This is N's first season playing organized baseball, and I have to say...it's done him a world of good. It's not just getting him involved in the game he adores, but the boys on his team are such great boys. They joke around and cheer each other on, and always have a good time. They play well together, and they work really hard. He's found some really great teammates and some amazing friends.
Then, there's his coach. I can't say enough good things about this man. Because of him, N (and his teammates) have truly learned the game of baseball. He takes the time to get to know each kid, his strengths and weaknesses, and he listens to them when they tell him what position they're "DYING" to play. He may not always agree, but he's always willing to let them try. He breaks down the fundamentals to where everyone gets it on their own personal level, and he's always encouraging in his praise and instruction.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again... There are those who should play, there are those who should coach, and every once in a while, you come across someone who should play and coach. He is a coach through and through. He has a love for the game that is obvious in all that he does. He takes the time to mold these boys into the best players they can be, pushing them to achieve the things he knows they can before they realize they're capable. I think we've been spoiled this season. I'm kind of afraid of what's going to happen during the draft in February...
And then, there are the baseball moms. I knew from the get-go that I would be a baseball mom. I go to every practice, and I've gotten to know most of the ladies who these other little boys call "mom." There's always that one in every group that refuses to be social, but the rest of us talk our way through practices and games and cheer everyone on. It's comfortable, and these ladies are some of the most down-to-earth women I've ever met.
N's "best friend" on the team is also an "N" and it just so happens that his family lives in a house that once belonged to someone in my family, so I knew we'd be friends. She has four kids, and I don't know how she does it...because I struggle with the two that I have. One of the other moms has the most adorable little girl, who wants so badly to play ball like her big brother, but she can't get her pink glove to close around the ball, and she gets so mad! Another mom has boys on both of our coach's teams and is always there...working the scoreboard or helping out, giving all of the other moms handy tips. Who knew you could use regular old Listerine as a mosquito repellent?! I had an opportunity to talk to another mom tonight. She's somewhat recently divorced and is such an amazing Christian woman. We talked for quite a while tonight, and I'm just in awe of how strong and solid she is in her faith. I aspire to be like that. (Her son was cracking me up tonight, singing "Blinded by the Light" while staring up at the lights surrounding the field.)
Tonight, while talking to these great ladies, another one mentioned something about how her son would be going back to see his mom back east soon. As she kept talking, I found out that she and her husband (whom I took to be this boy's parents) are actually his aunt and uncle. His mom, a single parent like myself, had just taken a very time-consuming job and didn't want his childhood to suffer, so her baby brother and his wife stepped up and took him under their wing...from the east coast to Texas. My heart skipped a beat when I learned how selfless these two people are, jumping headfirst into the parenting game with a 5th grader, going "0 to 80 overnight" as she described it. They are loving and caring and treat this boy as they would their own child. I'm in awe of both of them.
Aside from the mom who doesn't talk to us and the coach's wife (who was pulling double duty at basketball practice; their sons play three sports at a time I think), we were missing our honorary team mom. She does what I would be doing, had she not stepped up first. We're working together, organizing a special something to show our gratitude to an amazing coach and to thank our boys for being such great team players. I honestly couldn't ask for a better group of ladies and a better group of boys. The dads are super-involved and always there too. It's just how things should be; you put aside your differences and you show up to support your kids and their dreams. I'll miss them when the season's over, but I'm sure we'll still see each other...and hey, there's always a chance we'll be together again in the spring!
Aubs
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
Productivity
I felt compelled to make up for "lost" time yesterday, so when I got home from the longest 6 hours of my life today, I kicked it into high gear.
In 90 minutes, I had done the following:
- Assembled the chili in the crockpot
- Made a batch of homemade banana bread (with walnuts for those who wonder)
- Made a batch of homemade cornbread
- Washed a load of laundry and put it in the dryer
- Put another load of laundry in the washer
- Emptied the dishwasher
- Loaded the dishwasher and started it again
Then, I went and picked my biggest boy up from school, we ran by the store to get a few things that we used up over the weekend, and headed home to do homework. Can I just say that I wish I had 5th grade math homework, and that it was my hardest subject? I would totally be a rockstar.
Also, N forgot his math book, which is a huge problem since his homework was out of the book. As we were driving through the maze of apartments, I saw two of the boys from his class, so I stopped and asked one of them if I could borrow his math book for 10 minutes. He scampered off to get it while the other yelled after him, "Her hair isn't black...it's brown!" (Apparently I'm a topic of conversation. Who knew?)
Oh, I forgot. N and I also had to purchase a basketball sized pumpkin for a buddy math project he's working on with a 2nd grader. This essentially means I "get" to be late for work tomorrow because he can't take it on the bus, and the school doesn't open for students until 7:30. I'm not complaining in the slightest, trust me.
As we walked home from returning the math book, we saw this metal-ish looking ball object. N picked it up because he thought it was cool, and I took it from him to drop-kick it because I have mad skills and (usually) always connect. I did...with my ankle. Now I have a knot/bruise forming to match the bruise on my other ankle from playing catcher in my scrubs without any kind of protective gear. You'd think I'd learn, but what's the fun in that? I have also since discovered bruising on my right knee, left thigh, and both shins. I'm guessing they all came from baseball...unless some of the shin bruising came from my desk at work...you know, before I switched desks again.
It rained for a few minutes today, just after 2:00. Coincidentally, Jacob Logan's funeral was at 2:00 this afternoon. Perhaps it wasn't a coincidence. I like to think it was Jacob showering his love down on his family and friends, and even if that wasn't what it was, it's what I'm going with.
Here's hoping the rest of this week isn't like today, or I might end up in the looney bin! As it is, it's not even 9:00, and I'm already washing my face and brushing my teeth for bed.
Aubs
In 90 minutes, I had done the following:
- Assembled the chili in the crockpot
- Made a batch of homemade banana bread (with walnuts for those who wonder)
- Made a batch of homemade cornbread
- Washed a load of laundry and put it in the dryer
- Put another load of laundry in the washer
- Emptied the dishwasher
- Loaded the dishwasher and started it again
Then, I went and picked my biggest boy up from school, we ran by the store to get a few things that we used up over the weekend, and headed home to do homework. Can I just say that I wish I had 5th grade math homework, and that it was my hardest subject? I would totally be a rockstar.
Also, N forgot his math book, which is a huge problem since his homework was out of the book. As we were driving through the maze of apartments, I saw two of the boys from his class, so I stopped and asked one of them if I could borrow his math book for 10 minutes. He scampered off to get it while the other yelled after him, "Her hair isn't black...it's brown!" (Apparently I'm a topic of conversation. Who knew?)
Oh, I forgot. N and I also had to purchase a basketball sized pumpkin for a buddy math project he's working on with a 2nd grader. This essentially means I "get" to be late for work tomorrow because he can't take it on the bus, and the school doesn't open for students until 7:30. I'm not complaining in the slightest, trust me.
As we walked home from returning the math book, we saw this metal-ish looking ball object. N picked it up because he thought it was cool, and I took it from him to drop-kick it because I have mad skills and (usually) always connect. I did...with my ankle. Now I have a knot/bruise forming to match the bruise on my other ankle from playing catcher in my scrubs without any kind of protective gear. You'd think I'd learn, but what's the fun in that? I have also since discovered bruising on my right knee, left thigh, and both shins. I'm guessing they all came from baseball...unless some of the shin bruising came from my desk at work...you know, before I switched desks again.
It rained for a few minutes today, just after 2:00. Coincidentally, Jacob Logan's funeral was at 2:00 this afternoon. Perhaps it wasn't a coincidence. I like to think it was Jacob showering his love down on his family and friends, and even if that wasn't what it was, it's what I'm going with.
Here's hoping the rest of this week isn't like today, or I might end up in the looney bin! As it is, it's not even 9:00, and I'm already washing my face and brushing my teeth for bed.
Aubs
Sunday, October 21, 2012
What I didn't do today...
I didn't go grocery shopping because I did all of that earlier in the week. I had no desire to join the hundreds of people who think it's a good idea to go grocery shopping during the Cowboys game in hopes that the stores will be less crowded. Newsflash: The Cowboys are awful this year, just like they have been for the past 5+ years. It's not changing anytime soon, so lots of people use this logic, which makes the stores even more crowded.
I didn't cook anything. At all. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were all things that I had either already made or required minimal prep. B ate muffins, a nutri-grain bar, mandarin oranges, and apples/pears for dinner, and I didn't even feel the slightest bit guilty.
I didn't do laundry. I got all of our laundry done during the week, in hopes that I would be able to have at least one day of doing nothing this weekend. I was (mostly) successful.
I didn't watch television. I have a ton of shows that I "need" to catch up on, but I just wasn't interested in that today. It was amazing.
I didn't sleep in. I was really hoping that this would happen, but B was up by 8:15, and after he came in to tell me "good morning" there was no point in going back to sleep. He had a blast not fighting with his brother over which cartoons they were going to watch, but it was short-lived.
I didn't have both of my boys. After his baseball game and dinner with my sister, N went to his dad's house. I really love having both boys home, but I don't love the arguing and fighting that's unavoidable with siblings. It was really nice to have some one-on-one time with B today, and I'll have a whole week of that with N this week when B goes to his dad's.
I didn't get out of bed until after noon. Well, that's not entirely true. I got out of bed, made it, made sure B was all set with breakfast, and then flopped across my (made) bed for the better part of the day. I spent time catching up on books on my Kindle, and avoiding my midterm that was due at midnight tonight.
I didn't stay inside all day. Originally, that was the plan, but B really wanted to ride his scooter outside, so we went out for a little while. It was ridiculously hot, WAY hotter than it should be towards the end of October, so he was done in less than an hour. I did, however, chase him all over the grass next to our apartment, tackling him and tickling him into a fit of giggles. He laughs like a chipmunk. It's impossible not to smile.
I didn't talk on the phone...except for a phone call from my mom, a phone call from N, and a phone call to my dad. My phone was free from text messages too, and it was blissfully quiet, except for the giggles from the living room this morning.
I didn't have to entertain B. Normally he has to be in someone's face every single second, demanding attention, but today he played with his cars, and worked on his reading, and played the Wii. He drew, and ran over to me every 20 minutes or so for a hug. I caught his eye a few times through the doorway and we made silly faces and blew kisses. It was just relaxing.
I didn't drink anything with caffeine, which I try not to do anyway, so hopefully I'll fall asleep early tonight. I just have to make sure I stay up later than these two boys I STILL hear talking, 45 minutes after their bedtime. I refuse to be a grump today, so I hope they fall asleep. This mom isn't in the yelling, angry kind of mood today. I'm mellow, and if you know me, you know that's weird.
Aubs
I didn't cook anything. At all. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were all things that I had either already made or required minimal prep. B ate muffins, a nutri-grain bar, mandarin oranges, and apples/pears for dinner, and I didn't even feel the slightest bit guilty.
I didn't do laundry. I got all of our laundry done during the week, in hopes that I would be able to have at least one day of doing nothing this weekend. I was (mostly) successful.
I didn't watch television. I have a ton of shows that I "need" to catch up on, but I just wasn't interested in that today. It was amazing.
I didn't sleep in. I was really hoping that this would happen, but B was up by 8:15, and after he came in to tell me "good morning" there was no point in going back to sleep. He had a blast not fighting with his brother over which cartoons they were going to watch, but it was short-lived.
I didn't have both of my boys. After his baseball game and dinner with my sister, N went to his dad's house. I really love having both boys home, but I don't love the arguing and fighting that's unavoidable with siblings. It was really nice to have some one-on-one time with B today, and I'll have a whole week of that with N this week when B goes to his dad's.
I didn't get out of bed until after noon. Well, that's not entirely true. I got out of bed, made it, made sure B was all set with breakfast, and then flopped across my (made) bed for the better part of the day. I spent time catching up on books on my Kindle, and avoiding my midterm that was due at midnight tonight.
I didn't stay inside all day. Originally, that was the plan, but B really wanted to ride his scooter outside, so we went out for a little while. It was ridiculously hot, WAY hotter than it should be towards the end of October, so he was done in less than an hour. I did, however, chase him all over the grass next to our apartment, tackling him and tickling him into a fit of giggles. He laughs like a chipmunk. It's impossible not to smile.
I didn't talk on the phone...except for a phone call from my mom, a phone call from N, and a phone call to my dad. My phone was free from text messages too, and it was blissfully quiet, except for the giggles from the living room this morning.
I didn't have to entertain B. Normally he has to be in someone's face every single second, demanding attention, but today he played with his cars, and worked on his reading, and played the Wii. He drew, and ran over to me every 20 minutes or so for a hug. I caught his eye a few times through the doorway and we made silly faces and blew kisses. It was just relaxing.
I didn't drink anything with caffeine, which I try not to do anyway, so hopefully I'll fall asleep early tonight. I just have to make sure I stay up later than these two boys I STILL hear talking, 45 minutes after their bedtime. I refuse to be a grump today, so I hope they fall asleep. This mom isn't in the yelling, angry kind of mood today. I'm mellow, and if you know me, you know that's weird.
Aubs
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Baseball & a surprise guest
After a pretty solid afternoon of cleaning and re-organizing on Friday, the three of us just wanted to relax, so we opted for a movie night. B's current favorite is The Hunger Games, but N hasn't seen the movie in its entirety. B fell asleep about 45 minutes into it, so it was just me and my biggest guy watching.
After it was over, he told me he thought it was pretty violent, but that it was a good movie aside from that. I told him it was just the beginning, and I wondered what the second and third movies would be like. He asked me if I'd get him the books so he could read them. My boy likes to read, and I'm so thrilled with that, but never has he asked me to buy him a series...well, except for the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. I think they would be fun to read together, so even though I have them on my Kindle, I may have to go ahead and buy him "real" copies too.
This morning we got up, and the plan was for all of us to be productive and help each other finish cleaning up so we could all just relax. See, they have this idea in their heads that their mom gets to just relax and do whatever all the time...and that they never get a break. I laughed when I heard that one. I bit the bullet though and cleaned the apartment from top to bottom, with the windows open all day. It was awesome. Then, it was time for BASEBALL!!!
We got to the ball fields and got "baseball ready" pretty fast. It was a fun game to watch, especially because we won. The final score was 14-2, and all of our boys did well. The umps were hilarious, making all sorts of ridiculous movements to call strikes, balls, and outs. Even the boys in the dugout were like, "What is he doing?" N was disappointed because the coach always puts him at first base and he wants to pitch or catch. I told him not to be disappointed...the coach puts him at first because he can count on him to make the plays. He's great at first base, but I know he wants to be a more diverse player.
He's always talked about being a pitcher, but now he's really interested in catching. I've tried to talk him out of it, but he's pretty determined. We'll see. I think he would be a great catcher; he's built for it for sure, but I wonder how much of this new found decision is because he didn't get to pitch today and he thought he was going to get the opportunity.
My sister was in town for the weekend, and she surprised the boys at the game. She and her husband were supposed to come a few weeks ago, but the game was rained out, so we were all pretty bummed. Between the baseball game and the score updates on the TTU/TCU game (Wreck 'Em!), it was quite the afternoon. Seester, the boys, my mom, and I went to dinner after the game, and those three...they never disappoint. The boys were out of control; N hyped up on his win, and B just hyped up in general. My sister doesn't have kids, and I think my boys are really good (constant) reminders of why that is a good choice for her. They love each other though, and the boys are always so excited to see both my sister and brother-in-law. I wish he'd made the trip too.
I know I'll see her again in a couple of weeks, and then a couple of weeks after that too for Thanksgiving, but I miss her a lot. I miss spending time with her and with my dad. I'm so fortunate that I get to see my mom on a pretty regular basis, but I miss those people of mine down in Houston. I'm old enough to realize that there aren't any guarantees in life, and that I never know when I'll see those I love for the last time. This week has put that in perspective, but it's something I think about from time to time, especially where my parents are concerned. Just another worry to add to my list, but for now, this girl is ready to curl up in bed and completely check out for the night!
Aubs
After it was over, he told me he thought it was pretty violent, but that it was a good movie aside from that. I told him it was just the beginning, and I wondered what the second and third movies would be like. He asked me if I'd get him the books so he could read them. My boy likes to read, and I'm so thrilled with that, but never has he asked me to buy him a series...well, except for the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series. I think they would be fun to read together, so even though I have them on my Kindle, I may have to go ahead and buy him "real" copies too.
This morning we got up, and the plan was for all of us to be productive and help each other finish cleaning up so we could all just relax. See, they have this idea in their heads that their mom gets to just relax and do whatever all the time...and that they never get a break. I laughed when I heard that one. I bit the bullet though and cleaned the apartment from top to bottom, with the windows open all day. It was awesome. Then, it was time for BASEBALL!!!
We got to the ball fields and got "baseball ready" pretty fast. It was a fun game to watch, especially because we won. The final score was 14-2, and all of our boys did well. The umps were hilarious, making all sorts of ridiculous movements to call strikes, balls, and outs. Even the boys in the dugout were like, "What is he doing?" N was disappointed because the coach always puts him at first base and he wants to pitch or catch. I told him not to be disappointed...the coach puts him at first because he can count on him to make the plays. He's great at first base, but I know he wants to be a more diverse player.
He's always talked about being a pitcher, but now he's really interested in catching. I've tried to talk him out of it, but he's pretty determined. We'll see. I think he would be a great catcher; he's built for it for sure, but I wonder how much of this new found decision is because he didn't get to pitch today and he thought he was going to get the opportunity.
My sister was in town for the weekend, and she surprised the boys at the game. She and her husband were supposed to come a few weeks ago, but the game was rained out, so we were all pretty bummed. Between the baseball game and the score updates on the TTU/TCU game (Wreck 'Em!), it was quite the afternoon. Seester, the boys, my mom, and I went to dinner after the game, and those three...they never disappoint. The boys were out of control; N hyped up on his win, and B just hyped up in general. My sister doesn't have kids, and I think my boys are really good (constant) reminders of why that is a good choice for her. They love each other though, and the boys are always so excited to see both my sister and brother-in-law. I wish he'd made the trip too.
I know I'll see her again in a couple of weeks, and then a couple of weeks after that too for Thanksgiving, but I miss her a lot. I miss spending time with her and with my dad. I'm so fortunate that I get to see my mom on a pretty regular basis, but I miss those people of mine down in Houston. I'm old enough to realize that there aren't any guarantees in life, and that I never know when I'll see those I love for the last time. This week has put that in perspective, but it's something I think about from time to time, especially where my parents are concerned. Just another worry to add to my list, but for now, this girl is ready to curl up in bed and completely check out for the night!
Aubs
Recap
I was just (selfishly) thinking what a long week this has been...and then I was horrified with myself. Yes, this week has been long and trying and emotionally draining, but my week can't even remotely compare to the weeks of two families in my community.
Jacob Logan went to celebrate a friend's birthday at a local lake last weekend. On Sunday afternoon, he jumped off a cliff into the water below for the first time. Before he jumped, he said something to the effect of, "If God wants to take me, then he'll take me." and those words were his last. I don't know the family personally, but I've heard a lot through the grapevine. I usually take everything I hear with a grain of salt, but all I've heard is what a kind, friendly, goofy, strong Christian boy this young man was. His family, when giving their statements to the media, showed nothing but grace and a true love of God. As tragic as this week has been, I am moved and inspired by this family who is a true testament of what "giving it all to God" looks like.
Jacob played football for Coppell, and he was (from what I've heard) an excellent player and a great team player. He was number 21. He jumped into the lake on Sunday, and rescue/recovery teams worked from dawn until dusk and later everyday using sonar equipment and dive teams and any other resources they were able to find. On Thursday night, Jacob's body was recovered. I saw a post on Facebook that said, "Thanking God, that finally, #21 was found at 21:21." Jacob was, in fact, found at 9:21 pm, which in military time is 21:21. When I read that, it gave me chills... Could God be sending a blanket of peace over this whole community? Could Jacob be sending his loved ones a message, saying he's okay and in the presence of our Creator? The very thought brings tears to my eyes and a lump to my throat.
In the midst of all the uncertainty, another young man in Coppell was battling his own demons. Again, I don't know the family, only what I've heard, but it hurts my heart that this young man felt there wasn't any other option. Jonah Blackwell was a Silver Spur, one of the guys who raced the length of the football field and did push-ups each time Coppell scored. If you went to Coppell, you know what I mean. The Silver Spurs bring an element to the game that gets any crowd amped up a few notches. From what I understand, he was very present in the student body and everyone who knew him liked him. He was genuine, caring, and a good friend to any and everyone.
On Tuesday, he made the decision to take his own life. I don't know the circumstances behind why he felt that was the only way, nor is it my job to speculate on anything. I will, however, say this. I know how hard it is to lose someone you care about to suicide. I know firsthand. A friend of mine made this exact same choice in 2010, and I still think about him all the time. One of our mutual friends described it best when he said, "He had all the love in the world to give, but he never saved any for himself." Truer words were never spoken. My friend was a friend first, no matter what, and he always put himself last.
I wish there had been someone for him to be able to open up to; someone who could've maybe helped him through it instead of things happening the way they did. I wish that for Jonah as well, not just for him, but for his family and friends as well. I pray that Jonah found the peace that he was searching for, and that his family will be enveloped by God's peace and the love and support of their friends and community while they try to come to terms with the sudden loss of their child.
A Facebook page was created specifically for these two boys, to honor their memories and to be used as a forum to show unity in our community. There was a post asking everyone to wear orange and blue today because they were Jonah's and Jacob's favorite colors, respectively. Coppell's school colors are red, black, and white. Here's a picture of the student section from Coppell's "away" game tonight:
Again...tears and a huge lump in my throat. There have been posts and flowers and messages from schools and people all over the great state of Texas, and beyond! It just warms my heart to see the love and support surrounding this team, this high school, this community.
As a parent, I can't imagine what it would be like to lose a child. Parents aren't supposed to bury their children, it's the other way around. To lose a young life is tragic. To lose two in three days is indescribable. To the Logan and Blackwell families, you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. We are all a part of a small and extremely close community, one that has grown exponentially with all of those who are speaking out to show their support. At the end of the day, regardless of where we live, which district we're in, or what football team we cheer for, it comes down to this: We are a family. We show up, whether we know each other or not because that's what families do. We can hope and pray that tragedies like this never darken our doorsteps again, but if and when another tragedy does, it may be my doorstep or yours that is darkened. As terrifying as that thought is, I know that I wouldn't be alone. With God on my side and an extended family disguised as a community, I never could be. I'm praying for the peace and comfort of God's love to be wrapped around these two precious families and friends of the two young men who are no longer with us on Earth, and thanking God for the grace and kindness he has bestowed upon perfect strangers to lift this whole community up.
The Coppell Cowboys won their game against Flower Mound tonight, 27-18. Flower Mound observed a moment of silence for the Cowboys, and all of the Cowboys wore "21" on the side of their helmets. After the game, both teams and their fans joined together in prayer. If that doesn't speak volumes, I don't know what does... There are some pretty amazing (and heart-wrenching) pictures showing the unity here,
I'll leave you with this, a heartfelt gesture from another rival, Colleyville Heritage:
Aubs
Jacob Logan went to celebrate a friend's birthday at a local lake last weekend. On Sunday afternoon, he jumped off a cliff into the water below for the first time. Before he jumped, he said something to the effect of, "If God wants to take me, then he'll take me." and those words were his last. I don't know the family personally, but I've heard a lot through the grapevine. I usually take everything I hear with a grain of salt, but all I've heard is what a kind, friendly, goofy, strong Christian boy this young man was. His family, when giving their statements to the media, showed nothing but grace and a true love of God. As tragic as this week has been, I am moved and inspired by this family who is a true testament of what "giving it all to God" looks like.
Jacob played football for Coppell, and he was (from what I've heard) an excellent player and a great team player. He was number 21. He jumped into the lake on Sunday, and rescue/recovery teams worked from dawn until dusk and later everyday using sonar equipment and dive teams and any other resources they were able to find. On Thursday night, Jacob's body was recovered. I saw a post on Facebook that said, "Thanking God, that finally, #21 was found at 21:21." Jacob was, in fact, found at 9:21 pm, which in military time is 21:21. When I read that, it gave me chills... Could God be sending a blanket of peace over this whole community? Could Jacob be sending his loved ones a message, saying he's okay and in the presence of our Creator? The very thought brings tears to my eyes and a lump to my throat.
In the midst of all the uncertainty, another young man in Coppell was battling his own demons. Again, I don't know the family, only what I've heard, but it hurts my heart that this young man felt there wasn't any other option. Jonah Blackwell was a Silver Spur, one of the guys who raced the length of the football field and did push-ups each time Coppell scored. If you went to Coppell, you know what I mean. The Silver Spurs bring an element to the game that gets any crowd amped up a few notches. From what I understand, he was very present in the student body and everyone who knew him liked him. He was genuine, caring, and a good friend to any and everyone.
On Tuesday, he made the decision to take his own life. I don't know the circumstances behind why he felt that was the only way, nor is it my job to speculate on anything. I will, however, say this. I know how hard it is to lose someone you care about to suicide. I know firsthand. A friend of mine made this exact same choice in 2010, and I still think about him all the time. One of our mutual friends described it best when he said, "He had all the love in the world to give, but he never saved any for himself." Truer words were never spoken. My friend was a friend first, no matter what, and he always put himself last.
I wish there had been someone for him to be able to open up to; someone who could've maybe helped him through it instead of things happening the way they did. I wish that for Jonah as well, not just for him, but for his family and friends as well. I pray that Jonah found the peace that he was searching for, and that his family will be enveloped by God's peace and the love and support of their friends and community while they try to come to terms with the sudden loss of their child.
A Facebook page was created specifically for these two boys, to honor their memories and to be used as a forum to show unity in our community. There was a post asking everyone to wear orange and blue today because they were Jonah's and Jacob's favorite colors, respectively. Coppell's school colors are red, black, and white. Here's a picture of the student section from Coppell's "away" game tonight:
As a parent, I can't imagine what it would be like to lose a child. Parents aren't supposed to bury their children, it's the other way around. To lose a young life is tragic. To lose two in three days is indescribable. To the Logan and Blackwell families, you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. We are all a part of a small and extremely close community, one that has grown exponentially with all of those who are speaking out to show their support. At the end of the day, regardless of where we live, which district we're in, or what football team we cheer for, it comes down to this: We are a family. We show up, whether we know each other or not because that's what families do. We can hope and pray that tragedies like this never darken our doorsteps again, but if and when another tragedy does, it may be my doorstep or yours that is darkened. As terrifying as that thought is, I know that I wouldn't be alone. With God on my side and an extended family disguised as a community, I never could be. I'm praying for the peace and comfort of God's love to be wrapped around these two precious families and friends of the two young men who are no longer with us on Earth, and thanking God for the grace and kindness he has bestowed upon perfect strangers to lift this whole community up.
The Coppell Cowboys won their game against Flower Mound tonight, 27-18. Flower Mound observed a moment of silence for the Cowboys, and all of the Cowboys wore "21" on the side of their helmets. After the game, both teams and their fans joined together in prayer. If that doesn't speak volumes, I don't know what does... There are some pretty amazing (and heart-wrenching) pictures showing the unity here,
I'll leave you with this, a heartfelt gesture from another rival, Colleyville Heritage:
Aubs
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Don't you just love it...
when things finally start to come together? I've been living in my new space for a little over three months now, and finally started pulling it all together. I have so many projects I'd like to do, but I have to prioritize.
I've been doing things here and there, and most recently I gave my bedroom a bit of a makeover. Last weekend, I got the dark grey duvet cover from IKEA that I've had my eye on for the longest time, and I grabbed some fun curtains to block out the noise (and the light) while I was at it.
Tonight, I had three boys for an hour or two: N, B, & E. I kinda like having that little guy around...especially when I get to give him back. He's a sweet boy, but he HATES the car. Driving from Coppell to Frisco during rush hour was not as miserable as I was expecting, but it still got a little loud. My lips are still vibrating from making the Jetson's car noise for a solid 20 minutes. Anyway, the four of us went to IKEA to get more curtains. I bought one package, forgetting how wide my window was, so I needed another. The curtains I'd purchased for the boys room (in a soft blue-green color that I LOVE) were too short, so I snagged some neutral khaki colored curtains for their room too.
When I go to IKEA, I always check the "As Is" section. It's an addiction, and the best part about it is that I almost always find something for a steal there. Thanks to the "As Is" section of IKEA, I have acquired:
- Full set of purple stoneware dishes: 6 dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls $28
- King size down comforter: heavier weight $19
- Nightstand with a cupboard door and three shelves: $35
- King size duvet cover and pillow shams $13
- Full set of gray stoneware dishes: 6 dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls $15
- 6 drawer chest of drawers $187
I'm excited about all of these things, but when I saw the dresser tonight, I got ridiculously excited. I called my mom to tell her I found it (she also has an obsession with the Hemnes line) and asked her if I should buy it, knowing I'd probably do it anyway and deal with the consequences later. She said, "I'm not giving you my opinion. Call your dad."
See, since my dad helps with financials since I'm in school full-time and working part-time, I have to clear major purchases through him, but truth be told, I'd probably call him and run it by him anyway. I fully expected him to say no, especially when our conversation went something like this:
Me: Hey, Dad! How are you?
Dad: I'm okay. What's up?
Me: Okay, so I'm at IKEA...(See how I was all nonchalant about it?)
Dad: Why? What are you doing there? (He thinks I go to IKEA too much...he's probably right)
Me: I'm meeting J so he can pick up N and E. So, I'm in the "As Is" section and I found a dresser that I really want.
Dad: Aubrey...
Me: But Dad, I've wanted this for practically forever and it's $100 off! It's a great deal!
Dad: What's wrong with it?
Me: Nothing! It was the floor sample, that's all.
Dad: How much is it?
Me: It's a steal! $187! Can I get it?
Dad: Yeah, that's fine.
Me: REALLY?!
Dad: Yes.
Me: Okay, I'll talk to you later. Um, I mean I'll call you later after I don't have a jillion kids.
Dad: I'm going to dinner anyway, so I'll talk to you later.
Me: Okay, I love you!
As I type, I'm up on my bed, staring at my new dresser and feeling like I've really accomplished something. It's small...and I still need to decorate, but the bigger pieces are done. The next major thing I want to do is either slipcover or re-upholster the furniture in the living room. I've picked the samples, now it's just a question of doing it...which will be interesting because I don't sew.
On another "domestic" note, I feel like cooking this weekend: like making stews and soups and breads and treats to stock up my fridge, freezer, and pantry. Between baseball, Oak Fest at Kid Kountry, college football, and whatever else comes our way, I'm not sure how much I'll get accomplished, but spending a good weather weekend with my boys sounds like a pretty good idea too.
I can't wait for some cool/rainy weather so I can keep my kitchen going all day long!
Aubs
I've been doing things here and there, and most recently I gave my bedroom a bit of a makeover. Last weekend, I got the dark grey duvet cover from IKEA that I've had my eye on for the longest time, and I grabbed some fun curtains to block out the noise (and the light) while I was at it.
Tonight, I had three boys for an hour or two: N, B, & E. I kinda like having that little guy around...especially when I get to give him back. He's a sweet boy, but he HATES the car. Driving from Coppell to Frisco during rush hour was not as miserable as I was expecting, but it still got a little loud. My lips are still vibrating from making the Jetson's car noise for a solid 20 minutes. Anyway, the four of us went to IKEA to get more curtains. I bought one package, forgetting how wide my window was, so I needed another. The curtains I'd purchased for the boys room (in a soft blue-green color that I LOVE) were too short, so I snagged some neutral khaki colored curtains for their room too.
When I go to IKEA, I always check the "As Is" section. It's an addiction, and the best part about it is that I almost always find something for a steal there. Thanks to the "As Is" section of IKEA, I have acquired:
- Full set of purple stoneware dishes: 6 dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls $28
- King size down comforter: heavier weight $19
- Nightstand with a cupboard door and three shelves: $35
- King size duvet cover and pillow shams $13
- Full set of gray stoneware dishes: 6 dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls $15
- 6 drawer chest of drawers $187
I'm excited about all of these things, but when I saw the dresser tonight, I got ridiculously excited. I called my mom to tell her I found it (she also has an obsession with the Hemnes line) and asked her if I should buy it, knowing I'd probably do it anyway and deal with the consequences later. She said, "I'm not giving you my opinion. Call your dad."
See, since my dad helps with financials since I'm in school full-time and working part-time, I have to clear major purchases through him, but truth be told, I'd probably call him and run it by him anyway. I fully expected him to say no, especially when our conversation went something like this:
Me: Hey, Dad! How are you?
Dad: I'm okay. What's up?
Me: Okay, so I'm at IKEA...(See how I was all nonchalant about it?)
Dad: Why? What are you doing there? (He thinks I go to IKEA too much...he's probably right)
Me: I'm meeting J so he can pick up N and E. So, I'm in the "As Is" section and I found a dresser that I really want.
Dad: Aubrey...
Me: But Dad, I've wanted this for practically forever and it's $100 off! It's a great deal!
Dad: What's wrong with it?
Me: Nothing! It was the floor sample, that's all.
Dad: How much is it?
Me: It's a steal! $187! Can I get it?
Dad: Yeah, that's fine.
Me: REALLY?!
Dad: Yes.
Me: Okay, I'll talk to you later. Um, I mean I'll call you later after I don't have a jillion kids.
Dad: I'm going to dinner anyway, so I'll talk to you later.
Me: Okay, I love you!
As I type, I'm up on my bed, staring at my new dresser and feeling like I've really accomplished something. It's small...and I still need to decorate, but the bigger pieces are done. The next major thing I want to do is either slipcover or re-upholster the furniture in the living room. I've picked the samples, now it's just a question of doing it...which will be interesting because I don't sew.
On another "domestic" note, I feel like cooking this weekend: like making stews and soups and breads and treats to stock up my fridge, freezer, and pantry. Between baseball, Oak Fest at Kid Kountry, college football, and whatever else comes our way, I'm not sure how much I'll get accomplished, but spending a good weather weekend with my boys sounds like a pretty good idea too.
I can't wait for some cool/rainy weather so I can keep my kitchen going all day long!
Aubs
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Turkey Time's A'Comin!
Today, I got excited when I saw the date... Why, you ask? Because it's exactly 30 days until Thanksgiving break begins. Yes, really. To some, okay most, of you it's not that big of a deal. In my family? It's huge.
Growing up, we always spent Thanksgiving with my dad's family. My grandfather was born on November 24, and my dad was born on November 25, so it was always a time for our family to get together and do birthdays and Thanksgiving all at the same time. My grandfather died in 2005, and I had B in 2005...on November 26! My dad still has a birthday buddy, and it's awesome because those two are so alike; total turkeys!
Several years ago, I started hosting Thanksgiving at my house. Since both parents come, it's kind of neutral territory. Like I've said before, they get along really well, but it's still less stressful when a holiday is at a house where either of them are free to leave if they have too much "togetherness" at once. I get that. Sometimes I want to leave too! Anyway, the first year I had Thanksgiving at my house, my sister and I had a bright idea to get a little more than a lot tipsy and paint a trophy...on a clear plastic plate.
We went on to develop this idea and made rules for how one could win this amazing piece of artwork. It must be displayed prominently until the following November, where it would be fought over once again. How do you win? Win the best 2 out of 3 games...they range from Pictionary to Scene It to Scattegories, and so on.
Bottom line? It's so much fun. And I always win. We typically play with partners, and my partners have been different over the last few years. Last year, my partner took the turkey trophy, a turkey nutcracker this time (we opted for a new trophy since the other has my ex's name on it too), and I believe he's taken the nutcracker hostage. No worries...I found a replacement, which will be revealed once a winner is determine. Let's just say it's on the larger side...
Tonight the boys and I went to the batting cages, and I attempted to pitch. It wasn't bad, but I was glad to see N's dad show up. I tried to catch, and now I have a bruise on my knee and one on my ankle to show for it. Never a dull moment, that's for sure!
Aubs
Growing up, we always spent Thanksgiving with my dad's family. My grandfather was born on November 24, and my dad was born on November 25, so it was always a time for our family to get together and do birthdays and Thanksgiving all at the same time. My grandfather died in 2005, and I had B in 2005...on November 26! My dad still has a birthday buddy, and it's awesome because those two are so alike; total turkeys!
Several years ago, I started hosting Thanksgiving at my house. Since both parents come, it's kind of neutral territory. Like I've said before, they get along really well, but it's still less stressful when a holiday is at a house where either of them are free to leave if they have too much "togetherness" at once. I get that. Sometimes I want to leave too! Anyway, the first year I had Thanksgiving at my house, my sister and I had a bright idea to get a little more than a lot tipsy and paint a trophy...on a clear plastic plate.
We went on to develop this idea and made rules for how one could win this amazing piece of artwork. It must be displayed prominently until the following November, where it would be fought over once again. How do you win? Win the best 2 out of 3 games...they range from Pictionary to Scene It to Scattegories, and so on.
Bottom line? It's so much fun. And I always win. We typically play with partners, and my partners have been different over the last few years. Last year, my partner took the turkey trophy, a turkey nutcracker this time (we opted for a new trophy since the other has my ex's name on it too), and I believe he's taken the nutcracker hostage. No worries...I found a replacement, which will be revealed once a winner is determine. Let's just say it's on the larger side...
Tonight the boys and I went to the batting cages, and I attempted to pitch. It wasn't bad, but I was glad to see N's dad show up. I tried to catch, and now I have a bruise on my knee and one on my ankle to show for it. Never a dull moment, that's for sure!
Aubs
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