Leatherwood Land

The LAW MAN...

2009-03-23T00:36:00.000-07:00

2009-03-08T05:59:00.001-07:00

We're Ba-aaack! Finally.

2009-02-19T13:22:00.000-08:00

So Sorry for the now, four month delay in our blogging progress! Life as we knew it pre-remodeling, has resumed! Yay! Around Thanksgving, Keenan decided to take my advice about gettin' after this old home of ours! Of course, the way he went about it turned my entire world upside down ( not to mention all to the center of our house, if you know what I mean) He tore into our bedroom one morning after breakast with a SLEDGEHAMMER! Aughhh! Yes, he went commando on our home. It looked like a war-zone by the afternoon and has looked that way ever since the first week of January.

We took refuge at my parents' home right down the street ( Thanks, Mom & Dad!) So, for about 2 1/2 - 3 months we have been there, not really sure what to do with ourselves. And, definitely not taking time to blog!

For those of you who have not seen, nor heard that we have remodeled both ends of the house( not the main areas, yet...) But just our bedroom, and the kids' wing, as I like to call it! We basically finished those areas completely. They have been completely: retextured, ( our bedroom has been restructured a bit) , repainted, re sheetrocked in some areas, kids have new windows, new light fixtures, new furniture, new closets - ( Our home is old, people - we had no closet space to speak of, now mine is 8'X12' YAY!) , new beautiful chocolate brown, double padded carpet in our bedroom, and redone hardwood in the kids' rooms and hallway. Yes, I am totally thrilled to have this all finished after living with unpainted walls for the last 11 years, practically! ( If you know me, you know I LOVES me some COLOR! I have to thank the Lord, ultimately for prompting keenan to get this all done - without any real 'griping' from me!

Pictures to come, I promise!

Thanksgiving was yummy, of course,,,So was Christmas - again, I will post whatever pics I have...and in January, we began a bunch of firsts for our family... It was very bittersweet in that we changed church homes. However, we still love and look forward to maintaining friendships and the church family we have loved over our 27 + years there! ) A little shorter for Keenan - but who's counting?) We have been welcomed into a new church family at Frontline Church in Arlington. God has DEFINITELY answered our prayers. We are so blessed!

Also, around the first week or so of January, we moved back into our home! Wow, did that feel great!

As of late, we have been missing Keenan alot, since his work has taken him away from us quite a bit! He is such a hard worker - and I am so very proud that my husband is an ambitious hard worker! Not to mention, quite the Renaissance Man~ He is now running his own HVAC company; Air-Kraft Mechanical, teaching commercial helicopter piloting to an individual, and NOW he is currently in Florida being trained ( for free, PTL!) to be certified to be a Certified Technical Divemaster. I know you are probably saying, "O.K., Rheagan - splain..." Gladly! Technical diving, as per explanation by Keenan, himself, is basically diving deeper than 'recreational' divers. They use more tanks in front and in back, and are able to stay down longer. Anywho, that is all I can comprehend, how about y'all?

Landry is LOVING cheering for Jaguar Cheer Academy - and recently went to her first NATIONALS! We are very proud of her, as always, but even more so because of a special award she was nominated for. It was the "WOW AWARD" In lay terms, it basically means that out of about 3,000 girls, the judges asked her coaches for her name because she was memorable for one reason or another. I am guessing it was the fact that she is very well-rounded little athlete! And, she is mighty cute, too! ( Sorry...doting mother ALERT!)

Lawson keeps us in stitches, most of the time - He is still liking school and doing very exceptional at reading. He continues to read billboards and signs everywhere while we are out, causing me to fear graffiti.... He is a joy, as always and ALL BOY!

As for Logan, our teacup chihuahua, YES, he is still with us, after 4months - I know, a BIG accomplishment for this family! ( Melissa - don't judge)

Hopefully I have not lost our loyal fan base by not updating for so long - but we have also found a new love....FACEBOOK! Oh...my....what a time drain - but it is so...much...fun!!! Well, let us know how you guys are and if you're still a fan ( even after this horribly long post!) LOVE YOU!

Rhea

Laundry Day...

2008-10-26T12:57:00.000-07:00

Fresh "Landry" & Rock Star - "Bro-Po"( Friend; Brooke)

NO,...no airing our dirty laundry today...but check back some other time for that...NO, our daughter decided months ago that she would like to be "laundry" for trick or treat. Her Uncle Chris always calls her "Laundry" instead of Landry, as a term of endearment. :0) But it truly began when my Aunt Karen accidentally wrote Laundry , in stead of Landry on my baby shower card. It just kind of stuck. And, it just so happened that a friend of hers had a fall costume party Saturday evening and this mother had to get into Trick or Treat mode real quick! Whew! Talk about a marathon....Soccer game, cheerleading at a football game, a quick sandwhich, then on to putting her costume together. Landry won FUNNIEST COSTUME at the party. I think I know what clenched it for her, DO YOU? Do you see her little brother's old ( but clean) Bob The Builder underoos on her head? Yah, I was just going to tack those on her shirt, but instead, creative sister came out with pigtails through them! A special thank you to little brother for being immodest enough to let her use them! I think it was a hit! Congratulations, Landry ! ( Although you always win the prize with us! ) Happy Fall Y'all !!!

2008-10-03T07:32:00.002-07:00

Just noticed I had not posted anything about precious daughter lately. Well, being that her birthday is today, - I have been a little retrospective. Maybe a little too much, in fact. I will save most of it for later because frankly folks, I get a little weepy. Anyway, I am so proud of Landry. She really is, a lovely young lady. Believe me, this is only God - because He knows me and her father ( however precious we might be ourselves,..) Can not "make" Landry the person she is. It was only The Lord. His grace - giving us what we don't deserve - the best - as in Landry Elise Leatherwood - was just that - GRACE. Sure, she is imperfect, but as her mother, it is my DIVINE right to never admit it ( Although I guess I just did) We are so blessed to have her for a daughter and, more and more so every day - for a friend. We enjoy Landry's company simply because she is a breath of fresh air to be around. Innocent, pure, thoughtful, beautiful heart, sensitive in the things of The Lord and FULL of the JOY of the LORD! - She is the antithesis of this world. So, she embodies the very thing we are to be - IN this world - but not OF it. So proud....so, so proud. Did I mention how proud? Let me give you a glimpse into her character for those of you who do not know her, or do not quite know her that well. The other day she chose her own outfit, as she does most of the time lately. She chose bold orange - (her favorite) in a corduroy fitted blazer, matching tights, modest length denim mini skirt, and her neon pink,yellow,orange and green high tops. Of course she told me later that day that she received many compliments on her shoes, outfit, etc. but that many of her classmates had made fun of her. (Yes, the mama bear in me wanted to attack those poor children.) However, my daughter's attitude was far more superior than her mom's... I told her: "I hope that did not hurt your feelings -because I think you look PRECIOUS! " And her response was "No, not really - I mean, some people will like it and some people won't!" She said all this as if she did not take too much stock in what THEY thought. ( Yay!) And she was sincere. She DIDN'T care what they thought about it - She liked it - Her mother certainly liked it - And - well - I think that is all that really matters! Anyway, if you are reading this, please give a birthday "SHOUT" out to my precious first born miracle...Miss Landry Elise Leatherwood. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEETIE! We think you are so special and wonderful - And there is nothing you can do to change that! We loved you before we even knew your cute dimples, beauty of heart or ANYTHING - so if you did nothing else on earth except BE, we will still love your hide off.... Love MOM & DAD ( Yes, Lawson loves you, too - but well...hE HAS HIS OWN WAY OF SAYING THAT!)

Blah Blah Blah.....

2008-09-29T21:57:00.000-07:00

Get ready - you're about to encounter my world of rambling - - - This picture is a perfect portrait of the last few weeks - - - I am TRYING to be optimistic.... Like Lawson, who is OBVIOUSLY ready for the cold weather - ( like his hot blooded mother) I found him in his room getting his winter coat and mittens on, even though the temperature outside does not reflect the need for these items! Either way, I thought: "Boy, do you look how I feel! I am ready for some changes! Both in the weather and in my life ! Anyone who can recommend a good bible study? One for just an individual - If I choose it - I will send you a special something - providing I have your address - just e-mail me your address at rheaganrhea@gmail.com - and don't forget your suggestions! - Yes, I got this idea from my sister in law's friend. I frequent her blog - and she also does gifts for her 50th blog - maybe I will do that, as well? Who knows - maybe this will help some of my self-proclaimed blog stalkers to come out from the woodwork?!

Toothless Wonder...

2008-09-08T15:13:00.000-07:00

Last week, through weepy eyes, our son told us he didn't want a loose tooth. Too bad. No, I did not SAY that to him, but I THOUGHT it. LIfe is full of many events that are unwelcomed. But, in order for bigger and better things to occur, we usually have to endure SOME kind of pain. No PAIN...No GAIN! O.K....NO, I did NOT ramble on to him like that, either. Later in the week he professed to our family that he was going to "have a loose tooth the rest of his life." Again, I wanted to "blah, blah, blah.." about how spiritually we can not stay in the same place forever, either. But I refrained. I save this stuff for YOU, people! However uncompassionate I may seem, I DID try to help him through this. Here are the results this week. ( He doesn[t look TOO horrified , does he?!) OUR TOOTHLESS WONDER:

School DAZE...

2008-08-27T14:11:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time again! We have partied at back to school bashes, fulfilled our school supply lists, sharpened our pencils, labeled everything but our underwear ( ummm...even did that, too...), made our lunches, gone to the 2 hour kindergarten orientation ( whew!), met the teachers, met new friends and loaded our backpacks ( that exceed our own weights by 10 pounds, give or take...) And we are BACK TO SCHOOL! Here is what we looked like the first "daze"...( Note how mom looks after having the summer off...) Happy School Days to ALL of you! Darling Daughter started 4th GRADE! And, Little Man started KINDERGARTEN! (SIGH)

Why We Celebrate August 10th....

2008-08-06T01:28:00.000-07:00

Landon Schaefer Leatherwood

August 11th, 2002 - May 29th, 2003

I rubbed my sleepy eyes....it was still dark outside and Keenan was still asleep. Eventually he began to stir and without even needing the alarm to go off, we both JOYFULLY slid out of bed. We laughed at each other's funny "bed-head" hair-do's and continued to get ready for this special day. We tried not to wake my cousin who had come into town just for this occasion and was sleeping on the couch. We were also mindful that our only daughter, Landry, was also trying to catch a few ZZzz's. We left the house as quietly as we could, even though we were still laughing at the spectacle we made of ourselves half an hour ago.

Six months prior to this day I had gone in for a routine sonogram only to be told that my unborn baby had a horrifying and sometimes fatal disease called alobar holoprosencephaly. I know.... The name alone left me speechless, as well. However what followed after the diagnosis was even more frightening. The doctors and genetic counselors actually DESCRIBED the disease to us. Abdominal wall defects ( intestines rowing on outside of his body, facial abnormalities, not surviving a full term pregnancy, ...you get the idea. The prognosis was not positive at ALL. In fact, they relentlessly encouraged us to pursue abortion at all costs. In their words, we: "Did not know what(we) were getting oursleves into". NO, we did not, BUT GOD DID! Twenty-four hours later, on August 11th, 2002 - I heard a soft-spoken nurse gasp & say - "Ohhhh He's Beautiful !".... Then the doctor who delivered him exclaimed: "Oh my gosh, he's HUGE!!!" ( He DID weigh 11 lbs 12ozs. /measuring 23 & 1/2 inches) And a polite nurse beside me inquired: "How'd you DO that?!" ( Nothing a simple C-Section won't help...) I was so anxious to see him, but at the same time almost afraid to see if he was, indeed, alright. So, I asked my sweet husband, Keenan - " Is he....alright?" His tearful response was, "perfect." And, more than we knew, he was. The first glimpse I got of him. he was being cradled and rocked gently by his neonatologist and being the angelic miracle we had prayed for. No tubes, no ventilators, no rushing around to resuscitate him, as was previously planned for. Just 11 & 1/2 pounds of miracle.

The nine & a half months that I was privileged enough to be able to caress, feed, console, and care for Landon were some of the most precious moments I will ever get to have on this earth. So, why do I celebrate August 10th? It's the day a miracle came to live with us. - And reminded us that God is GREAT, even when the circumstances are NOT.

Why we remain grateful for this day is that OUR GOD does not rely on our feelings, the doctor's report, or what other people think, or say. OUR GOD is faithful and does not waiver at ANY time, especially in adversity. We also believe that we, as Christians should take it as a COMPLIMENT when we are faced with trials and tribulations, for it means we must be doing SOMETHING to make the enemy QUAKE in his little black boots ( I am not sure they are black, but work with me...!)

We are also grateful for the nine & half months that God loaned us Landon Schaefer Leatherwood. You see, it is also our belief that we do not own our children - but GOD. He only allows us to be GOOD STEWARDS of these little pieces of HIM. For HOWEVER long that may be.

Thank you, Lord for giving us the privilege of being Landon's family. We are honored. Happy 6th Birthday, Bubba! We love and miss you, 'till Heaven!

Mama, Daddy, Sissy & "Baby Bubba" ( Lawson )

Virginia is For Lovers...

2008-07-30T01:46:00.001-07:00

.....AND for Mom & Daughter Trips! Landry and I just returned from Occoquan, VA where her Aunt Shauna & Cousin Kylee live. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and, well....We have SEVERAL pictures that say more about how much fun we had than I ever could! We had the BEST time just hangin' out with the Oswald Girls!

Swimming, Shopping, Yummy Meals, Laughing,....All packed into 4 & 1/2 day stay. Whew! La

ndry's first plane ride went great, as these "moment-b

y-moment" flight take-off photos show! Thank you girls (and Joel) for showing us that BIG TEXAN hospitality can exist even in a LITTLE VIRGINIAN town!

A Glimpse at our Good Times...

The Many Faces of Flight...

WE MISS YOU !

XOXOX

Landry & Rhea

Summer Lovin'

2008-06-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

Playin' shuffleboard with some cousins

Special reunion hair do's courtesy of McKenna...

Landry partaking of some yummy Morris Reunion desserts

Merry Go Rounding with my cuzins

They actually stopped laughing and chatting long enough to smile for the camera!

The pitiful looking craft we made this year ( it is a splash bomb made of out of cut up sponges and fishing line...)

we made special cards for special family members with cancer, and one who is in Iraq!

Yes, this is a hail storm, in which the children wanted to "collect" the stones via styrofoam cups...( Oh, to be young ...)

Landry and her new cute shades - what else? pink POLKA DOTS!

Lawson at swim lessons with a big surprise...his friend "Titus" was there, too!

Just call him "Splash" - that's him, alright!

Being silly in the car ( this is AFTER 6 hours was under our belt!)

A little more serious after 8 hours...

We are definitely LOVIN' SUMMER! As you can tell by the photos, we have been doing a myriad of things so far! As I have told Land: "You have no reason to put that sad face on - we have done SOMEthing FUN EVERY DAY since you were released from school. So, here is a look at all we have done. We have had play dates with friends, we swam nearly every day. We LOVED on FAMILY at the reunion, we've had sleepovers, and so much more. We still have a couple of VBSes to do and a VERY SPECIAL MOTHER/DAUGHTER TRIP TO VIRGINIA to see my SISTER-IN LOVE & SMILEY KYLEE! Now, we are off to the library for some summer reading FUN. We wish you a splashtastic summer time!

Morris Reunion 2008

2008-06-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

We are glad to be home after a WILD RUIDOSO REUNION 2008... Our first adventure included a special tour of the RUIDOSO, NEW MEXICO EMERGENCY ROOM! Lawson had a fight with the downstairs fireplace at our condo - and, well, the fireplace WON. Needless to say, this blog post is not for the squeamish - - - So BEWARE of head injury photos up ahead! ..... Oh, and if it helps YOUR feelings any, while some of these photos were being taken, he was saying: " Are they gonna take my eyeball out?" And, then about 2 hours later : " Why do we have to stay here?...Can't I just get a band aid and a popsicle and go home?" Yah - we had to laugh, too.

Happy Birthday BOYS!

2008-06-01T15:11:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DADDY!

Our Handsome Birthday Boys!...

(special thanks to Aunt Shauna for the cute "matchy - matchy" shirts!)

Boys with their? toys...

Yes, our two guys turned one year older this week - and we are grateful for each of them - We love you Keenan and Lawson!

Here are some benefits of being married to the eldest of the birthday boys....

I know all components of an R-22 helicopter ( who do you think was his study buddy?)

Our house is full of lots of laughter

Our home is full of lots of WHISTLING....IN TUNE!

I never have to repair ANYTHING in my house. ( Unless he is just simply GONE)

I have free in house IT support - or tele-support

I can, now quote every highlight in each episode of "The Office"

I have a daughter with ONE dimple on her left cheek because of HIM ( so cute...)

I never have to wonder about what mood he is going to be in - He only has ONE: Happy.

I am a blessed mother who is allowed the privilege to be a "never-at-home" mom with two beautiful children and am surrounded by anything and everything we need ( and even some things we want) All because of that hard work....

And Finally, the greatest benefit to marrying this June 1st baby is The constant "I Love You's " I get each and every day.... I love you, too Keenan!

How to tell if you are Lawson's mother.....

You always have a hot wheel located somewhere in your purse.

You have "Cars", the movie - memorized - including soundtrack.

You are always getting lots of "I love you mommy"s and hugs

You get extra special kisses on your hand or arm?

You get new carpet because the littlest birthday boy hoses down your old carpet.

You laugh ALOT because of the HILARIOUS & witty stuff he says each day...

And FINALLY, the best way to tell if you are Lawson's mother is, well, we all know you AREN'T... So, I will just say I LOVE YOU, LAWSON!

The Leatherwood LATEST

2008-05-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

We have been very busy, as it is the end of the school year and Lawson will be turning 5 this Thursday! Hopefully we will have some fun birthday photos very soon, but for now, here are a few 'pictoral answers' to the question we hear most often: "What have Y'all been UP TO?!?"....Enjoy!

Being our sweet selves....

Being unusually morning-person-ish!

Being "tricky" ...

Bein' trickier....

AND....

Momentary amnesia - thought we were dog people for about 12 hours one Wednesday...( His name was Harley)

Had some fun with a few cousins...

Explored Mac Land - - - notice the nice pop art of Landry & friend!

Went on a field trip to Ft. Worth Star Telegram Newspaper

Ate some chocolate cake....

Played in our cake....

Umm...Did I mention we LOVE us some chocolate cake?

Welcomed some VERY SPECIAL (not to mention cu-ute! ) guests from Virginia!

Ummm...Did I mention HOW cute they were?!

Played a little Tee Ball....

Cheered for our little brother who was playing 3rd base....

Honored some VERY Precious MOMS! ( Love you ladies!)

went to work and school, as usual...( isn't this too cute?)

And sometime in between all of that,....we RESTED!

See you in Leatherwood Land again SOON!

Gotcha, Kylee!

2008-05-09T03:44:00.000-07:00

Today is the anniversary of a very special day in our family. It is "GOTCHA DAY" for our niece, Kylee Hope Oswald! ( A term commonly used in the adoption world for the first day that Joel & Shauna ( Keenan's Sis & Brother in law ) "got" Kylee in their arms for the very first time. This VERY emotional journey ( at least for ME, anyway...) Began what seems like ten years ago. It may have been - have not checked that accuracy with Shauna? I can not speak for my precious Shauna & Joel, however, this whole event just makes my heart want to burst. So, I suppose it comes out in the form of LOTS of tears. You can follow their beautiful family on their blog: "A Walk on The 'Walds' Side" at 1ne1tx1ch.blogspot.com. As of today, they even have video of their special "Gotcha Day." Boo Hoooo....Waaaaaa. Be forewarned - it is too darn cute - and well, the music doesn't help. - It only ADDS to the emotional trauma on this VERY PROUD AUNT. We love you oodles, Kylee, Joel & Shauna! ( Ihope I can get a cute pic of Kylee up on this post - but if I can't - Give yourself a special mother's day treat and check her out at their blog spot!)

Muddy Miracle

2008-04-22T20:23:00.000-07:00

Well, as usual I can not keep anything a surprise - - - especially pictures of my children! I was supposed to be saving this for his birthday invitation, but the doting mother in me has taken over!

I guess I got a little retrospective, as well. I am not one to take things for granted anyway, however, the way Lawson came into the world still takes my breath a little. And to see him about to turn age five is still so amazing to me. A walking, talking muddy miracle, he is! And such a funny one, too. That is just how God is - just giving us little bonuses we don't deserve every which way we turn.

I leave you with these last few thoughts: First, a definition I saw for a boy: "A noise with dirt on it". That pretty much sums it up for today. I must go brush the grit out of my teeth.

May you all find your own mud puddle today!

Pancakes & CHEESE! aka- The Gospel according to Dr. Seuss

2008-03-31T11:33:00.000-07:00

No, we did not eat pancakes WITH cheese - We were just being "cheesey" while spending some family time this weekend. Keenan decided he wanted pancakes for dinner on Friday night. I would have been happy to make them, but he decided we could just go to IHOP. I had also told the kids if they were super great this week ( I know, I know,....BIG shocker that they aren't ALWAYS super great ALL the time, right?), that I would take them to see "Horton Hears A Who" Well, once we arrived at IHOP, to our sheer and culinary delight there was a HORTON HEARS A WHO -THEMED BREAKFAST MENU! Hooray! Hooray! Jesus DOES love The Leatherwoods! Anywho, of course citizen #'s 3 & 4 promptly ordered the green eggs & ham with the special pancakes. ( by special I mean turqouise & pink colored fruit syrup and a pink lollipop stuck in the middle. MMmmmm I love that kind of health food. (gag.) Kids LOVED it.

They also decided to wash it down with some special drink, too. By special, I mean it was sprite with miniature blue & red jello jiggler cubes that could be sucked up in the straw - ( see pics) Well, at least the 'green' in the eggs was spinach - - - I guess they got a little Vitamins?

We loved the movie - and despite one crude remark ( of course it is every little kid's favorite line, now ) It was virtuously pretty wholesome, clean fun with no off color, make you uncomfortable - kind of remarks. In fact, right smack dab in the middle of the flick, I started seeing some REAL spiritual correlations to it. Now, granted, I am a bit prejudiced - - - I LOVE Dr. Seuss. I think he was GENIUS. That being said, I wondered if there was any truth to the rumor that he was Christian. Either way, 'Horton' provided an interesting topic of conversation for Seuss lovers from around the globe - especially those who Love the Lord.

Bad movies are bad, they leave me quite troubled

If you take kids to see them, then they are bad - DOUBLED

I've gone into rhyming and rhyming is fun -

But as for this blog entry - it means I am done.

Aren't you GLAD?!

Ski Bunnies & Easter Bunnies....

2008-03-24T04:37:00.000-07:00

Yes, we are back from our spring break getaway....It is hurting me to even type right now I am so sore. Two word explanation: SNOW + BOARD. ( LOVE it, by the way.)

Well, we had a terriffic time with our family while we were gone. 'Nan', Keenan, the kids and I left on Sunday, March 17th to go a bit early and check out possible sights for the Annual Morris Family Reunion in Ruidoso, New Mexico. The Lord really went before us and guided our every step - even led us straight to the exact place where we will be staying in June! We are very excited about the accommodations and amenities - All golfing fees AND fishing licenses included in price of room - playground, party house, shuffleboard, ping pong, etc... I know you did not have to know all that, but can ya tell it made OUR day? ( Look at the pictures of the kids with their PSP's....Thank you, Lord for technology.)

Here are some pictures of the kids in their p.j.'s watching about TWENTY deer at one time UP CLOSE, right outside the back door of our cabin. It was extra special because the deer did not seem to mind being INCHES away from the screaming children? They were pretty psyched!

( The kids - not the deer.)

Tuesday, The Leatherwoods went to Ski Apache while Nan stayed at our house and recouped from Monday's activities. ( Still nursing that leg)

Keenan got the kids all outfitted and ready to go - and when I tried on my ski boots that morning, they did not fit as well as I had once believed the night before at the rental shop. So, I declined to ski that day. But, Keenan and I had a great time watching the kids learn! I had also never seen Keenan snowboard - maybe its that background of snow that makes him look even sexier? Grrrr!

( Landry snowboarded and Lawson skiied - not old enough for snow board lessons.) Of course they BOTH exceeded even our expectations. Landry eventually told us her instructor had only 6 fingers - kinda creeped her out a bit when he tried to help her up and she realized he was not just holding those four back- (Snowboarding accident? Frostbite? what?...we dunno) Lawson was a pro - never saw the kid fall - until a kid ran into him. He just walks around on skis like they're tennies. When I checked on him INSIDE the building, they had given him a coloring sheet - Boy, did he look DIS-A-POINTED! He was like - 'I came to ski - and they gave me a color sheet?' No, he did not say that, but with his little dimpled chin in his hands, and a scowl on his face, I could read the little guy's mind. I had to explain that he HAD TO WAIT for the other children to arrive. Still disappointed.

WEDNESDAY! We drove up to meet my brother; Chris and his family in Red River! The kids just go berserk when they see their cousins after not seeing them for a week...We are so gad they love one another - but really - need they yell?!?

We checked ourselves in at Lifts West and headed right over to rent skiis, snowboards, etc. Had a rather tasteless dinner out at a "great" steak house and then went home to get our beauty rest.

THURSDAY! All of the kids went to ski/snowboard school ( Yes, ours went twice - it didn't hurt'em!) They all fell alot - but immediately picked themselves up and got right back at it - We were proud....AGAIN. Us 'grown up' ladies shopped just a bit and watched the kids in their schools, cat-called our husbands from the bottom of the hills (yah - a little embarrassing, but, hey, we're MARRIED, right?) and ate lunch out - ( a tad better than the last place, but still not NAN'S home cooking...) That evening me and Lesley made a pact to attempt snow boarding the next day. So, without our husbands knowing, we signed up for school and that evening, sprung it on them that we were, in fact, going to do it on Friday! (Supper that night was Nan's corn chowder - Mmmmmm....SO much better than the yucka stuff at the other places..)

FRIDAY! I bundled myself up like a BIG YELLOW MARSHMALLOW - complete with a banana- looking hat - and off I went! My kids were not in school this day - - - I WAS ! However uncomfortable I might have been at first, I would only get less comfortable over the next 2 hours. Case & Point: The first thing the instructor asked us to do was face downhill. Seems easy enough, right? Not for this marshmallow. ( Now, keep in mind that I am a VISUAL learner and the instructor was facing uphill.) What do I do? Promptly make a turn around to face UP hill - like the instructor. Everything went silent. I looked around to see everybody else doing it WRONG. OH!Oh, Oh, Oh, it's MEeeeee. I'M WRONG. Duhh. Everyone had a good laugh after that and an even bigger one when he announced that I was the only one in this class that was "GOOFY" ( NOT referring to my personal character, of course, but rather the term for going RIGHT foot forward on the board.) Somehow, I don't think it is coincidence, though!

The rest of the day involved slipping, sliding, bumping, colliding, bruising, cartwheeling, face planting, knee planting, AND YES! Ahhh...the thrill of ACTUALLY getting it RIGHT. The sweet sound of snow crunching past that tortured board of mine. SWEET! Then.....( The HORROR!) The chair lift. There is something extra special about a grown strange man having to hoist you up, under your arms, while you slip around like Bambi learning to walk for the first time. Pretty humbling. Anyway, I did actually make it down the face of the mountain. But, not without Lawson passing me THREE TIMES before I reached the bottom. He would only stop to ask: "Have ya learned, yet, Mom?" Yah. another humbling moment on the mountain. He didn't realize I, too, was having to WAIT on my class. Now I know where he got his disappointed attitude from....ME! That evening we stayed at a house in town - BEAUTIFUL! And the CRAZY deep snow was everywhere! It was at least 10 feet deep. in fact, while racing out the back door, and assuming that there was ground somewhere, Keenan went neck deep in snow while my mom looked on. She thought is was pretty funny seeing athletic, confident Keenan get kinda stuck for a bit. Here is a picture of him leg deep in it.....

SATURDAY! The girls hibernated - The kids and GUYS went at it again... Landry found the special easter egg on the mountain and won a free hat - The HIGHLIGHT of her trip. She also got asked by a young man - "Are you single?" Her father looked on while this conversation progressed. Landry looked at him SO funny ( You can picture her face, right?) And then, realized he was asking only if she needed a partner for the chair lift - not her hand in marriage. Good thing Keenan was there to chaperone! The 'grown up ' girls had a girl movie marathon and rested our SORE SELVES. We laughed alot, ate some more and FINALLY got ready for the day about 2 O'clock. And THAT was just so we could go shop a little more for souvenir shirts.

We spent the rest of our stay repacking our stuff, eating breakfast for dinner, playing games, enjoying the breathtaking, snow-capped mountain views and laughing some more.

SUNDAY. We drove home. All ten hours. We drove. We drove, we drove and we drove some more. But at least we did see some humorous signs along the way. Not metaphorical signs - real, plastic signs outside f a gas station ( pooping dog) and the one armed man throwing away trash at a Whataburger. Both seemed too hysterical when we spotted them. Sleep deprived?

Oh - here are some random photos of Lawson's Preschool Class Easter Party. Enjoy! Hope you had HOPPY Easter and a blessed Resurrection Sunday! ( For those of you who care, I know my pictures are out of order, but it would be May before I get them corrected. I prefer you just see them out of order, NOW.)

Crouching Lawson, Hidden Landry...

2008-03-15T17:38:00.000-07:00

As if my son needed any help fueling the fire of testosterone running rampant in his veins, we signed him up for the super sport of TAE KWON DO - Our little "Crouching Tiger" was thrust into this class by his parentals, of course. The first trial class went fine until mid-class when Crouching Tiger suddenly lost his spunk, burst into tears and ran to his father in the parent section. Why? We have no idea. So, being the meanies that we are, we did NOT let him just quit because of a ew waterworks! He eventually told us, that he was 'scared of karate' - - -To which I replied - "Well, great! Because it ISN'T 'Karate', ...It's TAE KWON DO! ...So you have nothing to fear." Then I proceeded to show him MY version of a round house kick to the face. - No, just kidding...I simply showed him in a motherly fashion how to politely DOMINATE HIS OPPONENT! Hi-YAH! No, really....I actually did practice his snap kicks with him.

THEN, he made us chuckle when he told us that the REAL reason he did not do 'karate' that time, is because he did not have the suit for it. What did we do promptly, the next day? That's right....we got him the 'suit' - - - the "gi" , as tae kwon do students call it. ( Why must they dress them in ALL WHITE? ugh. - I have gone through two bottles of Shout this week!)

As for the title this time, if you have never heard of the cool martial arts film "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" , then I apologize for the confusion.

As for our "Hidden Landry", she is,.... well.....HIDDEN from this post, simply because I have no photos of her doing her new thing- - - CHEERLEADING. (Woo Hoo! !) - You know this former cheerleader and coach is thrilled. But, of course I will go back to being "unopinionated" Should she decide it is not the path for her! As I have said before, I have no need to live vicariously through her...I had my 10 years of cheering and 16+ years of coaching to last me - but, boy, do I still LOVE it. ( And to sound like a doting mother, she is pretty sharp at it!)

Oh, but back to Lawson....TKD update - - -It has been at least four weeks since that introductory class and he is really getting into it - I will have to practice my video skills to show you HIS skills and Landry's... We are proud, can you tell?

Well, it's off to pack for our Spring Break trip to Ruidoso & Red River, NM! ( Please pray for everyone's HEALTH on this journey. Several already ill, but recovering. And, I am concerned about getting altitude sickness like last time, but still believing that I will NOT!) Happy Spring Break, Y'all!

C'Mon, Get Happy....

2008-03-02T01:08:00.000-08:00

Well, I am 'happy' to announce that my attitude has improved immensely. Must be that I missed Keenan? ( He went skiing, er...SNOWBOARDING in Wolf Creek for a few days) He has returned home and I must say I am improving more and more by the minute. Nothing else much 'newsy', So I will not bore you any longer!

Blue or Transparent?

2008-02-28T18:36:00.000-08:00

This is not going to be my most uplifting post ever, I must say. I have not written in a while because of my horrible attitude, actually. I can't seem to get out of this funk I am in. I am just loving being a meanie. ( You know when you yell and really dumb people ask: "Now, did that make you feel better? Well, now I can answer , an emphatic YES!!!! ) Though my loyal fans may appreciate my honest "transparency", my usual critics will probably yawn, roll their eyes ,or both. (Try not to hurt yourselves, guys!)

And, ya know that awful saying: "If mama ain'

t happy - nobody's happy" ? Well, not only is it horrible grammar, ( not that I am an expert...) But, is that not just a bit unfair? Why, as the 'mama', does it have to be MY fault?

Dontcha just hate fake people?.....Me toooooo!

NEHEMIAH 8:10 ( for a good laugh after this one!)

Book Review?

2008-02-21T18:03:00.000-08:00

Hey Friends & Family - - - Here I am again, asking for a favor: If any of you have read the manuscript of our testimony; "Sons and Miracles", could I ask you, specifically, a TREMENDOUS FAVOR? If you haven't glanced at it in a while, perhaps could you look at it for a second and see if anything comes to mind for an answer to these questions: ( This is in preparation for my Mother's Day speaking engagement in California)

1. What, in your opinion is/are the greatest lesson(s), if you will, that can be gleaned from this testimony? ( Besides that GOD is GOOD!)

2. Do you remember anything specifically about the testimony that 'st

uck' with you, in other words, you did not have to l

ook it up in the book?

I truly appreciate ANY & ALL feedback you can give. Your opinion matters - because most of you lived this testimony right along with us! In fact, YOUR PRAYERS are the ones that were answered EACH AND EVERY DAY at our home! ( And still are....) So, whenever you can send in these answers, that will be great - Like I said, I do not lea

ve until May - - - THAT'S YOUR DEADLINE! :) (You may e-mail me your answers, too!)

Love to you ALL! ( Hey - this is the "mad version" of our little "Toto" (Landon) I promised y'all a while back - priceless, huh?)

Rheagan

Kiss! Kiss!

2008-02-13T14:51:00.000-08:00

Lawson alert: He has done it again. He made us giggle uncontrollably again. Today was his class Valentine party. As an activity, they cut out construction paper lips that had 2 statements on it: I would kiss a___________ But, I would not kiss a _____________. My son promptly answered it: I WOULD kiss a DOG. But, I would NOT kiss a GIRL. Atta boy, Lawson! We'll see how good dog lips look in about 10-12 years, though. Until then, I am laminating those lips as a reminder.

How do we love Lawson? Let us count the ways ( here's only 5 of them)

- Those baby blues....

- That gravelly voice - especially during prayers....

- His take on every day life...and the commentary that follows..

- He's snuggly.

- Every day reminder of God's faithfulness to answer prayer and to be ever so grateful

How do we love Landry? Let us count the ways ( again, here is five )

- That ONE dimple on her left cheek that I prayed the Lord would let my baby have.

- That husky voice - especially her laugh.

- Her tender heart and creativity that God has blessed her with.

- She is JOYful

- Everyday reminder that God gives us the best - even when we don't deserve it !

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIDDOS!

XOXO's

Mama & Daddy

Mushy Gushy Love Stuff....

2008-02-13T14:28:00.000-08:00

Just Some of the Reasons I Love Keenan...

Some days, ya gotta admit that you love your spouse because your commanded to by GOD . However, I feel considerably blessed because I don't just love Keen - I LIKE him, too!

He lets me talk & ask questions during movies ( He's my favorite movie date...)
He has an even temper - or should I say, lack thereof. ( Unlike his 'precious' wife)
His "Go-go gadget arms" are amazing! - they can reach things lightyears away...
Two words: Technologically Savvy.
He's tall. I like'em tall.
His laugh is contagious!
He's loved me through thick and less thick if you know what I mean?
I have known him longer than I have NOT known him - ( met when we were 15)
He's the most honest person I know.
He has fine taste in women - - - wink! wink!

And much, much more....

Happy Valentines, Keenan!

Monster Breakfast & Monster Trucks

2008-02-09T14:25:00.000-08:00

This Weekend, we went on our very own little Saturday Breakfast Adventure.... Two words for ya: HAM & EGGS. No, I am not telling you WHAT we ate, but rather WHERE! Check out the photos of how HUGE the pancakes were. This place may very well be the reason they say "everything's bigger in Texas."

And, do ya notice the girth of the BISCUIT?

Yah, I know it seems I have a habit of having Keenan hold up his food so that I can photograph it, but c'mon, folks! I felt it was truly necessary this time. ( For size comparison & all...)

Sunday we ALL went to church AS A FAMILY for the first time in a long time, since Keenan no longer has crazy flight hours, anymore.

Also, Keenan & Lawson went to "Monster Jam" for a little Father/Son bonding. Notice the ear muffs Lawson is donning are huge tires. I think both the boys had loads of fun! Lawson now has a new uniform - - - His Monster Truck shirt - - - so if you see him in it REPEATEDLY, I promise it has been washed DAILY so that he may wear it again & again. He even wore a napkin tucked into his shirt at dinner tonight just to protect it from spills. Funny stuff....

There are also some shots of their fun time! - - -Hope y'all enjoy!

God LOVES Lawson!

2008-02-08T13:57:00.000-08:00

Just a quick little something that we all got a kick out of the other day.....

Being a "gentleman-in-training", Lawson was helping my mother carry some stuff up stairs, when they came across a picture of MY DAD in high school. Always anxious to hear her grandson's take on the world, she asked: " Do you know who this is?.....It's someone that loves you VERY much." After staring at this black & white photo for a few moments, he asked quite seriously: "Is it GOD?

Well, y'all - - - Either way you look at it, God loves you VERY much and so do I ! Thanks for the reminder, little man!

Short hair, Studio, Superbowl & Silver State SURPRISE!

2008-02-03T20:27:00.000-08:00

Forgive me for the All "S" Title - It seems that I have made it a habit in the last couple of posts... It just so happens that it worked for updating you guys on our weekend this time, as well!

The first one, although you may not find it noteworthy,....I do. And, well....it IS all about me here in Leatherwood Land...:0) I got my hair cut. No, I do not have ANY pictures to accompany this post. Did you know that digital cameras have to be recharged? Well, "you -know-who" did not get that memo until too late. YKW is me, BTW! ( Using these acronyms makes me feel like SUCH a computer savvy SNOB.) Anywho...

Second "S" ... I am proud to announce that Keenan has completed helping build the Studio Movie Grill in Plano, TX. And I got my new 'do just in time to accompany him on the red carpet. Er...well, it was actually just concrete..... grey.concrete, to be exact. We were treated to dinner ( That's code for "we appreciate your hard work so much that we will allow you to play guinea pig to our wait staff and chefs. ) Either way, we weren't complaining... Free movie (Cloverfield), Free FOOD and a night out with my high school sweetheart.... It was a real treat!

Third "S" is... Superbowl - pretty self-explanatory - Our party was held at my brother's house - Good food and 'fellowship'. Lots of laughs - took an accidental nap on his den floor. Nevertheless, I even actually know who won!

And the last one - this will SURPRISE ALL OF YOU . No, don't even be humorous about us contributing another Mini-Leatherwood to this world. No, this is actually bittersweet news. As I am blogging, I can still hear Keenan on the phone with all of his students from Silver State Helicopters asking them if they are sitting down. He has the daunting task of informing them that they, along with himself have ALL BEEN TERMINATED as of 5:00P.M. today. Silver State Helicopters is closing all doors - All of them in the U.S. by tonight. Yah. I know. Wow. Shocker. Keenan was on his way to the superbowl party when he was told to come and clear out all of his personal belongings because there was a RUMOR. However, now the rumor has been confirmed.

So, we are not only praising God that HE IS NEVER SURPRISED... but praying that HE will take care of those that are being affected negatively by this. Thank you, Lord that our source & supply is not Pie in the sky - it is not Silver State Helicopters - or even Air-Kraft Mechanical, L.L.C.. , but in YOU! I always said the only parties God won't show up at are Surprise parties and PITY parties....We are hosting neither this evening! PTL!

Well, please let us know how YOUR weekend was! I LOVE seeing your comments - please let me know if you have visited the site! No anonymous visitors allowed, Jordan Ransom. :0)

'Till Next Time...

Rhea

Proud of Papa...

2008-01-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

As if I need to even say how very proud my children are of their Daddy, these pictures say it all!... A special thank you to their sweet Aunt Shauna who blessed them with these shirts over Christmas.

Speaking of being proud of your father, My Dad just celebrated his birthday - Happy Birthday Dad - I Love being your daughter! ( SORRY I DON'T HAVE A SPECIAL SHIRT TO SHOW YOU HOW PROUD I AM OF YOU! :-) )

Love,

Rhea

Courtney, Cookies & COLD Weather...

2008-01-21T16:03:00.001-08:00

Just a quick update - ( I know - you need a short one this time since I have bored you with my last two LENGTHY ones..)

This weekend was wild as usual for us - We had a great time preparing for, and participating in my friend; Courtney's housewarming.

Her new home perfectly reflects who she is - - - Fun, eclectic ( and extremely organized).

We are so excited for her and so glad we could help her celebrate!

Monday, we celebrated Martin Luther King Day by freezing in front of Lowe's selling girl scout cookies to the masses! 2 hours after we stopped selling, I am happy to report that our blood thawed out and we regained feeling in our extremities! ( Anything to sell a few caramel delights and thin mints! ) The temperature? A chilly & wet 38 degrees. Brrr........!

No, the Leatherwood men did not join in the fun at Lowe's - but they had fun, nonetheless. They went "pal - ing around" as Keenan said, picking up blueprints and visiting a hobby shop.

We came home to find them in a race car video game-induced coma.

Once again, we are ALL happy to be home & warm. (Happy MLK Day! :0)

Rheagan's Reality Show

2008-01-14T16:13:00.000-08:00

Scene:

The Leatherwood Home - (aka - Leatherwood Land) 6:00 A.M.

Character #1

(Names have been changed to protect the INNOCENT:

Hey MOM! ( in a loud husky voice) ...Mom?....MOM? MOM?!?

( Yes I heard her each time, she gives me an approximate 2 milliseconds to answer her.)

Character #2:

ZZZZZZzzzzzzzzz SNORT!......SNORT! Yes, that is him. He hears nothing. He sees nothing. He FEELS nothing. That, or he is playin' possum....Hmmmmm..)

Character #3:

"Is it mornin'?"

( He says with his eyes closed completely.)

I never even knew he had crept into our bedroom at 3 AM I was later told, to make his self a pallet at the foot of our bed)

RHEA:

"Yes, Character #1 - what do you need?"

Character#1:

"I need you to sign my assignment sheet"

( No, I am not as bad a mother as she makes me out. I offered to sign everything the night before. However, it was not convenient for character #1)

So, I fumble in the dark for a few seconds, trying to locate the writing utensil she could have possibly marred my eye with, and scribble something that I am hoping resembles my intials in the correct block?

Character #1:

Skipping happily out of our room: "Thanks!" (as loud as she can, awaking #2 out of his slumber.

Character #3:

(Still teetering between states of consciousness..) "I want breakfast".

Character#2: (LOUD growl-type yell accompanied by an elbow to my teeth as he stretches.)

ME:

Thanks.

I trudge out of the darkness into the light - where I find my 'chipper' morning person - character#1 already fixing herself breakfast - and humming a tune I can only assume is Hannah Montana or High School Musical....both equally annoying to her non-morning person- mother at 6:30.

7:45 A.M.

I hear a honk in my driveway - apparently my precious character #1 has called her grandfather that lives within close proximity to come and get her, please.

7:50A.M.

I receive a call from my concerned mother as to why grandad was summoned to pick her up? Was I feeling well?!

( Grandad did not mind, of course, however, Landry told them I would not "wake up". Striking fear in the heart of my concerned mother. I guess character #1 did not realize I had been up half the night doing one of my very important "PROJECTS" ( Like the weird urge to clear out my "craft" closet at 2 A.M.? ) I know....I have tried medication...It no work.

7:50

With character #1 out the door, I begin trying to quickly get character #3 ready for school. KEY word: TRYING.

Running around in his camo underoos, he is wailing on the mini electric guitar and doing a Gene Simmons imitation with his tongue as he pretends to be the one playing the tune it is doing automatically: Smoke on The Water....

Me:

"O.K. Gene".....

Character #3

(Doing the tongue thing, still...)

Me:

"Mr Simmons, would you kindly get on your clothes?"

Character #3

"YES MA'AM!"

( As if he were serenading me with a few more guitar licks.)

ME:

Thanks.

Character #3

(As if suddenly realizing it...)

Mom, it is nearly 6:30 O'clock...I am going to be late for school! We've got to HURRY!

ME:

(Deep sigh.) Is my 4 and 1/2 year old really trying to keep me on schedule? ( I guess I can use all the help I can get.)

Character #3

(Out of the blue, as I am tying his black converse high tops, he begins reciting Dr. Seuss - The "ABC Book" )

"X is very useful if your name is Nixie Knox, it also comes in handy spelling axe and extra FOX!

Me:

(I sit stunned, in silence, thinking to myself....Hmmmm...imagine if I had been reading SCRIPTURES to him?! A better mother would have him memorizing Psalms...Oh, well, today I am grateful I have a kid who likes to read at ALL! so, I finish tying his shoe and off we go to the school!

As I drop him off to his teacher and drive off,....

Character #3:

BYE-EEEE MAAA-MAAAAA! I'll see you when you get ba-aaack! I'll MISS YOU!

His teacher smiles and helps him inside. And I want to just bawl. Even if he does try to keep me on schedule, he has the most precious good bye's.

The part of my day without the offspring - is spent driving around to every stationery, scarpbooking and/or hobby lobby store in Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex because I simply MUST have cute paper on which to print invitations to a dear friend's housewarming. Then it is to every party supply store for robin's egg blue colored cups.

Then of course, I forgot that I had volunteered spur of the minute to bring dinner to a neighbor having a knee surgery similar to the one I had in '97. Ouch. Frantic run to grocery store - deciding that the dish I am making for him, sounds like an excellent idea for our supper. YEAH! I am actually killing two birds with ONE stone. Usually I just fire buck shot and hope something hits....

A quick run home to pick up 7 cookie dough orders that Landry had sold to friends and neighbors who so patiently waited a MONTH to get their money's worth.

Next stop:

Character #3's school

He looks the same as he did this morning, except that new shirt he was wearing is now christened with tempera paint and peanut butter. I detect the remnants of sugar free chocolate pudding in the corners of his mouth and....is that the smell of play dough? Wow, Pre-K is rough on a guy.

We run through a nearby SONIC to get a refreshment as we kill some time before getting Character #1. He tells me he got in trouble for talking at school, but it was o.k, now cuz he sat out at recess for 5 minutes. I give him some motherly advice about not talking while others are, and signalling to me that he heard, he gave me a kiss on the hand. ( Funny ho he always does that when he is in trouble?....Who cares - its sweet.)

I turn on the ignition again and we are off to get character #1.

As we pick her up, I hear about the daily dramas occurring at her school. Apparently some boys at school told her she looked like a boy and laughed like a boy. Of course my motherly instinct wanted to say something not very Christ-like about these young "men", however, I said what I always say when she seems to be begging for my opinion. "What do you think The Lord thinks about your laugh, character #1? He created it!" And furthermore, do YOU like it? She always comes back to her senses and realizes that she is just as I see her - precious. So, who needs smelly old boys, anyway? ( I just thank the lord she has no interest in 'boyfriends' as many of her fellow female class mates, do....And they even keep it from their mothers! Oh! The HORROR of it all...!) Drama, drama, drama....

The rest of my day is a race to see who can get into bed first.

Do homework.

Practice writing character #3's name - all three of them 1st, middle and last

Piano practice

Make dinner

dole out medicine - I wish it included a little tranquilizer for me...

Baths - (all except me. - - I still stink. - may even still have sugar free chocolate pudding in the corners of MY mouth?)

Brush teeth.

BED TIME! YEAH!

Actually, this is one of the sweetest moments of the day if we time it right. We have made it a habit - rather our mission to pray and read to the kiddos every night. I am sure we have missed a few times, but they remain staples in our kids' nighttime routines.

Character #3

chooses his favorite book and we read. Then, as is customary for THIS character, he says his prayers all by himself, kisses me on the nose and covers his head with the covers. ( Much like character #2)

SPEAKING of CHARACTER #2...

We welcome character #2 at anytime in this show, however, sometimes he simply makes a cameo in the wee hours of the night and, or morning. We keep hoping he will sign on for a recurring role again SOON! :0)We especially love it when he can play the part of Dad and Husband every now and again. He is up for an Emmy in both categories. We're pretty proud of him.

As for me -

If I keep my running shoes on and hurry fast enough, I can actually have a bath time AND a minute to myself before I fall asleep. ( And hopefully not all simultaneously - although I have been known to do just that.)

What's in store for these characters tomorrow? Who knows? This writer is on strike for now.

God is GOOD!

2008-01-08T05:28:00.000-08:00

LANDON SCHAEFER LEATHERWOOD

AUGUST 10, 2002 -MAY 29, 2003

For those of you who never met Landon,( AND for those who would like to remember...) here are a few of his best photos - There are a few others WITHOUT his pacifier that show his beautiful face better, but I will have to scan them in later.

The 1st one is with his Aunt Shauna right after he was born ( All 11 pounds & 12 ounces & 23 & 1/2 inches of him!) He was a big 'un!

The 2nd photo is of his one and only trick or treat time - with Big Sis; Landry as Dorothy and him, as one sad little "Toto". ( He has his pacifier in this shot, so he is content - I will have to post the mad shot later...) It is sooo pitiful.

And the last one is just a good close up of him as we usually saw him - Peaceful, sweet little face - and although you can not tell in the black and white shot, big pretty blue eyes that saw straight through you. Miss those baby blues...

These photos are appropriate for today's blog, since I have been praying and studying for my Mother's Day 2008 speaking engagement at Coastal Christian Center in Encinitas, California!

I am very exited about this opportunity and hope that I can, in some way, minister to those that join us that day!

Please be praying for me at this time and especially on Mother's Day - as I want to say only what The Lord would have me say at that time. I only want to be The Lord's mouthpiece. - An instrument in HIS hand. After all, HE is the one that allowed us to walk through what we did, so that we could "comfort with that which(we've) been comforted" ! Funny..... that is what Landon's name means - - - Comforted! ISN'T GOD THE GREATEST?

Thank you prayer warriors!

Love,

Rhea

Here are a few ( older) photos of the other 2 wondrous miracles in our lives!....

LANDRY ELISE

LAWSON COLE

GOD IS SO GOOD!

Whirlwind Wildwood Weekend

2008-01-06T08:24:00.000-08:00

Wow! What a whilrwind of a weekend for us! You probably can not tell by the picture, but Keenan and I got gussied up... and went away together for the weekend. It began with a thought I had earlier this week - to surprise Keenan with a quick get away somewhere near Dallas Executive Airport where he works ( He has to be there by 4 A.M!) So, I thought that even if it was just for an evening - it might be nice just to steal a few UNinterrupted moments for US.

But, I was needing to find a sitter on short notice. And, babysitters were in short supply at the moment! ( Mom is in bed with a dissolving blood clot)

Later in the day I called his mother, because I noticed she had called. Well, to my surprise she was actually calling to see if she could 'have' our kids for the evening. COULD she? Next task was getting the kids to calm down after letting them know they were going to get to go spend time with their "Grandmom". Babysitter? Check. Calm Kids? Not so much. ( Thank you, Beverly....Your timing was impeccable! - We love you!)

Now, it was on to finding a hotel - or bed and breakfast - whatever I could find. I was not having any luck. So, I called Keenan wth my plan - and apparently he had been doing ALOT of phone calling himself. To my delight and PLEASANT SURPRISE - He had cancelled ALL of his flights for the following dates JUST FOR ME. Not a small feat - having to call each student directly and tell them he was cancelling. I have such a great guy, don't I?! Not only were we going to have MORE time with one another, but he had made reservations, as well. At one of our favorite places: The Wildwood Inn. It is a breathtaking home that serves as a charming bed and breakfast - I am going to try and post the link so you can see ALL the rooms - not just ours. Numbers 12 & 13 are my favorite, I think. Anyway, needless to say, we were both tired, but we enjoyed unwinding at dinner.We decided on yummy "Mi Cocina" - Mmmm. ( I recommend the Mamas Tacos - Get the corn tortillas not flour. Get the chicken , not the beef.) Then it was on to our lovely room at the Inn. ( On the way Keenan told me our friend; Jordan tried to get us Dallas Maverick tickets - Thanks Jordan, that was extremely thoughtful!)

Then it was on to The WILDWOOD! We slept like little babies. ( OK, not so little) I mean we had to sleep fast - their famous Saturday breakfast was at 8:30 A.M! You know us, we are all about the food! (That was the reason we decided to go here and not the W Hotel....Inclusive Breakfast! ) I learned Sarah's secret(the owner) for the white chocolate reaspberry scones. MMmmmmmmmmmm. I even took pictures of them, too. They are too beautiful.

The rest of our afternoon was spent, er.... WASTED ( 2 hours and 45 minutes of our lives that can never be had again.) At a HORRIBLE movie called...I know....the name should have been a precursor to its content: "There Will Be Blood". O.K., so we should have known better, but I even thought it was supposed to be a 'western". And it was.......A FREAKISHLY WEIRD western. Anyway, then it was on to get the children, take them to see Alvin and the Chipmunks and go home - - whew!

Now we are home - and happy to be so, again!

Utah or BUST!

2008-01-04T15:09:00.001-08:00

Meet the newest citizens of Utah! Yes, sadly it is true - my cousin Lea Anne & her husband, Roger, are moving away from us AGAIN! We have loved having them only miles - not THOUSANDS of miles away. Now, Roger had to go and be his charming self and get promoted AGAIN. This photo was taken in the Olive Garden parking lot after a nice dinner we shared with them. I forgot to bring my camera inside the restaurant and ended up flagging them down before they were gone forever - just to get a quick snapshot of their cute mugs! These are two of my favorite people - just thought I would share my heartbreak about the whole thing. Boo Hoo.

Oh, yah, congrats Rog. (Was my sarcasm obvious?)

Great in 2008!

2008-01-01T06:27:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM LEATHERWOOD LAND! HOPE EVERYTHING'S GREAT IN 2008!

(Yes, my new year resolution is to post pictures....Hey! Look over there - I can check that one off of my "to-do" list....)

Things To Do:

2007-12-31T06:28:00.000-08:00

"I arise each morning torn between the desire to SAVE the world
And the desire to SAVOR the world. That makes it HARD to PLAN the day!"
E.B. White

I sympathize with Ol' E.B., here! I am constantly making "To Do" lists. If I do not, my day resembles a piece of notebook paper that has been scribbled on in all different directions, in a myriad of colors, sometimes ripped and creased over and over again in the same place. In short, a disorganized MESS.

In 2008, I will venture to try and SAVOR the world more. How 'Bout YOU?

Well, here is my to do list for this, the FINAL day of 2007!

1. Breakfast ( yes, I do have to remind myself - I go THAT fast in the A.M!)
2. Go to Costco for fruit salad items & good crunchy bread to accompany Melissa's meal tonight
3. possibly take children to a movie(Alvin & The Chipmunks)
4. NAP TIME! ( Requirement for me to stay up & ring in 2008!)
5. Prepare our stuff for tonight's party
5. Get ready to go to Brandon & Melissa's for New Year's Eve celebration
6. blog about the whole thing.....umm - the next day after another nap!

HERE! I made one for YOU, too!

1. Breakfast ( Yes! It's STILL the most important meal of the day!)
2. A nap - ( not NOW, but sometime today.)
3. HAVE A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR'S EVE AND A BLESSED 2008!

Love,
Rhea

Here Come The Brides.....

2007-12-30T01:52:00.000-08:00

This past year, I had the privilege of meeting and falling in love with a certain family, for which we have since helped 'coordinate' TWO weddings. I marvel that within the past year or so they have had at least two college graduations and all three of their children have been wed. (SIGH.)

To know the Browns is to LOVE the Browns. And I do mean ALL of them. I believe that certain families simply emulate the love of Christ and seem to have the purposeful mission of making sure that everyone that sees them, has seen Christ's love and very nature in action. These people are one of those precious families. How I hope that my family can one day be the same!

I also sat and visited with their future son-in-law's grandmothers last night. What fun, and interesting ladies! I had such a great time listening to their stories, where they came from, what they had learned over the years - I am sure this is why their grandson thanked them for all of their advice and direction...

I guess I do not have to tell you that I LOVE WEDDINGS! - Whether I am there as the bride(1997). as a guest, or simply there to vacume up rose petals after the ceremony, it is a JOY to be a part of such an event!

A special thank you to ALL the Brown & Hogue families for allowing me to take part in their family's BIG Day! (You guys only have 12 hours to be at the church, so sleep fast!)

One Mean Mama!

2007-12-28T07:59:00.000-08:00

Well, it finally happened....And TWICE in one day. I was labeled a "MEAN MOTHER" by BOTH of my perectly well-behaved, grateful offspring. Oh, don't worry....My feelings weren't TOO terribly hurt. I actually consider it a compliment to tell you the truth! In fact, I resolve to be the MEANEST MOM in THE WORLD in 2008. Here is a little blurb you might have heard before, but I think it pinpoints WHY I am aspiring to be such a 'meanie' to my kiddos.

Was your mom mean? I know mine was. We had the meanest
mom in the whole world!

While other kids had candy for breakfast, we had to have cereal,
eggs, and toast.

When others had a Pepsi and a Twinkie for lunch, we had to eat
sandwiches.

And you can guess our mother fixed us a dinner that was different
from what other kids had, too.

Mother insisted on knowing where we were at all times. You'd
think we were convicts in a prison.

She had to know who our friends were, and what we were doing
with them.

She insisted that if we said we would be gone for an hour, we would
be gone for an hour, or less.

She had the nerve to break Child Labor Laws by making us work. We had to wash dishes, make beds, learn to cook, vacuum the floor, do laundry, and all sorts of cruel jobs. I think she would lie awake at night thinking of more things for us to do.

She always insisted on telling the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. By the time we were teenagers, she could read our minds. Then, life was really tough!

Mother wouldn't let our friends just honk the horn when they drove up. They had to come up to the door so she could meet them.

While everyone else could date when they were 12 or 13, we had to wait until we were 16.

Because of our mother we missed out on many things other kids experienced. None of us have ever been caught shoplifting, vandilizing others' property or arrested for any crime. It was all her fault. We never got drunk, took up smoking, stayed out all night, or a million other things other kids did.

Now that we have left home, we are all educated, honest adults. We are doing our best to be mean parents just like Mom was. That must be what's wrong with the world today. It just doesn't have enough Mean Mothers any more!

I salute all of the MEAN MAMAS I know! Keep up the good work, ladies !

Not a Creature Was Stirring....

2007-12-26T15:53:00.000-08:00

O.K., I know I am not writing in the evening, NOR is it BEFORE Christmas - but not a creature is stirring - And I certainly hope not any MICE..?! ( What kind of place did the author of "Twas The Night Before Christmas" living in?) Anywho....My house is almost eerily quiet! How Come? I have a few key letters for you: DS and PSP ( Nintendo & Play Station Portable)

I have barely heard from my precious little ones today - and it was not because they were sleeping....( Although they did sleep for approximately 4 hours today from about 1-5. - - - Whew!) It was due to the fact that "Santa" went a little overboard this year. I suppose "Mrs. Claus" did, too!

Rewind to 4 days ago....( Yes, this is when I paused in my blogging!) We began our Christmas marathon! We enjoyed THREE! count'em THREE Christmases with family! They were all filled with wonderful warm homes to visit, Friendly faces, laughter and need I even say how great the food was? I even took pictures of it - That says it all. I did not get pictures of each home's food - but I do not think my camera holds that much memory? By the way, I did get a digital camera for Christmas from my sweet husband - NOW if I can just learn to post pictures!

Of course the highlights of our Christmases were being with those we love the MOST. We are indeed blessed by having the most wonderful family & friends ever.... Who else would put up with us but y'all!?

Hope your Christmas was full of God's BEST: Family, Friends and TIME with BOTH!

My 'SOLE' Cries Out....

2007-12-22T01:36:00.000-08:00

I have to say this was not the BEST decision I have made to date, but today I ventured to the mall. Not ONLY did I do a marathon there, but I did it in high heels? Yah. I know. It doesn't exactly scream: 'brilliant', but I had just come from a Christmas luncheon and I thought I would try to dress my feet up for the occasion. No, I couldn't have changed shoes, smarty pants. It would have taken WAY too much time. I had to HURRY! To make matters worse, I travelled back home with NADA. Zilch. NOTHING.

But, on a more positive note, my feet did look festive! May you all 'walk' in love and peace today!

Rhea

GOOD GIFTS!

2007-12-21T00:47:00.000-08:00

Pretty paper....Pretty ribbons...of blue-oo-oo-oo. ...la la la la la la la la mm oooooo. Yes, this is how I sing. I am aware that that is NOT how the famous song goes, but oh well....If you haven't noticed the time of my posting, ( off by three hours?!?) it is nearly 3 AM. I have only wrapped one package - (for my doll baby niece, Kylee) and I am spent. Anyway, I applaud anyone who has everything wrapped and under the tree. My dear friend, Courtney let it slip the other day that she wraps everything IMMEDIATELY when she brings it into the house. (Yes, that includes the items she purchased earlier in the YEAR.) Gag.

I had the privilege of spending the majority of the evening with my husband for the purpose of purchasing the remainder of our children's gifts. We had the BEST time. What was it that made us so giddy? I dunno. Maybe it was our trip down memory lane as we saw nostalgic toys from OUR childhoods? ( Remember Pound Puppies and Cabbage Patch Dolls? How 'bout Slot car tracks and Mad Balls? Perhaps it was merely the thought of seeing our children's faces light up like a Christmas tree? Or hearing them giggle and belly laugh at the sheer excitement of ripping into their packages? I am not sure where OUR delight came from. But, it gave me a very vivid picture of how OUR FATHER delights in us and LOVES to give good gifts to HIS children! My, how the heavens must light up when we truly appreciate the first breath we take in the morning....Or, how he must belly laugh and shake the floors of Heaven when he sees us do something silly. I hope I can make him laugh - (Lord knows I fall enough...literally - - It's kinda sad.) And I pray that all of YOU realize how much YOUR Heavenly Father DELIGHTS in YOU. You are precious in HIS sight and in MINE.

Love,
Rhea

HOME for the HOLIDAYS

2007-12-19T21:54:00.000-08:00

This blog is entirely dedicated to those who. for one reason or another have extra special reasons to wonder what Christmas is like in Heaven. While I know it must be fabulous, and he is not wanting for ANYTHING this world can give, (nor I), here I sit, approximately 1665 days later...Missing Landon Schaefer Leatherwood. How can I help it? I still have his little face staring back at me from behind the glass of several picture frames. Will I ever take them down? Only time will tell. We have not felt the NEED to thus far... However, I know that I will also want to frame my kids' futures. Landry's graduation photos, wedding photos - Lawson's too, of course! But, for now, they remind me of the part of me that is already helping Jesus blow out his birthday candles. Why EVER would Landon want to be here? Would Jesus even allow him to WANT to do that? What could we offer him that he does not already have in His Creator? That's right. NOTHING! That is why, although I have times like these, when I am just imagining what it would be like to see him with his older sister and younger brother all in one bed, anticipating the arrival of Santa - - - I know Landon is home - and you know what they say.....There's NO place like HOME for the holidays!

Wait a Minute, Mr. Postman....

2007-12-18T20:19:00.000-08:00

Once again, I must apologize to all of you who will not receive a card from Leatherwood Land this year. If you know me (And to know me is to LOVE me, of course, right?) Then you know how my heart's cry is to be Martha Stewart. I would LOVE to be organized and have all 100 of my hand-fashioned cards in the mail to my loved ones and have them postmarked DECEMBER 1st.

But then there is MY reality show.....ALL 100 of my hand-fashioned (polka dot, of course) cards....laying on my dining room table.

Hmmmm....maybe I will go get stamps tomorrow..... (Yeah, right) Just in case you are holding your breath.... Here is the SINCERE sentiment on those lovely cards...

The Christmas Season is upon us
'2008' draws near...
What better time to let you know
Our prayer for you this year?

We're grateful to Our God for YOU
And daily lift your name
To the One who is faithful
To bless you just the same

With PEACE that does not falter
Though trials come your way
With FAITH that can't be shaken
No matter what the world might say
The JOY OF THE LORD to be your strength
May HOPE and LOVE abound

We pray this & more for you
At Christmas time
And ALL YEAR 'ROUND!

Lovingly,

The Leatherwoods

Christmas Cheer!

2007-12-17T11:58:00.000-08:00

Here is a QUICK, EASY & FUN recipe for some Christmas candy. You can make up your own name for them - I prefer "elf toes", "jollies", etc.. - let me know what YOU come up with! This is courtesy of my other precious sister, Lesley! Thanks for leading me into temptation and evil, girl - you know I can't eat just one....

Elf Toes

Ingredients:

mini pretzels ( as many as you want....buy the twists - not the 'rods')
Hershey's hugs (enough for 1 hug per mini pretzel)
red & green M&M's ( mini or regular)

Directions:

Place pretzels on a cookie sheet.
Place one hug atop each pretzel.
Place in heated oven ( just enough to melt the hugs flat).
Take pretzels w/ melted hugs out of oven after they are flat.
Working quickly, place one M&M on top of melted hug.
Let cool.

ENJOY !

Love,
Rhea

WELCOME TO LEATHERWOOD LAND!

2007-12-16T22:26:00.000-08:00

Welcome Everyone! I am so excited that we, as a family, now have a place to call home in the blogging world! I hope you will come visit us often and see what's new in Leatherwood Land. A special thanks to my sweet sister Shauna who 'gently nudged' me to try this out! ( And by gently nudged, I mean she laid a guilt trip on me in the most polite way possible!)