December 31,2009

I have done a poor job of keeping up with this blog. I actually have some free time today, so I'm downloading pictures, music, and updating this neglected hobby. Here we go...
Sam: Huge.
Climbed out of his crib the day after Thanksgiving. He's actually done pretty well sleeping in the twin bed. We do have to keep the gate up at his door to contain him. One night I found him watching tv in the living room at 3 am.
He's a little weird. I know, I know, that's mean, but he is! He's terrified of the strangest things, but not scared of expected things. He is absolutely horrified by drive through car washes. I'm serious. If he weren't buckled into his car seat, he'd probably be attached to the top of my head the entire time the car is being washed.
Animals still freak him out. He won't even look at the fake animals at Cabella's or Bass Pro Shop. Even the aquarium upset him.
Bubbles. He likes bubbles okay in the bath as long as there isn't too many of them. Too many of the, and he's a shrieking terrified child.

Mason: He's six now!
He gave up his baby blanket and kitty kat for a Texas Tech Blanket. Yes, mama is proud.
Mom and I took him to Six Flags for his birthday and we all had a blast. Keenan even ended up going with us. Mason has no fear. He wanted to ride everything there was. I had poor judgment and let him ride the Shock Wave with me. (That's the one with the two loops.) It really freaked him out, but I was proud of the way he handled it. He never cried. He just told me over and over he wasn't riding that thing ever again.
Kindergarten, well it's been a challenge. He's reading! But he doesn't like it. He's been having a hard time staying out of trouble. But he's getting there. I have to keep reminding myself what a big change this is for him.
We had our yearly checkup with his nephrologist last week. We also had a renal scan done at Cook's. This time we opted for the anesthesia to have the catheter and IV placed. This made for a much easier day. The scan itself was okay. Not as good as last year, but not as bad as it has been. We'll just keep on keepin' on for now!

Kooper: He's turning into such a little man.
He just got back from Christmas at Disney World. We all got Disney World presents from him. I'm now the proud owner of some pink mickey mouse pajama pants. :)
Koop got his first gun this year. Dale, Kathy, Mike, and I all went together to buy a 20 gauge Benelli, youth model. I think he was speechless. We had been telling him he was too young for a gun. It's a beautiful gun that will be passed down to all three boys. He's dying to go shoot clays this weekend. I'm a little excited to shoot it myself, since it might fit me better than mine!
He's gotten his braces off and has a retainer now. He's learned a very valuable lesson about leaving it laying on the table in a napkin at a restaurant. He lost it recently and after having the entire restaurant staff dig through the trash, poor guy had to go home and tell his mom he lost it. Bet that doesn't happen again!
He's a cell phone junkie. He wil text people all day long if you don't tell him to put the phone up. He texted Mike the other day about something "being tite". Mike didn't respond and I think he figured out real quick that dad isn't "down" with all the lingo.
Typical teenage stuff aside, I'm really proud of the young man I've seen coming out this year.

Mike: As patient and sweet as ever. What more can I say?

Me: Finished up my first semester of nursing school. I'm actually thinking I can do this now. I ended up with an "A" in a class that they said nobody gets "A"s in. Very proud of that. I finished out with the best GPA I've had since high school. I've got a six week break until next semester. I really thought I would relax and enjoy it, but that hasn't happened yet. I'm actually ready to get back to it now that Christmas is over. Next semester is only one class and one clinical. Compared to the four classes and clinical I just completed, it sounds easy as cake.
Hard to believe it's the end of 2009. This year has really flown by. We had snow again today, 3rd time in a week. We had a freak blizzard come in for Christmas, leaving us all stranded at home on Christmas day. We actually kind of enjoyed staying in on Christmas day, but were sure glad to get out the next day to see our families. No trips to Austin this year for the New Year's. Just a quiet night at home with the kids.
As the last day of the year closes again, I'm always reminded of the wonderful blessings I have and the wonderful memories to always keep. Happy New Year's to everyone! Hope the New Year brings wonderful things to us all.

She's here!

7 lbs 9 oz, 20 inches
No name or pic yet...

Mollly's Update

Molly has had her epidural, they broke her water, and she just texted that she's at an 8.

She'll be here soon!

I know some people were waiting for updates about Molly today, so I will try to keep up!
I talked to Molly via text message this morning about 7 am. She had just got her IV in and was getting started. I'm betting baby girl will be here around lunchtime, but we'll see!

In the blink of an eye...

My, how fast things change! Just yesterday Mason had his first sleepover at a friend's house and 20 month old Sam pooped in the potty! My boys are growing up.
It's been a blur at our house lately. With all the crazy schedules, it seems like Mike and I barely get to say hello to each other in the evenings!
School is going good for everybody, myself included. Passing all classes so far. We finally got to learn something this last week...putting in catheters! Yes, I know I'm weird because I found this to be extremely exciting. Guess I am really meant to be a nurse, right? :-)
Mason has been wonderful in Kindergarten. He earned all his rainbow stripes on Friday and got to bring the rainbow bag home for the weekend. (This is a big deal!) At home however, he's been a little monster. I've decided he is wearing himself out all day long by being good at school, so by the time he gets home there is nothing 'good' left and he is totally exhausted.
Oh, and the brotherly love has begun. I told Mike the other day it seemed like just this week our boys had really started fighting all the time. Sam is such an instigator and Mason is, well, Mason. He gets pretty rough with Sam (who seems to enjoy it). But, I figure Mason only has a short amount of time before Sam is taking HIM out.
Oh! And you know how I'm always saying it's the little things?? Well this time, it was a big thing. My brand new BIG king size bed! Woohoo!! It's tall and wide and I love it. It's my little piece of heaven. Mike isn't as thrilled as I am but is adjusting. The first night we had it, he texted me goodnight saying he didn't think I'd be able to hear him from over there. Ha ha, smart-ass he is! But I love him anyway. Last Saturday he got up with the boys and let me sleep until almost 9:30. Yes, 9:30! It was wonderful. Then I got up and found out he'd cleaned the kitchen AND the boys bathroom! He has no idea that this was almost the equivalent of those diamond earrings I have been wanting for several years! (I said almost, honey.)
Sam is just growing and growing. I really feel like time is flying when I stop for a minute to look at him. He's not a baby anymore!
He's being a perfect angel at the moment...sleeping. Mike and Mason are gone taking Kooper back to his mom's. I've gotten lots of study time in today.
I keep expecting to get a call from Molly saying that Fred is on the way, but it seems like she is going to be stubborn like her momma and will be here on Wednesday. I can't wait to meet my new little niece! And I sure wish she had a better name than Fred.
Well, I guess that's all the random rambling I've got for now. Back to the books...oh, wait...I hear Sam...

Our First Week

Well, we made it through the first week. Mason's first week of Kindergarten, my first week of Nursing School, and Mike and Sam's first week of adjusting to all the new stuff!
Nursing School sacrifices hit home the very first day. I was due at orientation in Vernon, so Mike got to take Mason for his first day of school. I was very dissapointed I didn't get to make the first day. Mike called me after he dropped him off and said he did great. He said several kids were crying and Mason kept looking around at them with a confused look. The second day, Mason got to ride the bus to school for the first time. He was more excited about that than anything. When the bus got here, he didn't look back, tell me bye, or anything. Just took off running. I stood in the driveway and cried while the bus left. :(
That afternoon, Mike was home with Sam when the bus came back by...without Mason. For about 15 minutes, no one knew where my child was! Very scary! Finally we found out he had been put on the wrong bus, but was making his way home. I don't think he even realized what had happened.
This week for me was a complete 360 in my routine. I was in Vernon at school for 2 1/2 days and the rest of the week working until after 5 to get caught up. By Friday, I was feeling the pressure and very overwhelmed. It seemed like the whole week at school they were just trying to scare the heck out of us. But Molly finally made me smile, she told me to hang in there, I was going to be a NURSE! lol
Today has been a great Saturday at home with my boys. I've been doing laundry, cleaning, organizing my books, computer, and other things. I feel the need to be organized!!
Mason almost made me cry earlier. He had been in the playroom playing with his huge elmo. He had it hooked up to all kinds toys. He finally told me elmo was sick and he was taking care of him. I helped him make elmo a "bed" so he'd be more comfortable. A little later he came and told me he'd decided to take elmo's kidney out. I just stopped in my tracks. "Why would you do that" I asked? He told me elmo wanted his kidney out so he could eat salty stuff. I felt awful. I explained to him that HIS kidney was fine and no one was taking it out. And that he couldn't eat salty stuff because we were trying to take good care of that kidney since it was the only one he has.
I always wonder what's going on in that little head. You just never know if they understand what's going on or not.
Tomorrow is Molly's baby shower. I'm excited for her, ready to see all the cute little girly stuff she will get. I noticed she posted a "belly" pic on her blog. I've got a REAL belly pic. One that shows her actual belly! But, I promised her I wouldn't put it on Facebook or my blog. She's such a spoilsport sometimes! :)

I think...

...if you can motivate yourself to get up, making the early service at church is awesome.

The countdown begins!

Mason put a sticker on his Kindergarten countdown page today! The teachers sent out letters to the kids with a picture and 4 stickers to start the countdown to school.

I'm really wondering if Mason is going to make it to Monday in one piece. He has been terrible this week! His pre-k teacher had to call me at work yesterday because he was acting so bad. Even she said he was not acting like himself. Standing in chairs yelling??? So he and I had a come-to-Jesus meeting last night. I hope it worked. No calls yet today, but it is only 9 am.
I think he's getting nervous about the upcoming change, but I'm still not letting him slide on not acting right.

I think...

...it's time for a new family picture.

Full Circle

I called Mike this morning and said, "Hey, I'm going to be a nurse!" He just laughed at me and said, "that's what I hear." (Then I called and did the same thing to my mom! LOL)
I had drove to Vernon first thing this morning to buy all my nursing books that I would need. I have not been to the Vernon Campus since I attended there right after high school. That was...um, let's not count, many years ago. When I got there, I had this strange feeling of deja vu. Remembering the last time I was there and how different my life is now, and I felt like I'd come full circle, right back to where I had started from. Not sure if that's good or bad, but I'm excited to be going down this path I've chosen. Now, I'm just ready to get started! However, I was not ready for the load of books that I had to purchase! I could not believe the number of books that are already required! I bought a backpack with wheels just so I could get them all to the car. So, I'm as ready as I'll ever be. Ready for a tough two years that will be worth it in the end. We are already having to make some adjustments and tough decisions. Luckily I'm married to a wonderful man who is being so supportive and telling me we will be okay and to go for it. There is no way I could do this without him.

School Clothes Shopping

The drive to Allen, Texas to the outlet mall there is way worth it! Molly and I loaded up early Saturday morning and headed that way. We were very excited, mainly because we were getting away and doing something we'd been talking about forever, but also hoping for some great deals on name brand clothes. And we weren't dissapointed. We both came home broke, but our kids will be looking great at school! I'd have to say my favorite place was the Ralph Lauren for kids. Great prices, and I stocked up for Mason. Shopping with Molly was a little different this time though. Usually we head into a store and both immediately head for the same little boy stuff. This time, I headed to the little boy section and she was off to the little girl section. She got some really cute stuff for "Fred". I can't wait until she gets here!
I bought Mason a pair of Nike tennis shoes with laces. I was determined that he couldn't start kindegarten without knowing how to tie his shoes. Mike worked with him Sunday night, and he's got it down already! I am so proud of him. (The little things :) )
So, he's all ready to head to kindegarten. But I'm not. I just can't believe my baby is going to kindegarten! I'm starting nursing school the same day and I will probably show up to orientation crying.

Busy, Busy

I can't even begin to describe how busy it's been lately! Where would I start?
Let's see...Took Mason to an ENT last Wednesday to discuss removing his tonsils, and on Friday they removed his tonsils! Saturday I had a garage sale. Finals are this week in my A&P II and Patho class. I registered for my fall classes, and will already have clinicals at URHC by October. We had a Gilmore family get-together at the water park and then steaks at the house two weeks ago. (We have ALOT of kids in this family!) I am going school clothes shopping this Saturday with Molly and the following Sunday with Christine. I haven't even found the Holliday school supply list yet. Um..what else? Oh, Sam has turned 18 months somewhere in the middle of all this. And he can count. I was getting on to him the other night, (he wasn't listening) so I pointed at him and said in a stern voice "one" he just looked at me and said "two". Kooper fell in the floor laughing while I was just dumb-founded. So, I said "three" to which he replied "four". By now I was laughing and couldn't get onto him. At least he is learning something at daycare! He is really my little handful.
Mason is recovering awesomely. (Is that a word??) We have always known he has a high pain tolerance due to the kidney stones, but he is sailing through this tonsil thing. I stayed home with him today, and he gets to stay with all his grandmothers the rest of the week. He should be good and spoiled by the weekend.
Wish me luck on all my finals and getting through this crazy time! I'll try to post more often.

Hookup

I know, I know, I have lots of catching up to do, but here's a quick little story I had to get in.
Yesterday morning, we were doing our usual dash for the door. I was all over the kitchen fixing lunches and getting everything together. Mason was taking his medicine. Out of nowhere Mason says, "Mom, I had a hookup." I stopped dead in my tracks. "What did you say??" I asked. "I had a hookup" he says. I'm standing there with all these thoughts running through my head. We are not really having a 'hookup' discussion already are we? And what is that boy at school teaching him?? Finally, I took the easy way out. I asked, "What is a hookup?" He says, "You know momma, (he makes a little noise in his chest) when you swallow sometimes and you make that hookup sound." OKAY, Hiccup! Gotcha! I can deal with that!!
So I explained to him the proper way to pronounce hiccup and off we went. I'm sooo not ready for hookup discussions yet!

Pics

4th of July Weekend

What rain? Rain didn't stop our firework show. It actually helped! We ended up shooting fireworks at our house, right along with everyone else in Lakeside! I think everybody was relieved and felt a little better about lighting fireworks once the ground was wet. The boys had a blast. We had tons of bottle rockets from the past couple of years and since it was raining, we didn't mind setting them off. The boys just loved them. We ended up just staying home all weekend. The boys swam all day Saturday then we cooked out hot dogs. About the time it started getting dark was when the rain hit. I thought Mason and Kooper were going to cry. We just waited it out and set off fireworks in between the storms.

The downside to our weekend was that our air conditioner went out about 6:00 Saturday night. So it got hot. Luckily the rain came through and the temps dropped or else we probably would have had to go stay somewhere else. We were able to get someone to come out and repair it yesterday.
It was a long tiring weekend but it was fun.

Woo Hoo!

I got in!! The program starts August 24th. Mason will start Kindegarten and I will start nursing school on the same day. Funny, huh? I told Molly yesterday that's it crazy how I am excited that I've just guaranteed the next two years will be the hardest ever! But it will be so worth it for our family.
So now off to study for my patho test that I have this afternoon. Still have to pass that class to get in!

A Text You Don't See Every Day

Received this text message from Mason's teacher this morning...

"Hey girl, Mason shoved a rock in his ear but its ok we got it out. He was crying alot he said it didn't hurt though. I think it just scared him. But he's ok!"

Nice.

Waiting

Waiting, waiting, waiting. Waiting for the school to post the list of students that got into the Fall RN Program. Supposed to be posted sometime today. I keep refreshing the page every few minutes. I'm not very good at this waiting part...

In Pictures

Been too busy to blog lately. But here's some pictures to catch up on.

My hubby surprised me this morning with a rose..

Last Thursday, Mike took Mason and Koop to the Ft Worth Zoo and a Rangers game after Mason's appt with his Urologist. (Which went well. All good until next year.)
This was Mason's first Rangers game. Wish I could have seen his face! He has made a habit of watching the Rangers play on TV with Mike. His favorite player is the catcher Saltalamaccia. They came home with huge Texas Rangers Night lights. Way too bright for me, but Mason loves it.


Here's Sam in our pool that we put up. He had a blast while I was filling it up and getting all the wrinkles out. All three boys absolutely love it. Actually all 4 boys...Mike is considering the idea of an in-ground pool someday! :-)


I tried to get some pictures of my boys one morning before church. It didn't work out real well.


And this just cracked me up last night. Before I went to sleep, I went and checked on the boys. Here was Mason. 100 degrees outside, stripped to his underwear, kicked all covers off, but wearing his dang toboggan that his Uncle Cary got him for Christmas. And sound asleep. For some reason it hit me funny. Had to get a pic.

The ceilings in the house are all done. Wasn't too bad as far as cleaning up. I did have to repaint quite a bit though. I painted that Thursday night while Mike and the boys were gone to the game. I gave Sam a paintbrush and he walked along behind me "painting" everything. The house is almost all put back together. I'm finding myself wanting to rearrange everything and get rid of a bunch of stuff. Planning a garage sale I think.

MMM...Fried Chicken

Is there anything better than your mom's home cooking?
We camped out at mom & David's last night while the renovation continues at the house. Mom went all out and fried chicken for us, made my favorite potato salad, and homemade macaroni. Yum. I'm getting hungry again thinking about it. She is also keeping both boys today just to spend some time with them. (Spoiling them is what she's doing.) She will be good and tired by the time we pick them up! Thanks mom! :)
Hopefully we can sleep at our house tonight. The ceilings are supposed to be painted today and then hopefully all the plastic can come down and clean up can begin! It is really going to look good when it's all completed. I just wish we were getting the bedrooms done too, but maybe somewhere down the line we can work on that. Right now, I just want my house back.

A Mess

You would not believe the state of my house at this time! "It will be messy" is a huge understatement. I started to take pictures, but just couldn't bring myself to document that sort of tragedy. And to top it off, they found more water damage to the ceilings once all the acoustic came off. So Mike has called the adjuster to come back and hopefully we can get the other half of our roof repaired as well. Mike and the kids went and stayed in Olney with his parents. There was absolutely no way we could let the boys in the house. Plus all the rooms are quarantined off by plastic. I have a test today, so I just holed up in our bedroom and spent the night by myself so I could get some quiet study time. Didn't bother me until I tried to go to sleep. The sound of billowing plastic is kinda creepy.

A Quickie

Been crazy at our house lately. Both boys were sick at the end of last week. Sam had some strange virus that caused him to run a high fever for 3 days. Them Mason told me he had a "scar" on his throat Friday morning. Turns out he had strep. He didn't get to go to granny's to spend the night, so he was upset. I bribed him by buying him a Star Wars movie, so all is good now. Stayed around the house Saturday while the boys got better. Yesterday, we went to church then lunch. Then luckily, right as we got home, Ira stopped by. He had really good timing, since we needed to move all our funiture out for the celing repair. He wasn't as thrilled as we were about his timing, but he was a trooper and stayed and helped. After all was moved out, we loaded up to go to Dalls to pick up Kooper. I had thought it might be a good idea if we all went with Mike, cause I could study the whole way. Let's just say I've had better ideas. Mason and Sam weren't very good, and it was a long 6 hours. I did get one chapter read from my pathophysiology book. Ugh!
Today they are starting our celing repair. Our home is going to be a wreck for 3 to 4 days. I'm thinking of running home on my lunch break to see the damage.

My First "A"

I am officially back to school and have not had any time for blogging lately. I'm still getting used to my new schedule, new priorities, and new found sleepiness! I'm so used to going to bed right after the kids do, but now that I'm doing homework every night it's more like 10 or 11 when I finally get to bed. And let me tell you, I'm feeling it this morning! So sleepy!
I did get a 92 on my first test in seven or more years. It was a microbiology test. And I'm very proud of myself! Just hope I can keep the A for the rest of the class! My nursing class is completely on line. I haven't quite got a feel for it yet. Seems pretty comprehensive and difficult right now. I am going to take my first quiz tonight and hopefully will feel better about the class after that. Still crossing my fingers and praying for acceptance...the list of new students for the Fall RN program will be posted sometime during the first week of July.

Been a pretty normal couple of weeks around here. (knock on wood) Mike has a story involving Mason and a "pancake festival with George Strait." It's evidently one of those where you had to be there. I've told him he needs to get my password to document his own stories on here. We did get our little pool up over Memorial Day weekend. The kids love it. Especially Sam! I just thought the other two boys were water babies! We didn't get it quite as leveled as we should have, so Mike and I are just praying that it stays up for the summer! Mike also finished almost all of the fence that weekend. We have some privacy now for our pool! Yea!
Mason had a final tball tournament Tuesday night. It ended up just being one game, but they had fun. Mason somehow became the catcher for his Yankees team this year. I think because everyone thinks he's so cute at it. Definitely not because of his skills, lol! During this game he decided to tackle a huge kid making a run for home plate. Looked more like a football move than a baseball move and they both ended up eating dirt. He was okay and shook it off really well. I just couldn't believe he'd jumped in front of a kid twice his size like that! The other kid was whining afterwards even though he was okay. Is it wrong that I was proud of my son?? :) After the game, all the kids got trophy's. They were all so excited, it was so cute! Mason slept with his beside his bed that night.

To me...

...Happiness is going to take a hot bath after a long day, and finding out your husband scrubbed the bathtub clean for you! :)

Why Not?

I'm always saying, "no." Always. No, you can't do this, no, you can't do that.
This morning the boys and I were enjoying a quiet day at home and it started raining. I love to watch the rain so I took the boys out into the garage to see outside. It was one of those nice steady rains with no thunder or lightening. Beautiful. Immediately Mason asked if he could go play in the rain. I immediately replied no, you can't play in the rain. Then it hit me. Why the hell not? Why can't he play in the rain? So I told him sure, get out there! And I took a seat with Sam in the garage and watched Mason head out into the rain in his undies. And he ran, stomped, danced, jumped, and laughed with the pure abandon and joy that a five year old boy can find playing in the rain. Even stood with his head back catching raindrops on his tongue. Once again, it's the little things.
Lord, help me to remember to say yes once in a while...

Weekend Recap

Kooper told Mike, yesterday on the way home, that Sam should be required to wear a helmet at all times. This is not a bad idea. Sam is climbing on everything! He fell of the the playroom couch twice Saturday night! And that floor is concrete covered with outdoor carpet! First time he went face first and put a knot on his forehead. The second time he went backwards and put a huge knot on the back of his head. Did this teach him anything? Nope, he was right back up there. Mike caught him on top of the kitchen table the other day. I'm thinking we are in for a wild ride with Sam.
Saturday was a good day. We got up and were on the road to Dallas by 6:30 am. Kooper had a soccer game at 9 and baseball at 2. Unfortunately both got rained out. So we spent the day in Dallas/Ft Worth instead. Went to Bass Pro Shop first. We love going to look around in there. And we actually didn't spend too much this time. Mike got one pair on pants and I got a pair of pants for hunting, they were marked down to $10, can't beat that! Mason wanted everything as usual. Finally when we were leaving I told him that there were lots of toys in there that mom and dad want, but nobody was getting anything. After that we went and found the Grapevine Mills Mall. Mike was actually on board for this! (He's usually not much for shopping.) Walked around there for a while. We let Koop do the rock climbing. Then we made a pretzel/cookie stop. (All three boys were silent for about 3 minutes as they stuffed sugar down their throats!) I found a Tommy Kids and Carters store. I really wish we had these here! Especially the Carter's store, it was awesome and cheap! Finally we ended the trip with a late lunch at Outback. Yum.
After we got home, the kids were ready to run after being in the car for so long. Some neighbors stopped by as we were unloading and then dad, Nancy, and Hannah came by too. Ended up being a fun evening!
Sunday we went to church then made the Walmart run. Fun, Fun. Worked in the yard a bit and watched the boys play baseball. Mike was able to get back early from taking Kooper home, so we got to eat green chili enchiladas together after we put the kids down. Good weekend.

I love shoes

I made the mistake of walking by the shoes last night in Dillards. Then I really made a mistake by trying on these Gianni Bini shoes. The I simply just bought them. But I LOVE them. They are my new favorite things. Yes, I know they are shoes. But to a mom who is always buying things for little boys, shoes are my thing. I haven't bought any cute or expensive shoes in a while. Definitely going to have to stay away from Dillards! So far I haven't tripped while walking in them....

End of the season

We had our last tball game last night. I'm kind of sad! I think Mike and I enjoyed it as much as Mason did. I really enjoyed watching the kids improve and meeting so many parents. I also got to help out in the dugout last night. And I have to admit, it wore me out! Who knew it was so exhausting trying to keep 12 five year olds contained and organized?? So now I guess it's time to get Mason signed up for swimming lessons and maybe a week of camp with Kooper this summer.
We are in the process of trying to find someone to redo our ceilings in the house. We had some water damage from a wind storm, so we are getting half a new roof (yes half from the insurance, makes no sense whatsoever!) and the ceilings have to be repaired. This is going to mean scraping off all the acoustic popcorn stuff, spraying texture, and painting. Not to mention repairing the water damaged part. And we want all this done for a reasonable price. Crazy, right? The first contractor that came out to quote it recommended moving out while the repairs are being done. Nice. And where are we supposed to go?? I am excited about having it done. I think it will look great. Just not enjoying trying to find somebody we trust to do it and the mess it is going to make.
School starts in two weeks! Paid my summer tuition yesterday and officially applied to nursing school last Friday. (Books for two classes cost $400!) I asked Mike if he's ready to be Mr. Mom and he says he's all for it. I think we're both ready for this big adventure, but ask me a month from now and it may be a different story. :)

Nuts and Soap

Yesterday was just a crazy day. Busy at work, phones were out, accountants were in, ugh, just crazy. So then I go to pick the boys up. Sam had his third bite mark in as many weeks. Had to have a talk with someone from the school. As I'm having this talk, Mason and his class walked by. I could tell by the look my son gave me that he was in trouble. Sure enough, when I went to get him, I had to have a talk with his teacher. Mason has recently picked up the word "nuts" from a friend at school. And it's driving me crazy. I've heard it a few times here at home and have warned him about it. I've considered talking with his teacher about it, but didn't want to get another child in trouble. Well yesterday, he overloaded the sweet, timid, cute little afternoon teacher with "my nuts this" and "my nuts that." The poor girl had a hard time getting the word out to tell me about it. I promised her we'd take care of it and have a talk with the his primary teacher about the other student as well.
The whole way home Mason didn't speak. He knew it was bad. And he gets this sad look when he's in big trouble, so it makes ME feel bad that I'm fixing to have to have it out with him. We got home and I sent him straight to his room, he was already screaming, "I don't want a spanking!" Really?? I'm thinking, is this really my Friday afternoon??
I had warned Mason before about soap in the mouth when he talked dirty, but had never followed through on it. So I called Mike to see if he was almost home and if he was on board with the soap idea. He was. So, I called Mason to the kitchen table and handed him the bar of soap. That was the end of the world for him. Hysterical, clinging to the chair, "don't put it in my mouth!", crazy. He was ready to take a spanking instead of the soap. I finally got the soap in his mouth and told him to leave it there to clean out his mouth. Then I had to walk away because I WAS ABOUT TO CRY! I made him keep the soap for about a minute. I then asked him if he liked it or if he wanted to say anymore bad words. He is now adamantly against soap in the mouth or any bad words that will put it there. So this was a pretty traumatic twenty minutes Mason and I had. By the time Mike got home I told him I'd handled it and it was over. I did take away his tv too, but I think he was relieved it wasn't worse than that. I now know why my dad always came and hugged me after I got in big trouble as a kid. It sucks having to get onto your kids! It really makes you feel bad! I think it may be harder on us than them. But, I keep reminding myself that I don't want a five year old boy that goes around thinking it's okay to talk about "his nuts."

What's Your Wednesday Worth?

A mid-week trip to Wal Mart ... $115.40

Having the kids fed, bathed, and in bed by 8:00 pm ... $0.00

Enjoying a quiet Wednesday night with your husband ... PRICELESS

Doing Something Right

Mason's preschool teacher pulled me aside to talk to me. She said that Mason had come up to her, gave her a big hug and told her thank you. She asked him what he was thanking her for? Mason told her thank you for getting him ready for kindegarten, because he'd went to kindegarten roundup day and saw that they did the same things that Ms. Bre does, so now he knows he's ready. Bre said she was just speachless and it made her feel good to know she's actually doing good with the kids.
I was shocked too! I have a well mannered, polite, loving little boy. He drives us crazy at times and acts like the 5 year old boy he is, but he's a great kid! Mike and I are doing something right! :)

Happy Sunday

What a great weekend it has been! I took Friday off to spend the day with Mason for his Kindegarten roundup in Holliday. Yes, my baby is going to be starting school this year. He was so excited for our big day! He kept telling me he loved me and was so glad we were spending the day together. And was really excited that Sam went to daycare and not with us.
We headed over to the school Friday morning, not knowing what to expect. They welcomed all the parents and kids and then sent them off to class. They then asked us to leave them there and come back at 11 to pick them up. Apparently they "test" them to see where they are at academically and use this information for class sorting. Mason did great. He was a little nervous, but didn't hesitate to join the class. I was the one that was actually a little emotional! So, I went and did a little shopping to make myself feel better while he was at school. When I picked him up, he was full of stories. He is ready to start school he says. After that, we had lunch with Mike, did a little shopping, picked up Sam, and headed out to visit with my mom and David. The boys love going out there. For one thing, they get whatever the heck they want. They also get to run wild without anyone telling them to come back. The joys of living in the country! Mom cut Sam's hair for me. He was looking like a little wild man! He looks much better. Both boys (and momma) were worn out by the time we got home. None of us were awake by the time Mike and Koop made it in.
Yesterday, I had planned to spend some time with my little sister. The Wichita Theatre was putting on High School Musical 2. So, I kept it a surprise and loaded her up and took her down there. She wasn't too excited at first, I don't think she realized what exactly it was we were going to. Once it started, she loved it. It was really enjoyable! Some very talented teenagers! After that, Mike, the boys and I cooked supper and had a quiet night at home.
Today we got up and headed to church. Mason asked for the purple bag during children time. I had known this was going to happen since he's not very shy. (We've only been going to this church for a few weeks.) One child a week gets to take home the purple bag. They bring whatever they want the next week to show the Pastor during children's worship. Mason is already convinced he wants to take his monster truck. I'm hoping to talk him into something more original by next Sunday. Dad, Nancy, and Hannah also made it to church with us. I'm really liking this church, and the kids seem to enjoy it to0. It's alot easier than driving to Olney to go to church.
After church I cooked some pork fried rice and Mike mowed the yard. I just finished up a little tlc sewing on Mason's poor blanket. It's about ready to be stored away for life, but he's not ready to give it up yet. Mike just left to take Kooper home, so it's just me and the boys for the rest of the day. Just a good relaxing day around here. I'm thinking of popping a girly movie in, but odds are I won't get to watch any of it. Oh well!

An Oatmeal Morning

You know it's going to be a great day when the oatmeal explodes in the microwave. The thing is, I was actually trying to get the boys a hot breakfast this morning. Trying to do something good. And I was even up and ready in time to make it!
Poor Mason saw it explode and said, "I guess that means I'm getting fruit loops now?" I was actually already thinking he's getting fruit loops now, but those sad brown eyes made me feel bad, so we made more oatmeal. Curious to see how the rest of my day goes now! :)

Got some good news yesterday, I was able to register for two of the three classes that I need to start nursing school. I will be able to register for the third class next Friday and I will officialy be back in school by the end of May. I'm getting a little nervous...!

Better

Just an update, Sam is finally acting a little better! Went to doctor again yesterday and he said it's mostly allergies and that his ears are no longer infected. So we now have him on two new allergy meds and I swear I could tell a difference last night! As for the new daycare, each day is a little better!! :)

Sigh

I left Sam at daycare this morning screaming and I had tears myself by the time I made it to my car. Lord, I pray he adjusts to this change soon, I am feeling like a terrible mom.

Poor Sam

Poor Sam is still kind of struggling at his new dacare/preschool. Last week was really bad. Although on Thursday, we found out his ears were still infected, so that may have been why he was having such a hard time. Little guy got a big shot, and two more antibiotics. The pediatrician is now talking about putting tubes in his ears if he doesn't get better. He was sick all the way through Saturday night. On Sunday he finally started acting like himself. So yesterday, I had high hopes that it would be a good day at the new place. Mike picked the boys up while I was getting my hair done, so he got to hear the day's recap. Sam still had a hard time in the afternoon (not getting his usual 2 naps a day) and another little kid bit him! Did not break the skin but left a bruise. I'm thinking, what next?? I guess it could be worse, so I better not jinx him. So, here's to hoping Sam has a better day today!
On another note, I got to see Molly this weekend. She is looking so cute! Can't wait to find out what she's having!! Anyway, I'm on a mission to get her to take some pictures of herself pregnant. And of course she doesn't want to. So if any of you reading this know Molly, help me convince her to get out from behind the camera and in front of it! LOL (She's going to kick my butt for this!)

Sam's First Day

Today I dropped both boys off at the same place! Yea! A spot finally came open at Mason's daycare/preschool for Sam. There is very little turnover at this place and we didn't think we would ever be able to get him in. We are excited to finally get him admitted. Hopefully he can stay there until he starts kindegarten!
He was a little grumpy when I dropped him off this morning, so I left feeling sad and nervous. Of course his teacher promised to call if she needed anything. Mason ran into his class telling everyone his baby brother was down in the toddler room now. Then all the teachers were teasing me, wondering what they were going to do with two Gilmore boys in school now! All I told them was good luck!

Lots of Info

Where to start? Last Wednesday was Sam's 15 month check up. He weighs 27 and 1/2 pounds and is 32 and 1/2 inches tall. He's actually losing some weight finally. Running off some of that baby fat! I was bragging to the doctor that he seems to finally be healthy, other than his allergies, and before I could even knock on wood the doctor said he had double ear infections again! I asked about tubes in his ears, but the doctor said he wasn't that bad and his ear infections are from allergies and this dry air right now. So we left with 3 shots, another antibiotic, and the reassurance that he's perfectly healthy!
Friday I had the day off since Sam's daycare was closed. Mason went to school until noon for the Easter Egg Hunt. Afterwards we went to dad and Nancy's to visit for the afternoon. They kept the boys for me while I did some shopping. I haven't got to to that without hauling a little boy around in forever! That evening we all went and watched Mason's t-ball game. This is always good for entertainment.
Saturday was just a good relaxing day. Mike got the yard all cleaned up. I guess not very relaxing for him, lol! Then we went and drove through the ranch and made our way out to Pageant to visit with Cary and family. Mason got to see a rattlesnake for the first time. Thank goodness he was appropriately scared! Everyone we have seen since has got to hear his rattlesnake story.
Yesterday was Easter. And it was such a good day. We went to church with Mike's family. Then had lunch at his parent's house with Ira and his family. We had a little Easter egg hunt there then went out to the homeplace for Easter with my mom, David, Randy and family. It was such a pretty day and we were even thankful for the mud! Such a relief to get some rain. Mom and David bought a tractor, so Mason and Lexi had to take a round in that. It had been a long day by the time we got home. But it was one of those days where you count your blessings for the family you have.
So, now it's Monday. I was a nervous wreck this morning. I was scheduled to take a nursing entrance exam at 10 am. I have decided to go back to school to get my RN license. I am probably completely out of my mind, but I'm going to try it. If I can get in this year, I will start the actual program in September and graduate in two years. To get in this year, I will have to take 3 courses this summer. Also to get in, I had to take an entrance exam. I was very nervous because it has been forever since I've taken a test! But, long story short, I took it this morning and passed! Yea! So now I just have to register for my summer courses, apply, and pray that I get in. This summer is going to be really hard for us with me taking such time consuming courses. Mike is being really supportive and telling me to go for it. My boss is also being supportive, which is such a relief. So, looks like momma is going back to school...

Catching Up

I haven't been a very dedicated blogger lately. Seems like there is something always going on! We had our first t-ball game Saturday. It was hilarious. The kids did great even though they didn't know what they were doing! Mason was running all over the field like a wild man. He even tackled his own pitcher for the ball! They've got a lot to learn, but it's too cute. Mike ended up coming straight from work and got volunteered to help on third base. I was making fun of him for being out there in his work boots and black cowboy hat. Looked a little out of place!! :)





Weekend before last, Molly and the boys came to spend the night. It had been forever since they've been to see us. The house gets crazy when all our boys are together...I love it! Molly is starting to show a little. She's too cute! And hungry!! It's funny hearing her talk about food all the time now, because normally she's not a big eater! I'm trying to convince her to get in front of the camera and get some pictures of herself this time. She's always taking everyone elses. And speaking of, she got some really good pics of Sam while she was here. I don't think we spent more than five minutes taking the pics. It took longer to find the "perfect" brick wall! Sam's pics must have inspired her, because she got into picture taking mood last weekend and got some cute pictures of her boys.



We've also been enjoying the warmer weather and trying to get out more. (Just wish this crazy wind would go away!) For us, that means fishing! One Sunday we loaded up Mason and Sam and headed out to the big tank. We took the pack-and-play, sunscreen, and lots of snacks and drinks. I just knew Sam would be awful, but he was great! He played for hours. We didn't catch a single fish, but had a great day.




This last Sunday we went to church in Olney. Riley had his confirmation. A big day for him, I'm proud of him. Then we had lunch out at Donny and Brenda's house afterwards. We, I mean Mike, had cooked the ham the night before. Our first time to do that. It was good. I guess it would be really hard to mess that up though. Mace and Amanda were in, so we got to visit with them for a while, then headed home to wrap up another weekend.
I'm going to end this one with a random pic of my dad and Sam. Sam has always been kinda shy with my dad. But here lately he's finally warmed up to his grandad. Dad has learned that fruit loops in hand will convince Sam to go with anyone.

DO AS I SAY, NOT AS I DO...

One of the things I like about myspace, other than Mike McClure's blog, are the bumper stickers. I love the witty/sarcastic quotes. My favorite one is "I love Jesus, but I cuss a little." I have this one posted at the top of my page. This is me. I admit I have a potty mouth. I get it honest, almost everyone in my family has a slight potty mouth! :)
But anyway, we have always told Kooper and Mason that we may say words that aren't nice, but that doesn't mean they can say them. (And obviously we try not to say the really really bad words in front of them.) We've told them when they are grown ups and have their own houses they can say whatever they want. For the most part this has worked. There have been minor instances with Koop. Like a few years ago when he was fishing with Mike and his minnow fell out of his hand and he said, "slippery little bastard." But as Mike says, it's hard to get onto them when they use the words appropriately.
But now, there is Mason. My darling son. First, there was last week, when he was in the back of my car and was telling me an elaborate story and ended it with, "what the hell?" I refrained from laughing, chewed him out, and made promises of soap filled mouths if I heard that again. When I told Mike, he laughed and said it sounded exactly like something I would say. I denied any such thing, but he's probably right! So last night we were all outside on the patio and Mike overheard Mason quietly playing by himself. He was walking along saying, "dammit,dammit,dammit,dammit,dammit,dammit." When Mike asked him what he was saying, he lied about it, so he proceeded to get a memorable spanking from daddy. Now that's not one of my words, so this one is blamed on daddy! At any rate, guess we all need to watch our mouths a little better. I really don't want calls from the kindegarten teacher next year regarding Mason's extensive vocabulary!

Type A Influenza...6 Year Anniversary..

Yes, we have another sick child. This time it's Mason. He got pretty sick on us Saturday. Just kinda laying around, low fever, not acting right. We went ahead and went on out to Mom and David's for the fish fry thinking he'd perk up a little, which he did. But by 6 pm he was running a very high fever. Several hours later, it still wouldn't come down, so I took him to the ER scared he had a kidney infection. We actually got in pretty quick, and he was admitted to the hospital due to his electrolytes being off. Sunday morning we found out he had type a influenza. Poor kid had the flu shot, but apparently it didn't work this year. He was a sick little boy. We stayed in the hospital until Monday morning. Even though we got to take him home, they said he was still sick and contagious. He can't go back to school until at least Thursday. So, we are at home, where he is running a low grade fever and bouncing off the walls. Definitely feeling better cause he's driving me crazy once again. Trying to keep little Sam away from him, I took him on into daycare. Hope no one else gets sick. We've just had a lot of bad luck lately when it comes to illness!
On a lighter note...Happy 6th Anniversary to my hubby! Hard to believe it's been that long, but at the same time seems like we've been together forever. I think I made his day last night when I told him I hadn't bought him anything so not to worry about getting me anything. He was relieved and kept asking if it was seriously okay, lol. We just bought a hospital stay, I think we can do without presents this year!!

31 Years

Yesterday was my birthday, the big 31. So I was laying in bed last night thinking how my life has turned out, how much has changed, and all the things I've learned. I thought I'd share a few of those things...

I don't know half as much as I THOUGHT I knew ten years ago. Yes dad, you were right.

My family is my lifeline.

My husband is the most patient, calm, and loving man I've ever met. I'm very lucky.

Nothing makes you more vulnerable, than having a couple of kids.

I still can't wear a white shirt without getting something on it.

I'm actually a decent cook. Who knew that would happen?

Boys are fascinated with toilets. From playing with the water, to flushing, to looking at what's in it.

My sister in law has become my SISTER and my best friend in the whole world. She keeps me sane.

And, I'm officially a soccer mom. Well, actually, a t-ball mom. I've been thrown into the world of twice weekly practices, selling raffle tickets, working concession stands, and cheering on my little boy. And I love it! Life is good.

His Boots

Mason woke up this morning pissy as usual. But today I was prepared! I quickly reminded him that today was his first t-ball practice. Well, that worked! He jumped out of bed and was ready to get going. That is, until he found the clothes I had set out for him. The attitude was back. He didn't want to wear his sketchers, he wanted to wear his boots. I told him he couldn't play baseball in boots, he was wearing the sketchers. This brought tears. He wanted to show everybody that he wears boots. So I spent the next five minutes explaining that baseball players don't wear boots when they are playing baseball. I could see the wheels turning in his little blonde head. He wasn't sure it was worth playing baseball if you couldn't do it in your boots. Eventually he got dressed and put the sketchers on. Guess he's gonna give the baseball thing a try...

Typical Outcome.

Well we walked all the way to the park. It was hot. Sam got to swing for about five minutes before Mason said he needed to poop. Park bathrooms were closed, so we had to go ahead and walk back home. Got here and he decided he didn't need to poop and was mad that we didn't stay at the park. Laid him down for a nap pretty quickly!
Oh well, at least we got some exercise.
And look at that. I've blogged twice in one day.

An Unexpected Day

I am at home with both my boys on this beautiful day! Sam's daycare is closed due to the stomach virus, so I had to stay home with him today. So instead of driving Mason into town to school, I let him stay home too. I was kind of dreading it this morning, thinking of what I needed to be doing at work, and how may days I've missed, but it's turning out to be a nice day. We've already been to Walmart and back. Just had lunch. Sam has already had a good nap. Mason is watching Madagascar 2, for the second time. He's also been outside chasing Jack. I even got some organizing done! I've got this really neat old blue trunk that we got from Mike's grandparent's house, so I've been organzing stuff I want to keep in it.
And Mike is either going to be in for a treat or a nightmare tonight. I'm going to attempt to make my grandma's famous enchiladas for the first time ever. I've got all the ingredients and I'm sure I will be calling my mom several times to make sure I'm doing it right! We'll see!
Well, it's too pretty to be inside, so I think we're going to walk down to the park.

Redemption

Yesterday was another one of those days. Running like crazy trying to get everything taken care of and knowing Sam was at home sick. When I got home, I was doing my usual running around, trying to get supper completed, laundry started, dishes rinsed, talk to my husband, and trying not to knock Sam down as he clinged to my pant leg. Mason was trying to get my attention to tell me he had something for me. Finally I stopped to listen to him and opened up a card that he said he'd made for me at school. It was red construction paper and had hearts on the outside. I opened it up and it said "mom", and had a face and all these crazy squiggly lines around the face. I just burst out laughing and asked him if that was supposed to be me and my hair. He just grinned and nodded. That was the first time I had smiled, much less laughed all day long. Made my day. The crazy hair drawing cracked me up. I had to give him a big hug and kiss. I keep talking about the "little things" in my blog, this was one of them. Oh, he'd also written "dad" at the bottom, but dad didn't have a picuture. :)

Oh, and I've figured out how to get Mason going in the mornings. He's a little grumpy when I get him up. Worse than me! So, I made a cd for him with all his favorite songs to have in the car for the drive in. (He's my little music man!) Here's the line up...

Chicken Fried - Zac Brown Band
All Summer Long - Kid Rock
Daddy's Farm - Shooter Jennings
Belly of the Beast - Mike McClure Band

(And in that order)
So by the time I get him to school, he's jamming and ready to go. Probably not very orthodox music for a five year old but he's got good taste and it works!

Oh My Gosh...

It's always something. I'm not usually one of those Monday haters. But yesterday was just one of those days. Maybe it was because I've been battling a cold all weekend. Maybe it was because of all the new projects my boss gave me. Or maybe it was because Sam puked all over me when I got home last night. Yes. He is sick again! So now the tally is, RSV, Phneuomonia, Bronchitis, and now the stomach bug. We just can't catch a break. He's at home with his daddy today so I could work. Been missing too many days with him being sick all the time. I'm sure they are having fun :)

Duck Poop

Mason is potty trained. However, he's not too good at the wiping part, so we still have to do that for him. This consists of him yelling periodically from the bathroom, "I'm poooooooping! Come wipe my butt!" So, tonight Mike and I were moving furniture around when we heard this call. Mike went to help him and next thing I know I hear Mike laughing hysterically and calling me to the bathroom. I get in there and he tells me that Mason had said he only pooped a little and it looked like a duck. I'm thinking okay, and that's funny why? So, Mike says here, look at it. Of course I do, lean over the toilet, and lo and behold it looked like a duck. I couldn't help but laugh. Boys. At least I'm getting over being grossed out by the things they do!
Mike said that was something for me to blog about.

Can't Catch A Break!

Friday morning, Sam woke up running a low grade fever. He'd been really fussy all week, but he's also teething, so we didn't think too much about it. I had noticed him pull on his ears a couple of times, but nothing major. Since it was Friday and he now had fever, I figured I should run him to the clinic to get his ears checked just in case. Well, long story short, he has phneumonia. I was blown away, I didn't think he was that sick! He ended up getting pretty sick Friday afternoon through the weekend. High fever, really fussy, and a bad cough. Apparently he probably got it because he was weakened by the RSV he had a few weeks ago. The dr's office said they'd had a lot of phneumonia cases this last week. So, one shot, one antibiotic, lots of breathing treatments later, he's back at daycare and hopefully recovering. I am so ready for my kids to get healthy! This morning, Mason was saying his stomach hurt. The stomach bug is going around his school, so I'm just waiting for them to call me...

Time Flies...

Vegas was a blast. The funny thing is, we really didn't DO anything! Everyone keeps asking if we saw any shows, gambled alot, or went to different places, and we just keep telling them no. Neither one of us are big gamblers. We enjoyed just seeing different things, eating good food, and the time together more than anything. I even layed out by the pool for several hours one day while Mike went to a class. The weather was just awesome! I think Mike and I will both look back and remember our night at the Playboy Club inside the Palms Casino, but as the saying goes, "What happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas!"
After 5 days without my kids, I was dying to see them. Unfortunately it took two plane rides home to get to them. I hate planes. I had hoped that maybe I would enjoy it this time, but nope. Still hate them. We were booked for a layover in Denver both ways, so I had the luck of riding 4 planes. Yup. Still hate planes.
The boys seemed to have been good while we were gone. They stayed with Molly from Sunday to Wednesday. Her and Robert taught Mason how to swallow a pill and Sam how to drink from a hard top cup. Things Mike and I had been trying and failing at. I told her I'm sending Mason back to learn to ride his bike without training wheels! Wednesday, mom went and got the boys and took them home so they could sleep in their beds. She said when she put Sam in his crib, he "aaahhhhddddd" and went right to sleep. She, the brave soul she is, took them to Chucky Cheese the next day, so we are the proud owners of some chucky cheese cups, toys, and pictures on our fridge. Pretty cute. I think she said by Thursday, Mason was finally missing us. I know Mike and I were sure missing them! It was so nice to get away and have a vacation, just the two of us, but it was even better coming home!

Getting Ready...

I'm already on vacation. Haven't wanted to work all day!! Sunday, we are dropping the boys off with Molly in Olney, then headed to Hurst to spend the night with Cary. Then Monday AM we fly out to Vegas for the week. Woo Hoo!! I'm sure after 5 days we will be beyond ready to come home, but we are both looking forward to it. Especially since the trip is paid for by his boss! Now I just need to get home to start packing! I'm nervous and feeling bad about leaving the boys for that long. But, yes, I know Molly and mom, it is okay and they will be fine! LOL
Hopefully the next time I blog we will be millionaires....

Bernard B. Gilmore

Bernard B. Gilmore, age 97, of Olney, Texas, died Sunday, January 25, 2009 in Olney.


Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 28, 2009, in the chapel of Lunn Funeral Home, with Dr. Ed Hart of Seymour, Texas and Bob Hayley, CPL of the First Presbyterian Church in Throckmorton, officiating. Interment will follow in Throckmorton Cemetery, Throckmorton, Texas under the direction of Lunn Funeral Home.


Mr. Gilmore was born September 24, 1911 in Throckmorton County, Texas to the late Ira L. and Ida (Means) Gilmore. He and Pauline Timmons were married April 10, 1944 in Elbert, Texas. She preceded him in death on January 6, 2007.


Mr. Gilmore was a rancher as well as taught school in Elbert, Texas and the Navaho Indian Reservation in Arizona. While serving in the Army during WW II, he taught numerous men how to read. He received bronze stars from the Asiatic Pacific Campaign and the Philippine Liberation. He served as the Throckmorton County Clerk for several years. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Throckmorton where he served as an elder since 1946. He was a member of the Farm Bureau and a past member of the American Legion. He moved to Olney from Elbert in 1985. He is preceded in death by one son Dennis Lee Gilmore on November 23, 1951.


Survivors include one son, Dale Gilmore and wife Kathy of Olney; one sister, Allene Patrick of Irving, Texas; and three grandchildren, Michael Gilmore and wife Charity, Ira Gilmore, and Molly Cauble and husband Robert; and six great grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 15186, Austin, Texas 78761 or the Olney Community Library and Art Center, P.O. Box 67, Olney, Texas 76374

RSV and Double Ear Infections

What a long day. Little man Sam is sick, sick. Yesterday about 3, Amber texted me at work that Sam sounded like he was wheezing. He kinda sounds like that when his reflux is acting up, so I wasn't too worried. Then about 3:45 she calls me and tells me that he's really wheezing and seems to be having trouble breathing. I left work and rushed over to get him. Still wondering if it was really just reflux. When I got there he looked terrible. His little face was flushed, he'd started running fever, and he sounded terrible. You could just hear his chest rattle with every breath. He seemed to be struggling to breath! I rushed him home and gave him a breathing treatment while calling our dr. The treatment seemed to take the severity out of the wheezing, but he still sounded like a panting dog. Finally an hour later the dr called and said he most likely had RSV. Come to find out, two other kids at daycare were out with RSV. And the dr said it was going around really bad. So we started a steroid and breathing treatments every two hours. He did really good last night, but this morning he got to sounding really bad again. Then he was digging in his ears. Just to feel better, I ran him up to the clinic to make sure he was okay. Sure enough, double ear infections. His oxygen levels were good, even though he sounded so bad. So, that was a relief. We've spent the day at home, doing breathing treatments every few hours. He's actually been acting pretty good for as sick as he is. Playing and eating. Didn't get really fussy until about 5pm. All I know is this RSV is some scary stuff! Crazy how fast it hit him! Mason had it as a baby, but I don't remember him sounding this bad. The dr said today that statewide all the hospitals are full of RSV babies. Scary stuff.

A Few Little Things

A few little recent things I've learned...

1) If you order a cake from United Marketstreet bakery, and you think you are getting a sheet cake with a monkey, be prepared to receive an actual 2 foot cake shaped like a monkey. It was so ugly it was cute, but everyone liked it at Sam's party.



2) Sam is a texture freak. He hated the feel of the icing on his cake! Lucky for us, this meant he wasn't too nasty from his first birthday cake experience.



3) Putting tight pajamas on a squirming one year old after he is lathered up with lotion, is not easy.

4) Going to a public bathroom, with said one year old, who you don't want to put down or have sit on the floor, is also not easy. This was a major task. Especially when you yourself will not sit on the toilet. I also had the diaper bag and my purse in the stall.
Accomplished, but not easily, I'm lucky I didn't pee all over myself.

5) Mason knows spanish. On the way to El Chico the other night, Mike asked him if he new what el chico meant in english. Mason said yes he did. Taco Bell.

12 Month Checkup

Just got in from Sam's 12 month check-up. He now weighs 26 lbs 6 oz, and his height is 31 3/4 inches. He is in the 75% on his weight. Thank goodness he's no longer off the charts! And the surpriser was that he's in the 95% on his height! Even Dr. Sultemeier said he was surprised about that, since he doesn't come from a very tall family! He's perfectly healthy, just battles the allergies and reflux. Hopefully will grow out of both.
We didn't do much for his birthday last night. Saving for his party on Saturday. Mike did bring him home his first powdered donuts. He loved it. Horded it like a dog with a bone. Later last night, he walked back and forth across the room several times. Getting this walking thing down! Also got a new bottom tooth for his birthday, and the doctor says two more on top are right behind it. Growing and Growing!

Happy Birthday Samuel

Wow. It's been crazy lately! We've survived the holidays. The kids made out like bandits for Christmas. The Nintendo Wii from Santa was a success. And we got to spend time with all our family. The most successful present I picked out this year had to be the dog tag necklace for Kooper. I had it engraved with his initials on one, and a bible verse on the other. He loved it. He got the bible out, wrote the verse down, and spent all day Christmas Eve and Christmas, memorizing and reciting for anyone that wanted to see it. He was so proud of it. Unfortunately, he lost it out at mom and David's Christmas night, after wrestling in the field with Will. So far, David has found one, but not the other. He was heartbroken when he lost it. Everyone was out in the dark with flashlights trying to find it. Hopefully, the other tag will turn up.
One of my special presents this year, came from Kathy. I received a little bag with my name on it from Kathy and Denmama. (Her mom that recently passed away.) Inside was a pretty silver bracelet that had been denmama's. I loved it. I'm sentimental like that, so that meant a lot to me.

So, on to New Years. What a blast this year!

Dale & Kathy kept the boys, while we headed to Austin with Christine & Kevin to party with Mace and Amanda. I had never been to sixth street before, so I was really excited. We partied like rock-stars. Well, probably more like 30-something parents who had a night out without the kids. But we did have fun. I will admit that Christine and I did get on the bar at Coyote Ugly, just so we could mark that off our list of things to do before we die. That's all I will admit to in writing, haha!
So this New Year's was way different than last year. That's because I was huge, obscenely, grossly, pregnant last year! And a year ago today, while bathing Mason, my water broke, and my little man Samuel was here two hours later. It's hard to believe it's been a year already. This has got to be the fastest year of my life!
So, what is Sam doing at one year old? Everything! He's beginning to walk. Definitely beginning to talk. He can say momma, bye-bye, hi, and sometimes da-da. He says quite a bit whenever you take something away from him (with a cocky little head-bob), lucky for him, and probably me, we can't understand him yet. He is my little snuggler. Likes his hugs and kisses. Loves his daddy. If I'm holding him and Mike walks into the room, he lights up and has to go to him. He's pretty much off formula and onto milk. Yea! Much cheaper! And we're working on going to a sippy cup. He loves table food, but only if it comes off my plate. He has a thing for remote controls, guess cause we keep taking them from him. He can be deceptively quiet. And quick. I joke that he's a heck of a climber for a short fat kid. He's going to be my quiet sneaky one. During the holidays, I was cooking one night and had Sam in the kitchen playing. I kept turning around and checking on him, but he was just playing quietly. Next thing I knew, I heard running water coming from the hall bath. I turned around and Sam was gone. I ran into the bathroom, and Sam had turned the hot water on and was trying to get into the bathtub. We now have a gate locking him into the living room. Sam keeps us quite busy, but we wouldn't have it any other way. I love that beautiful, full of mischief smile he has. Happy First Birthday Samuel!! Momma loves you.