This is number 1 on the list of things to tell my child! I will have done 3 of the 30 at the end of this..... so be sure to check out 10 people who influenced me and 5 Passions I Have in the previous posts.
20. I am terrified of snakes, dentist and tornadoes.
19. I tend to have VIVID dreams, especially of floating in the air or going to the bathroom (lol - I have never peed my bed though!)
18. I only recently (last 5 years) started eating Avocado and now I am OBSESSED!
17. I can pick out the smallest raw onion sliver in a piece of food.
16. I danced ballet, tap and/or jazz for over 10 years and was in a local "troupe" for a year. I took en pointe for one year and still have my shoes!
15. I want to one day "back pack" thru Europe and RV across America!
14. I close my eyes during horror or bone breaking parts of a movie - but secretly peek as well.
13. I have NEVER been and probably never will be fashion trendy.
12. I have only had 3 boyfriends and one became my hubby! ;)
11. I started Kindergarten when I was 4 years old and college at 17.
10. I have a weird sensory thing about lotions on my hands (well anything greasy on my hands).
9. My ears, cheeks, neck --- everywhere --- turns red when I am nervous, anxious or tipsy!
8. I have a tender nose....therefore I hate overwhelming smells, especially lotions, candles or perfumes!
7. I HAVE to wear sunglasses all the time outside and use the sunvisor at night to drive -- glare!
6. I was in Colorguard for 3 years in high school and was a co-assistant captain! It was the most fun I had in HS.
5. I still talk to my best friend from Elementary school! (Hi Leslie!!!)
4. I am originally from Houston, TX.
3. I collect spoons from place I have visited and places my family/friends have gone.
2. I have a sick obsession with reality TV - including Teen Mom/Kardashians/SYTCD/DWTS/AI and MORE!!!!
1. I used to want to be a home architect and I still get giddy visiting model homes or home being built/renovated.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Sunday, May 12, 2013
10 people who have influenced me.....
Where do I even begin....
My Parents and Sisters- From them I am who I am. My Dad instilled a deep value of education, respect and honor. I have gained a whole different culture from him and cherish that. My Mom has always done everything for her children. She was the home room mom, the cake baking mom and carpooling mom. She was and is a great mother. I hope I can be all this for my son too! My sisters are in a way so very different from me..... I love them with all my heart and try to always "set the example" (being the oldest!) Sometimes I falter but I think they are ok with that! They each have a dynamic personality that I admire!
My Hubby - He is my polar opposite and it works for us! He has opened my eyes and heart to things I never would have experienced. He loves me for me - no matter my size. His impatience and stubbornness has strengthened mine and he has always supported me in any venture I choose. He is truly my other half.
Mrs. Hupp (and other fabulous teachers) - She was my Kindergarten teacher and I believe is why I love school, teaching and kids. I think because I had such a fabulous kinder year with her is why I wanted to be a teacher for others. Her warm smile is still a vivid memory in my head!
My Best Friend (Angela) - My mom used to think she wasn't the best influence on me, but she really was a great one! Yes we got into trouble in our teen years together, but her strength and passion is what I admire about her. When I think I'm not strong enough I think about her and all she has done as a single mother and I don't feel weak. She has this way of lifting me up even when she isn't around! And though months may go by where we don't speak, you'd never know it when we finally get together!
My Grandma - She was a strong, independent and vocal woman! She was my rock when I felt alone. I miss her greatly but her spirit still influences me to know I am never alone. She grew up in such a large family and I think that influenced how I viewed family and how I cherish it (summer family reunions, being together at holidays, etc....) I miss her each day!
Amanda - I only meet her 7 years ago, but she has shaped me a lot in those 7 years. Her passion for early education and children with special needs re-ignited my love for teaching. Her spunk, vocal mind and love for life gave me laughs and experiences I would have never have experienced. Her belief in me and my abilities has always inspired me to do more and seek better for young children. I cannot wait to see her as a mom! She is going to be fantastic!
My girls - You know who you are! They are my sounding board, my shoulder, my friends! Each one has touched me in some way, shape or form and that's why they continue to be a part of my life each day. They each have their own strength, passion and/or quality that I admire and learn from. Every person needs true friends - those you've grown up with or perhaps just met a few years ago! They help you laugh, de-stress and understand what you're going thru without saying more than a word!
Old Bosses - If I am honest enough with myself I can admit that these ladies have influenced me and my life. They showed me who I didn't want to be as a leader, but also made me stronger in my leadership, pushing me to do more. They helped me realize that I cannot please everyone, but only do what I know is my best. It was hard to interact with them at times and this helped me in dealing with my fear of confrontation.
Kathy -- she is my soul sista! She has brought out so much in me and influenced me in ways I cannot describe. Her passion and zest for life and love is awe-inspiring! I love her positivity and I truly think I became more of an opportunist view thinker because of her. She grabs life and people with open arms and has never met a stranger! Though sometimes I know life is hard for her -- she still puts on a smile and charges forward.
My son -- wow has he influenced me. He has shown me sides I didn't know I had in me. He has brought a love that one can never accurately describe. Each day he makes me laugh, smile and cry (a good kind!) because he is such a beautiful person inside and out. I hope that I can help shape him into the best person he can be..... and right now he's pretty darn awesome!!!
Thank you to each of these people for helping shape, mold, guide and influence me, my outlook and my passions.
My Parents and Sisters- From them I am who I am. My Dad instilled a deep value of education, respect and honor. I have gained a whole different culture from him and cherish that. My Mom has always done everything for her children. She was the home room mom, the cake baking mom and carpooling mom. She was and is a great mother. I hope I can be all this for my son too! My sisters are in a way so very different from me..... I love them with all my heart and try to always "set the example" (being the oldest!) Sometimes I falter but I think they are ok with that! They each have a dynamic personality that I admire!
My Hubby - He is my polar opposite and it works for us! He has opened my eyes and heart to things I never would have experienced. He loves me for me - no matter my size. His impatience and stubbornness has strengthened mine and he has always supported me in any venture I choose. He is truly my other half.
Mrs. Hupp (and other fabulous teachers) - She was my Kindergarten teacher and I believe is why I love school, teaching and kids. I think because I had such a fabulous kinder year with her is why I wanted to be a teacher for others. Her warm smile is still a vivid memory in my head!
My Best Friend (Angela) - My mom used to think she wasn't the best influence on me, but she really was a great one! Yes we got into trouble in our teen years together, but her strength and passion is what I admire about her. When I think I'm not strong enough I think about her and all she has done as a single mother and I don't feel weak. She has this way of lifting me up even when she isn't around! And though months may go by where we don't speak, you'd never know it when we finally get together!
My Grandma - She was a strong, independent and vocal woman! She was my rock when I felt alone. I miss her greatly but her spirit still influences me to know I am never alone. She grew up in such a large family and I think that influenced how I viewed family and how I cherish it (summer family reunions, being together at holidays, etc....) I miss her each day!
Amanda - I only meet her 7 years ago, but she has shaped me a lot in those 7 years. Her passion for early education and children with special needs re-ignited my love for teaching. Her spunk, vocal mind and love for life gave me laughs and experiences I would have never have experienced. Her belief in me and my abilities has always inspired me to do more and seek better for young children. I cannot wait to see her as a mom! She is going to be fantastic!
My girls - You know who you are! They are my sounding board, my shoulder, my friends! Each one has touched me in some way, shape or form and that's why they continue to be a part of my life each day. They each have their own strength, passion and/or quality that I admire and learn from. Every person needs true friends - those you've grown up with or perhaps just met a few years ago! They help you laugh, de-stress and understand what you're going thru without saying more than a word!
Old Bosses - If I am honest enough with myself I can admit that these ladies have influenced me and my life. They showed me who I didn't want to be as a leader, but also made me stronger in my leadership, pushing me to do more. They helped me realize that I cannot please everyone, but only do what I know is my best. It was hard to interact with them at times and this helped me in dealing with my fear of confrontation.
Kathy -- she is my soul sista! She has brought out so much in me and influenced me in ways I cannot describe. Her passion and zest for life and love is awe-inspiring! I love her positivity and I truly think I became more of an opportunist view thinker because of her. She grabs life and people with open arms and has never met a stranger! Though sometimes I know life is hard for her -- she still puts on a smile and charges forward.
My son -- wow has he influenced me. He has shown me sides I didn't know I had in me. He has brought a love that one can never accurately describe. Each day he makes me laugh, smile and cry (a good kind!) because he is such a beautiful person inside and out. I hope that I can help shape him into the best person he can be..... and right now he's pretty darn awesome!!!
Thank you to each of these people for helping shape, mold, guide and influence me, my outlook and my passions.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Things about me --- for my child
so I have a new thing I want to try (again another "steal" from someone's blog I read!) - along with my photos quotes (which kind of fell off the map), the Letters to my Son, and just regular blogging!
The idea is 30 things in 30 days for your children to one day read, but that ain't going to happen like that. So let's just try to do the 30 in the year!!! lol So what should I start with?!?!?!?
1. List 20 random facts about yourself.
2. Describe 3 fears you have and explain how they became fears.
3. Describe your relationship with your spouse.
4. List 10 things you would tell your 16 year-old self, if you could.
5. What are the 5 things that make you most happy right now?
6. If you could have three wishes, what would you wish for?
7. What is your dream job, and why?
8. What are 5 passions you have?
9. List 10 people who have influenced you and describe how.
10. Describe your most embarrassing moment.
11. Describe 10 pet peeves you have.
12. Describe a typical day in your current life.
13. What’s the hardest part of growing up?
14. Describe 5 and weaknesses strengths you have.
15. Describe when you knew your spouse was the one or how I fell in love.
16. What are your 5 greatest accomplishments?
17. What is the thing you most wish you were great at?
18. What do you think your spouse loves most about you?
19. How did you feel the moment you became a parent?
20. Describe 3 significant memories from your childhood.
21. Describe your relationship with your parents.
22. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? 15 years?
23. What’s your favorite holiday and why?
24. What’s your favorite and least favorite thing about parenthood?
25. If you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be and what would you eat?
26. What popular notion do you think the world has most wrong?
27. What is your favorite part of your body and why?
28. What’s your favorite quality in your spouse?
29. What are your hopes and dreams for your prosperity?
30. List 10 things you would hope to be remembered for.
#8 5 Passions I have........
Well my first passion is children. It always has been and always will be. From a young age I knew I wanted to be a teacher - in fact Kindergarten was the start. I had the BEST teacher, Mrs. Hupp. I can vividly remember my first day of school and her warm nature and sweet smile as she presented me with my apple name tag. From then on I knew one day I wanted to be that for other children. I babysat at the age of like 12 for a neighbor and it went from there. My dad gave me some flack for a few years about getting a "real teaching job" but in my heart I knew what I was doing mattered and made my heart fill with joy. I wish that for anyone in their life -- do what gives you joy!
2) Photography -- As long as I can remember I had a camera in my hand. I remember having those "flash card" things on top of my camera. You got like 5 flashes out of them. I thought I was so cool. I would go through film like crazy and was stubborn to finally give into the "digital world." There was always something about capturing moments in photos. I've always been nostalgic - not quite sure why , but I love things with history and meaning. So I think that's why I gravitate to a beautiful photo.....it tells a story. I love OLD photographs! I didn't really nurture my love until recently when a friend brought it out in me.
#3 passion --- Dance. I love to dance. I love music. There's something about expressing yourself through movement. When I was younger I did ballet and jazz and tap. I loved ballet the best.... the softness to it and the elegance. I even got to pointe and felt like such a ballerina. I had body issues so I didn't follow that passion as much as I wish I had - but I never quit dancing. I remember just turning up the music and creating my own dance routines - just expressing the passion, love, angst, sorrow and happiness I was feeling at any given moment. Though I don't move as well as I did then I still dance -- as everyone should. Dance like no one is watching -- I sure do!
Fourth passion is Music....... Music soothes the soul. I used to lay in my room as a teenager with my favorite songs in the CD player (or even record or tape player --- sad my kid will never know these things!) and just lay on my floor in the dark as I closed my eyes and listened to the words sung. I used to write down lyrics for their poetic words as I felt they would describe the feelings I had inside. I joined choir for one year and loved it but felt I was more of a shower singer!! lol I still love to sing and all types of music. Seriously my CD collection has anything from Bach to George Strait to Pantera to Lynyrd Skynyrd to Madonna to Usher to Beastie Boys to Soundtracks (and everything in between!) I grew up listening to pop and "Woodstock" tunes! Probably even some Disco! I hope to infuse that same love of music to my son!
My last passion is writing! I used to journal ALL the time. I hate looking back on them but it's nice to have all that written down for recall!!! There were many a nights where journaling probably saved my sanity. It was like my own shrink! lol I even wrote poetry at one time. I rarely share that stuff - but one time I did with a friend who wrote music. I might hear one of my "songs" on the radio one day!!! ;) not really -- but writing can really soothe a soul sometimes. I'm glad I can blog now. I don't share everything I "blog" with you guys -- so I guess one day when I'm long gone -- someone will have to crack my code and see what other thoughts and ramblings I had in here!!! lol
Can I have a 6th one?!?! My kid! Trevor is my everything. He was perfectly planned. Yes that's right I planned him -- big shocker eh!??! lol He is my biggest accomplishment and greatest joy! He is the passion in my life - what I live, breathe and die for! But really what he is is family -- that's a passion too! I love family, family moments, family traditions, etc. I think that's why I want to share so much with him.
What are your PASSIONS??!?!!?
The idea is 30 things in 30 days for your children to one day read, but that ain't going to happen like that. So let's just try to do the 30 in the year!!! lol So what should I start with?!?!?!?
THE LIST:
2. Describe 3 fears you have and explain how they became fears.
3. Describe your relationship with your spouse.
4. List 10 things you would tell your 16 year-old self, if you could.
5. What are the 5 things that make you most happy right now?
6. If you could have three wishes, what would you wish for?
7. What is your dream job, and why?
10. Describe your most embarrassing moment.
11. Describe 10 pet peeves you have.
12. Describe a typical day in your current life.
13. What’s the hardest part of growing up?
14. Describe 5 and weaknesses strengths you have.
15. Describe when you knew your spouse was the one or how I fell in love.
17. What is the thing you most wish you were great at?
18. What do you think your spouse loves most about you?
19. How did you feel the moment you became a parent?
20. Describe 3 significant memories from your childhood.
21. Describe your relationship with your parents.
22. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 10 years? 15 years?
23. What’s your favorite holiday and why?
24. What’s your favorite and least favorite thing about parenthood?
25. If you could have dinner with anyone in history, who would it be and what would you eat?
26. What popular notion do you think the world has most wrong?
27. What is your favorite part of your body and why?
28. What’s your favorite quality in your spouse?
29. What are your hopes and dreams for your prosperity?
30. List 10 things you would hope to be remembered for.
#8 5 Passions I have........
Well my first passion is children. It always has been and always will be. From a young age I knew I wanted to be a teacher - in fact Kindergarten was the start. I had the BEST teacher, Mrs. Hupp. I can vividly remember my first day of school and her warm nature and sweet smile as she presented me with my apple name tag. From then on I knew one day I wanted to be that for other children. I babysat at the age of like 12 for a neighbor and it went from there. My dad gave me some flack for a few years about getting a "real teaching job" but in my heart I knew what I was doing mattered and made my heart fill with joy. I wish that for anyone in their life -- do what gives you joy!
2) Photography -- As long as I can remember I had a camera in my hand. I remember having those "flash card" things on top of my camera. You got like 5 flashes out of them. I thought I was so cool. I would go through film like crazy and was stubborn to finally give into the "digital world." There was always something about capturing moments in photos. I've always been nostalgic - not quite sure why , but I love things with history and meaning. So I think that's why I gravitate to a beautiful photo.....it tells a story. I love OLD photographs! I didn't really nurture my love until recently when a friend brought it out in me.
#3 passion --- Dance. I love to dance. I love music. There's something about expressing yourself through movement. When I was younger I did ballet and jazz and tap. I loved ballet the best.... the softness to it and the elegance. I even got to pointe and felt like such a ballerina. I had body issues so I didn't follow that passion as much as I wish I had - but I never quit dancing. I remember just turning up the music and creating my own dance routines - just expressing the passion, love, angst, sorrow and happiness I was feeling at any given moment. Though I don't move as well as I did then I still dance -- as everyone should. Dance like no one is watching -- I sure do!
Fourth passion is Music....... Music soothes the soul. I used to lay in my room as a teenager with my favorite songs in the CD player (or even record or tape player --- sad my kid will never know these things!) and just lay on my floor in the dark as I closed my eyes and listened to the words sung. I used to write down lyrics for their poetic words as I felt they would describe the feelings I had inside. I joined choir for one year and loved it but felt I was more of a shower singer!! lol I still love to sing and all types of music. Seriously my CD collection has anything from Bach to George Strait to Pantera to Lynyrd Skynyrd to Madonna to Usher to Beastie Boys to Soundtracks (and everything in between!) I grew up listening to pop and "Woodstock" tunes! Probably even some Disco! I hope to infuse that same love of music to my son!
My last passion is writing! I used to journal ALL the time. I hate looking back on them but it's nice to have all that written down for recall!!! There were many a nights where journaling probably saved my sanity. It was like my own shrink! lol I even wrote poetry at one time. I rarely share that stuff - but one time I did with a friend who wrote music. I might hear one of my "songs" on the radio one day!!! ;) not really -- but writing can really soothe a soul sometimes. I'm glad I can blog now. I don't share everything I "blog" with you guys -- so I guess one day when I'm long gone -- someone will have to crack my code and see what other thoughts and ramblings I had in here!!! lol
Can I have a 6th one?!?! My kid! Trevor is my everything. He was perfectly planned. Yes that's right I planned him -- big shocker eh!??! lol He is my biggest accomplishment and greatest joy! He is the passion in my life - what I live, breathe and die for! But really what he is is family -- that's a passion too! I love family, family moments, family traditions, etc. I think that's why I want to share so much with him.
What are your PASSIONS??!?!!?
Friday, April 12, 2013
Our Famous Local Model
Everyone was so proud and excited to see our little man on a cover of a magazine found in a store! How did we do it? Well it started with a little contest the magazine offered last Fall. I submitted the photo (seen on the cover) and hoped for the best. The deadline came and went and we heard nothing. So I assumed we didn't win and never gave it another thought. Well February I got a call from the Editor saying how much she just loved his photo and though he didn't win he was a runner up and really wanted to make him a cover model. Of course I said SURE!!!!
We did a photo shoot with the photographer and Trevor was great!!! Unfortunately the colors we had on didn't go with the cover, so a re-shoot was requested. Well at that re-shoot Trevor was exhausted from a day of baseball and traveling, plus a shoot looking into the sun - not the best choice for a 5 year old! Needless to say, those pics just didn't turn out well. So the editor just put my picture on the cover!!!
Talk about a DOUBLE YAY!!!!!! So be sure to stop by a local HEB, Whole Foods or Central Market to get your April issue of Austin Family Magazine. They are also found at most OB, pediatric and dentist offices. We of course grabbed a stack of them and Trevor has already been "autographing" numerous of the them. You can also see him on Fox News each Friday for the month of April at 8:45 am!
Who knows....maybe this is the start of something more. But if it's not -- we're fine with our "15 minutes of fame!"
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Letters to My Son
As I sat at the Dentist office the other day - 'patiently' (hahahaha) awaiting my cleaning, I was seated next to a mother/son. As I tried to keep my mind off my 'impending doom' I overheard their conversation (well bits and pieces - because at some points they spoke another language.... I think they knew I was listening!) It made me think about the years to come with my son........ as I heard them argue about him ( he looked about 15) seeing 2 movies in one day, who would be there, what was the mother's first name of his friend, what was the movie called (he insisted it was PG13 after some thought) .....etc.....etc......etc..... I heard her tell him "You know I don't like that!" and "You know that's not the kind of thing we do." He would reply with some remark, eye roll and or sigh. It made me think back to those conversations I had with my mother and of course the ones I am sure to have in the future with my son.... so maybe to help him understand one day - where I'm coming from - here's a letter to my son:
Dear Pre-Teen/ Teenage Son,
There will come a day when you'll want to do things that I won't let you. (heck that day is already here -- but I'm talking big things; Social things) I'll give the time old "because I said so" reason and you'll roll your eyes, mutter under your breathe and think "you just dont understand." But please know that I do!
Maybe it won't be the same because I was a girl and you're a boy; or because my parents were 'more strict', or just because things/life and this world aren't the same as it was in the 80's/90's when I was growing up...... but I hope you know one thing...... I will always make decisions that I think are the best for you. Decisions that will hopefully keep you the 'safest' possible. Decisions that when I was your age I probably said, felt and did the same things you are right now.
There's no real way to make you understand why or feel the way a parent feels. I mean I thought I knew as a child/teenager that my parents were probably right about a lot of things -- I'm not saying I agreed with eveything my parents said and decided in regards to my upbringing but I think I was a petty 'good kid.' (My parents may disagree.....but let's all be honest - I wasn't perfect but heck I was pretty good compared to what could have been happening in teen land!) I knew right from wrong and 95% of the time chose right. I was scared shitless that my parents would find out even the small things I did.... and I'm not fessin up now! lol My pesonality was that of 'perfection.' If I didn't think that my paents would appove I probably wouldn't do it. I constantly seeked approval, love and proudness from my parents and teachers. It makes me who I am today. I tell you this so you understand who I am and where I am coming from. We can only do the best we can with what we know -- this is what I grew up to know. I have tried in my years of adolesence/adulthood to learn more. To be the best parent I can for you.
We / I will make mistakes. I will be strict, tough and mean. I will expect you to do your best, try your hardest and succeed in what I know you are capable of. I will push you to go further, to test your limitations, to be who you are and to respect others for who they are. I will also LOVE you unconditionally - even when you think I am disappointed or frustrated by you. I will support you even when you don't follow my vision of a path for you. I will advocate and cheer for you. I will cry, smile and yell to you, about you, and with you! I am your mother. It is my job to protect, teach, guide, mold, and shape you to be the best individual on this planet you can be. It is my job to sometimes tell you NO. It is my job to say 'because I said so!" It is my job to ensure you leave this home with morals, goals, dreams, hopes and respect for yourself, me/your dad, and others you meet. Just as my parents did for me, and probably their parents did for them.
One day you may become a parent and truly understand. I don't say no or ask tons of questions because I "want to ruin your life"......... I do it because I LOVE YOU!!! Each day it scares me that you are growing too fast....that I am not keeping up with teaching everything you should know..... that I will not show you enough how much I love you - each freckle, hair, bump, and twinkle in your eye.
Though you'll feel you need to make your own choices and live your own mistakes - no mother ever wants any suffering, heartache or defeat for their child -- this is why we tell you "because I said so!" It's our last ditch effort to protect you from all the ugly in the world. You'd never understand the whole story at this stage in your life! I can only hope that when we have one of those 'talks' - where I ask 20 questions just to be sure you're being safe or making a good decision - you remember that I do it to protect you, to ensure I have you in my life as long as I can. Maybe at that moment you'll stop before you roll the eyes and just reach out and hold my hand.
lol --- A mother can dream!!! I'm sure you'll just say "mom!!!!!!! but why?!?!?!" and we'll just circle the converstaion over and over -- just like I see most mothers do with their children at this age. But I say it again --- I love you!!!! You are my everything!
Love, Mom
PS - to my own parents...... thanks for setting the bar for morals and respect. I'm sorry for any stress, heartache or worry I may have caused as a teenager. I understand even more now where you were coming from.
Dear Pre-Teen/ Teenage Son,
There will come a day when you'll want to do things that I won't let you. (heck that day is already here -- but I'm talking big things; Social things) I'll give the time old "because I said so" reason and you'll roll your eyes, mutter under your breathe and think "you just dont understand." But please know that I do!
Maybe it won't be the same because I was a girl and you're a boy; or because my parents were 'more strict', or just because things/life and this world aren't the same as it was in the 80's/90's when I was growing up...... but I hope you know one thing...... I will always make decisions that I think are the best for you. Decisions that will hopefully keep you the 'safest' possible. Decisions that when I was your age I probably said, felt and did the same things you are right now.
There's no real way to make you understand why or feel the way a parent feels. I mean I thought I knew as a child/teenager that my parents were probably right about a lot of things -- I'm not saying I agreed with eveything my parents said and decided in regards to my upbringing but I think I was a petty 'good kid.' (My parents may disagree.....but let's all be honest - I wasn't perfect but heck I was pretty good compared to what could have been happening in teen land!) I knew right from wrong and 95% of the time chose right. I was scared shitless that my parents would find out even the small things I did.... and I'm not fessin up now! lol My pesonality was that of 'perfection.' If I didn't think that my paents would appove I probably wouldn't do it. I constantly seeked approval, love and proudness from my parents and teachers. It makes me who I am today. I tell you this so you understand who I am and where I am coming from. We can only do the best we can with what we know -- this is what I grew up to know. I have tried in my years of adolesence/adulthood to learn more. To be the best parent I can for you.
We / I will make mistakes. I will be strict, tough and mean. I will expect you to do your best, try your hardest and succeed in what I know you are capable of. I will push you to go further, to test your limitations, to be who you are and to respect others for who they are. I will also LOVE you unconditionally - even when you think I am disappointed or frustrated by you. I will support you even when you don't follow my vision of a path for you. I will advocate and cheer for you. I will cry, smile and yell to you, about you, and with you! I am your mother. It is my job to protect, teach, guide, mold, and shape you to be the best individual on this planet you can be. It is my job to sometimes tell you NO. It is my job to say 'because I said so!" It is my job to ensure you leave this home with morals, goals, dreams, hopes and respect for yourself, me/your dad, and others you meet. Just as my parents did for me, and probably their parents did for them.
One day you may become a parent and truly understand. I don't say no or ask tons of questions because I "want to ruin your life"......... I do it because I LOVE YOU!!! Each day it scares me that you are growing too fast....that I am not keeping up with teaching everything you should know..... that I will not show you enough how much I love you - each freckle, hair, bump, and twinkle in your eye.
Though you'll feel you need to make your own choices and live your own mistakes - no mother ever wants any suffering, heartache or defeat for their child -- this is why we tell you "because I said so!" It's our last ditch effort to protect you from all the ugly in the world. You'd never understand the whole story at this stage in your life! I can only hope that when we have one of those 'talks' - where I ask 20 questions just to be sure you're being safe or making a good decision - you remember that I do it to protect you, to ensure I have you in my life as long as I can. Maybe at that moment you'll stop before you roll the eyes and just reach out and hold my hand.
lol --- A mother can dream!!! I'm sure you'll just say "mom!!!!!!! but why?!?!?!" and we'll just circle the converstaion over and over -- just like I see most mothers do with their children at this age. But I say it again --- I love you!!!! You are my everything!
Love, Mom
PS - to my own parents...... thanks for setting the bar for morals and respect. I'm sorry for any stress, heartache or worry I may have caused as a teenager. I understand even more now where you were coming from.
Friday, April 5, 2013
Long time.... no blog
Sorry about the absence folks.... not that there are too many of you that obsess over this weekly!!! lol
We've had a lot going on so that's where I will start.....
* Trevor is in T--Ball We are doing Spring ball at Oak Hill League and are Rangers! Trevor seems to like it, but not as much as I think Daddy would like. They butt heads a lot when it comes to practicing. 2 stubborn boys do not = a calm and happy moment!! I play referee most nights ;) but Daddy is learning more and more how to talk to and instruct Trevor so that tears, whining and frustration do not over ride the moment. He has been playing Pitcher, Right Field and Short Stop lately! He even made an out one game! He was so proud! It's the best feeling a mom can have -- seeing her baby succeed! We love the Coach and feel like Trevor is really getting a good foundation in baseball. So hopefully we have a future ball player in the family!
* Photography is getting off the ground! I have been offering some sessions to "strangers" - lol. In other words I have advertised my services. I am excited to actually be shooting my first "customers" this weekend. I have been working on a website and debating on making this more than a hobby for me. Right now I love just shooting here and there..... just not sure I have the confidence to make this a 'business.' Below are a few of my shoots.....
* Kindergarten is almost over..... :( Talk about bringing a frown/tear to a momma's eye! I can't believe that there is only 2 months left. Trevor has been liking school a lot - which also makes a momma happy! We've only had a few moments here and there where I thought 'oh no!' But i guess it's typical behavior. I just remember being so obsessed with school and being 'perfect.' So when I hear that Trevor is having trouble, hiding his homework, or lying about a situation it kind of bothers me. But we just try to remind him of the morals we've set forth.... honesty, respect and responsibility. Now to figure out what kind of summer care to get for Trevor..... camp, nanny or school?!?!?!
* We have 2 weddings this year.... talk about crazy time! Trevor will be a ringbearer at both! What a special honor! Macee will be getting married in Colorado, while Sarah will wed here in Austin on the Zilker Trail. Each will be special and unique and so much fun! Let's just hope that my sisters do not become "bridezillas!!!"
So since I haven't written in so long be forewarned that I might have a few postings in a row!!! lol
We've had a lot going on so that's where I will start.....
* Trevor is in T--Ball We are doing Spring ball at Oak Hill League and are Rangers! Trevor seems to like it, but not as much as I think Daddy would like. They butt heads a lot when it comes to practicing. 2 stubborn boys do not = a calm and happy moment!! I play referee most nights ;) but Daddy is learning more and more how to talk to and instruct Trevor so that tears, whining and frustration do not over ride the moment. He has been playing Pitcher, Right Field and Short Stop lately! He even made an out one game! He was so proud! It's the best feeling a mom can have -- seeing her baby succeed! We love the Coach and feel like Trevor is really getting a good foundation in baseball. So hopefully we have a future ball player in the family!
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| Bridal Shoot in Manor Texas |
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| Wedding at Mayfield Gardens |
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| Baby Sophia |
* We have 2 weddings this year.... talk about crazy time! Trevor will be a ringbearer at both! What a special honor! Macee will be getting married in Colorado, while Sarah will wed here in Austin on the Zilker Trail. Each will be special and unique and so much fun! Let's just hope that my sisters do not become "bridezillas!!!"
So since I haven't written in so long be forewarned that I might have a few postings in a row!!! lol
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
The BEST of 2012
Last year I did this and thought it turned out pretty cute -- so I would continue it! We had a lot of fun and events this year -- so it's always hard to pick the favorites or to even list in an order!!! So I will again, list them in no particular order.......
Modeling Anniversary
Trevor has been boutique modeling thru Facebook for over a year now! We have really enjoyed most of our shoots and I would like to say that my photography has improved and we've gotten more creative with our shoots!! I think by next summer we will be done completely though, as it gets slim in the offers for boys as they get older. It has been fun yet frustrating but I always love that it gave me reason to capture the slow growth of my baby boy!
Trevor turns 5!!!!
This is always a fun and exciting event in our lives each year. As tradition -- we went to Seaworld for his birthday and had a fun party! This year we went to Seaworld with Kathy and her family (Tom and Patrick). It was highlighted with lost glasses, hurt foot, hotel and ticket fiascoes and lots of laughs!!! Trevor of course loved his trip and has reassured us that he will grow up to be someone who helps animals (works at Seaworld!) For his party we went Kung Fu style! Trevor loves Kung Fu Panda and karate so what a perfect way to infuse it all. I got a lot of my ideas off Pinterest and even wrangled my Dad into "teaching" the kids a few moves!!! I stressed myself out about it all but in the end it was just fine!!
California visit
In June we decided to not go to Cabo, but visit Grandma Gail and Grandpa Jim in California again! This time around we hit Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, USS Midway and a few other spots we enjoyed last time. Trevor really enjoyed the ocean this time around and ran around all over! We also managed to see a "real Transformer" Bumble bee car!!! Trevor was in awe and was so enamored we had to "hurry and take (a pic) before he had to go!" It was a great trip and so nice to catch up with Grandma and Jim!
Oh the Places he'll go!!! (Prek Grad --> Starts Kindergarten)
Trevor officially graduated from PreK in June 2012 and we celebrated with a fun party at home! I again used Pinterest as my idea generator as I created a "Oh the Places You'll Go!" party theme. It was nice to have a few of Trevor's teachers there to celebrate this milestone! I will admit it got me all misty eyed to say an official good bye to the ladies I called "my other family" but they will always be in our hearts! August brought Trevor's FIRST day of Kindergarten! We were very excited to be able to stay at Barton Creek as an in-district transfer and then to get the Teacher of the Year as his teacher!!! He has had a good first semester and seems to be doing well - socially and cognitively! He really does love school (something he got from me!!!) so we hope this continues to be his thoughts as the years pass on!!!
Travels afar -- Hong Kong!
I feel like this is one of our biggest events this year! It truly was a special one.....again THANK YOU to Mom and Dad for expensing this trip for Trevor and I!!! I will always honor it as a cherished memory and ensure that Trevor does as well! We got to visit numerous family members and Trevor had so much fun with his cousins! The sites we saw and the yummy food are only half of what I will cherish! I love embracing my "culture" and sharing it with Trevor! We had fun creating a trip journal and sharing pics and memoirs with his class when he returned to school! Although we blemished his "perfect attendance" I think it was well worth it! (read my blog for more pictures and info!)
Jobs are steady
Last year I talked about a big change in my job! So that means I lasted a YEAR!!! well now it'll almost be 2 years! I have made a great "third family!" there and feel so blessed that I can go to work doing something I love and feel little stress (well sometimes it's stressful but.....so different!) plus have so much fun (ie. Sally, PIC and the Dolla Family!) Justin is also still at his job and seems to really like it - working alongside his brother. I know he is worn out most days (especially in the summer heat!) but it is nice to have steady work, insurance and low work stress in our lives! The property is really coming along and healing from the fires of last year. Justin is finally finished "clearing" out the rubble and now working on progress - plus a horse has joined the fun!!!
Go Aeros!!!
Trevor did Fall Ball again - this time with the Oak Hill Youth Sports Assoc (OHYSA) team Aeros! We loved being with this team and really felt the slight competitive spirit this league brings! Trevor seemed to have fun and got to play some key spots in defense (pitcher, SS and 2nd base!) His coaches were a hoot and so great with the kiddos!! We hope to have them next season!
Spooky Fun!
Trevor and I hosted our FIRST (possibly annual?!?!) Spooky Party! He started creating his own invitations one day and I just couldn't deny him this after that!!! So again I looked to Pinterest for quick, easy (and cheap) ways to throw together a party in like 2 weeks! It turned out pretty good (if I say so myself!!) Trevor had a lot of fun and even got to have a dear friend he hadn't seen in a long time accompany him to the neighborhood carnival! We had crafts, games and yummy food with a twinge of DAP spookiness! Plus it gave me a reason to amp up my Halloween decor!!! lol
Photography is more than a hobby!
My love for photography and capturing special moments is slowly blooming! I learn more and more with each shoot and each article I read. I am no expert and don't claim to be..... just a hobbyist who loves to experiment and learn. I have a few friends (and family!) who have nurtured this in me and got me to do my first "paid" shoot! I had a lot of fun planning, shooting and editing! Bonus is I think everyone REALLY enjoyed their photos! It really all began with trying to make myself look more "legit" in the boutique modeling "world" (long story short - I decided to create a facebook page to showcase my fun; thus it needed a name) so Shuggabug (like shutterbug but shugga - like sugar but with a more southern twang to it!) became reality! Feel free to check me out and pass on to your friends! I love to experiment -- so I am "cheap!" ShuggabugPhotography
Last but not least........ (not sure if this falls in 2012 or 2013!) my little(est) sister got engaged! Nick popped the question January 1 while they ran the trail at Lady Bird Lake (where their first "date" was). Nick's stepmom, Jo, took photos from the bushes! Best thing is we all knew it was coming and had a little surprise brunch for them afterwards!! So happy for her! Welcome to our crazy family Nick.....lol Now to get fit so I can look cute at the wedding!
So that's 2012 in a nutshell for us!!! Lots of fun and laughter! I hope that 2013 brings even more --- to us and everyone as well! Stay tuned to my blog for all of our updates and events..... some will surely bring a smile or two -- if not a laugh!
Modeling Anniversary
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| Modeling for Sparkle Galz Boutique |
Trevor turns 5!!!!
California visit
Oh the Places he'll go!!! (Prek Grad --> Starts Kindergarten)
Travels afar -- Hong Kong!
Jobs are steady
Last year I talked about a big change in my job! So that means I lasted a YEAR!!! well now it'll almost be 2 years! I have made a great "third family!" there and feel so blessed that I can go to work doing something I love and feel little stress (well sometimes it's stressful but.....so different!) plus have so much fun (ie. Sally, PIC and the Dolla Family!) Justin is also still at his job and seems to really like it - working alongside his brother. I know he is worn out most days (especially in the summer heat!) but it is nice to have steady work, insurance and low work stress in our lives! The property is really coming along and healing from the fires of last year. Justin is finally finished "clearing" out the rubble and now working on progress - plus a horse has joined the fun!!!
Go Aeros!!!
Spooky Fun!
Trevor and I hosted our FIRST (possibly annual?!?!) Spooky Party! He started creating his own invitations one day and I just couldn't deny him this after that!!! So again I looked to Pinterest for quick, easy (and cheap) ways to throw together a party in like 2 weeks! It turned out pretty good (if I say so myself!!) Trevor had a lot of fun and even got to have a dear friend he hadn't seen in a long time accompany him to the neighborhood carnival! We had crafts, games and yummy food with a twinge of DAP spookiness! Plus it gave me a reason to amp up my Halloween decor!!! lol
Photography is more than a hobby!
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| Trevor modeling for Doll Baby Accessories |
Last but not least........ (not sure if this falls in 2012 or 2013!) my little(est) sister got engaged! Nick popped the question January 1 while they ran the trail at Lady Bird Lake (where their first "date" was). Nick's stepmom, Jo, took photos from the bushes! Best thing is we all knew it was coming and had a little surprise brunch for them afterwards!! So happy for her! Welcome to our crazy family Nick.....lol Now to get fit so I can look cute at the wedding!
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| Nick pops the question (Capone knows something's up!) |
So that's 2012 in a nutshell for us!!! Lots of fun and laughter! I hope that 2013 brings even more --- to us and everyone as well! Stay tuned to my blog for all of our updates and events..... some will surely bring a smile or two -- if not a laugh!
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