Thanks Aunt Ninnie!!!

He really is my child with that HAIR, Huh Bev???!?!?!

Here are a few pictures from Athen's last photo shoot. He is a) a toddler and b) all BOY and c) is a bit familiar with the photographer... and Nikki STILL managed to get some great photos of him, now that's talent!!!

My Boys

Not too much going on in our neck of the woods... Kevin is waiting to hear on yet another job so KEEP the prayers coming, please! As you can see we had a fun fill family Easter... Athen's favorite part? The little plastic cups you can get in a egg dying kit... He carries them around and tells me the colors of them, plays with them in the bath... he would eat and drink out of them if I would let him. "Maw" got him some peeps.... now if you know me, you know I am NOT a fan of the candy/sweets... thus I haven't let him have them yet.... I am thinking I am going to have one big mess on my hand if/when I do. But she's already called a couple of times and asked me if Athen got the peeps Maw got him... So I guess I will HAVE to let him have them huh??? Oh and btw, I got a new camera... Call me a creature of habit, but I like my old one better...

You will not that I haven't blogged about the book in a couple of days...There's a reason, I am not sure how "sound" this book is. Therefore I would NEVER want to put any false teaching out there... I will continue reading privately and share some good points and verses every now and again...

I am off to cook dinner.... Home made chicken strips, yellow rice, corn and green beans.... and if the boys are lucky - blueberry muffins...

Thanks Babe!

I love my husband so good!

{and no, its not my birthday or our anniversary, its just cause =) }

Athen and Devyn

Im telling you, these two are going to get married!

Look REALLY close....

...and you just may see the Easter Bunny!!!!

Happy Easter!

Today after church we went and had Easter dinner with Kevin's family. Athen got to play with his cousin Leiland and hunt Easter eggs....The Bradford's Easter 2009

{note to Aunt Ninnie- we really could use some professional family pictures =) }

Found One!

Half the crew....

...the other half...

((Athen telling Grandma Becky "Bye"))

Behind, I know...

I know I know... I am a bit behind on my love dare days... How is that you have a day off from work and everything seems to get BEHIND...? That doesn't make sense! =)

So I am going to do a abbreviated version to get caught up...

Day Eight: Love is Not Jealous
On this day of course it talks about how in a marriage there are people that your spouse may come in contact with that that can cause you to have a sense of jealousy... But it also talks about, which I found more key, that you can be jealous of not just people but THINGS... Such as could be jealous that my husband L-O-V-E-S to fish, he would spend ALL his free time doing it if he could and sometimes does... To be honest, it really doesn't bother me all that much... He works hard and its something he enjoys doing.... The way I see it, he isn't out in some bar, so what's the harm? However, I can totally see where a spouse could/would get jealous over a hobby...
Anyway... Today talks about how jealousy is selfishness and if each other display a act of love that is not selfish and does things for one another thinks of the other first, then there would be no reason to be jealous. Good thought, hard to apply though....
And this just doesn't apply to your marriage relationship, again, it can apply to all relationships in your life. It comes down to you should be jealous of anyone or anything. Just because someone may have something you don't have or a life that you wish you had. Remember, God is in control, thus it is pointless to be of a jealous heart...

For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. James 3:16

Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? 2 You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. James 4:1-2

Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame.
Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it: if a man would give all the substance of his house for love, it would utterly be contemned. Song of Solomon 8:6-7

Day Nine: Love Makes A Good Impression
This day talks about how you greet your spouse... How you talk to them, touch them, say "Good Morning", "Good Night" to them and so on...
Your tone, touch, and attitude can really make an impression on people, and how better to make a good impression on than your spouse...?

Here are a few key verses...

Greet one another with a kiss of love. 1 Peter 5:14

For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother. Philemon 1:7

Day Ten: Love is Unconditional

I believe I will reserve my opinion on this one for a later date... I will have to do some more research on it, as I am not totally use I agree with the book 100%... I must dig in the Scriptures myself - as we all should do...

Find Egg???

Today was my families annual Easter egg hunt... This year we did it at "maw's" yard cause its so big and cause that is where Nikki and I use to hunt eggs when we were the boys age... They had lots of fun. Athen kept saying "Find Egg?" He was SUPER excited when it had candy in it...it really is a TREAT for him...

I think he looks Big here!

This is Athen's future wife, Devyn

2008

2009

2008

2009

A toddlers hand can double as an easter egg

This year I thought I would be "brave" and color eggs with Athen... Here are our results... {and yes, that would be bunny ears on his head =) }

sorry!

If you tried to get on the blog and was blocked... SORRY!!! I had put it on "me only" while I was working on it... =)

Much to Blog About...

First, How cool is my NEW layout? I FINALLY got a three column layout!!! WOOOHOOOO!!! I am so proud of myself! I have been trying to figure it out. Since I added the "Prayer Request" section {see left} it was way unbalanced with just two columns... It took some doing and some googling but I GOT IT!

Next, Tonight we went to a Young Professional {side note, do you have to be a "professional" to attend, if so.... sorry Kev, you will have to stay home =) } Devotional at church tonight. It was really nice. Kevin and I are trying to make an effort to be more active in the church.

Also, wanna give a big "wooohoooo" to me being off tomorrow and an even bigger one for my mom keeping Athen tonight and taking him to day care in the AM. You know what that means???? YES! I get to do my ALLLLL time FAV thing - SLEEP!!!

Last, Please say an extra prayer for Dede Leon, she's a co-worker of mine and is having her appendix removed right now... Don't know any more details than that, but I am sure she could use some prayers.

I think I will reserve my "Love Dare" for tomorrow.... Its late and I want to be focused when I blog about it.... I know, so many of you are so disappointed, No worries. I will be back at it tomorrow... I will post days tomorrow AM and then tomorrow's dare tomorrow nite...

Oh wait, there's more..... So, If you think that a digital camera can with stand 30+ lbs... well my toddler put it to the test.... and no, it can not. Thus I will be searching tomorrow for a new "cheese" and Athen calls it.... I HAVE to get a new one cause we are going to dye Easter eggs and that is a must to catch on "film"

Happy 31 years {and one day}

You would think that I would have been the first to post a shout out to my parents.... well, I kinda forgot... =( I was going to try and find a picture of them and well... I don't have any.
Anyhoo! Matters not.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY MOM AND DAD!!!
Kevin and I are so truly blessed to have you as parents. You two are a great example of a loving christian marriage. I hope in 25 years I can be where y'all are today. In today's world is not often you have parents who are still married... I am thankful that we do.
I will have to agree with Nikki's post... You two are the most loving and giving people I know. Kevin and I both know that if we need anything we can come to you two. It truly is a blessing to have the two of you as parents to us and grandparents to Athen. We love you!
Love ~Kevin, Tiffany, Athen and Diezel

ps....Happy 10th {and one day} Birthday Abby Cozart!!!!

Love Dare: Day Seven

If I skip around or repeat myself its cause I read the day's dare the night before and sleep on it and then start fresh with implementing for the whole day, and then sometimes I don't get to blog about it till that night before I read the next days dare... gets to be a bit confusing ((to me anyway))

So, I think I have already talked about day six - Love is not Irritable.

Love Dare: Love Believes the Best

This days (today's or yesterday's however you wanna look at it..) was really good, I thought. It talked about "rooms" in your heart and how you have a Appreciation Room and a Depreciation Room. And how we tend to "visit" the depreciation room more often than the appreciation room. Talks about divorce is plotted in the depreciation room, how violent plans are schemed there... I think of this as where my vindictiveness is at... I visit that room often, I am praying for that aspect of me to diminish.... ((please pray for me as well))
Today's dare also talks about how everyone has unresolved issues, hurts, and personal baggage. I am pretty sure its called being human. We can understand that in ourselves but not so much in other, especially the ones we love, the ones we hold to a "higher" slandered. I do not think that we should lower the bar or God's standers, but understand when our spouse falls short as we ourselves so often do. I often say... "The most faults we are so quick to point out in others are the ones that are most prevalent in ourselves..." So true if you stop and think about it... I for one need to really work on loving and not judging... However, there is a BIG difference between judging and expecting one to do what is right, what God commands us to do...
I may have ventured off subject.... anyhoo, I will end with some key verses...

{Love} Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 1 Corinthians 13:7

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8

Bad Hair Day

*yawn* Life as a toddler is hard....

Love Dare: Day Six

I didn't ask for a grade from Kevin last night... so I don't know how "well" I did. But I did try extra hard to "hold my tongue". However, I don't usually get to "lippy" with Kevin... therefore I tried to implement it with others... Hard, very hard.

Day Six: Love is Not Irritable
This is another one I need to work on ((seems like they all have been thus far, hmm.....))
Side note: Kevin sent me a text today... "I love you UN-IRRITABLY" he makes me laugh, I love him so good!

When under pressure, love doesn't turn sour. Minor problems don't yield major reactions. Love does not get angry or hurt unless there is a legitimate and just reason in the sight of God. ((ouch, that is a hard pill to swallow!))
Today's "dare" also talks about the "Sabbath" (aka Sunday) being a vacation day... to just rest and worship. -But don't be doing one while doing the other =)
I think that is key, to just slow down and take Sunday "off" I try and LIVE my this rule... Sunday is NAP day, just ask Kevin.

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long suffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. Colossians 3:12-14

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void to offence toward God, and toward men. Acts 24:16

Love Dare: Day Five

Day Five: Love is not Rude...

Again, I think these are great lessons that you can apply not only to your marriage but in life and they way you treat people in general.

Here are a couple of questions to "test" yourself... they could apply in any relationship...

-How does your ________ feel about the way you speak and act around them?

-How does your behavior affect your ______'s sense of worth and self-esteem?

-Would your_____ or ____ say you're a blessing or that you're condescending and embarrassing?

I think most people would agree that we tend to mimic and take on the personalities of the people we are around... this is not always a "good" thing. Its important to stop and think about these questions, putting your spouses / loved ones feeling ahead of your own selfish ways is key.

1. Guard the Golden Rule. Treat your mate the same way you want to be treated
2. No double standards. Be as considerate to your spouse as your are to strangers and coworkers.
3. Honor requests. Consider what your husband or wife already asked you to do or not do. If in doubt, then ask.

Today's dare: ask your spouse to tell you three things that cause him or her to be uncomfortable or irritated with you. You must do so without attacking them or justifying your behavior. This is from their perspective only.

And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. Luke 6:31

The words of a wise man's mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself. Ecclesiastes 10:12

It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman and in a wide house. Proverbs 25:24

___________________________________________________________________

the difference a year makes....

Athen reminds me of Jett in this picture... Jett gives that look too... I think some call it the "Walker Look"....?

Happy Birthday Kevin!!!

HAPPY 27th BIRTHDAY KEVIN!

((I think Athen looks like him in this picture...))

Today marks Kevin's 27th Birthday!

Here are 27 things you should (any may not want to) know about Kevin...

1. He's always been "healthy" he weighted almost 10lbs when he was born.

2. He is from Naylor, Ga

3. He is an only child

4. He's always had a pet-dog.

5. In high school he was obsessed with the color yellow... to the point that his mom dyed his socks yellow... ((I guess that's why he also dyed his hair yellow as well))

6. His favorite past time is fishing and then hunting...

7. He's whole world changed in 2001

8. and again in 2003

9. and yet on more time in 2006

10. Kevin has never meet a piece of chocolate that he didn't like

11. Is just as picky of an eater as I, if not more so...

12. His Great-Grandma is still living

13. He's been to jail for night hunting

14. He has a Associates Degree in Radiological Technology. ((**still needs a job!**))

15. Has three tattoos

16. Has his ears pierced, although he hasn't wore his ear rings since we got married

17. Had a tongue ring

18. Has had 10+ trucks since we have been together

19. Has had 20+ set of tires for those trucks...

20. Is a great husband, much to some people surprise, but I KNEW it was in him....

21. Is a great daddy, Athen just adores him

22. Would be a pro bass fisherman if he could for a living...

23. Was a pretty cute kid

24. Was a WILD teenager

25. He is a Lanier Co. High graduate

26. He has come such a LONG way in the last six years...

27. He is loved my all who knows him. You can't help but love Kevin.... I know I sure do! Love you baby!

Birthday Roundup - We had a GREAT Birthday weekend... Friday nite dinner, Saturday Morning breakfast and then Kevin fished all day, and Sunday Church, of course, and then a BIG ol Birthday meal at mom's - Kevin's surprise- a made from SCRATCH Red Velvet Cake!!! Kev's FAV!

On Monday night, Kevin had dinner at his mom's with her, his grandma and grandpa... Steak with all the fixn's!

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR MAKING KEVIN'S DAY SO SPECIAL!!!!

Love Dare: Day Four

First, day three... Kevin gave me a 10 out of 10 for day three... not cause I bought him something but because we were suppose to go fishing together and instead I told him that he and Eric should go since Eric had a afternoon off and he really wanted to go ((plus its Eric's boat =) )) So.... I am not real sure that I complete the "dare" or not... but I guess its what Kevin thinks that counts...

Day Four:Love is Thoughtful
Contact your spouse sometime during the business of the day. Have no agenda other than asking how he/she is doing and if there is anything you could do for them...
Now, being how today is Sunday and we are together all day, I may have to apply this one tomorrow...
As Kevin told me last night, you don't have to do the dare to the letter... its the thought process that counts. We are not only trying to implement these lessons into our marriage life but in life and people in general...

How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee. Psalm 139:17-19

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. Philippians 1:3 ((this is my FAV verse!))

Love Dare: Day Three

Lets start with day two... Kevin gave me a 9 out of 10, but that's just cause he was being nice... I really didn't do anything unexpected, well I did invite his daddy and his wife to dinner with us, so I guess that would count...

Today's Dare: Love is Not Selfish - Buy your spouse something that says "I was thinking of you today"
Whatever you put your time, energy, money into will become more important to you....thus do this for your spouse... Its hard to care for something you are not investing in.

Today ask yourself these questions:
-Do I truly want what's best for my spouse?
-Do I want them to feel loved by me?
-Do they believe I have their best interests in mind?
-Do they see me as looking out for myself first?

Where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder James 3:16

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves Philippians 2:3

Bu love "does not seek its own" 1 Corinthians 13:5

Love Dare Day Two

Well, last night Kevin read day one and day two.... I asked him to grade me on day one.. I got an 8 out of 10... not too bad, again - always room for improvement...


Day Two: Love is Kind
Today you are to do at least one unexpected gesture as an act of kindness.... I am not sure what I am going to do yet, I have been thinking on it.... We are going to dinner tonight, but that's not unexpected and its for his birthday so I don't think that will really count... hmm.... must think.

What is desirable in a man is his kindness Proverbs 19:22

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32

Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:3-4

She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. Proverbs 31:26

Update...

Here's an update on my Sugardoodles...
His back is doing MUCH MUCH MUCH better... I would say he's about 85%. He's been fishing so I know he's feeling better =)
No word yet on a job.... ((*If anyone knows of one.... let me know* ))
Please keep praying for his back and for him to find a job.

This Sunday is his birthday, I have planned dinner just the two of us tonight, Day trip tomorrow, and dinner with the fam on Sunday, mom is cooking all his FAV's - cubed stake, butter taters, mac and cheese, brown sugar beans, rolls... hmm! ((and if you know my mom's cooking, you know that's some kinda GOOD!)) and baking him a little something special... =)

Take Care and have a GREAT weekend!

Love Dare...

If you have seen the movie Fire Proof, you know what I am talking about... and if you haven't seen it - SEE IT. Not only if you are married, but even if you aren't it has some really good thought provoking points that make you stop and think about how you treat people in your lives in general. After seeing the movie and being on this journey of bettering myself, what better way than to start with my marriage. Not that we have a "bad" marriage... but there is always room for improvement, always.

I would encourage any married couple whether you have a "perfect" ((by the way, there is no such thing)) marriage or one, like my own, that may need a little WORK ((that's KEY)) watch the movie WITH your spouse. Then read the book....

Anyway, the book is set for 40 days... ((side note: odd how that number 40 is used in the bible as well...)) each day is a different "dare" today, day one is patience's... boy oh boy, now that's a HUGE one for me... I am NOT a patience person. My mom always told me "God is going to teach your patience" Of course, you were right mom. So the "dare" for the day is to be patience with your other half. To be slow to speak. To only speak kind words and if you have no kind words to hold your tongue. So far... so good. ((Its only 12:20)) So that is my mission for today. To be patient with my hubby.

Galatians 5:22
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

1 Thessalonians 5:14
14 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.

James 1:19
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.

*update on Diezel*
He had his stitches out today and got a good report from the doctor. Everything is healing up fine and his going to be alright! YAY!!!

Annoucment....

you heard it here first... Athen is going to be a big brother!!!!


Watch the video to see Athen's reaction...

Just wanted to Share...

I found this thru a friends blog and the title of it caught my eye - "A Letter for Tiffany on her Anniversary" No, not me Tiffany but another... its a letter from her mother-in-law. I thought it was just beautiful and so rare... it really touched me and I wanted to share...

Dearest Tiffany,
I just want the world to know how very blessed I am by the very being of you. It has been 2 years today since you became a part of our family and words just cannot express the love I have for you. What you do for my son lives in my heart and brings a smile daily. He has grown into such a wonderful Christian man because of the love and support you give him so freely. Watching his eyes light up when you walk into a room makes my heart leap in ways I never thought it could. You bring peace and such contentment to his life and his heart feels at home because you live there. I have told him so many times what a beautiful wife he has, and he always quickly says, "I sure do!". He is so proud of you and the home you two are building together. He loves your cooking and brags to all about your many talents and what Tiffany can do. It is an honor to be your mother-n-law. Since Joey was a little boy I have asked God to let him find a wife that loves God more than she does Joey and my prayer was answered by you. I thank God for answered prayers, you are truly the beat of my son's life. The last thing my daddy told you was if you thought he was worth taking a chance on, to take that chance. I am so glad you did. Pappy adored you too! It did bring tears to my eyes the day you two got married that Joey's grandfathers were not there to see your beautiful self walk down the aisle to their grandson and become his wife. Always know how much you are loved and wanted. I thank you for loving him and us with so much unconditional and amazing love. I am so glad you are a "Hunt" woman! May the two of you always put God first and each other second and here is to many, many more years of happiness for you and my son. I love you sweet girl, you are truly the daughter of my heart and how it swells with pride over you. Thank you for taking such wonderful care of my son and for making his way easier and brighter. Only you can fill his heart with the love he now knows and I thank you for showing him Christ's love.
Always, Me

Thankful

Ten things I am thankful for.... *in no particular order*

1. My Job. MANY of your can understand with the times that we are in the importance of a job, having a job, and being able to keep a job. That I can pay my bills, provide for my family, and provide insurance.
2. My Sugardoodles ((aka Kev)) Although this past year or so has been a bit of a bumpy one, I love him all the more for it...
3. My Son. Although raising a child comes with challenges, it also comes with many rewards. I am learning that each and every day. Athen is such a joy to be around... he really is a great kid and can put a smile on anyone face...
4. My Mom. I have said it before and I will say it again... If I can become 1/2 the woman she is, I can concur the world... She's just amazing. I am pretty confident in saying that anyone that knows her would agree...
5. My Family. With out them Kevin and I would have not made it through the last couple of years financially...
6. My Friends. With out them I would have not made it through the last couple of years mentally =)
7. My Home. Although its small and "not much" its ours and I love it and I am proud of it.
8. The power of prayer... wow, what else can I say about it... it just makes you feel good... Sadly, I have not been much of a prayer... but here lately I am reevaluating my relationship with God and trying to make it what it should be.
9. Health insurance... although it may not be "great" its pretty good and I'm gratefully to have it.
10. This blog and the people that read it. It gives me an outlet and also the encouraging words from others are uplifting... I do so enjoy the comments left by others and also others blogs as well....

I am going to try and post other things I am thankful for as they come to me. I think its important to remind ourselves that we have LOTS, TONS even to be thankful for. Again, in this world today its EASY to get down and out. Trust me, I have been there MANY MANY times and thanks to God ((and a little help from some medication - yes I am putting it out there, I have to be on medication, started out for being for post-pardon and then helped me tremendously with my anxiety and depression that I stayed on it. I use to be ashamed of being on it, and to some point I still am, but I would NEVER EVER want ANY mother to go through what I went through and if helps someone else knowing that I had to take it... well then I will shout it from the rood tops!)) I am more positive and hope to be more positive for others....

Prayers Please...

Please say an extra prayer for Kevin tonight.... Thanks!!

Open to the Public....

The blog is off of private... I found out the information I was looking for... enjoy the blog! =)

Proud....

*update* Athen is doing very well with learing his lower case letters... those are a bit tricky you know... of course we are having the issue with "b" and "d" and "p" and "q".... but he's getting the others pretty well... =)

2years,or 28months,or 121weeks, or 851days...

....that's how many days Athen has been.... well, Athen.

Here's a recap of all the things he knows and does these days...

-Knows all his ABC's

-Knows all his numbers

-Can count to 9

-Knows his colors

-Knows some shapes

-Started calling Kevin "Daddy" and not "Dada"

-Can say "Sherry" pretty well

-Still calls Nikki "Ninnie"

-Can find letters on a key board

-Says he "needs" a computer

-Likes to go to store for "andy" aka candy

-Knows who all the kids at day cares parents are... "EB's daddy" ((EB= Elizabeth)) "Uke's momma" ((Luke)) he also knows them by their cars...

-Has been very good with Diezel while he's "sick"

-Oddest thing, Mouse ((his big Mickey Mouse)) is "sick" too... =)

-He recently learned what "you are in trouble!" means.... Just ask Allie from church ((again, sorry Allie for Athen hitting you!))

-"Athen Do It" is one of his newest sayings

-Don't think that potty training is any where in our near future...

-Still sleeps with a "pie" aka pacie

-Can find Jesus in his bible story book.

-"reads" his new testament bible that Mrs Strange gave him... well ok "read" is a strong word he more or less "finds" numbers... "Athen find 3.... umm.... lets see.... OH OH OH there it is! There 3" that would be the conversation that he has with himself....

He's so much fun and so entertaining!!!

a whole new meaning...

With in the last week this verse had taken on so much more meaning....

"But at the beginning of creation God 'made them male and female.'[a] 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife,[b] and the two will become one flesh.'[c] So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate."Mark 10:6-9 6

I don't so much talk about Kevin and I on here, after all it is Athen's blog... but I just want to say how proud and happy I am of the person Kevin has become. If you know Kevin, you know he's come a ALL way. He is a wonderful father and husband, even though at times I do not give him credit for it. I love him more today than yesterday and will love him even more tomorrow....

Waterloo, Iowa

If you are visiting Athen's blog and you live in or near Waterloo, Iowa.... please email me and let me know who you are.

tiffanyandkevinbradford@yahoo.com

Thanks,
Tiffany

Update on Diezel

Diezel had is doctor visit today... Vets says he's doing well, gave him some pain medicine and some more antibiotics. He is to back on the 1st to get his stitches out....
I believe he is feel much better, Kevin said he tried to got see his "girl friend" today... =)

verse for today... a bit late, I know... ((more below this post...))
Romans 8:28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Let it Go...

I have never been one to believe in "signs" or what not... however, I do think that everything happens for a reason....
That being said, I want to share with you something that I REALLY needed. Something I have been struggling terribly with for a long time...
It just so happen today when I dropped Athen off at day care Mrs Carolyn handed me a paper that she had gotten over the weekend.... she wanted me to copy it for her...
This is what it says...

If you keep judging others to make yourself feel better.... let it go
If you're stuck in the past and Gods is trying to take you to the new level in him....let it go
If you are struggling with the healing of a broke relationship....let it go ((That's a big one for me personally))
If you keep trying to help someone who won't even try to help themselves...let it go
If you're feeling depressed and stressed....let it go
If there is a particular situation that you are so used to handling yourself and God is saying "take your hands off of it" then you need to..... let it go
Let the past be the past. Forget the former things...let it go
If you are holding on to the past hurts and pains you...let it go
If someone has angered you...let it go ((that's a biggie too))
If someone can't treat your right, love you back, and see your worth...let it go ((another HUGE one for me))
If you are holding on to some thought of evil and revenge... let it go ((HUGE))
If you are involved in a wrong relationship or addiction...let it go
If you have a bad attitude... let it go.

I often tell people "Let go, and Let God..." I surely need to take my owe advice...
I can't do it, I need to give it over to him...

I hope the above has help you as much as me...

Update on the sick

Diezel is going back to the vet today. He really can't move his neck all that well. He's bite wounds seems to be healing up tho so that's a plus.

Kevin's back is getting better every day... He's down to going to treatment to three days a week rather than four. Praise the Lord!

Please keep praying for my boys...
Take Care!

Love...

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away1 Corinthians 13:4-8

its a bird, no its a plane, no...

...its Jett the Spy!

This Saturday was Jett's SURPRISE spy party! If you have been around Jett for the past six months or so you know that being a SPY is all he talks about... Some of the family members even have spy names... He has such a great imagination!

This year Jett's birthday theme was "Spy Party" it was also a surprise, sort of... Jett being the oh so smart child that he is saw Ivey's (ok really her mom's) car and said "What's Ivey doing here? Is this some kind of surprise for me??" Smart, I know.

Anyway, Nikki planned out all kinds of things...first the kids had to become secrete spy's by getting their name badges and finger prints done and then the kids went on a secrete spy mission with clues written in invisible ink - you had to use the special spy pen to read... So creative that Nikki is!

Spy's on a Mission!

Found it!!!

The Spy Mo-ville ((yes that's how he says it))

And cause I love him so good.... Here's a picture of my Boo.... ((its not a "great" one cause I took it with my phone))

Pick-Me-Up...

In an effort to live a more positive life, I am going to try and post a inspirational bible verse every day, mainly for myself... but I hope that is uplifts anyone else who may read it as well...

Luke 6:27-31

27"But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. 29If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. 30Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. 31Do to others as you would have them do to you.

Update...

Diezel seems to be feeling a little better today... He's been up and moving around and even ate a little something.... He's not walking very well but it could just be from he stitches and or the bite wounds... at any rate, he seems as though he will be just find in a week or so...

Also, Kevin's back is getting much better, Praise the Lord! But please keep praying for him... he has a LOT on his plate right now, there are many things going on and WE sure could use the prayers... Thanks again for all the love and support...

Its a sad day...

...in the Bradford house....
Athen's bff, Diezel was MIA last night. We later found out today that it was because another dog had attacked him. We just got back from the doggie ER... Vet said that he's lucky to be alive. Diezel SHOULD make it, we are going to have to watch him thru the night and tomorrow and take him back to Vet on Monday.

Then I posed this question, does God answer prayers for animals as he does for humans? Since and animal has no soul ((some would disagree, but no - they don't.)) does he "heal" them? On the other hand, animals are his creature, so..... Dunno. I believe I am going to submit it to the question and answer box at church, stay tuned for the answer...
However, it can't hurt to say a prayer tonight for Diezel.((Just say one for my family in general...)) He's in a good bit of pain. Plus we are going to have to keep Athen and him apart... Athen is going to be crushed, Diezel - no so much...

Thank You

Just wanted to say THANK YOU for all your encouraging comments to Kevin. I have passed them along. He and I are SO very proud for this life changing decision. Its so encouraging to have friends and family as we have. Please continue to pray for our family.

Happy BIRTHday!

Not only is today my Jettie-Man's SIXTH birthday Day - HAPPY BIRTHDAY JETT!
It was also Kevin's "Birth"day... Tonight Kevin was baptized!!
Soooo many prayers were answered tonight. I couldn't be more proud of Kevin, he has come SUCH a L-O-N-G way in the last six years, I do good work =)

Thank you to all the family and friends that have supported Kevin and prayed for him, don't stop...

((Guess I should have saved my "**BREAKING NEWS**" post for tonight huh???))

I love you Kevin, and I am PROUD to be your wife!

**Breaking News**

**Breaking News**

Athen can spell his name!!! At bath time we spell out his name with his foam letters… I tell him “A-T-H-E-N” and he gets them and sticks them to the wall… Well last night I said “spell your name” and be proceeded to pick up and stick “A-T-H-N” ok, so he “forgot” the E… but really, it was just an over sight cause he was so excited… as am I!!! My baby is so smart, I am VERY PROUD of him!!!
I am such a proud momma!
It occurred to me that maybe I should add to the “to do” list that whole potty training thing…?
I will try and get a picture up tonight of his name that HE spelled... =)

A-L-L boy....

my oh my... that's about all I can say.... {note the placement of his left hand...}

A Trip to the ER...

as "they" say.... Want the good news or the bad news first?
Lets start with "bad" and follow up with GOOD....

Last night/this morning, I learned that you do not go to SGMC's ER and say that anything NEAR your "Chest" hurts unless you are prepared to stay for oh, about 12 hours. That was shorter than what it could have been.... (helps to know folks)

Let me back up a bit, last Thursday Kevin told me that it felt like something was stuck in this throat... by Sunday night he couldn't breathe very well or swallow his own spit. Off to the ER we go, I wasn't about to go all night with him not being able to breathe well and run the risk of him stop breathing all together while he slept.... ((note to self: just invest in one of those things you put on your finger to know what you are getting enough oxygen to your brain - its HAS to cost less than a 12hr vacation at SGCM)) So at SGMC they as Kevin what is wrong he tells him "I can't breathe well and my "chest" hurts thus started our LONG trip thru tests in the Chest Pain center. I kept telling them it wasn't his heart and wasn't his "chest" that's just the best way he could describe it. At one point the nurse asked "And who are you? What relation to him?" Guess how well that went over with me?!?!?!
So 12 hours later, we know it wasn't his heart... HELLO!!! I am pretty sure at hour ONE I had all ready clued them in to that little bit of information...
They think ((which I already knew)) that its something to do with his GI track. I think more accurate its Esophageal Ulcer. And if you are wondering, his back is doing a bit better, he is undergoing treatment at Dr. Pridgens and seems to be helping. this will be his second full week. Pray for my little Kevin....


Now on to Good New - ATHEN
He knows all his ABC's by sight
He knows all his numbers by sight
He can count to 9
He knows most all of his colors
He knows most all his common shapes
He knows LOTS of animals, not just barn yard animals but elephant, tiger, lion, alligator....
He knows the characters names on Dora/Diego, MMCH (of course) and Handy Manny
He knows in which order the letters of his name goes in... I have to tell him "A-T-H-E-N" but he knows that the A goes first and then the T goes BEHIND the A, if he puts in front he looks at it and goes "Nope" and corrects himself...
He's VERY smart.
Last night his Papa said "Do you know this two year old knows how to count to ten?" I said "Did you know more importantly that he knows his numbers by sight?"
I think its more important that he knows his numbers and letters by sign than by being able to sing some song or just be able count in order...
We are currently working on learning the sounds letters make and the lower case abc's...

And for your viewing pleasure...Athen got some new clothes... =)

.....now I know my ABC's......

Yeppers! Athen knows 95% of his ABC's. All with OUT learning the song. He knows them by their letters. He also knows his number 1-9 "O" and "zero" are the same to him.. =)
We are still working on colors and shapes... then we are on to what sounds the letters make and also learning to spell his name... he says "A for Athen"
Athen is really talking up a storm theses days.... he says all kids of things... he's newest is "no, quit" and "Aw, man!" and "um, lets see...." and "lets find ____" lol, I could go on and on...

Maw

Another mom’s blog reminded me of this…

The other night “maw” aka my grandma called and Athen was sitting in the floor doing his puzzles and says “Oh! Pone (phone)” and climes up on the couch to reach the cordless phone. Which he did, and started talking “ello?” only to be talking to no one cause he didn’t turn the phone ON. So the answering machine picks up and “Maw” starts talking… “Hey Tiffany, its Grandma….” and Athen goes “HEY! MAW, HEY!” but not on the phone, nope – he’s talking into the answering machine. And when she doesn’t talk back he squinches (sp?) his little eye brows… ((If you know him, you can just picture him doing this cause he does it all the time… ))
So I get the phone and answer it, he NEEDS to talk to Maw…

Athen: Hey Maw!
Grandma: Hey
Athen: What you do’n?
Grandma: ____? (don’t know, couldn’t hear her)
Athen: You wanna play? Puzzles?
Grandma: ____ ( I am guess she didn’t know what he said and that she asked where diesel was)
Athen: There, deizel there (Athen pointing)
Grandma: ____ (she must have asked about Kevin, thus Athen’s response)
Athen: Dada in chair, back broke, hurt.

He’s so funny! I have gotten some video of him doing his ABC’s… they are kinda long but I will try and post some soon.

He’s new thing is at dinner (or whenever he’s eating) he closes his eyes, rubs his tummy and says “hmmm, hmmm, hmmm, da’s good!” “good cooker momma”
I am going to try and get that on video as well…

Got to love him!

Gifted, I know...

At christmas, Papa (aka Pawpaw as Athen calls him) gave Jett and Athen these shirts with the Flash Foods logo on there (that would be the company that Daddy works for, thus the shirts) Anyway, Athen calls it his "PawPaw shirt" well, the other day Kevin get a letter from Flash Foods (he also does some work for them) and of course it had the Flash Foods logo on it... Athen was looking for paper to write on and he got the letter that Kevin had gotten in the mail. I told him "No, that's Dada's paper" and he in turn told me "NO Momma! Da's PawPaws paper!"
Now isn't that some good reasoning skills? He gets that ALL from me! I take FULL credit for that... I just think that is to smart! So gifted my child...