Life's Adventure

Awesome Bunny Give Away by Cathy Strate

2011-02-24T16:52:00.001-05:00

http://tolentreasures.blogspot.com/2011/02/rolling-bunnies-giveaway.html

still here...

2011-01-27T09:14:00.000-05:00

We are still here... God is good!

New Year

2009-12-28T16:25:00.002-05:00

Into the New Year we head. The Lord, He is God. We choose to trust His direction and walk in obedience to all He has called us to be.

My focus for 2010 is to be a better mom and wife. To spread joy and seek His joy where ever I am. My family is the most amazing gift He has given me. He calls me to direct them back to Him - it's a huge job - with His grace I can do it!

Happy New Year to you all!

Can you figure this out?

2009-10-31T11:02:00.000-04:00

This is a crazy website, can you figure it out?

http://www.regiftable.com:80/regiftingrobinpopup.html

Searching for Wisdom

2009-10-27T11:57:00.002-04:00

The Bible tells us - If any lacks wisdom, he should ask. And to seek wisdom out. We are at a place where we need wisdom. With may decisions. We are seeking the Scriptures, praying and fasting.

gLassEs for aNotHer waDdiNg

2009-10-08T17:24:00.001-04:00

Guess who is getting glasses next...

I'm so thankful!

2009-10-05T19:50:00.002-04:00

The Lord is GOOD! He is faithful! He is our provider! I received a call today informing me I could go back to work! praise Him! I've been rejoicing all day! thanks to all who agreed with us in prayers!

please pray

2009-10-04T22:18:00.002-04:00

Please pray for Steve Murphy. www.prayforian.com The Murphy's are friends of friends from Indiana. His son Ian was in a terrible car accident three years ago. Steve was recently diagnosed with cancer, a brain tumor. They are grounded Christians and have faith - we would be so in awe to see a mighty move of God and healing for this family. Please agree in prayer with us. For more info. please read their blog - www.prayforian.com

Ezra

2009-09-21T15:52:00.002-04:00

Happy 10th Birthday Ezra! I love you so much buddy!

Amazing weekend!

2009-09-08T07:44:00.002-04:00

What an amazing and full weekend! Here are a few things that happened with us -

date night
surprise bday gifts
Ollie's
church
rode bikes
played with the neighbors kitten
Peggy Blose cake
Idlewild
cleaned out the van
took out the air conditioner
laundry
Target
sewing crafty pumpkins
enjoying the porch
a nice pontoon boat ride
jet skiing - even Ellie! Ezra! Grace!
riding on a four wheeler
s'mores
chipped a tooth while sewing (- don't bite a needle to pull it through)
swinging on swings
surprise church pew gift (LOVE IT!!)
mums
coffee
everyone, including Isaac, on the Rollo Coaster
Sheetz supper
Pandora charms
free babysitting!

I am so blessed for so many reasons! Thanks to everyone who made my bday weekend special!

1st Day Of School 2009

2009-09-02T16:26:00.003-04:00

Summer days are gone... the first day of Fourth Grade, Second Grace and Head Start

August Summary

2009-08-25T08:16:00.005-04:00

OH my! What a month!

We have been so blessed to have Heather, Adam and Maya (and Lani for a few days) all month! I love having my sister around! She has the best way of looking at hospitality - I swear, I thought I was hospitibale - but she is a people person! She has the kindest attitude about loving on others. It's so natural for her! Her kids are a hoot! Maya is a love bug! Adam loves to be around Ezra and Ellie - he is their best friend! Heather, I appreciate all you've done to help us in the chaos of the past few weeks! Thank you so much! I can't imagine what it will be like after Fri. when you return to London - I'll have to start my Dec. countdown!

Camping on the 7th led to a broken nose related from a freak skateboard accident for Ezra. Surgery at Children's Hospital on the 18th. Today we go for the removal of his "cast." He trashed his glasses - so my boy, who will be 10 soon, now has contacts! He seems so grown up!

Grace had five fillings - yes five! We brush everyday - but I need to be better at checking how well the brushing is done! A huge thanks to my mother in law for taking her to and from the dentist.

I found out I no longer have a job. The PA state budget needs to be signed - anyone else want to "Amen!" that. The Better Kid Care Program does not have any $ to pay Renee' and me - so... this could be a permanent thing - or only temporarily - Oh goodness, I need my job! It's what kept us out of the red - with making only minimums on our bills. All prayers regarding this - much appreciated.

Dayton Fair Week was a whirlwind - our Grace was voted Dayton Fair Princess. She had a very busy week representing the Dayton Fair. It was a ton of fun! She was blessed with free food all week. Plus all of the ice cream from Turner Dairy she could eat! All of our kids enjoyed the rides and animals!

Ellie was accepted to the local Head Start program. As a former HS teacher I cannot say enough great things about the program! I am so thankful she was accepted. The bus will pick her up right outside our door. Can it be? My Ellie is old enough to go on a bus anywhere? (sigh!!!) She is such a big girl! All she wants to do is draw and color!

One more week of summer vacation - we plan to make the most of each day! Have fun! Thanks for reading!

2009-08-25T08:16:00.001-04:00

Praise!

2009-07-30T07:28:00.003-04:00

My insurance is better than I thought! Full coverage for chiropractic physical therapy! Praise God!

Today Isaac and I are home alone! Ezra is at the YMCA for camp. Grace is with a friend at Crooked Creek Park. Elliana is with my sister at my moms. What shall we do? - Probably go get a few groceries? Or maybe, just hang out here all day and play! He can be the center of the world - with no one else competing for my attention - ahh... will he know how to respond?

It's going to be a wonderful day! Enjoy yours too!

a little info. from the dr

2009-07-29T08:45:00.002-04:00

HI dear friends! I spoke with my dr. regarding the MRI's I had last week and learned that I have severe arthritis in my upper back and neck. I would suppose that is what is happening in my other joints. I will have another test, EMG, at UPMC Presby next Tues. Once I have that, the neurologist will meet with me to determine a plan. Anyone know a good chiropractor who is not too expensive? My crazy, cheap insurance plan will not cover chiropractic treatments.

I am so thankful that it's not something worse! Praise the Lord!

Heather and her two youngest stayed here last night. It's so nice to have them back in the states! I plan to make the most of this time!

Everyone is waking up and it's getting busy here... until next time!

prayer requests

2009-07-17T08:26:00.002-04:00

Life is tough, but God is good! So good! All the time. He is faithful and has only good plans for us. The enemy is quick to lurk around seeking to detroy, kill and steal what God wants for us.

Saying that - please pray for some health issues that have been going on for me. Three weeks ago the dr sent me for an MRI - the results suggested "early onset MS." But to God's glory, the neurologist over turned that telling me that was not what he thought at all.

Over the next three weeks I have several other tests/scans scheduled. I'm trusting Him completely and know that what ever is uncovered will be for His glory! I also believe in the power of our prayers and our crying out to Him. Which is why I am posting and requesting prayer!

Standing on His Promises,
Holly

Brian and Ezra

2009-06-21T09:32:00.003-04:00

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T08:22:00.004-04:00

To the most amazing man in my life. I never imagined you would be such an amazing father! You are the best dad I've ever met! Our children are so blessed to be able to call you Dad! I love you Brian!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-11T08:01:00.004-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all my friends, old and new! I'm thinking of so many of you today - may the Lord bless each of you and remind you of the calling He has placed on each of your lives. We are each at a different stage of our mothering - it's an adventure! Be sure to enjoy every step of the way!

It's been a while!

2009-05-05T08:43:00.003-04:00

Life's Busy! I'm sure everyone would agree with me here!

The girls and I spent yesterday at the Pittsburgh Zoo! It rained all day! But it was fun! The animals were all very active - especially the orangatangs - who were "in the mood." We quickly passed by them to spare the sex talk at 7 and 4!

Grace really enjoyed hanging out with her friends! It was really cool to see her with her peers! I'd like to be friends with Grace if I were 7! Ellie was so sweet! We went with Grace's First Grade Class. She smiled at me on the way and said, "This is my first time on a bus!" Her eyes were huge and she was grinning ear to ear! Mom was able to go with us too!

Ezra and Grace are playing base ball this summer! We've been rained out a bunch - they seem to like it. They both can hit the ball. :) They must get their athletic ability from Brian!

The school year is winding down. Lots going on to wrap things up. Ezra will have his class trip soon - The Carnegie Science Center! I'm looking forward to that trip - I plan to go too! Ezra will attend a summer camp to continue to support social skills development. He seems to be doing well, but the maturity between him and his male peers seems more obvious. Please continue to pray for him. He doesn't seem to bothered by this - but may at some point. So I am praying.

Isaac!

2009-04-18T13:04:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday Baby Boy Isaac! Today you are TWO! I love you so much buddy! I can't believe you are TWO! Time flies! I'll never have a one year old again, sigh!

London!

2009-03-17T22:25:00.005-04:00

I haven't been on blogger much. I'm working so much more online - so I'm ready to be away from my computer when I'm done. My job has REALLY picked up - almost trippled in the past year! Praise the Lord for the income! I love my job!

I will not be posting much - I'm leaving for an eight day trip to London next week. I will be bringing Delani, my 9 yr. old niece home with me. She has a three week break - so she will be going to her dads in MI. I'm so pumped for the trip! and nervous!

Please pray for my family. :) Brian will have his hands full! Thanks in advance to everyone who plans to help! I couldn't do this without you!

London!

2009-03-17T22:25:00.001-04:00

Pictures from "Murder at the Deadwood Saloon"

2009-03-04T09:58:00.004-05:00

What a fun party! We really enjoyed the night!
Everyone looked great. Getting into character was tough for me. I felt goofy faking a southern accent. LOL

Night of Mystery Dinner Party

2009-02-27T09:48:00.005-05:00

My friend Becky is hosting a Murder Mystery Dinner party tomorrow night. We are so excited! I've been searching for our costumes and getting things together for about a month now.

We were all assigned characters to take part in the mystery.
Brian is a well known gambler, Gambling Jack. I am Anna Belle his wife

Gambling Jack: Gambler. Jack is known as the best hand in poker either side of the Mississippi and has not lost a major tournament in the last 5 years. Until now.

Anna Belle: Wife to Gambling Jack. Some say Anna Belle is the reason Gambling Jack always wins.

So many friends will be there and so many more offered supplies to help! Thanks!! It should really be a fun night. www.nightofmystery.com We will be attending the Murder at the Deadwood Saloon

Pics to come - I rented Brian's costume yesterday - OH MY! My final dress came from a local thrift shop - it is vintage! Complete with lots of crinoline to make it full. We're practicing our southern drawl and reading up on the slang. It's gonna be such a hoot!

Susan B Koman Crop for the Cure

2009-02-13T23:04:00.001-05:00

Second Annual Crop for the Cure
Saturday, April 4th from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Location? New Hope Assembly of God ~ NuMine,PA

$10 prepay by April 1st or $15 at the door
First 10 to pre-register and pay receive “free gift"
Prepay your name gets entered 2x
Prepay and bring a friend your name gets entered 3x
Rent a “yard sale” table and sale your unwanted scrapbook supplies

Three Make & Take’s , Prizes and Drawings, Chinese Auction
Snacks/Beverages Provided. Take outs available or bring covered dish to share.

100% of all monies raised will benefit
Lisa’s Susan B Koman 3 Day Breast Cancer Walk - Philadelphia PA July 24-26, 2009

To register or for more info:
Lisa Hileman (814) 257-8094 hileman01@alltel.net
Holly Wadding (814) 257-8829 hwadding@windstream.net
If you are unable to attend and wish to still make a donation make check payable to:
“The Breast Cancer 3-Day” and mail to
Lisa Hileman
233 School House Road
Dayton, PA 16222
or go directly to www.the3day.org/goto/LisaHileman09

POWER!!

2009-02-13T23:03:00.000-05:00

I finally have power! Ahhhh.....

ballerina girl and her friends

2009-01-30T18:08:00.004-05:00

Grace is heading to a theme mystery party for one of her friends. She had to be in character. I had to share pics, she is so excited!

old pics

2009-01-30T12:09:00.002-05:00

I uploaded a few pics to my facebook at the request of my good friend Nicole!

I thought I would share a few with you

flu

2009-01-28T15:15:00.001-05:00

Isaac and Ellie have the flu. He's been sick since Monday. I'm wondering how many times I'm going to be puked on before this is over.

:)

BloGGer?!?!

2009-01-21T23:34:00.001-05:00

What's up with Blogger? Anyone?? Where is my pretty background? Anyone else having issues with Blogger?

haPpInESs!!!

2009-01-20T08:37:00.002-05:00

Happiness is a state of mind or feeling such as contentment, satisfaction, pleasure, or joy.[1] A variety of philosophical, religious, psychological and biological approaches have been taken to defining happiness and identifying its sources.

Philosophers and religious thinkers have often defined happiness in terms of living a good life, or flourishing, rather than simply as an emotion. Happiness in this older sense was used to translate the Greek Eudaimonia, and is still used in virtue ethics. In everyday speech today, however, terms such as well-being or quality of life are usually used to signify the classical meaning, and happiness is reserved[citation needed] for the felt experience or experiences that philosophers historically called pleasure.

Happiness
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Today I feel HAPPY! Brian asked me two nights ago what makes me happy. I've been thinkging about it a lot since. I often struggle with being depressed. But the Lord is gently reminding me to find JOY in ALL things.

Here are a few things that really make me happy. Simple things -
my family
talking to my sister
blog post that inspire me
enjoying a good book (just finished Twilight)
jeans that fit
a date night
hearing my kids laugh
a clean house
the laundry being done
Disney World
feeling loved

and so much more. but for now I must go. I'm being called away to play. I can't wait - yesterday I was sick and couldn't do much - so today is a new day. A HAPPY ONE!!!

What makes you happy?

Ezra

2009-01-13T18:29:00.002-05:00

I just got done telling a friend earlier today we haven't been sick. Poor Ezra got off the bus and ran to the bathroom to throw up. And it happened again about an hour later. He's sleeping now. Please pray it is contained to Ezra. And please pray that he is feeling better. He'll stay home from school tomorrow!

I had to cancel going to the Penny Rug class Cathy was offering - OH BUMMER!!! I was so pumped to go, I even went out and purchased new sewing scissors! Cathy - PLEASE reschedule! Maybe after you return from your trip - I'm sure you will be busy.

Cleaning!

2009-01-13T08:35:00.003-05:00

Today is a good day to clean! That's what I'll be doing - if I can tear myself away from the computer! lol

I joined Weight Watchers last week and lost over 3 lbs. Baby steps - and I'll be successful! The program is easy to understand and easy to follow. I tried just doing WW online in the fall - but I really need the accountability of weighing in weekly. So that is now part of my Monday routine!

Not a lot going on here. Isaac and Ellie have been fighting with each other a lot. So I'm constantly breaking up fights or trying to encourage them not to whine or scream at each other. You can tell Isaac is almost two - OH MY! the boy has is own opinion about almost everything and he is very determined!!! the computer, microwave, dishwasher, water dispenser are his favorite "toys!" And when those are not of interest, he's been into Thomas the Train. It reminds me so much of Ezra's toddler days!

Grace continues to enjoy piano lessons. Her teacher told Brian that she is memorizing things that children her age are not able to do. She amazes me! It makes me happy to see her excitment when she plays. Her fingering and expressions make her look so mature! Can she only be seven?! It all sounds so beautiful to me!

Ezra is doing so well in school! His TSS hours are being reduced from 25 to 15. He has an amazing teacher this year. I wish I could bottle her enthusiasm and be like that myself. Ezra responds so well to her! Thank you Mrs. Dilts! We appreciate you so much!

- I really need to go and clean! - Until next time

Rain! Ice! & Snow!

2009-01-07T10:14:00.001-05:00

Big kids were sent home early yesterday and do not have school today due to the weather. We are all taking on the role of Cinderella and getting a lot done! It's much needed - the beds are stripped and we are all going to be scrubbing - I hope they are as excited about this as I am!

Reading

2009-01-03T23:28:00.004-05:00

When I was in high school and college I would spend hours reading fiction novels. I enjoyed VC Andrews and Danielle Steele. I can remember staying up all night reading a new VC Andrews book - hearing that I was crazy from my roommate. But books used to consume me. It was like I was transferred right into the happenings of the book.

I didn't read for a long time. I could barely get my devotion time down or make it through an entire magazine. My friend Renee' gave me three novels in August by Meg Cabot - the author of The Princess Diaries. I thought the titles "fit" me, "Size 12 is not Fat" "Size 14 is not Fat Either: and "Big Boned" A murder mystery series - and I again remembered why I loved reading. It was fun, like I could step out of reality.

I'm not current with books, authors, or novels. I picked up a Jodie Picoult book titled "19 Minutes" right before Christmas. I have spent about 16 hours over the past five days consuming this book. The cover shows a close up of hands being held. I grabbed the book quickly thinking it would be light reading. But it really hit something in me. Maybe fear. Fear of the future, of who my children will be come. And has really stirred me to pray for my children and the youth of America.

Here is a synopsis of the book, taken from Jodi Picoult's home page.

Synopsis:
In this emotionally charged novel, Jodi Picoult delves beneath the surface of a small town to explore what it means to be different in our society.

In Sterling, New Hampshire, 17-year-old high school student Peter Houghton has endured years of verbal and physical abuse at the hands of classmates. His best friend, Josie Cormier, succumbed to peer pressure and now hangs out with the popular crowd that often instigates the harassment. One final incident of bullying sends Peter over the edge and leads him to commit an act of violence that forever changes the lives of Sterling’s residents.

Even those who were not inside the school that morning find their lives in an upheaval, including Alex Cormier. The superior court judge assigned to the Houghton case, Alex—whose daughter, Josie, witnessed the events that unfolded—must decide whether or not to step down. She’s torn between presiding over the biggest case of her career and knowing that doing so will cause an even wider chasm in her relationship with her emotionally fragile daughter. Josie, meanwhile, claims she can’t remember what happened in the last fatal minutes of Peter’s rampage. Or can she? And Peter’s parents, Lacy and Lewis Houghton, ceaselessly examine the past to see what they might have said or done to compel their son to such extremes. Nineteen Minutes also features the return of two of Jodi Picoult’s characters—defense attorney Jordan McAfee from The Pact and Salem Falls, and Patrick DuCharme, the intrepid detective introduced in Perfect Match.

Rich with psychological and social insight, Nineteen Minutes is a riveting, poignant, and thought-provoking novel that has at its center a haunting question. Do we ever really know someone?

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T10:22:00.002-05:00

Wow, can it be 2009? Already? I swear the scare of Y2K just seems like a few months ago, maybe not months, but really not THAT long ago!? Life passes by so quickly! Praying each of you who read are able to slow down and enjoy what's important this upcoming year. I know that's my plan!

Be blessed and safe! Happy New Year!

One more week~

2008-12-29T09:33:00.002-05:00

I've got a whole week with all four kids at home. Any creative ideas to keep us busy?

We are planning to work on play doh potato head and construct our gingerbread house the last one we did - it was June - so I'm not too late with this project) Right now, they are making tents with the couch and blankets.

I took the tree down and removed some of our holiday decorations on Sat. It feels good to get rid of some of the clutter.

I look forward to your ideas! Remember - age - 9, 7, 3, and almost 2
(can that be? - almost TWO??!!)

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T20:31:00.003-05:00

For unto us a child is born, He is the Savior! The Creator, the King of Kings! He is the reason we celebrate! Praying that the Lord blesses each of you in the way you need. Direct your focus on the Lord, seek Him while He may be found. Draw near to the Lord and He will draw near to you.

And so holiday break begins!

2008-12-19T09:18:00.003-05:00

It's official, my kids started their holiday break today. Their school was cancelled because of talk of an ice storm this morning. Soo-o-o-o.... they are off til next year!!! Wow, what will we do for the next 16 days?!!

Grace's party was a blast! We adapted the snow ball toss to tossing the paper from the gift exchange - I place the wreath over the trash can and they shot their snowball of paper in - a quick and easy way to clean up! They enjoyed the ginger bread boys - but didn't like eating them so a lot of them were tossed away, boo-hoo - they were expensive! Poor Ezra will have to wait til Jan. to have his school party, it was scheduled for today.

We plan to bake some special treats out of the Pampered Chef "Festive Holiday Desserts" cookbook this afternoon. I think we will start with the Candy Cane Brownie Lollipops! DELISH!!! p. 29 if you have the book. We may put our gingerbread house together today too. Maybe.

I hope you all are enjoying this time of year! It's my favorite! We've been celebrating this entire month. It's been fun to break things into little bites - it's less overwhelming for me and the kids. Ezra especially does well when we do a little at a time.

Enjoy your day!

Not normal

2008-12-18T00:34:00.002-05:00

Imagine this, I can't sleep. I am the queen of sleep.

Tomorrow's Grace's class party. I'm a little nervous. I'm worried I do not have enough creative things planned and how I will keep the icing for the gingerbread men ready. It's only a two hour party - unwrap gift exchange, nativity sticker activity, "Snowball" (balled up tissue paper) Toss into a holiday wreath, and decorate gingerbread men. They're first graders, I hope they will enjoy!

I worry too much, especially when I cannot sleep!

In ALL circumstances -

2008-12-17T11:10:00.001-05:00

Give Thanks to the Lord! For He is good! HE alone is Good! His Love Endures Forever!

Baking Cookies with Gummy

2008-12-15T09:32:00.004-05:00

Yes that's flour all over their faces - they had a bit of a flour fight!

Ezra was there for the decorating - he wasn't into the messy dough part. Of course, he ate his share!

I've been wanting to post a few pics from our sugar cookie baking day with Brian's mom. Grace and Ellie REALLY enjoyed!! Thanks Brenda!

Heather's Blog Created

2008-12-13T10:12:00.003-05:00

Hi Friends!

I've set up a blog for Heather - so it's easier for her to keep everyone updated as to what's happening with them.

hjintheuk.blogspot.com That's HJ (Heather Joyce) in the UK.

I can't wait to see her updates!

We are home, Heather is in London. I just got off the phone with Firas, she is sleeping. Poor gal has had a tough week! She will go to the UAE to get her babies by the end of next week. They have been with Firas' family near Dubai. It sounds like they have REALLY been having fun with his family.

My house is a wreck - thanks to Heather! REALLY thanks to Heather! She sent me home with a ton of goodies that she couldn't pack. Thanks Sis! I have all kinds of momentos from your OH home! It helps me feel like you are not so far away!

We're off...

2008-12-10T10:24:00.002-05:00

The girls, mom and me are heading to Heather's for one last time. We'll be in OH til late Fri. night. Her flight leaves for the UK Fri. night. We will be helping her close things up at her house and making a few more memories to carry us through til July 12, when she is scheduled to return to the US.

The Craft Bug strikes AGAIN!

2008-12-05T23:37:00.004-05:00

I've been crafting this evening and enjoying it!

Here is the finished snowman pillow. I added distress ink around the outer edges of the snowman to make him pop out a little. It was a fun project. I'm glad to have it done. One of the kids pulled off one of the snowflake buttons, lol!

The button tree will be pillow eventually. I need to find a fabric for the background. I was so frustrated trying to do that stinkin' blanket stitch. I just couldn't get it! UGH!!!

Here is the Chenelle Snowman I blogged about previously. I found one similar to him on Etsy. The fabrics all came from the thrift store. I added cinnamon oil to the inide of this guy - he smells yummy!

I also finished the tree with the painted tags. It needs something? Any suggestions?

I'm posting pics - sorry, they will be in random order.

Off to bed, tomorrow will be a busy day. We are getting our tree in the morning. And having Christmas with Mom, Larry, Heather and Lani! I can't wait! Heather, Mom, Delani, and I shopped all day today. What a terrific time we had together! Heather is here for a week to close up her house in OH, she leaves for UK next Fri. Mom, my girls and I are going to OH Wed - Fri. to see her off. (sigh)

Holiday Giveaways by Cathy

2008-12-04T22:18:00.004-05:00

OK, OK, May I have everyones ATTENTION?!

My friend Cathy has a great give away listed on her blog! Be sure to go there guickly and add your comment to be added to her drawing! She plans to draw the winners on Sunday. I have several of her items in my house some from local sales and some gifts and some from ebay! I love all that she paints!

Cathy so generously painted a mural at our church, it's beautiful! I REALLY wish I had a picture to post. She also volunteers to teach at MOPs for our past three Nov. meetings - she always brings the best ideas! The penny ornament I just finished was a project she shared.

Thanks for ALL you do Cathy! can't wait to see how your drawing ends!!! {my fingers are crossed!!!}

Here is the link for Cathy's blog Or you can see her blog on the right side of my blog, It's Tolentreasures.blogspot.com I'm not sure her link is posting? Sorry if it didn't

older projects that need finished

2008-11-28T23:46:00.005-05:00

I started this pillow several years ago. I stopped because I didn't like how the snowman blended in with the tea stained muslin. I still feel the same way, but wanted to get it done!

This penny ornament I started last year at a MOPs meeting. I had a horrible time with the blanket stitch. I need to master it, I want to use it on a few other projects I have in mind.

I'm currently putting the pillow together while watching HGTV. I found an old chennille blanket at a local thrift store. I am soaking it in coffee and vanilla. Can't wait to make a standing snowman I found on Esty that inspired me.

I think I'll head to bed soon... thanks for looking at my crafts. I'm having so much fun!

painted tags

2008-11-28T23:41:00.003-05:00

I've been painting tags for a pencil tree I will use as a gift for someone. Hmmm... I can't tell who yet...

I have paper ornies and wooden ones. I'm learning - but pleased with how they've turned out

My latest obsession... CrAFting!!!

2008-11-28T23:37:00.003-05:00

Here is what I've been up to, seriously UP to. Not sleeping because I've been inspired by my friend's holiday ideas. I love these primitive blogs ob blogspot, my friend Cathy has a bunch on her reader.

I decided to add buttons to my count down tree. It's ok

A Few Turkey Day Pics

2008-11-28T09:19:00.003-05:00

We had a very enjoyable day with my moms side of the family. Gram's home-made noodles are the best!

Here are a few things I'm thankful for:
Jesus for saving me and loving me - even though I am often unlovable
my husband
my kids
mom and Heather
Heather and her kids will be home next weekend for a short holiday celebration
family
friends
New Hope church
Of course all of the above could be unsaid, and you'd know I was thankful for each

here are a few of my blessings that you may not know I am thankful for
my Penn State job
the internet
blogging
MOPs
scrapbook days
sleeping in and naps
flavored coffee creamer
snuggling with Brian
my van
chocolate
primitive decorating
weight watchers
gas prices coming down

I'm sure there are so many other things I could post - but all of the kids are upstairs playing, I need to head up to see what is happening.
I've been blessed with so much. Thank you Lord!

an attempt to make a holiday count down

2008-11-27T21:17:00.006-05:00

I was so excited to make a Christmas Count Down out of a tree cut out I found

Look at the mess I made!

I couldn't decide what to do after I covered the tree with cool paper. So I added candy cane tags - but I didn't like them, so I ripped them off. And they left a little bit of paper behind. I feel so frustrated with it, but my kids are happy with it!

This is how it looks so far, but I'm not sure what to do with it, any suggestions??

My friend Cathy painted hers - go here to see how it turned out! It's beautiful!

Etsy? Anyone?

2008-11-19T21:28:00.001-05:00

OK, so have you been to Etsy yet? Oh my, this site could be so addictive!! Love it!

New Name & Look

2008-11-18T22:00:00.007-05:00

HI All

I've been looking for a fresh blog look. I found this one here shelsscraps.blogspot.com She has a ton of creative ideas to pick from.

If you go there, be sure to give her the credit she deserves. Change is good!

Be blessed!

Isaac and Mom

2008-11-13T08:36:00.002-05:00

We discovered that Isaac and Mom have a similar smile

I have a friend

2008-11-10T13:30:00.002-05:00

I have a friend who has a drinking husband. He has also been hitting her. She just confided in me today. They have children.

PLEASE pray for her husband to be set free, for hers and her children's safety. They have financial needs.

She is a Christian. Her children also desire to serve the Lord.

London Dreamin'

2008-11-09T21:47:00.005-05:00

My dear sweet Maya

at dad's over the summer

Flat Grace visit's Perrysburg for a short time!

an older pic from last year - notice no Maya and Isaac

Here's my latest obsession. Heather asked me to go to London Jan 1-? (5 or 6) to take Delani back from her Christmas Break with her dad. Heather, Firas, Maya and Adam will be in Dubai for most of Dec.

She and Firas would pay for my flight and provide housing. Brian is hesitant because he'd be with the kids and he really wants to go too. But the timing seems perfect - he'd miss two days of work max. and I bet we could get a sitter for at least one of the days.

We were hoping to go in the spring of next year. (still pondering what we'd do with the kids because we wanted to take a romantic trip alone)

Heather suggested I bring Grace with me in Jan. But Brian and I would be responsible for her ticket - which is close to $1000 right now.

OH MY! The though of traveling abroad sounds magnificent! Being over there with Heather and her family makes me so happy I could almost cry! I love my sister and her kids so stinkin much!

Please pray for things to unfold as the Lord has planned.

nothing too exciting here

2008-11-04T23:48:00.002-05:00

well we now have a democratic president elect. not a shock, just a disapointment.

Isaac's way to play piano

2008-10-21T08:53:00.002-04:00

This is how I found him. He planned it all out. Crazy Kid!!! He was very proud of himself!

17 Years Later

2008-10-13T12:05:00.003-04:00

I had a chance to get together with my closest high school friends this past Friday night. It's been 17 years since the first "prom" photo. Ironically, I was 17 years old in the picture.

Tara, Nicole and Tina - I really enjoyed catching up! I sure hope we do not have to wait too long to do it again!!! Love you guys!!!

devotion

2008-10-07T22:44:00.001-04:00

The Grace Challenge

by Karol Ladd

Key Scripture: Leviticus 19:16-18

“Do not spread slanderous gossip among your people.
“Do not try to get ahead at the cost of your neighbor’s life, for I am the Lord.
“Do not nurse hatred in your heart for any of your relatives.
“Confront your neighbors directly so you will not be held guilty for their crimes.
“Never seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.”

Mom’s Reflection

With thousands of Israelites trudging together through an unknown wilderness, a plan for civility was essential. The people had a long way to go, and they would never make it to the Promised Land if they turned on one another. So in the Book of Leviticus, God provided laws for dealing with both people and circumstances. As you can see from the brief passage we just quoted, those laws of civility and decency were not always easy ones to follow. Yet if we as mothers were to employ even a few of these laws in our relationships today, we would be so much better for it!

As Christians, of course, we are no longer under the rule of Levitical law; we are under grace, thanks to Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for us. As recipients of God’s glorious grace, then, we ought to be showering grace on others in turn. And what does grace toward others look like? I think it looks a lot like today’s passage. Guarding our mouths from gossip, forgiving, not holding grudges—all of these are practical ways we can shed God’s grace on the people around us. Let’s teach our kids, through our words and our example, to reflect on the goodness of God’s wonderful grace and, in turn, to offer that grace to others.

My Prayer

“God of grace and mercy, thank You for pouring Your grace on me through the sacrifice of Your Son. I praise You that through faith in Jesus, I am forgiven. Help me now to forgive others. Guard my mouth from gossip and my heart from grudges. Teach me to be a conduit of Your grace, so that grace flows freely through me to my family members and all the other people in my life. Thank You for Your Word and the direction it gives for living and loving in grace. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.”

My Choices

This week I will choose to focus on God’s great love and grace toward me.
This week I will choose to show grace toward others.
This week I will choose to ask God’s help in guarding my heart and mind.
This week I will choose to: ____________________
For Further Reading: Ephesians 4:28-32

Sanctification is the work of God’s free grace, whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God, and are enabled more and more to die unto sin and live unto righteousness.
―Westminster Catechism

Lord, give us grace and strength to forbear and to persevere. Give us courage and gaiety and the quiet mind, spare to us our friends, soften to us our enemies.
―Robert Louis Stevenson

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reprinted from The Power of a Positive Mom Devotional and Journal by Karol Ladd, Howard Publishing Co., Inc., ©2006.

craft letters for the girl's bedroom door

2008-09-24T14:04:00.003-04:00

OK, here I am again

Had to post my latest crafty idea

two things to tell you all

2008-09-21T17:05:00.000-04:00

I have two things to tell you quickly then I have to get to work.

Today Ezra turned NINE, yep, that's right - 9!!! My eldest just started his first day of being a single digit old. Sigh!!! He's a hoot, I don't know what I'd do without him!

As for my blog - I'm not able to blog so much. I'm really trying to be particular with how I spend my time. So - this will be a kinda farewell. However - I plan to update fun things every once in a while!

Until then, be blessed!

my boy, Isaac

2008-09-15T20:55:00.001-04:00

Isaac does seem to have some type of rash still - most likely a mild form of chicken pox. The pediatrician said that he would be contagious until the marks clear up or scab & to keep him home for 7-10 days. He continues to be happy and busy as usual.

the big kids are really getting into the groove with school. Ezra is starting to have an interest in reading - he actually read tonight before bed - The Magic TreeHouse series that he borrowed from his class library. He also brought home a "flutophone" or recorder today. I've heard "Mary Had a Little Lamb" one hundred times today.

Grace has been bringing home many papers in cursive, I keep checking the grade level - she's in first grade!? and less than two weeks into it... I can't remember being introduced to cursive writing until 3rd grade! She is thrilled to be using her cursive skills. She also continue to enjoy piano. She makes up these beautiful melodies and plays them over and over. I believe she has a natural gift, just like her daddy.

Ellie had a developmental eval done last week. She failed the speech section - which I am not surprised. She begins speech therapy next Monday. 30 minutes per week. She is thrilled to go, and calls it "schwool"

That's it for now. Brian is calling me to snuggle and watch tv.

what do you know about chicken pox?

2008-09-14T09:47:00.000-04:00

What do you know about the chicken pox vaccine? Isaac had his first booster for it on Thurs. Today he has a lovely rash covering various places - mostly his torso and face. The bumps are all raised - two look like blisters.

I'm wondering if he is contagious. I'm wondering if he has chicken pox. I'm waiting for the pediatrician's office to call me back. I'm keeping him home from church today - we have one child who has an immune issue and gets really sick if exposed to anything - so we are playing it safe. I'm not even sure how chicken pox is transferred, but I remember if being very contagious.

feelin better

2008-09-10T13:44:00.001-04:00

HI

a quick update. We're all feeling better. Brian is taking antibiotics still. He also has allergies - so his eyes are itchy!

MOPs is this Sat. I'm excited!

my kids are enjoying school being back in! They seem to be adjusting well.

Life is busy! But GOOD!

Strep!

2008-09-02T12:46:00.000-04:00

Brian and I have both been sick for about 5 days - today I went to the dr. I have strep and two ear infections ~ they were so kind to give Brian an antibiotic too.

finally FOUND

2008-08-26T19:36:00.001-04:00

Grace's glasses!!! they were under the love seat. she found them today when I was moving my furniture. CRAZZZZYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!

look back in July in my blog - we lost them late July.

Saturday, July 26, 2008
Grace lost...
her glasses, has anyone seen them?

We reluctently purchases new ones. Now she has TWO pairs of the exact glasses!!!

interesting, Thanks Carrie!

2008-08-25T20:27:00.000-04:00

VIOLET

You surround yourself with art and music and are constantly driven to express yourself. You often daydream. You prefer honesty in your relationships and believe strongly in your personal morals.

Find out your color at QuizMeme.com!

We're Off!!!

2008-08-22T09:57:00.000-04:00

Oh hooray!! Brian and I are heading east for the weekend! Thanks to our parents we have sitters for all four kids - yes, we are dividing them three ways!!!

I sure will miss these cuties! But will enjoy my time with Brian! This will be our first break since Isaac came over a year ago!!!

temperatures are rizin!

2008-08-20T09:58:00.000-04:00

I have the a/c turned on because it is a little warm today. I was sitting on the bath room floor with Ellie as she was potty training and felt warmth near our baseboard heat. So I went and checked our thermostat - it was set at 90!!!! OH MY! I had to talk to Miss Grace about adjusting the temp. - it was childishness, so I was not harsh - but now she knows not to change the thermostat!

Has that ever happened to you? I remember doing that as a child - my parents were furious!

I'm off to work on laundry!

FaiR!

2008-08-16T20:27:00.002-04:00

We spent the last week at the fair. I'm so tired! So are my kids!

I'm so so happy I got to see Tara and her family! Always a perk of the fair!! Missed seeing you Nic this year, maybe next?

Pics to come. Be blessed!

God's plan for us

2008-08-12T22:22:00.000-04:00

God’s Perfect Plan

Key Scripture: Jeremiah 29:10–14

“The truth is that you will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes. I will gather you out of the nations where I sent you and bring you home again to your own land.”

Mom’s Reflection

In this passage, we see the Lord’s reassurance to His people. Yes, they were going to go through captivity, but God wanted them to know that He would hear their prayers. He wanted them to know that, despite difficult circumstances and all appearances to the contrary, he still had a great plan for their lives.

We all need reassurance at times, don’t we? Whether we’re going through a long-term challenge or a short-term frustration, there is tremendous comfort in knowing that God has a bigger plan—and a good plan—in mind. I’m sure the Israelites were thinking that seventy years in captivity was not a good plan, but God reassured them that He would give them a future and a hope. He let them know He intended to restore their fortunes and bring them back to their own land.

We have the same assurance. Not only does God have a plan for us, but it’s a good plan. What’s more, God promises to listen to our prayers. When we seek Him, we will find Him. What a powerful message for us and for our families!

My Prayer

“Powerful God, I praise You because you have a good plan for my life. I praise You because you are able to carry out that plan in Your time and in Your way. I trust Your love for me. Thank You for hearing my prayers. Thank You for the way You work in my life far beyond what I can see. Help me to continue to seek You all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.”

This week I’m praying for: ____________________

My Choices

This week I will choose to rejoice in the fact that God has a plan for my life.
This week I will choose to rejoice in the fact that God has a plan for my children’s lives.
This week I will choose to rest in the fact that God’s plan is a good plan.
For Further Reading: Jeremiah 29–31

O Lord, help me not to despise or oppose what I do not understand.
—William Penn

Nothing whatever surprises God; all things that happen are absolutely certain from all eternity because they are all embraced in God’s eternal plan.
—J. Gresham Machen

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Available through Gospel Publishing House at www.gospelpublishing.com.

If you've enjoyed Moments for Moms, check out the other e-newsletters being offered by Women's Ministries at http://www.womensministries.ag.org/newsletters.

Sunday swinging

2008-08-12T15:40:00.000-04:00

I had to post this photo of the kids swinging from this past Sunday. They are each growing like crazy!!!

bats, bats and MORE bats!

2008-08-12T15:38:00.000-04:00

OK, so the bat problem still hasn't been resolved. Brian has been on a mission to plug every hole and finish all of the work outside our house to keep those pesky creatures out. So he's committed to working here on our house this week - I"M THRILLED! It's fair week and we can spend so much more time there with the kids - the love the fair!

The bats inside are gone. But we have counted up to 41 leaving our house at night!

Life is busy! But Good! (well God is good, so I'll trust Him to keep everything else good)

that craZy bat! ~ AGAIN!

2008-08-07T22:11:00.000-04:00

I guess we didn't get the bat out the other night. The kids and I were up there tonight getting scrapbook stuff out and it took off from the corner ~ EEEE-YIKES!!! LOL!! Everyone was screaming!!! Grace covered up on my bed and Ezra rand downstairs to get Brian.

Then we caught it under a screen and it was crying, then I was like "Awe... it's scared." So Brian and I tossed it out the window to eat some pesky bugs - once it recovers from being tramatized from our house! and all of the screaming.

lions & tigers & BATS!?! - OH MY!!!!

2008-08-05T09:35:00.000-04:00

Did you all know that our bedroom is on the third floor - in what was the attic of our home?

we woke up at 2 am to a bat flying around our room. EEEEEEEEEE-YIKES!!! it was funny watching Brian chase it with a pack of scrapbook paper in his underwear!
Tee-hee!! he later got dressed. and took out the screen of the window and shooed it outside. OH my!!!!!!! - it took me a long time to go back to sleep, he seemed unsure about whether or not it went outside. the rest of the night I slept with a blanket on my head.

I'd like to go to my room for some scrapping stuff - but I'm not sure I should.

Isacc's curls are gone!

2008-08-04T16:39:00.000-04:00

Isaac got a hair cut...

bye bye curls!

my LovE

2008-08-02T13:57:00.001-04:00

Maya's 1st swimming experience

2008-08-01T10:18:00.001-04:00

swimmin with grandad

2008-08-01T10:06:00.000-04:00

my sister and kids

2008-07-27T22:03:00.000-04:00

My sister and her kiddos are here! Yipee!! we spent the day together, swam at dads and had a picnic with mom's family - a party for Adam. What a fun time!!!

She's staying over tonight - they leave for London on Thurs. (sigh, sob!) but will return for a few weeks at the end of Aug. I am so thankful for our family.

God is good!

Grace lost...

2008-07-26T19:35:00.001-04:00

her glasses, has anyone seen them?

2008-07-24T21:32:00.001-04:00

As a 1930s wife, I am
Superior

http://www.magatsu.net/maritaltest/">Take the test!

Time Management

2008-07-22T11:36:00.000-04:00

A Time and a Season

Key Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1–8

There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die.A time to plant and a time to harvest.A time to kill and a time to heal.A time to tear down and a time to rebuild.A time to cry and a time to laugh.A time to grieve and a time to dance.A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.A time to embrace and a time to turn away.A time to search and a time to lose.A time to keep and a time to throw away.A time to tear and a time to mend.A time to be quiet and a time to speak up.A time to love and a time to hate.A time for war and a time for peace.

Mom’s Reflection

“A time for everything” seems like a simple concept. But it’s not so simple when it comes to the family calendar. It’s amazing how quickly we fill up our time with so many different activities. It is almost as if we believe that we must do everything, and we must do it now! Why do we let ourselves get so busy? Maybe we’re afraid our kids will be left out or fall behind if we don’t sign them up for certain sports or activities. Maybe we commit ourselves to certain things just because we’re asked to, and we don’t like to say no.
Wisdom tells us that we don’t need to do everything right now. There is a time and a season for everything! So instead of automatically signing the kids up for art lessons, T-ball, gymnastics and Scouts, let’s slow down and rethink our schedules. Let’s take a deliberate look at what is necessary and prudent, and learn to say no. Let’s change the pace of life from doing everything all at once to doing the right things at the right time. Let’s ask the Lord what He would have us do this year, and save the rest for another time.

My Prayer

“Wise and loving shepherd of my soul, I praise You for the way You care for me. Thank You for taking an interest in the details of my life and the lives of each of my family members. Please give me wisdom to know what my family and I should do with our time. Help me to recognize the season we are in and the activities that are necessary and appropriate. Guide us in the right direction, so we can glorify You in all that we do. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.”

This week I’m praying for: ____________________

My Choices

This week I will choose to take a deliberate look at my family’s schedule of activities.
This week I will choose to pray for direction in how we use our time.
This week I will choose to use my time wisely each day.
This week I will choose to: ____________________

For Further Reading: Psalm 90

This devotion was taken from the Assembly of God's Moments for MOMs email.

Reprinted from The Power of a Positive Mom Devotional and Journal by Karol Ladd, Howard Publishing Co., Inc., ©2006.

Available through Gospel Publishing House at www.gospelpublishing.com.

If you've enjoyed Moments for Moms, check out the other e-newsletters being offered by Women's Ministries at http://www.womensministries.ag.org/newsletters.

house pics from this week

2008-07-18T11:57:00.001-04:00

Proof that my husband is not IDLE!

a few more house pics

2008-07-18T11:51:00.001-04:00

HAHA - you can see my pregnant reflection in the door of the first photo - I was preggers with Elliana during the summer of July 2005 - that's when most of the remodel began.

remodel pics

2008-07-18T11:43:00.000-04:00

Brian has been working so hard for over three years on our house. Here are a few pics~

Daddy has big shoes to fill!

2008-07-18T11:41:00.000-04:00

Ellie turned three yesterday!!

2008-07-14T15:47:00.000-04:00

my computer is acting strange, or I'd post more details.

devotion

2008-07-10T22:20:00.000-04:00

God’s Glorious Restoration

Key Scripture: Ezra 9:8,9

But now we have been given a brief moment of grace, for the Lord our God has allowed a few of us to survive as a remnant. He has given us security in this holy place. Our God has brightened our eyes and granted us some relief from our slavery. For we were slaves, but in his unfailing love our God did not abandon us in our slavery. Instead, he caused the kings of Persia to treat us favorably. He revived us so that we were able to rebuild the Temple of our God and repair its ruins. He has given us a protective wall in Judah and Jerusalem.

Mom’s Reflection

Have you ever lost hope? Have you ever come to a point where you thought the circumstances or relationships in your life were so broken that they could never be restored? Surely that’s how the people of Israel felt when Jerusalem and the Temple were destroyed in 586 B.C. and they were taken as exiles to Babylon. There seemed to be no hope for restoration of their Temple or their nation. But God made a way. Over a period of many years, He worked in the lives of some of His faithful servants and in the heart of the king of Persia. Eventually, the people were allowed to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple—and their hope was restored in the process.
Our God is a redeeming, restoring God. He may not restore your situation in the exact way or along the same timetable you would have planned, but you can take hope in His mighty power and perfect work. He is able to restore relationships. He is able to restore circumstances. He is able to redeem lives.

Without a doubt, the greatest redemption of all took place when the Lord delivered us from the slavery of sin and restored us to a right relationship with Him through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. I love how Ezra says, “Our God has brightened our eyes.” Let’s rejoice in God’s redemption of our souls. And may our bright eyes reflect the bright hope we have in Him!

My Prayer

“Redeeming Lord and wonderful Father, I praise You, because You have redeemed my life from the pit and crowned me with loving-kindness and tender mercies. Thank You for the hope I have in You! You are the one I trust to bring restoration to my broken circumstances. I know the plan You have for my life is far bigger than I can see. Give me strength and patience to wait for Your perfect work. In Jesus’ Name I pray, amen.”
This week I’m praying for: ____________________

mYChoices

This week I will choose to place my hope in my loving heavenly Father.
This week I will choose to stop focusing on my problems.
This week I will choose to pray for God’s restoration and redemption in my circumstances.
This week I will choose to: ____________________

For Further Reading: Psalm 103
Jesus came not only to teach but to save, not only to reveal God to mankind, but also to redeem mankind for God.―John R. W. Stott

Hope, child, tomorrow and tomorrow still, and every tomorrow hope; trust while you live. Hope, each time the dawn doth heaven fill, be there to ask as God is there to give.—Victor Hugo

Reprinted from The Power of a Positive Mom Devotional and Journal by Karol Ladd, Howard Publishing Co., Inc., ©2006.

Grace is 7 today!

2008-07-08T22:59:00.000-04:00

Oh my! My big girl Grace Isabelle turned 7 today! It's so hard to believe! She also picked up her glasses - she looks so much older all of the sudden! We swam at dad's and had cake (again) tonight - it was nice. The kids REALLY loved swimming! We need to do it more often!

At 7 Grace loves:

her brothers and Ellie
riding her bike
riding her scooter
eating candy or drinking lemonade and sometimes tea
playing on the computer - mostly barbie.com or something girlie that is fashionable
she loves make up and jewels or jewlery
dressing up
sidewalk chalk
swimming
swinging
playing piano
writing songs
going for walks
being sneaky - you gotta keep your eye on this one!!!
crafty things
play dough
writing letters to others - mostly "I love Mom" or "I love Dad" - so cute!!!
picking on her siblings - she is a real instigator!
laughing - she has the BEST belly laugh!!!
snuggling
her iPOD - worship music, Hanna Montana, Jonas Brothers, Aly and AJ
nintendo DS - Petz game or Hannah Montana
painting her nails
she likes her arms rubbed with my finger nails
or she likes her back rubbed
she likes to give back rubs - yippeee!!! Brian usually gets them from her

She is a fun girl! Growing too fast for her mom! I always dreamed of being a mom to a fun, smart & beautiful girl - Grace is such fun and a blessing!

pictures later...

blessings

2008-07-06T22:14:00.000-04:00

I am thankful for:
Jesus
my husband
my healthy kids
my family - mom, Heather, dad and everyone else
Brian's family - everyone of them
my friends - so many - Tara, Nik, Jen, Cath, I've been so blessed
our church
our home & all of the things Brian has done to make it so pretty
my job with Penn State BKC
my neighbors - Denny and Deanna are super!
internet
blogging
toothbrushes
Brian being so hard working
summer days
MOPs
my sister and her kids
fun in the simple things
all of my senses
being a mom
my bed - sleep # 35 ~ I'm heading there now!

Summer Lovin and thoughts

2008-07-03T22:58:00.000-04:00

Happy 4th! Have a safe holiday weekend!

We have fun plans for fire works!! The kids are pumped!! We did a few sparklers tonight - the expressions on their faces was totally priceless. Brian and I were supposed to go out to a movie, but plans changed unexpectedly - a TOTAL blessing! My kids amaze me! They are so much fun! Crazy at times, yet SO MUCH STINKIN fun!!!

I'm thinking about Heather. So much is going on for her. Moving is so big. Especially moving to another country. However, my yummy husband has agreed to start a London fund! Wahoo!!! We are starting to think about our trip there in the spring, any suggestions on what we should do with our four silly kiddos? tickets at $1000 each for air fair doesn't sound like they will be traveling with us! Plus an eight hour flight and the time difference. Yikes, that would be a disaster in the making for them. Please pray for wisdom for all of us. Heather especially, I believe she could use some Godly wisdom and insight. she has a lot of tough choices to make in the next few weeks.

be blessed my dear friends! my faithful blog readers and dear friends - Tina, Nicole, maybe Darlene, maybe Amy Seybert - a long lost friend from high school, Amber, and Carrie! I so appreciate all of your encouragement.

I'm looking forward to next Friday! I'll be away for a MOPs conference - see you there Carrie!!! The ministry will be amazing. Our speakers are powerful women of God. I'm looking forward to the teaching as well as the fellowship. I am in great need of a refreshing of the Lord, I'm so hungry for His word and direction. Praying for revelation of more of Him and for wisdom about relationships in our family and with raising my children.

We watched August Rush tonight. Brian really enjoyed the music. Strange story but enjoyable music.

a funny pic from this morning

2008-07-01T20:59:00.001-04:00

Grace pulled Isaac around in the Lego cart today like he was King. She would enter the room and say, "Presenting King Isaac" He loved it!

over full toy boxes

2008-07-01T20:28:00.000-04:00

Why is that today we over indulge our children to the point that they do not appreciate ALL that they have? I mean "we" as our American society. I have recently became aware of how much my children have and how little they appreciate anything. Ya know, not just my kids - I am the same way to some extent.

So I have been de-cluttering our home. And weeding out our toy boxes (yes, we have four) I've made a huge dent in all that we own - mostly given away things we do not use on a regular basis - I'm sure my babysitter thinks I'm crazy for giving her bag after bag of toys and clothing. But I know she appreciate and needs all that I have passed along. Some things were yard saled.

I will continue to clear out the stuff I felt I so desperately needed in my twenties. Isn't that funny, "in my twenties sounds wierd." But in talking with some of my friends they all agreed, they accumulated many items during those years.

I so appreciate the way that Nicole and Steve choose to raise Jude, they have said many times it would be so easy to buy him many things but they limit themselves (self control that I need) and set realistic boundaries. and they stick to that! Way to go guys!

I have another friend on the other extreme - she buys her children hundreds of dollars for birthdays, Christmas and even buys each of her kids a gift on the other children's b-days so they do not feel left out. And her kids are very unappreciative to the point the destroy toys and scratch new DVDs. They have no regard for others toys also. it's sad what is happening to so many people - what happended to days past when children played with marbles and inexpensive items for days if not weeks and were never bored?

There has to be a balance. I want to have a balance for my kids. In saying that, Grace and Elliana's birthdays are next week. My flesh wants to go out and buy a bunch of goodies for them. But I am going to respect my husbands request and my conviction and buy one small item for each of them to enjoy. Something they will treasure. Any suggestions?

Anyone need any toys?

enjoying Isaac

2008-07-01T08:02:00.000-04:00

my youngest is such a tub of joy to be around! He is so silly and fat! He wakes up so pleasant and laughs out loud often for whatever reason he thinks is funny! Today is is "dancing" to tv commercials and intro's to the cartoons that are on.

I'm so happy God blessed us with Isaac, our unexpected blessing!

the WaVeS

2008-06-30T11:16:00.001-04:00

I sometimes feel like a wave tossed to and fro. Isn't there a scripture in the New Test. that talks about being tossed to and fro? I have so many highs and lows in my mood. Is it just part of being a woman.

Is it my sinful heart being discontent? We had a fabulous weekend of amazing teachings at church this past weekend. Russ and Kim Kline ministered in the prophetic - many were encouraged and challenged in the Lord. Kim's word for me was that I was "weary that sometimes leads to dreary" but the JOY of the Lord would lift me. I trust that! His word confirms the JOY is there, free to be taken hold of.

My down feeling comes from new that Heather, Lani, Maya and Adam will be moving to London by mid Aug. For at least a year, possibly up to four years. She traveled there last week and fell in love with the area. She and He are certain this move is for the best of t heir family. They found a beautiful five bedroom townhouse and reserved it. Firas leaves July 9, the day after Grace's 7th birthday.

I currently see my sister about once a month or every six weeks for several days at a time. I can't imagine how I will see her more - she swears she will stay home for long periods of time, but I cannot imagine traveling hours by plane to come here. (as often as I would like)

My sorrow is that I will miss so much of the kids growing up. Even though we are far apart n ow, about five hours, we still are very close and our kids love each other so much. If Brian and I would travel to London we couldn't afford to take all of our kiddos. Not at $1000 per ticket. We will be lucky to be able to afford a trip together.

I need to pick my chin up and find something to be joyful about. and stop dwelling on things I cannot control. and TRUST that He has it all in the palm of His hand. He is such a faithful God. Nothing happens without His knowledge. Right NOW I choose to TRUST YOU Lord, completely for every need and concern.

my weight - ECH!!!

2008-06-27T09:09:00.000-04:00

OK, so I've been really bad about eating lately. Eating so much and such junk food. In rebellion I suppose. I hate the "ideal" size society projects about women's bodies. That being said I still think there is a weight that we all feel good at. I'm not there. I'm about 15-20 lbs over that.

So, my birthday is Labor Day weekend. I'm going to set a 10 lb loss goal for then - blogging randomly about it to motivate me and keep me accountable.

I walked this morning. Took the babies in the wagon and Grace rode her bike. It was refreshing and sweaty! Ech, sweating is not my favorite thing to do.

I'm on a mission. I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.

1 Cor 4:18

2008-06-25T22:14:00.000-04:00

"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 1 Cor 4:18

Have you ever had God's word JUMP out at you and give you amazing revelation about something. It's happening for me now, with the above scripture. so I want to share

I struggle so much with mothering, being content in it, feeling appreciated, thinking I'm doing the right think and not messing up my kids :) It's the hardest job I have ever had YET the most fun and rewarding at the same time - so so hard to explain. It's an indescribable feeling.

Yet - I am reminded of the bigger picture. God's picture. His desire for me is to be faithful in training up my children. Committing my ways to Him so that I may be an example to them of Him and His goodness.

so often, too often, I find myself resentful to my family - the never ending job and forget way too often to be a servant to them first. Lord Please help me in this area. Please fix my eyes on what is unseen - the Work You are doing in me and my children. Lord please RENEW my vision for them. And my passion to show them YOUR unfailing love. Please remind me of the unseen - what is eternal. not soccer games, t-ball, going to the park, having the coolest b-day parties or other worldly distractions - but a firm foundation of WHO YOU are and how much YOU love them. and me. Thank you God.

OK, so it turned out to be a prayer of conviction for me. more than the insight God was revealing to me about His word. I love how it is ALIVE and so refreshing. Lord, I need to be there, in the word, more often!!!

I love blogging, I can express my thoughts wholeheartedly without the condemnation of worrying about what others think. if you do not like, you just do not have to read it. :) However, I am encouraged that so many do read it - and encourage me - thank you so much!

God is so so GOOD - in every area of my life. I have so much to be thankful for. I really am!