Danny Mullen

Sixty years ago today my hero, mentor and father began his larger than life existence. Throughout his life he has worn many hats: son, brother, football player, husband, attorney, oil man but I think he would agree with me when I say that his most important role has been father and grandfather. As I look back on my 27 years on this planet I realize that he was the driving force behind every accomplishment I have ever achieved. He has never judged me or put me down but carried me through my many mistakes and failures.

Being a dad is NOT a part time job for Danny Mullen. As successful as he's been in his many different careers over the years he always put us first. He was home by 5:30 every night to cook dinner even if it meant flying or driving for hours on end. He always made my lunch, and yes he did write "I love you" notes on my napkins. He never missed a play, dance recital, sporting event or golf tournament. When I decided to take up golf he met me out on the course every single day, bought me nice clubs and went with me to father/daughter golf school and when I decided to quit after just a year he completely hid his disappointment and supported my decision. When I was in college he came up once a month just to "check up" on me and would take all of my friends out to dinner. If I were ever running low on money he would put in an extra hundred just to get me through the month.

Even to this day his opinion and advice shape all of my decisions. I think the reason I fell in love and married Mark is because he reminds me so much of Danny. They both laugh their way through life, rarely loose their temper and make their families their number one priority. Yes, I am well aware of how lucky I am!!

I talk to my Dad at least once a day and though I am relatively sure he calls mainly to talk to Charlie, it makes my day. He has shown me the type of mother I want to be and I hope to always live up to his standard. I wanted to sit down and write something to tell the whole world (or the few of you who read this) how wonderful my father is and how lucky I am to have him but I guess the most important thing I want to expresss is THANK YOU DADDY!! Thank you for everything you have ever done for me and thank you for the many amazing things you will continue to do for me. Thank you for loving me and for being the worlds best father. I love you so much!! Happy 60th birthday!!

Christmas 2010 (not so good)

This Christmas was a bit of stressful time at the Odom house hold. About a week before Christmas Charlie brought home a nasty stomach flu that spread to Mark and I. We were unable to care for ourselves and Charlie so my parents came and saved the day! They took care of poor sick Charlie while Mark and I concentrated on getting better. They saved us!! About a day after they left I get a phone call from my dad informing me that he and my mother were sick as dogs! I felt so bad for them but I wasn't exactly shocked. A week goes by and I think all is back to normal... little did I know!! We packed up the car and headed to Houston/Galveston and unknowingly took the bug with us. We infected up to 23 people! Not good! We left a wake of pukers everywhere we went. We Love you family and are so sorry!! It just goes to show that health, love and family are the true meaning of Christmas!!

On a happier note Charlie is getting so big! He can say almost 150 words. He talks all of the time!! He knows and can identify all of his colors and most of his letters! He LOVES to read and makes Mark and I read to him all of the time. If he doesn't have someone to read to him he looks through books on his own pointing out letters and colors. I know I've sent most of you the video of him naming the letters of his ABC puzzle. We actually got stopped at the park yesterday by a lady wanting to know how old he was (18 months) and how he knew all of his colors... I was so proud and LOVED the compliment! Yes, I know I'm bragging but lets face it only family and close friends read this thing so bragging is OK!!

2010 was a great year but 2011 is starting with a bang. We have Barney Live next week and Elmo live at the end of the month! Charlie is going to have so much fun! Mark and I leave to spend a week in Belize on January 15th and Charlie is spending the week with Emma and Pop. We have so much to look forward to and be thankful for in 2011. I've been blessed with an amazing husband who I adore and a son who brings so much joy to our lives. I am thankful everyday!! Happy New Year!

Poor sick Kristen! I'm glad she was able to come even though she was so sick!

Charlie eating Jennifer's famous Chocolate cake.

Nice face Brian!

Jay and Jennifer before we open gifts.

Chaos!!

Of course Will and Lauren showed up in costume. The had been up all night sick!

Charlie's favorite gift Barney!!

Emma and Pop out did themselves once again!

Opening our stalkings at Grammy and Papaw's.

Charlie loved opening presents at Mimi's!

Christmas Eve at my Aunt Marry's (MIMI as Charlie calls her). We had so much fun! She woke up that night sick as a dog.

Steph and Jessica getting some Charlie love!

We went to the aquarium on Christmas Eve. Charlie and Mark in the Shark cage.

Feesh! As Charlie likes to call them.

My amazing neice and nephew came with us! Charlie loves spending time with them and they are wonderful with him.