Busy-ness mixed with a bit of preaching;)

We have had a busy yet productive weekend. Friday night we went to a 'block party' here in town. A bunch of Baptists from Georgia came down to do 'Backyard Bible Clubs' and other ministry type things down here for a week and to top it off they throw a 'block party'. They had one last year too. We thought we'd get rained out, but the rain let up just in time (it will not stop raining here lately). The kiddos had fun in the jump house and playing some of the games. We didn't stay too long because we had other things going on. I think I got more socializing in than the kids did playing! One of the ladies that was at the Bible Club my kiddos went to came up and talked to us. Turns out we have a lot in common. Both military, homeschooling, quiverfull families. It was nice to meet a like-minded individual and to share my heart with her and have her understand! Too bad they live in Georgia...actually they're moving to Guam! But, we did grab one another's email address. It is always such a blessing to meet people 'of the same mind'.

Zach had a softball game that night. I got the kiddos tucked into bed and all was quiet. Here I was on the computer when I kept hearing this weird noise in the other part of the room (behind me). I heard it twice and looked but nothing was there. All of a sudden the smoke detector says, "Beep". Just a subtle beep. Well, we JUST changed those batteries at 1 AM the other night. What on earth??? It kept saying, "Beep" every minute...then all of a sudden all of the alarms went off! I was SO mad but was glad my kids slept through it! I was sitting here wondering what to do. Usually if you take the battery out they will still go off. I tried to call my neighbor, looked online (where it said to vacuum those out monthly...I've never done that in any house I've lived in, have you?) and just waited for Zach to return home. He puts it back together and all was fine. We're in bed SLEEPING and it starts to go off AGAIN. Stupid thing! Zach got up, took it down, opened the front door and threw it on the ground!!! Took care of that! Now, we just need a new one for this room. So far no more beeps from those annoying things!

Yesterday we were busy working around the house. We've been doing so many odd jobs: planting flowers, touching up paint, replacing lightbulbs, filling in holes. Then last night we baby-sat for one of Zach's co-workers. It was a long day and night!

Our Pastor has the best sermons. It is great when you go to church and get fed by the Word of God and when it applies to your life. Lately that is how its been. I know its not always the case as sometimes we hid road bumps and are stuck in the mud puddles of life and our outlook isn't quite so clear. Today he preached on Genesis 15. One of the things he said was about 'devourers, darkness and delay'. In v. 11 it talks about the birds of prey coming down on the carcasses God told Abraham to bring to Him and how Abraham drove those pesky birds away. It made me think of the recent 'devourers' in our lives. Those who have told us, whether in actions or words, that what we're doing needs more thought, time or prayer. Or that they don't agree with it. It is funny, because this week in my mind I have DRIVEN THEM AWAY. Gone...they are gone. Their opinions don't matter to me any longer. Their words don't hurt. Because I am living for my LORD JESUS and nothing they can say can change the road He has put me on. Can I get an amen? Oops, sorry...just getting a bit charismatic! He also talked about the darkness and the delay. Verse 12 says that Abraham fell into a deep sleep and that a thick and dreadful darkness came over him. That's how I felt earlier in the week. Like I was stuck in this dark ominous cloud and couldn't make my way out of it. But I did. I have overcome the enemy and I see such light like I didn't even see at the beginning of the adoption journey! Then there is the delay. Hmm....because we're adopting doesn't mean we'll get our child TOMORROW. Time goes by and I'm sure often it seems like a LONG time and that we will never see our daughter. But we will.

Well, I have more sorting, cleaning and all that to do and then we're going to play at good ol' McD's with some friends later. Maybe you feel like you are in the darkness or that you're being devoured by others. Remember that HE who is in YOU is GREATER than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4).

Two Cool Men

The latest thing has been for the boys to 'dress up' in their jackets and baseball caps. I must say, they look cool...if not preppy!

The Home Visit

The home visit went really well. She got here early (I wonder if they purposely do that) and I wasn't quite ready. I was brushing Cuddly Boy's teeth, then had to brush my own. So, Little Man kept her occupied. Of course, she likes to ask the kids questions so she had her opportunity there. I guess he was really good, telling her he wants a sister and is going to help her and share his toys. It was really sweet. He was all over that woman like jelly on toast! Maybe because he's known for some time that she was coming! Most of the things she asked were the same things that were asked on the forms we had to fill out. So, Monday it should be sent to the state! Sometimes it seems unreal that this is really happening, yet it is so exciting. I'm in a couple of different yahoo groups about adopting and the people keep getting their referrals. It is so fun to see their children! I love to read the stories of those who have already adopted too. The groups have also been a great help as I have so many questions. There's so much that goes into it all that it can seem overwhelming- yet I'm not at all overwhelmed. God is moving so magnificently in our family that it amazes me. I know I was down for awhile because I was letting people's opinions get to me. No longer. It has disappeared and it feels GOOD!

Cruising Along

Tomorrow is our home visit for our homestudy. Somebody asked if I was nervous. I am not at all nervous. I have nothing to hide or anything like that. I'm excited that its one step closer in this process. Also, in the mail today we got our fingerprinting appointment. It is August 3rd. So, things are cruising right along.

Why is it...

that when you are in a deep sleep the smoke detectors start going off? Why does that always happen at night? Let me tell you, I had some choice words when I was bolted upright wondering what was going on! I have NO idea where they even came from...and I kinda chuckled at myself. Good thing nobody else heard me. It NEVER fails to happen at night. Let's just say I didn't sleep much after that incident at 1:30 am...so I am wiped out!

Yawn

I am so tired of this potty training business. End of story.

BUGS, BUGS, BUGS

I am so tired of bugs! First the black widows outside. So Zach did this big lesson with the kids on poisonous spiders. That creeped me out a bit. Then we watched the movie, Hangman's Curse. Ok, that really creeped me out about spiders. The other morning as I was vacuuming I saw a brown spider RIGHT NEXT TO OUR BED on the floor. It creeped me out! Had it been in our bed??? I had a hard time sleeping that night as I envisioned spiders crawling all over me (thanks to that movie). I tried to see if it was a brown recluse but its so hard to tell the difference between that and a wolf spider. I'm sure if I got closer I would have been able to tell, but I hate spiders and didn't get too close, just sucked it up in the vacuum! Now we have earwigs every day. Let's not forget the flies that come in at the drop of a hat. At least I can handle those. Spiders and roaches, no way. Thankfully we don't have a roach problem! Oh, and I hate centipedes too. Pretty much, I hate bugs. I need to move somewhere bugless (is that even a word?). Although then its too cold. At least I haven't had somebody pick up a centipede lately! LOL

Last night I had a dream that I went to Africa. It was really bizarre and I'm sure not at all what Africa is really like, after all we drove over a big bridge from Europe to Africa. Only Europe was in the place of the US. Weird, I tell ya. I was hoping to get to see some of the little orphans faces in my dream but I didn't make it that far before I was awakened. That has been happening quite a bit lately- I'm in the middle of a good dream and then I wake up before the good part. What's the deal with that???

I posted what's been weighing on my heart at my other blog. And please, if you know how I can put titles back into my posts- HELP!

Women at Home

How appropriate that Amie sent me a link to this article at such a time. I think I've read it before (probably saw it linked at another blog). But today I NEEDED it. I know not all of my readers are in the 'same boat' as myself and that's ok. But this article reminds me of how important my 'job' is in my home. So often Christians and churches today teach of being busy with this or that ministry (like the article states) and forget to encourage women to be keepers at home. Which is one reason why I LOVE Above Rubies so much. It encourages me in what I know God wants me to be doing. It reminds me that changing diapers (or in my case lately poopy 'unea'), wiping snotty noses and bathing children is all a ministry unto my family. I know sometimes in the midst of that poop and snot life really stinks (literally). But, it is so worth it don't you think?

Please pray for us (again). We're just a bit discouraged this afternoon about some stuff. I'm not sure if I will be sharing about it on this blog as I'm not sure who all reads it! You know how when you're in God's will Satan will try to bring you down? Well, I know that is what's happening regarding our adoption. UGH, it makes me mad!!! Anyway, off to spend some time with Zach.


*****And since I added my other blog I can't seem to post titles. HELP!

Quiet Weekend

For some reason I am unable to click in the title box to make a title. I have started a new blog...about our adoption. I want it to not only be about our adoption but to be a resource to others. I have found so many sites, blogs and information on adoption and Liberia that I want to share! It is a work in progress, but you can check it out if you're interested!

There was a freaky occurrence in our area this week. Check here to read about it. It looks like the guy is caught and for that I am grateful! I wouldn't go to Wal-mart alone today and so we all had to go, just to get a few things! And I was still a bit nervous!

I haven't done much of anything this weekend. It's one of those times when I want to be lazy. Last night Zach tried to get guys together from church to play Risk and there were only three of them. He still had a good time though. Next time he'll have to give more notice! But, you know how men plan...or don't plan;)

Today we slept late and this afternoon Zach & the kiddos played in the pool. I know they had a blast! I just feel so blah so I stayed indoors in the AC! While outdoors Zach found at least 3 black widows under the kids turtle sandbox (that is our outdoor toy box). How freaky!!!

Well, we got our first Netflix movies so we'll be chilling and watching one tonight. I have yet to bake something for our Sunday School class in the morning. It's our turn for 'breakfast'! Hope you're all having a good weekend!

Fun! Fun! Fun!

Bullets

• Lately Cuddly Boy is heard saying, 'I peed-ed'. He also says underwear, 'Unea' (pretty much take out the consonants in the word). It is so funny hearing kids pronounce words!


• We had a nice 4th. It rained a good portion of the day and was just a relaxing afternoon at home. That evening we went to a friend's house from our Sunday School class. The kids got to play on a waterslide and we got to fellowship. It was a good time! We tried to see the fireworks but an hour later we decided to leave. I hear they started about the time we left. Oh well.


• I started reading Pollyanna. Princess wants me to read some of her books. I must admit that I like it. We all need a Pollyanna in our life to bring out the 'glad' in every thing!


• I have been craving S'mores so yesterday I cooked a couple in the microwave- YUM!


• We finally joined the ranks and signed up an account with Netflix. With all the movies we seem to rent it seems the most feasible thing to do. It is kinda fun to look online and pick out movies! Then again, I am an internet junkie (there's just SO much to do).


• It is nice to be done with school. I still try to get a bit of 'learning' in every day. We've been playing games, reading books and going to the library.


• Last week I received a newborn baby diaper in the mail. This isn't uncommon since I was due with babies in March and August. Normally it makes me mad. This time I held it and just cried. I can't even picture a baby that tiny! Yesterday we went by the cemetery. For the most part I'm doing ok, but always at this time of the month it hits me. Which I know is normal. Next month will be the kicker...August 4th is the day I lost the one and the day I was due with Malachi.


• Our neighborhood is turning into a hoodlum it seems. Last night kids were shooting off fireworks right in front of our house. First, there was no adult supervising. Second, shoot them off in front of your own house! One time it sounded like one hit the house (it may have). Then somebody rang our doorbell and ran. Zach & I went out and these kids were hiding in the trees across the street. Well, I let them have it! So did Zach! These punks that I think were causing the trouble don't even live on our street! Oh yeah, they were also throwing fireworks at a little 7 year olds face!!! Brats!


• This past week I cleaned out our closet in the play/school room. I also changed the room around. Since school was done I needed a change. and the closet was a mess! We had a book swap at a Mom's Night Out and I was able to get rid of some things I didn't need (in addition to picking up more books). One book I received was So Much More by Anna Sofia & Elizabeth Botkin!!! The rest were pretty much preschool books to do with Cuddly boy when the other two do school.

Here is the pile of books that I had to go through. Most of these are from Pre-K to 2nd grade!!! Like I needed ALL of those!?!?!

Here is one part of the closet before:

And after:

Before:

After:

Brown Crayons???

The other morning as I was dressing Cuddly, Princess was in the bathroom getting ready for the day. The next minute I hear her FLIPPING out. I had no idea what was going on until she started shrieking, "I just picked up a centipede!!! EW! I just picked up a centipede!" She was almost in tears! She thought there was a brown crayon on the bathroom floor and went to pick it up, only to pick up a nasty centipede. While she had the willies from touching the nasty thing I couldn't stop cracking up! I still chuckle over it. Sometimes these nasty centipedes find their way into our house...normally a bathroom. I guess its better than roaches, but I hate bugs just like my daughter does!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!

Have a blessed and safe 4th everyone!

Accepted!

We got a call last night that we were accepted by the adoption agency, Acres of Hope!!! Not that we doubted, but it is so nice to get the confirmation! Just wanted to share!

Home Visit

We have an appointment for our home visit with the social worker scheduled for the 13th!!!! We cannot wait! It seems so unreal, this road we're traveling! We're so excited! Just had to let y'all know! Time to finish cleaning the house and folding the laundry!

"The Greatest Show On Earth!"

That's right, folks! We went to the Ringling Bros. Circus! Princess had learned about the circus in school this past year and I've had it written on my calendar for months! My mother was SO kind to buy us tickets...and let me tell you that those things aren't cheap! Thank you mom! It was fun to see our children experience the circus! I must admit that parts of it seem different from when I was a kid. I remember there being 3 rings. This time there was only one. I remember a bunch of elephants and even the lions that jump through the fire hoops. This time there was only one elephant for a short time and not lions or tigers. Oh yeah, and the clowns just don't dress the same anymore! It was fun though! We always talk about our 'favorite' thing from what it is we've done. So, here are our favorites:

Zach & Little Man: When the elephant first walked out and he just started pooping everywhere. It was so gross and that thing just wouldn't stop! It was hilarious!

Cuddly Boy: The clown with the green ball. And I remember him laughing when the clown popped a bubble and made a 'fart' noise.

Princess: The acrobats swinging!

Me: I liked the elephant the best...after all I had been waiting a long time to see him! I also liked the clowns. But, I really enjoyed it all and got into it way more than the rest of my family;)

Beach Time!

Yesterday we went to the beach out at Dauphin Island in Alabama. We had a blast! Some highlights?

Cuddly Boy saying he caught a fish, running to us to show us a jellyfish! Yikes!

The cops had come to take some huge guy away. I am not sure what happened, but I got the impression maybe he had been nude for awhile? He was so drunk- he could barely walk. And he was with a family!

Little Man was so brave in the water! We had to keep reminding him not to go too deep!

Princess was SCARED of the water. I thought she overcame that fear last year when she took swimming lessons. She wouldn't even go to her knees! What kind of fun is that?!?! I finally just dragged her out further with me!

Zach & the kids were digging a hole a little too close to the water...but they caught a crab. Cuddly Boy had no fear of picking up that thing! When Zach went to pick it up he got pinched!

We saw a seahorse! One family had little nets and were trying to catch sea creatures! It sure was neat to see that little thing!

Eating watermelon and other goodies while listening to the waves crashing against the shore and filtering the sand through my hands as I pondered how God made it and knows how much sand is on the seashore! Amazing!

Bogus

Want to hear another twisted thing about the south???? They do NOT have 4Th of July parades!!!!! Can you believe that? I guess it's because they go so berserk over Mardi Gras down here. They probably have no money left to do an Independence Day parade. I still cannot believe that. I remember looking last yer for one and thinking maybe because of Katrina. Then today I asked a lifetime resident of the coast and she said she's never even heard of a 4Th of July parade!!! How crazy is that!?!? I grew up going to the parades. I remember even riding my bike in one or two. It really saddens me that we have no parade to take our children to on the 4Th. I'm not necessarily big on celebrations, but its nice to have your children do some of the things you did as a kid. This is just one of them. I think I should check out that the place we want to move to next summer actually has these parades;)



Remember now, this is the same place that celebrates Mardi Gras like its Christmas (I HATE M.G.). They're the ones who shoot off fireworks for EVERY thing it seems. Where we're from we don't get big into fireworks for every little holiday. But down here the little fireworks boothes have been set up for weeks now. And they come before Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, St. Patrick's day, Grandparents Day, Hug a Friend Day. Ok, maybe not that often, but you get the picture. This is the same place that sells shrimp on every corner you pass, or so it seems. Fresh shrimp! Yuck. Can you tell I'm getting tired of the coast? I am. I'm tired of the thunderstorms every day because its too stinking' humid too!



I guess, after all I'm a true northerner, or Yooper. So please, someone take me out of the Land of Dixie!

I remember riding my bike, like Heather said in a comment, like I was driving. I'd ride all over the neighborhood with the other kids. I loved it! It was a blast. (My 7 year old still can't ride a bike!!!) There were no fears back then of being abducted or molested. Parents just let us go! As I got older I'd ride my bike to church, I'd go across this bridge,
I'd ride up and down the huge hills. I went everywhere on that thing! It was fun! These days we don't leave our children out of our site, much less cruising on their bikes all over town (if they knew how to ride them). It is weird how so much has changed. I won't even let my kids play in the front yard by themselves! Just another thing my children won't experience quite like I did (even if we lived in the same town I grew up in they wouldn't be venturing far from home). Just another trip down memory lane;)

Enjoying the first days of Summer Vacation!

For those who can't see slide shows, I'm sorry! I can always email you some pictures!!!

Memories of Summer

Today as I was lounging in the pool I had some major summertime nostalgia. As a little girl, my best friends mother baby-sat me in the summer. We were at the beach every possible day. Swimming, playing with our Barbies and eating bologna sandwiches! That was quite the life back then! I loved summertime (still do). I loved to be able to be with my friend, Shannon, every day. If it was a rainy day I remember staying at her house and playing Barbies. We were all about the Barbies;) We'd take them to the pool (kitchen sink or bathtub) and to the movies (whatever soap opera was on). We'd ride bikes and play outside in her yard. These were just some of my summertime memories I was thinking on today. What is a summer memory that sticks out in your mind today?

Bye-Bye 1st Grade!!!

No more pencils

No more books

No more of mommy's dirty looks.

No more spelling

No more math

No more enduring mommy's wrath.

School's over

It's summer break at last

Where first grade is in the past!

No, really our year wasn't that bad. We had school lessons, Bible lessons and life lessons. We learned about suffixes, fractions, Teddy Roosevelt and death. I think Little Princess's favorite subjects are History and Science. She's so like her dad in loving history;) But she's like me in that she loves to read. My favorite subject was English. We finished up a day earlier than we intended and it is so nice to be done. I'm not sure who's more excited, me or my student! Now we can play to our heart's content!!! I also plan to throw in a bit of review here and there! So today we're having pajama day and we'll go and splash in the pool!!!

Go Zach!

Congratulations Zach on winning the Quarterly Squadron Award for NCO Instructor!!!! I'm so proud of you! For you non-military minded people that means Zach got an award for the instructor of the quarter for his work 'section'.

At the Breakfast Table

Little Man: I saw Jesus last night in my room. He told me to quit picking my scabs. He said it quietly so he wouldn't wake up mom and dad.

Little Princess: How old was he?

Little Man: I don't know. How old are we when we have long hair?

********************************************************

Little Princess: Where's the sun?

Cuddly Boy: Hiding in the trees.

One thing accomplished

Ok, so I somewhat redesigned the blog. If I forgot any of you please let me know. When I updated the template it didn't take along everybody's blogs. Gotta love that;) I tried to add what I remembered. What I'm wondering is how to get those tool things off of the bottom of everything. Why are those there, or am I the only one who sees them? Let me know what you think of everything!

**OK, no more tools;)

Why Liberia?

Liberia means 'free land'. Freed American slaves were sent back to Africa, however they were not welcomed. They named their settlement Monrovia, named after President James Monroe. Monrovia now serves as the capital of Liberia.

Rubber is one of the biggest natural resources in Liberia and brought many jobs to the country. Some of the other natural resources are ire ore, timber, gold and diamonds. Liberia was becoming a thriving land with universities, electrical plants, roads and even drawing tourism as people wanted to go on African safaris.

In 1989 a civil war broke out. Before this there was already unrest in the country. A country that seemed to be prospering soon found itself falling. Today Liberia has no running water, electricity or postal service. People are dying of disease and malnutrition. Orphans are found everywhere and many parents are turning their children over to the orphanages for survival. Because this country has no health care, or very minimal, there is no way to treat the diseases. People are dying. Children and babies dying. Nobody knows nor cares about these deaths as it is a common occurrence.

People do whatever they can for survival. For example, by 11 years old most girls become prostitutes to try to survive. Most of these girls have not even hit puberty yet they're prostituting their bodies in desperation for food.

In 2004 1 million babies died. Did I mention that the population is only about 3 million? Life expectancy is only 40 years!

This country is in extreme poverty. They are in need. I know there are other countries in the same circumstances, yet the Lord has laid Liberia on our hearts. He has called us to pull at least one child, a child of His, out of this poverty. To give them life, hope and a future. What will you do to help? Will you at least pray for us? Not all are called to adopt, but there are still ways we can help those the Lord does call to adopt these orphans. If it breaks my heart to see a picture of a sad, malnourished child imagine how it breaks Jesus' heart!

Science & Nature

This scraggly little tree is the ONLY one in both our front and back yard. We have beautiful trees behind our fence (in the 'swamp') but NONE in our yard! I keep telling myself that the next house we live in we'll have a wonderful shade tree. I'm not sure what kind of tree this is, but I think the people who lived here before us planted it. They had all sorts of things growing, which we've since gotten rid of. I'm just not a gardener. I have no interest for it nor time to spend on it (and lets not get into the financial aspect). Anyway, below is a picture of the fruit growing on the tree. I need to take one inside and cut it open!

Today while Zach was mowing he found this toad. Fearless one is seen holding it (aka Cuddly boy). Well, I call him fearless but he is afraid of the bouncy castles and of our waterslide. Go figure. I'll take a bounce and slide over a toad any day! Zach also found this spider weaving this crazy looking web on the fence. Look at that interesting design! I remember when we read about spiders in one of the Nature Readers from Christian Liberty Press. Even if you don't homeschool you will LOVE these books! Even my 2 year old would listen as we'd learn about various insects, birds and other animals! They are very affordable too!!! Anyway, I'm going to have to dig out our books and see if we've read about this type of spider. We had a fun day in the pool and on the waterslide and now I'm exhausted! But, I realized I hadn't posted pictures in awhile (nor had I taken any in a long time) so I thought I'd show you we had a bit of science and nature in our own back yard!

Cleaning up the Blog

I have so many blogs on my sidebar that I just don't have time to read anymore and I'd like to commit my time to those I do read so I think soon I'll be doing a bit of clean-up! If you read me and don't comment much leave a comment!!! I'll probably still keep y'all in bloglines or bookmark y'all but its just overwhelming (especially considering all of the blogs I'm finding from others adopting from Liberia). I wish I could get a whole new makeover for my blog...I'm so ready for a change! If only I had the brains to do it or the means to pay to have it done! Oh well, I'll settle on what I have! And I have yet to post more about Liberia...so much to do so little time! Once we're done with school I won't know what to do with all of the time on my hands!!! Speaking of school I FINALLY figured out what I'm doing next year...so that is another post too;) Aren't y'all excited to see what's coming up (at whatever point I get around to it)! C'mon now, lemme hear that cheer!

Meme from Heather....

WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yep, a star from The Young and the Restless!

WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? It's been days...not sure when

DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Not really

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Turkey

DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Sure do- my 3 here, 2 in heaven and at least one waiting for us in Liberia!

IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Uh, I'm a bit weird, but I am friendly;)

DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? What's that???

DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yep

WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? No way!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Honey Bunches of Oats

DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? No

DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Physically not really, but I'm strong in the Lord!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Mint Mackinac Island Fudge (if only I could get that stuff here...)

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? Smile or eyes

RED OR PINK? Pink!

WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? I wouldn't even know where to begin;)

WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My baby Malachi

WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Jean shorts, bare foot

WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? Honey Bunches of Oats

WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? Barney on the TV, Gabe buzzing around the house, the dryer

IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Purple

FAVORITE SMELLS? babies

WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My mom!

FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Hockey (just haven't watched it in years)

HAIR COLOR? blond

EYE COLOR? blue

DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Sure do

FAVORITE FOOD? chocolate

SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy Endings

LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? The Messengers

WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Blue/green color

SUMMER OR WINTER? Summer

HUGS OR KISSES? both

MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? No idea

LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Canaan

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Saint by Ted Dekker

FAVORITE SOUND[S]? Laughter of my children, the waves of the sea

ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Don't care

WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Washington State

DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? nope

WHERE WERE YOU BORN? The U.P.

Time

Time is flying. I've been so busy trying to finish our school for the year. We'll finish sometime next week (depends on how many lessons I cram into a day). We only have 10 left I think, so we won't have to cram too bad! I think we're both ready for a break. I have other things I want to do with my kiddos...things that are more fun, but still learning! In addition to playing in the pool a LOT. I am craving some sun!!! But I feel like I need to finish our school first. Priorities. I'm all about summer school, just at a different, less structured pace!

In addition to school we've also been busy filling out forms for the adoption. I had my physical and it seems like every evening is spent filling out some sort of form. I think I'm done with the beginning ones though, for now. We've really had to narrow down what 'type' of child we want. I hate that. It's like we're 'shopping'. I want the Lord to guide and show us! And He's really been. I'll be thinking something and then later Zach and I begin talking and we're thinking the same thing!

Another crazy God-thing is Zach's job. He's never gone TDY before but supposedly (this could change, it IS the military we're talking about) beginning in August he'll move into a different teaching position that requires him to go TDY often. I really don't want him leaving all of the time, but I see it as a) more money in our pockets and b) temporary, especially if we're moving next summer.

We were supposed to refinance our house this week but we aren't able to until the end of July (pre-payment penalties). It almost may work to our benefit, but we're not sure yet. We may be able to either request to get a bit of cash out or work it to where we won't have 2 months of payments!!! It is amazes me how even already God is providing! It just seems like total confirmation.

I didn't mention yet that my friend Angie moved last weekend. I am so bummed. She's been a wonderful friend and was so helpful and supportive when I went through everything with Malachi. I will really miss her!!!

Princess is on a roll with the summer reading program and has read about 40 books, if not more. This girl will NOT stop reading. She's on book #5 of the Little House on the Prairie series! Can you say NERD? Uh, she's just like her mama. She talks about her 'brown sister'. I'm going to have to have her come up with a new nickname;)

Cuddly Boy is still using the potty at times. There's been minimal accidents and today was the first time I had to clean poop out of the undies. I'm sure Lightning McQueen was thrilled with that;) As I was doing school today it was real quiet. He comes in and tells me he was eating cookies. Sure enough, the lid to the cookies wasn't on quite right...little Cookie Monster!

Little Man prays for the "brown people who eat rice". They're so precious and they glue their eyes to the computer as I browse through photos of Liberian children.

Potty Time

I mentioned not too long ago about Cuddly boy and potty training. This boy rocks! I'm telling you, I've had more success potty training my two boys than I did my girl! I have barely done a thing with him. At times he'll just say he has to go and he goes. Last night he pooped on the potty for the first time. Today I put underwear on him and he wore them during his nap and woke up dry. Little Man was the same way. Once he was ready he took off! Princess, on the other hand was a nightmare! Always accidents, always afraid of the potty. So, now I just need to remember to remind Cuddly to use the potty!

Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day! I am so blessed for my children to have such a wonderful and Godly daddy. He loves them so much and tries his hardest to raise them in the Lord. I have seen how God has grown Zach in so many areas and it amazes me to watch it. I have stood amazed that God has given this man to me, so undeserving of such a Godly man. He loves his children, prays for them, teaches them about the Lord, is an example of Christ, plays with them, provides for them. He is everything a father needs to be and should be. Thank you, Zach, for being such a wonderful father to our children. I know that whatever other children we're blessed with will love you just as much as these.

For my dad, Happy Father's Day. Thank you for taking me as your own since the day I was born. Thank you for loving me, caring for my needs and playing with me. I have so many wonderful memories of us as I was growing up. From motorcycle rides to 'driving' while sitting on your lap. From holidays to the Sunday car rides. From games of Connect Four to watching TV together. I love you Dad!

Priceless

Movie Stub: $13.50

Gas: $30.74

Father's Day Card: $3.34

Seeing a child ask Jesus into their heart: Priceless

I remember at the beginning of the week how I was dragging my feet about VBS. It was such a rewarding week and I am so glad I helped out. It was awesome to see the children sing songs to Jesus and learn the motions. To hear them ask questions about Jesus. To see the joy on their faces as they played games. To see one little boy that was in our class ask Jesus into his heart. Priceless. Rewarding. Working with children is definitely challenging but also so rewarding. What have you done for the Lord lately?

Liberia - Sites and Facts

This gives some information but also shows pictures of the war-torn country and inhabitants. Breaks my heart to watch it.

Step 1 Complete

Yesterday I handed in our homestudy papers so the journey has officially begun. We're so excited. As I was driving to drop them off I felt so giddy. It was the same feeling you get when you find out you're pregnant- you're so excited and wonder what the next 9 months has in store for you. Our social worker is really wonderful and I sat and visited with her for awhile asking questions. This is her first time working with somebody adopting from Liberia (besides my friend Kim who is also working with her and has also just begun the process).

We had to pay $50 for the application fee for the homestudy. No big deal, it was payday and all. Well, Kim's friend called and asked if she could rent our water slide from us for $50! Sure! See how God just threw that in our lap!?!? It was so cool! Then I got the bright idea that I could rent out our water slide to friends of friends of friends;) as a way to raise money. God is so good to provide all our needs.

Well I'm off to finish cleaning. I've been getting some negative feedback and while I know the people are well-meaning I feel like saying, "If you don't have nothing nice to say then don't say anything at all". Makes me want to keep this all to ourselves, but we can't do that! We NEED the prayers of our family and friends!!!

Emotional Ride

If I could sum up with one word right now at the beginning of our adoption journey it would be: emotional. I have always been an emotional person, just ask my family. They used to sing Van Halen's song, Jamie's Cryin' to me:

Oh, whoa, whoa, Jamie's cryin'

Oh, whoa, whoa, Jamie's cryin'

God made women to be emotional. That isn't always a bad thing. Little things can get me to cry, but through the years I've become harder. I don't always cry as easily at certain things. But things of God, well they still tear me up. Watching my daughter grow and sing songs to Jesus while doing the motions, hearing little children sing songs to Jesus and seeing God's work in my life are some of the latest things that God has shown me. And I just want to sit and sob! BUT, that isn't all. God has given me a heart like His like never before. And that is emotional! I've never thought I would see so much of His heart like this. It is amazing. I've always had a heart for orphaned children but not like this. With sharing all of this, I may as well just spill my little 'testimony'. Let me warn you that it is long! Before I leave you to read my life story in a nutshell, I want you to check out this song, One, we've learned at VBS (click on the song One once you get there). Something about the words of this song just touch those emotional parts of my heart. As I hear the words and sing it I could just cry rivers of tears. It makes me think of the child(ren) we may be adopting from Africa and how we are One with them- in heart, mind, love. It doesn't matter their skin color or that they live across the ocean. We are One in Jesus name.

Ever since I was a little girl I've wanted to be a mommy. I loved to play with my dolls and even my Barbie’s, who would have big families. Even at a young age I would help in the church nursery. I was always drawn to children! I remember one time watching something on TV that has still stuck with me. They were showing orphans in orphanages in Romania. It broke my heart to see those poor children lie in cribs all day long. To see the conditions they lived in devastated me. As I grew older I began to baby-sit and I loved it! I loved to be around children and take care of them. Being an only child and the youngest grandbaby for many about 8 years, I didn’t have many little children in my family. At some point, I think maybe 6th or 7th grade I began watching the Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon. I was so inspired by how these sick children were helped, how despite their illness they were so happy.

It was about this time, in 7th grade, that the schools began talking about our careers and college. We had to think about what we wanted to do when we grew up. Well all I wanted to be was a mommy! But of course that wasn’t an option. I had to search out careers and find what I wanted to do (and forget about having children). It was in my search that I learned of social work. Perfect! I began to think about those telethons and dream of working in a children’s hospital. I thought of how I would make those ill children smile- walk in their rooms in a clown suit, have a puppet show, play with them, tell them of Jesus.

So as graduation grew nearer this was the plan. I’d become a social worker. After all, the thing to do after high school is to go to college, right? Who just becomes a mom?

Through college I always wondered when I’d find the right guy. I just wanted to get married and start a family! But of course- studies came first. My sophomore and junior years I went on a mission trip to Grundy, Virginia (Mt. Mission School) during spring break. We worked at an orphanage. The majority of the children were from African American families, families of poverty (which is why the children were there). Those children were so precious! They just loved for us to come and fellowship, sing and play with them. They were so full of love and hugs- and even smiles. That was such an awesome opportunity for me!

By my senior year I had met my man. Two weeks after I graduated we were married. I listened to those ‘wiser’ ones and was on the pill. It’s not feasible to start a family right after marriage. We needed to get to know one another, was what we were told. Well, I didn’t last long on the pill for physical reasons, but also because I wanted a baby! About two months after we’d gotten married we were pregnant! Two years later we had another baby. At that time I wasn’t sure how many children I wanted, maybe 4 or 5. We used protection but still thought if God wanted us to become pregnant He would allow it to happen.

Then I was introduced to the Above Rubies ministry. I devoured the magazines, joined the egroup and then we went to a family camp. We read their book, which is now called, ‘Be Fruitful & Multiply’ and it changed our lives. It opened our eyes and we’ve not been the same. God has really used Nancy Campbell and this ministry to change our family. I am open to any number of children. I see them as a blessing. I have learned about how to be a better, more Godly wife and mother.

I should also mention that at first in our marriage I knew we’d homeschool but I wasn’t too open about it. Zach totally wanted it but I was hesitant. Well, the Lord changed my way of thinking in this area as well. My sister-in-law gave us a book about homeschooling and I became excited about it and that fire has not burned out yet!

The past year Above Rubies has really focused on adoptions from Liberia. I also must mention I go to Women’s Retreats through Above Rubies- I’ve gone to 3 now. I enjoyed reading about these families who were adopting, thinking that someday further down the road we’d adopt. Since that day when I saw on TV those children in the Romanian orphanages I have had a desire to adopt. Through our years together once in awhile I’d mention it to Zach, thinking it would happen way down the road. He wasn't open to adoption, though. He thought it would be fine just to produce our own children!

God has been working on Zach’s heart. I’m sure I would tell him about some of these families who were adopting. One day, I’m not even sure when, he told me we should adopt. I couldn't believe my ears! So, I once again thought, ‘Yeah, down the road’.

Two years after our second child was born we had a third one- our second boy. After I had him it took longer to get pregnant (because I nursed on demand for a long time). When I did get pregnant I miscarried. This was August of last year. Two to three months later I again was pregnant. Things were going great, we saw the baby on ultrasound, heard a heartbeat. When I went to an appointment at 15 weeks I found out our baby died. We were devastated, in shock, angry, sad. Three weeks later I delivered Malachi Robert’s body into the world. We buried him five days later.

This was the most difficult time of my life yet I saw God’s hand through it all. Zach found out about an Adoption Seminar on base and wanted to go. I thought I’d go but wasn’t interested in adopting at this time. I just lost my baby and felt like I wasn’t being a good mommy to my three children. Also, while I was waiting to deliver our Malachi I attended an Above Rubies retreat. Nancy talked about how they were adopting from Liberia and told us about her daughter, who also adopted from Liberia.

So I go to this seminar and we get lots of good information. I think I’ll just hold on to it for the future. We’d even gotten a home study packet. I filed it all away. But Zach kept talking about adopting. We’ve even talked about foster/adopt but if we move next summer I’m not certain how that would work out. I wouldn’t want to get attached to these children and possibly be able to adopt them only to move and have to ‘give them up’.

So over the past couple of months I’ve been pondering adoption more and more. I realized it would probably happen sooner than what I originally thought. Then one night I went to a Mom’s Night Out, just 4 nights ago. My friend, Kim, was there. She is hoping to adopt a little girl, Janet Flomo, from Liberia. She was telling us about it, about Liberia. Things I’ve heard before. But for some reason this night it really hit me. Also, her friend was there talking about her foster care. I almost began weeping. I really had to hold back the tears. God really impressed it heavily upon my heart that “NOW is the time”. Some little girl in Liberia needs us.

I came home and I probably went looking on the Internet right away. I couldn’t stop the tears from falling. Zach was already in bed, so the next day I emailed him about it. His reply was pretty much, “Let’s do it!” He probably thought it’s about time I come around!

The past four nights I’ve slept fitfully. I keep seeing images on little Liberian children needing help. I’ve been researching online- adoption agencies, blogs of those who’ve adopted, etc. I’ve emailed a few who have adopted from Liberia.

Besides the fact that God has laid Liberia so heavy on my heart is something else. He showed me a ‘window’ the other day of how everything in my life has come to this point. Like:
1. I am adopted. My dad adopted me when I was 7 or 8. I don’t know my biological dad (although I've met him). I am also adopted into God’s family.
2. Seeing the Romanian orphanages, how it affected me and how I still remember it today.
3. Always wanting to be a mommy.
4. Getting a social work degree (Jerry Lewis).
5. My mission trips to the ‘orphans’ in Virginia.
6. Above Rubies
7. Even losing my babies.

I know there are many reasons my babies may have passed. I know God works all things out for His glory. I see good that has come through the losses. I believe if we hadn’t gone through them then our hearts wouldn’t be so open today to adopting. As I look back I see God’s always had me as a ‘candidate’ of His to adopt- He’s just been molding my life and heart until just the right time so that He will bless us with just the child who needs us.

Some verses I read this morning:

Psalm 112:9 He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor…
Psalm 113:9 He settles the barren woman in her home as a happy mother of children.
Psalm 115:14, 15 May the Lord make you increase, both you and your children. May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Verses on ‘adoption’:

Ephesians 1:5 …he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will...
Romans 8:23 Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
John 14:18 I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.
James 1:27 Religion that god our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

A bit of a bragging mommy

Crazy. I was just laying with Cuddly boy for his nap and I heard thunder. It is sunny out yet it is thundering something profusely. I do see that north of here it is looking rather stormy though. It's just weird! It's this crazy humidity. Yuck. I dread the middle of July!

Yesterday morning when we awoke bright and early for VBS Cuddly boy had a slight fever. I thought maybe he was just tired from going to bed late and getting up early. When I picked him up after VBS he was so tired and out of it- and HOT. Poor boy had a fever and barely ate yesterday. By 7 pm he was better but it peaked again around midnight. Neither he or I slept good last night (I had this crazy headache). So I decided he needed to stay home. I figured it wouldn't be a problem if I wasn't there today as there were enough helpers, so I just dropped off the other two.

I have to mention how proud I am of my children. You see, Princess never would participate in the games at Sparks. She'd just sit on the sidelines. When she first joined children's choir she wouldn't sing or do the motions. Now she's like a totally different person. I am so proud of her! (WOW, I just saw lighting right out the window, yet its still sunny). As I watched her singing yesterday and learning the motions to their songs I about teared up seeing how far she's come. Plus she played all of the games! Go Princess!

I've mentioned Little Man before and how he cant stand to be away from us. It's like he feared we'd leave him and never return. Plus he doesn't do well with change. I wondered how he would do for VBS because I wasn't going to be working with his age group like i did in Awana. I began working him up for the week and telling him about it- preparing him. He did GREAT! I was a bit nervous this morning when I would drop them off and come home (normally we're still in the building somewhere and I think that makes him feel more secure). He was totally fine with it! My babies are growing up and I'm SO proud of them! My mommy's heart is bursting with pride today (I know, how corny does that sound? But its true).

Cuddly Boy and I had a nice morning at home. It was so quiet. Amazing. I forgot what its like with only one child! He's feeling much better now and ate SO much food for lunch! After lunch he came and told me he pooped. He says he wants to pee in the potty (he says this a lot but never actually pees). So, I clean up his little behind and he BOLTS into the bathroom. It was dark in there, yet he went in, while I threw his diaper away. I'm standing in the kitchen washing my hands and he comes running in there so excited, "I peed, I peed!" And he did!!! I was SO proud of him!!! One thing I've learned from potty training........you can't force it. When they're ready, they're ready.

That's my news for the day! Oh, and thanks so much for all of your kind comments!!!

Spilling The Beans & Stepping Out in Faith

Remember a few posts back I asked you to pray for something? Well, I thought I'd finally share it. We are in the process to adopt a child from Liberia. I ask you to pray that this goes smoothly (as smooth as an adoption can go). I ask you to pray for the finances. Adoption costs a ridiculous amount of money and we are totally stepping out in faith here. We're in the military and we don't have extra funds lying around to just up and adopt a child. But God has called us to this point and we are trusting in Him. We know that if it is His will then He will help us to provide. Pray also for the children in Liberia. I will be sharing some of what we're learning as the days, weeks and months unfold. Pray for the people who will help us through the process- from the prayer warriors to the social workers to the adoption agency to the INS workers. I also have written something that I would like to share soon with you all (probably in increments as it is long). Unless I figure out a way I can send a link to it... This is a huge step, an exciting yet scary road we will travel. Thank you for your support and love! Not all have been supporting at this point and that is difficult, especially when it is people close to us. Which I why I will share and pour out my heart to you.

I will leave you with some facts about Liberia. In 1989 a civil war broke out, being rated as one of the most deadly wars in Africa. There's no electricity, running water or mail service. People are suffering from malnutrition and lack of medical care. Babies and others die daily from the disease and conditions that run rampant in that country. The population is about 3 million with a life expectancy about 40 years old. The country is hurting and in need of not only food and medical care, but most importantly they're in need of a Savior, Jesus.

Little Man, "Dad, when I get married and my girl kisses me when the music is on should I slap her mouth?"

No idea where that came from but just had to share!!! LOL The things kids come up with! And no, Zach does not kiss me and then slap me on the mouth!

Weekend Recap

I can't believe the weekend is almost over! It seems like it just began! We must not have done much on Friday because I don't remember what we did. I think the only times I went out of the house all week was when we went to the library Monday night and Tuesday morning and then again I went to a Mom's Night Tuesday night. It was so nice staying home, especially considering this week I will be gone every single day (and I'm not used to that).

Yesterday we took out the pool in the morning after realizing it was about 100 degrees out. We filled it up and ran errands only to come home to pouring rain. It stopped and looked like it may clear up, but then we had quite the thunderstorm! So, swimming was out of the question. I had a friend from church over for dinner (her husband is out working in the ocean) and we had a fun night of fellowship. We also had the 'Kirby salespeople' come to our door. I was still in my pj's (at 11 am) so I had Zach answer. Of course they don't come right out and say they're selling Kirby's (we already have one) and I find the woman's voice getting closer and closer. I walk into the living room and she is just standing in my house! And Zach didn't invite her in! And she was pretty much exposing her breasts to the world. So I walked in there and said, "We already have a Kirby" but that doesn't satisfy them. They need to know what model. Who cares? I'm not buying your Kirby!?!? Good thing we had errands to run...we didn't need another demonstration. Zach is real hesitant (I am too) about door-to-door salespeople since we recently discovered we were scammed. If anybody comes to your house selling magazines DO NOT BUY THEM.

Anyway, today after church we went to the cemetery and then came home and got to play in the pool. This week we have VBS every day. Not just every day, every day at 8 am. That's right, 8 am. I homeschool, people. We're usually not out of bed by 8 am! How I will manage to get us ready and out the door to be at the church in time is beyond me! It'll be fun, I know, but I'm sure I'll be exhausted by Friday! Friday we're supposed to close on our house (we're refinancing). Not to mention I've got oodles of errands to run, phone calls to make, etc). But, then we'll see another week over, another week closer to the finish line of 1st grade!

Something else we've been up to...working on potty training.

CAN I GET A WITNESS?

I've been a-singin' that song in my head by DC Talk since yesterday. Yesterday I got to baby-sit for my friend, Angela. She has two kiddos. While playing in the afternoon Princess began to ask her 5 year old if he knew Jesus. She was telling him all about Jesus. It was the sweetest thing. This is how Princess is. She's always concerned about people's salvation- whether they know Jesus or not. I love her zeal for the Lord and her desire for others to know about Him. Cuddly boy enjoyed helping with the baby. He would bring me a bottle or pacifier to help out. I'm telling you, we need a baby in this house! It wasn't even bad adding 2 more into the bunch! I thought, "Boy, I can handle 5!" I will admit that by bedtime I was exhausted!

Pluggin' Along

So far its not as bad as I feared. My week that is. I thought I'd be losing it left and right! I thought I'd be duct taping my kids to the wall! Not really;) You've seen that email or picture floating around, haven't you? We are plugging along at school and actually seeing progress- both in learning and in almost being done. The past two days I've just sat the boys in front of a movie while I taught Princess. I hate doing that but it works SO much better! They don't fight and they aren't in here causing a raucous and making a racket that I have to shout over! Monday night we went to the library as a family. I signed the kiddos up for the summer reading program. Princess read at least 10 books THAT night! The next morning was the puppet show (Jack and the Beanstalk), so I decided I'd take them and we also had to get more books. This girl can't stop reading (kinda like her mom). I even earned more 'Cool Mom Points' by letting them play in the sprinkler yesterday- in their clothes! That's about all we've been up to. God has really laid something heavy on my heart the past couple of days- heavier than normal. So if you could just pray that HE leads us. I'll share more about it another time.

Back to that thing called REALITY (and no I don't mean TV)

Yep, tomorrow is the day of going back to reality. Zach goes back to work and we will try to do some school. Fun. It was such a nice, relaxing break and vacation. Normally after almost three weeks I'm ready to THROW Zach out the door, but this time is different. It has been wonderful having him home. He is such a great husband and really helps with the kids. I know that *I* am the helpmeet but HE is a wonderful helper to me. He bathes them often (we've taken turns while on vacation but normally he's the one to do it). He also feeds them breakfast and lunch for the most part. I know there are some dads out there who don't do any of this. Zach is wonderful and it is nice for me to not have to do it all. This past week at home we did so many fun things- went bowling with our homeschool group, swam in our pool, had a picnic in the backyard, went for a walk, played games. It was nice. We're also in the process of refinancing and selling on eBay so we've been pretty busy! I just feel SO totally blessed by the family God gave me. Even though my children tend to drive me crazy I am so blessed to even have children! I'm reading Terri Camp's book, "I'm Going to Be the Greatest Mom Ever! (Even if it Kills Me). I have read it before but just wanted a boost. It is hilarious but also so encouraging. Last night I was just CRACKING up at her talking about what a good Christian wears, especially a good Christian homeschooler. JUMPERS!!! I must not be that 'good Christian homeschooler' because I do NOT wear jumpers. Even Zach was laughing about it. It's a great book- even if you don't homeschool. She makes you laugh but also puts things into perspective. This poem that she wrote really struck me and I wanted to share it with you all.

The Mirror

I look into my mirror

and wonder what You see.

Do You see godliness

deep inside of me?

Or do You see someone

who just cares about her hair?

Do You see a person

who doesn't really care?

Do You see the extra

pounds of fat?

Or, do You really care about that?

Do You see a person

who has a holy fear,

For a precious Savior

that she holds so very dear?

Do You see a person

whose heart is pure?

Do You see a person

who knows you, for sure?

As I look in my mirror,

help me to see,

The kind of person

You want me to be.

This is what I need to remember throughout my week. I need to have a pure heart. I need to be the person that He wants me to be. I need to be godly. I must admit I'm nervous about Zach going back to work. Will I flip out at the littlest things again? Or can I slowly take a breath, breathe a quick prayer and use patience? I'm praying that I will be the Godly mother that the Lord desires. Have a blessed week!

Oops

I forgot to tell you what Thursday was... Have any idea? Aw, come on and take a guess. Clueless? Well, it was 2 years since I began blogging! TWO YEARS!!! It seems like just yesterday! So, for you lurkers- come out, come out wherever you are. Leave me a comment!!! Let me know you read! Just. Say. Something. Comments are cool. We blogger's love our comments. You don't even need to have an account- just be anon- you can leave your name if you want but you don't have to. I know some of my family reads but doesn't comment...who else is out there???