Our family got the sad news that my Nanamaw was ceasing her dialysis so we made a rushed trip to Lubbock to say good-bye. It was a very emotional trip but we were so thankful for the opportunity to share some final words. She was the most welcoming person I know. Dean loved going to her house and visiting with her. She sang him a song called, "I Washed My Hands This Morning". She made him his special yellow blankies, a big one and a "baby" one! She taught me how to always look for the good in people. She was amazing and will be dearly missed.


Nanamaw's oldest son, my dad (Papa D) and four of Nanamaw's eight great-grandkids. They are sitting in her chair in her living room.


Nanamaw (very swollen from not having dialysis), me and my three sisters




The great-grandkids picking up pecans in the backyard. Nanamaw took good care of her pecan trees and always had tons of pecans.



The road trip to Lubbock. We are eating at Pete's burger place in Lubbock on the way in to town.

Well, we decided to try it. Call us naive, first time parents, but we set aside a weekend and just went for it. The first day was tragic. I have never been so discouraged and I have never spent so much time in a bathroom! I felt like I was ready to just give up, but by the end of the day, Dean was recognizing when he needed to go and running for the bathroom. Day 2 was much better! Only a couple accidents. It had sunk in and he was excited about getting treats for keeping his new Elmo or Thomas the train undies dry! We are proud of this little two year old for learning how to use the bathroom like a big boy SO FAST!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAN!!! Two years sure go by in a hurry. And I am still reeling at how fast Dean changes and learns. I can't believe he is two, this birthday is a little harder for me than his one year birthday for some reason. We planned a big joint party with Cousin Hannah (who just turned ONE!) but had to cancel because Dean had two ear infections and was one sick cookie. He still got to enjoy a visit from his grandparents and opened some fun gifts.



Dean, we are so proud of you and the grown up little boy you are becoming. You just started school and love going twice a week to see your friends. You make us laugh with your funny personality. We love you very much!