The Bryants

New website

2010-08-12T17:52:00.003-04:00

I am very disappointed in the lack of posts/pictures on the blog!! I started playing with our iweb program for a new youth website and realized how EASY it is to use!! so.....I made one for us! I don't plan to post on the blog anymore so that this posting will remain at the top and the link easy to find. Click here to visit our new site!

I am a little sad to leave this blog site. Rereading the posts takes me through a roller coaster of emotions...good and bad. For those of you who blog, you probably understand where I'm coming from. But, the exciting thing is that the new website has a blog area so I will continue to document our lives...hopefully more often!! So, for now....goodbye blogspot...hello our iweb!

2010-06-18T14:44:00.003-04:00

We made a quick trip to Houston this week to visit Mike's Mimi.

She has been having some health problems and they are still narrowing down what is causing her pain. They have found several other things while doing test after test but I do think they are narrowing in on the cause. We wanted to go visit Mimi for many reasons but one being that with our mission trip coming up, we won't be able to make a spur-of-the-moment trip. We traveled there on Tuesday on home on Wednesday. Mimi was still very drugged when we were there on Tuesday but they began weaning her off her pain meds due to needing her to be able to answer questions. That enabled her to be awake and alert on Wednesday before we left. She was so excited to see us but even more so to see and hear Ranston!! Tuesday night, he made all sorts of sounds and even with her being out of it, she smiled and seemed to respond to him but didn't remember, so seeing him on Wednesday was a nice treat for her. Mike's Aunt Carolyn kept saying she felt Ranston was the best therapy for Mimi!!

I met Mimi when Mike and I were newly dating. We traveled to Spring 3 months after we started dating for Mimi's birthday. It was a bit intimidating to meet ALL of Mike's family, including extended family, only 3 months after we began dating. But, it was a great time to meet Mimi. With her living in the Houston area, we don't get to see her that often but we've seen her twice in the last 4 months and it's been a nice treat!!

2010-06-11T19:20:00.004-04:00

More pictures...

I don't remember if I shared this one last time but Ranston has rolled a few more times!! He traps himself on his playmat though...he's not a happy camper when that happens.

and...he's STANDING!! with help of course!

These are from VBS this week.

We met the youth at the bowling alley to say goodbye to our Belgian friend Max...again!! We traveled to Corpus to the airport that morning to see him off...BUT, he plane was delayed and rather than be stuck in Houston overnight, he returned to Beeville. It was great to say goodbye again!

While we were at the bowling alley, our friend Stacy snapped a few pics of Ranston.

As always, things have been hectic with us. Summer is here and that means youth stuff all the time!! We love it though!! Our mission trip is coming up and we are SOOOOOO excited! I'll make sure and give some details for those of you who want to pray for us during the week of the trip.

Ranston is changing and growing every day! He is such a little cutie and I never have to worry about not having someone to help by holding him or watching him! Last week we had 2 instances where I needed someone to watch him. All it took was a phone call...well, actually 2...and it was taken care of! One of our youth is helping me watch Samantha this summer so I hope to get to post a little more. Gina and I were discussing that the days I don't have Sam, I'm busy with something else...which means Gina and I haven't had our girl time lately. Tomorrow will give us a chance to catch up. And, both babies have appointments in the next weeks (Ranston next week and Samantha the next)...we try to plan on riding with each other when one has an appointment so we'll get to visit then. I can't believe they are getting so big! Ranston will be 4 months on Tuesday and Samantha will be 8 months on Saturday!! Time sure does fly!!

2010-05-28T15:08:00.003-04:00

Since I always have my phone on me, some pics end up on the phone and not my camera! Some of these are a little old but too cute not to share!

I LOVE the expression on his little face!

Ranston and Samantha napping after Wal-Mart!

First time using his UT paci...he doesn't use it anymore so I'm glad we got this pic!

One of my FAVORITES!

One of his first nights to roll around!

One of the first times he sucked his thumb

2010-05-25T09:55:00.006-04:00

Our iphoto is working!!! YEA!

If you follow me on Facebook, you've probably already seen these pictures...

if not, ENJOY!!

(The caption is below the picture.)

We attended a little league game to watch 2 of our youth...Ranston was suited up in case they needed him to play!

Parker on the left and Aaron on the right.

The boys with Todd (my former boss and Parker's dad).

Jill (in picture below--Todd's wife) got to visit with Ranston during the game. He had lots of fun sticking out that tongue!!

I LOVE this picture!! We had Ranston propped up on the couch while we got things together and he slid down a little bit...his hat fell and it looks like he is napping before the big game with his hat over his face. TOO CUTE!!

We got to spend the day in San Antonio a few weeks ago with our friend Andrew and Katrina. They live in Corpus but had a VBS training in San Antonio and invited us to meet them for lunch on the Riverwalk. It was soooo nice to have a day off and spend it in San Antonio doing whatever. Usually we have an agenda and we don't get to enjoy the city for what it is.

This is from dinner but we took Ranston to Chuy's for the first time!! It was very monumental as you all know we LOVE Chuy's! He's already been back a 2nd time!

The next three are from the River Boat Tour. Mike and Andrew didn't really want to go on it but Katrina and I both LOVE the tour. I think it is such a relaxing thing to do. Andrew (and Ranston) had never been on it so we said it was a must! Ranston slept but I'm sure he'll be on it again in the future. It was pretty bright that day....he made some really cute faces!

As most of you know from a previous post, the bench where Mike proposed (in San Antonio) has been removed and the area has been turned into a water treatment facility. UGH!! We decided to take a picture with Ranston in front of the gate to the facility since we can't get one on the bench...you gotta take what you can get!

Our little guy is 3 months old!!!

So...we've been SUPER busy lately and I finally took a quick picture of Ranston with his dino before he turns 4 months old!! I don't know if you can see his facial expression in the 2nd one but he was NOT happy to be taking the picture.

Grease...is the word!

My sister LOVES the movies Grease and Grease 2. We used to sing to them all the time when we were little...thank goodness we didn't know the meaning behind what we were singing! ha!! Anyway, she got Ranston this onesie when he was just a few weeks old...Mike said he can only wear it around her...he isn't a Grease fan! He is almost too big for it now!

YEA MIKE!!

Mike graduated from Howard Payne University on May 8!

Ranston watching Daddy cross the stage!!

(held by PoPo)

Mike feeding Ranston in the hotel before graduation.

I know those were a collection of random pics but I had to catch you all up! I'll be sharing about some of our summer activities soon! I'm so excited to not be working this summer!!

2010-05-19T09:16:00.002-04:00

WOW!! Things have been busy around here!!

Ranston is now 3 months old!! I'll have his 3 month picture up when I can access my iphoto program. We've been having problems with it for a little over a week now and hope to call about it soon. A few things we've been up to:

Mike graduated!! On May 8, we got to watch Mike walk across the stage at the Howard Payne University graduation. On May 13, the South Texas School of Chrisitian Studies (where the extension of HPU is held) held another graduation ceremony for its students. I'm so proud of him!!

We traveled to Andrews a few days before the HPU graduation to say goodbye to a friend...my friend Bobby was killed in a car accident and I'm so thankful I was able to attend his family visitation at the funeral home and his service. Bobby was such a great guy...loving, caring, always happy...he will be greatly missed!!

Ranston was dedicated on Mother's Day! For those not familiar with Baby Dedication, in the Baptist church, we formally dedicate our children to the Lord as babies. This is simply a public promise to be Godly examples to our children as they grow up and to encourage them in the Lord throughout their lives. I'm very thankful that many of our family members were able to attend the service. They will play a part in Ranston's faith as well so it was important to me that they be there.

Everything in between....

We're gearing up for summer which means VBS, mission trip, camp, etc.

It is going to be a busy but summer is always an exciting time in youth ministry. I'm hoping to reconnect with a few girls during the time they are out of school. I am REALLY excited about not working this summer and being able to participate in all the youth activities.

Not that I haven't enjoyed it thus far, but the last week or so has really made me glad that I'm able to stay home. The time I get to spend with Ranston and Mike is priceless. God has blessed our time together and it is amazing!!

I hope everyone is having a great May!! Summer is on its way!!

2010-04-29T03:51:00.004-04:00

No pictures today. Just a warning! :)

I want to write about things going on in Ranston's world.

He is a whopping 10 weeks old this week and man, how time flies!

He does so many fun things. Like...

when he lies on his back and kicks, one leg kicks twice as fast and strong as the other...

when he sneezes, his arms and legs fly into the air...

he grunts as he "gets after" his hand until he finds his thumb...

he likes to "punch" his dinosaur (we names him Thuesa...long story) that dangles from his activity mat...

he is so mellow the majority of the time and loves to stare...

he loves to sleep as much as his mommy and daddy and is up to 7-8 hours at a time...

he is SUPER long...

and has SUPER long arms...

and fingers...

and legs...

and toes...

he is only 2.5 months old but can fill out (lengthwise) a 3-6 onesie with footies...

he has started sleeping on his side...

he smiles and giggles...

he stares into my eyes when I'm feeding him...(love it!!!)

once he starts "talking" (coos), he'll go on for a good while...

I love everything he does!!

2010-04-25T00:09:00.002-04:00

I'm so proud of my husband!!

On May 8, 2010, Mike will be a college graduate!!

Mike will be graduating from Howard Payne University with his Bachelor's degree and I couldn't be prouder. There were many people that did not think he would finish...he has had more obstacles than one person ever needs and yet he has finished! Mike is the first to tell you that he doesn't enjoy school much. There are classes he enjoys and but overall, he does not care for school. He has worked so hard to finish his degree and I'm so excited his hard work has paid off.

Mike--let me start by saying that you are so much smarter than you give yourself credit for being! You have stuck with school when others would have given up...through hurricanes, serious illness including surgeries, numerous moves, uncooperative professors, crazy schedules and work in ministry, not to mention life in general! I am so proud of you and I thank God for giving you to me as my husband. I know that Ranston will be proud to call you his dad just as I am proud to call you my husband. May you always remember the feeling of accomplishment you feel as you receive your degree. I know you aren't finished with school completely yet but you have accomplished something many do not. I know that this was accomplished with God's help, direction, and guidance. You strive to follow His will and I believe this is part of His plan. CONGRATULATIONS HONEY!! I'll be cheering you on as you walk across that stage.

I'd love for Mike to be encouraged by notes of congratulations from our friends and family! If you'd like to send Mike a note, leave a comment letting me know if you'd like his email address or our home address.

Two months and growing like a weed!

2010-04-23T10:32:00.003-04:00

Happy Friday!!

I decided to give our blog a new look. I'll probably play around with a few options before settling but it is nice to have a chance to give it a makeover!

Ranston and I have added Samantha to our activities a few days a week. Samantha is the daughter of our friends Jim and Gina and it was been fun having her with us. She's 6 months old and loves to "talk"...LOL I'm watching her 3 days a week and I'm looking forward to being used to having 2 babies! I knew it would take some time to get used to before I started watching her. This morning has been a bit hectic with them both wanting things at the same time. Thankfully they are both napping right now!

Ranston wore new jammies that had a matching hat. It fit like a "do rag" but I think it looked like a surgeon's cap! :)

Ranston is overall such a happy baby!! He definitely has his moments of fussiness but loves to smile and play.

I didn't make a sign for this picture. This is his 2 month picture. He has grown soooo much! At his 2 month appointment he weighed 11 pounds 12 ounces and was 24 inches long. That is 3 pounds 4 ounces and 3 inches bigger than he was at birth. He is in the 95th percentile for length and 50th for weight...which the doctor says is great!!

Stay tuned for what's happening in Mike's life in a few weeks!!

2010-04-14T19:59:00.009-04:00

Hello all!! I'm very sad that I've only posted once since Ranston turned 1 month...he'll be 2 months tomorrow! Time flies!! Ranston and I have been busy so I haven't had a lot of time to post...but I have been taking pictures. I'll put a few captions but I know he's going to wake up soon so I better take advantage of my few minutes.

Ranston in an outfit from his Lala. He wasn't excited about it. LOL

Ranston snoozing on his daddy

We were invited to spend Easter with friends and they have BEAUTIFUL wildflowers in their front yard. We snapped a few pictures!

Ranston and I ventured to West Texas for a week. The rest of the pictures are from our trip. He was a GREAT traveler!!! I'm glad too because we like to go, go, go!

We started by staying a night with Mike's grandparents.

with our friends Leslie and Conner (15 months old)

Aunt Christy

Grandmother

our friends Lindsey and her daughter Emily

meeting his great-great grandmother Molly. She was a hoot with him!

5 generations on my side of the family! Ranston, me, my dad (Pop), Grandmother, and Molly

Ranston and I with my cousin Sumer and her son Drake (9 months old)

The Helvey great grandkids

Me and Ranston, Sumer and Drake, Hunter and Rori

We tried to get a pic of Nana with all the greats but Rori ran off and Drake wasn't happy. We gave up quickly. :)

@ Cassidy's Sub Shop in Andrews...mmmmmm....

with Nana

with Bonnie and Shaun Swanson

with Papaw

with LaLa

I worked with these girls at First Methodist before moving to Beeville. It was so great to catch up with them before leaving town! We never imagined we'd all have boys 2 years after working together!!

Misty and Gatlyn, Jana and Alex, Me and Ranston

Ranston was sniffed by so many animals on this trip. Not including the cats, he was sniffed by:

YoYo

Katie

and Frisbee

Check back soon for Ranston's 2 month picture. We go to the doctor tomorrow and I can't wait to see what his measurements are!

PIcture of the week!

2010-03-29T12:25:00.002-04:00

This is from last week when we went for a walk with Gina and Samantha.

Too cute!!

a day in the life of Ranston and Cymbre

2010-03-25T10:32:00.006-04:00

Our little boy is over a month old!!

We have friends who took pictures of their son with a stuffed animal as he turned a month older to show his growth. We found the cutest dinosaur (for those of you who don't know, Mike likes dinosaurs!) and decided to do the same. I wish we had gotten the dinosaur when he was a newborn to show his first month growth...I can't wait to find out his measurements next week! He had a little trouble being propped up next to the dino but it looks like he is going in for a hug.

Well...we have somewhat settled into a routine and although I know it could change any minute, I couldn't be happier! :) Ranston is sleeping about 3-3.5 hours at a time at night. He sometimes goes 4-4.5 but usually stays around the 3 hour stretch. and that is fine with me! Getting a solid 3 hours at a time goes a LONG way! He eats about every 2-3 hours during the day...which I found out this morning he shouldn't be eating earlier than every 3 hours since he's on formula. Because of that he is having some problems digesting. The doctor's office wants me to give him water every 2 hours to help hydrate him and hopefully that will do the trick. Of course, I wanted to give him water as soon as I hung up but it hadn't even been an hour since he ate so I'll wait. :)

Ranston's first Sunday morning to attend church

Ranston went to morning church for the first time Sunday and did pretty good. He did start to get noisy during the sermon so Mike went out in the hall with him. Funny enough he ran into our friend Gina and her baby Samantha in the hall! There has been such a baby boom in our church and it is so fun to be a part of it. There have been 4 babies born since October and are several others that are under a year. I'm hoping to start a play group for the moms...the babies don't really care at this age but I think it would be good/fun for the moms to get together! Most of us are first time moms and it does help to have other moms to talk to about stuff. With Ranston being the youngest, at least the other moms have already experienced most of the stuff I'm going through.

LaLa and Grandpa (my mom and Craig) are coming this weekend!! We are excited to see them. They'll get here Saturday and leave Monday...short trip but I'll take what I can get. :) This will be Craig's first time to see Ranston so it will be fun.

He (Ranston) got to meet Angela last weekend when we met her in San Antonio for a few hours. She was on her way to meet friends for the weekend and thankfully we were already in San Antonio. We met Mike's grandparents there to help them purchase a computer. We are S

OOOOOOO excited that they have a new MAC and we'll be able to ichat with them and send them pictures/videos! They live outside of a small community and haven't always had high speed internet available so the internet was not something they used often. But....it is now!!

I need to take advantage of Ranston snoozing in his swing and get a few things done!

2010-03-17T18:30:00.003-04:00

Some of Mike's family came to visit this week!

We were very excited that Mimi (his great grandmother), Carolyn (his great aunt), and Lisa (his 2nd cousin) made the trip from Spring to see Ranston! Plus, we were able to get a 5 generation picture! How awesome to get a picture with 5 generations! Ranston will have 2 pictures like that. I'm heading to West Texas in April and will get a pic with my great grandmother. It is so neat for Mike and I to have living great grandmothers...what a blessing!

Ranston all squeaky clean!!

We went to Austin for Michael and Anneke Swanson's wedding...here are a few pictures from the reception. Ranston was a big hit!

Gina and I have finally gotten on somewhat of the same schedule! :) We were able to go walking last week with the babies and it was such a great day! It helped a lot to be able to get out of the house and socialize...and it was GREAT to finally get to catch up with Gina.

The rest are just random pictures of Ranston and his cuteness! Enjoy!

2010-03-11T19:58:00.003-05:00

We've been busy little bees!!

Ranston has been meeting all sorts of people and we're just getting started! We went out to the Children's Home yesterday for him to meet my co-workers. We had a great time! Then, we headed to the church to eat dinner. I was not feeling up to cooking and the meals are so yummy at the church. We ended up sticking around for church...it was a LONG day!

Today, we went with Gina and Samantha walking and ended up at a child's resale shop in town. It was a great time of exercise and retail therapy! I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with Gina and getting some physical movement was nice too. :)

Tomorrow, we are heading to Austin for a friends wedding...it will be interesting packing up the car in the morning! Good thing we invested in an SUV.

Ranston, meet Pop!

2010-03-09T18:17:00.005-05:00

Ranton got to meet his Pop this weekend!!

My dad had to wait to visit until now but it has worked out well. He's been able to have Ranston all to himself....well, he's had to share with Mike and I! LOL...He's been a huge help! It has been nice to have him around for the help but also getting to spend time with him without me having to go to work. Here are a few pictures from the last few days.

He likes to help hold his paci and his bottle. Sometimes he does actually help...other times his hands get in the way.

We went to Corpus yesterday for dinner with my dad and when we got back, Ranston was PASSED OUT!! Mike changed his diaper and he hardly moved. He just laid on the couch.

We invested in a swing and it has been great! I think it will come in handy on more than one occasion.

My pictures are out of order but this was their first meeting!!

Our little man in his "big boy" outfit at the doctor's office!!

Helping with the bottle.

They have fun together!!

2010-03-01T15:59:00.004-05:00

I didn't think I had any new pictures to share, but after checking...I do!! But first, I want to share a little update with you.

Things are going well at the Bryant house. Today is the first weekday for us without my mom and it has gone smooth (I wrote this on Monday but am just posting it on Tuesday). I actually have time to make a real posting so that says something. :)

For those of you who I don't get to talk to on a regular basis, I thought I'd share about the day Ranston joined us in this world. I woke up at 3 a.m. with back pain. I knew you can have back labor pain and was pretty sure that was what I was feeling but I wanted to make sure before we drove the 45 minutes to Victoria. So, I got up, walked around a little and they didn't stop. I decided to wake Mike up around 4 to help me time them. They were somewhat consistent but then became inconsistent. We finally decided to head to the hospital and ended up leaving the house around 5:30. When we got there, my contractions still weren't very consistent so my doctor said for me to walk around a little and have then check everything again an hour later After an hour, things were more consistent and Dr. Seiler admitted me. I got settled in my room, called my mom and sister (who were on their way to us) to give them an update, and began to prepare myself mentally and emotionally for giving birth.

I've always been scared of childbirth...but let me tell you--that epidural was AMAZING!! I can't believe how painless the labor was. I progressed very well and Ranston was born at 5:03. My mom and sister got to the hospital 30 minutes before I started pushing! We were all glad he waited on them!

Mike's grandparents came to Victoria that night to see their great-grandson and his parents made the trip the next day. I'm glad they were all able to be there! My dad is headed our direction this week to meet the little man and I'm so excited! I've video chatted with my dad several times but know he is ready to hold his grandson. We've also gotten to video chat with my Grandmother and Nana...I LOVE technology!! Thanks to my sister for coordinating the chats! I know it is hard for them not to get to see him in person yet. They will soon though.

Enough of all that...here's the pics!!

We've been sprayed a few times and are getting better at catching it before it makes a mess...needless to say, we've changed sheets a few times!

He LOVES to sleep with his hands behind his head!

One last picture with Lala

2010-02-25T16:18:00.006-05:00

I know you all came to the blog to see a picture of me...so, here it is! :)

Just kidding! I know who you are here to see!

This is him in his car seat. It has a cover to protect him from the cold!

Video chatting with my Aunt Christy!

Ranston is here!

2010-02-21T17:33:00.007-05:00

Ranston Keith Bryant is here!!
He arrived Monday, February 15 at 5:03 p.m.
8 Lbs 8 Oz
21 Inches long
These pictures are in no particular order and I will be posting more soon. I have had problems with our new computer when loading pics on the blog...come to find out, I just needed to be more patient! Anyway, I hope you enjoy seeing our little one!!

Stand in the Rain

2010-02-10T12:21:00.002-05:00

Now, before you read this blog entry, please know that I'm not in a gloomy state right now. :) I posted song lyrics on my FaceBook and a few people were worried that I was depressed. No worries...I'm not!

I just heard this song (Stand in the Rain by Superchick) on KLOVE and had to post the words to the chorus.

So stand in the rain

Stand your ground

Stand up when it’s all crashing down

You stand through the pain

You won’t drown

And one day what’s lost can be found

You stand in the rain

It's been raining a lot here lately. I am not a fan of rain...I know it is necessary for crops to grow and animals to survive out here but it annoys me. I want to get from my car to cover as quickly as possible, which isn't very quickly these days. The words to this song reminded me that so many times, we want to rush to cover to get out of the rain. With our spiritual lives, we want to rush to cover. We want God to fix everything right then and make the rain stop. But He's watching out for us...Stand your ground (in Christ)...He won't let you drown!

Geaux Saints!!

2010-02-08T11:37:00.002-05:00

I am SO excited for New Orleans!!

Even though we only lived there a short time, there is still a place in my heart for NOLA and it excites me so much for them to have such a time of celebration!! Some friends of ours are still at the Seminary there...check out Micah's blog for a sense of what it was like after the game in the "suburbs."

waiting, waiting, waiting...

2010-02-03T12:47:00.004-05:00

WOW!! 38 weeks!! I can't believe I am so close now!

Even though I am ready for Ranston to join us, I am trying to enjoy every day of life as I know it. Don't get me wrong. I am SUPER excited to meet my little boy, MY SON!! (eek!!) But, I know that life will never be the same. I have slowed down A LOT lately and have been trying to rest. I get so worn out. But, I'm hoping to get a few things done around the house tomorrow. We'll see how that goes. Hope you all have an AMAZING weekend!!

2010-01-30T19:06:00.002-05:00

Well...I wanted to touch base on the blog to let everyone know we are still waiting on Mr. Ranston to join us! I am finishing my 37th week and everyone has their thoughts on when he'll come. Knowing it could be any day is hard!! I don't like the build-up of anticipation. :)

Mike and I are enjoying our time together right now. We know things are about to be changed forever!!

2010-01-24T22:04:00.002-05:00

HELP!!!

Does anyone use a MAC to post on Blogspot??

I have had the hardest time posting pictures from iphoto ever since we got our new MAC. I don't know if it is me, the computer, or what. I used to post on our MAC laptop and didn't have problems. Please let me know if you have any suggestions!

2010-01-20T12:22:00.002-05:00

We've been so busy lately!

My mom, Nana, and sister came in this weekend to be here for my FBC Shower on Saturday. We had a great time together and the shower was wonderful! We received so many great things and can't wait for Ranston to use them all! I also had a shower at work yesterday and it was a great time! Again, we received so many great things!! It is so nice to live in an area where people love you and care about you!

I haven't had much time to blog...between them visiting and me sitting with my feet propped up! Yes, I've hit that stage of pregnancy where my feet are swelling. BUT, I've been taking my blood pressure and it has remained low. I go the doctor tomorrow for the 1st time since the swelling started so I'll make sure and mention it to her. I start my weekly visits after tomorrow!! I can't believe it!

I am trying to just enjoy the last days of it being the two of us because I know our lives are about the change more than we can imagine!!

The nursery is ready for Ranston's arrival. I can't thank my mom, Nana, and sister enough for all their help this weekend. They helped Mike and I get the nursery ready and that is such a relief!!

2010-01-14T14:04:00.002-05:00

We finally got a dresser for the nursery!

I am so excited to have the final (necessary) piece of furniture for the nursery!

I'm sure Mike is tired of putting furniture together. :)

I've already changed the items on top a little since this pics was taken...I'm sure it will change often. LOL...

My mom, sister, and Nana will be here tomorrow night for my shower at the church. I'm so excited to see them! My mom's goal is to have the nursery 100% ready for Ranston's arrival when she leaves on Tuesday. I plan to take official nursery pictures once that is complete. :)

5 Weeks and counting!!!

2010-01-11T14:14:00.003-05:00

While I was home (in Midland) for my baby shower in November, I had a few pictures taken of my pregnant tummy! I was just ending my 2nd trimester so I definitely wasn't at my peak size wise but it was a great chance to get some pictures!

Mike and I loving on the baby bump!

Just me and Ranston!

I've LOVED this experience!

My mom, sister, Nana and I...

The ladies loving on my bump!

I love my Nana!!

...and of course I heart my mommy!!

I'm so excited that Ranston will have my sister as his Auntie Christy!!

Even if she does spoil him!!

This was a hilarious picture to take!! I love them soooooo much!

All three of them are coming down for my shower at our church this weekend. It will be so great having all three of them at my house!! The four of us don't get to do much together so it will be such a treat!! All pictures from my Midland trip (above and others that will be shared soon) were taken by Miss Kate!! She's been our go-to photographer since our wedding!! I'm so glad she's been a part of our lives to capture so many moments!!

Coming soon!!

Pictures from our AMAZING Disciple Now Weekend!!

6 week countdown!

2010-01-04T12:23:00.003-05:00

I can't believe I am 6 weeks from Ranston's due date!!!

I knew time would fly...but it is still a shock to me!

The journey of my first pregnancy has been a fun one. I've always wondered what it would be like to be a part of the amazing miracle of God's creation and it hasn't let me down. To be the only one who feels Ranston's every movement right now is a surreal feeling. Part of me wishes he could stay tucked away and out of harm's way...but on the other hand, I can't wait to meet him!! and see his little face and toes and fingers and ears...

I've thought about my New Year's Goals (I don't like the word resolution) and although I have several, many that I renew each year, this year will be the first time for this one. My main goal this year is to begin my role as "mother" in a Godly manner. I think often about what kind of mom I'll be. I have many moms to use as a guide...but I do want to strive to be the mom God wants me to be, not the kind of mom others are...

*
But it is interesting to me all the moms that are in my life. Of course my own mom plays a HUGE part in my life. Without her, I would not be the woman I am today. She has ALWAYS been my biggest cheerleader. She encourages me, cheers for me, lets me talk things to death when I can't make a decision!! :) I am so excited to take some of the qualities she has shown me over the years and use them as I begin my journey of motherhood.

*
Then, there are my grandmothers and the parts they have played in my life. I am very thankful to have them as my grandmothers...and that they are still a part of my life.

*
I am very grateful for all the other mothers in my life...other family members, friends, mothers of friends, you all have shown me different ways to love a child. For that, I am eternally grateful! May this year be full of God's direction and guidance...

Our new toys!

2009-12-30T06:59:00.003-05:00

For those of you who know us very well, you know that Mike and I don't always get each other Christmas gifts. A lot of times, we put our Christmas money that we receive together and get something we both want/need. Well, this year...we went all out!! We desperately needed a new computer!! Our laptop has been great and has definitely been through thick and thin with us. But, it is tired and worn out. We've debated on whether or not to replace it and I'm glad we waited. We were able to use Christmas gift money and get a new MAC desktop and it is AMAZING!!!!

Mike became a MAC fanatic when we got our laptop in 2005 and did not want to go back to a PC. I was so glad we were able to get the MAC! It does so many AWESOME things...much more than I even realize! We had a long discussion about whether or not to get a laptop or desktop...if we were going to spend that much money, we wanted to make sure we made the right choice. Although I know we'll miss having a laptop at certain times, the desktop has so much more to offer. Plus...I'm blind!! Well, close to it. :) The large monitor has been such a blessing on my eyes! Once we decided on the desktop, we found a great spot for it. This corner has been useless to us until now.

I have wanted a video camera for a while. I wanted something that used a hard drive so I didn't have to deal with dvds and all the other mess that comes with them. I've really been eyeing the Flip camera. It is small, handy, easy to use...and the quality is really good for what the camera is! No, you wouldn't shoot a movie with it or anything but it will be great to have with Ranston. And...it will fit nicely in my purse!! Hopefully soon you'll be seeing videos in my posts!

I feel very blessed this year and can't wait for 2o1o. I was sooooo ready to see 2008 go...and 2009 has been a great year!! But 2010 will be full of new adventures and blessings!

May your 2010 be full of adventures and blessings!!

Pregnancy, crafts, and shopping, OH MY!!

2009-12-28T11:22:00.004-05:00

I finally broke down and purchased a card reader and battery charger for my digital camera! I lost the cable that works to connect the camer to the charger as well as to the computer...so....I have a lot of catching up to do!

I wanted to share a few pics of my pregnant tummy!

This was taken during September sometime....

and this is me in the same shirt on Christmas Eve!! WOW!!

(This is the most current picture of me.)

This was taken sometime during October (late, I know!!)

And this was sometime last week. I can't remember which day!

Each year, the Deacon's of our church have a Christmas lunch for the widows and widowers of our church. We meet at Shorty's...a local restaraunt...and have lunch, a time of singing, and a devotional. It is always a nice time to be around some church members that we don't get to visit with much. And Shorty's is a great place to get in the Christmas spirit! They have the most beautiful trees!

Everyone in my office exchanges small gifts. I decided to be crafty this year and make personalized ornaments! I know Kate and Molly will be proud!!

Last year, I decided to plan a girls shopping trip for the youth and a few of the moms. It turned out to be a very fun afternoon and it allowed me to get to know some of the girls very well! Well, it has now turned into a tradition! We went shopping December 19...yes, the Saturday before Christmas!! Jill (first picture below) was the only mom that joined us this year and we had a great time together!! For the 2nd year in a row, we ate at Olive Garden...these were taken while we waited on our table. Olive Garden is such a yummy place to eat on a shopping day!!

Stay tuned this week for a few more posts...especially now that I have a way to get my pictures off my camera!!

2009-12-16T14:55:00.005-05:00

You may be wondering, what's going on in the world of the Bryants??

If not, too bad, I'm going to tell you anyway!

Mike and I have been finishing up our semesters at school and are both SO glad to be finished.

I took 2 online courses towards my teacher certification and will take a break until next Fall. It was a little harder going back to school after being out for 4 years...but I'm pretty sure becoming pregnant after I had decided to go back didn't help! My mind was preoccupied with baby stuff so it was hard to concentrate on school. I am very pleased with my grades though!

Mike had a pretty tough courseload this semester and is EXTREMELY glad it is over! He is set to graduate in May...as long as he is able to take the classes he needs. We will both be so excited for him to have his Bachelor's degree finished. He will most likely start his seminary work in the Fall so he won't have much of a break but at least he'll be working towards a new goal. I'm so proud of him for continuing to pursue his Bachelor's degree. It is a great accomplishment!!
Last weekend was full of activities! Friday night was a benefit concert for the Children's Home. There is a family here that does a Christmas program with all the contributions going to the Children's Home. They are a very talented family and it is such a great thing for them to give of their time and talents to honor God. I like to call them the Von Trapp family because there are at least 6 kids and they are ALL musically talented!
Saturday was a time to celebrate Samantha Lynn - the daughter of our good friends Jim and Gina. The church had a shower for Gina. It was a nice time to get to visit with her and shower her with goodies! Samantha was born 10 weeks premature on October 19. Her due date is coming up December 28. She is doing GREAT!! She's been home for a few weeks now and hasn't really had any complications. Gina is doing great as well. Our God is an amazing God and I've been reminded of that through Gina and Samantha's story.

2009-12-11T14:34:00.002-05:00

I use Pandora to listen to music online...I love it!

Christmastime is a great time to use Pandora because they play such a variety of songs. Yesterday, I heard one that took me back in time...WAY back!! 16 years back...to 5th grade. Anyone remember this song???

Up on the housetop Reindeer pause,

Out jumps good old Santa Claus.

Down thru' the chimneyWith lots of toys,

All for the little ones,Christmas joys.

Ho, ho, ho! Who wouldn't go!

Up on the housetop, Click, click, click,

Down thru' the chimney With good Saint Nick.

This song was part of our Christmas play for 5th grade, The Santa Clause Twins!

I love that hearing that song immediately took me back to 5th grade and that play...here's a "shout out" to all my Clearfork friends and the memories we made...including The Santa Clause Twins play!

2009-12-10T11:21:00.003-05:00

I started reading Kelly's blog several months ago and am hooked! I enjoy reading the words that come from her heart and stories about her almost one-year-old daughter Harper! She has some pretty amazing giveaways but this one has to be one of the best I've seen. She's giving away an amazing HP computer!! Our MAC laptop has gone down hill in it's old age and we desperately need a new home computer. But, with Ranston on the way, we're not sure if it'll make it into the budget anytime soon. I entered to win the HP---everyone cross your fingers!!

Here's Ranston!!

2009-12-07T22:56:00.007-05:00

We had our 3D sonogram yesterday!

Ranston was somewhat cooperative! We didn't get a straight on look at his face but we did get to see our baby boy! They usually only give you one chance (20 minutes) but thankfully we got a second chance. We got a few good looks at him the 2nd time around. Hopefully you can see him in the pictures. Keep you eye out for his hands and feet. He was so balled up that most pictures have a foot in them!

It's getting there!

2009-12-01T13:32:00.003-05:00

I thought I'd give you a sneak peak at the nursery!

Mike and my dad worked on our crown molding this weekend...it still has some touch work the needs to be done but it is up!

Also, we are aren't finished with adding a few pieces of furniture...

BUT, I know many of you are anxious to see Ranston's room!

Not only did Mike work onthe crown molding, but he also put together our glider!

I was so excited. I didn't expect to find him working on it so it was a nice surprise
This painting was given to us by Molly and I LOVE it!! If you can't tell, it is a baby in his mother's womb!

Jacey sent this SUPER SOFT personalized blanket with my sister for us!

It is SOOOOO soft and a beautiful shade of blue!

We are still waiting on our mattress but wanted to put the bedding together.

We thought our mattress came in on Friday but they shipped us a mini-trampoline instead!! Oops!! The mattress is on its way to us!

Ranston's nursery doesn't have a closet because it was an added on room. I've made a temporary clothing area until we decide what we are doing!

And finally.....the crown molding! It adds a nice touch to the room.

I'll make sure and add pictures as the nursery becomes complete!

A few other things to share:

Mike's grammy found this infant's jacket of Mike's...isn't it ADORABLE?!?!

It looks like a Member's Only jacket from the '80s...it even has a tag that says "Infants Only"

I had a great visit with my dad and sister!

They came to visit on Friday. It was such a treat to have them here!

It was the first time my dad got to see me since I started looking pregnant!

It is a little late for this picture but I don't want it to get lost in the "should have posted" group! I got to have coffee with my Bible study girls in Midland when we were home for the shower. It was great to see them and catch up!!

2009-11-25T10:33:00.003-05:00

Thanksgiving is almost here!!

It doesn't feel like it should be Thanksgiving but none-the-less, I'm excited! We had our church-wide Thanksgiving meal on Monday and it was a fun practice for tomorrow. :) Everyone at our table kept commenting on that!

We'll be heading to Mike's grandparents this afternoon when I get off work. We just saw them less than 2 weeks ago for our shower but we don't get to see them often so it will be a nice treat. And we always enjoy getting to catch up with Mike's aunt Susan. It's been a while since we saw her last. On Friday, we'll meet my dad and sister in San Antonio for lunch and then they'll follow us home for a few days!!! I'm really excited about that! I feel very blessed that they are taking time to come visit. I haven't seen my daddy in a while and won't again until March when he comes to meet Ranston.

This holiday season is much different than last year...in so many positive ways!! Last year, we were still new to Beeville and our house. This year, we've lived here for over a year...and for those who know our track record with moving, we aren't looking to move! Last year, Mike was in the middle of his medical stuff...his surgery was right after Christmas! This year, he's healthy and feels great! Most of all, this year will be our last Thanksgiving as a family of 2. I can't imagine how next year will feel!! We'll have a 9 month old at Thanksgiving!! I am soooooooooo excited about Ranston but it is sad to think that our time as a two-some is coming to an end. We've been through so much together--just the two of us....but now, we'll get to go through so much with Ranston.

WHAT???

2009-11-19T10:23:00.003-05:00

Attention anyone planning to bake pumpkin goodies this holiday season!!

Shortage of canned pumpkin??? Seriously??

According to this article, rain washed out the pumpkin crops that become canned pumpkin.

I LOVE pumpkin desserts and have several new recipes to try out this year...guess I better stock up NOW or plan on another treat!

2009-11-18T12:12:00.002-05:00

My shower had several personal touches that made it FABULOUS!!

Since I won't have pictures to share for a little bit, I'm referring to blogs!!

One special touch is the diaper cake made with Ranston in mind!

My sister has started creating diaper cakes...they are super cute!!

His matched the sports theme of his nursery.

Another is the hand-made guest book!

Molly did an amazing job and I love the concept!

I'm excited to look back at all the notes of inspiration and love shared in this book!

Also on Molly's blog is a picture of the painting that will be up in the nursery!

This also has a special touch of Ranston in mind!

2009-11-17T12:46:00.004-05:00

My shower invitations for my West Texas shower were custom made and guess what!!

I just found the invitation on the designers blog!!

She does a great job on her designs! Check her out!

Mike and I had a great weekend in West Texas being showered with love!! :)

Kate took TONS of pictures at the shower that I'll put up soon!

Thanks to everyone who helped make our shower special.

I can't wait for Ranston to meet you all!

2009-11-11T16:43:00.006-05:00

I was FINALLY able to attach these photos. I'm not sure what the problem was but I'm glad to get to share them!

Me and Vicki (she's in charge of all things Communications!)in our cart

Me, Jill (my boss' wife and the mother of 2 of our youth), and Heather (friend, neighbor, and co-worker) eating lunch.
Vicki and I met up with Mike and his team on a few holes. Only once was on purpose! I enjoyed getting to chat with him a little while waiting on the team in front of his to tee off!

The four behind-the-scenes ladies!

Heather, Jill, Me, and Vicki

Mike and I before he teed off on Hole #10

I couldn't quite fit into the golf shirt the other ladies had so I made up my own outfit! Good thing the colors were easy to match!

2009-11-06T15:19:00.002-05:00

I have tried and tried to attach pictures of the South Texas Children's Home (STCH) Golf Classic from Monday on the blog but have been very unsuccessful. I hate when there are issues.

The Golf Classic was a GREAT day! Mike was able to play and had a great time. The weather was absolutely PERFECT!! We could not have asked for better weather. Things went smoothly on my end of working the tournament and all in all, it was a great tournament.

It really made me miss golf. I hope in the Spring we start playing again. It is such a relaxing sport...even though it can be frustrating at times! :) Maybe Ranston will enjoy playing when he gets older and we can play as a family. That is something I really enjoyed growing up...spending time as a family on the golf course.

I will try to get pictures up soon but wanted to go ahead and let you all know that I'm still alive! :)

Happy Weekend!!

2009-10-27T16:18:00.007-04:00

A lot has been going on the last week.
My mom came in to town to help with painting and setting up the nursery!

She got to go with me to the doctor and this is what she saw...

(I apologize that they are not very clear)

Ranston's face!! (it is a straight on shot)

His arm and hand!

and a side profile of his face!!

Earlier in the week, Mike (with a tiny bit of help from me...lol) put Ranston's crib together! Isn't it a beaut??
While my mom was here, she, Mike, and Stacy (friend from church) painted the nursery...it isn't quite finished yet but I'll post pictures once it is completed! I'm SO thankful for their help!!
My mom and I indulged in a few of our favorites after I picked her up from the airport.
STARBUCKS!

and KRISPY KREME!!!

They had their Pumpkin Spice cake doughnut....YUMM-O!!

Lastly, I'm trying to get better at taking weekly photos of my growing belly! This was at a luncheon for the ladies on staff at the Children's Home. It was held at the home of one of our board members...her home was beautiful! You'll probably have to enlarge the picture to see much but this gives you an idea!

2009-10-19T17:52:00.003-04:00

Samantha Lynn is here!

My friend Gina had her baby girl today!

Gina began having complications and was admitted to the hospital Friday for observation. That turned into being in the hospital until Samantha would be born, and she was delivered via emergency C-Section this afternoon (10 weeks early)! Samantha is 2 lbs. 2 oz. and 16 inches long. I've heard from Gina's sister and Mike went with our pastor to visit...all say Gina and Samantha are doing well!

I hope to go visit tomorrow...today is a little hectic in the waiting room from what I hear and from our past hospital experiences, I know that it is nice for some to wait to visit. I'm anxious to meet Samantha!! Gina and I have gotten to expereince most of our pregnancies together and have talked about Samantha and Ranston being friends! She was only supposed to be 6 weeks older than him but now, she'll be 4 months...if Ranston waits his full time!!

Congrats Jim and Gina!!

2009-10-15T11:31:00.002-04:00

This has been me for almost my entire pregnancy!! LOL

I completely loose my train of thought or forget what I was doing...I can only blame it on the pregnancy for several more months!

Ranston is now the length of a spaghetti squash!

He is also the size of a papaya.

I attempted a blog entry yesterday....about 4 times...but never could think of something to post! I guess I'm having an uneventful week. We are getting ready for my mom's visit--next weekend!--when we'll get our nursery in order! We worked on it last weekend and got everything out that isn't staying. I looked in there this morning and it is so empty...but then I said, "I can't wait to see this as Ranston's nursery!"

The youth have seemed to enjoy asking me how Ranston is...they call him by name all the time! It's so much fun.

Carrot or Banana...take your pick!

2009-10-09T10:53:00.004-04:00

This week, our little fella was compared to a banana and carrot. Obviously, these are mainly in regards to length.

Some of you may know Baby Bryant's name, but for those of you who don't, let me share.

We decided on Ranston Keith Bryant. We wanted a unique name and considered several family names but nothing fit. So, we combined Mike's dad's name (Randy) and my dad's name (Preston) and got Ranston! Keith is a Bryant family name: Mike's grandfather (PoPo...pronounced PawPaw) is Keith, his dad's middle name is Keith, and his middle name is Keith. We found out just recently that his PoPo was named after a family member also. So, there you have it...Ranston Keith Bryant!

2009-10-06T17:41:00.002-04:00

I am SOOOOO excited to start this study with our youth this Sunday night!

There are MANY purity studies out there...and it was hard to decide which one to do...some are GREAT on the physical stuff and others are GREAT on the spiritual stuff...and still others are GREAT on both! So, we decided to start with this one. I plan to do a study for the girls in the near future that focuses on the spiritual side of purity and discusses our view of beauty verses God's view of beauty. I think that will be a great study after this one!

Please pray for our students as they go through this study with us (and Mike and I as we lead them). As far as I know, NONE of them have been through a purity study before!! I want them to understand that it isn't just something they'll deal with at this time in their lives but that living a pure life to God's standards is an ongoing process.

We're having a boy!

2009-10-02T10:43:00.007-04:00

That's right! Soon we'll have a little man running around the house!

I'll spare you the "It's a boy!" sonogram picture.

But, here is one of him facedown...you can see his spine pretty clearly!

We weren't able to see much other than that he is a boy, his feet, and a few shots of his entire body. I'll have another sonogram at my next appointment for them to check a few other measurements and hopefully we'll be able to see his face.

We keep his pictures on our fridge. The youth really enjoy looking his pictures!

We had our high school LifeGroups last night when we returned from the doctor. We weren't sure what time we would make it back so Jill (one of our FABULOUS moms...and my boss' wife!) planned on going to the house to let the youth in for their fellowship time. She, her daughter, and our pastor's daughter decorated our house in blue in white!! It was such a fun thing to come home to...Thanks Jill, Lindsey, and Abigail!!

We put our stoller together a few nights ago...I love it!

My Nana (the bestest Nana EVER!) got it for us!

I really like the color green and we decided to pick out a gender neutral stroller, even before we know we were having a boy. I was excited to find one that didn't look like it was trying to be gender neutral.

2009-10-01T11:36:00.002-04:00

Interesting little fact about my husband...

he LOVES bagels!

He bought some the other day and I finally remembered to bring one to work for breakfast. I'm glad I remembered when I did...they are going fast! I kind of forgot how much I like a good bagel. I usually buy them and then forget about them until they aren't soft anymore...who wants a dry bagel??

It was a delicious breakfast...blueberry bagel with cream cheese!

YUM!!

Check back tomorrow to find out if Baby Bryant is a boy or girl!

Finally at a cantaloupe!

2009-09-29T10:11:00.002-04:00

When my friend Gina said her baby was the size of a cantaloupe (6 weeks ago!), I was amazed! I have been waiting for the day that Baby Bryant was the size of a (small) cantaloupe! It just amazes me that I'm only half way through the pregnancy and the baby is that big!!

As you saw with the lime, I find some funny pictures of produce. Here is one that is pretty creative!

2009-09-28T14:15:00.004-04:00

Our weekend was a nice, calm, relaxing one!

I did some baking on Saturday (as planned) and also pulled out my fall decorations! I didn't have as much fall stuff as I thought...or else it is hiding in another box somewhere which is probably the case! I like to put my fall decor out with my exisiting stuff. Most of my colors work with fall stuff so it works nicely.

I haven't decided where I'm putting my pumpkin! and I need to find my candles...

If I remember correctly, my sister and I got this when we lived together. I think she has one too!

I love this pumpkin wagon!

I'm hesitant to get a plan for it...last year, the weather stayed warm and the plan fried!!

This is my newest fall item!

AW....my sister and I both have these Harvest Time Pals!
Rowdie just stared at me like I was crazy as I went around taking pictures!

My Baking Bug!!

I have to give credit to Bailey for the cookie recipe. I took some to church Sunday morning and the youth LOVED them! I think we found a recipe to hang on to!

I used a white cake mix and butterscotch chips.

I happen to have these lying around and they turned out to be a good combination!

Mix the cake mix, chips, 2 eggs, and 1/3 cup oil.

Make into cookies and bake @ 350 for 9 minutes!

I also tried a recipe for Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Icing--YUM!!

I was so proud of how they turned out!

My camera went dead but I caught a few pictures before it died.

I was so domestic this weekend! I made us a crockpot dish for lunch on Saturday.

Our crockpot lid makes a noise from the condensation...Rascal did not know what was going on! He kept tip-toeing up to the counter to check out the odd sound! Look at his WIDE eyes!

What did you do with your weekend??

Progression

2009-09-25T12:05:00.003-04:00

In case anyone lost track...Baby Bryant has been the size of a

Raspberry

Olive

Prune

Lime
Plum

Peach

Orange

Avocado

Sweet Potato

And Now....

Mango!

I'm so close to a small cantaloupe! CRAZY!!

Next week, I should be able to tell everyone if Baby Bryant is a boy or girl!! Hopefully the sonogram will go well and Baby Bryant will cooperate! Stay tuned!

On a different note:

I am so excited for this weekend. I think it's the fall weather but I am in a BAKING mood! Thankfully, my fellow bloggers have helped me out! Kelly asks her fellow bloggers to blog about something specific every Friday--they then put a link to their blog on hers for everyone to check out. Today--DESSERTS!! YUMM-O! I have found some amazing dessert recipes! A few are super easy with few ingredients (my fav!!) while others will require the measuring cups and stand mixer. Either way, I hope to try a few out tomorrow. We'll see how things go!! Check out her blog if you needed a little inspiration. My attempts include Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Icing, Cake Cookies (that actually came from Bailey!), and possibly Pumpkin Cookies. Wish me luck!!

Fall is in the air...FINALLY!

2009-09-23T12:49:00.003-04:00

Fall is officially here!!

Not only that, it has finally cooled down in South Texas for it to feel like fall!

I went home last night, snuggled up on the couch in my warm jammies and enjoyed the first night of cooler weather! It helped that I was exhausted from my trip last weekend and wanted to be lazy! I slipped into bed aroun 8:45 and was alseep by 9:15! Not a bad evening by my standards! :)

Mike took 2 of our youth to a movie preview in San Antonio. I wanted to go but they had to leave before I get off work. They all REALLY enjoyed the movie. It is called To Save a Life and will be a GREAT movie for teenagers! But, they have to wait until January to see it...and it is an independent film so not all theaters will show it. You can read more about it here. I'll leave it to that and will share more once it gets closer! Mike is going to work on getting the movie to our theater for at least a week. Hopefully he is successful!

Weekend update

2009-09-21T13:47:00.006-04:00

I had such a great weekend! I went home for a family event so I didn't get to see everyone back home...but, I did get some good quality time with my mom and sister!!

Christy picked me up from the airport Friday night (@ 10:00 pm!!) with Angela riding along to surprise me! Her nephew's birthday party was this weekend so she left Saturday morning to visit her family. I was so glad to get to see her, even if only for the drive back to Andrews!

This was taken just before bed (about 12:30!) so excuse the sleepy faces!

My birthday isn't until October but my sis wanted to see me open my gift so I got it early! YEA!!

I love perkilators! I have NO idea if that is spelled correctly!

My Nana gave me one of hers years ago and I love it!

I think it is the concept of it...this is a stove top version from Paula Deen.

I'm excited to try it out!

Saturday was a FULL day...here we are ready to start the day!

We went to register for some baby things at 2 of the gift shops in Andrews since I won't be back until my shower. These are dressy coats for little girls!! Aren't they adorable??

Later in the day, we met my mom for pedicures!

It was WONDERFUL!

We went to an actual spa and were pampered beyond our belief!

They served Starbucks drinks so I was super pumped!

A relaxing pedi and Starbucks!! What could be better??

Sadly though, they didn't have decaf!!

I already planned to have a Coke at dinner and am watching my caffiene so I stuck with the water. I did get some decaf Starbucks later that night.

My mom getting her special treatment!

My sister got a manicure instead of a pedicure...we didn't get pictures of her though! :)

Anyone from Andrews can appreciate my next picture...we went to La Ha!!

(The official name is La Hacienda!)

I realized a while back that usually only people from Andrews really enjoy La Ha. A group from Midland went with us Andrews folks once and they didn't get what the big deal was! Oh well, more for me!

I think it is funny how people seem to ALWAYS get the same thing when they go. My plate pretty much always looks like this starting out!

My cousin's girlfriend and daughter met us. Rori is such good entertainment! She turned 1 in May and has such a fun little personality! My Nana fed her Tres Leches cake...I think she liked it!

And we tried to get the sopapilla away from her but that wasn't going to happen!

I also got to meet my newest relative, Drake!

He is my cousin Sumer's son and was born in July.

I was so excited to get to see him and her new house.

and yes, everyone...I know I need the practice of holding the baby!

Another Andrews MUST is Buddy's steakfingers!

I tried to take a picture of a single steakfinger...a friend of mine in Beeville didn't understand how they were round instead of square (like DQ's). My sister and I found out really quick that a single steakfinger isn't very appealing! LOL So, I'll stick with the entire order pic!

Yo Yo came to see me off at the airport!!

All she wanted to do was come out and play but we didn't think that'd be a good idea! LOL

The weekend was great! The family thing went great! I know I didn't get to see some of you but I hope you understand that my time was spent with family---and I was only in West Texas for 41 hours!!

Guess who is another year older!

2009-09-18T14:29:00.002-04:00

My dear sweet husband is celebrating a birthday today!

I love this time of year for many reasons but one is Mike's birthday.

Although we aren't doing anything to celebrate today (I'm going to West Texas for the weekend--see below), we have spent time together the last few weekends and will again in a few weeks.

I love celebrating Mike!

He means so much to me...and is such a HUGE part of my life.

I don't know how other wives don't feel this way about their husbands.

I hope he has a GREAT birthday and knows how much he means to me and many others!

On a side note...I am going "home" this weekend. For those of you in West Texas, I probably won't be seeing you. Craig, my step-dad, is going on a Walk to Emmaus and there is a prayer meeting for those on the retreat. Even though I'm leaving on Mike's birthday, I'm so excited that I get to go home for it. My time in West Texas will be (VERY) short but I am glad I'll get to spend time with my mom and sister. I'll make sure and take some pictures of our time together. Have a great weekend!!

My little sweet potato!

2009-09-17T12:48:00.003-04:00

Baby Bryant is now the size of a sweet potato!

Here's a little development info for this week:

Baby's become amazingly mobile, passing the hours yawning, hiccupping, rolling, twisting, kicking, punching, sucking, and swallowing. And baby is finally big enough that you'll soon be able to feel her movements.

WOW! Time is flying by!

2009-09-14T14:48:00.002-04:00

Things have been good in the Bryant house...
Thursday we went to the doctor and got to hear Baby Bryant's heartbeat again! We will have another sonogram on October 1 and as long as all goes as planned, we'll find out the gender!! We can't wait!!!

Saturday was such a good day...the weather was a little gloomy until mid-afternoon and we took full advantage of that! We stayed in and watched a movie...I love lazy days like that! Then, we were able to spend some time with a family we've grown close to here. Doug and Jean are a great couple that we met through the interview process. During our last trip here last September (already a year!!), we stayed with them because the hotel was booked. Their son, daughter-in-law, and grandson were in town visiting but Doug and Jean were excited that we'd get to meet them. Matt, Christy, and Caden live in San Antonio...Matt and Christy are around our age (I think Matt's 2 years older or something like that) and we got along great from the beginning. We've been around them a few times during our 11 months here. We celebrated Caden's 1 year birthday with them in May...we got a phone call from Jean when Christy announced to them they were (surprisingly) expecting Baby #2! Anyway, we had a great time hanging out with them Saturday night. Matt LOVES Wii so he and Mike spent time competing while we chatted. Christy is due between Thanksgiving and Christmas so it will be fun to get our babies together throughout the years. Caden isn't too much older either.

Mike's dad is coming to visit today! He had a jewelry show in the area and will come through for the night. We are super excited to visit with him!

Well, that's about it for now...How was your weekend??

Random update!

2009-09-08T12:30:00.003-04:00

I love long weekends!!

I hope you all had a great one!

Mike and I did some shopping this weekend--TWICE! Well, I guess only once can be considered shopping. I found some new maternity clothes on Saturday in Corpus and we spent Monday looking at baby stuff in San Antonio. I love that Mike wants to be involved in picking out things like strollers and car seats! We had a good time finding just the right thing for our little one!

OH--and I'm excited! I am beginning to look pregnant! No more feeling like I just look like I've packed on a few pounds! I found a few outfits that I will be able to wear for a while. The maternity store I visited has a thing you strap on that represents 3 more months of growth so you can make sure things will last as you grow! It was so fun to see myself with a baby belly! I can't wait!! I figured most of you who read this don't get to see me daily so here are pictures from Sunday.

(Molly--one of my Fall Hobby Lobby purchases is on the mantel in the first picture! I haven't pulled everything out yet but decided to stick that there for now!)

Okay--so for those of you who have visited us, you know I haven't had a curtain hung on my front door but have used a blanket instead (we needed our privacy). Well, I found a curtain rod that was purchased years ago and never used and a curtain that we only have one panel of (that's all we needed in Brownwood!) and therefore, can't use anywhere else in the house. I decided to put it up and see how it looks. I am planning to have the curtain hemmed or have something done to shorten it. It works for now and is MUCH better than the blanket! My mom will be so HAPPY!!

In honor of Fall, I found these cute fall sticky notes at Target!! Check out the dollar section at the front!

Last but not least, look at Rowdie!! He is peeing in the plant RIGHT NEXT TO the litter box!! Yes, the litter box was cleaned out so we aren't sure why he is using the plant!! But, this does explain why the plant has been dying despite our best efforts!! Now, I can say my thumb is just a dark, dark green...not quite black!

Moving on up...to an avocado!

2009-09-03T17:29:00.002-04:00

We are now up to the size of an avocado!!

I have my next appointment a week from today (Sept. 10). I am hoping to find out the gender of Baby Bryant then but I think I'm going to have to wait until the next appointment.

New blogs to enjoy!

2009-09-02T17:00:00.004-04:00

I HAVE to share this blog with you!! Vicki (my co-worker) attended a conference this weekend and was able to hear Kelly Stamp speak. She has a blog that has become way more popular than she imagined! I've been looking at her blog and am in love with it! She is a mom and has a wonderful story...she loves the Lord and shares her faith on her blog. She has also set up a blog specifically for prayer requests due to the overwhelming response to her blog. From her blog, I have found others that are set up by Christian moms. They network together and many them make different baby items that are adorable!! For example, Veronica hand crochets hats, Stephanie has super cute onesies with faith inspired sayings, and many more!!

As I get closer to motherhood, I am so excited to have these blogs to read and be encouraged!

(for anyone technically challenged, click on any of the bold words, and you'll be redirected to their blogs!)

Hope you enjoy!

I love Falll, Autumn, Harvest...

2009-09-02T12:20:00.006-04:00

Whatever you want to call it, I LOVE it!!

I love the smells...

I love the colors...

I love the fashion...

I love the flavors...

My friend (and fellow blogger) Molly posted a blog in honor of the start of Fall and asked her readers to do the same. I had a hard time wanting to do one...simply because the weather here hasn't cooled down yet, and I don't want to be too anxious for Fall and have to wait.

But that ALL changed yesterday...

The weather didn't change much, but I was able to embrace Fall. During a random trip to Hobby Lobby, I was surrounded by Fall decor.

Pumpkins

Golds, Maroons, Greens
Harvest

I couldn't help but purchase a new Fall decor item for my home!

To top off the trip, we stopped by Starbucks!

Although they just brought back their Pumpkin Spice drinks, I'm still a White Chocolate Mocha girl...but that was enough! The warm drink helped me remember that Fall is on the way...I can be patient enough to enjoy it! Happy Fall Y'all!!

2009-09-01T11:20:00.002-04:00

3 girls I work with were on Good Morning America!!

Brittany and Becky are in the very middle of Robin and Diane.

April is to the right (our right) of Diane.

They took a vacation trip to NY and I'm so excited they got on TV!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yWbjWOocR8

Check it out!!

2009-09-01T11:07:00.001-04:00

FOOTBALL SEASON IS HERE!

I don't know if I'd say I'm a fan of football but I love going to football games!

Maybe it is due to me attending every football game throughout high school (thanks to band)...but I missed going to games during college and the last few years. I love sitting in the bleachers when the weather starts to have a chill!! I am very excited to be living in a small town and to attend the games every week! GO TROJANS!

We had our first 5th Quarter fellowship Friday night--we had 75 students there!! We weren't sure how many to expect and 75 the 1st week was AMAZING!! We had an illusionist there last week and he did a GREAT job! This week is INFLATABLES!!

Orange you excited??

2009-08-27T10:25:00.003-04:00

Baby Bryant is now the size of a navel orange! I can't believe how fast he/she is growing! In 4-5 more weeks, he/she will be the size of a cantaloupe!!! CRAZY!!

My dear friend Kate responded to a text about the size with "Orange you excited??" Why yes, yes I am!!

Back to school....Back to school...

2009-08-25T12:38:00.003-04:00

We had a Back-to-school event this weekend for the youth. We had all-nighters planned-the girls stayed at our house while the guys went to a lake house about 45 minutes away. The girls met up with the guys for breakfast and then those that wanted to stay for the afternoon were invited by the family. The entire event was great! Mike drove the youth on the jet ski and had a blast! Check out the blog for Grounded Student Ministries for more pics!

Us enjoying our time!

Today was Mike's first day back at school. I've missed a few times but I like to get a 1st day of school picture of him! He laughs at me but oh well! Can you tell he's a college student/youth pastor?? LOL I hope he is enjoying his first day of classes!

2009-08-19T11:05:00.004-04:00

We got a juicer!!

I know, I know...I'm weird to be excited about a juicer, but that's me!

We stopped at Mike's grandparents house on our way home in June and they had a juicer out on their counter. I made a comment in passing that I wouldn't mind having a juicer...I eat my veggies and try to eat fruit but I know I don't get enough of the nutrients from them! A juicer would be a way for me to get different nutrients in an easy way. Two days later, we were at Mike's parents house and they told us they bought themselves a juicer (the same kind as his grandparents) and decided to get us one as well!! I was soooooo excited! :) So, we got the juicer last week sometime and Mike picked up some fruit and veggies for us to try it out!

It looks kind of gross as each item juices!! The colors don't mesh and kind of stay seperated until you stir it!

It took him a second to decide if he like it!

I liked mine but did decide I wouldn't use grapefruit in mine again. I'm not a fan of the taste!

I got to see my friends Kim and Angie last night!

They are in San Antonio for a few days to celebrate Kim's birthday and visit Kim's brother. I was so excited to get to see them!! They are part of my Bible study group in Midland and I've enjoyed getting to know these girls over the last few years! They've seen us go through all of our ups and downs...Thanks for the great night girls!! Send my hugs to everyone!!

We ate at Chuy's (where else??) and we got to sing to Kim for her birthday!

Peaches...

2009-08-13T16:09:00.008-04:00

Baby Bryant is now the size of a peach! It is hard to figure out the size because fruits vary in size within each type of fruit...but, for now, the baby is a peach! Just 7 weeks ago, the baby was the size of a blueberry!!

More development details:

Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries.

I know some of you may be creeped out by reading the development details but I find it SOOOO fascinating! And to read that if it is a girl, she has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries!!! WOW!! Isn't it crazy to realize that God forms us for creation while we are still in the womb?? I am in awe of God as our creator every time I read an update on size and development or see a picture of our baby inside my belly...He truly does put his fingerprints all over us from the time of conception...I love that I serve a God who loved me so much that He started on me from my very beginning!! And that He continues to love me and develop me in a different way as I live my life now.

2009-08-11T11:12:00.003-04:00

My mom and step-dad visited last weekend and we had a great time!

We went to the Goliad Market Days and did as much shopping and browsing as we could stand in the heat!! We found a few things we couldn't live without!

Mike was off browsing through a booth full of seasonings so he didn't make this picture! I'm sure he'd say it was worth it!!

I LOVE my mom!! and I especially love when she visits! When I go home she has to share me with everyone else, but when she visits me, the time is all ours! I'm so lucky to have a mom who accepts me for who I am and loves me through everything. I'm so excited to have her as my kids' grandmother...we still haven't come up with her "grandparent name" yet. She'll be a GREAT grandparent!!

I LOVE YOU MOM!!

This is my mom's cousin Lynn's son, Tanner...he enjoyed the icing at the bakery where we ate lunch! I have to agree!! It was YUMM-O!

3 cows in one week!

2009-08-07T11:38:00.003-04:00

Okay...so maybe they didn't look quite like this one!

I LOVE being in the country...there are definitely perks to living in the city...and I do miss them from time to time...but seeing 3 cows loose in one week makes for a fun drive to work! Also, there's a baby calf in the Children's Home's pasture! It is super cute!!

Plums, kitties, and a house!

2009-08-06T11:04:00.004-04:00

Baby Bryant is now the size of a plum! We're working our way up the fruit list!!

I just wanted to share a new pictures of Rowdie and his FAVORITE snoozing spot! He has some of the funniest positions!

Here are some before and after pics of the house Mike's crew worked on at World Changers. It is awesome to see the difference!

2009-08-05T12:20:00.002-04:00

We had our second doctor's appointment yesterday and everything went well. Not much happened but we did get to have another ultrasound! This time, we got a DVD of the baby's movement!! Towards the end, the baby started kicking and stretching and flipping...it was a lot of fun to watch and I'm excited to have it on a DVD. They will use measurements from the ultrasound, along with some bloodwork, to determine if there could be any genetic disorders with the baby. We won't find out until our next appointment...in 5 weeks!!

I got some of my baby fix today though...my co-worker Vicki has twin grandbabies and they came to visit!! I enjoyed getting to meet Scott and Lisa as well as the twins, Noah and Lily. I have been able to see the babies and get to know Lisa a little through her blog so it was fun to meet them in person. The babies are adorable and were fun to have around the office!

My mom and Craig are coming to visit this weekend!! I'm super excited! We hoped my Nana would come with them but some things came up. I'm excited for Craig to see our house and where we live, and I'm ALWAYS excited to see my mom!!

That's all for now...I hope you all are having a FANTASTIC week!

Encouraging and Inspiring evening

2009-08-03T12:22:00.002-04:00

Last night was a great evening of sharing the things God taught our youth (and sponsors) during youth camp and our mission trip. Our youth were able to share with the church congregation the awesome things God is doing in their lives...their stories were so sincere and from the heart! I am SO excited about the things God is doing in their lives!! What a GREAT start to the school year!

After the share time, the youth didn't want to go home...so, it was over to the gym to hang out! We ordered pizza and the girls and I made a McDonald's run ($1 Large drinks!!). It was a great time to just hang out and finish up the night!

It's great to have Mike home. Even though I saw him a few times during the week, it is still hard when he is gone. We aren't apart very often so when we are, I feel it! We have our next doctor's appointment tomorrow. They'll do some testing to make sure everything is going good with the baby's development. I'll make sure and post something soon after the appointment, although I don't know that we will learn anything tomorrow.

Have a FABULOUS, God praising day!!

limes, limes, and more limes

2009-07-30T09:47:00.002-04:00

Baby Bryant is now the size of a lime!!!!!!!!!!!!

WOW!! What a big jump from a few weeks ago when it was a blueberry or a raspberry!

Here's the developmental info for this week:

Your fetus currently enjoys a 1:1 ratio between body and head, and has skin so transparent that blood vessels show right through it. But fingers and toes are no longer webbed, and hair follicles, tooth buds, and nail beds are forming -- setting up a significantly more attractive future.

Isn't God's creation AMAZING?!?!?!?!

When looking for a picture of a lime, I found this one as well and HAD to share it! HILARIOUS!

2009-07-29T17:09:00.001-04:00

I got a text from Mike early this morning as they were gathering to head out to their work sites. He said they had a really good church group time last night and that God was really breaking down some walls with a few of our youth! I am so excited to hear that things are happening. I had faith that they would but it is good to hear!

With Mike gone, I'm leading our youth time tonight! I haven't been the leader of a group in a while and am a little excited! Nikki-she helps us on Wednesday nights-and I will be sharing our Faith Stories with the youth. I'm very excited!! I decided to focus on the place they are at in their lives-teenage years! I always love getting to share how God transformed my life!! and...I'm excited to hear Nikki's story. I'm sure ours are polar opposites but I think that will be good. That will help the youth identify with either story.

Mike's picture is up on the World Changers site! It is mixed in with all the others from yesterday but if you'd like to take a look, the website is in the post below. His picture is in the group from July 28.

Hope everyone is having a FANTASTIC day and week!!

2009-07-27T11:45:00.001-04:00

Want to see pictures and read updates about the World Changers mission trip that Mike and the youth are on this week??? Check out the website below!!

http://blogs.world-changers.net/corpus-christi-tx-july-25-august-1/

2009-07-24T15:10:00.002-04:00

As I type this, there is a funeral going on in Andrews for the father of 2 girls I grew up with. Although we weren't super close friends, I've known them my entire lives, attended the same church as them as children, and we were involved in many of the same things during school. I knew their dad...he was such a nice guy...and everyone in town knew Jerry. He will be greatly missed in the community of Andrews! Kelsey and Korey, I'm so sorry for your loss...

I forget sometimes how much I'm affected by the memories of attending the Church of Christ (COC for my typing sake!). We attended the COC until I was in 7th grade and for the most part, those my age that attended had attended from birth as well. Although I have my own issues with the church, I do have many good memories of our time there. My mom sent me a message from the funeral saying she had a Hymnal dedicated to a friend of mine that passed away when we were in the 6th grade. That got me thinking about those memories. I can't think about Cole and not think about my time at the COC.

We all have things in our past that, when mentioned, can take us back to a time or place in an instant. Hearing the news about Jerry and hearing Cole's name took me back. What is it for you??

Fruit of the day...Prunes!

2009-07-23T11:35:00.003-04:00

So....I opted for a picture of prunes before they are dried. They looked so unappealing shriveled up!! This week--week 10--Baby Bryant is the size of a prune. Here's what is happening this week!

With bones and cartilage starting to form and vital organs beginning to function, baby is making major progress. Body length will almost double in the next three weeks, and arm joints are now working. (Soon, legs will too.)

My baby's arm joints are working!! YEA! lol

Better late than never!

2009-07-23T10:16:00.002-04:00

I finally found the cord for my camera! YEA!! So, these pics are a little old but since no one has seen them yet, they are new to you!!

My dad and sister came to visit a few weeks ago and we had a great time! We traveled to Rockport and explored the town...it was a neat place and now that we know what is there, we can plan out next trip better.

Group picture in our dining room!

Mike, Christy, and I went out on a pier. It was neat to be that far off the land...we watched some jellyfish floating around! I am fascinated by jellyfish!

Christy being herself!

Us on the pier.

A few weeks ago, we had a visitor at the Children's Home...a bunny!

Jacque (lady I work with) and I were watching it through the window when we realized it was licking the water from the sprinkler off the grass! How sad that it is so dry here!!

Introducing...Baby Bryant!

2009-07-22T10:16:00.003-04:00

We had our first appointment yesterday at Victoria Women's Clinic and everything went well! They confirmed that I am 10 weeks and was even able to do a sonogram! Seeing the pictures and knowing this little creation was inside me growing was an amazing experience! I though I would get emotional the first time I saw our baby but I was just amazed! My camera is dead (long story of why I haven't charged it! Hopefully tonight!) so Mike took a picture of the print out with his phone, texted it to my sis, and had her email me from her blackberry. All that said, the picture isn't great but it shows you our little blessing!! We go back in two weeks!!

Green Olives

2009-07-20T16:31:00.003-04:00

We made it back safely from Youth Camp!! We had such a great week...it was a different experience being at camp pregnant though! I had to rest a bit more than I planned! God did some amazing things through our youth!! Three youth began their walks with God and one finally gave in and surrendered to the ministry! He has been struggling with that for some time now. We are so excited to see him follow God's calling on his life. And we are SUPER excited for the 3 that decided to follow God with their lives! There were MANY that felt God speaking to them regarding different things and we are so grateful for the week and what was learned during our time away.

Mike and Stacy (one of our youth's mom) leave with 11 youth on Saturday for a mission trip in Corpus through the World Changers organization. They will be participating in construction work Monday-Friday. I was supposed to join them but with the pregnancy, we decided I shouldn't go! I'm disappointed that I don't get to be a part of the mission work our youth will be doing but know it is not safe for me or Baby Bryant. With it being in Corpus, I will go down a few times to join them for nightly worship. I'm SO excited to hear what our youth will learn next week! If you'd like to pray for them by name, there is a list on the Youth's blog. http://www.groundedstudentministries.blogspot.com/

Speaking of Baby Bryant, we have our first appointment tomorrow!! I can't wait! I feel like we've waited FOREVER for this appointment...it has only been 5 weeks! I don't expect much out of the first visit. A friend of mine goes to the same clinic and said her 1st visit was very uneventful...but, I have to get the first one out of the way to get to the 2nd, 3rd, etc. Oh--and Baby Bryant is the size of a green olive this week! I wouldn't think a green olive was bigger than a raspberry but I guess so! My book also said it was the size of a grape...my question is, what type of grape?? There are tons of different sizes! Oh well, I stick with the olive!

Youth Camp

2009-07-10T16:14:00.002-04:00

We leave for camp on Monday!! Please join us in prayer for all the campers and sponsors!
We have MANY campers going that are not regulars or even attenders at the church...please pray that they will be impacted by this week at camp! Also, it is SUPER hot in South Texas right now!! Please pray that the heat will let up just a tad so it is an enjoyable week. I'll be going as a sponsor and am a little nervous about the heat. The heat tends to make me feel sick so hopefully I'll be able to stay in enough.

Thanks for all your prayers! We appreciate them all!!

Raspberries

2009-07-09T10:13:00.001-04:00

Baby Bryant is the size of a raspberry this week!!
I love getting the updates of the size in relation to fruit! I think it puts it in perspective for me how much the baby is growing!
Angela says everytime I send her a fruit update, she has eaten that fruit that day! Last week was a blueberry...wonder what next week will be!

Finally!

2009-07-06T16:03:00.002-04:00

I'm so excited to finally be blogging about being pregnant! I'm not sure why I was so hesitant on announcing it online...maybe because I've always shared EVERYTHING and wanted to keep this to myself for a little bit. But, Mike and my sister were going CRAZY! They wanted to post things on Facebook so bad! I'm glad they held on until I was ready.

I've felt pretty good until this weekend. I had a hard time with feeling queasy but I think it was due to a hectic schedule. Maybe hectic isn't the right word, but unroutine (if that is even a word)! We went home Father's Day weekend to visit friends and family in West Texas and then had the pleasure of my mom and sister visiting last weekend for Wicked. This weekend, my dad and sister came down Thursday-Sunday so things have been a bit different than normal lately. I'm trying to get rested up before next week--YOUTH CAMP!

I'm excited about Youth Camp but a little nervous. It is so hot down here and I hope I feel well enough to get out and do some things with the youth. But, the majority of them know about Baby Bryant so I'm sure they won't hold it against me! HA!

I hope to have some pictures up soon of this weekend. I always misplace my camera cord so once I find it, I'll upload the pics!

2009-07-02T15:55:00.002-04:00

Thanks Sarah Beth!

The rules are:
1. List 10 honest things about yourself that your blogging friends do not know about you.
2. Give the award away to 7 bloggers.
3. Let them know they've received the award.

Let's see......most of you know a lot about me so I'll try and be creative!

1. I love that our 2 cats are on the fat side...I think it makes them super cute!

2. I resisted texting until 2005 because I didn't want it to take over my life! There have been times but overall, it was a great addition to my life!

3. I can't go to sleep at night without a sitcom (Friends, Wings, Home Improvement, etc.) playing. I'll stay awake and think of a million things. As soon as the sitcom is on, I'm OUT!

4. I could drink Skim Milk with every meal! LOVE IT!

5. I still enjoy teenager movies and TV shows. Good thing we're in youth ministry...I can always say it helps me keep in touch with the youth!

6. I'll begin taking courses in the Fall to complete my teacher certification - 8-12 English Language Arts and Reading!

7. I'll pick purple over pink in almost anything if given the choice.

8. I LOVE creative photography...not that I am a creative photographer...but I enjoy looking at it!

9. I have been getting my eyebrows waxed since the 5th grade!!

10. I'm 7 weeks pregnant!! Not many people know about this but I'm making the online announcements this week/weekend!! The "10 things about me" was a good way! I have my first appointment July 21 and according to an online source, I'm due February 18!!

Now...I'm passing this award on to...

Kate

Molly

Tamisha

Jacey

Amber

Wicked Weekend

2009-07-01T10:51:00.003-04:00

My mom and sister came down for the weekend!!

We saw the Broadway musical Wicked in San Antonio and it was AMAZING!

Of course, we had to stop by Chuy's first!

Even though I saw them last weekend, we had a great time.
I'll take any time I can get with my family these days!!

My sister gets to make the trip one more time this weekend!!

She's coming with my dad to visit for 4th of July...

Mike went with us to see Wicked and I'm so glad he did. He isn't much on theater but he was surprised at how much he enjoyed the play! I'm glad he was able to experience Wicked with us!

2009-06-25T11:36:00.002-04:00

Where do I start????

We had such a great time in West Texas...although we were happy to be home and in our own bed Tuesday night!

I planned to document the entire trip with pictures but got caught up in visiting everyone that I didn't take any until our last night. My Nana got to see every one of her grandkids in one weekend, which doesn't happen very often! All of us other than my cousin Rani who lives in Dallas had dinner on Monday night and I had to get a picture!! Here are a few:

Tamisha, Lindsey, and Angela stopped by to visit!
I LOVE that Angela and Mike act like siblings...LOL

We got back just in time to take the youth to a Corpus Christi Hooks game (same league as the Midland Rockhounds). We had a great time but were ready for bed when we got home!

West Texas, here we come!!

2009-06-16T15:13:00.005-04:00

In less than 72 hours, we'll be home!!!

We are both SOOOOO excited to get to take a trip back to West Texas for several days. It has been a while since we were home. Things here have been super busy! VBS is over but Mike has lots of activities for the youth! Monday nights he has an open gym for those that enjoy playing basketball, dodgeball, etc...needless to say, I am sitting that out! Friday afternoons, he has Fridays with Mike...this is a time of crazy games, movies, or just hanging out. Last week, they played water games against another youth group in the area. I heard it was a lot of fun...I stayed dry at work! LOL... July is just around the corner and it is jammed packed with youth activities! CAMP! MISSION TRIP!

Other than youth stuff, Mike and I have enjoyed spending time together in our house...with the change of seasons, we are reminded that we are home owners...we're reminded of the joys that come with that, as well as the responsibilities. Mike has a pretty good system of keeping up with the yard, although it is dying as we speak. We need another good rain to come along! We have gotten to swim a few times this summer! Some members of our church that we've become friends with have a pool they don't use very much. They've told us anytime we want to use it, we are welcome to it! We are SO THANKFUL to them!!

I hope summer is treating everyone well! I'll have tons of pictures to share next week of our trip home! Stay tuned...

Slime, slime, and more slime!

2009-06-12T14:51:00.004-04:00

VBS has come to an end!

It was such a great week and a great time

for Mike and I to get to know some of the kids

and other adults that we never get a chance to be around.

Tuesday night he wore a Skidmore shirt (Skidmore is about 15 miles from Beeville and we have some kids that attend school there.) This was the only purple picture we got!

Wednesday night he wore a Pettus shirt (same as Skidmore but in a different direction)

Last night, he went back to the basics with his VBS shirt!

and the multi-colored hair.

The question of the day everyday was "What color is Mike's hair??"

Just talking...

Pre-Slime...Coach Bryant vs. Professor Wordsmart

The kids brought money each night to go towards a project that is hoping to provide a New Testament for every person in the state of Texas by 2010. The girls money went towards sliming Coach Bryant and the boys went towards sliming Prof. Wordsmart. Overall, the kids raised over $800.00!!! We were all so impressed and blessed!

Nancy got slimed first but they couldn't leave Mike nice and clean!!

Just a side note: Our Pastor (Greg) slimed Mike and my boss (Todd) slimed Nancy!

They were both such good sports!

We wanted a picture but I didn't want to get slimed...

He tried getting me slimy and I told him if I was getting slime on me, I was getting a kiss out of it!

Orange day of VBS

2009-06-10T10:16:00.001-04:00

I can't remember what color his socks were this day...LOL

The kids LOVE his changing hair color.

Last night it was purple!

2009-06-09T09:45:00.003-04:00

The VBS theme this year is Studio Go!

It is centered around a game show and the regular contestants are:
Coach Bryant and Professor Wordsmart

aka Mike and Nancy (pastor's wife)

These pics are from Sunday night. I'll get some from last night (Monday) soon. Each day, some stuff is different. Last night's service project did not go as smoothly as the first one (see previous post) but it was still a great time! The kids made trail mix to take to someone who takes risks for God. We talked about how taking a risk doesn't always mean doing something dangerous, just something that may scare you. Risking being teased by not making fun of someone when your friends do...praying for your lunch at school when no one else does...etc.

VBS

2009-06-08T12:17:00.002-04:00

VBS started last night and it is going to be a great week! A friend (Meaghan) and I are in charge of the Service room where the kids learn about service projects. Each night we have a different project for them that enables them to serve others. Last night, we washed car windows for the VBS workers. I was so impressed with the kids' attitudes! They were so excited to get to go clean the windows! I didn't hear one complaint or negative comment! And the youth helpers were great too!!

Mike has been transformed into Coach Bryant for the opening and closing sessions! I hope to have a picture for you soon...I can't find my camera cord. Plus, my camera died before the closing session which is when he gets to take the stage the most, but Todd said he'd get some pictures of him. We got him all dressed for the part: tube socks, t-shirt tucked into his shorts, sweat band, whistle...we even spray painted his hair green last night (with hair paint of course). The kids loved it! Even the youth were calling him Coach and commenting on his green hair!

Exciting news! We have a new music minister! Bob Grainger was voted on yesterday during the morning service and will be joining the staff the beginning of July. We are excited for the church to have a full staff. The last music minister left last May so it has been a year without a full time worship leader.

Up

2009-06-02T14:37:00.002-04:00

We went with some of the youth to see the new Disney/Pixar movie Up on Sunday night and it is such a good movie! I think it hits home more with adults than kids, but it is definitely cute and funny enough for kids/youth to enjoy it also! It had such a great message of living your life now! And the wilderness kid (Russell) was SOOOOOOOOOOO cute! You just want to hug him, and squeeze him, and take him home! (If you couldn't tell, I suggest seeing it!)

Wish I had a green thumb

2009-05-29T16:02:00.003-04:00

My mom has been wanting a picture of the bush in front of our porch for a while. I finally took one as I was leaving work one day. These flowers only bloom in the morning and are closed up by the time I get home. I wish they were open all day. They really add a lot to our porch area.

I've tried to be better about having plants around. I love having plants but tend to kill them. Mike has helped me remember to water but we have to revive them every so often. I have 3 indoor plants, one outdoor pot of flowers, and this bush. We have a lot of greenery and other plants around outside but they don't require much attention.

One of our youth brought over one of those 5-in-1 game sets with volleyball, bad mitten (no idea how to spell), etc. that he will not be using. We plan to set it up in the backyard and start doing things outside with the youth when they are over. We have a good size yard and need to take advantage of it.

If you want to see what we've been up to, visit the Grounded Student Ministries blog (link to your right). We've been busy with World Changers Mission Team Training and other activities. We played water balloon baseball last Wednesday in honor of the last week of school. It was a lot of fun...and yes, I got wet!! It wasn't too bad until we gave them a free for all at the end. I got an ice chest of water poured on me!! Good times...

We had to bypass a storm on our way to Corpus Saturday. We were traveling and saw the black clouds, things swirling ahead, and just nastiness...so, we turned around and went another direction. I caught a a few pictures of the clouds. I am fascinated by the grandness of God through storms.

Friday...

2009-05-13T16:40:00.003-04:00

5 years ago Friday Mike and I spent the day preparing to be married.

We had no idea what the Lord had in store for us during the first years of our marriage.

We knew we loved each other.

We knew God created us for each other.

We knew we were ready to begin our journey as husband and wife.

I love remembering when Mike and I first met, started dating, got engaged, became husband and wife, and all the other things we've shared together. As we celebrate with friends who expereince those things, I think back to that point in my life.

Brad Paisley has a new song and it has such a great lyrics for remembering those times!

I Thought I Loved You Then

Brad Paisley

I remember trying not to stare the night that I first met you

You had me mesmerized

3 weeks later in the front porch light taking 45 min to kiss you goodnight

I hadn’t told you yet but I thought I loved you then

Now you’re my whole life

now you’re my whole world

I just can’t believe the way I feel about you girl

Like a river meets the sea

Stronger than it’s ever been

We’ve come so far since that day

And I thought I loved you then.

I remember taking you back to right where I first met you

You were so surprised

There were people around But I didn’t care

I got down on one knee right there

And once again I thought I loved you then

Now you’re my whole life

now you’re my whole world

I just can’t believe the way I feel about you girl

Like a river meets the sea

Stronger than it’s ever been

We’ve come so far since that day

And I thought I loved you then.

I can just see you with a baby on the way

I can just see you when your hair is turning gray

What I can’t see is how I’m ever gonna love you more

But I’ve said that before.

Now you’re my whole life

now you’re my whole world

I just can’t believe the way I feel about you girl

Well look back some day at this moment that we’re in

And I'll look at you and say I thought I loved you then

And I thought I loved you then...

2009-05-08T13:53:00.002-04:00

I wanted to share some pictures from my office.

I work in the middle of the country and it is so pretty out here!

Also, there is always exciting stuff going on!

I get to watch/listen to the sprinkler almost everyday...

There's nothing like a sprinkler and green grass to make you

feel like a kid again and daydream about playing in the water!

These are the 3 new horses to the Children's Home.

Heather and I took a quick trip out to the stables with Jake one day to check them out.

Heather is very much a city girl so it is fun to see her around horses.

We had a little friend on our porch today!

This racoon was either sick or trying to find a place to die.

It kept walking around really lethargic. We stayed away! lol

I took this a month or so ago when we got a HEAVY downpour!

It was so nice to stand on the porch and watch the rain.

In West Texas, the wind blows so much when it storms that you get pelted if you step outside!

Have a blessed day!!

Check it out...

2009-05-01T11:50:00.004-04:00

Just a few quick notes!!

Check out the Specs and Wings blog (listed to the right under "Good Stuff") for a fun option for your summer! Molly will be having online summer art classes...and let me tell ya, her creations are awesome! I am very excited about these classes...I'm thinking of them more like little workshops...because I've been trying to use my creativity more. Gina and I began to use our creativity but it soon fizzled. Maybe this will spruce it up! and...the topics are right where I need to be! So, check it out and I hope some of you will be blessed by this!

Check out the Grounded Student Ministries blog to see our amazing new logos. (Courtesy of Kate!!) She did an amazing job and the youth that have seen the logos are so excited about them!!

Mike and I are going on a double-date tonight to see The Sound of Music!! I'm so excited! I'm sure some of you are wondering how I convinced him to go...but I didn't have to work very hard! One of our youth plays Liesl...the girl that sings "Sixteen Going on Seventeen"!!! I am so excited!!

Mom, Hunter, kitties, and more!

2009-04-28T15:56:00.005-04:00

Here are some pictures I haven't posted from the past few months

My mom visted during March. I think this is the only picture we got of us!

We had a youth event at our house the beginning of April. Here are a few of the adults that were there. I don't post any pictures of youth on our personal site but you are welcome to check them out at http://www.groundedstudentministries.blogspot.com/. Robert had a meeting prior which explains the tie! He and his wife Heather (next to him) are our neighbors and I work with both of them. They are great friends to have in Beeville! Stacy (on the other side of me) is the mother of one of our youth. We are SO excited to have Stacy helping out with the youth. Her daughter began her journey with God about a month or two ago and it has been such a blessing to see her blossom as a young woman of God!!

LOL....This isn't a great picture but while we were at a conference in DFW, we got to see my cousin Hunter and his new place. Here, he is showing us the new Cowboys stadium. He lives only blocks away! I'm so proud of him and his new beginning in Arlington!

AWWW.....Anyone from West Texas knows how refreshing it is to enjoy Rosa's!! There was one a few blocks from our hotel in Ft. Worth so we decided to take advantage and eat there...TWICE! Anyone judging us right now doesn't understand what the withdrawls are like!! LOL

This was from the Youth Ministry Lab Conference in Ft. Worth. It was a great weekend to hear amazing speakers share what God has laid on their hearts regarding youth ministry and youth leaders. I was so excited to get to go with Mike to a conference...they even had breakout sessions specifically for youth pastor's wives and some regarding girls ministry!

OK...I am giving everyone the chance to close this window....

If you don't care to see pictures of our kitties, you can close now and no hard feelings...

Seriously...I don't want anyone to say that they were forced to see pictures of the cats...

Our parents all love animals, and most of them are especially drawn to cats. They are so cute...they ask us often how the grandcats are doing!! I guess when you don't give them grandkids, they'll take what they can get! LOL Instead of sending many pictures, I've posted them for our parents but do not want anyone to get tired of seeing pics of the cats so you can go on about your business now....

Rascal stretching in the sunlight!

LOL...Rowdie isn't really as fat as he looks although Heather asked if I was feeding him lasagna! I promise it is the angle...(he's in my lap)

No, he's not drunk...

One of them LOVES to play with the scratching post...and pull the fuzz off the top....guess who....
Rowdie is the guilty one!!!

Rascal has found several places he LOVES to rest...he doesn't lay on the mantle often but we've found him there a few times. He really likes the pop up tent we got them. We think he thinks he is invisible when he gets in the tent...LOL He hides there when the youth are over.

He also likes laying by the back door and looking out, a specific window seal, and our back couch. If I can't find him in any of those places, we're in trouble!

Newest News

2009-04-24T17:25:00.004-04:00

We have been pretty busy the last few weeks with work, church, and Mike finishing up his semester. Just a few things to mention...

*I have officially applied to grad school at Texas A & M University Corpus Christi!! It took me a little while to complete my essay but it was finally submitted with my application today. I did not want to mention it until it was official. And I guess it won't be official until I'm accepted.

Anyway...I am so excited to be entering the MAC program. MAC is Master's and Certification. I can complete my teacher certification and earn a Master's degree in Secondary Education with only 15 extra hours. I don't look forward to adding something to my schedule but I am very excited with the idea of teaching. Teaching was my goal when I entered college...it was my goal from an early age...but with moving to New Orleans and not being settled until now, it hasn't been an option.

We were at a Student Life Conference in February when I began thinking about finishing my certification. God began speaking to me about MY role in Beeville. Yes, I'm in the role of Youth Pastor's wife but I am not getting a chance to be a part of the community or meet others in the Beeville community due to working 20 miles away at the Children's Home. I feel secluded here and feel I am missing out on the relationships I could build if I were in another position. Plus, teaching is one of the best ways to be involved in the community. I'm excited to work with students in a broader spectrum.

*LifeGroups is going very well!! We have about 8-9 core youth group kids that come to our house each week for LifeGroups and they often bring 1-2 friends. The topics of discussion have been challenging for them and they seem to be enjoying the deeper content.

*We have formed a Leadership Team among the youth group and are very excited about that. It includes 6 youth that have shown leadership qualities since we've been here. We had our first meeting last Sunday to go over what the Leadership Team will do and what it means to be a part of the group. I'm ready to give the leaders some responsibility and watch them grow in their leadership skills.

*We have passed our 6 month mark in Beeville (April 16)!! Our 6 month mark of being homeowners and my employment at the Children's Home will be on April 27. I can't believe we've been here 6 months. In most cases, it feels like just yesterday that we said goodbye to our friends and family and it feels like FOREVER since we said goodbye to our friends and family. I am very ready to surpass our 1 year mark! We have not lived in the same place longer than 1 year since we got married! Don't believe me?

Townhouse that I lived in when we got married - 2.5 months

Townhouse next door - 1 year

Apartment in Kenner, LA - 3 weeks

Hampton, GA with the Muehlbugers - 2 months

Woodstock, GA with the Jacksons - 7 months

Andrews with my Nana - 1.5 months

Andrews in my Nana's guesthouse - 4 months

Apartment in Brownwood - 11.5 months

Apartment in Midland - 1 year

Some people may ask why I like to share how long (or short) we lived places...it reminds me that God is in control. It also helps me be thankful for where God has placed us now.

Well, I'm off to start my weekend! Tonight includes Mike making me dinner and catching up on my TV shows...our DVR is so full!! Tomorrow will include Mike finishing some school work and me getting to organize! YEA! Also, we'll be celebrating Gina's birthday...FUN, FUN!

Have a safe one!

Grounded Student Ministries

2009-04-16T14:27:00.005-04:00

Check out the Grounded Student Ministries blog!

(The link is under Good Stuff to at the bottom of this site!)

This is our youth group and we are LOVING all the activities going on! Most pictures are from our LifeGroup on Thursday night. We have the high school youth over every week for a time of Food, Wii, and Bible study. It has been a great time to go a little deeper and challenge the older group. We have a good size core group that comes each week and they've been bringing a friend or two each week.

Please be praying for us as we meet with the youth each

Thursday night from 7-9...

We hope to have our new logo for Grounded Student Ministries

up soon courtesy of Miss Kate!!

My #100

2009-04-14T12:16:00.002-04:00

#100

TV shows always celebrate a milestone when they film their 100th episode. Posting my 100th blog has been that way for me...a milestone. I didn't realize I was approaching 100 when I started re-reading my past blogs from the beginning. So when I did see that I had posted #99, I felt very blessed. Blessed that my family and friends would continue to read about our lives through 100 posts. Blessed that God brought us through 100 posts! Blessed in believing I'll have 100 more!

When I started this blog, I was going through a time in my life where things changed daily…hourly even! I needed a way to keep my family and friends updated without running up the phone bill and also enjoyed sharing pictures with them of what was going on in our lives but didn’t want to fill their inboxes! We were far away and our hearts were being refined.

This blog has been through a lot with us…moves, visitors, hospital stays, more hospital stays, holidays, birthdays, friends’ weddings, friends going through transitions, us buying our first house, Mike seeing the beach for the first time…all the things that have shaped us into who we are today. My hope is that it will be with us through many more transitions in our lives…friends and family’s weddings, babies, Mike’s college graduation, me starting and completing grad school (more on that to come!), and all the other things God has in store for us!

Looking back at my first blogs, I see that although so much has changed, so much has stayed the same. Mike and I are still madly in love with each other! We are still attempting to follow God daily! We are still stubborn at following God at times and He gets our attention with sometimes drastic measures! We miss our friends and family every day and want desperately to share our everyday lives with them. But this time around…Mike has a full-time ministry job! We are home-owners! Which means we are staying put!! We own two cars! We have added so many friends to our family! And we still miss our family and friends every day and want desperately to share our everyday lives with them!!

Thank you for sharing our everyday lives with us…even if it is through this blog! We are far away and our hearts are being refined and that is what this blog is about.

Almost there!

2009-04-01T14:10:00.002-04:00

I am a bit disappointed in myself...I have forgotten my camera cord 3 days in a row!! I was hoping to get a few pics of my mom's visit up soon but they will have to come tomorrow! (I hope!!)

One exciting thing is that the blog about her trip will be my 100th blog!!!!!!!!! WOW!!!!!!!! I'm so excited!! Thank you all for keeping up with me/us through this site. It has been such a blessing to have this form of communication and venue for sharing our life. I looked back at past blogs a week or so ago and was so blessed to read the words of my heart from September 2005 until now! God has taken us on quite a journey and he isn't finished! Thanks for coming along for the ride!

Until #100...

Shout out to my Nana!

2009-03-25T16:47:00.004-04:00

I was looking through my old postings and ran across this picture from December 2005. My Nana and Christy share a birthday and we were celebrating them when my Nana put on her birthday princess tiara!! I wanted to honor Nana by sharing the picture!!

My Nana has started following my blogs again. She was one of our strongest followers when I first started this blogging thing. She may not have always understood our decisions but she has always made sure we knew she loved us, supported us, and wanted to hear the latest on us.

We love you Nana!