Living for Today

Surprise!!!!

2011-06-28T21:02:00.002-04:00

Well, in my last post, I recapped what was going on in our lives for the past several months. But I left out one important detail until I felt it was time to announce....

Baby Hyder is on the way!!!!!!!!

I found out the first week of May that we were expecting again. It was definitely a surprise as I had prepared myself that it would take a while to get pregnant again. It took 5 long, hard, frustrating years before we were blessed with Ryland. God blessed us quickly this time. They will be 5 years apart and that's what I wanted so I am very thankful.

I am so bad at journaling now so this will be my journal for Baby Hyder.

8 week checkup - Baby measured 8w3d and I was 8w2d. Heartrate was 167
12 week checkup - Heartrate was 160

I was able to go and have a sonogram at 11 weeks. Baby Hyder was moving all over the place and those little arms and legs were "just a goin".

Ryland is so excited about this baby. He has been asking for a baby for almost a year and it's been neat to see how happy he is and how he tells me he's gonna help me. We'll see...

My next appointment will be in July for a regular checkup. Then, about 2 weeks later, we'll find out what this little blessing is going to be.

I'm here....

2011-05-09T20:54:00.004-04:00

February....March....April....

And now it's May!!!! I can't believe how fast time flies by. I haven't been blogging b/c sometimes, I just don't want one more thing I have to "do".

So here is a recap of what's been going on in the Hyder world!

March - We went to Disney World! It was wonderful! We went with some long time friends and had a blast. Ryland had so much fun riding the rides and meeting the characters. Ryland got to meet his favorite superhero...

April - We went camping during Spring Break and survived a tornado that came through the campground. I have never been so afraid. God was so good to us and our camping friends. None of our belongings were damaged! April has been a month of storms and I pray that those horrible storms are gone for good!

May - Well, we are 9 days into May so we'll see how the rest of the month goes. We have a camping trip at the end of the month that we are looking forward to!

Later!

My plate is full...

2011-02-01T20:06:00.002-05:00

Wow...ask and He will answer!

About 3 weeks ago, I asked God to use me to glorify Him. I asked Him to show me where I am to work and get involved. And He has!!!

I really need to sit down to think about the different activities I am involved in, just so I don't feel so jumbled in my head. But I know that everything I am doing right now is exactly what I am supposed to be doing. It's a great feeling!

It's already February, can you believe it? So let me see how I am doing with my 'resolutions'.

*I can say that I am still reading through the bible! I usually can't make it past the 10 day mark but so far, I've been able to stick to it and I'm actually enjoying it. Right now, I am in Exodus and God just delivered the Isrealites from Pharoah. God opened the Red Sea and let His people pass through and Pharoah and his army drowned in the Red Sea.

*I feel like I am focusing on friendships and relationships that God wants to nuture right now.

*I am definitely blogging more. :o) I am trying to keep up to date with things, but I don't have the time nor the want-to to sit everyday and type something.

*The weight loss---yeah, well, I'm still the same weight as I was Jan. 1st. But I haven't been trying so I'm not complaining. BUT...this month is going to be different! I think I've got my motivation back...about 90% but that's better than none. :o) I have gone to the Y more and I am going to continue to go and burn those calories!!!! Little pep talk for myself. heehee

So I think my report card is looking good so far. :o)

One last thing....I signed Ryland up for soccer tonight! I am very excited to see him out there and I think it will be good for him to learn good sportsmanship. THAT should be interesting. He is very competitive and doesn't take losing well at all. But we are working on that and maybe this will help.

Ok, I think that's enough for tonight. Off to read about Manna and Quail....

Just checking in...

2011-01-24T19:34:00.003-05:00

Not much happening right now, but I wanted to check in just to keep up. Ryland and James are playing Legos Batman on the Wii. Ryland LOVES to play every evening with his daddy.

More later....

When reality hits...

2011-01-21T15:26:00.003-05:00

We are not promised tomorrow...

I know we all hear that statement and while I agree with it...am I really living it? Yesterday, a family that attends our church lost a husband and a daddy. When everyone went to work and school, I guess everything was normal. Then at work, the man just passed away...without warning. I don't know what the specifics are but they are thinking massive heart attack.

As I sit and TRY(impossible to do) to put myself in Amy's shoes, I think, what would I do without James? I CANNOT fathom my life without my best friend and soulmate. I pray to God every morning that He will let James and I grow old together, but it's not my will that will happen. I know every person's days are numbered but it was like reality really slapped me. Am I being all I can be every day? Am I loving like I should? Am I serving like I should? Am I being who God wants me to be?

So many thoughts going through my head. I am so thankful for my family...my husband and little boy.

Please pray for this family - Amy, Spencer and Grant as they grieve. I am so thankful that we serve a God that will give a peace that passes our understanding.

Ryland's dental visit

2011-01-13T18:59:00.003-05:00

Ryland went to the dentist today. He did so great and I was so proud of him. He's been going since he was 2. I wante him to start getting used to going. This time and the time before, he didn't cry or fuss. He laid back in the chair and she was able to clean, polish and flouride his teeth. They also were able to take front teeth xrays. I was amazed that he let them do it and didn't freak out! Proud mama over here!

Our kitchen renovations are coming along nicely! James is doing an awesome job with it all. It's wonderful having a husband that can do pretty much anything! Proud wife over here! :o)

Friends...

2011-01-11T22:32:00.002-05:00

Friends....where do I begin?

There are so many kinds of friends. Some are for a season, some are your everyday ones, some are friends for a specific reason.

Tonight, I had to say goodbye to a friend that is going to the Phillipines for 18 months. That friend is one of the 3 most Godliest women I know. I have known her for about 12 years. She was the bible study leader when I first started ladies bible study, right after getting married. She has been there for me with some of the hardest times of my life! Without going into too much detail, she helped me come out of the deepest, darkest depression I have ever known. Even though I'm not as close now as I was to her, how do you say goodbye to someone that helped you so much. God definitely used her to speak to me and I will never be able to thank God and her enough.

I totally fell apart tonight at the dinner. I was able to shed tears gracefully, dabbing my eyes with my used napkin because I didn't bring in any tissues. That was until the end and then I felt like my face was going to explode because I wanted to bawl like a baby. Then I was embarrassed because I couldn't get it together. But it was because I love her. And I love HARD! I know tomorrow will be better and there is email and they are planning on coming back, but when you give another person a piece of yourself in friendships, it just plain hurts when they leave.

Back to friendships... I am at a place right now where I am examining many things about myself, my character and my side of friendships. I need to stop trying to be what I THINK everyone needs me to be and start being who GOD created me to be. I think facebook does not help with that either. I am constantly asking myself..."do I need to do something for this person", "should I have that person over", "do I need to comment so that this person feels better" and so on and so forth. It is driving me crazy!

Anyway, facebook is another story for another day. I think it can be fun, but can also be a dangerous distraction.

One of my "resolutions" was to do better in the friends area. I am praying that God will show me exactly how He wants me to do that.

If you're still reading, thanks for letting me get all these thoughts out of my head!

New frame!

2011-01-10T19:39:00.002-05:00

Remember the picture frames I got from Kirkland's? Well, I finally got the second one completed and I love the finished product. I ordered the individual pictures from a company online. I could probably do them myself, but it could take awhile b/c I take forever to take pictures sometimes. Anyway, what do you think?

I love it!!!

Snow Day!

2011-01-10T19:25:00.002-05:00

The weather channel was correct! We woke up to a yard full of beautiful, white snow. I like to go out and walk around in it. Once my fingers get frozen, I'm done. :o) We went outside and played, rolled down the hill in our front yard and Ryland even got to ski! The city shut down today and looks like it will tomorrow as well. James didn't have to go into work so that's a nice bonus. It's also nice that in a couple of days, it will be gone and we'll be able to go back to our 'normal' routines.

Happy Snow Day!!!

2011-01-05T15:43:00.002-05:00

Well, today was Ryland's first day back at school after the Christmas break. We decided to put him in 3 days a week so it was a little different today. He knows several kids there and I think that made it easier. He went right in and started playing with some of the other new boys. I was worried, but he is such a social butterfly, it didn't phase him at all.

Update on losing weight/eating better: I AM HUNGRY! I had some soup for lunch and now my stomach just growled really loud. I can't remember the last time my stomach growled. hehe I am always eating so it's never hungry. I haven't made it to the Y yet to work out, but I know I will eventually.

That's really all I have for now, but I want to get in the habit of blogging so I won't get behind again. :o)

Have a great day!

Monday, Monday

2011-01-03T09:30:00.007-05:00

Good morning! It's Monday and I have a mountain of laundry to do!

James has been home all week and he's been working on the house like crazy! It's looking good and I love the picture frames on the wall. Since James was home, I was able to sleep in...alot! Ryland would get up between 8:30 and 9:30 and just go downstairs...not waking me up! It was wonderful! Today...he was up at 6 am. What?!? He is at a stage where he is scared of leaving us and going to heaven. He was crying this morning because when he goes to heaven, he can't take his 3 favorite stuffed animals with him. He was very, very upset. I consoled him and told him he could come lay in bed with me. I think he thought I said come PLAY with me because he did not go back to sleep. It figures...for 10 days straight, he slept late and then James is back to work and he's up at 6.

I need to get back in the gym. I skipped out in December and now my body is so sluggish. I feel like I need to start back from the beginning. But I have a goal to meet with a great incentive so here I go!

Here is a picture of the frame I just got! Love it!

Happy 1-1-11

2011-01-01T10:32:00.002-05:00

Here we go! The new year is here and it's time for some changes. :o)

I hope everyone enjoyed bringing in the new year. We had one of our favorite couples over last night. We had snacks and played a new game called "Name 5". It was fun and makes you think fast. We put Ryland to bed around 10ish so he didn't stay up the whole night.

We have the decorations taken down (except the outside) and I'm trying to get the house back in order. Or at least what I call order. We are working on projects and decorating our walls. I bought some really pretty picture frames yesterday at Kirklands. I LOVE Kirklands! Their prices are always great and I never leave there empty handed.

Our church is going to one service tomorrow. I can't wait! We are trying to bring more unity to our church family. It's gonna be like a reunion. :o)

I hope everyone enjoys their day and once again......HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

New Year...New Beginnings

2010-12-31T10:47:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year's Eve!

I usually don't do resolutions b/c I think they are silly. But this year, I am going to look at this new year as a new beginning for me. Here are my resolutions this year.

1. Make time to reconnect with friends/family.
2. Spend more time in God's word...daily
3. Blog more!
4. Lose weight...I know, I know.

If I can't do these things, I know that the world will not end and it's not a big deal, but these are my goals for this year.

I can't go back and try to catch up b/c with my ADD, it's too overwhelming so I'm starting fresh.
I had a blogger friend say that she went back to her blog and was able to update a baby book b/c of her blog. I want to be able to do that with Ryland. I haven't posted about him in a while and I know in time, I'll forget what silly and crazy things he's doing right now. Like calling me an idiot the other day. (Good thing he doesn't know what that means)

So I am going to use this as my journal to share with family and friends.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! I'm ready to BRING IT!!!!

Um....Yeah....

2010-11-18T20:57:00.005-05:00

So updates were not to come afterall. :o)

I will start with today and maybe work backwards. Today, Ryland was good at preschool so we celebrated with a trip to YOYO Yogart. It's a new place that my family just found and we love it! Afterwards, he and I just chilled outside and rode his new bike. New to him, at least. A friend's son outgrew his bike so she passed it on. Thanks!!!

I decided to try again at taking some pics. I played with the pics in an editing program and here are the results. I think they turned out really well.

Updates to come...

2010-10-03T23:28:00.002-04:00

Updates are on the way. When I go out of town, I always wait until I get back in town before I post. I don't understand why people announce when they are leaving town.

Posts to come:
Our anniversary weekend
Scrapbooking with the ladies
Zoo with Grandma

Off to bed...it's late...

Good-bye for now, Mama Jackie

2010-09-13T21:13:00.002-04:00

It's amazing how fast life can change. This past Friday my grandmother, Mama Jackie, passed away at the hospital. She had some issues, but we didn't think she wouldn't make it through. She always 'had' issues that turned out to be nothing or at least something that can be fixed, but this time, it was kidney failure. A shock to my mom and aunts.

I have had such a emotional weekend. The childhood memories I have of my grandma are things I'll hold dear to my heart for a long, long time. I know she is with Jesus and I'm thankful that she is in heaven. The hard part for me is her daughters left here to grieve. I will be praying that each day gets a little easier for them. I love my parents so much and the thought of losing them is too much to bear sometimes. But I know that this world is not our home.

God has used this weekend to remind me that we are not promised tomorrow. But if you know Jesus as your Lord, you will live forever with Him.

Mama Jackie, say hello to all our loved ones that have gone before and I'll see you again...

Have you ever seen a Nod-ling?

2010-08-30T13:24:00.004-04:00

Ryland was playing outside today and found a toy. I saw him pick it up, look around and start talking to himself. Then he came up to the back door to show me what he found. I have no clue what it is but apparently he does. He told me it was a "Nod-ling" hat. He then told me a Nod-ling was a creature that lived in the forest. He asked me if he was going to come back for his hat.

I guess we'll just have to wait and see....

A Lizard!!!!

2010-08-28T15:33:00.003-04:00

On Thursday, I was cleaning the living room and doing something I don't do very often...dusting. heehee I picked up a magazine to dust the end table when a little green lizard jumped off of the table and behind the couch. I screamed like the little girl I am! I can't stand lizards!!! Ryland was watching tv and said "Mom, what's wrong?" I told him there was a lizard behind the couch and started to dial the neighbors house to see if he would come get the thing out of my house.

He wasn't home so I called James. After laughing at me and saying telling me it's just a lizard, I got off of the phone and waited the hour and a half before he got home. When he got here, he couldn't find it anywhere. My brave 3 year old was helping daddy look for it and then he said he wanted to kill it. Boys.... Well, I had to go to bed knowing there was lizard somewhere in the living room and it was still alive.

The next day, I waited all day, hoping the little green guy would come out so I could at least know the area he was at. James came home from work and was on the phone upstairs and I was in the kitchen when Ryland yelled "I found it!" James rushed down to see if Ryland was telling the truth and he was. Hallelujah, the lizard was caught. He gave it to Ryland to hold outside for a few minutes. Ryland just held him so gently and didn't want to put him back in the bushes. He even asked the lizard if he wanted to go back and the lizard "told" him he didn't. :o)

Long, Long story short...Here is the little lizard and he is back safely in the bushes, hopefully never to enter my house again.

First day of preschool

2010-08-20T11:49:00.003-04:00

Ryland had a good 2 days of preschool this week. His teachers say he is a character and ALL boy! I'm not sure what to think of that. :o) I don't know if it's a nice way of saying "you have a wild child!".

He goes into his classroom and barely gets a 'goodbye' out before he's running to play. He comes home so happy and says it was "willy gwreat".

I am enjoying the time as well! It was nice to go into the store and be able to think about what I'm doing. :o)

My little Cubbie...

2010-08-16T21:31:00.005-04:00

Ryland is starting AWANA this year at church. AWANA stands for Approved Workman Are Not Ashamed (2 Timothy 2:15). He will be in the 3 year old Cubbies class.

He has a handbook that he will be working in this year and learning scriptures every week. I am so excited for him to be part of this program.

Here we go.....

Mother's Day Out

2010-08-11T20:19:00.002-04:00

Ryland is starting Mother's Day Out this year. He is in the 3 year old class so I'm not sure if that's classified as Preschool or not. Anyway, today was his open house. His teachers are very sweet and I know he's gonna have a great time!

He is also finishing his 3rd summer of swim lessons. He's doing really well and I'm very proud of him.

My boy is growing up!

Boys and their toys

2010-08-07T14:22:00.003-04:00

We went to the store today and the guys got new remote controls. This has been our afternoon. :o)

There you have it!

2010-08-06T12:38:00.002-04:00

Okay, I think I'm all caught up now on my blog...

Have a great weekend everyone!!!

A New Truck

2010-08-06T12:32:00.002-04:00

New to us anyway....

James was able to get a new truck this summer. It's a 2008 and was well taken care of by the previous owner. We are very blessed to have this and learned through the shopping experience that God always has the final answer and always knows what's best for us.

Puggles

2010-08-06T12:28:00.004-04:00

Ryland was involved in Puggles, a children's program at church. Here are some pictures of his final night, getting his certificate.

Myrtle Beach

2010-08-06T12:13:00.005-04:00

James, Ryland and I went camping at Myrtle Beach in May. We stayed at Ocean Lakes Campground and had a wonderful, relaxing time. We played on the beach, at the pool (of course I was in the shade) and took trips to the aquarium, Broadway at the beach, Hard Rock Cafe and putt putt. It was such a great trip for our family and it was nice to be able to enjoy the weather. Ryland's favorite thing to do was to ride on the airplane at a kiddie park. It was so hard to let him do it by himself because it just shows me he's growing up. But I was so proud!

We did go to a store where Ryland could build his own vehicle. It was such a neat place! I think James had more fun than Ryland though. :o)

Hilton Head with the Family

2010-08-06T12:00:00.002-04:00

Ash, Erik and boys came to visit a couple of weeks ago. Ryland and I met them in Hilton Head and had a great time. Minus the melt downs that Ryland performed in front of everyone in the resturaunt but I'll just leave the details out on that one. The boys loved playing on the beach. Christian had his boogyboard, Tyler and Ryland played in the water and Logan crawled in the sand. I enjoyed sitting in the shade at the pool. :o) Here are some pics of the boys. They are such good kids! Love you all and hope to see you again soon.....

Christian and Tyler

Logan

One wiped out little boy, Ryland

I'm back....

2010-08-06T11:54:00.001-04:00

I had a nice post ready to go last night and them I hit a wrong button and it disappeared on me....

I'm going to try to catch up on what's been going on this summer. :o)

2010-05-07T00:08:00.002-04:00

Wow!
I can't believe it's been a month since I've blogged. Time does fly, doesn't it?

Let's see...James, Ryland and I went to the Riverbanks zoo a couple of weeks ago as well as Stone Mountain. It was so much fun and Ryland is at such a great age for this quick weekend trips. I will have to post pics later, but I think I got some good ones.

I have decided to TRY to become a runner. I found a website that is supposed to help you go from (as they said it) the couch to a 5K. We'll see about that. It's only been week one and they start you off slow and build up. I've done pretty good, but I don't know how long I'll keep it up or how in the world I am going to be able to run for more than 2 mins at a time. I want to try to accomplish something that is just for me. I hope I don't give up too soon...

I guess that's it for now. Have a great weekend everyone!

He has Risen...Halelujah!!!

2010-04-08T23:46:00.002-04:00

I know Easter has already passed, but we need to celebrate the fact that Jesus is alive everyday. :o)

This year we had a quiet Easter. Grandma went to visit her sister in Charleston and she is usually with us each year. We went to Sunday School where we prayed for a family moving to Germany for 3 years b/c he is serving in the military. After SS, James and I had nursery front desk greeter duty. It was a little hectic, but I was glad to see the visitors and pray they heard God's speak to them that morning.

After church, we came home and ate leftovers. Ryland and I took naps and James worked on the trim in the living room. That evening, I cooked Easter dinner and we had a relaxing night before Monday morning started a new week of work.

Here are a couple of pics of us this Easter. I'll try to get some of Ryland finding eggs up shortly.

Ryland

2010-04-01T13:07:00.005-04:00

It's been a while since I've posted on my little red head so I thought I'd take a minute to let you know what's he's up to and a couple of his comments that everyone says I should write down.

Ry: Mama?
Me: Yes Ryland?
Ry: You a sweetheart.

Ry on the way home from church: I'm thirsty!
Me: Wait til we get home and I'll get you something.
Ry: But I want it now! (Insert whiney voice)
Me: Well, you'll just have to wait til we get home.
Ry: Mom, God says "Give a child a drink". I guess that's the 11th commandment according to Ryland.

At breakfast:
Ry: Mom, I forgive you.
Me: Forgive me for what?
Ry: I forgive you for frustrating me.

James in the truck waiting for me to get something out of the house:
James: Sigh.....
Ryland: Daddy, why did you do that? You have an attitude.

Those are just a few that stood out to me while I'm typing this but the list goes on. It's so amazing to see what he comes up with. He is a spitfire and the saying about having a "red-headed temper" proves true with him.

He loves to play outside in the dirt and wants so bad to catch a lizard. I hate lizards and won't go near one so I've told him he has to wait until Daddy gets home. The other night, I asked James to help him catch one and so off the two of them went. James sticks his head in the door and tells me to come outside. Ryland is sitting outside with a lizard in his hand. The look of accomplishment and excitement was a picture moment so I had to run get the camera.

See what I mean?????

2010-03-29T21:28:00.003-04:00

Thanks Kim for reminding me to post pics of the carpet and tile on the fireplace. I also posted a pic of the bookshelf I bought for Ryland's room.

I am still loving my carpet so much. It's so nice to pass the carpet section in the home improvement stores and think..."Ahhhh....I love my carpet!!!"

Anyway.....here you go...enjoy!

It's so pretty!!!

2010-03-17T16:14:00.002-04:00

My carpet is in and looks WONDERFUL!!! I was so pleased with the outcome and the color is great! It feels like you're walking on a blanket!

We also have our fireplace retiled and it looks great!

I love the smell of new carpet........

Yea!

2010-03-05T13:39:00.003-05:00

This weekend we are getting new carpet! I am so ready, I've been waiting for 10 years to get it! Thanks to tax returns, the time has finally arrived!

We also are redoing the tile on our fireplace. I'll post pics when it's completed. We have to grout and seal it and we'll be done. I am so thankful James is a great handy man. That guy can do anything!!!!

Whoo Hoo!!!!!

Winterplace, WV

2010-02-28T21:07:00.006-05:00

We are back from our ski trip to West Virginia! We had a wonderful time even though getting up there was so tough, I thought I was going to soil myself or throw up!!!

We left at 4:30 and arrived at 11:30ish. The last 1.5 hours were rough b/c the roads were covered in snow and the wind was the strongest wind we have ever felt. James held on the the steering wheel with both hands the entire drive up there. We had to stop at a Walmart 20 miles away from the condo b/c that was the closest one. When our truck got sideways in the parking lot b/c of the snow, I knew the next 20 miles were going to be rough. We traveled slowly on the interstate, following any semi truck so that we could see tire marks. The rest of the road was white, plus the wind...not a fun ride. Turns out that a snow storm was blowing through and they got 8 inches just that night.

We finally got to the ski resort. Our condo was at the top of the mountain so we drove up there and we got almost to the top when we got stuck. Our truck is not 4 wheel drive so we had to stop and James parked the truck in an empty cabin's driveway until the next morning, when James took it back to the lodge parking lot. Our friend Charles drove to our truck and he and James unloaded our stuff into his truck and brought it up the rest of the way to the condo. Craziness!!!! AND our next vehicle WILL BE 4 wheel drive!

Once we were settled into our condo, it was wonderful! The deck was full of snow so Ryland was able to play in it while I stayed indoors. He also tried to ski this trip and did wonderful!!! He loved it and got tired after about 10-15 mins so we had short trips with him. James, Charles, Amber and Nicole skiied every day and night and had a great time. Vickie and I stayed indoors and enjoyed our books. Everyone was happy! My first successful ski trip that I enjoyed!

We probably got 12 inches of snow there and I have never been in snow that deep. In some spots, it came up to my knees. It was so much fun!!!

I am so glad to be home and so thankful that I don't live up north with all that snow!

Our deck

Family picMy guys

Playing

My little guy skiing

Looking good!

My two guys...loving the snow

Stomach virus go away!!!

2010-02-22T07:50:00.002-05:00

Well, Ryland started the stomach virus off last week with a bang! James and I did good to miss it, but on Monday I was around someone that had it and I didn't know it. By Wednesday, I had it and I have never puked so much in my entire life. I am so thankful that I don't throw up...hardly ever. It's probably been 7+ years since I've done that. I didn't even throw up when I was pg with Ryland. I am blessed that way. :o)

James stayed home from work to watch Ryland on Thursday. Thanks again baby! We thought we were in the clear by Friday until BAM...it hit James Friday night.

Needless to say, this weekend wasn't the best weekend but we made it through and I think we are all on the mend!

Hopefully, this virus is long gone!!!!!

Snow...for real?????

2010-02-14T19:19:00.005-05:00

The forecast called for snow a couple of weeks ago and we got nothing. So when it called for snow again, I was very doubtful, even though the radar map had a huge snow cloud coming right toward us. Boy was I wrong!

It started around 2:30 and stopped...then it started back around 4 and snowed into the night. We got about 5 inches!

We all had a ball and it was so pretty! It's amazing how peaceful and still everything looks when it's covered in snow. Pictures can't show just how pretty it was or how much fun we had but I'll post these anyway.

A day later and it's all gone at our house. There still a little bit on the sides of the road in some areas but we had a wonderful weekend.

Nah.....let's add a stomach virus to the Hyder family...

2010-02-11T13:28:00.002-05:00

I guess I should have not said anything about not feeling well...

Tuesday morning, Ry and I went to church to drop a book off. Some of Ryland's friends were there for bible study so we stayed and he played. Before the end of study, a little friend threw up all over the teacher. We hurriedly tried to get the kids separated and chloroxed all the toys. One day later, Ryland had diarhea and started throwing up last night....every 15-20 mins. That lasted for about 5 hours. This morning, he took a good nap since we didn't sleep last night. He is feeling much better but still has the upset stomach.

We are going to take Ryland skiing at the end of this month so I think we'll be staying home for the next couple of weeks. I do NOT want him getting this virus again. I'm really amazed at how fast and contagious this thing is....

I hope I'm not next.

Seriously...this has got to stop

2010-02-10T07:52:00.002-05:00

I am so tired of being tired and not feeling good. This year, everytime the weather changes from warm to cold and back to warm, I get sick. My sinuses start acting up and I can't breathe and ears/throat start hurting. I've been struggling with this for about 2 months now, maybe a little longer. I went 3 weeks not being able to smell or taste. You'd think that would stop me from eating, but it didn't. :o)

I've tried to stay home this week and I'm debating on going to church tonight. As of right now, I'm thinking not.

I'm so ready to feel better.... :o(

Rainy day in Georgia...

2010-02-05T08:02:00.002-05:00

Yep, another rainy day. This year, we have had tons of rain and cold days. Not usually normal for us. I enjoy rainy days when I can stay at home and relax...but now that I have an active 3 year old, those days are far and few. But...I wouldn't have it any other way.

We are planning on heading to the Y this morning. I do not like getting out in this mess, but I can't use it as an excuse. I am enjoying the workout now and look forward to it on the days I go.

Tomorrow, James and I will be walking in a fund raiser. It's in memory of my friends that lost their baby, Emma. We are taking Ry in the stroller. Hopefully, he'll behave and not ask to get out and walk. We'll see.

It's February!

2010-02-02T08:40:00.002-05:00

Wow! This year is just cruising by...I can't believe it's already February!

Yesterday I signed Ryland up for Mother's Day Out to start in the fall. I've been debating this in my mind for the last year and thanks to my wonderful husband making the decision for me, we signed Ryland up. I really think he'll enjoy it and it will be nice for me too.

We are taking Ryland skiing at the end of the month. Well, James is taking him and I'm taking pictures. I do not enjoy skiing and James has finally accepted this fact. :o) We are going with another family so it should be alot of fun. Ryland has all his gear and is so excited! I hope he's just as excited once we get there.

We are updating our house and I am so happy! It's been a long time coming and so far we have redone the downstairs half bath, Ryland's bath and Ryland's room. We are doing a little at a time and it's been nice being able to update. I can't believe we've been in this house for 9.5 years.

I've been going to the Y on a regular basis. My friend, Trisha, is a good accountability partner. We tried a gliding class the other day and could not move for 2 days after. I've really enjoyed it and I see alot of people from church and bible study.

Ok, Ryland is driving me crazy to go color so I've got to go for now. Have a good week!

Updates

2010-01-25T09:34:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since I've posted but it's really b/c nothing has been going on that is exciting. Ryland is testing me a lot lately, but it's b/c he's 3. That's his job. How I react to him is another thing. I've gotten very frustrated because I feel like all I do is discipline. I'm trying to remember that consistency is the key. We are soooo much alike in our personalities that we are both determined to have the last word. Ugh.

We joined the Y last week and Ryland loves going to the playroom. I don't like it while I'm there, but once I get through it, I'm glad I did. I have really let myself go and it is definitely showing by my getting tired doing the small exercises. I meet a good friend and work out with her. It makes the time go by much faster.

That's pretty much it for now.

Have a great week...I'm on my way out to go to the Y!

Welcome Little Logan!!!

2010-01-14T21:45:00.003-05:00

I now have a new nephew!!! Logan James Johnson was born today and he is my sister's 3rd little boy. I am so excited for them!

My sister is awesome! Her husband was out of town for work when she went into labor. She drove her boys to their babysitters house and then herself to the hospital and delivered her sweet little boy. I am so impressed with her and so proud! Ash - you're my hero! Thankfully, Erik was able to come home today and now they are all together.

Love you guys!!!

2010

2010-01-05T08:40:00.003-05:00

I can't believe it's now 2010! I remember when everyone was worried about Y2K. I will have my 15 yr high school reunion this year! Wow, that makes me feel old!

We finished the 2009 year great! Ryland had a great birthday and we celebrated the greatest birthday of all....Jesus! For Christmas, we had some friends over and exchanged gifts with friends and family. We had a birthday cake for Jesus that was delicious!

Ryland got his green car, aka, power wheels vehicle. He LOVES driving it around the yard and cul-de-sac and he's a pretty good driver...for a 3 year old!

I always laugh at New Year's resolutions b/c I think they are made to be broken. :o) But seriously, I am going to try to lose some of this weight. I've got to get back to going to the gym and eating better. I did it before and lost 30 pounds. I know I can do it again....it's just going to be hard and I have to want it more than I want the food!!! If any of you struggle with food, you know what I mean!

I hope everyone has a great year this year! I pray that God will grow me(spiritually that is) and help me know how to teach Ryland more about Him.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!!!

2010-01-01T12:44:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year to everyone!!!!

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2009-12-26T22:31:00.004-05:00

And Merry Christmas to all our friends and family.

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Boy

2009-12-18T00:34:00.008-05:00

"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...

2009-12-07T13:51:00.005-05:00

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

2009-11-30T23:17:00.003-05:00

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!!!

2009-11-27T20:24:00.003-05:00

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

2009-11-17T07:55:00.002-05:00

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

2009-11-05T14:32:00.007-05:00

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!!!

2009-11-03T15:50:00.001-05:00

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

The top picture......

2009-10-26T12:16:00.002-04:00

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

Boshear's Fly In

2009-10-18T22:03:00.004-04:00

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!!!

2009-10-13T10:13:00.005-04:00

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

2009-10-11T18:31:00.005-04:00

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....

2009-10-04T21:18:00.002-04:00

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?

2009-10-03T21:12:00.001-04:00

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

2009-10-02T09:49:00.002-04:00

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....

2009-09-24T09:28:00.005-04:00

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?

2009-09-22T17:01:00.002-04:00

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.....

2009-09-07T21:13:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-30T21:48:00.003-04:00

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???

2009-08-27T20:47:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-16T21:05:00.002-04:00

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

2009-08-14T22:52:00.002-04:00

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

2009-07-25T22:55:00.005-04:00

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???

2009-07-25T22:41:00.005-04:00

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....

2009-07-15T15:27:00.003-04:00

On the go-cart All the kiddos

Ryland packing

Tubing with the masses....

Playing superman with Doug

Ryland playing by the river

Helen, GA

2009-07-15T15:08:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-07-03T10:08:00.002-04:00

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

2009-06-27T10:49:00.002-04:00

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....

2009-06-24T22:57:00.005-04:00

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

2009-06-24T22:35:00.010-04:00

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

2009-06-24T21:25:00.005-04:00

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!!!

2009-06-04T00:55:00.005-04:00

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

2009-05-17T16:14:00.005-04:00

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

2009-05-11T12:06:00.004-04:00

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

2009-05-08T10:51:00.002-04:00

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."

2009-04-29T14:42:00.003-04:00

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....

2009-04-20T19:47:00.002-04:00

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.

2009-04-15T08:58:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-04-13T09:03:00.003-04:00

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....

2009-04-07T09:50:00.002-04:00

The weekend is over and it's already Tuesday. James is back in Spartanburg this week and b/c it's Spring Break, everything's cancelled. No bible study, kids choir, storytime at the library is over. It's going to be a long week! It's pretty outside, but windy and cold so it's no fun going outside.

2009-04-03T07:05:00.003-04:00

James is coming home today from "Fartenburg" as Ryland calls it. We are very happy and have missed him very much. He'll go back next week and who knows what work he'll have after that. God knows, that's who! I am trusting in Him to continue to provide for us.

Ryland has been good this week. He is so silly and loves to be tickled. His new favorite book to read is Dr. Suess's "Mr. Brown can moo". He loves repeating all the different sounds in the book.

Looking forward to a nice weekend with my family unit. :o)

Thankful

2009-04-01T07:53:00.002-04:00

This past week, God has once again proven himself faithful to provide for us. With the economy being like it is, the big companies are not wanting to build or spend money which means no work for James. God provided for James to go to Spartanburg for the next two weeks and then he will hopefully have something for the rest of April. In May, he does have work that will take him into the summer.

After going to a women's conference this weekend, my spirit was renewed. Jesus came alive for me again and God providing James this work was just the icing on the cake. I am so thankful and my faith is strengthened. Why do we get in these ruts?

We had a great time at the conference. Some of the guests were Chondra Pierce, New Song, Rachel Lampa, Karen Kingsbury, Angela Thomas, Kathy Tricolli and Stormie Omartian. Great times! The theme of the weekend was "Free to be Real". Love it! My goal in life is to be me, all the time and be real. I used to try to be what everyone else wanted me to be, but now I don't try to please others so much. Can you say freedom???

This was the first time I've ever been away from Ryland for a night. Of course, I had no worries b/c James had him. I never thought I'd be so protective and possessive of my child, but I am. That's me. :o) Ryland had a great time with daddy, but first thing out of his mouth on Sunday was "mommy home!" and he ran and got in my bed to say "hey mommy, hey mommy!" So sweet! It was good for me to have some Shannon time though. I'd say I'm due after 2 years.

Ryland is growing so much. He's learning his colors and does pretty well. He's also learning to count....just not in the right order. He'll say "2,5,6,9" and take off running. He loves to sit and play with his cars and go to the park. He is all boy and thinks he can hang with the big kids. No Fear..... His best friends are Savannah, who he calls "mama" and Tyler who he calls "Ty-Ty".

Didn't know this was going to be such a long post...guess I'm feeling chatty.

Have a good day!

How is it possible.......

2009-03-30T09:57:00.004-04:00

to feel so thankful and happy and praising God that my husband has work for the next two weeks and also heartbroken, yet not giving up hope for a little boy that was healed at birth and now faces serious illness once again. I have followed this blog and have rejoiced with the miracle of God completely healing his heart and now 5 months later, his heart is sick again.

I am praying for this little baby, that God would completely healed him once again.

Just click on the side icon, Praying for Stellan, to read about his amazing story.

Bye Bye Facebook...for right now

2009-03-24T20:42:00.002-04:00

Hi, my name is Shannon and I am addicted to Facebook....

There I said it, I am definitely going to have to take a break from Facebook. I don't know how long I'll be away from it, but I definitely need to put it on the back burner for awhile.

Ryland is doing well, seems to be healthy and happy. He is so much fun and loves to sit on the floor and play with his cars and trains. He entertains himself for longer periods of time and it's so nice. We have one more week of Storytime at the library and today was the last day of bible study. I don't know what we'll do with those two days open. I'll have to plan something, b/c he loves going to the library. I'm sure I'll come up with something, even if it's just going to the park.

He's back.....

2009-03-19T14:40:00.002-04:00

My sweet little boy is back! Ryland has been acting so much more like himself this last week. I took him to the dr today and ears are clear! Praise the Lord! After 6 weeks of double ear infections and 3 rounds of antibiotics, they are clear and I am so happy. He is sleeping through the night and is so silly during the day.

Tomorrow, James, Ryland and I are going to meet Denny and Vickie's new son, Emerson Keegan, whom they are calling Keegan. I can't wait to hold that little baby! I am so happy for Denny and Vickie and they seem to be adjusting very well!

James has been having Fridays off, which I love!!! It's nice to have him home 3 days a week! We've also been doing an exercise program every night for the last week. It is kicking our behinds!!!!

Remembering Emma and Welcoming Emerson

2009-03-13T13:58:00.003-04:00

Today would have been Emma's 1st birthday. Emma is the daughter of some good friends of mine. She lived 8 weeks before God called her home but the lives that were touched through her short life could never be counted.

Today, my friends Denny and Vickie are going to meet their son. Because of God's great timing, they are becoming a mom and dad for the second time on March 13th!!!! God is so good! Words cannot express how happy I am for them.

Our God is an awesome God!!!!!

Thank you Lord, for bringing joy in the mourning!!!!!

2009-03-11T12:23:00.002-04:00

It's been awhile since I've blogged. Sometimes it just seems there's nothing new to blog about and other times I just don't want to sit long enough to type something out.

Anyway, Ryland is on his 3rd antibiotic for his double ear infections. He hasn't been sleeping well and that means we haven't been either. No sleep for me is not a good thing. I'll take him back to the dr next week and hopefully his ears will be good.

Family Weekend Getaway!

2009-02-27T14:55:00.004-05:00

This past weekend, we went to Edventure and the Zoo in Columbia, SC. We had a good time and it was nice to get away for a little while.

Ryland barely spoke while we were at Edventure, a children's museum. He was so overwhelmed with all the things he could get his hands on (and not get in trouble for doing so). It's a cute museum and we'll be going back as he gets older and can do more the of the exhibits.

On Saturday, we went to the zoo. It never ceases to amaze me how we all pay money to go see animals sit, sleep, and play. Anyway, Ryland enjoyed seeing all the animals and James fed some birds with nectar. I, of course, freaked out b/c I was scared a bird was going to get me or land on my head or poop on me. I don't like birds. in case you didn't know. (Sidenote...seems the older I get, the more I don't like animals...I don't get it.)

On Sunday, we headed to Greenville to shop at the Outlet Mall. Would have been nice if we knew it opened at 1:30 BEFORE we got there at 10:30. Oh well....we headed back home and were able to get some naps in before Monday started the week all over again.

Poor little boy....

2009-02-18T13:54:00.002-05:00

Ryland finished his antibiotics this past Sunday for his double ear infection and on Monday started saying "hurt me, hurt me" (Ryland-ese for I'm hurt) and was holding his ear. Great, I thought, so I called the dr yesterday and they said to bring him in to check his ears. Dr. B looked at them and said they were still infected really bad so she put him on another, stronger antibiotic for 10 more days. I'm glad I took him, and I hope this stronger medicine works.

This weekend James, Ryland and I are going out of town. I'm so excited b/c we haven't had a family get-away for awhile now. We are going to Columbia to Edventure and the zoo. I hope Ryland has a great time and you can be sure I'll be dosing him up with the Tylenol to help his aches and pains.

Last night, I played Bunco with some friends and had a great time. It's so much fun just to get a night "off" once a month.

That's all to update for today... Have a great day!

Yea!!! Daddy's home

2009-02-13T16:43:00.004-05:00

James got back safe and sound on Wednesday! Ryland and I were so excited, I felt giddy. Ryland has been James's magnet since he's been home. James worked at home yesterday and is working at home today. It's been nice to be able to spend time with him and have him home with us.

Such a great Valentine's present! I'm glad he's home and we're praying that his office gets work soon so he won't have to go out of town to work on projects.

The 2 pictures are Ryland kissing and hugging James. He did this everytime we got off the webcam with James. So sweet!!!

2 more days....

2009-02-09T21:32:00.002-05:00

James will be coming home early!!! He'll be home on Wednesday and I am so ready. Ryland is going to be so excited to see him. I did warn James not to be surprised if Ryland decides to be a stinker and not want to go to him. He can be like that sometimes...

One week left....

2009-02-06T08:17:00.003-05:00

UPDATE*** Ryland doesn't have a cold, he has a double ear infection. No wonder he's acting like this...

One week from today, Ryland and I will be picking up our favorite guy in the whole world!!! I am so ready for my family to be whole again. James has been doing well in California but is ready to be back home!

Ryland has a cold again. This is his 3rd since New Year's. Ugh! I am so ready for him to be well again. He slept in my bed last night and it was constant coughing, a little fever and a ton of tossing and turning. I am hoping tonight will be better.

Today is my mom's birthday so I want to wish her a Happy Birthday Nonna!!!!

Week 2

2009-02-04T13:47:00.003-05:00

We are in the middle of week 2. Ryland and I are doing good and James is busy, busy, busy. I am starting to miss him more, but I keep looking on the bright side, we're halfway there.

Since James has been gone, several days Ryland gets this picture down and sleeps with it. I think it is soooo sweet. It's a picture of James and Ryland on a friend's tractor. Ryland was 3 months old in the pic, but he knows that it's "daddy and i-i".

Week 1 down

2009-01-31T21:58:00.002-05:00

James has been in California for almost a week now. It's been going better than I thought it would. We've been really busy so the week has flown by, thank the Lord. Next week is not as busy and the third week is pretty empty for us.

James is doing well and enjoying the sights of California. Today he visited Yosemite and really enjoyed it. Yesterday he played Pebble Beach with my brother in law.

Ryland has been doing well. Since we are able to see James with the webcam 2x a day, it's been really nice! I'm so thankful that Ryland is feeling well and doing really good. He is definitely a mama's boy! No complaints here...

Tuesday

2009-01-27T16:48:00.004-05:00

We had bible study this morning and I enjoyed it. It's nice to get out of the house and Ryland loves to play with other kids. Afterwards, I came home to put Ryland down for a nap but it seems that he had no interest in that idea so we went to get the truck's oil changed. Now we are back home and I decided to let him play with his sand/water table he got for Christmas. I bought some dry beans to put in it and right now, I am not going to do water. :o) Once it gets warmer, I probably will.

I also bought him some elmo slippers to wear. He had such a ball with Tyler's the other day and he loves wearing mine and James's shoes so I thought I'd get him some slippers to play in.