Photo Fun, Take Three I got this from Gwen. Here are the rules: 1) Choose the 4th folder where you store your pictures on your computer. 2) Select the 4th picture in the folder. 3) Explain the picture. 4) Tag 4 people to do the same - NO CHEATING! (cropping, editing etc.)

This photo was taken the other day.  I was in the kitchen and I heard Jude running around in the living room.  I peeked in on him and saw this.  He had his "Israeli Army" hat on that my mom got him in Israel and he was after "bad" guys.  No one else was home so it was all in his imagination.  He was crouching behind walls and corners.  It was way cute.

Family Photo Shoot with Ashley Langford from Jason P on Vimeo.

Wordless Wednesday

Notice the Tarzan move at the end.

Let's lighten it up a bit....

Noticed that my last few blogs were pretty "heavy." So, here is the cutest video ever starring my 2 year old and dh. What a ham!

Life.....

This was a full week in my life. My brother in law gave birth to their first son on 8/8/08. It was so fun to be on the "aunt" side of the delivery room, and not in that bed. It was so exciting waiting for that little guy to be born. He is beautiful. The next day was a complete contrast. My very best friend had a son too, but he was stillborn at 28 weeks. They had been told several weeks ago that the baby had some heart defects and some chromosonal abnormalities. We've been praying like crazy and standing on God's Word for complete healing of that baby. On 8/9/08 she went to the doctor because she hadn't felt him move in a while. There was no heartbeat. She had to be induced and deliver him. She was in labor for a day and a half. All things considered, she is doing well, and is supported by a lot of loving family. It is hard to know WHY these things happen. I can't say for sure, but I am thankful that baby never had to suffer on this earth. I just got the new Hillsong CD, "This is Our God." I went on youtube to see if there was any footage of the recording and this "behind the scenes" video of "The Desert Song" came up. It really ministered to me and my friend. This CD is so good. I highly recommend it. Life is full of highs and some deep lows. Followers of Christ are certainly not exempt from the effects of living in a fallen world. I am so glad I have a caring God to walk with me thru the good times and carry me thru the tough times. More to say on this later... This is my prayer in the desert And all that's within me feels dry This is my prayer in the hunger in me My God is a God who provides Verse 2: And this is my prayer in the fire In weakness or trial or pain There is a faith provedOf more worth than gold So refine me Lord through the flames Chorus: And I will bring praiseI will bring praise No weapon forged against me shall remain I will rejoiceI will declare God is my victory and He is here Verse 3: And this is my prayer in the battle When triumph is still on it's way I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ So firm on His promise I'll stand Bridge: All of my life In every season You are still GodI have a reason to sing I have a reason to worship Verse 4: This is my prayer in the harvest When favor and providence flow I know I'm filled to be empited again The seed I've recieved I will sow In every season, we have a reason to sing and worship. WOW!

WHERE HAVE I BEEN?

I guess I took the summer off for blogging. Didn't plan on doing it, but just kind of forgot about it. When I would think about it, I wasn't too interested. Plus, blogging, reading other blogs, and thinking of new blogs, was really stealing from doing what I am supposed to be doing.....being a full time mommy. Soooo, I am too tired to catch everyone up (all 2 of you) to what is new in my life, so I will just do a bullet point list: 1. My family plus my sister's family and my mom are all heading to the Tx Hill country on Sunday for a family vacation. We have rented a 5 bedroom house on the Blanco River. Picture natural swimming holes, tubing down rivers, hiking, eating, etc. 2. My husband worked his tail off at work to win us an all expense trip to Sandals in St. Lucia. It will be just the 2 of us. I AM SO FLIPPING EXCITED! We haven't been on a trip without kids in 7 years. We leave in Sept. Beaches, swimming pools, naps...YES! 3. I just got the new 3G Iphone. I hated it the first 2 weeks. I am tolerating it now, but still think real buttons are better. This high tech thing is totally wasted on me. I feel like an old fart. 4. My baby (youngest boy of 3) just turned 2 on Sunday. He is our last child, and so every new thing he does is so wonderful and yet kind of sad. 5. My kid goes back to school in like 4 weeks and I just realized we have done almost NO school work this summer. He has been reading a lot, but my plans of journaling and flash cards every night kind of went out the window. 6. We are trying to decide if we should sign 7 year old up for some sort of sport. We are reluctant to get that sort of thing started as we are very protective of our family time. We'll see. That is it. I will post pics. later.

Recent trip to KS

We got back last week from a 10 hour car trip (with 3 kids) to KS. We had a wonderful time with family. I just realized that I have no pictures with my brother in his cap and gown. My kids love going to KS. It is like a magical wonderland filled with tractors, open spaces, and hyper dogs named "Molly."

Here is DH being "artistic" with his new camcorder.  The joys of a long car trip.

Here was our dinner stop on the way there at Canadian, TX.  The kids were so happy to be free for an hour.  We had some good cheeseburgers at the "Fillin Station."

Here is the famous "Molly" dog.  The kids LOVED her.  I was not as impressed as they were.  

This was us waiting for our ride on the 4 wheeler.  Like our matching shirts?

When we weren't on the 4 wheeler, dad was giving rides in his new hi-tech tractor.  The kids think my dad is famous because he drives such a big tractor.  

Having some fun in the tree.  The brown headed kids are 2 of my nephews.  My dad's yard was made for little boys.

On the way home, Bam Bam decided he needed to be back with the big boys.  The big boys didn't appreciate the slobbery fingers in their face while they tried to watch Veggie Tales.

This is a normal view from any vantage point in western KS.  Looks like a dessert, but that is a field.  Not a tree for miles.  Strangely, it can be refreshing after being in the crowded city. 

I made a mess

Thought I could "spruce" up my blog, and I went and made a mess of it. I will have to have dh help me later. Pictures from my trip to my hometown in KS coming soon.

Meme (because I am bored)

Where is your cell phone? In my purse. Your significant other? hilarious, hard worker, perfectionist, talented, competitive, sensitive, hot stuff! Your hair? pony tail day (every 3rd day) Your mother? loves unconditionally Your father? multi-talented & wonderful Your favorite thing? being with family Your dream last night? Don’t know Your favorite drink? My morning coffee w/ Hazelnut creamer Your dream/goal? get in shape/ be more productive The room you are in? Our office Your ex? I started dating dh when I was 16, so "ex" is kind of silly, but I don't know where he is or what he does. Your fear? heights Where do you want to be in six years? close to my family, living out purpose Where were you last night? watching "Raiders of the Lost Arc" and eating takeout with dh while kids slept ...HEAVEN! What are you not? detail oriented, good at reading directions, driven Muffins? this makes me think of muffin tops, which I hate....(darn 3 pregnancies) One of your wish list items? a decorator to help me finish house Where you grew up? KS The last thing you did? went to World Aquarium with my family What are you wearing? green shorts, white tee-shirt Your TV? waste of time, but I love it Your pets? I don't do pets. I have enough messes to clean up with 3 boys and a husband. Your computer? Mac something or other....sorry, dh, I don't know the name of your darling.... Your life? pretty great, un-busy (the way I like it), family oriented Your mood? lazy Missing someone? my dad, step mom, and brother Your Car? Texas Cadillac aka White Chevy Suburban (sorry, Al Gore) Something you are not wearing? socks, earings Favorite store? Reality-Marshalls Dream-Banana Rebublic Your summer? chill, go explore some cool part of TX with kids as our family vacation, and try to getaway w/ dh too. Playdates, swimming, sleeping in Like someone? I like lots of people. Right now, I am getting to know a bunch of new friends, which is nice. Your favorite color? Decorating=red, chocolate brown, robin's egg blue...To wear=Navy blue & kelly green When was the last time you laughed? today as my kids sang and danced to nerdy music that dh hated (they are SO my kids) Last time you cried? Thursday

Who will repost this? Not sure but have at it if you want to!

my first Techy toy

Me and dh's 12th anniversary is coming up and he already got me my gift. It was an Ipod Shuffle. I am usually not into techy gadgets, but I have to say that I am more excited about this gift than any gift I've gotten in years. He has an Ipod, so we already have Itunes and all. Just made my first playlist to add to it. I'm not going to get any "cool" awards for sure, but all of this music pumps me up. I'm going to get so buff working out now..... any suggestion?  I have more to add, but am too lazy to do it right now.  Here is my playlist: We Cry Out        Kim Walker Rain Down        Rita Springer In the Girl There's a Room       Sara Groves When the Saints        Sara Groves Song for My Sons        Sara Groves Medals        Russ Taff Vision        Russ Taff Silent Love        Russ Taff Break Free        Hillsong United Point of Difference        Hillsong United I Will Run        Misty Edwards Baptize My Heart        Misty Edwards Salvation Is Here        Hillsong United Shout Unto God        Hillsong United Paint The Town Red        Delirious? Now Is The Time        Delirious? Here I Am Send Me        Delirious? Fires Burn        Delirious? Our God Reigns        Delirious? Inside Outside        Delirious? Mountains High        Delirious? From the Inside Out        Hillsong United Came to My Rescue        Hillsong United

Life is precious and fragile

I have been quiet the last few days because we had a tragedy in the family on Wed.  Around 3:30 PM I got one of those calls that you dread.  It was the call where the one calling is frantic and you brace yourself because you know bad news is coming.  The one calling was my mil.  She told me to listen carefully that she didn't have time to repeat herself.  Her younger brother and his 6 year old daughter had just been in a terrible car accident.  She was still getting details herself, but they did not know the condition of either her brother or her little niece, but that it did not look good.  My mil said she needed me to get the word out to all that I knew would pray asap.  My mil just happened to be in the town where it happened with her mother which is about 1 1/2 hours away.  I hung up and tried to first text a msg. to as many close family and friends that I knew would pray immediately.  It was so hard to concentrate on getting the message typed out and to everyone.  Then I sent out a prayer email to several that I knew she would want to be informed.  My kids could tell something was up and I asked them to quickly pray with me that these two would be ok.  I remained calm for their sake.  Right then my mil called back and said that the little girl had NOT survived and that her brother was being care flighted to a local hospital in our area.  No one knew how badly he was hurt.  I was in charge of getting the word to everyone.  I had to tell dh while he was in a mtg. celebrating his best month at his new job.  My heart was  breaking at the thought of this mom hearing the news in the next few minutes that her only child was gone and that her husband was being taken to the hospital in an unknown condition.  Long story short, the uncle has stabilized.  He had severe internal injuries, and has to have his knees and hip replaced. He is 54.  We had to talk about what had happened to our kids.  Our 4 year old didn't really understand, but our 7 year old did.  They were fairly close to this young girl, playing with her at all the family get togethers.  I tried to death not sound too scary or unknown and answered all of his questions, no matter how specific they were (with discretion, of course).  

Of course, I am comforted to know this little one is with Jesus.  She isn't unhappy or suffering.  The dad does not know about his daughter dying yet.  They couldn't tell him until he stabilized and he is in and out of consciousness.  They have been instructed to wait until his last surgery today and when he gets his breathing tube out.  The family believes he already knows.  He has asked about her every chance he gets and the family just says how much they love him.  I read a good article on death.  Check it out if you get the chance.  I know I've hugged my little ones a lot more lately.  I also don't take safety guidelines for granted either.  Neither were wearing seat belts and the 6 year old was in the front seat.  It is so easy to get too comfortable with letting safety slide just this one time....  Pray for the family as they continue to walk thru this tough time.  

Thank You!

His Bann-uh - Over Me is Wuv!

Check out 5 minutes for mom for more Wordless Wednesday.

check out this great give away

I love this blog.  She has a great give away going on too.

Things I can't do anymore since becoming a MOM

1. Watch the local news. Dh is with me on this one. Every child on that news program looks like one of my kids, somehow. I can get literally ill when I hear of a parent hurting an innocent little child. 2. Watch any type of "Save the Children" kind of infomercial. I almost had a breakdown the other day when "American Idol Gives Back" was on. I was so overwhelmed at how much suffering is in this world, and I felt so unable to help. I was especially moved (upset) when Annie Lenox went to an African family where only the children were still alive. The 15 year old brother was trying to take care of his younger brothers, but he looked like a baby, himself. The parents had died of HIV. The littlest one was barely 3 years old. It was a good reality check, though on how easy my own life is. 3. Watch any type of wild animal shows. I used to watch Animal Planet all the time. It was one of my favorite channels. Now I can't stand to see the animals hunt and kill for food. Secretly, I used to get a kick out of it. Now, it just really bothers me to see any type of suffering even if it is a part of the circle of life. Am I the only one on this??? 4. I don't judge other mothers like I did BEFORE having kids. Isn't it funny that I knew everything about parenting before I even had kids???? HA! I love it when I get criticism from people who have never actually parented themselves. I don't see discipline as black and white as I used to. I don't know why it becomes so blurry when it is your own kid. I mean, it REALLY is adorable when my 22 mo. old shouts "NO MOMMY" to me....isn't it???? 5. I don't enjoy McDonalds anymore. I used to love it. Now, it just tastes like chemicals to me. Same goes for most "kiddie" type foods i.e., goldfish, candy, sodas, french fries, etc.. 6. Go to bed early. I have to have kid-free unwind time. That means if the kids went to bed at 8:30, I need to have about 2 hours of no pressure time to unwind. 7. Get sick. Moms can't get sick. I had this realization the other day when my 4 year old was sick. He needed me to hold him and give him special attention. The world keeps right on going even if mom gets sick. There is no such thing as laying in bed all day without any interruptions. At least, I've never experienced it. That is all for now. Please let me know I am not entirely CRAZY!

Small playroom or what???

In our home, Dh and I don't believe in "spoiling" the children. In my day, we never had such a thing as a "play room." A pile of dirt and an old tractor tire for a fort was all I needed to be completely happy. So, we have tried to pass on this "Simplistic" way of life to our own kids. Hence, the fun in the closet..... ENJOY!

Wordless Wednesday....(kind of)

Just so you know....Our family has "Gone Green."

For More WW go to 5 Minutes For Mom

7 Things Meme

Elaine over at THE MISS ELAINE-OUS LIFE tagged me to write out 7 things about myself. It has been a long time since I blogged last, so this will be a good re-entry.
Here are the rules:

The Rules:
1. Link your tagger and list these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.
Here we go:

1. My favorite thing to say to hubby, sister, etc. is "Know anything new?" Translated this means, "Have any juicy information from the outside world?" DH hates it when I ask him this. This all started when I was in high school. My sister and I started asking each other if we "knew anything that our current crushes might have said about us." For instance, she would come home from school and I would say, "I'll tell you something Joe Blow (her current crush) said about you today in Algebra, if you know something that Hunk "My then crush" said about me in band. What we found out years later is that we both made up everything we said just to get information. The whole game was based on lies. The sad thing is I had her convinced this boy liked her enough that she asked him to the Sadie Hawkins dance. He said no, and she never forgave me for the humiliation she endured.
2. I have a very keen sense of smell. It is almost freakish. It is almost a curse rather than a blessing, depending on who I am with. I can tell if dhzz washed my kiddos hair even without putting my nose on their head. Dh sometimes likes to take shortcuts when bathing our children. He doesn't get away with it much.

3. I like to eat things most people don't, like the dark meat on turkey (with skin), dark chocolate, fatty pieces of meat, tomato juice, dark grainy bread. In school I was the only white milk order, while everyone else had chocolate.

4. I just cut off most of my hair. I've had long hair for 3 years, so this was a big deal. Dh actually loves me in shorter hair than long. Here is a picture

5.  I have to have my feet neatly tucked into covers.  Btw, dh loves his feet outside of covers.  Conflict has occasionally occurred.  

6.  I just turned 32.  I feel young and hip until I go to the mall and wonder why teenagers are even allowed out of the house after 5 pm.  There should be a mall JUST for teens.

7.  I am pretty frugal.  I just bought 4 new bath towels from Target, which meant to make room for them, I had to throw 4 of our old towels away.  We have had these towels for 10 years.  I actually was sad to put those towels in the smelly trash.  I tried to think of a good reason to hang onto them, but I didn't need any more cleaning rags.  It is hard for me to spend money on something for myself.  I love the "hunt" of a great deal.  
>I tag:


The Durham's
Gwen
nestingplace
Rocks in my dryer
Jennifer



and YOU!

Dishes Galore

I am WAY late on this one, but I thought it was fun. Check out Spur-Of-The-Minute Dish Carnival and join in. I loved looking at every one's dishes. It was like a glimpse into their personality.

We will be married 12 years in May. We registered for both our everyday dishes and our formal china.  I was amazed that we endedup with both complete sets.  I love my everyday dishes.  They are blue and white, but the blue doesn't show well in this picture.  I think they are timeless.  They are called Nikko Tea Roses:

I am sad to say I have only used my china twice since we've been married.  I am going to try to get them out more often.  I need some ideas for a tablecloth or place mats for my china though.  I got these because I knew they would be classic through the 

years.  However, I don't have any "gold" or "brass" in my home.  Any suggestions?  These are called Noritake Chandon:

Then of course, I have the "classic" plastic plates that my 3 boys use.  These do a great job at keeping the food from touching other foods.  You know how gross that can be for a 4 year old.  They are from Target:

 And here is the cabinet that houses my dishes.  I have always insisted on organized kitchen cabinets.  Our new house has small cabinets so this was a challenge.  I will say, my Tupperware cabinet is proving to be a bit more challenging.  

Easter video

My church, Gateway, put out this video. Join us Easter Sunday!!!

Refrigerate Tag

I was tagged by The Miss Elaine-ous Life to post a picture of my refrigerator. Well here it is in all of its messy glory. I almost straightened it up before I snapped the picture, but I thought, "this is real life." So I left it. I shot it far enough away so that the personal numbers and pictures couldn't be made out too well. On the side is a homework sheet for my 1st grader.  I have two digital meat thermometers that are being used more for the magnetic abilities.  The one paper on there that I do look at often is my "21 House Rules" by Greg Harris.  I will post them below.  On the front are many art masterpieces made by two older boys along with a few pics and an invitation to my brother in law's rehearsal dinner.  That is probably way more than you ever wanted to know about my fridge.

The 21 Rules Of This House
by Gregg Harris

1. We obey God.
2. We love, honor and pray for one another.
3. We tell the truth.
4. We consider one another's interests ahead of our own.
5. We speak quietly and respectfully with one another.
6. We do not hurt one another with unkind words or deeds.
7. When someone needs correction, we correct him in love.
8. When someone is sorry, we forgive him.
9. When someone is sad, we comfort him.
10. When someone is happy, we rejoice with him.
11. When we have something nice to share, we share it.
12. When we have work to do, we do it without complaining.
13. We take good care of everything that God has given us.
14. We do not create unnecessary work for others.
15. When we open something, we close it.
16. When we take something out, we put it away.
17. When we turn something on, we turn it off.
18. When we make a mess, we clean it up.
19. When we do not know what to do, we ask.
20. When we go out, we act just as if we were in this house.
21. When we disobey or forget any of the 21 Rules of This House, we accept
the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

I don't get...

"Exquisite Timepieces" aka EXPENSIVE BUTT WATCHES!!! Dh and I were looking through a local magazine pretentiously named, "Elegant Lifestyle" that is delivered to our door for free. I think they got the wrong house. Anyway, on the back cover was an add for a local jeweler who sells Rolex watches. This is the picture of the watch featured:
Dh asked how much I thought that watch was and I guessed $4000. We looked it up and it is averaging $4500...give or take some change. I have been completely humiliated before in a jewelry store as I innocently looked for a watch to give to my love at Christmas. The humiliation came when I spit my coke out on their shiny glass as soon as they told me how much the watch I was looking at was. I think I literally said to the gal, "You've got to be joking, right?"

I have heard that gold diggers hunt for their next millionaire by checking out the watch he wears. I guess I don't run anywhere near those crowds...thank goodness. Even if I did have a lot of money, I would NEVER waste it on an "Exquisite Timepiece." Here is my cool watch:



I mean really.....

Wordless Wednesday

Go to 5 Minutes for Mom to see more WW.

Cheapy Cheap!

Now that I have listed a few items that I believe are worth the extra money, I'd like to list a few items that I, personally, purchase as cheap as possible. First let me say, that the term "cheap" means something different to each person, depending on where they are coming from. I feel like I can get a good "value" from the things below without spending a lot of money. 1. Body lotion. I love the original "Jergens" body lotion with its cherry almond scent. I tend to have dry skin in the winter, so I need a moisturizing lotion, however, I hate greasy feeling lotions. This one is perfect plus it is only about $3.50 for a big bottle with a pump. 2. Makeup. I used to buy all my makeup from the department store when money and time weren't so precious. However, I also used to spend entire days at the mall, which I NEVER do now. I will do almost anything to avoid going to the mall. Funny how things change. I like Almay mascara because it is sensitive for contact wearers, Cover Girl powder, Loreal lipgloss, and Ulta brand tinted moisturizer and eye shadows. I also love Sally Hansen nail polish. 3. Coffee. This one may cause some controversy depending on your point of view. I can't understand paying $5.00 for a cup of coffee at, let's just call it "Moon Cents" when I can buy a whole bag of ground coffee for the same price. Not to mention they burn their beans and make it so strong I end up pouring half out to fill it back up with milk. I personally love "Community Coffee." However, I love some people who think a gallon tin of Folgers is all you need and that I am a "Fancy Pants" for buying that bagged coffee. To each his own..... 4. Shampoo and Conditioner. Again, I used to spend a fortune on salon products because I was told by whomever was currently doing my hair that "Pantene" or whatever other drugstore product I mentioned was the DEVIL. A mortgage, 2 cars, and 3 sons later, I feel like good ol' drugstore Loreal Color Vive does the trick just fine. My hairdresser says my haircolor is holding up great. I have had some awful drugstore products, but this Loreal Color Vive really tames my frizzy due. Well there you have it. I will add more as I think of it. I'd love to hear your suggestions or comments. I am tired now. It is time for some Veronica Mars.....

worth the coinage

I will spend a few extra bucks on only a few items. Otherwise, I am very frugal. Here is just a sample of some things I consider "splurge worthy." 1. Toilet Paper...this only took one bad purchase to realize-nuf said! 2. Olive oil. I don't go crazy when buying evoo, but cheap olive oil is so gross. I usually go middle of the road and always buy cold pressed. Costco has a great Olive Oil by Kirkland. 3. Milk. This is one of the few things I buy organic. I like the Horizon brand. I don't know if the ultra pasteurization is good for me or not, but I love how long it stays fresh and it doesn't have that gross "milk" smell to it. I am ruined for life on this one. Can never go back to store brand. 4. Candles. I love me a nice candle. I usually just have one votive burning, but if it is a good candle, that one votive will reach my whole house. My favorites are Trapp, Tyler, and Votivo (Woodland Hyacinth is an amazing scent by them) 5. Chocolate. If I am going to have a piece of chocolate, I want the experience to be "meaningful." I never buy cheap chocolate chips when baking either. However, I have to say that Nestle's chips are as good as the more expensive brands, in my book. I have found the "Lindt" chocolate truffles to be just what my heart longs for. They have a smooth chocolate center that just glides over your tongue like silk. Ok, I'm done. 6. Haircuts/Color. Every time I try to skimp on this one, I am ridiculed by my friends and family. I have tried to skimp on my haircare way too many times. Each time I think, oh I can highlight my own hair. I always end up with white polka dots on my head. Then I have to go to my hairdresser in shame and admit that I, once again, tried to take matters into my own hands and I desperately need her help out of this ugly mess. This rings true with my cuts as well. The last time I tried to save a buck by going to the local hair school, I was mangled by dull scissors. It was scene. 7. Vacuum Cleaners. 11 years ago, a vacuum cleaner salesman came to our apartment door. We had set the appointment because we wanted the free cleaning that came with sale's pitch. He poured salt on our floor and then vacuumed it up with my cheapy Dirt Angel. I thought he got it all until he used his beast of a machine and went over the seemingly clean carpet where the salt used to be. A TON of salt came up. We were sold. He gave us a spiel on allergies and dust and all that, which just made us feel justified to spend the money he was proposing. Then we haggled over the price for what seemed like an eternity, and we humored him when he stepped out of the room to get permission from his manager to cut us such a "special" deal. We fell for it then. Since then, I have learned that we were putty in his hands and that most salesmen use the same tactics. However, I have NEVER regretted that purchase. This machine will suck the smirk off of a flea's face. Yeah we spent a lot on it, but in 11 years, I have never had to replace it. The only repair I've ever done to it was earlier this year, and it only cost $25.00. I know people who spend $200 every other year on the latest cheap vacuum at Sears. Then they complain that their allergies are driving them crazy. We spend so much on our floors whether with carpet, tile, or wood, and then we expect a Wally World special to keep them looking new. I'll get off of my soap box now. Btw, our vacuum is a Tri-Star. In case you were wondering. In my next post, I will discuss what is not worth the extra money, in my humble opinion. Stay tuned!

They're everywhere...

After reading this great post by Musings of A Housewife, I was reminded of what happened to me and my mil last night. After a long day with kids and a hectic dinner time, I needed some brain dead time. What better place to go brain dead than the .99 Cent store. I love this place. My mil wanted an adventure too, so she came along. I was able to get my kids their Valentine Day goodies and some cute V-Day table decorations GUILT FREE because they were only 99 cents each. I checked out first. I noticed the cashier was yawning, so I asked her if she was ready to go home (DUH!!!!) and she said that she was and that she was also excited to have Valentine's Day off. I smiled and walked over to the greeting card's display while my mil paid for her items. Three minutes later I walked back to the check out line only to see my sweet mil holding the cashier's hand, discreetly praying with this young woman who had tears streaming down her face. They said goodbye and we walked to my car. My mil then told me that this woman told her that she was so tired because she had been up most of the night with her 4 year old son. After a few questions from my mil, the woman then said her son had "special needs" after having Meningitis, as a baby. It was a miracle that this child even made it through that illness. His name was Elijah because that was the mom's favorite prophet in the Bible. My mil then asked if she was a single mom. The cashier said that although her husband was still at home, that he was leaving them. The cashier went on to say that she didn't know what she was going to do because she has 7 children at home and only makes $6.00 an hour. On top of all of this, her youngest, Elijah, has many needs. That is when my mil reached her hand out and prayed for this woman. The woman told my mil that she needed that so badly, and thanked her over and over again. After hearing this story, on our way home, we prayed for that family again together. I was very touched at how my mil took just a little time to reach out to a hurting woman. Even though she was a complete stranger, this cashier desperately needed a gentle, reaffirming touch from another warm-blooded human being. How many hurting people do we cross paths with everyday? We have so many opportunities to extend Christ's love to the people around us, if we will just look up every now and then.

4 wishes

On the way to lunch after church yesterday, my oldest son who is 6 said to us, "Mommy and Daddy, you know what I would wish for if I had 4 wishes?" #1. I would wish that we had just enough money to pay for everything that we needed so that we never had to worry about making money or going to work. #2. I wish that everyone we knew would know God. #3. I wish that superheroes were real. #4. I wish I could use "The Force" for real. I think that pretty much sums it up. :*)

Get rid of the old...Make way for the new!

My fashion forward friend came to visit me this last weekend. As you know, I was in desperate need for some new clothes. The only problem was that I wasn't in the "mood" to shop or try on new clothes. There is a ZONE that I get into when real shopping success happens. If I'm not in the ZONE, then not much is accomplished. My friend was losing her patience with me. For example, one of the shops that I went into had a line to try on clothes. W ell, I was so put out that I had to wait in line with a bunch of 16 year olds just to try on 2 pairs of pants. My friend forced me back into line. I am glad that she did because those 2 pairs of pants ended up being the only pants I bought all weekend. Here they are. I got them in dark khaki and white.



I couldn't find a pair of jeans to fit me to save my life. It didn't help to overhear my friend ask the saleslady if she could go grab her a pair of the same jeans, only in a 00. Yes that is two zeros. She is sweet and funny so I put up with her smallness. And for whatever reason, my feet decided to swell and NOT fit into any shoes either. Picture the ugly stepsisters trying on the petite glass slipper with their giant hooves hanging over the shoe, and that is exactly the scene that was going on while I tried on shoes. I did find these cute little things at GAP and they fit so well that I quickly bought them before my foot decided to grow again.


I also bought a couple of soft comfy shirts to where everyday. I am really drawn to the nautical look this year. Everything I bought was either Navy, white, or Kelly Green. I then came home and cleaned out my closet. I remembered that Tim Gunn says the "Keep" items must fit and make you feel great when wear them. I threw out 75% of my old stuff and ended up with this pile:
I am going to try to sell some of the nicer pieces on Craig's List. The rest will go to Goodwill. You can't really tell how much is under that pile, but it filled 4 big shopping bags. I need your advice on where to find a really great pair of black heels. I want something timeless and classic. I don't mind a heel. However, I don't want to pay an arm and leg for them either. I completely understand those people on "What Not To Wear" when they get overwhelmed in the store. I felt that. There were so many options, and I didn't really know what I wanted. I will shop more when I get more of a feeling for what I want.

Enquiring minds want to know...

I copied this from an email I got today, so ignore the sending back stuff. 1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? My middle name is after an aunt of my mom's.

2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Thurs. night

3. Do you like your handwriting? no, looks like a boy

4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? corned beef

5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? 3

6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Yes

7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? not as much as I used to. I get annoyed when an entire conversation is sarcasm. Easy to do, but lazy.

8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? yes

9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No!

10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Granola

11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? no

12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? physically??? NO

3. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Milwaukee Joe's Almond Joy (local fav.)

14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? If they smile or not

15. RED OR PINK? Pink

16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? too easily offended

17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? Becca

18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? Yes!

9. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? white pj pants w/ pink stripes, white slippers

20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? coffee w/ hazelnut creamer and 2 eggs

21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The hum of my heater blowing

22. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Navy Blue....CLASSIC

23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Just thinking of this the other day...Noxzema face cream, dried lavender, Rosemary,& Almond

24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? receptionist trying to book a haircut.

25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? Very much. We go way back!

26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Women's college Volleyball, I enjoyed watching the Mavericks a few years ago when they were good.

27. HAIR COLOR? light blonde...thanks Clairol

28. EYE COLOR? Green

29. Do you wear contacts? yes

30. FAVORITE FOOD? sushi, brie cheese, spaghetti

31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? happy endings...DON'T WATCH "THE MIST"

32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? 300. What's the big deal with this movie? Male ego trip, I say.

33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? black zip hooded

34. SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer all the way! I'm ready for it now!

35. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs

36. FAVORITE DESSERT? this will sound so Hee-Haw, but I would take a good Apple Fritter (from a donut store) any day over a fancy dessert.

37. Most likely to respond? Not sure

38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Becca

39. What book are you reading now? hahahahaha

40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? just plain blue w/ ergonomic wrist pad

41. WHAT Do YOU WATCH ON T.V.? The View, What Not to Wear, Find your style (just found this show), Daily Show, LOST on THURS!!!!

42. FAVORITE SOUND? high heals on a hard floor, tap dancing

43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles

44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Minsk

45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? my crazy,sensitive sense of smell is sometimes freakish

46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Shawnee, Kansas

47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Everyone's

Wordless Wednesday

This is my first time at Wordless Wednesday. Do videos count? The only word I hear is Bam Bam saying, "Whoa!!!!" One of his favorites. What a little ham. You are next! Click the link above.

Great CD by Sara Groves

"All of my life I have been grooming my faith, but have missed something about the purpose of that grooming. If I understand scripture at all, I have to know that to enter into the suffering of the poor and the oppressed is to know Christ and his suffering.”Sara Groves I am a HUGE Sara Groves fan. She is a great communicator via her lyrics. I started listening to her first CD, "Past the Wishing Well" after the birth of my first baby. As you know, the first baby is a huge adjustment, especially for a naturally selfish and lazy person like myself. I had to overturn some big stuff in those first few weeks because I was determined to be a good mother, and wanted to do it God's way. You know all that "laying down your life stuff." Anyway that first CD really helped me get through that time. It was like she knew what I needed to hear and wrote the CD just for me. Every one of her CDs since then, has touched me in the same way. I went to her myspace page to see if she had any new music to download to my own myspace page, and read her comments on why she wrote the latest album "Tell Me What You Know." SHE DID IT AGAIN!!! She captured a thought (the top quote) that I've been wrestling with lately too. I really encourage you to read the article yourself. I like to think of my daily battles as exercising my spiritual muscles. The more I can turn the other cheek, die to self, love unconditionally, lay down another offense, the stronger I become for the Kingdom of God. I'm not saying these things are small or insignificant. These are the hardest things to do. It would be easier to stand in front of millions of people preaching, then let that awful comment from a relative go by without getting offended. BUT WHAT IS ALL THIS GROOMING OF OUR FAITH FOR??? I think it is this: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come." Luke 4:18-19 NLT I heard Dutch Sheets say that this verse was Jesus' mission statement. Is it mine? In theory, yes; in practice, not yet. But I am moving in that direction, hopefully.

spiritual training takes a nose dive...

Our pastor is doing a series on putting God FIRST in our lives. He was talking about making our prayer life a priority this last Sunday and was discussing how the Lord's prayer is a model for us to know HOW to pray. I thought it was about time I taught my 6 and 4 year old this prayer. I learned it (plus several others) as a small child, so I knew they could get it. Well, tonight after story time I told them I was going to teach them the prayer. I first said the whole thing to them. They stared at me with blank faces. I told them to repeat after me and started with the first line: Me: Our Father who art in heaven 6 yr. old (bc 4 yr. old was really confused): Our Father ...dart in heaven Me: Hallowed be thy name. 6 yr. old: Halloween be thy name Me: Let's try this again, both of you this time Me: Our Father who art in Heaven 4yr. old tries by himself: Our Father who farts in heaven !!!????!!! WE'RE DONE! That was all it took. They started laughing hysterically. I admit I laughed too. Then they started talking about stinky toots being in heaven. I think even God snickered a little. I told the boys we would try again tomorrow.

I'm not dead

I know  it seems like I have been dead to blogging.  Honestly, I go in spurts of really wanting to blog my thoughts to times when I am just to lazy to convert thoughts and incidents to written words.  Because I know all 3 of my readers are dying to know what we've been up to, I have decided to do a photo/video update of the last month:

Dec. 20, my only unmarried brother in law (my dh's younger brother) proposed to his girlfriend.  We met them at a restaurant only moments after he popped the question.  She was so surprised because my bro in law had all her friends and family at the restaurant to congratulate them.  I am sure glad she said, "YES" because that could've been a really awkward moment.  I am really happy for them both.  His fiance', "S," as I will call her, is a nice girl.  She is really sweet to my kids which gives her major points, in my book.  They are getting married in March. Lancelot gets to be the ring bearer.  He is excited to be  IN the wedding.  Of course, Einstein wants a job too, so DH and I are trying to make up something he can do at the reception.  We thought about getting him a disposable camera and having him go around taking pictures.  Here is a picture of the happy couple:

I got to play hostess to my family over the holidays.  It was a lot of fun.  They live in KS, which is where I am originally from.  We had a great Christmas even with the bazillion kids in my house.  See, my sister also has 3 boys, ages 8, 7, and 4.  We are at a phase in life, with all the kids, that we don't get a lot of quality time to chat, undisturbed, but our times together are certainly never boring.   My husband got the game "Rock Band" for Christmas from his buddy.  The 2 older boys love playing with it almost as much as DH.

One of the highlights of my dad's visit was when he joined in on the "Rock Band" fun with DH, and my sister's husband.  It was pretty awesome....(sorry dad):

Good times!

I wish I had some video from New Year's Eve.  Our friends came over and they also "Rocked" out with us on "Rock Band."  Unfortunately, we didn't get any video of that .  It was fun to just let all our kids play at home, eat fattening food, and chill with friends in a low key way.  

I've made some resolutions that are pretty typical:  lose a few pounds, give first of the day to time with the Lord, organize all closets in house, and get some new clothes.  I am really excited to finally get some new clothes.  I haven't had new clothes since before I was pregnant with Bam Bam.  I plan to rid my closet of all the clothes that are stained, wrong size, or just plain unflattering before I go shopping.  That should leave me with about 5 pieces.  Seriously, Tim Gunn would have a fit if he saw my clothes.  I should care more.  I don't want to end up an old, tired-looking mom.  Dh and I are going to get a sitter for the whole day and go shop together in the next few weeks.  I'll let you know how it goes.  

I'd also like to start doing more in the house as far as decorating.  I have put it off in the name of "having a baby."  However, my baby is now 18 months old.  We don't have the money to buy a bunch of new stuff, but I'd like to get a vision of what I will do in the future.  I can do a little at a time.  I just need a vision on how it is supposed to look.  I have all sorts of ideas for OTHER people's houses, but draw a blank on my own.  I need some inspiration from a good magazine.  Any ideas?

Till next time......