tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37523740996851421442024-02-19T04:14:27.062-08:00Rushing AroundTheresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-67797010750697991042010-11-08T19:14:00.000-08:002010-11-10T19:31:01.462-08:00Where Have I Been?I looked at the last time I had posted and was amazed that it had been so long since I had written anything about our family. It seems like I have been doing everything I can to keep my head above water with these three beautiful girls and when I get a spare second in the evenings, all I want to do is sit and relax. But it makes me sad to know that I haven't shared our family with our friends in so long. So....let me bring everything up to date.<br />Ashlyn is in kindergarten this year! Somewhere during the summer, after much prayer by both of us, we decided that God was calling me to homeschool Ashlyn. There are so many reasons why people decide to homeschool, and we have ours. But we really felt like this was the best decision for our family right now. Not sure if that will be the case in years to come, but for now that is what we are doing. It was very difficult for me especially to say goodbye to the "first day of school" pictures and the ideas in my head of walking away from her first classroom and all the memories that come with sending your child to their first day of kindergarten. But what I got in return was so much more. I get to spend everyday with her and teach her everything that she learns. I get to watch the light go off and see her "get" things. I am watching my daughter learn to read before my very eyes, watching her learn to do math, and watching her learn daily about God.<br />Ashlyn also started riding her bike without training wheels several weeks ago. She is so proud of herself and has really enjoyed being outside riding her bike in these last few weeks of good weather.<br />Ashlyn has a beautiful heart for God that amazes us everyday. She says the most insightful things and makes me so proud to be her mama. She is the best big sister ever. She is very much a rule follower and thinks that the rest of the world should be as well (can't imagine where she gets that from). She likes everything to be just so and has a beautiful naive view of this crazy world. I love her to pieces.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDCCqLcEWre6M5nxexxQezs7o78kEuARL8HclMvtU5nSioHg01anKjQ-cX3lzeEK8L3UYQ0L92lKPzX24hbdI-PIXl4x9CGN_bQmp74k1XLP9kimUBYwaxDcqs6wkIDNamc62rdQzHL6u/s1600/P9013120.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDCCqLcEWre6M5nxexxQezs7o78kEuARL8HclMvtU5nSioHg01anKjQ-cX3lzeEK8L3UYQ0L92lKPzX24hbdI-PIXl4x9CGN_bQmp74k1XLP9kimUBYwaxDcqs6wkIDNamc62rdQzHL6u/s320/P9013120.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538114711648491858" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbL8XK76_RuZ5OEhqRtppi4bqHGdgHe88U7ehzMeRVxxNeJfpCYsPPG_1nYF2LwKHvT3cMQv_zWBnXBUnlRgWUy8IasH2YBa4rVh_IaxUqptdDmkgzAbiq4R2EvQ6m1p64NpraITFsyb_s/s1600/P9163161.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbL8XK76_RuZ5OEhqRtppi4bqHGdgHe88U7ehzMeRVxxNeJfpCYsPPG_1nYF2LwKHvT3cMQv_zWBnXBUnlRgWUy8IasH2YBa4rVh_IaxUqptdDmkgzAbiq4R2EvQ6m1p64NpraITFsyb_s/s320/P9163161.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538114683032465922" border="0" /></a><br />Kenley Lael...she is a mess. She is wonderful and hilarious. She makes us laugh everyday. She will be three years old in two weeks. While Ashlyn is completely into dressing up and pretending to be a princess or a fairy and have tea parties, Kenley isn't concerned if the sun comes up in the mornings. She could not care any less about dressing up. She doesn't care about what she wears as long as she gets to where jeans with it. She is as sneaky as they come and I am constantly having to watch her and keep from laughing while getting on to her.<br />Kenley started going to preschool two days a week at "Ashlyn's school" (where Ashlyn went to pre-K). She absolutely loves it and is learning so much. It is fun to watch her get to do her own thing and begin to be her own little person apart from Ashlyn.<br />Kenley (at the age of 2...yes, we are very proud of her) has learned to ride her bike without training wheels. She is incredible on a bike and it is amazing to watch her on her tiny little bike book it around the neighborhood. Daddy had to start riding his bike with her to be able to keep up. The kid wants to ride her bike from the time she rolls out of bed in the morning until she goes to sleep at night. She is obsessed with riding her bike. All she wanted to do for her 3rd birthday is ride her bike. She is very cute. I love to hear her talk, her voice is so cute. She has so many words that we don't want to correct because it is just so cute to hear her say them in her little two year old voice. She is growing so fast and I am savoring these last days of "two" with her.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6-K4ZQw0MhdQ7EZEccgIn9_ZAwRNw3nMD42VowoHSFVvLcHexflMQvWlSgm5agcAflITFqlYKYBDOZEAg034YZGJ3xYPY-PPFvWPu-ma4Pw7aV0b86cKLX60qmG19NfPIGXXML9Dp-4q/s1600/PA253265.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6-K4ZQw0MhdQ7EZEccgIn9_ZAwRNw3nMD42VowoHSFVvLcHexflMQvWlSgm5agcAflITFqlYKYBDOZEAg034YZGJ3xYPY-PPFvWPu-ma4Pw7aV0b86cKLX60qmG19NfPIGXXML9Dp-4q/s320/PA253265.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538116029803103938" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1pD61kJp-oUPdPAdEY0U8TpPdUFvLUBcZX9EdolTRrDcSCsSi-qtj9f_o5ZgC62tvVL5iKPD_egioBTuYYmf9P_ruVnf5scRwojRLkzXtCG05Hm0u6BraexiRYRWggjCxpk9Z_f4NcEs/s1600/P9013118.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF1pD61kJp-oUPdPAdEY0U8TpPdUFvLUBcZX9EdolTRrDcSCsSi-qtj9f_o5ZgC62tvVL5iKPD_egioBTuYYmf9P_ruVnf5scRwojRLkzXtCG05Hm0u6BraexiRYRWggjCxpk9Z_f4NcEs/s320/P9013118.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538114706433660722" border="0" /></a><br />Baby Leighton, or Lay Lay as the girls call her, is 9 months old now and just as sweet as they come. She has dark hair and beautiful blue eyes. She has started the phase of separation anxiety and it has definitely made for some longer days with her. But how I love that baby. I can remember wanting so badly for this beautiful little girl to be a boy. I smile now when I think about God knowing what I needed. I would not change it if I could. Leighton is so calm and content and sweet. She is so very much a third baby. She has no interest in crawling because she has two sisters that wait on her hand and foot. She loves her mommy and her mommy could just eat her up.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGt6NIZOXGFiwIr3i33mAvRKC7jM2qHUMuftkGbjY93ew9yisxwTUAOwL0b6Xlr37QpHWMWRLLcw0bpIz0dkIX8HmWVndhQdD47FD4RoY7tQqnMAQ5o24BbCqsp73zbGADPP4KIi34Fbn5/s1600/PA223256.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGt6NIZOXGFiwIr3i33mAvRKC7jM2qHUMuftkGbjY93ew9yisxwTUAOwL0b6Xlr37QpHWMWRLLcw0bpIz0dkIX8HmWVndhQdD47FD4RoY7tQqnMAQ5o24BbCqsp73zbGADPP4KIi34Fbn5/s320/PA223256.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538116022355609538" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO1sTVGrGdjzKY-3Nlye8EF-IoTwKZsgBCsdWPB1kKADGP9_kFYIZGIiIgVqPPLYuMw2Ysesjgs-ltDKgNUAnwxtPb6q6s-HUlrT2sibR0Tjm4CcRxVawTSkS9cHnJKcRpXyY3bgZZlgOJ/s1600/P9163158.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO1sTVGrGdjzKY-3Nlye8EF-IoTwKZsgBCsdWPB1kKADGP9_kFYIZGIiIgVqPPLYuMw2Ysesjgs-ltDKgNUAnwxtPb6q6s-HUlrT2sibR0Tjm4CcRxVawTSkS9cHnJKcRpXyY3bgZZlgOJ/s320/P9163158.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538114701821931458" border="0" /></a><br />We are all doing well and feeling blessed. Blessed to be together. Blessed to be healthy. Blessed to have a job, a home, a family, each other, a God that loves us and knows His plans for us.Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-9963991306306311532010-04-12T10:44:00.001-07:002010-04-12T10:58:20.844-07:00Potty Trained!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNve5Abx4tbo4jSjS-Yd_KbHcNsJ-O3qBZYGDMAt2IFmxG66mLkjGAXpLIzZMkChEidesdfn6r3_KL255MF1g1yyRnSeCnybqSRbwG4EqqAxpm95w75mOxPjLOBWnJ3K22KYLaRePBNWUd/s1600/P3262510.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNve5Abx4tbo4jSjS-Yd_KbHcNsJ-O3qBZYGDMAt2IFmxG66mLkjGAXpLIzZMkChEidesdfn6r3_KL255MF1g1yyRnSeCnybqSRbwG4EqqAxpm95w75mOxPjLOBWnJ3K22KYLaRePBNWUd/s320/P3262510.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459308909147224802" border="0" /></a>At the risk of jinxing myself, I am going to announce that Kenley is potty trained. This is not to say that she is accident-free, but she tells us every time that she has to go potty now. She hasn't had an accident in several days and goes tee-tee and poo-poo on the potty all the time now. She is in panties every day and is doing great. I must say that it has been a beating to take her back and forth to the restroom in public places with the baby carrier and both girls in tow. But, it has paid off and now we are done with diapers. No turning back for us now. I owe many thanks to Ashlyn for her help in accomplishing this milestone. Ashlyn has been the one many times that Kenley wants to take her potty and has been a huge help. It is almost impossible to take a two-year-old potty while nursing (notice I said almost, I have done it when Ashlyn was in school) and Ashlyn has come to my rescue A LOT! She takes great pride in the responsibility of helping. But now that Kenley has been wearing panties, she can go all by herself. Anyway, not much else to say, just proud of my Little Kenley Lael in her growing up just a little more each day. Since I have decided not to post the "poo-poo-in-the-potty" picture that Daddy took the other day, I have decided to post a picture of Kenley just being her cute self. Yeah for potty training! Two girls down, one to go!Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-2989332740119318822010-03-20T10:01:00.000-07:002010-03-21T11:41:50.674-07:00The Best Spring BreakWe have had to do some "staycations" over the past few holidays because of everything going on with the job situation. So when Spring Break came around, I decided not to let myself get depressed when I heard about all the trips that everyone was going on. We could have a great time and make memories right at home. Ken had to work late early in the week so my sister came to stay with us and help me with the craziness that is three little ones for a few days. She saved my sanity for sure. I had planned on taking the girls to the zoo on Tuesday, but the weather ended up being kind of nasty so we decided to go to the museum of Nature & Science instead. Turned out, everyone that was planning on going to the zoo, decided to go to the museum instead. There was a long line just to get in and get tickets. I heard a sermon several weeks ago that focused on the fact that memories are made in the journey, not the destination. I kept reminding myself of this while standing in the line. And it was true! We had so much fun in the chaos at the museum. I so enjoyed getting to visit with Jill and being with my sweet girls and just watching them play. I had Jill to keep me smiling when the meltdowns came over no apparent reason. It was great. We took the girls to the IMAX movie about Alaska. Ashlyn was amazed, I could have just watched the look on her face the whole time. Kenley was terrified at first and when she finally turned around to watch the movie, it was with her fingers jammed in her ears. We went to some exhibits after the movie and lunch. It proved to be a little much for Ashlyn who kept commenting that there were too many people. She doesn't handle large crowds very well. The water exhibit was fun for us all though (even though we had to change Kenley's clothes afterwards).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Kenley making a mess at the water exhibit<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXITxwvZW2ONJYraU8OIEzi6EhpQwM0tP_3WecjkeBIq-kDesy8Kgl63mKxAbJsxMLiuEsstOvD_2u6V2lamFf0N2qItSu9Tb3GKpwcqLPc9s6HumWcydhf2Bp3Y9gZlPmPwD8fcVA9XLK/s1600-h/P3162470.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXITxwvZW2ONJYraU8OIEzi6EhpQwM0tP_3WecjkeBIq-kDesy8Kgl63mKxAbJsxMLiuEsstOvD_2u6V2lamFf0N2qItSu9Tb3GKpwcqLPc9s6HumWcydhf2Bp3Y9gZlPmPwD8fcVA9XLK/s320/P3162470.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450764577999370530" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Ashlyn hamming it up<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjej6_Q01DPYp4tFwGFKN1gA95O5cqJS35vhj_H9Jj2ddTP0Mk-HG9EYcqMTaavp3E3W7G0SpdsuHpVW47wgM5vh5RZTWjtfiYd7YyE0oCeUP1gUlvIwEqCJ6g-Bwi3NzxaSRPj47JCvgea/s1600-h/P3162473.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjej6_Q01DPYp4tFwGFKN1gA95O5cqJS35vhj_H9Jj2ddTP0Mk-HG9EYcqMTaavp3E3W7G0SpdsuHpVW47wgM5vh5RZTWjtfiYd7YyE0oCeUP1gUlvIwEqCJ6g-Bwi3NzxaSRPj47JCvgea/s320/P3162473.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450764586670814706" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Ashlyn frustrated with all the people at the bone dig<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Udw5E0LIUPIxEOI5dBDgcBg_r0hzdznHwBOKCxtjE5FlFbBTI97sgR2rCmVqExSHntu-mCPAESvzTLbq9fQoAXM7MewdseLvWCPMcoL90szba0CNLeHpC0TDKuIDh1urLzH4qPhJPAAd/s1600-h/P3162474.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Udw5E0LIUPIxEOI5dBDgcBg_r0hzdznHwBOKCxtjE5FlFbBTI97sgR2rCmVqExSHntu-mCPAESvzTLbq9fQoAXM7MewdseLvWCPMcoL90szba0CNLeHpC0TDKuIDh1urLzH4qPhJPAAd/s320/P3162474.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450770591001206642" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Kenley took some time to have a pedicure....she didn't tell Mommy. Ashlyn came running into the room and told me that Kenley had painted her toenails. I was trying to tell her how this is a "no-no" while snapping some pictures.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Pretty pedicure<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxr9NiSZznM0Jhy_wB6no6a8dKw1lcdRXW0PeKmmNVR2-sFuZjfHT-1Nv5BOV13vDHsffuS3vCRlBSSyyOps0OB44E-Hx46xSBo0GZJ9Oi0pIubuH9urWljyNBlE8Q8yUFU__LH9di0hW/s1600-h/P3132453.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqxr9NiSZznM0Jhy_wB6no6a8dKw1lcdRXW0PeKmmNVR2-sFuZjfHT-1Nv5BOV13vDHsffuS3vCRlBSSyyOps0OB44E-Hx46xSBo0GZJ9Oi0pIubuH9urWljyNBlE8Q8yUFU__LH9di0hW/s320/P3132453.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450764537518764018" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br />The weather was pretty most days and the girls asked to eat dinner outside. So we had a little macaroni and cheese picnic one evening and they loved it. Ashlyn loves to eat outside and have picnics.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Dining al fresco<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwrJI6H5H35Ie9eOF1feKpMS4zDbGyMyIvmooIK0vLw7xRDWv7RTiP9PZ2c8qrgKHRPVTvMFOCVlurwUWO5jfVH8iRpdJTqCAaqDCMyd5rnpVCGWUz3JM8wZJXf7R543pL8AJ3jvrq-N2w/s1600-h/P3172480.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwrJI6H5H35Ie9eOF1feKpMS4zDbGyMyIvmooIK0vLw7xRDWv7RTiP9PZ2c8qrgKHRPVTvMFOCVlurwUWO5jfVH8iRpdJTqCAaqDCMyd5rnpVCGWUz3JM8wZJXf7R543pL8AJ3jvrq-N2w/s320/P3172480.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450770611365986450" border="0" /></a><br />Sweet Leighton spent most of the week sleeping and growing. She has done so well going to sleep in her bassinet and going back to sleep after every feeding at night. She is sleeping for about a 5 hour stretch at night which is good for me at this point. She continues to be a sweet little baby and is growing so fast. Ken got to spend some time with her this week on his days off. They are so cute. We have people that say she looks just like Ken, some say she looks like me (I think they are just trying to be nice) and some say that she looks just like her Uncle Joe. I can definitely see that, but I also still think she looks A LOT like Ashlyn. Whoever she looks like, she is a cutie and I love, love, love that I have this little baby girl<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Sweet Baby Leighton at 7 weeks (almost)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHMIRc4qrZ42d8wvumT38ZLbr5U_2A0FyZCe4eE_kN6GZCJzTL5NL1zdbulAlSADTIclGgmkIV-pi0jtrkuSI29cu6YOZeuEJZ8kYbfVox-nrZPs3C6hNfvnu9OG6lXbHG-hDKMk0_F3p/s1600-h/P3152464.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHMIRc4qrZ42d8wvumT38ZLbr5U_2A0FyZCe4eE_kN6GZCJzTL5NL1zdbulAlSADTIclGgmkIV-pi0jtrkuSI29cu6YOZeuEJZ8kYbfVox-nrZPs3C6hNfvnu9OG6lXbHG-hDKMk0_F3p/s320/P3152464.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450764570105138546" border="0" /></a>Time with Daddy<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQBURxCoL1DzH0Za0gSM9ZHc2FIPfTy0YIqcDiT86HSO0DRsGgAgSlz_qSg3R208T5akeebU27tkoenfTOz-x23vDzb_knX0AIGRV4CmaAkhsg1CpIK4vzB4TC9Efg_qNKe9cmI8qwlsC/s1600-h/P3102435.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQBURxCoL1DzH0Za0gSM9ZHc2FIPfTy0YIqcDiT86HSO0DRsGgAgSlz_qSg3R208T5akeebU27tkoenfTOz-x23vDzb_knX0AIGRV4CmaAkhsg1CpIK4vzB4TC9Efg_qNKe9cmI8qwlsC/s320/P3102435.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450764558280241986" border="0" /></a><br />Yesterday the weather was beautiful so we decided pack a picnic lunch and take the girls out to a park. I saw a park in Ft. Worth when Jill, the girls, and I headed over to eat dinner with her cousin one night. It was the coolest park and the girls had a blast. I didn't get any pictures because my camera battery was dead, but we will definitely be back and I will have to post pictures. The park had a huge wooden fort style play area and Ashlyn spent most of the time running around playing by herself. When we tried to play with her she reminded us over and over that she was working in England and she couldn't be bothered. She has the most remarkable imagination. I love it. Kenley spent most of the time swinging. And little baby LayLay just chilled out in the Baby Bjorn and slept. Ken was Superdad and pushed the girls and about 10 other kids on the merry-go-round and taught both girls and about 6 other kids how to climb a giant caterpillar ladder. I am so blessed to have him as a husband. He is the best dad I have ever seen.<br /><br />Today the weather is nasty again and Ken is back at work. The girls and I decided to build a fort in her room for them to play in. I told Ashlyn that I can remember doing this with my brothers when I was a little girl. It is one of the best memories I have of playing with my brothers. She said, "Really? How do you still remember how to do it?" Very funny, Ashlyn. So with three chip clips, a bed sheet and one rubberband, we created a clubhouse masterpiece. It has allowed for hours of pretend play. It is so sweet to watch Ashlyn and Kenley play together (and get along). I see more forts in our future.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Club Rushing<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9GqnF-7rFymvxwuAdTPDeCySpEGT41m_oM0MjocYeijgW7QMtYhQ99uaFSMhZQdNhyT4QLh27M43nI-QZtWbvGSV43jktdsx92i-xk-4PvmVejW51wNXRazEaeZXCZw0PQVAeV0qwxUO/s1600-h/P3202486.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9GqnF-7rFymvxwuAdTPDeCySpEGT41m_oM0MjocYeijgW7QMtYhQ99uaFSMhZQdNhyT4QLh27M43nI-QZtWbvGSV43jktdsx92i-xk-4PvmVejW51wNXRazEaeZXCZw0PQVAeV0qwxUO/s320/P3202486.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450770631192054498" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Don't they look mischievous?<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfOq76VPkLfHU7KvgA2EyL2m8C5-jECrWMKEG0TFY052gYENgLBNUK52fBXMEJmpvKHkO1qzvMf80_0M_p9c4UezGKoGfEm01Flp9joV7LaGDawlZp48ItCD0KY_1JIwVp0nOMKLht2cz/s1600-h/P3202489.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfOq76VPkLfHU7KvgA2EyL2m8C5-jECrWMKEG0TFY052gYENgLBNUK52fBXMEJmpvKHkO1qzvMf80_0M_p9c4UezGKoGfEm01Flp9joV7LaGDawlZp48ItCD0KY_1JIwVp0nOMKLht2cz/s320/P3202489.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5450770649547115138" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">So we have had a great Spring Break staying at home and spending time together. I have learned that when we think we don't have some opportunities, God is providing other opportunities in order to bless us. This was one of those weeks. I love my family and was blessed to spend this special week with my sister, my girls, and my sweet husband.<br /></div></div>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-29112710989679351382010-02-08T18:37:00.001-08:002010-02-08T19:31:38.549-08:00Sweet Leighton-Two WeeksMy sweet little Leighton Anne, I simply cannot believe it has been two weeks since your birth. It seems like one day I was counting hours until I could hold you and the next time was flying by as I started my new life as a mother of three. The past two weeks have been crazy for me as I adjust to life as a mother of three and getting to know you. I feel like I am finally getting a handle on what day it is and what time it is (for the most part). I have thoroughly enjoyed spending these two weeks at home and just watching you change each day. Here is a journey in pictures of your first two weeks of life.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Last picture on January 26th before I went to the hospital<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6xsRvKAvB5VxNGlvcv0EnR4VJc9RB1VbqLkN6KYrbCYjaVySX0txkRgxaPxLnOibm3o7JuTrmnxQwcX8SzNBOlN9Cim31wVjz1MJHUlu-DKtlg_9ZAd_QhE6YhT7Qq3yim8BsK94Rt9y/s1600-h/P1262184.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic6xsRvKAvB5VxNGlvcv0EnR4VJc9RB1VbqLkN6KYrbCYjaVySX0txkRgxaPxLnOibm3o7JuTrmnxQwcX8SzNBOlN9Cim31wVjz1MJHUlu-DKtlg_9ZAd_QhE6YhT7Qq3yim8BsK94Rt9y/s320/P1262184.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436069758158916514" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Meeting big sister Ashlyn for the first time (with Nana's help)<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApukAtDLwUDNVfDypNpOTp26EvYMeBqGijBTwNJP46zrjsxnYvFol_YS6YFlVsWyNbxclxRDeCtfZSubGeQSe5cO9IbbUq6f5leJxlPkGQuKg3C817j5d8oxvRR2YnhHJ3wLxUhyh2er-/s1600-h/P1262225.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApukAtDLwUDNVfDypNpOTp26EvYMeBqGijBTwNJP46zrjsxnYvFol_YS6YFlVsWyNbxclxRDeCtfZSubGeQSe5cO9IbbUq6f5leJxlPkGQuKg3C817j5d8oxvRR2YnhHJ3wLxUhyh2er-/s320/P1262225.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436069781332694482" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Meeting Kenley Lael (who is still so enamored with you)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaxgBCI7HnUgnG0kDP7q4EBjErGvM3qOmC4Q69SL04YxtjMmUMIRij_xOm05ypYVpdaLnrdiSnmJs9zrgu8evV273XbhvHzSpEbQC9xc3JhLc0r82IRTrl5XncYDnRj-_5u1B8c6QF0jBq/s1600-h/P1262205.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaxgBCI7HnUgnG0kDP7q4EBjErGvM3qOmC4Q69SL04YxtjMmUMIRij_xOm05ypYVpdaLnrdiSnmJs9zrgu8evV273XbhvHzSpEbQC9xc3JhLc0r82IRTrl5XncYDnRj-_5u1B8c6QF0jBq/s320/P1262205.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436069766195478322" border="0" /></a><br />A tired mommy holding my new baby girl<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEims78pdzOHOgzQU68Pwph4MvHZpqsy55M6TiXdkUm9DrShExLFYMNpz9ZqZzOYlMvl4D6PtQC0bouDLWrJesoUHWW_xpXrq88p-WD4J-wzH6Du-3MVvgIBS_klCq7V5aMRKOLuR5TVE0jS/s1600-h/P1272240.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEims78pdzOHOgzQU68Pwph4MvHZpqsy55M6TiXdkUm9DrShExLFYMNpz9ZqZzOYlMvl4D6PtQC0bouDLWrJesoUHWW_xpXrq88p-WD4J-wzH6Du-3MVvgIBS_klCq7V5aMRKOLuR5TVE0jS/s320/P1272240.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436069789617193186" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Meeting Grandad<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMdc5ZM_iyVWIRzFkzAWAykMrT_tlNV89A4LhMQTn19MaxzBf6GcqcH9wXffpBy6JZKILsYY8xZ7jKHm3jn7iwj4btyTQTbz6ukOx_ETU24oeU6tUpGgbBmOSTzyKdQgDNFoKlEZrbXA8n/s1600-h/P1262223.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMdc5ZM_iyVWIRzFkzAWAykMrT_tlNV89A4LhMQTn19MaxzBf6GcqcH9wXffpBy6JZKILsYY8xZ7jKHm3jn7iwj4btyTQTbz6ukOx_ETU24oeU6tUpGgbBmOSTzyKdQgDNFoKlEZrbXA8n/s320/P1262223.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436069772592174770" border="0" /></a><br />Spending time with Nana (thanks Nana for taking over the job of rocking)<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkzHy5sRgauyGhF2F3kLPEoOUSReIu0ZDY4EJ1DabOYMkCjUbz3DKjvdNkBpX7TfSYZZqAJFZQPJQXB5JgvqrJyECcCxU0IXs0wbrmWayN53urOV-xV4Bj-Vjp5xQF7lF1rm-ghrF6ODIh/s1600-h/P1312273.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkzHy5sRgauyGhF2F3kLPEoOUSReIu0ZDY4EJ1DabOYMkCjUbz3DKjvdNkBpX7TfSYZZqAJFZQPJQXB5JgvqrJyECcCxU0IXs0wbrmWayN53urOV-xV4Bj-Vjp5xQF7lF1rm-ghrF6ODIh/s320/P1312273.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436073485095995266" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Getting your first bath (notice the look of helplessness on your sisters)<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3dmFKw6VeN_ekR-G-e2gAh2uocNM_5NEQls74kMToNRZSZGKxy6hV-r_TeMuim5dbRPt-p-vDI208j6siAevhVyc8vEqt5BUOUHCduxXZuTVf2pawQo9e-ePgZK6WWtpk8xzM7w9aiRn/s1600-h/P1292268.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS3dmFKw6VeN_ekR-G-e2gAh2uocNM_5NEQls74kMToNRZSZGKxy6hV-r_TeMuim5dbRPt-p-vDI208j6siAevhVyc8vEqt5BUOUHCduxXZuTVf2pawQo9e-ePgZK6WWtpk8xzM7w9aiRn/s320/P1292268.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436073473068619154" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Sleeping the day away with your pink blanket<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7XqfyOUHWoc0prDMPuU8rq9c47I7bEbSD5Cs7IeHOWP8YuwxTTWYbolFfGtX2k8IscRHyTSOrFZNd1etM622j4WV_8NOJgRtufzH3Ww0C2P-FO5mCZxfkTj377ZeHua-C9mOYvkGPQrt/s1600-h/P1292271.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG7XqfyOUHWoc0prDMPuU8rq9c47I7bEbSD5Cs7IeHOWP8YuwxTTWYbolFfGtX2k8IscRHyTSOrFZNd1etM622j4WV_8NOJgRtufzH3Ww0C2P-FO5mCZxfkTj377ZeHua-C9mOYvkGPQrt/s320/P1292271.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5436076977078582050" border="0" /></a><br />I thought I was so prepared for the way I feel about you. After all, I have had two little baby girls before and fallen in love with them. But when I saw your tiny sweet face, I knew that there was nothing that could have prepared me for the love that I have for you. I am in awe of how deep my love is for you and has been since I saw you.<br />Although I am way past the point of exhaustion, I love being with you each day and learning about this sweet little blessing that God has given to me. In the past two weeks, these are the things that I have learned about you: You seem to have your mother's sense of urgency and punctuality. I was only in labor for two hours and God gave you to me on this perfect three hour schedule...quite a change from the other two. You have the tiniest, sweetest little face with little delicate ears. You have loved a pacifier from day one (very good for mommy) and it takes up your whole face which is so cute to me. You loved to be rocked to sleep. You like to be swaddled so that your body is snug, but both arms are free. You like your arms free of the swaddle, but you like me to hold both of your hands while you fall asleep. You quietly remind me after three hours when it is time to eat, without much crying. You are soothed by the sound of Kenley singing "Jesus Loves Me" and Ashlyn excitedly saying, "It's okay! It's okay, LayLay!" as she flaps her hands wildly in your face. You like to be held against someone so that you can feel them breathe. You are already starting to make eye contact instead of the blank newborn stare. You are perfectly "Rushing" girl with your tiny little head that no hats fit on. You are perfectly "Rushing" girl with the adoption of your version of the pink blanket. We wouldn't know what to do without a giant pink blanket to haul around and get filthy. You are loved more than you can ever imagine. Welcome to the world, baby girl.Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-61858696736636742632009-12-14T13:10:00.000-08:002009-12-14T19:36:13.241-08:00Happy 40th Birthday, Ken!<span style="font-weight: bold;">Blessed By You</span><br /><br />You've dreaded this day for quite awhile<br />Though most see only a convincing smile<br /><br />At forty years old, you look to find<br />A moment to which, you could rewind<br /><br />Hiking, skiing, climbing, biking<br />All hobbies you found quite to your liking<br /><br />An abundance of time and energy plenty<br />Days of play and a tank with no empty<br /><br />Now here you are, no more days of glory<br />Those times a memory, simply a story<br /><br />This is what you see when <span style="font-style: italic;">you </span>look at you<br />But I want you to see it from my point of view<br /><br />I see a man who has come so far<br />Though your journey is not without scars<br /><br />Through battles lost and trials you've come<br />The ones that count, you've certainly won<br /><br />When trials come, you consistently prove<br />Your character strong, your loyalty true<br /><br />A servant's heart without any doubt<br />A willing spirit, there to help out<br /><br />No hour to late, no cause too small<br />A best friend to me and good friend to all<br /><br />On top of all this, with all that I have<br />My girls are blessed with the very best dad<br /><br />Who always make time at the end of the day<br />For tea, princesses, and make-believe play<br /><br />These little girls who today you carry<br />I can only pray one day will marry<br /><br />A kind and honest and loving man<br />That can hold their hearts like Daddy can<br /><br />Through hard times, we've recently come<br />I've learned many lessons, here is just one:<br /><br />When times are tough and push come to shove<br />You do what you must for the ones that you love<br /><br />I know you feel different on the inside<br />But I cannot help but be filled with pride<br /><br />Witnessing to others, of the storm we've been through<br />I tell your story, of all that you do<br /><br />Though you've been humbled and your faith has been tried<br />You have found a way to always provide<br /><br />So I take this opportunity today<br />To tell you things I don't often say<br /><br />I am a woman who is truly blessed<br />With a husband who loves me and does possess<br /><br />Fruits of the spirit and a heart that is kind<br />Things in a man that are difficult to find<br /><br />So as you look back over forty Decembers<br />These are some things I hope you remember<br /><br />When life isn't what you want it to be<br />Please keep in mind, you're the man of my dreams<br /><br />I love you, Ken. I am blessed to share my life with you. Love, TheresaTheresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-29378079923002626272009-10-19T14:05:00.000-07:002009-10-19T14:23:51.853-07:00Fall FestLast night was our Fall Fest at church. Ashlyn was dressed up as the princess from Princess and the Pauper and Kenley was a pirate. This was Ashlyn's first time to have her hair done and wear makeup. She was really excited to get all "girlied up". The girls were able to play games, do a cake walk (which they both won), jump in the bounce house, and go on a hayride. Kenley loved the hayride! Here are the pics of our sweet girls.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5lD4M2KN-9R_hzGHt-j9TksRi38L9jWf_4mPNXAPxBgq2APMfLUzBneAxuXfqrXICCEhOD91ECrzKBNE22HBTTGsHyRLb6C5TC7usejUBQIDIM8INcLr8LHNiHiX0oJggnAoXvJ7EpdG/s1600-h/PA181876.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5lD4M2KN-9R_hzGHt-j9TksRi38L9jWf_4mPNXAPxBgq2APMfLUzBneAxuXfqrXICCEhOD91ECrzKBNE22HBTTGsHyRLb6C5TC7usejUBQIDIM8INcLr8LHNiHiX0oJggnAoXvJ7EpdG/s320/PA181876.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394424399840060802" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6bt-Th6mf9ZXQGn-tXcHyFs_X2tp2x72IVY2n2U8WcXZUXi_XTr222lhKN8H2gpyl4py9qYihdOgc3r71wZQEEucm-Ak7XTfp3YUJGxvrKnJZN1OYJ9z8E76UYgTTDD7O0V1jx9am3CG/s1600-h/PA181882.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6bt-Th6mf9ZXQGn-tXcHyFs_X2tp2x72IVY2n2U8WcXZUXi_XTr222lhKN8H2gpyl4py9qYihdOgc3r71wZQEEucm-Ak7XTfp3YUJGxvrKnJZN1OYJ9z8E76UYgTTDD7O0V1jx9am3CG/s320/PA181882.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394421878237946418" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLkYYJqLGwvj0AoR3ola_bppHgn4vU4gLzsVGrGuu3tbmZJO0v-MetQRxwK6uPxZ6kK4j5Tvb9bIn7Zew3UgiGxeXKCca-yrmpgtbeMX98JsID-sVYhDKxfxGQa7Fnr3uqLRGv9ssKv7J/s1600-h/PA181885.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLkYYJqLGwvj0AoR3ola_bppHgn4vU4gLzsVGrGuu3tbmZJO0v-MetQRxwK6uPxZ6kK4j5Tvb9bIn7Zew3UgiGxeXKCca-yrmpgtbeMX98JsID-sVYhDKxfxGQa7Fnr3uqLRGv9ssKv7J/s320/PA181885.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394421867234643842" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G9pQTMofRSvwacCYu8f2pUz-WnI4M9_0iS-IbZSLzzWNcduoQdhX9mcqctXiFfvauQ6shdmyAU0F5Zb1DJIsIFDWyej5txW_poFJ-kAjA0Cy1g-Pnfu3FNRhkJkBEWwFT0kgBut0mcCA/s1600-h/PA181886.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G9pQTMofRSvwacCYu8f2pUz-WnI4M9_0iS-IbZSLzzWNcduoQdhX9mcqctXiFfvauQ6shdmyAU0F5Zb1DJIsIFDWyej5txW_poFJ-kAjA0Cy1g-Pnfu3FNRhkJkBEWwFT0kgBut0mcCA/s320/PA181886.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394421859445096466" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0PNMnOvcnECNAYnNP3KvEEjW8jMHFhf29-RVAVqJtyWJAhkfOloN-4vIH2BoSBUVPfK_6cs5_wMWhy8yzlCpzxcFBAAw_CzCHQedwrSl8DyiE2u3i8fl7BxVuVkfBOplZ5Frc-DZy4_Do/s1600-h/PA181889.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0PNMnOvcnECNAYnNP3KvEEjW8jMHFhf29-RVAVqJtyWJAhkfOloN-4vIH2BoSBUVPfK_6cs5_wMWhy8yzlCpzxcFBAAw_CzCHQedwrSl8DyiE2u3i8fl7BxVuVkfBOplZ5Frc-DZy4_Do/s320/PA181889.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394421850451461794" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRH0H1ycmQhBVNNqDciOQS4M1PXLlqNOgYc4_qnbGAJl2_p4T-kXmHtxQcvVUoRb87TKugHegKHHEnAwxGYs4ntKe8UIC2HjLg8pIn1GpGiIFvxBSJ2rjuKBGdxz4tKHhZfcq4gGHNnYfs/s1600-h/PA181903.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRH0H1ycmQhBVNNqDciOQS4M1PXLlqNOgYc4_qnbGAJl2_p4T-kXmHtxQcvVUoRb87TKugHegKHHEnAwxGYs4ntKe8UIC2HjLg8pIn1GpGiIFvxBSJ2rjuKBGdxz4tKHhZfcq4gGHNnYfs/s320/PA181903.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394421837469526306" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-13853555268155968892009-10-19T13:22:00.000-07:002009-10-19T14:05:50.336-07:00Pumpkin Patch<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ivvVfvnFUNb2jXx8201Eke_P3Qv13uFiKHL7JbsC8QHU_5n9iyYfPWW6Ap_7Byd_nXNnxVHlqnUzHRQEgKbDNkY1qSqxCCLiQ91XZ3LCl1jjTl437unCVuf9OIuogkDBfON6dY20qYOE/s1600-h/PA121801.JPG"></a>We had a break in the rain last week and decided to take the girls to a pumpkin patch that Shelly told us about. At the last minute, Ashlyn's friend decided that he would join us on our little trip. The ground was still super wet and yucky, but we still had a blast. Great free family fun!<br /><br />Jake and Ashlyn in the pumpkin house<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ivvVfvnFUNb2jXx8201Eke_P3Qv13uFiKHL7JbsC8QHU_5n9iyYfPWW6Ap_7Byd_nXNnxVHlqnUzHRQEgKbDNkY1qSqxCCLiQ91XZ3LCl1jjTl437unCVuf9OIuogkDBfON6dY20qYOE/s1600-h/PA121801.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ivvVfvnFUNb2jXx8201Eke_P3Qv13uFiKHL7JbsC8QHU_5n9iyYfPWW6Ap_7Byd_nXNnxVHlqnUzHRQEgKbDNkY1qSqxCCLiQ91XZ3LCl1jjTl437unCVuf9OIuogkDBfON6dY20qYOE/s320/PA121801.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394416406990500162" border="0" /></a><br />Kenley pulling the wagon<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CCzls9_q_3clknheoNjO8yr_rQVxWOa-1f1lLQh36PaxC9BgbKVcdgG7DMacOsbCiqHExOhK6wC72niIJTXL_4Hdww_mXX5N3wC_a2wsZAtLvZPgrBU204aKahqY8_pL4wUkUhBz2cCg/s1600-h/PA121804.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1CCzls9_q_3clknheoNjO8yr_rQVxWOa-1f1lLQh36PaxC9BgbKVcdgG7DMacOsbCiqHExOhK6wC72niIJTXL_4Hdww_mXX5N3wC_a2wsZAtLvZPgrBU204aKahqY8_pL4wUkUhBz2cCg/s320/PA121804.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394416396658693970" border="0" /></a>Playing on the haystack<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiULd2qV_NnpTv3vQUlMTaQnvirHQo-SUAaMWwwQ_GpUNq46LhqN7mp9G2QUtaEqa2kRWr1Oid-c3z_AkFgRU0NxCEmA8znjTuUfo_qidz-nRIki5Go4bDK6GYuh8V6Bp82L2I51MmfK2Q/s1600-h/PA121809.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiULd2qV_NnpTv3vQUlMTaQnvirHQo-SUAaMWwwQ_GpUNq46LhqN7mp9G2QUtaEqa2kRWr1Oid-c3z_AkFgRU0NxCEmA8znjTuUfo_qidz-nRIki5Go4bDK6GYuh8V6Bp82L2I51MmfK2Q/s320/PA121809.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394416383944881314" border="0" /></a>Sweet Ashlyn<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJXKYPbR_U7Uv9hGhoa3EoouaLYRwHkHpZdsyrAJh_36NV76T2hTKRv51_zUTYX0ODjWXZXUXmAWA8d52AoED_UNjXjuciJv7zeKFuyQKEbm_0MR9CKLOkg8_852zPRe7Ndr9c4lohbiH/s1600-h/PA121818.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrJXKYPbR_U7Uv9hGhoa3EoouaLYRwHkHpZdsyrAJh_36NV76T2hTKRv51_zUTYX0ODjWXZXUXmAWA8d52AoED_UNjXjuciJv7zeKFuyQKEbm_0MR9CKLOkg8_852zPRe7Ndr9c4lohbiH/s320/PA121818.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394414766224721186" border="0" /></a>Witch Ashlyn<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggfysIqPy0kuvO_bNiSD9NeY1VNAIjX9-LxXDn57m3k_ffw-nfOznrWe1eEfdaGxnHvh588n3jx2pfyS4MtChu7gfDWYxOpREJnEBfFUEXMmxFOiUPYvILs8sWxQ9eUR9y1pEIiy_vuYje/s1600-h/PA121823.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggfysIqPy0kuvO_bNiSD9NeY1VNAIjX9-LxXDn57m3k_ffw-nfOznrWe1eEfdaGxnHvh588n3jx2pfyS4MtChu7gfDWYxOpREJnEBfFUEXMmxFOiUPYvILs8sWxQ9eUR9y1pEIiy_vuYje/s320/PA121823.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394414761236914002" border="0" /></a>Witch Kenley<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9nMnL5EnnFCa79gGEvAXT1aA-FO0Y93VJKGvjd7j9lUt8c8yEBYwiGcVK0IKd9vYNB6CUio1mU530Y3Rld6OcYrs-i2lhacINsuqxycgRKBFHsc99LfD638GmMEKA5ycsvxbcoomvYKw/s1600-h/PA121826.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9nMnL5EnnFCa79gGEvAXT1aA-FO0Y93VJKGvjd7j9lUt8c8yEBYwiGcVK0IKd9vYNB6CUio1mU530Y3Rld6OcYrs-i2lhacINsuqxycgRKBFHsc99LfD638GmMEKA5ycsvxbcoomvYKw/s320/PA121826.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394414746793004354" border="0" /></a>Scarecrow Daddy<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSPVMDJaiMrJtz31na1keYdagACAH8h80IpKlzwIOwCuOfUZcsSDEO_3QTExiFImJtG1NxOMnalMfteTGN0n7T-sysHiwZhHDi0HwM5XRWd200TRT7wkTFFsixtckRxCLjCOeEUmtChMA/s1600-h/PA121827.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqSPVMDJaiMrJtz31na1keYdagACAH8h80IpKlzwIOwCuOfUZcsSDEO_3QTExiFImJtG1NxOMnalMfteTGN0n7T-sysHiwZhHDi0HwM5XRWd200TRT7wkTFFsixtckRxCLjCOeEUmtChMA/s320/PA121827.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394414737893869026" border="0" /></a>Mommy and Kenley<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyRxEkmGy5_yYTwg4ZpN7dOobodg2aDFWT71Muu6LSFesHDXOsoHvMswkltEiuHIVDCXH8YlxDmMWN4GWYg_JDQfDLsXzcR34qcJWes6q6bMaXBqgEQm_Zv8i5pXrIany-MPfwRJBvTzm/s1600-h/PA121831.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUyRxEkmGy5_yYTwg4ZpN7dOobodg2aDFWT71Muu6LSFesHDXOsoHvMswkltEiuHIVDCXH8YlxDmMWN4GWYg_JDQfDLsXzcR34qcJWes6q6bMaXBqgEQm_Zv8i5pXrIany-MPfwRJBvTzm/s320/PA121831.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394414723575628882" border="0" /></a>Ashlyn with Ariel<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEU1Dn9FPYV8O-qykcrsHUDhWKvFOrxf7iWfiIgDSwaQghI8ENT2ped5-OJZ8obd7emh9NpzFtUlVn5r-vpHydI0yo7cHzI7UNPWMHpcFhyphenhyphenlTgX3TQ6Q7p9O4VvoMn8j3gLEDH_yWMZQYH/s1600-h/PA121839.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEU1Dn9FPYV8O-qykcrsHUDhWKvFOrxf7iWfiIgDSwaQghI8ENT2ped5-OJZ8obd7emh9NpzFtUlVn5r-vpHydI0yo7cHzI7UNPWMHpcFhyphenhyphenlTgX3TQ6Q7p9O4VvoMn8j3gLEDH_yWMZQYH/s320/PA121839.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394412477471824690" border="0" /></a>Ashlyn in the hay maze<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwLB4-JBCcOfhjdOY-VndWEDJc8g4FCHo-KGbzmGzZqNtzEovHt4HjVkbxr8k56M74zwIuTyFin5ggR-M3mluf9f3801yXC0EUf59Rg-QZ3ceA-jDS9dEnJ6OCrpJ8Mgtnb4g9XXzEMM3/s1600-h/PA121849.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwLB4-JBCcOfhjdOY-VndWEDJc8g4FCHo-KGbzmGzZqNtzEovHt4HjVkbxr8k56M74zwIuTyFin5ggR-M3mluf9f3801yXC0EUf59Rg-QZ3ceA-jDS9dEnJ6OCrpJ8Mgtnb4g9XXzEMM3/s320/PA121849.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394412466574159090" border="0" /></a>"Cheese!"<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi0_89Ozs0LygGfKvAXoGlpuNS36qyLx_D6tOOSCa91BGW7Ynw7bYCdVTTCVd-IZzLGN3vNPVVFNBIsMlj_SbUjPqt4kPEFd_q-GIrbyha8k_HeOd2Gxp80sYVXWk6y4t7mWiUeqKmDWQu/s1600-h/PA121852.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi0_89Ozs0LygGfKvAXoGlpuNS36qyLx_D6tOOSCa91BGW7Ynw7bYCdVTTCVd-IZzLGN3vNPVVFNBIsMlj_SbUjPqt4kPEFd_q-GIrbyha8k_HeOd2Gxp80sYVXWk6y4t7mWiUeqKmDWQu/s320/PA121852.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394412458362701586" border="0" /></a>Boo!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQVzu3NUv-Z3b6Z57L0bmgmZfO8UZUEAhqrJxV1LIbOsWDPlkfgyw5ecPBMipSG52-9Dyjzu-SwNdIha6FxGyawPWBRQIQPhg7oB4npVc5AUbqbiDONQFkLtOkoXUv0T0WGFBivCr7z82D/s1600-h/PA121853.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQVzu3NUv-Z3b6Z57L0bmgmZfO8UZUEAhqrJxV1LIbOsWDPlkfgyw5ecPBMipSG52-9Dyjzu-SwNdIha6FxGyawPWBRQIQPhg7oB4npVc5AUbqbiDONQFkLtOkoXUv0T0WGFBivCr7z82D/s320/PA121853.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394412443470039858" border="0" /></a>Not too excited about this picture<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtBxM2F61jlj11tk1f7wHEGvBV1MZ8rR_IhFLDsR_yt4-tGvREA4swU_trPDT0NGvJxgTjvNCTZ2bhhyxMm4fTknh5EyFrkTGMGeWeCFBXXIFVpfLOe2otuEC46Q9TKLtf9wfPKlmeVe5/s1600-h/PA121866.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmtBxM2F61jlj11tk1f7wHEGvBV1MZ8rR_IhFLDsR_yt4-tGvREA4swU_trPDT0NGvJxgTjvNCTZ2bhhyxMm4fTknh5EyFrkTGMGeWeCFBXXIFVpfLOe2otuEC46Q9TKLtf9wfPKlmeVe5/s320/PA121866.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394412433395406722" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-33306849422860915602009-10-08T18:15:00.000-07:002009-10-08T18:48:42.823-07:00The Sweetest ThingThere are moments in the lives of my girls that I never want to forget. I wish I could bottle their voices and these moments and hold them with me forever. I had one of those moments today with Ashlyn. Here is the story:<br /><br />Many of you know that I clip coupons. Every Saturday I get an early edition Sunday paper and clip coupons for grocery shopping on Sunday. There have been several times that Ashlyn wants to help me clip coupons so she gets her scissors and cuts up all of the ads that I am finished with. It is very cute to watch her "help" me. She has asked me before why I clip coupons, to which I answer, "It helps Mommy and Daddy save money on groceries because it makes the groceries cheaper." That is the first part of the story.<br /><br />Many of you also know that Ashlyn LOVES to dance. The kid dances and sings to everything. She is constantly dressing up and pretending that she is a ballerina and shows everyone how she can dance on her tippy toes just like a real ballerina. That is the second part of the story.<br /><br />Many of you know that Ken has been looking for a job for several months now. Times have been a little difficult around here lately and we have had to tighten up the budget quite a bit in order to get through this storm of being without income. I had wanted to put Ashlyn in a dance class this year, but because of our situation, we decided that we would wait. So she has held her own "dance class" upstairs almost every single night in her playroom. After her bath, she goes into the playroom and plays the "Music Box Dance" demo on her keyboard and twirls around the room. She regularly insists that she can't go to bed until she has her dance class. It is quite difficult to tell her no. That is the third part of the story.<br /><br />Here is the last part of the story that melts my heart. Ashlyn came home from school today with her folder in her backpack just like every other day. And just like every other day, I took her folder out to see the things that she made and what she learned about at school. But today I found this tucked in her folder in between her other paperwork.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2T1FRQtum9pzel7jBX09XiQEe0bQbm2znqb7G5OW9CoNoqdpJR2DMWF-SlE59TMO2WDOlL4lB8w_9JohoSWXjr-7-CD84oYMImJKxQikJIhnHVj9UbOvSciCKRVbby2y2VaVyNbwHnz7/s1600-h/PA081778.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja2T1FRQtum9pzel7jBX09XiQEe0bQbm2znqb7G5OW9CoNoqdpJR2DMWF-SlE59TMO2WDOlL4lB8w_9JohoSWXjr-7-CD84oYMImJKxQikJIhnHVj9UbOvSciCKRVbby2y2VaVyNbwHnz7/s320/PA081778.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5390408265275351138" border="0" /></a><br />I asked her what it was and her reply was, "Oh! That is my coupon that I clipped today at school! I brought it home for you so that you could use it and I can take ballet class!" The excitement in her little voice was uncontainable. Apparently, while she was cutting things out of a magazine for another project, she spotted this and saw it as an opportunity to save our family money. She was clearly so proud that she had found and clipped this "coupon" by herself. I just wanted to melt when she told me about it. <br />Well, Daddy has another first interview with a company tomorrow afternoon. We are praying that God will provide him with something soon and that it will be obvious to us the direction that He wants us to go. So tonight, before Ashlyn's prayers, I told her that as soon as Daddy gets a job, we will sign her up for a ballet class. She showed me again how she can already dance on her tippy toes just like a real ballerina. Her innocence makes me smile. Her joy for life makes me want to be more joyful. Her sweet heart melts mine.Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-73175568593194240722009-09-11T15:06:00.000-07:002009-09-11T17:27:30.522-07:00Ashlyn's Build-A-Bear DateAs most of you know, Ashlyn started using a Thumb Guard to quit sucking her thumb on July 15th. About a week after starting it, I told her that if she could make it through all 60 wristbands, that we would take her to Build-A-Bear and let her make a special bear for a reward. Ever since then she has talked about going to "Builder Bear" almost every day. She has not sucked her thumb since the day after we started using the Thumb Guard. So we told her that today was her special day to go on a date by herself with Mommy and Daddy. We gave her a choice of where to go eat lunch, she chose CiCi's Pizza because they had dessert. Fine with me, it was cheap. Then we were off to shop. I had told Ashlyn that she could go to the Princess Store (Disney) and pick something special out as well. I know, she got a lot of stuff today, but I am a proud Mama and I wanted to make this a big deal for her and let her know how proud of her I am. Here she is with her selection from the Princess Store, Beauty and The Beast dolls.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPWahSLkhCo-uks_Eoz1HHpO5DKaX7GwJp8uGlbhwFlQ7T-8i1qF5aWPhZWHDsbxJIrg23N-yi-zxxGYtnmR9Dt0ml_BnJkGDdjZ0rIUdZpE6W9sQiLPyBf9QjzSGBccb6VMqFuTs-KjN/s1600-h/P9111697.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPWahSLkhCo-uks_Eoz1HHpO5DKaX7GwJp8uGlbhwFlQ7T-8i1qF5aWPhZWHDsbxJIrg23N-yi-zxxGYtnmR9Dt0ml_BnJkGDdjZ0rIUdZpE6W9sQiLPyBf9QjzSGBccb6VMqFuTs-KjN/s320/P9111697.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380338969014006530" border="0" /></a>Ashlyn headed directly to Build-A-Bear after getting her dolls. She has never been to Build-A-Bear before so she was so excited and it was so neat to see her get to pick stuff out. I do have to say that she picked her bear out within seconds. Ken and I tried (I know we should just let her get whatever she wants) to talk her out of her first choice for more than 5 minutes. "Ashlyn, don't you want a brown or black bear, or a cute little bunny? And then we can just put a pink outfit on it. Won't that be cute?" we persuaded. But when you are Ashlyn Rushing, no brown or black stuffed animal will do. They are not girly enough. Nothing will do but the Tie-dyed pink and yellow bear. There was no convincing her. She wouldn't hear a word of our pleading. Oh well. Here she is with her bear before getting stuffed.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-7j8M0ZrZwpF_ffT770dp8N-YeqMHvmJfZL4COOxLhs3eaeu6e34WzJOrivLMhkpFMZ0UXrvuZKdMaFitaPbDbFqh2Gc_feuaB16orpudthVDVdb6EFKq_LEj8r2MEwJKawjEr1nj6Vn/s1600-h/P9111699.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn-7j8M0ZrZwpF_ffT770dp8N-YeqMHvmJfZL4COOxLhs3eaeu6e34WzJOrivLMhkpFMZ0UXrvuZKdMaFitaPbDbFqh2Gc_feuaB16orpudthVDVdb6EFKq_LEj8r2MEwJKawjEr1nj6Vn/s320/P9111699.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380338957072562450" border="0" /></a>Daddy and Ashlyn are making sure that the bear is filled properly and making sure that she is huggable.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPsCgbgE-1PrGgzIe3v1ubHCQ-O9COrJmCIMYUZinbioyf1hCqd1EsRlV3wQT8O0NbsR0rSUeD8Ai4AUue3h_E2VOyOsE8hNNLY4D4YOctbB_XSoleLnU9_699y1WRy6-GxTUfxFZQjio/s1600-h/P9111701.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZPsCgbgE-1PrGgzIe3v1ubHCQ-O9COrJmCIMYUZinbioyf1hCqd1EsRlV3wQT8O0NbsR0rSUeD8Ai4AUue3h_E2VOyOsE8hNNLY4D4YOctbB_XSoleLnU9_699y1WRy6-GxTUfxFZQjio/s320/P9111701.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380338949080471666" border="0" /></a>After the stuffing, Ashlyn got to pick out a heart to place inside of the bear. She gave the heart a kiss and made a wish. Then put it inside of bear's body.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdso7xOW9e2FOPIP0U6SWNlaKM-cEXKIGkq8Tf0HyUZezHGxnHJ76Uz3jPGuAiTF4GZVPcz12Iv3MotTuIB-1sgZ9Q-k2PWAAE2YunHLmtgPSgCk3-CIlppB8mqmVqvMW3_JXE0kwV_0E/s1600-h/P9111702.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZdso7xOW9e2FOPIP0U6SWNlaKM-cEXKIGkq8Tf0HyUZezHGxnHJ76Uz3jPGuAiTF4GZVPcz12Iv3MotTuIB-1sgZ9Q-k2PWAAE2YunHLmtgPSgCk3-CIlppB8mqmVqvMW3_JXE0kwV_0E/s320/P9111702.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380338938887311074" border="0" /></a>Ashlyn named her bear Lucy. This is the name that she wanted to name our new baby, but it was vetoed. So she was able to name her new baby Lucy.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGENuNPADGPEP6pQQlPesGYgJktT4B5ZoHaWYX9hal0BW8YcoGmeb56Qpk73a5wAs3vSKMOZOxZPr2y5EGd9G7S3V4JoqRWA-ZEVq1Z63mnR6ynVwwDFd2HtU-ohAW6DZxC-_y6V7L5PXe/s1600-h/P9111708.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGENuNPADGPEP6pQQlPesGYgJktT4B5ZoHaWYX9hal0BW8YcoGmeb56Qpk73a5wAs3vSKMOZOxZPr2y5EGd9G7S3V4JoqRWA-ZEVq1Z63mnR6ynVwwDFd2HtU-ohAW6DZxC-_y6V7L5PXe/s320/P9111708.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380338922229214642" border="0" /></a>After getting a bath, we all went to pick an outfit for Lucy. Again, Mommy tried convince Ashlyn of the practicality of the outfit. "Ashlyn, a pink shirt is a great idea, but we should probably get some little blue jean shorts or skirt to go with it. And then you could get these cute little pink shoes to go with it." Nope. Wasn't happening. Lucy had to have the shiniest dress, with the most sequins on it. And Lucy couldn't wear that dress without patent leather silver shoes, right? And if she is going to have all that, she needs to have a tiara and a wand. There, now Lucy was perfect.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKrCyDguYh65g6200XD7xQ7q2y3VpOycHchKGi8jq-_OsQ0wXhdM1djXaNaBTK7aw3002a_aotiGCXrk8K52mG_7lzwkwPhyZ4hT13Og4fY79n-00J2QmR6NJi7AEBi2ogf3IYfP27TKwh/s1600-h/P9111735.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKrCyDguYh65g6200XD7xQ7q2y3VpOycHchKGi8jq-_OsQ0wXhdM1djXaNaBTK7aw3002a_aotiGCXrk8K52mG_7lzwkwPhyZ4hT13Og4fY79n-00J2QmR6NJi7AEBi2ogf3IYfP27TKwh/s320/P9111735.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380369392580475570" border="0" /></a>Mommy and Ashlyn then had to go decide if Lucy needed bows in her hair as well as a tiara. We decided against it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJGzdyIphbLnj38rj1DGSx-PPLbyo1wcSgv2Yyzwst0HR_HAht8u5abxO13YSs3aokF3myZm7BqjaV22SRfRrco5U6yELB_5qNuSwHAElmSps_XIaefhSunFcc6ayPw5NzNEKKk2MrTsj/s1600-h/P9111710.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGJGzdyIphbLnj38rj1DGSx-PPLbyo1wcSgv2Yyzwst0HR_HAht8u5abxO13YSs3aokF3myZm7BqjaV22SRfRrco5U6yELB_5qNuSwHAElmSps_XIaefhSunFcc6ayPw5NzNEKKk2MrTsj/s320/P9111710.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380336311758628850" border="0" /></a><br />Ashlyn and Mommy with Lucy after she was complete. She was sooo excited!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljJrvFe7B5bX26GEvSZ5i7wnq1PaB8Uy9x6VL2rqrCMH0CB6vSizPlw6D6x_UmOBNqvLuaAeSd2UwKLX7AOCQbK3MbBBQC0e6s0TU8Rws9bWFvOKA1-uyoG2wAaD4ibo-zZJusDNjC-x0/s1600-h/P9111717.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhljJrvFe7B5bX26GEvSZ5i7wnq1PaB8Uy9x6VL2rqrCMH0CB6vSizPlw6D6x_UmOBNqvLuaAeSd2UwKLX7AOCQbK3MbBBQC0e6s0TU8Rws9bWFvOKA1-uyoG2wAaD4ibo-zZJusDNjC-x0/s320/P9111717.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380336300356142338" border="0" /></a>Then we had to go to the computers and make Lucy and birth certificate. So cute.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcChp0lEtOI3kwj3NnbBXJnKKbfd0q3F6exZlMqjC-dvAPxBLpBEkVSrFDe6WFCWDwL4IHsP1-GI7640OnWI2K3vK1Xq3sVpORNhYgAR9Ui5jVWK-iLoPLQ1nlfoeMWksF_YjG1t-xNLCR/s1600-h/P9111719.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcChp0lEtOI3kwj3NnbBXJnKKbfd0q3F6exZlMqjC-dvAPxBLpBEkVSrFDe6WFCWDwL4IHsP1-GI7640OnWI2K3vK1Xq3sVpORNhYgAR9Ui5jVWK-iLoPLQ1nlfoeMWksF_YjG1t-xNLCR/s320/P9111719.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380336289956379970" border="0" /></a>A sweet kiss from my sweet girl. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdn_JgNc1t_en8vSzr-3QutRu3zeK062-1zuJ3FatVQFYhK4T6RgUhzbARfcg8xeIcUFqitkRIUEyxQrYgP6YhlHSZlOQvH3XQlBHjnpj9X_AZ8jfgxL5SRf1dwB1uAZ3FhzSXiIXDApRx/s1600-h/P9111730.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdn_JgNc1t_en8vSzr-3QutRu3zeK062-1zuJ3FatVQFYhK4T6RgUhzbARfcg8xeIcUFqitkRIUEyxQrYgP6YhlHSZlOQvH3XQlBHjnpj9X_AZ8jfgxL5SRf1dwB1uAZ3FhzSXiIXDApRx/s320/P9111730.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380336275342956946" border="0" /></a>Ashlyn with Mommy after we finished. I cannot tell you how proud of this girl I am. I sucked my thumb until I was twelve, so I know how hard it is to quit. She never complained...not once. She truly wanted to quit. Ashlyn, you are our big girl and we love you so much! Congratulations on earning your "Builder Bear"!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GZtIIoGJaILZ2OnYVNDYV78uPKoEI2ayHx-uhy0o0GbdcdjkHyhZ8FQ6jwZOM37RCIWh1YdyJhM5yER2XhscXr35uF3Abjt_CzUW5NJKfOAe0y-8DcL46daN2Lr8fDrHQRx2LLfnYRBP/s1600-h/P9111732.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9GZtIIoGJaILZ2OnYVNDYV78uPKoEI2ayHx-uhy0o0GbdcdjkHyhZ8FQ6jwZOM37RCIWh1YdyJhM5yER2XhscXr35uF3Abjt_CzUW5NJKfOAe0y-8DcL46daN2Lr8fDrHQRx2LLfnYRBP/s320/P9111732.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380336269609513938" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-13020659173371922502009-09-08T18:48:00.000-07:002009-09-08T19:02:36.280-07:00Over It and Thinking Pink!I wanted to post this blog as an update for all of the sweet people who have asked me how I have been doing since I found out that baby #3 is a girl. Thank you all so much for your sweet words during my moment of self-pity. I have had several people that have made comments (some of whom are having trouble even getting pregnant) on the God's Plan is Perfect blog and even more that have just read it and asked me if I am doing better. The answer to that question is a resounding "Yes!" I did take my day to be a little sad that (aside from a <span style="font-style: italic;">completely</span> changed heart) that there would be no more babies, therefore no boys in our home. I have had dreams of cute little blue outfits and toys that aren't pink or purple and just a little stinky boy to mix things up in the Rushing house. But God saw fit for us to have three girls. So I said my goodbyes to those dreams. And now, less than a week out from finding out that this little one is a she, I can almost not imagine her being a boy. I can now envision our family with three little girls (probably none of whom will look like there mother) running around our house. I think it will be great. Lord willing, I will help three girls with their first makeup, help them through their first broken hearts and get three beautiful girls ready for prom and eventually ready for their wedding. How awesome is that! Anyway, thank you for all of your sweet comments and thank you for being patient with me. I want you all to know that I do feel that God has truly blessed me to have a hand (or tummy) in creating this beautiful new life. Any ideas on the names, send them my way!Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-62575598840836984042009-09-08T18:28:00.000-07:002009-09-08T18:48:48.835-07:00Ashlyn's First Day of Pre-KAshlyn has been looking forward to starting Pre-K this year for quite some time. Partly because it brings her one year closer to going to kindergarten which she talks about a lot already. Partly because most of her friends start at least a week earlier than she does and she loses playmates for the end of her summer. So today was her big day. She was very excited that she had a clean dress to wear on her first day. Pretty much all she was concerned about this morning was that she got to wear her "seashell dress" and that she had a drinkable yogurt packed in her lunch. So after that was taken care of, we slapped on the forbidden after-labor-day white sandals and off we went. She was very helpful carrying in her own backpack and nap mat today. She couldn't wait to get into her classroom. Hugs and kisses to Mommy and Daddy and off she went. I picked her up today and she said she had a great day except for one little girl that was mean to her. I asked her what happened and this is what she said. "______ was mean to me at school today, Mommy. She told me to come sit down so I did. But then she looked at me and said, 'I didn't tell YOU to come sit down, I asked ________ to come sit down!' So I got up and then she turned to ________ and said, 'C'mon, ________, let's go play somewhere else. So I had to go find another friend to play with." My heart wanted to break when she told me this story. It is just one of many struggles and days of hurt feelings that she will face in school and in the real world, I know. But no one ever wants their child to suffer. It is so hard not to tell her to get _______ by herself and tie her shoelaces together. But I know that God wants her to treat others kindly. So I just told her that I was so sorry that she got treated that way and Daddy reminded her tonight that we are always kind to people, even when we don't know them. Our little bug is growing so big and I love every day with her. Here are the pictures of her before school today...one by herself and one with a certain little sister that wanted her picture taken with "Ashyn".<br /><br />PS. We are three days from finishing the wristbands with the Thumb-Guard. Stay tuned later this week for the special Build-A-Bear date with Ashlyn, Mommy and Daddy!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBgWLUyHS4jl47gT8tQCAbJDKz-_befPJcTCrdgEYojGm5JHw3YZqq5Y1P9tBswp6cvpLIeQ1hKLUdAeyqdRJcsd5UT_vx6ZrUTNzaQx6-q8L57H1rMetxh-bSOEGOh-rmTwuDcmg6nTL/s1600-h/P9081683.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBgWLUyHS4jl47gT8tQCAbJDKz-_befPJcTCrdgEYojGm5JHw3YZqq5Y1P9tBswp6cvpLIeQ1hKLUdAeyqdRJcsd5UT_vx6ZrUTNzaQx6-q8L57H1rMetxh-bSOEGOh-rmTwuDcmg6nTL/s320/P9081683.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379275037157071010" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXcaebB12P81bT7EeQr1E6cRbwndanaZT1mpsto7ATCVGGXZg22yrhgCo1WhauPoAgnIOyJPFGv-nFzk9fHgP8wVslri2s6g0pxnS9DzLOM18_DfHmdYGA5Np4uBLzzcqph5HzK0cHnu_/s1600-h/P9081687.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXcaebB12P81bT7EeQr1E6cRbwndanaZT1mpsto7ATCVGGXZg22yrhgCo1WhauPoAgnIOyJPFGv-nFzk9fHgP8wVslri2s6g0pxnS9DzLOM18_DfHmdYGA5Np4uBLzzcqph5HzK0cHnu_/s320/P9081687.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379278527277381410" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-39679858779447225222009-09-02T12:13:00.000-07:002009-09-02T12:39:03.765-07:00God's Plan is PerfectToday was the day of our big ultrasound for our little baby. It is a day that I have been looking forward to since the day that I have found out I was pregnant. I wanted to know so badly if this tiny person was a boy or a girl. I even went so far as to buy the Intelligender test to give me a little hint. Every single person close to me was convinced that this was a little boy and I have to say that with how differently I felt from day one, I was pretty sure myself. So, today when we were told that the ultrasound tech (who has been doing this for 20 years) is 95% sure that this is a little baby girl, it was a little difficult for me to take. I struggle with what to write because some of this sadness that I am having is just a frustration with myself for being even a little disappointed after looking at these sweet pictures. But it is a little sad to say goodbye to little boyish outfits, cars and trucks for toys, and maybe having a little football player in later years. It is difficult for me to process that my sweet husband who is such a perfect daddy to our girls will probably never have a little sidekick to go do boy things with. With all that being said, I know that God's plan is perfect for our lives. God gave us a third little girl because he knows what is best for our family. God knows that we are better suited to have three girls. And apparently He thinks we can afford three weddings :) So I will take today to be a little sad. Although I don't want to feel this way, I cannot help my feelings. I will start thinking of sweet names and picturing her sweet face and tomorrow will be better.<br />I will be having another ultrasound in four weeks because little one is measuring about 11 days small and the tech was having trouble getting several pictures of the heart and face that she needed to. I cannot wait to see my little girl in a few weeks and I will post more pictures. But for now, here are the pictures of our sweet baby girl. Thank you, God.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJOOwqhD0d0RuNfrCDIMK54eVVfcR4F0y3cIqifiE4EZYuTdC-nqsK4CmCdc3sCSq6aSHYZ8_p_eEDMheoG9EFCnlbQp0QV27P7pDpBn43MbT4vaTytU7QUU2z2KH7hne6odzY8T_HRAf/s1600-h/scan0001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiJOOwqhD0d0RuNfrCDIMK54eVVfcR4F0y3cIqifiE4EZYuTdC-nqsK4CmCdc3sCSq6aSHYZ8_p_eEDMheoG9EFCnlbQp0QV27P7pDpBn43MbT4vaTytU7QUU2z2KH7hne6odzY8T_HRAf/s320/scan0001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376956229232251298" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDDKlIVYsZO0S8YYJWAQz296Vt2xRLDY60hEq0POrJcvd6L8gskxyX9desZFJ_-RGMyd9nVrb8ADMjnhFy6MXvZoBarQFylCyih2lnEfgiOtlWbbu0TvcZOa5pyaQMuYz-saaC_AxLMM1/s1600-h/scan0002.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDDKlIVYsZO0S8YYJWAQz296Vt2xRLDY60hEq0POrJcvd6L8gskxyX9desZFJ_-RGMyd9nVrb8ADMjnhFy6MXvZoBarQFylCyih2lnEfgiOtlWbbu0TvcZOa5pyaQMuYz-saaC_AxLMM1/s320/scan0002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376956237487995586" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-79951453530923557692009-07-23T07:48:00.000-07:002009-07-23T07:54:42.170-07:00Thumb Guard-One Week!Last night completed Ashlyn's first week with the thumb guard. She still likes to put it on and enjoys picking out her color of the wristband each night. She also gets to cut the excess band off with her scissors which she thinks is very cool. She has moved from sleeping in our bed (she did that for three nights) to sleeping in her own bed. It still takes her 30 minutes to an hour to fall asleep, but she is doing great! She hasn't sucked her thumb in a week. Movie time (which is almost daily right now because mommy still needs naps) is done without a thumb guard and without thumb sucking! Woo hoo! I told Ashlyn that after she made it through all 60 wristbands that I would take her to Build-A-Bear and she could get a bear. She is very excited abut that. I think she will be over it before we get through all the wristbands, but it won't hurt to make sure. I am so proud of her. I have to say that from my experience the thumb guard is great product!Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-11175603449695304712009-07-21T19:07:00.001-07:002009-07-22T10:42:34.597-07:00Ashlyn's PurchaseAshlyn and I went out to run some errands today and just have some time for me and her. While we were getting ready she asked me if she could buy something with her own money. She has never asked me this before. She has money in her piggy bank that she has been collecting over the years. So today she wanted to spend it. So we went up to the room and took $6 out and put it in her little purse. She was so excited. I am sure that all of you who are mothers can remember this experience. Ashlyn wanted to buy EVERYTHING she saw. I had to explain to her that some things were too expensive for what she had and some things she just couldn't have. Then she wanted to buy Kenley a new outfit. That was sweet. We finally made it to the Dollar Tree where she picked out a pack of headbands and two foam swords for her and Kenley to play with. She was so proud to take her purchase up to the counter. She even counted out her own money and gave it to the clerk. It was so neat to watch her doing this very grown up thing. After we left, she wanted to buy me lunch at Chic Fil A. Very sweet. I explained to her that it is not her job to pay for food yet. I have been meaning to sit down and make a chore list for her so that we can start teaching her how to give, save and spend her own money. I guess I will get on that today.Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-11224266355750224612009-07-15T13:37:00.001-07:002009-07-15T13:51:08.549-07:00Thumb Guard-Night One<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9BttsUZF6NhvNhl91AQ6wByc6gIGRjDdQqZeUC2Erfv5rOZ4RwGy6iYSpu7fxP70yMqOeTqKt4f87rppxDYLMR02uqhnNvLkQA05nV38RyeVsajeBT4fxqWTWPrrxg1B2HqraRnAX64nC/s1600-h/P7141591.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9BttsUZF6NhvNhl91AQ6wByc6gIGRjDdQqZeUC2Erfv5rOZ4RwGy6iYSpu7fxP70yMqOeTqKt4f87rppxDYLMR02uqhnNvLkQA05nV38RyeVsajeBT4fxqWTWPrrxg1B2HqraRnAX64nC/s320/P7141591.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358791708575804114" border="0" /></a> Ashlyn has been getting worse about sucking her thumb again. I think most of the problem is that she is inside a lot and watching more movies this summer since mommy is so tired and when she watches the movies, she tends to suck her thumb. Well, I don't want it to get any worse, especially since the idea was to have her completely stop when she turned four. So we decided to buy her a thumb guard to help her quit. She really does want to quit. She has asked for medicine to put on her thumb and even wants to sleep with bandaids on so that she won't suck her thumb. But those haven't seemed to work, so we thought we would try this. Last night she got to sleep in mommy and daddy's bed for her first night with it. I thought that she would be waking up several times crying because she couldn't soothe herself back to sleep. But she actually did really well. She was very proud of herself for making it through her first night. I will try and keep posting blogs about how her progress is with it. I think it supposed to take 3 weeks or so. We will see how she does. I thought I would also post a sweet picture of Ashlyn the very first time she found her thumb. I remember being so sad that day and having a hard time with it. (For those of you that don't know, I sucked my thumb for a long time.) But now it is almost bittersweet for her to be stopping. Just one more step in her growing up. My sweet little girl.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1d8FMMGHFms4NZ_ePx3OzAwzPksNegup2eB5EO8E20VhcjcUwqbh4tzCxl7ttwCJX20yipoamHEVvjvCHqaHlo0_70XEuTVRLycx06t-2QU7IAc8rb6tP860K0TMRDUKR2DPrsr3_nqN/s1600-h/DSC00766.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN1d8FMMGHFms4NZ_ePx3OzAwzPksNegup2eB5EO8E20VhcjcUwqbh4tzCxl7ttwCJX20yipoamHEVvjvCHqaHlo0_70XEuTVRLycx06t-2QU7IAc8rb6tP860K0TMRDUKR2DPrsr3_nqN/s320/DSC00766.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358791080466040194" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-51997127943453424102009-07-08T09:15:00.000-07:002009-07-08T09:26:57.048-07:00Intelligender Results!I have been waiting (im)patiently for several weeks to be able to take the Intelligender gender prediction test. This is a test that I have heard that other people have taken and it has been correct. So I thought it would be fun to see what it said for us. It is supposed to be 82% accurate at 10 weeks. It took everything in me, but I waited to take it until this morning (I am about 10 1/2 weeks). So anyway, if the test turns dark green, it is a boy result and a dark yellow/orange result is a girl. Here are the pictures of my results.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5L6ouij0DDjwJtm5gXxgveFXNPCtEq0WoufNa6gzHA0I3RnilJ8vJtI_7BRRhK8MFAcdgKntUPyv-5cm2PMHc48uDTtrFWAFza4uJ0PJ0EhNyVI0f0bwyKWQwpHGwfXhLie5Xbi0ETUR1/s1600-h/P7081576.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5L6ouij0DDjwJtm5gXxgveFXNPCtEq0WoufNa6gzHA0I3RnilJ8vJtI_7BRRhK8MFAcdgKntUPyv-5cm2PMHc48uDTtrFWAFza4uJ0PJ0EhNyVI0f0bwyKWQwpHGwfXhLie5Xbi0ETUR1/s320/P7081576.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356125721483318690" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNXx6yiqCVS6Grkxm9BfrWPII522ICteqrh_UnD2arJpyvIagvHZn9qFQithxuDisg49ML7zB6MN5A8WMEqr8aMaUWihIyEnOGDCKw1OaN4vzlFc-8Q7vPmUPElzto-ch73NvYBJ2Void/s1600-h/P7081575.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNXx6yiqCVS6Grkxm9BfrWPII522ICteqrh_UnD2arJpyvIagvHZn9qFQithxuDisg49ML7zB6MN5A8WMEqr8aMaUWihIyEnOGDCKw1OaN4vzlFc-8Q7vPmUPElzto-ch73NvYBJ2Void/s320/P7081575.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356125714996653954" border="0" /></a><br />The color below the sticker should match the sticker. Clearly it does not match the orange girl sticker, but looks exactly like the green boy sticker! Woo hoo! We still have two months to find out if it is correct, but I have felt for awhile that this is a little boy because I feel quite different. So we aren't for sure, but it is exciting to think that we may have a little boy on the way!Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-51344428016714344572009-07-01T12:16:00.001-07:002009-07-01T12:33:26.102-07:00Four Years and Eighteen Months (sort of)I finally got around to getting pictures of the girls taken today. Ashlyn's four year pics and Kenley's 18 month pics even though she is well into the nineteenth month. You do what you can, right? I didn't get Ashlyn's one year pictures taken until she was 16 months old. Anyway, enough about that. Having portraits done is always quite an experience for me. I take the time to make the appointment (because that means that I will be seen when I get there) and I get all the clothes ironed the night before, get the girls to bed on time (because that means that they will be agreeable the next day), make extra time to fix their wispy blonde hair (some moms feel my pain there) and then off to the portrait studio (just a few minutes early to account for any unplanned traffic-always have to be on time). Accept that this morning inevitably, So-and-So didn't show up to work, so you will just have to wait a short while Mrs. Rushing while we get these other people in front of you. And oh by the way, we here at Superstar Portrait Studio book appointments every ten minutes even though they take well over an hour. Thanks for your patience Mrs. Rushing! So we finally get started. Let me just tell you about my two sweet girls that are my precious angels and gifts from God. They are awesome. Ashlyn thinks she is a movie star and feels the need to pose for every single picture. The word candid is lost on her. She is hilarious. I was frustrated at the time, but now that I am home looking at the pictures, her little posed shots are my favorite because that is just who she is. She wanted her pictures taken in her "red and white stripey dress" because that is what she wants to wear everyday (not kidding). Anyway, she is our sweet little bug. Kenley on the other hand hates to have her picture taken. It is like getting blood out of a turnip to get this baby to smile for someone other than family. When I put her on the background to get the pictures, one would have thought that I had left her on the nearest street corner to fend for herself and left. It is quite pathetic. In the end, we got some cute pictures of what both of their personalities are like at this point in their lives. I love these little girls.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIfE8kDsBOeRiMWQF5fN0Eh_7uzOJbJFKps51BRHzinSglqcbYnPoQ5S9hyphenhyphen0q4Sg9CvaQqfIoARuyeGfZXbljsat6wpD8oSvOI6_eSrKYQQJYnpuEhI3qDY6NUApBiXhxRDSkSycDah_pM/s1600-h/0062.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIfE8kDsBOeRiMWQF5fN0Eh_7uzOJbJFKps51BRHzinSglqcbYnPoQ5S9hyphenhyphen0q4Sg9CvaQqfIoARuyeGfZXbljsat6wpD8oSvOI6_eSrKYQQJYnpuEhI3qDY6NUApBiXhxRDSkSycDah_pM/s320/0062.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353576447024562386" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZa_sIW-D19oUonwN-7gCaUzD8gERCowBlMj-yONsVeWy3vaOd4-5XXmAgpItAzYFBoipm4988OovJPguFEX5ZJbibNrba_21-h0T_EVVUQNyu117c3A5V9ewhBt-QtcmgFHkN6Fil6C5u/s1600-h/0033.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZa_sIW-D19oUonwN-7gCaUzD8gERCowBlMj-yONsVeWy3vaOd4-5XXmAgpItAzYFBoipm4988OovJPguFEX5ZJbibNrba_21-h0T_EVVUQNyu117c3A5V9ewhBt-QtcmgFHkN6Fil6C5u/s320/0033.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353576329368249074" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-HyudfNzlUWj44VWBQgwRv_gy-WFX9ih_jmEsLVFwev6yt-_XshxLozUVod_yPGn49QruyJ6iMA0QAclGX7a3Phc90sK6zgV9CF23xghXptaKMSi3vv4qb9B6czrnLmhnpunM4wKx7zjF/s1600-h/0027.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-HyudfNzlUWj44VWBQgwRv_gy-WFX9ih_jmEsLVFwev6yt-_XshxLozUVod_yPGn49QruyJ6iMA0QAclGX7a3Phc90sK6zgV9CF23xghXptaKMSi3vv4qb9B6czrnLmhnpunM4wKx7zjF/s320/0027.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353576321430179954" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoKcup-TopiWgOUyxS56KthuqDevZ9IaJoTd767EiUw1uO88cK-X8KXUHrA3S7YiPJetdZJlxwco_m0nb2GWxJk4XaOxuOeakNa7_nP6xv5yJmF1xYnGZADEBZDiuvVQyB6Q0Hto2fdxy/s1600-h/0023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWoKcup-TopiWgOUyxS56KthuqDevZ9IaJoTd767EiUw1uO88cK-X8KXUHrA3S7YiPJetdZJlxwco_m0nb2GWxJk4XaOxuOeakNa7_nP6xv5yJmF1xYnGZADEBZDiuvVQyB6Q0Hto2fdxy/s320/0023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353576312431133698" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2Mg_oQJOYQE-uX0Q7HxnwEcQfwut57mFb0q9ZzJNYR3W2DxgDIFf3BMJuTrrweZn7lzI6F_xQ7Lrj_Kh5hRBnaWsJM87a6KJCZx0Unj5njPH7UhYuWXo-z5DAjmq8BdUy1zPU8iSEfjo/s1600-h/0020.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI2Mg_oQJOYQE-uX0Q7HxnwEcQfwut57mFb0q9ZzJNYR3W2DxgDIFf3BMJuTrrweZn7lzI6F_xQ7Lrj_Kh5hRBnaWsJM87a6KJCZx0Unj5njPH7UhYuWXo-z5DAjmq8BdUy1zPU8iSEfjo/s320/0020.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353576301725362514" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_khtvTSjKfl7NeS70L7A_cP3kq653G-iZWZT82q5prVM4TMhxyZkTjZEr8NLEtY_Dex080HxmOpj2_4oI7Zk9KqZ-3qrtXkTnc3MGD05rCxl4Gpd9PXhB0ORGALMLLjrPHoZnfTJVPaU/s1600-h/0014.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_khtvTSjKfl7NeS70L7A_cP3kq653G-iZWZT82q5prVM4TMhxyZkTjZEr8NLEtY_Dex080HxmOpj2_4oI7Zk9KqZ-3qrtXkTnc3MGD05rCxl4Gpd9PXhB0ORGALMLLjrPHoZnfTJVPaU/s320/0014.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353576298728845698" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-50747299227741141592009-06-28T16:15:00.000-07:002009-06-28T16:24:15.974-07:00Showing At 9 WeeksI know that every pregnancy is different and with every pregnancy your abdominal muscles get weaker and weaker, but I have to say that I was not prepared for how early I would be showing this time around. I have already started to show and in the past two days, I have noticed that I am already starting to feel ligaments pulling...what is up with that?! That didn't happen until closer to 18 weeks with both girls. Oh well. Other than being totally exhausted (and now showing) I would never know that I am pregnant. I have not felt sick even once and I love that part of it. But I feel like I could sleep at any time...and for a long time. I can't wait to take the Intelligender test in a few weeks to see if it tells me this is a little boy or girl. I have been having the baby boy fever lately. It seems like I think about it constantly. I know I can't do anything about it, but I wanted to prepare my heart if this is a little girl. Shelly told me yesterday that she didn't realize I wanted a boy that bad. I said, "I didn't either!" I asked Ken last night if he would be disappointed if it was a girl. My sweet husbands reply was, "No. Not at all. I am not sure I want a boy. I know my girls. And I love them." I thought that was the sweetest thing and it really helped me to be okay with whatever God gives us. I was looking at the girls walking into church this morning and I thought to myself that we would be just fine with another girl. She would fit just perfectly. Either way, I will have a hint in a few weeks when I take this test that is supposed to be over 80% accurate. Can't wait!Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-49629468246677382032009-06-20T06:34:00.000-07:002009-06-20T09:00:27.569-07:00And Baby Makes Five!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLqqbN0iBUKECWBqFLoKn8dLTlWohfJCjiIXVeLf5UDUYFYG8IzZeWd3swgm1tex9v_YeFgshZk0adj_3tw8pWDqehRASZX1VD83QBCT1ZAhDYibp4QuCi-5f9RaHjXSf4m_S6Q1IHjr8/s1600-h/Peanut+6-19-09.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLqqbN0iBUKECWBqFLoKn8dLTlWohfJCjiIXVeLf5UDUYFYG8IzZeWd3swgm1tex9v_YeFgshZk0adj_3tw8pWDqehRASZX1VD83QBCT1ZAhDYibp4QuCi-5f9RaHjXSf4m_S6Q1IHjr8/s320/Peanut+6-19-09.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349408958346931362" border="0" /></a><br />We recently found out that we will be adding a fifth member to the Rushing family. I am almost 8 weeks pregnant so we are expecting baby Rushing to make his/her arrival around the end of January or beginning of February. I have been waiting anxiously to make sure that we had a heartbeat and to get pictures of the baby to post it on the blog and tell everyone. One would think that I would remember after the previous two babies that the first ultrasound pictures reveal nothing more than a small peanut-shaped object inside of a black hole. What I also forgot is that how much seeing that small peanut-shaped object and watching its tiny little heart beating would melt my heart. We are so excited to welcome the new baby to our family and hopefully I will be able to make the time to keep everyone posted about the happenings with baby.Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-48415460613517982342009-06-11T18:26:00.000-07:002009-06-11T18:47:47.814-07:00We Love You, Julia!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4ayStmH3-FZiPKI0f9AivkIqgxZBxs4emZyk7qP2W2ffWRmHvfLTsIzl4-XhBvpeh4ubVTmOxLn2ZR4FfNo0BAQUJ_QA1ePezShzyDXs4Z3u6JUNouaPvcE0YUys9tPfCrMvO8d8uc2-/s1600-h/P1150612.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4ayStmH3-FZiPKI0f9AivkIqgxZBxs4emZyk7qP2W2ffWRmHvfLTsIzl4-XhBvpeh4ubVTmOxLn2ZR4FfNo0BAQUJ_QA1ePezShzyDXs4Z3u6JUNouaPvcE0YUys9tPfCrMvO8d8uc2-/s320/P1150612.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346251770944119330" border="0" /></a> For those of you that don't know, Julia is a foreign exchange student from Germany that has been part of our family for the past nine months. She came to live with us last September and has been part of our lives ever since. Her family came to America a couple of weeks ago. They came to visit the United States and then return home with their daughter that they haven't seen in almost a year. I know that Julia was so happy to see her family. I was excited for her to get to see them, especially her mother. I cannot imagine being separated from my girls for that long.<br /> Today Julia and her family are returning home to Germany. I am so glad that she is with her family again. But I have to be honest, it is quite different around here this evening. We feel like a member of our family is gone. She has been such a part of everything that we do and a part of our everyday lives, that it is difficult to imagine what it will be like now. Ken and I walked into her room tonight and both commented that the room will never be the same. It is Julia's room now.<br /> Julia, by the time you read this, you will be back in your own home. You will be in your own room. And you will sleep in your own bed tonight. You are far away from us now, but you will forever be in our hearts. You will always be in our prayers. We will always remember your sweet spirit. Ashlyn thanked God for you tonight. We hope that we were able to make your dream of being a foreign exchange student something that is a great memory for you. You have a space in our hearts that will never go away. We love you and we will miss you. And this is not goodbye. It is only "see you later".Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-2285781664643377452009-04-02T11:32:00.000-07:002009-04-02T14:48:57.927-07:0030 Things I Love About My LifeI turned 30 last week. I think I was expecting something amazing to take place. It didn't. It was kind of just another day for me. I took the girls to school. Watched my brothers kids while they ran errands. Missed my husband because he was out of town on business. Picked the girls up from school. Listened to my toddler scream her lungs out during the entire dinner that my brother cooked for me. There was nothing spectacular about that day. What is spectacular is that God saw fit for me to see my 30th birthday. I was sad several months ago counting down to the day that I could no longer say I was in my twenties. Then one day I found out about a friend of a friend that died of cancer that was only in his early thirties. He had two small children. I started thinking to myself, "Why am I sad that I am getting older? How awesome is it that I get to grow older and watch these two precious girls grow each day!" I have started to see things differently. I noticed a couple of days ago that I have five lines on the inside of my left forearm that I don't have on my right arm. They are pretty obvious wrinkles. I have noticed other wrinkles coming up on my face that I haven't noticed before as well, but these are different. These are the wrinkles that I have from holding my two baby girls. I always hold my girls on my left hip. I hold Kenley there a lot...a LOT! Now I have these permanent reminders to me of all the times that I have gotten to hold my daughters. I have heard the phrase that the days are long, but the years are short. It is so true. My arms get so tired from carrying Kenley, but I know that too soon she won't want to be carried anymore and I will long for it. Okay, there's my sentimental thoughts for my 30th birthday. Here is a list of 30 things that I love about my life.<br /><br />1. Being able to take Ashlyn to Disney On Ice<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESbNdzN6UhFAPluwrE6MuShX0cZ4681TxhQVx7KahOdOkwues0Sx8I9XbELU698XsgItXIX9xk-L557Psvdm2yojcwygWQboW_BQL63ucRCiaDlUOZNmFSPQhkGwJSe_vCydmWTg6wlT2/s1600-h/P3260831.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESbNdzN6UhFAPluwrE6MuShX0cZ4681TxhQVx7KahOdOkwues0Sx8I9XbELU698XsgItXIX9xk-L557Psvdm2yojcwygWQboW_BQL63ucRCiaDlUOZNmFSPQhkGwJSe_vCydmWTg6wlT2/s320/P3260831.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320204888565238146" border="0" /></a><br />2. Family dinners at home almost every night.<br />3. Having Ashlyn come sleep in our bed on stormy nights.<br />4. Being able to show Julia places like Lake Tahoe<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFG47JgFeCNYYRSBZ6s-Xf3y2RayXqcNOvT2ufS8YqYCw4q110B7LGMvhr0SKQDpkcY9Y6YTtpasFCBXiCH48zr7BpyXFdZXWv7nANDDmxAgdU43bitfC0O98N91VGLp74uNGiORD2gSSl/s1600-h/P1150559.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFG47JgFeCNYYRSBZ6s-Xf3y2RayXqcNOvT2ufS8YqYCw4q110B7LGMvhr0SKQDpkcY9Y6YTtpasFCBXiCH48zr7BpyXFdZXWv7nANDDmxAgdU43bitfC0O98N91VGLp74uNGiORD2gSSl/s320/P1150559.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320205565114750754" border="0" /></a><br />5. Hearing Ashlyn say her prayers and sing Jesus Loves Me.<br />6. Pacifiers and pink blankets. They have made my life easier for a long time.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVSG1G6k6bVGTS1q_sai2gOS9Q9-586yu8q1mNG7697Hj8yuPalCXjADLAgRGd95Yvtz8EC8uIXJy7hGNHw0Fd1avfWs6wOBpxuhI-3uTv3lkb-715Fa2j8iMpQ4pOgGYrzszYN5mMdum/s1600-h/CIMG0452.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDVSG1G6k6bVGTS1q_sai2gOS9Q9-586yu8q1mNG7697Hj8yuPalCXjADLAgRGd95Yvtz8EC8uIXJy7hGNHw0Fd1avfWs6wOBpxuhI-3uTv3lkb-715Fa2j8iMpQ4pOgGYrzszYN5mMdum/s320/CIMG0452.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320203635746473282" border="0" /></a>7. My Toyota Sienna minivan (never thought I would be saying that!)<br />8. Having my daughters live close to their grandparents.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXRpflkKDGVxA6prtqOqaNc7hLPEw7Ektonf6bN___39WCD4x8r7yrWAcEL6rmR5_yYBNGcmcKkgsyKpCPj8R13ij51DoXCUIXP6-bW8ulM81jYKo6uYyYhvOxraH2G2xwbNKgPCFeuknN/s1600-h/Ashlyn+with+Papa+in+truck.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXRpflkKDGVxA6prtqOqaNc7hLPEw7Ektonf6bN___39WCD4x8r7yrWAcEL6rmR5_yYBNGcmcKkgsyKpCPj8R13ij51DoXCUIXP6-bW8ulM81jYKo6uYyYhvOxraH2G2xwbNKgPCFeuknN/s320/Ashlyn+with+Papa+in+truck.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320211133433604354" border="0" /></a>9. Knowing that no matter who the president is or what the economy is like that God will work everything for good.<br />10. Scrapbook retreats!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEjbzg65kq3UPgC26LqKbfaH9Z184uRgvXbeS2t9LQI6F-liICgNjaS5BByDOgl4miYf-cQKVQWjzAUztncKVyVGgj8oNemQivQ7vlRrzCPYBIBzRbmWFOSGaMBsBdlfTTAN0h0Q84a3BJ/s1600-h/scrapbook.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEjbzg65kq3UPgC26LqKbfaH9Z184uRgvXbeS2t9LQI6F-liICgNjaS5BByDOgl4miYf-cQKVQWjzAUztncKVyVGgj8oNemQivQ7vlRrzCPYBIBzRbmWFOSGaMBsBdlfTTAN0h0Q84a3BJ/s320/scrapbook.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320200572736459154" border="0" /></a>11. God providing me with the patience and sanity to take care of three kids this past year.<br />12. Friday night date nights with my husband...there's one coming up tomorrow, Bob!<br />13. Hearing Kenley say "Mommy, Mommy, Mommy!" When she wants to be held.<br />14. Having a husband that is the best dad I have ever met.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylfn8HbJGQQSTR0HwpWUcDI8WyMqM-Drfc688fs74fjlx8Y-WvSMyi_r9XoMyfxhcyKdovYBQQdak49QBXMtV8QpdFySwzDUwzTa1qw66T_XZXGNzW5WqindopJd5uaoZhlPIQmdeNaPc/s1600-h/P1150566.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgylfn8HbJGQQSTR0HwpWUcDI8WyMqM-Drfc688fs74fjlx8Y-WvSMyi_r9XoMyfxhcyKdovYBQQdak49QBXMtV8QpdFySwzDUwzTa1qw66T_XZXGNzW5WqindopJd5uaoZhlPIQmdeNaPc/s320/P1150566.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320172216076991058" border="0" /></a>15. Time to hang out with my husband at night and watch Survivor.<br />16. The Grocery Game. Wooohooo! Check it out at <a href="http://www.thegrocerygame.com/">www.thegrocerygame.com</a><br />17. Getting to stay at home with my kids every day.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZ5WscOjB_inYYCaYRrxROGk9LhY5nJCXe49Sz_ob7r_sGVCSoovdolMqaMLrmRFwzaws_Z9PDwiQABNDJWXHeQJ9FulWv2Uqw6g6AGSB6t5-eOfTnmo-Ipa6cNujevncbIY52UAX_9fr/s1600-h/P3260828.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZ5WscOjB_inYYCaYRrxROGk9LhY5nJCXe49Sz_ob7r_sGVCSoovdolMqaMLrmRFwzaws_Z9PDwiQABNDJWXHeQJ9FulWv2Uqw6g6AGSB6t5-eOfTnmo-Ipa6cNujevncbIY52UAX_9fr/s320/P3260828.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320169631359710194" border="0" /></a><br />18. Knowing that even though life is a vapor, I will get to be with God in the end.<br />19. Having good friends that are willing to listen, help and understand.<br />20. Going to the zoo and seeing my fearless daughter be afraid of a parakeet...Come on..are you serious, Ashlyn?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQP7mLzS9cAnAn9hPHntw__7Z0__I05SzFr6_zKySCYNX237tteuCkSW-hz273VpQ3JdYdTGi72rNwyEJ-ix-k2muLWTA6XDkcSWg9UWCW2mQKZT2_nKaNj6WVwoef3zAvbHWJ_4knZN6v/s1600-h/P3260772.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQP7mLzS9cAnAn9hPHntw__7Z0__I05SzFr6_zKySCYNX237tteuCkSW-hz273VpQ3JdYdTGi72rNwyEJ-ix-k2muLWTA6XDkcSWg9UWCW2mQKZT2_nKaNj6WVwoef3zAvbHWJ_4knZN6v/s320/P3260772.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320169619176572802" border="0" /></a><br />21. Having a healthy family<br />22. Being able to go to worship God every Sunday.<br />23. Having wrinkles knowing that my sweet kids gave them to me.<br />24. Knowing that my husband loves me, imperfections and all.<br />25. Being able to go to the orchard to get away from life.<br />26. Being able to come back home and sleep in my own bed.<br />27. Seeing my kids play together and love each other so much.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiK4SaKVR5pCSal7Hqr1L_0GsW0813qD6A-9sLglnzC0oIKcETaQmcqS8c5kv7-9NOI0wL8rCAkvTRSefgAdW4-68av3Qg6xp6Jf8p_2-RGH5M8svM1yCV2HGBKNOV0u0PHaOlTyJrToG5/s1600-h/P3210741.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiK4SaKVR5pCSal7Hqr1L_0GsW0813qD6A-9sLglnzC0oIKcETaQmcqS8c5kv7-9NOI0wL8rCAkvTRSefgAdW4-68av3Qg6xp6Jf8p_2-RGH5M8svM1yCV2HGBKNOV0u0PHaOlTyJrToG5/s320/P3210741.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320206571484208850" border="0" /></a>28. Hearing Ashlyn say that when she grows up she wants to be a mommy just like me.<br />29. Gymboree and Baby Gap.<br />30. God allowing me to see my 30th birthday and watch my babies grow.Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-3407962396773252742009-03-05T11:22:00.001-08:002009-03-05T11:46:58.380-08:00Ticket Please!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0JGYD-nYsYv-L-Jglk0o5u3A0JRk69WOfVGm1lTU4kJNbLIqBqi16yxbKoMJu6N7kZj9c4tBkQwE8pZPJtMKthkkGzN1fsyTAheeL7FcTXbj8OtastysRH425yqFTgdTQLzBLciBHgGtA/s1600-h/DSC06048.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0JGYD-nYsYv-L-Jglk0o5u3A0JRk69WOfVGm1lTU4kJNbLIqBqi16yxbKoMJu6N7kZj9c4tBkQwE8pZPJtMKthkkGzN1fsyTAheeL7FcTXbj8OtastysRH425yqFTgdTQLzBLciBHgGtA/s320/DSC06048.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309791960667664514" border="0" /></a>I guess there is a first time for everything. Well, today just so happened to be the day that I got my very first speeding ticket. I almost made it until my 30th birthday with no speeding ticket. But today luck was not on my side. I came to get Shelly and her friend Linda so that we could all run to the mall together. We piled all three kids in the car as well as Linda, Shelly and myself. The Mommy Mobile was loaded down. So off we went....fast. I was driving along listening to the story Shelly was telling me when I saw him....officer M. Lee. He had his little motorcycle lights on before I passed him and he was ready to pounce.<br />Officer M. Lee asked for the usual, driver's license and insurance. No problem. Except that my insurance card was not in my car. Fantastic. "Just let me know if you find your insurance card while I get your license plate information, ma'am." So he walks to the front of the van. "Where is your front license plate, ma'am?" Great. I told him it was under my passenger side floormat. Isn't that where everyone keeps their front license plate? Guess not. So officer M. Lee returned to his motorcycle to begin entering all my offens<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1V2wWz0tmvo3KCgoojpE54hxN88QR0_EcjDQETTR0_yaBTxPY_DZkQD4HoSLjceGEVJyxv3quAlprVjQ5W9fOOTwoyhfwqa754-ivagJurAaW_xbMHhhyphenhyphenVlvNcHQI7nP28J89s6S60HFJ/s1600-h/DSC06047.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1V2wWz0tmvo3KCgoojpE54hxN88QR0_EcjDQETTR0_yaBTxPY_DZkQD4HoSLjceGEVJyxv3quAlprVjQ5W9fOOTwoyhfwqa754-ivagJurAaW_xbMHhhyphenhyphenVlvNcHQI7nP28J89s6S60HFJ/s320/DSC06047.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5309791317955326962" border="0" /></a>es into his little ticket doodad. He comes back to the van a few minutes later and I actually thought he was going to have mercy on me. He didn't. He told me that he had to give me a ticket for the failure to show insurance and missing license plate. He didn't have to give me a ticket for going 63 in a 50. But he did.<br />Officer M. Lee was a nice guy. He took some time to tell us some funny stories. He was even nice enough to let Shelly get a picture of me getting my very first ticket. Did you notice the thumbs up in the picture? Nice guy, I tell ya. Getting a ticket today was not my idea of fun. But oh, well. I am healthy and blessed. Apparently it was Kenley's idea of fun. She was hamming it up while I was getting the instructions on how to take care of my ticket.Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-26044511986005128802009-02-28T15:39:00.000-08:002009-02-28T19:10:39.324-08:00Catching UpThings around here have been a little busy this past month. It seems like I haven't had a spare second to sit down and do anything. I know that I am not the only one who feels this way. Some people may wonder what a stay at home mom does all day. I have the absolute best job in the world of staying home with my girls. It just doesn't get any better than getting to watch them grow and change everyday. But I can say that it is so exhausting sometimes. I believe that you have time for what you make time for. I have made time for the girls this past month and the time that I have gotten to myself has been scarce at best. So one thing that I have not made time for is blogging.<br />This weekend Julia is away on a mission trip with the youth group in Houston. It is too cold to play outside. Ken has Kenley and is out getting pizza. Ashlyn is pretending that she is Lucy from Narnia. And I have a few minutes to sit down and blog. Aaahhhh.....<br />The only thing that has been happening here is just everyday life. But I love it. I have joined a Bible study that I absolutely love. I tried to get involved with this study (BSF if any of you are familiar with it) several years ago and it was not the right time for me. I was so discouraged and felt like I couldn't keep up with everyone else's Bible knowledge. Shelly has been asking me for awhile to go and I guess about a month ago I went again. Her mother-in-law keeps Avery during the study and she offered to keep Kenley as well. What a blessing Dorothy is to my life right now. I have loved the study this time around and have already gotten so much out of it in just the few times that I have been. Thank you so much for what you do Dorothy.<br />Julia has now been with us for six months! She has really become a part of our family. I can't imagine life without her. She turned 16 last month. We took her out to dinner with some of her friends to PF Chang's and had a great time. She also got a surprise party from the youth group at church. I think that made her day. She is doing really well in school and has become active in our church youth group. She is on a mission trip to Houston with the youth group this weekend. I am starting on a scrapbook for her next week. I am looking forward to doing it for her to give her something to remember from America.<br />Kenley is growing like crazy and has had her first haircut. If you know Kenley, you know that it didn't go well. She was terrified of the hair stylist. You would have thought she was coming at Kenley with a chainsaw instead of a pair of scissors. I felt bad for the hair stylist. She couldn't even come near Kenley or look at her without Kenley losing it. It took us about 15 minutes to figure out that a lollipop might help. It made the screaming stop. Sweet mercy.<br />Ashlyn is doing her thing. Pretending to be a princess...all the time. We finally got her to ride a bike. The bike in the pictures below is the ONLY bike she will ride. She is getting better. I am just ready for spring so we can go ride around the neighborhood.<br />I went on a scrapbook retreat with Shelly and Camille and got to meet some of their friends from college. We had a great time just hanging out. I had my meals cooked for me and got to eat them while they were still warm. I was loving life! I got so much done and am motivated to get caught up now. My mom came up to help with the girls while Ken was working on the first two days. Thank you Mom! The girls love seeing their Nana. And I came home to pictures of the girls that she took while I was gone. I love that!<br />Anyway, that has been what we have been up to. Whew. Here are the pics of what has been happening. Hopefully I will be back soon. <br /><br /><br /><br /> Kenley before the haircut....all is good...right?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpjjqnY9-bahCdu5tkjUt3Zl38i1sRSkZ1thtmL4XC8Qx3OrxnS2FunqzOVWCkcP94gblrVChBBIpKXJvx1lqYX3i7-sCdcrP9k8h6LSq7ke_UtS3Oy24j2qhPinQwKqdvSIJ_olS63G-/s1600-h/P2160669.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpjjqnY9-bahCdu5tkjUt3Zl38i1sRSkZ1thtmL4XC8Qx3OrxnS2FunqzOVWCkcP94gblrVChBBIpKXJvx1lqYX3i7-sCdcrP9k8h6LSq7ke_UtS3Oy24j2qhPinQwKqdvSIJ_olS63G-/s320/P2160669.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308049424966249170" border="0" /></a> <br /><br /> Until we put her in the fun little car chair....not so much fun.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL2wV-MqIrzVlxhuhNNoIu2EYMHaMtzxISM9gVyhsy7ZbPb4CeYqQ_MX3zjRNgll0hY6Oor0rXZRj9yiHieZV2iLSUi8oEh-0CqFI9pAvLlP4xPVTJAwDcyysCIz9nHWMbM2ZC8uhgFUe3/s1600-h/P2160674.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL2wV-MqIrzVlxhuhNNoIu2EYMHaMtzxISM9gVyhsy7ZbPb4CeYqQ_MX3zjRNgll0hY6Oor0rXZRj9yiHieZV2iLSUi8oEh-0CqFI9pAvLlP4xPVTJAwDcyysCIz9nHWMbM2ZC8uhgFUe3/s320/P2160674.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308049427202146498" border="0" /></a><br /><br /> Please, make her stop, Mommy. Make her stop!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfslAshuEIElHVMJ-T_eL98h-r_5S5B-k-fvXGWX9NdXxbJguLf4y3kVsWQDCYXiwysX5HbOP7NhAKGqz_O26_1BZYKu0xvWbZ-4KqYOppl8lUrbWosjQ7YzIO7nCXs7daNGXYgxSn34h/s1600-h/P2160675.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfslAshuEIElHVMJ-T_eL98h-r_5S5B-k-fvXGWX9NdXxbJguLf4y3kVsWQDCYXiwysX5HbOP7NhAKGqz_O26_1BZYKu0xvWbZ-4KqYOppl8lUrbWosjQ7YzIO7nCXs7daNGXYgxSn34h/s320/P2160675.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308049421456584050" border="0" /></a><br /> What? I have a lollipop. I'm fine. All is good.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8IbdVaNqX7Udim4ubeRQycRMf4hu5brdcY9UvIdvS5CUiqWFBT-q4yjBHydEKxlb_PePW5DvH_ykKAnLLkj7jYXQx3H0DdrkB1Eof0GsoCgWYZjCKEw6T53Zpsqh7PifBvzIaQ_Rdbux/s1600-h/P2160678.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8IbdVaNqX7Udim4ubeRQycRMf4hu5brdcY9UvIdvS5CUiqWFBT-q4yjBHydEKxlb_PePW5DvH_ykKAnLLkj7jYXQx3H0DdrkB1Eof0GsoCgWYZjCKEw6T53Zpsqh7PifBvzIaQ_Rdbux/s320/P2160678.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308048563540747202" border="0" /></a><br /> I love my Daddy!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiNP0Nz4x4m2IfWe7qzd5j3bmx81YDzB1KLOJkTNi8_c6AqRD5ZuJ7EVQo8DNB-q6cnchYuMNx-VSo8JADq9_j0zbHut21Kvu3NDWjo-bA4W95PjFZ3QXgCR-MMfuTbgtQl3KMfcdbZQm/s1600-h/P2160685.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibiNP0Nz4x4m2IfWe7qzd5j3bmx81YDzB1KLOJkTNi8_c6AqRD5ZuJ7EVQo8DNB-q6cnchYuMNx-VSo8JADq9_j0zbHut21Kvu3NDWjo-bA4W95PjFZ3QXgCR-MMfuTbgtQl3KMfcdbZQm/s320/P2160685.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308048560458307298" border="0" /></a><br /> All done!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSZsdzRDJ1c9B5ux2ai5VeAtO5mnUQjoH2dQsqwu-dRZnsmIDW-8u25-JxKZjyW9LxteBcjTuSausvcbwSQ6fN2UTBLuVezsS_x0IzgTvg2rBuIqZnxYlbOHlMWLCT2G887WzM5gIGnxp/s1600-h/P2160687.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSZsdzRDJ1c9B5ux2ai5VeAtO5mnUQjoH2dQsqwu-dRZnsmIDW-8u25-JxKZjyW9LxteBcjTuSausvcbwSQ6fN2UTBLuVezsS_x0IzgTvg2rBuIqZnxYlbOHlMWLCT2G887WzM5gIGnxp/s320/P2160687.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308048557354540114" border="0" /></a> Kenley helping Julia make a salad<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErc273ECHLIsdx8U3Y7JRentihlCRkO9BrbSsA2My7skO7TBM9umkeyt8xlGa3Leq8PGe4KxkYAADBwdg-yoRa3BFFH9hux-nduopjYlCWT6znxMxB28TxKOpGVC6ZXcn-sn8ySn81Edq/s1600-h/P2190718.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjErc273ECHLIsdx8U3Y7JRentihlCRkO9BrbSsA2My7skO7TBM9umkeyt8xlGa3Leq8PGe4KxkYAADBwdg-yoRa3BFFH9hux-nduopjYlCWT6znxMxB28TxKOpGVC6ZXcn-sn8ySn81Edq/s320/P2190718.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308048554680901474" border="0" /></a> <br /> Bug on her new bike....finally!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8R0rDrppqD4yUM8E8WhISIP8I6KeOUKVPJDS2THNVCL6rY68qX60k0E-wWgzYH7UgP1hz5oJ5_KoajpAzsEdae6t5OSu_lwbAYyQy63gSSjQz30r8h3O3YBhUx7QMb7sWNZIXWx7HC1j/s1600-h/P2010663.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8R0rDrppqD4yUM8E8WhISIP8I6KeOUKVPJDS2THNVCL6rY68qX60k0E-wWgzYH7UgP1hz5oJ5_KoajpAzsEdae6t5OSu_lwbAYyQy63gSSjQz30r8h3O3YBhUx7QMb7sWNZIXWx7HC1j/s320/P2010663.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308048544091528770" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-22507551370044759122009-01-21T12:20:00.000-08:002009-01-21T12:50:24.135-08:00First Ski Trip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83lytwVPoN-mM_BPl_wLTJhY1Y0j3VPsQbu3Sd3lzhn-AVOA1GChCarY5p3qVQPD1MWps6GZG4IrM2_ymvj9QIm2eMp4Fymc-WZOlNOKpFv0Kuhj0qH3w4XPDI2IPiaeCMBLgSj4ngKJm/s1600-h/P1130508.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg83lytwVPoN-mM_BPl_wLTJhY1Y0j3VPsQbu3Sd3lzhn-AVOA1GChCarY5p3qVQPD1MWps6GZG4IrM2_ymvj9QIm2eMp4Fymc-WZOlNOKpFv0Kuhj0qH3w4XPDI2IPiaeCMBLgSj4ngKJm/s320/P1130508.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293851184192483938" border="0" /></a>We went to Reno last week for our family vacation. We also got to get in some skiing. This year was Ashlyn's first time on the slopes. She was so excited about getting on skis for the first time. She did a great job. She proved to be quite the athlete...she could ski down the hill and eat the snow off of her mittens at the same time. It got a little tricky staying on the skis while she was trying to reload the mittens with snow after she ran out. Here are a the pics we got of our little bug skiing for the first time. Great job, Bug!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV_Qdrj8FPg0udGzRAdcto_ensem1XvfdUAjK3UbMSQOECBjbJZF99mzAnY92xu2WUN3FwqxkjHWFeMnKXuwablhekvoaxrClPPP2J7WyuAcoO-3gFSbRjRMpbNCxOe8LlX5B-35SW8sil/s1600-h/P1130509.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV_Qdrj8FPg0udGzRAdcto_ensem1XvfdUAjK3UbMSQOECBjbJZF99mzAnY92xu2WUN3FwqxkjHWFeMnKXuwablhekvoaxrClPPP2J7WyuAcoO-3gFSbRjRMpbNCxOe8LlX5B-35SW8sil/s320/P1130509.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293850071550462322" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOIYFtI1YoGh1a6g2mSikIx0x2BQo04cAeIO4gDspXe1g0VZItTl0c6v2Ml9_0DBW_gSbfxmFZ4Oj9YKjfpAxzTq1niwcRSDbRzkCrFZKM_Lu-zJXUMbe8lTjZCh_HosgvBCNhHq_B9NJv/s1600-h/P1130505.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOIYFtI1YoGh1a6g2mSikIx0x2BQo04cAeIO4gDspXe1g0VZItTl0c6v2Ml9_0DBW_gSbfxmFZ4Oj9YKjfpAxzTq1niwcRSDbRzkCrFZKM_Lu-zJXUMbe8lTjZCh_HosgvBCNhHq_B9NJv/s320/P1130505.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293848657259009746" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmaH-EJd1lLGDqkOryjfih7w9rUpg0Fpij0d0IeIuMtljaUfmNZ5qcbjt0sU7irNZtbrLD9EIEY6cSntLP5ZU-oszK12mZ-mYtvgI4VHQ4nrYNOW1WOyJHEHR2p9QdXIh61Di5YpFAj6H/s1600-h/P1130507.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmaH-EJd1lLGDqkOryjfih7w9rUpg0Fpij0d0IeIuMtljaUfmNZ5qcbjt0sU7irNZtbrLD9EIEY6cSntLP5ZU-oszK12mZ-mYtvgI4VHQ4nrYNOW1WOyJHEHR2p9QdXIh61Di5YpFAj6H/s320/P1130507.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293848671083420146" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnnQeqHaE7tjODcgGvlOhusige_G_-RDmXgWALkAbIMzCcrtJ3GUB7qMCxaLz6jHyvy-KH-ppWZfEdEy0sXhz7NmZxbfrdochV2gE347nkzmmhuQbu8OvqjOyZmSBrpZo3CwyrYbI-sbc/s1600-h/P1130506.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnnQeqHaE7tjODcgGvlOhusige_G_-RDmXgWALkAbIMzCcrtJ3GUB7qMCxaLz6jHyvy-KH-ppWZfEdEy0sXhz7NmZxbfrdochV2gE347nkzmmhuQbu8OvqjOyZmSBrpZo3CwyrYbI-sbc/s320/P1130506.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5293848668416646146" border="0" /></a>Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3752374099685142144.post-89763463250012003862009-01-01T18:37:00.000-08:002009-01-02T08:11:54.167-08:00My Little Brown Mare<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOvcbzYPfVqNMjUeNS8HwFTMMplgQXG3xChlh4UK18aNYpgFehQ_vay4xfmt_m4QWReP-9raeaVrpjYEOUey11v-6KzxKWkEYq54PBQ4OrjIlcJDCdVbq_11-LKSofSJdqAAwNNZmKokCc/s1600-h/scan0001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 273px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOvcbzYPfVqNMjUeNS8HwFTMMplgQXG3xChlh4UK18aNYpgFehQ_vay4xfmt_m4QWReP-9raeaVrpjYEOUey11v-6KzxKWkEYq54PBQ4OrjIlcJDCdVbq_11-LKSofSJdqAAwNNZmKokCc/s400/scan0001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286547099451542002" border="0" /></a> Flashy she was not. She stood about 14.2 hands, not very tall. She was sorrel. She was registered as a red dun, but that was a stretch. She was just brown. Aside from a few stray hairs in the middle of her forehead she didn't have a white hair on her body. Her mane was always thin and she didn't have much of a forelock to speak of. In so many ways she was nothing but an ordinary little brown mare. But I knew her better. I want to talk about my little brown mare.<br /> My mom tells me that she saw Prissy acting like a fool out in the pasture and decided that she was the one she had to have. So she bought her for $500 on April 25, 1987. I was eight years old. Prissy was not yet broke when my parents brought her home. You couldn't even get a halter on her. I can remember my mom sitting in the stall with Prissy with a bucket of food just waiting patiently until Prissy decided to come to her. Mom would later send Prissy to a trainer who had her for a minimal amount of time. When he returned her he said, "She never even bucked. I just got on her and started riding."<br /> My parents had bought another horse along with Prissy whose lot in life was to find new and interesting ways to torment her rider. Flip over on them, drag them up against barbed wire fences, run under low hanging branches to try to clothesline them, you name it, she tried it. So I quickly decided that Prissy was the horse for me. She had a much sweeter nature. I began riding Prissy more and more.<br /> When my dad was murdered in 1990, Prissy was my therapy. I began riding more. I think it was around then that I decided that I wanted to run barrels and poles. I needed something to focus on. My stepdad, Buddy set up barrels and poles in our pasture so that I could start teaching Prissy the patterns. I cannot tell you how many thousands of times I walked that little mare through those patterns, stopping her at each turn and backing up. I used to think that Buddy just made me walk those patterns because he didn't want me to have fun. I know better now.<br /> Prissy and I learned how to run barrels and poles together. At my first barrel race that I went to on her I won $1.25. I still have it. When we were doing our best, I can remember bringing home hundreds of dollars that I had won at a barrel race and showing my mom. I didn't care that all of my friends in 4H had new, expensive horses. I have these memories that flood my mind right now...humor me. I can remember two sisters that beat me by full seconds in both patterns one year. By the next year, their parents had bought them new barrel horses that cost who knows how much. They put velcro in the saddle so the girls would stay in because the horses were too much for them to handle. I still had Prissy. We beat them just about everywhere we went. When I was about 15 I was at a barrel race on Cowboy Christmas weekend (that July 4th for all the city slickers) and ran an awesome pole pattern. I was walking my little brown mare out to the trailer when I man came up and offered to write a check for her for $10,000. I told him she wasn't for sale. After he replied that he was serious I told him that I was as well.<br /> When I went to college I tried to keep riding her as much as I could, but studying and work consumed my time. I didn't give her the time that I knew she needed. When I graduated I decided to sell her. I sold her to a little six year old girl just knowing that she would be loved forever. I found out a couple of years later that Prissy was too much horse for the girl and had been sold again. This time, the situation was not so fortunate. Prissy had been sold to a family with a 14 year old high school girl who just wanted to run. Although I never saw it firsthand, I have been told by several people that this girl would just run her into the ground. When Prissy did anything less than perfect they would hit her. I sit here now and cry. It breaks my heart to know that this horse that I loved so much was so mistreated.<br /> Fast forward to 2006. I was married and had Ashlyn. In conversations with my mom, she had mentioned that she wanted to get some horses and start riding again. I told her to be sure she got an older, smaller horse. I think it was a couple of months later that Mom called me to let me know she had bought a horse. This is how the conversation went:<br />Mom:"I bought a horse!"<br />Me:"Really, mare? Gelding?"<br />Mom:"Mare."<br />Me:"What is she like? What color is she? How old is she?"<br />Mom:"She is twenty years old. Sorrel. She is very pretty. Short, but stocky little mare."<br />Me:"Cool, what is her name?"<br />Mom:"Prissy."<br />Silence.<br /> I couldn't believe it. My mom had bought the horse that I had grown up riding. The family that owned her had mistreated her so badly that she would no longer face a barrel or pole pattern. They sold her to my mom for next to nothing because they thought she was useless. Mom knew better.<br /> In the few years that followed, my daughter would get to ride this same little brown mare that I had loved as a child. I remember crying when I put Ashlyn on Prissy's back for the first time. My little girl was sitting on the horse with the biggest heart in the world and she had no idea.<br /> Prissy lived for the next few years at my parents orchard. Her only job was to enjoy life as a retired horse and be lead around giving rides to grandchildren a couple of times a year. We brought her to Mansfield for a short while in my attempt to start riding again. I wasn't able to get out to see her as much as I wanted so we moved her back to the orchard several months ago.<br /> My little brown mare died today. She would be 23 years old on March 7. The little horse with a heart of gold that I loved with everything in me is gone.There are details that don't really matter. My mom has been sitting by her side for three days making sure she was comfortable and hoping that she would get better. I drove down to my parents orchard today to say farewell to my horse that I called my friend for 22 years.<br /> In my six hours of driving today I thought a lot about Prissy. I have been thinking about how much a part of my life she has been. I have been thinking about the lessons that she has taught me and the things that she has brought to my life. Sure animals give kids a sense of responsibility. I had to take care of her. But I also learned that when you set your mind to something you finish it. When you are eight years old, you can't get a saddle on the back of a horse - unless you stand in a wheelbarrow. When your family doesn't have a lot of money you can't ride an expensive, trained barrel horse - unless you train one yourself.<br /> Prissy also gave me a bond with my stepdad that most girls don't have. Buddy grew up riding horses and taught me much of what I know about horses. I can remember him telling me that he had forgotten more about horses than I would ever learn. Now he calls me often with questions about horses that I know he knows the answer to. I love you, Buddy. Thank you for teaching me.<br /> My little brown mare was buried at my parents orchard this afternoon. I was able to once again see her sweet face and know that she was not hurting. She was not flashy. To most she was just an ordinary mare. But she had an extraordinary heart. Buddy told me this afternoon that she was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of horse. He said I would never know another one like her. I know.Theresa Rushinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07749358242621554921noreply@blogger.com3