I find myself in a curious position, loving the Hate Monger. I love him because he is my flesh and blood. I love him because he is an individual. I love him because my Bible commands me to. The things that come out of his mouth, are his truth, his opinion and his right. While I may not agree with his words, views or choice of forum, I will defend his right to do so. I can choose to agree, disagree, disregard, walk away. . . I’m free to do so. I’ve personally never had the confidence , or perhaps ego, to believe that my view is the only/correct view. I must admit though, that I sometimes I feel superior to folks that are constantly spouting doomsday, and narrow-minded, unyielding opinion. Perhaps superior isn’t the correct word, but pity isn’t it either. I think their reactions come from fear. Fear is a powerful motivator. My precious mother taught me (and she got her lessons straight from God/Bible) God is not the author of chaos. It is very very hard to make the choice to operate from a place of hope. Fear is constantly trying to steal, undermine, question... I personally have to make the choice daily.. sometimes 14x a day. My politics do not define me. Do judge me by my political views and I won’t judge you by yours. My concern is, and yes this is coming from ME, and all of you know ME .... that we are not placing our Father first. We have a tendency to condemn, stomp and shout. When we should be falling on our knees. Praying for the change. If we believe God can move mountains... well, perhaps his glory will be amplified by a bigger mountain. David Hopkins perhaps said it best.... “...We must take joy in the mystery of God’s nature. Isaiah 55:8 should comfort us when God says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways." Stand in awe of your encounter with God. Though these experiences defy empirical observation and blow our reasoning out of the water, stand in awe of the mystery of God. This mystery is Christ who contains the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Colossians 2:2-4, my favorite verse!) Only Christ contains these treasures. Do not put your faith in order or in chaos, but in the God who is Lord over both.”

Well, I sure have enjoyed my new flowerbeds. This summer wasn't as brutal as last. I managed to keep everything watered and it is looking good. Ofcourse the days are getting shorter, and cooler, and I'm in a panic. What am I gonna do when all the green and flowers freeze. I better get online and figure out what a winter garden in this part of the world has in it. I know pansies will work.. but they sure aren't big and showy like my sweet potato vines and esparanzas.

My cool mom

I love this photo of my mom. I had some fun adding color to it.

Daxton is coming

I have spent hours online looking for crib bedding for Daxton, that has sock monkeys on it. There are a few... but I refuse to pay $300 for a crib sheet and bumper pad. The less expensive ones just are cute. So.. .I guess if Lacey's mind is made up, we will have to make our own. I have started making wall art. I'm thinking I may have to enlarge a monkey at work and have him printed out on the material they use to wrap cars. I can apply it to the nursery wall...and then they can just pull it down when they move.

7th Annual Father Daughter Weekend.

So... the answer is no. You don't know anyone in this photo. This wild bunch was staying in the Beach House next to the Weatherford bunch. It was the seventh time this group of fathers and daughters had spent a weekend at the Beach. They asked us to judge the annual sand castle contest.
Now as a mom, I'm not sure I would have approved of everything...but Kudos for these moms for allowing them to continue the tradition.

Family Traits

I don't know if I have ever been anywhere, that I didn't pick up a rock or shell to bring home with me. I come by that honestly. The rocks in this fireplace on Happy's house were gathered in the same manor. My husband and I still do this today. The lawmen don't really like it, but sneaking just makes it more fun.

Verna Leigh

I don't know that I have ever heard anyone say that name out loud. She has been my Aunt Happy, my entire life. I didn't get much time with her this trip, but she is HOME. When I'm with her, I'm HOME. For those that are out of the loop... She's my daddy's sister. She was married to my mom's brother.