The Pfaff Pfour

Mom's 75th

2011-08-15T22:56:00.002-05:00

Happy 75th Birthday, Mom!

We love you.

Tears of Joy

2011-08-09T23:55:00.005-05:00

This, my friends, is one happy family!

I was overwhelmed with emotion as I read my baby sister's blog this evening. My smile was Grinch big as I viewed these pictures. Bitter sweet though as "E" gets so big so FAST!! I am so thankful for the weekend we spent with her...way back when...but am so sad that she is growing up not really knowing Aunt Kimmy & Uncle Mike and pfaff cousins.

How I wish 1100 miles did not seperate us!

Counting the days until we see you this fall, E!!

Until then, store up on some hugs and kisses for us!

Bonhoeffer

2011-07-23T22:20:00.002-05:00

I just read a book about this incredible man. German theologian in the 1930's and 40's. Ended up being executed by Hitler. This is part of a sermon he preached. Oh, to have this faith...

No one has yet believed in God and the kingdom of God, no one has yet heard about the realm of the resurrected, and not been homesick from that hour, waiting and looking forward joyfully to being released from bodily existence.

Whether we are young or old makes no difference. What are twenty or thirty or fifty years in the sight of God? And which of us knows how near he or she may already be to the goal? That life only really begins when it ends here on earth, that all that is here is only the prologue before the curtain goes up-that is for young and old alike to think about. Why are we so afraid when we think about death?

Death is only dreadful for those who live in dread and fear of it. Death is not wild and terrible, if only we can be still and hold fast to God’s Word. Death is not bitter, if we have not become bitter ourselves. Death is grace, the greatest gift of grace that God gives to people who believe in Him. Death is mild, death is sweet and gentle; it beckons to us with heavenly power, if only we realize that it is the gateway to our homeland, the tabernacle of joy, the everlasting kingdom of peace.

How do we know that dying is so dreadful? Who knows whether, in our human fear and anguish we are only shivering and shuddering at the most glorious, heavenly, blessed event in the world?

Death is hell and night and cold, if it is not transformed by our faith. But that is just what is so marvelous, that we can transform death.

Happy Fathers Day

2011-06-19T14:38:00.001-05:00

I was listening to sports talk radio the other day after Jim Tressel resigned (Ohio State football coach who knew about various wrongdoing by his players yet kept quiet). The caller said, “What kind of parent turns in his own kids” (referring to Tressel’s relationship to his players). The host said, “What kind of parent doesn’t!” That is a perfect precursor to my Father’s Day blog (which could also be a Mother’s Day blog).

I remember to this day when my mom found out I had taken a candy bar from Smith’s Food King in Los Alamitos while I was shopping with her. I was ashamed, it was wrong. But that wasn’t enough, my mom took me back up to the store to pay for the candy bar and apologize to the manager. This was no easy feat when you consider I was one of 5 kids who had to be lugged back up there. Obviously, this made a huge impression on me. She didn’t do it because she wanted me to get into trouble, I was already there; she did it to show me the consequence of my action, the way to do the right thing and the power of forgiveness. My folks were very good at that.

The best words of advice my dad ever gave me were, “Don’t be stupid”. Sounds kind of odd, but it was perfect. After all the time he spent showing us how to do the right thing and how to make good decisions, when we would go out with friends in high school or college or out on a date, those were his words. He knew he had instilled in us the ability to tell right from wrong, good decisions from bad, smart from stupid. A two hour fire and brimstone speech could not have been any more effective because those three words were backed up by a lifetime of hard work, Indian Guide campouts, family vacations, baseball coaching, church involvement and dedication to family that were the culmination of doing the right thing, making good decisions and being smart. Putting family first. He never said, “Be like me”, he is much too humble for that, but that is what I heard every time he said, “Don’t be stupid”.

I love you Dad, Happy Fathers Day!!

2011-06-12T02:18:00.002-05:00

"Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.

Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created and you shall revew the face of the Earth."

Happy Pentecost

SWEET 16!

2011-05-31T21:49:00.006-05:00

Photo by: David Leaser

Kindergarten Graduation

First Grader!

Sixteen years ago today Mike and I became two for two in God's gift of creating boys! The joy that entered our lives on this day can not effectively be put into words. By far it will go down as one of Tod's proudest days. He so lovingly took baby brother, Craig..named chosen by HIM, into his arms minutes after delivery...and has cherished his brotherhood/friendship ever since. For us, Craig was such reward. Just using the word "reward" seems strange in context...but if you know Mike and I well, you get it. Much time.....five long years to be exact.....were spent attempting to figure this balance of marriage and parenting out after Tod's birth. We still don't have that down but God gave us Craig at such a perfect time! Happy baby...a little older and wiser parents...and a big brother who had prayed and prayed for a baby brother!! How blessed we are!

Craig, you have given more to us than we could ever thank you for. Your tenderness, compassion, empathy, and determination are qualities that will enable you to SOAR through this gifted life. To say we are proud of the man you are becoming is such an UNDERSTATEMENT. From your academic successes at Jesuit, your determination to achieve EAGLE, your loyalty to friends, your determination to make the basketball team, and your unconditional love towards ALL of God's creations....put that together with all of the character traits you have... and WOW, what a winning combination. We pray, son, that you continue to give God the glory for all of these gifts, and always reach out for His hand to guide you as you become a Man for Others.

We love you, Craig-o, more than you know!

Happy 16th Birthday!

You + Tod + AAC + Dallas Mavericks in Finals =

F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S way to spend your birthday night!

Baseball

2011-05-14T10:39:00.002-05:00

I love baseball. Been coaching it for about 15 years at various youth levels and always love it. We've got the 2 youngest still playing, both are very good and hopefully will keep playing and having fun for years. An added bonus this year is that I am able to coach T-ball with 2 of my brothers. Reed is playing with Ian (John's son) and Christian and Patrick (Steve's sons). It has been a great experience to have them all on the same team (Our folks love it because they can see about 9 grandkids at 1 T-ball game). Cole is on the Lugnuts and continues to amaze. Diving from his shortstop position to his left, fielding the ground ball from is knees, rolling over, popping up and throwing a dart to first for the out. Immediately after letting a slow roller go right through his legs. (ed. note: In case he reads this I don't want him to get a big head.)

Our T-ball team, the Dodgers, is pretty good. We hit well and field pretty well and have a record of 7-1-2, but the best part is that every player (14 kids) has played every position. Our coaches are proud of that because we keep all of the kids engaged. Which leads to the reason for this post.... This week I had to attend a T-Ball coaches meeting to discuss rules and player rotation. T-BALL!!

Apparently some of the coaches were leaving the same kids in the infield for the entire game and some others did not play infield at all! Some coaches were changing the rules in the middle of the game or adding things to give their team an advantage. Makes me scratch my head. Personally, being the manager of a 1st place T-ball team is not on my bucket list. It's much nicer to have a kid run up to you in a restaurant 2 years after you coached him, give you a big hug and say "Hi Coach!". Those little guys don't remember who won or lost, they remember that they had fun and got a game ball for making a great catch. I'm not the greatest coach in the world, and I make plenty of mistakes, but at least I remember that T-ball is for the kids. Doesn't seem like a hard concept to grasp.

Good Friday

2011-04-22T07:23:00.003-05:00

photo by krj

"Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam Inque Hominum Salutem"

for the greater glory of God and the salvation of humanity

2011-04-21T18:19:00.002-05:00

May we all wash one another's feet...not only with our words, but most especially through our deeds.

~Happy Holy Thursday

COLE JACKSON

2011-04-10T13:37:00.003-05:00

...real men wear pink! aunt ann would be proud!

whether it's a stick, glove, or ball in his possession... his motives are crystal clear...

BACK OFF, HE'LL TAKE YOU ON!

Cole, watching you play is one of our greatest joys.

We pray you continue to give all the glory and praise to God for His blessings.

twenty-one!

2011-03-22T21:03:00.007-05:00

one....

+ twenty =

twenty one!

some of the

BEST OF TOD

sing yourself silly and barney videos
singing "Friends in "SO" Places" at two
watching the Ba-link-its drinking a Coke-a-lella
your nickname...Tod-o...which Scot-o started
"thank you much"
"i love you 40-100, my karen"
your love of movies, music, & clothes
ring master: "Ladies & Gentlemen represent"
power rangers
your anxiety over storms
Rene cutting your hair...you crying it "hurt"...but LOVING the LOOK afterwards
i-tunes
you and Craig crooning "Ain't No Mountain High Enough"
Catholic
guitar playing
"where in the world is carmen sandiego?"
your goldfish Samey, Clark, and Effercet
Jesuit soccer's ranger heart 2 years in a row
laughing with aunt krissy about the private purple circle
kicker
mother-son brunch
miles
LA Tech & UTA
michael bolton's "tine" & tenderness
you telling your kindergarten teacher, mrs. sharp, to "shut up" on the first day
Go Dog Go
you called aunt ann..."auntie em"
"Dorphee" in the Wizard of Oz
Winnie the Pooh & the Honey Tree
ultimate frisbee
being the gander and SCOOP in plays
the RISE school
gemina
the "castle"
F.I.S.H. & NCYC
being a partner in crime at the PINES
busted for beer pong
sig ep tristate
UCLA weekends
your love of family
your near death experience on I-20
coming clean in your sophomore year
you telling grandma she was your hero
george strait's "run"
mustangs, patriots, marlins, warthogs, lions, saints, raiders

we have so much we could lift our glass to, tod. twenty-one years ago you opened our eyes and hearts to a love that was unknown until you. proud is truly an understatment when we reflect on the man you have become. we know God's plans for you are amazing and perfect. we pray you continue to rely on Him, always.

happy 21st, our 1st baby boy.

we love you, son.

Lent

2011-03-08T18:40:00.001-06:00

The best way out is always through.

~Robert Frost

LAX

2011-02-27T10:23:00.007-06:00

Growing up in northeast, I was introduced to Lacrosse early. Back when I was in elementary school, Kar's first love, Mike, played Lacrosse. Karen also kept stats for Arundel High School and Western Maryland's Lacrosse teams. None of us played formally, but Kar's Mike taught us how to catch, throw, and cradle. Thankfully, Lacrosse has made it south! Mike bought sticks for Tod when he was little hoping he would pick it up...which he did, but only to throw against our garage door! Craig, too, caught and threw around...but hoops are his love.

And then came Cole....who was playing around with those same two sticks bought for little Tod...and Cole decided he was going to ask Santa for all the pads. Well, knowing that Cole had been a good boy that year...and we figured Santa would deliver the goods, we thought we would search for a team. Dallas Dueces. They are basically a farm lacrosse program for Jesuit and ESD. Perfect.

All of our boys are sport loving. And, all are talented in very different ways. Cole, uniquely however, is our player. He has the perfect combination of Tod's humbleness, Craig's love and dedication for the game, Mike's talent, and my attitude. We have had the best time watching him move up in this sport. 1st and 2nd grade teams literally learn the sport without the physical contact. 3rd and 4th grade boys work on skills while adding the physical component. I never knew how true the quote was on a t-shirt Aunt Karen bought Cole..."Give Blood...Play Lacrosse"

Cole's team this year is made up of all the best 4th graders, and 5 (I think) 3rd graders.

Yesterday was his first goalie experience. Nerve racking for parent...and player!

We hope he sticks it out with this sport!

Goalie!

Cole and his #1 fan...

Cole playing center middie

my toes are froze, my feet are froze, ....

2011-02-04T11:49:00.009-06:00

My attempt of nature shots like Kricky....

Our street south

North view

home sweet home

crp & me

Lady's attention is on the huge amount of snow falling from the trees while I'm taking this...most of which fell on my head.

Lady & the boys

Georgia and Trapper sure made some beautiful pups.

Although this "SHREK-LIKE" girl darts any given chance, she is the sweetest of dogs...

....not to mention,

beautiful,

just like the snow.

Brrrrrrr.......

2011-02-03T20:27:00.002-06:00

You would think that since school has been cancelled for 4 days here in Irving that Kim would have a minute or two to keep our friends updated on what is going on in our lives.... Unfortunately, she has New Moon keeping her busy.

Spring is just around the corner so soccer, scouts, baseball, drivers ed and lacrosse are what will occupy our evenings and weekends until summer. Let the games begin!!

Big E

2011-01-27T20:07:00.004-06:00

Future Firefighter

Ethan

Together with God, my brother, Brad, and his wife, Dawn, make the most beautiful babies! In fact, I need to post in the future with all of their pictures...all blonde headed-huge blue-eyed kids! All of my nieces and nephews are special, and occupy a unique place in my heart. Ethan, the babiest of the Jackson clan, came with a double portion of special! First, he's the baby. And, "the baby" at the Jackson home growing up occupied a distinguished place in the household and momma's heart, much like the oldest. After all, he was the only boy, and the baby. Unlike his father, E is the fourth, and last, boy of five children ...making him...the baby...and trust me, he is holding up the distinguished place in the home quite well! Second, he looks like Mom. He looked so much like mom, in fact, that it took my breath away the first time I laid eyes on him. God is so good! Mom left us in 2006, and Ethan was born exactly 1 year and 11 days after...looking so much like her. I ache when I think about him not ever having met TaTa personally...but then marvel at how God gifted us with a bit of her... in him.

Happy 4th Birthday Ethan!

my favorite cowboy....

2011-01-22T18:54:00.002-06:00

Down, Set, Hut....

2011-01-22T17:46:00.006-06:00

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL, BASEBALL, SOCCER, ...

The obvious answer to that question, at least in this house, is YES.

Despite Dallas' sorry season, this family remains

GAME ON.

We are ready each and every week. Just look at the t.v.

Months ago, while cleaning, I stopped dead in my tracks because of this site! Helmet to helmet match up for the upcoming week's game. Had to take a picture.

Thanks to Aunt Karen's best-gift-ever, Reed has a collection of all NFL miniture football helmets. Each and every week, no fail, they are arranged according to WHO is playing WHO. Currently on the t.v. are the Jets/Steelers and Packers/Bears helmets. I love it!

Tod took care of arranging the MLB match ups...well, the ones he had HATS for!

And, Tod has gotten us all into the English Premier League Soccer...Tod follows Liverpool, Craig and Cole follow Tottenham....

Number one for my boys are, of course, the Cowboys and Rangers but there are some other favorites:

Redskins, Ravens, Patriots, Colts, Dodgers, Phillies...

I'm thankful for my love-of-sport upbringing...and that God has surrounded me with

SPORT-LOVING MEN.

99 more days until MLB opening day

70 more days until JBA-Jesuit basketball

63 more days until Dodger/Lugnut baseball

30 days until Lacrosse

15 more days until Superbowl 45

Gail

2011-01-17T18:02:00.003-06:00

...she knew me better than i knew myself...she softened my heart...wiped my tears...listened to every detail i was willing to share...accepted me always where i was...was my number one fan at all sporting events...made me laugh harder than anyone...was one of the silliest people i knew...she instilled confidence...taught me to love ALL no matter the baggage...read every single novel aloud to me in high school...played endlessly with all of us...typed every paper i was ever assigned...was the softest place to land...forgave every wrong i ever did or said...rubbed my forehead as i went to sleep...held my hand when i needed it the most...celebrated all holidays to the fullest...her tolerance goes unmatched...she loved my mike like me...she sang...she danced...she prayed...her unconditional love for my father still occupies #1 on my most admirable list...she taught me to forgive and worry...cleaned every dirty anything the best...laughed so hard she wet her pants...she had at least 100 phrases that are still being used and credited as "Mom's" today...she was so proud of her children...absolutely loved being a grandmother...and my list goes on. most of all though, there was not a single moment of my life that i did not know of her love for me.

"So faith, hope, love abide, these three:

but the greatest of these is love."

~Corinthians 13:13

i miss you, mom.

january 17, 2006

NINE years ago today...

2011-01-16T22:17:00.004-06:00

Photo by: David Leaser

Happy 9th Birdthday Cole!

You know what they say about the 3rd time, right?
Third time is a CHARM.
If you look up the meaning of the word charm, you will find this:
"the power of pleasing or attracting, as through personality or beauty"
Without a doubt this absolutely describes Cole to a T.

We are so thankful first and foremost to God for the gift of his life. We thank God, family, friends, and even so many we never met for sustaining us during his beginning days. Without the power of their prayers and a God who answers them, we know that Cole would not be with us today. And, we also know, especially now, that our lives would be "zest-less" without him...for in this boyhouse...

Cole IS the exclamation mark!

six years ago today....

2011-01-03T22:26:00.006-06:00

almost seven years ago mike and i learned i was NOT in menopause. way to much information already i know, but truly an amusing, typical pfaff story. you see, i'd never had a hot flash in my LIFE. and, my mother went through "the change" in her forties...so naturally (thinking that must be hereditary), when my first ever hot flash flushed through my body...i knew. i knew several things actually. one: i was done. two: i was willing to do anything to be done with hot flashes. in one of my trillion "medical" calls to kar, she advised me perfectly. she doubted my own diagnosis ever so slightly because of my age, but honestly, was with me. before we hung up, she flippantly added, "hey kim, the first thing they will ask is if you have done a test." i cut her off adamantly telling her that there was no way i was pregnant. as always she listened, and then finished...do one first so you can say, "i've done a test and it was negative." i complied. plus, kim doesn't turn tests positive. with tod we spent a weeks worth of groceries on those tests...negative. same with craig, and cole. so that morning, i did what i had done so many times before, knowing the results already. all i can say is IF my reaction could have been caught on camera, mike and i would have won funniest home videos...except it would have been in a really sad kinda way. you see, that little test was GLOWING...like lights on a Christmas tree. a first. i knew something else that morning. God was laughing his butt off! He was cracking Himself right up while crumbling my OCD, well thought out, well organized, "plans" for the way our lives were gonna go. i was on my own road...and He threw me right back to Him. it was the only place for me..in those next seconds as i tried to find air...and it was the only place for us in the next 8 weeks of almost silence disbelief...as we tried to make sense of it all. shock is really an understatement. tod almost fell off the chair at the dinner table when we told him...and if we had THAT reaction on video we would be another 10K richer. His disgusted response was: "Do you have ANY idea how OLD I AM?" i still laugh...at 15 you DO think it's all about you...and he was a little slow with his math. He hadn't calculated that his parents would be almost SIXTY when the little tyke graduated from high school!

God had plans for us...this we knew because the Bible tells us so...but we didn't know, if you know what i mean. our fourth blessing would change all of us. first, telling family and friends. amazing response. perhaps because they felt such sympathy for my crying self...OR they were truly afraid of my mental state and went the LIVE STRONG route. either way, it worked. the support and prayers we received from family and friends was absolutely essential and life changing. dr. neal was next. without a doubt he would laugh right along with God. dr. neal loved, and continues to love, giving us a hard time. i started off our appointment with refusals. old age requires certain things that i refused to do...like stick needles through belly buttons...no, no, no. not then, not ever. thankfully, preganancies were all easy for the most part. i always had too much fluid and measured like i was having triplets but other than that they were, thank you God, easy. mike decided early on that he would have his way, finally, in not finding out the sex of the baby. so at each sonogram, which were plentiful due to the fluid issue, we had to explain that we did NOT want to know a thing. dr. neal did write what sex he thought i was carrying on a sheet of paper that he kept in my file...later gave to us...and we kept it hid in the drawer of our bedroom. if i remember correctly, i believe my sister-in-laws looked and knew but that's it. every single delivery nurse on the floor was in our room that morning as we got close to delivery...all because we were OLD, having our FOURTH, and didn't know the sex...

reed and dr. neal

it was the 4th of january, 4th induction, 4th birth...and our 4th son!

birth is one of the holiest of events...a time we truly felt God's powerful presence. the hospital stay was one of the best. the bonding between tod, craig, cole, and baby reed is a memory forever etched on this momma's heart. i remember tod begging us to call him in sick to Jesuit so he could stay with me at the hospital while mike was at work. All three of the boys were such a big help when we came home.

six years later...

Happy 6th Birthday Reeder Joe!

January

2011-01-02T17:59:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year!

So much has occurred since the last post, and I, as always, did a horrible job of catching those moments on camera. Partly because the flash on the wonderful camera that was gifted to us a few years back by Dad decided to not work! Lame excuse, I know. Christmas vacation, for the Mustangs in the family, was fast and way too short...8 days! It was, however, a great time with family. We worshipped, baked, sang, ate, opened gifts, and slept in! Our Christmas Eve service was absolutely PERFECT. Cole played the part of Joseph, and Reed played the part of the angel Gabriel. They both were perfectly cast. During rehersal, Reed did, though, give us a little scare...while taking a quick restroom break he told Dad he had to hurry back to the manger scene. When Mike asked why, he told him, "I've got to tell Mary, "You're CUUUUTTTEE."" Yikes. Thankfully he chose not to share. :) We do have it on video...and I will get that loaded sometime. I just need to learn how.

January is filled with celebration for the Pfaff pfamily. We have 10 birthdays (+ 4 friends birthdays), 2 Happy Heaven Days, and one anniversary! Milestones this year...Tod will turn 21 in March, and Craig-o will be SWEET 16!! We have so much to be thankful for.

I vow to be better in 2011...with everything.

Tradition....

2010-12-11T08:12:00.020-06:00

View from the road.

The house for the weekend.

Rental car license plate....

Let the drinking, and other things, begin....

Pfaff's CA home

6men total...but 4 brothers....

the beach...

This picture brought tears to my eyes...I will never forget the day that Tod held Eric for the first time seventeen years ago. He was three.

Best friends...even today.

Heaven on earth...to the pfaff want-a-bes.

Pre-game

Paul and Eric

like father, like son

The group of older men (aka US pfaffs) in the above pictures are the most loyal WANT-A-BE s I have ever met. Their blood runs blue and yellow, and, ironically, they are all bear-like... some teddy, some grizzly. If the clock could be wound back, ALL would, entrance willing, attend UCLA. You see, it all began in the mid to late 50's when Dad attended, rode CREW for, and graduated from UCLA. Little did he know, that years later his own children, none of which carried on the Bruin attendance tradition, would be celebrating, supporting, watching, gathering, and attending as many UCLA events as time and money will allow. This passion and love has been passed down to the wives, children, and even the families of the THEMS. Fifteen years ago they began a tradition of attending one UCLA football game together. Then children were born, and rules had to be made... (grizzly bears). It was decided that children must be 16 years old to attend this annual event. And, considering the activities involved, it's probably a good thing. Don't want to frighten those precious Children of God too early.

This year marked the

third trip to the Rose Bowl,

second year to see a UCLA vs. usc game, and the

first year for Eric and Tod attending together.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas....

2010-11-26T21:36:00.007-06:00

What a fantastic day we had today! It was a first for four of us. Mike, Cole, Reed, and I went out to Kadee Trees in Greenville, Tx...about 80 miles from Dallas...to pick out, cut, and haul home our first real Christmas tree. Since Tod's birth, and his poor family genes of allergies and asthma, we have not ever ventured out to buy REAL. This year I decided to take the question to the expert, Dr. Wasserman. Dr. Wasserman is a pediatric allergist/immunologist who has seen Tod since he was 3, and Craig, Cole, and Reed since birth! Absolutely the most amazing doctor in Dallas! In fact, he has been ranked one of the best in the Dallas for many years. I emailed him last week regarding Tod's moldy apartment and his lung's response to the mold (that he is allergic to) and decided to throw in the REAL Christmas tree question. Well, I learned from him that cutting a tree down FRESH eliminates mold issues! So, off to Kadee farms we go! We rode out to the acres and acres of trees in a hay wagon carrying a saw! What a job! I fell in LOVE with so many. The ONE was 10 feet...so onward we searched. An hour later, we found the second ONE. Mike, Cole, and Reed helped cut it down. The guys at Kadee then take your tree to a vibrating machine to shake all the dead pines to the ground. It is then measured (8 feet!) and shoved, and boy do I mean shoved, through this hexagon looking deal to be bound up tightly! Mike then carried it to the big GREEN MACHINE...and for the first time, our GREEN MACHINE carried home our first REAL Christmas tree.

Oh, and where were Craig and Tod? Craig was on the couch, and Tod was sound asleep after having spent BLACK FRIDAY shopping with Gemina and Kharis from 2:30 AM until noon.

edward....but more importantly, God

2010-11-06T13:59:00.006-05:00

Edward....amazing. For those of you who don't know me well, I don't read. I remember in high school my mom bribing me with money for each book I read. It worked. I read 8 that summer. Since then? Nothin'. Until this past summer. Teaching eleven year olds was the beginning of my exposure to the Twilight Series. Then, it was the talk at work. Anticipation of upcoming movies...werewolves, vampires...PLEASE. Nothing I would EVER read. Never. My mother always taught me...never say never. Brittney talked me into just trying Twilight. So, I caved and began...and oh my, I am still grieving that there is not YET another book. Due to the lack of reading over the years which caused the lack of vocabulary growth as a student/and now adult, I can't even effectively put into words what Edward provokes in this reader. His protection, love, and desire for Bella goes unmatched. After finishing these novels, the relationship that Stephanie Meyer so brilliantly created caused me to evaluate the most important relationship in my life~my relationship with God. And, I wonder, if that is not just the way that God feels about us and our hearts? No matter where we are in this life...He's there...quietly awaiting our desire to reach out to Him. He desires to have all of our hearts. He wants nothing more than to pull us closer to Him....deep within his protective arms....promises of everlasting love and life.

Proud Dad Moment

2010-10-04T21:16:00.002-05:00

I had a nice Proud Dad moment this weekend. Now, I have those a lot for a lot of different reasons. Normally one of the boys does something nice for someone or does well in school or has a great sports game, but they are usually moments confined to a certain offspring. However, on Sunday we were all hanging around the house, Uncle Jay came through town and we had a nice visit and then I decided to mow the lawn. I was mowing and not paying much attention to anything, but when I turned to go back I noticed it…

All 4 of our boys were out in the street playing football together. The 15 year age span didn’t seem to bother them as they passed to each other, gave tips, shouted encouragement and laughed a lot. They weren’t making faces or arguing or trying to show how much better one was than the other. They were just playing together. I have always been a little worried that because the boys’ ages are so spread apart that they would have trouble connecting with each other, but as I watched them play I realized that it would be all right. That despite the day-to-day sibling problems they get along and appreciate their time together. I may have been reading too much into it, but it was a Norman Rockwell moment for me. I realized how blessed I am to have a strong wife who is also a great mother. Thanks boys for showing that to me and thanks Kim for raising them that way.

It's been a while....

2010-09-27T10:32:00.001-05:00

i found edward.

The Purple and Red

2010-08-22T10:59:00.009-05:00

Sig Ep & DZ ....23 years later!

BAND OF BROTHERS: biological and fraternal

John, Steve, Mike

Steve and Marylou

Mike's best friend, Jeff, and his wife Vicki

Mike's college love (well, that is before me.. :) ), Julie

Jeff, ?, Mike...looking more and more like Paul!

Sig Ep yell!

Those were the days! I would so love to have had the time to scan the pictures from the past to go along with this post! In some ways, especially the yell, it was just like old times. 100 Balanced Men gathering arm in arm to "He Ain't Heavy" and then chant their yell! Only difference...little slower, a lot grayer, and lot more pounds.

Come on, Tod, BE the next generation!

Pledge Sig Ep!

Baby's gone to Kindergarten!

2010-08-22T10:44:00.010-05:00

I can't believe this time is here already! Reed started Kindergarten last Wednesday! And, I survived it! Shed some tears and went off to class myself! I

also never thought I would have a son who looked more like Mike than Tod....until Reed! Proud 3rd Grade Big Bro Cole and Reed!

Cole

Lady, Cole, Mom, and Reed

Mrs. Ashford (kindergarten aide), Reed, and Mrs. Strong

Reed's favorite MIS teachers...taken by Reed himself!

Papa JACK comes to visit!

2010-08-22T10:35:00.004-05:00

Cole, Dad, Reed

Dad came through Texas on his way back to Florida from RAGBRAI! RAGRAI is a ride across the state of Iowa which Karen and Jay ride annually. He rode between 60 and 80 miles per day for two of the five days of RAGBRAI...on a five speed bike! Amazing. Following his ride, he brought his friend Gayle and Peanut for some R&R in blazing hot Texas!

Good times for all!

AZ Summer 2010

2010-08-22T10:30:00.000-05:00

Big GREEN Machine

2010-07-16T11:29:00.003-05:00

Cars are overrated. They cost a fortune either way....buying or keeping them up. And, recently we have spent WAY to much money maintaining one. Not any more! GONE. No tears or regrets. But this one is different. I have grown to love this one more and more with each road she has taken us down...all 164,000 miles of them. She could get herself to Florida or Arizona with her lights off! If her doors could talk, they would share countless memories. First rides home from hospitals, first road trips, camping stories, first loads to college, victory rides after sporting wins, first trips to the ocean, chariot rescues, she's been a closet...bathroom...and dinner table, and she has even had to be an ambulance a time or two. Some of the most intimate "family meetings" have taken place inside her doors during our long journeys. She has listened to our laughter, screams, cries, singing, snores, and our prayers. Once again, we will all (not many of these times left, we sadly realize) climb inside her doors, pray our traveling tradition Rosary, and journey to The Grand Canyon State.

We love you, Big Green Machine.

"Boring Blog"

2010-07-14T15:52:00.023-05:00

I received a text message today. It said simply: "Your blog is boring." Boring! Please. While she is busy in her nephrology world, she takes time out in her "slammed" day to tell me our blog is boring! Sad thing is, I concur. It IS just the blog, however, that has been boring! Life still seems to flash by at lightning speed...and most of the times we don't even have the camera on hand! So Karen, I love how you look to those who are most dear to you, sitting lazily at the pool for the 100th time this summer, and miles away, to "destress" your day... this one is for you!

Summer began with Craig's scouting. He and Mike traveled down to Big Bend to hike, swim, look at stars, see the bats, and camp with his Troop. Craig is weeks away from becoming a LIFE scout on his journey to EAGLE. Like his Uncle Brad, he "spidermaned" up the mountain...7500 feet!! Amazing that with asthma and his "out of shape/summer mode" heart, he didn't hesitate on his journey up. We are so proud of his accomplishments.

Coming down...Craig is the one blazing a trail in front!

The view!

Craig's Troop

Craig, Matthew, Jacob
Craig and Dad in tent...BEFORE the snoring began!

Scout camp was followed by baseball. Reed had a fun time playing "low-key" t-ball (which was hard on Dad) and Cole's team, the Lugnuts, came in 2nd in the season, and 1st in the championship tournament.

Reed, Daddy, Cole Cole and Jacob
Coach "Dad", Cole, Jacob, Coach Mix (Jacob's dad)

Cole's baseball season led to All Stars where he played short stop and second base for the The Branch! He loved playing sports into July...and so did his coach! :)

Pfaff men a.k.a. Cole's Fan Club

And then, recently we celebrated the 4th of July with friends and family. Annual Irving parade and swim with the Arringtons, followed by celebrating with family! Fun times.

Reed and Max

Walter and daddy, Mike

Before and After...the jump!

Mike and mom

So, there you have it! Summer through mid July in one post. Boring...nah. Slacker..yes ma'am!

2010-06-29T21:50:00.002-05:00

Father Michael and Cole

First Communion, April 2

Here is the only picture on this laptop of First Communion. We have many, many others. See issue in post below to find out why they aren't here.

Godmother Kricky, this is for you.

Life

2010-06-24T16:21:00.003-05:00

Who truly has time for this? I am somewhat disappointed that Mike and I have not kept this blog up. I have picture after picture of some really powerful spiritual and athletic moments that have happended recently in our family and not a clue how to get them from camera to computer. Well, that isn't all true. I know how to IF they are stored on the little camera storage disc. But then, that requires the little dealy that the storage disc goes into...and who knows where that is!!! I very quickly, as this lapse in time shows, go to "I'm done"...before I even start. :) Weak, maybe, but true.

Our lives this summer have been filled with pool, golf, religion online class, baseball, scouts, girlfriends, World Cup, lacrosse, friends, sleeping in, and a little bit of school. Still working on the house...which I have a great "new" picture of that I'll get up someday. Larry did an amazing job which you will see when I get the pictures loaded!! Now, Mike and David are redoing the master shower because we had our THIRD (in 11 years) shower pan leak just as Larry was finishing his work! :(

We are counting the days to our return PHX trip...it's been TEN years! Crazy. And, somehow, someway, I want to journey to introduce my precious new, well not-so-new really, niece, Ellis, to our boys. Mike and I had a blast meeting her and surprising Karen back in January, and are anxious about getting the boys to meet her!!

All in all, God is so very good. He is so forgiving of and patient with us....as we still struggle from day to day trying to figure out how to best lift one another to the Light.

First Communion

2010-05-17T22:39:00.001-05:00

It is not a coincidence that the last post we made was “Opening Day”. Baseball season has come with a vengeance this year. It is our first year in a new league (different city) and the league does not play on Saturdays. I was a little torn about that. I love spending the day at the ballpark, but it is also nice to have a real weekend in the spring for yardwork and dog walking and going to the park. Unfortunately, with the rain we’ve had we have baseball games almost every night. Soooo, no time to post. We just got back from Cole’s game, Reed has one tomorrow and Cole has one Wed./Thurs. and Fri. Normally I would have fallen in to bed and been asleep by now, but Reed is in with Kim and I don’t feel like moving him, so here I sit.

I do have a story to tell. Cole had his First Communion a few weeks ago (April 10th). The school he attends does it as a class, so there were 60 boys and girls in their Sunday best with beaming parents all around. Cole, Kim and I had a good discussion about the Eucharist and said a prayer together before heading over to church. It was a great day. The Sunday before that day was Easter and after Mass Cole was very excited that “this is the last Sunday I’ll have to do this” as he placed his hands on opposite shoulders. The Mass was moving and the family celebration afterward was fantastic. Everyone was proud of Cole and our family felt close to each other and our God.

The only possible exception was Reed. He was not at all pleased that he was the only one in the family that was unable to receive Communion. He was a little pouty later that day and said it was not fair, he wanted to do it, all the normal things the youngest child says when they want to be like their older siblings. After a few days it subsided and all was back to normal. On Sunday, we loaded up the family and headed to Mass. At Communion we walked up in line, Craig, Cole, Reed, Kim and Mike. This is where things get interesting. We get to the front of the line. Kim and I proceed forward to Fr. Michael, we reverence the Eucharist and extend our hands (we receive together). As I start to turn to my left I see Reed step away from a Eucharistic Minister, place something in his mouth and cross himself. I almost fell over! When we get back to the pew I see Reed with his mouth open, Eucharist on his tongue. He swallows it, looks at me, shrugs his shoulders, smiles and says, “He gave it to me.”

My mind races. Of course, he knows how to go up and receive Communion, he has seen us do it hundreds of times. He knows how to extend his hands, what to say and what to do. Crap! But….who would give Communion to a 5-year-old!! Turns out it was an older gentleman who probably figured, “The kid knows what he’s doing. Sure, he looks young, but they all do to me nowadays.” I was flabbergasted.

After Mass we had a loooong talk with our youngest about lots of things. It hasn’t happened again and I have a pretty good feeling that it won’t until it’s his turn to sit in a packed church with his second grade classmates and receive his Second Communion

Opening Day

2010-03-28T22:05:00.001-05:00

I had a great Dad day on Saturday. Cole and Reed are both playing baseball in Farmers Branch. They have a parade to kick off opening day. Reed’s team didn’t participate (bummer), but he got to ride in the truck with Cole’s team. They threw candy and had a great time riding through the town. There was then an opening ceremony with a prayer, songs (Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America), introduction of the teams and a ceremonial first pitch. It was a great way to start the season. Reed then had a game.

(Proud dad moment coming)
Reed is 5, the youngest one on his team (the Cardinals) and in his first T-ball game ever he started as the pitcher. Now for those of you who don’t know much about T-ball, they usually put the best players at pitcher and first base in hopes of getting 3 outs at least once in a game. Reed was able to catch the ball and throw out the runner at first…TWICE! They got three outs in the inning. In the next one he played first base and caught a throw from the pitcher for an out. He also got 2 hits. Quite a stellar start to his career. I guess having 3 older brothers paid off. Cole had a game right after Reed’s.

(Proud dad moment #2)
Cole played hi first game with a new team, the Lugnuts. He played 2nd base, pitcher, short stop and third base. He fielded 5 grounders and threw the runner out at first all 5 times. While playing third there was a hit down the line over his right shoulder. He reached up backhanded and snagged it as it went by. A great catch! I had to leave the dugout to celebrate and give Kim a kiss. (Didn’t want to show my bias to the other Lugnuts). He also went 2-2 at the plate.

I realized on Saturday that I still love baseball. Of all the sports I have been involved in during my life, baseball is the best. There is nothing like spending time at the ballpark, siblings running around, sunny day, sunflower seeds, playing catch, a line drive up the middle. I had an amazing day on Saturday. It was the best day I have had in a long time. Thank you baseball.

TWENTY!!

2010-03-23T18:42:00.015-05:00

Aunt Krissy SAVES the day...and my "non-photo-computer" shortcomings!! Here are the pictures just the size I was trying to get them!!

Tod Michael on 3/23 at 4:56!! Look at those pinkies!

Proud Daddy!

My mom and Tod

Aunt Karen, Tod and I

This day was absolutely amazing. It is was filled with such joy, laughter, pain, comfort, hugs & kisses, and CHOCOLATE (thank God for Jamie!)! Mike and I had NO IDEA what we were doing, or what we had gotten ourselves into!

Tod, thank you for making it easy for us. You, as I have shared so many times, have added so much color to our lives. Thank you for growing our hearts, and showing us just how BIG love can be.

Happy 20th, our little man!

shredders

2010-03-21T17:20:00.002-05:00

My "to do" list during spring break was long. And sadly, like my lenten "sacrifice," I failed at wiping off every single sinkin' thing on that list. Pet peeve. I like even my list "spit spot." Two of the items on my list ended up being very charged with unprovoked emotion. As many of you know, our 45ft live oak's roots decided to to "let go" of it's hold on our tree...which came crashing onto our house in late September. Recently, Larry, the most amazing, patient, and talented contractor...and more importantly, family friend, and his team finished repairing our home. It looks amazing. (SHOULD insert photo, right? slacker owner doesn't have one YET) Anyway, Larry got Mike and I working like bees on the inside stuff that was not on his list...one of which I finished this week. Painting the walls and trim (never ever again...on the trim that is) of our entry and hallway. Hall looks great. One item on the list was returning the crosses (which we collect) on one of the walls of the hallway. Forty eight to be exact. It was quite powerful. In fact, I teared up as I reached for nails to hammer into our wall....nails....and I erected many crosses. Flashbacks of the Passion of the Christ came to mind which had a tearful result. It reminded me of just how weak I am. Can't even give up Diet Coke successfully this Lent for goodness sake!! Capital "L."

And today, despite my OCD issues, the IRS paperwork from daycare and brown's pharmacy (which we DID receive and I filed in the IRS file) are missing. I get that Fatal Attraction look of "I won't LOSE in this search..." (truly scary for all to see, I know) as I examine every single piece of paper in the house. There is a LOT to be said for the aging process but my mother would reach down from Heaven itself to deliver a bar of soap for this girl's mouth if I said what I want to say!! This search, however, led to the most beautiful sound in the world. The shredder. How did I ever go so long without one? Nothing is better than ridding your life, your home, your filing cabinet, etc. of all this unnecessary JUNK. This led me to a place that brought about much emotion. How I wish I could shred some memories, choices, places, decisions, etc. from my life. Permanently ERASE and shred their existence. So many of them, despite my strong and persistent efforts, haunt me, periodically, to this day.

All in all, powerful reminders, this week, of our brokeness, and our inability to become whole without Him. I look forward to the day that He shreds all of my imperfections. I pray that your Lenten journey through this desert self examination period has caused each of you to reach out for His Hand, and to hold on to It...steadfastly.... through the storms of our brokeness.

it is what it is

2010-03-19T10:50:00.001-05:00

blah. that's it.

hope all is great with you all.

BOYWORLD

2010-02-04T19:58:00.008-06:00

In reference to my non existence (of late) in blog world...

WELCOME to MY BOYWORLD ....

Last week:
Reed, who JUST turned FIVE, tells someone at school (shamefully an adult I'm afraid) that they have a big bootie. Yes, my friends, you ARE reading correctly. This was topped a few days later at his BAPTIST pre-school by his pulling his shirt collar down to expose his chest. When asked by his sweet teacher, Ms. Renee, "What are you doing, Reed?" He plainly and matter a factly answers, "I'm flashing people." GOD is the ONLY one who knows where in the world he heard the word "flashing" (probably Spongebob...who Craig defends vehemently...anyway). I assured Ms. Renee that this to the core CATHOLIC family was NOT teaching baby Reed about how to get beads at Mardi Gras.

Lord, have mercy.

This week:
Cole, who just turned EIGHT, decided, partly because "someone told him to" and partly in curiousity, to flood a school bathroom (at lunch) by repetitively flushing a urinal. He was caught by another 2nd grade teacher who decides to "hand him over" to his own teacher for discipline. (bad move) Miss Griffin ROCKS, in Cole's words, and I think his sincere tears and sobs tugged at her amazing heart. Not so for mom. It's one thing if your teacher sends you to the principal...but WOW, far, far worse when your MOTHER takes you there. Upon arrival in Mrs. Russell's office, Cole had trouble even getting the sincere apologetic words out of his mouth due to the flood of emotions. He finally succeeded, and later at home wrote four apology notes...one to the teacher who caught him, one to Miss Griffin, one to our principal, Mrs. Russell, and one to Mr. Ramon, the janitor (whom Cole felt didn't need one "cuz it all went down the drain anyway, Mom.")
Christ, have mercy.

Yesterday:
As we leave LATE for our daily drive to school, Mike phones to let us know that Craig's lunch is sitting on the kitchen table, and his phone is in his room. In this day and age...and especially at Jesuit, your main "line" to your children is through texting. Not having a phone means you have no idea when mom/dad have arrived at the school to pick you up for the day. Craig waits daily...mainly because I can not leave MIS until 4. I arrived yesterday at 4:20. At FIVE, I get out of the van with the boys (almost permanently damaging the van door as I slammed it shut) to go on an UNWANTED and UNPLANNED Jesuit scavenger hunt for Craig. Like Mary and Joseph who were looking for Jesus, I should have known. At 5:15, I arrived at the place. Studying? no Meeting with teacher? nah Library? no! No, no, no, just playing computer games on the computer in the lab. Upon seeing me, and my raging angry face, you would think that would EJECT you out of your seat. Nah, just a, "Hey mom, I'm gonna finish this level and then I'll be out there." We arrived home THAT night at 6:40.

Lord, have mercy.

You know, I try often to put things into perspective and count my many blessings! I mean, at least Cole hadn't set off the FIRE ALARM at school like his Dad did back in the day, right??? And, at least Reed is still noticing attributes of others (and, I say still because his proud daddy posted a long time ago about his comments he made about one of the summer Olympic gymnasts ...well, yeah, you just have to have read it)!! Too bad, though, that Cole doesn't mop floors or scrub toilets here at home, and Reed seems to be blind to the large mound of various toys left all over....

I'll leave you with this poem by Jayne Jaudon Ferrer:

The Boys Club

We know who we are.

Ours is like one of those

ancient, fraternal orders

whose identifying rituals include

elaborate hand signals and

mysterious primal grunts.

In public,

the cue is often a series

of short, repetitive barks:

"Sit down!"

"Give me that!"

"Come here!"

"NOW!"

People who aren't in the club

look disdainful, annoyed,

disgusted, or smug.

But fellow members grin-

slowly at first, as they

identify and empathize-

then broadly, as they

catch your eye and

nod slightly to acknowledge

well-known phrases and

familiar responses.

"Boys are somethin', aren't they?"

And, you know, they are. They are my world, and I wouldn't trade a single solitary part.

~that's where I've been...just sayin'.

The Day

2010-01-16T22:46:00.005-06:00

Days are important. So important in fact, that God told us to count them. So much of what we do and celebrate in the world revolves around a day. And you know, we're possessive of them, at times waste them, hate some, love some, and then hold on to them for dear life. Life changing events have happened to me in this winter month of January....first...the birthDAYS...Ian, Reed, Karen, Dawn, Jacob, Steve, Cole, Emily, Ellis (or as we call her Mei-Mei), Caroline, and Ethan. Insane! Eleven family birthDAYS in one month! My parent's "Get Married DAY" was in January. Equally powerful to the births in this month are two (as Tod used to call it when he was wee little) Happy Heaven Days. The first came twelve years ago today. Emily, my niece, joined the angels in heaven while nestled inside mommy....and although this day was her physical arrival to us (and not the actual day she passed away) I will forever count this day as her Heaven day. The second came just four short years ago...and depending on when I finish this post...tomorrow (which is M-n-M's birthday! ). It still consumes me at times, and I imagine that will never change. To honor her, we spread mom's ashes in her favorite beach spot two years ago, and flew kites which mom had never done in her life. Today, Brad, Dawn, Alex, Dylan, Colin, Ethan, and Karen will return to her beach spot to fly kites again....it's now a tradition on her DAY.

We lift our kites to you...and know...
that even though the winds of time blew hard enough to take you from our arms, you can rest assured they have never, ever taken you from our hearts.

Practically perfect in every way.
I love you. I miss you.

Flying is the coolest thing in the world...next to shaving.

2010-01-01T22:14:00.004-06:00

Like most guys, I shave every day before I go to work. Since our master sink is still out of commission, I shave in the boys’ bathroom. This means I have a steady flow of kids coming through to brush teeth or use the toilet while I shave, no problem…

A few weeks ago we were all getting ready for the day. I see Reed in the laundry room, facing the wall. I tell him to keep moving, we need to go soon. Next thing I know he’s laying on our bed kind of curled up, back to me. I tell him to get up and finish getting ready, dang it! Well, he stands up and I immediately notice a big wet spot in the front of his pants. Ummm, Reed? What happened here? He is not one to share an embarrassing moment easily, so I prod and push until I determine what happened. I had noticed him watching me shave that morning. He was standing at the toilet and intently watching me shave. As he explained the wet spot on his pants, it all came clear. He wandered into the bathroom, went to the toilet and took care of business. The only problem was that he was so enraptured by my shaving that he forgot to pull down his pants before he took care of business! Now that is focus, my friends.

Kim had a great idea and bought Reed a Cars shaving kit for Christmas. I am happy to report that Reed’s face is as smooth as a baby’s bottom and his pants are as dry as the desert!

Nativity

2009-12-22T08:30:00.000-06:00

I do love Christmas. Although I’ve noticed that I don’t see nearly as many Nativity scenes as I used to. Now, I understand that the “separation of church and state” crowd has had them effectively banned from public buildings (I could go on for pages about this topic alone!), but even in yards and private buildings you just don’t see it any more. I don’t know about you, but an inflatable elephant in a Santa hat does not really say Christmas to me.

Kim and I try to raise good Catholic, Christian kids. We go to church on Sunday, kids in Catholic school, talk about Bible stories, discuss theology with the older ones, prayers at meals, bedtime, for sick friends, etc. and we still need to take time to emphasize the Christmas Story (not the one with the leg lamp). We take extra time to remind them why we celebrate and what the true meaning of Christmas is. That’s what got me thinking about the Nativity scenes. How many children don’t know the true meaning, aren’t told the amazing story of Mary’s faith, have no idea what a manger is? It really saddens me that our country is losing its’ Christian heritage. I don’t realize it most of the time because our friends are pretty much church-going, Christian people, but when I look around at the way society as a whole looks at this most important of days, it gives me the willies. It also makes me think about the early Christians who were persecuted and martyred for their faith. They certainly wouldn’t have backed down because a statue of a baby in a manger “offended” someone. Maybe I’m just rambling here, but it’s been on my mind. Anyway, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

Gifts

2009-12-03T20:32:00.008-06:00

Isn't it amazing the way gifts "touch" others? I mean, the most simple "no big deal" gifts are often the most moving, meaningful gifts that we receive. Children often show us that. We parents spend an insane amount of money on presents throughout the years...and what do they love??? Banging the pots and pans with spoons....or playing with the wooden characters of our nativity sets! And, some of the best gifts ever are the ones that we did not have on our list, but someone thought "they'll LOVE this!" I have countless presents that I have been given over the years that truly have moved me beyond words. One of those came a few years ago from one of my closest friends. She gave me a glass angel ornament with the following inscription:

"Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy."

Even typing those words brings tears to my eyes, and honestly, takes a little of my breath away~ still. You see, Brittney, that angel ornament gift did and continues to touch me. I will always view the stars a little differently now. And Mom, I long for you to be here with us...especially during this, your favorite holiday season. I remember the house was always DECKED out. Real Christmas tree...with RED bows...beautiful ornament balls, along with many wooden ornaments...and of course, those which we made. Every Snow Village figurine made was set up in the hallway. Christmas floral arrangements on the dining room table and hearth. The nutcrackers, music boxes, the music, snow globes, wrapping paper, Christmas movies, bows, scotch tape, gift tags, Christmas cookies, tissue, tinsel, Christmas lights inside and out, advent calendars, the precious nativity that Kris has today, lining up on Christmas morning according to height, Christmas eve turkey, ..and the list goes on.

I want you to know that I hear you in every verse of "O Holy Night", "What Childs Is This", "Do You Hear What I Hear?"....I hear your sarcasm in Brittany and Tod....I see your strength in Mei-Mei....your goofiness in Mike...your desire to play and be a part of the fun shines through Dawn...your hilarousness/silliness in Jay. I feel your touch with Karen....your tenderness with Brad...and your unconditional acceptance with Kris. Your determination lives on through Cole and Colin....your empathy shines through Craig and Alex....and your "take the bull by the horns"-ness is seen in Dylan. Thankfully, we see your beautiful face in Ethan.Your heart will forever be seen in Dad. I can not thank you enough for gifting all of us with a love for this holiday season. Through that love, we have all come to know, in our own time, love, and worship the most amazing and divine Gift ever given..all wrapped in swaddling clothes.

"It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes, or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store? What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more?"
~Dr. Seuss

Preparation

2009-11-14T21:17:00.002-06:00

We do a LOT of preparing in this household. We prepare lunches for school, prepare our clothes for the next school/work day, prepare the house for the arrival of guests, prepare food, prepare children, prepare for work...and the list goes on. Most of these things fall in to the mundane routine of our everyday lives, and quite honestly, are often taken for granted. The insurmountable time we spend is infinite it seems. This preparation theme alone has dominated my thoughts as of late. This inordinate amount of time is being spent on worldly things ~ disturbs me, and really caused me to stop and think about the very core of our existence and creation. Our only job here is to bring glory and praise to God. So whatever path God has blessed you with, your job remains the same....bring Him glory. Wow, in Cole's words a long time ago, I "suck out loud" at this. (And yes, he did get some soap in his mouth) And don't get me wrong, like you, I am so in love with God, and the things of God. I just do not give Him all of me, all the time....but I want to, and He is so deserving. The liturgical seasons are such a beautiful reminder of God's most Holy Gift, Himself. As my mom and dad used to say, "Prepare, and prepare well." As we are about to enter one of my most favorite liturgical seasons, Advent, I intend to prepare and prepare well as we...

Await the Celebration

happy almost Advent

WAR!!!

2009-11-12T19:30:00.003-06:00

I feel like I need to gear up for war. Washing machine runs, but that's it. Dishwasher computer system is JACKED (Kar & Kris, that word was for you!) up and you never know if it is going to be YOUR lucky day and you can run it. Master bath sink has been out of commission for many, many, many months....and now the boys bathroom toilet needs to go (and does literally). Fridge freezes EVERY single morsel of food or liquid in it...even set on "1." I almost threw the rock solid ice ONION at someone tonight.... Virus on desktop and Craig's laptop...but I'm sure the computer virus fairy will come while we are working to fix them... Brakes on van (completely done and redone THREE times) still squeaking.

So, how's life with you?

It's me, Mike!

2009-11-04T20:45:00.003-06:00

Awhile back I was talking to a friend who mentioned that he was amazed I could keep up with all the stuff I do. Well, if you have read our blog you realize that I have let it slip. It's not that my thoughts have become too deep or too shallow to share, it's just a matter if time. I guess I shouldn't really use that excuse because Kim does twice as much as I do and still has time to update this thing, maybe it's just me...

Tonight Cole and I were watching the World Series and he said, "I don't like peoples breath after they eat Gushers or Fruit Roll-ups... How about you?" I told him I didn't have a real position on that subject. There are plenty of subjects I have no real position on. I have actually become quite adept at presenting arguments for both sides of issues, which sometimes leads people to think I am not passionate about the things I really believe in. It's a shame.

We had a good soccer season. Cole changed teams and played in Carrollton with his school buddies. This whole change to MIS has been a good one for our family. Especially for the lone female. It's been great going to football and volleyball games and becoming a vital member of the community. We have had that at other places to be sure, and this is not necessarily better, but it is the right one for us now. God is good.

There lots more where this came from, but I've got to fold some laundry before Kim gets home from here hair appointment. It's good to be back.

Jesuit Homecoming 2009

2009-10-24T13:21:00.008-05:00

Craig and Valeria before the game!

We met at Valeria's house and Ellen, Valeria's best friend, met up with her date later at California Pizza Kitchen. Little blurry...after arriving 30 min. late for "picture" time because of Northwest Highway traffic...guess Mommy was a LITTLE shaking!!!! (Understatement)

How did we get this far so FAST?? #2's first Homecoming!

Two "first" Homecomings down.....2 two go!
More to come tonight....the DANCE!
So much fun!

She's won his heart!

2009-10-14T21:42:00.003-05:00

Good things are happening at our house!! God is so amazing. And so is the power behind a praying parent! We have always lifted our boys up in prayer...for all the obvious reasons. But I remember even when Tod was little, Mike and I praying for "THE" girl who would win his heart. Gemina has won his heart, and has brought so much color to our house. Not only has she brought out the best in Tod, but Cole and Reed literally jump for joy at the sight of her...or at the sight of her car at the house! They also "watch" every move the two of them make...especially when Tod walks Gemina to her car. I thought the house was on fire the first time Cole sprint back to me...out of breath..."Mom, they kissed!"

God heard our prayers. And, God answered them. As always.

Tod and Gemina, know that we continue to lift you both up seperately and together in prayer. More than anything else, we pray that you both allow God to direct your paths, His Light to forever shine brightly through you, and that whatever it is you choose to do in this life....
it honors Him.
We love you.

stop this train

2009-09-30T22:45:00.002-05:00

Funny how much I've been thinking about ending things lately. Quit facebook, quit email, quit phone calls, quit homework, and quit this blog. I'm giggling to myself even thinking about it. Like, get OVER yourself, kim. it's been one of those kind of days....well, okay, weeks...nah, several weeks around here. first the tree. then swine. and then the check. the check actually pushed this girl right over the edge. you see, our lovely economy has caused much harm to mom's trust. so much so that brad's, my little brother and overseer of her trust, gray hairs have probably tripled in the last few years. stinks...., not the gray by the way...he looks amazing gray & blonde. so, the four of us decided to make an investment decision. we bought a house. for those of you who are not family but know me well...sit down. we bought a house for dad. it was the right thing to do. it is absolutely what mom would want and i know you're proud. so, the remaining monies (minus a little to stay in the account) were divided by four....and hence, the check. that check bears her name and for some odd reason i don't ever want that to go away. there is just something about that account staying with us...i know she is gone...but it was so much "her baby" and it being open ("alive") just feels better. by the response i got from my poor little brother (who has had to put up with PMS-ing sisters all his life) on the phone, and mike, this must be a "girl thing!"....and you know, we need a whole LOT of girl things around here. so, the tears, sobbing, mood swings, screaming, pouting, complaining/whining...all that....it's all good. i'm just trying to keep this pfaff pond BALANCED.

i SEE you!!

2009-09-22T09:12:00.003-05:00

This picture makes me smile ALL OVER!!

Counting the days, Ellis, until I get to hold you!

We love you, sweet girl,

Aunt Kimmy, Uncle Mike, Tod, Craig, Cole, and Reed

Not busy enough

2009-09-13T07:52:00.010-05:00

!

Evidently God knew we could fit a few more things on our plate.....so at 2 in the morning last night I literally watched this happen....after I heard (attempted to wake Mike up) 3 super loud snapping sounds several minutes a part. I truly thought it was something electrical in the vacant house next door. Nope. By the time I reached to shut the blinds after my investigation I saw this 45 foot live oak slowly start to fall! Mike woke to my SCREAMING TERROR. I just knew it would come ALL the way through and land on Cole in the top bunk. I still tear up thinking about it. By the way, Dad or Larry, just how long will the frame of this house hold up a tree weighing a TON? Guess this is what we'll be doing over the next few days....months....

Coming up for air

2009-09-12T09:57:00.004-05:00

So, what have you guys been up to lately? Sleeping in, going in to work late, traveling a little, reading your favorite books, romantic dinners with your love one, and spending great QUALITY time with each of your children? Sounds so much like us. NOT. Oh my gosh, it has been a while since I have posted anything because truthfully we haven't even had the opportunity to come up for AIR!! We are HOUR by HOUR people it seems. My little brother and I were chatting the other day about the craziness...and how the work really begins when you leave work. Trust me, it is the most rewarding, the most loved, and the most God honoring work I know but goodness!! Because of the craziness, we have become very impulsive people, however. Like, dropping everything and literally running for the car as we "spaceship" drive to a parent "meeting" that was "forgotten." No doubt that is age and circumstance put together. We laugh at ourselves often. Tuesday we had our first Freshman Class meeting at Jesuit....meanwhile Tod is home with Craig, Cole, and Reed and there is homework to be done and checked, baths to be taken, lunches to be made, teeth to be brushed, and oh, the laundry....and did you all know that all of those things CAN be done while we attended this meeting ....if only we had taken the WII, cell phones, and the laptops with us to the meeting!! :)

All the while this craziness happens, my little sister and Garth are viewing the Great Wall of China!! They are days away from seeing their daughter, Ellis, for the first time. Ellis Day is Monday the 14th of September! They are so excited and so crazy nervous! The above paragraph is a reason I giggle about Kris and Garth being all crazy nervous about adopting ONE. Brad and I both laughed out loud entertaining the thought of just having Brittany and Tod! We would be DONE!! I do get it though....just before becoming a parent floods your brain and heart with many thoughts of "how in the world are we going to do this!!" If you haven't stopped by my little sisters blog...it is at www.tell-her-this.blogspot.com. She is an amazing writer and does a far better job "blogging" than I do! Anyway, above is the latest picture of them in China. It brought tears to my eyes as it threw me back to my Banglasdesh, India days of riding on the rickshaws.

We anxiously await meeting Ellis face to face.

Steal Away

2009-08-28T22:37:00.005-05:00

Steel away we did thanks to Tod and Craig! Mike and I celebrated our 21st anniversary at the Gaylord for a night. Atrium view....door to patio was opened immediately to the scrumptious sounds of the many waterfalls. How I wish we could recreate that sound in our own home!

So relaxing. So needed. So happy.

Thank you, God.

First Day of School

2009-08-21T19:46:00.007-05:00

You know it's been a rough first week of school when it takes us until Friday to post the pictures! As frantic/hectic/spastic as it's been, I still feel a sense of peace about where my family is. And I love it...

Reed is at a new school. He was a little nervous the first day, but seems to fit right in.

Cole got the teacher he wanted, Miss Griffin, "the cute one".

Kim is teaching 5th grade this year. A little change from the 3rd grade she has had for the last couple years. She has taught 6th-8th, 3rd and 4th, so 5th should be a breeze. It'll take some time to get ahead on lesson plans and to learn the bell schedule, but there is NO DOUBT she will succeed and be a blessing to her students and her new school. Thanks to all our friends who have made this transition easier and who have given their unwavering support to my lovely bride. She is not a big fan of change, but sometimes...it's time.

Happy Birthday, Mom

2009-08-14T21:42:00.007-05:00

Mom

August 15, 1936
4:23pm

Summit, New Jersey

7lbs. 21in.

Mom's birthday is such a happy day for me! I am so thankful for the blessing of her life, and even more thankful that God chose her to be my mom. She gave my father, Karen, Kris, Brad, and I all that she was. The amount of joy that she brought to us then, and continues to even today brings a Grinch-sized smile to my face and happy "tears" flowing from my eyes.
She loved with her whole heart and self. She knew no stranger and her love had no limits.

I still hunger and thirst for her touch, her smell, and her voice.

I still ache from missing her.

Happy 73rd Birthday, Mom.

I know it will be Heavenly.

Happy Get Married Day!

2009-08-12T19:34:00.004-05:00

When I look at Mike in this photo I still feel the butterflies that I felt twenty-two years ago when I first noticed him at Mama's pizza in Arlington. I remember telling Wendy, one of my best friends in high school, a sorority sister, and, lucky me, Mike's little sister in Sig Ep, set me up with your big brother!! I was actually in a long distance relationship at the time but she quickly dragged me over to him to introduce me. Dreamy. I knew and so the chase began! I will never forget Greek Week that year, spring 1987. Delta Zeta was paired up with Sigma Phi Epsilon. We, Delta Zeta actives, had to nominate a Sig Ep as our "Mr. Greek Week." Hands down Mike "whatever his last name was" won! We ran around the sorority house looking for a Sig Ep composite of any DZ Sig Ep little sister. Because I was President, I had to fill in the name on the nomination form and....how in the world do you spell THAT last name?? Trust me, it only took ONE look and I had it memorized. Couple of nights later a bunch of sorority sisters and I ATTEND the Mr. Greek Week competition....of course...to see Mike. You see, I wasn't the only DZ that had the hots for him. There were several of us! Well, Mike replaced his name on our form with one of his fraternity brothers!! Chicken! And what the heck??? You went with a few frat guy's opinion over 110 women's opinions???? Typical guys! God had great plans, that night however. I remember him coming up to me...I even remember what we were both wearing. We talked about all sorts of things and I distinctly remember him mentioning "not getting" something...I immediately volunteered to "tutor" him....truthfully I just remember gazing into his intensely blue eyes....dreamy. Anyway, the rest is history! Twenty one years of history..on 8/13! Seems like only yesterday that we were walking down that beautiful aisle at St. Luke Catholic Church in Irving! Mike wrote a song for our wedding which Paul and John sang...and he said the most amazing prayer as we placed a beautiful flower arrangement at Mary's feet. Everyday I thank God for the oneness in our marriage and for the way it still is today....dreamy.

Happy Anniversary Michael. Thank you for loving me the way that you do for these twenty-one years. I know God has amazing plans for us ahead.

Ily

High-lights and low-lights

2009-08-06T19:36:00.006-05:00

Summer 2009

Highlights in random order:

Tod coming home

spending time with my men

Craig's acceptance into Jesuit

Soccer/Tennis camp

Ellis' letter of Acceptance

Mondays with Kim & Ashley

Swimming at the Arringtons

Fourth of July parade with Arringtons, Ms. Amy & Kimberly, & Kelly& kids

Fireworks with the Armatos

Cold Play

Playing & walking outside

Spending time with family and friends

Girls nights

Playing golf

Sleeping in

No homework

Re-financing our home

grillin' out

having Georgia

a new job

21 years of marriage on the 13th of Aug!!

Low lights in random order:

few dates nights

summer school

Metalrite (nightmare glass order at work)

mosquitos

no family vacation

no beach

Mike's dad's news

leaving friends from work

not finishing home repairs/improvements

Amazing to me that I am closing in on my last day of summer, which will actually be spent at a workshop! I have spent every single day of summer with my boys and my man...which truthfully could have fallen into BOTH hi and low lights on BOTH sides...but it is time that I am so thankful for and loved. I absolutely love them with all that I am. They complete me.

A close friend of mine, Misty, sent me an article that has really touched my heart and that I am attempting (but more often failing at) to embrace. I won't burden you with the entire article but will share the title alone, which will be enough.... "Make Friends With Whatever's Next" .... "Change" and Kim are not good friends. But, I know and believe, that God is leading me...actually he's draggin' me with Mike and family pushing...down a new path. He would never send me unequipped, right? I feel unequipped. So many have shared very humbling words about my teaching, and moving on...my head knows all of that, but why in the world is it so hard to convince the heart?

I am blessed to be married to a man that is so able to look beyond. Mike sees the roses, always. That's not to say that he doesn't see thorns at times...but even in the visible thorny time, he sees the roses. Ahhh. The peace he brings to my soul is like the sounds of the waves at the ocean...refreshing, healing, powerful, God-sent.

Here's to the blessings of summer and change.

pensive...

2009-08-02T20:48:00.004-05:00

"I'm finding myself at a loss for words, and the funny thing is, it's okay.

The last thing I need is to be heard, but to hear what You would say.

Word of God, speak. Would You pour down like rain, washing my eyes to see Your majesty,

to be still and know that You're in this place? Please let me stay and rest in Your holiness.

Word of God, speak."

~Mercy Me

Best Secret Santa Gift Ever

2009-07-27T10:33:00.009-05:00

Growing up both Mike and I had dogs. I love dogs. I love big dogs. Infact, I would love to have a Great Dane but Mike, first, and then my little sister, Kris, have said no...no Great Danes....high maintenance, shorter life span, etc. So over the course of our almost 21 years of marriage we have had a few dogs, too. First, it was Bentley (Mike's choice in name). Bentley was an adorable cocker spaniel, but a HYPER cocker. He was NOTHING like my Sundance growing up, but I've quickly learned that no dog will ever compare to Sundance. Bentley went to Mike's older brother, Paul, and his wife, Maggie, until Maggie could not breathe anymore (terrible allergies from the dog)!! Then, after falling in love with Aunt Karen's found in the wild white WOLF Kane (75% wolf, 25% dog), we decided to adopt a dog from PetsMart...mix, but basically looked like a white lab...which Craig wanted to name "Kane" as well. Kane had MAJOR issues...like needing puppy proszac (sp?)...so he eventually went back to his adopted mother.

Ever since our failed attempts at being dog owners, Mike and I both wanted to try again. Well, one of the many benefits of being friends with the Snelsons is that you get to experience animal life-LIVE. Trey is passionate about animals, animal life, loves to hunt, fish, etc. So when Brittney and Trey made the decision to breed their beautiful yellow labrador (actually she is cinnamon colored...absolutely beautiful...and with her lazy eye, ahhh, you just fall in love with her!) they allowed us to journey with them. It was so fun learning about the breeding process, the pregnancy gestation for dogs, and then ultimately the birthing of her puppies. I remember, still today, the phone call I received from Brittney that Georgia was in labor!! All along Georgia's pregnancy I told Brittney that I wanted one of the puppies. We had promised Craig that when he turned 12 that we would get a dog. You know, Cole would be five and things would be much more managable. You see, we had no idea that God had plans of blessing us with little Reed 3 years after Cole!! :)

During the Christmas season at work we exchanged names for Secret Santa. It was Christmas 2006. We are given the opportunity to try to guess who had us at the party and I, like always, failed to guess who had me. So when BRITTNEY revealed herself to me, she handed me the cutest wrapped gift. In that bag was a gift that immediately brought tears to my eyes....all doggie stuff and a note that said we were being gifted the pick of the litter when Georgia delivered!!

Here was my greatest Secret Santa gift EVER....

Lady Girl!
Well, two and a half years later we finally get the opportunity to keep Georgia for a week!! While Brittney and Trey are vacationing in Colorado, we are giving Georgia the vacation of a lifetime! Constant wrestling and excercising, and then some cuddley time with her daughter!! Lady will NOT leave her alone, and every once in a while Georgia still shows her whose boss!! Rightly so!!! Georgia will retreat to her kennel every once in a while, as if tried from the constant nagging of her little one, with Lady laying outside the kennel whinning the entire time!

Georgia!
We are having the best time. The boys are so proud and make sure on our walks that the neighborhood knows that the "other" dog we have is Lady's mom! So cute. They have asked me numerous times, "Mom, do you think they know they are mom and daughter?" I don't know the answer to that, but I would like to think so.

Georgia and Lady!
Thanks Brittney and Trey, we have had the best time with "the girls!!"

LOA...July 21st

2009-07-22T08:39:00.003-05:00

My little sister received her formal Letter of Acceptance yesterday and will soon be receiving the final travel documents in about 3-4 weeks!

China, here "we" come!!

By the way, Ellis, we celebrated this news at a fantastic Cold Play concert!!

We love you sweet girl,

Uncle Mike, Aunt Kimmy, Tod, Craig, Cole and Reed

Cheers to Brittney

2009-07-15T22:17:00.002-05:00

POSITIVELY the funnest bunch!

Thoughts While Driving

2009-07-13T22:12:00.003-05:00

I saw a bumper sticker the other day that said, “Another soulless atheist looking for harmony and world peace”. It got me thinking. Now, just because the guy thinks he’s soulless doesn’t mean he is. He has a soul just like everyone else in the world, he is just too egotistical or blind or whatever to know it. Just because he doesn’t acknowledge the truth doesn’t make it any less true.

Then I thought, Jesus died for all humanity whether “all humanity” believes it or not. He died for me, for Hitler, for Mother Teresa, for Attila the Hun, for Pope Benedict and for Saddam Hussein. The issue is not whether He did it, but whether or not you choose to acknowledge and accept it. Some in the list above did not accept it, but it is no less true because of that.

Then I thought about the Right to Life debate. I am pro-life. That means I believe in the sanctity of all human life. As such, I am anti-capital punishment. The way I see it, just because some murderer does not believe that life is God-given and sacred does not mean this it isn’t. You know? If I truly believe that life is sacred, I need to believe ALL human life in sacred, even if others don’t.

Then I thought about family. Cole talks a mile a minute… every minute. Now, you wouldn’t know it to see me now, but I was almost held back in first grade. My grades were fine, but the teacher had to put my desk right next to hers because I was talking to everyone all the time. I had forgotten about that until I started thinking about Cole.

Then I thought, I wish these idiots would speed up, we're on the freeway!

"Brace Face!"

2009-07-07T15:51:00.003-05:00

Hard to tell, but the rubber bands are blue and gold...covers the Bruins and Rangers!
Baby boy #2!

Today Dr. Ohlenforst started Craig's braces. Tops today...bottoms in about 2-3 months.

Amazing part...OFF in 8-9 months!!

He was great about it TODAY...we'll see how he feels about them in a week! :)

2TH AYK

2009-07-02T23:50:00.005-05:00

The title of this post is actually stolen from the best dentist in the metroplex, Dr. Pfaffenberger's (a.k.a. AUNT MaryLou), personalized license plate!! I could only think of one other title that I quickly decided was not appropriate for our family blog. Let me just say, next time (and YES, there will be a next time...infact, if you ask Reed he will bow his little head and hold up THREE fingers indicating how many more visits he has left with Aunt MaryLou) DADDY needs to go along!! We certainly owe Dr. Pfaffenberger a massage after all she went through with Reed. Cole was a champion...got in the chair opened his mouth...no big deal. He takes after his father and oldest brother who practically fall asleep (Mike actually DOES fall asleep) during dental treatments. Reed, on the other hand, is like his mother. He laid there clenched fisted and screaming for the majority of the time it took MaryLou to fill TWO of the EIGHT cavities in his mouth. And did I mention that we started out with a little children's benadryl...just to relax him a little and get him a wee bit sleepy?!? While Cole was being worked on, Reed and I waited in the waiting room...and he was really having to struggle to keep his eyes open. PERFECT. I thought. First hurdle, the numbing. Went VERY well. I was falsely lead to believe that this was going to go easily...afterall, he handled the numbing better than his mommy!! :) After getting him positioned for the fillings, she placed "Mr. Thirsty" in his mouth....didn't go well. He told her it hurt. Yes, just the tiny suction tube that she hung on one side of his mouth. We managed to distract him with Spongebob (never did I think I would EVER say, "Reed, watch Spongebob!") and the second the drill hit is tooth the tears started rolling with him screaming, "It's all scratchy in my mouth!!!!" He must have asked Aunt MaryLou fifty times, "Am I done now???"

Poor baby.

We ARE done, for today.

Next week, same time, same place, same procedure.

Here are some pictures of our time....these are not "celebration" picutures...just history, survival (for ALL involved) pictures!!! Trust me, and ask the boys, THEY WILL TELL YOU, our "celebration" is milk and water as drink choices for the rest of their lives!!!

Cole and Aunt MaryLou

Poor baby Reed! Poor Dr. Pfaffenberger!!

Our All Star!

2009-07-02T23:38:00.007-05:00

Mike was a catcher, my dad was a catcher, my brother was a catcher, Tod was a catcher...
After the game Cole commented, "That coach pitching was only trying to hit me!"

2009 Coach Pitch All Stars

Only 2 Dodger All-Stars....Cole and Riler....with "Coach" Mike

Cole and his biggest fans!

Are you ready for some football????? The countdown begins....

2009-06-29T11:52:00.004-05:00

The pfaff household starts looking forward to things WAY far out!! I have often thought about making a Ms. Becky construction paper chain link to help Reed and Cole count the days away!! Cole suited up this past weekend!!

Down, Set, READY....only a little more than a month away from Dallas' first pre- season game!!

Wonder what's gonna happen on November 22nd and December 27th?

And you know, that's not even at the TOP of the pfaff "looking forward to" countdown list.

College Football wins that list! Actually,

U C L A

wins that list!

Let's go Bruins!

In love with summer....

2009-06-22T10:05:00.003-05:00

10am still in their undies.....cinnamon toast still not quite finished.....laying together watching cartoons..... these are the BEST times...I still remember mine...

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T12:47:00.007-05:00

Craig's wishful (for now anyway) height! :)

My greatest God-given gift ever, the most peaceful, Christ-filled man I am honored to call my husband, and father to our children. Thank you, Mickey, for showing us Jesus everyday...and for blessing my world with MEN.

Happy Daddy's Day!

We love you!

Disappointment

2009-06-14T13:36:00.008-05:00

I am absolutely in love with God. He is everything perfect for me....strength, power, comfort, peace, love, counselor, wisdom, forgiving, healing, life giving, and so much more. His blessings have been many, and his patience with me has been MUCH. So many times throughout my life I have had that "pinch me is this for real-it is so good" kind of feeling. They all point to Him. Equally many times in my life I have been knocked down to below my knees in desperation, sadness, or anger truly unable to pick myself up...all a direct result of things of this world...and getting back up, successfully, all points to Him, too. Perhaps it is all of the above that has brought back the clouds....the dark ones, that seem to linger and feel so heavy. Hence, the disappointment. My very favorite story in the Bible is in Matthew 14: 25-33. To me, it is so indicative of life. Jesus is so amazing and so loving...anxious, if you will, for us to venture out, trust, and as John Ortberg says so well, "get out of the boat"...extending his Arms and Hands with "Come to Me." He wants nothing else...but for me, and us, to come to Him. I feel like I do that often....but just like Peter. Confident, strong, and really excited at first and then the winds come...some blow softly unable to move my focus, and then some blow hard enough to shift my focus...and I allow the stuff of this world to cloud my world and to distract me from what is most important, Him. Why is it so hard at times? And why is it that some of those "winds" seem to engulf me? I can and do hear my mom's quiet heaven spoken voice in her answer as I type..."cuz you let them, Kimmy Ann." It truly throws me into this world of not darkness, per se, but "blahness" as I dwell in this place of disappointment constantly whispering words to myself of "oh you of little faith..."

I spend way too much time, I know, trying to figure people out...trying to grasp at understanding their motives and decisions....and why? What good truly comes from that?

All I need is to put my eyes back on Him and never give Him the reason to ask me,

"Why did you doubt Me?"

The newest "Jackson".....

2009-06-11T21:59:00.003-05:00

We are tickled PINK!!

My little sister, Kris, has just received her pre-approval from China!!

Ellis Gao Mei

So excited!

Summer Fun....

2009-06-06T09:18:00.006-05:00

This is the way I remember summer days and nights!!! Growing up we did not have a pool so we spent hours and hours playing in the sprinkler or with the hose!!

Cole and Reed thought it was the BEST!!!

Blessed Are We....Confirmation continued.

2009-06-06T09:00:00.008-05:00

Pfaff clan and FriendsA world of hope...all in our front yard!

Proud Grandparents, Tod (Craig's Confirmation Sponsor), and Craig

Craig and his Godparents...Uncle John and Aunt Karen

Craig, Fr. Michael, Tod

Miles, Tori and Tod
Craig's very first best friend...Mary....7 years later!!

A Farewell Fiesta

2009-05-31T12:05:00.006-05:00

It's good to be an Arrington & Snelson friend!!

"My life will always be richer, for the time I spent there with you."

Thank you so much for ten wonderful years of friendship. I will miss all of you more than you can ever know.

What you don't see is JEANNIE...entertaining the entire crowd with her nail salon you-tube imitations...what you DO SEE is Michelle and the affects that Jeannie had on everyone!!!

The best baby room teacher God ever made, Jessica! I love you Jess!!

Tracy, Erika and I
Onto the next chapter....

MIS Graduation

2009-05-31T11:46:00.009-05:00

The 8th grade class of Mary Immaculate graduated on Friday, May 22nd. Craig was invited by his friend, Preston, to go to graduation and dinner afterwards in a limo!! This was an auction item that Preston's family won at the MIS Auction last year! They had the best time! Cole was the biggest 8th grader want-to-be EVER!! He considers these guys his best friends too!

We are so proud of Craig and all that he has accomplished these first 9 years of his education. We know that God has amazing plans for him as he moves on to high school at Jesuit!!

May Crowning

2009-05-31T11:30:00.009-05:00

Freshman Jesuit/Ursuline Class of 2009-2010

AJ, Craig, Josh, Chris

Craig and Cassidy, and Craig and AJ

TOD'S HOME!!

2009-05-24T15:39:00.005-05:00

Umm, not quite sure how to put this. Cardiac arrest? Panic attack? All of the above?

Nah, just LARRY, WE NEED A ROOM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Are you busy this summer?

Taking deep breaths, trust me.

Karen, wipe the "spotless garage" tears from your eyes....I know.

From the bathtub...to the stage...and now to college...

2009-05-23T08:14:00.007-05:00

Sisters, sorority sisters, that's what Delta Zeta made us!! Jamie was an active when I became a pledge...she was just about to graduate from UTA when I joined Delta Zeta. Never would I have ever dreamed that we would become such great friends...you see, in Delta Zeta, Jamie was IT. Almost an untouchable. The most put together...always perfectly dressed, manicured....drove her little white 350 convertible Mercedes...etc. We (the pledges) looked up to her in awe. Jamie graduated and I would see her every once in a while at alumni/collegiate functions. Jamie and Richard's wedding was the FIRST wedding I attended in my life...glad I don't have the sorority picture of the Delta Zetas at that reception...I had the small little sausage roll curled under bangs and looked 2....anyway...it was a fairy tale. I remember their first dance like it was yesterday...and when it ended Richard picked her up and twirled her around, train flying out behind her...I was in the la-la land of envy!! Years after I remember crying with other DZ's after learning that God had taken their first child, a daughter, to Heaven with Him at 31 weeks of gestation. All good comes from God...and our friendship and our son's friendship would NOT be what it is today had those things not happened. You see, Jamie got pregnant for the second time as I was finding out I was pregnant with Tod. In fact, Tod and Miles are FOUR days apart!! They have been the best of friends for nineteen years!! We have shared so many happy family times together...from vacationing at Disney (they indulged for me...we almost lost Richard...and I'm sorry Marcie that you have never been) together, celebrating holidays/birthdays together, many many nights at the lake...parties...the list goes on!!!

How blessed we are! Not only to have such great friends ourselves, but to have witnessed this steadfast friendship bewteen our two boys!! A gift from God that I am expotentially thankful for.

Congratulations Miles on your graduation! We couldn't be prouder of the man you are, and we look so forward to many more shared family times!! OU look out!!

Coming home!

2009-05-19T22:34:00.003-05:00

Hard to believe that Tod has already completed his freshman year of college. Mike heads to Ruston tomorrow to bring our #1 baby boy home!!!

Going away to college is a good thing...especially for them.

Coming home is a great thing....especially for us.

Girls, Girls, Girls

2009-05-17T21:46:00.005-05:00

Today was glorious. Not only did we sleep in, but God truly delivered such a beautiful day!! It felt so good to FEEL the sun! The "To Do" list at this house is LONG...but Mike and I both stuck to the outside today! At around 3:30 we all wrapped up to come inside and get ready to go to Mass. Needless to say the kids really were not too thrilled about having to put up the scooters and bikes to come in. Ending the weekend with church can go one of two ways....either you nearly fall asleep because you are so relaxed pillowed in His peaceful house, or it can really focus you for the week's journey ahead. God works in wonderous ways....shortly after coming in Cole and Reed began getting dressed. Mike and I were quietly getting ready in our room while listening to the two of them dialogue about what they were going to wear. (Lord help us if they both are like Tod in that way!!!) They decide. Reed sure has that preppy 80's look, doesn't he?! It cracked me up and made me proud all at the same time. Just as we were about to head to the van to go, Reed turns to Cole ....looks him over, then slowly checks himself out and says,

"Hey Cole, let's go get some girls!"

Guess we should be thankful they are looking for girls at church!!

Mom

2009-05-12T18:43:00.000-05:00

Mom's parting words in a letter she left for Karen, Kris, Brad and me...

"Quite simply, I would like each of you to know that it has meant the world to me to be your Mom- I was richly blessed with the birth of four beautiful children. I can not imagine what my world would have been like without you...

...I love each of you so very much. DO NOT be sad that I have gone-be happy that we had the time together that we did. Happy memories heal the heart and soul. Thank you, each one, for your love and your care. You have always made me feel very special."

Mom

I physically ache for you, Mom, and long to have just one more hug or hand hold. I am so thankful for our walk (and your ride) around the hospital. We took you to the sunlight then, but I know the angels took you straight to the Light 3 years ago.

Happy Mother's Day....Kimmy style....a little late.

Silver linings

2009-05-06T19:53:00.000-05:00

My wife is a school teacher. Truth be told, she is a very good school teacher. As a matter of fact, she has been told by students 10 years after she taught them that she is still the best teacher they ever had. One parent even said that of all the teachers he has ever known, ever had or his children ever had, Kim was the best he had ever met. Humbling words. She has definitely answered God’s call to be an educator and has been blessed to work with some incredible teachers. Her teaching career spans over 20 years and 4 schools and her dedication to her students has never been questioned.

My wife is also an open book. If you want to know what she is thinking, just ask her. If you need an honest appraisal of a situation, she’s your gal. She will not pull punches, but is also amazingly empathetic. Kim will tell you to stand up for yourself and be strong, then be there with a hug and tissue for the weak moments. She has an incredible network of friends because she can be trusted and is loyal to a fault. The support they give her has brought me to tears.

Unfortunately, it is the latter and not the former that has determined her job status. Please keep her in your prayers as she is currently looking for another teaching position. I have no doubt that everything will work out because when God wants something done, He makes sure it happens! I am quite sure I do not know God’s plan, but I am also quite sure that our family will continue to be blessed.

Have you ever heard the saying, “The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth”? The “whole truth” part seems to confuse some people. They will say, “ I offered to take her to the dentist” without mentioning that they are the ones who kicked in her teeth. The growth that Kim and I will experience through this job search will only make us stronger. We do not know where the road will lead, but I know that God is watching over us and that Kim has friends on all sides helping her find her way. The peaceful part of this is that people know Kim’s thoughts, she is an open book. They know her heart, she shares it with them often. They know her empathy, loyalty and friendship firsthand through the way she lives her life, and they will see “the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth”…

Confirmation

2009-05-02T18:21:00.000-05:00

Craig was Confirmed today. He was anointed with Chrism and professed his faith in God. He received the fullness of the Holy Spirit. And I cried.

The overwhelming presence of the Holy Spirit always makes me teary-eyed. I am blessed to have experienced it innumerable times in my life, and every time I feel the peaceful presence my eyes begin to fill. Back in high school during Search retreats, at a bible church in Southlake, at First Communions, at an evening prayer service by a lake, singing songs of praise around a campfire and today. Craig has been preparing for 2 years for this day. Over the last 9 months he spent every other Wed. night in prayer and growth, discerning if he was ready for the power and responsibility that goes with Confirmation. He is.

The Mass was great, the presider read from some of the Letters to the Bishop that the Confirmandi (Confirmation candidates) wrote and one was Craig’s. It mentioned that one of the reasons he chose the sponsor he did was because he was able to make good decisions in bad situations. His sponsor was Tod. Watching the two of them approach the altar and Tod place his hand on Craig’s shoulder as he received the Sacrament was amazing. A “proud dad” moment.

Our family has some history with the priest that performed the Sacrament, not all of it good. But as I listened to his homily, I decided to let it go. I felt the Holy Spirit fill me with forgiveness and love. I am always amazed at what God can accomplish when I, “Let Go and Let God”. Kim and I are intensely proud of the choices Craig is making and the way in which lives his faith. Today is his day, we were happy to be a part of it. It was a good cry.

Tri-State

2009-04-25T20:27:00.001-05:00

I went out to Arlington and played in a softball tournament this weekend. It is a fraternity deal. I am a Sig Ep (Sigma Phi Epsilon) and we have been hosting this tournament for about 30 years. So, I now play with the guys I went to school with. It is a blast. Most of us only see each other once a year, at this event. We only had 9 guys (slow pitch softball plays with 10), so we played short an outfielder and took an out every time the 10th batter should have been up. Despite this, we won the game! Our team came out of the dugout and decided that we would give the victory to the other team because one of our guys got hurt, so we only had 8. We went over to play in the losers bracket and had another brother show up, so we played. What do you know, we won that game too. I hit an inside the park home run! (toot toot). Well, we were all ready to be done, so we allowed the other team to continue to play. We adjourned to the parking lot, fired up the grill and poured the drinks... at 11:30AM. Best Tri-State ever. 2 wins, no loses, plus off the fields and hanging out before noon. Kim brought the boys out too, so it was a good day! (I think this is the first time in about 10 years that she has come to the tourney). I love my brothers.

Can't get enough 2

2009-04-17T22:00:00.000-05:00

I know I have used that post title before, but it is the only one that truly fits this post! We haven't posted in so long it seems! Easter was glorious, as always, but FAR different from anything we have ever had before....and you know what, it was better than years past. Where were we? LaTech! Why, you should ask? Well, Louisiana Tech's Spring Football game was April 11th at 1:00 in the afternoon. Knowing that Tod would not be able to head home, we decided to bring Easter to Tod. And let me just say, no, I'm not divorced...however the thought did cross both Mike's and my minds. Let me explain. Weather forecasts for Easter weekend here in Dallas were severe storms with flooding, golf ball size hail, lightning, possible tornadoes etc. Well, knowing that our back yard floods....gutters overflow....I knew Thur. night would need to be dedicated to preparing our house for departure. Mike, by the way, would have disagreed with the "need" to do this. So, after teaching all day I headed to the roof to sweep off those annoying "wormy-looking" deals (that clog our gutters) and to clean out the gutters (which constantly hold junk from trees and water...because they do not drain properly.) Next, I began raking (yes, and bagging) all debris in the back yard in order to free up the french drains for only water. Done. Good Friday was spent (7.5 hrs anyway) cooking the turkey dinner that would be packed for travel. Mike was salivating as he began to carve the turkey.... afterall it was Good Friday...no meat...and he couldn't eat the skin!! Coolers finally were packed....stuffing, green beans, corn, gravy, mashed potatoes, homemade sugar cookies, brownies, and rolls along with all the fixings...ALL TO GO!! Bags were packed with "play" clothes and Easter Sunday wear! Lady was dropped at the pet resort at 8am and we were on the road. We arrived to LATech just in time for the Spring Football game. As I have shared before there are four Bulldog kickers , currently, and they were intending on alternating for kick offs, p.a.t.s, and field goals. Tod was on the white team...and he was paired with John Hinton, who Tod thinks will be selected to stay on as a kicker for the Bulldogs this season.

Beautiful picture huh? (Thanks Dad...we love the camera!) Anyway, here are some pictures from the game.

Saturday could not have been prettier weather wise! We all had sunburns on our faces and necks. It was absolutely beautiful! The game, however, was kinda sad for WHITE. They lost 21-0 to the RED. John took the opening kick off, and neither John nor Tod ever saw the field again! Bummer! Following the football game we headed over to our hotel to check in, and then attended LATech's girls softball game. It was great just hanging out all together. After a little shopping, we then headed to the hotel to ZAP....yes, yes, I know.....the turkey dinner. Good thing about this, college guys don't care what or where the FREE meal is....they're there!!! So Tod brought John, one of his closest friends, over for our re-heated by microwave turkey Easter FREE dinner!! Here is what we had to work with!

I must say...it was good! And what would Easter celebrating be without dying Easter Eggs?? Even the two dozen hard boiled eggs, vinegar, and egg-dying-kit were packed to go!! Poor John in this picture!! I know his thoughts must have been..."MOM, they are MAKING ME DO THIS!!" Reed, Cole, and Craig just consider him one of their brothers!! He is incredibly patient and has the best sense of humor!

Cole, John, Reed, Tod, and Craig

Tod worked so hard on his own for the fall semester, got on the team in the spring, and will not return for the fall. They are keeping only one of the four and it didn't look as if it was going to be him. He worked so hard, gave it all he had, and is deciding to hang up his cleats. Proudly, with his head held WAY high, he is coming home to U.T.A. to "hit the books a little harder" and start preparing for the DAT or MCAT. Mike and I both are so proud. Despite his short end of the stick high school experience, he stuck it out and gave it his best. Nothing, to me, in defeat feels better than moving on knowing you've given it 100%. So, as he hangs up his cleats, we look forward to encouraging him as he reaches, perhaps, for stephiscopes instead!

Ultimately, it will go down as one of our most memorable Easters, and certainly is something we just can't enough of!!!

"Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"

2009-04-10T09:43:00.000-05:00

Photo by: Kris

...they have pierced My hands and My feet:
I can count all my bones.
They look on and gloat over me;...
(Ps. 21: 17-18)

Dear Lord, help each member of my precious family and all of our loved ones and friends to draw near to you. May each of us pick up our cross daily and follow you. Help us to totally surrender ourselves to you, to trust you fully with our lives.
Amen.

Death

2009-04-05T12:04:00.000-05:00

I have not posted in a while....my brain and heart are filled with so much that I feel like my "cup runneth over." God is still stirring in me to put some of these thoughts down...some of the words are just not here yet....

We have learned this past week of several special people who have left this world...having lost a loved one I know just exactly what it feels like to long for, and want to "hold, talk, laugh, and feel" just one more time....if you are a praying person....

...please pray for my nephew, Eric, who lost a close friend at school (only child... Erik) to suicide. He was 15. Please include his single mom in your prayers, too.
...a blogger friend of first, my little sisters, and now a blog I read daily, Tominvegas , just lost his grandmother
...a friend of mine, Misty, will soon get married... :) .. with her grandmother watching from Heaven...

Seems appropriate on this Palm Sunday, that we will attend a live version of the Stations of the Cross. He suffered, died, and was buried so we could live eternally with Him. I know He knows our pain, and He knows just what we need to heal.

For all these things, and the many things that are not written here, Lord, but perhaps are on our hearts and minds....I lift them all up to the you, Oh Lord...

Zzzzzzz

2009-03-28T17:09:00.000-05:00

Kim and I have been married for just over 20 years. In that time I have changed a little. I have added about 30 pounds in weight along with about twice as much hair as I had when we got married, unfortunately not on my head… One other thing that has changed is the amount, volume and general disgustingness of the nocturnal noises I make. This last change seems to be the worst because it is the only one that she is constantly bugging me about fixing. So, when I saw my dr. this week I mentioned that Kim has had quite enough of my nightly ritual. I snore loud enough to wake the dead or I just don’t breath at all. Now, I am sure that you are thinking that given Kim’s propensity to exaggerate, perhaps the problem is not really that bad. Well, when my brothers and I go on our annual UCLA trips, they have offered to put me up in my own room just so they can get some sleep. And on the Confirmation Retreat I recently attended there were many wide-eyed 14 year olds asking how I could possibly make so much noise. So it’s safe to say the problem does exist.

To appease my wife I had a sleep study done Wed. night. I showed up at a non-descript medical building in Bedford at 9:45PM, buzzed the intercom and was led to a 2nd floor office. It was kind of funny, the examination rooms were all numbered like a regular doctors office, but the rooms were carpeted with a bed, dresser, TV, and nightstands. I figured this would be an easy way to get a few good hours of sleep without a 4-year old kicking me in the back every 15 minutes. Of course, that was before the “Parade of Electrodes” started. First, 2 on each leg just below the knee to find out if I have ‘the jimmy legs’. Then two on my chest to monitor my heart, fair enough. A microphone taped to my neck for snore volume (could have told them they wouldn’t need that one!). Two, yes, two sets of those hospital nose things sticking into my nose. One electrode on my jaw to check teeth clenching, on corners of each eye for eye movement, behind ears for sleep level, top of head for something, 2 on back of head for something else, one on my chin… When she pulled all the wires back I felt like I had dreadlocks! Then of course the finger deal to check oxygen level in the blood. All this stuff plugged in to one box that she carried to the nightstand as I trailed. I felt like a cross between Frankenstein and Steve Austin (better, stronger, faster).

I get into the bed and can hardly roll over because of all the wires and the chick says, “have a good sleep” as she turns off the light and closes the door. Uh huh. It’s now about 11:00 and I’m in bed and tired, which usually means about a 45 second window of awake time, but I lay there for about 20 minutes with my head about 3 inches off the pillow because of all the wires and I can’t sleep. Great, what a waste of electrodes. I eventually get to sleep and only wake up about 12 times during the next 6 hours, yes, they woke me at 5:00!!

As she is removing all the paraphernalia from my face she says, “ You do snore.” To which I internally replied, “No #^%$, Sherlock!” She then told me I did have sleep apnea, but she couldn’t tell me the severity of it, that has to come from the doctor. She thought I was fine until about 3:00AM when I “freaked out on her”. As I went to the bathroom to change into clothes for the ride home I saw how they had kept those electrodes on my face and head. Not tape, no, they had this sticky paste stuff that was all over my face and in my hair, guess I won’t be stopping for a Diet Coke Big Gulp on the way home. I ended up getting home about 6:00AM, just in time to wake the kids, make sandwiches and hop in the shower to wash all the paste off. What a great night!

Our birthday surprise LATech visit!!

2009-03-25T17:13:00.000-05:00

Tod and "My Karen" as he used to call her way back when....
FOUR of Aunt Karen's EIGHT nephews! (Poor Craig...his bottom lip/chin was still so swollen!)

We headed over to the practice field on Saturday....fascinating to watch! It is extremely organized...loud horns blow and players move from station to station! I am not the most talented photographer...so I didn't get any actual kicking shots...I would need Kris or Brad for those!

The kickers

Cole, of course, could not sit still and just WATCH...he was itching to get out on that field!! Before we could get words out of our mouth..."no"...he ran down on the field and signaled to us (watching from the van) which kicks were good or no good, and then decided to shag balls for the kickers! They were appreciative and even asked him to come to every practice!

Handin' off the goods to big brother!

Little want-to-be....Cole is ready to be 19, already!

Stud!

19 years ago today....3/23 at 4:56!!

2009-03-22T21:26:00.001-05:00

Grandma Kit showing off your cute little face!Sneakin' a peak at Daddy!

Grandma Jackson holding you!

Tired mommy...and proud Aunt Karen!

Tod, we had the most fun this past weekend showing up in Louisiana for a little birthday spoilin' and surprise! (More pictures to come soon!) It is so hard for me to believe that it is already 19 years ago that you entered into this world. As we have always said, you have added so much color to our lives!!

We are thanking God for you, especially today!

Happy 19th Birthday, Tod-o!

We love you!

Motherhood, Fatherhood, and parenting

2009-03-22T08:35:00.000-05:00

Becoming a mother has been one of the most glorious gifts that God has ever, and probably will ever, bless me with. No single blessing, with the exception of their father, has brought me such joy, crazy laughter, love, fun, and peace. And, no single blessing do I enjoy more than I do them. They, collectively and individually, have shown me what God's love is and how powerful it is. A very close friend of ours gave us a card when Craig was born which read something like....deciding to have another child is deciding to have your heart walk around outside of your body....so true. I remind myself often that the love I feel for them is but a fraction of the amount that God loves us. Almost incomprehensible. Perhaps it is because of the intensity in which we love, that it often demands every single ounce of energy and emotion. At times the weight of parenthood is heavy. Amy Grant sang a song (that I can not find on our music deal but will try again just for grins) called Lay Down Your Burden which is PERFECT for what I am feeling.......heavy. In fact, I feel like my prayer life is a "Are you still there, God, it is me, Kim, AGAIN"....and He seems distant and unresponsive. I hold on to a lot. My head knows that laying the burdens down at His Feet is exactly what I need to do. And yet, why do I feel so paralyzed? Funny, but I feel like Mike and I are sitting in the cockpit of our aircraft, PfaffLife, capable of doing and going anywhere ....we go through the "departure" check off lists...all is ready....yet we both seem unable to fly.

Guillaume Apollinaire wrote:

Come to the edge, he said,

They said: We are afraid.

Come to the edge, he said.

They came,

He pushed them...and they flew.

Heavenly Father, we are on that edge in so many areas. Our hearts watch Tod work out with the Bulldogs...but never was pulled to kick in front of the coach that day....my heart feels heavy. Craig receives two letters from future high schools....which should it be?...a Jesuit or Legionaries of Christ high school education for him?...again, heavy heart. And our educational decisions heavily impact the weight of our financial responsibilities...all of which You know so well. It IS all about YOU...help us to find Your Way.

Happy 11th Dawn and BJ!

2009-03-20T14:25:00.000-05:00

My baby brother and his girlfriend...way back when...when they had only just begun....
Years later on....March 21, 1998

Cheer for the happy family!

11 years and five beautiful children later....

still loving strong!

Happy 11th Anniversary!!

We love you seven!

Tooth Fairy is coming tonight!

2009-03-17T18:22:00.000-05:00

Spring Break 2009

St. Patrick's Day

Craig's first major surgery was today! Unfortunately one of his bottom permanent teeth, number 22 to be exact, decided over a two year period (inbetween panoramic xrays) to head south... for his jaw. In addition, a pretty good size cyst formed around the tooth which also had to be removed. Dr. Spingola and Craig did an amazing job! Craig was so nervous...and I am so proud of how brave he was! We are praying the baby tooth will hold on for dear life! Unfortunately, we are all afraid that when Dr. Ohlenforst starts moving his crooked teeth, it's little root won't be able to withstand the movement.

What a memorable spring break this will be for Craig!!! And guess what? Nine days from now....surgery #2! Seems to us that March Madness in the Pfaff household should be

March Meaness!

Just for Craig we put on one of his favorite tunes, Viva La Vida, by Cold Play. Hold on just four more months Craig and you will be listening to them in person! Your first concert!

Thank you for your support, love, and prayers.

Our Kicker....

2009-03-07T10:01:00.000-06:00

Another Aunt Kris photo!

Get your game face on, Tod! Spring Football starts on Wednesday and Tod has successfully walked on to Louisiana Tech's SPRING Football Team. Truly is amazing to me! I feel like pinching myself....thousands long to play NCAA Division I football...and Tod is now getting his chance to BEAT OUT five (possibly six) other kickers. Three kickers are on Louisiana Tech's team now...adding Tod made 4, and apparently they are welcoming another walk on next week. They have scholarshiped a senior out of Texas for the fall as well. So, as we love to say around here....get out there, leave it all on the field, and K-I-C-K- E-M....Kick 'em, Tod, Kick 'em!!

There is an amazing difference between high school ball and division 1 college ball...especially at practice, and at LA Tech. Kickers work out FULLY with the team...hitting drills and all!! I wish so badly that I had had video footage of Tod coming off the field after his first official college practice. We perhaps could have won America's Funniest Home Video! He limped into the trainers room with two (one of each ball of his feet) half dollar sized blisters that they drained blood off of before leaving. In addition, he had a shoulder pad sized bag of crushed ice on his left shoulder. (Which later resulted in x-rays and a ever so slight seperation of his AC joint) As he walked out to the his car, one of the his close friends, John (also attempting to walk on...but as a wide receiver), said in what I am calling his Saturday Night Live Tracy Morgan sound alike voice...."Tod, what in the WORLD happended to you?" And the beauty of this whole entire post is that Tod also enjoys laughing about it...and yes, can handle the ribbing he gets from others....he laughs and responds..."Apparently, I forgot how to barrell roll!!" This barrell rolling running drill was new to Tod...so not only did he have a bit of a learning curve issue but he also had not moved some of the muscles required in quite sometime (eventhough he works out every single day!)....after all, he is only THE KICKER. At one point during the drill he apparently was the SOLE player sprinting forward 10 yards....at which time he shared..."Oh, yeah, I knew I messed up the second a hand slapped my back, grabbed my shirt, picked me up, and put me back where I was supposed to be!"

Outside of the fact that God has blessed Tod with a cannon of a leg, Scott, equally a blessing, has been the sole "teacher" for Tod in regards to football. And Scott is a kicker. So hitting, tackling, blocking, etc. are essential to learn...and Tod is learning them for the first time at LA Tech. Says a lot, doesn't it, about kickers today, and especially Coach Wunderlick at Jesuit. A lot has changed since then....thank you, God.

If you would....say some kicker-position winning prayers for our Tod. Selfishly we would love to sit at every home game cheering on the Bulldogs with Tod kicking. More importantly, though, we want Tod to bring glory to God with his gifts...which don't always involve his leg!

We will keep you posted.....

Lent

2009-02-25T16:49:00.000-06:00

Thanks Kris for the photo!

It is amazing to me how God works. I struggle every year with "what are you going to give up for lent this year?"....and yes, I know, do something extra instead!! Well, I really try to pick out things that are going to hurt, and things that I will frequently visit or use. In that way I will be reminded of the most precious gift to us all and the greatest sacrifice ever...Jesus' life.

Apparently God had something in mind to get me ready for this sacrificial season. I am calling it my "pre-lent" sacrifice. Our computer has been so messed (wanted to use the "J" word here but knew that Kar and Krick would freak) up lately .....like click on internet...wait 30 minutes...with a "waiting for google image to download" in the text box. Yes, friends, I mean the WORD google came in ONE line at a line (from top to bottom). No email checking, no posting, and most meaningful to me... no READING of friend's or family's posts! Couple of things crossed my mind....blowing up the computer out back was one of them! Verizon thinks it's the modem, Mike doesn't really know what is wrong with it, YET, and of course Tod thinks "just get a new one!" Anyway, thank you, Lord, for giving me so many opportunites to practice patience. And you know what...I learned from this "pre-Lent" sacrifice.....I'm NOT giving up the computer!! Or cleaning.

The change in background is not one of my favorites, however, it is a constant reminder to me of Lent. Now if I could just get the black ash cross that is put on all Catholic foreheads today surrounded by His crown of thorns... placed on the background, too,.....that would be perfect. Need a photo Kris!

Dear friends, I encourage you all to go to the "desert". I know it is in that quiet place that Christ awaits us and longs to be with us.... Meanwhile, I pray that our journeys over these next forty days are Spirit filled.

Basketball Game

2009-02-16T22:02:00.001-06:00

Went to a basketball game this weekend. One of the boys was playing so it was a family affair. We were playing a team that beat us by 20 the last time we played, so everyone was expecting the worst. Turned out to be a great game. My son played very well and we stayed close. In the fourth quarter he made a couple steals, hit a few baskets and we ended up with a tie. Quite an improvement over last time! After the game a gentleman came up to me, shook my hand and introduced himself. He said, “Your son had a great game. Your son’s got a lot of talent, I like the way he plays” I thanked him. He then handed me a business card with his organizations name on it and told me he’d love to have my son play for his team next year when he moved up.

Now, normally that kind of overture would have me bursting with pride, but did I mention that it was Cole who was playing (he’s 7!) and the game was at the YMCA!?! Yes, that’s right. Some dude is building an 8-under basketball dynasty at the YMCA! What’s this world coming to…

I have coached youth sports for a long time and personally, I do not like to lose. But youth sports is not about the coaches, it’s about the kids. Our #1 rule for every sport is to have FUN. My belief is that if a kid is not having fun at 7, he won’t be playing when he’s 13. If the kids are having fun and learning how to play the sport, the winning takes care of itself. I am proud of the fact that every soccer and baseball team I have ever coached has had a winning record, but I am more proud when parents tell me that playing on my team was the most fun their child ever had or that it was where they learned the most. And to think, I’ve done it all without recruiting.

LOVES of my life!

2009-02-13T17:01:00.000-06:00

Photos by David Leaser

Never Enough.....

2009-02-11T20:36:00.000-06:00

If I had to tag my teenhood with one of its many and varied themes, "never enough" would surely be one of them. And who knows, it could be that never enough is just part of the numerous frustrating characteristics of teenagers. What I do know is that my mother worked so incredibly hard. During my teenage years she, basically, was a single parent (though married...dad worked overseas) to four children and worked full time. I remember vividly....coming home from school and immediately thinking about what I could do to help mom before she walked through the door...usually around 5:15-5:30. I would vaccum, put laundry away, start laundry, and often would get dinner started. By dinner started I mean I would get everything ready....table set, potatoes peeled and in a pan with water, vegetables in their pan with lid, mixer out with tee-tiny pan to heat milk in (for mashed pototoes)....etc. Kim, sadly, did not get the master chef "food network" cooking ability that Karen has....but I sure can get you started. This sounds so negative...and truly I don't feel burdened of this now...but for the most part I would do all that to help ease the load my mom carried....and it was never enough. And you know what? I get it. Lately I've been spending a lot of time thinking about what is there never enough of...? I have my top two. Time...and Money. No doubt my mom was thinking the same thing.

Money...no matter what you make, there is not enough. We are so blessed to have our jobs...especially ones we enjoy....and especially considering today's economy. Regardless of how diligent we are....life happens and I'm constantly responding to it with, "How are we gonna do that?" Never thought I would ever use the cliche mom always used..."money doesn't grow on trees!" with my children because I hated it as a child...but I have!! And Tod, I am convinced, still doesn't get it. Funny, he told me the other day that the online bank activity was wrong. Money, to me, equals stress. Perhaps that is the reason that God has not blessed me with a ton of it! :)

Time is amazing. I am eternally blessed everyday by the amount of time God gifts me....and yet I never seem to get enough of it. I laugh,rage, and vent often, at how little time I have to myself and with the ones I love most. I literally laughed out loud at my ob-gyn's appointment when I was told...your good cholesterol is too low....exercise is what is going to make that better! Funny! When? Up at 5am, work by 7am, leave promptly at 3 to get boys by 3:25, home to start laundry, start dinner, assist on homework, get ready for the next day, get someone to some kind of practice or game, dinner...clean up...baths...bed. When is the exercise???? (instead of this post I guess!!)

I know the root of all this....and I know he wants nothing more than to rob us of our joy and especially our time. Thankfully Mike and I both are not good losers. God willing we will win this time/money battle with flying colors....as will all of our loved ones who struggle day in and day out with the same issues.

Thank God Lent is approaching....I long for the desert.

Basketball Game

2009-02-06T20:32:00.000-06:00