Nevermind the trucker hat...

I had one of the most humbling experiences I've ever had!! Today I volunteered at the Dallas Convention Center to help Hurricane Ike victims. I thought I was there to help feed lunch to the evacuees...I did that, but I had no idea that the events of my small 4 hour shift would change the way I see the world.

I played basketball with teenage boys who didn't know if their homes were still standing, I held and fed a 4 week old infant so her mother could eat a warm meal, I handed a sandwich to an elderly man who had not eaten in 2 days and I had a great conversation with Lorraine, a sweet lady from Galveston who was so thankful be alive.

I was so amazed at how everyone came together for such a wonderful cause...and I am so lucky to have played a small part. Nevermind the HUGE, 12 inch tall Salvation Army trucker hat I had to wear...I will never forget my experience today or the people who I met!! The world really is full of GREAT people!!

SKETTI...

It's the little things (like the lack of table manners while eating 'sketti') that make me smile the most!! Good times were had at dinnertime at the Mabery house this evening!!

Ever get the giggles???

By your side...always, no matter what!!

September 7th and 8th will never be 'normal' days for me. Three years ago today, I lost my mom. I can't believe it's been that long. Parts of that day seem like yesterday, and yet it feels like eternity since we last talked, shared a hug, had a huge belly laugh or gave each other our infamous high five (we always missed on purpose!!).

6 years ago, when I found myself facing one of the biggest challenges I've faced, we sat in the car together at Las Colinas Medical Center and she played a song for me. She said it was our song and that it described exactly how she felt about me. She said that she would be by side...always, no matter what!! I love to listen to it when I miss her most - she is still a huge part of my life - I still count on her...and I know she is still there for me.

My little ballerina...

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder

You get your fill to eat

But always keep that hunger

May you never take one single breath for granted

God forbid love ever leave you empty handed

I hope you still feel small

When you stand by the ocean

Whenever one door closes,

I hope one more opens

Promise me you'll give faith a fighting chance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance...

I HOPE YOU DANCE!!

- Lee Ann Womack

Grammy would 'give props' to Palin...

My grandmother took me to the Republican Convention when Ronald Reagan was running for president. She was one of the most dedicated Republicans I've ever met!! I wish she were here to talk politics with me this evening. I hope she knows she taught me enough...I use her advice daily, I can still see her big smile and I can absolutely imgaine her repsonse to this evening's message!! I know she would have a strong opinion! I'll be sure to make it count in November!

“But when the cloud of rhetoric has passed … when the roar of the crowd fades away … when the stadium lights go out, and those Styrofoam Greek columns are hauled back to some studio lot - what exactly is our opponent’s plan? What does he actually seek to accomplish, after he’s done turning back the waters and healing the planet? The answer is to make government bigger … take more of your money … give you more orders from Washington … and to reduce the strength of America in a dangerous world.” - Sarah Palin

First Day of Kindergarten!!

Mason started Kindergarten this week...can you believe it??? I can't!! I just stood there and watched with amazement as he strolled into the classroom like a seasoned college student. He was so full of confidence and I was so full of...every emotion possible. I was so proud of him...not only did he tackle the first day of school with anticipation and excitement, but he also helped out a buddy who was not as thrilled. He took him by the hand and said, "don't worry...I'll be your friend." GREATNESS!! I was somewhat sad to see him walk away, and yet I know he is more than ready!! He is one smart cookie!! And I was anxious (yeah, I know I said I was going to try harder!!)...because I recalled the memory of my younger days...walking into a place that's not as comfortable as standing by mom and dad's side. And of course I couldn't help but feel excited with him!! He woke up this morning and asked, "am I a big shot?" You sure are my little kindergartener!!

Dear M: I will always be here for you!! You have already taught me so very much in your 5.75 years...it's your turn to broaden that great mind of yours...I know you will do great things!! My cup runs over like noboy's business!!