Tillitson Clan

Through Brightest Day and Blackest Night, The Fastest Man Alive

2012-01-25T21:26:00.000-06:00

Zad, able to remove a CPAP machine in under a minute and continue breathing. Able to remove a diaper and scatter poo every where. At 15 1/4 inches and 2 lbs. and 13.9 oz, this Little Incredible Hulk has grown some reddish eyebrows and a round belly. This Green Lantern, by the power of his will would like to remove every restriction and take over the world.

Zeke, able to disassemble his CPAP machine. Able to continue breathing, and charm every nurse... that is before they smell his diaper. At 15 1/4 inches and 2 lbs. and 13.9 oz, the Little Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man has grown some blondish eye brows and a round belly as well. This Flash, with his easy going spirit desires peace and chillaxation for all.

Dad continues to be a mild manner teacher during the day, and races to be Super Daddy in the evening. Mom has forgone the idea of a secret identity, and is Ultra Mommy 24/7.

By our powers combined, we are The Mighty Tillitson Clan.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

STRANGE THINGS YOU PRAY FOR AS A NEW PARENT

2012-01-17T19:52:00.000-06:00

Ok, so the boys are now over 2 weeks old (so 29 weeks on the gestational calendar) and first we have to give a list of the things we have asked the boys to do.
1. Zeke, please breath
2. Zad, please poo
3. Zeke, please keep the poo in your diaper
4. Zad, please do not remove your c-pap machine, sensors, or the feeding tube
5. Both, please don't be naughty at the same time.

Ok, on to updates:

Zadok is at 14.5 inches long, and 2 pounds 7 ounces. He has taken it upon himself that he doesn't need to be in the hospital. Doctors, nurses, and parents disagree. As you can see in the picture, he is now opening his eyes. He has a nice round tummy and the beginnings of chubby cheeks.

Ezekiel... well, Zeke can be a bit lazy. There are times, he just doesn't want to do anything, like breathe. He has received a booster of caffeine in addition to the normal amount to motivate him. He is at 15.3 inches, and 2 pounds, 4.6 ounces. He is getting pretty good at sucking motions, as you can see him with his paci. Zeke is also starting to fill out with some baby fat.

Shaun got to spend a three day weekend with his boys, after being a spaz at work all week. Super Lolo cleaned the garage, much to the appreciation of his daughter and son-in-law. And Lauren climbed the stair, showing how much she is recovering.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

They Are A Week Old (Or They Were 3 Days Ago)

2012-01-10T21:27:00.001-06:00

Achievables of the Week (Bleep Bloop)

Zadok, breaths room air (the same 21% oxygen that you and I breath) with the help of his CPAP. He has gained 2 ounces. He has done pushups, not only off of his bed, but also from his Daddy's chest. Apparently, since their heads aren't as big as a new born, they are able to lift themselves a little easier. Zad is no longer on a PICC IV (which he was getting nutrients from), he now consumes 15 ml of breast milk every 3 hours. With his strong grabbing skills, he is a Thumb War Champion in the making.

Ezekiel as can see in the photo, has wide open peepers. He is consuming 18 ml of breast milk with 4-5 calories added in. This obviously means that he no longer has a PICC IV either. Zeke is at 23% oxygen, and can fill a diaper like no other. He is loved by nurses for his easy going manner. (Player)

In honor of their super hero status, the following sign has been posted in their room. For those that don't know the symbols put into the letters they are the following: ZAD - Green Lantern, Captain America, and Nightwing; ZEKE - Flash, Spider-Man, Batman, Iron Man. Shaun found this as a wonderful replacement of their old sign which said "Twin A" & "Twin B"

Shaun has gone back to work, Lauren is eating and recovering, and Super Lolo changed his fir grandchild's diaper. Bleep Bloop.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

HAPPY NEW YEAR... I MEAN, HAPPY NEW BABIEZ

2012-01-04T21:07:00.000-06:00

Here is the birth story of Zeke & Zad Thompson

Lauren had spent the two weeks of Christmas vacation on bed rest, and had not gone crazy... yet. On Sunday, January 1st, 2012, she sent Shaun off to Sunday School... I mean Life Group. At the end of Life Group, Shaun got a call from Lauren stating "Come home, I'm in pain."

So Shaun hurried home, to find that his wife had had 4 contractions in the 15 minutes it took him to get home. Shaun called every doctor and nurse he had a number for and the only message he got was "For emergencies, call 911." So being the smart man he is, he did not. Shaun instead, called his mom. She said, "Lauren being on bed rest, and having twins, take her to the hospital. The worst that could happen, is they send her home."

We hadn't even packed a hospital bag yet. Why would we, we were only at 27 weeks. So Lauren watched as her frenzied husband, spazed and threw things into a bag. He was basically the stereotypical man on the commercials, trying to get his wife to the hospital, but he remembered her and did not speed.

Lauren had had 8 contractions by the time they got to the hospital. A very kind receptionist, and 2 nurses did not even sign them in, but wheeled them straight to labor and delivery. All while discussing new years eve festivities.

Shaun & Lauren got to the room, and watched as the nurses struggled with new equipment that would only allow one baby's heartbeat to be on the monitor at a time. With twins this could be a problem. In the course off the examination, where they were planning on trying to stop the labor, the doctor discovered she had had MANY contractions, was 3 cm dilated, with a bulging bag. So in other words, it was too late to stop the pregnancy.

With in an hour and a half of getting to the hospital, Lauren was prepped for an emergency c-section with Dr. Z & anesthesiologist, Dr. Woo. Lauren was calm... Shaun was freaking. Where as Lauren was in a gown and cap, Shaun was in something that looked like a hazmat suit.

Still very calm, Lauren was wheeled to the operating room. Shaun, was asked to leave, and was told that they would come get him, when it was time. Lauren was left with VERY BIG needles. She took it like a rockstar, or so they told her, but she was a little worried that they said "OOOPS!" in the process. She was reassured that nothing was wrong, and that there would be no more ooops. Completely prepped, they asked her if she was ready. She replied "WHERE IS SHAUN!" They brought him back in seconds later. He was relieved to be able to be with Lauren behind the sheet.

After only a few minutes, which involved Dr. Woo giving lots of drugs, and suctioning up diced pineapples (don't ask, at least she didn't eat the pizza she had for lunch) Zadok was pulled out. All we could see was the top of a dark haired head, that looked the size of a racket ball. All they could hear, were soft cries, as he was learning to breath, a little early. One minute later, Ezekiel, and his complicated pose, was also pulled out. Zeke, came out gasping, but had the most beautiful profile. Shaun was beaming, and Lauren was still calm, until the two babies left.

As they put Lauren back together, she felt pain. Sharp, excruciating pain. She did not scream, but Shaun was forced to calm her breathing, so it wouldn't be as bad. This was the longest part of the birth, we would find out later that "OOOPS!" means, that some of the epidural spilled, and so what Lauren got, was wearing off early. Dr. Woo, Shaun, and Dr. Z reassured her that she had done as well as any rockstar could be expected to do. She was wheeled back into the original prep room, where nurses speedily attempted to get her on morphine for the pain. After morphine we discovered their weights and APGAR rating, which for both of them was 7/8 out of 10, which is amazing for 27 weekers.

Friends and family started to visit, but they had not seen their babies since delivery. Eventually, the NICU transfer teams from Cook's (The Teddy Bear Flight) brought us Zeke and Zad, so that we could see them before they went to Cook's Children's Hospital to continue development. Each of the boys recognized their mother as she touched their hands, and her voice when she spoke.

The boys are currently at Cook's, and are doing marvelous. There have been a couple of hiccups, but these are expected for 27 weekers/superheroes.

Zadok Harvey Thompson, was born on January 1st, 2012 at 1:49 pm, at 13.5 inches, and weighing at 2 punds 5 ounces.

Ezekiel Clemons Thompson was born on January 1st, 2012 at 1:50 pm, at 15 inches, and weighing at 2 pounds, 6 ounces.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

God is Awesomesauce

2011-08-21T15:21:00.000-05:00

So guess what ;-p God in his amazingness has decided to expand the Tillotson Clan with not 1, but 2 new editions. Yes we are pregnant... with twins. Those of you who knew of our struggles with having a child can probably understand how excited we are. Through the sad events of our pregnancy last fall, and other issues that we have run into, God once again shows that he will provide. I don't think we could praise Him enough for His awesomeness.

We had our suspicions that it might be twins when the blood work was really high. Well we went in for our first sonogram, and the first thing that she said was "Oh, it's twins!" We were ecstatic with this news. I was so happy, that I missed two exits trying to get to work.

In honor of Red vs. Blue, we are nicknaming them our Achievables, Bleep & Bloop. Those who have seen the PSA on Achievements that Red vs Blue made would understand.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

Summer, Where Have You Gone?

2011-07-08T20:45:00.003-05:00

Well, apparently we only have one week left of our summer.

We started by going to Mississippi and visiting Lauren's family. Had such a great time of relaxing and eating... and eating... and eating.

Lauren and I began writing curriculum for our individual subjects for Uplift Education, which thanks to the stipends we were able to pay off 3 credit cards. (haven't gotten all of the stipends yet, they pay out over three months, so the cards should be paid off by the end of August) This was an experience for both of us, and something we enjoyed.

We have also gotten stuff done around the housed. New light fixtures and ceiling fans installed all throughout the house. The changing the front yard into a zero lawn by adding flower beds is closely becoming a reality. Lauren has also enjoyed making pickles and relish. It is nice to get things accomplished.

And then there are times when you just need a get away, so we headed out to Durant, Oklahoma and had a fun weekend at Choctaw thinking and worrying about nothing.

Now I realize that we only have a week left for our summer. After next week we go back to work. Lauren will be going to teacher training, and I will be getting out of that because I am taking some students to a year book workshop. Following that we have Student Leadership Academy (a culture camp for out students), then we will get one more week off befor we start up again the 2nd week of August.

All in all it has been a great summer. It has had its up and downs, but for the most part it has been great.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

5 years (a little late)

2011-06-02T17:23:00.002-05:00

Wow, we've been married 5 years this past May 21. Sorry for it taking so long to post this, it's been busy at the Tillitson house hold. so lets do this update.

Last summer was like a normal summer for us (for the most part) I went to Leadership Training Camp with Texas Baptist Men, and Lauren spent time with her mom while I was gone. We enjoyed working Vacation Bible School as always. There wasn't that much new this past summer.

School had some new changes coming along. We both had new administrators at our schools. This brought frustrations that the change would cause, but also new opportunities came from this.

September was a rough month for us. As my last post (tells you how long it has been since I've posted anything) we got pregnant, but then lost the baby. This was not an easy time, but we thank God for being there, and for putting our friends and family into our lives to help us through this.

In November I was ordained as a deacon, and have been blessed many times to serve people because of it.

As the new year began new opportunities arose. Lauren was offered a position at my school teaching Middle School and High School Art, which is really exciting for both of us. Not only will this mean we are working together and it will cut our gas bill in half, but she was told by my administration that they want her to develop a successful art program. I've also been asked to develop a successful graphics program so this next school year will be the start of these awesome opportunities. Right before Spring Break, I was asked to help take over Year Book sponsorship, which I have enjoyed, but it came with stresses of its own. This is something I'll be continuing into next year.

On May 21, Lauren and I celebrated 5 wonderful years of being married. God has blessed me with the most wonderful wife in existence. I look forward to many more years with her.

Now as we begin this summer, both Lauren and I have been hired but our Charter School Organization to write curriculum for our respective subjects.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

To My Unborn Children, You Are In A Better Place Than I

2010-09-27T10:06:00.003-05:00

For those that didn't know Lauren and I were pregnant. Unfortunately it was a tubal pregnancy, to which Lauren had to have surgery to remove the pregnancy. After the surgery we discovered that there might have been two babies, both in the same tube. We had talked that if we had a boy and girl twin that we should name them Xion & Cileste (Variations of Zion and Celeste). We have decided to name the two that, and we find it fitting, since both are in Heaven, and Xion means Heaven and Cileste means Heavenly. I write this entry (crying as I do this) to my two children whom I will get to meet someday in Heaven, two individuals that make me look forward to that day even more.

Dear Cileste and Xion,

At only 3 1/2 weeks inside your mother you had already made me a very happy man. A father is something that I have wanted to be for a long time, and you blessed me with your lives. Even though I did not have a chance to get to know you, I know that I love you both.
Selfishly I would want you to be here with me, it hurts thinking about not being able to watch you two grow up. But you are the lucky ones, the ones who get to see Our Father in Heaven. You will fortunately not have to deal with worldly problems, something that every father would love to be able to do for there children, but cannot succeed at. While you're up there, get to know your family. There are some really good people up there with you, and they have some stories to tell about your mother and I.
The two of you make me want to be a better man, and when you eventually have a little brother or sister, to be a good father for them. I will never forget the two of you, and I will always think about you. Even in the short time you were here, you meant everything to me.
There is so much I want to say, but I can't seem to figure out how to say it. I know you are happy and at peace, and you will be missed.

Your loving father,
Dad

Summer 2010

2010-07-14T15:48:00.003-05:00

It has been an enjoyable summer this year.

We have worked on our garden, both harvesting the spring/summer crop and planted the fall/winter crop. It has been both enjoyable and hot.

I went to LTC camp for the 2nd year, in preparation for backpacking in New Mexico next year. Irony though was that I twisted my ankle on the third day... remember preparing for backpacking? So we strapped some gear to my crutches and I hiked with crutches ;-p .

We got a new truck and traded in the cavalier, which I am LOVING.

We went to the ER with stomach flu, boy was that fun.

We went on vacation this past summer with my mom, step-dad, sister, brother-in-law, nephew, and brother to Crystal Beach. It was an enjoyable weekend, minus the mosquitoes and the a/c not working for the majority of the weekend. Lauren and I got to see the sun set from the ocean, which was beautiful.

This week we went and bought some clothes for the new school year, both professional and fitting of our personalities.

With just 6 days until we go back for training, we are going to enjoy the rest of it as much as possible.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

4 Years of Happiness

2010-05-21T06:38:00.003-05:00

Today Lauren and I celebrate 4 years of happiness together. It has been a year of ups with a lot of downs, but God has blessed us both so very much, and with his strength and love in our our lives we will have many more happy years together. God has blessed me so much with my amazing wife that I'm posting Proverbs 31:10-31 (The Message version) know as Hymn of the Wife.

A good woman is hard to find,
and worth far more than diamonds. Her husband trusts her without reserve,
and never has reason to regret it. Never spiteful, she treats him generously
all her life long. She shops around for the best yarns and cottons,
and enjoys knitting and sewing. She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places
and brings back exotic surprises. She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast
for her family and organizing her day. She looks over a field and buys it,
then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden. First thing in the morning, she dresses for work,
rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started. She senses the worth of her work,
is in no hurry to call it quits for the day. She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth,
diligent in homemaking. She's quick to assist anyone in need,
reaches out to help the poor. She doesn't worry about her family when it snows;
their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear. She makes her own clothing,
and dresses in colorful linens and silks. Her husband is greatly respected
when he deliberates with the city fathers. She designs gowns and sells them,
brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops. Her clothes are well-made and elegant,
and she always faces tomorrow with a smile. When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say,
and she always says it kindly. She keeps an eye on everyone in her household,
and keeps them all busy and productive. Her children respect and bless her;
her husband joins in with words of praise: "Many women have done wonderful things,
but you've outclassed them all!" Charm can mislead and beauty soon fades.
The woman to be admired and praised
is the woman who lives in the Fear-of-God. Give her everything she deserves!
Festoon her life with praises!

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillotson Clan

IT SEEMS LIKE...

2010-04-26T07:23:00.003-05:00

Why does it seem like things just aren't made to work out. It is not all the time, but when it happens, it is not just one thing, it is EVERYTHING. We get our hopes up and then they come crashing down. Sometimes I would love to let things coast by, but doing so goes against who I am (I know some of you might find that hard to believe.)

It is that time of year again, where all teachers in the state of Texas are just tired. TAKS season. I'm not bashing the TAKS, I agree with an accountability system, but it is just a stressful time of the year. There are some other issues that I'm not going to go into at this time as well. But last night, to top it all off, Tomar our Min-Pin mix got out.
1. I worked way to hard replacing my fence last summer for this to happen.
2. This weekend, I thought i blocked off his exits. (he started climbing the fence that separated the garden from the rest of the yard, and then on that side, we found a HUGE hole under the fence)
3. Due to not knowing when he got out yesterday, plus we got home after 9:30 and he is a black dog, makes it hard to find him.
4. But what bothers me the most I think in all of this, is that if we don't get him back, that would be 3 dogs that we have lost in 1 1/2 years.
-Darrel died 12/08
-We had to put Iris down 11/09
-and now Tomar is gone

I hope and pray that someone has found him and will call the vet today (number on his rabies tag) and we will get him back.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillitson Clan

P.S.: And for those who might be thinking Lauren and I are having marital problems due to the things I will not talk about at this time, do not worry, that is not an issue.

In Honor of Easter

2010-04-04T18:36:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I found a piece of paper under my windshield at Sam's that had the title "My Testimony" and in honor of the anniversary of the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, I thought that I would post it.

"My Testimony"
Twenty-nine years ago the Lord saved me at a motel in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was about 8:00 in the morning. I was about to drink some wine and work some.
I was not happy that morning and very despondent. I know now that God worked it out that way.
I was sitting at a table in the motel room about to go to work. I turned on the radio looking for some music, but I found someone talking about God. He said, If you will ask the Lord to please forgive your sins, He will save you and give you a new life, and then thank Him.
Well, I thought about it just about a minute. I did not trust, but I went to the bed and knelt down, and said, Lord, if you are real like this man said, please forgive my sins and save me and give me a new life. Then I thanked him.
I didn't know what being saved was, but I immediately lost my despondency and I felt peaceful and full of joy. I asked the Lord, If I'm really saved, help me to not sin.
So friend, if you feel the Lord speaking to you and you would like to be saved and have a new life, get off by yourself and pray. Ask the Lord to forgive your sins and save you. If you mean business with God, He will save you.
-Inspired by God

I read this and began thinking of when I was truly saved. I was great at being a two-face. When around people I could appear as this perfect innocent person, but on my own I did A LOT that I'm not proud of. This can be a stressful way to live, because it requires a great deal of lies to keep the two separate. But, no one can keep that up for ever and the two sides eventually met. It caused someone to get hurt, and at that moment I heard God say "Shaun, stop being dumb! This is not the plan that I have for you, you will change" and at that moment I felt different, a release from the "two-face" life. I now have a relationship with my savior, and God has showed me how to use that time of my life as a way to help share Him with others.

By reading this first I have a question, Do you have that relationship with Him, that He desires? And second if so, take this time to reflect on your testimony, and the blessings that God has given you.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillitson Clan

Iris, May You Find Rest and Happiness

2009-12-12T12:39:00.006-06:00

Iris, we loved you so much. We remember getting you when you were only 3 pounds and could fit in the palm of our hands. You've always been our little fighter who would get through anything, and I mean anything. May it be taking on a dog 5 times your size and winning, or pulling through getting hit in the head by a car you always managed to fight on.

You were our little spaz that would find the most random things to play with. May it be one of your toys or a Dr. Pepper bottle.

All you've ever wanted was to be loved and to play with us. We would play with you and your toys, and then you would curl up with us and watch TV. Iris, We love you and will miss you.

Iris Thompson
January 21, 2007 - December 12, 2009
May you find rest and happiness

Happy Veterans Day

2009-11-11T07:08:00.002-06:00

Today November 11th, is Veterans Day. A holiday that was started as marking peace at the end of WWI. On November 8, 1954, it was changed from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. This is a day we honor those that have served our country to protect the rights that we have. To make it where each and every one of us can have an opinion, to disagree, or to not care if we so choose. To the men and women who have served our country through our nation's military the Tillitson Clan thanks you, and will continue to thank you.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillitson Clan

I Love Christmas Time

2009-11-08T15:39:00.005-06:00

Now I know what most of you are thinking, "November Just Started!!!"

But those who know me, know that Christmas is my FAVORITE time of the year. But yesterday was one of my favorite things to do at this time of year, and this year we've added more lights. For the first time since we moved into the house we have put lights onto the second floor.

First we started putting up the decorations in the house, tree, stockings, banister lights, swag lights off the balcony, etc. We even put some empty present boxes under the tree (we already gave each other our gifts when we bought the new tv last weekend. Overall it went pretty smoothly.

Putting up the outside lights was a whole different game. While trying to get up to the second floor, the ladder slid down while i was on it, that was fun, but i did get onto the roof without dieing. while up there i found where the two shingles that we found on the ground went, so i went ahead and repaired them. After trying to hang light with the shingle holders i found out the weight of the lights kept pulling them off, so we had to come up with something else. Lauren suggested running them along gutter on the side of the house, to allow them to be seen on Matlock. This worked great!!! So we got that done, and as i was walking back to the ladder i tripped on my jeans and freaked out Lauren for a second time. I did make it back down though, with out an injury. During this Lauren was decorating the trees and swing in the from lawn with lights as well as setting up the big penguin. While putting up the lights in front of the garage, I forgot to take into account that the drive way slopes down. While climbing the ladder it started to fall out from under me as I was climbing onto the roof again, fortunately it balanced back out after i got onto the roof. (otherwise it would have fallen on the car) Around this time it was getting dark, but we continued. We had enough lights to hang on the Matlock side on the first floor so we did. We got all of this plugged in and I realized to get the little penguins and snowmen plugged in, I need another extension cord and Lauren realized that only half of the lights on the swing did not work. We tried to fix it, but we couldn't figure out which light was out, so we said we'll finish it in the morning.

Today after church we went and got an extension cord and a net light to put on one of the bushes. When we got home, I set up the net light and got out the penguins and snowmen. Lauren replaced the swing lights with another set we had. While setting up the penguin and snowmen, i noticed that the snowmen are made with a more fragile plastic when i break the bottom out of one while attaching it. So as the saying goes "if duct tape can't fix it, it's not worth fixing" so i duct taped it on, and it worked. But we have all of the decorations done, and hope you enjoy the pictures, more of them will be on facebook.

Síochána a bheith agat le,
Tillitson Clan

Nice Hard Work

2009-10-05T11:21:00.002-05:00

On Saturday, Lauren and I decided to make a new flowerbed in our front yard. First we went to Ace Hardware to get topsoil, mulch, etc. and then we got to work. I spent 3 1/2 hours shoveling out the ground that was heavily rooted, so of course now i'm sore. We then began planting, laying the soil and the mulch. We've surrounded it with brick, have a set of stepping stones, a few potted plants, and some statue critters in the bed. Now we just have to wait till spring for it to start growing. As sore as I am, I love doing yard work, and being able to see the results of it. I look forward to the spring a little more now.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

To Do It Again

2009-08-12T07:38:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow we start classes again, both Lauren and I. As we are getting ready we notice changes that are good, changes that are not, and that somethings will never change. But we both look forward to the new school year, and are ready for what is to come (for the most part), but we appreciate all of your prayers that you have sent, are sending, and will send for us.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

It's been a couple of weeks I guess

2009-07-05T23:38:00.001-05:00

SO I realize that it has been a couple of weeks.

Not much has happened. On the fence we finished painting it and putting kick boards in. I had my wisdom teeth taken out last Wednesday.

We had fun with Lauren's family over 4th of July. I thought about writing a nice little story about how God made it possible for us to become this great nation we are, but I decided I couldn't do the story justice. SO maybe another time.

Lauren goes back to work on July 13th, and I go back on July 15th.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

P.S.: I don't think I'll put a link on Twitter and Facebook to get here, I just don't feel the need to today.

Thank You Lord, For Allowing Us To Build A Fence

2009-06-18T13:47:00.003-05:00

So we rebuilt the fence this week, we started on Sunday evening and finished it today.

On Sunday we began taking down some of the panels, and a few of the posts. Joe was there to help us that evening, and he ended up having a post break and in response it busted joe's head open. (we did avenge his head 2 days later).

On Monday, David Reed came and mowed our lawn (we had had problems with my mower and Joe came and halep0ed out some more. We also set the post on one side of my yard.

On Tuesday we got another blessing, we had all of this old fence and couldn't hall it all easily. Well some guys came up and asked if they could have some of the old panels and we said sure. We also set the post on the street side of my yard. Jerry and Cory also came over and helped us put up the panels on the first side of my yard. Then we dug new holes for the gate side, and set the posts.

On Wednesday we continued to put up panels, and more people came and took the old panels. We also continued to put up panels on the street side. That evening we put up the gate side panels.

On Thursday, we halled off what was left of the fence (most of it was already taken) and put up the gate. We did run into some problems with the gate, but it is nothing we really need to worry about.

I do want to thank some people for this. God, none of it could have been possible with out you. Mark, my father-in-law, whom probably worked harder on this fence than anyone. Joe, we couldn't have done it with out your tools, and i enjoyed the extra help you gave us. Jerry and Cory, you sped up the work load a great deal. And finally my wife Lauren, You helped where ever we needed you and made sure we didn't dehydrate, I love you so much.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

P.S.: We do still have a few things to do now that the fence is built, so if you want to help we would greatly appreciate it.

Leadership Training Camp

2009-06-13T16:39:00.002-05:00

I don't want to get to into this here, if you want to know what all happened just ask me i'll let you know.

So I went to LTC this year, and it was a blast. I met a lot of great guys and had a lot of fun. Like I said, i'm going to keep this sweet and simple... God used LTC to do something that i've needed for a long time. He used it to humble me, to a point that I have never been before. It reminded me of things that I knew I should have been doing but had stopped. Through all of this, I rededicated my life to Jesus Christ.

I thought i'd leave you with a picture I took while at camp yesterday.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Update From September

2009-06-04T12:22:00.003-05:00

For those that do not know, back at the end of August, Lauren's uncle was shot and killed. (if you go to my facebook notes, you'll find the story) Well, we found out today, that this past Monday the guy who shot him was sentenced to life in prison. Please pray for Lauren and her family as they deal with this new information.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T08:29:00.002-05:00

Today is a special day. Even though we use this day for bar-b-ques, picnics, family reunions, and trips to the lake, we need to take a moment to remember what today is about. Memorial Day is a day to honor those soldiers who sacrificed their lives for us to keep our freedoms. Even if you don't agree with a war that we have been in, those soldiers still fought and died for you to have the right not to agree. So lets take a moment of silence for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

3 Years

2009-05-20T20:30:00.003-05:00

Since tomorrow will be the three year anniversary for the Tillitson Clan being what it is with mine and Lauren's marriage, I thought I'd do a brief overview of the past year.

This time last year, I had just been hired by the school I am currently working at and preparing to change careers. Lauren was finishing up her first year as a full time teacher. Lauren went to training for AP training as I was finishing up my last job. As I finished up, Lauren and I took a vacation to see her parents brand new house they just bought, which I love. I then began my new teacher training, which ended with me getting pneumonia. Fun. Lauren and I were then went to our district trainings together as we prepared for the new year. My 26th birthday came up where us and a bunch of friends basically had a night on the town in down town Ft. Worth. This was a blast.

The fall was a rough start for both of us. In At the end of August, Lauren's uncle was shot and killed. It was a hard funeral, but I'm glad God put me there to be for my wife and her family. At Lauren's school she had to deal with a classroom that should not have been a class room. She is still in there today, but with God on her side she has made it work. I on the other hand went through culture shock. As much as they try to prepare you for in teacher training, they can't really train you for what I went through. I entered my school, and my kids for the first 6 weeks tried to push me to where I wanted to leave. Thankfully I had God on my side. He gave me the strength to endure and when the kids realized that I wasn't leaving things greatly improved.

In November, Lauren's brother came to live with us for a month. This had its ups and downs. On one hand it was nice seeing him, on the other, we got burned out by having him here. We celebrated Lauren's 25th birthday at the start of the month as well, we went to The West End with a bunch of our friends as well. The West End isn't what it used to be, but we still had fun. Lauren then went to a conference and she had fun. Unfortunately I did as well. I spent over $300 on comics, movies, and video games. Thanksgiving was a blast. We saw most of my family out in East Texas.

December was a month with some ups and some serious downs. My favorite time of the year is Christmas which always raises my spirits. We had a wonderful Christmas with Lauren's family, as I knew we would. While we were gone, I had gotten word that my Papa had a heart attack. On our way back home, Lauren and her family dropped me off at the hospital in Tyler to be with my family. When Lauren got home our dog Darrel was hurt. You don't want to know the details, so I won't say them. On December 29, that morning Lauren had to put Darrel down, his injury had led to a serious infection. On top of that, my Papa passed. This was one of the hardest, if not the hardest Christmases for me EVER.

January was a month of joy which was needed, but also some frustration. Our friends, Tommy and Crystal told us they were pregnant. We are so happy for them. Not going to lie, we were a little jealous, because we have been trying, and when God says it's time, it will be time. Lauren's brother came to stay with us for another month. His struggling to get a job turned into frustration and he ended up putting a whole in the wall of our house. (which he repaired) In February I went to Austin for a convention, which I enjoyed. I also met Lauren's dad in Austin to drop off her brother. In March my school gave me another hat and I began working on school schedules. Good thing I pick up computer programs well, because I had no training on how to do this. This was also a time when Lauren was having frustrations at work again that had to lead to some serious considerations, but Lauren put her kids first and will be gladly teaching them again next year. In April, as teachers we had to deal with TAKS testing. I'm not against a testing for accountability reasons, it is just difficult to test kids all day long.

We are now in the month of May and closing up the 3rd year of marriage. A week and a half ago, Lauren's dog Iris was hit by a car. Thankfully God was watching her. Two complete strangers saw her and called the vet number that was on her tags. You can read the "Iris Updates" for further info on this. She is doing wonderful now, her meds have been cut in half and she is as peppy as can be. (And no she's not on that kind of medication.) Well tomorrow is our 3 year anniversary and here's to many more.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Wearing Kilts, 'Cause That's How We Roll

2009-05-17T20:07:00.003-05:00

So today we went to Scarborough Fair. We had a blast. We went with Pop and Kathy, who brough Caden with them. So Lauren made kilts and sashes for us two and Caden , this was a lot of fun. The kilts were in the Tillitson clan colors, but I'm not sure if it was the right plad. I don't think it really matters though. But we had to wear kilts, 'cause that's how we role. We will have pictures for you later, but I'm waiting on Kathy to email them to me. (We forgot to recharge the camera batteries ;-p ) We also bought some stuff, that is a lot of fun.

Update on Iris: She is doing even better, she's walking around (not as graceful as I'd like, but I'll give it time.)

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Taking Care Of The Pup

2009-05-13T21:33:00.002-05:00

So taking care of Iris has been interesting. Especially the waking up every 2 hours to feed her (I guess this is God preparing me for my future.) (Not now, but at some point.) We have some awesome friend that do help out in this during the day. The awkward thing is giving her fluids. The have to be injected into the skin, which creates a bubble that she gradually absorbs. The other hard part is her pills. She HATES pills. She bit me today while I was trying to give her pills. She didn't mean to bite me, but she was trying to keep her mouth shut, so fighting it she would end up biting me. Then she would still spit out the pills, URRGGG!!!! Ok, must remember to be patient, just like the doctor said. You know it really seems like God is preparing me for something through this ;-p .

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Iris is Home!!!

2009-05-12T19:49:00.000-05:00

So we brought Iris home today. YAY!!! She is doing ok. Her eye is stitched shut at this time, but they will be removed in about three weeks. She is on quite a few medications, and she is still pretty low key, but she has improved so much. We will have to do some nursing duty on her for the next few days, and thankfully we have some awesome friends who are going to help out on the next two days. We will have to take her up to the hospital for day boarding a couple of days over the next week, but the day boarding costs are much lower than everything else. The doctor told us that in about 3 months, we most likely won't be able to tell the difference between how Iris will be, and how she was before the accident.

In other news, on Monday we are taking the day off to relax and celebrate our Anniversary (3 days early) which will give us two 3 day weekends in a row ;-p . And after this week, we will only have 2 weeks left of school (SWEET!)

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Iris Update 2

2009-05-10T20:23:00.001-05:00

So we went to see Iris today. She ate a little today, and she is not strapped down anymore so that is good. Her right eye (the side the car hit) is not blinking though. They are having to hold her eye lid shut with a piece of string and lubricate the eye. Because she hasn't been blinking in that eye, she has developed an ulster in the eye. But on the bright side, there is a chance that we can take her home tomorrow. We'll keep you updated.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Iris Update 1

2009-05-09T20:49:00.000-05:00

So we went to the animal hospital today, and Iris is doing better. The swelling on her head went down so she looks better. She is also a lot calmer, and is blinking now. So we are more optimistic than we were yesterday. She is still on oxygen and pain medicine at this time. The vet said if she continues the way she is going we should be able to take her home in a couple of days. Iris will become an inside dog though, we are setting up the kitchen to be her area.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Iris

2009-05-08T16:17:00.000-05:00

Today Iris was hit by a car. Apparently she undid her chain hook, and escape. She walked down Matlock, and began to cross Country Club. As she was crossing, a car clipped her on the side of the head. Fortunately two people saw it, and went to her. She had her tags on, so the people were able to call the vet and animal control. Animal control took her to the vet for me.

At the vet, the could not find any broken bones, but she was bleeding from her nose and inner ear. The vet fears that she may have neurological damage, but at this time there is no way to know. They did ask us to take her to the 24 hour vet place so they could keep an eye on her.

The 24 hour vet told us the fact that she survived the hit is a good sign, but there are still a good chance of problems. Fortunately she is not feeling any pain unless she starts flailing around. The brain is almost in a off state, but it's a coping mechanism for her pain. But when she would hear Lauren or my voice she would start coming out of it and go into pain. So we are leaving her at the hospital so she can get some rest. They did say that the could not find any broken bones so far, but they are doing x-rays just to be sure. I will keep you posted.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

End of a Long Month

2009-05-03T17:00:00.000-05:00

Can I just start off saying April was a loooooooooooong month. I don't really know why, but Lauren and I are both thankful. It wasn't all bad, we got a new car. But a LOT happened this past month with this last week being TAKS test. We are so glad those are over, it makes school weird and there is no perfect way to handle it because the students don't really know how to handle when they are not testing. Anyway, here's looking to May with only 4 weeks left of school and then a break. And as we are in May, Lauren and I are not bringing any work home with us. Honestly, I think this might be the hardest one for us because it has become so second nature. We'll see how it works out.

Oh yeah, Lauren said I can get an iphone as soon as we pay off the credit card, YAY!!! (And yes, that is a realistic goal. Only a few more months.)

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

And Some Things Stay The Same

2009-04-21T20:35:00.000-05:00

Well, the news that we were waiting to hear about was if Lauren got the job at Hampton with me. Well she did not, my school does not have the budget to afford her (she is so awesome that she cost too much ;-p) But she is glad that things are working out this way, so that makes me happy as well.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Change Can Be Good... Sometimes

2009-04-19T15:48:00.000-05:00

OK well I guess it is time for updates.

First, on the news from the last post, I still don't have the update yet. I will get it to you as soon as I can.

Sad, but not necessarily bad news. For a few weeks there had been rumors that my Senior Director, Priscilla Pharms, was going to be leaving our school for our sister school in Arlington. Well Friday our Chief of Schools announced that this is going to happen. First I just want to say that she is probably the best boss that I have EVER had. This is the type of boss that you always want, she has been supportive, and has guided me where I have needed it, as has the rest of my administrative staff. But our school in Arlington desperately needs her at this time, and she feels that we are ready to carry on without her. So I have decided, that if she thinks we can do it without her being there, then I'm going to trust that decision.

Now for the exciting news. Lauren's car had its inspection up again. Well her check engine light came up (as it did last year) and we were going to have to get some repairs. now what frustrates me most about this, is that the things that needed to be repaired had nothing to do with the safety or drivability of the car, but with its emissions system. I'm sorry I do not want to pay $600 plus dollars to fix something I don't even agree should be required to get fixed, especially when I paid to fix the EXACT same thing this time last year. So after discussing with Lauren, we decided to go to the chevy dealership and look at HHR's. Lauren has wanted one, since Mikie and Lindsey got one. So the sales man offered us $1000 for the Integra, (personally, I don't think it's worth that much) and we were able to put a downpayment with that. Well come to find out the price tag was wrong, it was supposed to be $5000 more, but they have to honor the listed price, so we got a great deal. So we now have a 2007 black Chevy HHR, and we LOVE it. Now here is the irony of it all. My Cavalier, we swore this would be the first car we got rid of, well we got rid of Lauren's Mazda back in July of 2007, and now we've gotten rid of the Acura Integra, and we still have the Cavalier. That thing has given me so many problem, but it takes a licking and keeps on ticking. Yay Chevys ;-p ! If it can make it till Deceember of 2010, I'll be happy. (If we can, we'll trade it in for a truck which is what I want.)

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Wait One Week

2009-04-03T18:59:00.000-05:00

We hope to have some news (no not baby news, but that would be awesome) for y'all next Friday, we'll let you know in a week.

Giving Something Up, 1 Month at a Time

2009-04-01T20:11:00.000-05:00

So, you've probably been wondering why you haven't heard anything on here in a while. Well, the Sunday that we were coming back from Kerrville, we decided to give something (or do something extra to better our selves) up each month.
January - Go to the gym 3 times a week
February - No trips to the mall
March - No Internet/No Reality TV (had to make it fair for each of us)(also why we haven't been online)
April - No Video Games/No Sweets (same reason as March)
May - No bringing home work, it must ALL be done at work
June - No Cokes of any kind
July - No Cable/Regular TV (DVD's only)
August - A week with no TV or movies (We decided it would be during our week off during August)
September - No Fast Food
October - No spending of our budgeted fun money (instead it will be included to our tithes and offerings)
November - No eating out (eat out money will go to tithes and offerings)
December - No being negative (this will probably be the hardest)

We are going to try this out for 2 years, we'll see how it works.

Until Next Time,
Tillitson Clan

Comming to the end of Vacation

2009-03-21T22:21:00.000-05:00

So as we come to the end of our vacation i've realized something. Do to all of the energy that I used to use teaching, I don't have an outlet that allows me to release this much energy. Lauren says you get use to it, so hopefully i will. But here i am at 10:30, she's asleep and i'm wide awake. urg!!! I need to get back to teaching, thankfully that starts on Monday.

So while we've been gone, Tommy calls me and tells me that Iris is able to run, so that her chain becomes unlatched and then she goes into the neighbors yard. I'm so ready to get that fence fixed. So tommy, had to rap her chain aroung the loop of her coller a couple of times and then latch it, thankfully that has worked... so far.

Any way, we will be making our 5 hour drive home tomorrow, and then finishing preparing for school for next week. We hope you have had a blessed week this past week, and we ask that you pray for safe travels in general, because tomorrow ends spring break for the majority of people.

Until next time,
Tiilitson Clan

The Beginning

2009-03-20T18:15:00.000-05:00

Ok, so after tommy and crystal started up a blog it got me thinking that a gfamily blog is a great idea. so lauren and i started up the tillitson clan (the family name before coming to america and changing the name to thompson). Right now we are in Kerville relaxing. next week we start the last quarter of the school. after the school year is over we are going to fix our rotten fence, so that we can take Cael and Iris off of their chains. For those that don't know, Cael is our half lab half something else (possibly a pit, but it is not confirmed) and Iris is ou Puggle (half pug, half beagle). But we are going to keep you updated on life. Until next time.