Make a difference

I love to teach. I love being a teacher.  I love how I get the chance every day to influence young minds. This can also weigh heavy when I know that I care more about a child's future than they do. I am an old fart. I've been chewed up and spat out by the real world. These young, immature, know-it-all minds have no idea what is about to slap them in the face. 

I have known that I would be getting an observation for a week or so. With all the testing that is going on, it has been a nightmare trying to schedule it. I obviously want my observation, that dictates how good of a teacher I am, to be done during one of my better classes. Teachers know exactly what I am talking about!

After having an awful day, I felt defeated. I knew that my observation wasn't going to go well and that I was going to have to suffer the consequences. Thanks to my amazing wife, we hammered out a great lesson that I know would have gotten me top scores!  Unfortunately, I will never know how well I could have been scored on that lesson. You see, during that awful day, we had a faculty meeting in which some sensitive topics were discussed; multicultural diversity, racism, and stereotypes. Things that can cause an uproar quickly if not handled with delicacy. It weighed on me hard. I'm not sure why it did, but it did.

I woke up the day of my observation and I told my wife, "I think I am going to talk about multicultural diversity today during my observation." Without skipping a beat, "I wouldn't do that" she said.  Generally, when it comes to education, my wife is on her A-game and she TOTALLY knows what she is talking about. She can help me with anything I throw at her in regards to assignments, students, rules, consequences, you name it.  However, I am a teacher. It is my job to prepare students for the next chapter in their life. I am realistic, not all my students will go to college.  Some of my students may drop out of school. Either way, if I don't talk to them about sensitive subjects, who will?  Who will educate them on diversity?  Who will educate them on what education really is?  I am not saying that it is my way or the highway, I just want my students to be informed about whatever the topic is and to not just jump to conclusions.

So I did just that, taught a lesson about diversity, racism, and stereotypes. I didn't mention one thing about Geometry other than to apologize to my principal, who was doing my observation, that she would not be seeing me teach math today.  IT....WAS....GREAT!  The students were engaged.  They were giving great feedback.  You could see them really thinking about the rhetorical questions I posed to them about these sensitive topics. 

Now the suspense. When will my post conference be?  What will my evaluation be like?  Will I get 1's and 2's (top marks are 5's) because I didn't teach my subject?  Most teachers would have an anxiety attack if they were in my shoes. But let's be honest, most teachers wouldn't have done what I did. They would have just taught the lesson they knew they would score great on. Not me. Not this guy. I like to push things to the limit. I like to see what young minds think and/or know. I like to make them think in ways they haven't thought. 

What will the scores on my evaluation be?  I don't know and I'm not sure I care. I teach my students about choices.  I made a choice to do what I did and I will accept whatever happens because of my choice. Here is what I know and what I care about. I know that I was a TEACHER today. I taught something that those kids will think about the rest of their lives. I taught those kids something they will need to know about the rest of their lives. Those kids were engaged and we had a very respectful conversation about a topic that a lot of people are afraid to talk about.  I will accept whatever scores I get because I know that it doesn't define me as a teacher. It doesn't define what kind of relationship I have with my students. And it certainly doesn't define the ultimate intention that I had when I became a teacher, to produce citizens that are respectful and genuinely good people that will help others when the time arises. 

I know I was placed in my new school for a reason. Not sure what that reason is. It may have been to deliver the message that I did today. I will never know. But I do know that I trust Him to get me wherever it is He wants me to go. 

Big Break?

Anyone else call their mama and tell her everything? If you nodded or agreed in any way, just know that I do too. I call my mom every single day. She's my friend, which is a right I've earned now that I am an adult. However, something happened over the last couple of days that I kept just between me and Jack. Sorry, mom. She is going to be reading about this for the first time here with all of you.

So it's no secret that I am searching and praying for God's direction in my life. We've been seeking him daily for a sign or an answered prayer as to just what that calling is. I've felt torn, confused, and overwhelmed lately because I feel like I'm supposed to be doing something for God, but I feel like I'm grasping for straws as I try to get what that is.

I saw an ad on a website for "Female Singer" in the little town of Pigeon Forge. It was on a gospel site so I knew it probably was related to gospel music. I'm going to refrain from naming the place of business and the website I found the information on, however, for legal reasons. I immediately sent a headshot, song demo, and my resume and cover letter in a brief email to the guy listed as the contact person. Meh. Let's see where this goes.

I got an email back informing me that this place was closed for the week, but that he'd get back with me on Friday. Meh. Ok.

Saturday afternoon, the aforementioned contact man called me. I missed his call initially, but returned it as soon as I got his message. He wanted me to come in for a live audition. They loved my demo, thought I was beautiful and just had to see me ASAP.. Could I come tomorrow (Sunday)? Umm... Sure.  I needed a track to sing with. (Wait, people still use those!?) I needed a good stage outfit. (Sparkles? All black? #innerbeyonce) Jack and I were up until midnight finding just the right song and the perfect outfit. Muchos gracias to Morgan Easter for her help. Love the Easter Family!

Sunday morning we struck off for Pigeon Forge after dropping off Cam at his mom's.  I seriously thought I was going to throw up the whole way there. Forget butterflies. I had hornets in my stomach. It literally HURT from being so nervous. I've never done anything like this before. An audition!? My sisters are the singers, not me. What. Am. I. Doing.

Precious Jack talked me out of jumping out of the car a few times. Haha, he was probably really fed up with me. Anyhow, audition time came. I sang. On a big stage. By myself. Then I had to sing and harmonize with the other singers, which was easier for me. I'm used to blending in, not standing out. Oh, did I mention they asked me to sing and OPEN the show? Because they did. And I did. I sang in front of an audience at a legit show. Who am I and WHERE IS KAYLA!? Jack said I did well.

And guess what? They offered me the job. Incredible pay. Several perks. A contract! What!?  Exciting!

But...

I didn't take it. I turned their offer down. We could have moved to PF and been so much closer to Jack's parents and closer to my family. We could have made decent money. I could be ministering through song to people as a CAREER. But I said no.

As we watched the show, it was obvious everyone in the room was already a Christian. They'd already accepted Christ or they already are aware of him and salvation. It was a GREAT and POWERFUL show, but it was just that... A show. I spent five plus years watching those "shows" where it's someone's job to perform. If I am going to serve God, I want it to be in a capacity where it is real, and where people know it isn't a show. This is not for me. It was for my ex, and it's the career of many, many people in the Gospel Music Industry, but it is NOT for me.

In Matthew 9:12-13, Jesus is talking to  spiritual leaders and states  "...It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I desire mercy, not sacrifice. For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." Talk about a sign. For someone, the job I turned down is going to be perfect. But for me, why would I want to minister from a stage to a room full of saved people when there is a lost and dying world right outside my door?

We've both felt lately that God is wanting us to help people.  We have felt super compassionate towards those who are less fortunate than us. I am not trying to brag and say "oh look at me helping people!" No! I am telling you moments that have touched and changed my heart. For example, we helped a homeless guy in Vegas this summer. We were walking along a bridge looking to give our leftover dinner to someone, however, how do you decide which of the ten homeless people to give it to? As I looked around, I noticed a homeless man with a small pizza that someone had given him. He was SHARING IT with another homesless man next to him. It hit my heart like a hammer. Wow. He GETS it.  I've found myself pulling over for people on the side of the road. I feel LED to do that. I know it's dangerous, but if I feel God leading me, I want to follow! We gave a needy man breakfast yesterday morning on our way to PF. I don't care if he does drugs or is a raging alcoholic. I don't care if he is unemployed, cusses, or smokes. I want to love people. Like Jesus did.  So while I may have turned down an AWEOSME job, I feel like in my heart I did the right thing. Even if that audition itself was what led me to grab Dusty some breakfast, a handshake, and some hope.

To follow Jesus means we love what Jesus loves.

Fussy Friday

So I've been seeing this post going around Facebook and Yahoo News about the couple who had the amicable, almost seemingly pleasant divorce. I read the articles about it and wished, oh how I wished, that more people were like this. I know my divorce was U-G-L-Y. It just was. And we didn't have children, thank goodness, or it could have potentially been a complete nightmare. I've been witness to the ugliness that divorcing with children can cause- it's happened to several members of my family and my friends. It's happened to my husband. Some people can be so nasty.

I know several months ago I posted a blog titled about being a Stepmomster and got some great responses and support from my friends and family. I can say here and now that it hasn't gotten any easier. It is a challenge that we work through every day, and I have a feeling it will be something we work at for many, many years to come.

Camden is a growing little dude. He's getting so big... and even more so independent! He is super clingy too, but to his dad. Rarely does he want to cuddle with just me. We both love to cuddle with daddy, so it's usually a person on each of his arms. I still feel at times that he resents me for "taking" his daddy- from certain looks he gives me to even ignoring me altogether sometimes. I hope he knows one day that I ONLY want what is best for him, and for his daddy, and that I love him so much. No one ever (I think) plans on just inheriting someone else's children before having any of their own. I didn't just get the man, I got the family. But it's not easy. I'm not his mother. Part of me tries to avoid "mothering" him, because he already has been beautifully mothered. It hurts. Who wants to be a "mom" and not "mother" a child? 

*SIDENOTE* And yes, I said MOM. The more I hear the word "Stepmom" the more I CRINGE. Like, where does that word even come from anyways?  I've researched a little, but couldn't find any good explanation of where the prefix "step" comes from in regards to being a stepparent and why it is used.

Sometimes, I wish he would cry for me. Sometimes, I wish he would run to me and hug me when he sees me. It's so hard to explain this longing to people. Especially my husband. Lord love him. He's the best! Sometimes though, I feel like no one understands how it feels to be in my position and to be sitting on the "Who Can Be the Better Parent" sidelines, or sometimes the referee. I couldn't do what my husband does, which makes me even more thankful that I don't share a child with my ex-husband. It hurts me to see Jack hurting and longing for his son. Y'all. I can't even deal sometimes. 

Anyhow, until we have a child, I just think how I know of one child who makes me feel especially loved, wanted, and needed. Oh my sweet Ryleebug! Since she was a little booger, she has loved me- a lot! I made a special place in my heart and my birthday for that precious child. She still tells people "I was KayKay's best birthday present ever!" And boy, is she right. On trips home, she still runs to my arms and gives me the biggest hugs and kisses. She is like me in many ways- sassy, bossy, and flipping hilarious. But she is especially like me when it's time for us to leave to come home to Nashville. Sometimes, she feigns illness or injury so that I'll hold her just a moment longer. For example, at our wedding shower, she got her hand "hit" as in it was brushed lightly. But you'd have thought it had been cut off from the amount of anguish and tears that child produced. She climbed up in my lap and stayed parked there for at least an hour. I even had a huge wet stain on my dress from her tears. Sometimes she will cling to me like that, but other times she will distance herself from me in those last moments, and often refuses to tell me bye. Sometimes Bug, that's easier for me too. I'm tearing up now just thinking of the times we have said goodbye to each other, and it always ends in tears. I ate lunch with her one day a couple of years ago, and when it was time for her to go back to class, she lost it. I lost it. We were both big, blubbering babies there in the hallway at Mossy Creek Elementary. I am pretty sure I had to sit in my car for fifteen minutes so that I could gain composure to even drive myself home. That child means the world to me, and I am so thankful that Tara and Ryan brought that beautiful Angel into this world for me to love on.

So this was kind of a rambling and random blog, but sometimes you just have to take a mental dump and clean out the mind! I have so much more I could say, but won't. Right now at least. Everyone have a safe, happy Labor Day weekend!

For.

"For or against?" she said.

The look on my face was probably a mixture of confusion, surprise, shock, disgust, and anger all rolled into one.

"FOR." I said firmly.

My mind was racing, and all I wanted to do was reach across the counter and slap the fire out of the Walmart cashier who just rang up my five pack of digital pregnancy tests. On my way home, I prepared a speech for her, since I was too angry to speak at the moment I had my chance. Here goes.

You really asked me if I am for or against being pregnant? Excuse me while me and all the other mothers out there trying to conceive bring our army to stare you down with an evil, unimpressed glare. I am for life. I am for having a baby and a family with my husband, whom I love with my whole heart. I am for the precious look he had on his face this morning when he saw the pregnancy test wrapper on the counter and excitedly asked "where is it?!" I am for his gentle, comforting words and kisses when he read the window boasting "Not Pregnant."

I am for the mothers who take care of their babies as they should. I am for the grandmothers, aunts, and relatives who take care of the babies whose mothers can't or just won't. I am for fathers who love their children, even if they don't get to see them near as much as they'd prefer.

I am for spit up, dirty diapers, and no sleep. I am for potentially going a couple of days without a shower just to make sure that my baby is cared for and his or her needs may be met. I am for all nighters when I will probably not sleep a wink just so that I can watch my sweet baby breathing and smell that intoxicating scent that only a baby can produce.

So to answer your question, I am FOR. Even if it was unintentional, I would still be FOR. I will always be FOR.

Dos and Don'ts of Camping at the Beach

Let me start by saying I am clearly no camping expert. My husband kind of is though, and I probably would not have ever done this had it not been for having him. We had some laughs, some eye rolls, some snark and some snips during our trip (what couple doesn't!?) but we had a BLAST. And little Dax had fun too. He is definitely a beach dog and loved every single second of burying his whole head in the sand. He will probably be sneezing sand for a week.

We camped at a campground in Panama City Beach called Camper's Inn. It was a cute little place and had anything we needed- bathhouses, pool, laundry, even a convenience store on site. I will say the only two downsides were that it's right next to one of those slingshot rides, so we heard screaming quite late through the night. The other downside is that it was right across the road behind Club La Vela. (LOL)  We got to hear lots of bumping music through the day and night!

I decided to make a list of Dos and Don'ts of Camping at the Beach when the folks who camped next to us (Hi Danielle and Cody!) had never heard of the baby powder trick. (More on that later.)  Also, I wanted to make a list just so we remember next time we go, because we are DEFINITELY going back!

The List:

1. DO take lots of bug spray. The good old-fashioned-full-of-deet kind. Bugs are everywhere. Citronella candles help too. DON'T try those Pinterest tricks for keeping Mosquitos away. Dryer sheets, baby oil, etc.  Seriously. I'll take my chances with the deet chemicals as opposed to quarter-sized bug bites on my body and West Nile.

2. DO take a pair of rubber boots, tennis shoes- SOMETHING that covers your whole foot so that you can walk around the campsite and not have sand up to your eyeballs. DON'T wear and take only flip flops. (I'm looking at you, mirror.) You get the dreaded spray of sand up your calves and then  you have to wash it off, etc. So. Much. Sand.

3. Speaking of sand, DO take the biggest bottle of baby powder you can find! Put it on any area of your body that has sand on it and literally the sand falls right off. We kept ours next to the door by our tent and it worked perfectly at keeping our tent and sheets sand free. DON'T take a little tub or basin to wash your feet off in. It is useless at getting your feet 100% sand free. Baby powder smells good too!

4. DO take a shower just before you're ready to crawl in bed. It is so refreshing to wash away all the bug spray, sunscreen, and sandy butt crack (y'all know it's true) just before you fall asleep. I sleep better when I feel clean! DON'T bother taking a shower when you first get off the beach. I know it sounds gross, but you still have to put on all that bug spray, eat, sweat,  play with the pup, etc. Just wait. Trust me. I took a ginormous tub of baby wipes.

5. DON'T plan on sleeping late. It is impossible to do with the thin tent walls. You hear stuff, get blinded by sunlight and you will be warmed up as quick as the first ray of sun shines in your face. DO get up early and take advantage of sunrises and cool breezes. #worthit

6. DON'T count on your phone for a flashlight. Sure mine was helpful, but at 2am when you need shoes to go to the bathroom and they're nowhere to be found a phone light just doesn't cut the mustard. DO take Christmas lights, lanterns, etc to keep the area well lit. Tacky? Sure. Better than a pine needle stuck halfway up your toenail? Absolutely.

7.  DON'T take just one cooler. We only had one, and it had all of our food and drinks in it. Who wants to lug a half gallon of milk to the beach every time!? Not these folks. DO take multiple coolers so that you have one for the campsite and one to haul over to the beach. One big cooler and one smaller, portable cooler would have been ideal.

Other tips:
-Get a campsite closest to the bathhouse. Your bladder will thank you for the shorter trek at 2am.
-Take a sand buggy or a wagon to haul crap over to the beach.
-Take an outdoor rug to minimize the sandy feet stuff. SO glad we took ours!
-Take cool showers. The water heater was not working in our bath house but that actually turned out to be awesome. The cold showers were refreshing and didn't leave us feeling sticky.
-Take fans. All the fans.

What are you leaving?

Most of the time when we talk about leaving, we think of negative connotations.  We think of leaving a job, leaving a boyfriend/girlfriend, leaving a store.....you get the idea.  That is how we are wired as a society now.  All we see are negative things all over media, TV shows, everywhere we turn.

But I am not a negative person.  I do not watch the news (except weather and sports).  I try, and usually, find the good side of things.  Now, let's get one thing straight, I can be bitter without being negative ;).  There is always a good side to every bad thing.  It may take its time to reveal itself, but God has an ultimate plan and for every "evil", there is an even bigger and better "good."

Some of you know my career path and some do not. So let me take a moment and share.

I worked in retail from the time I was in high school until just a few short years ago.  I held many different positions with some amazing companies such as NIKE, Tiffany & Co, and a little mom and pop company called Alumni Hall based out of Knoxville, TN.  I've been the, as my dad would call them, boot licker (associate), and I have been the one to wear the boot (manager).

My career really took off when I was with NIKE.  I worked there all during college, 40 hours a week while taking 15 hours course work (I was raised to always work hard).  My dream was to become a CPA for NIKE and work in Beaverton, OR at company headquarters.  After graduating college, I knew that in order to work my way up, I had to be willing to relocate.  So I did, to Nashville, without knowing a soul!  One year later, in the infamous words of Donald Trump, YOU'RE FIRED!  Talk about being devastated!  

I worked a short year at a Disney Outlet store (NOT the most magical place on earth), then to Tiffany & Co.  Great job, great pay, great people, and customers actually weren't too bad either.  Worked my way up and took an Assistant Manager job at a new store opening in Columbus, OH.  Wow!  Career was on a fast track!  I was making $65K+ per year!  Well, 8 months later, I was homesick.  Moved back to Nashville with no job, $0 per year.

That is when I had to REALLY sit down and decide, what do I WANT to do?!  What was I going to leave?  I had always loved subbing at my alma mater middle school (Seymour Middle), and I LOVE baseball.  So, I want to teach, influence young people's lives, and coach a little baseball.  So I went to school and received my Masters in teaching.

My first interview went great and they even needed help with the baseball team.  PINCH ME!  I landed a job helping kids and coaching a little baseball!  Salary of a teacher, about $35-$40K.

Now you know....

In my classes that I teach, I have what I call "Life Lessons."  They have nothing to do with parabolas, slope intercept form, x and y, etc.  They have to deal with real life.  One of them has to deal with success.  I have the students explain to me their idea of "success."  So I will pause and ask you the same question, how do you define succes?

Career? Money? Choices? Experience? Those are all things my students say.  Am I less successful as a teacher than I was in retail because I make less money?  Am I less successful because I have a job that many people "appreciate" but would never do?

Now let me ask you this, who determines success?

YOU and only YOU!

So here is MY definition of success and how I want to live it.

I consider myself successful because I have an amazing wife and family.  I am successful because I am blessed with a great son.  I am successful because I get to fulfill my dream of helping students see beyond X and Y and prepare them to be an adult.  I am successful because I have the opportunity EVERY day to do something great.  I am successful because I get to help others realize their dreams and obtain them.  NONE of which have to deal with money.

My last question, what are you leaving behind?  And what I mean by this is, what kind of legacy are you leaving?  What are YOU going to be known for?  Are you doing what you were put on this earth to do?

I have fianally been able to answer this question.  YES! 

I now wear two bracelets both given to me by a great friend, Brandon Forbes.  I am blessed beyond words that he was put in my life.  The first bracelet (pictured below) says "Be A Champion."  This, for me, represents my purpose in life and with AdvoCare.  My purpose is to provide for my family so they never have to worry about a thing.  To help others by inspiring and motivating them to reach their full potential!  

Last night I received the "LEAVE A LEGACY" one.  This one really made me think about exactly what it says.  This one represents my dedication and perseverance that I will achieve my purpose and goals.  I will leave a legacy for my child(ren) and with those that I help, inspire, or motivate.  I will be remembered as someone who genuinely cared for others and their well being, not selling NIKEs or jewelry. AdvoCare has blessed my family in so many ways.  Let me finish before you roll your eyes.  AdvoCare stands for "an advocate who cares."  No really, it does (www.advocare.com).  I care about my friends and family.  I want them to be healthy and financially stable.  AdvoCare is truly in the business to help people do just that.  THAT is why I was put on this earth, THAT is why I will be successful, and THAT is what I will leave as my legacy..... SOMEONE WHO HELPED OTHERS.

Dad Day

Everybody is posting pictures of their weddings with their daddy and smiling pictures and posed cheek kisses, and I thought about doing that too, but changed my mind. My dad is not the sentimental type, so he'd probably just peer over the top of his glasses at the photo, check it out in detail for about two seconds, and then just keep scrolling. I could get him some fancy gift, take him to some fancy place for lunch, but he'd rather get a dry-fit material shirt and eat a simple rack of ribs from Rib Country. 

My dad is a very simple man. He is perfectly content with his fizzy water, a Tom Clancy book, Listerine strips and a cool, quiet house as he is some big Father's Day party. He'd rather rock Jonah to sleep and hold the little dude than probably anything on earth. 

I always think about my simple, sweet dad on Father's Day, and it think about the things that he taught me. They may not make themselves evident at all times, but he instilled them in me nonetheless.

He taught me to work hard. Not only that, do it right the first time so that you don't have to waste time doing it again. (Two words dad: dog food) My dad has the best work ethic of any person on this planet. If you want to count on someone to do a job right, well, and thoroughly- call him. And if he can't, he will find someone who can.  

He taught me to work hard for what I have. Don't depend on others to just hand it over- work for it. Earn it. Deserve it. And if you don't get it- oh well. No sense in worrying about it. You don't and won't always get everything you want. 

He taught me to appreciate what I have. Don't be real sorry and lazy.  I (and Jack) keep a clean home, well-maintained vehicles, and clean clothes. I take care of what I have.  I appreciate the roof over my head, the car I drive and the clothes on my back because I worked hard for them . I appreciate them. Did I always do that when I lived at home- nope. (I'm convinced that there's this disease you contract as a teenager that voids your brain of all conmon sense and basic knowledge. You only get rid of this disease when you no longer bear the word "teen" in your age description.) I didn't always appreciate what I had when I was younger, but looking back now, I had everything I could've wanted or needed. Anything I didn't work hard for or appreciate- I see now that my dad did. 

How did I think  the lights in our house cut on EVERY SINGLE TIME I flipped a switch? How did food miraculously appear on our table EVERY NIGHT? How did we have vehicles to get around in? TV to watch? Oh, you want a piano? How did my butt manage to be in church every time the doors were open? I get it now. 

Thank you dad for being a great leader and influence in my life. I hope that I make you proud. 

Summer-time Blues

Ahhhh Summer. We are right smack-dab in the middle of it. My newsfeed is a constant rotation of bonfires, pool days, cookouts, fields of fireflies, cold beverages, expensive boats, and sun kissed, smiling faces. I truly love this time of year. It's like everyone is more relaxed and laid back during these next couple of months. Except me. I'm not.

Today, life got me like a metric ton of bricks. This morning, Jack went to school. You know, the one he works at and I don't. I'm sure I sound like a big spoiled brat with what I'm about to say but I just don't care. He went in his school, in his classroom, and I didn't get to go. I didn't get the comforting feeling that we were in the same building, with the same people, with the same friends anymore. We don't share common students, and therefore we won't have common stories to share and compare. I'm not just down the hall from him. I can't just waltz to the freshmen hall to grab a snack from his fridge, and heat up my lunch in his microwave. I can't just pass by him in the hallway and be greeted by an adorable wink and crooked makes-me-melt-every-time smile.

My heart hurts.

Most people think we are crazy and just don't see how we work together day in and out. However, I don't see how MORE couples don't do what we do. Both of  our parents are together majority of the time, and they are happy. My parents own a business together. His parents are happily retired together. This kind of relationship is what we KNOW. Both sets of parents seem happy, and both have been married for a combined total of at least 65 years. I want that too. I LOVE being with my husband. He's my best friend, and there's no one on earth I would rather hang out with.

We truly work better together. It was like a comfort blanket thing knowing he was  right up the hall if I needed him for something or if he needed me. We shared classroom supplies. We shared advice. We kept one another up to date on school happenings and deadlines. I really just used all past tense words. It's going to be so different doing this alone. I'm sure I'll make new friends, and I'm sure Jack will too. I don't know a stranger, and neither does he. I know it could be worse- we both could be unemployed, sick, or worse. I realize my problems are trivial in the grand scheme of life. I realize how blessed I truly am.

It's just another season. This too will pass. In the mean time, pity party for one, please.

Askin' All Them Questions..

I love the "Questions" song/video on YouTube. It never gets old, and I may or may not know all the words? Anyways, I stumbled across this little survey this morning on Facebook and decided to fill it out for Jack and him for me. Enjoy!


1. What is something your husband always says to you?

"Let's go!"He loves to go places, eat at new restaurants, and try new things. I'm more of the homebody. Also, "okay!" Anything I ask for or suggest he agrees to 99.9999% of the time.

2. What makes your husband happy?

Camden- his son. He loves that little boy more than anything! Time with our family turns him into this big teddy bear. I'd also say baseball. It's a close second.

3. What makes your husband sad?

In relation to #2, not getting to see Camden as much as he would like. Also, Jack is such a passionate teacher, and I know firsthand that it makes him sad to see his students not care and not try. It breaks his heart. He's even broke down crying in class before. His students KNOW how much he cares for them!

4. How does your husband make you laugh?

When he tries to dance. He has no sense of rythym. Lol.

5. What was your husband like as a child?

He was a little mischievous boy! He also talked and asked questions a lot, and now he is getting his payback for that!

6. How old is your husband?

He is 33! He will be 34 on November 9.

7. How tall is your husband?

Really dang tall. 6'2 or 6'3. But I love it!

8. What is his favorite thing to do?

I really can't pick just one thing here. Travel, be outside, play/watch baseball, and make other people smile. He also really loves running! (Weirdo.)

9. What does your husband do when you're not around?

Miss me like crazy and text me. Lol. We really are together most of the time, so honestly I don't know.

10. If your husband becomes famous, what will it be for?

Well we have applied to be contestants on The Amazing Race, so I think that would be a possibility.

11. What is your husband really good at?

What ISN'T he good at!? He is such a handy man and surprises me every day with things I would never think to be able to do. However, if I had to pick on thing, I would say he is REALLY good at cooking breakfast!

12. What is your husband not very good at?

Singing and dancing. He's quite lacking in the musical department. (Love you anyways babe!)

13. What does your husband do for a job? 

He teaches Algebra like a BOSS!

14. What is your husband's favorite food?

I honestly have no clue. He is always trying new foods and loves most everything he eats. (A true man.) He does really love barbecue though and has craved it a lot lately!

15. What makes you proud of your husband? 

What makes me proud of Jack is that he is always able to find positives amongst negative situations.  His positive outlook is contagious!

16. If your husband were a character, who would he be?

He would probably be one of the Avengers or Marvel superheroes.

17. What do you and your husband  do together?

EVERYTHING!!!! Except teach together. That's gonna be a new one this year. :(

18. How are you and your husband the same?

We are alike in many ways. We both love to travel, and we love to go new places. We have similar likes and dislikes. We both have such a drive to see our students do well and it's nice to have someone to vent to when they don't. ;)

19. How are you and your husband different?

I mentioned earlier that I am a homebody. Although I do like to travel, when I am home, I want to be HOME. I like to make the most of my mortgage. Also, I'm hesitant at times to try new things (as in foods.) He is very social and will try absolutely anything!

20. How do you know your husband loves you?

Well, I know he loves me because he tells me multiple times a day, and shows me by taking such good care of his family! He always makes sure we are happy and will do anything to keep us that way. It's also so awesome to hear other people tell me just how happy he seems and how his demeanor has changed and how they can tell just how happy he is with me. It's a great feeling for other people to notice things like that.

21. What does your husband like most about you?

He definitely likes my goofy sense of humor, and I'm sure he loves my curves. ;) lol.

22. Where is your husband's favorite place to go?

Anywhere with me and anywhere he's never been. I know he really likes Southern California- as in San Diego.



Now it's time for Jack's answers about me. Enjoy!

1. What is something your wife always says to you?

I love you.  How'd I get so lucky? Can you do me a favor? I miss baby Jonah.

2. What makes your wife happy?

Hopefully me. A clean house. The words bunny and poof.  Baby Jonah. 

3. What makes your wife sad?

Not listening to her, especially if she is asking you to do something.  Being away from her family. 
Her not feeling wanted/respected by her family.

4. How does your wife make you laugh?

Her quirky one liners/questions.

5. What was your wife like as a child?

Quiet,  kept to herself, but smart and intelligent.

6. How old is your wife?

28

7. How tall is your wife?

The perfect height(h)!  THERE IS NO H IN HEIGHT BECAUSE H'S ARE EW!  5'8" I think?

8. What is her favorite thing to do?

Facebook!  Take drives through the country with the windows down, go to the beach, see baby Jonah, go on vacations.

9. What does your wife do when you're not around?

Get in bed or on the couch and get on Facebook or pinterest!  She will sometimes clean when im gone.

10. If your wife becomes famous, what will it be for?

Becoming a professional blogger.  She is an amazing writer and she has an uncanny way of getting her point/view (s) across to readers. 

11. What is something your wife is really good at?

Arguing.  That is why I think she would make a great lawyer.  She is good at writing.  She is amazing at motivating students. 

12. What is something your wife is not good at?

Loading the dishwasher.  I always have to reorganize so that more can go in it.  Part of it may be my OCD too.  I wish she would see the good in situations more than the bad.

13. What does your wife do for a job?

Be my wife.  That is a job in itself. But she is amazing at it!  Oh, and she is a teacher and even more awesome at that.

14. What is your wife's favorite food?

Mesican.  She loves some chips and salsa!

15. What makes you proud of your wife?

EVERYTHING!  Proud of her confidence, proud of her intellegence, proud of her thoughtfullness, proud of her witiness, proud of her beauty, proud of her accomplishments, proud of her strength.  There would be less to type if this question was "What are you not proud of?"

16. If your wife were a character, who would she be?

Cinderella.  Two reasons.  1.) She loves Cinderella and 2.) She has been rescued from a broken heart and tough road.  She is now loved and cherished by her knight.

17. What do you and your wife do together?

EVERYTHING!  She is my best friend and I wouldnt want to do anything with any body else. 

18. How are you and your wife the same?

We finish each other's sandwiches!  We think alike.  We are almost always on the same page.  We like doing the same things.

19. How are you and your wife different?

I try to see the good side in everything and know that things happen for a reason.  My wife sees the worst case scenario and it tears her up which tears me up to see her like that.

20. How do you know your wife loves you?

Because she has stood by my side through tough times and great times.  She encourages me and supports me.  She does things that I like, sometimes, even if she doesnt like to do it (ie. Running).  She praises me when I accomplish something and she tries to lift me up when I dont.  She is my shoulder to cry on when I am feeling down.  She will listen to me when I need to complain. 

21. What does your wife like most about you?

My legs ;)  Hopefully my experience in situations.  My words of encouragement.  My willingness to do anything for her at a drop of the dime.  My respect for her.  My love for her.

22. Where is your wife's favorite place to go?

Anywhere warm.  She does not lke to be cold.  Preferably a beach, but Vegas, North Georgia, or Phoenix will also do.

My Mom Rides Roller Coasters

I remember when I was about ten or so our church youth group took a trip to Six Flags in Atlanta. My mom was one of the adults who always went on our youth trips. My thirty-something-year-old (yes, she is young!) fanny-pack wearing mama was going to Six Flags. I had never been before, and was kind of nervous. Would I fall out? What if the thing gets stuck? What if the seatbelt comes loose? I will never forget as long as I live just how scared I was as our group walked up to "The Ninja." I almost puked as we snaked through the lines and up to the platform. Just before picking the seat we wanted, my mom grabbed my hand and pulled me in with her. I was shaking from head to toe. She buckled us in and pulled down the shoulder harnesses. I was too scared to even move. I don't think I took a breath the whole way up the hill. Noticing this, mom reached over, grabbed my hand and with a smile said "Don't be scared Kaylabell!" When the ride was over I was so thankful. Mostly that it was over, but also thankful that I had a mom who didn't want me to be afraid. I remember that it banged her head around so much that it made her earrings poke her head and she was bleeding. Still, I was in awe. I have the coolest mom ever. My mom rides roller coasters.

We rode others that day- The Scream Machine,  Batman, Mindbender...but I will never forget how I thought my mom was SO cool. And by default, that made ME cool. It still makes me laugh that she and my dad have season passes to Dollywood, and that she rides the roller coasters there too.

In my short twenty-eight years, my mom and I have been on many other roller coasters together. She was on the "Overly-dramatic Middle School Hormones" one with me, bless her heart. She was the first person I told when I was accepted to college. Even though she didn't understand at times, she was on one with me all throughout college, and I'm sure she was SO happy when it was over, just as happy as I was getting off "The Ninja". She was the first person I called when I got my first teaching job, and I know she was excited to get off the "Teaching Job Hunt" ride I dragged her on every once in a while. She was on one with me the day Jack and I bought our first home. A really fun one was the day we told her we had eloped. That one really thrilled her. She loves to ride the "Dance Party" one. My mama absolutely loves to dance. Is she good at it? Not really. But she has a good time, and that's all that matters. The "30 Years of Marriage" one is probably her favorite. I know she LOVES being on that one with my Dad.



There were some that I liked more than she probably did. The "Let's Move to Nashville (With One Week's Notice)" one was pretty surprising and unexpected for her. Regardless, she hopped right on it with me. Then there was the "Kayla Ran Away...to Hawaii" one. That one nearly made her heart stop.



We've been on some super fun rides, but we've also been on some not so fun ones, and even some down right scary ones. Mom, do you remember that ride called "Rebellion"? That one was scary for me too, because I wasn't sure where it was going or when it would end. Remember "The Eating Disorder"? Lord you prayed us BOTH through that bumpy ride. The ones called "Heart Break" and "Depression" were pretty bad too. You didn't know how to fix that, and I'm sure as a mom it was hard to watch me on those, especially the times I had to ride it alone.Those were rough, and jerked us both around pretty hard. Thank you for riding those with me when you could.

Probably the scariest one I ever pulled you on was the one called "Ugly Divorce". That unfamiliar, unpredictable ride was the  worst one I've ever asked you to ride with me. You'd never been on one like that before, nor will you ever be again, trust me. Daddy has always been so good to you, has never laid a hand on you, or talked ugly to you. This, this was scary for us both. But I was so thankful that you reached over, buckled my seatbelt, pulled down my shoulder harness, and told me over and over, "Don't be scared Kaylabell!"  And even though I was scared, we still made it through. We got off that terrible ride, never ever to get back on.  You didn't have to ride that one with me, but you did. You didn't have to ride any of them with me, but we rode them all together, and so far, we've made it through every one. We haven't fallen out, we HAVE been stuck at times, but we always made it to the end together. Because YOU are the cool mom who rides roller coasters.

Growing Pains

I moved to Nashville in March 2011. I went straight from living in my parents' house for twenty four years and being within a ten mile radius of my entire family, to living in a whole new state by myself in just a span of two weeks. To say that it rocked my little world would be an understatement. Jack has lived in Nashville for a little more than ten years. He's a little more adjusted to the whole "no family around" thing, as his entire family is scattered across the United States.


I am so thankful for him and that through this crazy journey we came together. I truly don't know what I would do without him. Jack and I are SO incredibly close. Like, how did I previously make it for twenty-seven years of my life without him? We are close because really, we are all we have up here. We have to rely on one another. We have to sacrifice for one another and basically just figure stuff out on our own. We don't have the luxury of calling grandma if Camden is sick. We don't get a free babysitter if one of us has a dentist appointment or if we want to go out.


While this seems difficult at times, and often results in feelings of loneliness, frustration, tears, and vent sessions between the two of us, there are times when I feel like Superwoman. I've had to deal with stuff that most of my friends will never have to deal with. I don't have mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, or cousins at my fingertips or beckoning call. Yes, I have close friends up here who would do their best to help me out at the drop of a hat. But they have lives and family too, and sometimes they aren't there. Like when Jack and I had to move from our apartments to our new home- we had to do that all by ourselves, just the two of us. No help. At all. And it sucked. But as always, we relied on one another, communicated well, and it got done. We had to.


We do have some trusted support networks in our area, but again, they have families and children of their own to tend to. This leads to the feeling of being "un-needed." I get that feeling a lot. No one here needs my help. No one around here needs my friendship. Many people we know and are friends with in our community already have lifelong friends and family that are close by, so why would they call me? I am not needed. Sometimes I feel that no one at home needs me either. They've made it just fine for the four years I've been gone.


We have already started talking about how to handle the holidays this year. Last year, we spent Thanksgiving in Knoxville, Christmas Eve in Knoxville, and then Christmas Day with my family. We will probably just do the same thing this year because it worked out pretty well for us. But what happens when we have children of our own? (Lord willing!) Do they have to get dragged around here and there and never get to enjoy Christmas in the comforts of their own home? Will they get the opportunity to run down the stairs at OUR house to see what Santa has brought, or will it always happen at someone else's house? Not to say they'd enjoy it any less if it took place somewhere other than their own home, but still, it's the principle of the fact. I mean, what if one Christmas someone got the flu and we COULDN'T go home; the hassle of having to "hide" presents; the cost alone of traveling. The stress adds up, and so do the miles on our cars. Sorry if this hurts feelings, but I can literally count on one hand the number of times I've been visited by my family since I moved to Nashville. Man, it would be so nice to have the roles reversed now and then. However, I doubt that will change anytime soon with the pending arrival of the first biological grandchild. Cam is technically the first. I know it was my choice to move here- and it may sound like I'm being whiny and selfish, but I am being whiny and selfish. My blog, my rules.


I love my family more than anything, so don't think that this is a bash my family blog, because it's not. I miss them. I am missing the birth of my nephew, birthday parties, family get-togethers, funerals...I hate feeling left out. Again, I know it was my choice to move here, and really the career opportunity here makes up for some of it, but definitely doesn't replace it. Not really sure how to end this blog, because it feels like one long hissy fit. So, rant over. Carry on.

Obsession

Any person who is close to me or has hung out with me for an extended period of time knows that I have a terrible, no good, rotten, annoying habit. Sigh. I twirl my hair. Not just a little bit. Not just every now and then. Not just when I am nervous. I twirl my hair compulsively. My mom said I started doing it when I was two years old. All throughout my life I was told "Stop doing that or your hair is going to fall out!" or something along those lines. I said the other day that my hair has started falling out at an alarming rate. Now, those words from childhood are haunting me.


Here's how it works: I randomly select a small "chunk" of hair from the back or side of my head. I wrap said piece of hair around every one of my fingers- starting with the pinky. I wrap and twist and twirl until the hair is so tightly wrapped around my fingers that it's sometimes painful, and my fingers turn purple. My fingers are constantly sore from where I pull my hair so tightly around them. I'm sure you're thinking- just pull your hair up so you won't do it! Oh no. That doesn't work. Even when it's up I manage to pull tiny strands out of the bun or ponytail I'm sporting and I'll twirl those. I've even started doing it in my sleep.


And I confess to you today that this bad habit is getting much, much worse. The first step is admitting you have a problem..right?!


The weird part is that half the time, I don't even realize I am doing it. Only when my fingers hurt, I need both hands to do something, or someone tells me to stop is when I am aware of what I am doing. Jack absolutely hates it. It drives him completely insane sometimes. He knows I am not "stupid" but he has told me that when we are in public and I am talking to someone while twirling my hair, that it makes me come across as sort of ditzy. (Even though I DESPISE that whole Jessica-Simpson-over-the-top-obviously-acting-stupid thing.) Again, I am not even aware that I am twirling my hair some of these times, and I truly cannot help it. And I especially am not a ditz, thank you.


Today as I looked down at my pinky fingers and noticed they were "dented" and purplish, I decided to do an innocent inquiry as to what my deal is and why I keep doing this crap. So, I googled "Hair Twirling". This yielded me 1.58 million results. (OH.MY.GOD.) After searching through the first twelve or so, I had immediately self-diagnosed myself (I do this frequently. Thanks, WebMD) with a disorder called Trichotillomania. This disorder is when a person compulsively pulls their hair (check!), and may result in the person pulling their hair out (check!). What is even worse is that according to this site I looked at, it stated that "Women account for "70% to 90% of all cases." People have to wear wigs because of this. People get scalp infections from this. Some people eveb EAT the hair they pull out. EW. So much for a light-hearted internet search.


But it's not like I am intentionally pulling my hair from my head- that HURTS. I just mess with it to the point where sometimes a strand or two will fall out on its own. (I am now assuming it is due to frequent stress and tension that I cause...) I found another article called Am I Nuts? that was written by a psychologist at Yale. This psychologist absolutely insists that hair twirling is done in self defense and that it is a "body language clue to people around you." Hmm. I am guessing it is a subconscious body language suggestion for me then? It goes on to state: "What does your finger in your locks say? It says, 'Leave me alone! I'm reading.'" I can deal with that.


Still, am I crazy? AM I nuts? I am not trying to convey my emotions to anyone through twirling my hair. It's just a habit! It's comforting! So finally, I looked up nervous habits. I found this website about nervous habits. I could feel the Yin and Yang, smell the essential oils, and feel the deep breaths when I clicked on this page. (No offense to you essential oils folks. I'm actually considering trying them.) I found this statement: "Nervous habits related to 'hair' such as twirling or pulling hair, are often linked to the head or the crown chakra. This is about boredom, lack of concentration, consciousness, a desire to open the crown chakra and 'see' beyond. emotional problems" Oh. Yes. So it's saying that as I twirl my hair, I am in a state of peace or a trance, and am seeing beyond my many problems. Excuse me as I grab a piece of hair and tightly coil it around my fingers....

Stepmomster

On December 29, 2014, my life changed forever. I married the man of my dreams, and in that very moment I became a wife and a stepmother. I didn't just gain a husband, I gained myself a family. Let me start by saying that I absolutely LOVE Camden to pieces. He is such a sweet, loving boy and BOTH his dad and mom have done a great job in raising him. He's only three years old, but already has impeccable manners and is too stinkin' smart for his own britches sometimes. Being that it is unlikely I will ever be able to have children of my own, Cam is the closest thing I have to a "baby." All forty pounds of him. I absolutely love spending time with him and Jack, and the two of them sometimes can make my heart just burst.


I want to say this in a way that doesn't hurt any feelings or make anyone mad, but basically, being a stepmom is really hard. I've only been at it a few months, but it's much different than when I was just a "girlfriend." I am responsible for this child. I need to care for him as if he were my own. I need to protect him from things that could hurt him. At the same time, there is a fine line I have to walk. He is not my biological child. There are certain things that I can't and won't do. I can't console him like his mom would. I can try, but it's probably nowhere near as close. If he falls and gets hurt or has a bad dream, ten times out of ten says he is not going to be screaming "KayKay!" I can't just plan a birthday party for his friends and family to attend. And as morbid as this sounds (please, bear with me!)- if anything ever happened to Jack, I wonder all the time if I would ever get to see Camden or still be a part of his life. It's not my decision, unfortunately. I WON'T punish him- that's daddy's job. However, I already (at times) see resentment towards me when daddy does punish him. Like, maybe if KayKay weren't here I wouldn't be in trouble.... He has a killer side eye.


We get jealous of each other. Am I a terrible person for admitting that? Probably... But it's true. There are times when Jack and I will be standing in the kitchen and I'll hug him or he will hug me, and immediately little man will rush over and try to get between us. He even cried once when he saw us hugging and said through his tears "I don't feel very happy." Wow. Heartbreak. I don't think I necessarily get jealous of him as a person- I love him to pieces! I just know my love for him and Jack's love for him are totally different. Do we both love Cam? Absolutely. But we love him in different ways. Again- he's not my biological child, so I DON'T have that connection to him. Already I find myself struggling with how I am supposed to handle these things. I know I should not take it personally- he's only three years old. But all to often I find myself wondering- Does it get better? Does it get easier?


Back in January I started reading several books about how to deal with the difficulties that come along with being a stepmom, how to deal with the ex, how to maintain a healthy marriage...blah blah blah. I'm not going to tell you the names of the books, but I will tell you that all of them were completely useless. The books all said the same thing: be OVERLY nice to the step-child, suffer silently through any emotional distress you feel, take medicine if you have to, and (gasp!) the most frightening suggestion of all- have your own baby with your husband so that you won't feel so left out and alone. WHAT THE WHAT?! That is just plain SCARY advice, and definitely not what I was wanting to hear. Being a stepmom doesn't mean having to be passive-aggressive. It doesn't have to mean suffering or dealing with pain or unexplained emotions you may feel. Right?!


I decided to do some research among my friends. Several of them are stepmoms too, and have been for much longer than a few months. I promised to keep their names completely anonymous, but did let them know I would probably use their answers for the purpose of this blog. I asked them all three questions:


1. What is the most rewarding part of being a stepmom?


2. What is the most challenging part of being a stepmom?


3. How do you handle those challenges?


Every. Single. One. had pretty much the same answers on the first two questions. It was FRIGHTENING how alike they were- like they had a big meeting before they all decided to answer my message- even though many of them aren't acquaintances.


ALL of them said that the most rewarding part of being a stepmom was the family aspect of it and
how it's awesome to see the kids interact with the father and stepmother in a positive way. It is rewarding to see them do something you asked them to do or taught them to do. I see this with Camden OFTEN. He is like a little sponge and absorbs knowledge in copious quantities. It is unbelievable to watch him learn. Just yesterday he was READING. READING! He got some flashcards in his Easter basket a few weeks ago, and he already has the numbers, letters, and basic sight words down pat. He's currently working on mastering his addition and subtraction facts at the age of three. Now, you may say "Well that's rewarding to see with ANY child" and you'd be correct. But this is CAMDEN. The boy I fix dinner for, tuck in to bed, and play Ninja Turtles with. He's our boy! Proud stepmom moments for sure.


Next question. All of the stepmoms also said that the most challenging part of being a stepmom is that you AREN'T mom. Kids will remind you of that verbally, physically, or any way they can to get the message across. Camden hasn't said the whole "You're not my mommy" to me, and I hope I never make him feel like he has to. There have been times where I've cried over some things he's said to me, but like I said- I remind myself that he's only three and not to take it personally because he is just processing his feelings like I am, just in a different way. Many of them also said that sometimes different viewpoints from the mother and father and lack of communication are very challenging. We've found this to be true also, but that being said we KNOW we all have Camden's best interest at heart.


Finally- the one question where every answer was different. Which- TADA!- I totally understand why. Everyone deals with things and responds to stressors in different ways. There's no "one right way" to be a stepmom, or a parent for that matter. Trial and error. Jack and I have decided that if there is EVER an issue about ANYTHING- we WILL talk about it. I will not "suffer silently" and hold in my feelings. First of all, if you know me WHATSOEVER you know that would and could never happen. I wear my heart on my sleeve, and my emotions are ALWAYS written on my face. I was born without a poker face. We've always had a great line of open communication about everything, which is why our relationship is so great. We've also talked about other ways to deal with our issues- spend a ton of time together as a family, but also there are times when daddy and Cam have "dude time" too. I don't want Cam to feel like daddy belongs only to me. He needs to feel special and loved in a way that only daddies can. For now, we are working through these issues so that when Cam gets older, hopefully there won't be many, and I won't be considered a "Stepmomster."

All that being said, I want to give a shout out to my grandmother (who does not have Facebook or even a computer) and my stepgrandmother. These women are truly amazing. Both of them have always shown nothing but class and respect when they're around one another at church events, birthday parties, or ballgames. They've never made any of us 234987 grandkids/great-grandkids feel awkward. My stepgrandmother has ALWAYS made us feel as though we were her own flesh and blood. She's always shown us unconditional love, has never spoke badly of my grandmother (nor would she ever because she is just THAT nice!), and she has taken part in all major life events. She didn't have to pick us up from school when we were sick, teach us how to drive (and drive well at that!), teach us how to cook (which she totally ROCKS at btw!), or just give us advice on how to handle hard times in life. You helped me through many situations WAY more than you will ever know. I love you Pam (aka Nana), and I am so thankful to have you as a "bonus" grandma!

Spring Break

Snap back to reality....


We were talking the other day and realized that we've only been in school for 7 and a half days in one month's time (including Spring Break). I have enjoyed the time off, but I am excited to get back in the classroom and finish out this school year.


Last week was our Spring Break. In the past four years I've lived in Tennessee I have YET to know why they take Spring Break before it's even technically Spring. Whatever. Anyitsstillcold, we had a good one nonetheless.


We had Camden the first weekend of Spring Break. We started our weekend running errands and playing at home while Jack attended a couple of AdvoCare meetings. We read books, played on the iPad, and watched (of course) Ninja Turtles due to the yucky rain and he didn't seem to be feeling well. Sunday was B-E-A-Utiful and everyone was feeling much better! Soccer was played, cars were washed, and we even did a little yard work. Future reference- Camden hates yard work. Even if it's something as simple as picking up sticks and putting them in the brush pile out back. He just wasn't having it.

We had baseball games Monday and Tuesday (lost them both- BOO.) Wednesday it was time to head to Georgia. We got there just in time to visit my sister and her husband before church. Jon was just about to cut the grass so I made him a Spark so he'd have the energy he'd need  get the job done. They have a new house and a HUGE yard.. He LOVED it. The next day he told us "I cut the grass, I cleaned the nursery, organized the closet, rode my exercise bike...I couldn't stop!" Needless to say he loved Spark! Thursday we ate lunch at Mossy Creek Elementary with my sweet Ryleebug. She made sure we knew EXACTLY what time to be there (11:17AM, KayKay). Little goof didn't eat a bite of her food except for her ice cream Jack bought her.

Fast forward to Saturday night- my parents very graciously hosted a wedding shower for us on Saturday. We decorated with bright, Spring colors and flowers. It looked super cute. It was a nice, small gathering of family members and close friends. Jack's parents were even able to drive down from Knoxville to attend, which was a nice surprise for us. Thank you SO much to everyone who did come. Jack and I truly appreciate you all being there. It meant the world to us that you took time out of your busy lives to spend a couple of hours with us while we were in town.



Rewind to Saturday morning- Jack and I wanted some "traditional" wedding pictures, even though nothing about us is "traditional" in any way, shape, form or fashion. We got all fancied up, and I picked up some cheap (Dollar Tree) flowers and made a surprisingly beautiful bouquet. My sister Carly did an amazing job with the pictures, and it could not have been a more beautiful day. We had several people ask us if we had another ceremony, but nope- these were just for photo-ops. We got married in December. :) Here are some of her amazing pictures (I know most of you have looked at them on Facebook already.) I just can't get over how good they are and how much I just LOVE this husband of mine.

,

Disney Snowcationmoon

Y'all. I am sick and tired of being sick and tired of cold weather. Just ridiculous. Snow! Ice! More snow! More ice! 8763 inches of snow on the way! Puke. I couldn't take another second of cold weather. When I saw on Monday that we were supposed to get up to a foot of snow, I thought my brain was going to explode. I immediately hopped online and started looking at places to escape to before the snow hit us. I looked at Destin- rainy and cold. I looked at Phoenix- $800 for one flight?! Umm, no, thanks. So then we looked at Orlando- sunny, 80s, DONE. We waited until Tuesday to see how the weather was going to pan out. With the snow looking more and more imminent, we figured we were safe to book our getaway. We booked our hotel through Hotwire, and we knew we were getting a MINDBLOWING deal that we couldn't resist. We packed up, loaded the car, and were ready to take off at the first sign of flakes. We also decided to seem this our honeymoon. We didn't get one right after we married, so we figured this should definitely count as one. And since it was just like our wedding (very last minute, "fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants" kind of deal) it seemed quite appropriate.

Wednesday rolled around, and just after 9am they decided to release us from school early. When the clock struck noon, we were OUT! Bye cold, yucky Nashville- hello sunny, hot, humid Florida. We drove straight through, stopping only for gas and a potty break. We made it down around 1:30 in the morning and passed out. We woke up the next day to blasting sunshine and a heat wave. YES THANK YOU JESUS LORD. We put on our swimsuits and headed out to soak in as much sun as possible. We got a little sun, but I mostly loved laying there sweating, feeling the sun on my face, and hearing water splashing around. It. Was. Perfect. We've already decided that we are going to be THOSE snowbirds with a Florida home, or we are just going to retire here altogether.

Friday we decided to take on Disney- ALL of Disney. As in fourteen hours, all four parks. Doable? Yes. Crazy? Yes. Does anything about us surprise anyone anymore? Probably not. We got our park hopper tickets and took off! We strategized the night before about what parks to go to in what order, what we wanted to ride, what we were going to eat (yes, we are THOSE guys who meal prepped for Disney, lol), what all shows we wanted to see, etc.

We got to the park at 8:00am. Literally, the Aladdin lot, front row parking. FRONT. ROW. Already a great day. We hopped on a bus and went over to our first stop- Animal Kingdom. I've never been to this park, so I was SUPER pumped about going. We went to guest relations after being told by friends to get the "Honeymooner's Button." These were adorable and we got compliments and special surprises all day. More about that later. We knew we wanted to do a safari, so as soon as they let us in we booked it there after a selfie by the Tree of Life.  No waiting- no line! Awesomeness! The safari was AWESOME. We saw all kinds of animals up close and personal, and it was just a really neat experience. New fav! We also rode the Expedition Everest Rollercoaster and a Dinosaur ride. Again, no lines! I liked Animal Kingdom a LOT, however, it's basically a glorified zoo. We did everything we wanted there, so on to the next park- Hollywood Studios!

     

In front of Animal Kingdom

The Tree of Life

I've been to this park before when I was seven or eight years old and I remember being bored out of my mind. Much, much better as an adult. We had arranged our Fast Pass for the Aerosmith Rock n' Roller Coaster, which was AWESOME. We rode the Toy Story adventure ride (and waited only 15-20 minutes) which is an interactive game ride where you shoot at things and get points. Of course Jack won, and of course it was because I let him. (HA.) We caught the Beauty and the Beast show, which I loved, and then rode the classic Star Wars ride. The one thing we didn't do here- take a lot of pictures. Whoops. We checked off everything on our to do list there- moving on to Epcot!

Toy Story 3-D Adventure Ride

As said before- I went here when I was younger but was way too young to appreciate this park. As an adult- again, AWESOMENESS. We went STRAIGHT for the Chevrolet Test Track, (men, hehe.) it was pretty neat actually- you design your own concept car on a computer, then it's "tested" based on your designs. (Or at least they let you think it is.) Afterwards, we walked to all the different "countries" in Epcot and settled on a Pizzeria, Via Napoli, for lunch.  All day we'd been getting "Congrats!" Thanks to our buttons we wore. At lunch, they brought us a special (and free!) dessert and sang to us. Precious! We received congrats all day- to the point where it was almost annoying the number of times we said thank you in return, but it was fun and special nonetheless. It was also here at Epcot where Jack just happened to see a "Character Spot" and asked what characters were inside- it was Mickey, Minnie and Goofy! Also, NO WAIT! We walked right in and got our photos like a BOSS. I was in complete disbelief at the lack of lines. I know I keep saying that over and over, but DANG, how lucky can one get at Disney?!

Epcot Picture

Character Spot- STILL thrilled we got to meet three of them!

It started to get chilly and windy so we decided to book it to Magic Kingdom for a photo with my home aka the castle before it got dark. We made it just in time to get a castle pic before complete darkness set in. We got to do several things here because of no lines. We went to the Hall of Presidents, Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Carribean, It's a Small World, Buzz's Adventures, and Space Mountain, which was the ride that we waited for the longest all day. (A whopping 25 minutes!)
 I've been to Disney several times and have waited HOURS for these rides. The windy, cooler day was the perfect day to go. Again, I'm still in wonder that we walked on to nearly every ride we went to all day long.  We finished up our last ride and went towards to castle to claim a good spot to watch the fireworks show. It was breathtaking, as always.

Classic Castle Picture

Now I'm going to play pessimist here. The whole fireworks show was narrated by Jiminey Cricket, and was all about a "wishes come true" concept. While this may be an outstanding concept for a six year old, why are we hammering that "If you just WISH for something, it WILL happen"?  If I "wish" for  my masters degree, ta-da! If I wish for a new car, ta-da! If I wish for a million dollars, TA-DA! I wished for it! I wished on a star! Where's my masters degree? My car? My  money? Why can't we teach these kids that hard work and dedication gets you to your goals? I know I certainly didn't get to where I am today because I wished on a star. Why can't we teach them that determination is what makes a wish come true, and that sometimes... (Gasp!) you DON'T and WON'T get everything you want! Hard to believe, I know. I've always wanted a Porcsche. I've always wanted a butler. Neither of those are ever going to happen, and I'm ok with that. (Plus, a butler would be kind of creepy.) But I digress. Let kids be kids and wish on stars and stuff.

Saturday we played putt-putt together. It's a classic and must for us every time we go on vacation. Jack usually wins, but again, it's because I let him, of course. I really just loved spending quality time with my husband. That's what a honeymoon is about right?!

Anyhow, we had a splendid time on our Disney Snowcationmoon. We were blessed with gorgeous weather, small crowds, and each other. The only thing I can think that would have made it better was of we could've brought Camden. I know it was our honeymoon, but the WHOLE time we were saying "OMG Cam would love this!" Or "Man Camden would go nuts!" We really missed the little guy a lot and already have talked about what all we want to do when we bring him back when he's a little older. On our 12 hour drive home yesterday, we made a hilarious video that pretty accurately portrays our road trips together. You'll find the link HERE- go watch! I promise it won't disappoint.