Dayna

Birthday Number 4!

2010-03-20T22:52:00.001-07:00

Today is NyCee's 4th birthday! She woke up this morning and walked into my room asking if she could go to her birthday party. So we had breakfast and then headed to the park.

After a couple of times re-arranging things at the park, we finally got situated. The battery on my camera died so I had to take a couple of pictures with my phone. She had about 10 kids at the party. It was a pretty day but very windy and cool. The temps only reached the low 70s.

She received so many great gifts. The party had a Tiana from Princess and the Frog theme. She received Princess and the Frog bedding, doll, beach towel and movie. She received clothes and money, a Dora book, and hair bows.

Both she had Tyler have had like 600 pounds of sugar.

Before finally falling asleep on the couch, she put the all the stickers from her cards and the hair bows she received on her bonnet and on her face.

Today was a great day!

Rule of life #258

2010-03-16T21:44:00.001-07:00

Rule of life #258: It is probably not a good idea to turn your back on a 23 month old at a park where sand abounds. We were at the park this evening after dinner. While helping NyCee on the monkey bars, I turned my back to Tyler. He walked up to me smiling with sand pouring out of his mouth. As we walked back to the car so that I could get a bottle of water to rinse out his mouth, I heard crunching. Yes, you guess it. He was chewing the sand.

WOW!!!!!!!

Dinnertime Breakdown

2010-03-08T19:17:00.001-07:00

Tyler decided to have a breakdown at dinner time. Both kids are aware of the dinnertime rules. If all of his/her dinner is not eaten, no after dinner treat is given. NyCee ate all her dinner and enjoyed a fruit bar. Tyler generally likes fruit snacks. However, as you can see from the bowl, he did not complete his dinner. As a result of that choice, he was not given an after dinner treat.

From the look on his face and the tear flow, one would think I just sold his favorite dog to the pound.

The Weekend

2010-02-28T20:42:00.001-07:00

Nothing too exciting happened this past weekend. NyCee has another dress from her Nana Ida (I seriously think Nana Ida enjoys shopping for the dresses just as much as NyCee loves wearing the dresses. It's amazing how Nana just happens "to see a dress" for NyCee. But that is why God made Nanas).

Saturday night, I planned to go play video games with a friend after church. Well, Tyler's fingers were smashed in the door at church. So, no video games for me. Then on Sunday, I took the kids to a birthday party and he spilled hot coffee on his other hand. Wow! Son, really? Thankfully, his fingers were not broken nor his hand burned.

Speechless

2010-02-24T22:27:00.001-07:00

NyCee lost her voice this weekend. It started out as the onset of a cold. But since I do not allow my children to participate in sickness, her body is attempting to rebel in the form of laryngitis. It's kinda cute actually. I don't know how much of it is laryngitis and how much of it is NyCee having fun with it.

There's nothing I can do for it. Her voice will restore when it gets ready. It's funny listening to her attempt to talk. Initally, she kept saying, "Mommy, I can't talk." Now she just attempts to say whatever and her voice is scratchy and cracky.

"But Mommy, I am sorry I made a mess"

2010-02-13T22:41:00.000-07:00

After putting the kids to bed, I washed my hair as I am getting it done tomorrow for the Valentine's Day weekend. Once I finished blow drying it, I walked out of my room and tripped on something. I really didn't pay any attention to it as I figured it was one of the kids' toys.

I walked into the hall bathroom and smelled finger nail polish. Immediately, I called Taylor's name as I did not see her in her bed. She replied, "Here I am."She was in my bed. I asked what did she do. Thankfully, I teach my children to be honest so she told me the story.

"I wanted to put this (nail polish) on my fingers like this (making the motion of polishing nails). But it spilled and I couldn't clean it up but I am sorry. I didn't mean to make a mess." Here's the kicker: the nail polish was on my dresser. She got the seat to her easel set, put it up against my dresser and located her nail polish. (She has a light pink color.) The additional highlight: it was dark. She managed to reach and locate the nail polish in addition to polishing her nails in the dark.

She was not disciplined. I gently explained she has to ask for permission before getting certain things. And mommy has to help her with fingernail polish.

She is a child genius.

Striptease

2010-02-08T19:47:00.001-07:00

I walked into the kids' room and this is what I saw:

I am not clear as to when my son took off his pants. Let's back up, I didn't even know he could take off his pants. But there they are in the middle of the floor. And there he stands calmly as if nothing has happened.

Family Day

2010-01-18T16:49:00.002-07:00

Living Word Bible Church's theme is: "Building Strong Word and Faith Families." Because of that, families are encourage to have family night and married couples are encourage to have a date night. Normally, the kids and I have family day on Saturday morning. We did not have that time this week because I had LASIK eye surgery. So, we had family time today.

I took the kids to Bounce U and Carole and her daughter Megan joined us. The kids spent two hours bouncing and running and playing.

Afterwards, we enjoyed lunch together. It's these simple times they will remember when they grow up. Simply because I am a single mother does not mean we are not a family. Balancing my time is key to maintaining my sanity but also making sure my children get the mommy time they need and deserve.

Today was a good day!

Busy, Busy Week, But I Have Perfect Vision

2010-01-17T17:01:00.002-07:00

Oh, my gosh, last week was super busy.

On Thursday, I went to my appointment for LASIK eye surgery. All the measurements were taken for my eyes and it was explained to me why I needed glasses to see things clearly at a distance. When scheduling my appointment, I requested a 10a appointment. It was then I learned there are 2 types of LASIK: custom and traditional. Custom entails putting your specific eye measurements into the computer system attached to the laser. Then, the correction will be exact. Traditional involves making the correction according to the eye glass prescription. And the cost is about $1000 difference per eye. I opted for the traditional.

I had a friend scheduled to drive me and we had previously arranged for an am appointment. Because I chose traditional LASIK, I could not get an appointment until 1:00p.

Friday, I received a call from the coordinator at the clinic advising the doctor (the one who only does custom LASIK in the am) felt bad that I had to rearrange my schedule due to a lack of information. Therefore, he was willing to perform the surgery earlier. This was around 10:30a. The coordinator further stated the doctor would perform the custom LASIK procedure at no extra charge. I replied, "I will be there by 11:45." (I had to call my friend and the clinic is about 35-40 minutes from my house.)

I arrived at the office at 11:43a. The staff was very friendly and it took longer to wait my turn than the whole procedure. It was so amazing. To technical to explain. But I have perfect vision. Things were blurry for about 1.5 hours. After I took a nap, I woke up to a perfectly clear room.

At first, it just felt as if I were wearing my contact lens. It wasn't until I woke up in the middle of the night and could clearly read the clock that it really hit me. This is amazing!

The doctor advised after a month my eyes will be completed healed and I will see with such precision I will be amazed. I am amazed now!

So that bring us to Saturday. NyCee woke up in the middle of the night stating her stomach was hurting. Around, 7a she vomited twice. Nice. Yea for me.

Then, we went to church and around 7:30p she vomited again and had diarrhea. Again, nice.

Tyler had stuff coming out of him that was just disgusting. Again, Nice. So, my Saturday night date night ended before it began as I brought both kids home to attend to them. Thankfully, NyCee's diarrhea didn't kick in until we were home. Tyler, not so much.

I was instructed by Dionne to stay home today from church. That was weird. But I took NyCee to the doctor and she just has a stomach bug. It seems to have passed. Praise God.

So, I have to grade papers, get clothes ready for the week and read over my school assignment for next week.

Last week was very busy but productive. And I have perfectly clear vision!

True, Funny Story

2010-01-13T23:02:00.002-07:00

Today, I was speaking with a friend of mine who is a manager at a campus location in San Antonio, TX. He told me he overheard one of his employees on the phone asking for a student. The conversation went as follows:

Employee: Hello. May I speak with La-Sha?
Caller: Who?
Employee: La-Sha?
Caller: There is no one here by that name.
Employee: The name is spelled L-a-S-h-a.
Caller: Oh, you mean La-dash-a.

Okay, that is where I busted out laughing! Since when is a symbol pronounced as part of a name!?!?!?!?!? OMG! That was so funny!

The Fast Has Ended

2010-01-12T19:12:00.002-07:00

For whatever reason, Frederick has been on a self-induced fast for the past week. He has barely eaten any food. He'd eat breakfast but no lunch and no dinner. I had resorted to shredding fresh vegetables and cooking them in the meat to get vegetables into my children.

Well, I guess the fast has ended. Lorie, the kids' caregiver, stated he ate all his food today plus a second helping. Tonight, he ate all his dinner plus his applesauce.

I keep reminding myself to enjoy these days because as he ages, my grocery bill will increase.

The Kickoff

2010-01-11T21:58:00.002-07:00

Well, this week starts double duty for me. My classes began today and my teaching course began last week. If you didn't know, God is brilliant! He showed me how to balance both work, life, children and church and not be overwhelmed. WOW! He is amazing. If you haven't tried it, I recommend following His principles. Makes SO much more sense than anything I could have ever thought of.

I have 22 students in my class. I started with 7. I am excited about facilitating a course. I enjoy the interaction with the students. This week's discussion was on affirmative action. Some were for it. Some against it. But both sides explained their positions very well.

Grading undergraduate papers is interesting but I always provide positive feedback to encourage them to finish line of their journey.

Togetherness

2010-01-10T16:47:00.002-07:00

There are occasions when my children act as though they love each other. This is one of those times. NyCee was brushing her teeth and Little Fred wanted to mimic her.

The Howl

2010-01-05T20:21:00.002-07:00

"MAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

"MAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

Is was startled me out of my sleep at 2:00a. Tyler has figured out that I do not respond to him when he cries in the middle of the night for a cup of milk. So instead of crying, he just shrieks my name. He sits in the middle of his bed, shrieking my name repeatedly until I answer him. (I taught him a few words in sign language.) So when I walk into his room, he is signing the word "milk" followed by "peez" (please).

He is so darn cute, that I cave each time and give him a small cup of milk. When NyCee was his age, she did not wake up in the middle of the night.

They are so different.

New Year's Bling

2010-01-01T20:40:00.002-07:00

Check out those earrings. She is truly blinging in the new year!

End of a Decade

2009-12-31T20:13:00.003-07:00

WOW! 365 days have passed again; coupled with 10 years.

This year has been filled with both joys and sorrows. One cousin had a baby and another cousin went home to be with Jesus.

I started my doctoral program and secured an adjunct faculty position.

Tyler is busy and growing.

NyCee is big and inquisitive.

So much in my life has changed for the positive. I have the privilege of living where I want to live. I have a great church with wonderful friends. I have the honor of serving Pastor Dionne Arceneaux as she oversees six (6) ministries which has contributed to my spiritual growth.

This night closes not only a year but a decade. During this decade, I got married, had two children, got divorced, completed two (2) college degrees, moved back home to Phoenix, began working on a doctorate degree and secured a faculty position. Amazing how much can be squeezed into such a small spans of time.

I am looking forward to 2010 with great expectation. As you close out this night and decade, set high expectations for the new year. Break out of routine. Kick mundane to the curb. Life is meant to be enjoyed. It took me way too long to figure that out. I embrace everyday with high expectation. Prayers will be manifested. Doors will be opened. Spiritual knowledge will increase.

Happy Exciting, Prosperous, Blessed New Year!

3 “ I have declared the former things from the beginning;
They went forth from My mouth, and I caused them to hear it.
Suddenly I did them, and they came to pass."
Isaiah 48:3

Snow Day

2009-12-31T20:09:00.003-07:00

Just a couple pictures of the kids playing in the snow.

Of all four kids, Tyler had the most fun.

Winterized

2009-12-30T20:25:00.003-07:00

The kids are going to the zoo in the morning for a "snow day."

No, it is not snowing in Mesa, AZ. The zoo creates snow by blowing shaved ice and the kids play in it. So, to get prepared, I had to go to Target and find "winter gear" at the end of winter.

NyCee wanted the purple Tinkerbell set which does not match her pink coat (not shown in the picture). And Tyler wanted the McQueen car hat which does not match his blue jacket. So goes the need for my children to match on all occasions.

BFFs Cruisin' Along

2009-12-29T20:00:00.002-07:00

Olivia received a Princess Barbie Car for Christmas. Apparently, she and NyCee have enjoyed cruising around Lorie's backyard.

I am sure when spring comes, they will venture out a little farther.

Replacement

2009-12-26T21:53:00.003-07:00

Earlier today, Tyler lost his Thomas the train inside the Fry's grocery market. Like any good mother, I attempted to retrace my steps in an effort to find it. Because I was talking on the phone, I didn't hear it drop. Normally, he would whine until I picked it up but he was engrossed in the box of cereal just placed in the basket.

Tonight, again like any good mother, I went to Target in an attempt to purchase another Thomas the train. I didn't want the whole set because he doesn't play with the tracks. I just wanted the train. But nothing, nada, zilch. So, I had a God-idea. Let's get him a McQueen car and see how he likes it.

From the looks of things, I think we can all agree this was a good choice.

Tight Grip

2009-12-25T21:36:00.003-07:00

For Christmas, my parents bought Little Fred a Thomas the Train - train set. It included tracks and other parts in addition to just the train itself.

Little Fred has had a grip on his Thomas the train all day. When riding his bike, playing with his cars, jumping on his sister, napping etc. The train piece has not left his hands. At one point, he dropped it on the side of his bed and whined until I was able to locate it and give it back.

Why would bedtime be any different?

Heck, I could have saved my parents some money and just spent $5 on the train piece instead of the entire set.

Christmas 2009 AM and PM

2009-12-25T18:51:00.014-07:00

Well, the kids had a very Merry Christmas. NyCee woke up about 4:00a and walked into my room saying, "Mommy, come see the toys."

The morning didn't officially begin until later. Around 7a. And I didn't let her play with any toys until her brother was awake.

They spent the day playing with toys and chasing each other.

All the pictures above represent how the house looked in the AM.

PM Pictures

Yes, the tree is down and put away. Normally, it would have stayed up until New Year's day. However, I have to prepare for my first teaching class next week. The class has to be completely prepped and ready to go on 01/01/10. The class was not loaded onto my log-in screen Wednesday which means I lost four days of prep time.

After dinner the kids enjoyed S'mores. It was a very quiet and Merry Christmas.

**For the first time in his 20 months of life, Tyler spent the ENTIRE day in pajamas. He was the only one. NyCee and I had on lounge around the house clothes.**

I realized I have a very blessed life. Although, raising two kids alone is not my ideal situation. God has been very good to me and has wonderful things in store. Men who want to take on a woman with two small kids are not readily found. But God will make sure that I have the one who will love us. Overall, it was a very good day. The hardest part of the day was not having anyone, save the kids, to share it with. But this time is for me to grow in God and get prepared. So I embrace it and know it only for a season.

Merry Christmas to all!!

Christmas Eve 2009

2009-12-24T22:17:00.003-07:00

Today was a busy day. I attended Candle Light Service which was awesome. The string quartet was wonderful.

After candlelight service and a baby sitting event which involved five (5) children all 4 years of age and younger, the kids and I went to a co-worker's home for dinner. She has two small boys who are so cute. When we completed dinner, we went for a walk through her neighbor to see Christmas Lights. It was quite the displace.

NyCee and Tyler did a great job and Maria's husband commented about how well-mannered and polite the kids were.

Now, the children are nestled and snug in their beds. Neither one of them had a real nap tonight so they are pooped.

Time to make S'mores for Santa.

Little Old Man

2009-12-23T15:24:00.005-07:00

I walked into the kids' room and saw Tyler sleeping in the upright position.

It was especially funny to watch as he nodded he would bounce back into the upright position. One time he nearly fell all the way over but pulled himself back upright.

Assignment Granted

2009-12-21T20:37:00.003-07:00

I completed my instructor certification course and was given great reviews by my facilitator. As a result, I am now an adjunct faculty member with Colorado State University - Global Campus. I am very excited because this is the first step towards becoming a full-time faculty member - my heart's desire.

As I have written in times past, I am not the stay-at-home mom type of gal. But teaching provides the flexibility I miss. 2010 is going to be a super awesome year!

May I humbly request your continued prayers for my cousin Melvin and his children. As you know, Cari, Melvin's beautiful wife,went home to be with Jesus earlier this year. This is the first Christmas he and the children will spend without her. Every day is hard for him. I am sure he has both good days and bad. But the holidays are just a little harder when the love of your life is not there to share the moments. Thank you for your continued prayers for Melvin, Cameron, Max, and Ella.

Christmas Princess 2009

2009-12-20T15:15:00.002-07:00

NyCee has gotten to the place where she does not like to go to church on Sunday without wearing a princess dress. This morning, I was wearing a jean skirt and she politely told me, "Mom, I don't want to wear jeans like this one (pointing to my skirt). I want to wear my princess dress."

Thankfully, her Nana Ida sent her a dress for Christmas. Otherwise, she will be rotating through the same three dresses until Spring. She has several dresses but only three of them allow for a turtle neck underneath to help keep her warm.

Princess and the Prince

2009-12-19T15:27:00.002-07:00

NyCee and Tyler were playing a game titled "Princess and the Prince." Apparently, this is something she made up. That is a good thing. I do not let the kids watch TV all day on the weekends. There are times when they just play in their room.

As they were playing, I looked down and noticed Tyler wearing a pair of NyCee's blue princess slippers. I started to take a picture and post it on the blog. But then I decided to spare my father and grandfather the scene of seeing Tyler in a pair of blue princess shoes. Somehow, I get the feeling they would not find it as funny and cute as I did.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

Impromptu Christmas Show

2009-12-17T15:32:00.004-07:00

NyCee's dance class had an impromptu Christmas show this afternoon. The girls looked so cute dancing around. They performed routines using tap, tumble, and ballet.

Cleanliness is next to Godliness..so they say

2009-12-16T20:40:00.002-07:00

"Mommy, may you turn on the water please."

As I wake up in a bit of a haze. I glance at the clock and it reads 4:23a.

"Yes, punkin. I'm coming."

While I am so proud of her for not having a nighttime accident and for remembering to wash her hands after using the potty, I have to teach her how to turn on the water herself, so that the entire process can be completed without me. Especially at 4:23a.

Teachable Christmas Tree

2009-12-12T22:15:00.004-07:00

In keeping with family tradition, I was up until 2a putting up the Christmas tree. As a child, we put up the Christmas Tree the weekend of my dad's and sister's birthdays. My nephew is in that mix now.

But I cannot blame all of it on putting up the tree. I was catching up on episodes of my guilty pleasures "Grey's Anatomy" and "Private Practice." But I have been debating for the past several days about how to decorate the tree. Last year, Little Fred was not mobile so NyCee and I fully decorated it. This year, mobile is not a sufficient word for my son.

This morning, NyCee was very excited to see the tree in the living room. I spent the better part of the morning saying, "No son. Do not touch the tree Tyler. Son, back away" while moving him away from the tree.

At some point in the day, I walked out to the living room only to find Little Fred pulling a strand of the garland beads towards their room. Now, the tree is loop-sided with poorly hung garland.

In an effort to keep me from getting upset, I decided this year the tree would be the teachable tree. This is the tree that will be used to teach what things can and cannot be touched. Once the gifts are under the tree, then he will be distracted.

NyCee likes the lights. She walked into my bedroom and proclaimed, "Mommy, I pulled out the white thing (child safety plug) and plugged in the Christmas Tree for Santa." There are so many things wrong with that statement I don't know where to begin. While I thanked her for being such a big helper, we had a little chitty-chat about plugs.

For now: no GLASS bulbs or shiny icicles will be added. Maybe I will add some candy canes for them.

Countrified

2009-12-09T22:37:00.002-07:00

May someone please explain to my son that neurosurgeons do not put their feet up on the table, lean back their heads, and drink a cup of milk in darn near one gulp.

Bedtime Kisses

2009-12-06T19:39:00.000-07:00

2009 AKA Fashionetta

2009-12-05T13:04:00.002-07:00

This morning I attended a breakfast and fashion show for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. I was one of the guests of Dr. Victoria Jones (to my left as you are looking at the photo.) The other women, in this photo, work at Apollo Group also. The fashion show was very exciting as the commentator was jovial and humorous. We were seated at Table number 1 which was right next to the model's runway. The clothes were amazing.

It was nice to attend an adult function this morning. I will do that more often.

Exciting, Exciting, Exciting

2009-12-04T20:58:00.002-07:00

So today, I had an interview for an adjunct faculty position and was offered the job. I am so excited. It is for an online teaching position. Although I have not taught collegiate level courses, being an online student played to my advantage. I understand the challenges of being a working adult student.

The beauty of this, classes are 8 weeks long and I will only teach 3 courses a year because the school does not offer a summer session. That is perfect because I do not want to be overwhelmed. The purpose of the job is two-fold: 1) My experience has to match or should closely match my level of education. Therefore, by the time I graduate, I will have enough teaching experience where I can easily transition to full-time faculty. Additionally, with a terminal degree, I will be able to teach courses on any level.
2)With the 2nd job, I can be completely debt free in 24 months. Including my student loans. That is awesome!

Now, I know people are going to attempt to worry about me and wonder if I am getting any rest. Actually, do you know I have had some of the best sleep in the past week than I have had in a long time? I do not allow myself to get stressed out. I am very good about monitoring my time.

And yes, I have a personal life. I hang out on Saturdays with friends (no man yet Grandma Martha - soon - hahahahaha). But I have a well balanced life.

Well, that is the update for this week. We have a busy day tomorrow.

Methodology

2009-11-30T19:39:00.004-07:00

I am not clear as to why Little Fred felt the need to pour the water onto the table and then suck it up. But I am sure in his mind, there was a reason.

Ms. Moustache

2009-11-27T21:28:00.002-07:00

Under NyCee's nose is raw from wiping it so many times a day that it created a moustache.

We were supposed to take Christmas pictures tomorrow - not gonna happen. I will not send out pictures of my beautiful little girl with a moustache.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T22:14:00.004-07:00

Nana Ida arrived Tuesday evening to the smiles of her two beautiful grandchildren. One year had passed since she last saw the kids. She was amazed how NyCee's vocabulary has expanded and how much Little Fred has grown. Her first night here, she gave him a bath and did not put him in the crib, he took off running butt naked through the apartment.

We spent thanksgiving evening with Maxine and her family. It was a nice quiet dinner. We were not there very long just enough to enjoy dinner with friends and socialize.

Tomorrow, we am going to brave the malls. I usually stay far away from stores on Black Friday but I need to look for a dress for Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.

Remember: Being thankful for everything helps you to not worry about anything.

If I ever....

2009-11-23T19:34:00.002-07:00

A co-worker told me if I ever wanted to date again, I should never wear socks that resemble these:

According to Greg, there is nothing attractive about my socks. I explained to Greg, I am not trying to be attractive. I am trying to keep my feet warm.

Of course that explanation did not go over well considering I was wearing the socks at work.

What happens when you have an older sister...

2009-11-22T15:28:00.004-07:00

You are subjected to play dress-up with her dress up items whether you want to or not.

Toliet Water Boy

2009-11-20T23:19:00.002-07:00

"Mommy, I was calling you because buddy was playing in the toliet and he put his shoes in there."

I proceed to walk in the bathroom only to find my hair brush and my son's hands in the toliet. Thankfully, I cleaned the house earlier today. But that is still nasty on like 15 different levels.

"It's the toliet son!"

Nothing to tell

2009-11-20T05:30:00.002-07:00

Nothing exciting has been going on out here in the valley of the sun. Just the daily routine of life for us. School work for me, swimming and dance class for NyCee, rough and tough play for Little Fred and of course, ministry service.

I am like WOW, Thanksgiving is next week! Where did the year go? I tell you, it is a blur for me. Just one more reason I am working so diligently to finish school. I am going to start working towards securing a teaching position. This is what people mean when they say "I looked up and my child was 12 years old." or "I looked up one day and he/she was getting married." I don't want my children's childhood to be a blur to me and I was not apart of it.

3 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; 14 whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.

James 4:13-14 NKJV

Life is meant to be enjoyed. If you try, you can find a reason to celebrate each day.

Last week was busy...

2009-11-15T20:15:00.004-07:00

So, Faith Explosion (FX09) kicked off Thursday night. The speaker was Jesse Duplantis. The place was packed. Jesse teaches in a practical, humorous manner which draws people to his meetings. I was not in the sanctuary as I was working the foyer. Dionne had to oversee the seating in the sanctuary of the guest pastors so that left me to oversee the greeters' and 1st time visitors' ministries. It was cool. She knew I could be trusted with the task and I made her look good. Which made Drs. Tom and Maureen Anderson look good. Which makes God look good. That is what serving is all about.

I did manage to find time to break down Little Fred's high chair. It was time for him -way past time actually- for him to transition to a booster chair. He had to feel it out but he's good in it. He has not been throwing food or his cup lately which is a good thing.

NyCee has learned the art of negotiation. Tonight, she asked for Nilla Wafers, mommy's guilt pleasure, before bed. I have been working with her to understand when she is told "No" that is it and not to continue asking. As I stated, I am working on this. First, she asked for Nilla Wafers (notice the "s"). Then, she dropped that down to one (1) Nilla Wafer to help her sleep. The answer, still a resounding "No."

I have no idea where she gets her negotiation skills.

As for me, back to the books as I have an assignment due tomorrow. Probably should do some research to write the paper. But I will get it done. Always do.

Perfect Morning

2009-11-09T19:48:00.002-07:00

The kids have been doing a great job of cooperating in the mornings. After each one has had his/her face washed and teeth brushed, we put on shoes and jackets. NyCee, of course, knows how to put on her own shoes. But Tyler has been doing a great job of going to the closet to get his shoes and bringing them to me.

After that is completed, the kids get a little cup of cereal for the drive to their care giver's home. It was so great to see them each wait patiently for their cereal cup and then proceed to the door. I really do have the best kids in the world.

Tyler even kept his hat on his head instead of removing it instantly. Of course by the time we arrived at Lorie's, he removed it.

Whole Names

2009-11-04T21:41:00.003-07:00

Lately, Taylor has taken a liking to using Tyler's whole name. They were playing in their room and I heard, "Frederick Tyler Thompson, what are you doing my son?"

Or if Tyler is whining she'll say, "Frederick Tyler we are Thompsons and we are happy people. No whining. Right mom?"

She obviously gets that from me as I have to remind my children very often when they get fussy - that we are Thompsons and we are happy people. Whining is not allowed.

Lately, my personal favorite has been when she addresses him as "son." "Son, what are you doing?" "Son, where are your shoes?" "Son, mommy is calling you."

I wish I could record some of the things NyCee says. It is priceless.

Cuddly Critters

2009-10-31T22:08:00.004-07:00

We spent the night at harvest festival. It was fun. NyCee played in the bounce houses and Tyler just rode around in the stroller.

The kids had a good time.

**side note** Most of the country changes time tonight. Arizona does not honor daylight savings time. So, if you are on the east coast, the time difference is two hours. If you are in the central time zone, it is one hour.

Cold Snap

2009-10-30T21:10:00.003-07:00

Contrary to popular belief, it does get cold here in Phoenix. The past two days have been in the low 50s. It was so cold that I turned on the heat to knock off the chill in the house.

Of course tomorrow and the rest of next week, it will be 85 degrees or higher.

God In Me

2009-10-29T19:45:00.005-07:00

Mary Mary has a song on their latest CD titled, "God in Me." Part of the lyrics are:

Your so fly your so high
Everybody around you trying to figure out why
Your so cool you win all the time
Everywhere you go man you get a lot of shine
You draw like a magnet better yet I have it
Everything you wear people say they got have it
From the sweat suit to the white tee to the Gucci
You can probably say people wanna get like me

But what they don't know is when you go home
And get behind closed doors man you hit the floor
And what they can't see is your on your knees
So the next time you get it just tell em

It's the God in me

Nevermore have those words rang so true in my life. This week has been pretty awesome. I think about how much I have grown in God and how He has developed me during my journey. I use to be very task-focused. I was always a good employee but not a good person. I thought the way to get to the top was to step on people along the way. But Jesus stated, "The son of man did not come to be served but to serve" (Matt 28:20). That is a powerful concept that I have begun to employ in my every day life.

This week, I have received several emails about my customer service and how appreciative people are of my willingness to help them. Some of the emails went straight to my manager. But today was the icing on the cake. I received a dozen white roses from one of the directors at the Dallas, TX location.

Let me clarify before my Grandma Martha gets all excited. (She has been encouraging me to get out and begin dating again. I will Grandma Martha. I promise.) The flowers were from the leadership team at the six locations attached to the central location. Mikal wrote me an email which read, "Everyone has nothing but nice things to say about you. I wanted you to know how special you are and how much we appreciate you." I have never had anyone say such awesome things about my service to them. Probably because I was so funky and mean, people only dealt with me because they had to.

I thought about my old boss, Allie Rue, and how she would smile had she been able to read the wonderful emails I have received this week. It is a complete 180 from the person I use to be. But it's not me. Rather, the God in me. God is amazing. When I stopped focusing on myself and started being people-focused, God made my service known publicly.

I am not a person that likes a lot of fluff and fairies. My mentor, Dionne, makes public acknowledgement of how I serve her all the time and it's quite embarrassing. I just do what God wants me to do with the right heart. I am not looking for recognition or fanfare. But because I don't look for it, God makes sure it happens.

Galatians 6:9 (Contemporary English Version)

"Don't get tired of helping others. You will be rewarded when the time is right, if you don't give up."

Simplifying

2009-10-25T16:04:00.002-07:00

In preparation for the upcoming months, I have begun to find ways to simplify my life. What I have realized is single parenting (although NOT God's plan) is a test of time management. My life is not hard, per se. It does require me to be a good steward over time.

Due to my children's ages, they are unable to actively contribute to the household. Meaning, completing chores, etc. Therefore, I have to do it all. While living with my parents, we used paper plates during the week and dishes on Sundays. That is what I have started doing. I would spend an hour every night washing the dishes. Add to that laundry, ironing, cleaning, school work, etc.

In January, my plan is to work a second job teaching online courses. Now, before you get all up in arms. (I can already here my grandparents in Alabama tell me I don't need to that. Just like my father when I told him the plan.) Please read this with an open mind.

Children need you at any age. However, they will need me more the older they get. Right now, I control their sphere of influence. I control their friends and where they go. As they get older and get in school, they will have outside influences and will have to make decision about whether or not they will follow God's design for their lives. That is when they will really need me.

I am the only parent they currently have. (As no one has yet recognized my fabnificentness.) I cannot miss every dance recital, swim meet, etc all in the name of working. A person will work hard at some point in life. Society has it backwards. It plays and goofs off young and then ends up working at 70, 80 years old because so many years were wasted. I would rather work hard at 35 than 65.

Besides, it's only 36 months. I will work two jobs to pay off my student loans. By the time I graduate with my doctorate, I will be completely debt free and have a great start on investments. NyCee will be in 1st grade. I am getting a doctorate so that I can teach which will allow flexibility in my schedule. I am not the traditional stay-at-home mom type of gal. But I do want to be home by the time my husband and children get home from school. Yet, I do not want to be home baking 4th of July cookies. Best of both worlds. But it is going to take some hard work.

I take care of my body. I eat healthy foods. The kids and I do not eat at lot sugar or fast foods. And I do rest contrary to popular belief. This 36 month journey will be for my family. And with God's grace, I will successfully run this portion of my race.

I thought of it in this context, how many hours would I spend watching TV a week if I weren't working and in school? On average, a person can spend 15 hours a week watching TV. And that is just Monday - Friday. If I put that time to use, God will redeem my time and reward my faithfulness.

Hebrews 11:6 (New Living Translation)

6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.

Preview

2009-10-24T07:45:00.004-07:00

Last night, we went to the mall to get NyCee's lady bug costume. Well, that's not exactly true. I started looking for it last week. The first one I found was $30 and would have made her look like Madame Lady Bug. When I thought of letting her be a ladybug, my vision was not whore lady bug.

Thankfully, I found part of the lady bug costume for 1/2 off and I just have to finish the bottom.

And Tyler, will be a cuddly little frog. Harvest Festival is going to be so fun.

Just catching up

2009-10-21T20:19:00.003-07:00

For the past few months, I have been trying to figure out if Tyler is a southpaw like his two aunts or not. I thought I figured it out tonight. He was eating his applesauce with the spoon in his left hand. Not 2 minutes after I took this picture, he switched the spoon to his right hand.

Nothing excitingly fabnificent has been going on with the Thompsons in the Valley of the Sun. The weather has been cooling off very nicely. The mornings are cold. This morning it was 58 degrees. But, the afternoons are generally around 85ish or so. The sky has been a beautiful light blue with just a few wisps of clouds draped against its backdrop.

We are preparing for Harvest Festival. I have Tyler's costume but I need to find NyCee's. I went to one store but I refused to pay $30 for a child's costume that she will wear one time. I have to find some time to pick it up this Saturday. Tyler has a hair cut in the morning, I need to grocery shop, and I was asked to volunteer at my church for about 2.5 hours before Saturday night service. Normally, I would go shopping Saturday night but I have ministry obligations to attend to. Thankfully, we are not down to sugar and ketchup but I just have to find the time. Oh and did I mention I have to get my oil changed? Wow, God give me the grace to do everything I need to do. In Jesus' Name!

No She Didn't

2009-10-14T20:36:00.002-07:00

Around 1200a, Little Fred thought it would be a good idea to wake up crying. Why? I haven't a clue. But what's funny, is NyCee, who normally sleeps through almost anything, woke up as well. I heard her get out of bed, close the bedroom door, proceed to my room, climb in my bed and exclaim, "Mommy, I need to sleep in your room because buddy is crying and I can't sleep. I closed the door Mom."

She politely pulled up the covers and went back to sleep. WOW!

Things Removed

2009-10-13T21:14:00.002-07:00

So lately, little Ms. Taylor has kicked up her game a notch. She has been testing the waters a little more than usual. No worries, this is why God gave mommies the one up. A couple of days ago, she thought it would be a good idea to tear pages out of her books. So I took away all the books for one day. Now, after reading time, she neatly stacks the books on the shelf.

She gets her hair combed on Tuesday nights because she has swimming class Tuesday mornings. Normally, I will let her watch a TV program while I comb her hair. Well, she chose to have a tantrum when I told her a particular program was off limits. I turned off the television. She then proceeded to cry even more. After a few minutes, she calmed down and asked if she could watch TV because she stopped having a tantrum. I replied, "No, you may not." And the TV remained in the off position.

Now, I know some of you are reading this and thinking, "Dayna, she is only three." Yeah no. NyCee is old enough to understand there are consequences for actions. If I started making excuses today for tantrums, then the excuses will continue when she is a teenager. My philosophy: little child, little problem. Big child, bigger problems.

Pumpkin Farm

2009-10-10T13:00:00.010-07:00

We spent part of the morning at the pumpkin farm. This picture was actually taken as we were leaving, hence the long face on my daughter.

They decorated pumpkins,

That were selected from the pumpkin "patch." Notice the word "patch" is in quotations as it is used loosely. It was more of a patch of grass with pumpkins spread out for the kids' selection.

Little Fred and NyCee both enjoyed the hay maze.

Little Fred is not tall enough to stick his head through the animal cut out, but he stood on his toes and tried to peek through.

Now I just have to figure out what to do with the pumpkins they decorated.

What to write?

2009-10-05T20:18:00.004-07:00

My child puts on quite a show. She grabbed the towel and put it around her body exclaiming she was a superhero.

Gadget Girl

2009-10-01T22:27:00.003-07:00

NyCee:"Mommy, May I send a text message to my daddy?"

Dayna: "Who taught you to send text messages?"

"Olivia."

Dayna: "Really?!?!?"

Why is it that my three (3) year old has the cognitive ability to send a text message; yet the concept of "go to your own bed" completely alludes her?

Dental Work

2009-09-26T12:43:00.004-07:00

Approximately 8 months ago or so, NyCee knocked her front teeth out of alignment. One tooth started to discolor so I took her to the dentist. Dr. Ball explained NyCee knocked both teeth away from the root and the discolored one was hanging on by a thread. In order to reattach some root to the tooth, he would have to perform a mini root canal. It involved extracting root from the healthy tooth and surgically attaching it to the dead root.

We arrived at the dental office at 730a. NyCee had to receive a light sedative to help her relax. After about 45 minutes, we returned to the room where the "procedure" took place.

This picture looks worse than what it was. The "procedure" took about 10 minutes. NyCee didn't like having the strawberry flavored gas coming out of the tube on her nose. But she relaxed and let Dr. Ball work his magic. I could see a noticeable difference right away. Her front teeth look healthier already.

Dr. Ball advised they are still very loose and may have to be removed. While I recognize children loose teeth everyday, I am not prepared for my three year old to be snaggle tooth for the next four years. So, extracting the two front teeth at this stage in the game, is not an option we are going to exercise.

For the Love of Poop

2009-09-25T23:17:00.002-07:00

For the past two days, I have had the pleasure of playing with my son's poop. Little Fred's poop is still too running at his age. It should be along the consistency of peanut butter or pancake batter. So, during his check-up I mentioned this to his pediatrican and she wanted to have his stool analyzed. Lovely!

Little Fred does not poop in the correct sequence. Meaning, he should eat dinner, poop, get a bath, cup of milk, then off to bed. Not my son. He'd rather eat dinner, get a bath, cup of milk, then poop. Last night was no different with the exception that I was required to collect samples of the poop and divide it into six different vials. Again, lovely!

Fast forward to this morning....
I walk into his room because I hear his morning whines for my attention. The room was still dark with just a little bit of sunlight peeaking through the blinds. As I looked at him, I thought to myself, "Is he naked?" Sure enough, when I turned on the light, there stood my son commando in his crib. I began looking for the diaper. I located it across the room and it was relatively dry. So now I asked myself, "At what point did he remove the diaper?" After I put the kids to bed, I generally do not go back into their room. Apparently or I would have discovered my son in his nakedness a little sooner. After processing the fact my 17 month old son took off his diaper and threw it across the room and slept in the buff, I gazed upon poop in different spots in his crib.

Rule of life #129: Put the pajama pants on your son before he goes to sleep at night in the hopes to deter him from removing his diaper and throwing it across the room.

Gone Home

2009-09-22T20:07:00.003-07:00

Today, my cousin Cari left her body and went to be with Jesus. Cari was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer about two (2) years ago. Although, the cancer was removed from the breast, it spread to other areas. She fought valiantly as the cancer spread to her brain and then to her spine. The cancer in the spine was very aggressive.

While my heart grieves for her husband Melvin and the three beautiful children: Cameron, Max, and Ella who are left behind, I am glad that her suffering has ended. Cari took her last breath and then fell into the loving, waiting, open arms of Jesus. Right now, she gets to be with her Savior. Death is never easy. There are things that happen in the earth we do not understand. But I have to believe there is a purpose to everything. Today, we cannot understand why a beautiful young woman was stricken with such a horrible disease that subsequently took her away from us. But we are so blessed to have had her in our lives. Her laugh and vivacious spirit lit up the room. She will be greatly missed.

May I humbly request your prayers of comfort for her husband and children. Today we miss her. But we will be reunited with her again when we all see Jesus face to face.

2 Corinthians 5:8 (New King James Version)

"We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord."

Cari Spitz Ashford 1973-2009

Mommy's Monkeys

2009-09-20T19:32:00.005-07:00

Here we go again with this "I don't know what to do with boys thing." So lately, my son has become the little monkey. He climbs onto everything. Today, he was a little too quite so I walked into the kitchen to find him standing on top of the dishwasher door. I was amazed that he even knew how to open it, but that he climbed up onto the door - WOW!

But it's not just Tyler. I walked into the bathroom and found NyCee standing in the sink attempting to get the toothpaste out of the cabinet to brush her teeth. REALLY!

Fabnificent

2009-09-18T22:24:00.006-07:00

Sometime in August, I cut off all my hair. I just wanted a change. Something different. But lately, I really didn't like my hair short. I hadn't worn it that short in about 6 years so the look just didn't fit me anymore.

Well, tonight started the Singles' Conference and I wanted something different. Something fabulously magnificent (hence the word: Fabnificent) So I changed my look completely. It shocked most people at church when I arrived one Sunday with short hair. Tonight was no different. People did a double take all night. I love doing that.

Below is a picture of Dionne Arceneaux. People have asked about who is she because my signature lines reads, "Assistant to Pastor Dionne Arceneaux." She is the HR Director for my church but more importantly she is a powerful woman of God. If you click on her name, it will take you to the link when she was on 700 club and it is a clip of her life's story. God is so awesome and I feel so blessed to learn Godly princples from her in a practical, everyday manner.

The speaker for the Singles' Conference is Pastor Fred Price, Jr. He brought a powerful word not just for single people but for the whole body of Christ. We are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. Not because of what we have done. But because God loved us so much that he sent his Son to take on our sins. Awesome time!

The conference continues tomorrow morning and will conclude tomorrow evening.

**See Tarisa, I told you I do not look bad as a size 2.**

My YOUNGER sister Tarisa fussed at me the other day on the phone because I wear a size 2. I told her that I was healthy and looked good but she had that "I don't really believe you tone" in her voice. A picture is worth 1000 words.

Sunday Fun

2009-09-13T16:56:00.007-07:00

After church, we went to SunSplash water park by invitation of my friend and her husband. NyCee had a good time running through the water fountains and playing on the slides. She was not able to get into the kiddie pool as it was closed.

Because I did not have a swimsuit, my friend Maxine took NyCee on the lazy river float water ride.

Normally, Tyler loves water. He would not get down off of my lap and run through the water. Every time I put him down to play, he would just cry and hold up his arms to be picked up.

We had a good time. Neither one of my children had a significant nap today. Which is a good thing so bed time will be early.

Utensil Usage

2009-09-12T14:50:00.003-07:00

Tyler has been working on using a utensil when he eats. He still switches back and forth between his left and right hand so I am not quite sure which one will be dominant. Most of the time, he abandons the utensil and just eats with his hands.

FYI, rice + a 17months old = a complete mess. HA!

Not Yet...

2009-09-10T20:28:00.002-07:00

I had (notice the word "had") been tossing around the idea of getting rid of Little Fred's crib and putting him in a big boy bed. When NyCee was 17 months old, she was sleeping in a big bed. However, the situations are not a perfect comparison given that we were living with my parents at the time. So while it is true she was sleeping in a big bed, I was sleeping in the bed with her.

Well, a couple of days ago, I put Little Fred in his crib in preparation for bath time. That is no different than I do every night. However, this time I did not let up the guard rail. I turned my back to put his clothes in the dirty clothes basket. As I turned back around, he flip out of the crib onto the floor. I yelped, "Oh Jesus!" NyCee came running into the room exclaiming, "Mommy, what happened?" Little Fred just rubbed his head and grinned.

Needless to say, I do not think we are ready for a big boy bed just yet. He has been assigned to diaper duty. After I change his diaper, he grabs it and walks it to the kitchen trash can. Progress, slow but steady progress.

Psalm 91: 11-12
For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.
In their hands they shall bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

4 in 1

2009-09-06T16:37:00.002-07:00

When we first moved back to AZ, NyCee would get in the bed with me every night. Lately, Tyler has been waking up in the middle of the night (for what reason, I do not know). However, he ends up in my bed.

A couple of nights ago, NyCee came into my room at 3:32a to inform me that she did not brush her teeth after her shower. OKAY!!! Then, we finally woke up around 7:30a, she advised, "Mommy, let me help you pull up your pants." (That is another story. But for the past couple of weeks, I have had several discussions about the need to buy clothes in my size. I generally buy a six (6) but it is way too big because I wear a two (2). It's hard to find adult clothing in size 2 that I deem appropriate. As a result, most of my clothing are too big and are falling off. You know an item is too big when you have to put a safety pin in a denim skirt- enough about that.) My child was not been privy to any of these discussions but apparently she feels the same.

But the focus of this entry is to note the growing number of "people" that end up in my bed in the morning.

NyCee, Tyler and Dora. We are running out of room. Thankfully, Tyler does not have a stuff animal he sleeps with or mommy would be on the couch.

Night Time Reading

2009-09-02T19:53:00.002-07:00

Every night after NyCee and I read bible verses and a story, she proceeds to read a story to her brother. (In theory, they are supposed to be sleeping.) A couple of days ago, for whatever reason, looked on the side of her bed, and found about 20 books. I guess she reads them and then hides them on the side.

Last night, before going to bed, I went into the kids' room to check on them. NyCee was sound asleep with books spread all over the bed. It's great that she has just a passion for reading. But she will have to enjoy her reading passion during waking hours.

Another Slumber Party

2009-08-28T20:39:00.003-07:00

NyCee had another little slumber party this evening. Her little friend Emily spent the night with us. NyCee is the youngest of all her friends, yet she is the tallest.

After dinner, the girls took separate showers and then climbed up on the couch to watch a movie. Of course we had to do manicures and pedicures.

God always answers prayers. This is what I wanted for my children when I moved back to Phoenix. A place to call home where they would make life long friends.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (New International Version)

20Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Update

2009-08-26T21:56:00.002-07:00

So, I am about a week away from returning to school and I am very excited about that. I needed the break. However, I ordered one of my books off of eBay and never received it. The beautiful thing is I will get a refund of my money. But I now have to do a rush order to ensure the book is delivered by the start of the semester.

My boss' husband was able to recover the pictures from my memory card. That is pretty fancy and awesome.

I almost called CPS on myself yesterday. I picked up the kids from the swim school and both wanted lollipops. (The school has a treasure chest filled with lollipops for the kids after their session.) Well, NyCee and Tyler decided they did not like mommy saying no to having lollipops before dinner so they decided to scream and have tantrums in the car on the way home. (I live less than 5 minutes away from the swim school.) But try to imagine a long day at work dealing with crazy people, then listening to the screams of my children over lollipops. Thankfully, I kept my composure until I was behind closed doors. I will just leave it at that. Needless to say, the episode ended very quickly and life returned to normal. Tyler still clowned a little but overall they calmed down.

Please keep my cousin Cari and her family in your prayers. Pray for God's comfort and peace during this time. Situations like hers are so hard to understand, but we must trust in God's sovereignty. When it is all said and done, He is still in complete control. Our finite minds cannot grasp or comprehend God. We shouldn't try. He loves us and there is a purpose to EVERYTHING. We must trust in that truth. Thank you for your prayers.

Ecclesiastes 3 (New Living Translation)
A Time for Everything
1 For everything there is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven.
2 A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
3 A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
4 A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
5 A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
6 A time to search and a time to quit searching.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
7 A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak.
8 A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.

365 Days Ago

2009-08-18T21:18:00.002-07:00

So, it has been 365 days since the kids and I moved home to Phoenix and wow what a great year.

Today, was a great birthday. I turned 35 but look like I am 25. Which is an awesome thing. My co-workers decorated my desk and bought me a small bouquet of white roses (my favorite.)

Then my friend Lorie cooked a wonderful dinner. (She is an awesome cook.) We talked and played with the kids.

Right before cake is when things started to go down hill. Trying to delete a bad picture of my cake, I erased all the pictures on the memory card. And when you read the word All, I literally mean ALL! All the pictures of when NyCee and I lived in Michigan, Tyler's birth, pictures over the past year of him growing. Yes, all! But wait, there's more.

Tyler walks up to me, holds up his arms for me to pick him up. As soon as I do, I feel a warm sensation down my hand. Yup, you guessed, my son pooped all over my clothes so I spent the remainder of my birthday smelling like poop. Great!

However, on the brighter side of the day, I received an iPhone as a gift also. That thing is so awesome. I haven't even scratched the surface of its functionality. Today was a great day. I am excited about all the good things God has instore for the next 365 days.

The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me.
I will protect those who trust in my name.
15 When they call on me, I will answer;
I will be with them in trouble.
I will rescue and honor them.
16 I will reward them with a long life
and give them my salvation.”
Psalm 91:14-16 (NLT)

Buzz

2009-08-15T23:10:00.008-07:00

Little Fred aka Tyler, had his 1st hair cut today. He was about 5 months overdue. Part of that is because I wanted my dad to take him to get his first hair cut. Because we were not able to travel back east on the 2 different occasions we tried, I went ahead and took him to the barber shop this morning.

I met Shawn, the barber, through a co-worker named Greg. What's funny is when I showed up a the shop, there were two (2) other people from my office there as well.

Shawn was very kind and talked with Tyler while he was cutting his hair. The shop is named, Christian Cuts with a sign that reads, "No profanity, swearing, cussing, or whatever you call it - don't do it." I like that.

Shawn explained how all mothers like their sons' soft curls and have a hard time with the first cut. (Tyler had to get his hair cut because Olivia cut out two patches of hair last week.) He also explained the natural shape of Tyler's hair and told me how to brush it.

I scheduled Tyler's next hair cut for September. I told Shawn we will stay with him until he moves on to do other things. Tyler was a little irritated at first but then he calmed down.

NyCee did a great job waiting patiently in the chairs during Bubba's hair cut.

Hiding Place

2009-08-13T20:39:00.002-07:00

Tyler had to find somewhere to hide after being surrounded by all girls last weekend.

Weekend

2009-08-09T14:43:00.012-07:00

My friend Carole had to go out of town for the weekend on business. She asked if I would watch her six year old daughter Megan. Sure, why not? I already have two (2) kids, adding one more is no biggie deal. Well, of course, I had to include Olivia in the fun for the weekend. So Friday night, I picked up my kids and Olivia after work. Carole dropped of Megan and the party began.

After bath and before movie time, the girls had an evening treat. Peanut butter cookies and milk. (You have to love the toast.)

After nearly an hour of giggling, they finally fell asleep at 1100p. Megan was the first to give in to sleep. I think that is because she is in first grade and therefore does not have a nap time at school.

Tyler began running from all the estrogen. The girls kept trying to pick him up and carry him around. You constantly heard, "Come here Bubba. Let's play Bubba. Bubba, follow me."
The day started at 547a. Yes, you read correctly - 547a! All four (4) kids woke up at the same time. So I said, okay, let's do this! They wanted to get up that early, it was up and poppin'. After breakfast, we went to Bounce U. It's an indoor play area with inflatable bouncy toys.

Tyler was too little to get inside the bouncy house. But he had a blast playing with the balloons.

But surely, that could not be it. I mean, we were only at Bounce U for an hour and a half. It was only 930a. 2 hours until nap time. Onto the park. So I loaded the kids into the car and off we went. The park was only about 7 minutes from Bounce U.

At the park, they played on the equipment and of course at the splash pad area. Over all, it was a good weekend. Everyone behaved very well. The hardest part of the weekend was getting in and out of the car with four (4) kids in 100 degree weather. I was even brave enough to venture to Wal-mart and the Dollar Store with all four (4) kids.

Olivia left the group on Saturday night. Before church, everyone had to have baths because there were wood chips (from the play ground) and sweat mixed with sun screen lotion in unmentionable places.

Normally, I don't leave the kids at date night but I needed a couple of hours of therapy.

A Pretty Princess

2009-08-06T20:56:00.002-07:00

NyCee's dance recital pictures from this year's performance came back from the photographer today. She looks so adorable.

Below is a picture of all the girls in her class. Aren't they just so darn cute?

NyCee started dance class again today and had a little bit of an "episode" about waiting her turn. She and I had to have a little chit-chat and now she understands my expectation regarding her behavior.
Age 2 was easy. I am praying the Lord helps me spare her life so that she can see age 4! The 3 year old year has been a little wild.

2 in and 3 out

2009-08-03T20:38:00.003-07:00

Solve this riddle:
A woman walks into the store with her son who is wearing a pair of shoes. After selecting a pair of shoes for purchase for said son, the woman walks to the counter. Upon arrival at the counter, the woman has three (3) shoes: two (2) new shoes and one (1) old shoe. How did that happen?

This afternoon must have been exhausting. I arrived at Lorie's house to pick up the kids and found Tyler asleep, floating in the pool.

Classic!

What a day!

2009-08-01T21:31:00.003-07:00

NyCee attended a friend's birthday party this afternoon at Michael's craft store. The party was a craft party where all the little girls made their own tee shirts. NyCee started out with an ice cream cone stencil. Well, after a couple of minutes she just went wild.

This is a picture of her masterpiece. I purposely printed the year on the shirt so that I can show this to her when she leaves for medical school.

The tee shirt will remind her she has a creative side but surgery requires precision and focus. HA! HA!

**As a side note: she starts swim lessons on Tuesday and I have been trying to find her a pair of goggles. But since it's "the end of summer," this is proving a little challenging. People, this is Arizona. The end of summer is October 31 - Honestly!

Dinner Party

2009-07-29T20:03:00.004-07:00

Yesterday evening, I kept all four kids after work: Olivia, JD, NyCee and Tyler. While I must admit it was not bad watching all the kids, I NEVER want to be a stay-at-home mom again. I do not know how Lorie takes care of four (4) kids all day but God love her for doing it.

I have been thinking about my career path because of my children. More than likely, I will become a professor once my doctoral studies are completed. It will provide the flexibility to attend the kids' events as they get older.

Everything went black - briefly

2009-07-27T20:33:00.002-07:00

So today I arrive at Lorie's house to pick up the kids. She (Lorie) greets me at the door and tells me NyCee received an "incident report" today. I asked "Where?" and she replied, "At church."

Lorie proceeds to tell me that NyCee called a child fat and when the teacher stepped into correct her, she (NyCee) called the teacher fat and then swung her arm as if she was going to hit the teacher. (Now do you understand why everything when black for about 30 seconds.) It is probably a good thing that Lorie did not call me at work to tell me this information because I would have left work, drove to the church, beat the living snot out of NyCee, and went back to work. I do not know where that behavior came from.

I am a firm believer of dealing with the infraction at the time. I was unable to do that but NyCee was not allowed to do anything this evening. No Dora, no treat, nothing. She is old enough to understand that behavior is unacceptable. She has never attempted to swing and hit me so I don't know where she got that. But she will be a different child tomorrow - guaranteed!

The Joy of Pudding

2009-07-25T10:00:00.003-07:00

This is one is licking the bowl after eating all the pudding.

This is has pudding everywhere because his sister thought it helpful to put it on the tray infront of him so that he could feed himself.

Psalm 107:20 (New King James Version)
20 He sent His word and healed them,
And delivered them from their destructions.

Do We Live in a Barn?

2009-07-21T20:38:00.002-07:00

I told NyCee it was bath time and she took off her clothes, put them in the laundry basket and proceeded to the bath tub.

I walked passed the bathroom to go into their room to check on Bubba. When I glanced into the bathroom, my eyes gaze upon my daughter in a squatting position peeing in the bathtub! Really?!? Am I hallucinating?

I asked why she was peeing in the bathtub. She replied, "Because I had to go potty."
"Where do you put pee-pee?"
"In the potty mom." With a smirk on her face. It took all I had not to laugh.

Seriously, why would my DAUGHTER think it okay to pee in the bathtub? I half way expect my son to do that someday but not my daughter.

"Train up a child in the way he should go, And even when he is old he will not depart from it."

Proverbs 22:6 (American Standard Version)

Now You Can Feel The Love...

2009-07-18T21:41:00.003-07:00

Despite the look on NyCee's face, she liked having her little brother lay on her lap while watching Blue's Clues this afternoon.

Can you feel the love?

2009-07-14T20:37:00.000-07:00

Tadbit Toasty

2009-07-12T14:25:00.002-07:00

113 degrees + a girdle = UNCOMFORTABLE AND SWEATY.

HA! Too Much Information I know. But this weekend has been the hottest part of the year so far. That's great considering it's the middle of July. The temps were supposed to reach 116 but leveled off at 113. Praise God for the 3 degree differential.

Psalm 150 (American Standard Version)

1 Praise ye Jehovah. Praise God in his sanctuary: Praise him in the firmament of his power.
2 Praise him for his mighty acts: Praise him according to his excellent greatness.

3 Praise him with trumpet sound: Praise him with psaltery and harp.

4 Praise him with timbrel and dance: Praise him with stringed instruments and pipe.

5 Praise him with loud cymbals: Praise him with high sounding cymbals.

6 Let everything that hath breath praise Jehovah. Praise ye Jehovah.

Official Acceptance

2009-07-10T10:56:00.002-07:00

I received my email acceptance from Argosy University for the Doctor of Education - Organizational Leadership program.

Dear Dayna,
Congratulations! On behalf of the faculty and administration of Argosy University Online Programs, it is my pleasure to inform you that you have been accepted into the Organizational Leadership - EDD, program at Argosy University Online Programs. Please consider this your official notification of acceptance, contingent upon your completion of any outstanding requirements.

I am very excited. Not too long ago, completing a Bachelor Degree program seemed impossible. Now, I am on path to complete a doctoral program. Just proves what Jesus said is true:

“If you can believe, ALL things are possible to him who believes.”
Mark 9:23 (NKJV)

This is What I Do Not Understand

2009-07-08T10:04:00.005-07:00

He climbs up onto the chair with the sole purpose of...

falling off.

Really?!? I don't understand boys

That Didn't Take Long...

2009-07-07T18:23:00.005-07:00

1. Drop toy on the other side of the chairs.

2. Look for an opening and proceed through it.

3. Wiggle through opening.

4. Walk up to mommy and smile as if to say"And you thought that would stop me. Really mother?"

4th of July Weekend

2009-07-06T14:14:00.005-07:00

We had a quiet weekend. We enjoyed fireworks at church with friends. I joked with one of my mentors whom I have named, "Pastor Nana." It was nearly 110 degrees with humidity on Saturday and I proclaimed "I am not going to hell. It is hot." Pastor Nana laughed and replied, "I know that's right." By the time the fireworks show began, it cooled off enough where it was comfortable outside.

NyCee and Tyler sat quietly on my lap and watched the show.

Dinner Time Stare Down

2009-07-02T23:28:00.004-07:00

This toddler stage is very interesting with children. When transitioning from baby food to table food, one day a child will eat and the next day not. Well, maybe that's just my son. One day he eats his mashed potatoes and green beans. Another day, not so much.

When he doesn't like something, he picks it up and tosses it over the side of the high chair. That is unacceptable on so many levels. So Tyler and I have come to an understanding: 1. Mommy ALWAYS wins. 2. If he doesn't like something, he puts it in my hand.

Now, getting him to get all the food in his mouth instead of his hair or wherever else he feels the need to put it, is our next project.

A Star is Born

2009-06-28T08:09:00.001-07:00

The recital went very well. NyCee did a great job! She smiled while dancing and sang really loud. Quite the proud mother I am.

Of course there was that screaming incident in the van on the way to pick up Bubba involving a cricket on her dress. But while at the theater she was great!

Day Before The Recital

2009-06-26T20:10:00.006-07:00

NyCee had rehersal for her dance recital tomorrow. She looked so adorable in her costume.

When I got ready to take her picture, she immediately got into different dance poses.

Of course, there had to be a picture of NyCee and her BFF Olivia.

The girls' presentation is titled, "A Present for Mommy." She looked so adorable on stage dancing. Of course, I almost cried.

The picture on stage is not really visible. (I forgot the camera at home after reminding myself 7,409 times to put the camera in my purse last night.) NyCee has her arms spread and is standing to the left of the girl in the black tee shirt.

Night Time Talk

2009-06-25T22:55:00.002-07:00

"Mommy" calls my sleepy-eyed little girl and I hear the shuffle of her feet towards me.

"Yes, punkin cake."

"I sweating" she exclaims as I notice beads of sweat on her nose. "May you turn on that please?" She points to the a/c unit on the wall.

"Yes, dear."

"Thank you mommy."

And she returned to bed and to a sound sleep. (The a/c is on but the temp needed to be adjusted to cool off the apartment a little more.)

Time Together

2009-06-23T12:17:00.007-07:00

Initially, I requested a few days off of work to travel back east to spend time with my dad for Father's Day. It was going to be a surprise as I had been working with my sister Tarisa to pull it off. Well, I wasn't able to go to Michigan but I decided to still take the days to spend with the kids.

Usually, it's rush to pick them up, rush to get them home, rush to eat dinner, rush to read a bedtime story, and rush them to bed so that I can rush to cook dinner, wash a load of clothes, etc.

We just took it easy over the past few days. Yesterday morning, we visited one of the parks by our apartment. I took these pictures just to give a different view of the Phoenix area. Most people think its just cactus and red rock. But there are beautifully landscaped areas and man made lake beds.

This is Freestone Park. I generally take the kids there to let them run around and burn off some energy. After the park, my intent was to take them to the Children's Museum. That didn't happen as mommy grew lazy after lunch and nap time. Instead, I watched several hours of America's Next Top Model Obsessed. (I generally do not watch television and yesterday I probably watched enough for a month.)

Today we went to the zoo. The kids loved the zoo. NyCee has been so much with Lorie and her kids that she started telling me where the animals were located. Before we left, we stopped at the splash play area.

Bubba was soaked as he constantly walked through the sprinklers. He had so much fun.

Of course, I was hoping they would have stayed awake until we made it home....

but that didn't happen.

Continue to Pray

2009-06-22T08:16:00.002-07:00

Please continue to pray for my cousin Cari's full healing. When you pray, speak the word of God. Below are a few scriptures you can refer to:

Exodus 15:26b
Exodus 23:25
Psalm 103: 2-3
Psalm 107: 20
Isaiah 53:5
1 Peter 2:24

Also, please pray not only for our nation but all nations of the world. We are in a time when God's intervention is needed to ensure our protection and safety. Scripture references:
Proverbs 21:1
Psalm 33:12
1 Timothy 2: 1-7

Father's Day

2009-06-21T11:31:00.005-07:00

Last night at church, we were blessed with by the music of Bob Carlisle who sung his famous song, "Butterfly Kisses". The song was released in 1997 and until last night the words never really had an impact on me. There was not a dry eye in the place.

Last night brought me face to face with the consequence of my choices and how those consequences extend far beyond just me. Because I chose to move head of God, I married quickly, later divorced, and am now raising two children alone. But the consequence is because my children may never have the opportunity to know what it's like to have a father in the home who loves them. A man who is a true worshipper of God and loves God with his entire being. A man who would take my daughter to a father daughter dance. A man who will teach my son how to mow the lawn or play baseball. Consequences extend so far beyond just ourselves.

I am committed to never dwell in the land of regret as it applies to marrying Lewis. That union of nearly five (5) years brought forth NyCee and Tyler. They are on this earth because they each have a destiny and a purpose from God. I am honored that God gave me the privilege of being their mom. Today, NyCee said, "Mom, I am glad your my mom. I love you." I nearly broke into tears.

Many people sent me text messages which read, "Happy Father's Day because you do it all for your kids." While I know that should be a compliment, my heart truly aches for my children. I now understand why women stay in loveless marriages and jump into new relationships. It's hard being the sole care giver, financial supporter, nurturer, disciplinarian, etc. But it's even harder because I will not jump into another relationship for the sake of having someone in my bed. That's just stupid.

Any man who does not love God with his entire being and has fruit of that lifestyle, has no place in my world. Time out for compromise. God so loved the world that He gave His Son. Jesus so love that He laid down His life. Those are the two standards that any man who dare approach me must meet. He must be willing to lay down his own dreams and desires for the sake of the family. If I learned nothing else during my marriage, selfishness has no place (on the part of either party) in the relationship.

I salute every strong man, regardless of race, creed or color, who does whatever it takes to support his family and children. I salute every father who tirelessly speaks words of affirmation into the life of his wife and children. I salute every man who actively practices the words of the Apostle Paul:

"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her..."
Ephesians 5:25

Love is not love until it is put into operation - it's an action. Jesus showed us His love by giving up His life that we may live. Men, show your wives you love them. Dads, show your children you love them. Love should not be a secret. Jesus was hung openly on a cross for all humanity to witness.

Ghetto Rigged

2009-06-20T10:02:00.005-07:00

Before my son gained his upward mobility skills (walking), I kept saying I needed to get a gate for the kitchen area. He likes to play in the cabinets. Although, I have stopped him from doing that, he often times walks in there while I am cooking. Today, he almost touched the oven door to brace himself but started whinning because he felt the heat.

So I had to come up with a creative way to keep him out of the kitchen. When you have to pinch every penny, the creative juices start flowing. Isn't there a saying, "Necessity is the mother of invention?"

Tyler grew a little frustrated when he couldn't move the chairs out of his way.

NyCee then came and asked, "Mom, whatcha doing? I can't get pass." I explained to her the purpose of the chairs. She then sat on the legs of the chair to prevent Bubba from coming into the kitchen. As you can see, he didn't take to kindly to her sitting in his way. He grabbed her shirt to try and pull her out of the way.

All that rough-housing must have tired out both of them.

Psalm 23 (Contemporary English Version)

(A psalm by David.)
The Good Shepherd
1You, LORD, are my shepherd.
I will never be in need.

2You let me rest in fields

of green grass.

You lead me to streams

of peaceful water,

3and you refresh my life.

You are true to your name,

and you lead me

along the right paths.

4I may walk through valleys

as dark as death,

but I won't be afraid.

You are with me,

and your shepherd's rod makes me feel safe.

5You treat me to a feast,

while my enemies watch.

You honor me as your guest,

and you fill my cup

until it overflows.

6Your kindness and love

will always be with me

each day of my life,

and I will live forever

in your house, LORD.

Evening Stroll

2009-06-19T20:31:00.002-07:00

Psalm 37:19 (New Living Translation)

"They will not be disgraced in hard times; even in famine they will have more than enough."

The kids and I went for a walk this evening. The temperature was about 86 degrees with a light warm breeze. We walked to the Blockbuster to rent a video for movie night.

Lately, I have grown fond of watching the sky. I believe it to be one of God's most beautiful masterpieces. Have you ever stopped to really look at the sky? It is a grand phenomenon that is ever changing. It reminds me of my life. Two years ago, my world crashed down around me. I didn't know which way was up. But the most valuable thing that I have learned is to praise God in all situations and ask Him to show me the purpose of the situation.

Although things are much better for me than they were last year this time, there are times when it is challenging. Often times, I do not have enough money to make it between pay checks - yet, God always provides. There are times when I do not know how a need will be met - God ensures there is no lack in my house.

I have learned not to spend frivolously. I have learned to tell my money where to go rather than asking "where did it go?" I have learned to get back to basics. And I believe that to be a very positive thing. I do not have any credit cards. I have to rely solely on God. In that, I have learned to be thankful for everything. Being thankful for everything helps me not to complain about anything. I have also learned that someone is worse off than me. So I have learned the importance of giving because I am more blessed than I think I am.

Tonight, I was able to rent a movie because of a gift card I received. NyCee wanted to watch Madagascar - it was only 99 cents to rent. The gift card was valued at $5 so I rented two movies tonight and we can watch another one tomorrow evening. It's a simple thing but I am grateful for the simple things.

I know that tomorrow will better than today and this situation is temporary. Just the like ever changing sky, my circumstances are ever changing for the better. Remember the words of David:

Psalm 103 (New Living Translation)

A psalm of David.
1 Let all that I am praise the Lord;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
2 Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things he does for me.
3 He forgives all my sins
and heals all my diseases.
4 He redeems me from death
and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
5 He fills my life with good things.
My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!
6 The Lord gives righteousness
and justice to all who are treated unfairly.

7 He revealed his character to Moses
and his deeds to the people of Israel.
8 The Lord is compassionate and merciful,
slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
9 He will not constantly accuse us,
nor remain angry forever.
10 He does not punish us for all our sins;
he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve.
11 For his unfailing love toward those who fear him
is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.
12 He has removed our sins as far from us
as the east is from the west.
13 The Lord is like a father to his children,
tender and compassionate to those who fear him.
14 For he knows how weak we are;
he remembers we are only dust.
15 Our days on earth are like grass;
like wildflowers, we bloom and die.
16 The wind blows, and we are gone—
as though we had never been here.
17 But the love of the Lord remains forever
with those who fear him.
His salvation extends to the children’s children
18 of those who are faithful to his covenant,
of those who obey his commandments!

19 The Lord has made the heavens his throne;
from there he rules over everything.

20 Praise the Lord, you angels,
you mighty ones who carry out his plans,
listening for each of his commands.
21 Yes, praise the Lord, you armies of angels
who serve him and do his will!
22 Praise the Lord, everything he has created,
everything in all his kingdom.

Let all that I am praise the Lord.

Strut He Does

2009-06-16T20:47:00.005-07:00

Tyler has decided to join the land of the walking toddlers. I figured he would because he was kicked out of the infant room. Now, he is busier than ever. But he has learned to play by himself. I caught him doing a slam dunk with his basketball set. That's pretty cool.

Then later, I went into their room and found him throwing all the books onto the floor.

He did attempt to clean them up. Well, he started throwing the books into the toy box. At least he didn't knock all the books off the shelf and then walk/crawl away.

Dresses on Parade

2009-06-14T16:02:00.006-07:00

NyCee has received very cute dresses from her Nana Ida. Whenever a dress arrives in the mail, she opens the package and exclaims, "I'm going to be a princess." She loves wearing the dresses. She twirls and and turns saying, "Looking Mom. I'm pretty."

Catching Up

2009-06-13T21:50:00.003-07:00

Last week, my Internet service was inoperable. It was just restored this morning. This post is to catch everyone up on our lives out here in the Valley of the Sun.

The weather as been really beautiful. Nice cool mornings and evening. The temps have been in the low 90s. For this time of year in AZ, that is great weather.

Tyler has started taking a few more steps. He walked from the kitchen to the dining room table the other day. He walks when the mood hits. Also, he is on table food now. This age is so hard because one day he eats table food the next he doesn't. I decided I have had enough spending $30 on baby food that he only eats half the time. So, I cut up his dinner in little bite sized pieces, put it on the table and walked away. Viola! He ate all the food - along with his foot.

NyCee takes dance class once a week. Last week, she won the blue ribbon for knowing all the dance steps to the routine for the upcoming recital in two weeks. (Her face is painted because Cinderella was at the dance studio that day to celebrate Olivia's birthday.)NyCee really enjoys dance class and has become quite the little twinkle toes.

As for me, I am working and praying daily to maintain my sanity. I stopped the program for the second Master degree. The school work was not the problem. I did not like the structure of facilitation at the university. Therefore, I am working on a few projects before I start school in September.

Already this morning....

2009-06-06T10:03:00.002-07:00

Generally, on Friday nights I comb NyCee's hair for the week. That didn't happen yesterday as I was exhausted. Bright and early this morning, NyCee walked into my room exclaiming, "Mommy, I'm hungry." Bright and early in Arizona is approximately 530a. I sent her back to bed.

Then around 600a when it was really bright outside, she called my name saying, "Mommy, the sun is out." So I pulled myself out of the bed and the day began. Breakfast for NyCee, a kitchen to clean, clothes to wash, floors to vacuum, bathrooms to clean, etc, etc, etc. It is 1000a and I am exhausted.

I still have clothes to iron for the week, dinner to cook for Sunday, in theory, NyCee's hair needs to be combed but that won't happen today, and I have to work in the nursery tonight at church. Not to mention, I have not been grocery shopping yet.

Now imagine, this is a Saturday day morning. Monday - Friday starts for me around 445a or 500a. Kids to dress, off to the sitter, drive to work. Work for 9 hours, pick up the kids, get home to give them dinner, baths and bedtime stories. Then I have approximately two (2) hours to cook dinner for the following evening and work on any personal projects.

Some days I just want to curl up and cry I am so exhausted. And some days I do cry. But I cry out to God in faith knowing He carries me through every situation.

"Christ gives me the strength to face anything."
Philippians 4:13 (Contemporary English Version)

He got the boot!

2009-05-31T13:28:00.002-07:00

Normally, when children have their 1st birthdays but are not yet walking, they remain in the infant room. Well, not my son. Last night, I left them at church for a couple of hours to run a few errands. When I went to the room to pick up Tyler, I was advised that he was moved to the one (1) year old class.

Not that I care. But the reason he was moved was because he threw goldfish and Nana Paula and then clunked a baby on her head. Really Bubba? Did it have to be my son that threw goldfish? I can already see I have a lot of work to do with this one.

But all the workers told me that he did great holding his own in that classroom. Perhaps being in the one (1) year old class with all the walkers will give him the initiative to start walking. I have figured out the only reason he doesn't walk is because he gets to his destination faster by crawling.

BFFs

2009-05-30T10:17:00.002-07:00

Yesterday was Olivia's birthday. She turned 4 years old. I was at work but they enjoyed the day with pizza and games at Chuck 'e' cheese.

On Thursday evening, I picked up the kids and Olivia was out enjoying a day with her grandparents. Lorie, Olivia's mother, sent a text message saying Olivia missed Taylor and wanted me to bring her over so they could play. This was at 8 or 9 at night. Imagine that when they are together for at least 10 hours a day 5 days a week!

They are really cute. I am looking for to them growing up together. They will be attending pre-school together in the fall. They are no longer in the same class at church because the 3 and 4 years olds are in separate classrooms.