a MOM that LOVES her LIFE

man it has been a long time....

2009-12-10T07:35:00.003-06:00

SOOOOOO MUCH HAS CHANGED since my last post.....

to make it short....

Toby changed jobs, we sold our house, we moved, Kaitlyn started school, I opened a new gym,

bought a new house, and started a new business venture.....WOW

We have moved......Toby was offered his first Superintendent job in Claude,TX. It has been always what he wanted so it was a NO BRAINER... We loved the idea of being closer to my parents and family, Amarillo, and of course, CHURCH... It is a great school and liked the idea of Kaitlyn starting school in a small school....... BUT ...... it wasn't that easy.... It is (and still is) so hard for me. I (we) loved Childress. We have gotten so close and involved in that great community. But atleast we get to keep in touch with everyone because of FACEBOOK and my weekly trips to Childress to check on F3.

We sold our house.....God is good. We sold our house in a very timely manner... It didn't seem like that at the time....but now we were truly blessed. We sold it to a great family...the new orthopedic surgeon moving to town this upcoming July. We truly miss our house, and our ADOPTIVE GRANDPARENTS...but we keep in touch...

WE MOVED....We couldn't find a house in Claude that we fell in LOVE with so we decided to least for the time being..... That was a learning experience to say the lease... I pray that we never have to do that again.... between not having AC (didn't work half the time), hot water (didn't work half the time) and SNAKE sized centipedes in my house.... I AM GLAD TO BE OUT OF THERE...

KAITLYN STARTED SCHOOL....:( My oldest started school....are you kidding me? She can't. She was so excited and still is. I am so thankful for Ms. Carol and Ms. Angie for getting her prepared for that day and her future. She loves it. We pray for Mrs. Burton everyday. Kaitlyn is me made over...... GOD BLESS HER! LOL

I opened another gym.....Since the day I opened F3-Childress I always dreamed to have a couple more....5 to be exact....that number might be adjusted after this one.... I was actually going to Dumas to look at the equipment to buy and bring to Claude....but I couldn't find a building in Claude....so I said...WHAT THE HELL....! (I put some thought in it...LOL) and we opened F3-Dumas....it is great and I have a great group of ladies that help me there.... I couldn't do it without the help I have in Childress and Dumas. AND OF COURSE...I have the best members ever.... I still haven't found a building in Claude, but I am teaching aerobics a couple of times during the week to help with my workout and other ladies in town.....
you can follow F3 - on FACEBOOK at - FUN FAMILY FITNESS (search by Childress or Dumas) or on twitter

We bought a new house.....I finally had it...and fortunately we found a house that we could work with....It is a fixer-upper to say the least....but that is ok with me... We haven't had tons of time to work on it...but hopefully we will soon. We painted in from HEAD TO TOE and have been working on the flooring....we will finish the kitchen, dining room, and laundry room flooring HOPEFULLY over Christmas. We also plan to recarpet everything, paint outside, pour a patio, plant...plant...plant....lots of bushes and flowers (if you know me...and my past yard...we have a lot of work ahead of us....I do miss my yard in Childress GREAT DEALS...)

started a new business venture......I was not meaning to really do this as a business venture...but you never know how life will go... I have a friend that started on ISAGENIX last year and lost 30 lbs and and lots of inches in ONLY 45 days. She has been asking me to try it for a LONG time...so I finally did....told her with no promises...I am not a sales person and DO NOT PUSH any products or anything on any of my friends and clients....but I have totally seen a difference in not only me, but others that have tried it....that I am a believer.....ISAGENIX is a system that helps your body naturally cleanse...which will lead to losing weight and making your overall health....EXPLODE...(again...I am not pushing this on you...but if you would like to check it out....go to my website at http://funfamilyfitness.isagenix.com and watch the videos on the bottom. It will transform your life...it has mine and my family in more ways than one...You can also call me at (806) 231-9620 or email me at stepholli@yahoo.com for more information... Be happy to help you MAINTAIN and NOT GAIN during the holidays and possibly lose....

I hope that all is good...and now that things are kinda settlin' down....

I will try to keep up on my blog...

GOD BLESS

YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON...

MERRY CHRISTMAS

I am released....

2009-05-26T12:21:00.002-05:00

I just got back from the doctor and everything looks great.....
If you don't know....I had an emergency surgery last Thursday to remove my appendix....now that was exciting.....everything is great though....

we are so lucky to have such a great hospital and group of doctors.....they have saved my life twice now.....so I would say that I am indebted to them.....

love you Dr Green and Dr Henderson.....

Tucker with Picture Update

2009-05-26T08:13:00.002-05:00

Childress Relay for Life Race

2009-04-29T11:40:00.001-05:00

Childress Relay for Life 5K Race

F3 along with Red Red Runners Club is sponsoring a 5K to benefit the Childress Relay for Life. It will be during the Relay for Life Festivities on Friday, June 5th. The cost is $25 a person with all proceeds going to Relay for Life. We are also going to have a 1 Mile Walk/Run ($25) and a kids' race ($2). To be guaranteed a t-shirt you must register before May 7th. You can get your registration form at Fun Family Fitness or email us at funfamilyfitness@yahoo.com or call Stephanie at (940) 585-7970. Contact us for more details.

If you have a business, we would appreciate you printing out a flyer and posting it at your place of business. Also, if you have friends or family out-of-town that would like to participate, please forward this information to them.... The more the merrier...and more money raised for this great cause....

so sorry....

2009-04-17T14:49:00.002-05:00

I promise an update and lots of pictures in the next couple of days.....I will have to let you know what is all going on.....miss you guys.....

weird question.....

2009-02-23T13:37:00.002-06:00

has anyone tried the make-up....

Sheercover....

just wondering...I have been debating on ordering some for the longest time.....

(and yes....I used to sell Beauticontrol and still do...) but I am always looking for makeup that works and stays on...while you workout and go through the day.....

just curious.....

(I went ahead and ordered mine today.....so I will keep you informed)

random picture of the tuckers...

2009-02-22T18:52:00.003-06:00

2009-02-15T13:58:00.000-06:00

a random picture of the "little" boy...that is now almost 7 months...

Tucker quick update

2009-02-12T21:08:00.002-06:00

We have been working on the house the last couple of weeks....everything is painted....now we are trying to get the countertops...and a couple more things and we will be done.....with what we are doing (and can afford to do right now)...
I will post pictures soon....

The boys have been sick this week...so we have been cooped in the house....but the advantage of that is.....I have done 3 weeks of laundry done...and somewhat cleaned the house....

ON ANOTHER NOTE.....Please pray for my cousin and her unborn baby....they have found out that the baby is having some complications with the heart....something has moved it. They go down to Dallas next week to do a MRI speciallized for babies.... Please pray for them and let everything be OK....

Have a great weekend...and if I don't get back to make a post....

Happy Valentine's Day

I need your prayers......DEARLY.....

2009-01-30T13:58:00.002-06:00

I have a friend that is getting married tomorrow and she is really really sick. Can you say awful timing....? She is actually up at the clinic as we speak getting IV's and everything you can think of. She is already missing out on the luncheon that was planned for her....she might miss rehearsal....and just pray....pray....please pray....that she gets to attend her own wedding....Please pray for a quick...speedy recovery.....bless her heart....you are right...this is a day she won't forget...and I just hope she wants to remember it....

Please keep her and her future husband in your prayers. They have had a hard couple of months.....

They are taking their vows already to heart...."through sickness and health......"

it has been TOO long...

2009-01-26T09:49:00.002-06:00

Some of you might know....but I am here in Austin with Toby at one of his conventions. While he is at the meetings...I am getting to rest, workout, read magazines, and BLOG....
Last night Toby and I went to a wonderful restaurant....FOGO de CHAO it was wonderful...fun and I totally recommend that if you are in Austin (and have some extra money to spend on a great meal) this is SOOO worth it...... I will be surprised if we don't have to get lunch there today..haha...
We went and had a great time last night even after our meal...

But while we were on our "date" we realized that we have not been away from our kids....for about 5 years....way to long..... I was also talking to Toby that I haven't even been shopping without my kids or having to rush back for something in about 3 years..... and girls that is not healthy. You appreciate your family and yourself much more if you take some time with you. And you never know...your family might even appreciate YOU more....

I have wonderful parents that WERE volunteered to keep the kids for a couple of days while I am here in Austin. Let's just say they are great and worth their weight in gold.

One thing I did do it go get my foot properly measured for tennis shoes....and they did a great job for Toby....but mine SUCK (pardon my language....) but I have heard they will take them back....my feet were hurting...my knees were killing me...and my toes were going numb....I think something is wrong. It is foggy here in Austin...so I will just wait for Toby to get back from meetings and maybe by that time it will be nicer....One thing I have enjoyed about Austin (other than 6th street) is seeing everyone walking, running, playing with their kids at the park...

I will keep you informed with the weekend away with my husband..and no kids....
DON'T wait this long....but it is worth it....

Am I surprised.....

2009-01-24T23:21:00.002-06:00

I will have to write the complete story when I have some more time.....but this is a short take of it...

I have been tricked and surprised BIG. It was probably the biggest SURPRISE that has ever happened to me.....

Let's just say that Ms Carol called me to tell me that Toby got Man of the Year and I was supposed to call all of his family.....so I did as I was told....Little did I know he (and it sounds like the whole town of Groom and CHILDRESS) were plotting against me.

I found out tonight that not only was I fooled....by my family and husband...but more and more people.

I was honored as the BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR.... Holy cow.... I am truly honored..and surprised.... But like I said... my clients make F3 what it is... not me.... I love each and everyONE of you.... Thank you again....love ya lots....

They grow up TOOOO fast!

2009-01-20T21:47:00.002-06:00

I am so excited and sad at the same time. I just realized that COLTON is about 6 months old....Kaitlyn is about to go to school......and Caden has outgrown all his clothes ( I am ready for short weather)...haha

I remember moving to Childress about this time 3 years ago. Caden was just learning to crawl...(Try painting an entire house by yourself with a 9 month old) Now we are watching Colton try to get up on his knees and go BACKWARDS...

Hug those babies...and everyone around you....

TIMES GOES BY TOO FAST...

Happy Anniversary.....

2009-01-15T09:05:00.003-06:00

I want to wish my

Wonderful

Best

Parents

Happy Anniversary....

I pray everyday that I will be as good as parents as they were. They are the most hard working people that you will ever meet. They started out with nothing....and worked for everything that have. They made sure that we had everything we needed...and most of everything we wanted (without spoiling us...)

Most of my brothers and my friends...would rather hang out with them....They knew how to be our friend at the time we needed them...but knew (AND DID) put down the hammer when they needed to.

They have raised 3 successful and GOD-fearing children. They always let us know that GOD always had a plan and he will take care of those who believe. There is something to say about the quote...."The family that PRAYS together....STAYS together"

They raised us on a hardworking family farm. We started out moving pipe (irrigation pipe)....driving tractors....and everything that needed to be done....I (we) griped about it then...but now I look back and hope that my kids get the same opportunities I did to learn that some good ol' ELBOW GREASE will make you a better person.

They are 2 great volunteers...you need something ....either money or time....they will help as much if not more than they can....They are the ones that make me want to volunteer more...and make sure that I do my part.

Not only are they good parents......I COULDN'T ask for better GRANDPARENTS. My dad once said, "I wish we could've just have grandkids first..." (I hate to tell you dad...it couldn't happen) They love those kids and my kids love those guys.

Again I want to wish them a HAPPY ANNIVERSARY....and if you would....

JOIN ME AND SAY A SIMPLE PRAYER FOR THEM....and every married couple....

Marriage is the hardest job that you will ever have....but the PAY is worth it.

2nd day of colon cleanse.....

2009-01-13T12:40:00.003-06:00

It tastes gross...and I really haven't seen a difference yet....but I do kinda feel better....and actually I am not that hungry...haha....but I have been stressed and thinking about other things than that.... If I hadn't been busy...it might be a different story....

I am better make it....(because someone really close to me doesn't think I will or can...) You better not tell me that because I will prove you wrong....even if it kills me...hahaha...

I learned a trick though...... Mix it really fast....drink faster....my holding your nose even TIGHTER....

I will keep you informed....

First Day of my DETOX

2009-01-12T21:36:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to give everyone a (somewhat) update on my 7 day detox...

Can I say HOLY COW?

Every morning I am supposed to wake up and drink a glass of water...
and then I have to make the drink...yuCk....
then during the morning a piece of fruit or veggie...
lunch make the drink...yuCk
then around 3 another piece of fruit or veggie...
then at night you can have a piece of chicken and steamed veggies...

LET'S just say that CHICKEN never tasted that good...
and I am only on DAY 1....
again...I am asking for our prayers...ahahaha

Day 1- 4 Colon Cleanse and Liver....
Day 5-7 TOTAL body Detox...

I am going to make it....

I NEED YOUR PRAYERS!

2009-01-12T13:48:00.002-06:00

I would like to ask for your prayers. I have a cousin that just told me that her little daughter has RSV...and they might have to put the little BERKLEY in the hospital.....and also have a wonderful friend that is going through one of the hardest time in her life....Please pray that God will work in her life to make her dreams come true...(and a little miracle)....and also please pray that GOD will is pushing me in a direction that I need to go....that it is happening for a reason and not a distraction....

GOD IS GOOD and PRAYER IS POWERFUL...

ONLY my brothers....

2009-01-10T09:14:00.003-06:00

This Chris and a couple of friends.....(Chris is the one of the left)
This is Lance (the jokester) and his new sister-in-law LAUREN....
awful picture of lance.....

THE STORY GOES LIKE THIS....

Last night we went to the bball game as a family. I didn't bring in my cell phone, so Toby handed me his when he got a text from my little bro, Lance....

"Chris finally did it. I have a new sister. Steph don't be jealous."

(a little background - my brothers along with some of their friends went to Steamboat this week. And yes, Chris and a girlfriend went up there together....they have been off and on for about a year now.....so you never know)

So I kinda FREAKED out. Holy Cow...."I didn't know anything....he has denied that it was serious...and I was mad that my brother was not telling me the truth.." was what I was thinking... As you can tell....I am kinda like mother hen when it comes to my brothers...

So I texted my little brother that sent the text and asked "What? did he propose?"

Didn't get a text back....but a phone call from my poor mom.... "Stephanie can you get on facebook? " I said "No since I was at the game, but I will rush home to see what is going on." My parents had been visiting friends and they came home to messages telling them CONGRATS. One from a friend another from my dad's brother.... (remember this all happened in Colorado....my brother texted my cousin...my cousin called her dad....her dad called his brother (my dad's brother)....he called my parents to say Congrats....) My mom just wanted to know what was going on....

It was on my little brothers facebook page and a couple of their friends....So I was thinking it was a done deal.

I texted my other brother and told him "CONGRATS". Let's just say he texted back that it was a joke and not a very nice comment about our brother.

So let's just say...I will be surprised if my little brother has to walk home...I hope he brought his own car.

It is crazy how fast INFORMATION (true or not) travels through technology.

It is something we will LAUGH about later...but didn't know what to think about last night...

(ONLY my brothers...would do something like this and actually pull it off)

Still recovering from the STORM

2009-01-09T13:07:00.002-06:00

Many of you might know...but on Father's Day of 08 ... Childress was hit by an awful storm. (I literally thought we were going to die...but thankfully we didn't) I was 8 months pregnant and nervous for my entire family's life....

After the storm we emerged from the closet and realized that we had not ONE window in the house...parts of the roof were blown off....and about a foot of hail in most parts of the house....

So we got busy...I was due in about 6 weeks and I didn't want to have to bring my little one in this mess....We got the windows, roof and most of the furniture replaced....

NOW IT IS TIME TO FINISH THE REST. We had the contractor come out yesterday. We are having to replace all the countertops, the trim, and redo the sunroom.....(that just happens to be the Kids' playroom....so what is a mom to do in the midst of winter) It will be interesting....But hopefully we will get everything done VERY SOON....

It feels good to be back....

2009-01-07T21:59:00.001-06:00

After 9 months of pregnancy and 6 months of being a mother to a newborn......it feels GREAT to be back doing what I love......WORKING OUT with friends....(my dream one day is to be compared to Jillian....if you watch Biggest Loser you know what I am talking about) and helping make exercise as fun as it can get....
I LOVED IT...and everyone that came....YOU WERE AWESOME....and I expect to see you next week and every week. It is fun to teach a big class and I think everyone feels the same. We had 8 today...with many more wanting to come.....

I hope to see Lori, Amy, Amy, Linda, Linda, Becky, Cindy, and Susan....plus everyone that wants to come....

Biggest LOSER starts tonight.....

2009-01-06T15:25:00.002-06:00

I am so excited....the new season of BIGGEST LOSER starts tonight......THANK GOODNESS...

Update....

2009-01-05T13:04:00.003-06:00

I wanted to THANK everyone for their positive thoughts and prayers. We got a text this morning saying that everyone was going to be fine. I don't know for sure if everyone is home from the hospital....but it sounds like everything went well.

Some people were asking who they are.....They are our friends that live in Abilene. Toby went to school with Jesse in Clyde and he coached with him in Clyde and Grand Prairie. While we lived in Grand Prairie, I also got really close to the entire family especially Lois. Thank goodness for LOIS. She is one of those friends that doesn't judge...but is always willing to listen... They now how two of the cutest little girls....(they aren't little now) but that is kinda how I remembered them...

Thank you again for all the prayers....GOD is GOOD...

I have a FRIEND that needs your PRAYERS...

2009-01-04T21:49:00.002-06:00

I have a great friend that was in an accident this evening along with her girls. They were on their way back from a friends house..... Toby got a text message this evening saying "Lois and the girls were in an accident. The car rolled a couple of times. The girls have bruises and Lois has some broken ribs and still waiting to talk to a doctor.."

Please pray for my friend and their family. I will update...

PLEASE SAY A PRAYER...

New F3 blog

2008-12-29T15:50:00.003-06:00

I started a new blog for F3....to try to help my clients and others get HEALTHY in 2009. Check it out.....and tell everyone else about it.....

http://f3funfamilyfitness.blogspot.com/

Excited......and then......heartbroken....

2008-12-18T12:53:00.003-06:00

Is it possible to be the most excited you have ever been(other than getting married, engaged, and having babies, of course)....and the most you have ever been disappointed all in 24 hours....Well, lets just say it can.....and I am still recovering.....

Now it is time to share my story.... I have been busy......not only with my family, F3 here in Childress.......but I was working on making one of my life GOALS and DREAM come true. I was opening a gym in an area town......everything was going almost too good....and then I got the news Wednesday morning.....that.....someone else.....had the same idea.....and offered $2000 more a month for the building......a big franchise gym wanted the same building and was will to pay much more for the space......my heart was broken......

This is how it all began.....many of you might know that the month before I found out about our 3rd blessing I was about to open another gym....and that happily got put to the back burner....then I felt that this was the time to open another one (or two). At first I was going to open 2 at the same time. I had family support to help me with the kids (my main concern) and I was just going to get it done before I was tied down with Kaitlyn being in school...(little did I know the Good Lord had other plans).... I have been up working and meeting with EVERYONE....from T-shirts to construction to security and workers.....the last couple of weeks. Tuesday I spent all day working on this project....then RUSHED back to get back for a Christmas party for Women's Council....came home and was telling Toby all about what was going to happen...(did I mention that I even went that day to the Chamber of COmmerce Luncheon and was introduced as the woman bringing in F3 to their community in the next month)....

Then I got the most devestating news around 9:10 Wednesday morning. I had just pulled up Ms. Carol's for Caden's Christmas Party....and my cell phone rang....and Mississippi gentlemen was on the phone and gave me the blow....he told me they had a written contract on the table to present to the board and he also told me it was for another gym.....(are you kidding me?) I called my accountant immediately (he was in a meeting) I called Toby....at this time the emotions were running out of control down my face....(keep in mind I had to put on a happy face for my little one and his friends) and for some reason my cell phone went completely dead at that time, so I just took it as a sign to forget about it for second and go and enjoy my little one....

After the party, I talked to a couple of people dealing with the business.....and then I made some personal calls just to talk and CRY....

I know everything happens for a reason. It could have been worse.... I could have made the huge investment (risk my family's well being) and then the franchise gym come in and run me out of town....I could not have done it any faster....I have a 4 month old....some people thought I was even crazy doing it with my kids NOW....

So my fire isn't out....but I might sit back and enjoy the holidays... I was looking on opening the new gym by last of January or February (early).....and it was taking its toll on me.....

I really appreciate everyone that was CONCERNED about me during that last couple of weeks....not knowing what was going on....so I wish everyone a happy and HEALTHY holiday....I know that I will.....just not as busy as I was thinking that I was going to have...haha

take time to enjoy this.....

2008-12-17T18:22:00.002-06:00

I haven't really had an opportunity to calm down and relax.....( I will explain more later) but please check this out....it only takes a second and it is worth it....
> http://ecard.ashland.edu/media/2004adm_card.swf
enjoy the season....

love you - steph

Family is what makes LIFE worth living for.....

2008-12-08T19:53:00.003-06:00

If you know me....I love to be surrounded by people.....friends and FAMILY. I am lucky to have a healthy immediate family.... and not to mention EXTENDED family.... Not many people can say that they still get together with their extended family....3 generations....My aunts and uncles, cousins, and now the next generation. It is so much family and fun. This weekend I look forward every year. We designated the FIRST SUNDAY of DECEMBER as OLLINGER DAY. We get together and eat....eat.....laugh.....eat......and then laugh some more. We started a new tradition this year since we have lots of little ones. We had a birthday party with Jesus with all the bells and whistles and of course CUPCAKES... We read the Christmas story...and had a special visitor....SANTA. He made a special visit from the North Pole just to come and see what all the excitement is...in GROOM this weekend. It was great....the kids loved it....

My poor mom....she had 13 hunters or so to cook for this weekend (Toby says he loves you GRAMZ) and then she had to cook and clean up for about 35 people on Sunday. Then did I mention that she went to Amarillo with me today to help me with the THREE kids at the doctor's office...while she was supposed to be working on the books for the FARM and everything else. She is AWESOME.... we don't tell her enough.... unselfish....and giving....

Pictures will follow...but I just wanted to let you know that FAMILY is EVERYTHING.....

I know this is long...but it is worth it...it will make you smile and cry

2008-12-05T18:48:00.003-06:00

Last week I was in Atlanta , Georgia attending a conference. WhileI was in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behindme beginning to clap and cheer. I immediately turned around andwitnessed one of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen
Moving thru the terminal was a group of soldiers in their camos. Asthey began heading to their gate, everyone (well almost everyone) wasabruptly to their feet with their hands waving and cheering.
When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them, being applaudedand cheered for, it hit me. I'm not alone. I'm not the onlyred-blooded American who still loves this country and supports ourtroops and their families.
Of course I immediately stopped and began clapping for these youngunsung heroes who are putting their lives on the line everyday for usso we can go to school, work and home without fear or reprisal.
Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or ofour service men and women, a young girl, not more than 6 or 7 yearsold, ran up to one of the male soldiers. He kneeled down and said'hi.'
The little girl then asked him if he would give something to herdaddy for her.
The young soldier, who didn't look any older than maybe 22 himself,said he would try and what did she want to give to her Daddy. Then suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave himthe biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek.
The mother of the little girl, who said her daughter's name was Courtney, told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine andhad been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining howmuch her daughter Courtney missed her father, the young soldier beganto tear up.
When this temporarily single mom was done explaining her situation,all of the soldiers huddled together for a brief second. Then one ofthe other servicemen pulled out a military-looking walkie-talkie.They started playing with the device and talking back and forth onit.
After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked backover to Courtney, bent down and said this to her, 'I spoke to yourdaddy and he told me to give this to you.' He then hugged this littlegirl that he had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. Hefinished by saying 'your daddy told me to tell you that he loves youmore than anything and he is coming home very soon.'The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably and as theyoung soldier stood to his feet, he saluted Courtney and her mom. Iwas standing no more than 6 feet away from this entire event
As the soldiers began to leave, heading towa rds their gate, peopleresumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and lookedaround, there were very few dry eyes, including my own. That youngsoldier in one last act of selflessness, turned around and blew akiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his cheek.
We need to remember everyday all of our soldiers and their familiesand thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of the day ,it's good to be an American

RED FRIDAYS ----- Very soon, you will see a great many peoplewearing Red every Friday. The reason? Americans who support ourtroops used to be called the 'silent majority'. We are no longersilent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in recordbreaking numbers. We are not organized, boisterous or over-bearing. We get no liberalmedia coverage on TV, to reflect our message or our opinions.. ManyAmericans, like you, me and all our friends, simply want to recognizethat the vast majority of America supports our troops. Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops withdignity and respect starts this Friday -and continues each and everyFriday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening messagethat.. Every red-blooded America n who supports our men and womenafar will wear some thing red. By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the United States onevery Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in thebleachers If every one of us who loves this country will share this withacquaintances, co-worker s, friends, and family. It will not be longbefore the USA is covered in RED and it will let our troops know theonce 'silent' majority is on their side more than ever; certainlymore than the media lets on. The first thing a soldier says when asked 'What can we do to makethings better for you?' is...We need your support and your prayers.> > Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example;and wear something red every Friday. > > IF YOU AGREE -- THEN SEND THIS ON. > > I F YOU COULD CARE LESS THEN HIT THE DELETE BUTTON --- IT IS YOURCHOICE. > > WE LIVE IN THE LAND OF THE FREE, ONLY BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE.> THEIR BLOOD RUNS RED---- SO WEAR RED!

New and Healthy treats and eats that I want to share!

2008-12-03T10:07:00.006-06:00

Many of you might know....I have recently had a baby, Toby lost 40 lbs, and we as a family have changed our eating habits. Here are some tricks and TREATS that we have used to help us become more healthy.

1. JELLO - fat free pudding - banana fudge - it is only 60 calories and is delicious (and yes, I found this out before they announced it on Biggest Loser) You can only find this at Walmart here is Childress, not UNITED yet.

2. ZONE bars - We eat a ZONE bar for breakfast. This has really saved TOBY. We eat these during the weekdays and then maybe enjoy a breakfast on the weekends.

3. Ezekiel bread - It is a great bread. As I have told many of you.....FLOUR is your enemy....but I love bread for sandwiches. (this is ONLY at United in the freezer section)

4. 2% Milk Cheese - This is my saving grace. You can still have cheese but why not take away some of the calories and fat without taking away the taste and melt.

5. Nature's Path Organic Hot Oatmeal Flax Plus - THIS IS MY FAVORITE. I also put in fresh and/or frozen blueberries and it is great.

6. Airborne PIXIE STICKS - they are awesome for kids and adults..

7. Pampered Chef Aerosol Oil Sprayer - you put in your own oil and then you manually pump it.....instead of PAM.

8. Floss Sticks - Who likes to floss? But it is so good for you.... I found these and it makes it easy and convenient.

9. Pledge Multi-Surface - I know that this isn't food....but it sure makes my life easier. I love it. Be Careful using it on some surfaces though...

10. I got my Christmas present early. Many of you might know of MONICA SMART and her company Joye-ful. She can do anything. It is using Sticker letters...you can put it on the wall, tiles, or anything. I will show pictures soon. You can put inspirational quotes on the wall. They make my day....I love them. CLICK ON the SMART family link on my blog to see her website. She can do anything that you want. It is awesome. And great present ideas.

11. Turkey bacon, Turkey PEPPERONI.......and Turkey Sausage....It still tastes great but doesn't have all that grease and unwanted fat.....THE PEPPERONI is the one that made me the happiest....it has 70% less fat than usual pepperoni.

My last a final - ORGANIC apples.....they are so good for you....and so good....also...I use my Pampered Chef apple slicer almost everyday. Check it out.... ( i have only found the organic apples at Walmart here in town)

And another last hint.....the gym.....come and check out our new machines....and all the fun that you will have at the gym....it will sure make you feel better.

What are some of your favorite things? Or is there anything that you use daily that makes your life easier? We all need to make our lifes easier so we can spend more time with our families and doing things that we love.

Update from the Tucker household

2008-12-02T19:17:00.005-06:00

Kaitlyn and Caden at Ms. Angie's Thanksgiving Feast.
Colton also enjoyed his first feast....It was green beans. A FEAST for him. He loved it.

Kaitlyn and Caden really enjoyed helping put up the Christmas this year. This year they were really a help...

Kaitlyn, Caden, and Toby playing at the Cake Walk.

Caden TOTALLY enjoying his cotton candy. Let's just say they had a great time at the Festival at the park.

Kaitlyn and Caden showing off their new park bench that Granna and Pa gave them for Christmas. Granna and Pa were thinking....3 kids and everything else in that car would have been tight...they love it

More great memories....Some one reminded me today.....I am going to miss these days. And the only way to remember them is through pictures....and he is right....

in the CHRISTMAS spirit - EXTREME HOME MAKEOVER - Groom Edition

2008-12-01T09:03:00.003-06:00

There is something to say about a small town....and I am going to brag about the one that I grew up in. It is filled with good people....and this is just an example. There is a lady in town that has MD...mom remembers her getting bad in high school. The last time that she walked was at her high school graduation. She volunteers to help in the community where ever she can. So a group of GROOMites got together to fix up her house she was living in. They decided their time and money would be better spent if they just got her a NEW house. So everyone in town pinched in time and/or money. They ran the story last night on the local TV channels but in case you didn't get to see it...check it out....

The story goes like this....

GROOM -- Paula Brown suffers from muscular dystrophy. We were told that the last time she walked was at her high school graduation.
Friends told us that Paula is just thankful to have what the Lord has given her, even though her house was so dilapidated that wind and snow would blow into her bathroom.
Organizer Dondra Downs said, "This whole community, there's just hundreds of people here and outside of Groom that wanted to give to her because she's so giving, and she deals with muscular dystrophy so gracefully ever since she was a teenager."
"She's just touched everyone's hearts and she doesn't even try," friend Vonnie Baker told us, "she does it by just being Paula."
So the Groom community came together, in the panhandle spirit, to give Paula Brown a new home.
"I don't deserve this I'm the type of person that makes due with what I have, because I'm happy to have it." Brown said, "but I never thought God would bless me like this."
Downs said, "When they told her that the community has done something for her she said, 'Someone else needs this more than me!' that's just Paula."
"I just can't believe this I didn't realize people loved me here in Groom and I didn't realize that I'd touched so many lives because I'm just be wherever I go." Brown said.
Brown says she will continue to work hard to give back to the community that has given her so much.

My mom said she overheard Paula saying, "I don't have to be cold anymore."
If that doesn't make you sad and happy... They said that the house would let the snow and rain come in. They raised over $40,000 for the project. And the neat part to me was they got 2 big grain trucks to park in front of the house.....and they said "MOVE THOSE TRUCKS!" instead of move that bus. It was great..... Everyone in Groom should be proud of their efforts. It changed and touched so many.

Check out the story from KFDA on this link.
http://www.newschannel10.com/global/story.asp?s=9434424

You can't hear TOO many GOOD HEARTED stories.

Jingle Bell Run...and all the festivities.....

2008-11-28T21:12:00.002-06:00

I wanted to send a shout out to all the sponsors, helpers, and runners that helped make the First Annual Jingle Bell Run a total success. My goal was $1500....but we got close....something that I will strive harder for next year.....

Thanks again to Casey, Lori, Amanda, Sharon, Lee Ann, Lindsey, and my mom. Thanks to all the girls that helped with the race...and mom thanks for helping with the kids...letting them get to experience the night...

Also, thanks to the runners.....it made my day to see everyone out there....I know that it was for fun....so I hope everyone had fun....CONGRATS to my wonderful husband....you did good....(just to think a year ago...he would have made fun of me for running and working out...now he is in the best shape of his life...)

Look for more races....thanks again....all the money is going to a great cause....

I am in mourning

2008-11-24T19:39:00.002-06:00

I waited a couple of days before I made this post. I hate to say it....but I really didn't see that one coming. I knew they were good (OU) but I didn't it was going to turn out like that. I actually had a couple of tears.... I felt sorry for those "KIDS". It is hard for all of us to realize that those players are still just KIDS that had a bad day. I just wished they would have not had it last Saturday. But I am not a fair weather fan....I still LOVE them....I am just praying that the COWBOYS kill them this Saturday....

GO RAIDERS and COWBOYS....

How about the RAIDERS

2008-11-21T13:56:00.001-06:00

It is not just the football team....check out this story about the bball team....we are just GOOD...haha...

check out the story at the link...you won't believe the score....

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/Texas-Tech-scores-167-points-and-I-don-t-mean-t?urn=ncaab,123908

GO RED RAIDERS

Wreck 'Em TECH

2008-11-20T21:42:00.004-06:00

I just wanted to wish the RED RAIDERS .... GOOD LUCK.... I am a nervous wreck.....You all know what I will be doing Saturday night.....

I just hope by the end of the weekend....TECH is #1....

Colton thinks they deserve it....

Wear your RED and BLACK....

Happy birthday Marci

2008-11-19T18:15:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to wish HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Marci....

I am so happy to have gotten to know you. I wish I could be there for you on your birthday...but I will make it up to you soon....

Happy Birthday Marci...

love ya...steph

My Big EIGHTS

2008-11-18T16:31:00.002-06:00

My Eights!
I've been tagged by my friend, Charla!
Watch out! You just might get tagged, too!

8 TV Shows I Love To Watch:
1. Biggest Loser
2. Reba
3. Boston Legal
4. Desparate Housewifes
5. Ellen
6. Samantha Who?
7. Country Music Videos
8. Regis and Kelly

8 Favorite Restaurants:
1. Chili's
2. Macroni Grill
3. On the Border
4. Furrs
5. Thai Kitchen
6. Cattle Call
7. Cagle's Steakhouse
8. Vinson Steakhouse

8 Things That Happened Today:
1. Fed Colton
2. Straightened up the house
3. Worked out
4. went to Women's Council Meeting
5. took a nap....(feel asleep in the tanning bed)
6. got up on my shows ( I love DVR)
7. cooked supper
8. laundry

8 Things I am looking Forward To:
1. hugs from kids
2. seeing if the kids got stickers from pre-school
3. having more gyms
4. a trip with Toby
5. Colton sleeping all through the night
6. having healthy and successful kids
7. Sunday breakfast in Groom
8. Girls' Night out

8 Things On My Wishlist:
1. Good church
2. Toby a ranch
3. BMW or a mercedes
4. lose the weight...so I can go shopping for new clothes
5. Party Barn in my backyard
6. playground for my kids (at my house)
7. being DEBT FREE
8. all my house damages fixed and paid for

8 People I Tag:
1. Sharon
2. Sharalyn
3. Toby
4. KP
5. Marci
6. Stephanie
7. Casey
8. Monica

Memories.....are made out of MOMENTS....

2008-11-17T19:44:00.005-06:00

Memories. ....... people remember different things and moments.... it depends on what is important to you in your life..... Some of my most important memories are my parents being involved in my life. They were there at every game, recital, and every heartbreak. My parents always made a point to make things special for us. Even if it was going just to the hotel and swimming in a pool, we did fun things...

Baths with the kids are some of my favorite memories. They have all LOVED baths and being naked....Colton is nothing different. Here we are posin' before his bath....

I love being with my kids...sometimes more than others...you know what I mean....but I love taking my kids to the park... Here are some great pictures....

Another great and awful memory that I have growing up is......DAD bringing home a calf that unfortunately lost their mother.....It was exciting at first....but it was great when we had to get up early to feed him before school...or before supper.....But looking back it was a fun memory that not many kids can say they have done.... Well, Toby didn't bring home the calf, but Tim (Wyatt) had one and let the kids come and feed and pet the calf.... They had a blast....

Kaitlyn scares me sometimes on how much she is like me. She is mother hen... And I am still mother hen to my brothers.....Can you feel the love?

what are some of your favorite memories?

Dream on....

2008-11-14T20:07:00.005-06:00

every day....I WOULD LIKE TO.....
be healthy
be positive
be a great wife
be a great mom
be a better person/Christian
cook a meal and sit down with the entire family
take better care of my skin

every week....I WOULD LIKE TO.....
have a date with my husband
go to church with my family
have my house clean
get a nap
call a friend

in THREE months....I WOULD LIKE TO.....
lost some weight
go on a trip with my husband
start cooking more and eating better...change my eating habits
paint my house
have my home repairs completed
stop biting my nails

in the next year....I WOULD LIKE TO.....
get healthier
get more organized
work more on our debt
don't take for granted of my life
go on a trip with my mom and/or friends

in 3 to 5 years....I WOULD LIKE TO.....
have more gyms
keep in better shape
be more self accepting
grow stronger in my marriage
have my dream car - Mid-life Crisis car...haha
be DEBT FREE

before I die....I WOULD LIKE TO.....
go to Ireland
go to New York
sky dive
go to Disney World with my family
serve in a Soup Kitchen
see my kids grow and have grandkids
drive a race car....at least ride in one

What are your dreams and goals for the Future....?
It makes you think...and possibly holds you accountable....because it is in writing.....

Create your Happy-life list....

2008-11-11T20:17:00.002-06:00

What makes you happy....truly happy....?

1. Healthy family
2. Loving marriage
3. A great relationship with Church
4. Losing weight and getting healthy
5. Giving to less fortunate

Come up with a list of things that make you Happy... Check out tomorrow for the next list challenge....

There are so many things that make me truly happy... What are your 5 top things?

Does the economy scare you or is it just me?

2008-11-10T20:43:00.002-06:00

The economy is scary.....I didn't think it would ever scare me...but it does....I am also one of the ones that is trying to hold on to my money a little bit more. I would love to start on the next stage of my plan with the gyms....but I am very nervous....

I know people have lost lots of money in the stock market.....some very close to me....but I didn't know how others are feeling?

Any thoughts and worries? I am just glad that the gas prices have gone down....

Sometimes you just have to laugh....

2008-11-06T18:57:00.002-06:00

I have to share this quick little story. As many of you might know......Toby is obsessed with hunting and sometimes we are lucky enough to go with the entire family..... One day we decided to take all the kids out..... as soon as we hit the gate...the seatbelts are off and they are in our laps.....Kaitlyn was in her daddy's lap and she took control of the wheel....she did pretty good for awhile...but then started getting off the path......Caden sitting in my lap....covered his eyes with his hands...and said "I can't look" I have never laughed so hard in my entire life.....

And yes...Kaitlyn is 5 and drivin..... I started drivin when I was 4 on my parent's lap on the way home from church every Sunday. Let's just hope that Kaitlyn didn't get her mom's lead foot...
Let's just say...when Toby asked for my hand in marriage....my dad was excited for 2 reasons....He loved Toby and he told Toby that he was inheriting my insurance policy....haha

Please don't tell me that I am the only one out there that was an early driver....or has a lead foot?
Remember the BBQ supper before the game tomorrow night.....Hope to see everyone at the game.....

It's easy to be a Parent.......

2008-11-05T19:46:00.003-06:00

I just have a little time but something today made me think of one of the wonderful quotes my parents told me.....

It's easy to be a Parent .... It's hard to be a GOOD parent....

Some of the hardest things to do is being a good parent...

from discipline to teaching lessons...

I am lucky to have 2 of the best parents in the world. If I can be half the parents they are...my kids might just have a chance....

Love you mom and dad.... and I pray for all the parents and grandparents out there...

Where to start.....

2008-11-03T18:55:00.008-06:00

This month has come and gone and now we are in the month of November........I have lots of pictures and a couple of stories....

The kids and I went to Groom to go trick r treatin. We went with my best friend from high school and her two girls. That weekend we stayed in Groom while Toby went to go hunting. Saturday night we had a opportunity of a lifetime. Or at least it was for me.. We got to go to the Texas and Tech game.... Holy cow was it amazing.....Some of you might know, I have always been very close to Tech and especially Tech football. I was a Raider Recruiter during my years at Tech. Other than just helping with recruiting....I was in charge of decorating the locker room every week. I love Tech.... Go Raiders.... It made my day to see Tech ranked #2... Thanks for the great game....

Again....can you say Colt Tucker playing quarterback for the Red Raiders.? Happy Birthday Daddy....that was a great cake....

Caden loved his dinosaur and a cute one I must add.

Colton with Gramz and Grandad....luckily we have gotten to spend some time with them. I know they are needing some time without 3 grandkids running around. Thanks for putting up with us....

Kaitlyn and Caden are sporting their new F3 sweatshirts at the Homecoming Parade. By the way, we have alot of new things planned for F3.... Come and check it out....

Kaitlyn and Caden built and decorated and scary cookie castle. I think they ate more candy then made it on the castle. It was fun...

Another cute picture of my lil' Red Raider.

Colton enjoying a quick trip to the pumpkin patch.

The kids posin' by the slug bug....It is always an adventure with 3 kids and taking pictures. I recommend everyone going to Chilocothe to the pecan store....great fudge and great gifts.....

Caden posin' for me....he loved his Halloween Batman shirt.... He is so busy!

They grow up way too fast....

In closing, I apologize for the delay in posting...but honestly with Colton....any time he is content I am cleaning, cooking, or doing other things....(don't feel too sorry for me) I just want to let everyone know that I will be back....He is finally sleeping right now...so I will finish up and then try to get some quick things done.... Now I believe the people that said...."THREE is just so much more work and harder..." (I agree but all worth it)

Autism and vaccines...

2008-09-30T15:01:00.002-05:00

I never thought that this would become an issue for me and their family. Colton is coming up on his 2 month check - up... This appointment, as many might know, comes with 4 shots for your child. With the other 2 kids, reports of autism and vaccines weren't as prominent. Now with Colton, many family and friends have different ideas on this subject. I have made the decision to get the vaccines, but I am going to spread them out. If you think about it.....4 major shots being put in a little ones body that weighs no more than 12 lbs (Colton is probably bigger than that..haha) might put the body in some extra stress. I have opted to just make more appointments. I still think vaccines are very important...but I don't want to take any chances if I don't have to....

I just wanted to see how everyone else feels on this issue......There is nothing more important than the children in our lives.....

Lots going on....

2008-09-26T08:42:00.002-05:00

A lot has been going on this week...and not really that much... I know that is contradicting but that is my life. We have been busy but not really getting that much accomplished. Friday my mom came down to help get ready for a garage sale...Did I say that we had tons to get done and get rid of plus.... doing it all the 3 kids... Saturday morning mom and I got up to finish it up and we had people here by 7 am....it was supposed to start at 8... Bless mom's heart...I had to leave her for about an hour (with the 3 kids and the garage sale) while I went to volunteer at the garden tour. Another thing that went great...due to a great organization. If you missed it...you really did miss a treat. It is nice to see that kinda of yard in CHILDRESS....
After we cleaned up the garage sale...we packed up and left for Groom. We stopped in Clarendon for pizza....(their Pizza Hut is the best I have ever had...) We had pizza and the Chocolate Dippers. If you haven't tried them...you are missing out..
We visited for awhile and then went to bed. Got up for church and then ate breakfast. We packed up again and went to the Deer Ranch where we took the kids riding on the Ranger. Then when we got back my parents and uncle were there ready to cook hot dogs. It was fun. Then the guys went to drive around and mom and I watched the movie "what happens in Vegas" and the kids watched and played another movie. If you haven't seen "what happens in Vegas" you are sure missing out...you got to see it... It is a movie that the boys and girls would even like...
Monday was the regular day...busy taken the kids here and there....and that is pretty much what the whole week was like...I have been really trying to work on losing this weight...You can sure tell when you lose your cardio and it is hard to run.....holy cow...Today is Friday...and Kaitlyn's preschool got cancelled....so we are having a day in a PJ's. I am working SLOWLY on the laundry and just lovin' being with the kids... Since Toby is gone, we are trying to just do what we want to do....

I am scared and anxious about this weekend though. Toby comes in tonight after the football game. Saturday we are going to go to the ranch. I am excited about that...but we are meeting people down there that we have never met. Remember that I have 3 upbeat .... busy kids.... And these people and wives are different. They come from alot of money and don't have kids....so I am alittle uncomfortable about going down there. We might end up at my parents' house.... You also got to remember that I have a newborn that still wakes up at night... It will probably be fine...but it sure makes me feel uncomfortable. Guys don't understand this either. Usually guys get along easy while it comes to ladies....it is more uncomfortable....

I will post the results of this weekend.

Colton update - Turned 8 weeks yesterday - he has rolled over a couple of times - he slept last night for 7 hours... - getting fast - in 3-6 months clothes

Caden update - LOVES school and gymnastics - is really love his brother - school has grown him up

Kaitlyn update - loves to do cheers - lost another tooth - also loves her brother

House update - an engineer came Tuesday....so we will see what he thinks...

By the way - BIGGEST LOSER - love the show and GREY's ANATOMY - can you say - awesome....

have a great weekend...

pictures of kids....

2008-09-12T17:10:00.006-05:00

I want to let you know that I have found a great place to get pictures taken. It is Portrait Innovations in Amarillo. You can take the pictures and get them in the same day. And it is very reasonable....

There is nothing better...

than.......

sweet kids...

has it been THAT long....

2008-09-10T21:37:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to apologize for the delay....

The mother of 3 is more busy than I thought....HOLY COW....but I am slowly adjusting...I for sure am enjoying it....

Yesterday I took all 3 kids to Amarillo to get pictures made...I had to get them done sooo fast... They are for his 1 month pictures....I will post them soon...but Colton just woke up so I have to type fast and quick....

Caden started Mrs Angie's and his first day didn't go as well as I was wanting...I have got to talk to him about sharing and moving to different stations...we have got our hands full....It is my fault though...

Colton is now screaming so I better tend to him before he wakes up the house....steph

This goes perfect with the previous post....WHY WE HAVE CHILDREN....

2008-08-27T18:33:00.000-05:00

GOD CREATED CHILDREN (AND IN THE PROCESS GRANDCHILDREN)

To those of us who have children in our lives, whether they are our
own, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or students...
here is something to make you chuckle.

Whenever your children are out of control, you can take comfort from
the thought that even God's omnipotence did not extend to His own
children.

After creating heaven and earth, God created Adam and Eve.
And the first thing he said was
' DON'T !'
'Don 't what ? '
Adam replied.
'Don't eat the forbidden fruit' God said
'Forbidden fruit ?
We have forbidden fruit ?
Hey Eve..we have forbidden fruit ! '
' No Way ! '
'Yes way ! '
'Do NOT eat the fruit ! ' said God.
'Why ? '
'Because I am your Father and I said so ! ' God replied,
wondering why He hadn't stopped creation after making the elephants
A few minutes later, God saw His children having an apple break and
He was ticked !
'Didn't I tell you not to eat the fruit ? ' God asked.
'Uh huh,' Adam replied.
'Then why did you ? ' said the Father.
'I don't know,' said Eve.
'She started it! ' Adam said.
'Did not ! '
'Did too ! '
'DID NOT ! '
Having had it with the two of them, God's punishment was that Adam and Eve should have children of their
own.. Thus the pattern was set and it has never changed.
If you have persistently and lovingly tried to give children wisdom
and they haven't taken it, don't be hard on yourself.

If God had trouble raising children, what makes you think it would be
a piece of cake for you ?

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT !

1. You spend the first two years of their life teaching them to walk
and talk. Then you spend the next sixteen telling them to sit down
and shut up.

2. Grandchildren are God's reward for not killing your own children.

3. Mothers of teens now know why some animals eat their young.

4. Children seldom misquote you. In fact, they usually repeat word
for word what you shouldn't have said

5. The main purpose of holding children's parties is to remind
yourself that there are children more awful than your own

6. We childproofed our homes, but they are still getting in.

ADVICE FOR THE DAY:

Be nice to your kids.
They will choose your nursing home one day

AND FINALLY:

IF YOU HAVE A LOT OF TENSION AND YOU GET A HEADACHE,
DO WHAT IT SAYS ON THE ASPIRIN BOTTLE:
'TAKE TWO ASPIRIN'
AND 'KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN'!!!!!

The Joys and Trials of a mom

2008-08-27T14:55:00.003-05:00

There is nothing more rewarding than being a mom...but there is not a harder job....When I first started wanting my third...I thought it wouldn't change a thing...boy was I wrong...Colton is a great baby...luckily...but is just takes more time to get them ready...baths...feed...put to bed...and everything else...I can't imagine what it is going to be like when I actually have to have them ready by 8 and at preschool....HOLY COW...but I better get ready...that starts next week...

JOYS -

having the kids say " I LOVE YOU MOM"

laughter

buying clothes ( I know that sounds stupid) but that is SO MUCH FUN

making them smile

saying prayers

playing around with them

getting involved with school and other activities

seeing your parents go nuts over their grandkids

family vacations

reading and snuggling with the kiddos

TRIALS -

NO SLEEP - (I am working on 4 hours today) Colton decided he wanted to be held and talk all last night

potty training

stress on you and all your relationships

fighting between kids

making your kids act correct

laundry (I guess I should thinking about buying clothes)

the weight that is gained and the body changes...

Don't get me wrong...there is nothing better than being a mom...but it is a hard job...Thank goodness for a husband that helps, a mother willing to do anything that I need, and friends that listen to me.... Thank you Amy...I really needed TODAY.....

I love kids...especially mine...

THANK YOU to my mom... and to ALL THE MOMS out there.

THERE IS NOTHING MORE IMPORTANT THAN A LOVIN' FAMILY....

13 Random Thoughts

2008-08-21T15:08:00.003-05:00

I will take the plung and follow everyone....(Toby don't get the big head)

1 - Thank you Colton for the nap....that makes up for no sleep last night.
2 - I need to clean up the table from dinner
3 - I need to go run or something to get rid of those donut(S) that I just ate
4 - What's for dinner
5 - Can't wait until mom and dad get back
6 - I am ready for the weekend - family time
7 - I need to go to the gym and change out lights
8 - what are we going to do next weekend for labor day?
9 - I need to fold laundry
10 - I am really enjoying being a mother of 3
11 - I am ready to go shopping for new clothes....I have to lose all the weight by hopefully THANKSGIVING...
12 - I am dreading getting on the scale for the first time since baby Colton was born
13 - I enjoyed seeing everyone at the schools today....it is nice to see the friendly faces. I am just glad that it is not me...and that I am not having to send Kaitlyn this year. I need another year to prepare for that....

Hope everyone else's list is just as BORING...haha...

I left him......

2008-08-20T19:41:00.002-05:00

I left Colton for the first time....HOLY COW....I was nervous the WHOLE HOUR I was gone..haha...I just didn't want him to cry the whole time. I knew he was in good hands but I just didn't like the idea of leaving him yet....

My mom was first supposed to be here so I wouldn't worry...but then mom and dad got a chance to go to Branson so they took it....(by the way....they went and stayed at the Big Cedar Lodge - the Bass Pro RESORT and they love it....) I can see our next family vacation already planned....
back to mom...so I was nervous .... who was going to keep the little one.... everyone is back in school or busy GETTING THEIR HAIR DONE.....haha....but it all worked out... The lady that helps me in the morning at the gym agreed to come to the house and keep all the kids....It worked out great;....THANK YOU ASHLEY....I can't tell you enough....

Postpartum depression is starting to set in...I am trying really hard to keep busy and not thinking about things. I started crying last night when I was looking at Colton and realized that he is growing up and I am not going to get to do this again..(be up at all hours of the night)...YES...I will miss it...it is so quiet and peaceful and it is just you and the baby....(I can always sleep when I am dead) I am really excited about next Thursday but nervous about leaving....I just like to have everyone near me...I know that I am wierd....I know that I am buggin' Toby since I am getting clingy...I am trying not to be....I am making a point to try not to get to emotional or goofy....But like everything else...this stage will soon pass...

A good note.....to close on....Colton slept 5 hours last night (in a row) from 11 pm - 4 am...It was amazing...It was nice to get to sleep...

MY FAV STRAWBERRY CAKE....

2008-08-19T13:12:00.003-05:00

Our adoptive grandparents (neighbors across the street) brought us the most wonderful cake I have had. It is so moist and GOOOOOOOD....I begged for the recipe. I can't have it right now...since I am trying to loose my baby weight, but I thought I would share it with you....

Strawberry Cake - Ranae Wyatt

1 white cake mix
1 3oz box strawberry jello
1/2 c oil
1/2 c water
4 eggs
Mix and beat all ingredients together. Add 1/2 c thawed frozen sliced strawberries with juice. Bake at 350 degrees.
ICING -
(ingredients need to be at room temp)
1 stick butter
1 lb powdered sugar
1/2 c strawberries with juice
Mix and pour over cake

(best in a 13 x 9 pan)

You will absolutely love this. It is so moist and good...
thank you for sharing....

Colton's 2 week check up

2008-08-19T13:02:00.002-05:00

We had Colton's 2 week check up today.
Luckily school is not in session, so I called our neighbor ALLIE to come over for an hour to watch the older kids. I didn't want them to get in trouble while trying to be good and wait at the clinic. So Colton and I were off....After about 45 minutes we got to see Dr G. Bless their hearts their were so busy....I am just glad that Allie could come and help out with the kids....That would have been bad....
We weighed Colton and let's just say that he is gaining good....He weighed 8 lbs and 5 oz when he was born and 2 weeks later he weight 9 lbs 10 oz. He is a good eater..haha....he is a true Ollinger...
Then we had to do the dreaded PKU test. I begged Toby to come with me...but he couldn't....so I was praying and giving myself and pep talk all day....JUST DON'T CRY...JUST DON'T CRY....and I didn't....Luckily the guy that did it is a gym goer and I told him I didn't know how I was going to do...and he tried to talk to me to keep my mind off my little boy SCREAMING his head off....BUT YOU HAVE TO DO IT....

Tomorrow is probably going to be a harder day for me than today.....I am going to have to leave Colton with someone for about an hour so I can do something for the gym. I am going through the stage that I can't let the little leave my sight...but tomorrow I will have to make an exception.

Everything is going good here at the Tucker's. I am going to get to start doing some low impact working out. So I am excited. I just hope that I don't die....I will start SLOW...

First day back at work.....

2008-08-18T14:33:00.003-05:00

I had mixed emotions about this day. I truly enjoy my gym (my job) but I do like the idea of being home strictly with my kids. I don't work very many hours a day...so it is hard for me to justify it as a J-O-B....

Colton and I had a long night last night. I truly believed that I was going to fall asleep and not hear him cry...but we made it through it. We all woke up at 8am (LATE) because I needed to be at the gym by atleast 9am with THREE dressed and fed kids. AND MYSELF half way decent. So I took a turn around shower, put on mascara, brushed my teeth, and put on chapstick. Got the kids clothes ironed, clothed, and out the door we went. Did I mention that I didn't have them fed....SO LUCKILY the bakery had donuts...and chocolate milk. I know not a healthy breakfast but I needed something fast. Made it to the gym, got my training session ready, fed Colton and then started my training session. It went great. Luckily Colton slept the entire time....and the kids played. I worked a little long on some paperwork and decided to call it a day. As I was pulling into the garage I remembered I forgot to do something....

HAVE BREAKFAST MYSELF....Figures....

So all in all the day (MORNING) was a success. The first real day of a working mom of THREE. I will get better.

After lunch I had a chat with Colton...and he promised me he would let me take a nap for atleast 30 minutes...and he did....I just forgot to ask the entire world for those 30 minutes. It never fails.....as soon as I get everyone down for the nap, and get relaxed....either my cell phone, home phone RINGS, or someone comes to the door. Today was no different. OH WELL...Atleast the house is kinda quite...

Tomorrow if Colton's 2 week check-up with Dr Green. I hope all is well. I am curious to see what the chunk weighs...also interested to see what mommy weighs...I have been scared to go to the gym and weigh...scared of getting depressed...but tomorrow I am going to take the plunge...and then beg Dr G if I can start working on getting these 50 lbs off.

In the life of STEPHANIE....have a great day....

TO ALL THE TEACHERS AND SCHOOL WORKERS...hope you enjoyed your first day back...BLESS YOUR HEARTS....GOOD LUCK

Colton's Baptism Weekend

2008-08-17T12:11:00.004-05:00

The kids were so excited that Granna and Pa were coming in to see us they couldn't settle down to take a nap...COLTON didn't have trouble...
Pa sure loves those babies...
Granna and Kaitlyn reading the book that Granna bought her. She loves it. It is really cool. It is made of felt so that she can change the story.
Mommy was trying really hard to get a sweet picture of all the kids for the birth announcement. Can you say.....that is really hard...
I love these kids....

We had a great weekend. And what a weekend it was......

Saturday morning....it started out with Kaitlyn's cheerleading at the scrimmage.

You can hear her.. I wonder where she got that.

SHE DID GREAT.

Then we all traveled to Groom for Colton's Baptism.

Toby's sister Debbie, husband Mack "Skinner" and their daughter Allison

along with Granna and Pa all packed into the cars to head to the church.

The baptism went GREAT...

THANK GOODNESS FOR PACIFIERS...

Toby, Colton, me, and Cassie at the start of the baptism. Cassie, my cousin, was the godmother.

The godparents Cassie and Lance (my brother) along with Toby and I getting Colton's blessing.

Father Raj giving Colton's is baptismal blessing....and DUNK...

Below - Toby, Cassie, Father Raj, Lance, and me after the baptism.

THANKS TO CASSIE AND LANCE for being a big part of this day.

Above - The entire Ollinger clan that made it to the baptism. The rest met us at Gramz and Grandad's house to lots of food and fun. ALSO, sweet little GRANDMA came to be a part of the day.

BELOW - The whole TUCKER gang that made it to baptism.

Pa and Granna along with our entire family. Granna made Colton's baptism garment.

My brothers, mom and dad, Grandma along with my family.

THANKS TO MOM and DAD (Gramz and Grandad) for cooking, planning, and cleaning up for our big party after the baptism. We had about 50 people that came to eat and meet Colton for the first time. We love getting together. There is nothing better than family and good friends.

Lance is Colton's Godfather,

Chris is Kaitlyn's Godfather.

Again aren't those boys too cute...they are looking for a good woman...any takers?

Colton's UPCOMING big day....his baptism

2008-08-14T15:26:00.003-05:00

This weekend is a very big for our family. (as Toby would say, I make it bigger than it has to be, but I think it is important). Colton is getting baptized.

Many of you might know, but we are Catholic. I was raised in a very strong Catholic based family and community. I have to say I am very lucky for having the strong base that I have been blessed with. I believe that is why our family is struggling with our "church" situation. We drive to Groom (1 1/2 hours away = 3 hours for total trip) every Sunday. It is not only that we go to church but we also get to see family and friends. We are struggling with the idea of our kids religion classes. I don't really want to have to drive to Groom on Wednesdays so I don't know how we are going to solve that dilemna. Just keep us in your prayers.

Now back to Colton's baptism....Toby and I both come from Catholic families...BLESSING...And some of you might know..that Catholics baptize their infants at a very young age. We believe that it takes away the "ORIGINAL SIN" that we are born with from the actions of Adam and Eve. My brother Lance and my cousin Cassie have been asked to be his Godparents. And along with that comes some improper training and classwork. Being from a small parish that consists of watching a movie and visiting with the priest. But with this whole process it made me look up EXACTLY why Catholics do some of the things we do. I have studied my religion more than most but I still don't know all the answers and always can use a freshening up course. If you are interested you can look at http://www.davidmacd.com/catholic/infant_baptism.htm for more details...

This weekend Toby's parents are coming in, along with two of his sisters and their families. Some of my family will meet us in Groom for the festivities. We will get this young one baptized, go to church as a family, (while my parents do all the work), and then go out to my parents for a party. It is also a good chance for everyone to get together AND to see our blessing....COLTON...

PICTURES WILL FOLLOW...

New windows, Tea party, and Cheerleading camp

2008-08-13T08:35:00.003-05:00

There is many joys about staying home with your kids. One is getting to see your kids imagination and participate in all the fun. Kaitlyn received a tea set for her birthday and she absolutely loves it. So we have been having pretend tea parties everyday. So to make this one special, we actually served pound cake...and tea (water). Toby actually got to come home for lunch so we suprised him with another tea party......

Kaitlyn was a great hostess. She served princess cake and princess tea... It was great.
Caden dressed up for the occassion. He loved getting to eat the cake. He wasn't to prissy drinking his tea...but he did enjoy the tea.
There is nothing better than the imagination of a child. And two siblings playing together without fighting or crying...I couldn't have asked for more...
Kaitlyn at cheerleading camp. She loved it.
She can't wait to perform at the scrimmage this weekend. She got a new cheerleading outfit.. I just hope it will be in before this weekend. She has no choice but liking cheerleading.
(not that I am putting any pressure on her or anything)

Reminder of what the old windows looked like after the storm.
It was well worth the wait. They actually fit and look great.

You can't hear conversations from across the road..

We had to replace everyone of our windows.

I truly believe that this updated our house by 20 years. I actually am beginning to love my house. I actually don't mind that green now. But we are going to have to replace all the trim and paint it. I love it. Thanks to ACCENT ROOFING...We finally got our carpet...I love it.... Carpet World from Lubbock

Got our new bedroom furniture and bedding. We got our furniture at Bob Mills and love it.

Got the bedding at Sam's...can you believe it? You won't guess how much I paid for all of it. You will never guess. I took Toby shopping with me...because he thought I was going to spend too much. And finally he realized how much things like that cost. Then after we decided to give up until I was shopping by myself, we found it out Sam's.

FOR ONLY $175 for everything you see. Let's just say that saved Toby LOTS of money. The sad thing is...the old bedding was a wedding gift from my parents...and it was my dream bedding. I still kept most of it...just can't part with it....

Today, we are going to have a house inspector come to the house. Please pray at nothing too bad is wrong with the house. Toby didn't want to spend the money for him to come, but I think it is an investment that we need to make to make sure our house is all OK... I am sure ready for this house to be done.

Colton's first vacation

2008-08-11T13:43:00.005-05:00

You can not say that the Tucker's sit still..... I guess you can call it a tradition, but we take the kids on a mini vacation within weeks of their birth. Everyone has done great on these trips and Colton was no exception. We decided at the last minute to take off to Dallas for a couple of days. Toby had training so our original plans to go to Ruidoso or somewhere else were scratched. That is ok.. The kids got to swim and we all go to go shopping. (I am waiting for my shopping spree until I lose all this baby weight....the joys of childbearing)

We took a picture of the cute little yard sign before he went over to the Keys family. How fun is it going to be to have the boys a week apart...
The WHOLE Tucker family in the car on the way to Dallas.
I could not be happier....I have my 3 kids...and a wonderful husband....

We might should have bought the bigger car...

Colton after his bath....can you say precious...?

My grandma is going to kill me for posting this picture. I called her on the way to Groom one day and told her to come over and see Colton. She had been in the yard all day...but I told her I had to take a picture....I love the picture though. She is a great lady and someone that I am really close to. It is nice to have grandparents that you are close to and you know.....some people don't get that chance. And I got the chance to know all my grandparents and most of my great grandparents. Thank you grandma for all your support through the years. Luckily my kids are getting to have much of the same chance to know their grandparents as both Toby and I have gotten to....

Colton's first doctor appointment and car ride

2008-08-11T11:14:00.003-05:00

Thank goodness for my mom....
She went with the TUCKER GANG to Amarillo to go to Colton's First DOCTOR appointment with Dr Shu Shum. Some of you might not know....but Shum is the reason that we have our little girl. We had a very scary delivery with Kaitlyn and Dr Shum saved her and gave her the name of "Miracle Baby." We are very attached and we have a special place in our hearts for that man. We will keep him as the kids' doctor....for many reasons but that is the main one....
All the kids did really well... Thank goodness for DVD players in the car....and again for Gramz.

Baby Colton's first bath....He loved it....Loved it....He is going to be a water baby...
Getting ready for the long trip to Amarillo....He did great.....
Caden and Kaitlyn love playing Noggin on the computer...They love Gramz and Grandad's new laptop....Colton's telling Gramz all what he has been doing....

There is nothing better than listening the the goos of a little one. My parents love their grandkids. You never know...it might be the only ones that they will have....ATLEAST for a long time. Does anyone have any sisters or friends out there...? That aren't looking for money!!!

About the doctor appointment.....EVERYTHING IS GREAT. He is gaining weight...and eating good... He is loved....so how could we have asked for more....

Trey Colton is finally here...

2008-08-03T20:13:00.004-05:00

Mommy's little boy....There is nothing better than a sweet little baby. I could not be happier with my family...I have 3 healthy kids, a great husband, and a supportive and loving family...Could not ask for more...
They love each other....atleast at this moment...
Kaitlyn and Caden love holding and being with Colton....
I am excited to announce that Kaitlyn and Caden have their little brother...Colton is here.
Thursday morning I took the little pill...and went into the hospital about 8 am. And I was officially in labor. Everything went great... I could not have asked for anything better. Dr Green is the best doctor that I have ever had the honor to work with. I don't think he understands how much we appreciate him... I think the outcome would have been different and alot worse had it been anyone else. But everything went fine and we have a healthy baby boy to show for it....
I knew from the beginning that this little one was going to be a good one. He has always been calmer than the others while in my tummy...He has lived through the stress of a tornado, preterm labor, and two older siblings...as well as a mom that worries too much.....He is great. He loves to cuddle and just been talked to. He already loves sitting and watching his mobile or just sitting and watching his brother and sister.
The kids love their brother and are doing a great job of helping and loving him. They love to sit and hold him..and they both run to him first thing in the morning and every time they walk into the room....
We want to thank everyone that has come by, called, emailed, or said prayers. I feel great. I finally have energy...I don't know how since I am working on about 4 hours of sleep a day....but that will get better soon....
Here are some pictures...

Gramz and Grandad seeing their 2nd grandson. Toby took the kids to go eat Pizza...and they thought that was great...while mom, gramz and granddad visited with Colton.
Grandad with his grandkids...
Toby with his little boy....Nothing better than baby kisses...
Taking a quick nap before we headed home to the busy TUCKER household...
Getting ready to go home and see his brother and sister and start his life with his new family....I would be scared...

baby Colton is on his way

2008-07-30T20:10:00.002-05:00

It doesn't feel like I am going to be a mother of three.....but tomorrow should be the big day....I am taking a little pill tomorrow morning around 6 am and then hopefully go to the hospital around 7:30 or 8.....I kinda like the idea of knowing when....or atleast kinda when....
That way I don't have to be nervous about where my kids are going to go...and how I am going to get them there....my family can all have a heads up....and be there if they want to....and I can be all packed and have the house clean...or atleast somewhat....

Please keep us in your prayers...but I know everything will be just great.....

Thank goodness for modern medicine...and a great doctor....

CAN YOU SAY EPIDURAL.....EPIDURAL.....EPIDURAL.....

post pictures soon.....

Pictures of our new windows.....

2008-07-25T09:30:00.004-05:00

You can just keep looking....

that is right....Toby called me on the way up to Amarillo yesterday with the news.... They were supposed to install all of our windows.....and everything would be on schedule....but NOT ONE OF THE WINDOWS fit....We found out later that they fired the guy because the last 3 jobs he measured were all wrong....so let's just say it will be atleast another 2 weeks until we get our windows....I will be honest with you....I got alittle emotional about it yesterday...but I have come to realize that there is nothing that I can do about it....My dad told me last night...."don't get depressed about it.....Indians brought them home to the open air in TeePee's, so what's different than your house..." You have to know my dad...but I was funny and really reassuring.... My mom and dad have actually offered to take me and the kids on vacation after Colton is here...Toby can't go probably because of computer training...so I don't know if I can go....but we will see....

We are getting our carpet...SUPPOSEDLY.....on Monday....so hopefully we will get our carpet... And Dr Green is back in town and I will find out some more details and the status of baby Colton....

I will keep everyone up to date....take care...I just thought everyone would get a kick out of the new windows....

Pictures of our new windows.....

2008-07-25T09:30:00.001-05:00

I must be crazy....or.....

2008-07-23T11:37:00.002-05:00

I am finally feeling alittle better about this whole house situation.... This is the time in your pregnancy that you should be able to be cleaning and loving every minute of it....and I just started feeling that way....I am going to organize all my kitchen today....and the kids bathroom...and maybe even my closet...I hate to do that before I get to THROW away my maternity clothes...I hope to never see them again.....

About the going crazy thing....I took on another decorating job....what is the world was I thinking...I wasn't....but this one should be really easy....and then he wants to be decorate a whole office complex after the little one is here....so Colton is going to get to see the true MOMMY come out of me....doing everything in such little time.....

House update...roof is on...and looks great.....windows tomorrow.....carpet (hopefully Monday)along with Dr appt.....set up nursery on Tuesday.....furniture Wednesday......shower Thursday......Groom Day Friday (I don't know if we are going since I am embarrassed of my fat butt....it will be the 2nd Groom Day in 29 years that I have missed....really sad).....And then hopefully August 4th we will have baby...if all goes as planned...haha....They do have to tear down and rebuild our sunroom...but hopefully that won't be too bad....they are doing our trim and garage doors...and landscaping....sometime soon....but if I can just get my inside and nursery set up....I WILL BE JUST FINE....

I hope everyone is doing great....I am doing awesome...finally got some energy....so that means little Colton should be here soon...but hopefully not too soon.....

take care....steph

7 years ago....

2008-07-21T15:19:00.002-05:00

I woke up early morning to get ready for a Bridal luncheon.....
went to the luncheon at my grandma's....
went to get my hair done...
got ready for pictures....
wrote notes back to the groom.....
sang a special song for the groom....
walked down the aisle with my dad....
promised to live my life with 1 man....that I love dearly....
tried to get in our getaway car....(unfortunately, it didn't start...but it made a cute picture)
made it to our reception....everyone was having a great time...
left in a limo.....and fell asleep....can you believe that...?

7 Years ago I married the man of my dreams....and I couldn't be happier....
love ya lots....

Is anyone in need for carpet...?

2008-07-17T11:20:00.002-05:00

I have a company from Lubbock coming Monday or Tuesday to give me and some other people some estimates. If you are interested, let me know.....It does cost $25 to have them come out to give the estimate....A couple of people from here in Childress have used them and really liked them....The lady that is coming Monday and Tuesday is from Carpet World in Lubbock...I have already got my estimate from Rick Lovelady in Amarillo....both are really trying to work with me...(trying to get it in ASAP) so hopefully we will have some luck.....let me know if you are interested and I will put you on the list of estimates for her.....She is bringing some samples...so that might help....

Hope everyone is having good luck....if you call...I might not hear you....since we have so much hammering going on right now.....(word of advice) make sure that everything is secure on the walls and even you pictures on coffee table....I didn't know we were going to have to go through a earthquake to get the damage of the tornado fixed...haha...

let me know if you want an estimate...steph

it is really happening....now....

2008-07-17T09:55:00.002-05:00

No, I am not in labor.....

but we are getting our roof.....they just came to the door to tell us they are working on it...thank goodness....now we think that our windows will be in next week...and then the carpet.....and then our furniture....blinds....and lastly....we can set up the nursery....I am so ready....it will make mommy feel better to have this all done.....

thank goodness for moms though....she is going to come down (whenever I want) and help me get everything ready....I HAD the closet and drawers and everything organized...but that doesn't last long with a 5 and a 3 year old....

This week has been fast...thank goodness....This week has been VBS at the Church of Christ...my kids love(d) it.... They kept on asking today if they get to go back tonight...they were upset when I said NO.... We are lucky to have so many active churches here in Childress...

Some of you might know...but the little girl that works for me at the gym for the past 2 years is quitting. She is having a baby at anytime....so this week we have been training a new young lady...I hope it all works out... It is hard to think of everything that you need to teach them and train them on.... It is hard to find a good kid that isn't involved in every activity at school and they like to work....but I think I lucked out....

Yesterday I went to the doctor....everything is going as planned .... but no progress.... I know that is the best thing .... but I don't like the idea of being pregnant much longer... My doctor is gone next week... so I need to wait for atleast 1 more week ...

Today.... the kids are getting to stay at home and finally play with their toys they got for their birthdays....and not have to do anything. I need to be working on laundry...but just can't get motivated.. Atleast I will try to get baby COLTON's clothes washed...and bag packed. I also need to get my bag packed....

Tomorrow... I am hoping that Toby gets to take off so he can have a day....and I can get some work out of him...haha...he is going to help me with some little things with the race.....start out eating or cooking breakfast for the kids....and then we will get some things accomplished...
My mom is coming in to spend the night so she will be here for the race...I just hope that I will be a mom like her...that doesn't mind coming in to help with anything that I need....I am lucky to have alot of people willing to help me with this race...

Saturday....it will start pretty early....getting everything ready....and I just hope that I have everything that we need.....it is going to be our first race...so hopefully it will go off like a bang.... I would personally like to invite everyone.....even if you don't want to run the 5K.... I encourage you to come out and participate in the 1M fun Run/Walk....bring the kids....strollers....grandparents....it will be great.... AND for sure...bring the kids out for the 50 yard dash....2 years - 5th grade....we will start this race ASAP after the 5K and will be done in time for the parade....It should be lots of fun....Very casual....no pressure....

Sunday....hopefully we will get to go to Groom to church and hang out with the fam....then come home and get ready for the next week....

I will post pictures of the race....hope to see everyone there....thanks again to everyone that has already helped with it .... the ones that have volunteered to help.... and EVERYONE that attends and make this a total success....

have a great one...

hey there

2008-07-15T15:01:00.005-05:00

Alot has been going on since my last post....
The kids turned 5 and 3....We had a fun little party.....We bought the kids one of those fun little blow up water slides...and we just love it....since we really don't have a swimming pool...

so it was a great investment....

You will have to all come over and play....it is so much fun....Toby and I have even tried it out...

Kaitlyn showed off her cupcakes. We had BEACH Party...

Caden enjoying his cupcake....and having his friends over...

The kids getting ready to open their presents....Let's just say....They got everything they will need or want...haha...

Last weekend we were planning to go to Ruidoso for a quick little get-away but with the baby just around the corner...and other reasons....(Toby is just now speaking to me...haha) We decided to just go up to Amarillo and spend some time there.... We went to Jason and Toby's race at Palo Duro Canyon....We missed them crossing the finish line by 3 minutes...that potty break got us....

The picture of the family after Toby's race. It was really neat looking back 9 miles and seeing the hills and distance he ran....proud of him....he went from making fun of me and my working out...now we have switched roles....but watch out....give me a couple of months and we will be doing it together....

The Horton Gang and the Tucker clan....we had a great weekend....the race...SPLASH...eating at Kabuki...(my kids favorite thing)...and just hangin' out...

The kids playing while they were waiting for the results....

Update on house -

Roof hopefully by the end of this week....

Windows by the end of next week.....

Carpet...soon after....

Get our furniture all delivered....and Colton delivered....

Colton update -

Dr appointment tomorrow....

I hope we are working for progress....He can't come until Saturday after the race...and then I won't argue with it...

But it might be smart and be nice to have windows and carpet before he comes....

Reminder -

FULL OF BULL run this Saturday....

registration starts at 7:30 am or you can come by the gym...

You don't have to run the 5K ..... we also have the 1mile fun run/walk....it would be great for everyone...bring the kids and strollers... The first 50 participants get a t-shirt and participating in the race or walk ONLY costs $15...

Also we are having a 50 yard dash for the kids... 2 years - 5th grade can come and compete against their friends in a friendly competition. It is FREE and everyone gets a ribbon for competing....

We have alot going on....it is good...since it keeps my mind off of the swolen ankles...and NO SLEEP....

I am SO Lucky....

2008-07-05T09:40:00.002-05:00

I am so lucky.....

for the family that I have been blessed to be a part of...

for my husband...best friend...and understanding man...

for 2 healthy kids.... and one of the way....

a strong dedicated faith... it has been under stress for the past couple of years...but I will keep trying...

nice "BROKEN" house ..... that is what Caden tells everyone..... his house is broken but daddy is going to fix it...

wonderful parents....and healthy parents.....(I just hope that I am half the parents they are and were)

great in-law family....alot of people can't say that...

husband that has a job that he enjoys and is able to provide for his family....

enjoy the job that I have....

get to be with my kids....

get to visit my parents when I want or need to...

my entire family go to the same church and are the same religion.....

I have some great friends that I could call up and ask for help....

We have the best neighbors anyone could ask for....we call them our adopted grandparents..

Again...I feel lucky to everything that I have had, what I have, and what the future holds....

What do you feel lucky for?

How times flies.....

2008-07-03T08:12:00.002-05:00

It seems like just yesterday................

I got married....This July will be 7 years...

I found out I was pregnant with my first....Kaitlyn will be 5 years old this July...

We found out we were having a little boy....Caden is going to be 3 this July....and starting to go to Preschool....

Decided to move to Childress...we have lived here for 2 years as of April...(we haven't lived somewhere longer than 2 years other than growing up in Groom...now we are going on 3 years...wow)

Found out that I was going to get to have my third and LAST little one that the complete the

Tucker family.... and now I have 3-4 weeks until he is here...and NO we aren't going to be ready....that is probably the hardest part of the whole storm damage...I am one that wants to have everything ready, clean, and set up before my little ones get here. We don't even then we will get to have the bed set up in time...but I am still holding out and praying that it will happen..

Started the job of my dreams (other than being a stay at home mom)....I love my gym and what it has done for me and my clients...we will be open for 2 years in August...and I hope to open a couple more in the next couple of years....

It just makes me realize that I love my life...and you better take it all in...and don't take it for granted....because things can change so fast....

Now update on the house......It is finally getting all settled...let's just say that I haven't had a breakdown in a couple of days...Bless my family's hearts...they have had to deal with a pregnant stressed out lady...

We ordered our windows...so hopefully in the next couple of weeks we will get those installed...That is my biggest worry....I didn't want to bring my newborn home to a house that is exposed to the outside, bugs, and dirt...They are going to start on our roof...we hope in a week...We did order our bedroom suite...but we can get it delivered until we get our carpet...and that will be that last thing done since we have to paint some of the rooms and most of the ceilings...We did hire a contractor to finish the rest of the repairs...so hopefully we will atleast get our house livable before little Colton gets here...(atleast windows)

I am excited about the kids' birthdays....We bought them a big blowup water slide and we are going to have a small birthday party (TUCKER WATERLAND) for a couple of their friends...pictures will follow...they have had so much fun...I am just ready for when I can try it...

I hope everyone's summer is not going so fast....for me, it doesn't hurt my feelings...less days of being pregnant..haha.. BUT DIDN'T it just seem that SUMMER STARTED....just yesterday...

HOW TIME FLIES....

Looking for professional HELP....

2008-06-19T08:35:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to make a quick post to update and ask for help....

We are meeting with our adjustor, contractor, and hopefully we will get some names of a structural engineer... We are becoming more concerned about the separation of our roof...It shows more and more signs everyday.... So if anyone knows of a contractor or anyone else...PLEASE LET ME KNOW... I want someone that I can trust...

Speaking of people I can trust... I have talked to one of my brother's good friends is a roofer in Amarillo...And LUCKILY I have talked and asked him to come to Childress.. He is a great guy.. He has been doing roofs for awhile...and it is a family owned business.....He is someone I would personally recommend and trust to anyone... He is will ACCENT ROOFING...Name - Wyatt Weinheimer...(wine-hime-er) and his brother in law is Kevin Banbury.... They are great HONEST people.. Toby and I learned our lesson last time about our roof...and I totally regret it... The number is (866) 223-0496 toll free. Call him and get on the list.... They are actually coming TODAY (thursday) to look and get measurements for windows.... If you would like I wouldn't mind calling him personally...

I just wanted to give you a piece of INFORMATION that might keep you from being in the same trouble that I consider us in...

After all of this mess....we might have to have a TORNADO party...

BABY UPDATE - Had a dr appointment yesterday.....everything went great....and we are getting closer...for the first time...I really have been praying that he doesn't come until later... I just pray that I get to bring him home to our HOME and not another place...

NESTING - One good thing that has come out of this storm....I had an excuse to go through the kids clothes and closets and THROW AWAY...and STORE AWAY....

What is everyone doing about the swimming pool? I heard that the Co. Club is closed...and my kids are dying for a pool.... Maybe as soon as we get our backyard cleaned up..we will have a swimming and water party....

I know that this post is random...but I thought I better get it all written down before I forgot...

TAKE CARE and I am thinking about everyone....

Holy Cow...what a day...

2008-06-16T21:29:00.003-05:00

Let's just say that yesterday wasn't your normal Father's Day. First we went to Groom to church...made it back in time to all take a great nap...since we had a long night before....GREENBELT BOWL....started late because of the rain.....After a great nap...we cooked out, had a picnic outside with the kids, and let the kids play in the kiddie pool in the backyard... We all came in and noticed there were storms...we thought we missed them...but to make the story short...we didn't....We got hit hard...We made it to the closet with the kids...and a matress over our heads....We actually think that our roof was lifted...(we have a contractor and an engineer coming to make the decision) All our windows are out...our floors ruined....yard gone....roof (shingles gone)....and just a mess... I have been buggin' Toby about painting INSIDE and OUT....new windows....and new floors....I just didn't know that I was going to have to live through a tornado to get it all...
I do have a sweet story....after we really felt the blunt of the storm...the kids got really scared and starting to cry...so I asked them to start singing...so we started singing "Itsy Bitsy Spider" and Kaitlyn stopped us...with tears in her eyes and fear in her voice...she said let's sing...."RAIN, RAIN, go away....It was sweet and so sad....Now I can laugh about it...but last night...it was one of the most sincere and scared moment in my life....
These are some of the pictures of the house......

The hail and the winds just shredded my blinds and my bedding in our bedroom....It was amazing...
If you know me...you know that my yard is my pride and joy.....other than my family.....and it is gone....how depressing.....
The interior of our master bedroom....Again...all front windows are gone...that is 3 huge picture windows...and 2 smaller ones....with all the water and hail...we will for sure have to replace all the flooring...all my bedding...my matress...and probably a new paint job...
A little picture of the backyard...what a mess...
Thank to my mom and dad for all their help...they brought us food, chain saw, generator, and a much needed hug and smile...Also thanks to Toby's sister for taking the kids back with her to Lubbock for a fun-filled visit....I miss them...and just pray that they act right...
But...I miss my babies.... Also thanks to everyone that called and came by to show they care.....

It will be a long process...but we will all get through it....take care.....
HUG THOSE BABIES and everyone you love...you never know what the future holds....

New blog I wanted to let you know about....

2008-06-15T16:28:00.002-05:00

This world has become so negative...and this blog is dedicated to show that is doesn't have to be....I know the author personally and I truly think you will enjoy each and every post.....

check it out at http://positiveyou.blogspot.com

Let me know what you think....

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to everyone....especially my dad....and my husband....

Where to begin....pictures will follow....

2008-06-12T15:28:00.002-05:00

School is out....Toby starts his new job....It is hotter than H-E- double L.....Finished the decorating job.....harvest has started......getting closer to having Colton here....

School is out...So now school is out...Graduation went great...and the last days of being a principal went great...He was ready to get out of town so we decided to take a quick trip to Dallas. We went to swim at the pool, Rangers game, an inside playground, and a couple other things...It was a nice time to get away...We also got to visit some great friends while we were down there...

New job....he is about to move to his new office...we are waiting for some things to get done..and then my part will come in...I can't stand when someone's office doesn't look like it is put together right...He is looking forward to the change...so am I...hopefully we will get to spend a little more time together as a family...

Being pregnant when the weather is averaging 102 is really not much fun. Unfortunately, I am starting to swell...and I still have 7 more weeks...can you believe that it has been this hot and windy...My poor yard looks awful....I am not looking forward to getting my water bill...

Finished decorating job....It is done..and it turned out looking great...the baby shower was this weekend, so I hope it turned out great...I haven't gotten to talk to her yet...So after the help of my mom....we got everything done...and complete...

Luckily, my kids and I have gotten to go visit with mom and dad up in Groom.. The kids got to go up and ride and watch the combines and harvest. Many of you might know....but my parents and most of my family still farm...My middle brother has come back to farm with my dad....my little brother just bought him a spraying business and also farms on the side...so farming is a big part of me and my life...I really love it...It is really stressful, but it is a great way to raise your family...Caden wouldn't get off the combine...and Kaitlyn loved getting to ride with her uncle...it is fun...The only bad thing...I forgot the camera...so hopefully we will get to go up again before harvest is over...

Colton has 7 weeks til he is going to be here...We haven't gotten everything ready for him but as of today I have almost everything.....We had a little scare so I went to Amarillo and got EVERYTHING that I needed... We will get the bed all set up this next week...and then everything should be closer...Since we didn't think we were going to have another little one...I gave away or sold my stuff...so I had to get all new things....I do have a hint to anyone having a baby....ONCE UPON A CHILD...it is a great place to get new or gently used items....I got a NEW carseat, pack n play, and other items....and then I had to buy 2 swings....and other items of 2 because I need them either for the gym or my mom's. Also...EBAY is a great place to find other items...I got his bedding for $20...only $20...it was everything for the crib and even some extras...(I know it might not be the best quality, or the absolute cutest...but I saved 100's of dollars on it) I will take pictures as soon as we get it all set up....

(by the way, if you know of any girls that you would recommend for your friends to date I need help... my middle brother just parted ways from his supposedly future wife....As of this point...I think the good Lord was looking out for him and our entire family...Let's just say...they broke up after she wanted him to buy her a $20,000 engagement ring...and I am not exaggerating...plus she has mentioned a lot of other things to his friends and it finally got back to him and it brought thoughts FINALLY to his head....My other brother than I where a little worried but we wanted our brother to be happy......so if you know of any girls (down-to-earth, fun-loving, and Catholic would be even better...) let me know....we need him to move on.....there is alot more details and reasons...but I didn't want to bore you...so if you want to know...ask me next time you see me...)

take care of yourself....steph

Red River Runners Club

2008-05-25T19:17:00.003-05:00

We are starting a RUNNERS CLUB for the community of Childress and the surrounding areas. We want it to be a fun organization... You don't have to run miles and miles at end...but you might just want to be surrounded by people that are interested in fitness and their health...

Our first meeting is going to be Tuesday, June 17th at 7:00 pm at Fun Family Fitness. Come if you are just interested in seeing what our plans are....

Our first sponsored run for the Childress area is planned for Saturday, July 19th...at 8:00 am... We are doing it during the same weekend of the OLD SETTLERS RODEO here in Childress. We are going to have a 5K run and a 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk.... Something for everyone... As of right now, we are collecting email addresses and addresses for possible interested members...
If you are interested in joining us....let us know...
you can email me at redriverrunnersclub@yahoo.com or call me at the gym (940) 937-3330.

happy birthday....DAWN

2008-05-16T14:18:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to you....Dawn you are such a great person....I know we really don't know each other that well...I have grown to love your blog and you as a friend...

Happy Birthday...steph

Kids say things......

2008-05-14T18:27:00.002-05:00

My kids and I know everyone's say some of the darndest...things...

TOP 10....(check out the blog for the top 5)

10....Kaitlyn has been asking everyone if they are having a baby...(it is embarrassing so I have to explain to everyone that she has been asking everyone...)

9.....Caden was acting like his dad....he acted like he had his time watch on and his heart rate monitor...(I guess you had to be there)...and then he said he was ready to run...

8.....Caden came in screamin'........I didn't say it....I didn't say it...and then I asked...What didn't you say....I didn't say SHUT - UP....they both got in trouble...and then they promised not to say it again...

7.....Caden's new thing...he doesn't like to eat strange things...but we have started making him...so he will say after we make him cry and eat....He says "I tried it and I like it"...(what a thought)

6.....Kaitlyn will ask me randomly...."How's the baby boy..." She will get out of her bed...and every time she gets in trouble..she will ask it...so I won't be mad at her...she is learning..

I hope everyone is having a great week....
Enjoy the rain while it lasts...

It is STILL a boy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-08T14:58:00.004-05:00

Caden got a boo-boo on his head...so they both decided they needed a bandaid...It is amazing how bandaids are just MAGIC....

The kids helping me blow out the candles....on my favorite cake of all times...RED VELVET...

Happy Mother's Day....got to love those flowers....

Can't you see that cute little nose and face of baby Colton...I really love that picture...How sweet and innocent...that is what I think until I feel him kicking my ribs...

I don't know what to do....it is even harder when it is not your child that is doing the biting...but it is your child getting bit...I have to walk a fine line....but I don't want it to keep happening if I can stop it....thank you again for all the thoughts...I was always told to bite them back...haha...but I really like the idea of the cold water....

It is still a boy....and believe me I have proof...I will be able to start buying and painting the room....We are still debating on the name...I have agreed to Colton but now Toby likes the idea of Cameron and calling him Cam....(why not just call him his name....) I did get the most awesome picture of the baby.... I was really needing to have this sonogram and see the baby...I have been getting depressed and frustrated (and I still have 3 months) and really needed to see why I was going through all of this....Everything was good on the baby...They did actually say that my date moved up using the date of the sonogram...(July 28th) I sure hope that happens...that is about a week earlier than the first date...

We are going to Tyler this weekend. We are going to get to spend Mother's day with Toby's parents. I told him we better go now because we won't be able to go much longer...I don't want to sit in a car for 7 hours there and back...so we are going...We will leave about 5 am in the morning and do the normal trip there.....Leave and stop at Decatur (at IHOP) to eat breakfast...then we get to Tyler about noon...so it will be good. We are probably going to the zoo...(if you get to ever go to Tyler you have to go to the zoo...it is so good and clean)....Toby is going to run another 5k and Kaitlyn, Caden, Toby's dad, and I are going to walk in the funwalk....it should be fun....and then we are going to just visit with his parents....

I did get my mother-in-law a great plant from Ross's...It is gorgeous...and then I actually got my sister-in-law a plant for mother's day and just as a nice gesture....

My mom will have to wait...we probably go up and see her next weekend.

Happy Mother's Day to everyone...and don't forget all your mothers and your mother-in-laws...You know your husbands won't remember...or even you siblings...that reminds me to call my brothers and make sure they don't forget...

Need your prayers....

2008-05-07T15:49:00.002-05:00

I am sad to announce that a dear friend of mine just lost her 24 year old brother. Dora Lomax just recently started helping me teach a BEGINNER class here at the gym. I got a couple phone calls this morning letting me know...I just thought it would nice to let those of you know.....GOD BLESS HER AND HER FAMILY...

I need some parenting help....

2008-05-07T12:18:00.003-05:00

How do you stop children from biting? And how to stop someone's kids from biting yours?

Please.....I need any suggestions....we think we have tried everything but both of us are up for any suggestions...

I hope everyone is having a great week...
I am sure enjoying the rain...how 'bout you?

Thank you for all the birthday wishes and memories!

2008-05-05T16:53:00.002-05:00

I want to personally thank everyone that has made my birthday a special one...This is probably one of my favorites...I can honestly say that I have some TRUE and GOOD friends....
It all started with waking up at 5 to go to the gym....Bikini Bootcamp is over today so we have the final weigh-in....Toby made sure he woke up to wish me Happy Birthday....Then the kids woke up and Kaitlyn and Caden actually wished me Happy birthday and asked "Where's your cake? I want some..." Then I went to the blogs again...my friend Donna...wished me a Happy B-day on her blog...then my friend from Wheeler and her daughter called and sang to me on the answering machine....my mom has been giving me birthday gifts for the past month....you know how that is....then a group of friends got together to have lunch today....it was great...thanks Sharon, Amy, and Marci for the special lunch...and I want to thanks Ashley for the beautiful candle and Amy and McKenna for the cute little purse..too sweet...and I truly loved the shout out on my friend's Charla's blog...it was nice...I will have to steal that idea for someone's next b-day...also thanks to Trey and Donna for the nice comments they made on her blog...Also a good BLOG friend Dawn made a special shout out on my blog....and last but not least...my wonderful husband got me a hour massage from Denise and my favorite cake....RED VELVET...he actually does listen and pay attention to me....THANK TO EVERYONE for making my birthday one...to....remember....
LOVE YOU ALL so much...steph

RUN here...and there

2008-04-26T20:22:00.002-05:00

This weekend was all about running here and there....It started on Friday getting everyone packed and ready to go to Abilene for the regional track meet...We finally got there and got to meet with our friends that we haven't seen for years...how things change and kids grow up...! It was great seeing them..and catch up...
Then this morning Toby ran his first 5K...I really didn't think he was going to be able to since he hasn't been feeling good....(and looking back now..and shouldn't let him run...but men have a mind of their own)....he did great...better than he ever thought....then we did some running around Abilene getting some errands done...THEN IT WAS TRACK MEET TIME....Can I say...We are awesome...It is so nice to see kids achieve great things....and they did...I think we have atleast 10 or so kids going to state and will compete well down there...I miss track...but it was great...then we ran home quick to get Toby into bed....He will probably be at the clinic at 11:30 waiting to be the first in the door....I can't believe it...I have to get him well so he can go to SAN FRAN this week....I don't want him to have to miss out on that opportunity....

I am so excited for Toby, Jason, and all the track competitors that ran this weekend...WAY TO GO...

Fun with the kids....

2008-04-24T10:01:00.003-05:00

We took the kids to baseball game....and they had fun...

If we didn't have our Tim and Mrs. Wyatt...I don't know what we would do...
Planting flowers with Tim...

Playing at the park...and feeding the ducks....

Lazy Thursday...DVR...laundry....

2008-04-24T08:30:00.002-05:00

It is just amazin' how a house can get so cluttered without any time involved...The house was cleaned yesterday morning and now the kitchen is dirty and clutter all over the floor...I know it won't take long...but I just didn't want to have to worry about all of that today.....My goal today is to put up all my clothes and hang up everything...I have a pile in my room...that is taller than me...(I am not exaggerating)....I will let you know how that goes...

"we will be there from 8-12!" I hate to hear those words...because it is paralyzing..you can't do anything because you are just waiting for them to come and hopefully they will....Toby has decided that he is going to experience the DVR...I don't really like the idea because I hate the idea of the money wasted...but he has justified it by getting rid of another useless add-on that we had...I really don't care anymore about TV since BIggest Loser is over...I have a whole missing....

Tonight....Toby and I are both going to the Seminar or Speaker that is coming to Main Event....I am actually looking forward to it... I really enjoy good motivational speakers...it is nice to get a recharge...I have done some research on this guy and John said that he is the best he has ever heard...

Tomorrow...we are going to Abilene...for the regional track meet...I think I am the most excited I have been for a long time...If you don't know....track was my favorite sport in high school....(the short stubby Stephanie even went to the State Track meet and ran in front of 60,000 people...that was the most amazing experience I had in high school for sure....and maybe in my life...(other than getting married and having kids) Our high school students are really talented here...we might even have a chance of taking some to state...I hope that the principal has to go and I will have to hook a ride....

Also, we are going to get to see some good friends that we haven't seen for several years....He was in our wedding...and she became one my closest friends when we lived in Dallas...Toby and her husband coached together which was awesome to have her...I miss her alot.. She is one of those true friends that doesn't judge you about anything and is always there to listen.. I miss them alot...She hasn't gotten to ever see our kids (IN LIFE) so we are all excited to see each other...

SATURDAY....Toby is running in his first 5K....He said that he wanted to do start so I think that our superintendent and his wife are also going to participate....so it should be fun...(I just think it is funny that Toby has become interested in running...he always made fun of me and wanting to run and do 5Ks....I know that my first one will be the one in Fort Worth...it is called Jingle Bell Run....it is the weekend after Thanksgiving..and everyone wears jingle bells on their shoes and we run downtown Ft Worth....I am hoping that we can do something like that here in Childress benefitting some great organization here in town...I also want to do a FunRUN to go along with it...

UPDATE on the house in Memphis....met with the sweet family and looked at the house...They have done such a great job....now we are working on a budget...they want the whole house done a little with..and the first budget we had...might be a little small..but I have some great ideas....there are couple things that I am unsure with..but hopefully when we finalize the budget and I get to go shopping I will think of something....

I hope everyone is having a great week...I am in the need of some girl time...

maybe something next week.....

Also...I want to thank everyone that came to the TONE class yesterday...I hope everyone enjoyed it...I know that my back is alittle sore this morning...I just hope that isn't a sign of things to come...this is what happened last week..before the uncontrollable cramps...haha...

Pray that Toby makes it through his race...and does it with class...F3 class...

Also, want to wish a fellow blogger husband in his venture of his first 1/2 marathon..I am so proud of everyone that has become interested in running..their health...and of course...F3...haha

Today was a total success....unlike yesterday

2008-04-20T16:16:00.003-05:00

It was everything they were hoping for.....The mass was very nice....STANDING ROOM ONLY...atleast 500 people....and the meal was even better....some other community church members came..but alot from out of town.. It was nice to see everyone....Everyone loved the DVD that Toby made of all the old pictures... I hope they sold all of them...and all the kids loved all the blow up fun toys they had...I think Toby even got an idea for a PRIDE THURSDAY or a PRIDE program....(speaking of...one more to come...but hopefully not the last)

We did come home early so that we could spend some time at the house...I have laundry and I need to start organizing some rooms.....since yesterday our HOG trappin' experience turned to be a longer and more expensive trip than we were planning....Some of you might know...Toby loves the outdoors and anything he can do out there....so he invested in some HOG traps and we have them at various places...He heard of a person that was looking for someone to trap on their land...so after we drove 10 minutes to pick one up....we were heading towards the place...Toby heard a pop and was thinking it was the tire...I THOUGHT HE WAS CRAZY...but sure enough...His front tire was flat as a board...so after we changed the tire and got back on the road...it was longer than we were planning...thankfully mommy....packed snacks and drinks just in case the kids got bored.....so there goes that idea of saving money...it was just funny...When we got in the pickup to leave...Toby mentioned..."Next month put in the budget for new tires..." I told him ok...and now I am thinking we just need to get them done now...and make sure we make adjustments for next month....So between the tire...and probably a strained back from lefting the trap and getting the tire on...it is going to be a costly affair...
We are going out there again tonight to make sure that there are not any hogs...it is the anxious boy coming out in Toby to go check...lets just pray that today is more successful than yesterday....

Tomorrow, is a busy day...like all Mondays....Gym..Ms.Angie's...gymnastics...and then I have to meet with the lady in Memphis on the house...My car is full with different examples of knick knack and pictures....it should be interesting and I hope fun....but luckily this week is not going to be too busy...Now next week is a different story...

I hope everyone had a great SUNDAY...and talk to you soon...

Growin' Pains....and Fun games....

2008-04-19T08:21:00.004-05:00

The past couple of days...."colton" has been growin' and hurtin' his mommy. If I was closer to time...I would have been scared about preterm labor....Poor Toby...he had to take care of the kids during the night...because I couldn't move...And now I am just sore from the cramps...Thank goodness for a heating pad...haha...

Today is going to be busy... I Have to go get my nails done...that should take about 4 hours here....we need to get some more people....that do nails....then I am helping a couple in Memphis decorate their house...so I am going to go look for ideas here in town, so I can take them with me on Monday when I meet with her... I can't believe I took on another job...but this one shouldn't be too hard...and should be fun...

Tomorrow we go to Groom to go to church and celebrate the 100th anniversary of the church...it should be fun...atleast this Sunday they made church start at 11:00 so that makes us only leave at 9:30 instead of 7:00 am....there is a difference...There is nothing like a Catholic function...if you know what I mean...There are supposed to be alot of people there that either grew up in the church or their families did...They are expecting atleast 500 people. That should be fun..there is going to be alot of playing for the kids and the adults...

Hope everyone has a great weekend...I know I am going to try....

New blog design....and much more...

2008-04-17T10:37:00.003-05:00

I just love my new BLOG design... Shelley...You did a great job... I love it...so much...She must have been reading my mind...

I am a mom that needs some time...anyone else...I need to be pampered or just get away....I love my kids and family...but I really in need for some mommy time...hopefully we will all get together soon.... (I still play the guilt trip on myself...but I know I need to get over it...)

Today, I am getting a message though... I am really starting to get the backaches...I wonder why....gaining 20 pounds and more to come.....it just comes with the territory.... NEED TO HIT THE GYM...haha...

have a great thursday..steph

Dave Ramsey.....again...

2008-04-16T12:45:00.002-05:00

We have kinda got off of the Dave Ramsey train...but we are back on again... I have the envelopes and everything is going better....who is kidding....it has only been a day....but atleast thinking about a budget and writing it down...it makes your more responsible....gas is one thing that is killing us...and I know everyone... Especially all the trips to Groom..but those would have been made either way...going to church....there has to be some relief in sight...I even have my lawn and flowers budgeted this month...most people would die if they knew what I spent last year...It won't happen this year though...haha....and don't forget the mother's day gifts....I think I have thought of everything...but I know something will come up and it will all change....

If you are an F3 member this next news might be exciting..... I am in the process of designing and ordering some cool NEW t-shirts....I don't know what all will happen but it was time.....and I finally made the time....some GIRLIE and some UNISEX....I hope they will be done by the middle of May if not sooner.... I will keep you up-to-date....

Towels...towels...I just brought home 200 towels from the gym...so I am writing and checking email between the loads....Thank goodness for my new washer and dryer...I would be working on those all day...

I hope everyone is having a great day....Mine is busy...but that is ok...and my house is a mess...and that is ok.....it will all get done soon....

BY THE WAY......Did anyone watch BIGGEST LOSER last night...? That is my favorite show in the world...and yes...my ALI won...and I actually screamed and got excited... It is amazing to see the transformations....and the life changes.... That is my dream....with F3.... Now I don't know what I am going to do .... without my show....probably start cleaning and getting ready for number #3....only 15 more weeks...the hardest 15 of them all...but that is ok.... it will all be worth it...

have a great day...steph

Pope's visit to the US

2008-04-15T17:33:00.002-05:00

Many of you might know.....but I breathe CATHOLIC.....and I am proud to be Catholic. I know that we have had problems....but all churches do.... we just happened to have everything pile up all at once....My hometown church knows first hand about the problems that the Catholic church has with priests.....scandals can't even hide in a small town....

With the pope coming to the US makes me feel a little more revived as a Catholic... It is still hard to be truly happy.... I just pray that in my lifetime....Priests will be able to marry and have families ... along with other religious life leaders.... I think this would solve most if not all problems...

On another subject.... I just pray that this situation in San Angelo gets solved quickly and those children stay safe and emotionally happy.... Bless their hearts...\

We had a Sunday of doing NOTHING....

2008-04-13T18:51:00.004-05:00

The wedding is over... Everything went great and the reception was alot of fun...We stayed for awhile but Caden got really tired so we decided to go home...so we drove (or I) drove the sleepy car home last night.... We got up and went to go get groceries to cook breakfast.... Eggs....sausage....biscuits..... It was great...morning breakfast and conversation with the kids....It is was great....

Everyone took a HUGE nap......and then we had Mother-daughter day....and Father-Son day.....Kaitlyn ad I went to Wal-mart to go get her some fingernail polish....since she has stopped playing with her fingernails....and then we got her ..... her own flower pot...so she can grow her own flowers or (tomatoes).... That was her deal with me....if she quits messing with her fingernails or toenails...she gets her own garden.... Toby and Caden went to go TURKEY hunting....we will see how that goes....

This is the first week that I will not teach aerobics... I Have decided to teach a toning class on Wednesday afternoons though.... It will be good to do toning....

Next Sunday is our final HAVE-TO go to Groom trip. My hometown church (or church) is celebrating it's 100th anniversary.. It should be fun though.....I will just be glad when it is over....so mom and dad's life can get back to normal also.... They help too much....Toby made a DVD of old and recent pictures....It looks really great...

But hopefully this Friday night we will get to go do something fun....I need it...

This is the busy time of the year for Toby though....between seminars...banquets...shows....parties....April and the rest of May will go by fast....Now I just have to find something to keep my mind off of being fat and pregnant for June and July....But after looking at the calendar ..... I think there is plenty there, too....

Take care of yourself...and please pray for the Horton Family that lost their grandmother.... also please pray for the Kuehler and Brorman family....some of you might know...but a lady that grew up in Groom and lives in Vega came up missing this week.... She has been struggling with depression and anxiety....the bad thing is....her son is getting married this next weekend...that has got to be hard...please pray that GOD will lead her back to her family and the help that she needs....

Happy Birthday CHARLA

2008-04-10T18:27:00.001-05:00

I just wanted to wish CHARLA a HAPPY BIRTHDAY....steph

The wedding is FINALLY this weekend...

2008-04-10T09:10:00.002-05:00

The wedding is finally here....We leave Friday afternoon as soon as school is out...Rehearsal starts at 6:30 but my mom and I are going in early so I can practice a little bit more....It is funny and scary....this is the first wedding that I have sang at that I haven't really practiced....a little scary...oh well...Then my mom and dad are going to keep the kids while we go to the rehearsal dinner.....
Saturday is the big day for more than just one reason....

Reason #1 - Lauren....my middle brother's girlfriend is coming in for the wedding...so we are going to have lunch for her so we can all meet her before the wedding....this is the first time I will have met her....Second time my parents have...so this should be interesting... Chris says it is not serious...but I am not believing anything....This will be probably the last time we get to visit with her until the rehearsal dinner for their wedding....Chris doesn't want to bring her around so we won't give her the 20 questions...but oh well...we are finally going to get to meet her... We are going to have Steak, baked potatoe salad from the bakery, and all the fixins.....

Reason #2 - wedding.....the wedding starts at 7:30 and hopefully it won't be longer than an hour.....(Catholic wedding and mass) Then we will have a great party and reception afterwards.....

Reason #3 - sleep in late on Sunday with the kids - since we go to church on Saturday we will get to sleep in and cook breakfast with the kids on Sunday morning...

Off the subject of the wedding...... I did finally find someone to help me with the house in Paducah....It is going to take longer and more money than I thought....so we will see what all we decide to do... The couple I am doing it for...want it to be nice for when they come in to work cattle....and if they decide they want to sell it....they can...The only bad thing is.....he can only start in about a month and a half....and then he thinks it will take 2-3 months....that means....right when the baby is here...that will be the time for me to be even busier....It will work out...I just wanted it before the baby was here....

Also, I wanted to thank everyone for voting for the name......I don't know if I can name him COLT but you never know....I really want Trey Kyler.....Trey because he is the third and last kid and Kyler and just think is really cute....

I hope everyone has a great Thursday....It is our day to stay at home and just veg with the kids....We have been missing it for the past couple of weeks...and I can tell with the kids...they like the idea of just playing at their house and not having to go anywhere....

Today......I am getting my haircut....I want something new...so who knows.....I am not going to Wheeler this time.....Poor Tosha is going to have to make something work with this mess I have.....

We need your help for names....I need help...

2008-04-03T15:44:00.002-05:00

Check out the poll....some names that we might agree on....

Everything is goin' and growin'

2008-04-03T14:52:00.002-05:00

We had a baby doctor appointment today..... the kids went with me again...they think it is so much fun to see mommy and see the doctor...
It was alittle depressing........for a couple of reasons.....

I GAINED 7 POUNDS this month

and there was a scary period.....he had a little hard time finding the heart beat.....a little scary....but we finallly found it and everything is going good...

and last but not least.....I have to stop teaching aerobic classes....I am going to finish up a couple more weeks, but we decided that it would probably be the best for me and the baby to back off.....

The hard thing is....telling my dedicated ladies...I don't know how they are going to take it....but I am thinking of some ideas that will help them with the transition..

Weekend plans....Toby and my dad and some other men are heading to the races...and I am heading to the movies...I just got off the phone with my Grandma and I am taking all of us to the movies and out to eat... My mom has a meeting all day and then girls night out...so I decided I would take good ol' grandma out....

Also....I need some help.... I am trying to find painters and contractors for a house that I am decorating and redoing in Paducah....everyone is booked and busy....if you have any suggestions, I would sure be appreciative....I am trying to get this house done before the baby is here....I have a couple of months....

Hope everyone has a great weekend...I know I will....steph

4 down and 3 to go...

2008-04-01T19:29:00.002-05:00

4 weeks down and 3 weekends to go..... I have been in Groom the last past 4 weekends...not just for church but for wedding showers...Easter...and everything else....Toby is leaving this weekend with my dad and a couple more men to go to the races...so I haven't decided if I will go up to Groom early or just wait until late Saturday...mom has a church deanary meeting..so she won't be around...but I am debating taking the kids up to Amarillo to Jump N Jive...or something fun....Sunday is my cousin's bridal luncheon...and then next weekend is Wedding rehearsal..I guess I need to really get practicing the songs and the wedding....then the next weekend is the big 100th anniversary for my hometown church... It should be lots of fun...food...and lots of games and fun for us and the kids....

Also...Biggest Loser...is my favorite show and we only have a couple more weeks of it... I don't know what I will do when it is over with... I will have to come up with another obsession....

Next baby appointment is Thursday... nothing exciting...just find out our much weight I have gained....fun fun....I just try to remind myself that this is the last time..(it better be) and I need to enjoy it...and take advantage of all the help that I am getting at home....

Pray that Toby and my dad have a good time and don't get addicted to NASCAR like some other people I know....

Hope everyone is having a great week...take care...steph

New things at the Tucker house....

2008-03-20T16:16:00.003-05:00

We have enjoyed our spring break with Toby at home and just relaxin'.... We haven't gotten a lot accomplished like other people I know but we are enjoying our time....Tuesday, Toby's sister and brother in law drove up from Abilene to visit....It was fun...and they enjoyed seeing the kids...Wednesday...we pulled another Tucker spur of the moment trip... We have been looking for a car for me for a long time....couldn't find anything until Wednesday morning...It is not brand new...but perfect for us...We got an Expedition....and yes...I got my sunroof....and the kids got their dvd player.....couldn't live without that....and we both loved the price and the color....So the VAN IS GONE.....The new car is actually sitting outside right now...I am too afraid to pull it into the garage since it is going to be a close fit.....We left at 3 pm on Wednesday and just got back at 3 pm on Thursday....We had to rush back since I had to get my NEW crown....thank goodness it is finally done....that is not something that I would push on any of my ENEMIES... Saturday, we head to Groom for a 3 weekends in a row....in the morning is the annual Easter egg hunt....good chance for mom and dad to show off their grandkids... and the kids love it too.... that night is one of my favorite days.... Easter Vigil at church... It is the most beautiful church services you will ever go to... Alot of it is candlelit and everyone is so cute and dressed up...it is awesome... This is the first time since Toby and I have been together we have gotten to attend. Ususally we are in Abilene with his family and we attend Easter Sunday mass....but this year we are spending it with my parents....and family...Sunday we will spend eating and playing at Gramz and Grandad....that evening Toby's parents will be here at the house...They are making a tour and visiting all their kids and grandkids. Monday....is Kaitlyn's STAR ATTRACTION...if your kids haven't attended Ms. Angie's...let me explain....it is a day at the preschool that is dedicate to just them.... The parents, grandparents, and everything special to the kid....We make a poster, bring their favorite snacks, and anything else that they want to talk about...So if everything goes as planned .... all the grandparents will be here... it should be fun....

I hope everyone is having a great week....Spring Break is almost over....time to go back to work and school.....
steph

I can finally breathe.....

2008-03-18T08:55:00.002-05:00

Many of you might know....... Toby got offered asst superintendent position here in Childress....It was an answer to most of our prayers. We didn't want to move....because we like Chlidress and everything...but Toby (and I) want to him to be a superintendent.... He finished up his school this past September and we both knew in the back of our minds that our future here in Childress was unclear.... Don't get me wrong...he loves his job as principal...(and being his wife I think he is the best) but he has always wanted to be a superintendent....so he could work with all the campuses...

To make this deal even sweeter....we have both agreed that we are going to work together on our church situation.... We have also made a committment that if we have to .... we will drive to Groom to attend church with the family....but with gas prices the way they are.... who knows how long we can afford that...ha ha...

We are thankful for the support and encouragement we have gotten from the community and our friends.... Our family is coming around though....they just wanted us closer...haha....

Thank you again for all your prayers...steph

Tooth Fairy is going BROKE...

2008-03-10T19:38:00.002-05:00

Kaitlyn lost another tooth...can you believe it? We were at the gym this afternoon and Kaitlyn came out crying because she could not eat her snack because her tooth was hurting.... I looked and yes it was loose.... I told her she didn't need to miss with it since the TOOTH FAIRY was BROKE. She actually looked at me like I was crazy... So we just went on with the day.... and she was sitting down in the kids room at the gym and was missing with it...and it popped out...So when I came out of aerobics I saw the tooth on the desk....HOLY COW.... So I rushed home to see her and I walked in and was so excited for her....she showed me the missing tooth and then started cryin'......I asked why she was cryin' and she said the tooth fairy is broken, so she was upset... So I had to sit down and explain what being BROKE meant in all the different ways...and explained that I was kiddin'... She was upset with her momma.... So the tooth fairy is coming to the Tucker house tonight again... I just hope that she doesn't forget...haha... And that she isn't too broke....I actually think the tooth fairy needs to leave mommy and daddy the money so we can pay for the dental insurance that we need to start looking in to....because it is scary that she is already getting her permanent teeth... HOLY COW!!

Good weekend

2008-03-09T19:38:00.002-05:00

We enjoyed a great weekend. The kids were so good....we did our normal Saturday ritual.....DONUTS from the bakery and chocolate milk....Toby had some training Sat morning...so we enjoyed them without him....We got packed and headed to Groom.... Mom and dad were having a work day at the church, so the kids and I took naps at the house....Toby went to his meeting for the hunting lodge...it sounds nice...I hope it works out....We all enjoyed Aunt Susan's lasagna....(Kaitlyn's favorite) and then the kids played and played...My brother...uncle Chris came over to eat...and make the kids even wilder....but they all had fun.....while the adults played Mexican train...and I hate to say it...the guys won....but only by 3 points....After the beatin' we watched one of the movies that mom and dad brought back about their trip to the Panama Canal...really interesting...and neat...Then we all went to bed...since we LOST an hour...
Got up.....went to church....then we all went to the Dairy Queen....everyone had breakfast....except for the preggo lady....they made my special meat nachos for me....only in a small town....Kaitlyn got to go home with my best friend from high school and her daughters....she was so excited and felt so big....It was also nice to sit around and visit with my aunts, cousins and friends.....then Caden went with Dad and Grandad to do the big boy things....check the wells...check out the crops...and just hang out with the boys....Caden gave both Gramz and me...a hug and said...."I'll miss you..." It was really cute....We ate again....and then had to get ready to leave....
On the way home....I had to break the news to Toby.....We have to go up to Groom the next 6 weekends...between family get togethers.....Easter....and my cousin's wedding and showers....we or sometime just me...will be up in Groom the next 6 weekends....I just hope that gas goes down before then....I can wish can't I.....
I hope everyone had a great weekend...now it is time for me to start cleaning my house so I can have the cleaning ladies come tomorrow....sounds funny....but I can't let her see really how we live....haha...
Tomorrow we are putting our van on the market...so if anyone is looking for a van...great car...we have just outgrown it.... it will be on Trade-o tomorrow....
Pray for our family and everyone ....