Happy Birthday Jesus!

And Merry Christmas to all our friends and family.

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Boy

"I not a baby...I a big boy!". That's what Ryland will tell you!

Ryland turned 3 on Tuesday and it was very emotional for me. I was reminisicing about where I was 3 years ago and the tears began. I can still remember that morning, going in for a scheduled c-section and that night, holding a beautiful baby boy (A RED HEADED BABY) that God blessed me and James with. I remember how exciting it was for all my friends and family to come see Ryland. I remember that I didn't have a clue when it came to nursing and I loved the apple juice there. I remember how excited I was to have breakfast in bed and everyone wait on me. :o) I loved staying at the hospital. I'm sure I'm in the minority on this one!

I remember how proud and protective James was after being a daddy for only hours. And how that was the day that I became a germaphobe. What wonderful feelings...why would I cry about that? I guess it's just that I was sooooo thankful for having a healthy child.

December 2, 2001 was the day that James and I lost our first baby due to miscarriage. A couple of years later, I can remember walking up to the hospital, going to another doctor visit for testing and looking up at the nursery windows from outside. I told the Lord that one day, I was going to stand on the INSIDE of those windows and look out and thank HIM for blessing us with a baby. After 5 years of trying, praying, hoping, pleading and finally just giving up, God blessed us with our miracle baby. I was blessed with no morning sickness, a great pregnancy and a full term baby. The second night of being in the hospital, James and I went for a walk around the halls. We decided to stop and look at all the other babies that had been born. I stopped at those nursery windows, remembering my talk with the Lord many years earlier and just started crying. Here I was, on the INSIDE, looking out because God had blessed me with a new baby. I told James I needed a minute and I spent time thanking God. That brings me to tears even now.

I know that I say I am so thankful for Ryland all the time, but I don't think I'll ever be able to thank God enough for the opportunity to be a parent.

I can honestly say I have not rushed Ryland in growing up. I want to cherish each stage...even the tantrums...because time really does go by fast.

Happy Birthday sweet boy! I love you!

2 Days Old

1 year birthday

2 year birthday


3 year birthday

God is always at work...

I started a bible study back in October that is going through the book of John. It has taught me so much, just to slow down and really read God's word. God's timing is always perfect and I just wanted to share what God is doing in my life and why I am thankful for this Christmas season.

This Christmas season has been so much fun so far! I have enjoyed buying for family and Ryland. I am pretty much finished with my gift buying and have the 'time' to sit back and enjoy this time and not rush it. It has been fun buying for Ryland the things I know he's gonna love. I can also see how easy it is to want to continue to buy, buy, buy. It's just fun to give to others. I am very glad that God has kept my head level and I have not overdone his gifts.

I am thankful that God has opened up opportunities to help others. I wanted to share what God is doing in my life.

I have been humbled at how much we've been blessed with. I believe it is b/c of me being made aware of others in need at the Missions Conference we had last month. While reading a favorite blog of mine, God laid it very, very heavy on my heart that we are to support a child from another country. The lady in the blog had just come back from a mission trip to El Salvador and reading of what she saw there was a blessing to me. After I finished reading her post, I sat here and sobbed for those that are in need. That is something I have never done before, sad to admit. To think that God chose me to live here in the US and not in a third world country just blows my mind. So I got onto the Compassion website and started praying and asking for God to show me which precious child to sponsor. I searched different countries and different ages. There was one little boy that kept coming up. There was a sparkle in his eye. He's got something different about him. I finally asked God "Is this little boy the one?" He was. With tears, I called James and sounded like a blubbering fool. I needed him to know what God was telling me and even though I didn't need his "permission", I needed his encouragement. Of course, he was fine with whatever God was calling me to do. So I sponsored a precious little boy named Yefry from Honduras. He's 5 and lives with his grandparents. I feel like God will use him to minister to his people one day. And I want a part of that! I could not wait to get his information in the mail and send my first check off to him! And people, if you don't know me that well, this is NOT me. I like to stay in my comfort zone and try not get out of it very often. Which is why I know God has BIG plans for Yefry.

When the information came in the mail and I opened it and saw his picture, I just smiled. I showed him to Ryland and told him all about him. Ryland liked the fact that Yefry loves to play cars. Whenever we talk about Yefry, Ryland says "Yefry plays cars like me". I am very excited to see where God is going to take this.

This Christmas season is definitely different for me. I'm usually trying to make sure I get all the right gifts for everyone and stress about will they really like it. This time, I'm thankful I could get friends and family something, but even more thankful that I can help others this year too! Christmas is all about Love and I want God to use me to show His Love to others.

Merry CHRISTmas!!!
Shannon

Yefry

Ryland update

I realized today that I haven't really updated on my wild child lately and since James and the grandparents are the only that reads this, I'm sure they would like to know what Ryland is up to.



After I went back and read this, I realized that my ADD has kicked in big time and I am all over the place with this blog. Just warning ya!



As you know, Ryland will be 3 in two weeks!!! We were at Walmart today and he was throwing my lipstick that I was buying(which I hated once I got home, they never look like the package) out of the buggy and laughing at me when I picked it up. (He only did that a couple of times and we were in the back of the store). That was fine until he threw it in front of a lady's buggy. After giving me the "It's okay, I know how little ones are" look I said "I'm sorry, he's three". I don't know why I used that as an excuse, but he immediately said "I NOT 3! I 2!!" Reminds me of someone, huh Mom?



He is so independent and very sure about what he knows. He doesn't like to be called anything but his name. I can't even call him 'buddy' before he let's me know that's not his name. He's so silly and is into singing all the time now. He loves to sing "Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty".



He is getting a big boy bed this week and is so excited about it. We'll be repainting his room and putting up crown molding. Yeah!



We were on our way to the grocery store and it started raining. I asked him, not really expecting an answer, "where did this rain come from?" and he immediately said "God!" :o)



He picked a flower for me a couple of weeks ago and it was the sweetest thing. He melts my heart almost daily.



I am rambling about all kinds of stories, but that's where I am right now. Here, there and everywhere with him. He really helps me with my ADD. :o)



Ryland is the biggest challenge I have ever faced. Parenting is the hardest job I've ever done and I know the end results will show it was worth every stress and worry. He is so smart and silly. He has a sweet, compassionate heart and I pray that he will always have that.



Ok...that was a long post that really said nothing. :o) But if you made it this far, thanks for reading!

Let the Holiday season begin!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!
As I type this, we are in Virginia and it's the day after Thanksgiving. We came to visit James' dad and stepmom. Ryland has had a great time up here so far. We came up on Wednesday and will be leaving tomorrow, Saturday.
Yesterday, we had so much food and it was all very good! Ryland had his first taste of sweet potatoes, collards, pecan pie, and coconut pie....and he loved them all!

We stayed at a hotel that is probably the nicest hotel we've been to. Thank you James and your Marriott points! It's a suite with granite counter tops,a kitchen, fireplace, king size bed, sofa bed and a living room area. Very, very nice! It's also nice b/c Ryland has plenty of room to run around.

It's been a nice trip, but I must admit, I am ready to get home to my own bed!

I've got Georgia on my mind.....

Catching Up

It's been a couple of weeks since my last post.

We are having a Missions Conference at church that will be ending on Wednesday. I've been helping in the children's area, watching them learn about different countries. I haven't been in to listen to any of the speakers, but from what I hear, they are awesome and God is really showing up each night.

Next week is Thanksgiving and we are heading to Virginia to visit James's dad and stepmom. I hope Ryland does good on the trip on there and back. I need to make sure I pack a good activity pack. Ryland was 10 months old the last time we saw them.

With Thanksgiving around the corner, it's always a great reminder to remember all the things I am thankful for. With the missions conference going on, it just really shows me how much God has given to my family.

Thank you, God, for my wonderful husband, amazing child, great family and friends. Thank you for James's new job, transportation and clothes. Thank you for the all the little details that are too many to name. Most of all, thank you for sending your one and only Son, Jesus, to die for my sins and saving me from Hell. Thank you, Jesus, for loving me enough to give your life for me so that I may one day spend eternity in Heaven with you!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Making a cake for Daddy

Step One: Start with sweet little boy

Step Two: Add cake mix and eggs

Step Three: Add water and oil

Step Four: Stir

Step Five: Add cocoa and a big smile
Step Six: Put cocoa mixture in cupcakes


Step Seven: Sample a little bit

Step Eight: After it's cooked, add the sprinkles

Step Nine: Eat the sprinkles

Step Ten: Eat more sprinkles

Step Eleven: Enjoy with Daddy!!!

Happy Birthday DADDY!!!!!!

Happy Birthday Hyder!!!

Just wanted to wish my sweetie a Happy Birthday! I love you!!!!

The top picture......

Can you guess what daddy was doing in the background while momma was trying to get a good picture??????

Boshear's Fly In

Every year, Augusta has the Boshear's Fly-In. There are tons of planes, vendors, and a flying airplane show thing...bear with me here, I'm tired.


When we got there, the first thing we saw was 2 helicopters, offering helicopter rides. James said he wanted to go and of course Ryland wanted to go too. So, I lost my mind, and agreed to go too. Side note....WHAT IN THE WORLD WAS I THINKING???? I guess it was the One Month to Live logic, which might I add, James and I have lived that for the last 8 yrs or so.... Ok, back to the subject. Before I could change my mind, Ryland and I climbed in while James finished paying and I made him sit up front. Ryland did great! He looked out of the window while visions of us crashing down to the ground danced in my head. All the while, I'm smiling and telling Ryland how much fun this was. At least we'd all meet Jesus together. Morbid, I know. So to battle those thoughts, I started praying that God would let us land safely and sure enough, the peace came to me. So did the ground. :o)


We watched the parachuters jump and land safely as well as the planes do difficult manuevers. It was a lot of fun to be with my guys and watch them enjoy 'guy' stuff. :o)

Before they started the airplane flyover show, they even prayed! I am was impressed and thankful that there are still some public venues that pray and they even said "In Jesus Name".

Pictures to follow...

Ear Tubes Surgery - A Success!!!

Yesterday we got up early and made our way to the hospital. My mom went with me for moral support and to keep Ryland distracted. We got all his information done and our armbands put on. The nurse led us back to a room to wait. Ryland did really good and my mom entertained him for me. We got him changed into his hospital gown but he didn't want to take his pj pants and shoes off and I wasn't going to press the issue. It was hard for me to sit in the room, knowing that they were going to put him to sleep with gas and not knowing how he would respond to it. There was a little boy (1 yr old) in the next room and we watched them take him for a ride in the wagon. Ten minutes later, the doctor was back telling the parents it was done. Then I knew Ryland was next. The doctor, anesthesiologist, and nurse came in the room and talked to us and Ryland. Dr. V asked Ryland if he wanted to ride in the wagon and Ryland nodded and took off his shoes to go ride. Watching them pull Ryland away in the wagon was the hardest thing to do. I got a little choked up, but was able to recover quickly. I didn't want to look like a big baby when the dr came back in 10 mins later.

The dr came in and said everything went well. He was asleep after 2 breaths of gas, the procedure went great and he was sleeping now in the arms of one of the nurses. When he woke up, she brought him in for me to hold him and be observed for about 30 mins. After about 10 mins of me holding Ryland, he was ready to get down and walk around with us holding his hands. He then told me he wanted to go to Nonna's house and for me to go 'bye-bye'. Yep, Ryland was going to be just fine.

Ryland walked out of the hospital, being sure to push every elevator button, acting as if nothing had even happened. The rest of the day, he was his loud, playing, running, jumping on people, self.

I am so thankful that God watched over us and Ryland did so well. We were covered with prayer from so many people and I am so thankful for my friends and family. Ryland never even asked for food or drink while we were there and that was the thing I was worried about the most. Shannon - don't sweat the small stuff!

Thank you to all who prayed for us! God bless you!!!

Before surgery

After surgery

Need I say more???

Sunday

Ryland is scheduled to have his ear tubes put in tomorrow. It was supposed to be done this past Thursday, but due to scheduling issues, they had to postpone. James and I kept him out of church today again b/c we don't want him getting sick right before he goes tomorrow. James is at Awana right now and Ryland and I are relaxing at home. I am ready for tomorrow to be over with...


I went to church and had a great morning. Sunday School was good and worship time was great! We have a dynamic pastor and today, the message really spoke to me. I really want to change some things about myself and I was reminded today that I have to die daily to myself and follow Jesus. I need to stop trying to do everything by myself and depend on my Heavenly Father to take care of me.

Hope everyone has a great week!

Random conversations with Ryland....

Ryland - "Daddy, there's a taxi!"
James - "Yes, Ryland, that is a taxi. How did you get to be so smart?"
Ryland - "I tink, tink, tink!"


At the Chick-fil-A drive through:
Ryland (screaming and crying) - "I no take food home!!!" about 10 times
James - "Ryland - do NOT say that anymore."
Ryland - "Momma, Momma, Momma..."
Me - "Yes Ryland?"
Ryland (in a whisper) - "I no take food home"


This kid is something else...

Is my blog working correctly?

I had Doug and James tell me that my background is not showing up. It shows up fine on my computer. Please let me know if the background is just white....

Ryland's getting ear tubes

Ryland is getting tubes next Thursday. He has to be there at 6am so that they can do the surgery at 8. I don't know what I'm gonna do for 2 hours with a child that goes nuts when he can't have his chocolate milk. I have to wait until after his surgery and then he can have his cup. The dr says the procedure will be about 10 mins. Thank the Lord it's not a long surgery. I am ready for this to be done and hopefully that will stop all these ear infections.

My mom is going with me to help me entertain Ryland. I am very thankful for that.

In the meantime, I am keeping him out of nursery at church until after Thursday. I don't want him getting swine flu. It is running through our church like crazy. I'm also going to be wiping down the buggies at any store I go to....just in case. :o) Hopefully, he will stay well for atleast a week. We'll see....

Ryland, Ryland, Ryland....

What am I going to do with this boy??? Here is what has been going on this week with Ry... (yes, I said I was not going to call him that but oh well...never say never :o))

1. Started potty training last week again for the 3rd time this year. He did pretty good last week. This Monday morning, I went to his room to get him up to be greeted by poop all over the back of his bedroom door, no diaper on, and poop on the floor. Not what you want to be greeted with right after a wonderful anniversary trip to the beach. Reality stinks! Pun intended. lol The same day, maybe 1.5 hours later, he brought me my shoe and said "I-I (his name for Ryland) teetee'd in mommy's shoe". I looked in my shoe and yes, he did pee in my shoe. Once again, wonderful Monday...

2. In his Mission Friends class last night at church, he was playing with blocks pretending to be playing the flute. One of his friends decided to take it and run. Of course, Ryland ran after her to get his toy back. After I told her to give it back to him, he took the toy and said to her in a sassy voice "You not have this - ha, ha, ha, ha". The other teacher in there wanted to laugh out loud b/c even though it was not nice, it was funny. But I did tell him that we don't talk to our friends like that.

3. On the way home from church, Ry and I stopped by Moe's to get a late dinner. We were getting our food prepared, a couple came in after us and the staff yelled "Welcome to Moe's". Ryland looked at the guy preparing our food and said "You Moe?". I told him no, the man was not Moe and Ry looked at the lady next to him and said "That Moe?" . I had to laugh again and tell him no. The guy looked at Ryland and said "You're Moe." to which Ryland responded "No, I not Moe".

4. Last week, we were in the car and talking about all God makes. He is learning in Awana that God made the trees, sky, clouds, flowers and grass. We drove by some flowers and I said "Thank you God for making flowers". Ryland responded from the back seat "God loves me too tight!" So sweet!!!

He is so silly and can be so sassy. I know I need to start writing these things down so that I can remember to tell him how funny and sweet he was as a child.

This pic was taken last week. He grabbed his pullups and put them on and said they were his 'floaties'.

James, Ry and I were in the shoe store and I was trying on shoes and Ryland wanted to join me.

Where has the time gone?

Sometimes I have a lot to blog about then other times I feel like nothing new has been going on. Most of the time, it's just laziness. I wonder who really reads my blog anyway. If nothing else, this is just a good timeline for my life and I can go back and see how much Ryland has grown. :o)

Speaking of Ryland, I took him to the ENT and he is going to have tubes put in his ears. I am hoping it will stop the majority of his ear infections. Surgery date hasn't been set yet so I'm still waiting to hear from them....or maybe I should call...

James and I celebrated our 11th anniversary this weekend! We went to Myrtle Beach and my mom kept Ry for us. I enjoyed my vacation so much with James. It was so easy to reconnect since we didn't have a sweet little voice in the backseat screaming everytime he dropped a toy. :o) We shopped, walked at Broadway at the beach, played putt-putt and ate really good dinners! We talked about how special Myrtle is for us. I grew up going there as a child, went on family vacations with James, got sunburned bad every year. Myrtle is where James proposed to me on the beach, it's where we went right after losing our first baby, went camping there right after our first sonogram with Ryland and 'found' Ryland's name (on a billboard for a congressman). Yeah, I know, such a spiritual explanation for why we chose that name. :o) It's been a great 11 years. We've had ups and downs, but who hasn't. I am so thankful for James and he truly is my best friend! We've been together for 18 years this year! Not many can say that anymore these days. James is and always has been my rock and I am so thankful God sent him to me.

I wanted to take pics of our trip, but just didn't. I've gotten out of my photography lately. Maybe I'll be inspired to start taking pics again. :o)

I think I've caught up with what's going on in the Hyder's lives.

Have a great week!

Not again.....

In my last post I wrote that Ryland was not feeling good. Well, it turned out that he had a severe double ear infection. I've never seen him in so much pain. Well, after 3 trips to the dr, 2 shots of strong antibiotics, steroids and tylenol with codeine for the pain, he is back to himself. He is still on his oral antibiotics and has a couple of days left for those. I call tomorrow to see when his appt is with the ENT. Yep, looks like we may be getting tubes. For those that have had children get tubes, please let me know how it went. I am so glad Ryland is feeling better!

We were supposed to go camping for Labor Day weekend. With Ryland sick, we decided not to go and we stayed home to recoop. It was very relaxing and we all had a good time spending time with each other.

Hope everyone had a great Labor Day weekend!

Atlanta Falcons Game

Last week, James got free tickets to an Atlanta Falcons game. We invited our friends whom I've nicknamed "Dandy" to go. James's mom came over to watch Ryland for us.

It was mine and James's first time going to a big game. I was nervous about being in Atlanta, but it ended up being fine. We got there early and went to Lenox Mall. We ate with Dandy at a resturaunt called "Prime". It was really fancy, but the food was wonderful! We were also excited b/c several of the items on the menu were half-price b/c it was before 6. Whoo Hoo! Gotta love those early bird specials. :o)

After dinner, we made our way through the traffic to the Dome. There were several people on the street trying to get people to park in 'their' parking lots. They were charging $20 to park and telling...yelling at people to park b/c it was going to be $50 closer to the dome. We decided to take our chances and park in the Dome's parking lot. After being in the traffic line for the lot, we made it and paid......$8. I'm so glad Hyder made that decision. I can't believe all the people that parked in those other areas and had to walk a little farther.

We had GREAT seats! We were 14 rows up from the field, in the corner by the field goal. There were so many people to watch in addition to the game. The Hyders are not big sports fanatics, so it was fun to watch those around us get so caught up in the game.

We got home around 1 and Ryland was still up. He had been complaining of his head and ear hurting earlier. He now had fever and so I decided to just keep him on the couch and we'd watch tv. We gave him more medicine and after about 30 mins of being legargic and achey, he sat up, took his washcloth off of his head and said "I-I(Ryland) head no hurt, feel better, mommy fix it. Thank you mommy! Hug" And he gave me a big hug. It was the sweetest thing I've heard. It made me feel good.

We stayed home today from church. I hope Ryland gets to feeling better soon.

Well......that was our weekend.... Hope you enjoyed yours as well.

Pics of us at the game to follow...

What's new???

This was the first week of James's new job. He said it went very well, even though he doesn't have his computer and all he did was read manuals. His co-workers are very nice and welcoming. I am so thankful that God provided this for us at this time in our lives.

Ryland has been a pistol this week. He is so funny and sweet...most of the time. But this week, he decided to turn into this child that wants to test his mama to her breaking point. I am still trying to recover from my meltdown yesterday, but today, he was so much better.

Parenting is the HARDEST challenge I have ever had to face. I want so much to do it God's way, to be a Godly mom and to raise Ryland in a way to make God proud. I've read and listened to a couple of good resources and I take the things that speak to me. I know that I won't be a perfect parent, and I'm not shooting for perfection, but I do want to do my best.

For all those moms of 2 or more children....I don't know how you do it! I respect you so much b/c it is a hard job with just my one. And he's ONLY TWO!!! Lord, have mercy if James and I are blessed with another child one day/year. :o)

It's not as bad as I'm making it sound. Ryland is a good kid, but it is challenging. Just putting my thoughts out there.

Have a great week!!!

One Month to Live small group study

What would you do if you were told you have one month to live? Honestly, I don't know what I would do. Probably freak out, cry, ask questions, pray and hopefully after all that, accept it and pray that God will show me how to LIVE the time I have left on this earth.

Our church is doing a churchwide study on the book "One Month to Live". We had our first small group meeting tonight and it went really well. Lots to ponder about. I love that word....ponder.... Anyway, tonight we met at Dandy's house (my nickname for my friends). We watched a video and discussed how to live each day to the fullest, as if it were our last. Because really, we are not promised tomorrow. But for some reason, I think we all think we have many years ahead of us. It was a great start of what I hope to be, a lifechanging event.

Ryland had his first night of Puggles. This is a program at church that teaches 2 year olds more about God and His Word. He had a great time tonight too.

I hope everyone that reads this has a great week and as my life motto goes....Live 4 Today!!!

Let's see

It's now August! I can't believe how fast June and July went by. Ryland is done with swimming lessons and he, of course, loves the pool! He is saying so many funny things now and is so silly. He tells me he's not a little boy, he's a big boy! Oh how it breaks my heart. :o)

Looks like God has several things in store for us this year! I will be teaching 4 year old choir and co-teaching 2 year old Mission Friends on Wednesday nights. James visited the choir this past week. Sunday nights James is going to be working in Awana. Ryland will be in my Mission Friend class and James's Puggles Awana class. I am glad that he will be in class with us.

James will be starting a new job in a week. I have always claimed God as our Provider and as always, He has not disappointed. James applied for this job 2 months ago. We have prayed all summer and God has answered. We are very excited b/c James has been working 32 hour weeks for the last 3 months. God provided James side jobs to compensate for the loss of 8 hours a week. Now, James will be working overtime!!! We are really looking forward to getting some bills paid off!!! We are so thankful!!!!

Tonight we went to a birthday party for my 'niece'. It was American Idol themed and it was really cute. 3 adults from church came as Randy, Paula, and Simon. At the end of the contestants singing, Ryland got up and 'sang' too. He sang his version of Jesus Loves Me. He sings "Jesus loves me sooo". It was very entertaining.

Tomorrow we will be giving a friend a baby shower. This baby has been prayed for for 7 long years. I hope his momma enjoys herself!!!

That's pretty much it for right now. Life is good and we are taking it one day at a time.

Lake Day

Today we went to the lake with our friends, the Burks and the Starchers. It was such a fun time. I must admit, I was worried about the heat and staying in the shade, but it worked out fine. We took the Burks' boat and found a private little beach area. We set up our umbrellas and chairs and had plenty of shade. Then we played in the water....I constantly moved my arms and legs b/c I didn't want the fish to bite me....and they didn't. They did, however, nibble on a couple of other people. Yuck! We had a great lunch and hung out. It was so relaxing. The kids played in and out of the water and Ryland only got in trouble 20 or so times for throwing rocks around others. :o)

What a fun day!!!!! Can't wait to do it again!

Where to start???

Let's see....

Since my last update, Ryland has started his second year of swim lessons. This year, our objective was to teach him to float on his back and to learn to come up for air.

Floating...not so much. He hates, and I mean hates to float on his back. He stiffens up and will not do it. Maybe next year he'll be more comfortable with it, but in the meantime, we'll keep trying.

Learning to come up for air - I'm not sure he has the neck strength for this yet, but when James or I help him, he does great!

He is a little fish in the water. He loves jumping off of the ladder or side of an in-ground pool. His confidence amazes me, along with everyone that see him.

See for yourself....

On the go-cart All the kiddos

Ryland packing

Tubing with the masses....

Playing superman with Doug

Ryland playing by the river

Helen, GA

This past weekend, we went to Helen, Ga with our SS class. There were 12 families and 54 people total. We had a blast! Ryland had a great time and behaved himself surprisingly well. James bought a new camera - one that is waterproof up to 10 feet - and we had fun taking pics of Ryland swimming underwater.

If you've never been to Helen, it's a small town with German decor. It has a river that runs through the town and you can tube the Chattahoochee.

Friday, we got there and sat by the creek watching all the tubers go by. We then went to dinner and back to the hotel. Ryland decided that he didn't want to go to sleep, but instead play in the dark with his stuffed animals and blankets. I honestly have no idea what time he went to sleep. I finally gave up and went to sleep around 12:30 or so.

Saturday, we got up and had breakfast and headed to the waterpark. There were 4 slides and a lazy river. James and I took turns with Ryland in the lazy river since the slides were too big for him. He loved it and could 'tip toe' in the water. We then took the bus to go tubing. Once we got to the drop off area, Ryland pitched a fit b/c he wanted to ride on the school bus again. When we got settled in our tube, he finally feel asleep in my lap and slept for almost the entire time. Once we were done tubing, it was back to the hotel for showers and out to eat dinner.

Sunday, after breakfast, we headed to an indoor go-cart track. All the kids loved it and Ryland was able to ride with James. Actually, the men enjoyed it too, but there were more complaints of being sore. Ryland had a great time and was telling James "faster, faster". Of course, in true Ryland style, he cried when he had to get out of the car and cried until I told him he'd get another turn and he had to share. After the track, we headed to walk the little city of Helen. It's such a neat atmosphere. Ryland loved the horse/buggy combos and all the motorcycles.

We finally headed home and Ryland slept the entire time. James and I could actually talk to each other.

It was a great trip and pictures are coming.....

Happy 4th of July!

Last night James, Ryland and I went to Fort Gordon to see the fireworks. It was Ryland's first year seeing them. I usually don't like going b/c it's hot, crowded and takes forever to get home. We haven't gone to Fort Gordon in a long, long time so I said "why not?". We usually go to the lake.

Let me tell you, I am so glad we went! There was plenty of parking and plenty of ground. It had cooled down and there was a nice breeze. We took our chairs and Ryland's stroller and found a nice area to sit. We got cotton candy, drinks and let Ryland walk around and show off for us. He loved the cotton candy, like his daddy! There was a lot of people, but the field is so big, you didn't feel crowded. Once it got dark and the moon and stars were out, Ryland decided to 'reach for the stars'. It was so cute, seeing him jump and then say "can't reach the stars".

Once the fireworks started, Ryland was in James's lap. He didn't like them and started saying "go home" and "all done" over and over. He also said they were "too bright", so James gave his sunglasses to Ryland to wear. He finally calmed down and would tell James the different colors. It was the longest firework show I've ever seen and they were great!

We did have a wait when we left, but we were all in good moods, so it was an enjoyable wait. I'm so glad we went.

Seeing all the men and women in uniform made me stop and think about how amazing they are to sign up to protect our country. And to go to war for us. I am very thankful for each of them.

In the words of Lee Greenwood -- I'm proud to be an American!!!

Ryland

That boy....I don't know what I'm gonna do with him. :o)

On Thursday, my mom and I went out shopping for a while and then had lunch. While we were heading to lunch, Ryland started crying and saying his back hurt. He was whiney through lunch and said the back of his neck hurt and his stomach hurt. He was so pitiful and we had no idea what was wrong with him.

Yesterday he woke up with a BAD headache. Tylenol seems to help it and we went about our day. That afternoon he had another headache and was crying. I ended up calling the doctor and made an appt to go see Dr. B.

She checked his ears and nose and everything was fine. Then she checked his mouth. She did a strep test and it came back positive!!! She said that his symptoms were classic for strep. I am so glad I took him in. It would have been a horrible weekend.

So now he's back on antibiotics for 10 days. Poor little boy......

All the cousins....

Here is a picture of my mom and dad with all of the grandkids.

Johnathan - 2.5

Carson - 4

Ryland - 2.5

Tyler - 3

Christian - 5

Eralyn - 7 weeks

Destin 2009

Destin 2009

Getting ready to ride the train
Say cheese!

At the gulfarium

Catch me daddy!

This is the life...


Eating at Joe's Crab Shack

Just chillin with a book
The Maxwell's

Catching up

Ok, ok. I'm going to try to catch up on what's been going on in the Hyder household for the month of June. :o)

We had a great trip to Destin this year. It was very relaxing and Ryland had a blast. I spoke about what we did in the last post so I won't repeat myself again.

James's work is still very slow.... He's been on 32 hour weeks for about 2 months now. He is still doing handy work for friends and friends of friends. He's doing such a great job and has a couple of jobs lined up.

God has been providing for us, as always, but I never want to take that for granted. I am so thankful that even though we don't see James as much as we'd like, God has sent just the right amount of work at the right time. Thank you Lord, for your goodness!!!

Ryland is starting swim lessons next week. He does so well right now and I'm ready for him to continue on with his learning. He is so comfortable with jumping in and swimming(for short distances) underwater.

We had VBS at church and b/c I helped this year, Ryland was able to go. He had a great time and enjoyed the puppets that sang each night. Two weeks later, he's still asking about the puppets.

My sister and bro-in-law came to town to visit. We had a great time and the boys had fun playing with each other. I wish they lived closer, but maybe one year, they'll be back!!! AND I found out that they are expecting #3!!!!! Congrats again!!! We're so happy for you!

I am going to try to get some pics up now.... stay tuned!

Vacation Time!!!

I am sitting in the condo in Destin, Florida as I type this. It's been such a nice vacation and after coming here so many years with our friends, I feel like this is our second home.

Ryland did very good in the 8 hour car ride. I had plenty of activities for him and we stopped several times. The first night here we ate at Joe's Crab Shack and went to Walmart. On Sunday, we went to the beach and the pool. James has been so good to entertain Ryland and play with him on the beach. I love the beach, but don't like to get in the sand. That's not for me. Give me a book and a chair and I'm golden. But please don't ask me to play in the sand or get in the water.

On Monday, we went to the water park. We rented a cabana for the first time ever. Let me tell you...that was wonderful. We had a cabana boy that got us drinks and food. No lines for us to wait in. That was very nice considering it was "bring every school bus in Destin filled with obnoxious teenagers to the water park day". It was also nice not to have to worry about our stuff and people moving our towels and such. It was shaded and Ryland was able to take breaks and walk around the area without getting in trouble. Great idea Jim!

For the last 2 days, we've just had lazy days. Go to the beach, pool, a couple of stores, just hang out. I am so thankful to get away just for a little while. :o)

Well, that's all for now. I hope everyone is enjoying their week!!! I'll update with pics soon!

Ryland's first fishing trip

Yesterday was Ryland's first fishing experience. We met at a friend's parent's house to go fishing in their pond. It had been raining on and off and by the time we got there, it was back to sprinkling. So we loaded up our gear and off to the pond we went. Ryland was so good and sat in James's lap. I was very nervous about him being around the water's edge, but he did good by listening and staying away from the edge. We had only been there maybe 15-20 mins when it started pouring down. We had umbrellas so it wasn't a big deal, but once the thunder and lightening started, we had to call it a day. Several of the others fishing were soaked to the bone. We were invited to come back anytime so we may have to make another trip over there...checking the weather channel first!

I thought this was funny b/c they both have the same expression on their faces.


I happen to think James has the sexiest dimple I've ever seen. :o)


Concentration...

Ryland's first trip to the dentist

Ryland went to the dentist for the first time yesterday. It was a very nice office with a train table in the waiting room. Ryland was all about that and didn't want to share with the other little boy there. Once the assistant called him back, he pitched a good fit b/c he didn't want to leave the train on the table.

Once we got to the back, he did really well. He let the assistant look in his mouth and Dr. P came in to check his teeth and he did really well. She was even impressed with how comfortable he was with her.

He got a certificate and a couple of bath toys to end his visit. I'm so proud of him!

Happy Mother's Day

Not a day goes by that I am not thankful for the gift of being a mother. Even when times are tough and days are not so good, I am still thankful.

As I read more blogs, I see there are so many out there with children that have health issues. It's a miracle for each healthy child born, I am convinced more and more.

Then there are those that long for a child so bad it physically hurts. I know, I've been there and lived there for 5 very long years. God used that time to grow me and mature me and even though I wouldn't want to go there again, I wouldn't change it for anything.

For the mom's out there, Happy Mother's Day! For those longing to be moms, know that you are not forgotten and don't lose faith. God's word says "I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

It's been a while since I've blogged.

Ryland is done with his antibiotic and I will take him back to make sure his ear is clear. He has hit the "terrible twos" with full force! It's much harder to handle than I thought it would be. He actually bit me yesterday and made me bleed. I was ticked, that thing hurt!!!! He was disciplined and sent to his room. He is definitely head strong and if there is something he wants, he does not let up!

Any ideas or tips for handling two year olds, send them my way. Abbie, I still need to get that book you told me about!

James is working 32 hour weeks right now until he gets more work in the office. He has been busy doing things around the house and just put up a privacy fence with Craig. He's going to be doing side jobs to make up for the lost time so if you need something, just let me or him know.

I am doing well. I've lost 8 pounds, but it's been up and down and up and down. This morning, it was 8 pounds so I'm going with it.

Here we go again....

I took Ryland to the doctor today and he has another ear infection. He is on the strong antibiotic and hopefully, that will clear soon!

James is not in Spartanburg anymore. They cut his project so now that office has bearly any work. He is now back here and I am happy to have him home. I am praying that God will provide work for his office soon.

James is back in Spartanburg this week. Ryland has been pretty good this week so far. His new 'thing' is walking in front of me and saying "fall me" (follow me). He thinks it's cool that he's the leader.

I miss James, but I am so thankful he has work. Times are tough at his office, but thankfully, he has work. I'm also thankful that he is 2.5 hours away instead of Alaska, Washington, Idaho or Houston. These are the other places that have work. While I'd love to see my family in Idaho, this would be a 2 year commitment. Sorry Ash, maybe Christmas?

I am trying to lose weight again. It is very hard to be dedicated when I'm at home all day and the food calls my name...ALL the time. Plus the fact that I LOVE to eat...that's my hobby. I think I must have swallowed a magnet and I am constantly being pulled to the fridge. Sometimes I go to the kitchen and open the fridge to see what new food miraculously appeared for me to eat. If you've ever had a food issue, you'll know what I'm talking about. Anyway, here I go again with the weight thing. Three years ago, I lost 30 pounds. It was hard, but I did it and I didn't deprive myself of eating what I like. I just lowered my calorie intake, and exercised...alot. Then I gained a ton with Ryland and it stayed. Now I've got to work at getting the weight off and the truth of the matter is, I don't WANT to work hard to do it. I just want to wake up and all my rolls be gone...and I'm not talking about bread rolls. :o)

I don't know how many read this blog, but I'll update weekly as a way of accountability to unknown people. Yeah, that should help!

While I'm in the right frame of mind, I think I may take advantage of this nice morning and go for a walk in the neighborhood.

Have a great day...

Happy Easter!

Yesterday we celebrated the resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ! He is risen, He is risen indeed!

We had a great service at church and came home and I cooked Easter lunch. After lunch, Ryland had his easter egg hunt in the front yard. He had a great time and had to put the eggs back where he found them so he could look for them again.

Last night, James and I went through the story of Easter using the resurrection eggs. Ryland would open the egg and tell us what was inside and I would read the scripture that corresponds with the item in the egg. We've been doing this every year and it's a special time for us. I'm excited to see how he does once he really understands what each item means.

Here are a couple of pictures from yesterday. I wanted to get a good family one of us, but it didn't happen. Oh well....