Happy Belated Mother's Day

Marlene

Let me just start by telling you that my mom's amazing-ness cannot be summed up in a mere blog post. Since I was raised in a single parent home, I of course think the world of the woman who raised me. She was always there to have any conversation I wanted to have, always there when I was sick and whiney, and is still there for me and anyone else she can help. She has an amazingly giving heart to all those around her and is always looking for a way to help. Thank you for showing me that. 

How exactly do you thank someone who has unconditionally loved you for 22 years? Who treated you to living room camp-outs and butter and sugar sandwiches (they are delicious) and made your 10th birthday Power Ranger themed at the last minute and housed all of your random "pets" without complaint. Thank you for loving me through my pink stage, my sewing phase, my Power Ranger phase, my Barbie phase (that even I can admit now, lasted wayyyy too long), my hippie phase, my awkward phase (phew that was a long one too), and my band phase. 

Thanks for always being there for me. 

I love you. 

Jimmy's Home!

Last night, Chris and I got to go to dinner with Jill and Jimmy!

Jimmy was back home for a little while and what a great time we had!

This Memorial Day's church service was so wonderful and moving. Many families of those who have given their life to protect our country were in attendance. The RESPECT during the service was palpable. First also did a great job of reminding us all that we need to be grateful for all we have and everyday we have with each other. 

Thank you Lord for a blessed weekend and a fun night with friends!

Author Groupies!

About a week ago, my cute cousin Kelsey (woohoo alliteration) and I had a girls night fit for a Greek god! In case you have been living under a rock for the past few years (or are over the age or 15), Rick Riordan is the coolest author to hit the bookshelves since the hammer itself built them! 

Kels and I went to go hear him and get his autograph and perhaps I may have been a little star struck. What an awesome thing that would be if all my kids (I am currently a librarian... so I have about 700 of them) were star struck by an AUTHOR! Rick used to be a teacher, love fantasy novels, is a local Texan and oh, did I mention writes amazing books! 

As I read on Rick's personal blog (which is of course in my google reader... thank you Annalee), The Last Olympian is ripping up the bestseller charts. It is #1 today out of all books in USA Today, part of a very small group of children’s books ever to debut at #1. It has also driven the series to #2 on the NYT bestseller list! Here are two faces to prove that his books are AMAZING! (ignore my pastiness... I blame the camera... and my mom).

After his cool chat, Kels and I had to wait for autograph time so we made the most of our time together and in the spirit of literature, made up a story. I went something like this...

One day, in a dark world (auditorium) full of monsters and demigods (book fans), there lived (sat) two girls who loved Rick Riordan very much. They were going to meet their Prince Charming at 4:30 on Wednesday, May 6th, but unfortunately, they were a tad bit late due to being locked up in a high tower (working & cheer practice).

They were deeply saddened when they arrived late to the ball and there were no seats left.

They squeezed their way in and found a surprisingly place close to Prince Charming. He gave his grand speech and they (EVENTUALLY) danced (got their books signed) with him. 

Prince Charming was delighted to meet them and they all lived happily ever after! 

___________________________________________

Thanks Kels for a great night and 

for loving books as much as I do. 

Girls Being Girlie!

A few weeks ago, Lynn, Cheryl, Kels, Carson and I had a great night of facials and fun! Thanks girls for a great night and Cheryl, I totally think you still rock that white lipstick!

Happy BIRD-DAY Amanda!

I love you. Always. 

Sweet Cousins

Funny Memories

All Grown Up!

Chris' List

I'm always learning new things about my friends and family and a few nights ago, I caught a glimpse into Chris' brain with his list of favorite things. The conversation went something like this:

C- (before going to work) Do you mind if I have the last ice cream sandwich?

L- No... even though you've...

C- No, I won't cause then I've eaten 5 of the 6.

L- (laughing) I really don't mind Chris.

C- Well, they are my favorite thing!

Like it goes Leslie then ice cream sandwiches.

L- Really! (sarcastic eye roll)

C- Well, my list is more like Leslie, Macs then ice cream sandwiches.

L- (laughing at him)

C- No worries, with Macs and ice cream sandwiches, you are in good company.

Where on the Chris List does pie fall? I'm sure the guys will want to know that his allegiance is true.