Wednesday, July 30, 2008

So much going on...

I hate doing this but here's a quick run down of what's been happening and what's to come around our house...

~ God has been providing in incredible ways since I stepped out in faith a few months ago!

~We got a new puppy and the boys named her Shadow. She's a yorkie-poo and is mostly black with a little bit of brown. She's very cute and fits in nicely around here.

~ The boys I babysit are very allergic to dogs so looks like she might be leaving us sooner than we expected!

~ My Grandpa has been very sick and several of his organs are shutting down. Please pray!

~ Went to High School Summer camp with church and had a blast. Did white water rafting... pictures to come! My Hubby, Mom and Sister all did wonderful with the kids while I was gone. It was the longest Jeff and I have been apart in our 8 1/2 years of married life.

~ Celebrated Josh's 7th birthday. How in the world do I have a 7 year old already??

~ Getting ready for Josh to start 2nd grade next week. School already??

So there will be lots of pictures coming soon but I wanted everyone to know I was fine and enjoying life! Can't wait to catch up with all of you soon.

Tuesday, July 08, 2008

Christmas in July

I just had to share with all of you the wonderful deals I scored yesterday at Toys R Us. They were amazing. Right now the store near us is taking an additional 20% off all clearance items. So here are some of the deals I got...

T.J. Beary Tales for $15 (originally $50)

Magnetics Cars $1.98 (originally $14.98)

Dora Leapster Game $3.98 (originally $29)

Another magnetics set $3.98 (originally $30)

Stocking stuffers from .40 - $1.98

It was incredible and I'm already getting ready for Christmas! If you live nearby you should go check it out and see what they have!!

Wednesday, July 02, 2008

Saturday, June 28, 2008

In My Eyes...

A long time ago I talked to Shalee via email and had a great time. I mentioned that we should swap phone numbers and actually talk on the phone. She thought that was a great idea and emailed me her number. I was pregnant with Jacob at the time and was getting preparing for life with three little boys. My intentions were good but I never made the call. Eventually I just got comfortable knowing I had the phone number but not actually taking the first step. It was ridiculous, I know!

So the other day I left a comment, like I always do and she replied to it. She is such a crack up and I love hearing her take on life. Anyway, I mentioned that I had wanted to call but always chickened out. I got an email back saying "Check your cell phone you big dummy!" I laughed so hard when I read that and then quickly checked my messages. She left one saying "Stace it's me Shalee, quit chickening out and call me you big dummy!" Then I couldn't stop laughing.

I picked up the phone and called her. She was so easy to talk to and asked about my family. We had a great time talking for about 20 minutes. It was wonderful to actually hear her voice! I'm so glad we finally made it a priority to chat. I know it won't be the last time! Thanks Shalee for making me step out and say hello :o)


Speaking of blogging friends, my friend Beth has been trying to blog for a while now. She always posts stuff and then gets frustrated and takes a break. Yesterday I went to her house to help her get it all set up and ready. So stop by and say hi to Beth when you get a chance!

Thursday, June 26, 2008

You. Will. Get. Wet.

This is a message I got on my Myspace page earlier this week. I knew exactly what they were talking about. Last night was Water Wars with out Jr. High and High School students at church. I originally thought that I might go but try not to get too wet. You know, I'm uncomfortable with the way I look and my hair gets really curly and the excuses kept coming. Eventually I realized that when you work with youth... you're going to get wet!

So I went with a great attitude and didn't even care when they broke water balloons on top of my head or down my pants. They thought I was awesome for joining in and I had a blast! It was a win, win situation.

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Unexpected blessings

On Thursday I was a little frustrated because Jacob had been running a fever for the last several days. I knew it wasn't getting better and he needed to be seen by the doctor. I wasn't upset that he had a fever, I was upset that he was sick again. He just had his tubes put in on the 5th and I dreaded hearing that he had an ear infection so soon after. They squeezed me in at 4 that day. Thank the Lord it wasn't his ears but his tonsils were huge and he needed antibiotics. Our doctor, who is a former neighbor, stood and talked with me for quite a while after the appointment. I kept thinking, "I need to get going, I still need to fill the prescription."

Little did I know that God had a plan. As I walked into the lobby I ran into an old friend, Tabby. I was in Kindergarten through 6th grade with this girl. We've seen each other a handful of times since. As we stood and talked about our lives we realized we had quite a bit in common. In fact, she has two little girls that are close in age to Josh and Jacob. I was able to invite her to church and she seemed very excited. I'm glad God put me there at that exact moment to reunite with an old friend and to possibly see Him work through her life.

Thank you Lord that your timing is perfect! If Jacob would have been well I might not have had the chance to show your love to an old friend.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

The backseat of life

A couple of weeks ago I was taking Seth somewhere as a surprise. As we drove he kept asking things like...

"Are you going to tell me where we're going?"

"How long will it take?"

"Are we there yet?"

"Where are we going? Just tell me!"

It got me thinking about how many times I'm riding along in life with God and I'm bugging him about the plans He has for me. I know I question His plans and authority in my life. I say I completely trust Him for the things He is doing but I nag Him about what's next or when we'll get there.

Today I want to start fresh and not question Him. I want to hang on and enjoy the ride, knowing that eventually He will reveal the surprise for my life. I want to trust that there is a reason He's not telling me exactly what's around the corner!

Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21

For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord. Plans to give you hope and a bright future. Jeremiah 29:11.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

GO Missions Trip 2008

Take a look at the pictures and see what a blast we had...




We just got back from the GO missions trip with our church. What an amazing 8 days we had. God was definitely there and we felt it each day. I'm blown away by the amount of talent these students have. The Lord has given them some wonderful gifts to use for Him. There were several times Jeff and I just sat back and watched them lead. We saw so many of them grow during the 10 weeks of training leading up to the trip but it's incredible the growth they actually have while on the trip.

We are so proud of each of them. Darius had to switch us to another team at the last minute and that was hard. However, we knew God had a plan in doing this and trusted Him to lead. It was weird not being with the team we had all through the 10 weeks of training but it worked out great. They were so excepting of us and were glad to have us as leaders. We kept teasing our old team that they were in our hearts and we missed them. I think it all worked out fine because we still got to hang out each day when we got back to the school.

I guess I should tell you a little bit about the trip itself... We took off around 7:30 on Saturday the 7th. The trip was going fine until the students decided we needed to stop every 1 or so to pee. By about the 4th stop Darius had had enough. We stopped and he had a talk with everyone and then we were back on the road with scheduled stops only. The first night we showed up and only had one room for all of us. Not the ideal set up when you have guys and girls but we made due. The following night another room opened up. The girls moved to the new room and left the gym to the guys.

Up in the girl's room we had lots of fun at night. We giggled, laughed, talked and even wrestled a couple of times. In the morning we all got back together and did a devotion. I had such a great time leading the devotions each morning. The first morning was tough because everyone wasn't sure about opening up but after that we had some really great conversations. I'm so glad Darius asked me to lead that. I'm already coming up with some great ideas to use next year!

Each evening we would eat breakfast, have quiet time, pray, go over what God did in our VBS for the day and then Darius would teach on something God had laid on his heart. During the time between "Holy Huddle" and "lights out" we had so much fun. We played basketball, boxed, blogged, made cards, play card games or just hung out. These students know how to have fun! One night the guys even put on a "glow stick show" for us girls.

It wasn't your typical camp food and I have to give a big thanks to Mark and Lynne! We had pot roast, baked ranch chicken, spaghetti, tacos and so much more. It was so yummy!

Friday, June 06, 2008

Happy First Birthday Jake!

He's a winner in my book...

But it was confirmed again this school year. He was the first student to get a character award in his class. Then I got a call from the teacher letting us know that Josh would be getting the citizenship award at the end of the year school assembly. We were so proud of him! Especially because he's now won this award two years in a row!! Here are a couple pictures of him on the big day..

A picture with Mrs. Lewis (what a wonderful teacher!)

At the front with other proud students

I had more pictures I wanted to post but they had the school name on them and I know that's not a smart idea. So you'll just have to use your imaginations :o)

Tuesday, June 03, 2008

He's done it again...

My wonderful husband has done it again. Check out this email I got from him this morning...

Here's a list of some things I love about you:
1. There's no one else like you.
2. You have a great sense of humor.
3. You have an incredible memory.
4. Your mad bargain hunting skills
5. You are very generous.
6. You take care of our home and kids
7. You are level-headed
8. You're usually right.
9. You're a great mother for our boys.
10. You are a great cook.
11. You try to look for the positive in most situations
12. You were there for me when my mom got sick
13. Serving with you at church / high school ministry
14. Your smile
15. How you slyly get me to rub your back
16. You chose me and no one else

Love you. Have a great day.

Isn't that just the sweetest thing a husband could do??

Saturday, May 31, 2008

So I am...

You are Elinor Dashwood of Sense & Sensibility! You are practical, circumspect, and discreet. Though you are tremendously sensible and allow your head to rule, you have a deep, emotional side that few people often see.

I am Elinor Dashwood!


Take the Quiz here!

Let me know who you are!!

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Thank goodness Julie tagged me for this because I have absolutely nothing to talk about these days...

Four jobs I’ve had:
1. Staples (2 different ones)
2. Wee Learner's Preschool
3. Ran my own day care (in home)
4. Avon

Four movies I’ve watched more than once: (I could name way more than 4)
1. 50 First Dates
2. Ms. Congeniality
3. While You Were Sleeping
4. Night at the Museum

Four places I’ve lived:
1. Phoenix, AZ
2. Goodyear, AZ
3.
4.

Four TV shows I watch:
1. CSI original, NY & Miami
2. American Idol
3. House
4. ER

Four places I’ve been:
1. California
2. South Dakota (as far as I've been)
3. Nebraska
4. Oklahoma

Four people who email me regularly:

1. My Mom

2. Jeff

3. Julie

4. Tina

Four of my favorite foods:
1. Anything Mexican
2. Orange chicken and rice
3. Spaghetti
4. Pizza

Four places I would love to visit:
1. Indonesia
2. Chicago
3. Hawaii
4. New York

Four things I’m looking forward to in the coming year:
1. Vacation with the family
2. Going on the GO trip with the youth
3. God's continued blessing in our lives
4. Watching my kids turn 1, 4 and 7!

Four friends I’m tagging:

  1. Sherry
  2. Jodi
  3. Kelley
  4. Vicki

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Life's about to get busy

We have lots of fun stuff coming up soon...

I'm planning a shower for my friend Julie on the 30th. She is adopting two little ones from Ethiopia. God is truly doing amazing things through her and her family this year! I'm so proud of her and I can't wait to meet these two beautiful children!

We're also planning Jake's first birthday party for May 31st. It's not going to be anything big, just cake and ice cream and maybe a few munchies. He's too young to remember it all anyway.

Then Josh's last day of school is the 4th. He's pretty excited about that!

We leave for the GO missions trip at our church on the 7th and return the 14th. It will be lots of fun and I can't wait to see how God works in all of our lives while we're gone. It's been an amazing journey as we prepare each week. I can only imagine what the actual trip will hold!

Jacob will be having tubes put in on the 19th. I'm nervous but we did it with Seth already so it shouldn't be too scary for me. It's such a quick operation and I know it will help so much. He's already had six ear infections since January. Poor thing.

Then on the 19th we have a wedding to attend for a sweet couple at church.

Anyway, it looks like it's going to be a full calendar. I bet it's all going to fly by as time seems to do these days. I will try and get pictures for each event and share them with you all :o)

Monday, May 12, 2008

First Little Shiner

In my world I have come to realize that boys play hard and that means they're gonna have bumps and bruises along the way! Well, Jake got his first little shiner a couple of weeks ago. I thought I would share a couple of pictures with all of you...

Can you see it there below his left eye?


I guess maybe it's a little hard to tell in the pictures...
As you can see he also loves sticking his tongue out every time I take his picture. It's something he's just started in the last couple of weeks. He also does it when he's acting shy or a bit nervous about his surroundings. So silly!

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Happy Mother's Day

I just have to start out by saying how thankful I am to have my Mom in my life this year more than ever before. It's hard when you find out someone special in your life is sick, especially when they are touched with cancer. My Mom is so special and has not once thrown in the towel or considered giving in when times got tough. During this trial in her life I have seen her grow so much. I am so proud of her! What a wonderful example of Christ living through her. I know she wouldn't be the woman she is today without her faith in the Lord!

I also know she wouldn't be the woman and mother she is today if she didn't have the influence of her Mother. What another great example of a Christian woman. My Grandma has such a kind and gentle spirit. She can find the good in anyone or anything.

I'm am so blessed to be touched by both of these incredible women. I love them and appreciate them more than I could ever say. Life just wouldn't be the same without them!

Tuesday, May 06, 2008

That was random...

We hear this saying a lot working with the High School students at church. They say it all the time! Speaking of High School... Jeff and I attended a leaders meeting on Sunday night and were presented with "Leaders of the month!" Darius and Nicole said some awesome things about Jeff and I that made us feel great. Then he presented us with the award and a gift card to Chili's. It's so awesome to work with those students each week in our home and at church. They are such a blessing in our lives and we thank the Lord for giving us this opportunity!

The other night I had to laugh as I overheard Jeff walk into the boy's room and say "Just FYI guys, tomorrow we're going to do such and such." The boys said "What's an FYI?" Later I asked him if maybe he had been spending too much time at work :o)

Today my Mom is working on something really cool that I will eventually be able to talk about. Until then, I'm praying that she has the courage to get through it! I love you Mom!!

My friend Julie's dog died last week and I'm so glad I was able to go with her to the vet. I can't imagine if she had to do it alone. Poor thing was so upset and I think the last three weeks or so had just caught up with her. Love you Julie and I'm sorry you had to go through that!

My friend Patti is so great! She is always helping out when I need her... watching the kids and helping pick up Josh from school. I was telling my Mom just yesterday that she is actually like a big sister to me sometimes. I never thought I really needed one until she came along. I'm so thankful that God brought us together!!

I miss my sister in law, Tina so much. I've really been struggling lately with her being gone. I'm not sure why it's not getting easier. She's doing what God has called her to do and I'm so proud of her. What an awesome example of following God's will in your life!!

I'm so thankful that my sister is up and walking again. It's been great to see her so encouraged lately. God truly blessed me when He placed her in my life!

So it really was random but I got some things out of my head and off my heart. Thanks for listening!!

Friday, May 02, 2008

Stepping Stones of Life

On Wednesday night my Mom has a women's home team in her home. The women are ranging in ages from 25 to 50. We all come from different backgrounds, races, and marital status. We do however share a special bond, we all have a relationship with Jesus Christ and that unites us!

This past Wednesday night we talked about the stepping stones of life. My Mom had gotten a basket full of small stones and asked us each to write significant milestones in our lives along with the dates. It was such an awesome time of sharing and growing together as a group! I'm so blessed to have each of these women in my life!

I wanted to share with you some of the milestones, good or bad, that have helped shape me to be the woman I am today...

1981 ~ Born to the best parents ever
1982 ~ Became a big sister
1986 ~ Accepted Christ as my Savior
1987 ~ Baptized on my 6th birthday by my Grandpa
1983 ~ Started Jr. High... very rough time
1997 ~ Got my first job
1998 ~ Attempted rape by my cousin
1999 ~ Graduated High School
2000 ~ Became an aunt for the 1st time
2000 ~ Married Jeff and gained a wonderful sister in law, Tina
2001 ~ Jeff has a seizure while I was 5 months pregnant w/ Josh
2001 ~ Mother in law Peggie finds breast cancer
2001 ~ Auntie again... #2
2001 ~ Josh was born
2001 ~ Got counseling and fought back!
2001 ~ Met my friend Julie
2003 ~ Auntie again... #3
2004 ~ Seth was born
2004 ~ Auntie again... #4
2004 ~ My sister got sick, left home and we didn't contact us for 5 months
2004 ~ MIL, Peggie has emergency brain surgery to remove tumor
2007 ~ My BIL and SIL leave for South East Asia... hard to say goodbye!
2007 ~ Jacob was born
2007 ~ My Mom found breast cancer
2007 ~ Moved positions in my church preschool area
2007 ~ My MIL passed away
2008 ~ Step down from preschool at church and start working with High School


Sorry it turned out to be so long but I wanted to share my heart. Thanks for taking time to read and listen to my story!

Thursday, May 01, 2008

It's Shaping Up... *Updated*

To be a crazy day! Josh woke up and pretty much starting "tossing his cookies" right away. Then as I was trying to get him to the bathroom Jacob crawled through it. I got Josh started in the shower so he could get cleaned up and grabbed Jake for the bathtub. I removed his diaper and set him on my leg not realizing he had pooped in his diaper. So I had to run get wipes for that while still holding him at arms length to keep from getting smeared any more!

And that was all before 8 this morning...

Oh the joys of motherhood, it's a beautiful thing I tell ya!

* * Updated * *

Just keeping everyone informed because I know you all want to know how my day is going :o)
Josh has "tossed his cookies" 7 more times. Jacob had another poopy diaper... of the explosive nature! Seth slipped in Josh's "cookies" that I didn't know about and is now in the tub. I finally got a shower with about 2 minutes of peace and quiet... Hallelujah!

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Be sure your dirty dishes will find you out

Last night as we were getting ready for our high school home team to come over I realized my dishwasher was full. It had been run and they were all clean but I didn't have time to unload it. So I remembered my friend Julie once telling me about someone she knew who filled the oven will dirty dishes once for a party. I decided to try it thinking that none of them would ever be the wiser. It was going great until one of them said "why is the baby's bottle in the oven?" Then she opened the oven and saw the rest of the dirty dishes. I admitted right then and there what I had done and we all had a good laugh! Next time I guess I'll have to use the pantry or a cupboard!!

So have you ever hidden dirty dishes as a desperate measure?