Our Destin Trip

Christmas

P.S.

I forgot to mention my way cool gift. Will have to post a picture, but Zach got me this beautiful gold Mother's Ring with the birthstones of Little Princess, Little Man and Cuddly boy, plus the baby in heaven. I was SO excited! My question was, "What about the baby and any others to come?" Turns out you can add more to the ring- I never knew that! So, that made my day!!! Thanks honey!

Christmas

We had a real relaxing weekend and Christmas. We really didn't do anything. Friday night we had a Sunday School Christmas party and that was a lot of fun, but other than that life has been real quiet. Christmas day we woke up, opened our gifts and had fun putting things together! I took two naps and finally got enough energy to cook up some food (can't type about it now for fear of getting sick). We had a real quiet, relaxing nice family day. Today was much of the same only I've been doing laundry all day and trying to get a bit of housework done. I have just been so tired and constantly feeling sick that I have to take breaks often. Tonight as I took my vitamin and tried to swallow it down I just knew I was going to puke. Sure enough...my first time puking with this pregnancy. I must say that I feel better, but I sure hate puking. Poor Zach was in the shower and about to lose it in there hearing me. Tomorrow we head to Destin for a little vacation. Please pray that I don't constantly get sick. I feared that once I started to puke it would be the end from there- that I'd always be puking. I hope that isn't the case! Hope you all had a blessed Christmas! Will try to post some pictures when we return!

Name Changes

OK, I have been thinking on this for some time. I'm going to give the kids different names in my blog. I already have their names down to the beginning letter, but I thought I'd use a bit more creativity. You just never know who reads my blog and could obtain info, so to try to protect my family...

My dear daughter, H, who is six will be Little Princess.
My sweet boy, J, who is four will be Little Man.
My cuddly boy, G, who is two will be Cuddly Boy.

And that is that! So please try to remember to use these names in your comments (ahem...mom)!

Last Sunday

Here are the little posers from last Sunday. I didn't get a picture of my little guy, but I have a hilarious video. Just have no clue how to put it on my blog! Any ideas?? As you can see, my boy is JUST LIKE HIS DADDY!!!

Done!

I only spent about 4 hours in the kitchen this morning baking. Well, that includes the clean-up effort which took awhile. I baked fudge, chocolate crinkles, sugar cookies, ginger cookies and peanut blossoms. I am worn out and in need of a bath! But, I have cookies for a party tonight and for some friends, plus enough for us to enjoy some! What a relief to be done with my baking!

On the top are the cookies I made last night. On the bottom the cookies I'm bringing to our Sunday School party tonight. Yum, Yum! Now, off to pamper myself a bit.

Double-Decker Fudge

OK, OK here it is! Last night I finally baked some Peanut Blossoms and Ginger cookies. I'm not too happy about the way the Peanut Blossoms turned out. I couldn't find my usual recipe so I raced to the computer and got one- the cookies are falling apart. Oh well, they're pretty much only for Zach anyway and not ones that I planned to give away. This morning I already have some cookies done and many more to go. My fudge is cooling so I will give you the recipe at last. It is from one of my Taste of Home cookbooks. Enjoy!

1 1/2 tsp. butter (no substitutes), softened
2 2/3 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup creamy peanut butter, divided
2 tbs. shortening, divided
2 23/ cup vanilla or white chips

Line a 13x9x2 in pan with foil and grease the foil with butter; set aside. In a heavy saucepan, melt the milk chocolate chips, 1/2 cup peanut butter and 1 tbs. shortening over low heat; cook and stir constantly until smooth. Pour into prepared pan. Refrigerate for 10 minutes or until firm. Meanwhile, in a heavy saucepan, melt the vanilla chips and remaining peanut butter and shortening over low heat; cook and stir until smooth. Spread evenly over the chocolate layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm. Using foil, lift the fudge out of pan; Gently peel off the foil; cut into 1 in. squares. Makes about 2 1/2 pounds.

There ya have it!

Christmas Movies, Baking, Weather, Blah

Last night Zach and J went to see the new Rocky movie so I put in a new Christmas movie for H, G and I. It was a bargain movie from CBD called 'The Littlest Angel'. If you ever want to buy a bargain movie from them, think about it...our VCR doesn't have tracking for some reason so all throughout the screen kept on hopping. It was an alright movie- had a good storyline but was more musical than what I'm used to watching! We also bought 'A Charlie Brown Christmas' and this one turned out fine- the kids love this movie! Maybe its because the angel movie is an old one.

I have yet to start baking again, but seeing as we have a Christmas party again tomorrow night I will have to bake at some point today or tomorrow. One thing I plan to make is fudge. This recipe I have is so delicious! My friend's husband has requested some, so once it is made I will be making a trip to give him some! Will post the recipe sometime today!

What ever happened to 'It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas'. My daughter knows that today is the first day of winter (she has been waiting for this day) and she wants to play in snow! However, being down in the south, snow is rare- especially the type of snow I am used to! So, I told her maybe one day we will move where we get LOTS of snow- after all on Zach's dream sheet we have places such as- Illinois, Nebraska, Montana, Alaska, Idaho. So, we're bound to get snow some year! We just gotta move! Today it is raining. At least it is dreary like the UP today and not hot and sunny like earlier in the week! Sometimes it just doesn't seem like Christmas with no snow. Bah humbug!

The flu bug may have entered our home but it is hard to know. I'm sure my ill feelings are related to this pregnancy, but my dear girl has a little cough and is real tired today. I sure hope Mr. Flu bug decides to stay away so we can enjoy a nice, quiet Christmas as a family. We may even venture to Destin, FL for a few days. The kids love to stay in hotels and it will give us a chance to get away from home and see Destin (even though its not warm enough to swim, I know it will be a blast). From pictures I've seen it looks absolutely beautiful. But, it doesn't compare to snow at Christmas...

Happy Birthday Zach

Here are 28 things about my husband, Zach. Happy 28Th Birthday Honey! I love you!

1. He has such a love for the Lord and the Word.
2. He remembers Scripture just like that- can quote so many verses and tell you so many stories from the Bible.
3. He has a huge heart for the lost, wanting to see people turn to Jesus.
4. He is a wonderful and loving husband.
5. He is a great father.
6. You will see him down on the floor playing with the children- Legos, GI Joes, Barbies, wrestling- he loves to play with his children.
7. He helps with feeding the children, bathing them and putting them to bed on a regular basis.
8. He allows me to 'get out' when I need to get away for awhile.
9. He perseveres through jobs he cannot stand with co-workers who do not like him.
10.He has always provided for us financially and I've not had to work.
11. Zach loves the Green Bay Packers. He always says he's going to find a new team when the Packers do so badly but he sticks by them each and every season.
12. He enjoys boxing and I think he'd like to get in the ring again someday.
13. His family is a bunch of carpenters- building their own houses and all. Zach's never been taught the trade but can make some great things out of wood- so far he's made a train table and 'fort' for the children.
14. He is part Native American.
15. He will stand up and fight for what he believes in even if he's the only one in the room to believe it.
16. He has big muscles.
17. He has strong hands.
18. He gives wonderful hugs and kisses.
19. He always tells us he loves us.
20. He enjoys watching movies.
21. Zach has two brothers and one sister. His brother has 4 boys and his sister has 4 girls!
22. Zach and his brother who is single are both in the United States Air Force.
23. When he puts his mind to something he will see it through.
24. He would love to be a pastor.
25. He loves to have people over and be hospitable.
26. He loves Reese's Peanut butter cups.
27. Tonight instead of going out to dinner he wants his wife's cooking.
28. His children love and adore him and always look forward to when he returns from work. His wife loves him above all others (besides the Lord) and is so blessed to say that she is HIS wife, that only she knows Zach like nobody else.

Happy Birthday my Loving husband!!!

More Bullets!

• This morning I took the children to see Charlotte's Web. It was so cute- definitely something I'll get when it comes out on DVD!
• Last night our adult choir at church had their Christmas program. I didn't plan on going until I found out the children's choir were singing two songs in it. I am so glad that we went! It was absolutely wonderful! Afterwards they had fellowship and the most wonderful food a pregnant lady could ask for;)
• Yesterday the children and I went to a birthday party for Jesus. It was so 'southern' to me- it was absolutely gorgeous. A grandma put it together (and her daughter who I know) and it was just amazing the little foods they had. Reminded me of a tea party!
• Is it really December? It is 75 degrees out and SO beautiful. When the children wake from their naps I'm throwing them outside;) It just does not seem like Christmas is next week with such gorgeous weather!
• Mondays and Thursdays are my laundry days. My princess has got this down! This morning as I'm lounging around she walks up to me with a dirty pair of pants to ask which pile they go in. She was sorting the laundry without my even asking her to! I am SO blessed!
• I cannot stop being hungry, tired and nauseous. It is very tiring, but at the same time I am praising God. I don't remember ever being as hungry as I've felt, but then again I never remember all of the joys of pregnancy! Add to that my forgetfulness lately... Oh boy, it is going to be a long road until August!
• I have taught H to play Uno and it is so much fun! It is amazing to me how much she is growing up. If I thought about it too much I'd probably cry, seeing as everything makes me cry lately!
• Ok, I need to finish up my Christmas letters, envelopes, pictures, cards...you get the idea. So, this bulleted updated list will have to do for now (and it still doesn't show its bulleted when I look at my blog).

Happy Friday!

• Today we finally took our family photo for our Christmas cards. I have typed up the annual letter and addressed some envelopes. I have only a few more gifts to buy and then I am done shopping. What a relief!
• Today we went to see the movie 'The Nativity Story'. It was VERY good! I cried at parts that didn't even require tears...I'm very hormonal! I am so thankful for the wonderful Christian movies that have been playing in theaters lately. In addition to this one there's been 'Facing the Giants' and 'One Night With the King'. We try to go to these movies to show our support and let Hollywood know we need them to make more movies like this. We have yet to see 'One Night With the King' though.
• Today we got Krispy Kreme doughnuts- the first time in about 2 1/2 years!!! I am SO floored and think I will eat another when I'm done here!
• Who would think at 7 weeks you'd have to buy maternity clothes? For awhile now I've only had about 3 pairs of jeans that fit me so today I hauled off to Motherhood Maternity and bought some non-maternity looking jeans! Thanks to Amie for showing me these when she was visiting!
• I have been sleeping like a log! I fall asleep and I sleep so soundly. Today we all slept until 8:40! I'm not sure why we were all so tired but it was wonderful! Normally I've been in bed after 8 pm lately!
• Today was the first time I ordered pictures online! I just hope they turn out how I want them to. It sure took me awhile to figure it out...now I get to pick them up when we go shopping tomorrow. Seeing as how easy that was I think I'll order pictures more often. It is sad that I have hardly a picture of G because I've been using a digital camera so much.

I know there was more I was going to post but that doughnut is calling my name! Why do bullets not show up on my blog???????????? How annoying!!!!!!!

Safety Issues

I think I saw this on somebody's blog, but I also received it in an email. It has not been far from my mind since and every time I get in the car I think about it. I know that our seat belts in our van are not safe (they are crooked and don't lock properly). We also don't have anchors in our van for the car seats. I don't know what we will do, but it worries me- especially with the way people down here drive. So please watch this video from Kyle Miller's family. Just to let you know, it made me cry (get your Kleenex out Jodie)!

Zach just sent me an email about dry trees and fire safety. Now I see why he never wants to get a real tree! If you are interested just click on this link and click the appropriate way to watch it.

That's all folks!

Hump Day

I can't believe it is already Wednesday! Where has the week gone? I am getting very behind on my blogging lately but I've been really tired and nauseous. I am not complaining. I prayed to be sick. I felt sick all morning until I ate lunch. I still don't feel 100% great but I feel better. But, I am thankful for the nauseousness because I am thankful to be pregnant. Two nights ago I dreamt the doctor from my last pregnancy told me there was two sacs- twins. Last night I had a dream that I had a boy. I really don't trust my intuition anymore since I was completely off thinking G was a girl!


I went to my 'intake' appointment yesterday to fill out all of the paperwork. It took over an hour and I was seen right away. At first I was thinking how I wanted to just get home, but once I thought about it more I was thankful that they didn't just shoo me out but took time with me. The base clinic has a midwife and that is who I requested to see. When I've told my family that they assumed I meant a home birth, but that is not the case. The base hospital is getting a new OB unit to open next month. I am excited about that. They schedule you for 40 minute appointments! That seems like such a long time, but at least they take time with you instead of rushing through your appointments. I'm so excited to see how it all goes!





The other night Zach found in the garage. It is a black widow. Pretty freaky! I'm thankful it wasn't in the actual house but now I'm a bit nervous!



What do I do in this situation? My neighbor, bless her heart, wants to get my family a year membership for a local 'children's museum' which is over $100. I told her she does not have to do that. I know it is a season of giving and some people can give more than others. I am unable to give gifts to friends (besides maybe cookies or other goodies) as we just cannot afford it when we have family and it is hard enough shopping for them. I just am at a loss as what to do. I think it is very sweet of her, but there's no way I can reciprocate such a gift of that kind. Just wanted to know your thoughts.


Speaking of shopping this year seems extremely difficult in that department. I finally figured out what to get my children, but I'm at a loss for things for Zach & our parents. I've been meaning to take a family picture of us and haven't done that. I feel so behind on things. But, I don't think I'm the only one as I've not gotten nearly as many Christmas cards as usual at this point. But, if you get your letter from us late just don't be surprised.


At nap time I put a sign over my doorbell that reads, "Children are napping. Please do not disturb. Thanks." This really helps with people ringing the doorbell at nap time- be it neighbors, the mailman, etc. It just saved me from the Jehovah Witnesses knocking at my door too!


That's all for now folks! Hopefully it won't be so long until my next post...and hopefully I'll be able to catch up on yours soon!

Christmas Program Pictures

I also have a video on my myspace page for those who know it. It is of the children singing the last song of the program!

 

Busy, Busy, Busy

Yes, we have been so busy. Our week consisted of two different homeschool Christmas parties, plus one for Mom's. We had appointments, shopping, school. You name it and it seems as if we had it. Tuesday our party was at the roller rink. The kids had a blast skating- even G for his first time! Zach & I are finally making a will. I went to the base to do a pregnancy test to 'confirm' it. I go back Tuesday to do all of the wonderful paperwork. I was really hoping to go back to the doctor I saw this summer, who also goes to my church. I mean, who really wants to see a military doctor? But the lady who called to confirm my results was SO SUPER nice! And I talked to a lady who is being seen for OB on the base and she had nothing but positive things to say- including that there is a midwife!!! Tonight H had her Christmas program at church. It was very cute and she was a sheep for part of it. I will post pictures probably tomorrow sometime from our week. She must have been nervous up there for she barely smiled and didn't mover her lips much to sing, but she was singing! Just not as loudly as she does at home! Friday night we went to a local church to see their Singing Christmas Tree! If you've never been to one of those you have got to try to go- they are amazing. Even the children sit in amazement and watch! Well, its time for me to either get some food or go to bed. I have been hungry and tired lately, with a mixture of nauseousness. So far no puking!

Servanthood

For the past few weeks the Lord has really been working on my heart about being a servant to my family. How many of you often think, "Man, I just feel like a slave around here?" "Will this ever end?" "When is some time for ME?" I know I think these things...often. Another glass of juice to get, another diaper to change, crumbs to clean, clothes to wash, a toilet to scrub and children to teach. Where is time for me? I realized years ago that I think I'm more selfish that the average person because I am an only child. What I wanted I got. And so sometimes I think I have a hard time serving others because of that. BUT the Lord has been working on me with it for years and I have improved since I was that whiny little kid (for the most part). Now He is teaching me how I am to serve my family.

First of all, what does serve mean? From the Webster's online Dictionary serve means to be of use, to be favorable, opportune or convenient, to prove adequate, to help persons to food, to furnish or supply with something needed or desired. A servant means one that performs duties of the person or home of a master. Who is my master? God! Who has placed me in my home? God! What am I to do? Serve!

I think I mentioned previously that a few weeks ago I went to an Above Rubies conference. Some of what I learned there has to do with serving. Nancy talked about many things but I am only going to highlight a few points. One thing she said is that we change the world from our home. Now if I am sitting in front of the TV all day or have the children watching videos all day am I changing the world? Or maybe all day long I sit in front of the computer or delight myself in a book while the little ones run through the house. Am I changing the world? NO! I need to SERVE my children- to prove adequate to them and supply them with what they need. Physically, emotionally, spiritually I need to serve my children. Another thing that Nancy said is, "We find who we are by serving and losing our life for others".

Matthew 10:39 "Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it".

In Nancy's book The Power of Motherhood she says, "Sometimes you can feel that you are losing your life, as you get swamped with dirty diapers, washing, cleaning and constantly ministering to little children. In these times remember this principle. As you lose your life in serving your family and others, you will find your life". How true this is. The more we pour ourselves into others the more we 'lose' ourselves, but really we find ourselves- in Him!

Who is to be our example? JESUS! Did Jesus just mope around and sit frolicking with friends? NO! He was out there serving others! Matthew 20:28 says that Jesus did not come to serve but to serve others. Jesus washed his disciples feet!

John 10:15 "...And I lay down my life for the sheep."

John 15: 12, 13 "My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends".

Galatians 5:13 "Serve one another in love".

Am I laying down my life for the 'little lambs' he has given me? Am I loving them as He loved us? Am I serving them in love? Or am I just going about doing what needs to be done because somebody has to do it?

So many times we hear people comment about feeling like a doormat. Sometimes I tend to think I'm a doormat and I get frustrated in my spirit about it. But that is exactly what I am to be. But not grumbling about it. I am to joyfully serve my family.

"Philippians 2:14 "Do everything without complaining or arguing".

The Lord has blessed me with a faithful and loving husband. He has entrusted me with his children to care for. Am I honoring Him by serving my family the way that He served? Will my children say that I walked 'in his steps'. That is what I want them to say. So, I am working diligently on my attitude, praying constantly for His Spirit to go before me as I serve my family. What are you doing to serve the family He has given you? Let us be the mothers He has called us to be and to serve with a joyful, willing and obedient heart.

We had a great weekend. Friday afternoon we put up the tree and decorated the house. We ordered pizza and watched 'Home Alone' which the kids saw for the first time. I think I got more of a kick out of hearing H laughing at the movie than anything else! It was so cute! They really enjoyed the movie. G was so excited about the tree, even now he looks at the tree and says, "Cismas! I wud Cismas!"! J was having a bit of fun wearing the stockings on his feet...and head!

Saturday G had a birthday party to go to. I think it was the first one he's gone to for one of his little friends. He was the one to break open the pinata by pulling on the right string! Zach & the other two went shopping that while and then that night we watched Home Alone 2.

Sunday was busy with church-related stuff. That night I had a Christmas party. It was with a bunch of other homeschooling moms. It was so much fun! I got a nice gift to take home and there was some wonderful food there. Well worth it, although I didn't get home until 11 pm! I am dragging today! I think I've finally come up with some ideas of what to buy the family for Christmas so I think tonight I'm going to go shopping. Hope you all had a blessed weekend!

The Reason Behind It All

So, I discovered today that Aunt Flo has decided not to visit for at least a year. Turns out we ''had a visit from God" a few weeks ago, as Nancy Campbell puts it. I am surprised as I honestly didn't think it could be, although we were 'trying'! Explains my moodiness. Please pray that I will trust God's hand to be upon this baby. I am very excited but also a bit nervous as I do not want to go through what I did a couple of months ago. According to my calculations the baby will be due on my Grandpa's birthday, August 4. I am just praising GOD for the new life growing inside of me though!!!

Babies & Crafts

The night after Thanksgiving we baby-sat for our friends. These are the ones whose homebirth I attended. The kids absolutely love the baby and I snatched this picture. Even G kept giving the baby lots of attention. Isn't she cute??? My kids are so ready for a baby in our house!!!














Last night H & J were conversing on the couch and I just had to snatch a photo!














Today we finally put to good use the leaves my mom brought down almost 2 months ago! I have been wanting to do an art project with them but kept putting it off. They colored their paper if they wanted to and then arranged the leaves and we laminated it to make a placemat. I thought they turned out rather cute.

 

Thanksgiving Pictures

I know, its been a week, but here are some pictures from Thanksgiving.


 

More Pictures

Here are the kids playing on Thanksgiving. It is an every day occurance for J to wear that Batman gear. For Christmas he wants a Superman costume.














This is the day after Thanksgiving when I wanted to do nothing. It was nice to snuggle up on the couch with my baby!



















The kids coloring together. I just love this picture.














Looks like J's neck is about to break off!

Mood Swings

Wow, I sure received alot of comments with that last post! I normally don't receive any! Keep 'em up gang! Today I was fine. Still no Aunt here visiting yet. Then this evening I got hit with the crankiness again. There was nothing that really set me off, it just clicked and I was crabby and wanting to cry! I then went out to do some shopping (of which I found nothing) and went to a friend's house. She wanted to give me a pedicure as she is practicing on her friends. She wants to do it as a ministry to ladies in her church. So, I brought some coffee and got a free pedicure! Just like she stated, "There's something about washing a person's feet that makes your friendship more intimate". We don't see one another often or even talk too much. When we have gotten together it has been fine, but just not 'close'. If that makes sense. But tonight we really got some wonderful fellowship and its like we're closer through her 'washing my feet'. It was something I really needed and I walked away so blessed and thankful for her! So, at the moment I am feeling good. Tired, but good. I am so thankful for the variety of friends the Lord has blessed me with. Thank you all!!! Even my cyberspace friends that I have never met are such a blessing to me. So, I'll keep ya posted on the Aunt, moods and all that good girly stuff!

The Crank Is In Motion

Boy, I have copped an attitude tonight. I've been waiting for days for Aunt Flo to make her visit and she must be on the brink because I am so crabby tonight. I was fine all day and all of a sudden I just feel irritable. I took a pregnancy test days ago and it was a big fat -. I don't think I'm pregnant anyway. Which also irritates me. And I'm irritated with myself for being irritable. The kiddos were SO stinkin' hyper, bouncing off the walls tonight and that didn't help matters. I've got the littlest one laying here next to me and all I want to do is read but I've gotta have this laptop on so he can fall asleep. I have a sore neck because I must have slept wrong last night. Did I mention I want a baby already? I'm tired all the time lately. I feel so fat and I'm tired of my clothes being snug since I lost the baby. I either want to fit into my clothes or be pregnant. Yeah, I'm crabby. Got something you wanna say about it??? Maybe now some of you who linger will leave me a comment! Go ahead, I dare ya! Don't worry I'll be better tomorrow...we all get in these funky moods sometimes...

Life

We had a very good Thanksgiving. I cooked for what seemed like an army because I wasn't sure how many people would show up. Turned out only 2 students came, but so did some friends of ours, so there were 6 adults and 6 kids. We had a great time and the students that were here were also Christians so we had some great conversations! I was quite exhausted when all was said and done and we've really been enjoying the leftovers! But I already stated that nobody is coming over for Christmas! It is so much work for one person to do and I feel I don't always get to enjoy the day. Maybe for Christmas I'll just make us a lasagna.

Friday I didn't want to do a thing. I didn't do a thing. Zach was itching to go shopping but he knew how tired I was from the day before so we just stayed at home. It was actually warm enough that he put the waterslide out for the kids! They sure had fun on that! I think the kids took about a 3 hour nap that day!

Saturday we went shopping. First we went to eat at Moe's. If you've never been to one you've gotta go- they are awesome! We had been to one in North Carolina awhile ago and I loved it back then too! We found a few things for Christmas gifts but not too much. I'm really uncertain what to get the kids this year- they don't need more junky toys. Legos are one thing that Zach has been getting them and they love them! It was a nice day to spend out in Mobile, but it was also nice to come back home! I've been the biggest homebody lately!

Yesterday J went to his Sunday School class for the first time!!! I was SO proud of him! Hopefully he'll continue to go from here on out. H had choir practice. Her Christmas pageant is coming up soon. I can't wait to see it all put together!

I meant to write a post earlier but our computer has been really slow. I bought this new anti-virus awhile back and tried to download it on the computer recently and it had really slowed down the computer. How frustrating! I will NEVER buy that one again. It is called BitDefender and many websites I went to said it was the best. Well, how can it be good if it majorly slows down your PC? I tried to contact them and they needed me to zip something and send the report but my computer wouldn't allow the file, so who knows? I will write the company I bought it from and try to get my money back. I am very unhappy about it all. So, that's about all we've been up to. Had quite the relaxing weekend!

Thankfulness

This Thankful Tree that we made pretty much sums up things our family is thankful for.
Note: The first thing the 6 and 4 year old said they were thankful for was toys. The two year old? His first thing...Jesus! How precious is that! Also note that I did not say I'm thankful for dogs;)
We hung our tree on our closet door in the dining room to be reminded of what we can be thankful for. May you all have a very blessed Thanksgiving. I will be busy cooking for an army tomorrow, though I've no idea how many people are coming (some of Zach's students may be coming).

 

The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

The Good: First of all I actually won the contest!!! Thanks so much Momanna!!! I am SO excited!!! On another good note this past Saturday I went to an Above Rubies conference in Pensacola! These always seem to occur at a time when I need that encouragement and reminder that YES what I am trying to do is exactly what God wants me to do. The world is so opposite of what God's Word teaches for wives and mothers and we are so bombarded with society's views that sometimes we begin to doubt if what we're doing is right. Not only did I get to hear the Word of God regarding His plan for women but I was able to see some old friends from previous retreats. We had a wonderful time of fellowship on the drive over as 7 of us went together. Then on the way back we ate at the Olive Garden with another group of ladies from our area. Oh, it was awesome!!!

The Bad: My poor babies were sick again. They must be catching things at Sunday School or co-op. People tell me they could get it from the store or this or that and while that is true we really haven't been anywhere! This time H had strep throat! J had a high fever last week but tested negative for strep. And G had a low fever early last week but has been fine since. At least they seem to be on the mend but I'm so tired of sicknesses in our house!

The Ugly: Tonight our van broke down on us while driving down the road. We were at a stop sign and all of a sudden it wouldn't go when you pressed on the gas. Thankfully I have some wonderful friends who have car-savvy hubbies to come and check things out (in the freezing cold). Thanks Canaan and Robin (and Paul & Randy). They didn't figure out what it was and we had to get it towed (thank God for roadside assistance). It was just nice to have somebody to call to help out (the kids and I got to stay warm in Robin's car, run to the library and the kids got to watch movies while waiting). I am praying it is nothing big and expensive...

So, hopefully later this week I'll have more good news on life...

Little Miss Betty Crocker

Lately I have just been cooking and baking up a storm. I have cooked so many meals this month. And I'm enjoying it. Normally I go through a spurt of cooking and then it tapers off. It's never lasted this long! It is so fun to try new things and see what it tastes like and if Zach likes it. My main goal is to feed his tummy with food he loves!!! Well, on top of providing good and nutritious food for us! Tonight is chicken in the crockpot. He isn't too fond of chicken, but it has also got some potatoes, onions and carrots in there with a bunch of seasonings so hopefully it turns out to be good. I've also been baking alot. Tis the season for baking! Last week I made these wonderfully chocolaty chocolate chip cookies. We made bread in the shape of a turtle for school one day this week. Today I made Pumpkin bread. Not even sure if I like pumpkin bread but I was itching to try something different. We all know that next week will be an even busier time in the kitchen as we prepare our Thanksgiving meal. Yum! I can't wait! The kids can't wait for our 'feast' as they call it either! May you also have a joyful time in your kitchen preparing wonderful foods for your families!

Holiday Traditions Contest

Here is a great contest to enter! Simply tell a favorite holiday recipe or tradition.

One tradition that we enjoy doing with our children is to read the Christmas story from the Bible Christmas morning before we open our gifts. Sometimes we do it on Christmas Eve, it just depends on how the events unfold. We also bake a birthday cake for Jesus to celebrate His birth and remember the real reason for Christmas.

One of my favorite recipes is my mashed pototoes. I know I posted this recipe last year, but here it is again:

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

5 lbs. Potatoes, peeled & cubed

1 c. Sour cream

2 pkg. Cream cheese, softened

3 tbs. Butter, divided

1 tsp. Salt

1 tsp. Onion Salt

1/2 tsp. Pepper

Place potatoes in pot, cover with water. Cover & bring to a boil. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until very tender. Drain well. In a large mixing bowl, mash potatoes. Add sour cream, cream cheese, 2 tbs. Butter, salt, onion salt & pepper; beat until fluffy. Transfer to a greased 2 quart baking dish, dot with remaining butter. Bake uncovered at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

See, I'm Not So Heartless

I've actually been crying because the dog has a new home. The lady just came and picked him up about a half an hour ago. I just wonder if I've done the right thing for him and question it all now. I know that he needed a new home where he'd get more attention. The kids are sad. J hit me because he got so upset- he has never done something like that. H is probably still crying. I feel really bad for them. H asked if she could go and live with the lady who took him so she could be with him. So, I've been crying about it all. Like I said I know it is the right thing, but you know how we question ourselves from time to time? It will be a relief though. Now I can't wait to clean and have a hairless house! So, caught up in the emotions I get an email that yet another friend had her baby! I'm ecstatic but at the same time my arms are feeling empty as my babies are growing up and I keep wondering when God will place life in my womb again. I know it is in His time but at times I just get a bit sad about it all. Especially when I think that I'd have quite a showing belly by now... Ok, off to cry for awhile. See, I'm not such a cruel animal hater afterall! Spock, I'm sorry I hated you so much and I wish you the best!

Bits 'n Pieces

You know you've been indoctrinated into the Baptist church when:
The other day J walked into the room with his Spiderman blanket about him like a royal robe and a Darth Vader helmet upon his head. He then exclaimed, "I am the King of the Baptists!"

Last night Zach and I went on a date. First, we went to McDonald's (we weren't very hungry). We just got their delicious snack wraps to munch on. Then we went bowling. You pay by the half hour or hour so we thought we'd bowl for an hour. The cost? $21! That is robbery! So, we just did the half hour. We played two full games and got a bit into the third. We each one a game and by the time our time was up Zach was kicking my booty. I remember the day when it cost about $5 to bowl. Am I getting that old?

I figured it out. I have an aura that just draws bad service to me in a restaurant. Yesterday we went to Mobile and we ate lunch at Steak & Shake. The waiter brought our drinks and was standing quite close to me with the tray. I inched over a bit. Then I thought, "Boy, that is going to spill on me. Will I have to go shopping for new clothes?" No sooner did I think that and I was drenched in cold water. I was pretty shocked, mad, alarmed, wet and cold! Even though I knew that was going to happen! I handled it gracefully. Thankfully it was water. And it was an accident. So, guess we'll continue to eat at home.

Speaking of eating at home I've been doing great with cooking meals and eating out less! We seem to be saving money plus we are eating way healthier! I really enjoy it as I know I'm doing the best thing for my family.

I'm listening to some wonderful tapes by Reb Bradley. I enjoy reading parenting books and listening to tapes even though most of the stuff is common sense or I know it. I guess it just encourages me to walk the way I need to walk and train the way I need to train. They are so wonderful...I highly recommend these!

I took G to get his hair cut the other day. He did so well- sat perfectly still the whole time and just watched. This is the same boy who will not eat a bite of food to save his life! It is very frustrating! He can still fit into some 18 month clothes at 26 months!

H has been a little mommy to her baby doll lately. One day we went to our friends' house and I open the door of the van and her shirt is half off! She was nursing her baby! She is so funny!

I have been having some weird pains. First I had sinus headaches. Then they just turned into headaches, but mostly just on the left side. Then one day my leg was numb and I thought I had a pinched nerve. Then I thought, no it must be my sciatic nerve. The next day that was better, although my left 'cheek' hurt a bit, but since then my left arm has really been aching. I am dreading going to the doctor but I just may have to cave in. I am tired of being sore and wondering what is going on. I've also been feeling dizzy at times (mostly after I eat). It's so weird.

Well that recaps our past week in a nutshell. Now, for another busy week...

The Last Straw?

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A dog + puke = a grave


I've said in the past how much I do NOT like the mutt we have. I'm sorry to all of you animal lovers... It's not that I hate animals. I like animals. They're cute. I'm just not fond of them in my house. As pets. It has been over 3 months and I'm still not used to having a pet. I hate seeing the dog hair everywhere and feeling like I constantly have to clean it up (because otherwise I think its gross lying around). I hate smelling dog. I hate the fact that he has dug up our backyard like you wouldn't believe, chewed the kids toys, chewed part of my couch and stained our carpet. I am not sure how many puke stains we have going on now, but the latest one has got to be the worst. And it smells like poop. And puke. So, the entire house smells like that. I hate it. I am a neat freak (too much so) and the fact that my house ROTS ticks me off. Zach's had it too. Will that mean we get rid of the mutt? I can only keep wishing. Everybody in the house knows how much I don't like him. Most of the day when the kids and I are doing school I have him locked up in the back or outside so I don't have to deal with him. And I just keep praying that the day comes when he can go and live elsewhere. I know the kids will be sad. But, I just want my house to feel clean again. I just want the burden off of my back.

The Studious One

Ummm....you think this is learned behavior with seeing mommy and daddy on their computers? Oh boy are we in trouble! He just carried the little computer into the kitchen, plopped down at the table and thought he was the greatest thing as he played on his computer!

Sleeping Angel

Look at my baby sleeping. He still climbs into our bed at night. I finally had to capture some shots while he was asleep because they're so stinkin' cute when they sleep. Today was the first time in a LONG time that he fell asleep for his nap without mama or daddy. I hope it will continue to get better from there. Was going to do it for bedtime too but daddy wanted to lay with him. It is so precious to snuggle up next to the boy. He's such a cuddly thing! Normally he doesn't sleep with an animal, but on this night he was clutching Barney upside-down and he was not letting go!

Moms for Modesty

Something we all need to take a stand on- the modesty of our nation, of our children. I finally got around to actually doing this and even putting the button on my page! So, check out the Moms for Modesty post!

'Facing The Giants'

We went and saw this movie yesterday. It was so very good. To sit in a movie theater and hear the word of Jesus proclaimed over and over again just floored me! Why can't they make more wholesome Christian movies like that? It was real emotional in some parts and I was really crying- although holding back tears too. There was one part where the coach got in one of the players faces and it was intense. It was about endurance and it really made me think how Jesus is our coach. We may have moments, days, weeks or months where we just feel in a rut and don't want to go on. Yet Jesus is in our face telling us we can do it, just keep going, hang in there, etc. That part had such an impact on me. I still get teary eyed when thinking about it. I mess up continually and so often just want to give up on things, yet the only way I get through is with Jesus helping me, encouraging me. Oh, we serve a great God. If you haven't yet seen the movie- let's support the works of a wonderful film, stand up and show the world that we CAN succeed in making good wholesome CHRISTIAN movies!

Kid-bits

G peed on the potty for the first time today. He has got to be my first child to do that at 26 months! I just hope he continues to do that! We made a big to-do about it and gave him a treat and all of us were cheering so hopefully he'll try again tomorrow. He still ends up in our bed at night and we still need to lie with him for him to fall asleep. Sometimes this drives me nuts, but I forget the annoyance of it when his little arms encircle my neck and he sticks his head near to mine. He's such a sweet and cuddly little thing! We will definatly keep him! He's been quite a stinker lately, I'm not sure if he is teething or what his deal is. But when I watch him sleep or feel his cuddly body all of his stinkiness is washed away! I'm smitten!














H has been praying for a baby sister. She said she is going to keep praying. She has such a big heart! Their Awana Fall Festival was this past Sunday and they were to dress up in what they want to be when they grown up (the closest we've ever come to doing anything for Halloween). She dressed up as a Mommy. I'm so proud of her! I keep telling her that is the highest calling and the best thing she could do! She wants 8 kids, all girls. She just flies through her schoolwork and is so bright and really remembers things. The questions she comes up with sometimes really stump me! I am so proud of her and I am so thankful the Lord blessed us with her!



















Tonight when J said his prayers he told Jesus he's going to hug him tomorrow. I just love the faith of a child! Sometimes in the morning he will tell us that Jesus slept with him! How precious! Tonight while putting away groceries he held up a bag of pads and asked, "Where do these band-aids go?" I busted up laughing! He's doing great in his school and often asks to do school. He loves to write and he is really retaining things I teach, even though we only do it for a short time. I am amazed he remembers letters and numbers after only going through them one time. He often listens to H's questions and I know he also learns that way. She has so many questions and often they are about God. He enjoys a good laugh and loves to be 'tickled hard' as he says. He really thrives on love and praise (must have the same love language as his daddy). He's growing so fast and it really makes me sad to see that happen (in a way), as I try to remember all of the baby days with him and his sister and brother. It seems children just grow too fast and I often forget to just stop and enjoy them. I'm so proud of J and love him with my whole heart.

I am a blessed woman. I pray the Lord blesses us with many more children!