Solving the world's problems at bedtime

The other night while putting Josh to bed we had this conversation...

J - "Mommy, why are there people and kids who can't eat and they're hungry?"

Me - "Well buddy, I'm not sure why. There are other countries that don't have as much as we do. That's why we're so blessed and should help others out."

J - "I think we should go over to those other lands and get all the hungry people and bring them here so we can feed them. They'll have all the food they can eat!"

Me - "That's a nice idea buddy but what are we going to do when our country gets too crowded?"

J - "I've been thinking. What if we get all the bad guys together, load them into a cannon and shoot them over to the bad lands where we got the people that were hungry?"

Me (trying not to laugh) - "Actually Josh, that might just work!"

J - "Yeah, I thought it might."

Ho, Ho, Ho... Oh No, No, No

When did Christmas sneak up? I didn't realize it was so close!

I don't have all my presents yet! I don't even have a single role of wrapping paper!!

I guess I better get out there and get shopping, huh? You'll see me in line this week with all the men who are still trying to shop at the last minute! What was I thinking??

Don't expect to see my around for a while... I've got stuff to do!!

Hot Moms

Oh c'mon, you know the ones... they show up to get their kids from school in their tight jeans, name brand t-shirts and designer shoes. It's so funny to see them look around at the other moms. You wonder what they are thinking.

I'm looking like a different kind of hot... you know the one where you're sweating because you just chased your two year old all the way from the parking lot hoping he wouldn't pop into the wrong classroom.

I don't have "it" like those other moms but that's okay with me. I'm satisfied with the way I look and I know my kids love me. It's not about what I'm wearing or the way I look. It's about the values I'm teaching my children and the love I'm showing them!!

So much has happened...

Well, it's been a long while since I've been on here. We have had so many things going on in our family over the last few weeks. Here's a look into our lives...

Jeff's Mom ~ On Sunday the 26th my Mother-n-law fell and broke her hip. She was taken to the ER by ambulance and admitted. They did the hip repair on Tuesday the 28th. Later that week we found out that her cancer had spread and was basically throughout her body. It's been so hard on all of us, especially my husband! Last week they placed her in hospice care. I think this week they are talking about letting her go home and having a hospice nurse come each day to help take care of her. We don't really know what the future holds as far as her prognosis but we know God has a plan in this whole situation! We are spending as much time as possible to make the most of what we do have. Her birthday is tomorrow and she will be 65 years old. We plan on having a celebration at the hospice facility for her. Please be in prayer for the whole family!!

My Pastor ~ I found out on Saturday night that my Pastor and his wife have been reading my blog and keeping tabs on me! This kind of freaked my out at first because I wasn't sure if that was a good thing or a bad thing. Then I got to thinking about it and realized that I don't have anything to hide or be ashamed of on here or anywhere in my life. He really put it all out there this weekend while talking about guilt. I was really touched by it and enjoyed the service! I want to live for God and the convictions he places in my life not for people and the guilt they place on my life! We should be more focused on an audience of One!! Thanks Pastor Greg : )

My Son, Seth ~ Fell at church yesterday and smacked his head on a rock. I wasn't sure what to think at first... there was quite a bit of blood but he's okay. It seems to be healing up on it's own just fine. Thank goodness we didn't have to make another ER trip! We should get some kind of card that you get the 10th visit free!!

My Grandpa ~ Is having surgery today to have a mass removed from his breast. Please be in prayer for him today around 1:30. Thanks to my friend Patti picking up Josh from school I get to go down to the hospital and be with my family while the surgery is taking place.

My Crazy Neighbor ~ Yelled at me and my children for breaking a light that was in his yard. He said "How dare you let your children play in my yard!" They were playing with his daughter who was the one that actually did break the light. We tried to show God's love and offered to give him some cash to fix it. Just recently I took his family a plate of cookies and a Christmas card to let them know I was thankful to have them as neighbors. It really is true because I know God is teaching me something in all of this!! We'll see what happens next.

My Sister ~ I talked long ago about my sister who was in a wheelchair and we didn't really expect her to walk again. She is Walking!! It's so amazing to see her up and going. The doctors have taken her off of several meds and she is out of the wheelchair! What a blessing!!

My Son, Josh ~ Has been doing so well in school that the teacher is now sending home extra homework for him to complete. She says he needs a challenge. He's done 53 book reports since the beginning of school. It's so amazing to see him writing now. When school started he had no interest in writing and it was very sloppy. He knew all the letters and the sounds they made but just didn't want to write them down. Now he's writing all the time. He leaves special notes for Daddy and I. We're so proud of him and the accomplishments he's making!!

My Grandma ~ Celebrated her 76 birthday yesterday. She looks wonderful... I hope someday when I'm 76, I'll look just as good as she does. I've always looked up to her and will always cherish the times we've had together! I love you Grandma!!

Church ~ I've switched positions at church. I'm not the 2nd and 3rd grade teacher any more. Now I'm the Saturday night preschool manager. I pretty much walk around the classrooms and make sure everyone and everything is running like it should. Fill in when a coordinator can't make it. It's been such a blessing in my life. I'm so glad the director came and asked me to switch. I feel so much less stressed out now!

Pregnancy ~ I got to see the baby for the first time! It was so neat to see the little heart beating and watch it move around. I talked with my doctor about my MIL's condition and she is going to have me go in around 16 weeks to have the fun ultrasound done. We'll know if God has blessed us with a little boy or girl. I'm very excited and will let you all know as soon as we find out. It should be in just about 4 weeks!!

Okay, I know this post has been super long and if anyone is still reading they are probably way too tired to actually comment but just be in prayer for our family!! Thanks for sticking with me!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Just wanted to take a minute to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! Hope you have a wonderful time with each of your families. Take some time to relax and reflect on the things you're thankful for!!

Morning Sickness

Okay, I did want everything that went along with being pregnant, right? I mean, I prayed and asked God to give me this little baby and I knew what all was involved. It's not like I've never done this before. Do we really forget just how hard morning (afternoon and evening for that matter) sickness can hit each time? Oh my goodness, it has come on hard and strong this last week. Thank goodness I have those little Zofran pills that really help with nausea!

For about three days straight all I could eat was cheese crisps, bagels and kool-aid!! What a diet, huh? Oh well, hopefully it won't last through my whole pregnancy. I'll just keep looking toward the end goal : )

Spiritual Wisdom from Josh

Josh is at it again. Here's a conversation we had in the car a couple days ago...

Josh - "Mom, did you know someday we'll fly on wings like eagles?"

Me - "That's what the Bible says buddy."

Josh - "We'll also run and not get tired."

Me - "That's right."

Josh - "All with the strength of Jesus, Mom."

Me - "You've really been listening haven't you?"

Josh - "Oh yeah Mom."


I'm so glad he's been listening to the right stuff!!

Isaiah 40:31 (NLT) - But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary.
They will walk and not faint.

The Fair??

In the car earlier Josh said "Mom, do you think we could go back to the counting fair again?"

I wasn't sure and said "What?"

Then he said "Well, I have a three day weekend so I was thinking we could drive back up north and go to the counting fair."

I finally got it "Oh the County Fair in Flagstaff?"

"Yeah Mom, that's what I was talking about."


Glad we got that one figured out!!

Update

Well, it looks like I've been bit by something like the flu bug. Some kind of a viral infection snuck into my body when I wasn't looking. I went to the ER and they gave me IV fluid and something for the nausea. I'm feeling better today and that's a good thing.

My wonderful Mom took the kids last night and is watching them today. It's such a blessing to have her close to home.

They said they couldn't really tell me anything about the baby since it's kind of early to hear the heartbeat or see any movement. So we're just praying that the Lord will keep his hands on both of us and get us through this.

Thanks so much for all the prayers... you guys are awesome!!

Need some prayer ladies!

I woke up this morning with a sore throat, aching neck, vommiting and now I have a fever. My doctor advises I go to the ER where they can do a good check on me and baby! Please pray for both of us as we are there. I know you ladies can pray and I really appreciate it!!

I'll update later or have hubby do it...

Boys will be boys, right?

The other day at lunch my son said a couple things that he probably should have kept to himself...

Josh - "Papa Marty, why do you have boogers hanging out of your nose?"
Papa - "I don't have boogers hanging out of my nose, do I?"
Grandma Peggie - "Nope, it just your nose hairs!"

Later on...

Josh - "Grandma, why does it looks like raisins under your eyes?"
Me - "Josh, that wasn't nice at all."
Josh - "I was just asking her why Mom. Just being honest."

I guess we need to talk about honesty and respecting others!!

Blog-O-Lantern Contest... My entry

Okay, it took some time and effort this morning but I did it!

I was going to try and do Mater from the movie Cars but got too nervous.
So here he is, one of the most curious monkeys around...

Go check out Theresa's blog for more info on the contest.
She did an excellent Cinderella carving!!

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen thoughts rolling around in my head...

1. How come I just realized that the show King of Queens means he's the King of Queens, NY?

2. Why didn't I remember how much you have to pee when you're first pregnant?

3. Would I turn my shirt inside out like those women on the Dove deodorant commercials?

4. I wonder if I'm having a girl this time?

5. I wonder how long Lauren with be on sabbatical?

6. I wonder how much I can spend at the candle party tonight : )

7. I wish my SIL wasn't leaving in April for the mission field

8. My hubby is soooo great! He just called an offered to pick up dinner so I don't have to worry about it tonight!

9. I really like the new Rachel Ray show. Glad T got me started on watching her : )

10. Man, Shalee must think I'm a flake! I've never called her back. Maybe tomorrow.

11. I wonder if I'll have to change the name of my blog in about 8 months?

12. I'm so glad HolyMama stabbed her nose and not her eye the other day!

13. I love having my Mom around the corner for anything I need!

Birthday Surprise Pictures

Tina couldn't get the pictures to load so I thought I would try...

Happy Birthday Tina

Okay, so do you really think pregnancy brain can kick in this quickly with your third child??

My sister-n-law's birthday was yesterday. She turned 28 years old. See I planned a big birthday surprise for her and a bunch of the girls for Thursday night. We took her to the Cheesecake Factory and had a wonderful time! She was surprised and everything happened as planned. We also made her a scrapbook that she can take overseas when they leave for the mission field in April. Oh yeah, and a dozen red roses in a vase. I thought we had a great time and she seemed to really enjoy it.

Then yesterday while I was on the phone with her, I totally forgot it was her birthday!! Well, not really because I asked her what they did and she said they went to a soccer game. I reminded her about her oldest son, Andrew, saying that was her birthday present. Then about 5 minutes later I asked what they were doing and she said "opening presents." I was sitting there in silence trying to figure out what the presents were for?? Duh, then it hit me and I felt like a complete moron!!

Tina, I hope you know just how much I care about you! You are one of the best friends I have ever had!! What would I do without you by my side? We've gone through the good times and bad. Thick and Thin. Well, mostly you've been thin... just kidding : ) Anyway, I love you very much and couldn't have picked a better sister-n-law if God would have given me a choice!!

Hope you had a wonderful birthday!!

Rock-a-Bye Baby

Just getting some practice for when our next little bundle of Joy comes in about 9 months!!

That's right, I'm having a BABY! Just thought all of you blogging friends out there would like to know my little secret. I took the test on Wednesday and it's positive!

We're very excited and praying for a little girl : )

My Grandma keeps saying "Just think Pink!"

I'll keep you updated.

My Own Little Action Film

Today we were headed out for a fun time at the zoo. I decided to go out the garage and load the two back seats and boosters in the van so my nephews could come along. When I finished loading up, I closed the garage door and got in the van. That's when I smelled it... the poopy pull-up coming from the back. I got out, unbuckled him and realized I had forgotten pull-ups and wipes for this little outing. Plus, I didn't have the Buy-one-get-one-free coupons for the zoo. So I grabbed my keys and ran up to the house. When I went to open the door I realized I hadn't unlached the security bar when I went out the garage.

I was stuck, it was either break a window or slam into the door and knock that thing off the wall. I wasn't about to break a window and deal with that mess! So I opened the door, took a few steps back and slammed into the front door with my shoulder. It didn't work the first or second time but the third was a real hit! The door flew open and I thought to myself "What have I just done?" I was so worried that my husband would be upset but surely he would understand that there was just no other way in.

I grabbed what I needed out of the house, jumped back in the van and headed for the zoo. I first called my sister-n-law to let her know we were on our way to pick up the boys. I told her what had happened and she laughed her head off! She said "That was for diapers, wipes and coupons... I can only imagine what you would have done if your baby was stuck inside?"

Then I made the dreaded call to my husband... He laughed so hard and then said "Honey, you didn't hurt yourself did you?" What a guy, he wasn't concerned about the damage to the wall but more about me!!

Now, we will have to replace part of the door frame because it's just too far gone but that's okay. I learned my lesson and will never do anything like that again! I've added some pictures to the bottom so all of you can see the damage done. Hope you get a good laugh!!

Conversations with God

Here's a conversation I had with Seth (2 yrs) the other day...

Seth: I wan nack mama.
Me: Seth, you need to say please.
Seth: Pease mama, I have nack now!
Me: I'm sorry Seth maybe in a little while.
Seth: No mama, I have nack now!!
Me: Not right now, maybe after lunch.
Seth (crying and throwing a fit): Pease mama, pease!

Well, this reminded me of another conversation...

Me: Lord can I have such and such?
God: Did you say please?
Me: Lord can I please have such and such?
God: Not right now, maybe later.
Me: But God I really need this now!
God: Wait, I will do it when I know it's best for you.
Me (crying and throwing a fit): Please Lord, please!

I wonder how many times God has gotten tired of hearing me fuss and whine about not getting what I wanted, when I wanted it. This really had me thinking. I want to be a child that doesn't argue when God says no. I want to wait and see His plan for my life!!

Thursday Thirteen



Thirteen Things Seth has gotten into lately...



1. Sun screen ~ Oh yes he did and smeared it all over the front recliner

2. Blue marker ~ Yep, and colored his bed

3. Orange marker ~ Uh huh, and colored his closet doors

4. My Mascara ~ He did a great job on his face, twice in fact

5. Crayons ~ You guessed it, on the living room wall

6. Coffee ~ All over the kitchen floor

7. Shampoo ~ Playroom floor

8. Blush ~ He looked like a clown

9. Honey ~ Thank goodness I caught him in time, it was only on his hands

10. My Lipstick ~ Good thing it wasn't new

11. Bubble Bath ~ Luckily this one was in the tub

12. Dog Food ~ He did eat some of it because he had dog breath when I found him

And #13 the Icing on the cake... Just that, he got into a tub of frosting at my Mom's the morning and rubbed it all over the tile floor, hallway closet and tracked it onto the carpet in the playroom!!

Some of you might think that this has happened over the last two years that he's been alive... Nope, this has all happened in the last 7 days!! Please pray that I don't lose my sanity!!

I'll take any ideas that you've got to break him of this little problem : )




Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)


Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants



Tagged for a meme

Shalee tagged me all the way from her diner for this one...

It's a word meaning meme where I am to write what the words mean to me.

Buttercup: For the life of me I can't think of anything. There is an oldies song that keeps trying to play in my head that mentions buttercup but I can't get the tune or words right.
*updated* The song is Build Me Up Buttercup

Bookstore: Barnes and Noble

Pasta: My sister once got a card from a friend of my Moms and it said "Sorry it's pasta your birthday." She had made it herself and added pasta noodles. It was very cute!

Inspiration: My kids, they seem to inspire me to reach higher, try harder and push farther than I ever thought I could.

Now I'm going to tag some people I know haven't done this one yet... Tina, Mom, Jodi, Sherry, Julie (although I'm still waiting for her to do the one with Noah) and Theresa (when she's feeling all better... we're praying for you T)

Here are your words..
Pizza
Friendship
Daisy
Grace

Bloggy Tour of Testimonies

One Wednesday night when I was 5 years old I went to church just like always. I was in Sparks in the AWANA program. I remember thinking I wanted to know more about asking Jesus into my heart. So I went up to the leader, my Aunt Karen, and asked her what I needed to do to. She took me for a walk and we talked about it. She asked me some questions and I answered. She took me to the foyer at the front of the sanctuary and we sat and talked. I remember her leading me in the prayer and I was so excited. We went and found my Grandpa and Grandma and shared the news. They were all so proud of me!

A while later my Dad came to pick me up and we called my Mom. She was in the hospital after having had some kind of surgery. She was so excited and I think started crying while we were talking.

Then on my sixth birthday I got baptized. I remember how excited and nervous I was all at the same time. I knew I was in good hands since my Grandpa was the pastor and I had never seen him drop anyone before. What a great thing to do on your birthday!

Later when I was about 14 I remember crying and talking with my Mom one night. I was so upset and didn't understand why. I had really been struggling with some bad attitudes and feeling like I wasn't a very good person. She suggested that I pray and rededicate my life to Christ. We prayed together and talked some more. I felt much better.

It's great to know I am a child of God!!

Now head over to Lauren's blog and join in. We would all love to hear your testimony today!

You never let go

I am constantly surprised at how God loves us and takes care of us. A few weeks ago we were really struggling with our money and I wasn't sure how we would provide enough groceries for the week. I was getting nervous but hadn't really mentioned it to anyone because I knew God would provide. Sure enough my Mom called me up and said "I'm going to Sam's Club, do you want to ride along?" She did her shopping, we paid and went back to her house. She started dividing stuff up and setting some aside. I didn't really think much about it until she said "Here's some stuff you can have for your house. We'll never eat all of this here." I thanked her and told her she didn't need to do that. She gave her standard answer "That's what Mom's are for! I'm not asking you if you want to take it, I'm telling you that you have to. Grandma used to send stuff home with me and now it's my turn."

A couple weeks later I had sent hubby to the store to pick up groceries but I forgot a couple things on the list. When he got home I realized that he had used the whole grocery budget and we hadn't gotten any meat. The very next day my friend Julie came over about 20 minutes before playgroup. She had a freezer bag in her hand and asked "Do you have room in your freezer for some meat? Someone at church gave us a bunch of meat and we'll never eat it all." She gave me 4 packs of hamburger (2 lbs each), a couple steaks and some frozen hamburger patties. I was so amazed by God and His goodness to our family! I hadn't even asked Him for anything extra but He knew we would need it.

Lately we've been praying that God would continue to bless our family so that we could in turn bless others. I know God is in control and only He knows the plans for our family. I'm trying to sit back and let Him do the planning. It's hard sometimes but I've found this song is a great reminder...



Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
Your perfect love is casting out fear
And even when I’m caught in the middle of the storms of this life
I won’t turn back
I know You are near

And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?

Chorus:
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me

And I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We’ll live to know You here on the earth

Chorus:

Yes, I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
Still I will praise You, still I will praise You

Stacey's Mom has got it going on

My Mom informed me this morning that she just couldn't get this song out of her head yesterday. I think she was trying to tell me something : )

My Mom is a beautiful woman! I've known for a long time just how young she looks. I remember when my sister and I were young, we would go to the store or school and people would say something about our big sister. I didn't think anything of it until I was older and realized just what a complitment that was. We still get asked if we're sisters all the time! I'm just hoping it will get passed down to me!! Here are some pictures, see what you think...

My Mom and Dad, still very much in love after 27 years

Still young enough to swing and play with her grandkids

With my boys at her 45th birthday dinner (this year)

Blog-o-Latern

Theresa over at Bullfrogs & Butterflies wants us to carve a pumpkin. I think it's going to be a great little contest. If you're interested go check out her blog for details. I can't wait to see everyone's creations. I know I'm already thinking about what I'm going to do!!

Prayer for my Grandma

Just wanted to take a moment to ask all my bloggin' buddies to pray for my Grandma. She was taken to the ER last night with pain in her stomach and chest. We all thought it was her heart at first but they've ruled that out. They are looking into her pancreas at this point. She's supposed to go in for a CT scan this afternoon/evening and see if they can locate the problem. If they can't then they may have to do surgery. My Grandma is very special to me and I hate to see her in pain. Please pray that it will be something simple and that God would help the doctors to see it clearly.

This is a picture of my Grandma and Grandpa from a couple months ago

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Things about Talking with Lauren 1…. She is just as funny on the phone as she is on her blog 2. She's very loving and kind 3. She's a great listener! 4. She's patient... Seth asked me for something so many times I can't even count and I couldn't understand what he was saying. She just let me work it out with him. In fact, she tried to help me figure out what he was saying : ) 5. We discovered that birth order played a big part in both of our families. 6. My oldest son acts a lot like her's 7. My youngest son acts just like her's and she's now encouraged me to harness that and use it for good around the house with chores in a couple years : ) 8. Her husband, Julian, really can't help himself from joining the conversation. I think maybe he should have his own blog! 9. Lauren and her family used to live in AZ ~ probably only a 35 minute drive from me. 10. Her voice sounds nothing like I imagined for some reason 11. But it was very nice 12. She'll make fun of you about your sidebar but in such a nice way that you will want to laugh, too! 13. I will be talking with her again for sure! My next goal is to talk with Shalee. Lauren and I both think she would be a blast! I also need to call Theresa back... Sorry, T : ) Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. (leave your link in comments, I’ll add you here!)


Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!


The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants



THIS IS HOW THE PINK STYLE LOOKS:

Fun meme with Josh

Answers given by Josh, Age 5:

1. Something I do well: Playing video games, math & drawing pictures

2. Something I'd like to improve on: Drawing pictures

3. My favorite food: Mashed potatoes and corn

4. Three words that best describe me: Caring, sweet & serious

5. My happiest moment: My birthday (getting irritated now)

6. The most important thing in my life now: Spending time with my family

7. Then to the moms - Is there anything that surprised you? Actually, only that #1 and #2 contain the same answer. I think he was a little confused.

I did however really enjoy #6, he said it without absolutely any prompting on my part!

Now I'm tagging Tina, Andrew and Kaleb over at Four kids, no brain cells

Julie and Noah over at Desert Diva

Kate and her kids over at the Tate school

Hare today, gone tomorrow

A few weeks ago Josh decided that we need a new pet at our house. We already have a dog and four fish. I'm not sure where the idea came from but he's sure of it. At first he was talking about a hampster or a bunny. I think hampsters are a little too much like mice and I'm not sure what I would do if it got out. So I persuaded him that we could look into getting a bunny. He's been saving his money and has about $10 now. Today I'm supposed to call around and find out about how much we're going to need to get a bunny.

Do any of you know what kind we should get? I don't want one that's going to get huge, we want something that will stay pretty small. Any ideas?

A girl's night out

No, I'm not talking dessert or coffee with a girlfriend. I went to see Chonda Pierce in concert! What a gift God has given her to encourage women through laughter. She is just hilarious. It was so great to sit there with my Mom, sister, Grandma and sister-n-law and laugh, cry and then laugh until we cried.

She has so many good points that made me stop and think. The one that really hit was about the depression she had a couple years back. She said she basically just hit a wall and couldn't go on. It was easier for her to just stay in bed then to face her day. I've felt this way. I know what it's like to just want to stay in bed. I can't say I've ever actually done this but I've wanted to so many times in my life. It was great to hear her talk about it and share what took place in her life. God just gave her the strength to push on and keep going. It encouraged me to keep trusting God and to live each day for Him!!

When the concert was over and almost everyone had left we were still hanging around the front of the church. Chonda actually came out and started visiting with those standing around. She had no shoes on and was so relaxed. It was great to shake her hand and to know that she's just another lady like you and me! She thanked us for coming and told us she appreciated us. As we were walking to our car, I asked "Why didn't anyone get her autograph?" Duh!

Oh yeah, at least I didn't pee my pants like someone we all know... Gibee : )

What time of day are you?

You Are Sunrise

You enjoy living a slow, fulfilling life. You enjoy living every moment, no matter how ordinary. You are a person of reflection and meditation. You start and end every day by looking inward. Caring and giving, you enjoy making people happy. You're often cooking for friends or buying them gifts. All in all, you know how to love life for what it is - not for how it should be.

What Time Of Day Are You?

My September 11th story

I remember getting up and getting ready for work. I had to be there at 6:30 so I was up pretty early. I got the baby ready to go to Grandma's house.

When I got to my Mom's house, the news was on like it usually was. She said "Honey, did you hear about the accident? A plane flew into the twin towers this morning." I remember thinking "what are the twin towers anyway?" I knew they were in New York but I had no real idea what went on there and why someone could accidentally fly a plane into something so tall unless it was on purpose.

I went ahead and went to work. When I got there they had the TV on in the back. I thought that was pretty weird since we never turned it on while the store was running. A few people said something about it "being just horrible" or "how could someone do something like this?" I didn't really think much of it and went to my office in the front of the building. I turned on my radio to my favorite country station and started my daily routine of counting the drawers from the previous day. All they kept talking about on the radio was the plane crash and then I heard those two little words that will stay with me forever... "terrorist attack!"

I called my Mom right away and asked her what it was all about. She was able to tell me more in detail about what was going on. I remember her telling me about the other plane crashes and I welled up with tears. It was so hard to understand. I remember we had hardly any customers that day. My boss finally let me go home early to be with my son, Josh, who wasn't even two months old.

When I got home, I remember sitting on the couch with Josh and crying wondering how something like this could happen to our country. I remember thinking "God, how could I bring a child into a world like this?" My heart went out to all those families who lost loved ones that day. I prayed for the children who would never get to see their parents again. I prayed for the single parents who would have to put their children to bed that night by themselves. I prayed for the Mom's who were pregnant and who's husbands would not get to see their children and the miracle of birth.

I don't remember everything about that day because I was so overcome with emotion but I do remember thanking God for opening our eyes and bringing us together as One Nation Under God!!

Today my heart goes out to all the families who were affected by that horrible day!! I will continue to pray for all of you!!

Teacher's Pet

Okay, I know what you're thinking... "Oh you're one of those people!" Well actually, yes I am!

When I was in school I always wanted to impress the teacher. I think it started in Kindergarten without me even really trying. I would take little things to the teacher or do something special. I got straight A's more times than I can count. I worked hard and usually had my homework done before I ever left the classroom each day. When I got into higher grades I started skipping recess and extra classes to help do filing, copying and grading!

Here's where it gets bad, not only was I the teacher's pet in my own classroom, teachers all over the school loved me. In fact, a couple times the teachers requested me! I don't know how things got so out of control but they did. I tried not to be loved, really I did. It got me in trouble with my friends more than once!

Now that Josh is in school I've started doing it all over again! I just can't help myself. We've been on time to school every single day, all for that crazy morning when we walked in right after the bell. Ooops! We've turned in every paper and homework and it's been our (I mean his) best work. Last Friday we took her a wind chime with lady bugs (her favorite) just to say thanks for the best first month of school ever! Tomorrow I'm going in to help in the classroom for about 2 hours or so. I've gotten on the rotation for helping in his class each week!

I just don't know how to break the cycle... sickness is more like it!!

Moms for Modesty and My Own Experience

I've been on several blogs that are promoting this Moms for Modesty campaign. I do agree with the fact that little girls should dress appropriately. Not having any little girls myself I cannot tell you what I would do in each situation but I do have a good idea. I've also heard all the controversy. Please read my story and see my point of view...

When I was about 17 I had a cousin try to rape me in my own home. I don't often share this with people because it is a hard thing to talk about. That night I was wearing denim overalls, a t-shirt and had my hair in a pony-tail. We were at church and I had forgotten something at home (2 doors down). I went back to grab it and my cousin followed. I went to my room not knowing what would happen next. I don't really need to go into details but you get the picture. It was only by the grace of God that there was a noise in the other room that scared him off of me and made him leave. He threatened me not to tell and I took him seriously! That night we returned to the church together where I tried to act normal. I cried myself to sleep in the same bed that night. About a year later, he was still hanging around and actually started dating one of my best friends. I had finally gotten up enough courage to tell my Mom what happened. It was a long night and the police finally got involved but we didn't press charges. I lived with an order of protection from the court for about 18 months and not once did he try and contact me.

I've had my share of couseling and I still have to deal with this on a daily basis. My Mom never once had to worry about what I was wearing or how I left the house. I dressed very appropriately for a girl of any age.

Some men just have very dirty minds and some men are very respectful of women. Either way, I think it's important to dress like a lady and to teach our little girls to do the same!!

Please go over to Jules' site and check out what she has to say. Other blogs talking about it... Shannon, Theresa, Barbara, Chilihead, The Hutch, and Bean Brain.

Bedtime prayers

Here are some recent bedtime prayers coming from my kid's room...

Seth 2 yr (in his words)
Dea J-sus,

tank you day, tank you Mama, tank you Daddy, tank you Joshie, tank you me!

Amen (Hands thrown up in air)

I thought it was great that he thanked the Lord for himself, too!!


Josh 5 yr
Dear Jesus,

Thanks for the food you gave us tonight. Thanks for my Mom, Dad and Seth. Thank you that we had a nice day today. Lord, please help me to color in the lines tomorrow at school. We love you God.

In Jesus name, Amen

I love the fact that even the smallest things like coloring in the lines at school matter to him. He is very sincere when he prays and takes it so seriously. I love that he loves the Lord!!

Bargain Hunting

Yesterday I headed to the second hand store with my Mom and Sister. We were on the look-out for some big women's dresses (muu-muu style) for a skit we're doing at church. We did find a few things that will work for that. Plus, I got some great deals on kids books. I bought 24 children's books, two read and learn story cartridges and a cool three tier serving thingie for only $16! I got some really cool books including Clifford, Golden books, Dr. Seuss, the Hungry Caterpillar and many more! I donated 12 to Josh's Kindergarten class and kept 12 for our house. I'd say overall I did some pretty good bargain hunting!!

So tell me, have you found a great bargain lately?

Are you wiped out?

Are you wiped out by the end of the day? I got to thinking about it yesterday and I think I know why. Think about all the stuff you're wiping during the day...

~ Wiping noses

~ Wiping bottoms

~ Wiping tears

~ Wiping messes

~ Wiping counters

~ Wiping away fears

~ Wiping hands

~ Wiping mouths

~ Wiping floors

So next time you tell your husband and kids you're wiped out... you'll know it's true!!

Jesus at the mall?

Picture day

Today is picture day at Josh's school. He seemed fine with it up until we got in the car to head for school. Here are the things he asked me in the car on the 3 minute drive...

~ Will I have a good smile?

~ What if I forget how to smile?

~ Will everyone laugh at me while I'm getting my picture taken?

~ Are they going to leave me alone in the room with the camera guy?

~ Oh man, I forgot to brush my teeth... does my breath smell?

~ How long will it take?

~ Can I take my picture with anyone else?

By the time I left the classroom he was so upset that the teacher had to pull him off of me and hold him to calm him down! He gets sooooo worked up over these things!!

Please tell me I'm not the only one with a child like this... leave me a comment and tell me what to do to help him get over his little fears!!

Coffee Test

You are a Black Coffee

At your best, you are: low maintenance, friendly, and adaptable At your worst, you are: cheap and angsty You drink coffee when: you can get your hands on it Your caffeine addiction level: high

What Kind of Coffee Are You?

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen things about having a child in Kindergarten...

1. I never realized Moms have so much homework

2. They do science in Kindergarten?

3. When did they start doing math?

4. Reading and writing... what happened to cookies and milk?

5. 6 1/2 hours seems like forever to a child

6. Taking your lunch or buying is a BIG decision

7. Wearing uniforms is a good thing!

8. The classroom wish list comes before my home wish list

9. Making new friends is okay

10. How hungry can he really be after being at school for 6 1/2 hours?

11. School projects are for the whole family

12. He can do almost anything because he goes to school now

13. Kissing Mom in the back of the classroom is still okay... this week : )

Random Thoughts

1. Why do they call them washable markers? I've never washed them out very easily!

2. Why do people eat fish?

3. Why do you always want something more when you can't have it?

4. How do all the famous bloggers ~ Shannon, Shalee, Holy Mama, Antique Mommy, Lauren~ keep up with your blogs on a daily basis and still take care of their families?

5. Why did my 5 yr old just run in and yell making me relive thoughts 1 & 4... I walked out to find coffee spilled all over the kitchen, living room and dining room floor. Plus, marker and crayon on the wall.

6. What a day!

7. How can you talk to the same person 5 times a day for 30 minutes at a time and still find new things to talk about?

8. Where did my brain go?

9. What am I going to make for dinner tonight?

10. Why are medical bills so expensive?

11. How come all the medical bills come in the same week?

12. Is anyone still reading this?

Draw a pig (personality test)

Try Draw The Pig

See what drawing a pig tells you about your personality. It's pretty interesting!

Josh's Big Day... Kindergarten!

Josh is actually in his third week of Kindergarten.
He hated it at first and would cry, panic and throw up each morning before school.
Now he loves it and actually gets excited in the morning!
I'm so glad he's changed his mind, it's much easier on the whole family!
Here are some pictures of his big first day...

A little nervous but trying not to show it...

Getting ready to head out the door...

Seth wasn't ready for Josh to leave...

Happy 5th Birthday Josh

Okay, I know his birthday was almost a month ago but I never did a post about it. So I'm playing catch up now.

Happy Birthday sweet boy. I can't believe you're already 5! It seems like yesterday I was walking into the hospital having my first contractions. We were all so excited to meet you. You were the very first grandchild on my side of the family and the third on Daddy's side. The day you were born is a day that I will never forget!

You are my "snuggle bug", "Mr. serious", "I can do anything" kid. You say some of the funniest things I've ever heard a child say. You are very smart for your age and you know it. You probably know more about life than most 5 year olds should, which does get you in trouble most days. You are very independent but hate to be alone. You hurt when others are hurting. You love video games of any kind! You pretty much accomplish anything you set your mind to. You have a big heart and a love for the Lord. I know God is preparing you for great things!

I've very proud of you and I'm so glad that God picked me to be your Mom!! I love you!!

Steps of Faith

Today we visited my Uncle's church to see my cousin's husband getting baptized. It has been very exciting to see God working in his life over the last couple years. The whole family has prayed that Jay would accept the Lord as his Savior. So when I heard he was getting baptized it thrilled my heart. It was so fun to see him step into the baptismal with a great big grin on his face. He was so proud of the step he was making. Then when my Uncle asked him if He had excepted the Lord as his personal Savior he said loud and clear "Yes I have!" It brought tears to my eyes!!

Pray that this will be just another step in his life and that the Lord will continue to work with and through him. I trust that this is just the begining!!

Hey everyone, it's me Seth. My sweet friend Natty tagged me for this meme. Hope you enjoy!!

3 Things that scare me:

1. The dark
   
2. My Brother chasing me around and yelling
   
3. When Mommy dumps the cup of water over my head to get all the shampoo out
   

3 People who make me laugh:

1. My Big Papa
   
2. My Grandma Susie
   
3. My big brother and cousins, especially Sarah
   

3 Things I Love:

1. Fruit Snacks
   
2. Dogs
   
3. Water (Pool, ocean or spa)
   

3 Things I Hate:

1. Having to sit down for more than 2.2 seconds
   
2. Brother gets to do more than me
   
3. Dogs that jump and push me over
   

3 Things I don't Understand:

1. Why I can't go to school with Josh
   
2. Why I can't go outside by myself
   
3. Why Mommy keeps running me to the potty every time I say poop
   

3 Things on my Floor:

1. Stuffed animals
   
2. Pull-ups
   
3. Dirty clothes... my Mom sure should get on that laundry : )
   

3 Things I'm doing right now:

1. Sleeping... it's amazing that I can sleep and type isn't it?
   
2. Drooling
   
3. Dreaming
   

3 Things I want to do before I die:

1. Ask Jesus into my heart
   
2. Get married
3. Go sky-diving or something that would make my Mom crazy!!
   

3 Things I can do:

1. Pee on the potty
   
2. Run really fast
   
3. Make everyone laugh
   

3 Ways to describe my personality:

1. Mr. Personality
   
2. Mischevious... my Dad always says I don't go looking for trouble, it just finds me
   
3. Silly
   

3 Things I Think you should listen to:

1. My CD player that helps me get to sleep
   
2. KLOVE - Christian music in our town
   
3. My Aunt Sherry's MP3 player
   

3 Things I Don't think you should listen to:

1. My Dog barking
   
2. My Brother crying about going back to school
   
3. My cousing Sarah screaming when I pull her hair (I only do it because I love her)
   

3 Favorite Foods:

1. Chicken Nuggets
   
2. Tomatoes
   
3. Cereal
   

3 Beverages I drink regularly:

1. Milk
2. Strawberry Milk
   
3. Water
   

3 Shows I watch:

1. Elmo
   
2. Jo Jo's Circus
   
3. Little Einsteins
   

A Baby I Want to Tag is:

1. Baby Sarah

Disneyland

This picture just says it all!

They loved meeting Lighting McQueen

...And Mater

It's a small world after all...
As we're walking up to the ride my son, Josh, say's "It doesn't look so small."

California Adventure Block Party
The 3 older boys got picked to dance with the green army men

The boys stood in line for over 20 minutes to meet Pooh, Eeyore and Tigger

This was after the water rapid ride...
The boys were very brave and soaked!!

Getting back into the swing of things

Hey everyone,

I'm back from vacation and there is so much to do. I want to get vacation pics posted so I'm working on that. Josh started school on Monday so I've got pictures of that, too. Our AC went out yesterday and we had to get that fixed. Plus, I had a flat tire and had to deal with getting that replaced. I promise I'll be back soon and get you all updated.

Hope all of you are having a great week!!

See you soon,
Stacey

Disneyland Here We Come!!

Well, we're headed to California tomorrow. While we're there we'll hit the beach, Disneyland, California Adventure and so much more. It's going to be a great trip... 4 adults and 6 kids (ages 2-6). I'm sure we'll have lots of laughing, plenty of crying and little sleep. Pray that we'll have a safe and happy trip.

I can't wait to share pictures and tell you all about it. See you in a few days!!

Love letters

Remember a few weeks ago I posted about my husband who loves me very much. Well, he's done it again. Here's a letter he wrote me last week...

Stacey,
I know I don't have tell you, but I want to. I seldom write you notes anymore, so here goes. You are so incredible. I don't know how you do everything: raise our boys, keep the house up, do daycare, stay in touch with everyone, work at church. Holy Cow - no wonder you get tired sometimes. Plus, I am always amazed at how you bargain shop. I've bragged about that to more than one person. And I know if I have a problem, you always have a different perspective that opens my eyes and I say "Why couldn't I see that?" If it wasn't for you, my life would be dull and uneventful. You make me laugh, you make me smile, you brighten my day. I don't deserve you = and yet there you are waiting for me everyday when I come home from work. I love working with you. I love living with you. I love being with you. I just love you!
Jeff


Doesn't that just melt your heart? Isn't he so sweet??

My sweet little niece

Don't you just love a big wet kiss?

Can we say princess?

It's so fun to have a girl in the family!!

Hey, I'm the princess around my house, right??

I have to start by saying Happy 2nd Birthday Sarah!!
(I know it's a couple days early but I couldn't resist)

I'll start by saying that on my husband's side we thought we were destined to have all boys!!
For years we kept having boys.
In fact, Sarah is the youngest of six grandkids and the only little girl!!
It's all exciting and new as we watch her grow.
She is a one of a kind girl!
Very much into fashion, shoes, purses and hair!
She's a little girl who knows what she wants and usually gets it!
And with 3 big brothers and 2 older cousins, she's going to have lots of protection!!

Last night she did something that shocked us all...
Just hop over to my sister-n-law's blog to check it out!!

How big of a nerd are you??

Okay, so I'm not that big of a nerd.
I'm sure my husband and his brother will score way higher than me : )
Take the test and then leave your score in my comment section!!

Weighing in - Part 2

Okay so I posted 25 days ago about loosing weight and my goal being 10 pounds by the time we left for vacation. I'm here to update you and tell you how I've been doing. A good friend contacted me after that post and asked if we could be accountability partners. I thought it was a great idea and we started emailing each other every night with what we had eaten and what we had excercised. It worked out really well and kept both of us on track. Actually she did a little better than me but who's counting, right?

So with 14 days left until we leave for vacation... I have lost 5 pounds!! I'm very proud of myself at this point. I know I still need to loose 5 more to meet my short term goal and 15 more to meet my long term goal but I'm pretty excited that I've come this far!!

Keep praying for me that I will be able to stay motivated and keep working towards my goals!!

Tour of Homes

I was supposed to post about this on Friday and almost forgot...
Tour of blogs happening on July 28th.
For more info hop on over to Boomama's blog and read up on the details.
Sounds like it's going to be a fun time.

Can't wait to see all of your homes!!

Some Gave All

In memory of Marine Lance Cpl. Eric J. Orlowski.

26, of Buffalo, New York. Killed by an accidental discharge of a .50 cal machine gun in Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, NC. Died on March 22, 2003.

Lance Cpl. Eric Orlowski was a proud Marine, but above all he was a proud father of his 3 year old daughter, CamerynLee. "He was always there for his daughter, and he lover her more than anything," said Nicole Kross, the child's mother, herself and Air Force Reservist.

Orlowski was separated from his wife, but their daughter kept them close. He sent Kross letters from overseas, the last saying he was headed for Iraq. “I don’t think he was scared,” Kross said. “The thing he feared most was leaving his daughter.”

His daughter Cameryn, 3, last talked to her father just 18 hours before he was killed. During that last conversation, Orlowski told her that when he came home, he would take her to Disney World.

I want to take this time to say thank you to this fallen soldier and to his family. I also pray for this family as they remember their loved one. Your sacrifices will never be forgotten!!

What a great husband

I've got a great husband! On Tuesday night he watched the boys while I went to the hospital and visited my sister and mom. He never even made me feel guilty for leaving.

Then on Wednesday night he let me go hang out with a friend. We got pedicures, chinese take-out and went back to her place to watch a movie. What a relaxing night off.

He watches the kids for me whenever I ask and hardly ever asks for anything in return. What a great guy, huh?

Honey, if you're reading this... I love you!!

Nosey Neighbors

Were you wondering where I've been? It's been very busy around here!!

Anyway, onto a story about people who put their noses where they don't belong. Last week I got a note on my door from a city codes officer. The note said someone complained about my day care operation. I talk with someone the next day to find out if I was in violation of codes and they said as far as they knew, I was in complete compliance with all the codes. I was so relieved!!

The next day I went next door to apologize to the neighbors and let them know I was sorry for anything I had done that offended them. I just really felt God was saying I should take that step to clear the air. I spoke with the neighbor who I assumed wouldn't call the city and she confirmed. She said she would take one guess as to who it was, confirming my suspicions.

I stopped by the other neighbor's home and they didn't answer the door. Later that night I tried again but they must not have been home. The next day I stopped by and was talking with the wife and daughter. The wife said she had no idea why someone would do that and she couldn't believe someone would have a problem with us because we were such good neighbors. As I'm talking the little girl interrupts and says "I think Daddy called. I'm pretty sure Daddy knows about this." The Mom looked absolutely shocked at what the daughter was saying.

At this point I can hear the Dad upstairs yelling and asking who's at the door with some not so great language. Now I'm a member of the family-friendly blogroll so I won't tell you word for word what he said because it wasn't appropriate for children. He came down and said "Why the heck are you asking us about it? Did they tell you it was me? Why are you singling us out like this? This is crazy. I've had enough, I'm going back upstairs!"

I'm not sure about you but the daughter saying what she did and the Dad acting like a jerk pretty much confirms it for me!! I just hope it didn't cause too much of an issue between the Mom and Dad. Plus, I hope the little girl doesn't get in trouble for speaking up.

Anyway, I feel good now at least knowing that I made my peace with all of them. Hopefully nothing else will come of it.

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy

I remember I was about 37 weeks along when I woke Daddy up at 3:00 in the morning because I couldn't breathe with the contractions any longer. We went down to the hospital and they almost sent me home. They gave me one hour to walk around. I made great progress and they admitted me. You were born later that afternoon at 6 lbs 11 oz.

We took guesses with the family on when you would be born, your weight and height. I guessed exactly right on the day. Grandma was closest on your height and weight. You were born exactly 2 years and 11 months after your brother!!

When we first brought Josh in to meet you, he wasn't sure what was happening. He had picked out a special bear for you several weeks before you were born. He brought it in dropped it down into the warming bed and you grabbed it. He was so excited that you liked his gift. It was so sweet!!

Well Seth, you have come into our home and started a whirlwind. You are very curious, silly and funny. I never knew one child could get into so much stuff! I have found you in the dishwasher, bathroom cabinets, the refrigerator, toilet, closets and under beds. You have taken your diaper off and pooped on the kitchen floor. You've dumped the whole shredder basket on the office floor. I think it's like Daddy always says "you don't go looking for messes, the messes find you!" I love that you're curious and love to explore!!

It's been fun to see you do all of the firsts. I thought you were never going to start talking and now you don't stop. Your newest phrase cracks me up "No Pal!" I also love to hear you call your brother "Joshua" or "Joshie."

I can't believe you're already 2! It's going to be quite the adventure with you but we're all excited to take the ride and see what God has in store!! We love you Seth!!About 24 hours old

A couple months old

Taking a bath in the sink

About 5 months old

You love to be naked

Sitting up like a big boy

First trip to the Phoenix Zoo

Dumping out the shredder basket

Playing in the rain

This picture is totally you...
You could roll around in the dirt and be completely happy!!