I planned in my head..hehe) Let me rephrase...he took the hard top off of the Jeep and drove her to and fro.

Which leads me to a few weeks ago...Let me set the scene...

It was a beautiful almost fall day...one of those days in September when a bit of cooler weather finally begins to give us a break from the summer heat. After attending Cowboy Church we arrive Craig's house, when coincidentally the Jeep is now parked, with her top still off (crazy girl!). Brock rushes inside to change out of his church clothes and throw on something a little better suited for getting muddy. And before I could ask, "What do ya want for lunch?" those boys (Brock and Craig, not the little boys) where off in that Jeep leaving me with all the kiddos!!

Okay so maybe that's a little dramatic, but it's my story!

Anyway, if it wasn't for the fact that we were having a surprise birthday party for this mom (more on that soon) which included hamburgers and cake, the man might not have left the seat of that Jeep all day long!! And I can't say I blame him. It was a B-E-A-UTIFUL day and he hadn't seen her in quite a while!

He did however get the chance to do some jeepin' with Pawpaw Ty. And that's when I stopped everything and snapped this picture...

Those cowboys were having so much fun, I think they even snuck off and took another ride later that day!

This photo is now one of my favorite candid shots. It's one of those shots that makes me wish I had a fancy camera that I could do all kinds of fancy zooming and editing. More importantly, this is one of those pictures that makes me realize how much I love my family. This photo will forever be embedded in my mind and my heart. When I think of it (and I have often over the past few weeks) I am reminded of this...

I love both of these men.

I love how much Pawpaw Ty loves my husband.

I am thankful that we live close to him and that he is healthy and active at nearly 87 years young.

I miss my Grandpa Hoot and sometimes wish so badly that he could have lived long enough to know Brock and love him too, they would have had so much in common.

I cherish each time I get to see my Granddad Dennis and I KNOW he loves me and Brock. The last strong, clear words he spoke to us were just that, "I love you".

I wouldn't trade anything for that moment when Pawpaw Ty tipped his hat to me and rode off for a joyride!

GO FALCONS!!!

2010-09-29T13:52:00.000-07:00

The Eubanks Gang has officially entered the world of organized sports!!! Tytus started playing soccer this fall and he is having lots of fun!

I think it would be safe to say that no one in our family really knows that much about soccer..and I think it would be safe to say that one doesn't need to know much about soccer when watching four year olds!!

He's having lots of fun! (did I say that already!!) And he really likes running in his new cleats!

These pictures were taken at the first game of the season...I'm excited to see how the team and our T-Man progress...right now, let's just say that they are all having lots of fun!!

Here's T-Man...this was the stance that he took for at least the first half of the game.

(It's hard to run and kick when your arms are above your head!)

Practice makes perfect!!

Did I mention this was the first game?!? Our team did great, but there was a bit of
head scratching and confused looks.

Number 8 (just like Daddy was!) Once he loosened up, he did a good job. He always does his best AND HE HAS LOTS OF FUN!

GO FALCONS!!!

(Tytus said this was his favorite part of the game!)

Why do I do this to myself?

2010-09-26T16:03:00.000-07:00

**{Spoiler Alert: If anyone out there reading this has never seen THE BEST epic mini-series of all time and is interested in doing so...DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER...I'd hate to be the one to prematurely open up your tear ducts!}**

A couple of times a year, one of the cable TV stations will air one of my all time favorite movies... "Lonesome Dove".

And I watch it...every time. And I DVR it, every time. And I watch it and pause it and watch and pause again. I can't stop myself!

And I cry...NO, SOB...every time!

Why do I do this to myself???

Well, today I found myself right back in that place that I love and hate all at the same time. That place on my couch that was made just for me. With my giant glass of water, my three (I think it was three, I could have lost count) bite-size dark chocolates, and my two baskets full of laundry, I fell into a hypnotic state and headed north to Montana, drivin' cattle, with the cowboys from Lonesome Dove, TX.

I've seen it so many times now that I can pretty much hold it together when the Irish kid gets bit by the water moccasins and I tear up pretty bad when Gus rescues "Lorie Darlin'" from the Indian camp, but from the time Deets dies to, well, when the final credits roll, I am a basket case...a blubbering mess! When Call promises to take Gus back to Lonesome Dove, I'm done...I can't even see the next hour through all the tears!

Oh Gus...I won't even get started on Augustus McCrae...I tried to name each one of our boys Gus, but obviously their father is not in love with the feisty Texas Ranger as much as I am! It about rips my heart out when Gus won't let Call and the doctor cut his leg off.

I don't know why I put myself through it...it's kind of like my very own cinematic Bermuda triangle. I get completely sucked in and I can't get out!

So much about it touches my heart...the adventure, the loyalty, the good versus evil, the love, the cowboys,...oh I could go on and on.

I'm not sure why I enjoy inflicting pain upon myself, but I do...I just LOVE that movie.

{NOTE: No children were neglected during the watching of LD or during the blogging about the feelings toward LD...Tytus was unloading hay with Brock and the younger two were napping and happily playing and making messes that "I can't think about today, I'll think about that tomorrow." (my favorite movies are on my brain!)}

Back to School

2010-09-19T11:55:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago, Beau started "preschool" too!

I had spent so much time emotionally preparing myself for Tytus to go to Pre-K EVERYDAY, that I forgot to get myself pumped up to sent my little lover-boy off to learn and grow two days a week!

And he was not going to make it easy on me...as we got out of the car the first morning he said, "Mom, I don't need you to hold my hand." Whoa, wait a second...when did this happen...at this rate, he'll be driving himself to "big school" next year!

He was really excited, in an ultra-cool sort of Beau-Beau Show style of course. He was about to show those little cry babies how this is done!

He just jumped right in there and put his puzzle together, as well as the puzzle of the "cry baby" girl next to him and the boy sitting across the table who couldn't really concentrate due to his mom and dad and grandma taking pictures of him! I decided to give a little wave and slip out of there before anyone noticed that my taller than everyone else in the class son was doing everyone's puzzles!

And YES, I cried once I got back into the car and drove away!

He had a great first day of school. Once he got in the car to go home, he scowled his forehead and crinkled his nose and said, "I had fun at school today. I DID NOT have a little fun, I had VERY MUCH FUN!!!

And he has had fun every time...except for the day the "got in a fight with that one boy under the table...He knocked down the tower that I build and I told him not to, but he knocked it down and kicked me in the face with his shoe" (And he had the big red mark across his cheek to prove it!) I asked him if he hit the boy first or hit him after he got kicked and he said "NO, I was trying to find my words, but they wouldn't come out!"

His teacher must have been busy during this little scuffle and I wasn't about to fill her in on the details (as told by a three year old). I'm pretty sure this won't be the last time Beau has an encounter with a kid at school, so we'll just keep this one to ourselves!

Let the Record State....

2010-09-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

Tonight Tytus announced to his brothers and me...

"When I'm older you're gonna see me on TV."

I wasn't sure where he was going with this statement. He had spent the last twenty minutes getting his "bakskit ball" clothes on (including wristband and jersey tank top), then shooting his OSU basketball into a cardboard box in the kitchen. SO I was prepared for him to explain that he would be playing Cowboy basketball in 15 years. But he followed with this...

"Yup, that's right you're gonna see me on TV playing my guitar!"

Musician, athlete...makes no difference to me.

"And mom, you might not know it's me, but I'm gonna be wearing a shirt with sparkles on it...a sparkle guitar and a sparkle piano and a sparkle microphone...and a sparkle basketball! And I'll be playing my guitar like this..."

Then he takes a total rock and roll stance and plays the air guitar, complete with arm spinning around and around and sound effects.

My dream for him is that he is happy, and healthy, and making a positive difference in peoples' lives and for the Kingdom...and if that means playing his guitar on TV then I will be one proud Momma.

So just in case my son is a future Joe Perry, or Brad Paisley, or David Crowder let the record state that he told us it would be so on this day!

Cash's 1st Birthday Party

2010-09-11T13:46:00.000-07:00

Since I didn't throw a big shin-dig of a party for Cash's birthday this year, he got to have two small family parties, one at my mom's with all the Seal girl kiddos and one at Nana and Papaw's with the Eubanks clan! Here's a little recap of the party at Grandma's house...

p.s. these pictures are a bit out of sequence, but rather than starting over and risking NEVER getting this post out in cyber-world, I'm just going with it!

He is so cute and so chunky and so ready for his first corndog and first cupcake!

He was pretty intrigued by the fire at first, but once he got a taste of icing on his tongue
it was bye-bye cupcake...

In case you don't remember it was REALLY hot this summer, and REALLY hot on

August 4th...so we had a picnic on the carpet in the very cool and comfortable air conditioning!

Our friend, sweet little Piper, joined us for the party!

For some reason, even though we never set foot outside in the scorching heat that day, all the boys managed to end up with no shirts on. Frankly, I'm surprised Cilla had her clothes on as she is usually right there in the middle of all the action and keep up with the boys!

Yup, the days for sitting and quietly playing on the floor at Grandma's house are long gone...

Cash discovered the stairs and it only took him about two minutes

to figure out how to climb to the top

Of all the gifts he received...this little green ball was his absolute favorite!

Sharing his cake with mommy! And it was GOOD...Grandma's Red Velvet!

Did I mention it was GOOD RED VELVET CAKE?!?!

Cash was a fan and so were the rest of us!

Thanks, MOM for throwing this together for Cash (and me)!

Brain Fried and Dog Tired

2010-09-08T16:36:00.000-07:00

Well, I don't usually go this long without blogging. My goal since starting this venture has been to blog two to three times a week, unless we are on a roadtrip or the computer decides to freeze up and not let anyone touch it!! But these past few weeks has been a struggle for me. I have lots to talk about...Cash's birthday party, Tytus starting Pre-K (oh I guess I did blog about that), Beau going to preschool and the many hilarious one-liners he has been cracking me up with, the older boys going to AWANAS, finally starting dirt work at the land, doing some contract work, T-mans playing soccer, Cash saying more and more words, Cowboys football, a fun weekend away with Brock, oh and running into Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood!

I'll be honest, with all of that going on plus having a bad case of the seasonal allergies....I'm exhausted! I was prepared in NO WAY AT ALL that our new schedule would wipe me out as much as it has. The boys have always been early risers, up and at it around 7:00, but there just seems to be something to having us all out the door by 8:00 that has pretty much rocked my world!! I'm assuming that this is a universal mom duty so I'm trying not to swim in my own pool of pity... for too long. Working moms of the world, I applaud you and I don't envy you! The silver lining to my new cloud is that most mornings I can at least throw a baseball cap on and leave the baby in his pajamas!

I do plan to blog about all of the above topics as soon as I can breath without the assistance of that allergy medicine you have to sign your life away for and if you use too much the police will come and bust into your house in the middle of the night under the suspicion that you are cooking meth in your basement!! And also as soon as I reclaim my blogging time back from my exhausted body (in other words, use the time when all the children are napping to blog rather than curl up in the fetal position and go into a comatose state for as long as the boys will allow!)

Until that time comes I thought I'd share one of my favorite pictures from the summer. All four of my boys in their jammies on a Saturday morning...this is why I blog, why I live, why I had to start getting up between 6:00 and 6:30 everyday! Oh how I miss those lazy summer mornings!

First Day of Pre-K

2010-08-25T12:37:00.000-07:00

Well, it has officially begun...my children are moving out! One by one they will leave me and never turn back...at least that's how it feels!

Okay, maybe it's not that dramatic, but Tytus did start Pre-K! And he LOVES it! And it is EVERY DAY. Granted it is only half a day, which is really only 2.5 hours, but it is the real deal...SCHOOL...the beginning of him spreading his little wings and flying away from this momma bird! Or more importantly gaining independence, growing in knowledge, gathering valuable social and life skills (all of which is only translates to me as "leaving his mother and never turning back!)

Such a handsome little WILDCAT! And he is doing so well. No crying and hanging onto my leg, No begging me not leave, No "but I think I'm going to start missing you"! He could have at lease shed a few tears the first couple of days!!

I really am so proud of him. He had a bit of a rough time ending preschool last spring when we were moving and Daddy was gone a lot. He's like a new kid and his teacher has already fallen in love with him (her words, not mine)!

I am pretty fond of the whole 'pick-up' system. In fact I LOVE anything that accomplishes a task WITHOUT me unloading and loading The Gang!

He has been so happy to go to school and come home everyday. I do miss him, even though it isn't a very long time that he is gone, but things just don't seem right when one of the boys is not with us! And Beau is so happy to see Tytus when we pick him up...I know he misses him too!

Anyway, my firstborn is officially in school! I can already tell this adventure we are on has just gotten a little more adventurous!

Night at the Hospital

2010-08-19T07:10:00.000-07:00

When one family member gets sick, they all get sick...a domino effect...one falls right after the other!!!

First it was Beau with fever and sinus infection, then Brock with achiness and tummy ache, then Tytus with congestion and croupy cough....then Cash with cough...more like BARK and more barking! And wheezing and more wheezing! And trouble breathing and heaving chest! And more barking and wheezing and heaving chest and trouble breathing!

Of course the worst of it came AFTER I had already taken them all to the doctor and AFTER Brock left town on a business trip! Monday night consisted of no sleep (for Cash or me), giving breathing treatments, sticking his head in the freezer, contemplating calling 911 or rushing to the emergency room and LOTS of praying!

Now we've done this whole croup, wheezing, breathing treatments, no sleep thing numerous times with the other boys, but this was much different...not only because it was worse and kept getting worser (yeah I said worser), but because I was home alone and in a town where I basically don't know anyone!

By morning Cash was only getting worse. A phone call to his pediatrician led me to load up all three of the boys and RUSH...let me say that again RUSH to the Emergency Room! Four hours later, three breathing treatments, two x-rays, and one IV later, we were in the ambulance on our way to St. Francis Children's hospital. His official diagnosis- Para influenza and Bronchiolitis... in layman's terms- a really bad case of croup with strider (which basically means he was trying to breath, but his airway was the size of a small straw and there was gunk in his lungs! More steroids, breathing treatments, IV fluids, and close observation was just what the doctor ordered! A little over 24 hours later and he was discharged under the care of Dr. Mom. He is much better today...exhausted and a little fussy, but all in all getting back to himself!

And that's our story. Of course I had to snap a few pictures along the way (once I knew he was going to be alright and was in good hands I reached for the camera!)

Poor little sweetie! He was one sick boy, in fact the ER doctor told us that in his 25 years of practice he had only seen 4 or 5 kids as bad as he was.

Big brothers sat in the ER room for about four hours until Uncle Craig could come and help. I AM SO THANKFUL FOR THESE BOYS! They did a wonderful job...I could not have asked for them to be more well behaved! I am really proud to be their Mommy.

Cash was very glad to see Daddy walk through the door. It only took a few minutes for him to fall asleep in Brock's arms...the first time he had slept in hours.

I too was very glad to see Daddy! Being alone with a really sick child and trying to make decisions about what to do with him by myself made me realize many things...1. I am so thankful for Brock and his leadership (and gentleness), 2. I am very gracious that I am not a single parent and I pray for constant protection over Brock, 3. I CAN do what needs to be done and be level headed and calm WITHOUT having a moment of freaking out and getting emotional and being mean to Brock and then feeling better after I've let it all out and hurt his feelings!! How immature, 4. God is good to give us the answers when we stop, ask, and be quiet (I'm sure I already knew this, but obviously needed to be reminded.)

Those hospital cribs are nuts...I started having flashbacks to when Tytus was in the hospital as a baby. Cash thought his crib was nuts too, so Brock and I took turns holding him all night.

Without trying to sound too dramatic, it really was a crazy 48 hours! I always knew he was going to be just fine, but the urgency of the doctors and nurses let me know that this was more serious than I thought. Thanks to modern medicine and answered prayers our little chunky monkey is just fine! And thanks to our wonderful family the other boys were well taken care of during our night at the hospital!

Up, Up, and Away...

2010-08-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that this wonderful, colorful, summertime event had me more than excited from the moment I read about it in the newspaper! The Annual Gateway Hot Air Balloon Festival was last weekend and there was pretty much nothing that was going to stop me from loading up The Gang and enjoying as much of it as I could! Anyone that knows me knows that I love hot air balloons and they kind of have a special place in my heart !!!

We were joined by good friends and I'm pretty sure that we all had a great time. I'm already excited for next year's festival. I think it will be even more fun...now that we know what it's all about we will be prepared with lawn chairs and empty stomachs to load up on yummy, greasy, carnival food! What's even better is that the event is held just a couple of miles from our land...which will hopefully eliminate the full hour we waited in line in our car trying to get out of the parking lot!

Here's a few pictures that capture the evening...

What I wouldn't have given to be in that basket floating away!!

There are tethered balloon rides if that suits your fancy...

I have to say, these boys are crazy about each other and had SOOOO much fun!

Here's our group, minus Brock (someone had to take the photo) who was our leading man of the night! Thank goodness for him and all his help with the kids. He wouldn't have missed it...he know very well how much I adore hot air balloons!!

Lanie Grace

Cash got to ride a pony...and he did not want to get off!

My lifelong friend and her adorable daughter...finally we thought to take of picture together with our babies! love her

Journey Faith

The boys tore up the inflatables!

Here's Tytus and Eli...I love those big smiles!

I should probably rephrase that: The inflatables tore up the boys...Beau and Tytus had 'burns' all over their elbows and tummies from sliding so many times!

I just love this kid...and I'm so glad we can just drag, urr, I mean take him anywhere and everywhere and he is so easy-going!

Wait, maybe I spoke too soon...Cash was beginning to get a bit impatient as we waited for the balloon glow.

SO PRETTY!

I wonder how much a balloon costs?

Do you have to have a license to pilot one?

Can I fit all three car seats in the basket?

How long will it take my family to get tired of me singing

"Up, up and away in my beautiful balloon"?

To Infinity...and Beyond!!

2010-08-14T10:16:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we met one of my best friends and her kiddos, Eli and Journey, at the Tulsa Air and Space Museum. Eli is Tytus and Beau's BEST friend and they always have a blast together! I had been wanting to take the boys to the TASM all summer and I am so glad we finally made it the trip. We checked out some books at the library about aircraft before going, so it was great for them to get to see (and climb into) some of the things they had read about. Here's a little visual of our day...

They thought is was pretty cool getting to see the mini-shuttle blast off!!

I think Cash had a good time too...I mean, he didn't say it in those words, but he was a really good boy all morning!

Astronaut Beau

I cracked up when I saw this antique gas pump...I though it was ironic and timely considering the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Not sure what type of spacecraft this is, but the boys are having fun "flying" it!

Astronaut Tytus

Maverick and Goose!

Astronaut Eli

Jade and Eli on the...well, I don't know what it's called, but it's some kind of a fighter plane simulator.

We had a really great time and all the kids did really well. I highly recommend the TASM for a little field trip. They have a planetarium with shows scheduled throughout the day, but we chose not to attend with having five kids four and under with in tow! Also there is a really awesome playground area with shaded picnic tables where you can watch the planes take off the runway!! We had a little snack and let the boys burn off some energy before going home for naps. We will definitely be going back sometime soon.

Happy Birthday Cash!!!

2010-08-05T15:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, our littlest Sundance Kid celebrated his first birthday!! It's been a pretty crazy summer for us and for several reasons this momma opted to forgo her usual one-year-birthday-party-extravaganza-blow-out that satisfies her need to entertain lots of people with food and creative festivities while distracting herself from the emotional meltdown she never fails to experience when her child turns one year old!

Anyway...no big party this year, just small family get-togethers. (But don't fret, I promise to make it up on his second birthday...the mental planning has already begun.) AND, YES, I know it doesn't really matter, but who doesn't love a party...big or small?!?!

Here are some of my favorite pictures of the birthday boy from this past year...

At three months...such a cuddly little chunk...

At six months...look at those cheeks and big blue eyes...sporting a custom made beanie handmade by Memaw Bobbie...

At nine months...oh, what can I say...that smile...those baby blues...

those little teethers...and that red tint to your hair...

CASH,

I hope that you know how much you are loved.

You have blessed our family with more than words can say!

Your brothers are crazy about you and Daddy and I thank God for you.

We have enjoyed watching you grow in size, spirit, and personality this past year

and we can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for your future.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CASH ALLEN EDWARD!!

fyi: these photos were taken by my amazing photographer best friend, you can see her work and learn more about her here

Need a Little Cash?!?!

2010-08-02T12:32:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! I can't believe I am saying this...bear with me all, I am tearing up and the words haven't' even come out of...urrr, off of my fingertips...

CASH ALLEN EDWARD EUBANKS IS TURNING ONE YEAR OLD!!!

My angel baby is having a birthday on Wednesday, so I am dedicating my posts this week to him! Since I didn't start blogging until a few months after he was born, I thought I would first share a few pics of his first couple of days on earth.

What a blessing this child has been to The Gang...so happy, so cuddly, so easy-going, (so showing definite signs that his brothers will not be able to push him around much longer)...SOOO a THIRD child!

I am looking forward to celebrating you this week, Cash, WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH...(and now I have to go find the box Kleenex)!!!!

What's In a Name? (Part II)

2010-07-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

It is safe to say that we are church hunters. We are on the prowl for a new church home, which means for the past two and a half months we have been to a different church every Sunday!

(PLEASE STOP AND SAY A LITTLE PRAYER FOR US.....................OKAY, GREAT, THANKS!)

Anyway, this past Sunday we visited Memorial Heights Baptist Church (sidenote: there a lot of Baptist Churches in the town...you got your Faith Baptists, your Eastern Hill Baptists, your Trinity Something Baptists, your Harvest Baptists, and don't forget your one and only First Baptists!)

And back to the point...When we went to drop the Sundance Kids off at nursery/Sunday School, the nice lady at the check-in desk got all of her stickers and pagers and forms...it's serious stuff checking in three kids to a new church...trust me, you do not want to show up late or you might miss the whole song service!

After asking the boys how old they are, she looked at Tytus and asked him, "Now, what is your name?" He replied, "Tytus", to which she asked, "and how do you spell that?" He, loud and proud, raised up his hand and simultaneously spoke and fingerspelled, "T-Y-T-U-S"!

It was flawless...and a bit out of nowhere, since I haven't fingerspelled with him in months! I was really proud of him, which by the way did not help my emotional state right now. Then they sent him to BIG church with us, then he went to a BIG boy class, and he has been going to VBS all week like a BIG kid...this is a BIG deal people!! I'm not sure Big Momma Kass can handle all of this!

What's In a Name?

2010-07-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

Most everyone who knows us even a little bit knows that Beau began referring to himself at a very young age as, "The Beau Beau Show". I don't remember how this title came about, probably something to do with him and his father during 'wrestle mania', but however it came to be, it has stuck!

Anyone that has been around "The Beau Beau Show" for anytime at all, also knows that he is OBSESSED with Spider-Man (and 'bad guys', and CARS, and Buzz and Woody, and his blankie, and the color purple...but anyway!)!!

(*I have told the following stories to numerous people, because I think they are priceless, but I felt the need to post them for your reading enjoyment and also to have on record so I can completely embarrass The BBS at his high school graduation party, or wedding rehearsal, or thirtieth birthday party!!)

One of the first things I wanted to do when we moved to Claremore is figure out where Tytus will be going to Pre-K (I'm hyperventilating just typing it, but that's a whole other story), meet teachers/administrators, and tour the school. SO one morning I loaded up The Gang and went to meet the principal, look around the school and get all my questions answered. Upon arriving at the school, I turn to the boys with something like this:

Me: "Okay guys, we're going in here to meet T-Man's principal and see where he is going to go to school next year. I expect BEST behavior! I want you to introduce yourselves and shake her hand. It's really important that you are on BEST behavior, because I don't want her to say, "Oh No, those Eubanks boys are wild...I don't want them to go to my school!""

So, they agreed and off we went. We met the principal with Tytus extending his hand and telling her clearly, "I'm Tytus". (yeah, I was pretty proud)

Then she turns to Beau extending her hand and asking, "And what's your name?"

Beau quietly replies with a firm handshake, head slightly lowered, and forehead scowled: "Beau Beau Show"

With a confused look on her face, she turns to me saying, "oh, okay, now what was it?"

Me: "It's Beau"...and quickly changing the subject to avoid a lengthy explanation of the origin of "The Beau Beau Show"

(and by the way, the boys were on BEST behavior, I was very proud of them...by the end of my inquisitive chat the beginnings of a Power Ranger Showdown was starting up in the hall, so we got the heck out of there before someone, and usually that means Cash, got a blow to the head with a sword/arm)

The other evening after dinner we all loaded up to go get snow cones. The Gang was just dying to get snow cones...I could have done without, but I gave in when the boys wouldn't stop asking.

(Okay, it was really me that wanted a snow cone, and convinced the boys to beg their father to take us all!)

Anyway, once we got there, Beau and I got out to place the orders. While waiting the cute girl at the counter and Beau had this little exchange:

Snow cone girl: "Well you're a cutie...what's your name?"
Beau: (forehead scrunched, head lowered, lips tight, whispers) "Spider-man"
SCG: "Oh, Cool, Well HI Spider-man...that's a cool name!"
Me: (talking to Beau): "Well, Yes, we do call you Spider-man, but what else do we call you...tell her what your real name is."
Beau: (forehead scrunched, head lowered, lips tight,...) "The Beau Beau Show"

What can I say to that...the kid knows who he is!!!

4th of July

2010-07-11T11:20:00.000-07:00

For the past several years we have celebrated Independence Day with our good college friends at their lake house on Grand Lake. The Poseys have graciously invited us to spend a weekend at "the lake house" numerous times and we always have a blast. This year Paul and his new bride Lexie joined us. She's a total sweetheart and we were glad to finally meet her, since we weren't able to make it to their wedding in May. Fun times with fun friends!!

Don't you just LOVE the 4th of July...Great Food, Friends, Fireworks and FREEDOM!!

This little bathing beauty knows how to take a boat ride! The boys had so much fun with Ava, she is adorable and a total comedian!

Trav and Brock took the big kids out on the boat and swimming in the lake. This is the first year that the boys have gone on the boat and no one fell asleep!

Isn't this a sweet picture?!?! Brock and Paul took a break from playing football to pose (and give a little Man-hug!) for the camera!

LOVE this one! Libby and her adorable little man...William King Posey!

I'm glad this hammock is working out well for them, because when I got on it with Cash, he darted to one side and we flipped totally over!! In my effort to save my baby, I busted it right on my hip! Of course my next move was to look around and make sure no one saw us...thank goodness it was like 7:00 in the morning and everyone was still snoozing away!

Libby and Ava...look at those curls! Even though we don't see one another very ofter, Libby has come to be a wonderful friend. I always cherish the times we are together and our phone conversations...just a wonderful woman...with a beautiful daughter!

Beau (with monster truck in hand!). Not the greatest pictures of my handsome man, but for some reason it was the only one I got of him all weekend!

Two little lovebirds...Paul and Lexie Allen. I'm pretty much just disgusted by how GORGEOUS they are! Can you imagine how beautiful their children will be?! Not sure they will ever have children after spending a "relaxing" weekend with The Gang!

***CAUTION: The following pictures contain children...on a boat...at night! All grandparents should proceed at your own risk!!

Promise we were SUPER SAFE...cross my heart!

On the night boat ride to watch fireworks!

I like this one! Cash did a great job on the boat ride...slept a little, looked around a bit, jumped in the lake...just kidding!! Thank God for a tiny life jacket and a huge baby!

Just takin' it easy and/or wondering, "What are my parents doing to me?!"

Tytus fell asleep on Uncle Paulie's lap...so cute!

Yup that's me (the only picture from the whole weekend that I am in, oh well) and YES I too am taking a nap...it seems that taking a relaxing weekend at the lake is hard on Momma!

Oh What a Beautiful Morning...

2010-07-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

I'll take any opportunity I can to belt out into a song from "Oklahoma" and this morning has warranted me serenading my family with 'Curly's' ode to early hours of the day!

And why is is such a Beautiful Morning?...

1. Everyone slept in until 8:00 a.m.! (even Cash and Beau who are always up by 7:00a.m.!)

2. Homemade Blueberry Pancakes (for the second time this week, I'm kind of addicted!). And to quote myself at the breakfast table, "Thank you God for giving us blueberries, that was so kind of You, I especially love how You made them to plump up when they are warm and burst open inside my mouth, like a little blueberry fire-cracker!" Not sure B. and the boys shared my strong admiration, but they have already learned to just go with when I get really excited about something!!

3. Brock took the BBS (from now on I am abbreviating The Beau-Beau Show) and T-man to go "barn shopping"!!!! I was very happy about this because it means two less little people for me to be responsible for today and that we are getting closer to having a barn built on the land!

4. The next door neighbors were having another garage sale...which means Homemade Tamales for me!!

5. Farmer's Market!! Cash and I went shopping for fresh homegrown fruits and veggies...oh it just makes my heart so happy to chat with local farmers, and get tips and recipes, and touch and smell the beautiful produce (there I go again, getting all excited...seems to always be food that makes me feel this way!) I purchased a GIANT zucchini and several other things, including my first ever eggplant. Not sure what I'm going to do with it, but I'll let all you TENS of people out there that read this know how it turns out!! ( I can't get my type size to change back...)

6. Back home and Cash is napping away, thus my time to BLOG...and it's not even noon yet...still a BEAUTIFUL MORNING!!

Look Who Came to Dinner!

2010-07-08T06:36:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of weeks Tytus and Beau are rarely seen without an action figure or animal in hand. Spider-Man is pretty much a permanent member of the family, and "Baby Tiger" has been a favorite for the past several days. They take them EVERYWHERE! I was not surprised when I found the following scene at the lunch table yesterday...

I bet you can tell whose plate is whose!!

First Haircut and Facing Forward!

2010-07-07T13:45:00.001-07:00

It was time! I thought I would try to wait until Cash was one year old to get him his first haircut, but I've learned from experience that I will only be sorry...and feel silly when I get my child's One Year Pictures taken and his hair is hanging over his ears and verging on a 'baby mullet' (sorry, T-Man!). So we headed to the barber shop to get all three boys' hair cut. Cash did great...a little wiggly, but what can you expect from an 11 month old boy!

The results...quite adorable if I do say so myself!

AND...I know the books and doctors and Internet say you HAVE to wait until your child in 20 lbs and ONE YEAR OLD to turn the car seat facing forward, but I figured since Cash has been 20 lbs since he was six months old and he looks like a TWO year old we would be safe turning him around a month early! He loves it (still sleeps like a pro on road trips!), and seems to enjoy doing a fake cry/cough/whine, then flashing a huge smile when I turn around to see if he's alright!

Don't you just want to eat him up?!

I mean look at those big baby blues and sucking those fingers...TOO CUTE!!!

Flashback Friday!!

2010-07-02T15:06:00.000-07:00

With Independence Day just around the corner, I thought I would post a couple of pictures from a past Fourth of July...7-4-07.

We lived in Jenks at the time and the Price cousins came for a little visit. Some things never change...it is still a near impossibility to get everyone (or anyone) to look at the camera! {This picture proves to me that Cash looks similar to Tytus...in fact he is pretty much the same size now that Tytus is in the picture, except a little BIGGER! The clothes T. has on are already too small for C....but anyway!}

I was just thinking earlier today about how a couple of summer's ago I had a baby on each hip, then I found this picture! I remember that weekend...Beau had just turned three months old and life was beginning to get a tiny bit easier. I knew if I could make it to the Fourth of July, then I WOULD SURVIVE having two babies just over a year apart in age. I think I had even gotten my hair colored that day...that's how I tend to celebrate a turning point in my life...a new season in life always warrants a new hair-do in my book!

Anyway...HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY! This weekend we plan to celebrate our freedom with friends at the lake. What an amazing freedom we do have...Freedom to live as we please, to raise a family as we please, to wear our hair as we please (that's important!), and to worship as we please! THANK GOD FOR THE INDEPENDENCE WE HAVE IN OUR COUNTRY AND THROUGH CHRIST!

Baby's Momma's Husband!

2010-06-26T09:22:00.001-07:00

Tytus has become very inquisitive about the dynamics of a family and the roles of it's members. He enjoys hearing stories of how Brock and I met and about when he was a baby. He is constantly looking at pictures from when he was "a little boy." He loves babies and says that when he grows up he wants to be a doctor and a daddy and a fireman!

The other day he randomly told me this...

Tytus: "When I grow up, maybe I'll be my kids' mommy's husband!"

Me: "Well, yes, that would nice...I definitely hope that's what happens." (thinking to myself, oh Dear God, please, oh PLEASE, let him be the husband to his children's mother...and PLEASE let him be a husband before he's a father!!!)

Then a few seconds later...

Tytus: "AND, maybe I'll meet my baby's mommy at OSU too!"

Me: "That would be awesome T."

I hope all of this comes to be...now, I just need to pray he gets the order right...OSU, husband, daddy!!

No Hablo Espanol

2010-06-24T10:57:00.000-07:00

So the boys are really obsessed with the Spanish language right now. They were recently introduced to "Go, Diago Go" (yes...just now, up until recently their mean mother would only let them watch PBS), and one of our new neighbor families is Mexican and their little boy is bi-lingual. I realized that the boys needed to be exposed to different languages one morning when we went to next door to the neighbor's garage sale. {**Sidenote: we walked out the door and saw a line of people from the neighbor's garage all the way to the street. We were quickly informed that the reason for the line was the neighbor's home-made tamales, and that her tamales are the best in all of suburban Tulsa. I have to say that I agree with the towns people...the two tamales I bought to eat for lunch were so good, I rushed over to buy more!!} Anyway, while walking home Beau and I had this little exchange:

B: "Well, they sure do talk funny" (with nose turned up)
Me: "NO they DON'T talk FUNNY" I say in a whisper with teeth gritted (heaven forbid he could have waited until we got into our house or at least a few feet away before exposing his sentiment toward their language.) "It's not funny, it's just different than how we talk."
B: "well, it sounds funny to me!"

I quickly ushered them into the house! Grabbing the world map for a quick lesson in geography/culture/MANNERS! Since that morning we have invited Abraham (the neighbor boy) over to play, read books about Spanish speaking families, and of course DIAGO. Thus the obsession with speaking Spanish continues as well as their constant asking me how to say things in Spanish...which is not fairing well for them, since I only know a few phrases, numbers and colors. Maybe I will take up a new hobby, learning/teaching Spanish...in all of my spare time!!!

Happy Father's Day and Happy Birthday Brock

2010-06-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

My children are blessed to not only have a great dad to learn from and look up to, they also have a wonderful grandfather and great-grandfather as well! The Eubanks men are known to be hardworking, God-fearing, put others before themselves type of men. I can confirm that Brock is a very hands-on father, and from stories that I've heard about Pawpaw Bob and Pawpaw Ty...the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. I am so thankful that my sons have a legacy of loving, invested fathers to model their lives after!

After Cowboy Church we met with the Eubanks at Memaw and Pawpaw Ty's house for lunch. My father-in-law, in his true character, thought it would be a special gift to plant new tomato plants for Pawpaw Ty in his garden. The early "June Monsoon" (as he called it) flooded Pawpaw's garden, killing his beloved and always successful tomatoes. Five tomato plants...one for each great-grandchild present that day. The kids had a great time planting and getting dirty...and I think Pawpaw was very pleased with his thoughtful gift!I snapped a few (okay, more like several) pictures to capture the day!

Brock and his sons...the boys would NOT cooperate (which kind of stresses Brock out a bit), but it was like a hundred degrees outside and naptime!

***Cash gave his daddy one of the greatest birthday and father's day gifts ever...As the adults were gathered in the kitchen chatting, Josie walked in carrying Cash...he looked at Brock, gave a big smile and said "Dada"...we were all so excited! Then he reached for Brock and said it again!! It was so special!

Pawpaw Ty looking on as his son, grandsons, and great-grandchildren plant tomatoes in his garden.

Pawpaw Ty and the Eubanks grandsons

Brock and his brothers and father

THE EUBANKS BOYS!

Brock's parents and their grandchildren

I know this isn't a very good picture and it is hard to see, but that is Pawpaw Ty driving his big blue tractor. We ended our little get-together so that Bob and Stetson and Tyson could get back to work raking and baleing hay. I just love that at eighty-six years old, Pawpaw Ty still loves to work hard and help his family!

Once we got home, Brock took Tytus and Beau to see Toy Story 3 and then to get ice cream. They had so much fun giving him all of his gifts and spending the day with family.

Brock, you mean so much to us. I hope that you felt loved on your double special day!!

Pulling Up...!

2010-06-21T05:38:00.000-07:00

Tytus and I walked into the living room several days ago and this is what we found...

Cash pulling-up for the first time...and he was not stopping! Once he got up on his feet, I do believe that his intentions were to climb up on the ottoman!!

Thankfully, I was carrying my phone and Tytus had the camera, so we both started snapping pictures.

The Seven Year Itch

2010-06-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

I've heard people say that couples often go through a difficult time around seven years of marriage..."the seven year itch". Young children, demanding careers, busy schedules...people get bored and begin to drift apart. I can see how it would be so easy to get caught up in LIFE...and the truth is LIFE IS HARD (a lot of the time). Raising kids is hard, climbing the ladder at work is hard, providing for and taking care of a family is hard, and finding time to have a one-on-one conversation with a spouse is hard (especially one without children interrupting or climbing all over one or both of you!)

This is the stage of life we are in...and on top of the three kids four years old and under, the pressures from Brock's job, the stress of running a household, we decided to throw in MOVING (to another state), BUYING LAND, BUILDING!!

So, "the seven year itch???" YES...(in a good way!) I've never had more of an itch to spend quality time with Brock, to do fun things with him (and with him and the boys), to do my best to make this little family run smoothly, and to show him the amount of love and respect I have for him. Now I can't speak for Brock, but I KNOW how he feels about me!

We've been through a lot together in the last seven years...we've had wonderful times, sad times, fun times and challenging times...I look forward to the next seventy!!

HAPPY 7TH ANNIVERSARY B.

Flashback Friday!!

2010-06-11T10:47:00.001-07:00

In the spirit of summertime fun, I am posting a picture from Tytus' first summer. Parker and Paxton came to visit and teach baby T-man how to splash in the pool!! He's still a little wobbly at this point and wet behind the ears at swimming (pun intended)!!!

First Trip to the Dentist

2010-06-10T07:05:00.001-07:00

Last week the older boys had their first dentist's appointments...and they did fantastic!! I think I was more nervous than they were! But everything went perfectly...they did exactly what they were asked to do and their teeth looked great! Healthy Happy Smiles!!

Mother's Day

2010-06-08T20:23:00.001-07:00

I realize it is quite a bit after the fact, but I didn't want to neglect posting about this year's Mother's Day. I think it is safe to say, and many moms would agree with me, that Mother's Day is not always what it's 'cracked up to be'. In fact, in the past few years I have celebrated (and I use that term VERY loosely) a couple of less-than-warm-and-fuzzy-let's-all-show-appreciation-to-Mom Mother's Days.

However, this year...Brock and the boys really pulled through and made the day very special. After church we enjoyed a delicious meal at a lovely Italian restaurant, followed by rest time for EVERYONE...all three of the boys napped and so did I (not sure what Brock was doing because I was NAPPING...did I mention that I took a nap!?!?) Then that evening we went bowling, which I LOVE and the boys had a great time!

Brock bought me this basically brand new running stroller at a garage sale. I have been wanting one since having Cash and the fact that he got it for less than half the original price made me even happier!!

Brock took the boys to a local antique store and let them each pick something out for me. Beau chose the lemon press (he and his daddy both love lemonade, so they could have had themselves in mind a bit by choosing this one!). Tytus chose the wooden meat mallet. I have needed one for years and have gotten by on borrowing from my neighbors. It has been put to good use several times already! And with a little help from Daddy, Cash chose the jar opener. I have frustratingly weak hands and am constantly asking Brock for help opening jars. Such thoughtful gifts...they each made me feel so special and the boys were very proud to give them to me.

Together they chose an antique jewelry box. I have LOTS of jewelry and do not have a very good place to store any of it. So, once again they made a very purposeful choice. (No, I do not know the man and woman in the pictures, I will soon replace them with pictures of my four boys!)

{B- thank you so much for making this Mother's Day so special. I know the boys had a good time shopping for me and I truly appreciate the thought that YOU encouraged them to put into their selections. It's little things like this that prove that you really do pay attention to the details...I love that! Thanks for showing them how to make a person feel special. Love you, kde}

Earning Their Keep!

2010-06-05T08:32:00.001-07:00

The boys have always loved helping Brock work in the yard, and especially mow the lawn. Up until now they have gotten to ride along with Daddy on the riding mower! Now it's time they start learning to do it the hard way (well, not really "hard" since it is a self-propelled mower, but it's more difficult than a free ride!) No matter how, they still want to be working with Daddy...

Tytus mowed the back yard...

and Beau mowed the front yard...

Children's Zoo

2010-06-05T07:57:00.000-07:00

While in OKC, the boys and I took a quick trip to the Children't Zoo inside the OKC Zoo...they LOVED it!! It was really neat and we plan to go back when we have more time to see everything and play in the splash pad!

Beau's Favorite Things

2010-06-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of his favorite things...his sword is almost always in his hand because a little boy never knows when he might need to kill the bad guys!...a "treat" is always the first thing he asks to eat for any meal or snack...and his Blankie is ALWAYS near by and is the only thing (other than Mommy) that can take away the pain of an ouchie or cheer him up when he is sad! The only thing missing is his Spider-Man t-shirt or costume that he wears at lease a couple of times a week!!

Flashback Friday (Saturday Edition)

2010-05-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken at a charity event we attended for the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. I remember having lots of fun that night and enjoying great food and great music! We have been very blessed to have the opportunity to experience a lot of really amazing events, dinners, and concerts over the past few years and this was one of them! Plus, I would never pass up the chance to see Brock in a tux!!

How Do I Do It?

2010-05-27T20:11:00.001-07:00

People ask me often, "how do you do it?"...I'm not exactly sure what they mean, but I suppose it has something to do with having three little boys, and being a stay at home mom, and running a household, and so on (lots of women do what I do and probably much better than I do)...so, here's how I do it...

This is how I put my make-up on and fix my hair (which doesn't happen very often)...
using the laundry basket as a Cash corral also forces me to actually put the laundry away!

This is how we play outside...

I've tried letting Cash sit and play on the patio, but he crawls straight to the grass and quickly puts a handful of grass and leaves in his mouth. (on this particular day the big boys were playing T-ball, but took a quick break to hang out with baby brother.!)

How I clean the kitchen and vacuum the floor...

Tytus is a wonderful helper and Cash adores him. Tytus can feed him his entire bottle (while watching "Clifford"), giving me a chance to finish my chores. I think it's only fair that Tytus help take care of his siblings since he no longer takes a nap! It's the least he can do!!

Celebration and Sorrow

2010-05-25T20:51:00.000-07:00

Today we gathered together with my mother's family (the Evans family) to celebrate the life and grieve the loss of my Great Uncle Russ. He was the patriarch of our family, a God-fearing, Christ centered man...he adored his wife and LOVED his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was bigger than life.

It was a wonderful time to see many family members that I have not seen in quite a long time and to introduce many of them to Brock and the boys. However, the day was more difficult than I had prepared myself for. Upon hearing the news that Uncle Russ had passed I was filled with sadness for my Aunt Lois and my cousins who were so very close to their grandfather, but at the same time I was able to rejoice that this man who had worked hard all of his life and had loved the Lord the majority of his life was able to go HOME to be with our Heavenly Father and reunited with loved ones.

However, in this time of sorrow and reflection with family, I began to think about my Grandpa Hoot. I miss him greatly and am often surprised that after fifteen years since his death I am still overcome by sadness at certain times, sometimes when I least expect it. Grief is a mysterious emotion...often it sneaks up on a person and washes over her like a wave, filling her with pain and sorrow for a short period of time then silently disappearing for months, even years before returning uninvited. In the same way the Spirit of Peace can flood into one's heart unexpectantly when It is needed the most, bringing a sense of calm and comfort at just the perfect moment.

I know the weeks and months ahead will be very difficult for my family, but I am so strangely excited for Uncle Russ and Grandpa Hoot that they get to be together again...with Jesus, their very personal saviour who saved them from their sins and turned them from a life of shenanigans!! (and trust me...I've heard some stories!!)

A Day at the Ballpark!

2010-05-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we spent a beautiful Sunday afternoon enjoying America's past time at the new Drillers Stadium in downtown Tulsa. It is a fantastic little park that was build by Manhattan Construction. Brock was graciously given privileges to the company suite so we were able to enjoy a Drillers victory in comfort with clients, friends, and co-workers. Good times!!

(I would have been able to exhibit our summertime happiness with pictures if the battery in my camera had not ran out of power...oh well, just imagine the adorable faces of my boys in their baseball caps and snow cone stained lips!)

Hay Days!!

2010-05-22T05:51:00.001-07:00

Spring is Here! Which means it's time to get those balers, brush hogs, mowers, and rakes tuned up for hay season...It also means it's time for customer appreciation day at Eubanks' Equipment! It's a family event and everyone has a job to do to make the day a success (except for me this year and my job was to make sure my children were all accounted for!) However, I did get a chance to snap a few photographs...enjoy!

Pawpaw Ty was the official taxi service of the day, giving customers a lift in his new red Ruff 'N' Tuff!

Finally, I captured a photo of Uncle Stetson with Cash...they were buddies for the day!

Brock was suppose to be selling lawn mowers...good thing he's not working on commission!

We don't go anywhere without a box of trucks, tractors and motorcycles!

The cutest couple in the county!! Memaw and Pawpaw just celebrated 60 years of marriage...what an amazing pair!

Flashback Friday!

2010-05-21T11:02:00.000-07:00

This Friday I am honoring my Girls...my Speech Path girls!! Five years ago this month, we put on that final cap and gown, listened to that final commencement speech and proudly received that final diploma (I suppose I shouldn't be too quick to say FINAL, as one or all of us could go on to get that PhD. or Clinical Doctorate...any takers??) We shared some of the greatest times and grew together as friends, professionals and young women. I am so grateful for the relationships I was blessed with during grad school. And we will forever be "Proud and immortal....loyal and true, to our Alma mater...O-S-U"

Shanna Bridges Gann, Missy Childs Ward, Carissa Crosby Miller, Nikki Terry Dodgens, and Me

I've been through a lot with these two...some of the hardest and best times of my life thus far. Love you both!

Couldn't help but throw in a picture of my biggest fan...and Sugar Daddy!! Love you B.

Easter

2010-05-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

This year we celebrated the resurrection of our Christ with Uncle Craig and his family at their church, Bar-None Cowboy Church. We really like their church and have been attending with them a lot this spring. Pastor Clint (or Brother Clint, I'm not sure what they call him) brought a great message and the service was followed by a good ol' fashion pot luck dinner...the way one should be done, with homemade fried chicken, mashed potatoes and chicken and dumpling...YUM! After lunch the roping arena was filled with REAL eggs for hunting. Some eggs were even hidden on the loading chutes! We had a really good time.

I didn't realize until later that day that I had only got like one picture of Cash and NO pictures of all three of the boys together, let alone a picture of the five of us!! Oh well. They all three looked adorable and Brock was handsome as usual. Here are some pictures of our Easter Sunday...

Every Rose Has Its Thorn

2010-05-20T20:51:00.001-07:00

First let me just say that I love when my mom comes to visit and the boys are crazy about her! She is very hands-on and is always a big help. When she came to visit us over Easter weekend, she decided to take the boys on a walk/bike ride. Seemed like a great idea...the weather was beautiful, sun shining bright...

Here is Cash ready to go on his first ever wagon ride!! So Cute...

And here is Cash after Grandma pulled him through the rose bush!

JUST KIDDING MOM!! Okay, that rose bush might have needed a little trimming and Grandma was trying to help the big boys with their bikes while pulling the wagon at the same time! I have to admit I was pretty freaked out when Mom brought him inside the house screaming with blood all over his face, but once we got him cleaned up and he calmed down I think I felt worse for Grandma! He only looked like Scarface for a couple of days...and Brock went straight out and pruned the rose bush!

Trains and GrandDon

2010-05-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

GrandDon gave Beau a new 'Thomas the Train' set for his birthday. The boys had a great time with him putting the track together and trying out the new engine. Even Cash got in on some of the action!

Beau's 3rd Birthday

2010-05-20T18:27:00.000-07:00

Finally, some pictures from Beau's birthday party! We had so much fun that day. Even though he had some anxiety thinking that he was going to be forced to eat chicken, he was still a happy little boy at the end of the day...could of had something to do with the pancakes, cupcakes, and cake (that's a whole lot of CAKE!).

(sidenote: we had been attempting to encourage/'brainwash' Beau for about six months prior to his birthday, that he would start eating chicken and other foods that he refuses to eat when he turned three. It seemed like a good idea and it all kind of started in fun, but the poor guy was so worried that someone would try and make him eat chicken that he was a bit stressed out! And yes, I felt horrible!)

Birthday Breakfast...pancakes, of course...

with SPRINKLES!!!

"Yummmm, this is gonna be delicious," he said to himself quietly as he gazed at his creation!

Birthday lunch with friends at Chick-Fil-A (okay, yes, I was hoping he would be brave and try the chicken nuggets, but NOPE!)

Look at those adorable Quinn brothers!

Little Grant enjoyed the cupcakes!

Have I mentioned that Beau is obsessed with Spiderman...no wait...he IS Spiderman!

Brothers blowing out the candles together

The SURPRISE guest...SPIDERMAN!! That's right...Spiderman came to the party with an official Spiderman gift!

Spiderman and The Beau Beau Spiderman Show (that is now how Beau refers to himself!) showing off their muscles!

The Beau Beau Spiderman Show in his new Spiderman sunglasses.

T-Man also got a new pair of sunglasses

SO MUCH FUN!! We LOVE you Beau!

O-K-L-A-H-O-M-A...!!!

2010-05-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

YIPPEE!!! It's official, we are Oklahoma residents again! The move is complete, but the unpacking is not! I have been a very busy little momma the past couple of weeks (hence the lack of blog posts), and I still do not have the internet (or television for that matter). So I am borrowing Brock's work computer and global internet for one quick post.

We are exhausted from a very physically and emotionally draining last couple of weeks. Leaving Joplin/Loma Linda was a lot harder than I had prepared myself for(more on this later). In the midst of all the packing, moving, cleaning, and lots of driving between Claremore and Joplin, the boys and I made a quick trip back to NWOK to be with family after the sudden death of an uncle. In addition to that, we have been spending as much time as possible with Brock's family during a very difficult situation.

However, the good news is...we are all back together again! I did not realize how hard it was on me with Brock being gone so much until now. It is so nice to have him home to help and hang out with. And because his office is in downtown Tulsa, he can't really stick around and work late (or at least he shouldn't)! I think Tytus said it best, "I LOVE the new rent house, because we all get to be together and Daddy gets to come home every night!" It just proves...the kids don't care that we are more cramped and that I gave half of their toys away. It matters most that the gang's all back together!

Althought I'm beginning to think they might be tired of my sudden bursts into "OKLAHOMA"!!

From the Mouths of Babes...

2010-04-22T09:10:00.001-07:00

(A little bit of background: Brock had been gone working in Tulsa all week and the boys and I were driving to meet him in Claremore. However they did not know this, because I feel it is easier to supply them with as little details as possible, that way if things don't work out then they are not disappointed and I don't have to deal with the aftermath, but if things do work out then they are surprised and everyone is very happy...this is my policy on many events (i.e. birthday party invites, going to see grandparents, when daddy will be home from work, etc.) You call it controlling...I call it just smart thinkin'!!)

Anyway, this is the conversation that Tytus and I had in the car:
T: "Do we have to go live with Jesus in Heaven?"
Me: "Well, if we believe Jesus is God's son and died on the cross for us then when we die we GET to go live with him in Heaven."
T: "I don't think I want to do that."
Me: " Well, Daddy and Mommy will be there and lots of other people that you love."
T: (pause, thinking) "Well, I just want us to all stay at home together."

Broke my heart...he is having a very difficult time with Daddy being gone and us moving. Surely we won't scar him for life!

Tuesday Triumphs (on Wednesday)!

2010-04-14T18:09:00.001-07:00

Beau had surgery yesterday...bilateral myringotomy with adnoidectomy to be exact (a.k.a. tubes in both ears and adnoids removed). All went well, he was quite a little trooper! He was very brave, in fact, when I told him we were going to see Dr. Vaidya and that he was going to fix his ears and throat he said, "Yeah, but I'm not gonna cry!" and he really didn't!! He cried for a couple of minutes as he was coming out of anesthesia, but once he was in Mommy's lap, with blankie, Teddy, and his favorite cup in hand he was fine. Yesterday evening and in the night he was pretty fussy, but he has been back to his playful self today!

Flashback Friday!

2010-04-09T21:09:00.001-07:00

In the midst of all the "house" talk at our house...rent house, house plans, building a house, house for rent, house, house, house (after you type it so many times it starts to look funny, am I spelling it right?!) I decided to post a picture of the very FIRST house!

Brock bought this house when we were dating and gutted it and remodeled it. It was quite a project, but it turned out great. We lived there for a little over a year before building our next home. We had some great times in that house. We loved our neighbors, the Thomas family and the Banks family, and still keep in touch with them. Sometimes when we are in Tulsa we will do a quick drive-by just to see what's happening on 73rd Street South!

Happy 3rd Birthday Beau!!!

2010-04-08T19:48:00.001-07:00

Look at that face! Those big blue eyes! That ornery grin! You've got something on your mind and we can bet that whatever you are about to do will have us smiling and shaking our heads!!

You are THREE years old now, Beau-Beau Show...such a BIG BOY! and you are ALL BOY!

A few fun facts: You love all things Superhero! YOU ARE SPIDERMAN!! Probably close to 50 times a day you can be heard shouting, "OVERDRIVE...ACCELERATE" (which is some kind of Power Rangers battle cry that Parker taught you), followed by a jump off the couch, a roll on the floor, a kick and a punch..."killed 'em, Bad Guys are dead!" You are really into heavy equipment, cars, monster trucks, and you already show signs of making some of the most realistic sound effects I've ever heard. You LOVE school and you are very smart...you know all of your letters and sounds, you can count to 15 and sometimes 20, you've got your shapes down pat, you are extremely good at coloring (and I'm not just saying that because I am your mom, your teachers agree!), your favorite color is purple, which leads me to...You are very CONFIDENT! You know what you like, what you don't like, what you want, and it is no secret what you are thinking most of the time...you have no problem letting your daddy and I know exactly how you feel about things!!!

You love your brothers and you are not afraid to stick up for them...in fact, I recently observed you push a five year old boy who was not treating Tytus fairly, and once you both had the upper hand, you together backed him away from the situation and then went along playing happily together! You adore Cash and are very helpful, however at times, he has already begun to annoy you by chewing on your toys and getting in your way! You are COMPLETELY ATTACHED to your blankie...which has taken on a persona of its own...you drag HIM around the house, HE is the first thing you want when you are hurt or sad, HE sleeps with you, eats with you, and has even been found in the sandbox with you!

You weigh 34 pounds, wear size 4T cloths, you are NOT potty trained, but we are working on it. You LOVE PB&J and would eat it every meal if allowed. You still have NOT EVER eaten meat (which you promised you would do when you turned three, and suffered a great deal of anxiety on your birthday for fear that we would try to force you to eat a chicken nugget...bless your little heart!)

Buddy, I could go on forever about what a blessing you are to our family. Bottom line: YOU MAKE MY HEART SO FULL! You entertain me, you challenge me, you love me, you teach me, you make me earn my keep, you make me laugh, and sometimes you make me cry. Daddy, Tytus, Cash and I all love you and thank God for you, for in you I see Christ...you are a little lion and a precious lamb!

Rub-a-Dub-Dub...

2010-04-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

...Three BOYS In a Tub!!

{poor Cash...someday it will be payback time!}

Tuesday Triumphs (Revised and Continued)

2010-03-31T05:31:00.000-07:00

"Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

I'm not sure if I made it clear when I was posting last night, but I was kind of missing my husband! Also, there's a possibility I could have been wading in a small pool of pity. This week is the fourth week that Brock has been working in Tulsa/OKC during the week and home with us on the weekend (during February he was able to only be gone just two or three nights a week) Yesterday was the first day that I felt DONE...defeat was creaping in and my little white flag was beginning raise! (or at least that is what my emotions were telling me).

Not surprisingly the Lord has renewed my spirit and I have my "game face" back on. The morning has given me new eyes to recognize/remember the most triumphant events that happened on my not-as-bad-as-I-thought-it-was Tuesday:

1. We found a house to rent in Claremore!!! {I am cracking up at myself, that in all my school-girl missing of my Sweetheart, I failed to 'remember' that this weekly separation is almost over...silly me!}

2. God really does answer prayers...my prayer to be used by him in the life of others, and a friend's very specific prayer for her family were both met when she TRUSTED and I OBEYED (cue music)!

Thank you Father, that in You, we are always TRIUMPHANT!

Tuesday Triumphs

2010-03-30T21:13:00.000-07:00

We made it through the day.
I am really missing Brock Eubanks.
Tytus observed "Rest Time/Quiet Play Time" to it's fullest, allowing me a chance to lay down and rest for myself.
Finally organized the pile of junk in the garage.
The warmer weather means lots of outside time, and the sack of old rescue vehicles that I found in the pile of junk kept the boys happy and entertained for a long time.
I am really missing Brock Eubanks.
We made it through the day.

Now that I am typing it out, it really was a pretty good day...we made it through, and sometimes just surviving is a triumph. I am going to sleep now, because I am missing Brock Eubanks.

Oxymoron

2010-03-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

After having "rest time" in Mommy and Daddy's bed the other afternoon, this is what emerged to greet me...

Eubanks Cousins!

2010-03-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again...HAY SEASON! Eubanks Equipment is sending out fliers for their upcoming Open House, so we got the kids together for a little photo shoot at the dealership. The boys adore their cousins (and so do Brock and I), and the girls are such a big help. I think they did the business proud! Anyone need a baler or mower?!?!

When the (Momma) Cat's Away...

2010-03-25T14:06:00.001-07:00

This is the scene I found when I returned from putting Cash to bed last night. When I asked Beau what was going on and reminded him that he is suppose to ask BEFORE getting a snack, he replied with, "It's okay Mom...accidents happen."!!

We might need to review some vocabulary...and put a lock on the pantry door!

Zoo Trip!

2010-03-24T18:37:00.000-07:00

We decided to take our annual zoo trip during Spring Break this year. Mother insisted that we all wear the same color (and of course she chose Orange) partly for fun, but mostly because we had SIX kiddos seven years old and under! Kandy and I were not eager to go along with this for fear of looking like the "dorky family wearing matching tie-dyed shirts at Disneyland" (her words, not mine). But we complied with Mom's request and were quickly thanking her when we arrived at the zoo to find that half of Oklahoma was there as well! We had a great time...all the kids represented our family and our Cowboys very well!!

We made quite an impression and were the inspiration of numerous "Go Pokes" and "Alright Cowboys"!

The Eubanks Boys

Pax and T-Man

The bears did not disappoint, in fact, all of the animals were out enjoying the day!

I love this picture

Priscilla may have been more concerned with pushing Cash than looking at the animals, but she had a good time doing it!

SNACK TIME!

This chimpanzee (or is it an orangutan? I don't know the difference) was hilarious...he definitely put on the show of the day.

Beau was being a bear...scratching his back on a tree

After filling his tummy, this is how Cash enjoyed the last part of his first trip to the zoo!

Tuesday Triumphs

2010-03-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

1. Started my "Cleanse", or should I say 10 days of drinking grass and eating rabbit food (and I didn't throw up!)

2. Ran 3 miles, followed by some Zumba...Seeing some lovely 60+ ladies in their Zumba cargo pants shakin' their money-makers is enough to make my whole week!!

3. Possibly found a place for us to live near Claremore...I can see a flicker of light at the end of the tunnel.

4. Brock met us and we had a delicious meal at the historic Hammet House...so good!! (veggies and grilled chicken for me (see #1))

Roadtrip with the Gang...

2010-03-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

WARNING: This is a long one!!

Once again we packed the car to the brim and set out to visit friends and family...and find some adventures along the way! Since Brock has been working in Tulsa/OKC during the week and it was also Spring Break, the boys and I decided to load up and go along with him. We left last Sunday and headed toward T-Town and seven full days and heaven knows how many miles later we rolled back into Loma Linda.

*Before I continue with the details of this roadtrip I find it necessary to add this statement...At some point during my four years of being a parent I have convinced myself that I am capable of all things and that the forces of nature (otherwise known as my children) WILL cooperate with me and at the end of each day we will all have smiles on our faces! I credit this bit of disillusionment (among other important things) to my success as a mother. To anyone out there reading this now or later, I ask you...Don't you have to be a tiny bit crazy to pull this parenting thing off AND live the kind of life that you want to live at the same time? I realize that not everyone has the same lifestyle that we do: moving frequently, traveling frequently, having babies frequently!...but everyone is busy, right? And I am convinced that in order to raise well-balanced, well-behaved children, and not stay home all the time, it is essential to maintain a healthy combination of confidence and CRAZINESS! Mastering the Art of Flexibility (and I don't mean bendy body parts) doesn't hurt, either!

Now back to our roadtrip (a.k.a. Exhibit 'A' supporting the above statement)...
Sunday- **Before leaving town we took Cash by the urgent care just to make sure that that cough and running nose he had wasn't' RSV. It was not, so with a Xopenex script in hand we headed Southwest. First Stop in Tulsa...The Home and Garden Show. We got tons of ideas for the future house and ran into lots of old friends, including Pastor Bruce and his wife Linda (made my heart happy!) Then off to the hotel. We spent Sunday and Monday nights at the historic Mayo Hotel in downtown Tulsa. Super chic suite + plenty of room to RUN around + three boys = what were we thinking?! Actually the boys did great, but I'd love to stay there sometime with just Brock!

Monday- Brock went to work and the boys and I spent ALL AFTERNOON driving around looking for a place for us to temporarily live. Not much luck, but I did learn the ins and outs of Claremore (and the surrounding areas). Then spent the evening with the Becks...LOVE that family!

Tuesday- Packed up the gang and checked out of the hotel by 9:00 (a miracle!) Snuck in a quick photo shoot with Carissa. Then the boys and I went to brunch...yup, that's what I said, I took all three boys to Mimi's Cafe for pancakes by myself! Cash was not that into it but so kindly waited until AFTER we had already ordered to start crying! Tytus had to go potty, because we were strategically place in the very back of the restaurant, ALL FOUR OF US with diaper bag in tow (which I smacked two people in the head with) traipsed to the restroom. Once the chocolate chip pancakes arrived, life was better for all of us! Once we were all loaded in the car, Cash had a major explosive diaper that required special attention (a.k.a new clothes and a bath), so we made our way to the Ives household. Later, we made a stop at the park then it was back downtown to pick up Brock...and head to Grandma's. Despite the great pictures taken and the time with my best friends I really would have been fine with a late checkout!

Wednesday- ZOO TRIP! (more on that later)

Thursday/Friday- It was time to heat WEST! Grandma, the boys and I went to Taloga. We had planned to stay through the weekend, but our plans were changed by the Spring Break Blizzard of 2010! So within 24 hours we squeezed in visits with as many friends and family as possible. Then it was back to Edmond just in time to watch our Cowboys lose their first game in the Big Dance.

Saturday- SNOWED IN. Homemade soup and hours of college basketball!

Sunday- After church it was time to FINALLY make our way back home. I strategically packed the car (usually Brock does this task) so that we could stay the night again at the Mayo and drive the rest of the way home after Brock got done working on Monday. However, once we got on the road and the boys fell asleep, we just kept on driving! Did I mention the importance of Flexibility?!

*I'm kidding (kind of)! I credit my success as a mother and my well-behaved children to answered prayers, Brock, consistency, and the good ol' fashion kind of discipline!!

**Just in case anyone who reads this is wondering...Cash was over his cold by the time we got home, so no one can accuse me of being an unfit mother for dragging her sick child all over the state...he is the third child, enough said.

Flashback Friday

2010-03-12T21:18:00.001-08:00

What a cute picture of us with our nieces, Josie and Lindie! Josie is now twelve and Lindie is ten...they are so grown up!! I wanted to honor them this Friday because they are both getting baptised on Sunday. We are so excited for them for making the most important decision of their lives. I am praying that they will each grow in their faith and learn how to serve the Lord and bring glory to him!

We love you girls!

From the Mouths of Babes...

2010-03-09T16:48:00.000-08:00

Beau: "Have you heard about the Malkadoomies?"
Me: "NO, what are the Malkadoomies?"
Beau: "They're kind of like bad guys, but they have swords and golf clubs."
Me: "Oh, man, golf clubs?!"
Beau: "Yeah, and when you're ridin' on your motorcycle they hit golf balls at you and knock you off and then get you with their swords!"
Me: "Yikes!" ...and thinking to myself, "how on earth do you come up with these things...what an imagination!"

Land Owners

2010-03-09T08:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Brock and I closed on eighteen acres of land just east of Claremore. It is a beautiful property with a large creek (more like a small river to this NW Oklahoma girl) running through it. We are very excited and hope to make this our home for a very long time. It is located just south of Hwy 20 a few miles east of I-44, so very convenient for traveling to visit grandparents and for Brock to get to work.

Our plan (I'm laughing to myself as I type this because anyone that knows us well knows that our "plans" are frequently changed...and we have gotten very good at 'going with it'), anyway, our plan is to start building a house at the end of summer.

For now, Brock is working mostly in Oklahoma City and Tulsa and the boys and I are still holding down the fort in Loma Linda, MO. However, we are currently looking for a place to rent in Claremore/Tulsa area so that we can all be together. We have been looking for a great piece of land to call HOME for several years, so we feel very blessed to have been given the direction and provision to find and purchase this property.

Masterpieces!!

2010-03-07T19:38:00.000-08:00

Tytus drew a picture of Daddy and Mommy. Daddy is blue and Mommy is black. He said that Mommy is doing ballet!

Another Tytus creation, this one of himself and his brothers. Beau is done in black, Tytus is done in red and Cash is the third 'person'..."the one with the big head!"

This one is drawn by Beau. The figure on the far left is PaPaw Bob, the small figure in the top right is Beau. The round figures are the cattle, and the solid black 'blob' is The Bad Guys (Beau doesn't do anything that doesn't involve The Bad Guys!)

Ski Trip 2010: Part I

2010-03-06T19:17:00.000-08:00

For a Christmas gift, my dad decided to take us all (my family and my sister's family) skiing! So the last week of February we all loaded up and headed to Breckenridge, CO...Six kids (seven years old and under!), four adults (the men hyped up on Red Bull and coffee!), tons of movies, numerous stops to potty, and one cargo trailer full of gear! The weather was beautiful, the slops were awesome, and we all had a lot of fun...we were exhausted and ready to be in our own beds by the third night, but good memories were made!

This is the best way to travel 12 hours with six kids!!

Please, Stay, Make Yourself At Home

2010-03-06T18:56:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago we were blessed with a visit from an old friend. We hadn't seen Mr. Sunshine in a while and he actually decided to stick around for a few days. The boys and I quickly let him know that he is welcome to stay as long as he'd like! And we didn't waste any time basking in his warmth and brightness. Off to the park we went to enjoy that oh-so-anticipated first feeling of...dare I say the word...SPRING!

February Monthly Mission

2010-03-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

First of all, What happened to February? I mean, I know it has a few less days than the other months, but wasn't I just putting away the Christmas decorations (except for that garland and wreath that is still hanging on the front door...that's right, when Spring shows me that she is here to stay I will take down the evergreen!)

For our monthly mission in February we made Valentine's and delivered them to a local nursing home. In preparing for this "mission" I took the opportunity to talk to the boys about how we all get older and some of the positive and negative things that go along with that and also how some people don't have family that comes and visits them. We even read a couple of books about grandmas and grandpas getting older (although I find it humorous and a bit confusing that the drawings of grandparents in children's books look more like Great-grandparents than grandparents).

The boys enjoyed making the Valentines (at least what little creative freedom I gave them. I'll be the first to admit that when it comes to crafts I have a few "control issues" that I need to work on.) and I thought they turned out pretty cute! Daddy and Cash stayed home with the a little stomach bug, so Tytus, Beau, and I were off to spend the morning at Spring River Christian Village. I have to admit I was a little nervous about how they would do...what I mean is, I LOVE old people, but the truth is there can be some frightening looking folks at nursing home (at least in the eyes of a three and four year old!) But the boys did incredible! They just looked like pros...they were walking up to people, handing out their valentine's, giving hugs...I think Beau even gave one little old lady a kiss! And the residents seemed to be truly blessed to have children around. It was really fun! I think we will definitely be making this an annual event!

Tuesday Triumphs

2010-03-02T20:16:00.000-08:00

Whew! First of all, we made it home from Breckenridge, CO last night. We had a great trip! All the kids traveled well (with a couple of early stops demanded by Priscilla and/or Cash, but hey, who can blame them, I was ready to be out of my 'car seat' too), the weather was fantastic, the slops were awesome! I hope to soon dedicate an entire post to our First Ever Family Ski Trip.

So, the boys and I made it home last night...finally. Daddy had to stay in OKC/Tulsa/Stillwater for work for a few more days, which meant that I pulled the cargo trailer home! And YES I triumphantly backed that puppy up to my garage and unloaded all of our crap...pardon me...travel necessities. Then I backed him up again in the alley and unhitched him!! Okay, so I had to recruit the teenage neighbor boy to help me unhitch him, but I indeed felt triumphant to accomplish this task that my husband asked of me (and I do think I heard a bit of hesitation in his voice, which of course only fueled my determination to, how else can I say it...Git R Done!)...TRIUMPH!!

Despite starting the day a little rough (the aftermath of being away from home for nine days), we had a lot of fun and got quite a few things done (Heaven knows I have a lot to do, after unloading that trailer with all of our "stuff" from vacation, the house looks like a tornado hit it!) Tytus and Beau eagerly helped me with my chores and did a mighty fine job at it. Tytus unloaded groceries and in typical T-man fashion organized the can goods and baby food just as I asked him to do. And Beau put away silverware and various other items from the dishwasher and stayed on task until the job was complete...he even came to me reporting that he had finished and needed another job!!! (This is quite an improvement as he in the past has proven to be "easily distracted")...TRIUMPH!

And I did FIVE loads of laundry...TRIUMPH!!

Tuesday Triumphs!

2010-02-23T07:30:00.000-08:00

The bags are all packed!!
The car is clean and fueled!!
The kiddos are all enrolled in ski school!!!
And EVERYONE is HEALTHY!!!

I'd say that is triumphant!

**Stay tuned for pictures and stories from our First Ever Family Ski Trip!!)

Friday Flashback!

2010-02-19T08:23:00.001-08:00

"Sisters, Sisters, There were never such devoted sisters..."

Love my sister, Kandy, and love this picture...Look at all that HAIR (and a lot less me!) She has always been referred to as an 'angel', and I suppose she (mostly) fits the description, but with a little bit of SASS (I hold the family francise on that one!) We had a lot of fun growing up together and now I can easily call her one of my best friends. She has taught me a lot about having patience, kindness, and understanding. Our family is so blessed to have her!!

Tuesday Triumphs

2010-02-16T19:31:00.000-08:00

One of our most triumphant Tuesdays to date...

First, I saved a whopping $20 at Wal-Mart just by using coupons, AND an additional $15 in rebates once I mail them in. Not too bad, definitely not like some of my other very savvy coupon using friends, but it's a start...

Second, and of extremely great value, I finally found a BBQ Sauce in the state of Missouri that is worth spending my money on. It's called Casey's Famous Hickory BBQ Sauce, it's not quite Head Country...but it's the closest I have been able to come to the golden child of condiments (I'm very picky about my BBQ sauce!).

And last, but certainly not least...ALL THREE CHILDREN TOOK A NAP AT THE SAME TIME!!!It was a glorious ONE HOUR AND THIRTY MINUTES!! I was so excited that I even considered sneeking in and taking a picture of each of them just for proof, but didn't out of fear that I would spoil this very special moment for all of us (ok, especially me, but trust me, they were enjoying their slumber). Each awoke happy and hungry...

All in all a triumphant day!!

100 Days of Prayer

2010-02-16T10:20:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I started a new devotional titled "100 Days of Prayer for Women." Today's focus was on priorities and the importance of keeping God FIRST in my life. I thought the content was quite timely with it being just a couple of days following Valentine's Day. Here is a quote and scripture that spoke to me most...

"When I have learnt to love God better than my earthly dearest, I shall love my earthly dearest better than I do now. When first things are put first, second things are not suppressed but increased." -C.S. Lewis

"And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment, so that you can determine what really matters and can be pure and blameless in the day of Christ."

(*In my prayers for Brock each day I sometimes read along in Stormie Omartian's "The Power of a Praying Wife. On this day, Feb. 16th I read chapter 16- His Priorities. Isn't God clever...to coincide my study and prayer for myself along with my prayers for my husband!!)

ATTITUDE!

2010-02-13T19:42:00.000-08:00

We have been talking a lot about attitudes at our house. And by the way, someone forgot to mention to me that as soon as our son turned four years old he would all of the sudden develop some serious ATTITUDE! Good attitudes and bad attitudes...we all have both at times, but even when it is difficult we should CHOOSE to have a good attitude, right?

That being said, today as I was helping the older boys get dressed (ironically to go on our "monthly mission", more on that later), *SIDENOTE: Is it just my kids or does it seem like at times just getting dressed is the most difficult task of the day?? Anyway, Tytus was showing some signs of a not-so-good attitude...heavy sighing, slouching, even a tiny little eye roll. So I say to him, "Buddy, I do not like your attitude right now, you are just acting kind of ugly. I mean, I do not know where you got all of this attitude, but I wish you would give it back!" To which he replied, "I know where I got this attitude." And I say, "oh really, where did you get your attitude?" Oh, Yes, get ready for it, because without skipping a beat and actually quite kindly he followed with, "From YOU!"

OUCH!! Nothing like having your eyes opened by the honesty of your child. It can be a shot to the gut when you see your not-so-best qualities come out in your child. So after a quick pep talk and a promise that I will also work harder at having a good attitude we were on our way. Guess it's time for me to practice what I preach!!

Flashback Friday

2010-02-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

I seem to be sticking with the winter wonderland theme, and rightly so since it is still very cold outside and we have had snow flurries the past couple of days. Here are a few pictures with some of our good friends. This was the first winter that the Borns, Millers and we all lived in Churchill Park in Jenks, OK. It snowed a bit (and by a bit, I mean hardly at all) and the boys decided to make a play day out of it!!

Ellie and Kate Born- little Kate was the first baby of the group...she is just as sweet now as she was then!

We had our nieces, Josie and Lindie, with us that weekend...they are helping Josh and Brock with the beginning of what would soon be "the biggest snowman ever"!!!

Yes, that's Josh in short sleeves, and not because it is warm outside...at least it wasn't to most of us!

Michael was quickly recuited when Josh and Brock realized that making "the biggest snowman ever" required more man power. Oh and if it looks like Brock is wet, well, he is...I guess building a snowman in the freezing temperatures can cause a man to sweat!

The girls had fun (probably not as much as the boys), and their parents didn't kill us for letting them play outside all afternoon without appropriate winter gear!

It's funny how I remember all the details of that day, down to Ellie making us all hot chocolate and us all discussing if Baby Kate should be outside or not (she was the first baby after all). Carissa opted not to join us since she was in fact eight months pregnant with Easton. Miss you all so much...what fun memories!

Splish-Splash!!!

2010-02-11T19:06:00.000-08:00

(***Disclaimer: I haven't blogged in almost a week because our internet was down and a mommy of three only has so much time to spend on the phone each day with AT&T. Also, Cash and I are sick and don't really feel like doing much of anything...so, here's a quick little pic to keep us current!)

Cash LOVES him so bath time!!! He is hilarious...his arms and legs flailing and splashing all at the same time! I can't imagine how wet I will get when he gets to start taking baths with his older brothers, they never fail to get the floor (and me)covered in water! Here's a picture for proof of his sheer happiness...and complete cuteness, if I do say so myself...

Flashback Friday!!

2010-02-05T06:55:00.000-08:00

Since it is snowing outside even as I type, I thought I would post a couple of pictures of Brock and me from a past winter wonderland. These pictures were taken at Brock's parents home (the one he grew up in...not the one on the hill) the winter that we got engaged. The loveable canine we are each posing with was our first baby...our dog Britney that Brock adopted while we were dating. When we started a human family, she went to live with a man that works for my dad and his wonderful family. They are taking great care of her and we get regular updates on what is going on in Britney' new world.

Oklahoma Living Magazine

2010-02-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

"Oklahoma Living" is a magazine distributed to all residents that are a part of the Rural Electric Cooperatives of Oklahoma. So, if you live in Oklahoma and you live in the country, then you know what this is. Even though we don't live in Oklahoma for the time being, most of our family members do and receive this publication. Brock's mom had given me one recently and suggested that I enter a picture of the boys sometime in the monthly Photo Contest. I did a few weeks ago and this month the picture was chosen as a winner of their monthly Photo Contest! It was kind of neat to call my family in NW Oklahoma and tell them to look for the boys in the February issue.

View "Oklahoma Living"

Bring Us Some Summer!!

2010-02-04T18:36:00.001-08:00

I will be the first to admit that the snow has been beautiful AND we have had lots of fun playing in it. However, we could use a little sunshine! Now, so far this week that hasn't really happened, so we decided to settle on a summertime treat!!

This is the really great blender that Brock got me for Christmas. It does all kinds of fancy stuff (as least that's what the manual says, all I have made is smoothies!)

This is the really handy (and really old) popsicle mold that I found in the back of my cabinet during one of my "I got sidetracked from my daily chores and started organizing the cabinet instead of loading the dishwasher" episodes!

So, I decided to put the two together and make some very yummy (and healthy) treats that would remind me of the days ahead when I am relaxing by the pool in the hot sun! (oh wait, that doesn't really happen when you have young children!)

The boys thought it was pretty cool and they were a big help as always. They had a little trouble with the 'waiting on them to freeze' part...but I think they thought they were worth the wait!

Snow Days!

2010-02-02T19:15:00.001-08:00

Despite the temperature, we bundled up and headed outside for some winter fun in the snow, complete with sledding, snowball fights and a snowman!! Here are a few pictures from our fun family time in the snow over the past weekend...

DAY 1

There they go down the big hill behind our house. Hey, if you can't go golfing, just go sledding on the course!!

Made it to the bottom! Everyone is having fun!

This is right after Daddy started throwing snowballs...Beau is obviously pretty upset about it and Tytus was quick to retaliate with a few snowballs of his own!

Fun in the snow = hard work for Daddy!

DAY 2
Always making a silly face!

Beau was helping to make a snowman until he discovered that he could eat the snow...Tasty!!

The snowman was packed so tightly that our resident carpenter had to get his drill out to give Frosty his eyes, nose, and mouth!

Even Cash got in on the final pictures with our new friend!

He's definitely one of us...I think he is trying to do 'Pistols Firing'!!!

The Evolution of Beau's Mood!!

2010-02-01T18:20:00.001-08:00

Beau...what a great kid! He is the Lover and the Fighter all rolled into one adorable, witty, smart, ornery little boy. He is without a doubt full of SPIRIT and WILL! I have often described him as a kid with 'great gusto'. One never has to wonder how he is feeling or what he is thinking (I have no idea who he got this from!).

After sledding and playing in the snow with Daddy and Tytus, I bundled up with camera in hand to capture the memories. The following montage of pictures pretty much captures the very essence of THE BEAU-BEAU SHOW...

So happy...just finished sledding down a big hill with T-Man...having tons of fun...

Oops, Daddy starts throwing snowballs and pegs him in the face...that's cold and it hurts...

The pain is quickly overridden by anger...

Don't even think for a second that he's getting over this one fast...the anger now evolves into pouting...

Oh, it looks like Daddy and T-Man are having fun throwing snow on each other...he considers getting happy and joining in on the laughing and playing, but...nope, not yet, and he certainly doesn't want anyone to see him smiling...

Okay, he can't stay upset for too long and he definitely wouldn't want to miss out on any of the action!!

Monthly Mission

2010-01-30T16:09:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of each year Brock and I try to take some time to talk about what we did well the previous year and things we would like to do better in the new year. One thing I suggested that we do this year is to emphasize the importance of 'missions' more with the boys. He quickly agreed and we decided that it would be great for us to do something each month. Now, we are not up and moving to a third world country or selling all of our belongings and giving the money to charity, but we are going to designate an activity each month in which we help others and give of our time and talents...as a family.

After the devastating earth-quake in Haiti, we chose to have the boys gather up some food, as well as some of their toys and clothes that they had outgrown and take them to a collection site where they would be sent to the residence of Haiti (our church was a designated collection site for the area so we were able to take all of the items there). We took this opportunity to talk about earthquakes and other natural disasters, but most importantly about God's love for all people. Tytus of course had many questions about why bad things happen and why some boys and girls don't have mommys and daddys. He is beginning to ask a lot of questions about Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, and this tragedy seemed to having him inquiring in ways he had not before. Beau is always quick to choose to pray for others and this instance was no exception. After we talked about all the people who lost their homes and families, he was the first to start giving prayer requests. He also was very helpful in filling bags of food from the pantry (that could be because all he eats is PB&J, so anything other than PB, he was willing to sacrifice!). And Cash didn't seem to mind that I gave away two trash bags full of 0-12 month clothes that he has already outgrown!!

Next month, we have planned to make Valentines and take them to a local assisted living center. Can't wait!!

To all of you reading this...what kinds of service activities do you do with your children? I always love to borrow ideas from my most creative Mommy friends!

Flashback Friday

2010-01-29T15:14:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd start sharing some pictures from the past...at least the fairly recent past! One of Brock's new projects is to scan and digitally save many of our old photos, but until then, the farthest back that I can 'flash' is 2003. That's the summer we got married and received a digital camera as a wedding gift. So, here's one from the beginning...before the Sundance kids...just me and my Cowboy!!

From the Mouths of Babes...(Spelling Bee)

2010-01-28T09:39:00.000-08:00

Today as I was taking the boys to 'school', I over heard Tytus and Beau talking:

Tytus: "Hey, Beau, do you know how to spell 'stop'"?
Beau: "No"
TYtus: "You spell 'stop' P-O-T-S, that's how you spell 'stop'!"

Monday Moments, Tuesday Triumphs

2010-01-26T10:27:00.000-08:00

We've all heard people say that they have "a case of the Mondays." Well, I've been feeling like I've had a case of the Mondays a little more than usual lately and sometimes not even on a Monday! Maybe it's because this new year is sweeping by and I feel like I am stuck in last December. It could be because we have been on the road a lot over the past several weeks and everyone is out of their routines or that for the past week our home was visited/overtaken by a nasty stomach bug! Whatever it is I am sure that most everyone can relate. No matter what day of the week it is we all have those MOMENTS...right? Tell me I am not alone here. You know, those moments like when you are actually going to make it somewhere on time (for once) and you walk out the door to find that your neighbor's dog has gotten into your trash and strung dirty diapers all over your driveway! Or like when you are actually getting a decent night's sleep and your husband's alarm goes off two hours earlier than it needs to! I'm talking about those moments that are not the end of the world and really mean nothing in comparison to some of the pretty terrible things that people have to go through on this earth, but that are just a part of LIFE...everyday life that has is hills and valleys. Anyway whatever it is that has gotten me in a bit of a 'slump', I know that I still have so much in my life to put a smile on my face...you know, to turn my little frown upside down! So I am designating another section of the blog for me to briefly state a little moment that has gotten me down or rubbed me the wrong way (because, sometimes we all just need a little chance to vent now and then) and then quickly move on to the more important triumphs that fill my days...and I know that there are so many of these to be thankful for!

One of my most recent "Monday Moments" happened when Cash sip up green beans in the middle of the living room just hours after the man from the carpet cleaning company finished shampooing the carpet. Might I add that the carpet looked great (and still does except for a couple of small blobs) and that Cash almost NEVER spits up! Oh well, I accomplished the near impossible last night...I was able to leave my house all by myself (thank you, Brock)! All the boys stayed at home while I took dinner to our sweet friend Holly who just had a beautiful baby girl. Welcome to the world Lyla Pearl, and thanks for the wonderful chat Holly...it was a triumphant blessing!!

Pictures from Tytus' BirthDAY!

2010-01-26T09:41:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up my mom always let my sister and I choose what we wanted for dinner/supper on our birthday. Now, since we have the same birthday, we often times compromised and chose the meal together; however, other times we did not, and we would have spaghetti and ribs (or something like that!) I have continued this tradition with my own children and they think it is pretty fun! Here are a few pictures from Tytus' special day:
This year Tytus chose Green Chocolate Chip Pancakes for his birthday breakfast!! Thank you Tytus...they were delicious!

Beau was very pleased with T-Man's creation!

He got to open one present in the morning...a Dallas Cowboys football from Texas Stadium!

The next Tony Romo??? Let's go with...the next Troy Aikman!?!?

The big boys showing Dadddy how to read the new Leapfrog TAG books.

Where's Beau????

2010-01-22T19:05:00.001-08:00

The other morning Cash was taking a nap, Beau was playing in his room, and Tytus and I were having some 'computer time' (most likely pbskids.org or starfish.com or one of the other many amazing educational websites we have been frequenting). When all of the sudden I heard... NOTHING! That's right, COMPLETE SILENCE, which as you can imagine is quite uncommon in a house with three small boys. Any good mother knows that when your children are playing and you can't hear them there is reason to be alarmed. This is especially true when it comes to Beau, as he could easily be described as a noisy, talkative player and one of his favorite things to do is hide (and he is very good at it!) So Tytus and I went looking for him. We searched in all of his usual hiding places...behind Daddy's big chair, in the pantry, under the ottoman...nope, no BoBo Show. Then after a more detailed search in the house, but just before taking our investigation outside, Tytus suggested we look in Cash's room...and this is what we found...

He had climbed up in bed with Cash and fallen asleep. Oh, how precious is that?!?! My goodness, it is moments like this one that make my heart so full!! Such a blessing in the middle of an otherwise difficult and exhausting week.

Cash at Five Months

2010-01-21T09:05:00.001-08:00

Cash turned five months old earlier this month. Yes, I am just now getting around to posting pictures, but I have been very busy planning birthday parties, and taking care of kiddos with stomach bugs, and New Year's cleaning and organizing. I'll say it again...Cash, you are such a good baby, and you are starting to be so much fun as your adorable personality develops. I can't believe you are already five months old. Your dad, brothers and I love watching you do and 'say' new things everyday.
This month you competely mastered rolling over, and over, and over. You can reach for an object with both hands, stand up with assistance, pull yourself up when someone holds your hands. You can almost sit up by yourself and you would love to start crawling, but you can't seem to get your belly off the floor!
What a "Chunky-Monkey" you are...look at all those rolls! You are a great eater and a really good sleeper.
Daddy got the Exersaucer out of the attic and you are having lots of fun playing in it.
You like being on the floor, but you really wish you could go somewhere. You especially love being wherever your brothers are. They love to make you laugh and you are so happy watching them play.
Last week you got your first taste of rice cereal and it was no surprise that you loved it. You did such a good job eating that Tytus got to feed you!

We love you so much Cash Allen!!