The view from my shoes

2012-01-27T22:32:00.002-06:00

~~~WORK IN PROGRESS~~~

Obviously I have been out of my blog for a while. God had plans for our family that did not include blogging. My goal now is to do a brief overview and bring you all up to speed. I appreciate your patience with me.

A must read for parents:

2012-01-10T13:50:00.001-06:00

Rescued Remnant: Parents, Grow Some Kahunas!:

need more encouragement to continue breastfeeding?

2010-09-08T13:25:00.000-05:00

Good article about DHA/ARA in formula and baby food: http://www.babywhys.org/formulapoisoning.htm

without him I have nothing...

2010-05-19T21:31:00.002-05:00

literally. Nine years ago today I married the most amazing man ever. He is my blessing. Without him I have nothing. He is my husband, my companion, my example of a strong faith. He is my friend, my lover, the father of our children. The "bread winner", the hot pool guy, and Mr. fix it. He puts up with me EVERY single day. For him I am thankful EVERY single day. Truly blessed beyond measure.

Baptism Affermation

2010-04-27T09:51:00.004-05:00

Baby C was baptized in the hospital on 1/13/10 at 26 hours old. This weekend we had his affermation in the church with his sponsors. What a wonderful day it was. My parents were able to make it from western South Dakota. Thought I would share a few photos of the baptism and the affermation. (**all four of the boys have worn this suit for their baptisms, much longer and C would not have fit into it)

HAPPY EASTER!

2010-04-05T15:46:00.000-05:00

2010-04-02T07:32:00.001-05:00

Thank you Jesus!

Sibling love

2010-04-01T10:23:00.000-05:00

Sweet baby C!

2010-04-01T10:09:00.005-05:00

five days old.

two weeks old.

four weeks old.

two months old. Sweet smile!

3/25/10 enjoying a little tummy time.

We are all doing well. I have been absent from this blog because my family is my priority. All of the kids are doing well. Baseball season is upon us. We have a little leager and an bambino league. H, W, and D are all excelling at school. L is really excited for this nice weather (75 degree yesterday). She loves the sandbox (still eats the sand too...). Sweet baby C is growing fast. on 3/25/10 he weighed in at 15lbs 5 oz. Happy and cooing often. Jeremy even got him laughing the other night.
May God bless you on this Maunday Thursday.

2010-02-15T06:13:00.001-06:00

http://onething.beautifulheritage.com/?p=4538

And baby makes 7!

2010-01-18T13:42:00.004-06:00

Yes, he is finally here.

sweet baby C

1/12/10 7:05am

8lbs 15oz, 21in. long

full head of hair, healthy cheeks for suck'n

We are all doing fantastic. The brothers and sister just love him to death. Jeremy has to actually tell them that it is his turn to hold him. I look forward to sharing more details as I have more energy.

**remember I do not post my children's names. If you would like to know what we named our beautiful little guy, just ask, I will message you privately.

Happy day!

"Golden" December-- BIRTHDAYS!!

2009-12-09T09:03:00.008-06:00

Happy golden birthday to H!! We love you very much!

Also with a birthday this past week, L! Happy birthday sweet baby girl. We love you!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above ye heavenly host. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen

just a litte quiz that is floating around

2009-11-24T13:51:00.002-06:00

Who was your favorite celebrity as a child? Christian Laettner

What type of pets do you have? we do not have any pets at this time

What is your favorite color? Blue, any shade.

What is most memorable about your high school years? moving

What word describes you best? currently... Crabby

What is your greatest accomplishment? H, W, D, L and soon to be...

What drives you every day? God

What is your favorite food? pizza

Where do you want to retire? the UP

What is your business goal this year? to mind my own... LOL

Where do you like to vacation? any where with my husband

Who do you admire? my husband and my mom

What is your mission? Love God. Love others.

If you were invisible, where would you go? to bed

What traits in others are you attracted to? hard working

What is the kindest thing anyone has done for you? oh my, there are so many things. I can't don't know just one.

How do you want to be remembered? as a redeemed child of God

What would you do with a million dollars? be debt free

If you were on an island, who would you want to be with? my husband

You have a 10 minute speech to give at a high school, what is it about? God and family.

Kind of a different one, I know but I saw it on a few blogs I read and thought I would toss my answers in too.

C A K E!

2009-10-27T19:59:00.000-05:00

Bowling for Birthday!

2009-10-23T20:04:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to my W!

My second born is seven! And for his birthday he wanted to go bowling. We had a whole lot of fun. A friend from school and Auntie Mary came along. What a sweet young man he is growing into. Proud mom!

2009-10-21T13:33:00.000-05:00

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

while I am here,

2009-10-21T09:36:00.003-05:00

I have a favor to ask. I want to change my play list (you know, the music that plays when you are at my blog site!!). I love what I have but need a change. I would love suggestions. What is your favorite Christian music song (or artist)? I am excited!!! Don't be shy, leave me a comment, PLEASE!

Sick of being sick...

2009-10-21T09:19:00.002-05:00

Hello, from my L_O_N_G absence. It has been a long month. With school, church, Cross Training, Lutheran Pioneers, ST, karate, the basement, this pregnancy (which might I add we are in our 27th week, six days until the third trimester, 90 days to go!! Doing great, 12lb weight gain total, FAILED my glucose test miserably but have been managing my numbers with food, tons of movement! The only thing that stinks is because of the gd I now have to see my OB every two weeks.), Jeremy's job and yard work, we are staying busy. (oh yeah, in there some where we loaded my parents moving truck, moved a piano from their house to ours...) Then we tossed the wrench into to spinning wheels and our lives came to a screeeeeeeeching hault. SICK KIDS! (and me too but I was pretty minor compared). W missed four days of school and at his highest had a temp of 105. Diagnosed with an ear infection and strep throat. He still sounds funny (lost his voice at the very end of it all) but he is back to happy. H missed two days of school, his highest fever was also 105. Completely viral and we rode it out! D is still recovering. So far has missed three days of school. His temp also reached 105. Ear infection. What is getting him is the cough. He is playing nice today and resting in between, I am confident he will be back in school tomorrow. L is a wreck. At her highest her fever was 105. She has a double ear infection. She just got wiped out from it. She now has a slight head cold but otherwise only looks bad. The nice thing is all temps have broke and they are on the upswing. My temp never got over 100 (yes, that is just fine) and I had the headache that is going with all of this. I now have the cough, it is soooooo horrible, it is all flem related but I feel bad that I keep Jeremy up all night. Even if I go to a different part of the house, we are all coughing so it does not matter. I joked on my facebook the other day that there is a large blinky arrow sign outside my house advertising the coughing contest we have here. By the grace of God Jeremy is still healthy and working too! Through it all, we are blessed.
This week, W turns seven. That means we have lived in this house for seven years. Who would have thought when we moved in that we would have out grown it too! Never fear, Jeremy is here!! He is making (with the help of many other people, including our parents) more space in the basement. Much progress has been made. I can not wait to post photos!
I also, before the wrench, took some photos of our fall colors in our yard. I will try to get them posted this week.
Thanks for sticking with me. I will make an effort to not be gone this long again. What can I say, life happens.
Happy day.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-02T11:11:00.002-05:00

Trained!

2009-08-20T21:05:00.006-05:00

Pretty little lady staying "clean and dry". I walked into the bathroom to check on her this week and found her with her sunglasses on. It is really nice not having to deal with diapers. Happy day!

2009-08-18T08:25:00.001-05:00

Birthday boy!

2009-08-11T11:42:00.002-05:00

Happy birthday to my sweet D! Four years old today!

Such a sweet little heart who can cry over anything. We love you big guy! All he wanted was some "baboons"(balloons *we don't have the in the house due to latex allergies) and a party. For his birthday. This morning he got up to a bouquet of Mylar balloons. He was so excited but angry at the same time. "Mom, I only wanted one!" But when I told him there was enough to share with his brothers and sister he was happy again. Cake, ice cream and Auntie Mary after supper tonight!
Happy Birthday D!

New ticker!

2009-08-03T13:56:00.003-05:00

I posted a fun ticker at the bottom of my page. Like I said, I beg to differ with the drs according to the dates but we will just humor them and go with it for now!
Happy day.

Truly a blessing!

2009-07-29T06:46:00.003-05:00

H at Story book Island (June 2009)

This past week our son H (8.5yrs) has decided to take over the laundry duties. He does everything except fold and put away. He gets it all the way to the living room floor and then I take care of it. He is really good at it (even cleans the lint trap after every load). The coolest part (other than, it is not me doing it) is that he enjoys it. He is eager to get it done. If he is gone from the house for a few hours he will go down and check to see if there is a pile to wash. I think it makes it easier that we do not sort our laundry, we just wash it. But even if we did, I am confident that he could do it! Truly a blessing.

On another note, Stellan (and his family) could really use your prayers right now. As could my friend Christy and her son A who is in a medical emergency himself. May God move the people in charge to speed up their tempo and get him out as soon as they can.

Fetal brain drain!

2009-07-23T12:21:00.004-05:00

That's it, you read it right, that is where I have been. No brain to finish a complete sentence! God has decided to bless us with baby #5. We are 13.1 weeks (I beg to differ but that is what the measurements say so that is what the dr.'s are going with) that makes us due at the end of January 2010. We have been on a wild ride this past year not to mention this pregnancy. One of these days I will post more but today I just decided to post a couple of photos that were taken this morning. Enjoy! Happy day!

nice profile!

you can see the leg outstretched. One hand is on the chest (white) the left arm is straight up, hand looks like a feather coming out of the head.

Wordless Wednesday Bad day...

2009-07-22T20:32:00.003-05:00

Well, it was supposed to be wordless but then I ended up with this photo to post... so we will call it "Bad day" instead. We were headed down the highway to go to the free night at the zoo when we heard an explosion (we all instinctively covered our heads). Our window had shattered. H was sitting by it but was not injured. We are all okay and it is all cleaned up. I will be fixed this week yet. I know I have been scarce lately. There is an explanation... coming tomorrow though because I am tired and I don't have the right picture for the post!!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-07-01T11:27:00.002-05:00

We have a winner!

2009-05-26T08:57:00.003-05:00

With the help of random.org number 12 was chosen. That means that DEB is the winner with the comment "Hello Anna - it was great seeing you last night. Have a great day." I will get that ordered for you right away!
I want to thank you all who commented. I wish I was money rich so I could share a bar with each and everyone of you.
Happy day.

Giveaway!!!

2009-05-19T20:52:00.006-05:00

CLOSED

WELCOME! To my very first giveaway! I am giving away one of my favorite things: a MadeOn lotion bar. That's right folks, one just like the bar on your left in the photo. I love this product because it does not have any petroleum products in it (why the heck would anyone want the same thing we put in our cars on our skin? plus, it blocks moisture... and we use lotions to moisturize our skin? Three all natural products or synthetics?) A fellow MOMYS makes these and I asked her to tell us a little about the product.

What is a lotion bar? The MadeOn lotion bar is a hard bar of lotion (like a regular or guest bar size of soap). Rather than pumping out lotion or squeezing lotion from a tube, this lotion rubs onto your skin, with your skin's temperature warming the lotion to absorb into your skin.
Why lotion in a bar? The health properties of coconut oil and shea butter combine with the smooth and sealing properties of beeswax, which, when combined, are solid at room temperature. It doesn't take much body heat to soften the bar and these simple, pure ingredients work incredibly well together.
Is it good for dry skin? The MadeOn lotion bar was MADE for dry skin. As someone who has fought the Band-Aid battle (reapplying Band-Aids after every hand-washing), attempted the gloves-on-at-bedtime routine, and gooped on the Bag Balm, I was ready to resign from any kitchen duties (hard to do as a mom!) I haven't had to use Band-Aids for dry skin cuts at all anymore.
How did you come up with the combination? I tried a few recipes I found online when my 10 year old son had eczema. This combination fixed it within a few days. I was amazed that it worked for both of our skin problems.
And the name? MadeOn? A sea salt company in Southern France has their employees sign and date the lid of the salt container once it is packaged. We decided to copy this idea to show that this is a fresh, high-quality product. I sign and date each lotion bar package after I make it. This does not imply a short shelf life, by the way. The lotion bar ingredients have a shelf life of 1-2 years, but chances are, you'll love it and use it up long before then.
How else is MadeOn different from other lotion bars? Most lotion bar crafters attract the female gift-giving crowd - those who would buy it for its novelty, give it as a gift, and enjoy the fragrance of various scents. I take it a step further by providing a product with a purpose, which is to relieve dry skin. In addition to women, many men have serious skin issues and appreciate MadeOn's gender-neutral packaging. And for those who want first-class, the leather pouch adds that touch while providing a convenient place to wipe off any excess lotion. I wouldn't add scents unless they provide a specific health purpose.
Who is the name behind MadeOn? My name is Renee Harris. I live with my husband and 7 children (ages 1 - 11) in beautiful Northern California.
What's MadeOn currently doing? My two older sons help me sell lotion bars at the local farmer's market by giving out samples (contact me to find out where we'll be next). This week I'm making a lotion bar that works to repel mosquitoes... same 3 ingredients with citronella essential oil added as the repellent. My boys are sleeping out on the deck in the warm spring nights to test it out for me. I also have emu oil to try out in a lotion bar that will relieve sunburns. For the fitness crowd, I'm adding some cocoa butter to the original three, and for the bread bakers out there, it'll be avocado butter. I'm creating bars that match my current lifestyle and interests.
And your website? http://www.hardlotion.com/ . That's where you can go to hear a podcast about MadeOn lotion, read testimonies, and, of course, place an order. You can also contact me through the webpage. Also, I need help "naming" the bars I listed in the previous paragraph. If you have an idea for a name, submit it and if I use it, I'll mail you a free bar of that type. Use the contact link on http://www.hardlotion.com/ .

Thank you!

Renee Harris

Now, how to win. It is easy and you don't even need an account. Click bellow and leave a comment, any comment will do BUT remember keep it clean and nice, my mom reads my blog yah know. (if you don't have an account, type your comment and who you are... if I don't know you, a way to contact you if you win, and check the anonymous button). ONE entry per person, per day, Please. I will close this Monday May 25 and draw a winner Tuesday morning. I can not wait to give someone else a chance to check this product out!

Happy day!

2009-05-19T09:01:00.009-05:00

Ten years ago this past week I turned 21 and my gift was Jeremy (we had met once two months earlier). His best friend took this photo and later... as in years later gave it to us. Real nice.

Eight years ago today, we were united in Marriage. God has truly blessed me with an amazing husband. His faith is flourishing, he is working hard even when laid off, he tends to the needs of his family. Sure, every marriage has its bumps in the road but with God's help we get through them together. Once again, as I said in January, instead of resolutions we focus on the blessings. My blessing, my husband. Happy anniversary J! I love you!

How I spent my birthday!

2009-05-13T10:15:00.004-05:00

The same way I spent my birth day thirty-one years ago... with my mom of course! J had to work but left me with a kiss on the forehead and a happy birthday. H remembered (all on his own that it was my birthday and told the rest of the kids to tell me). We did some shopping so that we can make bread and made banana muffins (all the kids helped and even my non-banana eaters thought they were great). J got me a willow tree figurine (totally awesome because I have a whole bunch of them and he found one I didn't have). On mother's day we had my birthday cake (with my parents and sister) strawberries, fresh whipping cream and angel food cake, of course.

H sat on my mom for quite a while talking about the day I was born and a where we lived at the time. It was so cute I tried to get a photo, but he decided he did not want a nice one so I just snapped. It just floors me that eight years ago this very month he was just pudgy little five month old. Now, he is a gangly ball of attitude (with dirty feet!). I really had a nice birthday, thanks mom. (it was the 12th, tomorrow the 14th marks the day I was baptized thirty-one years ago). Oh, what a week! I pray you all had a wonderful Mother's day (I did not post because I spent the day with my family).

Next week in honor of our wedding aniversary (yes, all four in the same week!) I will be having my first giveaway ever!!! Just giving you something to look forward to.
Happy day.

Just had to share!

2009-05-07T09:14:00.002-05:00

The other night I got off the couch (probably had fallen asleep but I can't remember) and walked into the kitchen to go down the hall and got the bageebers scared out of me by..... She must have come on out and did not want us to see her so she was waiting for one of us to hear her (did I mention Jeremy was probably sleeping too) and she fell asleep on the floor!!!

Haircut

2009-05-06T17:06:00.003-05:00

Well, I got a hair cut. It is finally a style (after a looooong time of frumpy) and I decided I would let Jeremy take a picture and I would post it. It is actually cut to be wavy but Robyn my awesome friend and hairstylist blew it out for me to go to a party! This picture was taken after that party, after I got out of the windy back yard... please excuse the clutter and the chub. I will have Jeremy take another photo one of these days when I style it wavy. (for those of you that know me... know how much I love photos being taken of myself... this is rare, DON'T GET USED TO IT!)

By the way, for the first time in ten years Jeremy "loves my hair cut" and a whole bunch of other people too! THANKS!!

Amen sister!

2009-05-06T07:23:00.001-05:00

I heard a really good story the other day about a family that found themselves in a really bad financial situation. At church, the pastor (!) jokingly (really?) said something about not having any more children until they had things straightened out. Little did he know that she was already pregnant. She reminded him that while the Israelites were in Egypt under HEAVY oppression, God BLESSED them and they grew in number! It really makes you think... Who is God giving us? What huge plans does God have in store for them? It's not about us and our current situation...baby's are ALWAYS a blessing.

I wish more people would realize that.

Kari

what really burns me...

2009-05-05T14:04:00.006-05:00

Anyone who has children (especially more than one...) has probably had a "friend" or even a perfect stranger come to them and ask them why they have so many children. And/or ~~ask~~ tell them they should not have any more. People have no idea how bad that burns. It really is NO ONE ELSE'S BUSINESS. I just wish that people would think before they speak. Oh yeah really, I should not have this many children?!? They are all here, which one would you choose we get rid of. Really people, give me a break. Some of us see children as a blessing from God, and nothing less. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
I want to direct you to my good friends blog. She has an awesome "children" post. (Mom, click on the word children it will get you there!)

My husband, my child?

2009-05-05T10:54:00.004-05:00

Last week at church this subject came up again. A friend of mine came over to our family and counted my children and then counted Jeremy. I corrected her by saying "no, we only have four". She was shocked and told me that I am the only one who has not counted their husband as an extra child. I responded by saying "he can scrub floors and helps out a lot, I gotta give credit where it is due". But it goes beyond that. This is not the first time that people have said that, and I know people that count their husbands in that count. Not to say that I have never felt that way, years ago if you would have asked me I probably would have completely agreed. But as a couple and as two human beings we have grown in our maturity and in our faith and today, in our marriage and faith, that just isn't the case. Beyond the obvious perks to having him as my husband and partner, he is my comforter, an awesome daddy, role model, my prayer partner, church usher, my lawn mower, my muscles, my chore sharer, our HARD WORKER (ie an amazing bricklayer, patio putter-in-er, stone mason, landscaper), and I could go on and on. Sure, as sinful human beings there are days and times that we both act childish but never once has he called me a child and I don't plan to do it to him. (It also does not mean that we don't make our kids do chores, but you all know there is a difference.)
Next week marks our first date TEN years ago (he was my 21st birthday present) and the following week marks our EIGHT year wedding anniversary. I am proud to say that I am his, he is mine and we are His.
Now I know that these people mean no harm when they say this. But it gets me thinking that if we all just had another notch of respect for our husbands there would be fewer issues and a lot less splits in our society. Am I off the deep end or does that make sense?
There was a post I was directed to a couple of months ago and I saved it in my favorites so that I can reference it when I feel I need to. It is titled 12 Things You Should Not Do to Your Husband by:Camilia Brown. Here is number one of the twelve.

DO NOT treat your husband as one of your children. You are not running the household he is. So no matter how busy you think you are or how many tasks you might have to perform at once you should not address your husband in this way: “Honey come here! Do this! Hold that! Grab this! Deal with this or that!” Now I am all for asking our husbands for help when he is available to give it, but bossing him around is not becoming to a wife. We must conduct ourselves as his help meet and not treat him as if the reverse were true.

If you would like to read all twelve - http://www.visionforum.com/hottopics/blogs/dwp/2008/08/4251.aspx

So, now to my back. I am feeling much better. Cleared to do what I can but not over do it. I am still waiting to be allowed to ride my bike and get back to the gym. I have gone from three times a day at the chiro, to two, and now to three times a week! Pretty awesome if I do say so myself. I am working on my review of the laundry products (hey, I wanna get it just right), and also an awesome giveaway (yeah! It will be my first ever).

Happy day.

breathing...the right way...

2009-04-28T13:24:00.002-05:00

inhale*2*3*4, hold*2*3*4, exhale*2*3*4, hold*2*3*4 and repeat (over and over and over again)
Never would have dreamed that I did not breath "properly". Doc said that eventually I will get to inhale*2*3*4*5*6*7*8*9*10, exhale*2*3*4*5*6*7*8*9*10. It is hard enough to do the four count, but I am conscious of it and that really helps!
Enjoying the sunshine. Praising God that Stellan and his mom are headed home!

Learning to breath.

2009-04-24T08:47:00.002-05:00

I have always been an athlete with a nice body and awesome endurance. That is until I had my children. An unspecified amount of weight was added to my frame and the endurance turned into fatigue most of the time. Not that I did not want my body back, I just lacked the motivation to get it done. I had not been to the gym in who knows how long... and of course in the winter I did not do much moving at all. So, this spring, I gave up soda because I wanted to get in better shape. To start riding my bike, to get my weight lifting in, to get my running in. With ultimate goals in mind I did not need the sugar (in soda, and many other sweets too) to make my workouts null and void. Then, one week later, I could hardly move, I was vomiting and had what looked like two grapes under my skin on my lower back. Diagnosed with two bulging disks, I started at the chiropractor three times a day, down to two and now at once a day. In laying on that table I found relief from my symptoms and have learned so much about my body and myself. Hampering in my healing is a (now)tiny little scar on my "L3" back. The first day I went to the chiro, he asked if I had fallen. I had a scar about the size of a dime on my "L3" that was so white is seemed to glow. Nope, it turned out that that was my epidural scars. You see, what they don't tell you when you have that lovely epidural is that it may come back to haunt you. (more on that after I do some more research). He was not saying that the site is what caused my issues but it surely was not helping. All the scar tissue from four epidurals was not going to aid in healing. This past year, I have learned a ton about my health and my life but I think the biggest thing I have learned in the past month is how to breath. Sounds totally dumb doesn't it. But that is the case. Apparently I was "never taught to breath correctly". So, that is what I have been working on. Sitting on a funky balancing pillow (to build my core strength), sleeping with a pillow between my knees, doing my chores with both hands not just my right, and BREATHING correctly. Who would have thought.
I am still soda free, it has been a month now! I have lost nine pounds just from dropping all that sugar. (I can't wait to see what happens when I add some cardio to that!). I feel so great, BUT am still on a weight restriction. I can not pick my daughter up and am still supposed to "take it easy".
I plan to get this blog back up and running. I have a review I am working on getting published and so much more. I have learned so much that I can't wait to share. I know it will help all of you too... can you say sea salt? how about hormones?
Bet ya can't wait!!! Well, you are going to have to.
Happy day.

Boston Bound

2009-04-16T10:47:00.002-05:00

Baby Stellan and his Mama are bound for Boston. Please pray for:

*safe flight, transition

*doctor's wisdom

*Stellan to do well when they start weaning him

*strength, patience, rest, clarity for MckMama and her family...this is obviously an extremely trying time, and without the Lord, they might even be tempted despair...they will not.

Wordles Wednesday

2009-04-15T09:46:00.002-05:00

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T09:08:00.003-05:00

I know that my Redeemer lives!

He lives, to bless me with His love;

He lives, and grants me daily breath;

He lives! All glory to His name!

What joy this blest assurance gives!

He lives to plead for me above;

He lives, and I shall conquer death,

He lives! My Sav ior, still the same;

He lives, He lives, who once was dead;

He lives, my hungry soul to feed;

He lives, my future to prepare

What joy this blest assurance gives:

He lives, my everlasting Head.

He lives, to help in time of need.

He lives, to bring me safely there.

"I know that my Redeemer lives!"

2009-04-10T21:51:00.001-05:00

weight restriction~shmate restriction

2009-04-01T18:45:00.002-05:00

(in my mind) yeah, but I can just move this little 15 lb baby to her seat... she shouldn't be too heavy...
(my body SCREAMING) YOU SHOULD NOT HAVE DONE THAT!!! (Jeremy re enforcing) "YOU SHOULD NOT HAVE DONE THAT, I will move her, just say so."
So that is what I did all day today. Lay on the couch, sit up on a chair, ice my back, hold sweet extra, care for her on my lap, when I needed her moved I just asked. What an awesome man. I will not lift anything more than a katsup bottle until I am told I can again. I would not like to get yelled at again.
As I sit on the edge of a hard chair (chiro order) the pain in my hip and back are awful so I thought I would listen to the music on my blog and write a quick note.
I used to worry that Jeremy would not be able to handle our household if anything ever happened to me. Well, he has proven me wrong. He is amazing. My house is immaculate. The children's rooms, clean. The laundry, done AND put away. The kitchen, everything done. The kids to their school and activities, ON TIME. The children that stay at home and our sweet extra, taken care of. Me, taken care of. It makes me feel so great knowing that he loves me so much. As my sister told me last night, "Anna you are a lucky woman to have such and amazing husband". I don't believe in luck, but it sounds really great doesn't it. I never thought that being laid off would be thought of as a good thing. But, God knows what needs to happen. I am the reason that he is laid off right now... honestly I can not run the house in the state that I am in. I am no longer vomiting or shaking but I am still extremely sore (even my clothes hurt to touch my back). Enough about me, I will make it!
If you have not checked on Stellan, there are some new posts. He still really needs our prayers.
I just want to add that although I have this awful "injury" I will be okay through some proper care (nope, no pain meds :( just lots of water) and being careful to get better. I will be okay. I have a family and enough friends that I will be non the worse for ware. I appreciate your prayers. I am truly blessed beyond measure.

Bloggy break!

2009-03-31T16:21:00.001-05:00

Hello to you all. We pray this finds you well, or at least better than I am. I have two bulging disks in my lower back so I am officially out of commission. Fortunately I have an amazing husband who just happens to laid off and a competent chiropractor so I hope to be back soon. If you get a minute please say a prayer, Jeremy could use me back ASAP.
Happy day,
Anna

Not Me MONDAY, STELLAN STYLE

2009-03-30T08:43:00.001-05:00

Not ME MONDAY is usually hosted by MckMama but because she is with Stellan (praying for you my dear) we have all teamed up and are doing it STELLAN STYLE TODAY! Emily is hosting so click here to stop on by and check out everyone else's

"NOT ME MONDAY, STELLAN STYLE"

I have not had the same post up Praying for Stellan for over a week and just keep on changing what it says. Nope, not me.

I have not checked almost every hour for a tweet or a post over at MckMama's blog for an update on Stellan. Nope, not me.

I did not click over to her friend (my bloggy friend) Carrie's blog in an attempt to find more information one Stellan's condition. Nope, not me. (Carrie is MckMama's in-real-life friend and she is helping her and her family during this time. THANK YOU!)

While over at Carrie's site I did not fine her tweet about Sage's family and completely loose it. Nope not me.

That is all. I continue to pray for Stellan.

Happy day.

Anna

2009-03-25T08:54:00.003-05:00

Please say an extra prayer for Stellan and his Mama today. Be near Lord and calm their hearts. Amen

2009-03-20T16:12:00.003-05:00

I just realized that my header is croooooked. How annoying. I am trying to get a new photo of the kids. This one is a few lost teeth ago.
Happy Spring! Have a wonderful weekend.

2009-03-19T12:58:00.005-05:00

Wordless Wednesday

2009-03-18T11:29:00.002-05:00

*photo has been edited to meet blog protocol

Would I being willing to try and review a product?!?

2009-03-16T17:44:00.004-05:00

Absolutely! Patiently awaiting the laundry soap from Ecostoreusa to try and give a review! Oh, I sure will let you know how I feel about it!

While we were gone... Santa in March

2009-03-16T16:43:00.003-05:00

He gave them all a "naughty/nice coin" . L would not put hers down. This is how we found her later that evening, the coin is in her left hand.

While we were away we had the privilege to go to Jeremy's aunt and uncle's house. As you can see as much as we told the kids he was "uncle Mike" they truly thought he was "Santa". It's okay, that is his profession. He plays right along. They are still talking about it.

I'm baaaaaack!

2009-03-16T16:29:00.004-05:00

As you can see I have been away from blogging for a bit. Jeremy's grandpa passed away so we went and spent a week away with his family. The neat thing about it is that we had just went to see him in January (his children *they had six daughters) threw him a 90th birthday party and we went to that. (if they would not have had the party we were going at the end of March when the boys are on spring break). He had just turned 90 and actually passed away in his wife's arms (they were married for 67 years, talk about amazing). We were able to go and be there for the funeral and the cemetery part. He had spent 20 years in the Navy so he had full military honors. That was amazing. David Alexander St. Dennis (his wife Marge) and many great grand children.
D and great grandpa.

Jeremy's grandpa, our children's great grandpa. He had six daughters (all whom are married), 14 grand children, 24 great grand children. Pretty awesome. We are home now and trying to get back into the swing of things. Jeremy is on nights (hey, it's a paycheck), the boys are back in school and we have our sweet extra. I have the opportunity to do a review coming up here on some laundry soap. I can't wait to give it a try. Stay tuned!!

Happy day.

Guess who got a hair cut!?!

2009-03-06T20:45:00.003-06:00

Post bath. She wont wear a cape so she was itchy.

The back (before bath), yes, she is running from me.

Even wet, it lays so nice. And it still has a bit of wave to it.

The back is slightly stacked due to all of her thick hair, and it angles down to the front. This picture is after her bath, it is dry by now, like I said, lays so nice. (yes, that is the same shirt but it is not, she actually has three of the same shirt...)

I love it! She looks like a totally different little girl! We cut four inches to be exact! Thanks Robyn!

2009-03-05T22:52:00.003-06:00

He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge. Proverbs 14:26

Touched my soul

2009-03-05T22:24:00.003-06:00

Recently I was made aware of the Mary Madeline Project, and it touched me deep in my soul. The work they do is incredible and made possible by people who so generously donate their wedding (and formal) gowns and dresses. I checked out the site, honestly had no idea that something like this existed. http://www.marymadelineproject.org/

Check it out, look around, (on the top there are options). You can see the work these gracious volunteers do. Incredible work if you ask me. All of us know someone or are that someone who have lost a baby or babies to infant loss. It just really made me feel like someone cares when I saw these amazing works of art that are made to comfort these parents and families. I am not at the point where I can donate my gown. I have always wanted it made into a baptismal gown for my children but since they are all baptized (the boys all in the same little navy suit and L in our families heirloom gown) I am still wanting it made for their children. I just really think that it would be amazing to see that happen. Someday, I may find a talented woman willing to do it for me. In the mean time, I continue to pray for these wonderful people that use their talents and for the people who so unselfishly give up their cherished gowns and dresses for those gifts from God.

Thank you for taking the time to check this out. In my opinion, it is incredible.

Happy day.

♥ Jump rope for heart ♥

2009-03-03T17:10:00.002-06:00

Hey everyone, my son H is doing Jump rope for heart again this year for the American Heart Association. If you are willing/able to donate ANY amount for him and his school, 100% goes to the AHA. We would really appreciate it. Thanks for considering.

Happy day,

Anna

A not so good "first"

2009-02-27T16:24:00.003-06:00

I have always prided myself in being able to "take my kids anywhere" and they behave. They don't beg for things and they are polite. They stick close and they ask permission to look at and touch things. As a reward we look at toys when we are at the appropriate stores to do so, and some places I even buy a string cheese at the end of the store if they have been good. I have never had to take my kids out of store and leave without what I needed because of their behavior before... UNTIL TODAY! I am still angry about it. And, it wasn't a tantrum from a little it was my two "big" boys running through racks of clothing, running around the store, acting like complete and total fools. To top it all off, the store was full. A local tv station was there (I think they were doing a segment on saving money... it was a consignment shop). He did not have his camera rolling. THANK THE LORD. I can say, that I was able to keep my cool and calmly tell the kids that we needed to go and I walked them all out. Then... I lost it. Honestly I am surprised I have a voice left. They were wonderful in the store before and the library. It was a sad moment for me today. I have faith that they will do better next time. And the next time I need to go to that store, I will go BY MYSELF!
I have to give a "shout out to Kohls". We bought H a pair of new balance tennis shoes in January, wouldn't ya know his feet grew again! And the other day he pointed out that a seam ripped. His foot was completely exposed. They are good quality shoes, we have never had this happen. So, armed with my receipt I took them (him too, he was wearing them, they only have one pair of shoes each) and asked the wonderful lady at the desk. She said as long as it was an even $$ exchange (it didn't matter brand) he could have a new pair of shoes. Well we got them and he no longer has a hole in his shoe. Most other stores would have told me we were out of luck because he had worn them. Not Kohls, they were happy to give him a different pair. Thank you, for saving us money.

So many reminders... and a prayer request

2009-02-25T10:20:00.002-06:00

I received an email yesterday titled "four weeks to go". Obviously I had forgotten to "cancel" the pregnancy off of their counter. It seems hard to believe that eight months ago God showed us who's boss... again. We know of two other people who are due when we were supposed to be... four weeks from now. We pray that you are doing well.
I have a favor to ask. Our dear friends found out recently that a medication she (a wife and mother of two) was taking for her skin condition is killing people. She has all of the "symptoms to watch for" but has to wait for a CT scan. Jeremy (he is a co-worker) told him that we would pray for them. BUT, if you wouldn't mind, lets storm the gates of Heaven with a little prayer for Dede and her family. May God's healing hand be upon her and HIS will be done.
Thank you, as I get more information I will update.

Wordless Wednesdaywell sort of!

2009-02-25T09:14:00.002-06:00

He came to ask me a question with his shirt like this. I told him I would answer him only if I could take his picture!

She traded her pants for other peoples socks. (yes, that is my huge pile of laundry, no it isn't as bad as it looks)

I chased her down the hall for this photo. (no my floor isn't dirty, it is just that bad. Someday it will be replaced)

Giving credit where credit is due!

2009-02-19T14:33:00.002-06:00

I told you about the shirt that I won for L and they sent me two bows. http://gbmom2407.blogspot.com/2009/01/ls-shirt-that-i-won.html and in that post I thanked Tori (because that was who I corresponded with) well Allison also from Monkey Stitch makes the hairbows. They are sturdy and they stay in very nice. L wears hers often.
Sorry Allison for not thanking you in the first place. I appreciate you brining it to my attention!
Thanks again for the shirt and hairbows... she is such a cutie pie in them.
Happy day.

Words for your Wednesday

2009-02-18T14:03:00.002-06:00

Please take a moment and read this article. Noah Weimer is my little brother and is back in the states after 400+ combat hours.
http://www.dm.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123136082

My valentine!

2009-02-16T12:10:00.003-06:00

I am loved. Jeremy got me a hot cocoa and an apple fritter for valentines day. He really knows what I like! I wanted to share with you my roses. Aren't the beautiful?! I actually bought them for myself. You see, I had to run to Aldis. (texas toast garlic bread... if you have priced it and tried it, you know what I mean). Well, these flowers were 6 roses (and babies breath) for $.99, can you believe it? I took these photos this morning. They still look amazing. I spent $2 on this lovely boquette. REALLY though, he did not buy my flowers because we don't do that. They get me a hanging basket for Mother's Day and then we also buy flowers for the yard. He did the right thing. They make me smile.
Counting our blessings that everyone is still healthy at our house. We really had a nice time on Saturday. Thank you for making dinner Auntie Mary. Love you!

Wordless Wednesday! "the view from my couch"

2009-02-11T09:04:00.002-06:00

Tuesday folders!

2009-02-10T10:26:00.004-06:00

So, every Tuesday every family in the grade school gets a folder sent home with the weekly news. So what you say? big deal? Well, someone has to put them together... The kids and I arrive every other Tuesday at 8:10am to help with them. This was our morning so we did our usual. EXCEPT when I arrived the lovely lady who is in charge greets me with a "I can't stay my son is sick" (mind you he is standing next to her... fever, sore throat, ect.) I tell her to go, I can handle it (we have not had any one sick, remember). Well, thirty minutes later the principal (awesome guy) wanders in to his surprise I WAS ALONE! Not a single other parent volunteer showed up this morning to help. I was doing just fine but it was looking like I would be there until next Sunday when a few ladies who work in the schools work room wandered in to help! Needless to say, with a little extra help we were able to get done (and it is still Tuesday!). Greatful for the help (and now not a single one of them can say they have never done it before!)At least I didn't have my sweet extra too... that would have just made my day!
We survived, and everyone is still healthy. Soak and wet, but healthy. Currently 47degrees you can just imagine what my children looked like after just seven minutes outside. SOGGY!

D, L and our sweet extra!

A break for sunshine!

2009-02-09T09:45:00.002-06:00

Took a bit of a break from the computer this weekend. With temps in the 40's (we were having a "heat wave"...) we spent most of the time outside. L found the rocket rider and the slide. D ate snow like he always does. W built a snowman and laid around in the puddles. H built and demolished a snowman, dug around and he too laid around in the puddles. There is something about water and children that if it is there, they are soaked! Jeremy vacuumed, washed, waxed and detailed his car. I supervised, pushed L on the rocket rider, and rung out mittens! Soaking up the sunshine felt so good. Have you noticed that it is lighter in the morning too. Usually we have to have the light on shortly before 7am for our sweet extra. Lately, it has been light out!! Oh happy day, the days are getting longer!
Got work to do. Many pictures to post this week. Including one of D, L and our sweet extra!
Happy day.

2009-02-05T09:43:00.003-06:00

So, every Wednesday we take our boys to Cross Training and we attend Bible study. The series right now is angels and demons. It is packed full of scripture and people. If you would like to hear the studies here it the link (pastor records them... which is nice because I had to "man" the daycare last week and missed it...) http://stmarkpartners.org/component/option,com_wrapper/Itemid,130/

A question that had been on my mind was "what happens to unborn babies... whether they be miscarried, still born, aborted... whatever the case may be". Children are born sinful and need to be baptized. But what happens to those who don't make it. Pastor briefly (because it was after class) talked about it but then directed me to this same question which he answered on the church website.
http://stmarkpartners.org/content/view/73/53/
It really helped me to understand a little bit better. There are many other topics also, but that was on my mind and my heart.

Home today with Jeremy (IT NEEDS TO WARM UP... AND FAST!). Truly we are blessed with a healthy house (other than a couple of adult head colds...). All of our children have been totally healthy this fall and winter season.
Happy day!

2009-02-02T10:45:00.002-06:00

Warning Labels... Here are some real, absolutely true, label instructions on consumer goods.

* On Sears hairdryer: "Do not use while sleeping."

* On a bag of Fritos: "You could be a winner! No purchase necessary. Details inside."

* On a bar of Dial soap: "Directions: Use like regular soap."

* Some Swanson frozen dinners: "Serving suggestions: Defrost."

* On a hotel-provided shower cap in a box: "Fits one head."

* On Tesco's Tiramisu dessert: "Do not turn upside down" (printed on bottom of the box).

* On Marks & Spencer Bread Pudding: "Product will be hot after heating."

* On packaging for a Rowenta iron: "Do not iron clothes on body."

* On Boot's Children's Cough Medicine: "Do not drive car or operate machinery."

* On Nytol (a sleep aid): "Warning: May cause drowsiness."

* On a Korean kitchen knife: "Warning: Keep out of children."

* On a string of Chinese-made Christmas lights: "For indoor or outdoor use only."

* On a Japanese food processor: "Not to be used for the other use."

* On Salnsbury's Peanuts: "Warning: Contains nuts."

* On an American Airlines packet of nuts: "Instructions: Open packet, eat nuts."

* On a Swedish chain saw: "Do not attempt to stop chain with your hands."

It feels so good!

2009-01-30T10:11:00.002-06:00

I have our taxes done, printed and filed! I just have to wait to make sure they have been approved! It feels so good to not have to worry about them! We pray you are all staying warm today. Have a wonderful weekend!
Happy day.

L's shirt that I won!

2009-01-29T12:40:00.003-06:00

I had told you about Monkey Stitch and the giveaway that I won. Here are some photos of L in her shirt (and clip but you can't really see it... she did not really co-operate)... Thanks again Tori!

Michigan photos!

2009-01-29T12:23:00.004-06:00

My view... from the back seat. I told you I am a lucky lady. Did not realize until after I took the photo that I got a state cop in it too!
Great Grandpa and some of the children that were at the party.

Who would have thought that D would be as close to the cake as you could get!

L checking out Grandma's necklace. (her dad is who turned 90)

L and Great Grandma, playing a little yatzee.

I have more photos but I am going to make a slide show to go right here. There are quite a few of the kids playing at the party.

Have children, will travel!

2009-01-27T10:52:00.002-06:00

That's right. 1011 mile round trip to be exact (not including all the running we did while we were in town). And the best part about it -- Jeremy's aunts who had never met L, great-grandpa's 90th birthday party (50+people including 17 children), the "Mighty Mac", tooooo many "grandma's"!!, IKEA!, NO children issues, NO van issues! I have a few pictures (including the Macinaw Bridge ("Mighty Mac") lots of the party. The way out the bridge was hazy and D just went bazzurk. He loved it. On the way home, the sun shone so gloriously over it (but of course that time my camera was packed)... I had the privilege? of sitting in the back of the van with the little boys. I can tell you that in an effort not to complain, we are just going to end this sentence NOW! We are forever thankful for everyones help over the weekend, (It was so nice to see ALL of you, thanks for spoiling my children rotten, **sorry about the pillow top mattress...) and for our van that ran without any issues and has a dvd system.
Truly, we are blessed.

December 2008 Photos!

2009-01-22T10:49:00.005-06:00

2009-01-20T11:45:00.005-06:00

Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.

Romans 13:1

Happy day!

2009-01-19T10:47:00.002-06:00

Haven't been on the computer lately... a house full due to cold weather! We have been playing games and cleaning house. Oh what fun, let me tell you. We spent yesterday "chasing wires" after we had an electrical issue here. Fixed though, THANKS MICHAEL, we couldn't have done it without you!
I will be gone again here both today (we are going on an outing) and this weekend. Headed to Jeremy's grandpa's 90th birthday party!
I have also been back to the gym trying to get into better shape. So, here are my goals for the week. I want to post all of the photos from December 2008 (I am making a slide show!) and get into the gym to meet my "quota". All of that in three days, I CAN DO IT!
Stay warm everyone.

I WON, I WON, I WON!!!

2009-01-13T07:15:00.002-06:00

I enter "giveaways" often on other peoples blogs and well, I WON!!! The Monkey Stitch giveaway! I got to pick what I wanted. Tori over at Monkey Stitch is making L a custom shirt! I can't wait to see it. Go on over and check out the work she does! It is really cute, and affordable. They even have FREE shipping for all of us frugal moms. When L gets her shirt, I will post a photo of her in it! I am saving my pennies to get all of the kids one!
Happy day.

Wordless Wednesdaywell, not really!

2009-01-07T08:31:00.006-06:00

This was intended to be "wordless" but I decided to edit it to explain each photo! Had to get these up. If I am going to be an "accountability partner" (you go girl!) I need to hold myself accountable for what I say I am going to do... like post these photos. L's room. See the adorable little bed. Boy oh boy does it make the room look huge. Top left of the photo, that is my stack of photos that need to be taken care of. Hopefully someday I will have enough babysitting money to frame all of them. We love children's books, can you tell?!? The dresser on the right is D's clothes and all crib size blankets and bedding (both toddler beds take that size). L's clothing is all in the closet.
The boys room. To the right is a computer desk and that is all that is in that room. The two big boys have an organizer in their closet that holds their essentials and the rest of their clothes get hung up.

Our room.

My dresser. Now there is a reason for this photo (not just to show off my amazing collection of willow tree). If you know me aren't you proud... you can see my dresser!!! Huge accomplishment for me, just ask my husband (it drives him crazy).

The kitchen from standing in the entry (from the driveway, also goes downstairs). The dark cabinet in the hallway is food on top and towels, rags, junk on the bottom (my only "linen" closet in the house). Under the chair on the right, can you see it? That has become the home for the play dough bag because it is used daily. They love it!

Our table at "rest" so people can get through the kitchen easier.

When we need it, I pull the table out and three (or four when I let them) kids fit on the bench. When we are done we clean it off and push the table back to the wall. Works great (we also have two more chairs and a leaf... when we add those, we turn the table the other way and put the bench by the sliding door, in order to make it all fit the dishwasher gets wheeled down to the bedrooms so we can get around the table... only when we have a crowd!) You can also see our awesome back yard! Can't wait until it warms up!

Living room, from standing by the table. Dishwasher to my left. Don't mind the rug rats!

Turtle tank to the left of the big couch. That is usually where my keyboard goes when the CHRISTmas tree isn't up)

Standing by the turtle tank and front door. Where the tree is, is where the turtle tank usually sits. I took a picture of the entertainment center because I thought it was funny. Did you know that "starwars" and the coast guard were at the "nativity"! (obviously our littles can't play with the tiny legos so they get set up on the stand... amongst my pretty things...)

So there you go. That is how we all fit. Not too bad if you ask us. We are cozy warm with no complaints here! (and yes, the rooms are still clean. I do still have the clothes basket full of socks, work on it a little bit each day).

Happy day.

Anna

Look out Sarah Palin

2009-01-02T11:13:00.003-06:00

And on another political note. While in bed with us yesterday morning (all of us were in our bed instead of the couch... the kids were trying to get us to get up) L yells "Barack Obama"! Mind you, she is only two... not too many other words we can understand yet, but she hollers that! She was right too, it was him (and no, they did not say his name first on TV). (Photo above is courtesy of my brother-in-law Shawn. He sent me a disk of a whole bunch of photos that I did not have). This is one of my favorite photos of W in grandma's reading glasses.

Frequently asked questions...

2009-01-02T10:41:00.004-06:00

"How do you all fit in there?" "Where does everyone sleep?". Two questions that drive me crazy. As you know we live in what I call "my shoebox" because it is a 956 sq foot rectangle. Even strangers ask me these questions. So, before the end of the weekend I am going to prove to you (in photos) how we "fit". We are comfortable and warm. Do I wish I had a bigger "linen closet"? absolutely, but that is in the works too. When the basement is finally finished that will be something that I will have. There are not any complaints here. We even got two couches (a couch and a love seat) and we still don't use them both. On a rare occasion that someone comes to visit the love seat gets sat on but in the evenings with just us, you can find all six of us on the same couch... always has been that way, hope it stays that way for a long time to come. Cozy and lots of love. I am trying to get and stay organized. For example I had (yes I just said "had") two clothes baskets and an entire six foot tall bookcase full of papers and what not. After all of the throwing, sorting and shredding, I am down to one clothes baskets of pay stubs, report cards, W's paperwork, spelling tests (I keep some of my kids school work, especially handwriting and spelling words), and other personal information paper work. NOTHING in that basket is extra or garbage. That is a huge feat for me. It just needs to be sorted and put in the filing cabinet. You should have seen the garbage mans face this morning when he saw all of the garbage. I am really proud. Making things more organized and put away properly the first time will make L's room livable. Jeremy does not think I can keep it that way. Honestly, I don't have a choice. The only thing extra in her room is my keyboard which is stored under her bed until the CHRISTmas tree comes down. Her closet is another story but it is organized and it is secure. SO, as soon as I finish my room... I will post "how we fit".
Happy day everyone.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T17:17:00.004-06:00

No new years resolutions here... never have been, never will. Just counting our blessings everyday.
Today a friend whom I had not heard from in exactly two years today called. Boy or boy did I miss her! Happy to have her back. Hey, how 'bout not such a long break next time!!!
Also today, BIG news. L got a "big boy" (as her brothers put it) bed! For the first time in eight years there is no crib set up in our house!!!
I have not been on today because we have been cleaning all day... literally. BUT, L's room is spotless... yes, even the bookcases... both of them. NO before and after pictures, I would like to keep my daughter. Our whole first floor will be amazingly spotless by tomorrow afternoon. I am still working on our bedroom. I am whipped. Cooking supper and taking the rest of the night to fold clothing and match socks.
We pray that you all have a happy and healthy new year. May you all be blessed.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-31T11:30:00.002-06:00

A sneak peek of our CHRISTmas break!

2008-12-29T09:39:00.007-06:00

UPDATE: I got word on my van. The computer is shot, they have to order it. It will be done on Monday... ONE WEEK! Praising God that is is UNDER WARRANTY AND THEY ARE LETTING ME KEEP THE VAN NO CHARGE until mine is done!!! Can't believe we blew another computer (we had issues with the impalas computer... twice.)
CHRISTmas cards are done and I have twenty more ordered. When those are gone, if you didn't get one, sorry. Out of luck!
Please pray for Stellan who has RSV and has been admitted to the PICU. And Auntie Mary who is going to attempt to get home tomorrow. SNOW + Airport = a need for migraine medicine!

Well, we made it. We survived the CHRISTmas weekend with everyone in tact. I did not even have to use my migraine meds... although the events of yesterday... nearly pushed me over the edge.
As soon as I get my house cleaned and the stink out I will post photos of our weekend. But here is a sneak peek.

CHRISTmas eve day, driving north in a blinding snow storm... trip should have taken less than three hours, took four. Arrived safe and sound to a warm home, a BEAUTIFUL ~ huge CHRISTmas tree, and a 52 inch flat screen TV. Merry CHRISTmas if I ever saw one!
Snow gear on. CHECK. Sleds hooked to back of snow-mo-bile. CHECK. kids in helmets. CHECK. D eating his share of snow. CHECK. winter fun... Absolutely.
CHRISTmas morning, "Santa" spoiled. CHRISTmas church. CHRISTmas naps. More snow fun. Wait for in-laws. Open gifts, spoiled again. Standing rib, riced potatoes, and all the fix'ns. A day spent with family.
Friday, SNOW! Trip to Escanaba for the the ornaments that I "needed". Nice time spent with sister-in-law. More snow fun! I even got to ride on the sled... until I broke the string and L and I got booted to the other snow-mo-bile.
Saturday, RAIN! Can you say sloppy mess. Alumni basketball game, fun to see hubby play ball. Slip in parking lot (H gets soaking wet). In safe, that's where we stay. Address all 100 CHRISTmas cards, realize we are 11 or so short.
Sunday, SNOW and ICE! Packing, ready to go home! 11:45 "our time" we set out... van stuffed to the gills... can you say spoiled. 10 miles down road, phone rings, I forgot my "backpack" (diapers, meds, vitamins, more meds, more vitamins, wipes, camera, did I mention diapers... the kind you can not buy in the UP) we turn around and head back. Head out again, fifteen miles back down the road... WAHM.... van jolts into "limp home mode" let's just say, 25 mph on a busy, icy highway isn't where we wanted to be. Pull over, cycle the key call our mechanic... what the heck is he going to do three hours away? Not a dang thing be we needed him to know we were in deep trouble. Jeremy gets it out of "limp home mode" and we are off again... five miles down the road... WAHMMMMMM... "limp home mode again... this time we can't get out of it. We drive very carefully back to the in-laws. Arrive back at 1:15 "our time". Can you say, Mama might need some migraine meds soon.... actually I was fine... We called our jobs and let them know the situation. Call my parents to "brief" them. Get back to grandma not needing us there for three more days. You know it would take that long for us to find someone to fix it and then wait for them to get it right... Might I add, this was "fixed" in September(but that is a whole nother story). Grandpa and Jeremy head out to borrow a car trailer. We were NOT paying for a tow because we did not break it. Our plan, take it to the local (45miles away) dealer Monday morning. Grandpa and grandma's plan, take us home to our house... Van loaded. Grandpa's truck loaded with him, Jeremy, H and W. Grandma's vehicle laded with her, me, D and L. Oh, yah, I didn't mention, the only vehicle we all fit in is our van... which is on a trailer. Drive three and a half hours, we get home.
HOME, STINK! We left the neighbors with a house key and asked them to get our mail, paper and take care of the snow. OH and boy did they ever. BUT, they must have seen a light on in the house (snaps tank) and came in and unplugged it. BUT, they unplugged the filter too.... one dead fish, and a whole lot of stink! You think my house stinks of dirty diapers on a normal basis, you are right, let's just say, this did not come close to comparing to that smell. And even though we changed the filter and got it running... the house STILL STINKS. Oh, and my beautiful wreath on the side of my home no longer lights up either, they took care of all the lights... he hit the cord with the snow blower!!! Oh well, the house is still warm and standing.

Got work to do, I will update this post with photos and an update on my van, soon. Oh yah, the place the broke it and "fixed" it last time has it again... and I have a rental... again. We are not stranded!

I might add that we are ALL healthy and safe so there are no complaints. Praising God that I have in-laws that love me enough to bring me home... Now if we can survive the kids week off of school!

2008-12-23T10:52:00.007-06:00

Merry CHRISTmas to you and your family. Luke 2: 1In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3And everyone went to his own town to register.
4So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
The Shepherds and the Angels 8And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
15When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
16So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.
Remembering the Reason for the season.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-10T11:52:00.004-06:00

Explanation: I was going to blog about the time we had going out and cutting down our own tree and the decorating process. All the photos to go with it. I was so excited. THEN, yesterday morning we were all in the kitchen getting ready to leave for school and we heard a huge crash. This is what I found. Seeing how the entire tree was starwars and glass bulbs with the exception of my favorite glass frog there was glass and figures strune EVERYWHERE. D will tell you that H did it... (really, no one did, it just came over). All of the starwars (I have been collecting them for Jeremy for almost ten years) except one were just fine. The bulbs... well, let's just say while at walmart, we purchased some more. The tree currently stands lights in complete disarray with the star, four figures and two bulbs on it. Jeremy is going to put it in a different stand. We are currently on damage control at our house. Oh and by the way, NO ONE touches the tree. That is unless you ask daddy nice if you can make on of the ornaments talk. Coming soon: our CHRISTmas tree. The complete story from cut to beautiful again. Oh and by the way, my frog was just fine too... you can see the bottom (green) of it in the "rubble". Did ya click on the photo? Gotta to fully grasp my mess. Did I mention that it was full of water at the time too...

2008-12-09T13:41:00.002-06:00

Happy birthday to you! My sweet eight year old!

Yep, you got it, H is eight today. Spending his birthday as a "snow" day.

Happy birthday!!!

**due to technical difficulties you will have to bare with me for the photos of his "little days"**

11:54pm tonight marks TWO YEARS!

2008-12-04T09:29:00.007-06:00

Happy Second Birthday L!

*photo edited to meet blog protocol.

Happy Fifth Birthday E!

*cousins born on the same day three years apart.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-12-03T08:58:00.006-06:00

left to right : My mom, me ,(behind me) Jeremy, sister Mary with D on her lap, brother Noah with L on his lap, brother Adam with W on his lap, Kellie (Adam's wife), sister Sara with H on her lap, (behind Sara) brother Luke, brother Seth with E on his lap (Sara's son).

Update on my hunter!!

2008-12-02T11:46:00.005-06:00

Saturday afternoon Jeremy got a five point buck. As you can see he was a decent size. He hung in the "slaughter house" over night to drain and on Sunday Jeremy took H and W with him to pick it up.

All of the processing was done in the in-laws garage by Jeremy and us (I include myself because I was the photographer! You think I am going to touch that you got another thing coming!) All of the children (yes even L) observed and helped where ever they could.

I love the picture with the legs. They carried them around for quite a while!

They checked out the head a lot. Even opened it's mouth and such. What a great way to learn!

For a little boy that in years past could not even be in the garage with a deer because he would throw up, W sure did a whole lot of work. Here he is proud of the tenderloin!

If you have spoken to me before, you know that we process all of our meat. Here Jeremy and his dad are taking care of it. I have all (26lbs) of it and am working on getting it vacuum sealed and the hamburger ground to be put in the freezer and made into jerky.

The deer below was shot by Nancy... on her 72 birthday! From the same blind that Jeremy got his little guy (which, it isn't little until you see this monster!).

A very generous lady for allowing us to hunt on her land! Thank you and Happy Birthday!

2008-12-02T11:29:00.004-06:00

You have read a about MckMama on my blog before... Remember Stellan... Anyway, if you were looking for somewhere to make a small (or large) donation this year check out her blog (press the button above). All the details are there let's just put it this way you can win a HUGE camera package. If you don't have the money to donate you can leave a comment with the proper information (read the fine print at the bottom of her post) and be entered also. Pass on this information for a great cause!
Happy day.

2008-11-26T12:31:00.011-06:00

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.

1 Chronicles 16:34

Update on my hunter!

2008-11-24T10:18:00.003-06:00

"No luck, stuck duck". No deer this weekend for Jeremy but that is not due to lack of trying. Two missed opportunities and a jerk (who was not back Sunday morning) made for a long weekend. But he will have more opportunities in the coming weeks.
How did you all do? Any venison to warm the tummies at your house? Hopefully after this coming weekend in the UP we will have some to stock our freezer.
Happy day.

"The view from my boots"! and a little bit of Not me Monday!

2008-11-24T09:24:00.005-06:00

Much to delight of my children I present to you the "view from my boots" this morning!

One way to expel some energy before school is to log some shovel time! They were sure happy to do it!

Not Me! Monday! Hosted by MckMama

Now, I certainly have not missed many past Mondays so I am NOT going to pack a few weeks into one!

One a recent trip up north I certainly did not do ALL of the packing/van too including a bucket for the one with the "self inflicted flu"
On that same trip (which I had to drive) I certainly did not take a photo of my son sleeping in his chair because he was so cute.

I most certainly did not take two of my children shopping down by the mall this weekend. That would have meant a whole lots of unnecessary work.

I did not utilize all of what our church has to offer when it comes to children so that I could actually hear the entire service.

I did not contemplate allowing my parents to take our almost two year old along on a fourteen hour drive week long trip west just so that I could have a break.

I did not have an important meeting (which all four of my children were present without the help of Jeremy) with important paper work (so much so that it comes with it's own instructions on how to do the paper work) that I did not have to make 79 copies for. That would have been silly for me to spend so much money on paperwork and have my kids there. No way was it a loud disheveled mess.

Lately I certainly did not ask a friend is she was feeling okay (thought she looked "pregnant") only for her to tell me it was a "cold".
That same girl certainly did not come to me the next week and confirm my question with the appropriate... 12 weeks along, how did you know!?!

I am not looking forward to my kids having five days off in a row this week (really, I am not). Good thing we will be up north and have Auntie Mary for reinforcements too!

Okay, so I am not going to incriminate my self any more this week. Hope you all have a happy day! Going out to play in the snow with the littles!

Deer Hunting church survival kit:

2008-11-23T10:59:00.003-06:00

Sunday school x 2
"adult staffed childcare" x 2
Equipment received: 1 vibrating pager
Added all up, makes for an entire service heard by a weary mama! Refreshed by the Word and ready to finish my weekend.
So how did you do this weekend? How did your hunter do?
My hunter you ask? Well, he had a few frustrating moments... stubborn jerk of a hunter squatted right next to his blind. Have not heard anything from him today. Don't dare call him for fear his phone would ring and I would be the one to scare the potential deer away!
I will update when I know more.
Happy day.

NoTe To SeLf:

2008-11-21T23:41:00.002-06:00

Do not start blanket project after 9:30 at night and half way through take an hour break!...

One down... three to go! Talkin blankets here folks, not children.

Good night!

Another did ya know edition of me!?!

2008-11-21T20:25:00.004-06:00

Okay, so I am supposed to be making a blanket tonight ('cause it is just me and the kids and I should really accomplish it... maybe in a minute).

Did ya know that my husband hunts and I don't mind letting him go by himself. Really, I don't. By the end of the time I may regret it just a bit, but that is just because the kids drive me crazy sometimes.
I got a clean bill of health the other day , well sort of, but it was better than I could have prayed for.
I had my nose broken twice (once by a flight of stairs and once by a girl and a golf putter).
I enjoy cooking but dislike baking immensely. BUT I do bake a pumpkin roll (complete with cream cheese frosting in the middle) from scratch. YUM YUM!
I dislike immensely (we don't use the word hate here) brushing my teeth.
There are times when brushing my teeth (and cleaning my ears) makes me gag... REALLY bad. That is not a good sign at all (it usually means I am expecting....)
Don't get your undies in a bundle, that last one was not a hint at anything I AM NOT, it is just a fact about me.
I love food, especially non breakfast type food for breakfast (ie. leftovers from supper)
I have four blankets to make before Christmas and the only start I have on them is all of the fleece is purchased.
I wear a mouth guard to bed and quite honestly I wake up with dragon breath! YUCK!
I yell a lot. I don't like and am trying to change it. Working hard on that.
If we can treat something with out a prescription/over the counter medication we do it.
My mom and I have the same nutrition book so that we can "be on the same page" when she is helping me decide how to treat whom ever needs to be treated.
I used to be on a paintball team.
I have had surgery on my foot twice. OUCH!
My parents and my husband would agree that my feet are very expensive.
I have been granted permission (from the hubby of course) to go to the podiatrist to get my feet checked (have not been to one in over eight years) to get my orthotics (oh yah, I wear those too) redone. I have had them for sixteen years and really think it is time to up date them.
I plan to start running again after I get my feet checked. Hopefully someday burn enough fat off to start running competitively again. (I really don't like when I can feel things jiggle when I move!)

Okay, enough about me. Anything that you have been just dying to ask? Shoot. Maybe, just maybe I will answer.

Happy "deer hunting widows" weekend!

can you smell that?

2008-11-05T16:25:00.003-06:00

That's it, take a deep breath. Can you smell it now? Ohhhh if you like the smell of jerky, come on over. I have three pounds of it in the dehydrator right now. Seven more pounds to go but it takes four hours for each batch we will make the rest tomorrow. This venison was given to us (I ground it into burger) so all we had to do was buy the seasoning/cure (the dehydrator is on loan) so it is a really inexpensive snack, that we can share!

you think he's feeling better?!?

2008-11-05T13:35:00.003-06:00

"I went to the Dentist and he feel'd me better...(big huge smile) can I have a snack?" If there was any doubt in my mind if he was feeling better, that let me know for sure. He is spunky and playing on the floor with his blocks. He even let me see his work in his mouth. (and ate and kept down french fries, four chicken nuggets, a banana and a snack). He wont let me have a picture of him and he wants me to get him dressed. He suddenly realized he is still in his Thomas pajamas. *now he is in the fridge begging for a piece of pizza... too bad we don't have any!
Thanks for the prayers.
Happy day.

waiting game...UPDATE

2008-11-05T07:54:00.006-06:00

UPDATE: 11:30am. We have been home for an hour. He wanted an ice cream shake but they said no dairy...grrrrrr. So, we stopped at Burger King and got a cherry slushy. Of course if we stop there we have to get nuggets too. I thought for sure he would just drink but he is really enjoying the nuggets. He is doing great. Talking really funny because he is pretty swollen but otherwise in good spirits. We plan to curl up for some quality time watching Tom and Jerry and a nap too. His biggest concern... he doesn't want L at grandmas house. He is so used to her being here and together all the time that it has been pretty tough. Well, we are off, to curl up.
Up before it was light out this morning D and made our way to the outpatient wing of our local hospital. Major dental work (ya' know the kind that requires financing) is what is on for today. Happy and unassuming he enjoyed picking out a stuffed duck and meeting everyone who came into his room. Every ten minutes or so he would ask if it was time to go home yet... A little vercet(sp?) and a wagon ride later he was off to the "restricted area". Kiss (that he wont remember, and "no, you can't have a bottle for home")he was ready to go. He is getting all the work done right now as I type... listening to Lincoln Brewster and playing the waiting game. If you have a moment put up a prayer for him to be safe with the anesthesia. I will update later when we are at home. Thank you to Auntie Mary and mom and dad who are helping with the kids today. We appreciate you.
Happy day.

**vercet = a wonderful syrup that makes the kids loopy enough to slur words, unable to walk and they don't remember anything. Act just like they are hammered. If you have ever dealt with it, you probably asked for a bottle to take home too.**

"My mom in the morning" by W

2008-11-03T08:58:00.004-06:00

"My mom in the morning" by W

I thought he did a really nice job. Jeremy said "yes, he made you look even better than you ever do!" Thanks hon. Love you too.

Happy Monday to all of you. (you can click on the picture of extra detail. He was pretty upset because L colored a little bit of black ink on it... I think it is great! My baby loves me just the way that I am.)

Look what I got!!

2008-11-01T16:01:00.006-05:00

Okay so I had not been to a grocery store in three and a half weeks. We have bought milk but at a local gas station (for $1.99 a gallon) but had decided to eat what was in the house. Well today, I went (because it was so bad we were even out of butter! and Jeremy "had nothing to take in his lunch"). I spent $129.00 (that includes a coupon savings of $67) which isn't too bad considering how long it had been. But check out the deal I got on chicken at our local grocery store.

"Buy $25 worth of Golden plump chicken products get $10 off automatically" was the deal. Well the family pack(3.5lbs) of legs were marked $5 a pack and the whole chickens(3.5lbs) were marked $5 a piece. So, I bought three packs of legs and two chickens. (each item will make at least two meals for us) they also allowed me to use 4 $1 off any Golden plump item. In other words I got 17.5 lbs of chicken for $11!!! That is $.63 per pound!!!

I was too excited not to share! Hope you all have a great weekend. If you want to check out other great deals people found check out Money Saving mom!

Happy day.

The view from my shoes

A must read for parents:

need more encouragement to continue breastfeeding?

without him I have nothing...

Baptism Affermation

HAPPY EASTER!

Sibling love

Sweet baby C!

And baby makes 7!

"Golden" December-- BIRTHDAYS!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

just a litte quiz that is floating around

C A K E!

Bowling for Birthday!

while I am here,

Sick of being sick...

Wordless Wednesday

Trained!

Birthday boy!

New ticker!

Truly a blessing!

Fetal brain drain!

Wordless Wednesday Bad day...

Wordless Wednesday

We have a winner!

Giveaway!!!

How I spent my birthday!

Just had to share!

Haircut

Amen sister!

what really burns me...

My husband, my child?

breathing...the right way...

Learning to breath.

Boston Bound

Wordles Wednesday

Happy Easter!

weight restriction~shmate restriction

Bloggy break!

*Not Me MONDAY, STELLAN STYLE*

*Wordless Wednesday*

Would I being willing to try and review a product?!?

While we were gone... Santa in March

I'm baaaaaack!

Guess who got a hair cut!?!

Touched my soul

♥ Jump rope for heart ♥

A not so good "first"

So many reminders... and a prayer request

*Wordless Wednesday*well sort of!

Giving credit where credit is due!

Words for your Wednesday

My valentine!

Wordless Wednesday! "the view from my couch"

Tuesday folders!

A break for sunshine!

It feels so good!

L's shirt that I won!

Michigan photos!

Have children, will travel!

December 2008 Photos!

Happy day!

I WON, I WON, I WON!!!

*Wordless Wednesday*well, not really!

Look out Sarah Palin

Frequently asked questions...

Happy New Year!

*Wordless Wednesday*

A sneak peek of our CHRISTmas break!

*Wordless Wednesday*

11:54pm tonight marks TWO YEARS!

*Wordless Wednesday*

Update on my hunter!!

Update on my hunter!

"The view from my boots"! and a little bit of Not me Monday!

Deer Hunting church survival kit:

NoTe To SeLf:

Another did ya know edition of me!?!

can you smell that?

you think he's feeling better?!?

Not Me MONDAY, STELLAN STYLE

Wordless Wednesday

Wordless Wednesdaywell sort of!

Wordless Wednesdaywell, not really!

Wordless Wednesday

Wordless Wednesday

Wordless Wednesday