Snips, Snails & Puppy Dog Tales

A long, long, long vacation

2009-07-08T09:47:00.005-05:00

No, we haven't been at the beach for 5 months...just for the week, last week. Will try to do better about posting, promise.

Sky Angel Cowboy

2009-01-22T20:58:00.004-06:00

My friend Megan had this on her wonderful blog and I have watched it over and over. I can only hope and pray that I raise my boys to have this much insight into our Father's love for us.

Humbled.

2009-01-17T21:03:00.004-06:00

I have been humbled, to my knees, by a few fellow bloggers today.

A mother who only held her precious baby girl for a few hours before she "danced" in Heaven.
http://audreycaroline.blogspot.com/2009/01/mourning-and-dancing.html

A young wife and mother who lost her husband in a tragic car accident just a week ago...she is pregnant with their second baby, but had not told anyone, yet.
http://sweetcarolinebaby.blogspot.com

And finally, a blog I have followed for a long time, through her whole pregnancy- many of you have seen it linked on my blog. Kelly had her baby yesterday, but baby Harper had extreme pneumonia and many complications. She was air lifted to Oklahoma (Kelly is in Arkansas). Her husband and his parents went to be with the baby and Kelly was left, without her baby and her husband in despair but lifting God up and giving him glory for His plan.
http://www.kellyskornerblog.com

Read over these fellow bloggers. Pray over them and their families, as I have.

I have also seen God's hand in the life of Luke...the nephew of a best friend I told you about in one of my first entries.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lukecharton

I find myself, today, doing something I should do daily, hourly...constantly. But sometimes, in between the errands, and school, and tasks and exhaustion...I forget. And then I have a day like today and I am humbled. I thank you God for my wonderful husband and every single day I have with him. I fell in love with him as a friend, but I fall in love with him all over when I see him as a father and as my husband, he is still my best friend. I thank you for my two healthy children...oh, God- thank you for my babies...thank you for allowing me to be their "mommy".

Missing: 2 elves

2008-12-23T17:16:00.002-06:00

So, what happens when your elves are missing? I was looking all over the house for them to help them return to the North Pole tomorrow and we can't find them...anywhere. I told Hill that maybe "Huxley and Bailey returned a day early to the North Pole." hmmmmmmm...WHERE are those elves??(I really hope they didn't decide to hide in one of our trash boxes??!!?!?)

Happy Birthday Jesus!!

2008-12-23T14:03:00.003-06:00

We had a birthday party for Jesus today at one of my friend's (and neighbor's) beautiful home. Lauren P. was so sweet to host all of us and the kiddos. We had cupcakes, sang "Happy Birthday to Jesus", and released balloons to Heaven for him. Enjoy the pictures!

O'Christmas Tree

2008-12-22T19:22:00.006-06:00

I have been playing with my camera...a lot(Scott said I looked like a Japanese tourist around the house). So, I used Rett's FAVORITE time of the day as a great opportunity to snap away.

I couldn't believe it when I came in the room and Hill was helping Scott decorate the tree. WHEN did he get big enough to do that!?!? When I looked back at pictures, it was amazing to see how fast and how much he's grown in just 4 Christmas'.

All Aboard...

2008-12-22T18:59:00.004-06:00

Okay, I know I totally skipped over our Disney trip...that may be attributed to the fact that half of our pictures were totally out of focus. My poor, sweet husband had to listen to me complain about each and every one of them. So, the sweet, sweet thing that he is surprised me with a new camera for Christmas. THANK goodness he gave it to me before our fun filled week so that he wouldn't have to hear me complain about all of those pictures.

I got the new Nikon D90, so if anybody has any tips or recommended manuals, PLEASE let me know. Now, if I have blurry pictures it is totally user error.

With that said, I will get back to Disney after Christmas photos-but, in the meantime, TIS THE SEASON! We had the most fun last night on The Polar Express. Granny, Lori, Dane, James, Will and The Bennett family were all on the same train car with us which made it SO much fun.

Have a little faith in...Him

2008-11-24T13:58:00.006-06:00

I love this song. It was the first dance of a best friend, Carrie, at her wedding. I used it on a video for my "little sister", Cindy's, wedding video. I love it...I never get tired of hearing it and I've heard it a lot because I have it downloaded on my car's hard drive.
A couple of weeks ago, on the forever long drive up the parkway to my house- I was having one of many daily conversations with God...just handing some things over to Him that were weighing on my heart and mind. Then, this song came on. And as many times as I've heard it in the past, it was the first time that I heard God speaking to me through it.
I heard it as if He was reminding me to have faith that He will handle all things that I give Him. When I played it for Scott and told him to view it in the same way, he was acutally impressed (he NEVER listens to lyrics) and said, "are you sure John Hiatt didn't mean for it to be written to sound like it is God speaking to us?" I don't think so, but you never know.
I especially love the last verse:
Well, Ive been loving you for such a long time girl
Expecting nothing in return
Just for you to have a little faith in me
You see time, time is our friend
cause for us there is no end
And all you gotta do is have a little faith in me
I said I will hold you up, I will hold you up
Your love gives me strength enough
So have a little faith in me

Tag, You're It!!

2008-11-09T13:36:00.005-06:00

My friend Megan (who I have known FOREVER from Gadsden- her whole sweet family) tagged me in her blog, so I'm actually going on with the game...

Pick the 4th picture folder on your computer

Pick the 4th picture in that folder

Explain what the picture is about

Tag 4 blogging friends to do the same

This picture is of Hill with, as he calls her, "Rina"...Karina...my awesome little cousin. Her parents, along with our entire family and their friends, prayed for Karina way before we ever met her or knew her. Her Mom and Dad went to the Ukraine to follow God's plan in their hearts for adoption and He led them to this incredible girl. She has now been with our family for about 4 years, but it feels like we have known her a lifetime. She will do amazing things in her life because she knows and loves the Lord with all of her heart...and we love her with all of ours!!

Okay- I now tag Lauren B, Jessica, Amy D., and Corey (this will help you get used to the blogging world Corey)!

Politics...Schmolitics

2008-11-06T10:54:00.005-06:00

My friend Lauren had this video of John Piper on her blog (putting us in our place- to a degree) in reference to the elections and worrying about the outcome. It's just what I needed to hear...thanks Lauren.

On a lighter note...

2008-11-03T13:39:00.004-06:00

WHAT a fun Halloween week we had!!! It totally made up for Rett and I missing it last year. We had a great neighborhood Halloween parade, and an entire week of Fall fun...enjoy the pictures

Where Did the Time Go...

2008-11-03T13:01:00.003-06:00

It seems like daily I have friends and family say to me, "can you believe Rett is one, now??" and I know how they feel, it seems like all of their children are growing up entirely too fast in front of my eyes. But, this last year, the first year of Rett's life was also the hardest year of my life...and therefor, one of the longest.
To some degree it is easy for me to open up about things and for those that know me, I'm pretty much an open book- but my deepest emotions are usually buried deep within and I couldn't dig them out if I tried. I did not tell many people, but I suffered with postpartum depression after Rett was born. I can't even describe the fog that I was living in- but if you have been there, you understand. I remember my sweet little cousin (sister) Cindy telling me a long time ago after seeing Brooke Shields on Oprah, "IF you EVER have postpartum, you TELL me." and I though, if I did I would...but I didn't, until after I was better. You don't want to talk to anybody...you don't want to do anything...you just want to sit, or sleep. The one person that I was able to reach out to, probably more on a personal level than I ever had in my life...was my Dad. He never got "wishy washy" with me (or anybody for that matter) but he knew that postpartum was real and that if I was going to get better, I needed to be on medicine. He reasoned with me. He called me twenty times a day to check on me (which he would not normally do). He helped me out of my fog...we were closer than we had been in a long time through that period.
It was a wake up call when my best friend (she also didn't know about my depression prior- I feel like the Lord knew I needed to hear what she told me) called one day to tell me a tragic story of a precious girl in Birmingham whose husband was a resident at a hospital here...she, too, was suffering with postpartum and had a son almost the same age as Rett. While her husband was at work, she left a note, shot her son and then herself in her back yard. As absolutely horrifying as it was to even hear that story or think about, I know that it was not premeditated- she wanted that baby as much as I wanted Rett...post partum depression is a terrible and REAL illness that makes you do things you could never imagine...I knew that I had to get mine under control.
In the midst of all of this, Rett was in Children's Hospital for a week when he was just a couple of weeks old- I hated leaving Hill for the first time for that long, his world had been turned upside down. Rett had to have a spinal tap and so many procedures done to his little tiny body...I felt like my heart wouldn't make it through all of it. I know that I didn't truly know what a "heartache" felt like until you see your child suffer...it hurts more than any other physical pain ever could.
So, when Rett got better...Dad got worse...he only saw Rett one time in September, about a week after he was born. Right after that Thanksgiving, Dad started his three months in the hospital.
Every time I talk about the last holidays, people catch me and say, "no val, that was the year before last". It so weird, but it's like I almost have amnesia from last year. It breaks my heart that I probably won't remember a lot from my sweet baby boy's first year, that when I think about that year, I think about a lot of "heartache"...but every day that I see his face, and HOW MUCH he looks like my dad, it makes my heart glad. Rett has had more illnesses in his short life than any one year old should have, but I thank God daily for my sweet, healthy, baby boy.

Here are some things about him right now that I love:
- He is a mess, and knows it, he has quickly learned to use his dimples and grin to his advantage.
- He is into everything!! I hate to say that we never used child locks with Hill, we didn't have to- with Rett, I don't think they make enough locks for our house.
- He loves to snuggle and he will lay that little head down on your shoulder and melt anybodies heart.
-He absolutely worships his big brother...Hill makes him laugh like nobody else can.
-He is hysterical- he can make us laugh like nobody else can...I have a feeling he is going to be our family clown.

I know that this last year has made me a better mom, daughter, friend, and wife (I hope). Although it was the hardest year of my life, I do, really believe, in the saying "what doesn't kill you will make you stronger"...and it has. It greatly strengthened my personal relationship with my Father, I prayed harder and longer than I ever had in tears and in joy...in this, I thank Him for loving me, for welcoming my Dad into His heavenly home,and for bringing me out of "the fog".

Our Little Pumpkin-

2008-10-20T16:31:00.005-05:00

The birthday boy is teething terribly, and I can't put him down to type an actual "First Birthday" post- but here are the pictures from the party- we had a wonderful time and loved being able to have so many friends and family there to help us celebrate!

Smokers Anonymous

2008-10-16T10:49:00.007-05:00

I loved this sign outside a cute store in Maine. It made it even better that the cat was right next to it.

Oh, Maine

2008-10-16T10:25:00.007-05:00

See if you can guess what this building is before reading the sign, and then look closely (click to enlarge).

It's The Great Pumpkin....

2008-10-15T18:32:00.001-05:00

Big Boy Haircut and First Steps

2008-09-30T10:50:00.003-05:00

Rett is officially walking!!! This video captured one of his multiple strolls over the weekend- he is quiet proud of himself, as he should be. Someday, I know he will ask, so: "Yes Rett, you did walk before your big brother did"...Rett at 11 months and Hill at 12 months and 1 day.

Hill is also VERY excited about his big boy hair cut- he said it looks like Diego's...yes, kind of. It was pretty sad today that I was more emotional over Hill's haircut (eventhough it was probably his 10th one) than I was Rett's 1st haircut. Hill has NEVER had his hair this short. Scott asked me in his very sweet "husband that has let me dress them and have their hair how I wanted it for three years" way...if I would just cut it short to see how it looks. I have to admit, his pretty blue eyes stand out...but all of that beautiful hair was on the floor.

Stay with the video-there are a couple of walking segments!

This Weeks Injury

2008-09-23T18:54:00.003-05:00

We really can NOT have an uneventful, illness/injury free week. THIS is what happens when you're running bare footed on the road at full speed down a hill.
Good news- teeth are okay!

Other good news, GREAT news-it has been one week at 10:00 tonight that Rett has been symptom free.

Some Things Never Change

2008-09-23T10:45:00.005-05:00

I still remember going to the fair as a child, although Mom says we never went to a "real fair", anything that halfway resembles one is a fair to a kid (EVEN if it was set up in the Gregerson's Parking lot...Sally will remember this!) I remember being so excited for winning like 10 goldfish, and all of the lights, and the "hugeness" of it all.
We braved the Alabama State Fair this weekend, ONLY because it has now moved from the old fairgrounds, thank goodness, to Pelham. The Bennetts met us there, which just added to the humor of it all...Wilson gets on a ride to convince Hill to ride it too, Hill gets on with Wilson, right as ride is set to begin, on cue! Wilson decides he wants off...this happened a couple of times. Can't say I blame Wilson.
We also noticed Scott and Jeremy checking their cash right about the same time wondering if they gave us some, or if they dropped it somewhere...yes, it was dropped- in the fair cash account. It is still very easy to spend a lot of money very quickly...on what!?!? Big smiles and memories that last a lifetime.
Enjoy the pictures-

Argh...Happy Birthday Me Hearty!

2008-09-21T12:19:00.004-05:00

I have been absolutely amazed by the changes that Hill has made in the last 6 months, granted that does not include being potty trained, BUT he has turned from my little toddling buddy into a 100% all-boy kiddo. Scott reminds me hourly how much he is like me, and all I can usually respond with is a grin because I can't muster up an argument...he's right. I suppose being an only child is in a lot of ways like being the first born. Here are some of Hill's strong qualities, some of my friends may notice a pattern in the gene pool:

- He LOVES his "wubbies"! It started with "Raff" (giraffe) and sucking his right thumb, but now he has many multiple blankets and pillows he snuggles with. The child loves his bed and sleep time...he does not want anybody else in the bed with him when he's ready to sleep...including the cats. But, he does have (just a guess) approximately 15-20 stuffed animals in the bed with him.

- He is the most strong willed child- he does NOT give up when he wants something and insists that he does everything himself.

- He never forgets anything, he digs up memories we are shocked he remembers- he will also start looking for "something" (toy, etc)that we haven't seen in months, and months. That's were the OCD kicks in- he has to know where everything is at all times and things can not be out of place.

- He has a wonderful imagination, but sometimes it takes him too far and he is afraid of the funniest things. He is terrified of Japanese restaurants- if we even drive near one he says, "We're not going to see boy with the egg, are we???" (aluding to the show they put on). He was nervous with anticipation one night when Scott told him they were getting pizza delivered- he kept asking "He not come to our house?!?!" So, Scott gave the delivery man a name..."John". When Hill knew he had a name and he was bringing pizza, all was great with the world. He know thinks "John" brings us everything.

- I love that anytime he touches anything he thinks is soft, that thumb goes directly in his mouth and he makes the sweetest pacified sounds.

- He LOVES his little brother...he truly does. He is very protective of him and makes sure that everyone always speaks to, as he refers to him, "my son, Rett Hoowen".

- Our favorite words/phrases that he says- "sure", "that be alright", "perfect", "pippo-thomas" (hippopotums), "banfire" (vanpire), "Chicken Nuts" (chipmunks).

- The child still worships The Wiggles and is still quiet the performer.

- He has a truly, sweet heart and spirit and makes us laugh constantly- he is a true joy in our lives.

Here are some pictures from his Pirate Party at Wald Park. Theme totally chosen by him- he did ask quiet often, "Pirate not come to my party!?!?". We did have the ice cream truck come by which was a big hit!

Father, he is your child

2008-09-18T13:56:00.006-05:00

Rett was baptized last Sunday, September 14. At Briarwood, they have a wonderful tradition that the father bestow a blessing upon the child in front of the congregation. This was Scott's blessing for Rett:

"Everett Scott Hughen, I thank God this morning for you, for His everlasting love, and for all of the wonderful blessings He has bestowed upon our family. You belong to God, and through today's baptism, he places the sign of the new covenenant upon you. I pray first and foremost that you find a personal relationship with the Lord early and that you never remember a time when He is not Lord of your life. I pray that our family will use His word to create a nourishing and spiritual environment where we all can grow in our faith. And Rett, I also pray for God to energize me as spiritual head of our household, to set a Godly example in all that I do, to keep our family praying together, worshiping together, and ministering the word of God. I Peter 3:21 says "Baptism now saves you- not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience- through the Resurrection of Jesus Christ."
Rett, I pray that you will always turn to God in all that you do, that you recognize and repent for your sins and that through your faith and the grace of God, you receive the gift of eternal life for the glory of God."

This was such a special moment for our family, as it was the day we baptized Hill...little did I know, though, how those words spoken by my sweet husband would ring in my ears on Tuesday night as we drove our motionless baby to the hospital.

For those of you that haven't heard, after a long night at Children's Hospital and a LONG two days, Rett was diagnosed with intussusception (when we were driving him to the hospital we called an ambulance to meet us b/c he became almost lifeless). I can distinctly remember having a conversation in my mind with God saying "I know he is yours, we acknowledged that in front of the church, Lord- but PLEASE let us have more time with him." I knew in my heart that he has a Father that loves him more than I do and can do WAY more than I can for him at a moment like that, or any moment in his life. Having said that, I was still scared to death b/c I physically couldn't do anything to help him. That's where I now thank God for my wonderful husband who found the patience and understanding at the moment we were waiting on the ambulance to quote scripture to me about fear...this is his child, too- he also felt helpless and scared...but he was comforting me!?!?

(Rett with Pastor Harry Reeder)

Thank you Lord for time with your child, Rett, for his health, and for my wonderful, Godly husband.

**Hill 3rd Birthday Post coming next- lots of cute pictures of my big boy**

Prayer for the Nation

2008-09-08T18:18:00.005-05:00

Two years ago, this week, for Hill's first birthday- my Dad gave him a Disney Cars TV and something he won't appreciate quiet as much (he LOVES that thing) as that cool TV until he's older.

It is a small book that Dad said he carried with him always when serving in Vietnam and on the ships for months at a time. It's the "Song and Service Book for Ship and Field- Army & Navy". It was published in 1942. My Dad's birthday, of all days, is this Thursday- September 11th (just two days shy of Hill's). His absence will be heavy on my heart, but so will the tragedy of what happened on that day just a few years ago.

Last night, I picked up that Song & Service book reading some of the scriptures imagining my Dad thumbing through it grasping onto words of hope and courage from His saviour during the war and out in the middle of the ocean. This prayer was in the front of the book and I haven't stopped thinking about it since I read it.

It says Written at Newburg, June 8, 1783 by George Washington and was sent to the governors of all of the states.

Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in thy holy protection, that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government, and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for the fellow citizens of the United States at large.
And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can NEVER HOPE TO BE A HAPPY NATION.
Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, throu Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Sadly, this prayer reminded me of how drastically our country's values have changed since 1783. I pray that God lay his hand on the forth coming elections and that we keep our focus on the "Divine Author" that had his hand on our country, our world, from day one.

Thank you Dad for serving our country- I will always be so proud of you.

No cats were harmed in this expirment...

2008-08-29T15:42:00.003-05:00

When they say "Dry Clean Only", especially when it is concerning a down pillow insert...I NOW know, they mean it.

My Babies...

2008-08-19T22:10:00.004-05:00

With two big birthay's on the horizon, I'm grasping onto my "babies"...these are my favorite pictures this month. We would love any thoughts or shot in the dark guesses on who Rett looks like!?!?

Charlie Bit Me!

2008-08-12T20:27:00.003-05:00

Scott and I rarely look at Youtube, so I love when people screen out the best videos and put them on their blogs. The other night, we did find ourselves digging through all of the random funny kids and cat videos out there (that is, of course, after we strolled Jack) and these were the two that made us laugh hysterically.

This one, I love for obvious reasons. I see my two boys personalities mirrored almost exactly in these two and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE their accents. I try to get Hill to watch "Charlie and Lola" on Disney, just hoping he would pick up on it...hasn't worked. If you are a fan of youtube, you've probably seen this, if not- enjoy!

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And this video...well, just watch - but the man's son (the man in the middle) put this on youtube and said this is how he really laughs...all of the time (and, wouldn't you know, there is a man from Alabama on there...of course):

The Cat Days of Summer...

2008-08-06T21:28:00.003-05:00

This is the stroller that Boody got for Hill's new Build a Bear Turtle, Freddy...BUT, Jack loves it. He climbs into it by himself and wants to be pushed around the house. I knew that La and Lauren N. would greatly appreciate this video- this is what Scott and I do after the boys go to bed.

Once Upon a Time...

2008-08-04T18:47:00.005-05:00

If you haven't had the pleasure of a recent conversation with my sweet boy, you haven't experienced his true gift of talking....and talking...and talking. Today, I finally found an outlet for him to get some of this chatter out of his system...storeytelling...of course! I took this video (without him knowing, he already tries to act cool with the camera on, go figure) of him telling Scott and me a story at dinner with his Sesame Street felt board.

A couple of translations:
Tellie's Pogo Stick = "Kangaroo"
Our cat Fur walks by = Hill throws "Fur" into the mix of Sesame characters
Kermit the Frog somehow entered his mind in the mix of Sesame friends, as well
Prarie Dawn= "Cherry Dawn"

And then I TOTALLY ruined the ending by trying to change the scenery...sorry, I know you were all biting your nails in suspense. To be continued!

Luke's Website

2008-08-04T18:25:00.002-05:00

Thank ya'll so much for keeping my friend's nephew, Luke, in your prayers. I talked to her a couple of days ago and she was on her way to spend about 10 days with him. In a weeks time (remember, he was swimming about 10 days ago when his Dad first noticed the slight problem)- he is now on a walker and almost in a wheelchair full time. Katie said the left side of his body is beginning to droop which is making it hard for him to talk. He is going to begin an experimental treatment next week at Johns Hopkins using arsenic, of all things. This has been used to treat leukemia, but is in the VERY early stages of trial in treating this kind of brain tumor. Katie said, if anything, it gives her family some sort of hope to hold on to and that is a Godsend! If it can't totally eradicate the tumor, it will hopefully prolong his life- I had no idea when I first posted about Luke, but Katie said without this potential treatment, with the tumor moving this fast, they only expected him to live a couple more months.

She set up a Caringbridge site for updates:
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lukecharton

I've asked her to find out if there is something he may like getting in the mail (she had mentioned he liked Pokemon cards)- she is going to find out this week and I hope to start sending him some mail because what kid doesn't like getting fun stuff in the mailbox! If anybody wants to send him a silly card, or Pokemon cards, or whatever- let me know and I will get his address to you!

Good Job Jesus!

2008-07-29T18:43:00.003-05:00

In trying to curve Hill's fear of storms (NOT that he would get that from me), I explained to him one time that the thunder was Jesus having a bowling game and when there is lightning, he gets a strike!! Along came a storm tonight, and while eating dinner he said (while holding his finger in the air thinking VERY hard):

"Now Mommy, is it Jesus or Santa Claus that is bowling??"

Right about that time, before I could answer, it thundered and he said:

"Good job Jesus...he's winning!!"

Luke Update

2008-07-28T14:28:00.002-05:00

Luke with Aunt Katie and his 4 year old twin sisters, Natalie and Sydney

This is from Katie:

"It is with deepest sorrow that I share with you this update on Luke. Dr. Carson evaluated Luke today. Luke has a very aggressive tumor that is inoperable. With chemo and radiation, he might live for another two years. That is the longest recorded time that anyone with this type of tumor has survived. Ross and Lisa are taking him home tomorrow for a few days, and then will take him somewhere closer to home to begin 5 weeks of radiation, then chemo. This will shrink the tumor, but according to Dr. Carson it will come back. Because the tumor is on the brain stem and controls an individual's motor control, Luke will eventually lose his. Obviously, we are beyond devasted and left asking more questions than God is providing answers for now. I don't know how you tell an active 7 year old boy that soon you will be sick from "medicine", you can't play sports anymore because you will lose your ability to walk, or that you won't survive to graduate elementary school. Please, please pray that Ross, Lisa, Luke, Sydney and Natalie can face this with courage and hope, and not fear and anger. Pray that mom, dad, Kristi, myself, and all of their friends can rally around them to give them the support, encouragement, and mental relief that they need. And pray that God will give peace to Luke and the family, and not long-term suffering before God carries Luke to heaven. Thank you for your love and kind words during this time. Katie"

Pray for Luke

2008-07-27T21:09:00.006-05:00

I have an immediate prayer request for anyone that may come upon this post for one of my best friends (a sorority sister), Katie's nephew, Luke (age 7). He was transported to Johns Hopkins yesterday after his dad was insightful enough to notice some changes in his movements and they discovered he had a brain tumor at a local hospital and then sent him to JH. In Katie's words:

"Throughout the course of the day, a team of neurologist ran tests. The prognosis is that Luke's tumor is malignant and inoperable. The best case scenario is that chemo and radiation will get it, but he will most likely never regain full motor function. However, the team of doctors believe that this is unlikely and that he will not survive the tumor. My family is devastated, but we remain hopeful. Dr. Carson was NOT with this team of doctors today. He will evaluate Luke in the morning. God can and has performed miracles through this gifted doctor and we pray that he will find a way to work one on Luke. (We have a family friend whose son had a brain tumor much like Luke's as a child. His prognosis was the same and the family was told there was no hope. Dr. Carson operated, and now he walks, talks, and is married with children.) I don't believe this is false hope or silly to have the faith that God can do the same through him for Luke."

This all makes me so sick to my stomach- of course because I hate to see what this wonderful family is going through, but it seems like I hear about things like this happening daily...and not to strangers but to families I know. This doesn't, by any means, make it more important because I know them- it just makes it all seem way too common and real for me to hear stories about these children being so healthy and fine one day and not the next. We spent an unexpected night in Children's ER on Friday night (with Hill) and he is fine, we have been counting our blessings for that all weekend...but the pain for this family, and all the others going through similar battles is heavy on my heart. I felt that most dreaded fear for just a few hours that something was wrong with Hill, but he is okay. These families fears, unfortunately, were confirmed. I pray for God to give them strength, understanding beyond what they thought they could endure, and to hold these children in the palm of His hand.

I find it really cool that the meaning of Luke is "the beloved physician".
I love you Katie!!
** Just had a thought- if you read this and are praying for sweet Luke (no matter who or where you are), please leave a comment so that Katie can see how many people are lifting him up in the days ahead!!

Time Out for Murray!!

2008-07-27T16:36:00.007-05:00

The event we have been waiting for for about 6 months...The Wiggles was last night! Not sure if Scott or Hill was more excited.

"Diapers...check! Bottles...check! Tickets...check! Juice...check!" Notice what is missing on this list...yesssss, the camera! So, I comforted myself, the failed mother, by saying, "well, I got such really good pictures of all The Wiggles gang last year at the concert, WHO would know the difference if I had pictures of them this time-they all look exactly the same!?!?" WHO would have thought that we were in the perfect seats for each Wiggle to stop right next to Hill...there they were, with little Hill reaching out to touch them and give them a high five...and I...do...not...have...the...camera. If it had only stopped there.

If you listen to The Wiggles, at all, you know the old favorite "Fruit Salad." Well, there they were right next to us in the aisle and they had a big blow up banana they were throwing from one Wiggle to another and to Murray and Captain Feathersword on the floor by us (again, you will know who I'm talking about if you watch them...if you don't watch it, you might as well stop reading, you won't be impressed). Murray preceded to toss it back to the stage via Captain, and WHO does it hit in the head...HILL! They both apologize to him, quickly, but at least they did! And THEN Hill's favorite "star" in the whole world, Captain Feathersword (we have featherswords all over the house because of this man) rubs his head!!!!!!!! In our world this would equal Bono hitting us in the head with his sunglasses and then rubbing our hair...Captain (i.e. The Wiggles) is known around the world, but more importantly, he rocks Hill's world!

So, what does Hill then talk about for the next 30 minutes during the show? "Why did Murray hit me in the head? Is he going to get time out? Him not hit me with that banana again??"

Well, at least Scott and I felt cool.

Happy Birthday Kathryn & Walker

2008-07-14T16:47:00.004-05:00

This post is a couple of weeks late, but for WHATEVER reason, the stomach bug that plagued our house for two weeks has gotten me a little behind...oh ya'll, it was horrible.

My best friend Lauren's (my college "roommate" for those of you that haven't heard me talk about her-which if you know me, I can't imagine you haven't) precious twins, Walker and Kathryn turned two and we went to Memphis to help them celebrate. Scott's mom,
Gin-Gin" was sweet enough to brave the trip with us! Hill thought the party was the best attraction in Memphis with the train ride and all of the farm animals. I, of course, loved seeing Lauren and her family (my second family) and also being there to see the twins bee bop around enjoying their party.

I am counting down the days until they are in Birmingham for a year starting next May.

Enjoy the pictures to the right!

Curious....

2008-06-08T20:40:00.002-05:00

Since I added the map that shows all the different places that people are reading our blog...I'm very curious to know who you are! I am the first to admit I find myself in rare idle time start reading a friends blog and end up reading the blog of their best friend's cousin...it is very intruiging to relate to other people (especially other Moms), I have found.

SO, please let me know who you are in a comment- I may not know you at all...but it would be cool just to know who is keeping up with us!

Finally...May in a Minute

2008-06-08T12:45:00.008-05:00

I can not believe May has already come and gone...

We had tons of fun celebrating a lot of birthdays...

Happy Birthday to you...

Happy Birthday to you....

Happy Birthday dear Monk, Karen, Granny, Wilson, Elizabeth, Louise, Carrie, Stan...and me.

Happy Birthday toooooooo you!

My sweet, sweet husband got big brownie points by not only surprising me the morning of my birthday with beautiful flowers and a gift I've wanted a very long time...he REALLY surprised me that night with a surprise party at our house after a wonderful dinner. I had NO idea...at all. Trust me, if I had known 15 people would be there that night, I may have actually cleaned!! We had a great time and it really meant so much to me.

We also had a blast spending the week in Palm Beach in preperation of Cindy and Jose's wedding...and then, WOW, what a wedding! I was so busy (as Matron of Honor, of course :-), I didn't do a good job, at all, of taking many pictures- but our very talented cousin, Cris Mahy (Grapevine Design Studio) did:

http://gallery.mac.com/grapevinestudio#100135

So, with all of that said, here is a snipit of our May:

A very sleepy family after a night in Palm Beach

Hill's new "favorite, FAVORITE" (as he says) thing to do..this is the stream that runs under Ross Bridge (http://www.rossbridge.com/community.php?rid=14&pid=2) He loves getting in and throwing rocks.

Okay, my friends and family that know me well- should we be worried that Hill may have inherited a little of my OCD tendencies. This is how he lines up "his people" everytime he takes a bath- and it is not fun for him to "knock them down", we've tried that...not a good move.

One of my favorite times of day- morning playtime.

This is what Hill calls the "Hug Bug" and he is the sweetest bug I know!

Hill still loves to swim...LOVES to swim.

Ya'll, this is one of the most fun, and funny, things we've ever done- a drive through safari. It was near West Palm Beach- probably the only time in our lives we will have to wait for a giraffe to cross the road before we do (another truck actually had to come make him move), or that we have herd of zebras racing around our car.

Afternoon at the beach at The Breakers
Rett wasn't too sure about the sprinkler.

Fun in the sun wore him out

My sweet little sister (I do have a dress on, you just can't see it!)
Enjoying a great lunch by the pool at our house for the week.
Rett enjoying his lunch with a view

To "WooWoo and Teti" (Cindy & Jose)

2008-06-05T12:50:00.004-05:00

Thank you for our gifts ALL the way from Hawaii!

Happy Birthday Wilson!!

2008-05-26T19:55:00.005-05:00

We have loved getting to spend the last year with you and watching you grow! You and Hill are quiet a pair and have made our lives MUCH more eventful and always keep us laughing!

We love you Buddy!

I know, I know...

2008-05-22T12:32:00.005-05:00

I'm SO behind...but I have SO much to catch up on "WooWoo's Wedding" pictures, the beach, the whole last month...and a MUCH requested new dancing video by Hill. I'm working on it, BUT in the mean time...

Proof that the gene pool is C-R-A-Z-Y...Scott said one time, that since we have a "his" and "hers", the next one is probably going to look like one of the cats...poor thing!

You are...

2008-04-18T08:12:00.004-05:00

For about a week now, Hill has informed us of the following-
"Dada, you are God...Rett, you are an angel...and Mommy, you are a Redneck."
i mean really.

But our sweet baby boy, Rett, YOU ARE the big 6 months old today!!

You are the most cuddly thing ever.

You love to give big slobbery kisses to everybody that will take them.

You don't quiet have any teeth yet, but are very close.

Everybody says you look JUST like your Dada and they are right!

You have the best laugh that makes us laugh instantly.

You worship your big brother...and he worships you.

You will and want to eat anything in your reach.

You weigh about 18 pounds right now and 26 3/4" tall.

You are definitly attached to your Mommy...and that is absolutely fine with me!

white boy can dance.

2008-04-16T21:47:00.003-05:00

Yes, I am way behind on my blogging. I have many pictures to post and stories (that I've already forgotten) to tell. BUT, don't be too disappointed...this video should make up for it. The apple didn't fall far from the tree...just not my non-rhythmic tree...he and his Dada make a fine duo.

ABC's...and circles...and a yawn

2008-03-23T22:10:00.002-05:00

Easter Firsts

2008-03-23T20:37:00.013-05:00

This was the oldest picture I have of me on Easter- could my dress have been any poofier or my legs any skinnier?? I wish that the latter was still an issue. I have very few memories of childhood Easters. My friends will tell you, when I do have a memory, I can recall every single detail- but childhood memories are sometimes few and far between.

I do remember always having massive Easter egg hunts with family which is a tradition we still carry on. Hill enjoyed a big hunt on Friday at our sweet Aunt Monk's house with all of "his girls" . He then went to the Ross Bridge hunt on Saturday morning which was just as much organized chaotic fun as last year- hence his covered ear stance. He had the most fun riding the train all morning with Wilson.

Easter morning, Scott and Hill went to Tuscaloosa to see Gin-Gin and since Rett got the lovely gift of the flu from big brother, we partied it up in the house all weekend...including today- Easter Day.

That takes me to my day of firsts.

First Easter without my Dad. First Easter at home without extended family.

But also, first Easter with my two sweet babies...in our new house in our wonderful new neighborhood. First time to have Boody here to wake up with us and see what the Easter Bunny left!

As hard as it was to be at home today thinking of Easters passed...it was very humbling to not be caught up in getting ready for Church and lunch and egg hunts...my mind was on the events of that empty tomb. I got a text message from my friend, Jaime, today that said, "He has risen!!" I quickly thought about the women that found the empy tomb and were instructed to go and inform the disciples that "He is not here, but is risen..." (Luke 25:6). The delivery of the message has changed quiet a bit over the years...but the glorious words are still the reason for celebration....no matter where we are or who we are with...or without.

And Jesus Christ our Lord was shown to be the Son of God when God powerfully raised him from the dead by means of the Holy Spirit. Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name. Romans 1:4-5

Dad

2008-03-06T13:15:00.003-06:00

O.H. "Hugh" Campbell

Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Friday at Collier-Butler Chapel for Mr. O.H. "Hugh" Campbell, 66, Gadsden, who died Tuesday, March 4, 2008. The Rev. L. Roy Taylor will officiate with burial at Forrest Cemetery. Collier-Butler Funeral and Cremation Services directing.

Mr. Campbell was a native and lifelong resident of Etowah County. He was a retired captain with the U.S. Navy, a 1959 graduate of Gadsden High School and a graduate of Samford University School of Pharmacy, receiving his doctorate degree. He received his MBA at the University of Alabama and a Master's in Education from Jacksonville State University. He began Officer Candidate School in May of 1964. His first mission was as an engineering officer on a mine sweeping mission off the coast of Charleston, S.C. His last mission was as an engineering officer on a destroyer escort in Vietnam in 1967. He served in the Naval Reserves until 2002 when he retired as a Navy captain. Before his illness, he was an active member of Rainbow Presbyterian Church. He served as a deacon and on the building committee. He worked for several pharmaceutical companies and he established Accucare, one of the first home infusion companies in Etowah County. He enjoyed being a member of the Etowah County Historical Society, traveling the world, was an automobile enthusiast and dedicated Alabama football fan. The joys of his life were his grandsons and his dog, Oscar.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar B. and Radah C. Campbell. He is survived by his wife, Judy K. Campbell; daughter, Valerie Campbell Hughen; son-in-law, Scott Patrick Hughen; grandchildren, Charles "Hill" Hughen and Everett Scott "Rett" Hughen; brothers, Randy (Marty) Campbell and Jimmy Campbell; and many loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great- nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Rainbow Presbyterian Church, 3220 Rainbow Drive, Rainbow City, AL 35906.

Pallbearers will be Scott Hughen, Randy Campbell, Joey Campbell, Dr. Alberto Echeverri, Richard McFarland, Steve Wilcox, Felton Champion and Benny Campbell. Honorary pallbearers will be all personal friends, Advanced Home Care and all health care professionals that provided such excellent care.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 this evening.

Arrangements

2008-03-05T22:09:00.002-06:00

Visitation will be at Collier Butler Funeral Home in Gadsden on:
Thursday 5:00-7:00
The funeral will be on:
Friday at 11:00 am.

Thank you for your prayers everyone. I'm doing okay and can truly feel my Father's arms around me during the time of losing my father on earth. I apologize in advance for, once again, not returning a lot of calls. Right now I'm just trying to be as strong as I can for Mom and the more I talk about it, the more that seems to weaken my emotions. I know all of my wonderful friends will understand that...I will need you all soon. But please know how much just knowing you called, and emailed, and texted mean to me....really.

Thank you again.

Prayers

2008-03-04T21:31:00.002-06:00

For those of you that I haven't been able to call or for those of you that have not heard...my Dad went home last night to be with our Father.

Please keep our family in your prayers...especially Boody.

The List

2008-03-03T10:46:00.007-06:00

A couple of weeks ago Ross Bridge had a big Casino Night at the hotel for the residents. It's the one function that they have just for adults and that was okay with us since Scott and I were long overdo for a date night. Now, all we needed was a babysitter- easy, right? Not so much. With everything going on with Dad, Boody wasn't able to stay...Scott's Mom had out of town guests...Margaret was sick...that left us with actually having to find someone out of the family/friend chain for the first time. When we first moved here, I called Samford to get their "babysitting list". I was on it all four years I was there and Lauren and I constantly had Moms (and an occasional Dad) leaving messages begging us to come sit for their kids. We always found it funny that they would just randomlly call some student on a list to come keep their children- but we never complained and usually always would sit...sometimes regretibly so. Oh, the stories we could tell.

So, I pulled out the list...dialed the number...and the minute the girl said "hello", I all of the sudden had flashbacks and quickly had to remember that I was now the "random Mom" in this situation...WHAT!?!?!?! When did that happen!?!?!!? When did I graduate college...almost TEN years ago...just to become the random Mom calling girls on a list to come babysit my TWO children...I mean, when did that happen!?!?!? I was the uncool Mom barging in on their sorority functions, and dates, and girl nights...and of all weekends, that happened to be Step Sing weekend. After about 20 calls (really) I found the one girl not participating in Step Sing b/c she was a fifth year nursing student. All worked out great.

Now, we need a sitter for this weekend. I wanted someone a little younger that might be around for awhile so that the boys can get to know her and provide some consistancy. Pulled out the list again. This time I called a girl that returned my call last time and sounded so sweet...sophmore interior design major from Florida. She still sounded really sweet and told me that she had a lot more free time since she "just quit cheerleading because of a torn ACL". Great, now I'm thinking that's ALL I need is a cute little college cheerleader to make me feel REALLY outdated and REALLY out of shape.

I keep repeating to myself, "I am a mom...I am a mom." At some point that will sink in...right?

"Dimples" Hughen

His favorite toy, a box.

Cold Days and Thursdays-

2008-02-28T17:59:00.009-06:00

I officially have the worst case of Spring Fever I believe I've ever had in my whole entire life. It was easy to self diagnose myself with symptoms like staying in my pj's all day, reading friend's of friend's of friend's cousin's blogs, playing Jojo takes Diego to Disneyworld for an hour with Hill and his figurines, and putting Hill's new Spring shirt on him JUST to see bright colors.

I called a friend, Carrie (i.e."Lauren's Mommy"), this morning to see if Lauren and Clayton could come play to help entertain poor Hill...he is so bored with me. Appartently I don't play the best role of Diego...maybe it's the accent. Anyway, Lauren and Clayton came over and we all had a great time...we missed Wilson, he normally completes our neighborhood version of The Little Rascals. I think Hill may be Alphalpha.

Here is an old picture of them...with Scott...he fits right in. Rett normally is about the equivalent of Spot...just tags along with Catherine and Reeves, of course.

When Scott got home Hill wanted to immediately show him our ship we built this morning that took us to the jungle. You would all be very impressed with my imagination....I blame it all on the Spring Fever, though. The first thing he pointed out was the, just as he said it, "Pippo Thomas". Scott and I were baffled. Then Scott laughed and said, "oh, Hippo-pa-thomas". Hill is already hooked on his phonics.

Here are a couple of my new favorite pictures-

My sweet baby

My Bigger sweet Baby (sporting his "spring shirt")

all my boys (minus the cats- that would make a great picture, though!)

Happy Birthday Tewt!

2008-02-27T09:50:00.004-06:00

(others may know her as Lauren)

IF I could be with you to celebrate your Birthday...
...we could go to Savannah and stay at the Gastonian and wake up to Gingerbread pancakes and brown sugar bacon. Go all the way to Jekyll Island, just to fall asleep on the carriage ride. Look forward to each and every one of our favorite restaurants. And this time I would go down, in my pj's, at midnight to get you that piece of chocolate cake. (Can you believe that's been 10 years ago!!)
...we could go to New Orleans and get a better room this time and eat chocolate covered oysters!
...we could go to Mobile and pick up your, always unique, cake RIGHT after some biscuits at Dick's!
...we could randomly drive to Anniston to stay at The Victoria and, as a very close second to your Mobile cakes, get a cookie cake at Winn Dixie and party it up with some Dr. Pepper!
...I would fly to see you in DC just to bring you an order of LaPaz chips and salsa...and cheeze dip...still warm and ready to eat as soon as you pick me up!
...or, the best, let's hop on a plane for Maine! We can go on another moose hunt- maybe we could find one that doesn't live in Martha Stewart's yard this time.

Happy Birthday- here's to holding at 29!!
We must ever be friends; and of all who offer you friendship let me be the first, the truest, the nearest and dearest. - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

A weekend in the life of....

2008-02-25T17:39:00.015-06:00

Dada...has gone from playing Pearl Jam to playing The Wiggles, but he has quiet the fanfare around the house.

Hill... showing his fine tuned agility that will benefit him greatly when he starts soccer...right now, though, he's practing in Mommy's shoes. Check out those legs!!

Rett...I have a feeling at the rate he is growing now, the time will come way too quickly, that we will pull out this picture to convince him he once fit under our kitchen counter.

How Old?

2008-02-22T21:54:00.001-06:00

Scott: Hill, how old are you?
Hill: I two Dada
Scott: How old is Brother?
Hill: Two minutes!

Big Excitement-

2008-02-22T07:32:00.009-06:00

Thank all of you for the prayers for my Dad. After three consecutive months in two hospitals (Gadsden and UAB), he finally returned home last night to his pal Oscar....oh, and Boody. He has a long road ahead of recovery and almost learning to walk again, so please continue to lift him up. I will hopefully start to get back to a normal routine...I apologize for many calls that were not returned...needless to say, with a newborn and Dad in the hospital, the last few months have been a little wild.

On a TOTALLY different note, excitement in Hill Land, as he informed me this morning- "Good job Wooson (best buddy Wilson)- go poopoo in the potty"!! He witnessed this a couple of days ago, but apparently it was just on his mind this morning.

Way to go Wilson!!

Potty Training is definitely Headline News in our group of friends. Any suggestions, "how to's", or surefire overnight solutions would be greatly appreciated.

Happy Belated Valentines Day

2008-02-21T13:49:00.014-06:00

This frame was a Christmas gift from Boody that I had been wanting for sometime, it's made by Sugarboo Designs

She let me choose the quote- Scott and I went back and forth on some we really loved, but we finally decided on this one. I love reading it daily and seeing my babies picture in it...and on some really emotional (i.e. "hormonal") days, it is just another reason to cry. Because I know I'm not the only one that can't see, this is what it says:

Remember when you go into the world

to keep your eyes and ears wide open.

And be kind. Love one another.

Take care of each other. Tell the truth.

Always do your best. Listen to the big people

and the little people. Explore new paths and have fun.

Know that you are loved like crazy.

Give thanks for all your blessings.

Above all else, Love and you will do wonderful

things in this world. ~Rebecca Po

She has some other amazing quotes and verses if you ever need any ideas...just have a tissue nearby!

We had a wonderful Valentines Day- it didn't take me long to eat the 8 chocolate covered strawberries my sweet husband got me. Is there anything better!?!? We have gotten a lot of smiles recently hearing Hill talk about his new Valentine, Lauren. Now, for all of you that remember Ella- she was his first love, but Lauren has exceeded it all. I do have to say, he has good taste- she is the cutest and sweetest 4 year old I know in his little world. Now that I have introduced all of you to this situation- I'm sure I will be posting the funny things he says.

The other day he saw a commercial for a princess Barbie or something, and he said the following:

Hill: Wook Varie, it's a princess...Wauren wikes princesses

Varie: Yes, I bet she does

Hill: Wauren is a Princess Mommy. (it interchanges between Varie and Mommy)

Mommy: Maybe we can get Lauren a princess for her birthday

Hill: No, Hill go to Chucka Cheese and win Wauren a princess now.

I thought it was so sweet that in his two year old world, that was how he could go "earn" Lauren something she really wanted. Now, at the rate of his ticket consumption at Chuck E. Cheese and the amount of tickets they charge for something larger than an inch tall...it might take until he's 10, but still very sweet.

Don't Panic!!

2008-02-20T20:13:00.005-06:00

Yes, at first appearance, this does look like a tiny, bloody hand print. That is exactly what I thought it was when I saw it after Hill flew by me running into the bathroom to hurridly wash his hands.

It was a day like today that finally made me sit down and start a blog (yes, all my blogging friends, I too am giving in). I fully admit that I was really intimidated to start one because all my friends seem to be pro-bloggers. They have these beautiful pages with wonderful stories, yummy recipes, spiritual nourishment, and do a really good job of keeping them updated. I feel I have a high standard to live up to - PLEASE expect little and I hope that my posts will at least exceed your expectations.

In my devotional the other night, there was a quote from a Mom in reference to her family that said, "I want them to have the best of me, not what is left of me." Since reading that, I have tried my hardest to give the boys the best of me, not what is left of me after laundry, dishes, cleaning, taking care of Dad, etc. But, it seems as though the harder I try, the more the "best of me" is put to the test (mainly by a very talkative, and sometimes argumentative, two year old who now refers to me as "Varie", not "mommy" OR by my adorable 4 month old that refuses to be put down- who BOTH have an extreme case of Spring fever). I think about a conversation I had with Kathy about being careful to pray for patience, because as soon as you do you are seemingly put into many situations that try your patience level. Yea, no kidding. The above handprint was one of those moments. Thankfully, it wasn't blood...it was ketchup...and after tempting to clean it, it's still there.

Rett's shirt says it all. Does anybody still have that poem that I got in an email sometime last year about not getting upset about "fingerprints on the wall"? It went on to say some day you will look back at them with fondness and remember how little your children were. Hmmmm, if you have it, please resend it to me so it will give me a new outlook on this lovely handprint now decorating our merely 6 month old walls!?!?

Yup, days like today made me realize that there are a lot of moments in my world of living with 7 boys (although 4 are the cats, they are still male and act that way)that my friends would find funny. I know that a lot of times I search for "ketchup handprint on the wall" type stories to make my world feel a little more normal. I have 100% confidence I will make many of you feel a lot better!