Father’s Day Celebration

 

A Blessed Father’s Day Celebration Full of Family, Food, and Love

Father’s Day weekend ended up being one of those simple, special days that remind you how blessed you really are.

Saturday afternoon, after spending the morning cleaning the guest room and getting a few things done around the house, we headed over to Elizabeth and Charles’ house around 4 p.m. for our Father’s Day celebration.

I brought a pina colada cake, along with tea, and we also brought chocolate ice cream because we all know Lane and Landon love that! Elizabeth had planned a wonderful meal for everyone. She made lasagna for the adults, spaghetti for the boys, garlic cheese toast, and a salad. Savannah brought her famous no-bake cookies that everyone loves, and she also surprised Mr. C and Charles with a pumpkin cheesecake she made just for them. Let me tell you… those two were pretty happy about that surprise!

When we arrived, Alisha was already there helping her mama. She was busy making the salad and helping Elizabeth unpack and get things put away. They are still settling into their new house, and I have to say — it is beautiful! I am so excited for Elizabeth and Charles. Their new home is really special, and you can tell they are making it their own.

A little while later, Savannah and Brody arrived with Lane, Landon, and Sophie. Then Jonathan finally made it in. Jonathan and Alisha  live in Blanchard, so they have a bit of a drive, and they both stay so busy. I’m sure he had things going on earlier in the day, but it was good to have everyone together.

We spent several hours just visiting, eating, laughing, and enjoying being together. Nothing fancy — just good food and good company.

And honestly, who would have ever thought that going to my husband’s ex-wife’s house would feel so comfortable and relaxing? Life has a funny way of surprising you. I truly feel blessed that we have all been able to build such a good relationship. We can come together, celebrate, and enjoy each other’s company, and that is something I don’t take for granted.

It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate not only Mr. C, but also Charles as a stepdad, and Brody as he enjoys this season of life with his three young children.

By the time we got home a little before 8 p.m., I felt like the day had been a complete success. From cleaning that morning to spending the evening surrounded by family, it was exactly the kind of day that fills your heart.

Sometimes the best memories aren’t the big, elaborate plans. Sometimes they are just sitting around a table, sharing food, catching up, and appreciating the people God has placed in your life.

And this Father’s Day celebration was definitely one of those days.

Easter Blessings

 

Saturday, April 4th, 2026 — Easter Weekend Joy 🌸

There is just something about Easter weekend that feels extra special, and this Saturday was one of those days that reminded me how sweet life can be—even when it’s a little cold, muddy, and windy.

Luther and I started our morning early, heading to Marlow to the Eddie Palmer ballpark to watch the grandboys play t-ball. Now, let me set the scene for you… the night before, we had over five inches of rain. Yes—five. So you can imagine what we were walking into. Mud everywhere, wet bleachers, a cold wind that cut right through you… but none of that was going to stop us from showing up.

Lane was playing on field 6, and Brooks on field 7, so we were bouncing back and forth trying to catch all the action. I sat for a bit with John and Sherry—Jessica’s parents—and we visited while watching the boys. But I’m going to be honest… after about two innings, I waved the white flag. That cold was no joke! I told them, “I’m heading to the car,” and that heater never felt so good. Sometimes you just have to listen to your body and warm up where you can.

Once the games wrapped up, Luther and I headed home because the day was far from over. We had a full afternoon ahead with our Easter celebration—and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

But before I get into all that goodness, I just want to pause for a moment and say how grateful I am. Watching Luther and Elizabeth co-grandparent the way they do truly warms my heart. They’ve found a way to put differences aside and show up for those grandbabies in such a healthy, loving way. And that? That is a blessing. It may not always be perfect on every level, but when it comes to the grandkids, they are doing it right—and that matters.

Now… let’s talk about the food, because oh my goodness, there was plenty! This was one of those gatherings where nobody leaves hungry and everybody goes back for seconds (or thirds). We had hamburger sliders, several kinds of hot links, classic wieners, potato salad, not one but two kinds of deviled eggs, fresh salad, all the burger fixings, mac and cheese, and corn. And of course, the sweets—because what is a celebration without dessert?

We celebrated Alicia’s birthday with her cake, and there were cupcakes with pink icing that were just as cute as they were tasty. Rickie made a cookie cake (which is always a favorite around here), and between all of that, there was more than enough to go around—and then some. Leftovers for days, which I’m definitely not complaining about!

At the end of it all, I sat back and just took it in. The laughter, the kids running around, the conversations, the full plates, and full hearts. These are the moments that matter. The ones you don’t rush. The ones you hold onto.

If I had to sum up the day in just a few words, I’d say it was blessed, meaningful, and full of love.

And truly… that’s everything.

Max’s Birthday Party

A Slow Sunday, Sweet Moments & A Windy Birthday Party

Sunday turned out to be one of those slow, easygoing days that you don’t always plan for—but end up appreciating anyway.

I stayed home with Mr. C., and we decided to make a little mid-morning run into Marlow. We stopped by Sonic for something to eat, then swung into Dollar General to grab a gift bag for Max’s birthday. While I was there, I also picked up a few energy drinks for the work week ahead—just trying to make our errands count while we were already out and about.

Once we made it back home, the rest of the morning and early afternoon was all about relaxing. We finished up the latest season of Virgin River, which I’ll admit—I almost gave up on. I had told Luther last weekend that I was getting a little bored with the same storyline about Doc possibly losing his license. It felt like it just kept circling back. But I’m really glad I stuck with it, because the season ended up being pretty good. Now, I’m still not a big fan of cliffhangers, but I get it—they’ve got to keep us coming back somehow.

Later in the afternoon, we headed over to Brody and Savannah’s to watch the kids for a bit while Savannah ran to the ballpark to pick up Lane’s T-ball outfit. When she got back, she shared something that honestly sounded like a mess. Apparently, there’s some kind of situation involving baseball season passes—money that was supposed to be turned in never made it where it needed to go, and now a police report has been filed.

Savannah was wondering if Marlow Baseball might still honor the passes, even though they never received the funds. And while I understand why everyone would hope for that, I just don’t see how that would be fair or realistic. If the money never made it to them, it seems like the responsibility would fall back on the Rush Springs side of things. It’s an unfortunate situation all around, and I do hope they’re able to recover the money.

By mid-afternoon, it was time for me to head out again—this time to get ready for Max’s birthday party. I made a quick stop at Ross to pick up a few extra things for him. I had already gotten him a big toy truck filled with smaller vehicles, a little Bluey swimming pool, some snacks, and candy. But I couldn’t resist adding a few more things—three summer outfits and a couple of Superman figurines I thought he’d enjoy.

I also picked up pizzas on the way—two cheese and one pepperoni—per Michelle’s request.

The party was at Douglas Park, and I got there around 4:00. Some folks were already there, and the kids were having a good time on the playground. I’ll be honest—situations like that can still feel a little awkward with everything that’s happened between Aaron and Michelle. But at the end of the day, I remind myself that I’m there for Max and Clifford. They’re my grandsons, and I’m going to show up for them every chance I get.

The party itself went really well. Michelle chose a Bluey theme, which was absolutely perfect, though the Oklahoma wind definitely tried to steal the show. But that’s March for you—if it’s not windy, something’s wrong!

I stayed for about an hour and fifteen minutes and got to watch Max open his presents, which is always my favorite part. I also heard that Clifford is going on a field trip to the science museum in Oklahoma City, so I gave him a little $7 for spending money. It wasn’t much, but I wanted him to have something.

Before I left, I made sure to get hugs from Max and Clifford—and even Angel gave me one. Those moments mean more than anything. I also took a second to talk to Wesley and told him that if he ever has a wrestling tournament, to let his mama know to call me. I’d love to come watch him. Whether that happens or not, at least he knows I’m cheering him on.

On my way home, I stopped by Wendy’s to grab Luther something to eat, and I picked up a little chicken nugget kid’s meal for myself.

All in all, it was a simple day—but a full one in its own way. The kind of day that reminds me that even in the middle of ordinary moments, there’s still plenty to be grateful for.