The Stone Family

Surprise Baby Shower!

2012-02-09T21:28:00.001-06:00

Today my Leadership Oklahoma City class threw me a surprise diaper shower during our monthly class session today. I was totally shocked and feel so blessed by my classmates. They all brought diapers and wipes and even coordinated with eachother to bring three different sizes of diapers so we wouldn't have too much of one size. Seriously, so stinking thoughtful!!!

This experience of being a part of LOKC Class 30 has been such a gift. (not to confuse everyone but I work for Leadership Oklahoma, a statewide organization while LOKC is a city wide organization) When I applied to be a member of the Signature Program I had no idea if I would even be chosen out of all of the applicants. I also had no idea how much I would learn about OKC, nor did I know how many amazing people I would meet in the program.

We have spent one full day out of each month focusing on a different issue facing our great city, touring, meeting and hearing from our city leaders, discussing in depth how we can help OKC grow and all the while getting the chance to get to know the other members of our class who are leaders in their own businesses and careers. I say this everytime one of our class sessions is over, but I am in awe of the caliber of people I get the privilege to be class members with.

So...to all of my LOKC Class 30'ers...thank you so much for the surprise today. I love you all!!!

-Lee Anne

33 week update

2012-02-03T16:30:00.000-06:00

Let's take a trip down memory lane and see just how BIG I have gotten since I started taking pictures of this pregnancy...shall we?

Ahhh...here I am...at 13 weeks along. Just had gotten over the nauseousness and was feeling pretty great!

Here I am at 15 weeks in the bathroom at my office. I had intended on doing a post every week and here is where I started my downfall of skipping a week here and there.

And here is me at 26 weeks. Totally missed the boat on getting any pictures in between. Not really sure why I slacked off so much on taking belly pics.

29 weeks. The hugeness continues.

Holy Bumpness! Here I am last week at 32 weeks.

And me today at 33 weeks and some change. Oh, and yes, that is me wearing the same outfit as I was in last week in my picture. We have reached the point in this pregnancy where I have begun to just rotate the same few outfits in and out. No judging.

So, to update you all on my prehypertensive, borderline preeclamptic diagnosis...

I went to the hospital Monday for lab work and to drop off my 24 hour gross test and a blood pressure check. Blood pressure was 140/85 but nothing to be too alarmed about, so I was sent on my way.

Tuesday I was back at the hospital for a non stress test (NST) and over the course of the NST my blood pressure was a steady 150/95 so I had to stay and rest a lot longer. When they had me lay on my side, my BP dropped so that was how I had to lay....for 2 hours! They drew more blood and once my BP was stable for awhile they sent me home again. Baby was moving and dancing and doing perfect.

Wednesday....well, I had Wednesday OFF from the doctors! Yippeee!

Thursday, I had my weekly appointment with my doctor and my BP was 145/80. The doc went over my lab work and 24 hour tests. All of my labs came back looking good. There is a significant amount of protein in my urine but not enough to freak out about. So, I am still on "restricted activity," and will continue to be monitored.

Friday, I was back for my routine NST and lo and behold, my BP was 120/80! Hallelujah! They then sent me over to ultrasound to do a Biophysical Profile on sweet baby. They monitored his practice breathing, his kidneys, heart and amniotic fluid. At the end of a Biophysical Profile you get a score from your baby and he scored an 8 out of 8! Praise the Lord!

I continue to be so blessed that the health of this baby seems to be great and not affected by my health issues. Thank you Jesus!

I have to do the 24 hour test again this Sunday and will have more lab work done on Monday and will continue with the NST's, ultrasounds and weekly visits with my doctor next week. Each day we can keep this baby "cooking" is another blessing so we are just taking it one day at a time!

Thank you all for your prayers!

-Lee Anne

Jackson at Taekwondo

2012-02-01T09:25:00.000-06:00

Jackson has been taking Taekwondo for a month now and as I have previously stated...I think it is the cutest thing in the world!
Here is a video I took yesterday. Jackson is the one closest to the camera.

http://youtu.be/qPh1Ypq5OFQ

So stinking cute! Love that boy!

"Do not be anxious about anything..."

2012-01-27T15:30:00.000-06:00

Look at this precious face!!!

Now look at this HUGE baby belly!

Seriously, folks...I can't get much bigger...right??!!!

It's been a bit of a roller coaster of a week for me and this pregnancy. I had an ultrasound last Friday, and while everything looked great with the baby, I am the one who apparently has some issues. (insert sarcastic laugh here). At the beginning and the end of my appointment my blood pressure was really high. Not crazy high, but high enough that I have had to undergo some lab work and a ridiculously gross 24 hour test that I won't even go into detail about here.

I have NEVER had a problem with my blood pressure before, and the thing that is scary to me about it all is that I feel fine! And everyone seems to be freaking out about my blood pressure so I feel like I should freak out, but it's hard to freak out when you feel fine, and then you start to freak out and then you think, hmmm this freaking out probably makes my blood pressure go up, so you try to not freak out and then....whew....

Needless to say, I am now being monitored very closely for preeclampsia and have been put on "Restricted Activity." (Which, by the way, what the H does that mean anyway??? Again, when you feel fine it is really hard to NOT do a whole lot. I have been told to "listen to my body," and not do too much, but again...when you feel fine and your body acts as if it is fine I now find myself having a hard time "listening to my body." I am questioning everything I am doing now, wondering if something is ok or not which is literally driving me bonkers.)

So, long story short, I am now seeing my doctor on a weekly basis, having non stress tests twice a week, and ultrasounds once a week and I have to do the gross 24 hour test again this Sunday. Again, thankfully, everything seems perfect with baby boy and the issues seem to only be with me. I will take anything with myself as long as the baby seems to be doing well. Baby is still measuring 3.5 weeks ahead and according to the ultrasound we had last week he is measuring to be right around 4 lbs. 13 oz.

My doctor says we will just take it one week at a time. Small hurdles, small goals.

I really am trying to not be anxious or over think or over google things too much, but it is so hard.

I keep coming back to this verse.

"Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
-Philippians 4:6

Much love to you all! Until the next post....

-Lee Anne

Million Dollar Baby

2012-01-18T09:03:00.001-06:00

I was making dinner the other night and Jackson said he was going to go back and play basketball in my room...this is a normal occurance and he will go into his closet and put on his "uniform" (a jersey of some sort, baskeball shorts, his Jordans and a sweat band). He will then, amazingly, find the NBA channel on TV and turn on a basktball game, set up his basketball goal and go to town playing basketball...sometimes for HOURS at a time. It's actually really really cute...and he is actually freakishly good.

So, imagine my surprise when I walked back to get him for dinner and found him like this....

He had somehow found boxing on one of the ESPN channels and had pulled out his punching bag from his playroom, dragged it into my room, hoisted it up onto my bed and was boxing.

I asked him why he had put it on my bed and he replied, "Mom, the guys are in their boxing ring...this is mine. Plus, if I fall down, I land on your soft bed and don't get hurt."

Sometimes I think I might seriously keel over from his cuteness.

- Lee Anne

There's nothing cuter...

2012-01-09T15:42:00.001-06:00

There's nothing cuter than these three things...

A 4 year old who dresses himself for the Thunder Game....

Mustaches on 4 year olds....

And the kicker......

4 year old's in Taekwondo uniforms!

Hope your Monday was a great one!

-Lee Anne

29 weeks!

2012-01-05T17:32:00.001-06:00

29 weeks preggers. 29 weeks preggers. 29 WEEKS PREGGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Things have been moving along quite smoothly with this pregnancy...except for a few minor bumps..ha ha, I said bumps.

First off all, let me just say that I have been feeling pretty good since the first trimester and I am so thankful for that. But, it became very apparent to me early on that my baby bump was REALLY REALLY large. Like two months ago I looked like I did right before I gave birth to Jackson. I chalked it up to it being my third pregnancy and went on my way.

But apparently, I was mistaken. My baby bump is HUGE.

At an appointment I had with Dr. Mirabile at 25 weeks for an ultrasound was the first time I heard that my bump was big. He then did the ultrasound and started laughing. I was 25 weeks and the ultrasound said I was measuring 28 weeks. The baby was supposed to be something like 1 lb 5 oz and they were estimating he was 2 lbs. 12 oz. He mentioned that I most likely had gestational diabetes and that my baby was really big.

Luckily I went in for my glucose test the next day.

And I FAILED!

Grrr.....

So, I had to do the dreaded 3 hour glucose test. And it was brutal!!

Luckily, I only failed one blood draw out of the three hour draws so that doesn't mean I am diabetic. Yay! I immediately went out and got a cheeseburger and some cookie cake.

Fast forward to my doc appointment yesterday and Dr. Lisa told me that she wants me to follow a diabetic "diet." Grrr again. She said I was borderline diabetic and it would just be better for everyone involved to cut my carb intake down and watch my sugars. Did you know that means if I eat a piece of fruit I have to accompany it with something like cheese or peanut butter? So many things to think about, but of course, I will do anything to keep this baby healthy!

She also measured my stomach again and I am 29 weeks measuring 32.5 weeks. BIG BABY! Since I am having another C-Section it shouldn't matter too much, but we will begin ultrasounds every two weeks and non-stress tests twice a week starting in two weeks. I love that Dr. Lisa is being so cautious with me and it really feels good to know she just wants us to be at ease and take away as much anxiety as she can. She does say that this baby looks perfect and that is such a blessing to hear.

So, here I am.....32 weeks along...Oh wait, just kidding...29 weeks along....
Still so thankful that I feel pretty good most of the time. By the end of the day I am toast, but am thankful for good nights sleep still (minus all of the potty breaks throughout the night). It's getting hard to believe that we will be interrupting our sleep soon with a new baby. We went so long without sleeping with Isaiah, it's hard to comprehend waking up every few hours again. But, of course, what better thing to wake up for than a precious babe?
Thank you Jesus for the blessing of another baby!
Oh and what is this baby's name you may be asking? Hmmmm....We still have no idea. A few names are being tossed about, but nothing is sticking yet. So, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Jackson is stuck on naming his brother Captain Hook Stone. He even asked me today if the baby would have a hook for a hand when he came out.
Ummmm. OK......

-Lee Anne

Rules for Mothers of Sons

2012-01-05T09:04:00.000-06:00

I am sure some of you have seen on Pinterest about the Fathers of Daughters Rules, which are fabulous.

But this list is just for mommas of boys.

This is sooo good.

Enjoy!

http://studerteam.blogspot.com/2011/11/25-rules-for-mothers-of-sons.html

Positively Positivness.

2012-01-03T14:09:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year!!! I am really looking forward to 2012....I mean, look at this precious face??? How could you not look forward to the day/year/moment when this little man smiles at you like this?

Renzi and I made a decision New Year's Day that we are going to be MORE positive in our every day lives. I feel that he and I are pretty postive already, but there is ALWAYS room for improvement. Especially when life gets in the way.

Like for example.....

We return home after a wonderful New Year's Eve and Day at our lake house when we discover that Renzi's wallet is missing. We search and search and can't find it anywhere! Since we have these new positive attitudes we decide not to let it get us down and he spends the next three hours canceling all of his credit cards, etc.

Then.....

After being gone for the Holidays for 9 days, you can imagine the amount of laundry that needs to be done (oh, and maybe I should mention that I went on a laundry strike a few days before the holidays where I did zero laundry. I mean...everyone needs a break, right?) As my procastinator ways go, I am one of those people who reserves one day a week to do ALL of the laundry. I am not one to do one or two loads a day. I have to be highly motivated to do laundry. Like, we have to all be almost out of underwear. If I do, let's say, 12 loads of laundry in a day, I am more likely to actually take the laundry out of the dryer, fold it and put it up in the room where it needs to go.

So.....

I had planned to spend the bulk of yesterday afternoon doing everyone's laundry. When I went to transfer the first load to the dryer, my dryer was dead. Like totally kaput.

So....

I did what most of all of you would do it that situation. I went out and bought everyone new underwear from Target to last until we get our dryer fixed. See??? Positive Attitude, Postive Thinking, Problems Solved. :)

Then, today I woke up with plenty of time to have a cup of coffee while watching the first 15 minutes of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills (my guilty pleasure) before everyone woke up. Jackson woke up and came in to snuggle with me. I made him breakfast and went to go and get in the shower and get ready for work (oh and by the way something is up with our water heater because the shower I took was COLD). Jackson even dressed himself for school. We were on a roll on this first morning back!

One thing I didn't take into account is that I am more pregnant than I was even just a couple of weeks ago. And this momma, moves SLOW. In my head, every task I do goes quicker than it actually does. So, needless to say, Jackson was late (but only by a few minutes!) to his first day back at school and I made it to work a few minutes later than normal.

I'll tell you what though...this new postive attitude made me laugh harder at myself than I normally do. It's almost as if I can't make this stuff up.

So, I write all of this to remind myself that even though things go wrong and life is hard sometimes, you really do have to find the positive and the funny in everything, because when you think about it, life is pretty funny most of the time. You have to learn to roll with the punches of whatever is thrown at you and not dwell on the little things or the big things for that matter.

Life happens.

And I love this life.

So, here's to a great 2012. Lots of changes coming our way this year. And I can't wait!

-Lee Anne

Merry Merry!!

2011-12-23T14:19:00.001-06:00

Once again I have been a slacker on my blogging...but here are some pics of some of the things we have been up to here at the Stone house.

We went and saw Santa...and Jackson was super strategic on his approach with Santa this year. He said he only wanted to ask for one thing, a drum set. But as he walked off from Santa he yelled out, "Oh hey! I forgot!!! I really need a light saber too. It's way important. Ok?"

Somehow this scene reminded me of when Ralphie on A Christmas Story crawled back up the slide and told Santa what he really wanted.

Thankfully this Santa didn't tell Jackson he would shoot his eye out with the light saber.

My mom, Jackson and I made a quick trip to Wichita Falls last Friday to see my cousin Zachary play hockey. Zach is 17 and from Las Vegas but plays on semi pro hockey teams all across the country. He recently was in North Dakota but was moved to the Wichita Falls Wildcats about a month ago so it was super fun to get to see him play. And FYI, this kid is REALLY REALLY good. He is eligible to be drafted this year so it will be interesting to see where he will end up! Jackson was in awe of the game and Zach. I have never in my life seen my son so quiet. He was literally hanging on to every word Zach said. We bought him a Wildcats jersey and he hasn't taken it off since.

We also went to the All College Tournament and watch OU play Houston with our friends the Furnish's. These two buddies got to sit together and wrestle and watch the game. Love their friendship.

I have been craving Mexican food lately, so Jax and I have been frequenting many tex mex establishments. Lots of queso has been consumed. Don't judge.

Jackson also started tennis lessons and this kid is freaky good. Here he is chomping at the bit to get out on the court.

His coach told me after his first lesson that he has never seen a four year old with such amazing hand eye coordination. He can hit the ball every time over the net and with total control.

We also had our Christmas dinner with the Hesketts. Look at these sweet boys. And yes, that is a Christmas sack on CJ's head.

And what post isn't complete without a pic of my sleeping baby. Ok, so he's not so much a baby anymore, but he will always be my baby!!!

Other than that we have just been busy with most all holiday things, a little bit of drama, and a momma who is getting bigger by the minute.

Hard to believe that I am in my third trimester next week. This kiddo moves all the time and has recently gotten me into really spicy food. I am so thankful for the blessing of being pregnant again and the upcoming arrival of our third son. Still no names for him yet. If we don't pick one soon we may have to go with Jackson's new name for his brother. Captain Hook.

Merry Christmas and Happy holidays to all of you who read my blog. As always I am so blessed as encouraged by all of you!

Love,
Lee Anne

Family

2011-12-09T23:21:00.001-06:00

We had the chance this week to have Renzi's brother and sister and their families (minus Dave) stay with us this week at our house. It was the first time to have all of the cousins together at the same time and these boys are so precious. My nephews are so dear to me! And I am so excited to add two more boys to the mix in March!

We also got to celebrate Ginny's birthday Thursday. Here is a picture right before she blew out the candles on her cake while feeding Miller his bottle.. Isn't she the most photogenic person ever? She is the best.

Birthday cupcakes. Seriously, so yummy.

Auntie Lee and Jake! This boy is so amazingly beautiful and fun. I loved having him snuggle with me and give me his kisses!

Playing with his cousins really wears a kiddo out.

Jackson holding Miller. Loved watching Jackson watch out for his baby cousins.

Uncle Grant, Jake and Jackson at lunch.

Ginny, Brooke and I made a trip to Target one evening. Ginny went off to get formula and left Brooke and I to get the rest of our items. This is what happens when you leave two pregnant girls alone in Target. Marshmallows, 2 kinds of doughnuts, white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, iced cookies, and TUMS. Oops.

Uncle Grant with Jackson, Jake and Miller. How hard it is to get everyone to look at the camera at the same time.

Miller and I bonding. Love this sweet beautiful boy!

Aunt Ginny with Jackson and Miller.

I think there is nothing sweeter than when a baby falls asleep on you.

And one more pic of Miller and I!

I am so blessed to be a part of this wonderful family and just love them all to pieces. Even though we all live all over the country, I love how when we get together it is as if no time has passed at all. These precious boys are going to have the best time growing up together and I can't wait to see them all grow into amazing young men. My only wish is that Isaiah was here to share in all of this cousin time, but I know he is watching and loving seeing all of his cousins from Heaven.
-Lee Anne

What's been going on...

2011-11-26T16:20:00.001-06:00

It's been awhile since I last blogged and I thought I would post some pictures to update what's been going on with us the last few weeks.

Here's my little guy at his four year well check up. (Yes, totally late on this appointment, but that's how I roll. :)

I am happy to announce that Jackson is FINALLY considered "tall." He is in the 90th percentile for height and 85% percentile for weight. We've come a long way from when Jackson was born and was in the 10th percentile for height and weight. Over the years he has slowly crept up and he is now taller than 90 percent of 4 year olds.

Poor guy also had to get 4 vaccinations this time. It also was the first time for him to get them in his arm instead of his leg. He was such a champ and didn't even cry. I, on the other hand, bawled like a baby. I am such a wuss.

All was going well until the next evening Jackson started complaining that his arm hurt. I looked at it and this is what it looked like.

I kept an eye on it, but as the night went on his arm started to swell, a rash appeared, and his skin was tight and was burning up from his shoulder down to his elbow. He seemed fine, but I called the on call doc at our pediatrician's office anyway. They said that this was a normal reaction and to give him an anti-histamine, ibuprofen and a cold pack. Apparently, since the muscle in the arm is smaller than the muscle in the leg where most babies get their shots this can happen. After another 24 hours, all was fine....

In other news...my nesting started to sink in and I led the charge in organizing every single cabinet and drawer in our house, as well as cleaning out every closet. This is significant because I have NEVER EVER EVER EVER wanted to do something like this before. My type A husband was beyond thrilled that I wanted to do these sorts of projects that he jumped in head first and was uber excited. We hired a handyman to come in and paint our guest room (which is now Jackson's room), move furniture, put together the crib and changing table, move the guest room furniture into the new guest room, and to fix a list of small things all across our house.

Here is a pic of the unfinished baby room...

Here is a pic of Jackson's new room...he picked out the paint all by himself. You can't see it but we had all of the doors painted red. It is very cool if I do say so myself! Oh and this is his room totally unfinished and bed not even made up. Wait until you see it now...I should have posted a pic of the finished room, but again...oh well!

After these projects were finished we headed to the lake last weekend. While we were there we made these cute Thanksgiving crafts that we used at Thanksgiving for centerpieces at my grandparents. I got the idea off of Pinterest.

We bundled up and went on many walks. Here are my loves on one of these said walks. Precious boys! Oh, and Annabelle.

Last week Jackson's school had Grandparent's and Special Friends Day. Jackson was so blessed to have his Nana (Renzi's mom), G-Daddy (my dad), Papa Lew (my step dad), and Grandma and Papaw (my grandparents, Jax's great grandparents) all there with him that day.

This pic is of Nana and Grandma and Jackson while Jackson was showing everyone around his classroom.

On Wednesday, we headed out to Clinton, Oklahoma to spend Thanksgiving with my dad's side of the family. We spent the night with my grandparents on Wednesday night.

When my little brother and I were kids my grandma would give us the JC Penny Catalog and have us circle the toys we wanted for Christmas. Since the JC Penny Catalog doesn't come anymore, she got out the ads from the Clinton paper and had Jackson circle his favorite things. It was so fun to see him doing something that we loved as kids.

This is Jackson and my sweet Papaw cuddling up on the couch. So precious. I love that Jackson gets to spend so much time with his great grandparents.

For our Thanksgiving meal we headed to the bank where my grandma used to work. Since our group has grown so large over the years, my grandma and her sister decided last year to rent out the conference room as opposed to having it at one of their houses and it has been so perfect. The next few pics are pics of our group chatting before the meal at the bank.

Jackson really enjoyed playing with his Uncle Matt, my brother.

After stuffing our faces Thursday we drove home late Thursday night. Friday, we had a fun afternoon with friends and then headed to the Devon Boathouse for the Boat Christmas Light Parade. It was so awesome! They had fireworks and then 20 boats in the parade. Here are my boys watching the lights.

Saturday was my dad's 60th birthday and we had a fabulous dinner out with my entire family, but I will post pics in another post. Happy Birthday to my dad!!!

And lastly, since we all know by now how late I am with EVERYTHING...here is a pic of me this last week at 23 weeks. Remember when I said I was going to post weekly? Well, that obviously backfired. So...here I am....and yes...this pregnant belly is HUGE! I seriously am at a loss as to where anymore will go in the next 16 weeks. Stay tuned I guess!

-Lee Anne

Jackson Does the Robot Dance.

2011-11-03T18:15:00.000-05:00

I'll admit...sometimes it's annoying when Jackson takes my phone and wants to play a game or listen to music on it. He inevitably moves apps around or takes pictures of our television or unflattering pictures of his dear sweet momma.

But, then sometimes....amazingness can happen when a child takes your phone.

I was just looking through my photos and I came across this video, which I had totally forgotten about.

We were having dinner at our friends The Peters' last Saturday night and it came up that Jackson knew how to do the "Robot." (You know, the robot dance???)

You see, I am kind of known by some of my high school and college friends for my car dances. I am probably the worst dancer in the entire world on the dance floor, but put me in a car and I will blow you away with my sweet moves. Like...it's a pretty special talent that I have. ;) And of course, you KNOW, I had to pass this skill on to my dear sweet wee one. (You are welcome hubby). So, this dance is what we have been working on in the car lately.

Trying to get Jackson to do it in a big crowd is hard because he gets embarrassed (which is a new thing for him! Embarrassed! And sometimes he is even embarrassed by his parents! Oh how dreadful!). But Caden Peters got him to do the robot dance last weekend...and he had my phone as his hidden video camera and captured the whole thing.

Oh my lordy be. This is hilarious.

Sorry the quality of the video is not the best, but Caden did a pretty awesome job as videographer.

Love my talented Jackson Bieber Stone!

http://youtu.be/74WySCuGP1I

This morning...

2011-10-26T16:28:00.001-05:00

I woke up to this....yes, that's a snake. IN MY FRONT ENTRY WAY OF MY HOUSE. INSIDE PEOPLE. Talk about total freak out by me.

So...I did this.....

Yes, that is a plastic tupperware container. I quickly called the hubby, whose phone was off, because he was ON A PLANE TO NYC. (Yes, I realize I keep yelling in this post. I just wanted all of you to know the enormity of the situation.)

I then, put a book on top of the container to keep the snake in while I tried to figure out what to do from here. I texted a few of my husband's friends and my dad with an SOS on what the heck I should do. All the while Jackson was running through the house yelling, "Call the ambulance! Call the ambulance! Call the cops and have them bring their weapons!"

Since, no one texted me back right away because it was pretty early in the morning I decided to take matters into my own hands. I put on gardening gloves and a jacket over my pajamas, apparently, I felt like I needed to be protected. Oh, and I also grabbed the biggest knife I could find. I remembered a scene from Romancing the Stone with Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner when they are in Brazil and Michael Douglas takes his knife and chopped the head off of a snake in the jungle. Apparently, I felt like this was the best option here.

I went back to where I had left the snake. And. IT. WAS. GONE!!!!!!!!!

That sucker had popped out of the plastic container and the book and was slithering away. Thank goodness I saw it. If I hadn't I probably would never have slept in my house again. Like, we would have left all of our stuff and moved away immediately.

I grabbed the knife and tried to cut the snake, but that darn thing kept coming at me!!! Full hissing and everything. I was screaming at this point and Jackson was yelling at me to "Be brave mom! You've got this!"

So, I grabbed the plastic container and slammed it on top of the snake again and slowly moved the container across the floor, opened the front door, and somehow SHOVED the snake out the door.

Whew.

Then I realized how late it had gotten and had to hurry to get Jackson dressed for his Halloween Parade at this school. Here he is...my own Justin Bieber!

Oh and before I go, take a look at this precious angel....it is from our ultrasound yesterday. I just love this little guy to pieces already!

I sure hope that tomorrow I wake up to nothing but roses and coffee and peace. AND NO SNAKES.

P.S. When my husband's friends and my dad did text me back...these were their answers. (1) Call the Fire Department and get a shovel (2) Call Animal Control (3) One friend just called me and laughed. I laughed with him, cause at that point this crap was funny!

-Lee Anne

It's A...

2011-10-19T19:15:00.001-05:00

Can you believe it???!! I seriously am in shock that we are going to be having our third precious little BOY!!!
We weren't supposed to find out until next week, but I was actually at the doctor yesterday and they wanted to check on some things (all is fine!), and they decided to do an ultrasound. I am quite proud of myself because I told the ultrasound tech not to let me look and to write down what the sex was because Renzi hadn't made it to my appointment yet. She then wrote it on a piece of paper (pic above) and put it in an envelope. She set it next to me and left the room. And let me tell you that it took every ounce of will power that I had not to peek. I actually threw the envelope across the room so I wouldn't look. (I was hooked up to some monitors at the time so I couldn't get up). When Renzi arrived, we looked together and both started crying. ANOTHER BOY! What a joyous blessing!
That evening when we told Jackson there was a boy in mommy's tummy he pumped his fist in the air and shouted, "YES! I TOLD YOU SO!" Which in fact he has. From the get-go he has insisted that the baby in my belly is a boy, even saying in his prayers at night, "And God bless my brothers. Amen."
So...there you have it! BOY OH BOY! I am outnumbered in my house, yet again and I couldn't be more excited. :)
-Lee Anne

Remembering Our Babies-October 15th

2011-10-12T16:28:00.001-05:00

I came across this organization the other day "Remembering Our Babies: The official site of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day," http://www.october15th.com/ and it really made me think about where we have been and how far we have come. After reading about this organization, it really made me think about our grief journey and I thought it was time to write this post.

Many people have asked me to write a post about how I grieved, how I moved on, how I survived after losing Isaiah. It has taken me a while to have the courage to sit down and actually write this post, but I feel that I am in a good place to be able to share this with all of you. I, in no way shape or form, feel like I have all of the answers, but I am honestly proud of how we handled our loss. And I am proud of who I am today because of our loss.

So. What is it like to live life after losing a child?

It certainly depends on the day.

The truth is, I embraced full heartedly that God was in control. Honestly, I don't think we knew how to survive without believing that God was in control. It comes down to a daily decision that I make to live my life gratefully.

It's life after loss, and it's not going anywhere. I have learned to go easier on myself and back down off my expectations on what I should or shouldn't be feeling because if I don't I am setting myself up for failure.

I have learned that when I am sad, I need to take time to be sad. Pushing feelings and emotions to the back of my mind doesn't help me. It hurts me. Because they always seem to creep back up when you least expect it. I am a natural procrastinator and I have been known to just push things to the back of my mind if I don't want to deal with them right then. Dealing with things as they come has been part of my healing. And I think it has made me a more healthy person emotionally because of that.

I clung to certain scriptures during this time. Searching for answers.

"As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things."

-Ecclesiastes 11:5

We don't know why Isaiah was sick. We don't know why we were chosen to have to go through this. But like a lot of life's problems, I believe you have to "lean into" the problems instead of back away. We chose to lean into God, instead of back away from him. It's a choice.

But how do you even begin to heal after losing a child?

I began to realize that the pain was going to be a part of my new life. Its funny and humbling because the world has a way of going on all around you even when you are in the depths of sorrow. I accepted that this was my life. Acceptance has been key.

You also have to search for answers, KNOWING that you probably won't find the answers you are looking for.

"But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask."

-John 11:22

We prayed and prayed for God to heal Isaiah. We prayed for answers. He did just that. He took away every bit of pain our baby was in. Of course, we did not want him to leave us, but God answered our prayer to heal our child. This took lots of praying and introspect after Isaiah died before we come to this realization and I firmly believe in this scripture. He WILL answer your prayers, it may not be in the way you want it to be done, but your prayers will always be answered.

I had so many questions for God...among the ones I found most important were, Will you tell him all about me and what I would have been for him? Will you tell him how amazing his daddy is? How wonderfully awesome his big brother is? I had to trust that God is keeping Isaiah safe and is showing him love like no other. I know he is.

People ask me all of the time how is it that I am not angry at the Lord. My honest answer is that I have been angry, disappointed and crushed in spirit. What I have not been, and what I refuse to be is disbelieving. The Lord tells me that I will see my child again, and while He stands beside me, He weeps. He cries because I can't see what He can.

I didn't want to hear the big philosophical explanations. I didn't want to hear people try to tell me that it was for the best, because, quite frankly, I didn't feel that way. I know people want to help, but there is a safe place with the Lord where we don't have to have all of the answers. I don't believe that "God needed another angel," and I honestly grew weary of hearing people try to explain it all away because they couldn't stand to hear these three words. I Don't Know.

I know it is so hard to know what to say to someone who has experienced a loss. You want to say the right thing. People are uncomfortable swimming in someone else's grief. You want to fix the situation. It's human nature. It has meant so much to me when someone just says they are sorry and don't try to explain it all away. Sometimes, the right thing to say is to say nothing at all. It's just to be there, available, willing, authentic and silent.

As a Christian, I know that I am called to glorify the Lord no matter the circumstances, but that doesn't mean it is going to make sense. He gives and He takes away. Have I had moments of genuine questioning where I blamed myself and anyone else I could? YES. But when those moments come, and they will, we must make a choice about who we will be from this day forward.

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen; but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."

-2 Corinthians 4: 16-18

I still have good days and bad days. My bad days aren't so bad anymore, and I am so thankful for that. One day I start to feel like myself again, and even that can make me feel guilty sometimes (don't you just love that momma guilt!). I feel like I don't have a right to be normal.

The truth is this. I will permanently bear the mark of a woman who has lost their child. Many of us are walking all around-in the grocery store, at the playground, in the carpool line, in the office next to yours. We walk without necessarily recognizing each other, side by side and a million miles apart. If you are one of these women, I want you to know that as I write these words, I am praying for you. I am mourning what you have lost in life. I am praying that God will fill you as only He can, and that in time, you (and I!) will be with our daughters and sons again.

I believe this scripture fits best in what is going on in our lives at this very moment.

"I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy."

-John 16:20

And what do you know....that is exactly what has happened to us. We are filled with joy to be expecting another baby. Our grief is still there, but in a different context. We get to have another baby. And what a privilege it is to know that God is giving us another baby. And I like to think that Isaiah is smiling down and excited to be a big brother as well.

So, to wrap this up I want to leave you all with this. I took it from my most favorite book, "I Will Carry You," By Angie Smith. No other book in my life has touched me like this one has.

"I believe that all babies who pass away (including those who do not survive outside the womb) are in heaven with our Lord. I do not believe they vanish into the ground, or that they ever endure any suffering or pain when they leave us. I cling to the fact that Audrey is in her eternal home, enjoying the favor of her Savior, completely at peace with Him as her Father. I believe it, but I can't honestly say that it always comforts me the way I wish it would. I want her to be here with me and on many nights that truth has failed to fill the void. We aren't going to feel whole in this life, and we will long for something we don't have. To love Him in spite of our pain is a gift He freely gives to those who will accept it."

Isn't that amazing? I have found such solace in reading Angie's words about the loss of her daughter. It is true though. Isaiah is in the best place. He is in Heaven!

Is it hard to believe that my baby is in heaven? Yes. I can't see it, so I am trusting that my faith is real. I do believe it, but no I don't think its easy when you have empty arms and your baby in an unreachable place. That's why they call it faith, I guess.

So...on October 15th at 7 p.m. my household will be lighting a candle in remembrance of our sweet Isaiah. And together, as a family, we will remember the good times and embrace what is to come.

Why are there so many questions?

2011-10-09T09:23:00.001-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpzOcA0mcQQ&sns=em

While driving the other day, Jackson was asking question after question after question. I would answer each question and it would be immediately followed by another question packed with whining. I don't do well with whining and usually put the kabosh on it right away, but it wasn't working on this particular day.

I really wanted to show Jackson how whiny he was being so I turned my phone around and videoed him.

We got the giggles towards the end and this is now Jackson's favorite video to watch on my phone. He says, "Man, I was being super annoying that day."

Touché my love. :)

-Lee Anne

Fun treats!

2011-10-06T19:35:00.001-05:00

I'm a late bloomer on Pinterest and am totally obsessed! I foun this recipe on pinterest and Jackson and I decided to make these fun treats for our friends at the lake this weekend. I'm not totally sure what these are called, but you should make them immediately! And it was fun because Jackson was a big help too.

What you need:
Twist pretzels
Hershey kisses
M&M's

Place pretzels on a cookie sheet, unwrap hershey kisses and place on top of pretzels. Preheat oven to 275 degrees and put in the oven for three minutes. Remove and place an M&M on top of the slightly melted kiss. Put in fridge to set the chocolate.

And....ta da!!!!

So great.

Oh and have you ever heard of fluffer nutter sandwiches?? It's my new obsession, which deserves a post all on it's own...stay tuned!

-Lee Anne

Our weekend

2011-10-02T15:54:00.001-05:00

Just thought I would share some pics from my phone from the last week....

First of all...check out this guy.

I just want to squeal, he is so cute! It's my nephew, Miller, and his mom finally got a smile on camera for all to see. Preciousness! (I may, or may not have just made up a new word).

Now, take a look at this other precious boy...it's my other nephew Jake....I mean, could you just die from all of this cuteness?????

Today, after church we went to lunch with Uncle Tim, Aunt Nat and CJ. We looked up and Jackson was standing on this stool and he said, "Look Mom! I'm a statue!" This was also after he announced that he will be going as Justin Bieber for Halloween and he would like for his dad to be Usher and for me to be Justin Bieber's mom.

We stopped by a little flower market yesterday and picked up some mums for our front porch. Jackson picked out this pumpkin and has been holding it and talking to it like it's his little baby. He checks on it daily to make sure it is ok and I even caught him watering it with a cup of water this afternoon. He said he thought the pumpkin was thirsty.

And that leads us to this next picture....Jackson's Nana (Renzi's mom) got him these gel stickers for the window to decorate for Halloween. Clearly, Jackson thought that sticking them to his body was a better idea.

And look at this precious pic. We were reading him a bedtime story and we looked over and my sweet babe snoozing away...in his pajamas that are too small. Sigh. These were too big for him just a few months ago. He is growing so much and so fast lately.

These next few pics are from Jackson's first soccer game a few weekends ago. He loves it so much and his sweet buddies have all improved so much from last year. Look at Jax with his thumbs up. He does this constantly throughout the game. Love his team spirit!

Jax and a few of his teammates....they look so big!

GOAL! Actually, I can't remember what happened in this pic, but it sounded good!

And here is the team minus one player. Love that these boys are such good friends!

We have had a pretty awesome weekend this weekend. Engagement Dinner Party for a dear friend Friday night. Soccer game, breakfast at Jimmy's Egg and relaxing all Saturday, we made Tacos and played Junior Monopoly as a family Saturday night and all went to bed early. Church and lunch with friends today, followed by planting our mums and flowers and a big nap for Jackson and me! I love all of this family time.

Here's to a great week for you and yours!

-Lee Anne

15 weeks!

2011-09-28T12:49:00.001-05:00

So...I missed a week. OOPS! Guess that's just how I roll. :)

Excuse the picture...it was taken in the bathroom at my office. I keep forgetting to take a picture and I thought of it on Monday while I was there for a meeting and decided I better take a picture now or it probably wouldn't get done!

Pregnancy Highlights

How far along: 15 weeks and some change.

Size of baby: About 4 inches long and 2/12 oz. (about the size of an apple).

Maternity Clothes: Yes, please.

Gender: Still don't know yet! Next ultrasound is in a couple of weeks!

Sleep: Man, sleep has been so good lately! I heart sleep.

What I miss: Being able to pick up Jackson...I know he is four years old, but he is my snuggle bug and sometimes I just want to pick him up...and I can't.

Cravings: Strawberries and poppyseed dressing, and Diet Cherry Dr. Pepper.

Symptoms: I am feeling a little pop pop pop going on in my stomach from time to time, kind of like popcorn popping...which I think is small signs of the baby kicking!

Best moment this week: While we were eating dinner the other night, Jackson offered up some of his mac n cheese to me. I told him no thank you, but he insisted and said the baby needed it. He then put his ear on my belly and had a conversation with the baby and proudly announced that the baby did in fact want some mac n cheese. You better believe I ate some after that! :)

-Lee Anne

Bieber Video from Jackson's Party

2011-09-18T20:18:00.001-05:00

As promised....Here is the video from Jackson's Birthday party of Justin Bieber...AKA Michael Cano. HIL.A.RI.OUS. Watch the whole thing. You won't regret it. P.S. Thank you for being such a good friend Cano for doing this. You are the bomb.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USsWqk60w-s

13 weeks

2011-09-16T12:57:00.000-05:00

I have zero pictures of me (ok, so no intentional belly pics) from my first two pregnancies so I thought I would steal an idea from my best buddy Addie's blog from when she was pregnant with sweet baby Beckett.

I want to remember this pregnancy and soak up all that I can so I am going to try to do a weekly belly shot with highlights and stats from the pregnancy so that years from now I can remember it!

So...here we go! This post will be from this past week...my 13th week of pregnancy!

Pregnancy Highlights:

How Far Along: 13 weeks

Size of baby: The size of a Medium Shrimp

Maternity Clothes: I have broken out the maternity pants. EEK! So soon, but from what I have read, with this being my third baby it's pretty normal.

Gender: We don't know yet! We tried to find out at our doctor appointment this week but the baby's legs were crossed so we couldn't tell, still a little early.

Movement: Small flutters!

Sleep: I'm sleeping pretty good, I just wake up a bunch to go to the restroom.

What I miss: I can't believe I miss this, but I miss running!!!

Cravings: Fruit and Veggies and Strawberry flavored Icing.

Symptoms: Feeling good, finally after a rough first trimester! Yay!

Best Moment this week: Getting a call from the doctor saying all of my bloodwork came back great and baby is healthy and growing wonderfully. Praise Jesus!

Happy 5th Birthday Annabelle!

2011-09-16T09:07:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Annabelle Stone! I am sorry we forgot...again.

But do know that we love you so! You drive us bonkers but can't imagine our life without you.

Thank you for always being so kind to my babies. You have never once growled or acted mad (ok, maybe a little annoyed) when one of the boys have pulled your ears or tried to ride you like a horse.

You are always so patient with them and for that I thank you!

Happy Birthday to you!

The Birthday.

2011-09-05T19:48:00.000-05:00

I'm totally behind on any sort of blogging. This being pregnant thing has really got me more scatterbrained than normal...but here is a blog about Jackson's 4th birthday and party!

Jackson's 4th Birthday started out with a BANG!

BANG. Alarm clock did not wake me up on time. BANG! Hurry up and get out of the house. BANG! Last car in carpool line. BANG! They shut down carpool right as I was almost at the front so I had to walk him in.

I am getting better people. Seriously, I really am.

Renzi and I got to attend circle time with Jackson's class and we brought banana muffins that Jackson helped make. It was such fun watching these precious kiddos learn!

Here are two pics from circle time...the first is Jackson doing calendar work with his teacher.
The second is Jackson showing his birthday poster to his circle. The poster had a picture for each year he has been alive. It's amazing to see these pics side by side and see how much my little babe has grown.

Later that evening we headed to Bouncin' Craze where we had the party....The Justin Bieber themed party of course!

Precious Friends! Oh, and why, yes...that is a Justin Bieber life sized cut out. Oh, and why, yes, my child is wearing a ski cap. He said his head was cold. It was 135 degrees outside so obviously he was a little chilly.

Family Pic! Two things of note here. One, Jackson has hat head and has total Justin Bieber hair, his choice.

Two, I look really really pregnant. This third baby has really decided to just pop my tummy out really really early.

Look at these cuties!!!!

After the kiddos ate their pizza, we had a surprise guest...What Justin Bieber party is complete without a Justin Bieber impersonator?? Our sweet friend Michael Cano, who ironically was visiting over the weekend and couldn't fly back to NYC because of the Hurricane, agreed to use his talents and dress up like Justin Bieber, play a song on the guitar and do a dance to a Bieber song. Is that a good friend or what?

The good news is...I have video of this. The bad news is...It won't load onto blogger! Grrrr...I will work on it though, cause its one video that you do not want to miss out on!

All in all, we all had a great time at the party and I think Jackson had the best time of all! That night as we were putting our exhausted boy to sleep, he grabbed my neck and pulled me in for a hug and said, "Thank you Mom, for my party...oh and for not forgetting to order my cake."

Thanks son for your confidence. :)

4 Years Old!

2011-08-31T07:17:00.001-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday to my precious little man Jackson James Stone!!! Here are some pics from over the years....

Here he is right after he was born....5 pounds, 5 oz...18.5 inches long...a tiny little thing. He came at 36 weeks because my amniotic fluid was low. He was absolute perfection.

The two pictures below are when Jackson was 1 and then when he was 2.

Here's my big 3 year old! I walked into his playroom to find him giving himself tattoo sleeves. That was fun to wash off.

And here he is at almost 4 years old this summer in France. Still has great hair.

Dear Jackson,

I love love love love love you to the moon and back. I can not imagine my life without you in it. You have truly been a gift from God to your dad and I. You have taught us so much about ourselves, but also how to be better people.

You are so kind to everyone you meet, always greeting everyone with a hug, smile and a great big "Heeeyyy!!!" You are a social butterfly and I love watching you include others in whatever it is you are doing.

You have a love for God that is so pure and joyful. You always are the first to want to say a prayer for someone when you know they are hurting and you have the sweetest and most mature prayers. It is so evident that God is working in your life and that you want to help others to know Him as well.

I think you understood more about your brother than your dad and I ever could. It's almost as if you knew he would be living with God sooner than any of us thought, because of the way you accepted and taught us about Heaven. You said to me once, "Mommy, don't be sad...Zayah is in Heaven! With Jesus! And God! He's playing basketball and wrestling and he is so so happy. God is feeding him his bottle and making him pizza. It's going to be ok." How you knew to put it in those exact words showed me just how in tune you are with God.

You make me laugh harder than I ever thought was possible. You are so quick witted, smart and thoughtful in all that you say. Most of the time I think you are smarter than I am. Which you probably are. :)

Every night I always tell you how special you are and how you can be anything that you want to be. I hope you know just how true this is. I will always support you in whatever you decide to do in your life because I know you are following your heart.

It is an HONOR, my love, to be your mommy. Thank you for being my son!!!!

Love you THHIIISSSS MMMUUUCCCCCHHHH (arms stretched out wide),

Mommy

Oops I did it again...

2011-08-29T19:01:00.000-05:00

Today, Renzi and I hosted a fundraiser for Governor Rick Perry in Tulsa.

And I would just like to say....

That I did not say anything embarrassing like I did during this visit with the Former First Lady of the United States. You can read about that awkward experience here. http://renziandleeannestone.blogspot.com/2011/04/awkward.html

Well....

Now that I think about it...maybe I did....

While sitting next to the LOVELY Anita Perry (seriously people, this lady is ridiculously wonderful) during lunch we were chatting about what has been the hardest part for her on the campaign trail so far. She mentioned that she has a hard time when things are said about her husband that are not necessarily nice and her children get upset. Then she told me a crazy story about what some crazy person did and I replied with a very loud and robust, "SHUT UP!!!!"

She actually didn't even bat an eyelash at my comment.

I knew I liked her.

At least I didn't ask her if she was tired.......I'm growing up people! :)

Last week.

2011-08-23T15:14:00.001-05:00

It was a big week last week...first day of school for Jackson (he's in 5 day at Westminster. 5 days! Gulp! Half days, but still. When did he get so big?)

And this guy was born....

Don't you just want to squeeze him??? His name is Miller and he's my newest nephew! I heart him.

And then there is this picture....

Yes, those are pants. On his head.

I just laugh at this kid all day long.

And then there is this picture...

Love my silly boy!

-Lee Anne

Remembering Our Babies-October 15th

2011-08-22T13:08:00.000-05:00

"As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother's womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things."

-Ecclesiastes 11:5

-John 11:22

-2 Corinthians 4: 16-18

"I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy."

-John 16:20

So...on October 15th at 7 p.m. my household will be lighting a candle in remembrance of our sweet Isaiah. And together, as a family, we will remember the good times and embrace what is to come.

There's a Baby in my Belly!

2011-08-10T20:37:00.001-05:00

Pregnant.

Yup.

That's me!!!!!

Holy crap. :)

We are so happy to announce that I am pregnant and am due in March with our third precious little one.

We have prayed and prayed about this for awhile now and truly feel at peace with the thought of having another baby. God is good. And he has his hands on this precious babe already. We trust in God and trust that this will be good.

Not to say that we are not a little bit anxious...because who wouldn't be.....but, we have Faith in knowing that we can handle this. That God will not give us more than we can handle. He showed us that with Isaiah, so we feel confident knowing that we can face whatever comes our way.

Jackson is beyond excited and he continues to make me cry happy tears daily. He told me he can't wait to teach the babies (ahem...there is only one!) how to walk and talk, how to throw a ball and how to dance to Justin Bieber.

He has also asked if this baby's body is going to work and if we get to keep him or if he is going to live in Heaven too. We have prayed together, asking for God to watch over Mommy's baby in her belly and help the baby to grow big and strong. He asks God in his prayers every night to bless the new baby. I am so proud of the little man with a strong desire and heart for God that he has become!

So...I can't believe that I am actually pregnant for a third time. I already look like I am 6 months pregnant. Not a joke. It's crazy how your belly just pops back out each time you are pregnant.

This pregnancy has been totally different from the boys because I am not feeling so hot. I am usually nauseous between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. EVERY SINGLE DAY. It's pretty awesome. Oh, and I go to bed at 8:45 p.m. and am so thankful that my almost four year old still takes a nap every day because that means, mommy gets to take a nap too. I am literally sleeping my booty off.

We are pumped. We are excited. We are blessed.

We love you all!!!!

The Stone's

Paid!

2011-08-09T18:21:00.001-05:00

I interrupt this blog to document something I received in the mail just now.

I PAID OFF MY STUDENT LOANS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Boom.

So proud....if I do say so myself.

My favorite part of the letters is the last line, "It has been a pleasure doing business with you."

Below are pics of two of the four letters I received from the four different loans I took out to pay for college.

Sorry to bore everyone with this post, but I just felt like this day should be documented. :)

Much love!

-Lee Anne

Picture Post

2011-08-04T16:42:00.001-05:00

I take so many pictures throughout our days that I never really look at again....Today, I got a notice on my phone that I needed to delete some pictures and videos to create more space. I looked back through some of my pics from this summer(while downloading them to Dropbox on my laptop for safe keeping) and decided I just had to post some of them because they are so fun!

Jackson and his buddy Calen Furnish in their basketball gear. These boys are the cutest! Jackson is wearing Calen's Cleveland Lebron jersey. Vintage! :)

This water mat may be the greatest invention ever! Two of our friends at the lake each have one and it is always a fun time when they bring it out on the lake. Kids (and adults!) slipping and sliding all over the place.

Renzi was reading a bedtime story to Jackson and Jack Regan at our lake house. I thought it was so cute I just had to take a picture. After I took the picture I realized that Jack was wearing an Iron Man mask. Hilarious.

My little guy is quite the golfer! One night a few weeks ago he putted on the green for an hour and a half while Renzi and I enjoyed time on the patio at The Greens. Jackson has freakishly good hand eye coordination.

Me and my sweet boys on the 4th of July! I just love them to pieces.

Jackson likes to sit outside on our deck at the lake house and "look at the water." He likes to go out there in the mornings with a coffee mug full of milk. On this particular day he brought his DVD player and watched a little Justin Bieber.

Jackson and all of Addie's nephews having a ball while we were in the Mercy waiting room anxiously awaiting the arrival of Beckett Burke! These kids had more fun together and we sure made that waiting room a lot more interesting!

Jackson loved loved loved getting to hold Beckett (or as he calls him Bucket. Ha!). He seriously sat so still and held Beckett for 20 minutes! He kept whispering to Beckett that he was going to teach him how to walk and talk and shoot some hoops. Then he sang one of the lullaby's we used to sing to him when he was little, "Miracle," By Renee and Jeremy. I was a flipping mess and just cried and cried. Love this boy.

Amanda and Chloe came up to OKC to visit us and we went swimming one evening at The Greens. As we were leaving we snapped this picture of the two of them. So ADORABLE!

And then they held hands. LOVE!

Yesterday, I was mopping the floor and Jackson said, "Mom, let me mop the floor. You go sit down on the couch and watch Disney channel." Don't think I didn't take him up on that offer. :)

Hope you all are having a great week!

Jackson's New Talent.

2011-07-28T18:45:00.000-05:00

So tonight while Jackson was eating his dinner he told me he had a new talent. This video is his new talent. While eating a cucumber, he can sing "Baby" by Justin Bieber with his mouth closed. I can't make this stuff up.

Life Planner

2011-07-27T11:44:00.000-05:00

I was reading one of my favorite blogs this morning www.lifesweetlifeblog.com , and Sarah had posted about a new designer www.erincondren.com she had found that was featuring Life Planners.

I can't even begin to express to you my excitment. I am one of those old school people who has to have a planner that I WRITE in. Yes, I have an I-Phone and I consider myself sort of "techy," but when it comes to my planner...I need to be able to see an entire week at one time and write down exactly what I need to do at what time, otherwise, I may not show up...that's how scatterbrained I reallly am.

I love going out and looking for planners during the school supplies sales. I look and look for the perfect planner...and it changes from year to year what style I want or need at that particular time in my life. I even save my planners every year so I can look back and see what I was doing on a certain date. It's kind of like my diary if you will.

Anywho....So I am totally and completley in LOVE with Erin Condren's designs www.erincondren.com and I bought myself a life planner right away...and I used the Plum District gift certificate too! So...head on over to Erin's website and get you a life planner today! For all of the details on the Plum District link (the gift certificate ends today by the way!) and for a new blog to follow go to www.lifesweetlifeblog.com. You will fall in love with Sarah's projects, crafts, DIY amazingness and her precious little boy Manny!

VBS

2011-07-22T09:28:00.000-05:00

This week Jackson attended Vacation Bible School at St. Luke's. He had an absolute ball!!! I have such fond memories of VBS as a kiddo and I was so excited he was old enough to go this summer.

They had a musical performance and lunch yesterday and here are some pics of my precious boy!

This girl couldn't get enough of Jax. She was always holding his arm or hand. So cute!

And here is a video of the precious kiddos singing one of their songs. Jackson is the one in dark blue swaying back and forth to the music. He didn't do a whole lot of the moves, but he sang every word. LOVE!

Summer Recipe-Tomato Casserole

2011-07-19T13:17:00.001-05:00

Don't you just love love love summer vegetables??? I am a tomato-aholic so this time of year when the tomatoes are at their best it is just so exciting to me. (Insert here that I realize I am a total and complete dork).

This past weekend we stopped at a little veggie stand near our lake house and picked up about a million tomatoes, sweet corn and fresh peaches. YUM!

As I was sitting at home sifting through my loot I started to panic thinking what in the world I was going to do with all of these tomatoes. Even I couldn't eat all of them myself! That's when I remembered one of Renzi's and my favorite summer dishes. TOMATO CASSEROLE! We got this recipe from our dear friend Polly Christian and we both love it. It is so so yummy and is even better the second day.

Here is the recipe:

2 pounds ground beef

1/2 cups Mayo

1/2 cups Sour Cream

2 cups shredded cheese

One can of pizza dough (thin crust)

1 onion

1 green pepper

Tons and tons of sliced tomatoes!

Brown the ground beef, onion and green pepper in a skillet. Set aside. Mix together mayo, sour cream and cheese in a bowl. Spread the pizza dough out (uncooked) on the bottom of a casserole pan. Spread beef mixture on top of dough. Spread mayo/sourcream/cheese mixture on top of beef mixture. Place sliced tomatoes on top of all of this. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Enjoy!

Here is a picture of the casserole right before I put it in the oven.

And here is a picture of the casserole right out of the oven. Oh wait....there is no picture. Why is that you may ask? Because we were so hungry and excited to eat it I totally forgot to take a picture.

Hope you all enjoy this as much as we do!

Stay cool everyone!
-Lee Anne

Summertime!

2011-07-12T21:12:00.001-05:00

Oh, how I am loving the summertime!!! I feel like I am a late bloomer on this summertime fun in Oklahoma since we were gone for most of the month of June. But, rest assured, we are taking FULL advantage here at the Stone house of Summer 2011!

First stop...The Science Museum of Oklahoma! We met up last Friday with our friends (and my friends too!), Austin and Tanner King, Sidney Kate Burke, Madeline and Conner Kirk, and Ella, Gage and Crue Woodard (and their respective mommies) and had a glorious time running around The Science Museum.

Cuties Jackson and Austin waiting patiently (ha!) for everyone to arrive at the Museum.

Ella, Madeline and Sidney Kate in the Wind Tunnel. Hilarious.

Sweet Jackson and Gage. Both are currently loving Justin Bieber. Gage is even growing his hair out like the Biebs. Jackson is having a Justin Bieber themed birthday party. These boys had plenty to talk about. :)

Jackson is currently really into basketball and baseball. It switches from week to week. This week is apparently baseball week. He asks me all day long if we can go outside and play baseball. I am always desperately searching for a way to get out of going outside to play baseball in this 100 degree + heat and I finally used my brain yesterday and figured out a plan. BATTING CAGES. I took Jackson the the West Side Batting Cages in OKC and they let me rent the cage for half an hour price for an hour. He hit off the tee 10 times, then insisted I throw BP for the rest of our time. My arm was sore. How sad is that???? But, oh, how much fun my little guy had.

Batta Batta SWWWIINNNNGGG!

I caught Jackson on my laptop the other day. He said he was "emailing daddy to tell him to bring home some ice cream."

We had Sidney Kate over to our house this afternoon while her mommy went to do some work. (9 months pregnant and she is still working. That Addie Burke is a rock star.) We went swimming and had a great time. This is a pic of Jackson and his little buddy having a serious talk about life and Toy Story.

Precious babies ready to swim!

I attempted to take these two to Target to pick up a few things after we went swimming. Addie called while I was walking in and I could hear her laughing at me when I told her where I was. I couldn't quite figure out why she was laughing. We hung up the phone and the chaos began. SK went one direction and Jackson went another. Clearly, I was not prepared for this. As I frantically threw some random things in my cart and tried to scoop up the children I realized why Addie was laughing. Oh, and also, why Addie never goes to Target unless she is by herself. Slow learner I must be......

Jackson and I ended our day today with an ice cream date at a really cute ice cream shop near our house and a game of Connect Four. Such fun!

I heart summer!!!!

-Lee Anne

French Coif

2011-07-07T16:14:00.001-05:00

While we were in France we realized after a few days that Jackson's hair was getting extremely shaggy. Like, so shaggy, that someone on the train ride to Paris asked me what my little girl's name was. *GASP!*

So, one day we walked by this random hair salon in Paris and decided to get Jackson's hair cut.

It was pretty comical because neither I, nor Renzi, nor Alli, nor AJ really knew how to tell the hair stylist what we wanted in a hair cut for Jackson. So, we used some weird hand gestures and off she went.

And what do you know....it turned out pretty darn cute if I do say so myself!

Ever since we have been home, Jackson is now obsessed with combing his hair after he gets out of the shower at night. He puts water in a cup and dips a comb in the water and literally soaks himself trying to get his hair "Weely weely cooooollll."

I think it is absolutely precious. Although, now that I write about it, I think it might be a tactic he uses to stay up later and not go to bed.

Hmmmm...............

Foiled again!

-Lee Anne

Our 4th of July Weekend

2011-07-04T19:23:00.001-05:00

What a fun and blessed 4th of July weekend we had! We went to our house at Grand Lake and despite the blue green algea problem in the lake that prohibited us from swimming in the lake we still had a great time. We swam our little hearts out at our neighborhood pool, played basketball and baseball with our lake friends, ate and ate and ate, and had an all around fabulous time together as a family. I love these summer weekends!

He is rocking it on riding his bike. So proud!

Loves watermelon! Just like his momma!

How precious are they???

Momma Donna and Daddy George watching the boys in the parade!

Sweet friends Jack Regan and Jackson before our neighborhood 4th of July parade.

-Lee Anne

The France Post

2011-06-30T12:52:00.000-05:00

OK.

I'm back.

Been really sleepy!

And waking up at 5 a.m. every morning cause my internal alarm clock is so off.

Oh and I have been doing oodles and oodles of laundry.

So, let's get on with the France recap shall we?

Our plane took off from Houston at 4:00 p.m. and we set off for the 10 hour flight to Paris. Jackson was an angel and had a ball watching his new movie that I got him just for the airplane. What was this movie that had him all giddy and angel like? You guessed it. The Justin Bieber movie. And you know what??? I watched it too and I actually really liked it. Justin is a cute little booger. I even cried. I am such a weirdo.

The only bad thing about the flight was that neither Renzi nor I slept at all! So by the time we landed in France it was 2 a.m. our time and 9 a.m. Paris time. We then grabbed our baggage and headed to the train station to take our 2 hour train ride into Avignon where we would meet up with A.J., Allison and Bowman.

We arrived in Avignon and hugged our sweet friends, rented our car and drove to our little chateau in Bonnieux where we would be staying for the next two nights. The drive was so pretty and there were so many rolling hills and literally vineyards for as far as you could see. Seriously, they were everywhere!!!

We arrived to our chateau and checked into our room and met up to sit outside and drink some wine and have some snacks and to let the kiddos play. As we were sitting there I realized that this was EXACTLY what I thought the South of France would be. Beautiful countryside, grapes, sun on your back and great wine and cheeses to snack on. Bliss! We all fell into bed that night and Renzi, Jax and I all slept 12 hours straight. (Ren and I had been up for 31 hours straight before we went to bed!)

After two days in Bonnieux we hopped in our cars and drove an hour and a half North to a little town called Beaune. Here we were greeted with another fabulous chateau and checked into our room after talking with the owners of the place. The night we arrived was the Summer Solstice and this town sure knows how to throw a Solstice Party!

For the next three days we explored the little cities in and around Beaune, had 2 of the greatest dinners of my life, went to a few wineries and enjoyed our time together.

The next stop on our agenda was to drive to Dijon where we would drop the cars off and load up for the train to Paris. The actual comedy of getting on the train is a whole other post in itself, but let's just say we literally got on the train as the door was closing and ended up drinking wine out of sippy cups.

Paris was amazing. Tiring. Amazing. Beautiful. Stinky. Aweinspring. And Breathtaking.

We saw so many things in Paris that I have wanted to see forever and some things I didn't even know existed. Arc de Triomphe, Champs De Elysses, The Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, The Seine, Notre Dame and The Latin Quarter. We had Chocolate Croissants, Foie Gras (gross), Pizza, Steak and Fries, Nos Toasts (haha Alli!), and became experts at riding the Metro.

The kiddos did beautifully on this trip. They adjusted to the time difference better than we adults did! We had such a great time hanging with AJ and Allison and we loved loved loved getting to love on Baby Bowman! It is hard traveling in general, even harder to travel abroad with kiddos, but we are so blessed to be able to have traveled abroad with some of our best friends. It's hard to find people who you like traveling with and we love traveling with the Jacks!

AJ literally planned each part of the trip and I don't know if we could ever really express our gratitude to him for taking so much time to plan so many details so that we all had the best time possible. So...Thank you AJ!!! We love you guys so much!

I think Jackson had the best time and I feel so blessed to be able to give him experiences like this. I believe a key part of life is all about the experiences we have! He actually picked up a few French words that he continues to use around our house daily. We (the adults), on the other hand, did pretty good with our French. Ok, so maybe I didn't. I actually just pointed out things that I wanted and it did the trick. The funniest part of the trip was that we all ended up sounding like Borat when we tried to speak French. Hilarious.

I am happy to be home....in my own bed....in a shower that is not a bathtub....and a toilet that doesn't resemble an RV toilet...

The pictures you see on this post are from different parts of the trip. I couldn't include all of the pics but these are just a taste. I will try to post another post later with more pics but it is so hard to choose just a few. Oh. And Yes. Jackson did sport his Thunder jersey all over France.

If I had to pick two of my favorite parts of the trip it would be these...

We went to Notre Dame in Paris where Sunday morning Mass was being held. It was so beautiful to be in this place of worship that it literally took my breath away. We lit candles for Isaiah and I just got so emotional. We have now lit candles for Isaiah in Jordan, Mt. Nebo, Toledo, Madrid, Barcelona and now Paris. Wow.

My second favorite part was in Beaune on our last day. As we were preparing to leave, Jackson and I were hanging out in the downstairs living room in the room we had been hanging out in for the last three days. I looked up at the wall and couldn't believe what I saw. The wallpaper was decorated with butterflies (pic above). Isaiah is with us all of the time, no matter where we are.

Greatest trip to date! Cant' wait to start planning our next adventure.

We are home!

2011-06-28T18:36:00.000-05:00

We are home from our French Adventure Extravaganza Bananza. At least that is what I like to call it.

I regret to inform you that I will not be posting any pics or stories from our trip tonight because, frankly, I'm too flipping exhausted. Bed at 2 a.m. last night, up at 6 a.m. for an 11 hour flight from Paris to Houston, then literally RUNNING through customs to get to our gate for our flight to OKC, all the while carrying my almost four year old because he decided in France that he needed to be carried everywhere. That's fun. Especially up and down and in and out of the Metro. Yippee.

Now we are home and it is almost 2 a.m. France time. And I can't see straight.

So...until tomorrow...

Oh. And can someone please bring me some Mexican food? K. Thanks. Bye.

The Big Reveal

2011-06-14T19:24:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is a special day. It would have been Isaiah's 2nd Birthday. Instead of being sad that our sweet babe is not here with us anymore I thought it appropriate to share with you all the hard work that we have been doing to honor our precious Isaiah.

Today, Renzi spoke to the Downtown Rotary and I thought I would copy and paste parts of his speech today to give you a background on what we have been working on.

"From June 15, 2009 until May 17, 2010, Isaiah spent 24 nights in five different hospitals. He saw eight doctors and a small army of nurses and physicians assistants to treat everything from wheezing in the lungs to inflamed adenoids to infected ears to the battling seizures. He rode in ambulances twice...and visited four emergency rooms...in two states...a total of nine times. He was in a medically induced coma once and doctors gave him four times the normal amount of Adavan, an anti-seizure drug, to stop one of his seizures. Isaiah was under anesthesia three times and on a ventilator once. He received no less than 20 IV's on somewhere between 40-50 attempts.

HE HATED GETTING IV's.

Isaiah failed three epilepsy maintenance drugs that made him everything from cranky and sleepy to hungry and just plain upset, all at the wrong times. He took somewhere around 750 tablets of .125 Clonazapam from November until his death at the rate of between one and five per day.

Isaiah rode on airplanes three times, twice to Houston, TX to be admitted to the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) at Texas Children's Hospital and once in Florida on a family vacation. In total Isaiah probably had 25 documented grand mal seizures and likely more than 100 myoclonic, partial consciousness seizures. Isaiah had four brain EEG's, including two that were videotaped in Houston to try to understand the origin of his seizures.

The toll on us was nothing compared to the struggle little Isaiah had, but it was not insignificant either. We met health care deductibles twice, including hitting the 2010's total deductible by January 7 of that year, and called the insurance company at least weekly. We spent a small fortune out of pocket that I estimate to be between $35,000-$50,000. We got up between 5 and 15 times a night to try to help Isaiah go back to sleep due to the myoclonic seizures-miniature ones that would wake him every night. For more than half his life we slept between three and five hours total a night with never more than two hours in a row.

We also learned very quickly that there was not adequate care in Oklahoma. It was difficult getting an appointment. It was difficult finding someone who was a specialist. It was frustrating to understand what the next steps were. Overall the experience was horrible. We ended up eventually finding a pediatric neurologist named Jennifer Norman at Integris. She was one of five statewide and was a God send. Her schedule was packed solid.

When it became evident that our case was unique, she was instrumental in getting us into Texas Children's Hospital Epilepsy Program, also packed and difficult to get into. Even though our outcome was not good, we received excellent care from her.

Here are some facts about neurological disorders and epilepsy in Oklahoma.

-approximately 9000 children have epilepsy in Oklahoma.
-there are currently 5 pediatric neurologists in Oklahoma-only one is an epileptologist
-Oklahoma lacks virtually all tools to treat all but the most common types of seizures
-there are currently no pediatric epileptologist surgeons in Oklahoma or facilities to handle surgery

Initially we were upset at OU Children's for not having care that would help us. But as time has passed, we found our OU family was among the most supportive. They have been wonderful."

After a year of meetings,speeches, and relentless bugging from us :) about the subject, Renzi and I are excited to share with you that this is about to change.

Today, OU is stepping up.

Soon, OU Childrens will announce a commitment to fixing Oklahoma's lack of access to pediatric neurological care.

The Oklahoma pediatric epilepsy and neurology program (OPEN) will add pediatric neurologists, epileptologists, and epilepsy monitoring unit and imaging equipment over the course of the next 5 years with a total investment of $7.5 MM. Isaiah's namesake will be used somewhere in this new facility.

We are so proud to be able to bring this issue to the forefront and to be able to help other families find the help they need. It is heart wrenching when your baby is sick, and even worse when you can't get the care you need for them. We feel certain that this will help ease the worries from parents and help them get the answers they need much quicker.

Renzi, is the true heavy lifter in this story and he has worked so hard outside of his "day job" and duties at home. I am so incredibly proud of him for really pushing for this to happen. He truly is an amazing man.

So, there it is...the big reveal....I couldn't be more proud. I think Isaiah would be too.

-Lee Anne

Youth Leadership Oklahoma

2011-06-11T19:20:00.001-05:00

T-Minus 20 hours until Youth Leadership Oklahoma begins!!!!

This week is why I do what I do and work where I work. Time spent with the most amazing high school juniors is inspiring, exhausting, amazing and hilarious all at the same time. I am so blessed to be able to work for this organization. When I started working here in 2007 when I was preggers with Jackson, I just knew this was exactly where I was supposed to be. And I am even more blessed that they let me do most of my work from home so I can be home playing with my little buddy, Jackson.

From start to finish I have planned this week long trip....I have handled the entire application process and have done every detail (which is so hard for me considering I am sooo NOT a detail person) for this week. I am pumped up and ready to meet these kiddos and show them just what our great state has to offer.

This week we will travel (BY BUS!) to Oklahoma City, Norman, Lawton, Pauls Valley, Tulsa, Stillwater, Enid and then back to Oklahoma City. We will meet most of our state's leaders, big businesses, colleges, and learn how our state really works. These kids will do all sorts of leadership teambuilding and self building. I can't wait to get started!!!

Probably the thing I am looking forward to the most is getting to present the Isaiah Lee Stone Scholarship to one of the students on the trip. Last year's recipient, Thomas Owens from Edmond Memorial High School, was most deserving. He is a National Merit Scholar and is attending OU in the fall. He is EXACTLY what you hope your child will turn out like. So kind, well spoken, outgoing, smart, funny and just an all around great kid.

This scholarship is peer driven so the students pick the recipient at the end of the week after Renzi and I present the story behind the scholarship and criteria. I am so beyond blessed by each one of you who contributed to this fund so that we could start this scholarship and be able to do this every year. What a way to honor our sweet Isaiah!

To follow along on our journeys, go to www.youthleadershipoklahoma.blogspot.com

Our intern, Angel, will be updating every evening with photos and commentary on the day's activities. You can also "like" us on Facebook (Youth Leadership Oklahoma) or follow us on Twitter (YLOKYLOK).

Oh and I will update the blog on Tuesday with the big surprise!

Wish me luck (and lots and lots of patience!) :)

Lee Anne

France!

2011-06-09T15:45:00.000-05:00

Did I tell you we were going to France? Oh, I didn't? Well...let me be the first to tell you that...WE ARE GOING TO FRANCE!!!

In 9 days.

I leave for my work trip this Sunday and am gone until Friday...and then we are leaving the next day for France!

Oh and we are going with these cute people in this blog. http://weheartb.blogspot.com/2011/06/france-dance.html

You should probably click on the link right now and see this precious wee one doing the France Dance. Because of this blog post, we have now adopted the France Dance at our house too.

To be honest, this trip sort of snuck up on me, what with work being so busy and summer being here, and now it is upon us! I can't wait! Jackson is very excited to go to France and ride a train and see his friend Baby Bowman. (And AJ and Alli too!). He also says he can't wait to meet the King. I told him that on most trips you do not get to meet Royalty. He stared blankly at me like I was an idiot.

Viva France!

P.S. I realize this is not French....:)

This weekend's shenanigans....

2011-06-05T20:02:00.001-05:00

Happy Sunday to you and yours! This afternoon as we were running errands and in two separate cars, (Renzi was washing my car AND his car, THANK YOU HONEY!) he sent me this picture from the car wash line...and I felt like it pretty much summed up this weekend. :) A little bit crazed and a whole lot of fun.

We actually had a wonderful weekend with family! Both of Vicki's (my mother-in-law's) brothers and their wives were in town to visit and we just had the best time catching up and visiting. Uncle Grainger and Aunt Sandy are from Pennsylvania and Uncle Teb and Aunt Linn are from Georgia and everyone came to spend time with all of us. Friday night, Vicki cooked dinner at her house and we had a great time together, and Saturday we had everyone over to our house for an all day swim and cook out party. Lots of fun and lots of great conversations. It seems like most of the time when we all get together it is for a wedding, funeral, or some other event, which is always a nice time to get together and catch up... but this time all that was on the agenda was hanging out together. It was awesome.

And of course, I took ZERO pictures. Way to go Lee Anne! I guess you could say I was too busy hostessing, (or too busy swimming and having a good time! ha!).

All in all, it was so great to be together and relax. We needed to have a relaxing weekend because it is about to be a really busy time here at the Stone house!

This next weekend is the beginning of the Youth Leadership Oklahoma (YLOK) program, which is my job. On Sunday, June 12th I will embark on my annual week long trip with 50 of the most amazing high school seniors to be across the state of Oklahoma. To learn more about this trip and my job, please visit www.leadershipoklahoma.com I am so blessed to work for this organization (going on more than 4 years now!) and to get to spend time with these amazingly talented high school students. I am so excited to meet all of these kiddos that I have been reading about for months and months and show them the beauty of our great state. I have the greatest gig in ever.

So, it's going to be a very busy week preparing for the trip, loving on my Jackson and my honey before I leave them for a week...but also....there is something in the works for Tuesday, June 14th that I can't wait to share with you all. (And no, I am NOT pregnant so don't go getting any ideas. :)

Until I blog again (which in all reality may be tomorrow...not next week. :)

-Lee Anne

Girls Weekend!

2011-06-01T21:10:00.001-05:00

This past Memorial weekend I packed my bags and headed down south to Austin, TX (where I used to live!) to visit some of my best girlfriends from college for our annual Girls Weekend. We had the most fantabulous time. We stayed with Emily Sue in her amazing house and as most of you all who know her know she was the best hostesses. (Her husband, Dustin, is out of town for three months riding his bike across country. You must follow his blog and catch up on his adventures thus far...its fascinating!) http://work2ride.wordpress.com/

We ate, laughed, talked, ate, drank wine, laughed some more, ate some more, laid out at the pool, ate again...etc. etc.

Here are a few pics from my IPhone...

View of Lake Travis from our lunch spot on Sunday, "Uncle Billy's." Look how blue the water is! I would just like to point out that Grand Lake water does NOT look like this.

Blurry pic with a finger in the top of my girls and me.

Jackie and I even worked out to our girl Jillian Michaels on Saturday. Sunday, Emily Sue took us on a great hike on a hike trail in her neighborhood. Gotta work out to eat! :) And yes, I am sporting my Kappa shirt. What's up now. Oh and wow Jackie. You look really short next to me.

Sara and I at another lunch spot...one of our favs...Maudie's!

Cuties Emily Sue and Jackie!

I then came home to this sad face. My Jackson is sick...and today, Wednesday, he is still sick! I thought he had turned a corner, but this afternoon he started running a fever and has this horrible cough. Took him to the doc and it's just a virus, but man...I hate seeing him not feeling well. I do, however, like that he likes to snuggle when he's not feeling well.

Until next time.....

-Lee Anne

Butterfly

2011-05-23T18:09:00.000-05:00

The week following Isaiah's death we all packed up and headed to our lake house at Grand Lake. We went with the intention that we just needed to be together as a family, be away from everything, and just *BE* together and learn how to be a family of 3 again.

We spent a little over 2 weeks there and looking back now, it was one of the best decisions we could have made. Lake life is so simple. We would sleep, wake up, eat breakfast and then we would head out to the boat for a day of swimming, riding around, and playing. We would end each night with cooking, having some wine, playing and then going to sleep early. We spent our time just focusing on Jackson. The past year had been so hard and time with Jackson had surely been limited. It was so good to love on him and each other. We had the chance to grieve together. Talk together. Spend time together alone. Whether that meant crying or not crying. This time together at the lake was so perfect.

I started noticing something interesting happen every time we took the boat out. We would get somewhere, anchor out, start swimming or playing on the boat and all of a sudden a butterfly would appear. The butterfly would flutter around the boat and just "camp out" on the boat. We would all marvel at the beauty of the butterfly and Jackson would run around (or swim around) trying to catch the butterfly. It brought a strange sense of peace when I saw the butterfly. Kind of like the butterfly was watching out for us.

The first 2 times it happened I didn't think much of it....when it started happening every day and every time we took the boat out it really made me start thinking....What if this is supposed to mean something?

As the days went by I came to expect that butterfly. And then it hit me. I knew it. Maybe this butterfly was sent to us by God and Isaiah to check on us, bring us a sense of peace, and show us the beauty of God and the emergence of something beautiful.

We asked Jackson what he would like to name the butterfly and he exclaimed, "Isaiah! Let's name him Isaiah!"

As hard as that was to hear, it was what Jackson wanted to call this butterfly, so...that is what we called him.

The end of the summer rolled around and we put the boat up to be winterized and stopped going out on the lake when it got too cold. We still went up to the lake during the winter, but the activities changed while we were there at this time of year. We stayed in and snuggled by the fire and watched movies, played games, etc.

This past weekend we went back to our lake house and took the boat out for the first time in 2011. We grabbed our bathing suits, towels and some snacks and set in for a day on the lake. We drove around for awhile and then settled on a new spot to anchor out.

As we all settled into swimming, playing and laying around all of a sudden Jackson yelled, "Isaiah's back!"

Hearing that, it of course, took our breath away wondering what in the world he was talking about. And that's when we saw it.

Our "Isaiah" butterfly was back.

A beautiful and welcome sight indeed.

My letter to Isaiah-One Year Later.

2011-05-16T21:18:00.000-05:00

Dear Isaiah,

I can NOT believe it has been a year since you left us to go be with Jesus. In all honesty, it almost seems like another lifetime ago that you were here with us. But, there are these amazing moments that I remember that make me feel like you were just here.

In 12 months we have all changed. Your brother has grown up so much. He grew up a lot while you were here with us. I feel like I missed out on a lot of his 2nd year because we were always so worried about you and that is totally ok. You needed us. Jackson is such a strong, independent, funny, smart little guy! But one thing is for sure...he remembers you and talks about you daily and that makes my heart so happy. My prayer is that he will always talk about you. He brings up so many things that frankly, I can't believe he remembers. Like the other day, he brought up the many times we had "Stone Family Dance Parties" in our living room. He could name the song and the different dance moves we all did. He even brought up the "Bouncy Bouncy Zayah" that we used to say to you. I even found a video of us saying that and dancing all together. I can't even begin to tell you what it makes me feel like to watch you so alive and laughing in these videos. Sometimes I can't even bring myself to watch them, but other times, it's like I can't help but watch them. I have included a video in this post of one of those moments.

My hope in including this video is so everyone who reads this can remember you how I remember you. So Alive! So Vibrant! So Animated! I also ask that those of you who read this blog, please do not feel sorry for me. I ask that you be happy for me. Be happy that I am Jackson and Isaiah's mommy. Be happy, proud and faithful about the time that I had with my youngest son. In one year, I have found that I am grateful for every moment. Be happy with knowing that we are all ok. We have survived one year since losing you. ONE YEAR.

The number one thing I think we have learned in the 12 months that you have been gone is that you will forever remain in our hearts as an amazing blessing and teacher of the love of Jesus. You taught us so much about faith. Faith is believing in the constant goodwill of the Lord. And I know that our Lord is good. I know that he is righteous. And that he is sovereign.

I am so proud of how your daddy and I have handled everything. We made a promise to eachother the day you died to "stick together." To be on the same team and to not leave eachother's sides. You, my precious little one, strengthened our marriage into something I could never have dreamed. Your daddy is such an incredible servant leader of our family. You taught him so much about himself and I know he is so thankful for that. It is amazing when you are at your worst, and you have to find it in yourself to pull yourself out of the darkness and emerge as a light. Your sweet daddy is that light to your brother and I.

My sweet baby boy...how I wish I could hug your neck. How I wish I could see you now. There are so many moments that I call, "WWID" moments. (What Would Isaiah Do). Like for example, the other night we were playing catch in our yard...it was pretty calm and we were all throwing the ball back and forth and I had this vision of WWID do in this very moment. And I envisioned you running like crazy, laughing your head off and causing all sorts of chaos. I actually miss the chaos that you brought with you every where you went. You controlled a room better than anyone I know. What a politician you were! You could work every person you met with that amazing smile of yours. And that laugh. Oh Lordy be. That laugh is infectious.

I can hardly wait to see you again, but until then....please know that you are in my every thought and every prayer. I am doing pretty good. I am a different person, but I am happier with who I am since I had you. I am thankful for the blessings that you bestowed on my life. I am so very thankful for you.

We love you precious boy.

Love forever and ever and always,

Mommy

Happy Anniversary!!

2011-05-13T19:50:00.001-05:00

Having a fab time in Hawaii....lots of relaxing, eating, sleeping, reading, running and laying on the beach. Pretty much paradise.

Happy 5th Anniversary to my honey bunny. There is no one I would want to go through this life with than you. We have been through a lot in 5 years of marriage, probably more than most people go through in a lifetime, but I am so proud of our steadfast love. You make me a better person and I thank you for loving me so well.

P.S. We make cute kids, don't ya think? :)

I regret I must end this blog post. The ocean is calling my name for another swim! Until next time, here are some pics of our trip so far....
Aren't we cute?

My view right this very minute!

This was called Artichoke Surprise. Pure goodness I tell ya.

-Lee Anne

ALOHA!!!!

2011-05-10T13:25:00.000-05:00

OH MY GOODNESS GRACIOUS!!! I CAN'T EVEN CONTAIN MY EXCITEMENT ANY LONGER!!!!!!!! I CAN'T STOP YELLING!!!! I CAN'T STOP WRITING IN ALL CAPS!!!!!!

GUESS WHERE HUBS AND I ARE HEADED TOMORROW FOR OUR SUPER SECRET ANNIVERSARY TRIP???????????

HAWAII!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

IT'S GOING TO BE FANTABULOUS. I'M A LUCKY GIRL AND AM SO BLESSED BEYOND MEASURE!!!

ALOHA!!!! (I have always wanted to say that).

LEE ANNE

Mother's Day Weekend

2011-05-08T20:52:00.001-05:00

Hubs was out of town for the middle part of the week so I had a date with this guy....

We then had a shopping date with Dee Dee and Sidney Kate...we just had to grab some pizza after burning all of those calories trying on clothes! Look at these precious kiddos...obviously having a serious conversation over crayons.

Love these two! Totally going to show this at their wedding some day.

Jackson had his last soccer game of the season and he had quite the cheering squad! His Nana, Papaw, Grandma, G-Daddy and Uncle Matt all came out to see him score two goals, one of which was a legitimate goal and not for the other team. :)

These boys are the sweetest things ever! They are all classmates of Jackson's at Westminster and I am awe of each one of them! They all just adore eachother and have shown such teamwork and friendship, always helping someone up if they fall down and hugging on eachother for no reason at all. Love these boys!

After an amazing church service this morning and brunch with my mother-in-law and my mom, the boys and I decided to spend the afternoon swimming in our pool. Here is Jackson doing his signature "How big is Jackson?" "So Big!" Pic....

These boys are so good to me! I had such a wonderful day and am so thankful for them.

My precious baby boy and me.

Love this day!
-Lee Anne

Miss Me?

2011-05-03T21:55:00.000-05:00

Have you missed me?

Where have I been you might ask?

Well, having major tooth issues after my hours long procedure last week...which resulted in a root canal today.

Only me.

But, I'm taking it all in stride and I will be back tomorrow with a good story.

Until then, I will be dreaming and thinking about the surprise trip my husband is taking me on next week! It's our five year anniversary and he has it all planned out. I have no idea where we are going, but he has planned every detail out, even securing a babysitter for Jackson. Score! I posted some pictures from our honeymoon to get me thinking about relaxing on vaca with my adorable, sweet, hottie husband. *sigh*

Thinking about this impending holiday makes the constant throbbing going on in my mouth not so bad. Ok. So maybe it still hurts, but I'm pumped!

Be love!

Lee Anne

There are no words...

2011-04-25T16:11:00.000-05:00

I really don't know what to say about this video...ok, who are we kidding, there are a few things I would like to say about this video.

Number One: I do NOT think that American Idol is in our future.

Number Two: I don't know what's up with the headband.

Number Three: He must get his theatrical facial expressions from his father. I kid, I kid. We all know I am the most dramatic person out there.

Number Four: I would like to apologize for my ridiculously awful Ludacris impression. Luda if you are out there...you are much better than I.

I just love this little guy to pieces.

Lee Anne

Dentist

2011-04-21T13:08:00.000-05:00

I went to the dentist yesterday for the first time in two years.

TWO YEARS!??!! That's ludicrous, you might be saying to yourself...it's ok...I said the same thing to myself too.

The last time I had been to the dentist was a week before I had Isaiah, and life, well, it just sort of happened that way.

Anywho, so I knew I needed to go to the dentist so I made an appointment with Renzi's dentist. Just felt like making a change and thought it would be easier for all of us if we just went to the same dentist.

So after the fabulous hygienist cleaned my teeth and tooth pictures, she showed me her findings. I had actually broken TWO of my back teeth and didn't even know it. I also had TWO cavities. I haven't had a cavity since I was six years old! And speaking of that particular cavity from when I was a wee one, they are going to have to take that filling out because it is the old silvery kind. Oh, and I also am having enamel problems with my top front teeth.

Needless to say, I was VERY upset by all of this troubling news. I take pride in the fact that I never have cavities, that I never had braces, and overall, I have pretty teeth!

But....don't think that my story just ends there...you know it's just getting started.

So, as the lovely dentist is checking out my teeth and chatting about the hours long procedure I am going to have to have on my mouth next week he then says to me, "Now that you are in your forties Lee Anne, you have to realize that your teeth are just going to have things like this happen to them."

FORTIES!!!????

Do I look like I am 40? What makes him think I am 40? Oh the thoughts that were screaming in my head. I couldn't react the way I wanted to because this lovely dentist had some dental tools in my mouth at the time, so my rebuttal to his telling me that I was in my 40's sounded something like this..."Garble, garble, I'm EEEERRTTYYY UNNN!!!!!"

Finally, he let me speak and I couldn't get out fast enough that I was not, in fact, in my 40's, but I was a young, spirited 31 year old hot mom. Ok, so maybe I didn't say the hot mom part, but I did tell him my real age.

The dentist looked puzzled for a second and he pulled out my chart. He checks the birth date on my insurance card. And sure enough, my birthdate said, 12/28/1965. Apparently, Delta Dental of Oklahoma thinks I am 45.

After a good laugh about this I started thinking........

He probably thought I was quite the Cougar for marrying a man 12 years my junior.

You go my 45 year old self.

Awkward

2011-04-13T12:58:00.001-05:00

So, yesterday evening we got the opportunity to attend the "Literary Voices 2011," dinner and the Special Guest Speaker was none other than Mrs. Laura Bush. We also were invited to a special reception before the dinner where we were able to meet the Former First Lady herself and get a picture with her and the other people at our table for the night.

And you know I screwed that one up. :)

I am not sure if you know this or not, but in the dictionary next to the word AWKWARD is a picture of me. True statment. Look it up. See me in there? That's me.

So knowing my awkwardness, in advance I had prepared a short speech before we walked into the room where Mrs. Bush was. I was going to say something profound like, "Thank you Mrs. Bush for all that you do for promoting literacy. My son and I love the library and I am so honored to be a part of this night."

I practiced this statement in my head over and over again. I was ready. I was going to "wow" her.

So, one of the Secret Service men opened the door and we were ushered into the room. And there she was. She was dressed in a stunning turquoise suit and she just looked perfect. I was about third in line in our group so when it was my turn to shake her hand this is what I said....

"HHHHEEEEYYYYYYYY!!! I'm Lee Anne Stone! Are you tired?"

Wiggity wiggity wiggity what????? Are you tired? Where did that come from????

She, of course, was as gracious and as poised as you would think she would be. She replied, "No, Lee Anne, I am not tired. But thank you for asking."

Renzi then swooped in to help me out and thanked her for her service with helping Afghan women. She really seemed to like that.

I, of course, was mortified.

We took our picture and she waved us all out the door.

Renzi and I got the giggles when we went out the door. Couldn't stop laughing. And we are still laughing about it today.

I think my picture is now listed under a different word in the dictionary after last night. SMOOTH OPERATOR. That's me! :)

Tagged!

2011-04-12T22:42:00.000-05:00

I've been tagged by my sweet friend Amber...so here goes...

Places I Go:
1. Westminster Car Pool Line
2. Super Target
3. Leadership Oklahoma office
4. Evolution Personal Training/Bootcamp

Favorite Smells:
1. Baby Lotion Smell on Babies
2. Renzi's Homemade Spaghetti cooking
3. Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies Baking
4. Garlic and Onions cooking on the stove

TV Shows:
1. Real Housewives/Any and all of them
2. Biggest Loser
3. Modern Family
4. Keeping up with the Kardashians....actually I am currently loving Khloe and Lamar the most.

Movies:
1. My Best Friend's Wedding
2. The Count of Monte Cristo
3. Toy Story 3
4. Jewel of the Nile/Romancing the Stone

Recommendations:
1. First impressions of someone are usually right on. Follow your instinct.
2. Speaking of instincts, follow that momma and woman's intuition. Never a bad idea.
3. Always kiss your husband when you walk in any door. Make it a habit.
4. Take your kiddos to the OKC libraries. They are amazing!

Favorite Things To Do:
1. Read
2. Lay out
3. Drink good wine
4. Spend time with my family and my friends!

Dislikes:
1. Throwing up
2. Poop
3. Not owning up when you are wrong about something and taking responsibilities for your actions.
4. Stupidity (Amen Amber, I'm keeping this one)

Friends To Tag: (This means you answer these same questions on your blog!)
1. Brooke Stone
2. Addie Burke
3. Taylor David
4. Alysa Bajenaru

Random Funnies from Jackson Stone

2011-04-06T22:27:00.000-05:00

My life in general is pretty freaking funny. Things happen to me, people say things to me, and I trip and fall all day long. Oh, and I tend to get myself into horribly awkward situations daily. But the number one thing in my life that is the funniest is my Jackson. He is seriously the funniest person I know. I usually post on my Facebook page when he says or does something funny...and recently I started a Twitter account for him (jacksonstone33). I started the Twitter account for him because there is an app that will take the things you post on Twitter and put in a book for you. BAM. Baby book. Easiest decision ever.

Here are some recent Twitter posts and random funnies from the J man this week....

"Today my name is Ricardo. Today mom you will be Renaldo." And for the rest of the day he called me Renaldo.

"I like Jesus. He's a good dude." This was said while in the car following Sunday School.

"Please stop singing in the car Mom. It's just not your special talent."

"And now for my next trick, I am going to smell my feet."

While walking out of the bathroom at the Thunder game this guy sees that Jackson is wearing a Kevin Durant jersey and he says to Jackson, "Hey Kevin Durant, how many will you score tonight?" And Jackson replied, "I'm a white guy! KD is really tan!" As a mother, I didn't even know how to respond to that.

As we were walking home from the Thunder game tonight we hit the crosswalk button. The crosswalk button recorded voice starts chanting over and over again, "Wait, Wait, Wait, Please Wait." Clearly, Jackson was annoyed at the guy "in the crosswalk button" and he went right up to the pole and started yelling, "We are waiting you silly goose! Can't you see us? Stop yelling at us! It's not nice! We are right here waiting!"

My other most favorite thing my sweet guy is doing is randomly, throughout the day, he will say, "Mom, you know why I am the luckiest kid in the whole wide world??? Because I have you!" Oh be still my heart. Love this boy so stinking much!

I hope that everyone is having a great week. We have had a wonderful week here at the Stone house just working, relaxing and being together. I am super duper pumped because next weekend Uncle Grant, Aunt Brooke, Baby Jake, Uncle Dave, Aunt Ginny and Aunt Ginger are all coming into town for my mother in law's birthday. We are going to have so much fun and I can't wait to get my hands on my precious nephew Jake!

Cheers!

Lee Anne

Recipe Label

2011-04-01T07:26:00.001-05:00

A friend in need...

2011-03-30T16:09:00.001-05:00

See this girl?

I heart her.

Her name is Jenny.

She's one of my best friends. Has been for almost 25 years or so. She was the Matron of Honor at my wedding.

She's the strongest girl I know.

You see, Jenny's sweet baby boy Kanon was diagnosed with Trisomy 18 when she was newly pregnant and we knew he probably wouldn't live very long. She made it to 31 weeks and her doctor told her last Thursday it was time to deliver him.

So, on Saturday, March 26th at 8:19 a.m. Kanon William Laisle entered this world. He was perfect. Jenny had wanted all of us to meet him, so we were there...in the waiting room....ready.....there.....just like our friends do. We always show up and we are there for each other. We got a chance to meet this precious boy, kiss his forehead, and his mommy and daddy and family members got to love on him for almost an hour and a half. Which is quite a miracle.

Jenny and Rory handled everything with such strength and grace. I am in awe of their bravery. They are such amazing parents to Kaden (their four year old) and to Kanon. I am honored to be their friend. I am blessed just to know them. My life is better because of them.

There were so many many things that happened that reminded me that our God is a sovereign God. I know I talk about sovereignty a lot, but I truly believe that our days are numbered and known before we were even born. And like I have said so many times before as well. God is good ALL the time.

Jenny and I have talked in length about Heaven, God, our faith...and we are certain that our babies are now together in Heaven.

There were a couple of things that happened this week that reminded us of just that.

Like for example....Jenny has an app on her I-Phone called "Jesus Calling." It's a 5 minute Daily Devotional. You can go back to a certain day or skip forward to a day. When Jenny found out that Saturday, March 26th would be Kanon's birthday she skipped forward to read that day. And guess what the Bible Verse was for Saturday? Isaiah 40:31.

Wednesday morning while Renzi was taking Jackson to school he noticed that Jackson was talking to himself in the back seat.

"Whatcha talking about buddy?" Renzi asked.

"Just talking about the dream I had last night," Jackson said.

"What did you dream about?" Renzi asked.

"Oh! It was so great. I dreamed that Isaiah and Kaden's little brother were in Heaven! They couldn't see me, but I could see them! They were laughing so much and they were wrestling with each other!" Jackson replied.

Jackson saw me crying the other day and asked me about why I was upset. My parenting belief is that I should be upfront and honest with my kids as much as possible. So I told him that I was sad for my friend Jenny because her baby had passed away. I also told him that it was happy tears because Kanon was now in Heaven with Isaiah and that's a good thing. That was Saturday. And he had this dream Tuesday night. Oh the innocence and honesty of a 3 year old.

So this week we have all been helping Jenny and Rory prepare for the Memorial Service for Kanon. I have pushed myself to really try to step up and help take the load off of their shoulders. Cause she did the same for me almost a year ago. She did so much for us during the time we lost Isaiah to help make our lives easier. And that is just what we have all been doing this week. Stepping up to help out our friend in need. It's what we do.

I have such an amazingly unique group of girlfriends from high school. Some of us have been friends since kindergarten and some we have met along the way. We are all VERY VERY close and I don't think that is the norm. I am so proud of each one of them and I am even more proud of the women they have all become. These girls are such good people. There are so many wonderful traits about each of them and our friendship, but one of the things I love most about them is the way we rally around each other when one of us is in need.

I witnessed this first hand last year during the time we lost Isaiah and I am seeing it again during this time that we rally around Jenny and her family.

I love this quote and I think it sums up our friends so well.

When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives mean the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares. ~Henri Nouwen

Today we will celebrate the life of Kanon William Laisle. We will be surrounded by friends, family and God.

And Jenny and I will marvel at our friendship, our oldest boys friendship here on Earth and our youngest boys friendship now in Heaven.

Blessed be the name of the Lord.

Lee Anne

Oldschool Picture Alert!

2011-03-28T16:36:00.001-05:00

Renzi just sent me this picture and I had to post it. Look what young pups my sister-in-law, Ginny and I were!!! This was probably sometime around 2002? So I was 12. Haha, I wish! :) Love you Ginny!
-Lee Anne

Location:Oldschool picture!

The "Isaiah" Tree

2011-03-23T21:37:00.001-05:00

What a wonderful reminder that Spring is here. This is a picture of our "Isaiah" tree in our front yard.

It was given to us last year by Mary Lippert and the wonderful people at Giant Partners after Isaiah died. We weren't sure where exactly to put it so I told the wonderful people from Oakleys who delivered the tree to pick a spot. And what a spot they picked.

They planted the tree in the exact spot where Isaiah used to play in our yard this time last year. Here is a picture that Renzi loves. He was pulling in the driveway and everyone was so happy to see him!

Look at this cute picture Renzi found of the boys in the wagon almost exactly a year ago. I love how Isaiah is just smiling away and how Jackson is grinning at his brother so adoringly.

While getting out of the car this evening I looked up to see my beautiful "Isaiah" tree blooming. A reminder that spring does come again. I am so thankful for this tree, especially as we creep up on a year of him being gone. Things like the tree always make me smile and remember him and I always want to do that. I'm not sure how I am going to be doing in the next 2 months as we come up on a year of my sweet babe's death and his 2nd birthday, but I hope all of you who read this will please say a little prayer of peace for our family. We always appreciate prayers. Much love!

-Lee Anne

Taebo Jackson

2011-03-21T12:42:00.000-05:00

Renzi was out of town again this week, so Jackson and I headed up to the lake house. In an effort to burn some energy while it rained, I pulled out my old Taebo DVD's. Jackson loved Billy Blanks. Here is a video of him and his taebo moves. As my friend Jackie says, you can hear me encouraging him during the video a la Billy Blanks. Oh...and you can also hear me yell at our dog Annabelle. Or as Jackson likes to call her, "Knock it off Annabelle." He told the Vet's office the other day that was our dog's name. "Knock it off Annabelle." Oh sheesh. I really gotta watch out what I say outloud! :)

Blessings!
Lee Anne

Gerald

2011-03-16T14:24:00.001-05:00

While running errands today, Jackson proclaimed his new name to be Gerald. So, Gerald it is.

Happy Wednesday!

-Lee Anne

This guy....

2011-03-13T20:14:00.000-05:00

Please excuse my singing...I'm not good at this song...but Jackson is! His Bieber Fever continues....

His new favorite thing to do is you tube Justin Bieber videos and take my computer in his room and practice singing and dancing. Of course, I totally spy on him.

It's so stinking cute. I keep trying to get a video, but he always catches me.

Got to learn to be sneakier!!!

The Picture that Defines My Marriage

2011-03-08T20:28:00.001-06:00

This picture pretty much sums up my marriage. :)

He's gone on a business trip to Ireland this week and I miss him so much already! Jackson told his dad that he had "eberyting unda contrawl," so at least I am taken care of. Come home soon babe! Love you!

Thankful Heart

2011-03-07T15:13:00.000-06:00

Phillipians 4: 4-13

"Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again, REJOICE! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

I am having a thankful heart moment so I thought I would post some of the things I am thankful for in this moment.

Sweet Jackson saying the blessing before every meal and taking charge and wanting to bless the meal that he and his buddies were having together last night. Oh how my heart melts and fills with pride!
A snuggly kiddo first thing out of bed when the coffee is hot and the morning conversations are just beginning.

My husband washing my car for me. He does this a lot. My car is a pit. And he doesn't complain about it ever, even though I KNOW it drives him bonkers. He just takes my car and gets it cleaned out for me most every weekend.

Sitting in church with my kiddo in Sunday School, and my husband and mother-in-law all sitting together. It's so nice to hear God's word and have family with you.

Running at Lake Hefner. I'm back at it again. Took a little hiatus from running but I am back! I love Lake Hefner because it is pretty...but mostly cause it's flat. And this girl does NOT like to run uphill.

The conversations my hubby and I have while driving. We solve the world's problems for everyone and ourselves while in the car. :)

My precious Jackson's school. He has learned so much and I am in awe watching him grow and learn so many amazing life lessons and school lessons. I had the chance to observe his class two weeks ago and I think I cried at least 6 times. Watching him solve problems and interact with his friends and teachers was such a blessing. I am so proud of the little boy he is!

Date nights with my husband. Always fun, always needed!
God choosing ME to be my babies' mommy. What an honor and a blessing that the sweet Lord would bestow on me.

What are YOU thankful for today?

Lee Anne

Target Addiction

2011-03-05T09:04:00.001-06:00

I've mentioned this before but I have an addiction to the dollar section at Target. So many fun things in one place!!! And for someone like me who isn't the craftiest person around, it's a dream!

This week I found all of these cute flower pots with the seeds and dirt included and I thought it would be a fun project for Jackson. I was right! He had a ball putting all of this together and every hour he comes running in to wherever I am asking if he can "go check on his baby flowers to see if they are growing." And everytime he checks on them he exclaims, "they grew!!!"

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Guess who I had lunch with yesterday?

2011-03-03T20:23:00.001-06:00

The Pioneer Woman herself, Ree Drummond!!!! Ok, so maybe it wasn't just her and I....but I was lucky enough to get to sit at her table!!! And let me just tell you...she is just as lovely as she seems. What an honor it was to sit with her and chat.
Thank you Connell Brannan for the invitation!!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Dreams

2011-02-22T14:16:00.001-06:00

I have been dreaming about him a lot lately.

And in every dream, he is healed.

It feels so good to be able to see his face in my dreams, and every time I dream about him, I remember the next morning how tightly I held onto him throughout the dream. I never wake up sad. Almost relieved that I got to spend some time with him while dreaming.

I have made so much progress in my grieving, and together, Renzi and I have made great strides in healing our hearts but it's tricky when you are dealing with the emotions that come at such random times. Like, it seems like everytime we watch American Idol...I cry. I know, I know, some of the stories are gut wrenching and really can get to you, but I am boo hooing at least six different times during the show. I also have cried watching The Bachelor recently, but please don't tell anyone that. :) I cried when Emily got to spend time with her daughter last night after being gone for so long...on a dating show. What is wrong with me???? :)

The thing is, I will have these little cries and then I feel much better almost immediately. It's like I am totally in tune with the fact that clearly my body needs to cry, so I cry and then BAM. I feel better. Before Isaiah died, I would hold in a lot of tears but it has felt so good to let them flow whenever I feel like it. I am taking every feeling I am feeling and trying to grow with it and go with it.

I say all of this to lead up to this story.

We had an amazing thing happen before Christmas.

Renzi and I had lunch with Isaiah's amazing neurologist Dr. Norman one day. We had been planning it for awhile and finally we all had the chance to sit down together. It was a great lunch and good to see her. Before our lunch was over I asked her the question, "If Renzi and I decide some day to have another baby, what do you think the likelihood would be that our child could have epilepsy like Isaiah?"

She talked about statistics and Isaiah's condition specifically. She talked about Renzi and I and how healthy we are and how epilepsy does not run in either of our families. And then she said, "I wish we would have run the SCN1A gene mutation test. That would help me answer that question for you all a lot better."

I knew instantly exactly what test she was talking about. I remember it was January of last year and we were in the midst of Isaiah's seizures but we hadn't yet been to Texas Children's Hospital yet and we had not received the diagnosis of his epilepsy at this point. I remember taking both boys, by myself to Baptist so that Isaiah could have blood drawn for this particular test. I marched into the lab holding both boys (both were over 20 lbs at this time) and put Isaiah in my lap with my arms wrapped around him and somehow wedged Jackson between my legs so that he couldn't get out and the lab tech went to work trying to get some blood from Isaiah. I remember thinking about 10 seconds in why in the world I didn't bring help with me because Isaiah was screaming from the needle and Jackson was squirming and biting me on the leg. I was sweating and willing the tech to hurry up. Several vials of blood later, and what felt like an eternity, we left the lab (all of us at this point crying, including me!) and I vowed never again to do that alone again.

The blood was sent off to a lab in Nebraska and we actually found out the next day we had gotten into Texas Children's and we left the following week. The test was going to cost about $3000 outside of what insurance would cover. Since we ended up getting into Texas Children's we decided to hold off on the test to find out what happened while we were in Texas.

As most of you know, we found out on this trip that Isaiah did in fact, have epilepsy so we decided not to spend the money on the test. We found out what we needed to know at that time, so we decided to move forward with his diagnosis.

Never thought about that test again, until that lunch with Dr. Norman.

I asked if there was any possible way the lab would still have his blood sample. Dr. Norman said it was unlikely because it had been almost a year and most labs destroy any unused and used samples. She said she would make a call that afternoon to the lab in Nebraska and just see.

And what do you know. They still had his blood. ALL of it.

So, we ran the test. This test would let us know whether or not Isaiah had a genetically inherited type of severe epilepsy. If it came back positive then that would mean he was a carrier of the gene and then Renzi or I could be tested to see which one of us was also a carrier of the gene. If it came back negative, then that would mean that his epilepsy was just a fluke and that somehow when he was growing in my womb that one tiny flap of his brain didn't grow right and there was nothing that caused it to happen that way.

Well, after about three weeks we got the results back.

The results were negative. This means that if Renzi and I decide to have more children someday it makes it very unlikely that he or she would be affected with epilepsy like Isaiah.

When I got the email with the results I thought I would be relieved. But you know what I was? Angry.

Angry not because I wanted something to be wrong with my child. Angry because I still don't know why he died. Angry because the Medical Examiner's office still can't determine a cause of death for my child. Everything they have found thus far has been inconclusive. Angry because I still don't know why.

Which is why I think it is so significant that in my dreams about him recently, he is healed. I have come to realize through these dreams and through my crying when I need to cry that I am probably never going to know why my baby died. I am never going to get the answers I am looking for. I believe that his being healed in my dreams is God's way of telling me to let it go. He is telling me that he is ok. That some day I will get to see my baby again. And I will get to see him healed!!! What a glorious reunion that will be!

And that, really and truly takes my anger away.

Marbles

2011-02-16T17:02:00.001-06:00

I am a little hesitant to post this story, but it is just too dang funny not to. I am sorry if this offends anyone but this, people, is my life. (And it's a story I will want to remember forever as well)

For this story there will be a glossary.

Here it is:

Balls=Marbles

Penis=Willy

Sunday night Renzi and I were in our living room and Jackson was playing basketball in our bedroom. He does this a lot and will turn on the NBA channel in our room, drag his basketball goal in and will play for an hour at a time.

All of a sudden, out of nowhere, Jackson came barreling down the hallway crying and yelling, "My Willy is hurt! My marbles are broken!"

After about 10 minutes, he calmed down and I checked things out. All looked fine and from the story I could gather, he apparently ran into the fireplace in our room and smashed his marbles. Poor guy.

He never complained about it again.

Cut to last night. Jackson was getting out of the shower and I noticed something odd. His entire left side of his marbles were bruised and swollen. I yelled for Renzi to come take a look and his reaction was one of which I am sure all of you males out there would have. He straight up flipped out.

"Marbles are serious business Lee Anne," he said. "We better call Dr. V tomorrow."

So, this morning I made an awkward phone call to the triage nurse at Jackson's pediatrician's office. She straight up flipped out too. "What is it with you people and marbles?" I thought.

We got to Dr. V's office and Jackson promptly told everyone in the waiting room that we were there because he "smashed his marbles on the fireplace and they were broken."

That was fun.

Then we got into the exam room and Jackson told Dr. V about his smashed marbles and that it was ok for him to look at them but not to look at his ears because there was peanut butter in them. HUH????!!!

That was fun too.

Dr. V's reaction was much like everyone else's and he immediately called a Urologist friend of his and got Jackson in for an appointment for later on this afternoon. Jackson got dressed and walked out yelling down the hall at Dr. V, "Thanks for checking out my marbles Dr. V!"

And the fun continued.....

We went to the Urologist appointment and again with the reaction! Jackson told this doctor all about his broken marbles. This doctor was concerned there may be a hematoma that was blocking blood flow and so he ordered an ultrasound.

Jackson was a total champ during the ultrasound and he and the ultrasound tech had a great talk about marbles and basketball. (Again, HUH??!!!)

To sum up this crazy story, Jackson has a hematoma in one of his marbles, but this should heal on its own. The ultrasound showed good blood flow, no constrictions and no permanent damage. The doctor said this is a case where it definitely looks a LOT worse than it actually is. Thank goodness.

Lessons from today:

Having boys is not for the weary my friends.

Oh and be sure to protect your marbles.

Skiing is hard, or I'm just Old.

2011-02-14T16:39:00.001-06:00

As mentioned in the previous post...we returned home from skiing this past Wednesday evening. To prepare Jackson for skiing, Renzi showed him videos on You Tube of skiiers. He took diligent notes.

We had the amazing opportunity to stay at our brother-in-law's Aunt and Uncle's condo in Bachelors Gulch. It was beautfiul and perfect. We had such a great time getting to hang out with Aunt Ginny and Uncle Dave!

We enrolled Jackson in ski school for Sunday, but decided to hold off on scheduling him for the next day in case for some reason he didn't like skiing. Who are we kidding? The kid LOVED skiing. Here he is getting fitted for his ski boots.

Jackson was a champ and a natural. Out of the 22 kids in his ski school class, 18 of them were full out crying everytime we stopped by to see them ski. Jackson was just his laid back self and he was whizzing on down the little bunny slope. He only wanted to "french fry." No "pizza wedge" here. He even told the teacher at one point that he didn't want to practice stopping, he just wanted to go fast!

I, on the other hand, came to the conclusion early on that skiing is not as easy as it used to be. The last time I had gone skiing was in the 8th grade. My body just did not do what I was telling it to do. On one particular run, Dave and Renzi were ahead of me and I totally went out of control. They said I looked like and 18 wheeler barreling down the mountain looking for an overpass to slow down on. Thanks guys.

But seriously, skiing is hard when you are older! I was so frustrated with it by the end of the second day that I vowed the next time we go skiing I will go "spa-ing." Yeah, that sounds more like it. Ahhhhhh......!!!!!!!!!!!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Worst Mom Ever.

2011-02-11T08:44:00.000-06:00

I feel like the worst mom ever.

I forgot my son's Valentine's Day party at school.

And I didn't even realize what I had done until he got back in the car and had a sack full of Valentine's from all of his friends. He even told me that his teacher helped him make some Valentine's so he could pass them out to all of his friends.

Break my heart!!!! I immediatley called Renzi and as soon as I heard his voice I started crying telling him what I had forgotten. He, of course, calmed me down and I felt a little better.

You see, I had actually tried to be proactive and I ordered these fabulous Valentine's for Jackson's class from www.whitneyenglish.com BEFORE we went skiing last week (more on skiing later...man, that's going to be a much better post than this one!). I thought I was on top of it and actually patted myself on the back for being so organized (which as we all know I am sooo not an organized person).I had it in my mind that his party was next Tuesday, Feb. 15th. Now that I think about it, why in the world would you have a Valentine's party AFTER Valentine's day?

I blew it.

Oh well. We all make mistakes right? Jackson, being the fabulously wonderful kiddo that he is didn't seem to notice and I will just pack his sweet Valentine's up with some candy for his friends and his teachers and he can pass them out on the 15th.

Lesson from this story. Maybe being organized just isn't my Schtick.

LAS

Coupon Clipping!

2011-02-02T11:51:00.000-06:00

So lately, I have been trying to stick to my monthly budget. I feel like there is so much that we spend on random, *ahem* crap, that I should really pay attention to what I am buying. ESPECIALLY at the grocery store.

I have been trying to pay attention to coupons and clip them out, but what ends up happening is I see a coupon for something that I "think" we need and I end up spending more at the store buying stuff that ends up sitting in my cabinets, or around my house, and never ends up getting used or eaten and I have wasted money.

I saw this post with tips on coupon clipping from "Young House Love," and I just had to share with you guys. It was great!!! Happy Clipping!

http://www.younghouselove.com/2011/02/snip-snip/

I would also like to note that we officially have cabin fever. Thank you.

LAS

"Beiber Fever"and a Birthday

2011-01-31T12:41:00.000-06:00

We had a fun week and weekend here at the Stone house! The weather was BEAUTIFUL so Jackson and I took full advantage and went the park A LOT. Here is a pic of Jackson hanging from the Monkey Bars.

Sidney Kate came over to play one night. We taught her how to get on Facebook and how to "hoop."

It was also Renzi's birthday so Jackson and I made his favorite cookies. "Nicker-a-noodle," as Jackson calls them. Renzi and I went out with some friends on Saturday night to celebrate the big 33. We rented a limo and basically pretended like we were younger than we really are. It was awesome.

And lastly, I have discovered, that Jackson has Beiber Fever. Enjoy the video.

LAS

A letter to my 18 year old self.

2011-01-19T14:57:00.000-06:00

Dear Young Self,

I know you are going to listen to everything I say, because I am the coolest and when you are my age you will want to be just like me. Promise.

Your life will change more in the next 10 years than it probably ever will in your entire life. You will go off to college, move away from Oklahoma and everything you have ever known, marry the love of your life, and have those kiddos you have been dreaming of your whole life. You will have your heart broken, experience unbearable sadness, the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, you will be filled with happiness and will have unbelievable thankfulness for the moments.

I know you are thinking of going out of state for college. Actually, your heart is set on it. But don't. Think Crimson and Cream. By choosing this college, you will help shape the person you are going to be and will give you experiences beyond your wildest dreams. It will also be good to be around your family at this time. They need you.

Enjoy living in the Kappa house. Never again will you live with your closest friends all in one place. Go on long drives and road trips. Stay up late and laugh till you have a six pack. Continue your high school friendships too. Remember when Mrs. Ruby told you all in 6th grade that you guys wouldn't be friends when you got to Junior High? Ha! Proved her wrong didn't yall? :)
You will also meet some of your best friends well after college. Be open to new friendships. Some will be the best friendships you will ever have. I say all this because you are going to need these friends when the unthinkable happens when you are 30. Cherish these friendships.

Don't eat Taco Bueno every day. The bean burritos are not, in fact, fat free. Don't go tanning in a tanning bed. Use wrinkle cream now. Oh, and Vodka is always a bad idea.

Be present. Life passes you by so much faster than you could ever imagine. Be present in the moments. Each one. You never know if it will be your last time with someone.

Oh...and about that guy. He will swoop in and take your breath away. He will make you laugh harder than you have ever laughed. He will be there for you and challenge you in ways you never knew were possible. Trust him. He loves you more than you could have every imagine being loved. And he will give you the most beautiful babies that were ever born.

Most of all, young self, have fun. Life is short. Enjoy the ride.
Love,
Old Self.

I Carry Your Heart

2011-01-14T08:26:00.000-06:00

I woke up this morning with this poem on my mind. It was read at our wedding by my sweet, beautiful, precious cousin Christie and I have always loved this poem. So, I thought I would share it with all of you! I also found these pictures while looking through my computer last night, some from when Jackson was just a wee babe, some of Isaiah, and some of my love!

I Carry Your Heart

By E.E. Cummings

i carry your heart with me, i carry it in
my heart.

i am never without it, anywhere
i go you go, my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing, my darling.

i fear no fate for you are my fate, my sweet.

i want no world for beautiful you are my world, my true.
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide,
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart.

i carry your heart, i carry it in my heart.

Have a fabulous Friday my friends!

LAS

Cade Davis and Nathan Hair

2011-01-10T13:28:00.000-06:00

Jackson's hair has been getting really long for a while. Actually, his hair is always a little long. He has been getting hair cuts since he was 9 months old, and it seems like we always are back in the barber chair at least once every six weeks.

Usually I just have the barber trim up his hair cause I like it a little on the long side. I like to push his hair behind his ear and his hair to the side when he snuggles with me. But let's face it, he's almost three and a half years old. There is not a whole lot of snuggling going on with me anymore. He's "too cool" for that!

So, this past Thursday, Jackson came home from school telling me that his friend Nathan had "new hair." It was spiky and had gel in it. He wanted hair like Nathan and like Cade Davis on the OU Basketball team. Spiky with gel in it Mom!

Saturday we took him to get his hair cut. Here is the before and the after. And yes, I do realize that he is STILL in his Thunder jersey. The kid will not take it off. I actually was able to wash it once this past week. But that's it.

How we did...

2011-01-06T16:21:00.001-06:00

So, I bet you are wondering how we ended up on the whole "cleanse" thing huh?

Well. I have three words for you. It is OVER!

Shout it from the rooftops! The cleanse is over!

We ended our cleanse last night with a lovely dinner out on the town. I tried to be aware that I needed to watch it and not go nuts. But my poor, dear husband literally "went to town" on his meal and came home with a tummy ache. Poor guy. :)

What did I learn from the cleanse? Well, probably, that it wasn't the smartest thing we have ever done. That I am, in fact, addicted to caffeine. And that food (or lack thereof) defiantly affects my mood, attitude, etc. Oh and I also learned that my dear friend Emily Sue is right. Cleanses are stupid. She pleaded with me to eat something after she read my blogpost. Dietiticians know best people. Seriously. They really do.

I am proud of us for doing this and it also made me realize that we for sure need more fruits and veggies in our daily diet. Now, if you will excuse me, I have a pizza party to get to. And I couldn't be more excited!!!! About the pizza. ;)

I leave you today with pictures of my babe and his new (late!) present from Santa. You see, all Jackson asked for, for Christmas was a Thunder jersey, but poor Santa couldn't find any, ANYWHERE in his size. So, instead, Santa sent a note to Jackson with some money telling him to have his mom take him to the Thunder Store and buy a jersey after Christmas. We did just that on Tuesday after his nap. And he hasn't taken it off since. Precious boy!

Thunder up!

LAS

3 Day Cleanse

2011-01-04T16:48:00.000-06:00

Ok. Forget the blogging for 30 days idea. I clearly am already behind on this idea, so I will just go back to blogging to whatever is going on with us.

So...here is what is going on with us....

Renzi and I are on Day 2 of a 3 Day Cleanse.

And I am starving. Seriously STARVING.

After a month of eating and drinking everything in sight, I decided we needed to jump start our healthy eating and do a cleanse. Not the Master Cleanse, but a modified one. I went to Bethenny Frankel's website (www.bethenny.com) and she had a lovely 3 day cleanse on her website and I decided this was a WONDERFUL idea. 3 days! I can do that! That's nothing! Right!!???

WRONG.

You see, this little cleanse we are doing consists of this concoction pictured above mixed with water. 64 oz of water. No alcohol, no caffeine, no dairy, no carbs. You can however, eat fruits and vegetables if you are really hungry. Or drink vegetable broth.

Last night, I literally felt like I was withering away. So I went to bed early with a massive headache. The headache I am sure is from the massive amounts of caffeine that I normally drink during the day did not get consumed yesterday.

I woke up actually feeling much better than I did yesterday. So, I did the smartest thing. Which was go to my little bootcamp workout class. I seriously almost didn't make it through.

My poor sweet husband, who usually goes along with most anything I say, agreed to do this with me. I just got off the phone with him and we are both at our breaking points. Last night while Jackson was eating dinner (mac n cheese, celery, blueberries and pears), Renzi and I were literally watching him take every bite. I thought at one point both of us were going to steal his plate from him and scarf it down.

So hungry! Need red meat! Need milk! Everytime I drive past a restaurant all I can think of is exactly what I would order at each restaurant. I just want to drive to Ted's and put a straw in some queso. Or go to Taco Bueno and order 97 bean burritos.

But, we shall press on. Neither one of us are good at quitting anything. Maybe because we are both so stubborn.

Stay tuned to find out if we make it to the 3rd day of our "cleanse."

Seriously still starving,

Lee Anne

P.S. I would like to give a shout out to Taylor, who I work with. She did the Master Cleanse for 10 days and has done it before. She didn't break down. She is a machine. When I sent her a message last night to let her know that I was still hungry she said she was eating Chick-Fil-A. Thanks Taylor. :)

16 Random Things About Me

2011-01-02T21:41:00.000-06:00

Ok...I am going to 'try' to do this whole 30 days of blogging that I have been seeing on a lot of people's blogs....so here goes with Day 1....without further adieu I present to you...16 RANDOM facts about me. Really and truly. These are RANDOM.

1. My first name is Lee and my middle name is Anne. I was named after my paternal grandfather (Buddy Lee Young and my dad Gary Lee Young...and after my maternal grandmother Anne T. Jones). We named our second son Isaiah Lee.

2. I am allergic to Mastesol. What is this you ask? It is the glue that the doctors use when you have a C-Section to help close up your incision. How did I find this out? When I had my first baby and didn't get to leave the hospital for 6 days AFTER I had Jackson. I woke up on the second day to a blistering, weeping rash and the nurses kept running in and out of my hospital room saying things like, "hmm, never seen this before." and "don't worry, Lee Anne, we are googling it on our computers trying to figure out what exactly is wrong with you."

3. I have crazy funny things happen to me every day. Today, for example, we were at Whole Foods in Tulsa. In the time span that we were there (one hour), I forgot my wallet in the car AFTER we had been through the check out line; slipped on something wet on the floor and fell flat on my bootay, Jackson was playing with my credit card and somehow slipped it through a glass case of food and my credit card was swimming in something called, "Cabbage Crunch." The employees of Whole Foods had to literally fish it out with some tongs; I took Jackson to the bathroom and he yelled out loud for all to hear while he was going potty, "Mommy, you don't have a penis, do you?"; and then while I was looking for Jackson's Chocolate Milk in the back of the car and was sifting through all of the bags with my bootay in the air for all to see, I slipped on something in the back of the car and fell out. Yes, I fell OUT of my car.

4. I met King Abdullah of Jordan this year with my family. We were in Amman, Jordan this summer and he came right over to Jackson, stooped down to him and shook his hand. They had a nice chat.

5. I am still amazingly close friends to each of my bridesmaids. It's been almost five years since I got married. I think this is important because I know that there are lots of seasons of life that you go through and sometimes friends come in and out of your life, but these girls and I are still close!

6. I laugh when I get nervous or scared. Seriously start busting out laughing. At totally inappropriate times.

7. I could eat cookie cake every day of my life. And I prefer it cold. Weird. When I was pregnant with Jackson and Isaiah I seriously wanted to eat this and only this. Renzi got me a cookie cake for Valentine's Day and for the next two days I would take a sliver here and a sliver there and before I knew it the cookie cake was gone. That's when I realized that Renzi had had only one slice of the cake. I had eaten the ENTIRE thing myself.

8. I enjoy using the aspirator and getting boogers out of my kids noses. I know it's totally gross, but when they are babies and you get a good booger out and you know they can breathe better, there is no better feeling. I am a weirdo.

9. I am a book-a-holic. And I only want to read actual books. Have a hard time even thinking about getting a "nook" or "Ibooks." I love the turning of the page, hearing the pop of the book spine and the satisfying feeling when you shut a book when you have finished it. Heaven!

10. I eat in my sleep in the middle of the night. Like, bowls of cereal, cookies and milk, peanut butter and milk. I also talk in my sleep. I wake my husband up 5 out of 7 nights a week yelling at him about something. Usually that someone is in the room with us or that there are bugs in our bed. He really enjoys that.

11. I ran a half marathon 3 months ago. Yes, that's a big deal, but....before I decided to run a half marathon I had never run more than one mile at a time. I hated running. Like, with a passion. I always said I was more of a sprinter, since I was the only white girl who ran the 100 meter dash in my brief stint on the track team in Junior High and High School. I say this because if I can run, ANYONE can run. So, get out there and run! :)

12. Addie Wilkerson Burke and I have been best friends since Kindergarten. She came up to me on that first day of school when I was holding my mom's hand and said to my mom, "Don't worry. I've done this before (She was in her second time in kindergarten, go Addie!). She will be fine." And just like that...we have been best friends ever since. I talk to her 97 times a day about nothing and everything. It's awesome.

13. My son Jackson is married. Seriously. He got married to Cali-Kae Peters outside of her house about 6 months ago. Sealed it with a kiss and everything. They announced the marriage to the parents immediately following the ceremony. Thank goodness I like Cali's parents. They are only one of our best couple friends. It's important you get along with your in-laws people!

14. My husband wrote me a note after he saw my picture when I was 19 and he was 21. It said, "I think you are cute. Would you like to meet sometime?" The note had a box for No, a box for Yes and a box for Maybe. At the bottom it said to email him. This was 1999. I quickly went out and got an email address because all I had at the time was our land line in the dorms at OU. Oh and my pager. Can't forget about the pager. Wonder what he would have said if I had emailed him back and said, "Page me."

15. 945 Chautauqua. Best house ever. Best friends ever! We used to drive around in my car all of the time in college. Where were we going? Who knows? What were we doing? Who knows? But we always had a diet dr. pepper with gummy worms in it.

16. I am crazy, wonderfully blessed and am looking forward to 2011. 2010 was so hard but I am hopeful for the future. Happy with the life I have and the family and friends that surround me. Happy with my hubby and my babes. Happy with my memories and for the memories we will continue to make.

Bearable

2010-12-18T09:02:00.000-06:00

This morning as I sit here with my coffee (two sweet-n-lows and pumpkin spice creamer), next to the fire as my sweet husband sleeps and my Jackson is in the next room watching "Max and Ruby Christmas," I am having an overwhelming feeling of something.

Gratefulness?

Thankfulness?

Nostalgia?

I'm not quite sure what it is.

All, I know is that there is one feeling totally missing from my normal feelings that I am aware of every day these days. There is still a sadness that is there. I have come to accept that this feeling will always be there. But for some reason this morning, the sadness seems a little more bearable.

I have heard this happens. That when you lose a child that the overwhelming sadness doesn't go away, but one day you wake up and the sadness becomes bearable.

Today just might be that day.

I have come to accept so many things over the last 7 months. So many awful things. But, I have also come to accept many great things as well. I am much more thankful than I used to be. Thankful for the good and thankful for the bad.

I was also thinking about my birthday which is coming up. I was born three days after Christmas. I have actually never thought of it as a hindrance, but a way to keep the party going after Christmas. And then when my birthday ends, I think about how New Years Eve is coming up and that is a way to keep the party going even longer. :)

But, I was thinking about my 30th year....how it was the hardest year of my life. I can see it in my face when I look in the mirror. I can feel it in my bones after a long run or a hard work out at bootcamp. But it also was a year where I grew in ways in my Faith that I never knew possible. I truly relied on God (and still do) to get up in the morning, push through and simply get by hard parts in the day.

As hard as this year has been, I still have hope for this next year and the years to come. And it all came to a head this morning when my sadness became bearable.

So, this morning I would like to thank God for my precious husband who loves me with every fiber of his being. He always has my back and I know sometimes that is hard to do! He is my rock and no one makes me laugh more than he does. My life is so much richer because of him and I am honored to be your wife and the mother of your children. Thank you for loving me for me. Thank you for accepting all of my crazy moments as just that. My crazy moments. Thank you for giving me the most amazing two little boys.

Thank you God for Jackson Stone. This little boy holds my heart in the palm of his hand and I am so in awe that he is my baby. Thank you for his sweet disposition and his empathy for others and for life. I get the biggest kick out of him every day and I know he was placed in my life for a reason. Even though he is just three years old he has taught me more about life and the life I want to continue to lead than any other person has. I love you to pieces!

And lastly, Lord, I thank you for Isaiah Stone. Thank you for the time that I had with him. Thank you for showing me what it means to truly give everything that you have to someone and still want to give more. Thank you for his smiles, his cries, and every breath that he took. You see, I feel like I am the lucky one that I got to know him as long as I did. In 11 months, (actually 9 months in the belly and 11 months outside), I learned just how strong you can be when faced with a challenge greater than yourself. I learned that my greatest life achievement is not the job you have, how much money you will make or where you live, etc. My greatest life achievement is and forever will be being a wife and a mommy.

I hope that everyone has a Happy Holiday season.

Much love to all!

LAS

Busy!

2010-12-14T15:55:00.000-06:00

I have been a horrible blogger as of late. We've just been so dang busy! We have been to so many Holiday parties in the last two weeks that it makes me head spin thinking about them. Not complaining, cause I love a good party..but man, I am getting too old for staying out till all hours!

Here are some pics of what my baby love has been up to....

He's been to swim lessons, saw the Big Guy, went to the lake and hung out with his buddies, Jack and Bella, and he tatted himself up.

And lots and lots of other fun things, but I don't have time to tell you about all of them because I have to go get ready for yet another party. This one is at our house and it is for the wonderful Saxum team! I fell in the pool earlier while trying to clean it so that added a little extra to my plate for today. I am still cold.

LOVE!

LAS

The Band Perry - If I Die Young

2010-12-02T23:31:00.000-06:00

My new favorite band...I am in LOVE with this song. Hope you guys like it too!

LAS

Fun times!

2010-11-29T15:48:00.000-06:00

What craziness this past week has been! But what fun we have had! Here are some pics of some of the things we have been up to:

Jackson and his dad played a little Golden Tee....what form!

Jackson just "hanging out" at OU basketball practice with his cousins and his dad. He even got a lift from current OU player Cade Davis (who is now officially Jackson's favorite person this week.)

Mommy got in on the action playing a little one on one with my little man! He totally schooled me.

We went to visit Isaiah's Memorial and to give thanks for the time we had with him.

When asked what he was most thankful for this Thanksgiving, Jackson always replied, "For Isaiah." Totally unpromped. Total tearjerker. Everytime. Love my sweet boy!

We also went to Unpluggits to Cali-Kae's 4th birthday party. Jackson LOVES to paint!

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving in Clinton, OK with my grandparents and extended family. It was so good to all be together this year and to truely feel in our hearts how thankful we really are for eachother.

After we left Clinton, we headed to the lake for a fabulously wonderfuly relaxing weekend. Renzi, Jackson and I had such a good time taking walks, watching movies, fishing, eating and even laying in the hammock and reading. We are headed there again this weekend for our lake family Thanksgiving with the Nighs', Regans' and Stems.' I can't wait to get all of the munchkins together again!

Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving and an even better week ahead!

LAS

Spirit of Gratitude

2010-11-22T13:29:00.000-06:00

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in ALL circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16

Sometimes life does not go the way you had planned. Things happen, people change, people pass on.

I do not believe that God wants bad things to happen to us. I think it is how we handle these bad things that truly help mold who we are and who God wants us to be.

Each day when we wake up we have a choice about our attitude for that day. You can choose to live in a spirit of Thanksgiving in every season of life. You can give thanks for what you have received, but also for what you have NOT received. You can choose to live in a spirit of gratitude.

Living in a spirit of gratitude comes when:
(1) You recognize what you have already received.
-Are you in good health? Do you have a warm house and food on the table? Do you have friends and/or family that give you love?

(2) You bless another, in good times and in bad.
-Helping another will warm your heart in ways you never knew possible. When you are down in spirit, help another. It will surely help to show you that you have much to be thankful for.

(3) You give up anger about life and the way things are, or anger at another.
-To truly let go of ill will or anger about something or someone will give your heart and spirit the peace you are looking for in life. Forgiveness.

This is what our sermon was about at St. Luke's yesterday and it really spoke volumes to me. This Thanksgiving, ask yourself, "What do you need to lay down your strength for the journey?" "How can YOU live in a spirit of gratitude?"

LAS

Six Months

2010-11-17T12:58:00.000-06:00

How has it been six months already? In some ways, I feel like it was just yesterday and in other ways it feels like a lifetime ago.

So much has changed in our lives, but one thing remains constant. God is good. All the time. And his understanding, no one can fathom.

While dilly dallying around on the computer last night I came across this.

The Old Testament prophetic book of Isaiah, with its 66 chapters, is a microcosm of the whole Bible with its 66 books. There is a definite, direct, one-to-one correspondence between each chapter of Isaiah and each book of the Bible. This is an amazing, if indirect, proof, of the sovereignty of God and the superintendence of His Spirit over the whole of Scripture.

Renzi and I struggled with finding a name for Isaiah. We couldn't agree on anything and nothing sound "right." When taking on the task of "Reading the Bible in 90 Days," we came upon the book of Isaiah and felt this overwhelming urge that THIS was the name of our son. How amazing that the verses that have helped us through this difficult time have been from the book of ISAIAH!

How amazing that I found this website last night on the eve of the six month anniversary since Isaiah passed away.

http://www.bibleprophecy.net/isaiah/

I think God knew I may have a little bit of trouble today so that is why he put this website in my path last night. I have read through it many times today and am reminded again that our God has sovereign plans for each of us. It is so hard, but I believe Isaiah's death has to be a blessing for the quality of his life had become unbearable for him. My firm belief is that he is now at peace and we can rejoice in the fact that there is a Heaven and he is now in it.

If you have a moment, I encourage you to go to this website and then read the book of Isaiah. My hope is that you find it as inspiring as I do.

At each of our meals we say a short little prayer and at the end Jackson always chimes in with, "And God Bless Zayah." So, today, I say Thank you Lord for blessing me with both of my babies and in the words of my Jackson, "God Bless Zayah!!!"

We miss you every day.

Lee Anne

Jack-son channeling Daniel-son

2010-11-12T19:30:00.000-06:00

As a child of the 80's, it was my duty and responsibility to introduce Jackson to The Karate Kid. Enjoy the best one minute, twenty-five seconds of your week.

Just when I think he can't get any cuter....

2010-11-12T12:52:00.001-06:00

Beth Jansen takes THIS picture.

http://www.bethjansenphotography.com/blog/tgif-photo-of-the-day-oklahoma-city-childrens-photography/

And I am blown away by his never ending cuteness!

Red Dirt Chronicles

2010-11-11T19:01:00.000-06:00

We were "mentioned"today in a wonderful blog called The Red Dirt Chronicles. Here is a little bit about the blog....

The Red Dirt Chronicles (RDC) was born summer, 2010. If you’re saying to yourself, “Hey – that’s, um, recently?!” then your reaction is a positive sign you are of sound mind. Well, it’s at least one sign, anyway. The project is comprised of contributors who love Oklahoma and have a little Red Dirt running through their veins.

Our mission is simple – we wish to capture and document Red Dirt culture, both literally and metaphorically. Connections to the state of Oklahoma are a mandatory requirement for our contributors; having lived here, or currently being a resident is a necessity.

http://reddirtchronicles.com/2010/11/11/chicken-soup-for-the-blogaholic’s-soul/

So humbled that Kendy Cox (one of the contributors to this blog) takes the time to read the blog and encourage us! If you get a chance, click on over to www.reddirtchronicles.com Kendy is a FANTASTIC writer and her blogs are wonderfully well written and about the happenings in her life and our great state!

Thanks for reading!

Lee Anne

Under House Arrest

2010-11-07T11:53:00.000-06:00

Well, we survived the sickness here at the Stone house and all seems to be back to normal. It was a little tricky as Jackson started to feel better (but wasn't quite back to his normal, fever free self) and he wanted to get out and do things. Instead, I found many different ways to keep him occupied at home!

Last week I took advantage of the after Halloween sales at Target and purchased four different costumes for Jackson to have around our house to dress up. Here are two pics of him as Iron Man and a policeman. Each costume was $3.99 and provided lots of hours of pretend play fun. Except when Jackson kept trying to "arrest" me over and over again.

Something else I wanted to share is our new favorite meal at our house. We actually got the idea over at our friends The Peters' house a few weeks back and decided to give it a try at our house. Its a great way for Jackson to get involved in cooking and make it a healthy meal at that! The meal is....Grilled Pizza!!!

Here is what you do.

Buy whole wheat pizza dough, you can get it at Target in the cold section near the eggs and other bisquits. Spread the dough out on a cookie sheet and place in your outside grill for five minutes. Bring the dough back inside. This is where you kiddo can start to help!

In a bowl, mix EVOO with spices. I used salt, pepper, garlic and oregano. Stir it up and get a baster out and use it to spread the EVOO mixture all over the pizza dough. I let Jackson do this because it was like he was painting the pizza. Then in a couple of other bowls put your favorite pizza toppings in them. I let Jackson pick what he wanted on his pizza. He chose cheese, banana peppers and turkey pepperoni. (We used low fat cheese too!). He spread it out all over his pizza in any way that he wanted to.

Then I took the pizzas back out to the grill and let them cook for 6 or 7 more minutes. And VOILA! Grilled Pizza!

I posted some pics of the process of making the pizza so you can see how it looked and how proud Jackson was to be able to help mommy cook.

Happy Sunday!

Lee Anne

Saddest Face Ever.

2010-11-04T16:39:00.001-05:00

Is this not the saddest face that you ever did see? Jackson woke up in the wee hours of Wednesday morning with a terribly high fever and we just couldn't seem to get it to break. It was a steady 104.5 (and this was using my forehead thermometer!). All he wanted to do was lay in my lap and have me carry him everywhere (including carrying him to the potty!). I made an appointment with our pediatrician Wed. morning and we did a strep test and flu test which all came back negative. He then sent us over to Mercy to get an X-Ray of Jackson's chest because he didn't like the way his lungs sounded and he was concerned with the possibility that Jackson might have pneumonia!

After traipsing all over Mercy Hospital carrying a 35 pound, burning up 3 year old, we got word that it was not pneumonia but just a nasty virus. He has had a fever on and off now for 36 hours, but thankfully the fever is just 101 degrees and not 104! As sad as it is having him be so sick, I am cherishing all of the snuggle time we are getting together. I don't think Jackson has sat in my lap this much since he was 6 months old.

Oh and I can't get him to stop eating pickles. Seriously. The kid has eaten like 7 pickles today and about 10 yesterday. Pickles are vegetables right?

Baby Momma

To Infiniti and Beyond!

2010-11-01T10:34:00.001-05:00

What a fun and blessed week we had at our house this week. Halloween is such a fun time and we took full advantage this week to wear ourselves out. :) Jackson and I went on a date to the first Thunder game Wednesday night and had a ball. Jackson knows all of the players and calls them by name when they shoot or steal the ball. He also likes to yell out, "Mom! It's my song!" when different songs come on during the game. The funniest one was when it was "Sir Mix Alot, I Like Big Butts." Nothing like a 3 year old yelling at the top of his lungs when that song comes on , "Hey mom! It's my song!"

On Thursday, Jackson got to wear his Halloween costume to school (He was Buzz Lightyear) and he was so pumped! He came home telling me all about the boys costumes in his class. He knew what each of his buddies costumes were but when I asked him what the girls were he replied, "Hmm, I don't know Mom. They are girls!"

That night we went to Cal Furnish's birthday party and Jackson (and mom and dad!) had a ball. Jackson ran straight into their glass door as we were walking in which resulted in numerous bloody noses for the rest of the evening. Have no fear because he just wiped it on his Buzz costume. When we went home I decided to wash his costume and as I was reading the wash instructions, this is what it said, "Do not machine wash. Do not dry clean. Hand wash only. Do not machine dry. Do not line dry." WHAT????

Saturday we headed over to the Heskett's for CJ Heskett's first birthday party. It was a costume party that everyone was required to dress up for. This is actually the first time Renzi and I had ever dressed up together and I think we make a pretty cute Jessie and Woody. Thanks for being such a good sport honey. Even when I made you wear the Woody bodysuit you never complained. Ha!!!!

All in all, so much fun was had by all of us and we can't wait for next year's Halloween. :)

Sincerley in a Sugar Coma,

Lee Anne

The God Box

2010-10-27T22:40:00.000-05:00

I read this great article in November's Real Simple Magazine that really got me thinking....it was about a mom who started a "God Box." Apparently, this mom was one of those people who people just wanted to talk to about their problems, joys or concerns. She was so openly sympathetic that just about everyone instantly confided in her. And she, in turn, cared so deeply about others, even complete strangers, and she would take all of their joys and problems to heart and mull over them for days.

That's when her friend suggested she put her list of cares into a box. And just like that, the God Box was born.

From then on, when someone shared a concern with this woman, she would say optimistcally, "I'll put in the God Box." The simple act of writing down the wish and relinquishing control to a higher power was her way to help others, and relieve her own mind.

I found this article very interesting in that these days I feel like I am trying to pray for others as I see them or think about them, but the prayer never really feels "finished, " for some reason. I am going to make my own God Box and actually write down on a scrap of paper when I think of someone I want to pray for or a specific prayer for someone. Then, I can go back through the box at a later date and think back on the prayers and check back on anyone I may have forgotten in the hustle and bustle of life.

God is so good and is constantly challenging me to find ways to get closer to him. I think the God Box will be another way for me to do just that.

Cheers!

Lee Anne

We made it back!

2010-10-25T14:27:00.000-05:00

We made it back! Here are some pics from our time away....

Yes. That's a funnel cake tree.

Yes. I have more make up on than is probably allowed. I was too tired from our previous night and didn't want to do my hair or makeup myself. So I did what all of you would do. I went to the salon at our hotel and had them do it. This resulted in fake eyelashes and lots of eye make up. That night, I forgot I had them on so I woke up and thought there were spider webs in my eyes. True story.

Yes. My husband is hot.

Vegas!

2010-10-20T13:37:00.000-05:00

We leave tomorrow for a Mommy-Daddy trip to Vegas with these guys (see above). The bottom pic is of Casi and I the last time we went to Vegas. The pic above that is of Renzi and I the last time we were in Vegas (same trip). Ironically, these are the only two pics we took the ENTIRE time we were there. The top pic is of JW and Renzi on their 30th birthday. Can you believe that is the ONLY pic of them I could find on my computer??? Oh and my hair is sooo short in these pics...I am currently on a mission to see just how long I can get my hair. It's pretty long right now and I am loving it. I am NOT loving the grey hairs I have found since my hair is longer, but don't worry, I have taken care of that with some highlights (shout out to Kristin Pfenninger!). OMG. This post has now become a ramble. I think I need a vacation STAT.

I told Renzi I had three goals for this trip. (1) Eat good food. (2) Drink good wine. (3) Have fun. I think we can safely say we WILL accomplish these goals before Sunday when we return home.

I will miss my baby love TERRIBLY while we are gone, but know how important it is that Renzi and I spend time together sans kiddos. Very refreshing and great for your marriage.

So....until we return from LV....

Cheers!

LAS

Baby Momma

2010-10-12T18:06:00.000-05:00

Oh Jackson Stone. You make me laugh out loud all day long. How absolutely blessed I am to be your "baby momma." (By the way, who taught him to say this?? Seriously? And in the right context??????)

Here are some pics of my baby love and me at the pumpkin patch in SW Missouri. We went to the lake this weekend and headed to this pumpkin patch right at the Missouri border 8 miles from Grove, OK. We actually went last year and Renzi and I remember this being one of our best days with Jackson and Isaiah, so we were eager to get back and create another good memory from this most spectacular pumpkin patch. We all had a blast and enjoyed spending time together.

Other notes from the weekend? Oh when Jackson shouted out at the top of his lungs, "Momma, you CRAZY!!!!" You can guarantee that "baby daddy" got a BIG kick out of that one!

Oh and check out the other pic of my love playing his guitar. Ladies, look out I've got a rock star on my hands!

Cheers!

Lee Anne

Post from Renzi

2010-10-11T10:22:00.000-05:00

The alarm goes off most mornings at 5:24 a.m. The rest I had yearned for over the past year returned rather easily, as if nothing happened. I usually wake up a few minutes before my alarm, my body rested and my mind racing. I 'm ready for another challenging week. Today, it was 4:50 a.m. I could have arisen, but I just laid there in the silence. This is when I do my best praying, as I passively listen to the gentle sounds of Lee Anne's breathing. Actually, this morning there were the faint sounds of two as Jackson had snuck into our bed in the middle of the night. His little toes fit perfectly into the small of my back where he occasionally kicks me as he adjusts his position. I don't really mind it.

It is another Monday morning. Exactly twenty-one weeks since Isaiah died. It still hurts like you know what. Since our crazy roller coaster ended in May, we have gotten back into somewhat of a routine. Knowing what to expect is one of the things that we humans need. Lee Anne and I never knew what each day brought with Isaiah, but here we are twenty-one weeks later and I could tell you my entire day, week and remainder of month. Seriously, I know where I'll be each day and weekend until Thanksgiving. Routine. People need one. Routine gives us comfort.

Part of my morning routine is to make a caauccino from our Jura Capresso F9 coffee maker. It is a positive, daily reminder of Isaiah-the nearly four figure coffee maker that we bought so we "could have a great cup of coffee if we were going to be up all night." It is worth it. I took my first sip of the freshly ground espresso with hot steamed milk and one sweet-and-low and headed back to my home office.

Maybe I'll read Lee Anne's blog this morning, I thought. Isaiah was always on my mind on Monday mornings. As I pulled open the browser, I got a good laugh out of her "Organized Sports" post about Jackson's first soccer game. I scrolled down the page to previous posts. I knew a recent post was about Isaiah, but I had not had the stomach to read it. Until now. The "Missing Him" post had elicited quite a response from readers. It made me cry-nothing like crying before 6:00 a.m.- and inspired me to write this post. I finished my now warm-coffee and started typing.

Most of you know this by now, but Lee Anne is a special gal. She is incredibly strong, but we both still have our moments of pain, like yesterday on the way back from the lake when we got into a heated discussion about whether Isaiah's condition was "extremely complicated." No doctor had ever used that word and she wanted to know "why," especially since it ended they way it did. Our docs did a great job and were all positive with us the entire time, even when we asked for "worst case" scenarios. I told her that I did not think "why" was a good question for us anymore. "Why" is elusive-and unfair- and unanswerable. "Why" sucks.

My head began to clear as the caffeine did its job. I though about Isaiah's life, our life, Jackson and whether we would have other children. I thought about grace. I thought about our priorities. I thought about the progress we have made since May. I thought about the pain and then I focused on the positives. The empty-feeling heartaches are never far away from me, but I'm putting distance between them every day.

The key is to pull the good moments even closer. I need another cappuccino.

Renzi