Mama's Musings

Being Mama.

2011-12-12T06:45:00.000-08:00

I haven't blogged in a long time...mostly because, well, I'm the mom and I don't really have time to do anything creative, or that doesnt involve my kids. But, lately as i've been reading on Facebook i've discovered i'm not alone in feeling like i'm overwhelmed. Some moms act like they've got it all together...that their whole life just works out perfectly and it's all tied up at the end of the day with the perfect red bow. (I picture it like the one on the Christmas Mercedes commercial but that's another topic for another day.) I think they are probably lying to you, me and themselves, and those moms... I think one day they are gonna crack and come over to my side of the fence where we are honest, and tell people we've had a bad day. Where we admit that we don't have it all together and some days we are lucky to get out of the house with two matching shoes. My side of the fence is healthy. It's freedom. It's fun! Come on over!!!!! It's these thoughts that inspired me to write this:

Being Mama

Being Mama is hard. Its long days of being selfless, and not enough sleep. Its being a worrier. Worrying about your kids, about your husband, about your parents, the bills, the house, the dog. And not necessarily in that order. It's taking on more than you should and not letting enough go.
It's loving your friends kids as your own, and worrying about them too. It's being mama to everyone around you. Because, once motherhood has changed your heart, you can't turn it off and on. You feel for others more, you love others more deeply, because you now have a mothers heart...and you think "they have a mama, how does she feel?"

Being Mama is accepting everything is your fault. It's running late, its spilt orange juice in the car, and tardy slips that are "All your fault." It's forgetting to wash the favorite pullover so when the kid is cold.."Its your fault" It's forgetting bread and having to buy lunch on a day they "hate." It's not having anything good for dinner. It's 5 minutes late for cheer class. All. Your. Fault. And your okay with it being your fault if it brings peace in the house. Because in the end, being Mama means you want everyone around you to be happy, even if there is a little, fleeting sadness in you.

Being Mama is being tired. Never enough sleep. Never taking a nap. Never having peace and quiet. It's hearing your name countless times throughout the day from sun up to sundown. Most of the time, it's not in a sweet voice either. It's never having been to the bathroom, or in the shower without a little face popping in to say "Mama!" It's a never ending "to do " list.
It's a jam packed schedule and the ability to rearrange that schedule at the drop of hat...for an emergency, for a friend...Because even when you so tired you think you can't go on, being Mama is having the strength to keep going. To keep putting one foot in front of the other and doing it with a smile. Because all that matters, at the end of the day, is them.

Being Mama is forgetting. Forgetting passwords (there are way too many). Forgetting birthdays, anniversaries. You don't mean to, but there is just so much in your head! It's forgetting a snack, forgetting to check the mail, forgetting to pay a bill every once in awhile. It's having a hard time remembering who you were before the children. They completely changed your life and sometimes you have a hard time getting a glimpse of who you were before them. Thank goodness for the people who've been around long enough, and know you well enough, to remind you. When your with them, you get a glimpse of who you were before, the fun you used to have, but for some reason...you don't miss her as much as you would think you do, and this kind of fun is an all new, better kind of fun. Because it includes them.

Being a Mama is forgiving. Forgiving your husband for not doing things perfectly. Forgiving your kids when they say something that rips your heart out. Forgiving the mom down the street who doesn't have to exercise and eats Krispy Kreme everyday. Forgiving those people who may intentionally hurt your feelings, and those who hurt them by accident. Because mostly, when you
start forgiving all the little things, you start forgiving the big things...and you learn that Being Mama means you have to have a whole lot of forgiveness to go around but that you need to reserve most of it for yourself.

Being Mama is learning. Learning more everyday. Changing with the years as your kids do. Learning to accept that some things change, circumstances do too, but if you have chosen the right people to walk with you on this "Being Mama" journey, they don't. It's learning to pray whole heartedly for anothers happiness. It's learning to accept that having children meant letting your whole heart walk around outside your body. It's finally learning that maybe somethings aren't your fault. It's okay to forget some things. It's okay to take a nap, and it's okay to shut the door to the bathroom, turn on the shower and cry, just because your the Mama. It's okay to teach your kids that Mama cries too. Mama is tired too..it's learning to laugh to keep from crying. Its learning that in the end...you will always be learning, about Being Mama.

Why are you so tired?

2011-03-09T08:47:00.000-08:00

So Sunday was one of "those days." I was so tired, and I could not figure out why. All I wanted to do was get in my bed and take a long nap with the dog. But, as you all know, with two kids, and said dog, and husband, and laundry, and well...life, i rarely, if ever, have the opportunity to do such a thing.

So Todd made the unfortunate mistake of asking me "Whats wrong with you?" uh....wrong thing to say. "Whats wrong with me? Whats WRONG with me? Nothing is WRONG with me I'm exhausted by my life...that's what is WRONG with me!"

So in honor of all you Mama's...those who work at home, those who work out of the home, and those who can do it with a smile and not totally losing it, and for those of you, who are like me, who do occasionally lose it...i give you.

Why is Mama tired?

BEEP BEEP BEEP, alarm clock. get up, SNOOZE, get back in bed, get back up, let the dog out, let the dog in, open a diet dr pepper, take vitamin, jump in shower and forget to shave my legs. "MAMA!!!!!! ZACH IS HITTING ME!!!!" crap. didn't know they were already up. Let dog out, let dog in. Make breakfast. Crap! Out of milk. It'll have to be pop tarts or oatmeal. Get dressed, put on some makeup, hair will have to stay wet.

"wear this. no, you can not wear that. no, you cant wear camo boots to school. yes, you need a raincoat. no, you can not have four ponytails, no you have to wear socks, yes, you are buying your lunch, no, you cant take the silly bandz....please Mallory just wear the bow, please Zachary, just get your shoes on...Where are your shoes? What do you mean you left them at karate? Where is the other twinkle toe. No, you have to wear two shoes that match." Let dog out, let dog in, fill dogs water bowl. 5 minutes late, 10 minutes late, still...no shoes. For some reason we are all screaming at each other about these shoes...

Get in the car, "I want Taylor Swift. I hate Taylor Swift! I want Big Time Rush! I Hate Big Time Rush. MAMA he is looking out my window. MAMA!!!! She touched my DS!!!! MAMA!!! turn on a movie. MAMA!!!!! She is looking at me!!!! MAMA!!!! He is making faces at me!!!!! Drop off one kid and i'm so sweet, "Have a great day baby, mama loves you." He says "Bye Mama, Love you too!" whew, some sweetness...Drop off other kid, she sees her best friend with no bow so it starts all over "You made me wear a bow! You're not nice! You always make me be embarrased!" Her teacher makes her kiss me goodbye because now she is mad at me and "not gonna talk to me ever ever again." I love you Mal, have a great day... "No you dont"..she says as im walking out...

Whew. Some silence for the drive to work. Dang, I need gas. Crap! I forgot my lunch, and my phone. Half way there I realize i'm still listening to Big Time Rush. Wait, is that Snoop Dog in the Big Time Rush song?

Work. Work. Work. Answer questions, answer emails, return phone calls, love other people's children like my own. Tired. Need a nap. I was up all night, Letting the dog out and letting the dog in. What will I eat for lunch?

Pick up kid, drop him off at karate, run to Walgreens, exercise if i have time, grocery store, forgot milk, back to grocery store. Pick up other kid. Drop off library books.Pick up from karate, come home, fight over homework now or homework later while I cook tacos, DANG! forgot cheese. Call husband to pick up cheese because "I cant eat taco's without cheese!" " I'm not eating this! Can I have chicken nuggets!?Can I have cereal for dinner? What about a piece of cookie cake? Cut the king cake! She ALWAYS gets the baby!!!! MAMA!!!!! Zach took a mandarin orange off my plate!!! MAMA!!! Mallory took a drink of my root beer so I hit her and she deserved it. I will not say im sorry cause I dont want her germs!" Choke down two tacos and and take the dog for a walk to try to get a little peace and quiet and three minutes later, two children come barreling out of my house. They are screaming something but all the words are running together. I keep walking. Maybe they won't see me. Late baseball practice tonight, better quit hiding, better go back. Put the dishes in the dishwasher, clean taco meat off floor before dog gets it. Check folder, check homework, check email. Feed dog. She's the only one who doesn't fuss at me. Even when i'm late feeding her. Talk to dog like she is a baby. Feel stupid cause I half way expect she is gonna answer me.

Bath time. "You have to take a bath." "Why? I didn't sweat today" "Because i'm the mom, that's why!!!!" Pick out pajamas, pick out clothes. Why? We will not agree on these choices in the morning. "Where did yall take off your shoes? Let's put them by the door!" Little eyes roll at me, and I pull the "I'm gonna go get your daddy card" even though i'm not sure why...

Bedtime. Everybody to bed! Watch one more Victorious, watch one more Power Rangers. Where is night-night? Where is lovey dog? "Please go to sleep!" "Night Night Mal, I love you!" "Night Night Zach, I love you." Night Night Daddy, love you." "Love you too, Mama" from Zach. "Love you too Momsters" from Mal. "Night babe" from Todd. Let the dog out, let the dog in. Put clothes in dryer, put new load in washer. Hope I don't forget those. Fold clothes. Hang some up. Put some on steps. I'm too tired to go up. Dang, I missed Glee! I've been thinking all day it was Monday.

One more pass through, everyone sleeping tight. Everyone's covered up. Even Daddy. One more tuck in, one more kiss even though they are sleeping. Turn on night lights, turn off tv's. Step on Hot Wheel. Trip over Baby Alive who starts talking and scares the crap out of me. Say things that my kids don't need to hear so i'm glad they are asleep.

Finally I'm going to bed, and im wondering.."Why am I so tired?"

Trash cans and Skinned Knees

2011-03-01T11:01:00.000-08:00

You may wonder what the two have in common...but, if you live in my house you know, the two go together because on trash day, Mallory takes out the trashcans, and she falls down, and skins her knees.
But, still, there she is every Tuesday morning, while I walk the dog up and down the street, struggling and pulling those big ole Rubbermaid trashcans as far as she can down the driveway. I shake my head, and cringe and sigh and still there we are letting the same scenario play out every Tuesday morning.
- "Mallory, let someone help, you."
-"NO, I can do it myself."

"I can do it myself"... a favorite quote of those little people in our lives. My how I admire their perseverance, and their will. I wish I had it...just a spark of it. I wish I would keep pulling on that trashcan, even when it seems its got me totally pulled under.

And what about those skinned knees? Does that make me a bad mom for knowing the outcome and letting it play out anyway; Tuesday after Tuesday, there we are, putting a princess bandaid on a cut she will forget about the time we get to school. Being a few minutes late for work because this time we cried just a little bit longer. I don't know, I guess when we see the young woman Mallory turns out to be, we will know which affected her more, the Trash cans or the skinned knees.

My favorite song by Gary Allan says: "But the struggles make you stronger, and the changes make you wise." How true. What would make Mallory more wise? To struggle with the trash cans and to figure out for herself how to get them to the street? Or for me to jump in everytime and to make life easy for her? It's a constant conflict for a mom, a teacher, parents, and grandparents. Easy or Hard? Help or Hinder? Live and Learn? Which one builds more character? The struggle or the outcome?

I often joke that I am MUCH better with others people children, then I am with my own. With my own children; the behavior modification training, the patience, the calm voice, all seem to fly out the window, and I am just a mom, doing the best I can; like we all are. Juggling ALOT of trashcans...and sometimes I just leave them in the driveway, or just "forget" to take the trash out. But I think, what I should be doing, is to make myself keep on pulling, just like Mallory does.

But for now, I will keep watching from the street at my 5 year old pulling the trash cans, falling down and brushing herself off, and trying again. I'll keep my comments to myself and let her keep trying, because I'm one who believes that the struggles make you stronger. And i'll secretly wish that I had the perseverance of a 5 year old, that I didn't give up so easily. That I kept on getting up, and brushing off, everytime something bigger than me knocks me down.

Why I do, what I do...

2011-01-31T10:13:00.000-08:00

Alot of times, people ask me why it is I love my job. It's really hard to explain because so many people can't understand especially when some days I am so frustrated. There are many things that frustrate me: uninterested parents, dirty children, neglected children, dirty houses, terrible neighborhoods...things I would love to change, and can't. But to me all of the things that frustrate me, also teach me. How not to be selfish, how to be content, and just down-right over joyed with all that I have been blessed with in this life, how to never underestimate warm bath water, and a pantry FULL of snacks and food, to appreciate transportation, and a nice house, and family and friends always there to help if there weren't those aforementioned snacks and transportation. So, this is my latest blog entry...in honor of the kids who would love to tell you, but can't...

Do You Know How I Live?

Do you know how I live? My house is not clean, and a lot of the time, there are bugs, and sometimes even rats inside. I don’t know the difference, and I don’t understand when you say you feel bad I live like this; because I have always lived like this. You wonder how I make it with dirty floors, and sheets, and even clothes, but in my world being clean is not really a priority. No one buys shampoo and soap and bubble bath in fun bottles and colors for me. We save our money for food, and electricity. In winter I hate taking a bath because it is so cold in my house. And, sometimes the water has been turned off, and sometimes the electricity.

Do you know how I live? Today I did not wear socks. We don’t have a washer and dryer and my mom has to walk to the laundry mat to wash my clothes. My little brother has been sick, and it’s been raining so she hasn’t been this week. I know its cold outside and I need them, but it is also another reason that we haven’t walked to the laundry mat. I don’t have a drawer full of socks. I only have a few pair and I am embarrassed to wear dirty socks because I’m scared someone will make fun of me if they have a bad smell.

Do you know how I live? In my house no one really talked to me when I was a baby, and because of this, my language skills are a little behind. Sure they cared for me, but in my house, no one knew the importance of introducing me to books, and toys that push, and puzzles. For this reason when I come to Kindergarten I am very overwhelmed by the sights and sounds and colors and symbols you call letters and numbers. I don’t recognize them. It’s overwhelming. Someday’s, it’s just too much. I know my name, but I have never seen it in print. I didn’t go to a daycare where they taught me to recognize my name on a cubby. We didn’t know it was important to teach me these things before I came to school. Now i'm really behind.

Do you know how I live? I eat at school. That’s it. On the weekends we do the best we can, but I count on the school to feed me. Sometimes I am so hungry I eat so fast and my manners are terrible. I don’t know about manners. I’ve really never sat down at the table with napkins in my lap and plates and forks set just so. We just don’t eat like that at my house. I can’t be expected to know something I have never practiced or even seen. A lot of times this is why still want to come to school when I am sick. So I can eat in the cafeteria. Here I get my own tray and no one fights with me for my roll or juice.

Do you know how I live? I LOVE recess. I need it. My neighborhood isn’t really somewhere where we get to play outside. When we do, I don’t have things to climb on or slide down or swing in. Those things are so fun and so foreign to me. They are so interesting. I guess that’s why I protest so much when we can’t go outside or when it’s time to come in. It is my favorite part of the day. It is one of the only times I don’t feel like I’m behind. Sometimes, it’s the only time that I can keep up.

Do you know how I live? There are going to be days that I act terrible. Just plain awful, but I need you to be patient with me. I need you to take a deep breath and understand that where I come from, my behavior is okay. I need you to help me understand WHY I need to behave differently at school, I need you to help me…period. Just be there for me. When you help me to understand I feel so much more secure. I want you to love me, like I love you.

I am 5...

2010-11-03T06:50:00.000-07:00

My baby turns 5 next week, and in her short life, she has taught me much. First being, I have no control. At 6 weeks early, she was unable to breathe on her own, and thus as her mom, there was nothing I could do but watch the tubes help her breathe and feed her. That's hard for us mom's. We like to be in control. We like to fix things. We like to make sure we've got our thumb on whatever the situation is...but sometimes, we just can't. We can't do it all. Amazing realization. A mom, can't do it all??? This post is in honor of Mallory. Who teaches me everyday.

A Letter To Mama,

Dear Mama,

I am 5. I am opinionated, hard headed and sometimes downright unruly. This is because I feel alot and think alot, and sometimes I do those things better than I talk. I am unorganized. Oh sure, it may look like I've got it all figured out...they way I play with my dolls, and the way I organize my trucks, makes me appear to be a genius. But, in reality, I am unable to understand that you will be mad at me for getting toothpaste on the clean shirt I just put on. "So what? Its a shirt?" That's what I think. I have no concept of it being new or expensive. Sometimes, I talk like a little adult, but I'm not one. My brain is still pretty immature. It is hard sometimes for me to organize long sequences of information. I can follow directions with many steps by now, but sometimes...I may get confused. It's okay. I'm okay. I'm just trying to figure it out for myself.

I LOVE my things. Dolls, books, blanket...whatever it is, I love it. I am attached to it. It's okay. I feel a sense of pride in my ownership of things. I like to hold my things because it tells people it's mine. You may think it's silly how attached I am to my things. You know they are just things, but remember what I said earlier? I am not a little adult. I am 5, and sometimes my "things" make me feel better and bring me comfort, especially when I have to go long periods of time without seeing you.

I am active. I need to run around. Sometimes, when you see me and I'm just moving moving moving, it's because i'm so excited. Sometimes, its because I just have lots of energy and it has to go somewhere! Sometimes you say "whew, child! you wear me out!" Guess what! I am never worn out. If I am, I will go to sleep. That's the way I work now. If i'm up, I like to move, If i'm tired, I will go to sleep. Sometimes, you laugh at me because I literally MOVE in the bed until I fall asleep. But, please keep in mind that sometimes, especially if I have just turned 5, that this is why Kindergarten is hard for me. There is alot of sitting, and I like alot of moving. Especially if I am a boy. My hands work really well, but sometimes, I will still spill things and drop things, and break things. For no apparent reason whatsoever. It will help me, if you just say "Accidents happen." I like to draw pictures, and tell you what they are, and have you write that down for me across the top. I love to practice writing my name, but it's not perfect. That's okay.

You know what else? It's okay if I can't read yet. I can probably name all the letters and most of their sounds and that is great. If I am a girl, I have probably always loved books and loved to be read to, and always had alot of language. If I am a boy, I have probably always like moving, puzzles, and banging things. That's how we are different. Look at you and daddy. Daddy does not like long talks...you do. Daddy has a hard time paying attention when I am telling a long story...you don't. Guess what! We are wired that way from the beginning. Boys will be boys! Of course, this isn't true for all of us 5 year olds, we are all as different as night and day. That is what makes being 5 fun. There is always something new to expect.

Oh the stories I can tell! Sometimes, I may make up what happened during my day. I'm not lying...just telling a story. Sometimes, I can't remember what happened. That's okay too. I love to hear stories, and I LOVE for you to tell me stories about when I was a baby. That is my favorite, because sometimes, I still wish I was a baby. Sometimes, I get treated like too much of a big kid, and I need to be reminded that I will always be your baby. Although I may not act like it, I love for you to ask me questions about my day. It let's me know you care about what I did. Teach me how to ask you about your day and I will! We can talk about it on the car ride home.

You know what I think is most important for you to know about me? I don't like it when you worry about what other kids are doing, and if I'm okay. I am okay. I'm me. Sometimes, we learn faster or slower than other kids. That's okay. Some of us really do have ADHD or ADD. That's okay. We will learn to adjust. Some of us are quirky, or funny, or silly, or immature. Its all okay.
I'm only 5. I've got a long road ahead of me. We've got alot to look forward to, so don't put so much pressure on me to be the big kid. I've got plenty of time for that!

I will be okay, as long as you are my mama and the whole family works together.

I love you,

Your 5 year old

2010-09-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

Temper Tantrums, Bow Ties, and Twinkle Toes

Do you know about Twinkle Toes? They are very "fancy" shoes by Sketchers. They are bright, obnoxious, light up, and don't match anything, and Mallory loves them more than anything. I hate them, as much as she loves them, which makes for some pretty interesting mornings in our house when she wants to wear them for like...school picture day. But, i've learned to let go the trauma of the twinkle toes...

Twinkle Toes have not been my first rodeo with letting kids be who they are. I learned this with a trial by fire with Zachary. He is his very own person, and could care less what anyone thinks. I admire that about him, but it can be very stressful when we are unable to find his cowboy boots before the grocery store run. When he was four he decided he wanted a bow tie. He wore it everywhere. My mom got it for him and it was his favorite thing in the world. Tshirts, button down shirts, sports jerseys, and superman pajamas, they all were all topped off with a black bow tie. Did I love him wearing a bow tie everywhere? Not really, but was it hurting anyone? was it a danger to him? to others? no and no.

When people find out I test and teach preschoolers for a living, they always want my advice on topics ranging from langauge ability to motor skills; but, the most frequent question I am asked is "What should I do with these temper tantrums!" Daycare workers, parents, babysitters, they all ask about tantrums.

Tantrums mostly (notice I did not say always) but mostly stem from frustration. A frustration with being in control, a frustration with a lack of communication, a frustration with being unable to do something or being stopped from doing something. This is where the "Bow Tie" and "Twinkle Toes" come in...ask yourself how much this matters. Is it causing harm? Will it cause harm to others? Will it hurt my child? Is it breaking a rule?

Would I have allowed Zachary to wear a bow tie everyday to school of they had a strict "no bow ties!" rule? Absolutely not! Children have to be taught to obey the rules. That's just part of learning to be a productive member of our society. Would I have allow mallory to wear her twinkle toes if her teacher said it caused a distraction in the classroom? Nope. Children must learn to follow classroom rules. That is part of learning to be a good student. Should I be concerned that the greeter at Wal Mart will look at me funny? No. That other adults will think i'm a bad mom? No. Those things, really don't matter.

Consider for a minute that you have behavior baskets. Ill give you three. In your "A" basket you are going to put all the things that matter the most for the health and safety of your child. In this basket are the rules that they HAVE TO follow all the time. Car seats, holding hands in parking lots, no wandering off, no talking to strangers, no riding their bike off your street. These are the things they will do, all the time, no questions asked. In basket "B" you will put those things that are important to you, but that your kids may or may not follow all the time. I would like for my kids not to drink Diet Coke at dinner, but sometimes its okay. I would like for them to brush their teeth everynight but we have been known to fall asleep. I would like for them not to eat chocolate cupcakes all day at Susu and Big's house, but sometimes that happens. In other words, it's the things you may talk about, you may discuss, but really, you can let it go some of the time. But to me, the "C" basket is what is most important. These are the things that are going out with the trash. This is where the Twinkle Toes, Bow Ties, and other things that really don't matter go. John wants to wear his superman pajamas to the grocery store? C Basket. No hairbow today? C basket. Your an Ole Miss Rebel but MarySue wants to wear her black and gold socks to school? C Basket. These are the things, that you if learn to let go of, may just cut down on those terrible temper tantrums.

I will be the first to tell you that the baskets may not be a fix for everyone. But, what I can tell you, is that when I started learning to let my kids be who they are, and actually put stuff in the "C" basket, I became a much better mom. I became a much calmer mom. I didn't feel like I was fussing all the time at my kids. I was actually learning to let things go a little, and you know what they say...The more you let go, the lighter your load. And just to make you feel better, Zach just came in my room wearing blue jeans, purple pool shoes, a bright blue shirt, and a black and gold USM hat for our run to the grocery store... C Basket Stacey....C Basket....

What can you put in your family's "C" basket?

Honestly, Im doing the best I can...

2010-08-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

If you follow me on facebook, you know that my kids say some pretty hilarious things; and, ask me some off the wall questions. There are many times, when they leave me, yes, even me, speechless. Let me give you a list of my all time favorites.

1. "There are all types of mom's in this world. Mom's that cook, Mom's that clean, and then, there's you. Zachary
2. "Mama, would you like it if you were really skinny and pretty?" Mallory
3. "Mama, sometimes I think it may would like it if you went on a vacation." Zachary
4. "Sometimes when I go to my friends houses I wonder why their house is so clean." Zachary
5. "Mama, when im 80, will you still be my mama?" Mallory
6. "When I'm all grown up and have my own kids and wife, will you live with me, or will you live in the cemetary?" Zachary
7. Are there some days that you want to give daddy back to paw paw and grammy?" Mallory

You get the point. Kids are funny. They are honest. They are sincere in what they say, even if it comes out with a bit of a sting...(see number 2).

But what I love most about kids, especially mine, is that they say what they feel and they ask questions with no abandon. How many times have you felt like you were confused about something, not sure, unaware; but, you just didn't want to, feel like, or have time to ask for clarification? Kids get it clarified. They want to know. You can be honest with them.

I remember one weekend we were visiting our Aunt Marlene and Uncle Bob. Zachary and Uncle Bob are big buddies, and some months prior to our visit, Bob's dad had passed away. As Zachary and Bob hung around the house, I heard Zach say "Who's that Uncle Bob?" as he pointed to a picture of Bob's mom and dad. I cringed at what Uncle Bob would say... how would he answer this delicately to my then 5 year old? Would this turn into a deep discussion of life and death and heaven and Jesus? He had to answer perfectly. He had to be sensitive yet, forthcoming. Was I thinking to much, was Bob thinking at all? My mind, as a mom was going a mile a minute. Bob just simply said: "Thats my dad!" Zach, seeing a strange look on Bob's face, said: "Whats wrong?" (cut to me still freaking out) Bob simply said "He died and I miss him." "Here it comes," I thought...i'm not prepared...how will I answer his questions, what will I say? But Zach just said "Oh, I'm sorry. You have me. Lets go ride the tractor" Bob just smiled and took his little hand and off they went.

I think about that story alot, because as parents we sometimes tend to get really bogged down in making sure what we say is perfect, when deep down we know there are really no perfect answers. We want what we do to be perfect, when we know there is no such thing as human perfection. I think we worry about asking all the right questions, giving all the right answers, doing all the right things...

As parents we will worry. But maybe, if we must worry, we should worry about being a kind parent, a loving parent, a Christian example, a present parent. We should worry about being a parent that is willing to say honestly... "I'm doing the best I can."

Recently I was having one of "those" days, and I was in a generally just bad mood. While I do my best to never take bad moods out on my kids, we all know that kids can be stressful, and when they are fighting, yelling, or generally just acting rotten, it can make what was already a bad day simply unbearable. I finally looked at them both and said "Look, mama had a bad day. I'm tired. I'm sad. And I need to tell you something. You are making me feel terrible with your fighting. It is making me so upset, I think I may cry." Silence fell over their little faces and there were no words (which is a miracle). There was no back talk. (another miracle) At this point panic set in. I said to much. I went to far....but Zach said "Come on Mallory, let's go outside so I can yell at you without making mama cry." I guess, that's score one for honesty.

Like I said....doing the best I can....

The Sun is setting on summer....

2010-07-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

Schools out, the nights roll in, Just like a long lost friend, ya aint seen in awhile, ya cant help but smile....

Wow, do I love summer. Its hard to put into words what summer means to me, but i'm gonna try...maybe kenny will help too.

Our summer has been: a packed car, sandy towels, hauling the stuff to and from the beach, swimming till dark, learning to dive.

Our summer has been time with friends and family...which is by far, the most important.

Our summer has been waterslides, fourth of july parties, the Blue Angles and the Country Club.

But most importantly our summer has been lots of time. Time spent in phone conversations I don't normally have time to have. Time spent laying in bed snuggling, watching Spongebob or Dora, because we dont have anywhere to be. Time spent going to Chick-fil-a and McDonalds, and Books a million, and other things that kids like to do "just because" we wanted to. It has been having time to PLAY in a bubble bath because bed time is a little later. It's been having the time to read four books instead of two because i'm not worried about a 5:30 alarm. It's been not caring about TIME at all, which is such a nice change from the rat race and fast pace of a school year that bring activities, sports, and obligations. I guess maybe my love of summer just goes back to that which is the most very basic of things indeed....that we are built to be social creatures, and some of us, like me, over schedule ourselves and our children to the point where we don't have TIME to just be a family....or be a good friend, or a good neighbor, and these weeks of summer give us some time to do just that. Catch up on the things which we feel we have neglected...I hope I have!

Here's to our super summer, and lookin forward to a happy fall....y'all!

Seven Years old....wow!

2010-02-16T11:10:00.000-08:00

My baby is 7. My how time flies. He is growing up so fast, and he is getting taller and smarter by the day it seems. First grade has been really good to him, (and us) and he is trying his hand at becoming a little more independent with each passing week.

Zachary is sweet, and caring, and although a bit OCD; his ability to focus on a goal and reach it is something i already admire in him. He is precious, thoughtful and gets really excited about somethings, and really upset about others, but that ability to feel passionate about something is something to admire as well. He is senior blue belt tae kwon do, and coach pitch baseball. He is blond haired, dark skinned, bike riding, and friend loving. Mama's boy. Daddy's buddy. Big brother, cousin, grandson, great grandson, friend, "zach attack", "rufus", "babysitter zach," austin davis, and brett favre's biggest little fan. He is awesome. wonderful. precious.

My first born, my "little angel" daddy's "little punkie pie," all grown up into big boy.

2009-11-13T10:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my baby girl. My test of faith preemie baby, my spitting image. My talks tough, hugs 'tight-tight', sassy mouthed breath of fresh air. Bringer of joy, love, concern, and sometimes tears. Smart, funny, but occasionally smart mouthed. Sister, daughter, cousin, grand-daughter, great granddaughter, niece, grand niece, best friend...so much to so many. Princess, Babies, and Dora loving little girl. Mama's angel, Daddy's "little pretty". There is only one Mallory and I am so thankful that she is mine! She is one of a kind. Unique. Precious in His sight.

The Wedding!

2009-10-26T06:28:00.000-07:00

Well, after months of anticipation, the wedding came and went with MUCH excitement. It was, to put it mildly, a blast!!! We had so much fun. However, my body took about a week to recover, but i can tell you, it was well worth it.

Its funny how things change when you add kids to the mix at a wedding. They definitely steal the show. Zachary, Mallory, Ian, Lucy and my two NEW nieces, Brynnan and Kaelyn were for sure, the cutest things you have ever seen....and our baby Nora, well she is just getting too big, but not quite big enough yet to walk down the isle.

Our bride Kristen was beautiful and Im pretty sure, judging from the pics that were taken about 11 pm the night of the reception she and Justin had a blast as well.

All in all, it was a perfect fun weekend!!! Enjoy some pictures!!!!!

Southern Mississippi....USM! It's Tailgate Time...

2009-09-14T12:59:00.000-07:00

Well guys, its that time of year again. Even though south Mississippi does not allow us much fall weather, we still get to have fun fall activities! One of our favorites...football and tailgating! We have THE BEST tailgate spot in America at Chapel Place, and THE BEST tailgate group in America too. I know Ole Miss has the Grove, and it is super fun, but Chapel Place is super fun too and since we are Eagles at the Metz house, we are gonna say it is even better. There is room for all our kids to run and play...with no fear of cars, and we have tons of those kiddos that we LOVE to have around. We have great food and great fun, and we even have a bathroom within walking distance. We may get hot, we may get tired, but we have fun!!!!!!

Seriously though, it really is such a fun thing for our whole family to get to do together. Honestly, it is way way to short with only 6 home games.

Check out Austin Davis stopping to talk to Zachary at the Eagle Walk...Zach wears his jersey #12 to every game!!!!!

No More Monkeys Jumpin On The Bed!

2009-09-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

This is how the day started: "Mama! Mallory is jumping on the bed!"

This is how the day ended:

We love you Dr. Rouse!!!! See you September 8th.

summer days, driftin away...

2009-09-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

Well friends, the tools on my blogger home page tell me that I have not blogged since May 20th. I have two very good reasons for that...Zachary and Mallory Metz. Wow! Did we have a fun summer. These pictures you are seeing are from our trips to the beach. Yes, you read correctly. Trips. As in three. Am I a lucky girl or what? Don't you think for a minute I dont know how blessed I am to have enjoyed some fun in the sun with my two kiddos!!!! Although, I can assure you right now, that Zach-attack would have a heart-attack if he knew I put up these pictures and in one of them he is lying on a Dora towel....Now, men in my life...dont be getting to fiesty.It was Mallory's towel. He has something very "manly"...Iron man!

In the Metz house we are getting used to being back at work and school and getting up at 6, and having to get dressed, then load up in the car, then drop off two different places, go to work, pick up two different places, homework, reading time, karate, dinner, baths, bedtime....just typing it makes me tired. But of course my precious kiddos make me smile....

How was your summer? Did your kids wear pretty beachy colors and take pictures on balcony's and seashores? Did you see your family? Did you play at the pool till sleep time? Did you eat out too much and sleep too much? I hope so, cause we did!

It's fantastic isnt it????

Shrek the Halls and other misunderstandings...

2009-05-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

Mallory is funny, I mean really funny, and smart. I know all parents think that their children are just brilliant, but my girl is really smart...
Anyway, yesterday we are driving home from school and this is how the conversation goes:
Mallory: "Mama, why did Shrek need a thousand dolls?"
Me: "huh?"
Mallory (a little louder): "Why did Shrek need a thousand dolls?"
Me: (still lost): I don't know what you are talking about. So, I guess I don't know.
Mallory (screaming now, like really screaming): "SHREK NEEDS A THOUSAND DOLLIES!!!! IT SAYS SO IN THE SONG!!!!!!!"
Me (still not getting it, but not wanting to be yelled at anymore): Oh, why dont you sing it for me then maybe I will understand.
Mallory: "okay, (tune of "deck the halls" please) Shrek the halls with a thousand dollies, fa la la la la la la la la. Tis the season to be jolly. fa la la la la la la la"

Okay, now that is pretty funny and got me thinking to all of the other funny things my children misinterpret. Like at one time, Zach called Jesus' disciples the "bicycles" and they traveled all around telling people of his word and it was easy because.....they were bicycles!!!

Do you have a funny misinterpretation to share??? Kids...you just gotta love 'em!

"Cause it's the Mother's Day...Daddy!!!!"

2009-05-08T18:31:00.000-07:00

So, Tuesday, Zachary had a mothers day program at this school. This is the conversation that went down between he and Todd the morning of:

Zach: "Mama's takin me to school today."

Todd: "Why? I take you to school."

Zach: "Cause, its her day?"

Todd: "Who's day?"

Zach: "Mama's"

Todd: "Zach, tell me why mama's taking you to school."

Zach: "Cause of the program."

Todd: "What program?"

Zach: "Cause its the Mother's Day Daddy."

At that moment, my dream that Todd had remembered I wanted a fancy camera (that he can get for a discount though Olympus, but has to order) were smushed.

But, then, I got to watch this:

And this:

And I realized that I have all I've ever really wanted...I'm blessed beyond measure.

Happy Mother's Day, Everyone!!!!!!

Hoppy Easter, Bunnies!

2009-04-17T11:11:00.000-07:00

This Easter started off wonderfully because (drum roll please, right here) Our little brown bunny was seen scampering through our yard a few days before. We have now named the bunny "cutie pie" and are thinking of exciting ways to make it want to live in our yard. So far, I have been told to plant tall flowers so it can hide, and set a racoon trap, but I think the latter would more frighten the bunny than get it to stay. I could never do that!!!! We have finally decided that we are going to each try our own way and see if any work. Zach gets to try first. This weekend we will put out some carrots and see if he comes.

Easter weekend was full of wonderful times with friends and family. We went to a fun egg hunt at the country club that mallory thinks was just for her and her friends Sarah Dabney and Mary Carter, even though there were tons of kids there. Zach got his green belt in karate and his sparring gear, which was really exciting for him. Also, we pull up to mom and dad's for Easter lunch and see about 100 eggs all over their front yard! Now that, was exciting!!!!!!

Here are some pics of my cute little bunnies!!!!!!

Churches take you, tattoos and all.

2009-03-30T09:44:00.000-07:00

So for the second week the kids and I went to Temple Baptist to visit, and to hopefully find a new church home. I have been really looking for somewhere that offered my kids everything they needed in a church, and that they would have FUN learning about God. We have really enjoyed Temple and plan to keep going.

Anyway, Zach talked me into this huge tiger tattoo at hubfest. It was only 75 cents, so I was like..."why not???" well, we get up the next morning, we are getting ready for church, and Zach put on a short sleeve shirt. Since we are all running around frantic in the mornings...i just scream up the steps: "NO Zach!!! Put on a long sleeve shirt! You've got that tiger tattoo!!!" And so he says: "so what?!?!" and I say: "We are going to church...you have to cover that up!" And he walks to the top of the stairs, and in a voice so serious he says: "People with tattoos arent allowed in church?" And I said: "Well of course they are, but not 6 year olds," because now I am in serious mommy mode cause I can tell by the second what time we need to leave to be on time.... and then he says to me....very seriously. "mama, churches will take you, tattoos and all! You really dont have to worry about anything but getting there."

Out of the mouths of babes...huh????? Precious boy!!!!!!! So needless to say, everyone at Temple saw the tiger tattoo and for once I didn't worry about it!!!!

Spring is in the air....

2009-03-30T09:39:00.000-07:00

Oh how we love spring weather. As you all know, by the time May hits us, it is WAY to hot to do anything outside but swim. But, right now, we are enjoying all kinds of things to do outside. There have been baseball games, we have been playground playing, and we went to hubfest. Not to mention, just the enjoyment of our own driveway. Hope you enjoy our springy pictures!!!!!
I just love Mallory's expression in the sliding picture...it's a mix of excitement and fear, but she knows her brother has got her....after this time she was riding that slide all by herself, and probably did it 100 times!!!!

Throw me somethin' mister!!!!

2009-02-16T10:08:00.000-08:00

If you read this blog, you know last year, we took the kids for a funfilled day in Waveland to the Krewe of Neredis Parade. It is so much fun, that this year, we packed up, and went back. I feel sure, this is going to be a tradition for us, and the families that we go with. We just have so much fun!!!! We took our coolers, tons of food, and set up a place right in the middle of the road. A great place, because we get the parade going up and then coming back down hwy 90!

The kids LOVE it. Now, it is a little over two hours long, so Mallory got sick of it after about an hour, but not my Zachary...no way! My little negotiator was chasing down those floats and he wasn't letting them get by without giving him something! This year, he got some really cool stuff. I must say, he is definately persistent and I have the picture to prove it!

My baby is 6!

2009-02-16T10:00:00.000-08:00

So, usually I would have updated to blog alot earlier with pics from the big 6 year old's birthday party but it seems we have been very very busy these days around the Metz house. Not to mention, that I have been wiped out from work most nights when I get home, and Todd has been traveling alot for work! WOW! Just typing all of it makes me tired.

Well, I thought last year, when Zachary turned 5 that my depression was just a normal reaction to him being out of the "Preschool years!" Well, for some reason, 6 has hit me a little harder. I find myself constantly wanting to keep doing things for him that will keep him little. Helping him with his shoes for example...he can tie his own shoes, but in the morning, when we are getting ready for our day, and he says: "will you just help me put on my shoes!" I just cant help but..."help!" I mean, there will be a day where he barely even speaks to me, right? Oh I dread that!

For now though, even though he is 6, he is still very much my little boy. He LOVES his mama. Not that he doesnt love his daddy, cause he worships Todd, but he is for sure what one would characterize as a "mama's boy" and for now, that is just fine with this mama!

A Weekend at the Beach

2009-01-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

If you read my blog, or if you have ever read my blog, (especially in the summer months) you know that I love going to the beach, and I am desperately trying to raise my children with the same love of the beach that I have. For a special treat, Aunt Marlene and Uncle Bob, took us to Panama City Beach for the long Martin Luther King weekend. Some of you may say: "It is too cold for the beach!" To that I answer: "rubbish! it is never too cold for the beach!" As evidenced by the pictures, you will see that even if you need coats and pullovers, there is still much fun to be had playing on the beach...

So, at night, in touristy towns like Panama City Beach, there is lots of "stuff" to do. This "stuff" is mostly fun for kids, but if you are cool like me, you go do it, and end up having fun too. We tried our hand at goofy golf, which Zachary is really good at and Mallory...well, she tries. Then, we decided (well, i had the grand idea that it would wear them out if you want me to be totally honest) that we would try the grand maze. So, after about fifteen dead ends, finding the same bridge four times, two tired mommy arms from "hold me! im tired of this!" we decided it would best if we went out one of the cheat doors and went to get something to eat.

Now, lastly, I think I take some pretty good pictures of my kiddos...what do you think? I'm talking about the black and white ones. Im a begging my hubby to buy me a good camera. One that takes them fast and with accurate lighting and everything. If you think I should have one, please leave me a comment so I can show him that "everyone" thinks I should have one!!!!

Until next time, I wish you peaceful ocean breezes and a score under par....

We Wish You a Merry Christmas...

2008-12-28T10:38:00.000-08:00

This year, Christmas started on a Saturday with gift opening and eating at Big and Susu's. Then, Mommy and Daddy took a quick trip to New Orleans for the New Orleans Bowl, and had a great time hanging out with so many friends. We left on Tuesday, worried about bad weather and headed to GiGi's house in Oran, MO. GiGi is 90 years old, and you would never guess it! She is amazing...still living by herself and kicking it! We had a great few days of fun with everyone...it is nice when we all can be together since it doesnt happen that often.

Although the true meaning of Christmas, seems to always get lost in the hustle and bustle of the gift buying, traveling, cooking and eating, I would suggest clicking on the link to right "Leaning of Everlasting Arms" for a great reminder. There is really no need to try to top what steph says in her Christmas post. Read it and enjoy!!!! Here are some pics of the festivities!

It's snowing! It's really snowing!

2008-12-12T09:57:00.000-08:00

We awoke Wednesday morning to the news of cancelled school and a snowy yard! It was so pretty! Now, I know it wasnt a ton of snow, which i am very very glad for, but it was plenty for the kids to have a great time exploring and building things such as forts, snow slides and a snow child. I call it a snow child cause we didnt quite have enough in our yard to make a whole snowman. Enjoy the pics!

So Thankful, Y'all!

2008-12-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving was pretty eventful. For starters, Zach came down the croup on Monday night...HORRIBLE is the only word to describe that. We were bummed that we could not make the trip to Starkville, but it worked out OK cause we got to see Aunt "Jamie J." We just needed one more day to recover from that nasty croup. We decided to make the trip to MO to see Todd's grandmother because she turned 90 on Thanksgiving. I'm so thankful she is so healthy and had a wonderful time at her SURPRISE party. We woke up Sunday in MO with me and Mallory sick...yuck! That was not a fun 7 hour ride back....

However, all in all, thru sickness, health, cancelling plans and re-making plans, 7 hour drives and croup and sinus infections, I am so very very thankful for the many many blessings I have been given. So so many....and im so underserving.

Here are some pics from the Holiday. I hope yours was great as well!!!!

Zach and uncle Bob "working" on the farm

Zach and Mallory at the "head" table at GiGi's 90th bday party!

Happy Birthday, Mallory

2008-11-12T10:47:00.000-08:00

Well, my baby is 3 today. I can not believe that 3 years have come and gone since that early early morning, when she chose to make her appearance. Mallory came 6 weeks early, and the weeks following her birth taught me many things. The most important being to give up control. I, contrary to what I have always believed, can not control the world. (My best friends and family, are cracking up at that statement.....)

We learned early that Mallory was going to do her own thing, and today, three years later, we are still just letting her "do her own thing" because that is almost the only way to handle her. She is steadfast and strong, and can be unwaivering. All traits you admire in grown ups, but anguish over on toddlers.

However, ten years from now, I still hope I have that fighter, who came home from the hospital after only 13 days, when they told me to prepare for 6 weeks. I still hope I have that dreamer, who tells me: "I will be a ballerina in pink tights!" I hope I have that individual who boldly announces her princess pull up when her friends are showing their princess big girl panties. I still hope I have this child that proudly proclaims her differences, rather than giving into the pressure of others. I hope she proudly wears whatever difference of opinions she has on her sleeve, and still gives that "who cares" attitude to those that choose to belittle her choices. While we are finding these traits difficult to manage on a regular day, my prayer for her is that these are the traits that carry her through those hard times in life and that she comes out stronger on the other side, much like all of the women in my family. I can only pray that I have done a good job, teaching her how to be strong and kind..like my mother taught me, and my grandmother taught us all.

We Love you MallyGirl!

ps: she does however, have the big girl panties, now!!!!!

Mallory, 18 mnts, at my grandmothers.

Halloween

2008-11-02T07:01:00.000-08:00

Well, I have not updated in awhile but it seems as though we have been so busy. I was saying yesterday that I look forward to January when things slow down, almost to a stop for at least awhile. Fall is so busy. Between football games, carnivals, and just life in general it seems as though we dont really slow down very often. Here are a few pics of my precious ballerina and my special white Power Ranger. Hope you enjoy them....

It's fall, y'all!

2008-10-11T08:14:00.000-07:00

I love fall. I would love it even more if here in the south, we would actually have fall weather. However, we have about three days of nice weather and then it is back to the oven we call home, until the three weeks of cold weather we will have in like..March.

Anyway, it always seems as there is SO much to do in the fall. Football games, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, fall festivals, art walks, trick or treating, halloween parties....so much to do but so much fun. Here are some pics of a few of our fall festivities. We love to carve pumpkins but my kids always bail out on me about half way through leaving me to do the rest, and then they complain about it. Then, there are the pumpkin patches. We have some great ones around, but the ride up to Chunky MS to lazy acres is by far the best. There is so much to do...animals, hay rides, events like the punkin chunkin, face painting, it is well worth the drive if you kids are a little older and wil enjoy everything. Hope you enjoy the pics and I hope you enjoy your fall, as much as we are enjoying ours!!!

Another Game Day

2008-10-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

These are just some pics from game day last week. They were just so cute of all the kiddos playing in the Wert's golf cart. We all have so much fun playing and hanging out at our tailgating spot. All of the people tailgating around us kept commenting on how wonderful it was to see so many happy future eagles running around having a blast!!!! We didnt win the game...but we are no fairweather fans (well, not all of us are....luv u honey!) so we will continue to support our Eagles...after all, we already paid for the tickets!!!!!

Looking forward to this weekend as well.

A great weekend

2008-09-28T11:28:00.000-07:00

I think one reason this weekend was so great was the wonderful weather. It was just begging you to get outside and enjoy the day...so that is what we did. Friday night, we had Zachary's awards ceremony at Karate. He got his Tiger Cub Black Belt! Then, we got up Saturday morning, went to Lowe's to the building workshop, (which is free and tons of fun) and then to the duck pond. The duck pond is tons of fun beacause their are ducks, geese, turtles and tons of little fish that just swarm after the bread so the kids really love it!!!! After that we had lunch at Zaxby's on the patio!

Enjoy the pictures and this lovely fall weather...im sure since we are located south MS we will soon see a 98 degree day again soon...probably on Halloween like last year.

Mallory and her "long neck duck" as she called it!

I wish you could see in the pic all the fish and turtles eating!!

The Fedora Era begins....

2008-08-31T06:13:00.000-07:00

Well, Southern Miss football has officially begun! We had a great time yesterday tailgating (even though it was 100 degrees) and enjoying our NEW Touchdown Club season tickets. Our view is awesome, and the air conditioned area doesnt hurt either. Plus, when the bottom fell out about the 3rd quarter....we were dry!!!! I can honestly say, it was worth every penny we spent, and we all had a blast. Robin and Ben, Courtney and Walt, Rob and Shay (who couldnt quite make it yesterday) and Lucy and Daniel all have seats right by us, so we really enjoyed watching the game together!!!! Thanks to Katie and Howard for getting the tailgate area together! That was so much fun too!!! The day was just an all around success!!!!

Zach enjoying tailgating!

Okay, she really is just eating ice!!!!

The entrance to the Touchdown Club!

Zach and Larry Eustachey!

The big day!!!

2008-08-09T08:15:00.001-07:00

Well, despite the feeling in the pit of my stomach that was telling me to pick Zach up and run home with him, (I didnt do that by the way.) we had a great first day of school. He loved school, and said the only bad thing was that his class has to play on the old playground this nine weeks and it is "very horrible". Think he exagerates much? He also said that he thinks it is really cool that he doesnt sit right by the teacher at lunch because he ate his peanut butter cup first. See what they do with a little freedom?? Total rebellion! We have a great little class, and he really likes his teacher...Mrs. Lilley. Is that not a Kindergarten teacher name, or what?!?! She seems really sweet. Jacob Dumas is in his class which is great, and he has already met a new friend named Campbell that he will go to aftercare with Monday-Wednesday.

I'm also including a pic of Mallory on her first day of her new preschool. She, is not so happy, but she always has been a bit more high maintenance. Hopefully the hiding shoes, and the crying will stop soon. She told me the 3rd day that she just wanted to go to the country club pool and not crayon college!!!!! ugh!!!! is all i can say!

Is the summer really over?

2008-08-03T12:10:00.000-07:00

im afraid that summer has come to an end. As I type there are 1 million things I should be doing to get myself and the kiddos ready for back to school. Maybe this is my form of denial. I just cant seem to face the fact that I have a baby in Kindergarten. So, I will just come up with everything under the sun to do OTHER than what I should be doing, and maybe tomorrow will never come and it can be the last day of summer forever....or, maybe not.

Here are some pics from our fabulous last week of summer. MiMi and PaPa rented us a HUGE house in Gulf Shores and we stayed for seven days. It was really fun, and we all had a blast. What a way to kick off the school year. Any suggestions on how I get them to get it for us again next year??? You would think that the fact that I gave birth to their precious grandchildren would be enough....right mimi and papa?????

"Is this way out in the country, mama?"

2008-07-07T07:38:00.001-07:00

Our Uncle Bob and Aunt Marlene let us spend the day with them on the 5th. We had so much fun...words can't describe it. I even took a nap! That was really fun for me. Bob taught Zachary to drive a tractor, and fish. Did you know you were supposed to spit on the worm before you cast out your line? It works, because Zachary caught 4 fish!!!! Bob even generously passed on his work hat to Zachary. Life is really fun "way out in the country!"

Happy 4th!

2008-07-07T07:27:00.000-07:00

The Metz family had a very fun 4th of July. We spent the 4th at our friends' Ed and Lori's cabin on the river in Missouri. We had a great time playing and covering our ears from all the firecrackers...(in case you dont know, my kids HATE loud noises)...but seriously, we had a blast and Mallory even went on a boat ride with Kat and Aaron and Lucy. Speaking of which, i am also taking this blog opportunity to introduce you to my precious niece and nephew Ian and Lucy Johnson.

The Big Day

2008-06-29T08:34:00.000-07:00

Okay, so Karate Tournaments are ALOT of just sitting around and about two minutes of competition for the little guys. However, I have to tell you, the look on Zach's face when he was presented with his medal was so priceless, I could sit forever just to get that look one more time.

We also took the opportunity to visit the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science while we were already in Jackson. I must say, I was so surprised. We had a great time. Right now, they are doing an exhibit of robotic dinosaurs, and it was really cool. Enjoy the pics!

My happy place...

2008-06-23T10:25:00.001-07:00

Mallory trying to join the band at Baytowne Wharf...she danced the whole time!!!!

Do you have a happy place? I hope so...I think everyone should have a place where they love to go. Mine is the beach. I am trying my best to make it my kids' happy place too. I don't have to be sitting ON the beach, necessarily, but I do have to be in a beachy town. I love the whole atmosphere of a beach town. I love how, even in the nicest restaurants, people will be wearing flip flops and women will have no make-up on and their hair will be tied back all messy like they just walked right off the beach into the resaurant to eat. I love how little kids smell when they get out of the pool and you spend all day playing in the sun and wearing yourself out and take the best naps ever in the afternoons. I love how no one is from there...everyone is from somewhere else and kids just make a new friend everyday playing in the pool. I love how no one ever knows what time it is because it doesn't matter. The beach is by far, the happiest place for me...(sorry mickey mouse). Here are some pics from our happy weekend at the beach.

Splish Splash...

2008-06-13T12:01:00.000-07:00

Swimming lessons...joy and pain... that's all i can say. The pain in watching your two year old scream and cry for you, the joy in watching her jump off the diving board and swim to the ladder by herself. Swimming lessons are a necessary evil. Zach has done great this year. He started going back off the diving board after two days. Now, they are teaching him how to do "real dives." Mallory is learning to swim across the whole pool, although right now we are only going half way. She would be doing really great if she would kick BOTH feet the entire time. Our teachers are fabulous!!! We love them bunches.

Red is the color of....

2008-06-13T11:56:00.000-07:00

Success! That's how we feel, for sure. Zachary took, and passed his red belt test. He is really doing great, and moving through the Tae Kwon Do Tiger Cubs program very quickly. As you know by now...Karate pretty much takes up all our time, but sitting through that awards ceremony....well, it makes it all worth it. He just has such a look of pride on his face when he can complete each of the tasks that the instructors ask of him. Next up...going for the black belt. I can't believe it.

A day at the lake....

2008-06-03T08:55:00.000-07:00

Now we all know that I am not very "outdoorsy" and that my idea of fun does not include water that you can not see your feet through. My idea of fun is a comfy beach chair, or at least a nice beachtowel, nice chlorine treated water or at least chlorine treated water nearby, and waves crashing against the sand...but, this weekend, we spent Saturday morning hanging out at the Canebrake beach for Gunnar's birthday. It was so much fun! We hope Gunnar had a fabulous birthday cause we sure had fun celebrating with him!!! Love you Gunnar Man!!!!

Happy Birthday Big!

2008-05-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

May 5th, was "Big's" birthday. (My kids call my dad, "Big.") Long story but to shorten it some, he was going to be "Big Daddy" which is what I called his father, but Zachary shortened it to "Big" we liked it, and it stuck. Anyway, since Big and Susu are such party animals, we had them out to eat dinner at our house and Zachary and Mallory made him a cake. Zachary really did do the majority of it. He loved to cook, but they love to eat the batter and the icing more...What is even cooler though, is that I found a book at Books A Million titled "If Big Can, I Can". The kids loved reading it with their "Big!" We sure love our Big so much.....

look out church, here we come....

2008-04-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

I always feel like I should write the congregation of Court Street an apology after Sunday morning services. From Zachary playing with hot wheels on the floor, to Mallory announcing to the entire church that she has to potty...we aren't really very reverend when we are in attendance. At least our friends in the back of the church love us anyway. However, just when I have started thinking all is lost, my precious Zachary says something that gives me a little glimmer of hope...

This morning, we were sitting on my bed looking at some very old pictures of some of our wedding events. Most of them were from our announcement party. It was hard for Zachary to understand where he was because there were pictures of all these people he knew.. Rara was there, Mrs. Ashtyn's mommy, Big, Susu, Jamie, Mama and Daddy...MeMe, Mrs. Julie...so. he keeps asking where am I? And I said, Mommy didn't have you yet...And he said "This was before God sent me to you?" And I said yes. And he said "He must have known you needed me!" Love that kid....Here are some pics from Sunday just cause they looked so stinkin cute.

This weekend!

2008-04-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite kind of weather. A little bit chilly in the morning, about 80 in the afternoon. It is perfect. I wish it were like this year 'round. The foster grandparent that works in my classroom said if i want this kind of weather all the time, I should move to Guam. I don't think I like it that much, but it is great for fun times with the kids.
This weekend, after a very exciting Tball game (it was a tie). We rode out to the Kids Expo day. There were about 8 different types of space jumps, and pony rides. They were supposed to have a petting zoo, but the guy didnt show up. We were really disappointed in that. Zach said: "if you aren't going to show up somewhere, you really should put up a sign saying so so little children dont get their feelings hurt." Mommies too for that matter. Then, we went to lunch at Burger King, specifically for the spongebob toys that were supposed to be in the kids meal. They were out. Again, Zach said, "if you are going to run out of spongebob toys, you really should put up a sign so people know to go ahead and go to McDonalds to get a pirate toy." (Can you tell we eat out much?)

We were supposed to go to the big Bellegrass party that evening to see MRKANAROB, but Boo Weekley was leading the Verizon something or another and we couldnt leave the house until after he finished playing...by then we were too tired. But, good news! He won for the 2nd year in a row!!! YEA BOO!!! Sorry, MRKANAROB! We miss you though!

"Now, I am a REAL Karate Man Power Ranger!"

2008-04-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

As if we weren't into Karate enough, Zachary had to have this black karate headband. As you have heard from us in our blog before, Zachary is VERY into Tae kwon do. He is also very into the power rangers. I have no idea where he got into Power Rangers, but for some reason, we are totally obsessed with being an actual Power Ranger. Well, now he has a black Tae Kwon Do headband, and he is a "Real Karate Man Power Ranger!" Next time you see him, be sure to address him as such...you wouldn't want to insult the power of the headband!!!! He does look pretty dang cute in it though...dont ya think?

Take me out to the ballgame...

2008-04-14T09:37:00.000-07:00

Well, it is Tball time again. Last year, Tball was a disaster, and our sweet coaches Chris Logan and Drew Mattison, said that this year would be better...they were right! This year is so much better. This year, we have moved leagues and play in the Oak Grove Optimist Park League. Our team, the Braves, has "Little Andrew" Zachary's best buddy from school, Patrick, his buddy from Karate, and Jacob his all time best buddy. His head coach is Andrew's daddy which is so fun, and Todd and JD are assistant coaches for the team. Needless to say, he has a great time and loves it! Now, if I can just get Mallory to watch the game and not throw a tantrum because she wants to be on the field as well, we will be doing great! Play Ball!!!!

My Crazy Life...

2008-04-10T09:48:00.003-07:00

Ok, the other night, I was getting my Mallory out of the bathtub. We have recently decided that together bath time has become something that we should now dissolve so Mallory takes her bath upstairs, and Zachary, who may as well just have the master bedroom, takes his bath downstairs. Well, Mal, being her typical self...nothing is easy. We are sitting at the top of our stairs arguing about which pajamas she will wear. When I say argue...I mean it. She argues with me like an adult. So then here comes Zachary...my sweet, sometimes sneaky, Zachary.

Zachary: "Mallory...are you a sweet girl?"

Mallory: "No I not sweet!"

Zachary: "Are you a sweet baby?"

Mallory: "No, I said I not sweet!"

Zachary: "Mallory, are you a precious little girl?"

Mallory: (she really said it this way, I swear) "Yes, Zachary, I am the precious little girl!"

That just about sums up my life....

A strange mix of emotions....

2008-04-07T10:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I have to say that this weekend has been a rather strange mix of emotions for me. Losing Rocky was really hard, then, it just seemed as though the bad news kept on coming. However, there is always a silver lining...that proverbial light at the end of the tunnel.

Zachary, went to Kindergarten round up. It was so much fun. He loved it, and now can not wait to start school at Oak Grove Primary. I must say, being a teacher, it takes alot to impress me. Being a mom, it takes even more, but I absolutely loved it. At the 1st station, the sweet teacher said, "Can you tell me your name?" And he said "Yes. My name is Zachary David Metz and I have the same name as Big." They gave him a speech and hearing test, and during the language test the speech path told Zachary that he was very smart! He told her that it was because he goes to a very good school. I guess so much for all the reading we do at home. When we left, he told me that Kindergarten was very easy. So, I guess he is not scared anymore.

Then, that night, we had our brown belt awards ceremony. For those of you who need Tae Kwon Do, 101, the rank of belts in his class goes like this: White, Yellow, Green, Blue, Brown, Red, Black. I think it is different for different forms of martial arts and even in different centers.

Anyway, that is not what is important...what is important is that he got his BROWN belt and only has two more to go until he is a black belt. Now, don't get too excited. He can't break boards with his head or anything like that, but he is rather good if I do say so myself. He also, loves it. We may slow down our progression for the summer months since we will be spending some time traveling and ALOT of time at the pool, ...but until then, he just keeps moving right on up the ranks!!! Way to go Zachary!

By the way, did you hear about that preacher in Kansas City MO who challenged his congregation not to complain for 21 days? He says that is how long it takes to break a habit. I think I have heard it was 27 days, but anyway...I think I am going to try his challenge. You can read about it (if you care) if you go to fox news and then click on fox and friends. Alisyn Camerota (who I love!) has a greenroom blog and she wrote about it. Maybe we should all try... I think the world would be a much nicer place without the noise of endless complaining!!! I mean, you never hear Team Weathers complaining! Why should any of us?

Some bad news....

2008-04-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

Well, my sweet baby Rocky crossed the rainbow bridge last Thursday night. He got really sick and just could not recover from it. I already miss him sleeping in the bed with me. He was a very sweet little lap dog, and I will miss him so much!!!! Here he is in more healthy days with baby Zachary!

I would also like everyone to pray for two very special families. One is the family of Ethan Powell. Although I do not know them personally, I have been following his story for a long time on www.ethanpowell.com. When he was just a few days old he was diagnosed with leukemia and he passed away Saturday morning. His family has used his illness to create such a ministry and they are so faithfull..really amazing.

Another family, is another I do not know, but I have also been reading the story of Audrey Caroline, at www.audreycaroline.blogspot.com. Audrey will be born on April 7th and is not expected to live more than a few days. This awesome family has also used this tragedy to bring people closer to the Lord, and I think that is so awesome.

It takes such strength to turn your personal tragedy into someone else's blessing. What a gift. I just don't know if I could do that!

I would also like everyone to pray for the Turner family who has experienced the loss of one of their sons...Scott.

I do have some great positive pictures to post later as soon as I get them off my camera! Until then, I wish everyone as many dog biscuits and chicken broth as they could ever want!!!!!

My bright eyed girl!

2008-03-31T18:32:00.000-07:00

I just love these pics of Mallory from her school's Easter egg hunt. I have also posted one of Mallory's favorite person in all the world..."My Margie!", well that is what Mallory calls her. Ms. Margie was Zachary's teacher, and is now Mallory's teacher, and is well....fabulous! All of you who compliment me all the time on Mallory's vocabulary...well, this is the person you should be looking at! She is great! We love our Margie!

I love how bright Mallory's eyes look in these pics. She just looks so happy. I love those genuine smiles, that you can see actually see in the eyes! We should all smile like this a bit more often...don't ya think ?!?

Hoppy Easter Bunnies!!!!!

2008-03-25T11:29:00.000-07:00

Well, Easter has come and gone. Have you ever noticed that it is ALWAYS pretty here in the 'burg on Easter. Im serious...I mean, it NEVER rains. And this Easter was no exception. The weather was awesome all weekend. Saturday, The Walker clan came with us as we hunted easter eggs and ate lunch at the Country Club. Then on Sunday, we had an early morning egg hunt with MiMi, PaPa, and GiGi before they had to head out for home. Then we went to church and SuSu, Big, Eoin (pronounced Owen) and Jamie came out to eat lunch at our house. It was a great day and the Easter bunny was good to the kids, of course. Then, they each got Easter baskets from Susu and Big, and Jamie and Eoin! We were a little spoiled that day. Zach has figured out that the best eggs are the ones that don't make any noise...that means that there is green money inside them. Mallory ate so much candy that she couldn't make herself go to sleep!

Although, I think I miss my grandmama the most on Easter...(she used to say it was her favorite), it is wonderful to make new traditions with my two precious ones. She would definately be proud of them. Hope yours was "hoppy" as well.

Fun in Sun!

2008-03-17T11:34:00.000-07:00

The weather has been so awesome!!! We stayed out all morning and even had a picnic for lunch! Check out our sandman!!! It is REALLY fun when they are building a house next door and they leave piles of sand all over the place!

The Happiest Place on Earth!!!

2008-03-17T10:29:00.000-07:00

Well, we are back, and all of us are in one piece. I must say that Disney World should not ever, under any circumstances be considered a vacation. It is some hard work to keep with little mouseketeers all over those parks. However, we had a wonderful time, after we got the hang of it.

For anyone taking a first timer like my kids were, I would suggest giving your self one extra day so that they have time to learn about everything. It can be very overwhelming. Our trip was fabulous and I think that we probably could not pick our favorite park. While the Magic Kingdom is magical as ever, Zach and I also really loved the Animal Kingdom.

Since this is a blog, I would also like to write to the Disney folks and other Disney patrons about how they can make the stay of someone like me absolutely perfect. I entitle this list:

How not to tick me off at Disney World.

1-just give me the dang stroller. obviously i need it.

2-require deodorant of all who enter

3-put tv's playing cartoons in the lines

4-don't stare at me with an ugly face when my child is having a tantrum; in about 2 minutes yours is about to!

5-make all the bathroom stalls big enough for moms who take all the kids in with her

6-don't give ugly looks to the mom who takes a long time in the stall because her two kids are with her and the two year old just flushed her favorite red bow

7-put everything in every line. please dont make me get a hamburger in one line and chicken in another!

8-make your preteen daughter cover her booty and her stomach.

9-make a separate line for obnoxious teens

10-let moms with two or more kids just stay on the ride over and over if the kids are happy!

Mallory was so happy!

2008-03-07T10:08:00.000-08:00

Okay so you all know that Mallory is obsessed with "Her baby Ava." She will even tell me to pull up the blog so she can see the picture from the Sip and See and she will point to Mrs Amy, who is holding Ava in the picture, and say "No!No! That my baby ava!" It is so funny. Anyway, yesterday we went to visit with Ava and here are some pictures, so when I pull up the blog, Mallory wont be upset with Mrs Amy anymore! Ava looks just a little bit put out with my kids invading her space, doesn't she!

Tomorrow we are off to see the big mouse himself...Mickey. Please say a special prayer for Todd tonight that he doesn't ask us to leave him in Destin or something since the ride will be so long! I am going to take my lap top so hopefully I can update the blog for y'all one night when the kids go to bed and you can see what we are up to!

Remembering...

2008-02-20T07:03:00.000-08:00

I came across these three pictures in my computer of when my baby was small and another from when I was in high school. The first one is all of our friends from Florida! We miss those guys so much. The second one is of Ashtyn Walker. The third one is from high school, Merrily's birthday. How hilarious is that???? These pictures seem like yesterday to me! I am getting so old.

Ava's Big Day

2008-02-11T09:51:00.000-08:00

Since Robin does not have time to create a blog for Ava I will continue to put her on mine so that everyone can keep up with her. Ava had her first girls day out at a Sip and See in her honor on Saturday the 9th. Ava, and her mama had a great time visiting with everyone and opening presents. As Ava's daddy says.."She racked up on the gifts!" And she sure did! It was a beautiful day for our beautiful girl!

Are you ready for some football...

2008-02-04T09:58:00.000-08:00

At the Metz house I had already bought the kids Green Bay Packers gear for this year's Super Bowl, so we were quite disappointed when Green Bay didn't make it to the big game. However, never ones to shy away from a good time, we went to Rob and Kana's and had a blast hanging out with all our pals. Or as Mallory says "Mister rob kana house" like it is all one word. And yes, Zachary is wearing a bow tie...it is his super secret spy outfit.

My baby is 5

2008-02-04T09:51:00.000-08:00

Okay, so the 5th birthday was a really big deal for me. I have been really sad about this birthday for quite awhile...I am not sure why...but I think 5 just represents such a grown up age since it is the age that kids start Kindergarten, and my baby will be going to Kindergarten in the fall. It is hard for me to believe that 5 years ago on a very early Sunday morning my water broke at home and 12 hours later Zachary was here. He was our first baby, the first grandbaby for BOTH sides, and out of most of my friends he was their 1st baby too. Needless to say, he has been "babied" much of his little life. However, big baby or not, I am so proud of him. He is smart, well behaved, sweet, but most of all, he is the child that loves to help others and I love that about him.

oh, and for all the mom's out there that hate Chuck-e-cheese.. Just get the party over with. The kids love it, and you don't have to clean up after.

Of course he passed...

2008-02-04T09:43:00.000-08:00

Well, Zachary is just moving on up the ranks in Tae Kwon Do. Friday night, we went to his awards ceremony for him to receive his blue belt. Not only did he get his blue belt but he was also given three stars based on his effort and attitude at school. Ive got to be honest...the awards ceremony was more than worth missing Zeus for!!!!

"Throw me something Mister!"

2008-02-01T07:09:00.001-08:00

Mardi gras! A guess just saying it makes most people smile. Todd and I were talking about how funny it is that we were willing to make total fools out of ourselves to get these beads for our kids, but I guess the spirit just takes over you when you are there. A prime example is those Spongebob beads. I stalked down one float forever until they were practically forced to give me those beads. We had a fun day with the Whiteheads, the Cochran's, and Miss Candy!!!!

Going for the Blue Belt!

2008-02-01T07:03:00.000-08:00

Karate has become a major part of our life in the Metz house. My friend Angela says everytime she talks to me I am either going to Karate or leaving Karate. That is probably true. However, it is well worth it. Zachary has learned so much, and it is such a great sport. I highly recommend it to anyone with children 4 years old and up! Zachary's next rank will be blue belt.

"It's a Miracle!!!!"

2008-01-20T06:49:00.000-08:00

Those were the words around our house when we woke up to see actual snow falling! Now, while we realize that this isnt the beautiful powdery white stuff that many of our friends and family may have seen before...it is alot to us here is south MS. What a great morning!

Ava's Big Day

2008-01-17T16:30:00.000-08:00

Maybe one day, when Ava is a little older we will all tell her how hard we prayed for her. However, right now we all just love her and love getting to spend time with her. Her baptism was a very special day and we were so happy to share in it!!!

I really mean it when I say we all love her...as I type this, Mallory is sitting in my lap saying "Show me baby aba! Show me baby aba...thats MY baby aba!" When I get this posted she will sit here forever pointing at everyone and saying: "My rara, My mama, My aba, My Courdey, My Zach..." Apparently we are all just planets orbiting around her...our sun. I guess that's the two's!

Tiny Dancer

2008-01-11T17:24:00.000-08:00

Mallory had her first dancing lesson on January 5th for Mary Delaney's birthday...Well, it was supposed to be a lesson, but she just sat in my lap most of the time. She was a little nervous about it. But, we sure had fun dressing up like a "baby ballerina" and doing twirls at home!

One Wild New Year!!!!!

2008-01-02T11:47:00.001-08:00

Ok so when you have two children, New Years Eve is not really the most exciting night of the year. Fortunately for us, we have wonderful friends and lots of them felt the same way and we had an awesome night in. Ms Mallory even rang in the New Year drinking sparkling grape juice with Lucy...Preston was the first one out, then the others faded one by one...but we had so much fun enjoying the new year and our kids!!

Christmas in Missouri

2008-01-01T12:41:00.000-08:00

The day after Christmas we drove to Missouri to see everyone. We had so much fun, and really enjoyed our visit. We especially had fun visiting with Ian, Lucy, Katherine and Aaron. We do not get to see them enough, but we sure do make up for lost time when we do!!!!

Christmas was finally here!

2008-01-01T12:28:00.001-08:00

We seemed to have so much to do to get ready for Christmas. The holidays are just such a busy time. Well, the big day finally arrived and my children are officially over-indulged. We have WAY too much stuff. Next year, we are taking contributions to their college tuition accounts...you think i'm kidding?!? You should see our den, I don't even have anywhere to put all the stuff. We are so blessed to have so many people who love our children so much! As you can see, Zachary got a Bulldogs jersey that he LOVES...and all Mallory wanted was "PINK BOOTS!" Well, they both got their wish and then some!!!!

Santa Came to Town!!!!

2008-01-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

We have an awesome Santa in Hattiesburg. He is so sweet and kind when most of the children really dont appreciate his presence. So, this year, Zachary got Santa all to himself. We love having our Santa party with our good buddies, and we are hoping next year we all enjoy him a little more...Maybe we are hoping he will just come back!

Christmas Cooking

2008-01-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

I guess one of the most important part of the holidays is the baking! I don't pretend to be very good in the kitchen, but I do have a great time making cookies and chocolate covered pretzels with my children.

Community Service

2008-01-01T12:14:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, Zachary has been taking Tae Kwon Do. He has gotten really good at it, and really enjoys it. This year for Christmas, his Instructor took them for a community service project. They went to a local nursing home and did a short demonstration, and delivered some gifts. It was a really fun morning. I really enjoyed watching him bring Christmas cheer to the residents of the home.

The Lewis Lights

2008-01-01T12:00:00.000-08:00

If you grew up in Hattiesburg, you know all about the Lewis Lights. If you haven't been there in a few years, you would be amazed as to what they have done. If you don't know about the Lewis'...every year they put what seems like hundred's of thousands of lights, and hundreds of wooded character scenes. Even Todd was impressed. Perhaps the most important were the "Thomas" cut outs, and the fact that one of the Lewis family members stands at the entrance and hands out suckers to each child. Also, did I mention...it is free. They do it out of the goodness of their hearts for our community. What an awesome family.

New to the Blog Stuff

2007-12-31T08:21:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I am new to this blog stuff. I have a website, but it is so hard for me to maintain, and I thought this may be a little quicker and easier. We will see. For my first post, I would like to wish everyone health and happiness in 2008! May we all continue to be as blessed as we were in 2007!