It's My Wonderful Life

Moving

2007-07-14T22:35:00.000-05:00

I have moved to a new blog. Please link this new site. Cause I am now on wordpress.

Lou's New Website

New Sheriff

2007-07-14T08:14:00.000-05:00

Look out Monticello! There's a new sheriff in town!

8 Things About Me

2007-07-12T19:39:00.000-05:00

I have been to New York three times. (Been in the World Trade Center twice and to Ground Zero once).
I am like Jeff and thinks potty humor is hilarious. I guess that is why I get along with the guys better than I do the girls. I think farting is funny and hate to go shopping all day long.
I am a strange love for John Travolta. I think he is the hottest person alive.
I was manager of Pizza Inn in Jonesboro when I went college.
I was Valedictorian of my class.
I wish I could play the trumpet like my brother did.
I didn't join the marching band in high school because everyone in my class was doing it. I love to stand out even then. Of course this wasn't hard being the only white in my class or school at Eudora.
I have a overbearing fear of being raped or my children being molested.

RAIN

2007-07-12T17:08:00.000-05:00

Words of wisdom from Ashton.

"Mom, please call God and tell him to stop the rain."

Night Terrors

2007-07-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

Just when you think it is going to be a peaceful night, you are awoken by your baby boy screaming to the top of his lungs. He is screaming but yet he is not conscious. He does not even recognize you. Ashton has been experiencing night terrors for about a year now.

They are very stressful. You want to shake him or slap him to wake him up, yet it wouldn't work. All you can do is sit there and hold him until he wakes up or it is over. Research says that children experiencing night terrors must have a regular sleep schedule. Sometimes these night terrors are triggered by being too tired. How can you do this, if the boy will not take naps? I think sometimes he is just scared to sleep. He has actually told me this a couple of times. I just wish whatever little demons are possessing his brain at night would disappear and leave him alone.

Prayer Request

2007-07-09T17:17:00.000-05:00

This is a simple prayer request for a beautiful little boy named Garret. For most of you, this is just a repeat of Shelly's blog. I just want to tell people that do not read that blog.

Garret was born with craniosynosis. This is a premature closing of the right front skull suture, meaning he has no soft spot. This can inhibit his brain to have room to grow. He was wearing a corrective helmet but it was determined that it wasn't working. The next option is surgery. Please pray that Garret and his family will have the physical and emotional strength for this surgery.

The Ressurection

2007-07-07T20:00:00.001-05:00

The orange paci has been ressurected.

The orange paci went missing yesterday morning. For those of you who don't know, this is a major deal. This very orange paci is the only paci Kaylee will take. She has a blue one just like it but no she has to have the orange one. SHE KNOWS THE DIFFERENCE! Those of you who say babies are color blind, well this one isn't. It was missing all day yesterday and today. We could just go out and buy one, but we are broke. This particular orange paci cannot be bought in the single paci pack. You must buy it in the two pack. That two pack does not have two orange pacis in them. So basically you have to buy one paci for the price of two because she only wants the orange paci. Two days of hell and we are back in business. We just found the orange paci. For those of you who have an extra orange paci like this one are welcome to mail them to Kaylee for those critical times when the orange paci goes AWOL.

According to Renea and Jenny, she is respresenting Journey with the orange paci.

BLIND AS A BAT

2007-07-06T09:43:00.001-05:00

I am blind. SO WHAT!! About a month ago, I went to the eye doctor. After the eye exam, he said "Wow! You can't see, but I am sure you already knew that." Why wouldn't I know that? I either have to wear my contacts or my glasses unless I want to feel around and touch everything to know where I am going. My prescription is -6.00 and -5.75. For those of you who this makes no sense to you, consider this. Michael is a -3.25. Yeah, I could almost pass for legally blind. Enough blind talk, I will catch up with you later.

43 Things

2007-07-05T17:45:00.001-05:00

I got this from Shelly's blog. It is 43 things you want to do before you die. I found it to go right along with our small group session last Tuesday. This is harder than you think.

Pray with my family on a daily basis

Learn to cook beans like Dad

Take family vacations every summer, even if it is for the weekend

Start a support group for parents of special needs children

Get my masters (be done in August)

Read completely through the Bible (word for word)

Advocate for special needs children in my community/state

Own my own home

Have a cocker spaniel

Daily devotional time

Learn to use Photoshop

Learn to tread water (almost hopeless)

Not scared to talk about God (can do it on paper…can't really in person unless it is a fellow Christian)

Build a computer like Michael

Daily exercise routine

Prearrange funeral arrangements (both parents this way…so much easier)

Watch "It's A Wonderful Life."

Have a totally clean house for more than one day

Travel to Germany and Poland and study the Holocaust (I'm a Holocaust fanatic)

Good role model for my students

Out of debt

Not a liar to my kids (I believe in telling the kids there no Santa Claus, Michael doesn't. We will see how that goes.)

Cook on a daily basis

Routine of making my bed everyday

Having family nights one night a week

Tell my husband "I love him every day." (I don't know if I tell him enough)

Find time to sew (love it, just no time)

Get over my fear of canoeing (done it twice and shook the whole way down Spring River in Hardy)

Take anniversary trips with Michael (my grandparents called it their honeymoon)

Take initiative of more things

Read as much as possible on real life murders (the only books that can grab my attention)

Get over the fear of being raped

Forget ever being molested by my brother's friend

Get through this list of 43

Make more list of goals to complete

Get over the fact you can't give your children everything they want

Become more organized

Remember to put earrings in

Start getting yearly physicals

Start having yearly eye exams and dental exams

Stop drinking so many cokes. (I love coke and have withdrawals.)

EAT MORE CHOCOLATE ICE CREAM!!! (It makes me happy)

Stop being so critical of myself and my family.

If I have a line through it, then these are things I have already started toward completing.

Where are you taking me God?

2007-07-05T15:55:00.001-05:00

Where are you taking me? My heart has been pounding all day. Does this mean that this is your will? Why am I so nervous about stepping out and trying to help people? I know, however, that everything will be find because you are behind me 100%. Why does it still seem like a scary thing to do?

2007-07-05T08:03:00.000-05:00

I am fixing to take a leap of faith here. I have wanted for some time to start a support group for parents of special needs children. Parents with these children need to have someone with the same experiences to talk to. It was not until Rosjuane's blog about the kind of treatment she receives when she takes her son out in public, that I realize there is a need and that need is now. It is devastating to know that this happens. I am pretty sure that she is not the only one that receives this treatment. I have with my autistic sister and I get the same looks, smirks, and hear the whispering.

Anyways, all is invited to come next Saturday. I may be the only one there but that is OK. I really hope to see this group start off. I want to use the group for parents to support each other and give your ups and downs as you tackle the difficult task of taking care of a special needs child. I also want to see in the future to reach out to the community and educate them on these children. We are in the times now that parents don't stay in their homes and hide because they have a child that is different.

Our 4th of July

2007-07-05T06:26:00.001-05:00

We had a great fourth. We started out by grilling our lunch. Michael grilled pork chops. I know you are suppose to have hot dogs. But when you are broke, you have to eat what you already have. We also had fried okra, squash, corn on the cob, and macaroni and cheese. To me the corn was the best part. I ate four ears myself.

After lunch, we all took a nap. The off the lake we went. We got rained out so we came home. We decided to try again at 9 for the fireworks. I think that was everybody's idea. What is so spectacular about fireworks that people will drives miles to see. The side that we were on was packed. I am sure the other side was too. Below are some pics of the fireworks.

Before I Die, I Want To

2007-07-04T17:00:00.001-05:00

BE	DO	HAVE	HELP	ENJOY	LEAVE
Financially Able—No debt	Teach special education or work directly with special needs children	A home	My children to see God's work	Life	St. Judes a sum of money
Nurturing wife	Set up college fund for kids	Family nights	Other children in need	My kids	Namesake
Understanding parent when my children are in a crisis or need	Set good example for my students	Healthy relationship with my husband	Church members who are struggling	Time alone with hubby before and after the kids are gone	No problems for my kids-everything prearranged
Christian woman and it shows	Sponsor a child	Cocker spaniel	My community with food and clothing drives	A retirement of traveling in a camper	Enough sentimental things for my children to treasure
Advocate for special needs children	Start a support for local parents with special needs children	Family trips every summer	Parents who are struggling supporting their kids-tell them about options they don't know about	Sitting on porch listening to birds and watching squirrels (just need the time to do it)	Enough money to support my husband and children if I go before them

This was an assignment in our women's small group at Journey Church. The answers are in no particular order. This assignment, however, did make you have to think about things you never want to. No one wants to think about what they want to do or be before they die.

Ashton's Haircut

2007-07-03T13:43:00.000-05:00

It started out to just be a little trim. It was getting long. He thought it would be funny to wiggle and dance during the haircut. I told him that I was going to cut it bald if he wouldn't be still. He didn't want that because people would laugh at him. You thought he wouldn't move then. WRONG!!! While trimming, he wanted to shake his booty. You guess it I cut a big gap out of it. The only way to fix it would be to shave it. So here is the after picture showing the results of a comb, clippers, and wiggly boy.

Lunch at the Arnold's

2007-07-02T12:39:00.000-05:00

Ashton's new way to make a peanut butter & jelly sandwich. One with a whole right in the middle.

Arnold Update

2007-07-02T10:03:00.000-05:00

Life....Don't you wish you could hold someone's hand all the way through it. Never experience pain alone. With this picture, I like to pretend that the baby hand is me and the big hand is Jesus. So often, we feel alone, yet he is right there with us.

UPDATE ON ARNOLD HOUSEHOLD:

Lou: I have just completed 9 of my 10 classes for my master's degree. I never thought I would see the end of it. So in 8 weeks, you will see the more educated Lou with a master's. I am starting my second year of teaching kindergarten in August. I can't wait. I have already been setting up my room. It is hard to believe that time is near. I am becoming more active in the church. I take care of the nursery every 3rd Sunday, helping to clean the whole church Friday with the James', and learning Pro Presenter for the slide shows. Pro Presenter is the software used to run the slide show of the songs that are being sung. I am learning this because it gives me the opportunity to sit with Michael during worship service. He does the sound, so I never get to be with him during the service. But I have found the way.

Michael: Michael has two classes left to finish his bachelor's. Hopefully, by December he will be done. I am crossing my fingers. Currently, he works for Monticello School Distirct as a summer technical help. He loves that job. I hope he can find a full time job like that. He is so much happier when he can take computers apart and fix them. It is amazing what he can do to a computer. He has actually built two computers from scratch over the past year and sold them. Now, if I could just get him to work on ours.

Ashton: Ashton is such a great big brother. I don't know what I would do without his help. He is constantly wanting to hold her and feed her. He even throws the dirty diapers away. In August, Ashton will be in pre-school at Drew Central. He is so excited to go to school with school buses. He wants to be in kindergarten in Mrs. Cossey's class but he has to start somewhere.

Kaylee: Kaylee had her 3 month birthday yesterday. She is so active and alert. I believe that she knows everything that is going on around her. She hasn't rolled over yet. But research says that rolling over from your back to your stomach is harder than the other way around. It takes more muscles. She refuses to lay on her stomach. I think that she can't see as much. She is currently going to Kid's World. She loves it. It is amazing how you can see a 3 month old glow when she sees her teachers. She is in heaven there. She has lots of kids to watch play.

STRESSED!!!!

2007-07-01T20:45:00.000-05:00

This is the last week for this course in my master's class. I have borderline C or D. I missed one assignment and got half credit for supposedly copy another student's work. That is a long story and don't want to go there. (I still don't know how I got accused of that one.) Anyways, by missing 10 points and only getting 5 on one will make me receive a C. Now my teacher is saying that I have an assignment missing. I submitted it but it is not there. Of course, you say just resubmit it. If it was only that easy. I deleted it off my computer because I double checked and it was submitted. CAN WE SAY STUPID IDIOT? Now, I have no proof. The teacher however says that she has two assignments that say a guest submitted them. I just don't understand how you can't open those up and see who they are from. Every paper submitted had to have a title page with the student's name on it. Needless to say, I have e-mailed her about it. Probably just made her mad.

Let's say with this class, I am STRESSED. I have already cried to the point of hyperventilating. Took a bubble bath to relax. Take tylenol for the migraine I am getting. Cleaning the house. NOTHING IS WORKING!!!!

UPDATE: SHE CHECKED TH PAPER AND FOUND IT. THANK THE LORD. MY STRESS LEVEL JUST LOWERED BY 95%.

It's morning alreay?

2007-06-28T08:02:00.000-05:00

Some days are just not worth getting up for.

First Conversation

2007-06-27T15:54:00.000-05:00

Frustrating Being A Wife

2007-06-27T10:30:00.000-05:00

How can you move on when you taken an oath to stand by someone until they die? You have given your all to that person and it doesn't seem like enough. You are completely exhausted raising two kids, getting your masters and helping your husband through school who just ain't making it.

The world today would tell you to get rid of him. He is doing nothing but bringing you down. He won't do homework at school or send resumes in. He believes that is your job. In the back of your mind there is no way you can leave him. You took an oath before God. After all you stood by him that time in March a year ago when he betrayed you. How could you leave him over something so stupid? Is it just too much to ask for?

I love him don't get me wrong. Sometimes it is just so frustrating to be a nurturing wife. You start getting your life back together and it feels like your world begins to crumble.

A Fearless Child

2007-06-26T08:29:00.000-05:00

What makes a child fearless? What makes them so trusting of people?

Thinking back to the events at family camp, what makes Ashton do the things he does? Why does he let someone lift him up a tall pole and then put him on the zip line for him to go plunging through the woods? Why does he jump into a swimming pool that is over his head? Why would he follow the older boys through the woods on his bike?

What happened to me as an adult? I would be scared to death to do those things. Never would I climb a pole and drop to the ground. Never would I jump off into water over my head without my life jacket. (If you notice I always stay in the shallow end.) Never would I follow someone into the woods on a bike trail. Does life experiences change this? If we are suppose to have trials in our life, why do they cause us to fear the world and everyone in it? Maybe it is because once we start to believe, we can look back on those experiences and see what could have happened if we only would have trusted God.

Starting July 20th, I am going to make a leap of faith. Am I scared, YES! I have to do it in order to be obedient to my God. He has been putting this on my shoulders for years. I am tired of holding all that heavy baggage. We are going to tithe the whole 10%. This is very scary for me and I have been struggling with this for years. I have been scared to do it. How will I pay for everything that I have? RENT, DAYCARE, CAR PAYMENT, UTILITIES, FOOD! How will they get paid? It is hard to support a family on 4 on a teacher's salary. I just never saw how I could do it. I still don't. You hear of people saying don't worry about it, God will take care of it. I just couldn't take the chance. I know not taking a chance on God is pretty stupid. Well, we are going to try it. Just pray for me because this is a big step that I have to make. It is time for me to be as fearless as Ashton.

Journey Family Camp

2007-06-24T22:49:00.001-05:00

We had a great time at camp. The one thing that we brought back from camp was that we must find a devotional for our family. We learned that your family is of the upmost importance. If anyone knows of a good devo for 3 years old please let me know. Ashton asks a lot of questions and is very interested. Everything we have found is over his head.

Here are a few pictures from camp.

Daddy helping Ashton get ready to go to breakfast.

You guessed it. This is the evil grin. Ashton has taken Blessing's car.

Playing Connect Four by himself. Actually he just likes putting all the pieces in there and then watching them fall out.

Where's Kaylee? Oh, Kynlee has her.

Can you tell that he had a blast at camp.

Second year of Family Camp and they finally get along. (Picture taken from Jeff)

Yes, the Arnold's won something. We may not win anything that deals with physical endurance, but we can Flashlight Morse Code with the best of them.

We are trying to teach him to ride the big boy bikes, but you have to take small steps.

I never saw Kaylee the whole time at camp. Someone else always had her.

Ashton left camp with an adrenaline rush. He climb a big tall telephone pole and zip lined to the ground. That is right my 3 year old rode a zip line from about 70 feet in the air. He has no fear. Ashton wants to thank Jeff for saving him. He told me we had to buy him a Christmas present for the save.

Our trip to the Movie

2007-06-22T07:53:00.000-05:00

We went to the movies because Momma took Ashton to the doctor and told him that would not give him a shot. What did they do? Stuck him in his finger and gave him a shot in the booty. What was I suppose to do? He looked so sad when he turned to me and said, "You said I wouldn't get a shot." I had to do something.

We went to see Shrek the Third. It was great. It kept Ashton's attention all the way through, which is unusual.

We got our popcorn and began eating until the movie started. You can't go to the movie place and not get popcorn. It is a must and it must have extra butter.

After eating all that popcorn, you get thirsty. We drink our Barq's Root Beer (the real kind).

Of course, what is a trip to the movie without spilling your drink and popcorn all over the floor. A three year old gets exciting with something in the movie and kicks it all over.

We had a great time!

(Can you tell we love the camera? All of our pictures can tell a story. Sorry the pictures are bad, but they were done with the mobile.)

100 Things

2007-06-21T16:53:00.000-05:00

So I have done this before too. Shelly and Brandy have me wanted to redo mine.

My real name is Larryanna Lowery Arnold.
had seizures as an infant
from a broken home, although both parents work together to raise me (no problems)
grew up in Eudora
graduated Valedictorian
only white in my high school class
an aunt at age 7 (can't believe that boy is already 21)
had my tongue pierced in college
love A & E and all their crime shows
used to be a social drinker
the baby of 6 (4 half-brothers and 1 sister)
watched my Dad and my Mom take their last breath
long to teach special education
used to stay depressed....especially during pregnancy with Kaylee
been to Rome and Israel
traveled to New York 3 times (one with Ashton at 18 months)
rode in a train from New York City to Little Rock
love flip flops (10 to 15 pair and counting)
hate to buy clothes at full price (look for the red clearance signs at stores)
love to listen to country
love dogs especially cocker spaniels
hate to wear make-up
favorite color is green and yellow
teach kindergarten
have an autistic sister
a tomboy
likes to fish but refuses to touch the fish or put the worm on the hook
married for 5 years
love pickles
have scoliosis
used to wear contacts (and will get some more tomorrow...just in time for camp)
outspoken...when it comes to my kids (at home or at school)
never had a cavity
love jewelry
don't like to dress...(would wear t-shirts, jeans, and flip flops anywhere)
hate to wear tennis shoes or boots even during the winter
swam in the Dead Sea (rather I floated)
love to take pictures
would love to leave in New York City if I wasn't so family oriented
don't like to read books (It must be a true story of a killer before I can)
love horror films (Michael doesn't)
wish my birthstone was not a diamond because everybody wears them
takes a while to trust people
very criticle of everyone I met...sometimes wonder what their motive is
hate to drive
can't tread water...must stay in water that is not over my head
love to watch people and analyze them
once wanted to be a news anchor
love Sour Cream and Onion Chips
favorite candy bar is a Butterfinger
would love to go to a Nascar Event
love riding on four-wheelers
hate washing clothes
manager at Pizza Inn for two years in Jonesboro
went to ASU before UAM
totally flunked ASU because I didn't go to class
have two kids Ashton (3) and Kaylee (2 months)
refuse to live in Little Rock (it stresses me)
realized by calling in live to be a teacher from the Jonesboro School shooting
took several years to learn to ride a bike
never went to a Bible Study until Journey Church
can recall at least once when I know God carried me through a situation (I am positive he need more, but I actually felt him lift me up in his hands)
love to sew but don't have the time
my brother is my mechanic
have help my husband work on a Volkswagon beetle
actually kissed a boy 2 days before 16 (wasn't Sweet 16 and never been kissed)
love to watch sports
cheerleader in high school
rode on a motorcycle only once
fear being raped or assaulted (almost makes me paranoid to be myself)
have to wash my hair everyday (it's very oily)
jumped off a diving board only once (with a life jacket)
can't stand Dr. Pepper (sorry Shelly)
favorite food is anything CHICKEN
tried to breast feed (It just was not for me)
had an ulcer on eye
hate to sun tan...if I get tanned it is while I am doing my normal thing outside
want a house so that I can mow it
took dancing for 13 years
have 3 nephews and 1 niece
My Dad is my hero
can't stand for people to touch my nose
my toes are the only parts on me that is ticklish
love to camp oustide in a tent (not a trailor)
would not trade my husband for anything
strive to have a quiet time with the Bible...(right now just trying for Bible time)
Both my kids have slept all night (gets up only once for a Bible)
love Wal-Mart (except the one here)
can't stand to do house work unless it is oustide
very poor night vision
think John Travolta is the sexiest guy ever.
bought my wedding dress off Ebay
never used the internet until I went to college
hate talking on the phone
wore braces my senior year of high school
rear ended someone at a stop light because I was looking for my retainer
very ogranized person
must watch TV to go to sleep
have muscle spasms in my back during cold weather
hate chatting on the internet

Bible Devotionals

2007-06-20T18:43:00.000-05:00

I got a new Bible about 5 days ago. I have wanted a devotional Bible for some time. I hate having 2 or 3 books just to study God's word. Anyways, I have done great with it. I have been reading it for 4 days straight. The devotionals only take a 5 minutes in the morning. This is awesome if you only get up an hour before you have to be some where and you have 2 kids to get ready. I am also reading through the Bible in one year with a plan that I found online. I have been doing this before I go to bed. I am so excited. I never made it 4 days in a row. I usually stopped around two. Woo Hoo for me.

The Melancholic / Choleric

2007-06-19T16:46:00.000-05:00

I am 80% Melancholic and only 29% Choleric

The melancholic-choleric is also a leader with the potential to accomplish great works. However, where the choleric-melancholic is driven by the challenge and the opportunity, the melancholic-choleric is inspired more by the nobility of the task. The introverted nature of the melancholic, combined with the focused and unempathic nature of the choleric, can result in an individual who is highly motivated by noble ideals (even humanitarian ones), but who prefers to work alone, rather than with people. The melancholic side of both temperament mixtures results in the project being organized, ethical, and high-minded, while the choleric aspect is the driving and demanding force.

If you are melancholic-choleric, you are somewhat less pragmatic (or utilitarian) than a pure choleric, just as persevering and determined, and with a greater emphasis on the ideal. Likely to be motivated by the most noble and demanding of causes, you are capable of founding a humanitarian society, composing a symphony, founding a school, or discovering a cure. You are organized, perfectionist, introspective, driven, and moody (though less so than a pure melancholic). You will be less active than a choleric-melancholic and less extraverted, more internally focused.

But your weaknesses include a tendency to excessive self-criticism and criticism of others, being dismissive or overly judgmental, exhibiting a tendency to self-absorption, and possessing an untrustful and controlling nature. You tend to be inflexible, can bear grudges for a long time and may be prone to discouragement. A melancholic-choleric who is not attentive to his spiritual life, and does not keep his eye assiduously on the truly important things of life can become a cross to those around him, through his nit-picking, perfectionism, disdain, bitterness, resentfulness, spitefulness when crossed, and even haughtiness.
If your temperament is melancholic-choleric, for a better understanding of your temperament it is recommended that you read the full descriptions of the melancholic and choleric.

25 Favorite things

2007-06-19T06:47:00.000-05:00

25. Favorite Holiday-Christmas

24. Favorite Season-Winter...I love the snow

23. Favorite Color-green or yellow

22. Favorite Hobby-sudoku puzzles

21. Favorite Sport-basketball

20. Favorite Game-Clue

.21. Favorite Place-New York City

.20.Favorite Restaurant-Olive Garden

19. Favorite Food-anything chicken

18. Favorite Ice Cream-Chocolate

17. Favorite Drink-Grape Slush from Sonic

16. Favorite Gadget-my cell phone Treo

15. Favorite Smell-cucumber melon

14. Favorite Shoes-any one of flip flops

12. Favorite Pet-Champ my cocker spaniel I had when I was little

11. Favorite Movie-8 Seconds

10. Favorite TV Show-Grey's Anatomy....I so need a support group

09. Favorite Radio Station-106.9 Country station out of Stuttgart

08. Favorite Band-just one....Rascal Flatts

07. Favorite Song-"The Dance" by Garth Brooks

06. Favorite Book-The book on Jeffrey Dahmer

05. Favorite Quote-Excuses are like booty holes, everyone has them

04. Favorite Song Lyric: "I can buy the same thing on the Wal-mart shelf half price." Redneck Woman by Gretchen Wilson

03. Favorite Poem-Anything Langston Hughes

02. Favorite Candy--Sweettarts or Butterfinger

01. Favorite Person-Michael

Prayer Request

2007-06-18T18:08:00.000-05:00

I have a simple prayer request for those that have the time. Friday afternoon a 5 year old shot old his 3 year old brother here in Monticello. It killed the little the boy. I know the little boy that did shooting. He was not in my class but in kindergarten. The funeral was today. Please keep this boy and his family in your prayer. Right now, the 5 year old does not really grasp what has happened except that his brother is going to heaven.

I went to visitation, yesterday. It was the worst thing that I have ever seen. All I could do was picture Ashton in that casket. It just brought tears to my eyes. That could have easily been him. We must count our blessing everyday.

2007-06-15T19:42:00.000-05:00

Today, I went to Monroe for my pedicure with the rest of the teachers from kindergarten. I absolutely had a blast. Who would think that a country girl from Eudora would love to have a pedicure? It is the greatest thing since sliced bread. I would recommend it to everyone.

Just one of Those Days

2007-06-13T14:54:00.001-05:00

I feel like Brandy does when she post about her doctor's appoint visits. I just want to cry like Ashton is in this picture.

Today was my appointment for WIC sense it was canceled last Friday. I didn't know that until I went for the appointment. A phone call would have been nice. Below is a short synopsis of the morning.

7:30 Take Michael to work

7:45 Drop the kids off at day care

7:50 Go home and pick up WIC papers that I left

8:10 Arrive at DHS for appointment at 8:30

8:12 Go to pick up kids. (Didn't know that had to be there since Friday I mentioned I had a workshop at 9am and could just walk right over to the Co-op. You would think the secretary would have caught that and said you have to bring the children.)

8:20 Arrive back at DHS (though I did good I was still early for the appointment)

8:30 Kaylee screaming for a bottle and Ashton wild as a goose

8:45 still waiting and thinking I will never make it to the workshop....text Michael to come over and take the kids back when they are finished with the appointment.

9:00 the waiting room begins to fill...still have not been called back...text Michael again to give him the update and hoping for a response with words of encouragement..WORKSHOP STARTED

9:15 nurse walks through front door...really hoping that is not the nurse that was suppose to be at my appointment at 8:30....15 MINUTES INTO MY WORKSHOP

9:20 still not called back...students from my class were there so I talked them...Ashton is jumping off the seats....Kaylee is crying because I didn't bring her paci or more formula from the day care....(I honestly thought I would be done or at least been seen)..20 MINUTES INTO MY WORKSHOP...text Michael again with an update and to tell him to come and help

9:30 finally called back and yes the nurse that walked in at 9:15 was the nurse that I was seeing...do all the kids measurements and mine...pricked Ashton in the finger to check for hemoglobins (He was such a trooper. I told him that it would not hurt. All he said was OUCH)....find out I have to have one (talk about nervous..I knew it would hurt)....text Michael to see where he is at....30 MINUTES INTO MY WORKSHOP

9:50 moved to another room to see what we are lacking in our diets....text Michael again.....50 MINUTES INTO MY WORKSHOP

10:00 Michael calls to find out where I am because he needs the car...his phone's battery was dead....ONE HOUR INTO MY WORKSHOP

10:30 finally all the paperwork was complete....1 HOUR & 30 MINUTES INTO MY WORKSHOP...finally get dropped off and Michael takes the kids back to day care and he is off to class (30 MINUTES LATE FOR CLASS)

After the whole 2 hours, we did receive WIC. Kaylee will get her formula and Ashton and I will get lots of other things.

My day would have been great, but of course the chaos did not stop there.

10:35 arrive at the workshop

11:30 break for lunch...pile into co-workers vehicle...that's right it was dead...the car would not have to start

11:45 guy from Monticello Exxon arrives to replace the battery

12:00 off to eat

12:10 arrive at City Drug

12:15 get our order taken

12:20 Michael arrives and orders

12:25 our food arrives and we eat...Michael is still waiting for his

12:45 time to be back...finally get to pay...Michael is still waiting for his food

12:50 we leave...Michael is still waiting...I hope that he got his food but I don't know

1:00 arrive back at the workshop.....15 MINUTES LATE

2:00 workshop is over...get ride to Monticello School District to get my car.....THE CAR WAS LOCKED....you guessed it Michael has the keys and his phone is dead...there was no getting in touch with him.

2:20 arrive at home and am now blogging about my crazy day

LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE. I GET TO GO TO WAL-MART AND BUY MY WIC. I ALSO GOT $28 TO GO TO FARMER'S MARKET FOR QUALIFYING FOR WIC.

My High-Maintenance Girl

2007-06-12T17:05:00.000-05:00

Happy 5 Years!

2007-06-11T07:44:00.000-05:00

Friday is actual the magical date, but I can't wait to tell you how much I love you.

We have been through a lot together and you have been great through it all. Below is a short timeline of us.

December 1999--We met and I electricuted you (literally).

February 2000--You went to the Valentine's Dance with me.

March 2000--You asked me out. The best thing you could have every done with your life.

May 2000--You moved home for the summer or at least I thought you did. You stayed in Jonesboro with your friends for most of the time.

September 2000--You began to work at Pizza Inn with me and I was your boss. You were a great employee.

March 2001--We went on our first mission trip together to Mexico.

May 2001--We moved to south Arkansas. You to Casscoe and me to Eudora.

January 2002--You proposed to me in my dorm room.

Febuary 2002--You were by my side after my Mom's death. You are the greatest for this.

June 2002--We were married and off to Hardy.

August 2002--We moved into our first apartment at Family Housing. It was tiny at the time, but we didn't care.

January 2003--We were able to work side by side again. I was secretary at UAM school of Ed and you were the tech guy.

November 2003--We had our first child, Ashton Michael Arnold.

December 2004--We moved to Jonesboro. You went to school and I interned in a resource/special education classroom.

May 2005--We moved back to Arkansas City. Dad was sick and someone had to take care of him. Thank you so much for doing that so I could finish my last semester of internship.

July 2005--We took at trip to New York City with Ashton to help a lady move. That was fun, especially the train ride home.

October 2005--We moved back to Monticello after Dad's death.

January 2006--I took my first teaching job at McGehee Elementary. You were there for this exciting moment.

April 2006--We found an awesome church that we both loved. Finally there was a place for a Methodist and Baptist to go without feeling awkward.

June 2006--I was offered a job at Drew Central teaching kindergarten. You told me to go for it.

December 2006--We took at car trip to Arizona with Ashton and Kaylee in my belly.

April 2007--We gave birth to our second child, Kaylee Elizabeth Arnold.

June 2007--Here we are. STILL TOGETHER.

Thanks for sticking with me for this long. I know it is difficult since I am so stubborn and independent. You are the greatest guy that I ever known and I love you for that.

Doodie King

2007-06-08T17:22:00.000-05:00

This is an actual truck. Nothing has been photoshopped. My friend was driving home from work in Little Rock and had to take a picture of this and send to me.

Sissy's Going Get Sick

2007-06-08T10:21:00.000-05:00

I keep both kids out from day care today. Kaylee had to go to the health department to get her shots and I was trying to get on WIC. Ashton wanted to go so he could hold sissy's hand while she was getting a shot. He thought it would help. I gave in because I didn't want to crush his feelings.

We load up the car and get to the clinic. Our appointment was changed. Didn't know that. They called Michael and do you think he gave me that message. NOPE!!! So we have been rescheduled till next Wednesday.

As we are leaving, Ashton throws the biggest fit. I thought it was just a normal fit like he throws when he has to leave church or anybody's house. It wasn't because usually by the time we make it to the car he stops. Not this time. He was about to drive me nuts. He screamed most of the way home. When he calmed down and was only crying a little, I asked him what was wrong. He said that sissy didn't see the doctor and she was going to get sick. I forgot that I explained to him that shots weren't bad that they would keep sissy from getting sick. This just goes to show that Big Brother does care for Little Sister.

Flixster

2007-06-07T15:05:00.000-05:00

So I am asuming Jenny has nothing to do with her life but play on the internet. She keeps sending me these cool places to go. Guess what. That's right. I don't clean house, wash kids, feed kids, take a bath. or even eat. (Just kidding, don't call DHS.) Anyways this newest site is about movies. It is called Flixster. You really ought to go here. It is a fun way to see how you match up with your friend's choice. According to Flixster, I am just friends with Jenny. We like some of the same things, but not all. The funny one is Jeff. Obviously, me and Jeff are nothing alike. The advice it gave me was to RUN AWAY, FAST. If I was married to him, it also gave me the advice to consider divorce. I am sure it will be the same way with Michael.

Just for future reference, my husband is very upset. Please click on his link and give him a comment. He is upset because only two people commented. That was me and according to him, I have to. The other was K.T. He said she didn't count because she reads everyone's blog is his in charge of Friday Blog Wrap-Up. I will fight him and make sure that he updates.

My Girl Loves the Water

2007-06-06T22:41:00.000-05:00

My little girl loves the water too. She was actually awake for it today.

Day at the Lake

2007-06-05T19:18:00.000-05:00

Trying to move a really heavy rock.

They really ought to invest in those pottys.

He is wearing blue jeans to the lake. He didn' know he needed his swimsuit to go swimming. This is why I love him.

Sleeping!

The only picture of me.

Who is having more fun?

It's cold Mommy.

Still sleeping.

More sand castles!

Still sleeping.....

I LOVE THE LAKE!!!

House for Sale

2007-06-05T13:05:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wanted something so bad that you are obsessed with it? I have to admit this would be me. I am so obsessed that I get mad at Michael because he is suppose to provide. He is the guy. Totally opposite. He is still getting through school. I feel bad because I put so much pressure on him to finish. I need that extra salary to buy a house. I can't wait. I want the fenced in yard for the kids to play and my cocker spaniel. Of course, I don't have the cocker spaniel because I live in an apartment. So this is to say that one day when the timing is right, I guess I will get my house. It is hard though to what for the timing for God.

Pics of the kids

2007-06-04T17:47:00.000-05:00

Debuting the new swimsuit.

Mad because he wasn't getting his picture taken.

Any day around the Arnold household.

Summertime is Here

2007-06-04T11:37:00.000-05:00

Summertime is here! I just finished my last day of school. It is kind of sad and exciting all at the same time. Crazy, I know. It is sad to think of all the kids that I won’t wake up for and change their lives. They made every day an enjoyable event to wake up to. I truly loved each one of them. If I could I would bring them all home with me, even those troublesome ones.

This summer does not involve much for me. First off, June 15th I am going to Monroe with the other kindergarten teachers for a pedicure. I have never had one done and am kind of nervous. I don’t like people touching my feet. It just tickles to bad. I will have to see how it goes. By the way, my feet don’t look that bad.

The end of June the whole family is going to Family Camp. We had an exciting time last year. It was just me and Ashton because Michael had to work. He came for only one day. It will be exciting to see him there and Kaylee. Last year was a great accomplishment for us. I had been struggling trying to teach Ashton how to ride a bike. I had just given up. We took his bike anyways. I was dreading it. He actually learned to ride his bike by watching the other kids. He thought he was such a big boy. Kaylee also has to debut her new swimsuit. We can’t wait to go.

This is pretty much our summer. Michael is working and I have workshops. It is tough being adults.

2 months

2007-06-02T21:09:00.000-05:00

Wow, how fast time flies. You are already smiling and laughing at everyone, especially when Ashton is getting in trouble. You are so alert to the world around you. You constantly want to be held where you can see what everyone is doing. You do not miss a thing. You are loved and spoiled by everyone you come in contact with, especially by her special friend Kynlee.

Welcome to the 21st Century

2007-05-31T19:14:00.000-05:00

We got cable today!!!

I can now watch my favorite shows on ABC without having to watch a day later. To bad I didn't get it before the season finale of Bachelor and Grey's Anatomy.

Dr. Pepper Soup

2007-05-29T20:50:00.001-05:00

This recipe is dicovered by the one and only Ashton Arnold.

Don't Laugh At Me

2007-05-27T20:44:00.000-05:00

Why do we look at children who are different funny?

You would expect stares from children. They don't know any better. Stares from adults are another story. In my short teaching span, I have seen adults, even teachers give these stares. It is very disturbing to me. Sometimes, I make excuses for them, such as they are not around it like I was. (I have lived with an autistic sister all my life.)

There is really no excuse!

I encourage you to listen to this song. It brings tears to me every time I listen to it. I can just hear children, like my sister, saying this.

My Family

2007-05-26T20:43:00.001-05:00

You don't need to adjust your glasses. You are seeing correctly. This is my family and yes they are black. Mom just spilled bleach on me. Just kidding.

Some people were wondering when I have them in pictures or mention them in blogs. The Gayfield's have always been my second family. They have always supported and treated me as their own. I would not trade them for anything. I used to babysit their children and they just couldn't get rid of me after that. They just shouldn't make really good pork chops and rice with cheese.

High school graduation 1997

Christmas 2003

Wedding 2002

Teenager Already?

2007-05-25T20:42:00.000-05:00

She's starting early on being a teenager.

Just to explain: Ashton loves to give Kaylee toys while she is sleeping. I think he wants to wake her up in hopes that she will play with him. This would explain the Incredible Hulk that is also in the picture.

What's Going On?

2007-05-24T19:02:00.000-05:00

I am scared to know what he is up to.

That's Taylor's Girl!

2007-05-23T22:31:00.000-05:00

Looking through Jeff's Flicker slide show of the renovation of Journey Church, we came across this picture. Ashton says "That's Taylor's girl!"

Special Education

2007-05-22T17:08:00.001-05:00

I love nothing more than working with kids with special needs. I actually have a degree in it but can't use it.

What does it take to show people that you are worthy of working with these type kids? I have the experience. I have a sister who is autistic and lived with all my life. I interned in a resource room. I have also volunteered at Camp Aldersgate with kids that had epilepsy or spina bifida. I am currently teaching a student who has severe speech problems, yet I am not good enough to work with these students.

Why?

School is Almost Over!!

2007-05-21T21:13:00.000-05:00

School is almost over. What an exciting time! Why am I sad? My first full year of teaching is coming to a close. All the other teachers are exciting, but I am not. I am going to miss all my kids.

These are the reasons I will miss this year:

"I want to be just like Mrs. Arnold so I can have a baby."
"Wow! Mrs. Arnold you lost a lot of weight."
"I Love you Mrs. Arnold."
The hugs from every kid as I drop them off at their bus to go home.
The many drawings and coloring sheets they proudly bring me in the morning.
The phone calls from parents.
The lovely notes from parents thanking me for a good job.
Helping the students learn to subtract.
Snack time
The field trips throughout the year (Pumpkin Patch, Christmas caroling on the square, Park Day at Western Pines).
Treasure box on Friday's for students who did not get their car moved all week.
watching my student grow in their learning
wearing my yellow class T-Shirt

There are so many other reasons, but I won't bore you to tears. I am going to miss all 16 of my wonderful kids. Call me crazy, but I have become attached.

Michael's Pink Coat

2007-05-20T21:12:00.000-05:00

If you have read Michael's blog, he is upset that I called his coat pink. Let me tell you it is. The picture is has is photoshopped. It was not faded. Don't listen to him. Here is the picture to prove it.

Come on. You can't tell me that all the pictures are faded.

Here is his picture that he fixed.

I love him, even though his Mommy put him in a pink coat. He has grown up since then.

Opposites Attract

2007-05-18T17:59:00.000-05:00

Michael is a city boy from West Memphis. He is the only child of a totally devoted family. The kind that plans everything to the T. His family is really small. You can actually count his cousins on one hand. Michael attended First Baptist church since he was born. His high school was large also. Michael's extra curricular activities included band. He graduated with about 300 other people. After graduation, he attended Arkansas State University with no idea what he wanted his future to hold.

Larryanna Lowery Fletcher is a country girl from Eudora. She is the baby of a family of six. Four of her brothers are only half brothers. Her parents were both married before. Shortly after her birth her parents divorced. She lived with her mother, yet her father was always an integral part of her life. She attended a small Methodist church. You could count the members using only your fingers once. She was very active in her high school. She was a cheerleader, ran distance in track, and keep stats for the basketball team. She also graduated valedictorian in her class. After school, she had it all plan out to attend Arkansas State Univeristy to become a news broadcaster. By the way, college is were she got the name Lou.

How is the world did these two meet?

This is a long story. Lou was already at Arkansas State for two years before Michael arrived. She attended the Wesley pretty regularly. She became real good friends with a guy name Will (who by the way is the nicest guy ever). Will had a brother named Tim (who by the way is the coolest guy ever). Tim and Michael entered ASU at the same time. They later became best friends and Tim began to bring Michael to the Wesley. Tim was bound and determined to hook us up, regardless of the fact that I was dating at the time. Michael says he saw me and knew he would date me. I never really remember him until Tim brought him over to my house to help me move. Then, I thought he was a dork. He saw sparks at first sight though. I think it was just from me electricuting him when he was removing a ceiling fan.

Tim had it all planned out to the second. He was going to get Michael to take me to the Valentine's dance at the Welsey (sorry Baptists us Methodists like to shake our booty). The only problem is he wouldn't. I was actually scared. I don't know why. He knew I would say yes. Just minutes before the dance, I was crushed. Michael was a no show. I finally told Tim I was going to call him and ask him myself. Of course, Tim said no because it would crush his man hood. Tim went and got Michael to come we had a great time. That night we kissed for the first time. He asked me to be his girlfriend. I said yes. The only problem neither one of us knew if the other was serious.

The story is not over yet. Summer came and Michael had to go home to Casscoe (where his parents now live). I broke it off. The old boyfriend came back into the picture. I went wild and got my tongue pierced. I hoped it would turn the goody two shoes Michael to another direction. No, he just tried harder. Thank goodness his hard work in trying to get me back worked. We got back together and have been there ever since.

We got married right? No, we are not done yet.

My mom got really sick. So I moved home to help her and aslo the fact I was just playing in Jonesboro and getting nothing accomplished. Michael moved to Stuttgart with his parents. He began working at the local radio station. Long distance relationships did not work for us. It was very hard. The late nights talking on the phone and the stress of taking care of my dying mother was paying a toll on me. We tried to break up several times. This time, I was not going to give up.

February 14, 2002 we finally got our act together.

After lots of talks of marriage, we finally made it official. We had already bought or picked out our rings earlier. Michael drove from Stuttgart after to work to propose and take me out. I will never forget this moment. I was sitting on my bed and Michael got down on both knees. Yes both knees. He didn't know what knee to get down on so he just did both. After this we went to Western Sizzlin for supper and off to the lake for a nice romantic evening. It was the best night I ever had.

June 15, 2002--THE MAIN EVENT

We planned a weeding in only 3 months. I didn't see the purpose of taking years to plan a wedding that may last 30 minutes. I found my dream dress off of Ebay. That is right my wedding dress was bought off E-bay for only $70. The flowers for my bouquet were made of flowers from my uncle's funeral. The flowers for the flower girl were actually flowers from the family wreath on my mom's casket. Did I mention I was cheap? We had homemade invitations. We made our own program and catered our own wedding. The only reception food that was expensive was the wedding cake because we made the groom's cake. We had the smallest cheapest wedding. It didn't matter, we were in love. I wouldn't change anything about it.

The Bridesmaid (L to R): Annette Jones (my sister-in-law), Whitney Gayfield (sister), Amber Fletcher (cousin), Meredith Hayley (college friend), Kristen Hale (Michael's cousin)

The Groomsmen (L to R): Kevin Sumpter (friend), Tim Hoggard (friend), Justin Nowlin (cousin) and Jason Burton (friend)

Our Journey

My Calling in Life

2007-05-15T20:56:00.000-05:00

Every wonder what God has in store for you. You think it is one thing, but then it is something totally different. If we would just stop and listen maybe we wouldn't go down the wrong path.

I have discovered that my life calling is teaching. I never wanted this and was not going to end up doing that. My Mom and Dad were both teachers. There was no way I was going to follow in there footsteps. Stubborn teenager, I guess. Mom wanted me to get education hours but I refused. I was not going to need them.

In eighth grade, I knew exactly what I was going to be. A NEWS BROADCASTER. I wanted to be the next Barbara Walters or Montel Williams. This career choice stayed my choice even after high school. I went to the best communication college in Arkansas (Arkansas State University). I won the Ted Rand scholarship, which is a radio broadcasting scholarship based on a tape demo of you telling the news. I had my life all planned out.

Something was missing. I didn't know what. I was not happy in my field of choice. It was all wrong for me. I finally realized that I was not able to help people. Needless to say, I changed my major and went to social work. Remember, I was not going to be a teacher. NO WAY HOSEA. Yes, you are right, I was not happy. I did not know what was missing.

On March 24, 1998 I made my choice. I witness the most horrible event. Jonesboro had experienced a school shooting. Driving home from my baby sitting job, I had to pull over on the side of the road. Ambulance, police cars, fire trucks were racing down the highway. I knew something major had happened. Never dreamed it was a school shooting. Two boys opened fire on students exiting the building because of a pulled fire alarm. This horrible event took the lives of four innocent children and a brave devoted teacher.

Shannon Wright is my hero, although she does not know it. She stepped in front of a flying bullet to keep a child out of harm's reach. Without thinking she risked death to save a precious soul. How amazing this woman is. She had a 2 year old child and a husband at home. She put all of that on the line for that one child. Shannon Wright lived until she made it to the hospital. She could not fight it any longer. She died in surgery with gun shot wounds to the chest and abdomen.

About a week later, I went to the school. You could still see the empty building with no children and the police lines. Writing on the outside wall of the gym said, "bullet went in here and went through the floor." To me Shannon Wright's presence was there. You could just picture were she stood to protect that child. I believe that we need more teachers like that.

You are probably saying, "You stupid idiot, run the other direction." For some reason, I couldn't. No matter how much I tried, I couldn't. It was like I had a concrete block tied to my foot. There was no moving. I changed my major the very next day.

I finally moved back to Eudora to take care of my mother who was dying of cancer. She helped me enroll at UAM. Four years later, I graduated with a bachelor's of art in early childhood/special education. I just hope that one day, I could live up to the status of Shannon Wright. I want to be the protector of my students like she was. It does not have to be that drastic (at least I hope not). I just want to make a difference in the lives of my students.

Rough and Ready Days.

2007-05-13T07:19:00.000-05:00

I am so glad Rough and Ready days are over. We had fun, but between sunburns and hot and cranky kids it was a lot. Ashton had a blast as always. We managed to ride 3 rides that cost an arm and a leg Friday night. After that we decided to play on the free playground.

We ate supper there. BIG MISTAKE. Not only did it cost a bunch, it was EXTREMELY NASTY. I bought a deluxe Angus cheeseburger. I thought that would be a big good burger considering it was an Angus burger. WRONG!!! I took one bite and nearly threw up. Needless to say, on Saturday we walked to Topp's.

For some strange reason there was an overgrown army guy. Ashton said it was a big guy. Also a ninja was walking around. You probably think I am lying but here is the proof.

Besides the food and expensive rides, everything else was great. I loved listening to music and hanging out with my friends and my students.

While we were at Rough and Ready days we found Ashton and Kaylee real parents. We decided to take a picture with them.

The Proudest Wife

2007-05-11T20:16:00.000-05:00

I HAVE NEVER BEEN PROUDER THAN I AM TODAY!

A Little Gassy

2007-05-10T19:45:00.000-05:00

Miss Piggy

2007-05-09T20:33:00.000-05:00

9 lbs. 10 oz.

Yes you read that right. My little girl is growing like a weed (not the smoking type). She has gained almost 2 lbs in one month.

Her doctor's appointment went great. The doctor said she was normal. Wish I could say that about the rest of my family :).

My son was feeling left out and wanted his picture on here too. So here he is with all his teeth.

Boys and Their Bathroom Problems

2007-05-04T19:53:00.000-05:00

This picture is very nice compared to what I just caught Ashton doing. I went to check on Ashton because he was outside playing with the neighbor. You guessed it! I saw all of his precious jewels. Pants and underwear were at his ankles peeing in front of the neighbor's apartment on the concrete. I wanted to get on to him so bad but I could do nothing but laugh. Yes, I think potty humor is hilarious. I grew up around 4 brothers. Needless to say, I told him not to do it again. I think it went in one ear and out the other.

Someone help

2007-05-02T20:22:00.000-05:00

THE CAR RIDE

Setting: in the car home from church (approximately 1 mile)

Kaylee: Waaa! Waaa! Waaa!

Ashton: Can I please have her paci?

Kaylee: Waaa! Waaa! Waaa!

Ashton: Give her a bottle. She needs something.

Kaylee: Waaa! Waaa! Waaa!

Ashton: I can't take this.

Kaylee: Waaa! Waaa! Waaa!

Pictures From a Toddler's Perspective

2007-05-01T18:33:00.000-05:00

Pictures taken by Ashton

Kaylee--1 Month Old

2007-04-30T18:54:00.000-05:00

Where has the time gone? In two weeks, I return to work because my little girl will be six weeks old. It is a scary thought. Why does time pass by so fast when you are having a great time? I have enjoyed the time with her all to myself without worrying about the kaos in my life. That will soon change.

Milestones or moments in her life so far that are important to me:

beginning to open her hands (ready to explore the world)
only sleep if she is on my arm (sometimes gets annoying)
eats all the time
hiccups are constant because she drinks her milk so fast
sleeps through the night (only gets up about once for a bottle)
isn't annoyed by brother who is constantly in her face
stares so proudly at you
beginning to smile when you talk to her (I don't think it is gas)

Children are so precious. They are truly a gift from God.

Failing at Raising Kids

2007-04-27T09:54:00.000-05:00

What kind of kids am I raising? Have I completely failed?

A Gangsta'

A Country Redneck

A Lunatic

Preschool at the Arnold's

2007-04-20T18:15:00.000-05:00

Preschool has begun at the Arnold household. Ashton has a Leapster game that requires you to know letters and shapes to play it. I get so frustrated because the game is for 3 year olds but most 3 year olds don't know their letters. He knows his shapes but not letters. So I am taking this opportunity to teach him his letters. He is so excited to learn the letter A because it is in his name. I figure we could do a week on the letter A. Check out his first piece of school work. I was shocked. The little 5 minute lesson went rather easy and then we played letter match games.

Who Does Kaylee Look Like?

2007-04-18T18:45:00.000-05:00

Everyone wants to know who Kaylee looks like. Well, I will set the story straight. I finally found my old picturs.

NO CLUB FOOT

2007-04-17T18:31:00.000-05:00

Today was our appointment at Children's. Great news! The doctor says he does not think it is club foot. He believes that she was so squished in my belly that it was bent that way for awhile. He told us to stretch her foot every time we change her diaper. We go back in a month just for a check up to make sure that it is not anything more serious.

Kids Say the Darnest Things

2007-04-12T15:36:00.000-05:00

The other day, I thought I heard it all. Ashton was trying to take off his jacket with his slice of cheese in hand. The next thing we hear is "Mommy I lost my cheese in my jacket." Ashton was serious and very concern because he lost his cheese.

I thought I heard it all after Ashton's statement. That was until today. I went to the school to take a library book to my class for the sub. I have been up there several times because I want the kids to see me periodically. I just don't want them to think that I forgot about them and don't care. I walked into the room. One boy, who knew I was pregnant and even gave me a gift, said, "Mrs. Arnold, you have lost a lot of weight." I guess it just dawned on him that I don't have the big fat belly anymore. Needless to say, this little boy made my day.

Update on the Arnold Household

2007-04-06T20:01:00.000-05:00

Kaylee went for her week check up today. Everything is great. She has gained 7 ounces since birth. She is now at 8 lbs. and 5 oz. Everything looked great. We are getting a referrel in the process for Children's Hospital to look at her foot. So when everything that gets set up we will know more about it.

Ashton has adjusted well. He now is the big helper. He finally said that we could keep her. So things are getting back to normal in that category. No more Ashton fighting for attention unless other people come over. I am so glad.

Kaylee is Here!!!

2007-04-03T06:17:00.000-05:00

Kaylee has arrived. We went to the hospital around 3:30 a.m. on April 1st. She was born at 12:55 p.m. She was 7lbs and 14 ozs and 22 1/2 inches long. We have been discharged from the hospital. We all arrived home last night around 9 pm. Kaylee had a great night. She got up about every 3 hours for feeding but it wasn't bad.

PRAYER REQUEST: Kaylee does have a club foot. After our 1 week check up we may be making several trips to Little Rock to correct her foot problem.

Kaylee is Very Close

2007-03-30T11:07:00.000-05:00

Kaylee is almost here. No changes with the doctor's visit. Nothing is happening. The doctor however said that if nothing breaks through this weekend. I will go in on Monday and they will begin to help the process. So there is an end. So next week, no more sick of being pregnant. It will all be worth it.

Spring Break Woes

2007-03-28T19:06:00.000-05:00

Spring Break is here. What am I doing? NOTHING! I have been sick just about all week. Just ready for a baby to pop out.

Have you ever been in a state where everything irritates you? The noise of the air conditioner is a bother. Your son touching you. I know it has to be hormones, but you feel so bad and depressed because all you are doing is yelling and sleeping. You feel as if you are not spending enough time with your own child.

You are hot, your husband is cold. I am running the air conditioner on like 60 because I am having temperature problems while he sits at the computer covered in a quilt.

This has to be over soon. When will the cruel joke be over and a miracle be placed in my arms?

Depressing Doctor's Visit

2007-03-23T10:57:00.000-05:00

All the signs are there but nothing is happening down there. How depressing can this be?

Another doctor's visit down only to find out nothing has changed. No thinning out or even dialating. It just makes you want to go home and cry.

I have never been in so much pain and stress. All I can do is lay around in my bed. That is the most comfortable place in the whole world. Yet I have a house to clean, papers to write for my master's, and a classroom of 16 kids waiting on me every morning.

At least Monday begins my Spring Break! Hopefully something good will happen. If not it is back to work for me. Sorry for the depressing post, but it helps to get it out. Sometimes you just wish you husband could understand what you are feeling and they would be more caring.

No Kaylee...but I am a Licensed Teacher Now

2007-03-20T16:31:00.000-05:00

It's official. I passed Praxis III. 55 out of 57.

I AM NOW A FULLY CERTIFIED TEACHER!!!!

Kaylee Where Are You?

2007-03-12T17:54:00.000-05:00

37 weeks Sunday! 3 more weeks and hopefully not a day later. Where are you? I am now to the point where I stay in bed all day. If I could afford to I would take off from work, but I am already going to be 6 weeks without getting a paycheck. So this cat represents me. Except for the fact, I can't sleep on my back, stomach, or sides. I go to the doctor on Thursday, so I may have an update for you then. I am going every week. I have had one shower and got lots of great things and have one more on Friday. Thank God for showers. I have lots of diapers now. Those will come in handy. Thanks to everyone.

Here is a picture of the dress that Tanya made for Kaylee. Doesn't Kaylee look just like Daddy? Sorry about the Grinch. Ashton doesn't have any dolls to dress up.

Completely Miserable

2007-03-05T21:20:00.000-06:00

I am finally at the stage of being completely miserable. I never had this problem with Ashton. In fact, I don't even know what a contraction feels like. I think I am having Braxton Hicks though.

Kaylee has dropped. I am on my feet constantly so my back is in so much pain. Today we gave standardized test. I was on my feet for 1.5 hours. It doesn't sound like much, but it felt like ten hours. All I can do or want to do is stay in bed. That isn't even comfortable either. I just wish she would come and the misery would be over.

On brighter note, Michael has been great. I think he finally realizes that I just can't move or it hurts. He has cooked supper several nights in a row and even cleaned up after himself. Thank goodness. Well, enough grouchiness for now. I must go back to ready my book because watching TV hurts.

My Son, The King

2007-02-25T16:52:00.000-06:00

OK! I know I am bragging. My son once again is the king. He won his last pageant, America's Fabulous Faces. He can go to state, but we are not. We are going to leave it alone. It costs like $400 to enter him in state and that does not include food and hotel stay. So it is a bit expensive, just for a chance for a $5 trophy, crown, and sash.

This is Ashton after the crowning ceremony.

These of course are the PROUD parents of King Ashton Arnold!!

6 weeks Left

2007-02-18T20:11:00.000-06:00

Well, I have six weeks left. I am so ready. I feel like she has dropped some, but it is probably my imagination. Everything hurts now, so yes I am completely miserable. But the end is in sight. I have an appointment this week then I am going every two weeks.

Update on Mr. Fishy: We have a new one. Well, sort of. If you remember the original Mr. Fishy (beta) was killed by my wonderful husband. Yesterday, we went to get another beta. Wal-Mart in Pine Bluff did not have very pretty ones. Then we went to the Pet Cellar in Star City. They were ugly to. Not much color to them. We ended up with a Black Moor. I tried to get Ashton to pick out a pretty bright orange gold fish. Instead this is what he wanted. It is the ugliest thing I have every seen. It is black with big black eyes. How depressing? Anyways, the fish looked really small at the pet shop. We got home and put him in the one gallon tank. He barely fits. So today we went and purchased a 10 gallon tank. On the bright side, now I can buy some colorful fish to make up for the ugly black fish that Ashton and Michael just adore.

Regarding my last post on the tight clothes. It was a WOMAN that told me my clothes were too tight. I think that is what hurt the most. The males never said anything.

Tight Clothes

2007-02-13T17:29:00.000-06:00

Tight Clothes? No I am not talking about really cool clothes. I am talking about my clothes are too small. One month left, my clothes are tight. It doesn't matter if they are maternity or not.

Today, I was told I was not dressed appropriately for school. I was thinking ok I have finally gotten caught wearing my tennis shoes. No, it was my shirt. I couldn't believe it. I wasn't dressed as a hooker. I had a long black skirt and one of Michael's henleys. I was told it was too tight over the stomach. To me I was thinking, but I am 7 weeks away from possible delivery. What do you mean it is too tight? I decided to wear this shirt because the actually maternity shirt was too tight and form fitting.

Old me, we send an e-mail or go to the office of the higher up and ask them to buy me some clothes that fit. Lawsuit or something. I am sure it could be consider discriminatory or something. I have seen teachers wear worse like the titty shirts. No, mine was too tight on the belly. I didn't even show skin but was told it was not appropriate. Sounds like discrimination to me. Too bad I am only pregnant and cried about it. I just wanted to go home and never to return.

It really hurts when you are trying your best to show up even though it is living hell these last months to move around and you get criticized for your clothes being tight. Maybe someone could explain it to me. I am just upset. I don't have money like others may to go and buy larger clothes for one month and fix it. My family is living on one income. Just makes me want to scream.

Just One of those Days

2007-02-08T20:44:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was just one of those days. You know the ones you wish you could blink and it will all be over (in fact that it never happened). Well, that would be my day.

Yesterday, my teaching license is on the line. Now, teachers must be observed within their first three years of teaching in order to receive full license capability. Well, I am doing mine during my first year. I wanted to get it over with and not even have to think about it. In fact, most wait until April or May. No not me, I did mine as soon as possible. Let's just say, I hope the state really needs teachers.

I chose to do a lesson on writing. Thinking this lesson would be easy because the students are already use to the routine. They have only been doing it since beginning January. Let's just say the kids acted like they had no idea what they were to do. Below are just a few of the mishaps that I had to deal with.

The regular aide was out, so there was a sub. She kept my student that was being tutoring too long. (I had to wait on him to start his group). I am ok with timing because crap happens and you have to deal with it.
Next, the aide brings my mail in. Of all times, during the lesson that I am having the state department observe. She just stood there and did not say a word. It felt like 10 minutes. I know it was probably like 5 seconds, but it sure did seem like forever. Finally, I stopped my lesson to take the mail from her. I believe she would have stood there until I acknowledged her.
I had one student who when they do not want to do something will pick his scabs and try to get up to get a band-aid. Forgetting the observer was there, I told him he would just have to bleed and he was not going to get up. He better write a story and not say another word.
The students could not sit still to work in their small groups. They wanted to roll around on the carpet.
The students wanted to run from their seat to the carpet where I was. (A BIG NO-NO)

This is only a few of the things that happened. I couldn't believe it. For a day for everything to go wrong, it was yesterday

To finish my day out, I had two students to throw up and have to go home. One urinated on herself. One did the other on himself. All I can say is WHAT A DAY! I should have called in.

On a much brighter note, I redid the lesson today. It went smoother than any other lesson. This just put icing on my cake.

Tribute to my Daddy

2007-02-04T20:15:00.000-06:00

Today is my Dad's birthday. He would be 65 today. Two years ago his life was cut short due to pancreatic cancer.

My Dad, Ralph Fletcher, was born on February 4, 1942. He was raised in a big family. There were seven boys and one girl. My Dad spent time in the army, but never made it past training. During a tear gas training practice, my Dad became legally blind. His tear gas mask did not work meaning his eyes were basically destroyed by tear gas.

Dad became an elementary teacher. I guess he was my inspiration. He loved to teach math as well as I do. In 1971 he married my mother. They later divorced to only get remarried in 1978. During their second marriage, they had my sister (Hope) then me. They did however later get divorced again.

Even though my parents were seperated, it never seemed that way. You hear of these horror stories of divorces and the child not ever seeing their other parent again. My Dad was always around. He did everything for me and with me. He was at all school events, piano recitals, dance recitals, etc. He was truly remarkable. We never had trouble getting money to support us from him. He was always there.

Dad is the greatest. I can remember every Halloween, Dad coming over to make jack-0-lanterns for us. We never asked. He just did. Dad would do anything for us. To me that is a true Dad. One who goes out of their way to do for their children. They don't care what obstacles are in the way. They will see that the job is done.

My Dad took care of my mother when she was dying of lung cancer. Despite their differences, he was there for his children again. He did not want us to quit work or college. He just wanted our life to be normal. My Dad was nominated in 2003 for the Parent of the Year Award at UAM for this very reason. Dad was always there for us. He never let us down.

In 2002, I got married. This was only four months after the death of my mother. Being a Daddy's girl, Dad didn't really agree with my choice. He did however grow to love Michael. Dad not really knowing how to help me plan for a wedding did his best. He wanted to make sure I had everything. My Dad would not stop at any limit for me. He was the greatest through the death of mom and my wedding. He was my angel.

In May of 2005, Dad became sick. I moved home from Jonesboro take care of him. I did not know how I would do this and keep my marriage, but I had no choice. Michael, Ashton, and I moved in with him in Arkansas City. By the end of May, he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. I knew his time was short. I am just thankful, that I had one more angel in my life, MICHAEL. He took care of Dad while I finished my internship and graduated. My September, Dad was very ill. He decided on no more chemo or radiation. I have to say I don't blame him. Dad began to take morphine daily for the pain. It was a struggle to face him every day and not be able to help him not hurt. After all, that is what he did for us. On October 7th, he took his last breath. This was one of my saddest days, to watch my father take his last breath. It was sad, but yet peaceful. My Dad was no longer in pain.

Looking back on Dad's life, I am so glad he was a part of mine. It use to sadden me that he was gone, but I am thankful he was a Dad that stuck around for his family even though he was divorced. He was still a family man to his children. He never let us down. For that I love my Dad.

MY DAD IS THE GREATEST! I LOVE HIM SO MUCH!

Our Celebrity Look-A-Likes

2007-02-03T11:03:00.000-06:00

Mr. Fishy

2007-01-29T11:32:00.000-06:00

We bought a beta but it died. We are going to get another one this weekend. I think Mr. Fishy would have made it but he fell out of his tank when Michael nearly hit a SUV in the parking lot. I cried! Not only did I loose a fish, but everything in the floor board got wet. This included our meals from McDonald's that were just bought. The bottom fell out of the bag and there went the food. Everything was saved but one medium french fry. I guess we could say it is a good thing we only lost a fish and french fries. It could have been the truck.

It finally happened. My legs and feet have become swollen. I thought I was going to get out of it. They don't hurt much but just look big. If you have any pointers for swollen legs let me know.

We had a great time in Jonesboro. Ashton had a blast. He was able to dress up in a velcro suit and jump and stick to a wall. He loved it. I got to shop for Kaylee without the guys. It was so much fun. I have not done that in a while.

It finally happened my legs and feet are swollen. I think the shopping at the mall didn't help matters any.

Finally A Vacation

2007-01-26T11:58:00.000-06:00

Finally a vacation! I am heading to Jonesboro today. I can't wait. I love it up there. Michael and I always have a great time there. One day, maybe if we have to move it will be there.

School is out today due to the outbreak of flu. So I get to leave early. Woo hoo. Leaving at noon instead of 3:30. Maybe the house will be cleaned when I get home. Yeah right! It doesn't hurt to wish.

UPDATE ON KAYLEE: She is indeed still a girl. Right now she is 3lbs and 4 oz. The due date on this ultrasound was March 28. So anywhere from the end of March to the beginning of April, I am due. I can't wait. Everything is going great with her. No major problems have been sited. The next appointment is the end of February, then I am coming every 2 weeks. It does not seem like that time yet.

Well, I must go to Jonesboro now. I'll keep you updated. Maybe after Kaylee is born I will have less ranting about nothing.

No Longer Sick Much

2007-01-20T08:22:00.000-06:00

Life is looking better. I am no longer coughing much, which means Kaylee kicks less. Woo hoo!

This last week has been crazy with all the sickness. I have average about 10 in my kindergarten class a day. So about 6 have been absent. We have had strep throat and the flu. Then on top of that yesterday, we discovered head lice. Three went home. I finally ended up with 7 yesterday. It is crazy. Only in my class. Needless to say, my house is having to get a good cleaning and my classroom for the lice.

Today is going to prove to be better, if I can stay out of the bathroom. It seems like I am there all the time. No, I am not throwing up. I have to pee every time I stand up. Will those 10 more weeks hurry and get here.

Anyways, I am excited next weekend I will get to go to Jonesboro. FInally a vacation. Well, a working vacation. I am sure I will have lots of school work to do. I will be out of the house though.

Enough boring you. I am going to go and soak in hot water so my muscles can move.

Stressed?

2007-01-17T18:22:00.000-06:00

Can life go so well only to suck so bad? Just changed a three year old's pants because he peed all over them. Not 5 minutes later, he comes in only to give more bad news. "Mommy, I have poo-poo on my hands." Your husband is at work, so you are force to clean up the wonderful mess.

I have a nasty cold that will not go away. Everytime I cough, I hurt. Kaylee kicks me. I stay up all night coughing only to have to get up and get ready at 6:00. Life really stinks right.

My house is a wreck. Just for once, I wish all the hard work I put into cleaning the house on the weekend would stay that way. Could for once, my husband throw away the empty pizza box. Can he put the clean clothes up in the closet after the wife has folded and sorted them. Can the trash go outside on Tuesday and Friday and not stay in the house? Is it really that hard to remember TUesday and Thursday?

School is great, but meeting deadlines are killing me. SOmetimes, I have to rush around and do something because I didn't know it had to be done. I do understand the other teachers. They have been doing it for a long time and don't think twice to make sure I have it done. One day I will be in their shoes. Just found out that I have to get a shirt and put 100 things on it and wear it on 100s day. I found that out when I got a letter to send home to parents to tell them about it. I am so tired and don't want to do it. Sorry for the grouch. Any suggestions on what to put on a shirt, that I don't have because I am pregnant and have no money because I am trying to get out of debt.

Retention time is coming up. I am a nervous wreck. How do you tell a mother their precious little child really needs another year of kindergarten? Is there an easy way.

My masters classes are well going. WE are in the second week on class. The bookstore finally realized they goofed on my order and will be mailing my books. Can anything go right.

I am so depressed and tired, I don't know what to do. I want to sleep. I can't. There are so many things to do.

This pregnancy is the worst. I hurt so bad that I just wish April will get here. You try to act like everything is great, but it isn't. Kaylee kicks constantly so I don't get sleep there either. I sleep great in the recliner, but want my husband near. Yet two will not fit on the recliner. I have hit the last trimester, so the crying has started. I cry for no reason. Then I cry because I am crying.

I lost a really great friend in Arizona who thought I was a bitch. I only eat certain stuff. Fried chicken and mash potatoes is what I want. Mexican is out of the question. The thought makes me sick. Funny thing, I craved it with Ashton. That is all she wanted to do, but I couldn't. I was so tired of walking around the zoo, I just wanted to hurry and get out of there. I was cranky and needed sleep. My feet hurt and were beginning to swell. I didn't want to go to her house because she had a dog that would jump on me. It just made me nervous. So needless to say I don't have that friend anymore. I tried to explain but she thought I was making up excuses. What a horrible Christmas it was. Michael and I didn't get each other anything. We spent all Christmas money to go out there for a horrible time.

Anything else bad that has happened in my life? Anything good? I am sure there is something good, I just don't know. I did get internet so that is great! That takes one stress out of my life but adds another. I will no longer see my husband much because he stays up chatting with his friends. Oh well, maybe it will be different.

It is On!

2007-01-17T06:31:00.000-06:00

The internet is back up and running. Blogging can now take place.

Update on Kaylee. I am 29 weeks now. Can't wait for 40 weeks. I am miserable. She does nothing but move constantly (ALL DAY). My back is in constant pain. On top of all this I have terrible cold/cough. It hurts to even cough.

My job is going great. In February, a Pathwise observer is going to come down and observe me. If I pass, I get fully licensed to teach. I am not to stressed over. I just want it to be over.

Well, I must go get ready for work. More blogging to come.

Kaylee Update

2006-12-29T09:36:00.000-06:00

Since I have internet while on vacation in Tucson, Arizona, I will write an update on Kayle.

Kaylee is now due on April 1st. I guess I am going to have a fool. : ) Just kidding.

Everything is going great. She kicks all the time. ALL THE TIME!!! I thought Ashton moved alot. Boy was I wrong. She hates me lying on my back, so every time we are at the doctor's office to listen to her heart rate it is a struggle. THe doctor's have a difficult time because she is kicking all the time. She has a mind of her on!

The only major problem with this pregnancy is urinary tract infection, so I guess I am blessed. Or cursed. However you look at it. I have to cut down on sweets but that is what I crave. BUTTERFINGERS.

Anyways, enough blabbling on and on! I have to go to the Biosphere 2!

No Internet

2006-11-14T16:59:00.000-06:00

Just when you think you are getting back to blogging, life kicks you a hard one. We have no internet now at our house. That is cool, but the lack of TV was killing me on Thursdays (Grey's Anatomy). Who would think that TV and internet can put a hinderance on family. Our life is so much better no that their is no TV or internet. Check this out! We spend time together. We complained about never seeing each other, yet we did not make it a point when we could. Life is still great at the Arnold's. We are actually a family now.

Baby Name Announced

2006-10-30T19:41:00.000-06:00

Kaylee Elizabeth Arnold

Thanks you for you suggestions. It helped a lot.

Mommy I Don't Like This Place

2006-10-27T19:30:00.000-05:00

Going through hell last night, Ashton says I don't like this place. Let me clarify this. We went to the heaven and hell house at Shady Grove Baptist Church. It was great. It makes hell so real for you. You never leave this place without thinking about changing your life. Ashton even walked away saying he don't like that place so he is going to love Jesus.

After being tortured in hell, we finally came to a beautiful place. It was heaven. This made hell seem bad, dark, and gloomy. We walked in and Ashton says, "Ooh pretty. I like this place." Ashton even got the chance to shake Jesus' hand. He loved it. He went home and called everyone he knew that Jesus shoke his hand.

The bottom line of this story is that sometimes we need to think like a child. The next day we have forgotten about the experiences of the heaven and hell house. Ashton is still talking about loving Jesus because he didn't like the other place. What is it that makes us not continue to think about the consequences of our actions? We know we don't want to go to hell, but do we really think about what we are doing? Are we living in the light of Jesus every day?

The Naming Race is On

2006-10-21T09:59:00.000-05:00

We never do things normally. We have come up with an exciting way to name our child. Please help us.

So the race is on. We are taking suggestions for a name for the girl. We know the middle name is Ann after my mother. We need a first name!!! Please give us suggestions. After getting several suggestions we will then narrow the choices down and have you vote. The name with the most votes will win. Right now, we are thinking of Grace Ann and Emily Ann. Any more ideas.

It's a Girl

2006-10-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, those first pictures that we always hate. Mom shows to world who we are.

She is due April 1st. I am 16 weeks along and everything looks great.

Long Time Away

2006-10-16T19:54:00.000-05:00

Sorry it has been so long. Now, I go to work, come home, work on grad class, and go to bed. Not much time for blogging.

Anyways, I am back. Hopefully, I can come back to doing this once a week. I just must retrain myself.

I will go to the doctor on Wednesday. I will give everyone the update. Hopefully everything will turn out great.

Hoping for the wrong things

2006-09-17T19:44:00.000-05:00

Have you ever hoped for material things and thought they would make your life better? I have answered yes to this question more times than I would like to admit.

If I only owned my own home, how great life would be. This is my worst dreams and hopes that I have. It haunts me over and over again, to the point of depression. Should I really let this take over my life like it does? Sometimes I wish I could be like Michael and window shop. It hurts because I really want the house so bad. He always tells me that our time will come. It just is not coming fast enough for me. I want to be settled with my own fenced in back yard for my kids and dogs to play.

After listening to Jeff's sermon, I undertand that this hope is consuming me. I just need to put faith in God. After all he knows what he is doing, he has the plan already written out. I know that this is hard to understand. I often get depressed and scared to give it all to him. That lack of control in my life bothers me. I am continuing to work on giving it over to him and be less of a control freak in my life.

My Friday Five on Sunday

2006-09-17T19:33:00.000-05:00

1. How much TV do you watch?

Not much. I have a few shows that I watch religiously. Most of the time, Ashton has the TV.

2. What type of show is your favorite?

I am a sucker for reality TV. I love Real World. Every Tuesday night, I am in front of my TV watching it. Other than that, I love detective shows, especially Cold Case on A & E.

3. Which talk show host do you hate?

I don't hate any of them. I even wanted to be a talk show host when I grew up. That was what I originally went to school for. Now look at me, I am a teacher.

4. Are you looking forward to any new season premieres?

Grey's Anatomy. I can't wait. Will Thursday ever get here?

5. Which show is your guilty pleasure?

Real World. I must know everything that is going on. I even get online to check out MTV overdrive for scenes that were edited.

Tiny Mister Drew County

2006-09-16T21:28:00.000-05:00

So it has been a while. I have been busy, but I must take the time and brag on my little boy. He won Tiny Mister Drew County 2006 for his age group (24 - 35 months) today. He was so great. He walked on stage and stole the show. He waved and blew kisses at everyone. He had the audience reacting. You can call me over exaggerating, but it is true. He is going to be in the parade Tuesday, so come and see for yourself.
Sorry about the long time no blogging, I just don't have time. I am so tired when I get home from work that I go straight to bed. I think I sleep more now that I am pregnant. When I am not sleeping, I am trying to take a grad course. I will try to get on more often.

Bowling League

2006-09-05T21:18:00.000-05:00

Yes, you read right. I have joined a bowling league. Michael has been wanting to for years. So to help him out, I joined. I am really bad. I guess that gives me more of a handicapped. Woo hoo. My average this week was 78. I couldn't even break 100. Next week will be better. I promise.

Right now, I am so sore. Who would have thought bowling was such exercise?

By the way, we need one more player. We have three. Michael, Taylor, and I. We need four by next week. Who wants to join? You have to be better than me.

Meltdown?

2006-08-30T20:18:00.000-05:00

When is the meltdown going to start?

Nothing has gone wrong at school yet. Everything is great at home. What is wrong? Life is not choatic. Something must be going to happen.

Anyways, I am so exicited. Michael and I are going to go on a date. WITH NO ASHTON. It is crazy. A date for the whole weekend. At the end of September, we are going to Conway to see Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. I am so ready for that break.

Watch Out!!

2006-08-27T08:10:00.000-05:00

Watch Out! It is family time. We started our family time last night. It was great fun. We read Ashton a book and then ended with a prayer. He loved it. Can't wait to do it tonight.

This weekend has proven to be the best investment I have made. Our family went to the Marriage/Parenting Retreat.

Our first seminar was our personality. Kind of disappointing. I think we should have never been married. Just kidding. My personality is choleric. I am a natural born leader and am always right. I can't stand for someone to take their time. I want to get it done and get it done now. I can also be very bossy. Michael is sanquine. He is nothing like me. He wants to play all the time and get lots of attention. He needs constant affection and feel appreciated. Having two totally different personalities, we are going to have to work hard. It does explain a lot of our conflicts. The seminar gave us several tips. We are working on those now.

The second seminar we went to was Keeping the Romance Alive. It was really good. Being married four years and having a kid, sometimes it feels like the spark has left. We were given several pointers and ideas. One was to take a date without kids. We are working on this one now.

The third seminar was Raising your Children to Be Disciples. This was good. I must raise Ashton to be a disciple, so he can grow up and become a great Christian that share the word. The speaker shared many statistics with us. I wish I could remember the numbers. It was just amazing how you can raise your children to be disciples and they raise their children to be disciples. After about 30 years billions of people have come to know Christ. It is truly amazing.

Our final workshop was on disciplining your children. I never really thought that I should discipline my child according to the Bible. Sounds odd, but we must put our disciplining in the perspective of the Bible. My problem is my discipline a lot of times comes out of anger. Michael and I both are working on the controlling anger and explaining to Ashton why he is receiving a spanking. It is worth a shot, so we are going to do it.

Enough with this weekend. Here is an update on the baby. I am 8 weeks along. I have not thrown up anymore. YES!!!! I have discovered that orange juice and pregnancy don't get along with me. Now, don't tell me that I need that folic acid. I don't want to hear it. If I drink orange juice, I throw up. When I throw up, I have lost the folic acid. So I am just better off skipping the whole throwing up stage. Hopefully, I will find a doctor and go soon. My insurance will kick in on October 1. So I am excited about that.

Well, enough rambling for now.

2006-08-23T16:59:00.000-05:00

School is awesome. What can I say? My class is the best class ever. I have no major problems in there. Yes, I do have 14 kids (10 boys and 4 girls). I love them all.

My class is so smart. I don't really know what I should teach them. This is such a relief compared to last years group.

My problem children that I was warned about have caused me no problems. The first day you would have thought that I was a mean teacher. I was and still can be. All I can say is that my class is the only class that doesn't get their lunch card punched for misbehavior. My kids can line up and walk to the cafeteria with no problems.

I started corners today. The other teachers thought I was crazy. My kids did wonderful. They are great.

Today, I took my students to their bus. The only problem is we had a bus that didn't show up. So high school and junior kids were trying to run over the little kids. We try to get kindergarten on the bus before the older kids get out. Little oh me had to take action. I got on to a fifth grader for screaming and acting all crazy. Needless to say, the rest of the group got quiet and didn't move. They became civilized. I guess Drew Central need little Lou to come there and run things for them.

Sorry for this randomness about my class. I am just so excited about having all of them.

It Is Everywhere You Go

2006-08-18T14:23:00.000-05:00

It is everywhere you go. BULL!!!! Never had a problem before until today. Well, here is my wonderful story involving my Visa.

I received my rebate from Cingular. They don't send you a check but a visa card with money on it. They tell you that you can use it everywhere because it is a Visa card. Makes sense. I have been using the card all over town and had no problem. That was until I went to the Crackerbox to buy a snack.

I was on my way to my sister's annual review in Warren, which went great. I decided to sleep in some since I would run by the gas station and pick up a little breakfast to hold me over until I came back for lunch. My morning goes as usual. I got to the gas station and realize I better dart for the bathroom. My morning ritual of vomiting had hit. I spent 5 minutes in the bathroom throwing up my glass of orange juice for the morning. This left me little time to get breakfast. I got water and some peanut butter and cheese crackers. That always makes me feel better. I put it on the counter and the lady priced my items. I hand her the card and she looks at it pretty hard. I told her it was credit. She proceeded to tell me she couldn't take it. Needlessly to say, don't tell a pregnant woman no.

I got very upset. I would not have been upset if I hadn't used the card all over town. She then proceeded to tell me it was only $2.45. I told her I didn't care what the price was. This is a Visa card and you have the logo on your door that you take it. The she proceeded with her BS that they won't pay us so we don't take them. I said fine and then you won't get my business ever. Needless to say, I couldn't go and get breakfast anywhere else so I went to Warren barely making it in time for Hope's meeting. I did not get to eat until 1:00. It was a bad day.

Moral of this blog:
DON'T MESS WITH A PREGNANT WOMAN AND YOU BETTER TAKE HER VISA OR THERE WILL BE TROUBLE.