Beautiful 'Bry'...

I caught the little guy looking straight into the camera
You don't have to ask me twice if I want to hold him!

Mommy and son

Mommy sneaking a kissI swear I almost had him talkingZach takes over!
Zach with 1st cuz and 2nd cuz

I discovered last weekend, that I had forgotten just how tiny, newborns really are. Bryson is precious. I had him all to myself on Saturday because Zach shyed away from holding him. On Sunday, however, when Nicole placed Bryson in Zach's arms...he wouldn't give him up. I now refer to him as the 'baby hogger'! Yep, those babies have a way of tugging at our heart strings, and my big ole burly boy, who shows very little emotion...took an instant liking to the little tyke. (And you all thought I was bad!) We had a great trip even though it wore me out(I don't travel well, anymore) and its taken me most of this week to recover. As a matter of fact, I just may feel well enough to go back down this weekend.....lol..NOT! Really, I DO know my limitations, but still can't wait to see them all again. Til next time, blessings!

Hump day...

Today is Wednesday, so you know what that means. I'm listing five more blessings that I'm thankful for, in my life. Guess I should wait and post a pic of the 'little man' another day, since TODAY is already spoken for...

1. RAIN - and we're getting plenty of it!
2. NC VISIT - good trip...just not long enough.
3. PRESCRIPTION MEDS - helping my body to function.
4. MY HAIRSTYLIST - who not only rocks at her profession...she's fun, too!
5. TOBY - our border collie who is ALWAYS happy to see me!

Til next time...wishing you a wealthy Wednesday, too!

Tickled 'red'...

I'm tickled to be travelling to Clayton, NC, this weekend to visit with Nicole and to meet her son. I believe Nicole is as excited as I am. I don't know what her plans are, but mine consists of spoiling that baby and taking a bunch of photos while doing so!

We are having beautiful weather here and while I was out and about yesterday, I spotted a few buds, popping out on one of my rose bushes. All of this makes me very happy.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend. Til next time, blessings!

...another Wealthy Wednesday...

It's wealthy Wednesday friends, and as promised...here are five more blessings that I'm thankful for today.

1. SUNSHINE - It's gonna be another beautiful day.
2. MENTALITY - Even though you guys probably think I'm crazy...I'm really rather sane.
3. HEALTHY LABOR and BIRTH - This includes my niece's health and my great nephew's, too.
4. EXTREMITIES - Although, they don't always function like I'd prefer for them too, I'm still thankful to have 'em all.
5. GAS - The John Deere tank is full...I can mow. The Mazda tank is full...I can travel. 'My' tank is full...I can 'release'!!...which means my digestive system is working the way it should be!!

To God be the glory, ...and may you experience thankfulness in your life today. Til next time, blessings!

Sunshine for the soul...

Today is 'Sun'day, and it's raining again. There were storms overnight, and rain is in the forecast for the entire day. To add to this, I heard from my doctor yesterday. She informed me that most of my lab work looked good, with the exception of my cholesterol still 'stinking'. She also said my vitamin D level was extrememly low. With 60-80 working well for your body, mine was 17.6. "I NEED MORE SUNSHINE", I answered. Evidently, it's not that easy of a fix, cause she prescribed a vitamin D supplement for me to take twice weekly. So, I felt like I still needed more sunshine this morning. This is why I posted the pics of such...

Til next time, blessings!

The little prince makes his debut...

After months of planning, excitement, and much anticipation...today, Nicole is a mom. As I write this, I'm not holding back the tears. (my coffee is beginning to taste salty!) Yesterday was such a roller coaster of emotions, phone conversations, text messages, prayers, thoughts...I've been trying to recap them over and over in my head...

Friday, May 15th, 2009 (times are approximate)

8am- Nicole called me and says her contractions started at 4:30am. We talk until 8:30am when

she calls her doctor.

8:35am- she calls me back to say her doctor is having her come into the office for examination.

9:00am- I talk w/Rhonda(friend) and catch up with her on the happenings in our lives for past

2 weeks.

11:45am- My brother calls me to say they have admitted Nicole to hospital and gives me a

number where I can reach her(she wants to hear from me)

12 noon- I call Nicole. We talk for couple of minutes and she says she'll call me back.

1:15pm- Nicole calls me. They have her checked in and settled in. We talk for some time. Ann

(Dallas' mother) is with her. Dallas has been called.(10 min. away at work) Paula

(Nicole's dearest friend and the 'God mother') is on her way, but is 2 and a half hours

away.

1:30pm- They give her something in her IV to help her relax. I'm still on the phone with her,

thinking how cool it is that she's in labor and they allow her to be talking on a cell

phone! Suddenly, she thinks EVERYTHING I say is a hoot...the medicine's kicking in.

We sniggled and snickered until I could no longer understand a thing she was saying!

She assures me she's fine and will call me when something happens.

1:45-7:00pm- These hours drug by and I piddled with everything known to mankind, to try and

and stay busy...to only check the time...a million times...wondering if she was suffering

during these hours.

7:00pm- I call my brother to see if there's been any word. "things are progressing", he says.

7:30pm- I text Paula to see what's happening...she says Nicole is doing great.

8:15pm- Paula texts me and says..."here we go!", "I'll call you when it's over and I get back

outside".

9:00pm- Bryson Ray Hopper is born, weighing in at 6lbs. 60z. and 20 inches long!

9:45pm- Brother calls to give me the news

10:00pm- Nicole calls me and is ecstatic! She gives me the 'lowdown'. Dallas and Paula stayed

with her through the actual birth. And Dallas didn't passout!! U go boy!!

Both mother and son are healthy and happy...oh, and Dallas, too. And the three become a family................Congrats, you guys and may God bless you, every day. I'll be down next weekend to meet my little great nephew. Until then, much love...and blessings!

The baby's coming...the baby's coming...!!

Just talked with my niece and she is in labor! More info in my next post.

One of my treasures...

I'm still very blessed and thankful! Just felt like I needed to say that after yesterday's rant. Also, it goes to show that no matter how perfect we think someone's life is...EVERYBODY has issues. With that being said, we'll move on to something more exciting and extremely challenging. So, come follow me...I've got something to show you...................................................

About a year ago we purchased a 1966 Yellowstone camper...you heard me right, it's a 1966. I would have preferred a 1962, since that was the year I was born, however, we looked 'forever' for this little treasure. We didn't know what she would actually be(what make)...we only knew that we wanted an antique, not fully gutted....possibly in half decent shape, to restore and give it new life. The following pics show what we got... I love this stove!!

Single bunk over dinette area(folded up)...look above the windows...

Ok, here is same bunk, folded out...

Another view...reminds me of a coffin, though...

I am excited to have this beauty, even though we've gotten sidetracked many times, and it's taking a while to get her the way we'd like. But, we have started the restoration, and so far replaced the commode and floor in the shower, replaced hot water heater(this cost almost as much as we gave for the whole camper), replaced hoses and fixed leaks underneath the camper and kitchen sink, had new foam cut for daybed, dinette, and bunk cushions...and as I write this, we're in the process of having that foam, covered in two different patterns of gorgeous fabrics! I hope to show you some updated pics in the really near future.

Til next time, blessings!

Screen door with tin panels......Shot of the front...Full view of front...We removed a table from here and will make this a daybed/couch.Shot of cabinet area over daybed...Dinette area...previous owners had a mattress here to sleep on and ate at the table that we removed...Shower...Toilet...actually this sits right inside the shower...Another shot of toilet/shower...we've replaced the flooring and toilet since this pic was taken.Kitchenette area...this is why I absolutely had to have this old camper...the turquoise colored stove(and it works)! It looks awesome and so retro! There are cabinets over this area, too.

Blowing off steam...

Ok, I'm sure you daily readers (thanks Kat!) remember me mentioning Zach's learning disability in past posts. He has Auditorial Processing Disorder (APD) and he is also ADHD. These two together have proved to be one more mean concoction. There are many traits to APD, but the main thing to remember is that people who suffer from this disorder learn in a totally different manner than the average person. Zach's hearing is great...but what he actually hears is the problem. He appears to be 'normal', to his peers, in most situations....but, in the classroom...this is where things get tricky.

Zach was not diagnosed with this disorder until the end of his 3rd grade school year. I don't think at that time, I truly understood the impact this would have on his future. The school set up an IEP (Individualized Education Program), for him, based on his academic test results and needs. This IEP is renewed and adjusted, accordingly, at the end of each school season, for the following year. Basically, it follows the standards of learning for the average student, but allows for easier lesson plans, extra time for completing work, preferential seating(like at front of class), one on one tutoring, etc. Also included in the IEP can be suggestions from teachers and myself on how to make Zach's school experience, a successful one.

Another trait...and believe me, there's a lot involved with this disorder...is disorganization. Therefore, we cannot trust in Zach, alone, to come home with important information, like interim reports, notices, etc. In the past, I would recieve a phone call from a specific teacher if there was a problem and his grade was in jeopardy. You can guess my surprise and disappointment, when I received a letter in the mail yesterday from his English teacher, stating he would not pass English II for the year. I'm also angry, I guess...angry that someone dropped the ball! No one called me. I had no idea, therefore, I couldn't step in and do all I could to prevent this failure. The letter stated that low tests scores, noncompletion of work/make-up work, and poor effort were the reason for the grade. As a parent of an LD child, I realize that there is a DUD in every bunch, but I'm so sick of some teachers assuming that poor effort is 'pure laziness'. I also realize how frustrating their jobs must be(I wouldn't want the job), but I can assure them, it's just as frustrating and heartbreaking, for us parents, who watch our kids on a daily basis 'act out', to try and cover up for their lack of knowledge and insecurities. We also suffer right along with them, when they do 'get it' , only to not remember 'it' the next week. That reminds me...there's another phrase that makes my hair stand up on the back of my neck..."Your child is not working to his full potential"...ok, is it just me or is it getting extremely HOT in here?? To me...the parent of a child with learning disabilities...thats,...thats just like saying, "hey, ya know , your kid's just not performing like he ought to"...Well...helloooooooo! I DON'T GUESS HE IS!!

I think the best thing for me to do right now is to go outside and breathe in some really fresh(polleny) air. I felt I needed to vent but really had no intention of 'stopping up' the Blogger network with so much negativity. (I'll work that one out with my Lord) And Kat...I promise to do better in the next post. Til next time, blessings!

Wealthy Wednesday...

Have you heard the great news??...I'm rich! After 46 years...oops, I forgot...recently that number changed to 47...(laughing), I am wealthy. No, I didn't hit the lottery. As a matter of fact, I don't even play the lottery. And I'm not an heir to a financial windfall, either. This has nothing to do with money, really, but has EVERYTHING to do with blessings. My life is so truly rich with blessings, that I'm thinking I may start a new tradition here on this blog. On Wednesday's, in the future, (Wealthy Wednesday)...I will list 5 things (blessings) I am thankful for. This could go on for a while. Afterall...I'm rich!!

1. GOD - for creating all things beautiful and for loving me despite my sins.
2. CLOSE FAMILY - we are small but big in love, heart, and support.
3. MOTHERHOOD - there have been and continue to be, some very trying moments, but the happiest ones, by far, out weigh those.
4. FRIENDS - it goes without saying, I have the best ones anywhere.
5. CRAFTING TALENT - my crafting abilities bring me so much joy.

Have a fun day and til next time, blessings!

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day to all mother's but especially to my own. It is because of her, that I am the woman, that I am today. And it is because of her that I am the mother, that I am today. Thanks, mom...you are beautiful! Blessings!

Baby update...

**THIS UPDATE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY...one more EXCITED great aunt!!
Seriously, I failed to comment in my earlier post this morning, but just wanted to say that I talked to Nicole last night. Of course, she's still miserable and said she had not felt like doing anything for past 3 days. However, she did have doctor's appt. on Thursday, and he informed her that "Bryson" has turned, dropped down with his head in the birthing position, and dialation has begun. We are thankful to hear this news, as in previous visits, the baby had been in the 'breach position'. She can 'go' anytime now, but if she doesn't, her next appt. is on the 13th, and they may very well discuss inducing her labor, at that time. Whoooohoooo........!!
The family members have somewhat of a 'pool' going round...but I don't know what the prize would be, should I win. It's not the guessing of the date, but yet, the closest to the correct measurements...my guess is 7 lbs 14 1/2 oz and 19 inches long. But, wouldn't it be groovy if he was born on Mother's Day? I'm just saying...(wink, wink)

I wann'a new drug!...

I feel as though I'm neglecting the blog but I haven't been having the best of days, this week. I did go back to my doctor, in NC, yesterday (follow up and lab work) and together, we decided to 'shake things up' a bit, if you will. Sometimes, just a small change in meds can help, so we will be experimenting, starting with baby steps...that is, after my lab results come back next week. She did tell me that there is a brand new drug thats just appeared on the market, and geared especially towards the fibromyalgia patient. She feels like I'm possibly a good candidate for this new drug and that's exciting for me!
It appears my body aches much worse when rainy and damp, not alone to mention, it makes your days gloomier, mentally, also. And in central Virginia, it's been raining and cloudy (with the exception of MAYBE 6 to 10 hrs.) for the past 9 days! Very unusual, but very much needed also, if history holds true for a dry summer.
Everything is so wet, that we cannot get into our garden to plant, nor can I get any flowers into the ground, BUT...I now have hanging baskets on my porch, which does give a little facelift to the drab looking space.(thank you Mom and Dad!) And the grass is growing so fast that Tom may have to bush hog it! I'm really thinking the lawnmower may not go through it very well. We were attempting to mow, last weekend, when the rain came again, and ran us into the house. So you can imagine what the part looks like, that didn't get mowed, after another week of rainfall. One thing's for sure, though..the good Lord above will send us the right amount of rain that we NEED...He's really not concerned with the height of our grass!! So we shouldn't be either, right??
Well, I have to admit, ...I do like my yard to look nice, but I'm still following His lead. Thank you, Lord, for yet, another beautiful day and for lifting my spirits, and reminding me to enjoy each and every one of them. Til next time, blessings!

Little voices...

You lovely people are lucky that I mostly use my right hand when typing. Otherwise, I'd have to take an extended blog vacation, due to Mr. 'Artie'...thinking it's been way too long since his last visit with me. I've been dealing with carpel tunnel for the past few months, leaving my fingers numb and tingling...but not experiencing very much pain at all, with this. It does however, remain frustrating, to beginn to grasp something and think you've totally 'got it', but you don't! The item falls to the ground(or at least out of reach) and sometimes breaks or shatters, (depending on what it is), and in most instances, creates another mess for me to clean up. And yes, this is enough for any human, to have to deal with, but Artie...well, ole Artie decides he's gonna get in on the action, too! So, yesterday morning, I awoke feeling as if someone had broken my left thumb while I was sleeping. I have to admit...this is the worst arthritis pain I have ever experienced! But...like I said, you're lucky (hahaha) it's my left hand. And though my inner voice (the sane one) is reminding me to stay calm, soothe it with cream, take an extra pill, and wear a hand support device...I'm finding it somewhat difficult not to go with the outside voice, which is yelling..."Ok, Lord, ya think ya could give me a little break, here?...I mean, really...don't you think you owe me some kind of explanation?" Now, my spiritual voice chimes in, to clear up any misunderstandings I may have by stating, "My Lord doesn't OWE you anything...He has given the ultimate sacrifice for you, by taking your place upon the cross. He bore YOUR pain and suffering, then he died...for YOUR sins!" Ok, now I'm actually ashamed of even noticing my small discomfort, which is really what it is...small discomfort. Thank you God for your mercy!
I guess there's a lot to be said, for those little voices in your head. Til next time, blessings!

Fun Friday results...

I survived the shopping trip with Zach on Friday and have to admit...it really wasn't all that bad. In fact, I never got the first wedgie. Didn't even get my tail feathers ruffled. He got some new shorts and shirts and we DID NOT ARGUE. This was highly unusual, considering I normally would swear that he tries his best to dress as poorly as possible. He always looks like a bum, wearing items that have holes in them...items that do not match, and tee shirts with the sleeves cut out of them. The only time I think he looks really nice is on Sunday's when he dresses for church. On the otherhand, he thinks I try to get him to dress 'preppy', and he says that's not his style. I don't care which style he prefers...I just want him to look neat, and not like he just crawled out from under something! I don't feel that's too much to ask or expect. So, on Friday, I decided to keep my mouth shut, keep my opinions to myself, and offer my assistance in helping him find his sizes in whatever he picked out. Hey, it actually worked! The shorts are nice looking shorts and though I was not 'loving' the graphic tees he picked out, at least they weren't vulgar or inappropriate. So, will I be able to control my suggestions about his apparel in the future? That remains to be seen, but for THIS weekend...I didn't have to keep a knife with me to cut the tension with, around my house. And that is a good thing! Til next time, blessings!

Fun Friday...

It's Friday!! This used to mean something to me when I worked a public job. I'd get so excited about the end of the work week, but now, everyday seems just like the one before it. There's no difference to me, really. But, Zach has a long weekend...teacher's work day, at school. So, I think he and I will head to Lynchburg this morning to do a little shopping, and maybe have lunch. I should attempt to enjoy this little outing...afterall, the two of us used to be 'tied to the hip'. These days, though it kinda feels like dragging a huge bag of dirty laundry around with you, wherever you go! In other words, the trips together are not that pleasurable. In six short weeks, Zach will be seventeen years old. That should tell you something. He and I don't have the same tastes, in ANYTHING. Well, I take that back...we do listen to the same kinds of music. He enjoys the same rock music (and groups) that I listened to back in the late 70's and 80's. But, that about sums it up, as far as us agreeing on anything. Then, there's that 'thing' where the teen boys don't want to be seen(having fun) with their mothers. And even though I "get this", it doesn't make the situation anymore enjoyable or bearable. I do realize though, that this child 'o mine will be leaving the nest way sooner, than later, so I'll just SUCK IT UP and try to get the most enjoyment that I can, out of these days I spend with him. I'll just make sure before we leave this morning, that I'm wearing my 'big girl panties'! Til next time...blessings!