Last week...

Whoa, thank goodness its over! Last week, my baby caught a terrible stomach bug. He was plainly pitiful; pale and almost lifeless. It is hard not being able to take the pain away and not being able to do anything, but let nature takes its course. River's immune is not very strong since he is not around many children, so it was good for him...after it was over, of course!

Here is River on Maximus's birthday, sleeping at Texas Roadhouse. Poor thing missed all the excitement!

But big brodder Mac Mac came to the rescue! He did a very good job at taking care of River while he was sick. He waiting on him hand and foot. I could tell River was comforted with Maximus's touch. Maximus made him a pallet on the couch with his pillow, blang-blang and almost every stuffed baby they own. He brought him juice and rubbed his head, sending him to sleep. I witnessed very sweet moments and true brotherly, compassion, trust and love.

So needless to say, I got in lots of mommy time last week and accomplishing very little!

It is very funny, but when Saturday came, I jetted out of the house, leaving the kids at home with their daddy, while they were still asleep, in the pouring down rain and thunder storms, to go grocery shopping... I was obviously in desperate need of some meeeee time :)!

So back to last week, before Maximus's birthday, we did a study on his special day. We spent lots of time looking at baby pictures and talking about the things that happened when he was born, creating a time-line to today. We talked about prices, popular toys and the US President in 2003. We talked about his birth, how he got his name, how much he weighed and how long he was compared to today. He did a list of things he has accomplished, his God given talents, and things that make him special. We did a little bit of time traveling of events that happened on March 24th and ended with his goals and dreams for his future. It was a great unit study and one I'd like to make a tradition.

River buried in all "security" that Maximus made for him.

HAPPY 6TH BIRTHDAY MAXIMUS!!!

Yesterday was my oldest son's 6th birthday! I am so happy that I have been blessed with such a wonderful son, but at the same time I wonder where in the world the last 6 years have gone! He is growing up before my eyes!

For the last 5 years, we have thrown him big birthday parties, and although they were a lot of fun, we decided to do things a little differently this year. We decided we'd spend the day with him doing whatever he wanted to do. And it was the BEST!
He wanted to go to Jumping Jelly Beans, so we spent most of the day there. We all had a blast! They dare parents to get in and play with their children...it didn't take much convincing for Jason and I to jump right in. We had a great time climbing, jumping and sliding in their inflatable playground. After that, Maximus decided he wanted some ribs and bread from Texas Roadhouse and loved them singing to him! Lastly we went to Wal-Mart, straight to the toy isle and told him he could pick out any toy he wanted (the funny thing is he never asked about a gift). Each day and at every moment, I see and learn how special my son really is!
He didn't take any second looks at the expensive toys, as I was even convincing him of some. 'LQQK at THIS' I would say, and he'd say 'nah'. We even went over to the video games and I was VERY impressed that he didn't choose one. He picked out two very inexpensive gifts; a tiny remote control car and a $4.88 ninja set. And then said he felt bad because River wasn't getting anything and asked if he could pick out something for him. I told him no, because it wasn't River's birthday and he would get something on his birthday, but today was his day.
He said 'well okay, I'll share my ninja set with him then'...
Sorry to brag, but I could only stop and wonder what was I doing so right?

On Saturday before his birthday, we went over to Pawpaw and Cathi's for pizza and ice-cream cake! He really enjoys spending time with them, but to have the time centered around him couldn't be more perfect. They got him a bug cage for all his bug collecting, two mini camping lanterns, $10, an electrical set to build things using electricity (very cool!) and some new clothes.

On Monday his Mimi came and picked him up and spent the day with him. He wanted to go bowling and play in the arcade so they spent the day at the bowling alley. He's been telling her that the only thing he wanted for his birthday was an ipod, so she took him to pick out his own ipod!
He loves his Mimi and enjoyed the day being all about him!

We met up with GranBarbara yesterday and she gave him $25. She asked him what he was going to do with his money and he said "Save It!!", I think that surprised us both!
He has always been good at saving his money (he still has money from his 1st birthday by his own choice)! I hope that trait stays with him through life!


Maximus blowing out his candles at Pawpaw and Cathi's


Eating his push-pop candy from Jumping Jelly Beans... he was just as excited about getting the candy as playing!

"Oh mama, this is the best day ever!"

The famous ribs at Texas Roadhouse!

"Oh my goodness, that was fun! Can they sing to me again? I wish it was my birthday everyday...I never get to get dessert when we go out to eat"

Sometimes I wish life had re-wind buttons so we could replay the good times! I would replay this day over and over again and I think Maximus would agree!

Happy 6th Birthday Maximus, I love you!

Who am I kidding???

On St. Patrick's Day, we always have a leprechaun come to our house. Each year he makes a huge mess, but leaves much hidden gold. This year he couldn't find any gold coins, but didn't think too much of it because he found a great sale on Hershey's chocolate.

So yesterday morning, Maximus woke up, came running through the house screaming with excitement "mama, the Leprechaun came, the Leprechaun came...", then I saw him start looking around and his bottom lip started poking out like a fat worm.
I thought he might not have known the little leprechaun left him some chocolate surprises, so I said "what's wrong?" while thinking I would lead him to the "gold".
And he said "the cheap leprechaun that came to see us didn't leave any gold, and he even hid the candy that we bought last night at CVS."

I felt as small as a Leprechaun!

Thankfully he still believes in Santa, The Easter Bunny, Cheap Leprechauns and the tooth fairy, but I know I've only got a few more years to prefect these magical character duties!!

Hold tight, I am getting on the soapbox :)!!

Don't worry, I'll explain...


A few weeks ago, Jason and I took a marriage class. We got so much negative feedback, saying that we should not seek advice from anywhere, but the bible, yada yada yada. We didn't take the class because we were on the verge of divorce, we took the class to become knowledgeable on how to handle sticky situations that happen in every marriage. Running away from problems is much easier than solving them, but if that were to happen, what would we leave our children with?? Is that the way I want them to view marriage? NO!

Next up, "homeschool"... oh no, I can't believe we do such a thing!! What is up with the people that find out you homeschool and the first friggin thing they ask is "do you worry about them being socialized?" and "do you think they will be prepared for the real world?". C'mon people find something new to ask. I won't go on and on defending my choices on this, but I'll tell you, I've come to the conclusion that the people that ask these questions have no idea what the meaning of socialization is and maybe they are afraid of what homeschooled children will BE in the real world. I know of 40 years olds that graduated high school and still live at home with their parents? In our society, this is acceptable, but if the same person had been homeschooled, it would be all over the world news. Do you really know of someone who was homeschooled and couldn't function in the real world? If so, then you might have an argument.

Religion, oh yes I am going there! We started going to (and joined), in our heart, a very warm friendly, and knowledgeable church...a Southern Baptist Church. Oh yes, I said it- S-o-u-t-h-e-r-n Baptist. You know this is the church where people get drunk on Saturday and come in to church on Sunday. Amen. What I am wondering is why so many other religions have such issues with the SB? Is it because they were not taught the freedom of choice? Or maybe those people are afraid we might actually learn about the bible, because we don't waste time talking about what other churches are doing wrong...hum. I am not sure. But what I am sure of, is that I am happy with the decision and the friends that we made. The books and the disciples of the bible that we are learning, the lessons and scripture that Maximus is learning, and the Independence that baby River is learning. It is awesome! I want my boys to have the knowledge to know we are all the same, and they are free to go where their hearts can be fed, but to stay as clear as they can from a hypocrite.

Lastly, Dave Ramsey... I think you can probably guess why he is a subject. We are taking a Dave Ramsey class at church and you just cannot imagine the people that can't wait to tell what they read or heard about him and how he is just a hoax. What I want to know is, how do you get that? He tells you to save money and pay cash for everything- how can that be a hoax??? He also teaches paying off your debt using the snowball approach, paying off small debt first. I've been told 'Dave Ramsey is bad at math', because the math tells you its better and faster to pay off high interest first. And this is what I love to tell you... you are absolutely right and Dave Ramsey says it! But he is smart enough to know that its not about the math, he doesn't teach math, because if the millions and millions of people that are in credit card debt knew anything about math- they wouldn't be in debt, duh!!

I will be 30 in a few months and I am very sad to say that I am just learning what an IRA, Money Market and Mutual Funds are. I have learned how important it is to teach my kids, not only the value of a dollar, but the value of saving a dollar. I want my kids to be bred with the knowledge of Financial Peace.

Dave Ramsey is a Christian and teaches money management the way God intended. Again, there are a lot of people who don't agree with supplement teachings outside of the bible, and for those of you, I'd like to see you and Dave Ramsey side by side compete in a bible quiz. Ouch that hurt!

Okay I am off my soapbox, I think. But please, to those of you who find pleasure in being negative and find satisfaction in criticizing, please think of what you are really saying...about yourself!

Goin' Green

I am not a tree hugger, and I don't wear clothing made from recycled paper, drive a hybrid car, or have a windmill on the roof of my house (yet). But our family is leaning towards going green.
I've started carrying a few reusable grocery bags in the store and telling the bag clerks that they don't have to bag my milk.
And sometimes I feel a little guilty about all the trash our little family contributes to the landfill each week. On a normal week, we take out 1 overstuffed bag of trash a day. So I've decided that we need to start recycling as well.
So, I am out on a mission to find used containers (that someone is just going to throw away) and for the coming up Earth Day, we will label them and begin recycling.

13 things I have learned, REVISED!!!

Life is a learning process, it is the train and not the station, you learn as you go.

It should be my #1... Things never go as planned, so don't set yourself up for disappointment, you just have to go with the flow.

13. Hold a true friend with both hands.

12. Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself.

11. A bowl of ice-cream will make you feel so much better

10. Mondays will always be Mondays

9. There is such a thing called 'Hindsight 20-20' and it will happen many times throughout your life.

8. You will never be able to please some people.

7. Learning is fun and book are the ambrosia in life

6. Never complain about something that you really don't want to change.

5. Some things in life ARE free!

4. You can pick your boogers, but you can't pick your family- so you just have to accept them they way they are.

3. It doesn't matter how much you make, what matters is how much you save.

2. Its not just okay to make a mistake, its good to make mistakes, as long as you learn from them.

1. Never follow your heart, because it can mislead you.

People grow through experience if they meet life honestly and courageously. This is how character is built - Eleanor Roosevelt

Snow 2009

Every year, we dream and wish for snow and this year we got it!! I think we got about 5 inches. The kids were so excited, and I have to admit, so were me and Jason!!! We haven't seen a good snow like this in years. Maximus couldn't wait to go sledding and River didn't know what to think. He didn't like it at first, until he realized he could make snow "balls" and eat it!!

Our road... on our way home

Whoa...this is great! I wish we could keep the snow for a few days!!

Elvis loved the snow, he was so excited!!

River- all bundled up and taking it all in.

I love snow!!!!!

My snow angel! I wanted my boys to make angels with me, but they were waaay more interested in attacking me with snowballs.

Jason pulling Maximus on a sled... they took sledding serious! When Jason mentioned sledding, I was thinking of a sliding down the driveway in a cardboard box or trashcan lid, boy what did I know??!!

Maximus wants to move where there is snow year 'round.

What a perfect day and such a great way to end the Winter season 2009!!

Ok, if we can't keep the snow, I'm ready for 80 degree weather!!

"I can do it by myself"

says Maximus, as he builds a #48 Jimmy Johnson race car at Lowe's.

Maximus has been after me for a year to build a Jimmy Johnson race car at Lowe's. They had a workshop this weekend so I made sure to sign him up.

I don't know which it is, if he's a fan of Nascar's 3-time champion Jimmy Johnson, wood-working or just daddy and me time, either way- this kid was on top of the world, Saturday, after his workshop.

Also, I didn't realize how great this workshop would be. He got a Lowe's apron (just like employees wear), safety glasses, a certificate of completion and a badge to sew to his apron.

I'm very sure he'll be doing more workshops in the future...besides this is shop class, right??

Organic Learning

Before homeschool even existed in my home, I was always eager to teach Maximus new things. When he was a baby, I could barely walk without counting the steps. I sang the alphabet song to him everyday. I would consistently tell him the color and shape of an object.
So I can say 'Maximus learned his alphabet when he was 2'...but truth is he didn't "know" the alphabet, he knew the song.
Things are a little different with River. When he was born, I didn't have the undivided attention to give him, but through him, I have learned lot about learning and teaching. Although, I have not devoted time to directly teach him things, he knows just as much as Maximus did at the same age. Maximus, knowing no different, will say "River, hand me the yellow Lego...or the blue...or the green". He can recognize a few (not in order) letters of the alphabet, and can count objects 1-2-3. These are things that he has not memorized, but that he knows, which makes a difference.

Here are just two things that they have learned without me directly teaching.
Maximus brought me an (empty) medicine bottle and asked was it child-proof. I responded with yes...and he said "well you shouldn't have taught me to read because it says pu...sh do...wn to op...en and it has arrows"...[speechless]!!
The other day, as we were getting ready to do school, I was in a bit of a hurry to get started and just started doing things, but River was repeatedly saying something that neither Maximus nor I could understand, he was saying "ple", "ple", "ple" (x100), to the point to where we had to stop and figure out what he wanted. What he wanted was to say the pledge. Everyday, we say the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag, and this day we/I forgot, and he recognized immediately it. So we stopped, and I watched my children put their tiny hands over their hearts and Pledge to the United States of America.
In my experience, the nature of learning is much more valuable than forcing memorization.
I only have 1 goal for each of my boys' early education, and its not phonics or math facts (although we will still do them), its to learn to love to learn...something I wish I had been taught.

Life can be so hard sometimes. I'm always blogging about how perfect my life is, how I have the smartest kids, the best husband, a home, the best job in the world, but I rarely post the trials and work that it takes to have those things. I have had people email and ask why I don't post the bad stuff. And why do I act like life is a bowl of cherries. And if the smile on my face is real.

I've learned that if you want something, you have to work for it.
I work hard to be able to stay at home and teach my kids, to have a happy marriage, to make my mortgage payment, to keep a decent house, to put groceries in my pantry... so sometimes, that requires me to work hard to put a smile on my face.

Life comes with un-lovable people, with decisions, with choices, with burdens... life comes with too many things to name.
And I, like everyone else, have had to deal with all the above lately, to which my plate has runneth over. I can't give up my wife, mother, chef, maid, nurse, taxi, finder of all things title and I'm not in a place to give up my income. That being said, I considered giving up our homeschool. I never accepted it, but I did start looking into other options and praying.

At the same time, an old friend from highschool has seen us out and about and contacted me. She said she admired me and my kids and could tell we had something special. She wanted me to give her as much information as I could because she wants to homeschool her 3 kids next year (btw, we both stood in line together at graduation accepting our diploma with honors). I didn't have the heart to tell her I was thinking of quiting.

Then last night, we went to eat at the famous Mickey D's and while we were making our drinks, Jason and I were standing there talking, like there wasn't anyone else there. I turned around and a young boy was just standing there waiting and I said "oh I am sorry, we weren't paying any attention", and he said "that's okay, I'm patient". We got back to the table and I said to Jason "he's homeschooled". No, he wasn't holding a Shakespeare novel and his mama didn't have on a blue jean jumper, but there was something about the way he spoke that I just knew. I knew I was right, but to confirm it I had to ask, so I did and he answered "yes". I almost broke into tears.

And lastly, this morning, after 2 years of waiting to be in a co-op and being told we wouldn't make it next year, I got an email saying we got in and registration for next year is on March 24th, Maximus's birthday...

I can't ignore the obvious, so for now, my consideration is null and void.
My plate is still full and life is still going to happen, but I will just have to learn how to eat off paper plates, get smaller portions, chew my food, and pass, on the things that I don't like.

"When I grow up, I want to be just like my big brodder, Mac Mac"

River geared up in Maximus's helmet and chest protector

OMG, what a joy it is to be at home with my boys everyday and share their underlying bond.

They are best of friends; River looks up to Maximus and Maximus takes River right under his wing... now don't get me wrong, the two of them also squabble all day, especially since River learned the famous word "Mine" and Maximus learned how easily it is to aggravate.

But at the end of the day, none of that matters- what matters is that they have each other.

'At times, we may not have it all together, but together we have it all.

The Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus

Friday, we went on a field trip to the circus! Jason took off work for this field trip- he said he's wanted to see this circus since he was a little boy. We had the best seats, almost front row (for $10).
We had tons of fun, we all laughed and Maximus laughed so hard, I thought he was going to pee in his pants. He loved the part where the clown was trying to stay in the spotlight and tried everything he could, even stapling the light to the floor! But his favorite part was the 7 motorcycles that raced at the same time in a steel globe- I have a feeling I am in trouble with Maximus and motorsports (he's been riding his own 4wheeler since he was 3 1/2)! I loved the elephants. I just cannot believe humans 1/10 of the size of an elephant can get 10 elephants to do tricks- at the same time. One elephant stood on his trunk... just unbelievable.
Afterwards, we went and ate at Hardrock Cafe and since we were in Atlanta, we had to walk around and tour the city.
We were all exausted and ready to get back to the country, but we had such a fun time!!

Here we are, the Brew Crew, enjoying the circus and yes that's me in my Homes "Cool" Mama t-shirt.

Maximus tearing up his BBQ chicken drums at Hardrock!



River didn't like the "fancy" macaroni... he wanted to say "bring on the Kraft, baby"!!

This is definitely a field trip we'll take every year!!

Tag...You are it!

***Thanks to everyone who played Husband Tag...I enjoyed reading your blogs!***


Here's a chance to see how well you really know your husband (I was tagged from someone else's blog). Cut, paste and fill in the answers, then post to your blog. If you do this, please email me or leave me a comment so I can check out your Husband Tag!

1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen?
The History Channel, FX, The Shield, Snapped, CSI and The UFC ... all at the same time. It drives me crazy. As soon as I get interested in what he's watching he changes the channel.

2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad? Ranch

3. What's one food he doesn't like? Meatloaf

4. You go out to the bar, what does he order? Water, just kidding. We are frugal so whatever was cheapest that night!

5. Where did he go to high school? East Coweta High

6. What size shoe does he wear? 11 1/2 wide

7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? Tool and guns

8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? one with everything on it.

9. What would he eat every day if he could? Pizza

10. What is his favorite cereal? Cinnamon Toast Crunch

11. What would he never wear? Pleated pants or a sweater vest

12. What is his favorite sports team? Upwards.. Maximus Brewer is his favorite player

13. Who did he vote for? John McCain!

14. Who is his best friend? ME, of course... but since that's a boring answer and sort of a given, I would say Danny Winkles

15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do? Put my cold feet on him and nag

16. How many states has he lived in? One- Georgia and I don't think he would ever move!

17. What is his heritage? He says he's Irish

18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what would it be? chocolate cake with chocolate icing

19. Did he play sports in high school? No

20. What could he spend hours doing? Working on something

21. What's something cool about him? The coolest thing about him is that he loves his family and the next pretty cool thing about him is that he can fix anything!

I cannot imagine my life being different

It all began in 1992... here is my first Valentine's from Jason (and I try to claim I am not a pack-rat), it came with a card that said 'To the sweetest girl I know, Happy Valentine's Day, Love, Jason'... ha! I wonder if he still feels that way!! And today, I am sharing Valentine's with Jason and our two boys. Here are my beautiful roses from my 3 boys.

I had the BEST Valentine's Day ever!!!

Jason took both boys with him to run some errands and gave me some time of peace and quiet. I took a nap, read my book, ate a big bowl of ice-cream all to myself, and took a long hot shower! It was 100% THE BEST!!

This Valentine's Day, I didn't want to do anything spectacular, I just wanted my family to know how much I love them and how much they mean to me!

Sometimes I wish that I would have went to college. I could be a nurse, a dental hygienist or an attorney, but I stop and think, if I did I wouldn't have what I have today.

My family and this time that I am able to be at home with my boys is a gift and I cherish it with both hands. Its a sacrifice worth more than all the money, material and riches in the world and I have absolutely no regrets! I have something that money can't buy and that's LOVE!

P.S. I do plan to work on my college degree, after me and my boys are educated!

Fireproof

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Man, we just finished a six week Fireproof class that was powerful!
We've had a lot of people question why we were going to a marriage class and even some negativity. We didn't go for counseling, we went to Fireproof our marriage.
Fireproof doesn't mean a fire will never come, but that when it comes, you'll be able to withstand it.
A few months ago, we went to see the movie on opening weekend, not really knowing much about it. Our homeschool association was giving away tickets and pleading with everyone to go on opening weekend- so we did. My main objective was just going on a date with my husband... but we ended up talking about it all night long.

Then we started visiting OH Baptist Church on Sundays and I heard about a Fireproof class that they would be starting and signed us up. Jason's first thought on it was, I don't have time... My only worry was, what am I going to do with River since he refused to stay in the nursery.
We learned so much about marriage, unconditional love and the true meaning of forgiveness. This class was a life changing for both of us.
We have something that we have never had before!

For those six weeks, my dad and step-mom kept River. That was a huge commitment on their part and for that I will forever be grateful.

Our garden

Someone once said to me, "Marriage is like a garden, you have to water it to make it grow". That stayed on my heart until I identified what it meant, and now I have it hidden there.
You have heard me say many times, how lucky I am, how happy I am and all those things are true and even truer now. Well after we had kids, our world changed- like everyone else's, we had different responsibilities, we couldn't afford to do the things we used to, let alone find someone to keep them for us. So going into a few years full of financial stress, a wife lost in mothering and a husband lost in work, we did start growing apart from one another. Then I thought about about our marriage being like a garden and I knew it had been a long time since it had been watered.
But, truthfully our garden was dead and water just sat like puddles on top of the hard ground.
I came across a book that was given to us when we got married that was covered in dust called The Five Languages of Love by Dr. Gary Chapman. In the book, he identifies five basic languages of love and then guides you towards a better understanding of each one, Quality Time, Words of Affirmation, Gifts, Acts of Service, and Physical Touch. Your emotional love language and the language of your spouse may be as different as Chinese from English. No matter how hard you try to express love (or for me, water our garden) in “English”, if your spouse understands only “Chinese”, they will not be able to understand or relate. As I was reading the book, Jason recognized an immediate change in our relationship and began reading the book with me and now we live by the book.

Both mine and Jason's parents are divorced, Jason's divorced early in his life and mine when I was in my late 20's. Jason grew up being torn between his mom and his dad, and I grew up having my both my parents, but in an unemotional home and neither of the two is something we want for our kids. We want them to see us hug, kiss and hold hands and do things together as a family and only with each other.

Jason said he once read 'The most important thing a father can do for his kids is to love their mother' and that's what he has hidden in his heart.
So even though money, time and a grounds-keeper is a huge factor, we strive to find ways to water our garden so that it never dies- not only for us, but as a irreplaceable gift to our children.

2 Suckers

Do any of you have kids who like to repeat the same questions fifteen-thousand times a day? My Maximus is a broken record these days and I am hoping its just a phase he's going through, but there are days when, after repeating myself a million times, I get a little frustrated.

Here is our conversation yesterday, on a trip to town,

"Mama, where are we going?"
"To the bank and the grocery store."
"To the bank?"
"Yes."
"Are we going to the bank first, then the grocery store? Or the grocery store, then the bank?"
"To the grocery store, then the bank."
"Why are you going to the grocery store first? Our food will get hot. Did you know ice-cream melts? Are we going anywhere else?"
"No, nowhere else today."
"Then why are you stopping for gas?"


"Mama do I have to hold your hand in the parking lot?"
"Yes"
"So a car doesn't hit me?"
"Yes"
"So no one can grab me?
"Yes"
"So I don't run off?"
"YES!"

"Mama, can I get some candy?"
"Not today."
"So I can't get any candy?"
"Not today."
"Can I get a sucker at the bank?"

"Mama, look a frog! Is that a bus? Look at that bug! Is that a bear?"
"Yep, I see the frog, yes, it's a bus, I see the bug, yes it's a bear."

At this point, I am trying to stay calm and tell myself, he's only 5...
And at the same time I am thinking that BIG YELLOW BUS THAT COMES AT 7AM AND BACK AT 4PM IS LOOKIN' GOOOOD!

Then he says, "Mama, I love you!"
And at the bank, I asked for 2 suckers!!

He remembered... a little too much!

Yesterday Jason came home and knocked on the door. I wondered why he was knocking, but I just grunted a little, got up and opened the door and he looked like a little school boy standing there holding flowers, for our "anniversary". It was pretty cute!
He said he thought of bringing home Chinese, that's where we ate on our "first date", our 1 year anniversary.
But what's worse is he remembers what I wore that night, not that he was all "into" me, but that I tried to dress up. I had never been on a real date before and I wanted to look good. I wore my mama's clothes that were dressy, but waay too big, her big fake gold clip-on earrings and some hideous blue dress shoes [that's just embarrassing]! Oh and I forgot the ruby red lipstick and Covergirl foundation that I caked on... but let me tell you, that day I was seeeexy!!

17 Years Ago

On this day, February 5th (1992) I met my soul mate, my best friend, my husband.
He moved to the small town of Moreland where I grew up and started riding my school bus.
The minute I saw him I instantly "fell in love" with him. I don't know what it was about him, but something made my little heart flutter. I could see something in him that no one else could see.
My parents, nor his were happy about us to say the least.
But I guess you could say I rebelled and did whatever I had to- to see him.
We would skip school and go fishing and in the summer he would walk (5 miles) from his house to mine to see me. We would talk on the phone for hours and into the night. We were inseparable.
But, as we started getting older, we each had different plans and our heads were on two different shoulders, so we decided to go our own ways, and we did.
But here we are today together, married for almost 8 years, 2 precious boys, a home, 3 dogs and a camper :)!
Who would have ever thought?
One thing about us, is we've always been able to communicate and I think that's what keeps us so strong.
Being a mama, I hope my boys' hearts never get this serious at such a young age, but if they do, I hope they are as lucky as me!

The Best Invention for Winter!!

The Crock-Pot!

Okay, I am ready for Spring... I have had enough of the Winter. I can appreciate the cold weather in November and December, but after Christmas, I am ready for some warm sunshine.

But to help get through these dreary days, there is nothing better than a warm soup, chili, or cooked chicken that's been cooking in the crock-pot all day!

We have so many favorites, but here is one that is always a hit with my family.

Taco Soup

Combine 1 can of each: whole kernel corn

chili beans

pinto beans

black beans

rotel tomatoes

tomato sauce

Add: 2 small cans of Mexican corn

1 pkg of dry ranch seasoning

1 pkg of taco seasoning

2 cups of water

*If you like, you can add 1 - 2 lbs of ground beef (I have to for my meat and tator man).

Serve with nacho chips and top with Mexican cheese.

Mmmmm!

What is the truth? Does anyone really know?

This weekend, we went to Orchard Hills 3rd Annual Wildgame dinner and had so much fun!!
I wasn't planning on going, Jason had an extra ticket and couldn't give it away.
some said, "at church?- no thanks"... and he heard "at church?- does that church even preach on sin (with a beer in one hand)?"
[First of all, what church does not preach on sin??]
So I used our extra ticket, put on my country girl sweatshirt and boots and headed out with the boys, never knowing what fun I was going to have.
I didn't and couldn't bring myself to try the deer meat, the pheasant (sp?) or the gator. But I could tell all the men were in heaven, sorry for the pun. The church was standing room only, with over 600 people attending. We had no idea it was going to be this big. The speakers were hysterical, and literally had our jaws hurting from laughing so hard.
[I believe this is the way Jesus intends for Christians to be].
I had to end up leaving early because River was so tired, but truthfully it hurt my feelings, as I was having such a good time and wanted to stay so badly.
Maximus won a fishing pole from Gables- in Newnan, in a drawing. I didn't get to see this, but Jason said he was so excited he ran to the stage and they said 'this boy is ready to go fishing!'
It was a good night, and my boys talked about it all weekend.

Well- we went to church on Sunday and guess what the pastor preached on... SIN!
[But, if preaching on sin to you is, screaming, jumping up and down, pointing fingers, spraying his words instead of teaching, than I guess I could say 'No that church doesn't preach on sin'].

Amen :)

Words Of Wisdom

You know I often talk about the simple life... so as I was reading an article from Sonlight's (HS curriculum) founder, she wrote something very interesting to my heart. I always wonder how people have so much time- something we extremely lack in our lives, but as I read her article, I could see how she homeschooled with such grace for so many years, savored her time with her children, kept a clean house- never having a maid, wrote and developed a curriculum, and still had time to be a wife.

From Sarita Holzmann,

On Property-Anything you buy has to be dusted. Make your bed daily. It's amazing how much better your house looks when the bed is made. Pick up as you go. When you leave a room, glance around and see if there is something that needs to be somewhere else. Pick it up and take it. Don't let stuff accumulate. Have a place for everything. Stuff that doesn't have a place accumulates. Pick up the house before you go to bed or leave on vacation. It's very refreshing to start a new day with a neat house.“He who is slack in his work is brother to him who destroys” (Proverbs 18:9). Care for your possessions (i.e. dust your furniture, put your bike away out of the rain, mop your floor), or they get ruined and have to be replaced. Deal with paper as it comes in. Ninety-nine percent of it can go directly into the circular file (trash can)."Stuff" ultimately doesn't matter. If something you value gets broken accidentally, your relationship with the person who broke the item is much more important.

On Money-Give 10%, save 10%, and spend the rest with joy.“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Studies show that people who give charitably are happier than people who don't (and I have found that true in my life).

On Work-We were created to work. Find a job that you love, and you'll never feel as if you are having to “go to work".We were created for some unique calling. God has wired each of us differently and gifted us uniquely. Seek what you were made to do, and do it.

Such simple words of wisdom, but I believe they can make such a huge impact.

I am a Marilyn Monroe!

I saw this Female Icon Quiz on someone's blog and decided to take the quiz.

Marilyns are responsible, trustworthy, and value loyalty to family, friends, groups, and causes. Their personalities range broadly from reserved and timid to outspoken and confrontative.

How to Get Along with Me
* Be direct and clear
* Listen to me carefully
* Don't judge me for my anxiety
* Work things through with me
* Reassure me that everything is OK between us
* Laugh and make jokes with me
* Gently push me toward new experiences
* Try not to overreact to my overreacting.

What I Like About Being a Marilyn
* being committed and faithful to family and friends
* being responsible and hardworking
* being compassionate toward others
* having intellect and wit
* being a nonconformist
* confronting danger bravely
* being direct and assertive

What's Hard About Being a Marilyn
* the constant push and pull involved in trying to make up my mind
* procrastinating because of fear of failure; having little confidence in myself
* fearing being abandoned or taken advantage of
* exhausting myself by worrying and scanning for danger
* wishing I had a rule book at work so I could do everything right
* being too critical of myself when I haven't lived up to my expectations

Marilyns as Children Often
* are friendly, likable, and dependable, and/or sarcastic, bossy, and stubborn
* are anxious and hypervigilant; anticipate danger
* form a team of "us against them" with a best friend or parent
* look to groups or authorities to protect them and/or question authority and rebel
* are neglected or abused, come from unpredictable or alcoholic families, and/or take on the fearfulness of an overly anxious parent

Marilyns as Parents
* are often loving, nurturing, and have a strong sense of duty
* are sometimes reluctant to give their children independence
* worry more than most that their children will get hurt
* sometimes have trouble saying no and setting boundaries

Me and Mommy Day at the GA Aquarium

Yesterday, we went to the GA Aquarium for 'Me and Mommy' and had such a good time.

It is very cool, how at such early ages- not saying they won't change- that I can see each of their learning styles. Maximus was more focused on what was ahead of him instead of right in front of him, but every time we went into a different exhibit, he wanted to sit and listen and learn all about the different kinds of fish and their habitats and on the way home- he quoted a lot of it back to me. River, loved the bish (fish) and wagwag (water). He would cry when we walked away to go see something else and it was pure torture to him to have to sit and listen to someone talk. We spent several hours there, and even got to see the Deepo’s Undersea 3D Wondershow, which the kids loved. We took a picnic, had lunch and played at Centennial Olympic Park.

Maximus said his favorite was the Hammerhead shark. River loved all the bish. And my favorite was just spending quality time with my kids... and the sea otters.

GranBarbara

My grandmother aka GranBarbara came and babysat today.

At last minute, I had something that I needed to take care of and I called to see if she would come watch the boys. Boy, was she excited!

She went by and got them Happy Meals- seems she knew how to hit the spot immediately.

As I was leaving, she told me to stay gone as long as I wanted... I told her to be careful in what she says :)!!

After my appointment, I was able to have lunch with my BFF and stroll through Target- alone! Both were such luxuries!

When I got back home, Maximus and River were happy as could be. But my poor GranBarbara looked so tired.

Something very funny though, GB is, I'd say, a little obsessive, with tinfoil. Her whole house is covered in it. It lines her closet floors, her drawers, her oven, every shelf in her refrigerator and I'm sure many other places. Maximus later said "why did GranBarbara make us eat off tinfoil?" I just laughed because it brought back so many memories.

I am very close to my GranBarbara and am so glad my children are able to spend time with her- just like I used to when I was small!

River

River loves books and loves for me to read "pictures" to him. Although, he has to hold the book and flip the pages. Today when we were reading, I just watched him, his tiny hands, his cute baby feet, his fat cheeks... he just looked so adorable, sweet and innocent.

I could just squeeze him- and sometimes I do!!

Me: River say cheese

River: NO!

Me: Please let me take a picture of you

River: NO!

Me: Pleeeease??

River: NO!

My baby River is getting to be such a big boy.

He is growing up before my eyes. Although he is definetly my Tazmanian Devil, he is a precious one! There are so many special quailties about him, its fun watching him grow.

He is very smart, can say anything, mostly in his own language, but a lot of it we can understand. Oh my goodness, he is set in his ways too. In the morning when he puts his feet to the floor, he looks for his blang blang (blanket) and carries it around most of the day. Then he wants to finish my coffee and get his chokmik in his own cup- big boy cup. Then scavenges the house to find his baaawll (ball), boots, and now he wants to carry around a buk (book)- this is seriously everyday.

He is 20 months, but is as sharp as a 3 year old. His latest accomplishment is going to the potty!!! We are introduding the potty to him. I am ready for this stage, but its also sad, especially since I feel like I just went through this with his big brother Maximus who is almost 6!

I am savoring these moments like the last bite of the sweetest, best tastin' dessert on the planet and so thankful that I have the opportunity to stay-at-home with both my boys everyday.

Palin 2012... You betcha'!!!

On this historic day, I would like to show my support, by showing you MY t-shirt!Today, our 44th president, Barack Obama, was sworn in the United States of America. Today, if no other, history and CHANGE was definitely made.
Go USA, you did Great!

Maximus Brewer, Grade K

Maximus is going to love his new ID card!!!

One of the cool things about being a homes "cool" mama is getting the educator discounts. But I've come across a few places that want to see an ID card (and letter of intent). So I found this really cool website where you can print it for FREE. One day I am going to write a book for all the freebies that I have discovered.

Just to name a few places that offer discounts,

Barnes & Nobles (this week 01/17-01/25 is Educator's week, Joann's, Office Depot, Michael's, and Border's.

Times HAVE changed

Maximus's birthday is just around the corner and we have been talking about what he wants for his birthday and what he would like to do.

What he wants to do is go to Cartoon Network and make a cartoon, not see how a cartoon is made, but make a cartoon. And he wants a cell phone. I know what your thinking... the same thing I am thinking, he will only be 6 and what does a 6 year old need with a cell phone.

He has been asking for his own phone for a few years now. We have bought him toy phones and even given him our old cell phones, although he has enjoyed those, he still continues to ask for his own phone. I ask him, what would you do with a phone, who would you call? And of course he gave the perfect, win mama over- answer, he said "well if I got lost or if someone grabbed me I would call 911" well then he goes on with "and I can text you and tell you that I love you when you are at your homeschool meetings".

I called my BFF and said, ok would it be really ridiculous to buy a 6 yo a cell phone. I knew she would be honest without judging. Her answer was she wouldn't have bought her kids a cell at 6, but I need to think about why I wouldn't instead of why I would. Isn't that is a cool answer!

I also thought, I would have NEVER had a cell phone at 6 yo, but one reason is because I don't think there was a such in 1985, and if so, it would have looked something like this. I got my first cell phone in 1997, when I was 18 years old, it looked like #3 in the picture above, and I was so cool, but what was even cooler was when I turned 15, I got a pager. I mean is it not cool that I got paged on the way home from school riding on the school bus.

I thought about the Disney phone that was made for kids but they put an end to their cell business which made sense when I read why.

Well I am still pondering the idea as times have changed a whole lot!!!

By the way, I wouldn't buy him a phone with a contract.

Cardboard Testimonies

Someone sent me this link a few weeks ago, and yesterday (cleaning out my inbox), I decided to open it, so that I could delete it, never thinking how it would really touch me and bring me to tears.
I know I've received gifts from God because I can look around me and see these things, my two healthy, beautiful boys, my relationship with my husband, my home, my job, my friends, my dogs, but I've never thought about putting my story on cardboard.
Go get some tissues and check out these cardboard testimonies,

http://www.rhchurch.org/pages/cardboard-testimonies/

Who is teaching who???

Its so wonderful how children are just natural learners, especially if you give them the time and learning environment that they need.

Over the weekend, Maximus said "mama, do you know what DNA is?"
I said "kind of [not really wanting to explain], do you?" He went on to tell me that it was samples of blood or hair from a dead persons body that a scientist takes an x-ray of (his vocabulary for putting under a microscope) for evidence (and yes he used the word evidence).

Wow!

We watch a lot of CSI and Forensic files, but I didn't know he was picking up information and putting it together (just one more benefit to homeschooling because these shows would come on waaay past his bedtime if he had to go to real school).