What's all the fuss about???

I am usually not one to publicly give my opinion about something that is so personal and touchy with everyone but I am going to. Yes, it's about Obama's speech tomorrow. As a former educator, I am really irritated that so many people don't want their kids to watch his speech. What is wrong with our president encouraging our school children to do their best and stay in school? I say NOTHING! It is very understandable and normal that someone might not agree with the ideas and policies of a president but that isn't a reason to keep your child from watching his speech. I call it a teachable moment. Let you child watch the video, watch the video too or with them and then talk about it. Ask questions like: What did you agree with? What did you not agree with? What would you change? If you could tell Obama anything, what would you tell him? Did you enjoy his speech? Why? Why not? I think the discussion that comes after the speech is much more important than the actual speech. Your teaching your child to form an opinion.

I read on facebook or blogs this week that they weren't going to allow their kids to watch the speech because they don't agree with his policies and/or beliefs. You haven't even read the speech. You are making an uneducated decision. Read the speech first then make a decision on what you want for your kids. This entry is in no way to put down parents who choose not to allow their kids to watch the speech. That is your right and I respect that you stick up for what YOU think is right for your child. I just want everyone to take a step back and base your desicion on the speech and nothing else.

I have read his speech and I for the most part enjoyed what I read. I think his speech is very encouraging. What I enjoyed the most was this, "Your families, your teachers, and I are doing everything we can to make sure you have the education you need to answer these questions. I’m working hard to fix up your classrooms and get you the books, equipment and computers you need to learn. But you’ve got to do your part too." That is so true. For 6 years I poured my heart and soul into teaching children but those efforts don't show unless the kids do their part too. I have said the same thing to parents of kids not working to potential...they have to want good grades to get good grades. Teacher and parents can't do it all, the kids have to help too. I didn't like that he states that he is working hard to help schools. I would say, Obama...work harder. More help needs to come from the federal, state, and local governments to help our schools.

I know there is a pressing question in the back of your mind...is she an Obama supporter. The answer is no, I am not an Obama supporter nor did I vote for him. But he is our president and I have to respect and pray for him daily that he will make good decisions for our country. You have to remember that being president isn't always about being a republican or democrat, being black or white, young or old, it's about being a leader and I think what he is saying to kids expresses that well. Leaders should lift up and encourage others and in THIS speech he does just that. He doesn't ALWAYS show these qualities but for this speech, at this time, to this audience, I have to say well done Obama. Oh my, I can't believe I just said that! HA!

Not much...

has been happening around here this week. Sunday my family came up to visit while Duane was at his college fantasy football draft. We had a good time. Brynlee's great grandma brought her a quilt. Thanks grandma, it is really pretty. I don't have any pictures of the quilt but I will take one and post it later. I did get a picture of Brynlee with Poppa and Nanny.

Duane has been on vacation from his regular job but has been working all week doing contract work. I am so glad he continues to make sacrifices to provide for us. We would LOVE to be in Colorado this week visiting Karen and Jay but Duane couldn't pass up this job. Thanks Karen and Jay for being understanding. We love you guys and can't wait to see you Thanksgiving.

Here are a few pictures that I took this week. She will be 4 months old on Sunday. I am so scared that I am going to blink and she will be turning 1. I packed up all her premie and most of her newborn clothes last night. I shed a few tears looking at the tiny clothes she used to wear. She is a few ounces shy of 12 pounds and brings so much joy to our home. The love I have for her is like no other. I love this little girl!!!

Tummy time with Daddy!

Sorry these pictures look the same. They are both so cute that I couldn't decide which one to use.

Big smile!!

Oh, I almost forgot to post a video. Here is Brynlee talking to her daddy. Enjoy!

No Tummy Time for Me!

We have been trying to have tummy time each day. She always fusses and it didn't take her long to figure out how to get out of it...rolling over! She is so quick now I barely have time to catch it on video.

Visiting Daddy

2 weeks ago I took Brynlee to visit Duane at work. It was fun to see him carry her around to show everyone how much she had grown. Here are a few pictures of our visit.

On our way to see daddy
Brynlee and Daddy
Bynlee with the lake crew...she will be joining them next summer.

Since all my friends went back to school that week I thought a lot about how thankful I am. I can't imagine relying on someone else to take care of Brynlee everyday. I love every minute of it...the easy days and the tough days. Many people have asked me if I miss work. I don't miss it but I do miss my friends. I am so lucky to have a husband who works hard to provide for us so I can have the most important job in the world...being a full time mommy!

3 Months Old

Baby girl I can't believe you are 3 months old already. It seems like yesterday I brought you home from the hospital. I love everything about you and thank God for you everyday. When I weighed you this morning you were 10 1/2 lbs...yeah for double digits!!! You are growing like a weed, 2 1/2 pounds in a month. I promise I am not feeding you butter and cheesecake. You are holding your head up pretty well but sometimes you look like a bobble head. You still love to play with your tongue. Tummy time is hard because of your acid reflux but we try everyday. You smile when we change your diaper and talk to us with your coo's. It's funny how daddy and I do different things to make you smile. Daddy calls you sugar booger and I call you punkin' pie. (you know I am from the south) You love your bath and you stare at daddy the whole time. He baths you while I get everything together for bed. Around 8:00 you get really sleepy and take a cat nap with daddy...I love looking over to see you laying on daddy's chest fast asleep. He loves you so much and so do I. Happy 3 month birthday baby girl!!!

Special Visitors

Last Friday was my mom's birthday. I thought it was sweet that she wanted to see Brynlee for her birthday so they came to Tulsa to visit. We went to Los Cabos for lunch and had a wonderful time. Thanks Mom and Dad for visiting.

Nanny and Poppa

Sarah and Brynlee

Los Cabos was super loud...I was shocked that she slept the whole time.

She looks like her Daddy!!!

Many of you have told me how much you think Brynlee looks like me. Thank you so much for those sweet comments. At times I do see myself in her but most of the time I just see Duane. Here she looks just like her Daddy and I couldn't be happier. :)