If you ever need someone to cheer along with you....

I am apparently the one to call. Last night, I attended the Utah State vs University of Utah basketball game. I was cheering and clapping along with the other fans and all of the sudden my wedding ring broke completely in half. I bet you are thinking I have never heard of that happening. Apparently it does, but only to me!



Despite the devastation of my ring last night, I was able to enjoy a Utah State victory! USU kept the lead for the entire game. They would get a 10 point lead and then let is slip. The game was tied with 2.4 seconds to the game. USU passed the ball and a player scored. We looked up and they did not start the clock. So, we waited in anticipation to see how the referees would call it. The shot was good and there was .1 seconds left. Another victory for Utah State. They definitely deserved it.....the Utes were bullies throughout the games. They were pushing and being very mouthy.

Yeah, We made it!

We made it safe and sound to Utah on Tuesday, but not without a little frustration. Our original flight was canceled, but we were able to get on an afternoon flight. We went to check in at the airport and the agent told us the afternoon flight was canceled because there was no flight crew for our flight. He was extremely polite and went back to see what he could do for us. He was able to get us an evening flight out with another airline. We were grateful to be able to still fly out on Tuesday. We moved to the new airline's check in line. Our original agent came over to let us know the flight was reinstated and asked if we wanted to change our flight back. We of course did. We finally got checked in and through security. We went to our gate and flight was shown as canceled, but we trusted our agent and waited patiently. It was 30 minutes before the flight was scheduled to leave, there was no one at the gate the flight was still posted as cancelled. Shawn decided that it was time we double checked on the flight. He had to go all the way out to the area where you check in to find someone to help him. Our original agent was there to help him still as nice as ever. He said, the flight would be an hour late and we should make our next flight, but he went and head and reserved us a seat on the next flight in case we missed our layover flight. During this time, Shawn found out the agent did not work at Little Rock but because of the weather was stuck there and since they were short handed stayed to help out. Our plane finally showed up. We were able to board but it turned out the air cart was not working so this prevented the engines from starting. So, they had to find an air cart to use. I just want to mention that our original agent was the one who took our tickets to board our flight. He was outside helping out on the tarmac during these mechanical problems. He was definitely a one man show that deserved a raise.
Finally, an hour later we were in the air and on our way to Denver and doomed to miss our next flight. We got to Denver and ran to our gate. We made it just in time. We were so thankful at this time, we were very tired. We got to Salt Lake Papa and Uncle Cade were there waiting with big hugs for everyone. We waited for our luggage and waited some more. Yeah, our luggage as well as half the plane's did not make it to Salt Lake, just our luck! They brought us our luggage the next day. At this point, we were starving and we had really missed Red Robin. So, we stopped and had a very yummy dinner there! Right before we left an obnoxious intoxicated California guy showed up. He was loud and assisted using the f word in every sentence. Thank goodness the kids were not listening. We got to Logan about 11 and crawled into bed and crashed after I snuck and got a sweet little look of Jeron sleeping peacefully.
I woke up Wednesday morning and ran upstairs to see my Jeron. It was definitely a face I was ready to see. He threw his arms out to me and we snuggled. I sure missed the little guy. After 2 weeks of missing him, all was right with my world.
We have been having fun at least most of us. Nana might be a bit tired of having Ashlin as her shadow. We have been able to get most of the Christmas shopping out of the way (it's a good thing since it's less than a week away!). Nana, Ashlin, and I went and got manicures yesterday. Nana and I went to the temple today. It's amazing how you walk in the doors and immediately peace surrounds you and your burdens are lifted.
We did not escape the bad weather. There is tons of snow here and it continues to fall. It's quite beautiful. I will take snow over ice anyday.
Thank you everyone for all of the well wishes, thoughts, and prayers as we were traveling. We appreciate them all and are eternally grateful we have so many people that care for us!

We are dreaming of a White Christmas, BUT.......

...Only in Utah!!

Our Christmas vacation was supposed to start this morning at 7 AM. So, like good planners, we procrastinated packing and errands until yesterday afternoon and evening. We also tried to celebrate our anniversary (number seven, so are we starting or ending the seven-year-itch?). Normally, I would not wait this long to have things organized. However, an unexpected change in church responsibilities caused a few things (everything!) to be pushed aside. We did make it to Chili's for a yummy lunch and a quiet moment together. Unfortunately, our lunch ws interrupted by the arrival of a severe ice storm. No errands for us! Instead we ran to the Parker's to pick up the kids and rushed home.

Once home, we started debating what to do about our 9 AM flight. Shawn watched the Internet intently. No schedule changes or cancellations. Finally, we sought the sage advice of good friends, the O'hara's, Shipps, and Shawn's mom. All told us the same thing. Get to the airport tonight. As we are always willing to accept the advice of fridns, we immediately started packing (should have done this last week, we know). Two hours later we were on the road, after a quick and very appreciated dinner at the O'hara's (thank you!). We were ready for a five hour drive, but it only took an hour and a half (normally about 30 minutes).

Well, that was last night. Now, we are finishing up this post before heading to the airport. Currently, no delays. We pray this is the end of our adventures for the day (were we really dumb enough to post that last line?)

Logan here we come! Today...we hope.

Ashlin Can Spell

Pretty much the only way Shawn and I can talk between the hours of 5 am and 10 pm is to spell.  At times this has been one of our only escapes from the world of children.  But, as they say, all good things must come to an end...

This evening Lindsee called to tell us some exciting news about our favorite Holiday cul-de-sac, the one where all the houses are not only decorated, but synchronized to the same Christmas songs...and just in case the dancing lights are not enough, the songs are broadcast over a short-range radio station.  By far the coolest house we have seen (though there are rumors of a family that has a giant projector showing Christmas movies on the side of the house).  Anyway, the big news...the cul-de-sac was so impressive, that Santa himself was there visiting.

Well this news was exciting, but there was no way I was taking the Trio out at 9:00.  So, I decided to communicate the information to Shawn  in Parent Code, "Shawn, the cul-de-sac has S - A - N - T - A tonight."  Seconds before Shawn had processed this information, Ashlin had lept out of bed and started the I Love Santa dance and song routine.

Yep, we never would have sent her to pre-school if we had realized they would teach her to spell.  Literacy never seemed such a bad idea.

In case you ever wanted to be a college teacher....

Don't!

Here is a sample of what emails look like at the end of semester.  

Dear Ms Charlstone,

I done saw I have an F.  I missed some exams.  But I did come to class.  I really need a B.  Please correct this.  

A random student.

Here is my reply.

Hello Random Student,

You are correct that your grade is a F.  Yes, you did miss a few exams 5 of the 6 given.  I did appreciate your attendance for the one class period.  However that is not the only time the course met.  It would be inappropriate to raise your grade the 75% necessary to give you a B.  Regarding the conversation in our office I wish you success with your medical school application.  

Best.

V. Charlton

Though names and details have been changed to protect the delusional this is based on actual emails received this week.    

Jeron's First Hair Cut

I finally broke down and got Jeron's first hair cut (i.e, a month ago, once again late posting pictures!) I was hesitant to do so....once your little one's get their first hair cut they no longer look like you're baby. I was a little nervous, but he was a champ. He sat still and was very cooperative.
During:

Before:   

After:

Odds & Ends

I am a little behind on things I would like to post! Big surprise....right! Here are a few of our fun moments from the last month.  

These 2 pictures are from Jaxon's birthday party. We had his party late where his Nana & Papa could make. We celebrated at Larry's Pizza with a few of our friends. Jaxon loves Larry's pizza.....good food, fun games and a little candy what's not to love right? We had a very nice time. Jaxon loved his Indiana Jones cake.  Thanks for those who came and shared in his special day!


They had a family day before one of the UCA football games.  There was all kinds of fun things for the kids to do, that is if you could brave the cold.  Here is a picture of Ashlin riding at the family day.  She was so proud of herself!  

Here is a picture from our week in Branson.  We took advantage of Krispy Kreme doughnuts.  The kids love doughnuts, plus they got hats to where.

Here is a picture of our missing Jeron with his Papa.  He sure is a cute little boy with the best smile!
Here is a picture of Nana after Ashlin had given her a makeover.  She absolutely loved making her Nana fancy.  She is looking forward to Logan and the fancy day Nana promised her with her cousin Allison. 

Photo Tag

Jenny tagged me a few weeks ago.....and yes I am just now getting to it. But, this is a fun one. You go to your fourth photo in your fourth folder and post the picture. Let's go see what mine is!

This picture is of me and Ashlin on my birthday right after Jaxon was born. We were in sunny San Diego at the time in our little University apartment. It was one year before Shawn defended his dissertation. This makes me a bit nostalgic....sigh. I would have never guessed then .... that I would miss California. We made many good memories and I am glad we had the opportunity to be there for awhile, but now we are enjoying Conway!



Is anyone else out there stressed, exhausted, and overwhelmed? This semester has beat me down. My finals are tomorrow, I have emails pouring in asking about their grades and what they can do. Isn't it a little late for that! We have a week till we leave for Utah. I can't wait! If only I can get everything done that I need to do.

I can't wait to see Jeron. I miss the little guy!

A little humor for the day....

Yesterday during Jeron's grand adventure on the airplane, they hit a spot with nasty turbulence. Jeron absolutely loved it. Everyone else had worried looks on their faces and Jeron was smiling and laughing saying, "This is fun, again, again."
Today, Jaxon went to work with Shawn. One of his research assistants called in sick so he had to run the participants in his lab. This morning there were quite a few African Americans coming in. One female African American came in and Jaxon looked up at her and said, "Oh good, it's another chocolate person!" Shawn was so embarassed! He apologized profusely but the young woman chuckled and said, "It was alright!"

A Little Lonesome!

Today Shawn's parents kidnapped Jeron and took him to Utah!  Maybe not kidnapped.......We decided for several reasons to let them take him.....since they recently got off their mission he is the grandchild they have got the least time with, he flies for free, it would help lighten our load for a bit (Finals Week), he could use some one on one time, as well as the other kids, and how rare an opportunity that we will be there in 2 weeks.  The distance makes it hard to plan to many solo grandparent trips.  You have to take advantage when you can.  I never imagined how hard it would be to see him go.  I woke up early crawled into his little toddler bed and snuggled him for 10 minutes or so.  It was time to wake him up so I said, Jeron, "do you want to go bye bye?" and he sits up with a big smile and says, "Yeah!".  He climbed out of bed and started walking to the door.  So much for missing mom!  I had to just give him to Nana and turn my back.  He was a champ the only sad moment he had was at the airport when Shawn went to give him a hug (I sobbed all morning).  He was having none of it.  He was definitely ready for his grand adventure.  Hope he has fun.  I miss him so much already!  I don't know if I can make it 2 weeks without his little smile!   

We had a very nice trip to Branson!  

Friday:  Shawn and I started our fun filled week with the Andy Williams show.  We felt so young.....I bet we were the only one's there under 60.  The show was great to our amazement.  We thought he might be a little too old for us.  He turned out to be quite funny and energetic.  The show did have a Big Bear and Ashlin did not like that at all (her, Nana & Papa went earlier).  A lady told her about it and this intimidated her a bit.  She did like the penguin in the show and she loved the dancers who were dressed up like cookies.  

Saturday:  We all went to the Dixie Stampede, a dinner show. There was a live nativity and the Elves from the North Pole and South Pole competed in a friendly rivalry. The kids loved to cheer and stomp their feet along with the show.  That evening we snuck out to see Twilight.  I really enjoyed the movie.  

Second Saturday:  We drove to Springville to a fun little restaurant called Lambert's that Lindsee told me about.  The food was fantastic.  They throw rolls at you.  The kids got a big kick out of that.  Jeron had a melt down over a balloon but other than that everything was great.  I ditched Shawn with the kids and saw Twilight again with Shawn's parents.  I know embarrasing right?

Monday:  Shawn's mom and I shopped, shopped, and shopped.  We met the family for lunch at Famous Dave's.  We followed lunch with more shopping.  We rushed back to the condo and had Cold Stone (Yummy) birthday cake with the Parker's.  We then went and drove through Festival of the Lights.  It's a 2 1/2 mile drive with tons and tons of Christmas displays.  It was really interesting!  One section of displays was the sequence of all of the flags America has had throughout history.  Jaxon loved this b/c we drove so slow he didn't have to be in his seat.  He sat in Dad's lap and drove, he laid on the dashboard,  and bounce around from seat to seat exclaiming with excitement over each new display.  Ashlin enjoyed them to but she was a little sad she did not get more time with Ashley.  Shawn and I once again ditched the kids and watched the newest James Bond movie.  Lots of action definitely a man movie.  You may feel bad for Shawn's parents who put the kids to bed every night but they were really good for them.  Jaxon told Papa go sit in the chair, crawled up in his lap, and went straight to bed.  These are things children never do for their parents!

Tuesday:  If you cane even imagine we did more shopping!  We met the Parkers for Madagascar 2.  Afterwards, Shawn and I went to the Osmond's show.  It was very cute and very fun just like the other two.  We learned that the Osmond's started the Children's Miracle Network.  Their motivation was due to the fact their 2 oldest boys were deaf.  

Wednesday:  We packed up our stuff and the many treasures we purchased.  We had a nice lunch at the Condo.  Nana, Papa, & Ashlin took their turn to see the Osmond's.  We wanted to drive back with them  so Shawn and I went to see 4 Christmases with the boys.  We thought they would take a nap.  Nope but they were very good and we got some nice snuggle time in.  We made it home safe and sound but slightly grouchy from exhaustion.  

We had a wonderful week filled with many good memories.  Nana & Papa spoiled the kids it will take us weeks to recover, but well worth it! Nothing is better than time with the Family!

We had a very nice Thanksgiving.  Nana did all the work while I sat back and relaxed.  I did order the Turkey from Smokehouse and the pies from Cracker Barrell wasn't that enough?  Seriously, it was a great dinner and day!  We have had a great year and had many things to reflect back and to be grateful for!!

Do you think we satiated our need for shopping in Branson.....Nope.....Nana and I got up and made the early morning (4 am) sales this morning.  Let me tell you it was great fun if you don't go in with any expectations that you have to find a particular item.  People were a lot nicer at 5 in the morning then at 11 when we went in with the boys for our second round.  Shawn and Papa lasted 5 minutes before they were rushing us out the doors.  Men are such wimps!  

Here's a question for you....

Ashlin has been spending all of this wonderful family time with her Nana & Papa.  This has sparked some interesting questions.  She asked me this morning if I had a Nana & Papa I said yes, it's Grandaddie & Grandma (which she knows well and loves and can't forget Auntie J!).  Then she asked do you have a mom and dad?  It makes me sad that she even has to ask this question.  She has seen my mom a three times.  I have barely even seen my dad.  So, what do you say to that?

Branson, here we come!

Tomorrow, we head to Branson until Thanksgiving.  We are very excited for our trip.  It will be wonderful to be with Shawn's parent as well as a break from the grind of everyday life.  Most of it anyway.  I have a ton of grading to do!  Ugh!

We had a wonderful birthday party for Jaxon on Tuesday evening for Jaxon's birthday.  We had a belated party where Nana & Papa could be there.  I will post pictures next time when I am not so tired.  Thank you everyone for coming and sharing special memories with us.  He loved all of his gifts.  He has been bouncing between Indiana Jones and Transformers.  Jaxon is ALL Boy!  

Today, we had a very big day in the Charlton family.  I will leave you in suspense until I can post the pictures.  It wouldn't be the same without the pictures.  

In case, I am too busy shopping in Branson.  

Happy Thanksgiving family and friends! 

We are thankful for your continued love and support in our lives! 

Ashlin's school pictures turned out fantastic! They were very much a pleasant surprise. Usually, when we take take the kids in for pictures all they do is cry. They leave grouchy and I leave very disappointed.
We had Ashlin's first parent teacher conference last week. Ms. Brenda had nothing but good things to say about her. She is one of the best listeners, she plays independently as well as with others, she participates in class and raises her hands, she spends time in all of her learning centers independently....I could continue on and on but I think we all get the picture......she is amazing.
Jaxon had his first IEP last week up until this year they were family service plans. Our services were through Arkansas School for the Deaf, this year we transitioned to the Arch Ford Program. Jaxon has been doing quite well. I am sure anyone would agree that has had a chance to talk to him. His speech therapist had prepared us that most likely services would get pulled (this was another thing that added to our stress last week when everything seemed to be going wrong). We got to the meeting and the Arch Ford representative immediately said that services would be continued. She was aware of all the hard work that we have been doing with Jaxon. Although, he is on target he is at a great risk for falling behind in speech. The IEP did not want to risk the gains he had made. We were so thankful for this. Once, you get out of the system it is almost impossible to get back in. Before the IEP meeting, he had several developmental and speech tests. He did excellent and performed at age level. We were very excited to know that he is doing well and a big sigh of relief we continue to get services. Jaxon loves Ms. Sharon (his Speech therapist) and would have been devastated if she quit coming to see him.
We also were able to get a pair of loaner hearing aids from the Children's Hospital. Jaxon's audiologist said the keep them as long as we needed. This will allow us to prepare for the grant better instead of rushing and turned in all of the paperwork. Wish us luck!
Jeron is just as cute and smart as the others. He is really beginning to enjoy talking on the phone. Nana & Papa can actually understand a word or two even. He loves to say, "I funny!" He loves to sing a long with the kids. Sometimes, you will catch him singing the alphabet and he'll get a few letters, fade out, few letters, and so on. He loves to get his chance to be the center of attention. He his pretty much a happy boy who loves to flash a great big grin and a smile out you.

If you didn't get the gist of post, it is our kids are brilliant and we adore them!

Scrubbing....the In-laws are Coming!

3 days till Nana & Papa are here.  We are so excited for their visit.  We got to get busy though.  Scrub, Scrub, Scrub and more scrubbing.  If only I could convince the thundering trio to not follow behind me and destroy all the progress we make.  

Gratitude

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation

is not to utter words, but to live by them.

~ John F. Kennedy

Top: 2008 Thankful List

(ooops, I forgot to take a picture last year)

Bottom: 2006 Thankful List

Two years ago, we were living in San Diego. Some days it feels just like yesterday; other times it feels like a lifetime ago. Jaxon & Ashlin were in this wonderful Daycare during the Dissertation Phase and one of the activities they had was to decorate a "Thankful Poster". They displayed each family's poster around the halls of the center. We loved the idea so much, we made it a family tradition. It's been fun to see the differences in our list each year as well as the things that stay the same. This year, we invited 2 new families from our ward to join us in our tradition. We really enjoyed their company and sharing in the things they were thankful for. It was a great opportunity to build friendships.

Our family is incredibly blessed. I am so grateful that we have the Holiday Season to share the gratitude that is held so quietly in our hearts the other 10 months of the year.

Family and the Gospel are the two things I treasure and am most thankful for.

These two things make life worth living. I am so thankful that Shawn didn't give up on my stubborn heart and had the patience for me to be able to see the eternity we could share together. He puts up with me through the good and the bad. He is such a wonderful father. One of the best moments of the day is when he plays with the kids and gets them belly laughing.

My kids are so very precious to me. At one time, I was unsure I would ever be able to have kids....look at me now. I am thankful for the medical care that made that possible. Each day they add a little more love, a little more happiness, and a lot of laughter to our lives. We have a great extended family that supports us daily. They make the hard moments of life bearable and the good moments of life even better. (Shawn likes to paraphrase Homer Simpson and say, "kids, the cause, and solution, to all life's problems.")

I am so thankful for the Gospel in our lives. It makes life worth living, it brings the color into life. I am thankful for the love that our Heavenly Father has for us. He knows us and knows the experiences that each one of us needs to be able to learn and grow and return to live with him.

I am thankful for old and new friends. Life is more fun, and easier to take when the going gets tough, when you have a friend by your side.

“Gratitude is deeper than thanks. Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude.

Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words.

Gratitude is shown in acts.”

President David O. McKay

Our First Primary Program

This past Sunday was our ward's Primary program.  This was Ashlin's first year to participate.  She did such a good job sitting up on the stand.  There were a few times she waved and blew me a kiss, but I didn't mind too much.  She said her part with a loud clear voice.  I would lie if I didn't say that I wasn't overly emotional.... there was a moment when my eyes watered up with tears of gratitude for the my sweet baby girl.  She is such a happy and loving girl.  She is a shining example to those around her including myself.  There is nothing more beautiful than to see your child show love for their Heavenly Father and to see their testimony begin to take shape.  Thank you friends and family for helping guiding her along her journey.

Happy 3rd Birthday, Jaxon!

November 08, 2005

1 Year Old

2 Years Old

3 Years Old

We began the birthday celebrations with a lunch at Texas Roadhouse. Afterwards, we went to UCA's family day. They had jumpees, pony rides, and other fun activities.  We followed this by attending the UCA football game (UCA won 42-6!!!!). We had a very fun but COLD time at the game. We enjoyed visiting with the Sherwood's and the Shipp's during the quieter moments of . The Shipp's then invited us for yummy hot chocolate. We were able to have a nice visit and the kids were able to play and let out some of the pent up energy they had from sitting at the game for so long. We then came home and opened gifts. He was so cute opening his gifts and seeming genuinely happy for each one.It's hard to believe it's our precious little boy's third birthday and that he has been a part of our family for that long. Each day he adds joy and happiness to our lives and a few choice words every now and then as well. He is a sweet boy with boundless energy. He is constantly exploring and seeing what is going on. He melts my heart each day when he says, "Mom, I don't like you.....I LOVE YOU! I am so thankful that Heavenly Father sent him to us, because I can't imagine life without him.  

We love you, Jaxon.  

Thanks for being a shining star in our lives each day!

Pity Party Anyone....

If anyone would like to join me in crying, moping, complaining, or eating all of the chocolate that can fit into your body......please come by my house.

In the last two weeks, we have had the stomach flu, shootings at our work, a lost hearing aid. I have scrubbed my house from top to bottom. I have tried to be extra nice to the students due to their recent traumatic event. I tried to say, Oh well.......we were applying for a grant for new hearing aids so it is as good as a time as ever. You would think surely that this little family have reached the end of their bad luck streak....no not the case.

Monday morning at 3 a.m. little Jeron woke up with a high fever and was throwing up. Yes....more throw up. He looked so miserable! We drug him to the doctor and it turns out he has an ear infection and strept throat. No wonder the little guy looked so bad. We then proceed to go to the pharmacy to pick up his prescription. The boys and I sat in the car, while Shawn ran in. Jax kept saying, "I gotta go potty." I being the reasonable mother saying, Hold it since he has been crying wolf all morning. Nope not wolf this time, he pooped his pants. You can imagine how fun that was to clean up in the parking lot. Although, it was probably cleaner than a public restaurant. After calling Shawn numerous times and asking how much longer he thought it would take, he comes out over an hour later. They kept telling him just a few more minutes. Come on..... can't you just be honest and say we are way behind. Instead of making people, who are already stressed and not feeling well walk around your store multiple times wondering who actually buys this stuff.

Since we were already at the pharmacy we thought we will refill Ashlin's antibiotics (for her VR reflux if your interested) while we were there. Of course, her prescription is expired. I put a call into her pediatrician and of course the nurse can never talk to you then and there. I missed their call back and they left a message we can't fill this unless we see her and check her urine. She's on this medicine for maintenance purposes......Did you even look at her chart?!? I was slightly excited finally someone I could call and let out a bit of my frustration. I put another call in and left a message after I called the Children's Hospital and left a message to ask them to fill the prescription. since the pediatrician's office is obviously incompetent. I should have just called them in the first place. Wrong once again. Right before they called I told Shawn I was just going to let them have it......the nurse called was incredibly nice this had looked back at her chart and despite the fact I had already called the Children's Hospital and left a message said she would call it in anyway. I got off the phone and Shawn looked at me and said with sarcasm, "You really let her have it!"

I know I know none of it's a big deal it's more that all of these events have occurred so close together that makes it seem so overwhelming and irritating.

Today, I was moving clothes from the washer to the dryer. I look into the dryer and there is the second hearing aid. Yep, I had washed it. We no longer have any functioning hearing aids. I can not tell you how careful we have been with these hearing aids to prevent them from being damaged or lost and we managed to do both in less than a week. In April, we went to see Jaxon's ENT and he asked about his hearing aids if one had been thrown into the toilet yet. I remember not thinking that was funny at the time and I most definitely don't think it's funny now.

The only thing I can be thankful for is Shawn's mother is out of the country. This is helpful because whenever you have these moments she says in her sweetest voice, "Don't worry this too shall pass." I know that but I don't want to hear that in the moment. I made the mistake of telling Lindsee and now she tells me, "Don't worry this too shall pass." Now I don't even have that to be thankful for.

In all honestly, I miss Shawn's mom and her pep talks. I am so grateful for the friends that have been compassionate during these moments when you just want to pull your hair out (even if it is sarcastic comments). You can put $2500 on a credit card for new hearing aids, but you cannot buy friends and family. You can get through anything when you have love and support from those people that care for you. Once again, Thank you!

Happy Halloween!

We had a fun filled week of Halloween activities.  Wednesday was the ward trick or treat party.  They got enough candy there that we should have quit while we were ahead. 

The kids of course enjoyed themselves and Jeron found the joy in trick or treating.  When it was time to go home we put their pumpkins in the truck.  Jeron literally screamed all the way home, "I want my pumpkin!", over and over and over.  

Friday, Ashlin's school went trick or treating at Mashburn Hall.  This is the building Shawn and I work in.  Shawn dressed the boys up and took them up to his office while I was teaching.  He took Candy to hand out to Ashlin's fellow preschool friends.  We ended up bring more home than we took between the graduate students and office staff.  They just gave them handfuls and handfuls of candy.  Jaxon handed out the candy to Ashlin's class.  Shawn said, he wasn't too excited to be giving "his" candy away.  Ashlin was able to come into my class and say hello.  It was fun to get to see her with her class.  Of course, there were ooo's and aaaa's everywhere.  

Last night, Lindsee invited us over for wonderful homemade chicken noodle soup.  After that, we went trick or treating in her neighborhood with a group of friends.  We had a really nice time until Shawn looked down and noticed Jaxon's hearing aid was not there.  Shawn then went and retrace our steps, we drove around the neighborhood very slowly, and no we didn't find it anywhere.  That put a little damper on Halloween night for the parents! 

We finished the night off at our friends the Nail's.  This helped lighten the mood and the children absolutely love them. 

We would like a little rest and relaxation....yeah right.....November is upon is and is full of activities to keep us busy running from one place to another. 

Soccer Season has ended!

Soccer season ended for the kids last week.  It was perfect timing right before the cold weather set in.  They really enjoyed the class.  It was fun to watch them play and learn new skills.  Also, it was a little workout for Shawn and I since parents participate with players.  For the most part, Jeron enjoyed himself he ran around and played with the different balls, cones, and the coaches were really good to talk with him.  We definitely will do soccer again!

  

Our Soccer Champs

An Unexpected Vacation

Last night, Shawn needed to go up to his office. He attempted to turn onto campus from Dave Ward Drive. It was blocked off. There was a person flat on the ground surrounded by police officers. He decided at this time to turn around and come home. When he got home he checked his email and found that the campus was on lock down because their had been a shooting on campus. Not something you expect in Conway! Here is an email sent to us giving up the details as well as informing us class was cancelled for the day. Everyone loves a day off but not at the expense of two individual's life.

In an effort to provide the most comprehensive, reliable and up-to-date information about the shooting incident that occurred during the evening of Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, on the campus of the University of Central Arkansas, UCA will release as much information as possible on its homepage at www.uca.edu.

The UCA Police Department received a call at 9:19 p.m. reporting shots fired. At the same time, a UCA police officer heard the shots and responded immediately.

The first two UCAPD officers were on the scene of the shooting at 9:19 p.m. The incident occurred outdoors between Arkansas Hall and the Snow Fine Arts Center.

The first MEMS ambulance arrived on scene at 9:28 p.m., and the first Conway Fire Department vehicle was on scene at 9:30 p.m.

One victim, a UCA student, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other injured victims were transported to Conway Regional Medical Center. One of those victims, also a UCA student, died at the hospital. The other victim, who was not a UCA student, was treated and eventually released from the hospital.

The names of the victims will not be released until their relatives are notified.

UCA residence halls and the UCA Student Center were immediately locked down after the incident was reported. However, the UCA campus itself is not locked down, although officers are posted at every campus entrance, and access to campus is limited to residents and authorized personnel.

All 25 UCAPD officers were immediately dispatched. The UCAPD’s automated alert system was initiated, and every residence hall was contacted by telephone to instruct officials to secure the facilities and restrict access to the buildings. E-mails were sent to UCA student, faculty and staff e-mail systems, as well as the Safe@UCA e-mail listserv. A notification also was posted on the UCA homepage at www.uca.edu, as well as the UCAPD website at www.ucapd.com.

The UCAPD is conducting a joint investigation with the Conway Police Department and the Faulkner County Sheriff’s Office.
A person of interest has been detained, although that person is not under arrest at this time.

Classes are canceled at UCA for Monday, Oct. 27, 2008.

After the press conference this morning and the information given Shawn realized he drove by the scene as the first suspect was arrested.  Who would have guessed at that time. 

UCA has had a difficult year. This is definitely not the way they would like to make the news!  Our hearts and prayers are with the family's at this time.  May they find comfort and strength during this very difficult time!

Life is looking up!

Knock on wood..... the kids seem to be doing much better.  This morning Jaxon woke up and said Mom I don't want to put my head in the bowl anymore.  Poor little guy!  Last night, he said, "my tummy sick you piss it?" (He pronounces his K's with a P).  

I slept on the air mattress with Ashlin last night in case she got sick and Shawn had Jaxon with him....divide and conquer.  Sometime very early this morning a little body comes and crawls up to me.  I hurry and grab the bowl, put their head in it, and yell Shawn hurry bring the big bowl Jaxon's sick again.  He comes stumbling in with the big bowl and hands it to me.  Shawn says are your sure that is Jaxon I really thought he was still in bed with me.  I said, of course I'm sure.  I sit there with this little guy who is just hanging out with his head in the bowl.  Shawn politely says, Honey I really think that is Jeron.  At this point, I realize he is not sick, he is not fighting putting his head in the bowl, and is enjoying it.  Can't be Jaxon....just Jeron for his early morning snuggle.  The whole thing was actually quite fun, but hard to convey with words.

Ashlin wanted me to say hello.  She missed her fieldtrip today to the pumpkin patch.  She had fun putting nail polish on toys and her walls.  It's a good thing she is so darn cute!  

Hopefully, life will return to normal.  I scrubbed the house from top to bottom today.  If we get sick again, it was just meant to be.  

Thanks for all the good wishes!  It's always nice to know that your friends care!

  

Jax didn't want to be left out!

Jax must have felt the extra attention the siblings were getting and wanted to join the club.  He is now sick and not as quite as calm as Ashlin when his head is shoved in a bow.  I feel so bad for them.  I have been scrubbing and cleaning trying to prevent the virus from hanging out any longer.  Apparently, I was unsuccessful.  We are now on our 5th load of laundry due the collateral damage of the stomach flu.  Sigh..... 

Rough Night...

We should have known we were in trouble when we went to check on Jeron for the last night and this is how we found him sleeping. He woke up at 3:30 this morning, toddled into our room, and refused to go back to bed....he was followed by his sister.....



Jeron threw up several times right before nap time yesterday. He bounced  around and smiled afterwards.  We thought we were lucky and the sour stomach was short lived.  Nope...Ashlin followed Jeron in early this morning complaining her stomach hurt. She's been sick all morning. Here is a picture of her laying on our bed with her bowl ready for when she gets sick.

Leave One Memory!

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory you and I have had together. It doesn't matter if you know me a little or a lot, just one memory.

2. . Next repost these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. Thanks for playing the Memory Game!!!

Unspectacular Quirks

This is a tag from my friend Heather and here are my unspectacular quirks. By the way, I know I know I have major issues. Why do you think I teach Psychology?

1. I love to organize things, label them, alphabetize items. I keep my movies and music in alphabetic order. My college days the boys next door would love to come over and rearrange them to bother me.
2. I love to read. I could sit and read all day, that is if I didn't have to keep my children from destroying the house.
3. I can't go to bed at night and sleep peacefully if the toys aren't picked up. I think the mess that kids make daily has been one of the harder adjustments of motherhood.
4. I could be happy if I never watched a Disney movie again.
5. I love to get pedicures. They are like therapy for me. I can just sit back relax and let my worries slide right off of me.
6. I don't like feet. I don't like them to touch me at all.

Our Family Weekend.

This past weekend, we went to Keller Texas to stay with my aunt and uncle.  It's about a 6 hour drive.  The kids were cheering Auntie J, Auntie J, Uncle Ronnie, Uncle Ronnie, and Lacey the Dog on the way there.  During the drive Ashlin would say this drive is so long, a couple of minutes later she would then repeat the phrase.  As we pulled into their subdivision we told her we are almost there and she said oh this was a good drive.  She certainly changed her tune when the end was in sight.  

Friday, my grandparents were able to come and see us.  Of course, that made the trip even better.  Especially because my grandaddie brought me 2 pecan pies.  He makes the best pies ever.  He spoils me with a pie every time we see him.  They are such a yummy treat.  The pecans are from his orchard which makes them even better.

The kids loved playing in my cousin's old clothes.  There was dance costumes, football jerseys, and many other items.  They sang and danced for everybody.  Jax was particularly happy that Uncle Ronnie had the latest Indiana Jones movie.  He watched it twice on the big screen.  They loved being around the dog.  Lacey was very patient and let them give her plenty of loves. Shawn was able to enjoy the Apple store and look at all the new man toys.  We ladies walked around and shopped.  We were even able to get Einstein's Bagels for breakfast one day. 

The whole weekend was great a nice break from the everyday life and more fun memories with our family.  We love being with them and have really missed them.  

Homecoming

Last week was UCA's homecoming.  We had a fun time at the parade...if you couldn't tell by the way Ashlin is staring intently towards the parade.  If didn't hurt that candy was thrown their way as well.  The Shipp's watched the kids where we could go to the game and actually watch it.  It was a very fun game.  We won by 2 points.  UCA actually has a good football team.  Hopefully, they will continue their winning streak throughout their conference games.