11-0... Three Weeks To Go!

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/hso/6137582.html

There were two choices in this week's playoff game - win or go home. And this week the Hightower Hurricanes put another mark in the "W" column with a 24-21 win over the Cinco Ranch Cougars! Texas is a big state so the football season seems to have lingered. The 'Canes are now 4 weeks deep into the playoffs... only three more to go to the State Championship. Next up... the Hurricanes will take on the Pearland Oilers at Tully Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 6th at 2pm. Hope to see you there!

Our Texas family (a.k.a The Lewises, The Crawfords, and The Richards) shows some love to the 'Canes as they pull off another win.

Hightower Head Football Coach, Shane Hallmark, greeted by his adorable twin sons after the game.

Hightower Defensive Coordinator (a.k.a Husband Dude), James Williams, poses with daughter Janai after the victory.

Not Too Bad.

So, it seems that the pictures weren't that terrible after all. Take a look at http://www.studio979photo.net/williamsweb/. The master photography of Steve from Studio 979 made up for the bad mood of my kids. These pictures aren't perfect, but they capture the moment pretty well. There are only a few issues:

1. If it looks like we're sinking into the floor, it's because these shots were taken outside on the grass.

2. There is a little creature in Jay's nose (his left, your right) that only a mom would notice.

3. Janai's hair is not like that on purpose, but it doesn't look too shabby.

4. I have the neck of a giraffe, and had the nerve to have my chin up in the sky for most of the shots.

5. Ummm... where's Daddy? Oh... Texas high school football. Arghhh!

Hope you enjoy!

What a Weekend

Even when I'm a mess, I still put on a vest, with an "S" on my chest, 'cause I'm a super woman! ~Alicia Keys

Stomach virus? Check.
Hair appointment? Check.
Football game? Check.
Grocery shopping? Check.
Birthday party? Check.
Church? Check.
Family picture? Check... well, sort of.

What a busy weekend! I managed to get over the stomach virus by Friday afternoon. And things have been crazy in the Williams household ever since. The football game was the best high school game I've seen all year, and even better was the fact that James' team landed another mark in the "W" column, bringing the team to a record of 10-0.

But no time to celebrate... I had to throw together a 1st birthday party for Jay on Saturday. With the exception of a few glitches, it went off well.

Then there was Sunday. We are early risers and get to church at 7:30am to prepare for the 8:30am service. Then there's the 10:00am Compass class that we host. Then at 11:00am, we're usually on our way back home in time for a quick lunch before James has to head to the fieldhouse to work, while the kids and I lay it down for an afternoon nap.

What was different about this Sunday is that I (being the bright person that I am) had scheduled a photo shoot for Jay's 1st birthday, and while at it, why not take a family picture as well? Seemed like a logical idea to me. Well, everything went wrong with that logical idea.

First, the kids and I napped until 3:45pm and the photographer arrived at 4pm. While he set up shop in the backyard, I worked frantically to get the kids dressed and to style Janai's hair. I managed to put some pretty spiral curls in her hair only to have them fall straight the moment she walked outside into the humid Texas November air. She looked like a wild woman. So I quickly brushed it into pony tails. Jay did not nap well, so you can only imagine the kind of mood he was in. Ummm... and what's a family picture without all members of the family present? James was busy putting together the defensive game plan for this week, and wasn't able to get back home in time. Yay.

Then there were the birthday pictures. Steve (the photographer) had planned to get some shots of Jay tearing into an 8-inch birthday cake and having loads of fun with icing all over his face. Well, that did not go according to plan. When the kid's hands touched the cake, he completely lost it! He looked down at his messy hands, looked at the cake as if it were evil, and with big crocodile tears streaming down his face, he screamed to the top of his lungs and wouldn't let up.

I still had to pay for Steve's time, and I doubt that there will be many good pictures to choose from. I will share them once I have them back. But I must plan better next time. Thank God it's a holiday week.

Baby's First Birthday

Today we celebrated Jay's first birthday with a not-so-well-planned birthday party. The lingering football season has made scheduling family events a little difficult. It was a late night at the game. But I took an early morning run to Wal-Mart and Party City, and when all was said and done, I think I pulled it off. James even took a break from X's and O's and made a guest appearance at home for the occasion.

Hot dogs, pizza, chips, cupcakes, ice cream, goodie bags, a last-minute Sesame Street theme, a few friends on the side... all the makings of a pretty decent party! Jay seemed to enjoy himself and all of his friends. He was less interested in his own cup cake, but tried, without success, to jack Janai for hers. Overall, a pretty fun evening!

Happy 1st Birthday, Son!

A Huge Playoff Win!

On Friday night, the Hightower Hurricanes took down the Houston powerhouse, North Shore Mustangs, in a nail-biting 28-21 win. This was a battle of the top two defenses in the state, and the 'Canes came out on top. The emotions got the best of the players and coaches on both sides. For the 'Canes, this was the biggest win in Hightower school history. On the other hand, this was a stunning upset for the North Shore team that had been picked by many to contend for the state championship. Up next... Cinco Ranch on Friday, November 28th at 6:00pm, Delmar Stadium. Go 'Canes!

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/6126401.html

Post Hair Cut Bliss...

Good Hair Day!

"Hair is vitally personal to children. They weep vigorously when it is cut for the first time; no matter how it grows, bushy, straight or curly, they feel they are being shorn of a part of their personality." ~C. Chaplin

So today was the day we've all been waiting for. After a great morning at church and the typical Sunday afternoon nap, we loaded up the car for a trip to the north side of town for Jay's first hair cut! Uncle Juan opened the shop up just for us today. I was prepared for the worst because there's something about clippers and a soft spot that just doesn't go together. But it was time. The mushroom topper, afro, high top, raggedy mop of a hair do had gotten out of control. And while the wild hair had become Jay's trademark, I just couldn't take it anymore.

Jay proved Chaplin wrong and handled the cut like a champ. He sat there with his cape on like a big boy (with a pacifier, of course). Uncle Juan asked "how are we going to cut it" and I responded "just take it off... take it all off". Now it's gone... all of it... it's all gone. I'm still in a bit of shock. He looks like a different kid... ahem, a shorter kid. And... I didn't realize how big his head was underneath all of that hair! Here are some pics... Enjoy!

Uncle Juan scared me for a minute. He went in quick, and it appeared that he was going for the George Jefferson look.

Ummm... are you gonna cut that hair off in the back too? Just wondering...

Ahhh.. Time for the edge up. Sorry Jay, that pick is of no use to you now.

Ta Da! Look at my little man!

And Ta Da! Look at all of that hair!

A Playoff Win!

The Hightower Hurricanes won in the first round of the playoff on Friday against Clear Creek High School. Final score 59-17. Next up is Houston powerhouse, North Shore High School at 7pm on Friday, November 21 in Pasadena.

It's a Bloggin' Birthday Party (cont'd...)

Better late than never! Here are a few more birthday wishes that have rolled in...

James:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! Hope you are having a great Birthday and can celebrate a win this week not like Jay on his birthday when Hightower beat Kempner! Of course, seeing you made it all good. A BIG BIRTHDAY HUG!!!

Cheryne Elliott

It’s been a long time since I’ve had a 30th (I’m just guessing) birthday. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I did. And get ready to add to your winning streak. Congratulations on your victory over Travis, and go get some more. By the way, if any of your outstanding athletes who make really good grades get tired of wearing green, and they like the color maroon…

Jay Elliott

James, we are so blessed to be a part of your life. May God bless you with many more wonderful birthdays!

Steve and Tammy Crawford

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU...HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU.....HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOJAMES....HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUUUUUU!!!!James, just imagine all of your family and friends singing that to you forwe all are via the blog:) May God bless you with a wonderful birthday andwe pray all of your hearts wishes come true:)

God Bless and Happy Birthday:)

The Sweeties

Happy B-Day James! Hope you had a great day!

Nicole Nicholas

It's a Bloggin' Birthday Party!

Today James turns a whopping 33 years old! And while he's not much for surprises, I figured he would love to hear from all of his friends and family. He's spent all day trying to figure out what I was up to. Well, it's time... for... a... bloggin' birthday party! So husband-dude (as I so affectionately refer to you), here's wishing you a very happy birthday from all of us!

How do I begin to tell you how honoured I am

To have you in my life?

I'll start by saying it was a dream come true

The day I became your wife.
You're my best friend in the good times

And my rock in times of sorrow.

You're the reason for sweet yesterdays

And my promise for tomorrow.
I never thought I could feel this loved

Until I became your wife.

You made this year and each other year
The best of my life.

Happy Birthday!

Love always,

Alveda

Happy Birthday from Janai!

Happy Birthday Dah-Dee from Jay!

First, HAPPY BIRTHDAY.

I wish you continued good health, happiness, and prosperity. I also wish you and your team continued success all the way through the State playoff. We are so very proud of you and all of your accomplishments, keep up the good work.

Big Mama sends her love, and me too. Again, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AND MANY MORRRRRE.

Mom

Happy 50th (I mean 18th) Birthday, James. Many happy returns. Enjoy your day!

PaPa

May you be blessed on today. Happy Birthday!

Love, Mama Nell and Jerry

Happy Birthday and Best Wishes.

Poppa Bear Finnell

Roffy Rofday!

Chase Lewis (Juan, Monica, Brooke, Bayli)

Happy Birthday big man! I hope you have a great day today and realize how much you are loved and respected. Jennifer and I miss seeing you and Alveda in class but you always bring a smile to our face when we see you. We are so proud of you and your beautiful family. Keep believing for great things professionally and most of all personally. We love you. Happy Birthday again!

Our best days are yet to come,

David Hull
Senior Director Of Ministry Development
Lakewood Church

Happy Birthday James. I hope you have a wonderful day!

Denise Hallmark

Happy Birthday, James! May God bless you with many many more.

Rona Reid

Hey James! Have a happy and blessed birthday!!! Going to state would be a great birthday present!

Monica Lewis

Happy Natal Day Big James! I pray the next year brings higher heights and greater joys (and better Illini football:) God Bless Ya Real Good!

Rychetta Watkins

Happy Birthday! Hope your day is blessed and full of wonderful surprises! All our best!

Valerie and Wes Herndon

The Thompson Family is extending Happy Birthday wishes to you from the great swing state of OH that Obama turned blue! We hope that you have a wonderful birthday. Enjoy your day and you family!

Be Blessed!
The Thompson’s

JW,
Happy Birthday 40 Dawg, hey hopefully as you get a little older the memory of the Missouri Meltdown will fade (and yes I know it would be easier if I wasn’t there to remind you constantly, LOL!!)

Happy Birthday man and all the best!!!

Lloyd R

Happy Birthday, defensive GURU. Hope you don’t age too much during the play offs.

Coach Garner

Happy Birthday James, Enjoy your hair now because after a couple of years as DC it is going to fall out and what’s left will become gray! I am blessed to have you here on my staff and wish you the best.

Coach Shane Hallmark

Happy Birthday James. You don’t look a day over 40!!!!!!! Glad you came to Hightower.

Ab

Happy Birthday. Love Ya!

Tommy, Ceci, and the Girls.

Happy Birthday James.

Action 32

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAMES! GOD BLESS YOU!!!

Terri Carson

Happy Birthday James! Hope you have a great day!

Maria Richards

Happy Birthday big J-Dub Have a good one and good luck this week.

Brian Layton

Happy Birthday James! Man it must be tough to blow out ALL of those candles these days! LOL I hope you have a great day and may our Lord continue to bless you and your beautiful family. BTW, shutouts are awesome!!!!!!!!

Freddie Maynard

You know what I think of you, so I won't get all mushy!

Chad Hunt

Hope you and the fam are doing well. Good luck in the play-offs. God Bless!

Keith Barrow

J-Dub,

Who in their right mind would have a birthday during the play-offs?

Best of luck to you & the Hurricanes. Happy Birthday.

Slater

Tell my man J-Dub Happy Birthday, and I hope he gets all the presents that he wants.

Andre Roberson

Happy Birthday James,

Go dancing, and enjoy 33 years that God has blessed you to have. You have such a good spirit and a wonderful family. Freeze me some cake!!! I love you.

Crystal

Happy Birthday James!... Hope you have a great day!!

Carl, Gayla, Jordan, Jake and Baby Jenna Johnson

Happy Birthday Daddy J! We feel so blessed to call you guys friends and pray that you have an awesome day today.

Thad and Jeanette

A year older and no prettier... A shame really. Happy Birthday!!

Vic and Helen Wheeler

Happy Birthday Big Daddy!!!!! You do MF proud!!

Dave Pollack

J-Dub!

Happy Birthday!!!
I still remember...
I-L-L.....I-N-I
Congrats on your success this year, don't beat Moon too bad!!!
Miss you buddy!
Zig

Happy Birthday James! I was trying to find something witty or funny to write even searching the internet for ideas, but, decided to keep it short and simple.
Happy 33rd Birthday!
Go Hurricanes!
Daphne

Happy Birthday James!!!!One of the few positive things that I got out of that Hell I went through at Kempner was you as a friend. I wish you all the best buddy.

Nate

Happy Birthday Cuz
May the Lord Continue to Bless You With Many, Many More ...........

Love you
Connie & Family

Happy Birthday Big James. Enjoy your day and send us some cake to Virginia!

Nef (Jajuan), Wanda, and Jim Jim

Jay-Walking!

Jay is 11 months old and walking! He's got that Frankenstein thing going on. Take a look...

Presidential Park and Gardens

The Presidential Park here in Pearland, TX will feature larger than life statues of all of the United States presidents. The sculptures are the creation of internationally acclaimed artist David Adickes. As you can see in this picture, six presidents have already arrived. Even before the recent election, every time we would ride pass this, Janai would ask "Mommy, where's Barack Obama?" I had to keep reminding her that "Barack Obama is running for President - he is not the President". I can't wait for the ride to church tomorrow so that I can respond "His statue is coming!"

Hightower Football Week 8

The Hightower Hurricanes are the Fort Bend ISD District Champions! Last night, they beat the Travis Tigers 38-0 in the championship game. Their record is 8-0 as they enter the first round of the playoffs. As you can imagine, James is fired up...

O-BA-MA!

On the morning after the election, I woke Janai up and told her that I needed to show her something. I turned on the tv, where they were showing snippets of Barack's election night speech. Looking tired and confused, she wiped her eyes, and said "What Mommy?". I said "Janai, Barack Obama is the new President of the United States". She said "But mommy, I know that already, I voted for him on yesterday". How hilarious. The mock election in her class was a little skewed - Barack took it by a landslide with 95% of the vote. When I dropped her off at school, there were kids of all backgrounds chanting (unprovoked) "O-BA-MA! O-BA-MA!" Click below to take a look.

Yes, We Can!

So this post is obviously a few days late. But I must share my thoughts on this week's historic presidential election. For more than a year, I have followed every bit of election news. I could probably deliver the stump speeches myself! It has been a roller coaster ride - from Barack's huge win in the Iowa Caucuses to the disappointing loss in the New Hampshire primary... 22 debates (I watched them all and even hosted chat rooms for the Obama-McCain debates)... the Jeremiah Wright controversy... the questioning of Michelle Obama's patriotism... Bill Clinton's comments in South Carolina... the Palin Pick (need I say more?)... the economic crisis (and turning point)...the "That one?" comment... the Colin Powell endorsement...the list goes on!

On October 20th, two weeks before election day and the first day of early voting in Texas, I cast my vote for the Obama-Biden ticket. However, emotions and anxiety continued to run high - I carried a lingering heaviness in the back of my head. On November 4th, I was completely useless at work. I called or texted most of my friends and family in my red home state of Virginia to make sure that everyone who was eligible had cast their vote. Senator Obama had spent so much time and money in the state and had a chance to turn it in his favor. I was excited to get the reports of friends waiting in line for 4-5 hours.

Anyway, fast forward to election night. I was invited to several watch parties, but opted to sit at home alone and monitor the votes state by state. I had studied the electoral map insanely and knew that Obama had really changed the map, while John McCain had only a slim path to victory. At around 7:30pm CST, the heaviness in my head suddenly lifted and my soul rested when ABC and MSNBC declared Obama the winner in Pennsylvania. I was texting the information to a friend who was in Grant Park. They were getting the calls from CNN who was being very conservative (and slow) in their projections. She tells me that I have "mad street cred" with the folks that she was sitting with in Chicago that night.

Ohio was the next big call in Obama's favor. At that point I declared "Game Over". At 10:00pm CST, all major networks declared Obama the President-Elect of the United States. I expected to be overcome with emotion, but that didn't happen - at least not immediately. In my mind, there was no choice in this election. I only questioned whether the country was ready for a skinny kid with a funny name who looks likes me to be the President. I was cool until the new first family came on the stage. I was mildly distracted by Michelle Obama's dress, but I couldn't help but marvel at the fact the my candidate had been elected.

No contention. No recount.

Yes, we can!

Now if I can get Janai to stop calling Joe Biden John McCain, things will be great.

Hightower Football Week 7

Another one in the "W" column. Final score 41-0. District championship game this Friday.

I Didn't Vote for Obama

Scared ya, didn't I? This is shamelessly stolen from a friend's blog. Thought I'd share:

I Didn't Vote for Obama.

I'm a middle-class white guy living in Jacksonville, Florida. I've got a wife and two kids. Because the kids had no school today, I took a vacation day from work, and took the kids downtown to vote early. Fifty-nine minutes later, two smiling children and I proudly sported "I Voted" stickers. But I didn't vote for Obama. I voted for my ancestors, who believed in the promise of this country and came with nothing as immigrants. I voted for my parents, who taught in the public schools for decades. I voted for Steve, an acquaintance of mine from Kentucky. (Killed by an IED two years ago in Iraq ). I voted for Shawn, another who's been to Iraq twice, and Afghanistan once, and who'll be going back to Afghanistan again soon -- and whose family earned eleven bucks a month too much to qualify for food stamps when the war started.

I voted for April, the only African-American girl in my high school -- it was years before it occurred to me how different her experience of our school must have been. I voted for my college friends who are Christian, Jewish, Mormon, and yes -- Muslim. I voted for my grandfathers, who worked hard in factories and died too young.I voted for the plumber who worked on my house, because I want him to get a REAL tax break.I voted for four little angels from Birmingham. I voted for a bunch of dead white men who, although personally flawed, were willing to pledge their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor, and used a time of great crisis to expand freedom rather than suspend it. I voted for all those people and more, and I voted for all of you, too.

But mostly, I voted selfishly. I voted for two little kids, one who has ballet in an hour, and one who has baseball practice at the same time. I voted for a world where they can be confident that their government will represent the best that is in this country, and that will in turn demand the best of them. I voted for a government that will be respected in the world. I voted for an economy that will reward work above guile.I voted for everything I believe in. Sure, I filled in the circle next to the name Obama, but it wasn't him I was voting for -- it was every single one of us, and those I love most of all. Who else is there to vote for? Vote like it's about a better America. Because it is.