Gotta' Love My Life!

Crafting for a Cause

2012-02-09T10:27:00.001-06:00

(**edited: I realized after reading more closely that the cause is actually Craft Hope. Project 16 is their most recent project. I apologize for any confusion!**)

In the comments to my post "Pins and Needles", my friend Linda suggested I check out a great cause called "Project 16::The Littlest Warriors". I did, and I've decided to make some bags to donate to this cause. It just so happens, the mom that started this (a mom whose little one is battling leukemia) lives right here in MN.

So, what I'm wondering is this... are there others out there who would be willing to help me make items? If you are local, we can fill a box (or more??) and send. If you are not local, you could recruit your own local friends and send a box of your own. Contact me through the comments on my blog, through email (qfmama@gmail.com), or by phone (282.4348) to let me know you are participating.

Specifically, Project 16 is asking for beanies and bags. I'll be focusing on bags, as I am able to make those relatively quickly. To get more details about Project 16, click on the link in the first paragraph. Also, if you are unable to sew, but are willing to donate fabric, please contact me!

So, let's craft for a cause!

Pins & Needles

2012-02-07T12:06:00.000-06:00

Recently I've completed several projects. Last week I finished these two reversible bags for a friend. Her fabric, my cutting/sewing. :) She really likes them, so that makes me happy! I made so many modifications to each of these bags to make them work. I made mistakes (cutting pieces the wrong size) that I couldn't "fix" because of lack of fabric. However, I'm pleased with the final results.

I also made this bookmark after seeing a tutorial online. It was easy, but I really didn't have the right type of interfacing. I hope it holds up! What better way to use up the scraps left when trimming down the pocket pieces. :)

The next project was a cute little amigurumi bunny (free pattern can be found at Lion Brand.com by logging in and searching "best bunny"). I stuffed him with yarn remnants since it was all I had on hand. If I were to make another I would wait until I purchased some "real" stuffing. But, he's cute. Now I just need to figure out what I'm going to do for the eyes since I don't think I have beads that will work, and I know I don't have any black/nearly black yarn...

Yesterday was the day I really crafted up a storm! It was the result of sorting dozens of links for tutorials and projects I'd like to make. I just couldn't walk away! LOL The great thing is that every project was done with scraps left from previous projects. :)

My first project was a mini version of a bag holder. It's much smaller than a traditional bag holder, but works perfectly near my desk where I really need a few bags, but don't want them just sitting out. First of all, it would be unsightly. Secondly, some small person would likely walk off with them... ;) So, this is my solution. Now when I'm ready to change out the bag in the garbage I can just do it! (I'm always putting it off because it requires getting a bag from the entry closet, and I never remember to grab one when I'm out there... Now I have no excuse!)

My second project was the little cutie shown below. I found a tutorial for a finger pincushion, and thought it was a great idea! So much better than holding pins in my mouth when removing them from a project I'm sewing; I can't just toss them on my work surface for fear they will end up on the floor, and then in little feet... I didn't have all the necessary supplies to complete that particular pincushion, so I googled and found this one. Very simple! I did find that the finished product was a bit overstuffed to use on my pointer finger. It does work on my ring finger or pinkie, but I'm not sure how practical that will be. (I did make a second that you will see off to the side in following pictures. It's just slightly larger, and less stuffed than the first. It fits perfectly!)

(A friend asked if I thought it would be hard to break the habit of putting the pins in my mouth. I honestly don't know! I never liked doing it, but did it out of necessity... I guess time will tell. *grin*)

Still on the pincushion kick, I made this square (about 4"x4"x2.5"). My current pincushion was a flower - cute, but collected dust like nobodies business, which drove me crazy! This may be a bit under-stuffed, but if I need to I can open up my side seam and fill it a bit more. (And there's that second finger p.c. I made...)

The last project was a bookmark made using this tutorial. I made this for Victory from the remnants of the first project I attempted for her which was an utter failure for lack of thorough thought. LOL She's happy with the end result. :)

Now, what should I make next?? ;) (Actually, I have another project in process, but it's taking a lot of thought - which I don't always have the brainpower for - so is moving slowly. I will, however, be posting pictures when it's done!)

And, just for fun...

Yes, that's a QUARTER... next to a mutant strawberry!!

Contrition

2012-02-01T11:40:00.000-06:00

Jericho (recently turned 3) is a toughie when it comes to discipline. It's often clear she knows she's done wrong, but any form of discipline - from firm reprimand to spanking (yes, we spank. *gasp*) - results in tears of either deep sadness, or extreme madness. We are often at a loss with her.

Today she was scolded for playing with something she shouldn't. I said softly, but firmly, that she wasn't to do that. She hid under my desk. Normally I wouldn't allow it (hiding/pouting), but I did. About 2 minutes later she came out, gave me a hug, and said "sorry". I nearly fell off my seat!! Maybe a few minutes to stew is just what she needs?? I guess time will tell... :)

Where there's smoke...

2012-01-30T15:02:00.000-06:00

...there might be fire.

Especially if you leave a cookbook on the stove and turn on the wrong burner.

This is the cookbook with all my handwritten, family favorites. Thankfully it's just the outside that's ruined. Now I just need to find a new 3-ring binder with the same dimensions...

There wasn't an actual fire... just LOTS of smoke. The smoke detector went off, the dog freaked out, the kids ran around griping about how badly it smelled. I'm thankful the cover had a coated paper... had it just been paper, it would have gone up in flames for sure.

As if that wasn't bad enough, in the process of trying to clear out the smoke, I forgot to turn off the burner. So, while I'm opening windows (which required peeling up weatherizing plastic) and doors, the remnants of the cookbook are continuing to "cook" on the stovetop. GRR.

I am so thankful it was one of the very mild (nearly 40˚F) days we've had recently. The house aired out nicely.

The stovetop and (barely functional) oven hood are now sparkly clean. Or, as sparkly as they can be. This picture of the hood actually makes it look much better than it is...

Sadly, this is as good as this hood gets... it's rusty, and really doesn't work.

My kids learned first-hand why I'm always telling them to NEVER put anything on the stove (unless you're cooking *wink*).

The upside of the day... the kids got out of the house for the afternoon (before the debacle) and worked together making this snowman. Jericho and Shiloh helped too, but both refused to be in the picture. ;)

Chase, Alex, Levi & Victory with their new pal

Ch...ch...ch...changes!

2012-01-19T10:35:00.000-06:00

We had a busy weekend rearranging things in the house. The piano is now OUT of the dining room!! Yay! Feels much more roomy. We originally planned only to move the piano and rearrange things in the toy room. We ended up doing MUCH more than that, and are very pleased with the results!

We painted just the one wall so it’s no longer pink (didn’t want to have to move the piano again to paint!). Nice improvement, huh!? It was still bright pink (the photo doesn’t nearly do it justice!!) from when it was Victory’s bedroom!! We plan to try to get one wall done each weekend. By spring we could have a whole new house! ;) Not sure if I can handle the entire room that bright, but I’m pleased with the result for now. And the kids love it!

Got these two chairs on Craigslist. IKEA! The actual cost of the chairs and cushions would have been between $40-$50, but we only paid $15 for everything. Yay for great deals!! (It was funny because we’ve been using the piano bench as seating at the table and when we moved the piano Alex said, “Now where am I going to sit?” LOL So, we were kind and fixed that for him. LOL)

Look what we found behind the piano when we moved it! Good grief!! Those kids are such slobs. LOL And that's not all... when we re-ran the internet cable back to the living room we found a LOT of stuff (see pic below). ALL of that went through the tiny hole with the yellow cable coming through it (just above the dustpan). I don't know... somehow that seems a *little bit* intentional! haha

Backing up. Before all that rearranging occurred, we had to get what I've long referred to as "my scary corner" organized. It's full of craft items, and fabric and sewing supplies. Check out the "before" and "after" pics!! (I won't label them... I think it's clear which is which. LOL)

The following photo was taken during the clean out process. That's fabric... and not all of it! It's possible I have a problem. LOL In my defense, much of it was purchased when I was making cloth diapers. And, some of it was not purchased, but given to me. Still... I texted a friend this pic (along with pics of the rest of the stash) and she offered to find me a meeting. ;) "Hi, my name is Kristin, and I'm a fabricoholic." LOL

Warming trends?

2012-01-13T13:49:00.001-06:00

Hundreds gather to protest global warming...

I don't know exactly who to give credit to for this photo... I found it on Pintrest, and this is the best I can do to track down an original: Found on FB with caption: "Hundreds gather to protest Global Warming....." By: Greg Vaughn

Steph T, I know you will particularly like this. ;)

P.S. I nearly spit out my Mtn Dew when I saw it. LOL

Bible Fun

2012-01-04T20:35:00.000-06:00

During school this week, Alex brought me an assignment and said, "I can read the first part of this two ways."

The instructions said: Read Paul's message to the Greeks...

"I'd really like to do it the second way! Can I?" (giggles)

My response?

"Well, if you can find some in the next five minutes, go right ahead!" ;)

Needless to say, the assignment was done in the intended fashion.

And just for fun...
Here's the jokester with his pencil-topper eraser hickies on his face. Jokes on him! LOL

A year of craftiness...

2012-01-01T11:24:00.001-06:00

Last year (2011) I worked on several projects. As I went back through pictures I was surpassed there were as many as there were! This isn't even everything... just the things I remembered to take pictures of...

One project, that was started at least TWO years ago, was finally completed early in the year. Alex chose the fabric (fleece) and we found a simple pattern to make a pullover hoodie with a pocket on the front.

The size is nearly perfect, with enough "growing room" it should get him through this winter as well... and maybe even next fall??

This was one of my more fun, and challenging projects! My friend Steph needed a new bag, but had some really specific ideas about what she wanted/needed in order for the bag to function correctly for her. She purchased the fabric, and I went to work. The first bag ended up being just a smudge too small... but, she generously allowed me to keep it, and I use it all.the.time. :) Thankfully, there was enough fabric (well, I had to make different straps for mine...) to make another bag. This is what I came up with:

It's reversible... and I think she really likes it (I assume this, since she's still using it. *grin*).

Here's another bag I made. Originally I made it for myself, but then I realized it really fit the personality of my friend Karri, and I gifted it to her. :) It is also reversible... Both of these bags were made using my own modifications to this pattern, and this one.

The curtains below were a project that was fairly simple. After hanging the rod, I made the curtains long enough that they would hang on the floor a bit. I used my snap press to set snaps along the top to make it easy to remove for washing (which reminds me...! LOL). I let it hang in place for a few weeks before doing the final hem at the bottom. The floor is not quite level, and I wanted to make sure the fabric had stretched before deciding on a final length so it wouldn't hang on the floor after it was hemmed. That was probably the hardest part... I have a really hard time sewing a "crooked" hem on something!! (Now, if you NEED it straight... haha... I'm talking about doing this on purpose...) But, it looks great, and gives the kids sleeping area the privacy it needs.

I also made a curtain for the egress window in the basement, but that may have been before the start of the new year... and I'm pretty sure I didn't get pictures. What started out as a plan for two panels ended up being one panel. It's lined to filter out more light for better sleeping. It also has yet to be hemmed... *sigh*

A friend loaned me a Boppy to use after I had Phoenix. She had mostly girly (read pink) covers, so I recycled a laundry bag my mom made for me (when I was still in high school???) and made a cover that was more "boyish". It had some fit issues, but works. I just used the Bobby itself as a pattern. Next time I might put a bit more effort into getting it right. ;)

Not so much a crafty thing, but an attempt to allow more craftiness... I cleaned my sewing table. Sadly, it currently looks worse than the first picture. It never ends, does it?

Before

After

Victory loves to play "mommy". I have several varieties of slings for my own babies, and Victory is always having me tie her blankets around her to use in the same fashion. It never works quite right, and falls off quickly. I finally made her one to use for her own babies. :) I used a pattern I found here.

This fabric (along with a coordinating fabric in red/cream) will become a purse for my mother... someday! (Maybe I'll have it done by her birthday... in August. LOL) I'm, again, basing the idea off a pattern I found online, but the end result will be much smaller and more "purse-like". I also have an idea for the straps that I'm very excited about. :)

I receive a newsletter from Lion Brand Yarn and they often have ideas I'd love to try. This pattern was called "Bebop Cardi". I used yarn I already had and made this as a birthday gift for Victory. Overall, I'm happy with the results. I did find a few minor issues with the pattern that I would modify if I were to make another one. But, the recipient was happy, so I'm happy!

finished product on the birthday girl

Earlier this fall a friend of mine delivered quadruplets. They were MUCH too early (by the time their "due date" arrived in December, they were already 3 months old!!), and we continue to pray for their continued growth. They are beginning to come home now, and are also able to wear hats and clothing. I made these hats for them. I wish the picture was better quality... sadly, this is the only picture I took of the finished project!! But, it was fun to do something so simple for these precious bundles.

I'm looking forward to another year of craftiness! I currently have a cowl in the works (not sure if that's a Lion Brand pattern, or if it's from Bernat...). I also have a plan to work on the disaster that I call a "craft corner". Perhaps if I can make some sense of the chaos, I can actually complete some already started projects, or even use some of the fabric that I've purchased for a specific purpose and get those projects done! :)

Link to this blog post is included at Sew Many Ways

Cold...

2011-12-29T10:54:00.000-06:00

Cold is a relative thing ya know....

*At 65 degrees, Arizonans turn on the heat. People in Minnesota plant gardens.
*At 60, Californians shiver uncontrollably. People in Minnesota sunbathe.
*At 50, Italian & English cars won't start. People in Minnesota drive with the windows down..
*At 40, Georgians don coats, thermal underwear, gloves, wool hats. People in Minnesota throw on a flannel shirt.
*At 35, New York landlords finally turn up the heat. People in Minnesota have the last cookout before it gets cold.
*At 20, People in Miami all die. Minnesotans close their windows.
*At 0, Californians fly away to Mexico . People in Minnesota get out their winter coats.
*At 10 below zero, Hollywood disintegrates. The Girl Scouts in Minnesota are selling cookies door to door.
*At 20 below, Washington DC runs out of hot air. (Ya think? Nah.). People in Minnesota let their dogs sleep indoors.
*At 30 below, Santa Claus abandons the North Pole. Minnesotans get upset because they can't start the snowmobile.
*At 40 below, ALL atomic motion stops. People in Minnesota start saying..."Cold enough for ya, eh?"

I know, I need a Christmas post...

2011-12-28T11:28:00.000-06:00

...but this is what you get for now.

Improvement!!!

The first picture was taken sometime this summer, but is a pretty good representation of how my kids keep their shelves in the "toy closet". The second picture was taken just a few days ago. The four oldest each received fabric bins for Christmas with the intention that they would use them in this area. We also did a HUGE purge and removed most of the toys from the house (at least for a season). When it's proven that this area can be kept up the way it should be with a few items, we will add in a few more. For now, I'm pleased with the result. :)

Another Birthday

2011-12-22T10:41:00.001-06:00

Today, Victory Joy Noel turns 8! We celebrated her birthday on Tuesday with Grandpa and Grandma Osell with a meal at Perkins, and then a pink "donut" cake at home. ;) The cake was a hit!

At 8, Victory:
* is 4ft. 3in. tall and weighs about 53lb
* is learning to read
* enjoys all things pink and girly
* loves to wear dresses
* looks A LOT like her mother!
* likes to help with the baby
* wants to be a princess when she grows up ;)
* likes ponies
* talks A LOT
* is sugar and spice... but does have a curl in the middle of her forehead!!

HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY, VICTORY JOY!

Scissors

2011-12-19T12:46:00.000-06:00

If Shi (4 1/2 yo) is around when I use scissors - and I mean EVERY time - she says in a very concerned voice, "Mommy! Don't cut youself!" <-- that's not a typo... it's how she says it ;)

When I complete what I'm doing she says (in a voice that says she is just SO proud of me - or maybe it's surprise?? LOL), "You didn't cut youself!!" Makes me giggle every time.

Sometimes

2011-12-18T18:30:00.000-06:00

Sometimes in life it's just better to do things for yourself...

Earlier today I asked Chase to pour me a glass of Dr. Pepper. He did. I thanked him.

Fast-forward about 5 hours. I checked the fridge to see what leftovers we had for supper. What I found was a large, wet, sticky mess of spilled soda and a half-empty 2 liter bottle. Now, I'll admit that the fridge needed a good cleaning, but I generally like to do things like that on my own schedule. *sigh*

Ten minutes, many saturated paper towels, a damp rag, and a helpful husband has the fridge looking much better. Next time maybe I'll not be so lazy and get my own beverage. ;) And if a kid does it for me, there will be reminders to check lids!

366 Days

2011-12-16T12:48:00.000-06:00

First hours

Today is the first day of Phoenix's second year. I can't believe how quickly time has flown by! I say that with every child, but it really never ceases to amaze just how fleeting it all is!!

At ONE Phoenix is becoming quite the ham. He seems to enjoy teasing others (and the response he gets from that teasing!). He pulls his sisters hair, and smacks his brothers. If you ask him to give you something, he will hold it out and pull it away just as you reach for it. This is usually followed by his silly little giggle, or at least his classic grin...

He's still not sleeping through the night... most of the time. Every few weeks he will bless us with one sold stretch from 11pm-7am. I'll take more of those, please! He takes one nap late in the morning that usually lasts about 1 1/2 - 2 hrs.

Phoenix eats like a horse! For supper last night he consumed a jar of meat mixed with a jar of veggies and some baby cereal, a jar of fruit, most of a scrambled egg, and some shredded cheese. After that little feast, he also nursed. The boy also likes to share food off my plate, eats crackers, and is in general starting to eat more table food. If he could just grow some teeth, his diet could expand even more! LOL

Strangely, his weight is not reflecting his food consumption... at WIC yesterday he was down 2 lb. from his 9mo weight of 20lb. 7oz. At the clinic today for his well-child check he was only 18lb. 2oz. Now, in the last two months he's had a cold, the chicken pox, and a puke virus. He's also much more active. All these things probably contribute to the weight situation... I'll bring him in next month when Victory and Jericho have their well-child appointments and just have him weighed to make sure he's gaining, but right now the doctor is not concerned. She feels he's just settling in to a more "normal" curve for himself after starting out so big. And, as long as the rest of his development is right on, and he gains weight over the next few months, all is right in his world. :)

I mentioned his love of smacking his brothers. He also has found an interest in the household pets... we are trying to teach him to be gentle. ;) Radar (the dog) is very tolerant. If he gets bothered, he'll simply get up and move. Susie (the cat) tends to sit and take it for a bit - tail twitching all the time - and then smack him on the head with a paw. ;) Unfortunately, she needs her nails trimmed, and last week she got him across the cheek. All better now, but he looked pretty rough for a day or two.

His other fun experience this week was learning about electricity. He is forever playing with the phone charger when it's plugged in... yesterday, it bit back. But, it must not have been too traumatic since he was back to playing with it again within an hour. Stinker!

While he walks around furniture, he doesn't seem to have any interest in actually walking. Even trying to get him to walk with hands held doesn't seem to be his cup of tea. I'm okay with that! That boy gets in enough trouble as it is! ;)

I am looking forward to what this coming year will bring. He will change and grow so much! What fun. :) So much to look forward to!

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY, PJ!!

Phoenix Justice
@ 9 1/2 months

365 Days

2011-12-15T20:20:00.000-06:00

This precious munchkin turns 1 tomorrow morning!

Precious

2011-12-14T09:30:00.000-06:00

Went to Calvary's staff Christmas party last night. Kids were still up when we got home around 8:30p.m. but brushed teeth and went to bed soon after. Levi came to me this morning and said, "Did you have a good time at your party last night?" I told him I had, and thank you for asking. :) Then he said, "Did you get to see some of your friends there?" Why, yes, yes I did. LOL All of this was said in his *sweet* voice... the one he often uses when speaking to the baby. :) I love that kid!

Christmas Quiz

2011-12-01T10:26:00.002-06:00

Fact, or fiction.
Even I learned a few things reading this article. :)
Let me apologize here for the formatting of this post... I've tried several times to fix it and am unsuccessful. So, read and enjoy, and please extend some grace for goofy layouts. ;)

Christmas Myths Debunked

How well do you know the story of Christ's birth? Between today's interpretations and the traditional reenactment of Christ's birth during the annual church Christmas pageant, the story for most homeschooling families usually goes something like this:

1. Mary is with child and travels with Joseph to Bethlehem on a donkey for the census.

2. After they get to Bethlehem, the innkeeper turns them away because there are too many people in town.

3. The innkeeper feels sorry for them and puts them in a stable.

4. Jesus is born and laid in a manger, and he never even cries.

5. The angels are present and announce His birth to the shepherds in the fields.

6. Finally, three wise men arrive on camels to worship Christ with their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Are these accepted "facts" really the truth about Christmas? According to the Bible, our final authority on the subject, they're probably not true for the following reasons:

• Mary traveled with Joseph to Bethlehem, but there is no mention of a donkey. She could have ridden in a cart or traveled in the normal mode of her day, walking. If they did have a donkey, it probably would have been used for carrying packs on the 70-80 mile trip (Luke 2:4-5).

• No innkeeper is mentioned in the Bible. It only says there was no room for them at the inn (Luke 2:7). Most likely, flashing signs that said "No Vacancy" were not visible, but the Bible doesn't confirm that Mary and Joseph talked to anyone to determine if the inn was full.

• Jesus could have been born in a cave, a barn, or even outside under the stars. The Bible simply mentions that he was born, wrapped in swaddling cloths, and laid in a manger. Since mangers are used for feeding animals, chances are He was near some type of livestock when he was born, but not necessarily in a stable (Luke 2:7).

• Mary was in the third trimester of her pregnancy when she traveled to Bethlehem, but the Bible doesn't say that Mary delivered the night she arrived. Jesus' birth occurred "while they were there," which could have been at any time after they arrived (Luke 2:6).

• Two of the first Christmas carols young children usually learn are "Away in a Manger" and "Silent Night." Although the words and titles to these songs allude to a baby Jesus who didn't cry, the Bible says that Christ was born a man and suffered in the flesh (1 Peter 4:1). Like most other babies when they are born, Jesus probably cried.

• The Bible doesn't mention that the angels were at Jesus' birth, simply that they spoke the good news of His birth to the shepherds in the fields (Luke 2:9-14).

• No mention is made to the number of magi who came to honor Jesus' birth. Three different gifts are referenced, which probably led to the assumption of three wise men. In addition, Jesus was probably two years old when they visited him, since the wise men did not arrive until the days of Herod (Matthew 2:1-16). After the magi visited Christ, verse 16 says they left by another way and Herod ordered all the two-year-old boys and younger to be killed in Bethlehem and the surrounding regions.

• Jesus probably wasn't born on December 25, since the Bible doesn't give the exact date of His birth. Different methods have been used to determine the date of Jesus' birth; however, like the date of His return, no one knows for sure.

This Christmas, why not establish a new tradition and take a few minutes before you exchange gifts to read the real story of Jesus' birth from Luke 2:1-20. Reading this passage as a homeschooling family will not only make for a more meaningful Christmas, but it will also keep the truth of our beloved Savior's birth accurate for future generations.

Beloved

2011-11-17T13:41:00.000-06:00

Who I am must be defined by who He is. Yes, I am sinner. But in Him, because of Him, I am BELOVED.

Pastor Matthew posted this video on his blog today, and I felt I needed to share it here as well.

I also want to add that I had the opportunity to meet and talk with Jason Gray when he performed at Calvary a couple years ago. I found him to be REAL. He's a guy who sings what he lives (or lives what he sings?).

Feeling "cooped" up.

2011-11-09T14:24:00.000-06:00

The newest chicken. Yesterday I suspected this, but today there is no question. Most of her pox seem to be on her face and scalp (and diaper area). Why they are concentrated on her nose, I'm not sure. Poor thing. LOL But, don't you just love those bright blue eyes??

Chickens

2011-11-08T16:46:00.000-06:00

Shi is apparently the biggest chicken in our house (at least for the moment). After noticing one small spot on Sunday evening, this is what things have progressed to as of 4pm today. Her belly looks about the same as her back.

She insisted I take this picture of her neck. You can see some of the worst welts are here.

The other chickens in our house currently are Jericho and (I think) Phoenix. Time will tell if anyone else becomes a chicken... And, if you are interested in turning your kids into chickens (it's temporary) then let me know!

What's missing?

2011-11-02T13:44:00.000-05:00

5, 6, 7, 9, 10

Notice what's missing?

It would seem we will be taking care of that missing number sometime near the beginning of June next year.

Rules... and Life Lessons

2011-10-28T15:24:00.000-05:00

Rule: ALWAYS shut the gate to the basement and entry.
Lesson Learned: When the gate is left open, small ones are likely to fall. Phoenix nearly took a tumble. Jericho did. Levi's description was that she flipped all the way down. After a trip to the ER and a scan, as well as a visit to the chiropractor, she was finally declared "okay". But, she had a concussion. Thanking God that the scan was clear. I don't get too freaked out when my kids get hurt, but she was acting so strange, and throwing up, and I was VERY concerned for her.

Rule: Don't play in the woodshed.
Lesson Learned: Levi chose to disobey that rule. We had an old, empty cable spool stored in there (on it's side, so it rolled) and he decided to play on it. In the process he fell backward and hit his head square on the edge of a granite block leaned against the "wall". There was much blood, but after cleaning it up we determined the wound wasn't that deep. He sat with an icepack for quite a while, and was pretty subdued the rest of the day. The next morning he started throwing up. After a day of that, with TWO visits to the chiro, I finally gave in and took him to the ER. Another scan. No damage, but was diagnosed with "post-concussion syndrome". I can't even begin to count the number of times his head has been bumped since then... makes me so nervous!! But, again, thanking God that all is well.

Rule: Stay in our yard unless you've asked permission to go elsewhere.
Rule: Please, don't bother the neighbors. (this is not a safety issue, more of a politeness issue...)
Rule: Don't bother the neighbor's dog when he's tied up.
Lesson Learned: Shiloh came home crying (but not hard) with blood on her arm. I took her arm from her sleeve, and immediately covered it back up and gave her specific instructions not to look at it. The next thing I did was call Tim at work and tell him to come home, NOW. Next call was to the clinic, to determine if I needed to bring her there, or to the ER. We were told ER because if she got hysterical or was in too much pain they would have stuff they could give her. She was SO calm the entire time. It was kind of unreal! We waited over an hour and a half for a room. Finally, we were brought back. All they did was clean the wound, do an x-ray, and send us home. She's been a real trooper about the whole thing, but the dog bite is sure to leave a lifetime scar. The only time she almost cried was when they injected the wound with lidocaine to numb it. Now we have to change the dressing every day and she's on abx to head off any possible infection. They don't stitch bites because of the risk of closing in an infection. (I do have a picture Tim took before they cleaned the wound... I'm sparing you, but if you'd like to see it, let me know and I'll email it to you... I think that of the two people that actually read my blog, one of them has seen it, and the other doesn't want to. You're welcome, mom!!)

**********

We are always telling our kids that we make rules to help keep them safe, NOT to be mean. The prior examples all happened recently in our home (the last two were both in the last 7 days). I've officially declared that no one is allowed to get hurt and go to the ER until NEXT year... at least!!

I should add, our Heavenly Father does the same for us. The "rules" he has for us are meant to keep us safe, to guard our hearts. It's a great reminder.

As for our home, I hope the next several months are MUCH less, um, dramatic.

Speaking of drama... Shiloh, who didn't cry at all about the bite, started crying and whining when I tried cutting her toenails this morning. I told her she was not allowed to cry about that because I KNEW it didn't hurt... and if the dog bite didn't make her cry, there was no way she was that big of a wimp. What a little turkey! LOL

12 years

2011-10-27T13:54:00.000-05:00

Chase turned 12 on Oct. 22. He's been 12 years of interesting. ;) One of his best traits is his heart for and willingness to care for his siblings. He is almost always willing to lend a hand. He's a bit of a dare-devil (I'm a little surprised he's never broken a bone) and is generally willing to try anything once. I look forward to watching him continue to grow into a young man.

10 months... and more

2011-10-18T13:55:00.000-05:00

Phoenix reached 10 months on the 16th. I took more than 40 pictures trying to get one good one. None of them were super, but a few show his personality. :)

This is slightly unusual... he's so busy he doesn't often snuggle (this only lasted a few moments) and he also doesn't use a soothie. But, for some reason, he felt the need for both at that moment. :)

He's a big ham... and LOVES it when he can get his hands on the remote! He stood at the end of the ottoman and popped up and down off the floor for a while. Every time he would pop up he'd give me a silly little grin.

He sucks those same "best" fingers that I did as a child. Usually he does this when he's getting tired and ready to take a nap or go to bed (these were all taken at bedtime). Love it when he grins at me around those fingers. :)

He also has this sweet little cowlick that is almost always sticking off his head. It's absolutely adorable. ;)

*******

Recently we had friends over on a Sunday afternoon. There were 12 kids in our house... 10 of them were 9 yrs old and under. Three of them were 2.5 yrs old - twins from their family, and one from ours, all born on the same day. :)

*******

Finally, these were just too beautiful not to share. Fall is my absolute favorite time of year! These colors are just one of the reasons...

Sick Jokes

2011-10-13T22:16:00.000-05:00

There's always someone crackin' a joke around here. Tonight it was Tim.

Phoenix hasn't been feeling all that well for a few days (cough, runny nose) and tonight after supper he'd had enough. He started puking. Just as we'd start thinking he must surely be done, he'd start again. For supper I fed him prunes (among other things). He's been a little "irregular" lately and had some tummy problems. I figured the prunes would help. Here's the comedy...

Tim: (after PJ puked all over Tim and himself) I thought those prunes were supposed to work the other way.

Laugh a minute.

Hoping and praying that now that PJ is sleeping he will not be sick anymore. Also on that list is the wish to NOT have to change any clothing or bedding during the night.

poor sick baby :(

Truer words...

2011-10-03T22:45:00.000-05:00

I looked out the kitchen window this evening to spot Alex just as he rolled out from under the side of the van. My response? I called out the window, "Um. Alex? Just because you CAN, doesn't mean you SHOULD!"

Tim pointed out that those words are applicable in so VERY many situations. LOL

Maybe I should make that the new family motto? ;)

$20 well spent

2011-10-02T19:37:00.000-05:00

All the kids seem to have grown by leaps and bounds this summer... must be all that fresh air. ;) Today, I was able to score some good deals on pants at Goodwill. For Phoenix and Levi I was able to take advantage of the Blue Tag Sale (50% off). PJ now has a cute pair of Wranglers, a pair of OshKosh bibs, and a pair of Gymborie black corduroy bibs. Levi has a pair of slightly worn (but no holes) windpants, and a pair of jeans. $1.50 each, except for the Gymborie bibs which were $2.

I was also able to find 3 pair of boys jeans without holes in the knees (a rare commodity in this house!) that I hoped would fit either Alex or Chase. Two pair fit Chase, and the third was perfect for Alex. They weren't on sale, but still only cost $3.99 a pair. Chase is notoriously hard on pants, so it's good that TWO fit him. :)

Not bad for $20!

Now, the big task for the coming week is to go through ALL the kids clothes and make a list of everything else we need for the winter. I'll admit, I'm not really looking forward to tackling this job, but it will be nice to have it done (until April or May...).

In Christ Alone

2011-09-23T12:13:00.000-05:00

For some background, check out this post.

To hear the song (performed by friends in our church family), go here. (Half way down the page is a "listen" link.)

Such encouraging words for each day.

In Christ alone my hope is found,

He is my light, my strength, my song;

This Cornerstone, this solid Ground,

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm.

What heights of love, what depths of peace,

When fears are stilled, when strivings cease!

My Comforter, my All in All,

Here in the love of Christ I stand.

In Christ alone, who took on flesh,

Fullness of God in helpless babe!

This gift of love and righteousness

Scorned by the ones he came to save:

Till on that cross as Jesus died,

The wrath of God was satisfied -

For every sin on Him was laid;

Here in the death of Christ I live.

There in the ground His body lay

Light of the world by darkness slain;

Then bursting forth in glorious day

Up from the grave he rose again!

And as He stands in victory

Sin's curse has lost its grip on me,

For I am His and He is mine -

Bought with the precious blood of Christ.

No guilt in life, no fear in death,

This is the power of Christ in me;

From life's first cry to final breath,

Jesus commands my destiny.

No power of hell, no scheme of man,

Can ever pluck me from His hand;

Till He returns or calls me home,

Here in the power of Christ I'll stand.

Timing

2011-09-22T23:40:00.000-05:00

Found an old card today. My Mother's Day card from my parents. The timing couldn't have been better.

Outside:

To Daughter on Mother's Day

You Are a Blessing

Inside:

Daughter, your life

is a thing to be proud of -

you're God's special gift

in a wonderful way...

Thank you for being

so loving and caring...

Thank you for being a blessing each day!

Praise her for the many fine things she does.

Proverbs 31:31 (TLB)

While I needed the encouragement this brought, it is also a reminder that I have so much to live up to. I want my life to truly be a thing to be proud of. To be loving and caring. To be a blessing - every day.

Phoenix is 9 months!! (pic heavy)

2011-09-17T09:41:00.000-05:00

Phoenix is such a joy!

He's *usually* very smiley.

He's finally beginning to sleep better *most* nights.

He enjoys his food!

Just recently he started eating much more regularly, and at supper will polish off two jars of food, plus what ever little Gerber finger foods (the kind that "melt" so reduce the risk of choking - I found out he's not quite ready for Cheerios yet...) we dole out.

He still naps like a champ.

He is just on the brink of starting to cruise the furniture, but at this point only takes one step either direction.

One of his favorite pasttimes is pulling his sisters' hair. ;)

Hanging out with his buddy, Issy. :)

Love that smile and those BLUE eyes!

Just for fun, I've thrown in one pic of Levi at 9mo. Did anyone notice on their way through the photos? ;)

Youth

2011-09-10T13:27:00.001-05:00

We have a wedding to attend this afternoon. Since I need to wear a dress (or skirt) I decided it would be a good idea to shave my legs. This doesn't happen often... the hair is blond, no one around here cares much if they are clean-shaven or not, and I don't like to take the time to do it. ;)

When I do take the time, I often use Tim's old electric razor to accomplish the task. I was sitting on the couch and Levi came in to ask why I was shaving my legs. I said it was just something girls do when they get older. With his nose about 2 inches from my leg, Levi says, "My, you look young!" LOL

Hmm. Maybe that's why we shave our legs! :)

Perspective

2011-09-09T17:55:00.000-05:00

My phone rings. I know before answering that it's my parents. I figure they're calling to say that they are on their way to pick up the three oldest to spend the weekend with them at the cabin. Usually my mom makes the calls, so that's who I'm expecting.

(answering phone) "Hello?"

"Hey there. How are you?"

It's dad. I pause, thinking how to answer. It's been a rough morning. How do I answer?

"Frustrated."

Yep. It's been that kind of a morning. That one word sums it up nicely.

My blog title says "Gotta' Love My Life". And I do. Most days. Today, I think someone else's life might be better.

But whose? The friend, reeling yet again upon learning, despite exhausting all possible medical avenues, that she is not pregnant? The friend who has discovered, quite unexpectedly and in the course of dealing with some other life-altering physical issues, that she is pregnant? The homeless couple who sits daily next to a well traveled route hoping motorists will take pity and help them out? Maybe the niece who is sick, miserable, struggling through the last few weeks of pregnancy and hoping baby is big enough to be healthy, all while living with the reality that there is no income in her home? How about the neighbor whose life has been turned upside-down by a nasty divorce? Or maybe one of the many disadvantaged children born with DS or other serious medical conditions and facing a life chained to a crib in an institution?

Perspective.

Maybe - no, not maybe - my life isn't so bad. I won't bore you with the details of my pity-party, but suffice to say, not one thing that happened this morning was too horrible. God has a plan for me. His word proclaims it. I have - we ALL have - a future and a hope!

Leaning on that promise today. Praying for contentment in my circumstances. Trusting that, through Him, I will have ALL I need.

Perhaps you, too, are struggling today. Maybe all you need is a little perspective.

*******
update: I wrote this post this morning. After a wonderful phone call with a friend, I was feeling encouraged! I almost felt I didn't need to post. And then, I was blindsided with some news that left me reeling. While I can't share details, I will ask for prayer... and when I can, I'll share more. Struggling with why, but still trusting...

I know you missed me! ;)

2011-09-07T22:00:00.000-05:00

Random updates:

*school

Everyone seems to be keeping up an acceptable pace. I am, however, still trying to work out some "kinks" in our schedule. (I've always been great at MAKING schedules... it's KEEPING them that's difficult! LOL) I've discovered that Victory is EXCELLENT at learning memory verses. For those of you that see her on a regular basis, perhaps next time you see her you could ask her to recite one for you? :) Each of them have moments when they excel, and moments when I wonder just where their brain has gone! ;)

This week, the two older boys began an Institute of Excellence in Writing (IEW) class with two other families from our church. We're doing the "Student Writing Intensive Level B". The class is facilitated by my friend, Devona Emerson (a teacher, now homeschooling her own 2 kids) and is also attended by the three eldest Theis' kids. I am anticipating that the addition of this class will benefit the rest of our schooling in great ways as the boys learn how to (correctly & efficiently!) write a good paragraph and beyond.

*baby boy

Phoenix is close to 20 lbs, and beginning to grow hair just like Levi did around this age. He has the cutest little cowlick that sticks straight off his head on one side... sometimes, it's on both sides. :) He is crawling everywhere, and pulling up on everything. He loves to eat -- but doesn't like turkey (I'm guessing it has more to do with the texture of that nasty G*rb*r baby food than anything... LOL) Last night, after a very rough start, he rewarded me with 7-1/2 hours of consecutive sleep. The best part? I was asleep for ALL of them!! :)

*extended family

This last weekend we were able to go stay at Tim's mom's for a few days. Tim cut down somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 trees for his mom, and got them cleaned up and out to the fire pit. The kids spent most of their days outdoors wearing out the tires their cousin's bikes. :) The weather was cool, and PERFECT (in my opinion) for being "up north". Late nights with the brother-in-law and some of the older nephews sitting out at the fire pit... reminiscing about the past, dreaming about the future, singing, joking... reminded me, once again, that I'm no longer a kid. LOL Must.Have.Sleep! ;)

My parents have been down a few times. Yesterday we enjoyed the buffet at Pizza Ranch (kids 10 & under eat free on Tuesday!) courtesy of Grandpa and Grandma. On Friday, they will come down to pick up the three oldest kids for a weekend up at their cabin west of Two Harbors.

*looking forward

Mid-week church activities begin again soon. Alex will be involved in his second year of youth group with Junction 180. This Sunday marks the beginning of Sunday School for the year, and Monday will be our first UPLIFT of the year. (UPLIFT is the Christian homeschool co-op we are involved in with about 40 other local homeschooling families.) I'm looking forward (albeit with some trepidation) to teaching a class at UPLIFT this year with my friend Karri. Everyone is looking forward to again seeing friends we've made in previous years as well. :)

By Faith

2011-08-31T18:49:00.000-05:00

So much more to say about what this song did for/in me during the service on Sunday, but for now simply listen.

"By Faith"
Keith & Kristyn Getty

By faith we see the hand of God
In the light of creation's grand design
In the lives of those who prove His faithfulness
Who walk by faith and not by sight

By faith our fathers roamed the earth
With the power of His promise in their hearts
Of a holy city built by God's own hand
A place where peace and justice reign

We will stand as children of the promise
We will fix our eyes on Him our soul's reward
Till the race is finished and the work is done
We'll walk by faith and not by sight

By faith the prophets saw a day
When the longed-for Messiah would appear
With the power to break the chains of sin and death
And rise triumphant from the grave

By faith the church was called to go
In the power of the Spirit to the lost
To deliver captives and to preach good news
In every corner of the earth

We will stand as children of the promise
We will fix our eyes on Him our soul's reward
Till the race is finished and the work is done
We'll walk by faith and not by sight

By faith this mountain shall be moved
And the power of the gospel shall prevail
For we know in Christ all things are possible
For all who call upon His name

We will stand as children of the promise
We will fix our eyes on Him our soul's reward
Till the race is finished and the work is done
We'll walk by faith and not by sight

One (Extra)Ordinary Family

2011-08-30T19:48:00.000-05:00

While most people have heard of the Duggar family, or seen their show on TLC (currently called "19 Kids and Counting"), many have not heard of the Bates. I was "introduced" to the Bates family during an episode of the Duggar's t.v. show a few years ago. Both families believe as we do that children are a blessing and God is in control of the *when*, and the *how many*. Recently, Primetime Nightline on ABC did a special featuring the Bates. In my opinion, it is worth your time to watch.

Get off that wheel.

2011-08-29T15:46:00.000-05:00

Dr. Kevin Leman has written a new book entitled, "It's Your Kid, Not a Gerbil". Here's a snippet from the website:

"Do you sometimes feel like a gerbil running on a wheel inside a cage as you scurry from place to place, chauffeuring your children from one endless activity to another? What if, for one moment, you could just step off of the wheel . . . and relax? How would you feel then? And what if that single moment could stretch into an hour, or even a whole day? In his new book, It’s Your Kid, Not a Gerbil, Kevin Leman will provide practical solutions and helpful insight to get off the activity wheel so that you can put your time and energies where they really count: in establishing strong character and a love for home and family that will serve your kids well for a lifetime."

Check out the website, and enter the contest to win an iPod touch, a copy of this book, or a prize pack of Dr. Leman's books.

Calm Down!

2011-08-29T11:15:00.000-05:00

I often have people comment on how calm I am. It makes me laugh (usually inside) because I am not a calm person by nature. My tendency is to react rather than respond, to over-react, to yell. Being a mother - especially one with many children - has caused me to calm down some, but I still have a long way to go! With each new baby, I "unwind" a bit more. I believe this is out of necessity. If I were as uptight now as I was when Alex was born 13 years ago I'd be in a padded room by now.

Last week was a breaking point for me. I got hot under the collar. I yelled - a LOT. I over-react to everything. All-in-all, a rough week. After a particularly difficult Friday (I COMPLETELY lost my cool with almost every child) I knew I needed help. Divine help, to be specific, was what was needed. And I "checked out" for a bit. I thought, I prayed... I calmed down.

Peace that passes all understanding (Phil. 4:7) was mine for the asking! And I am relieved and excited that I was able to make it through not one, but TWO days without raising my voice to my children. I've been tempted, and my patience sorely tried, but I persevered. God is with me. He will calm me when needed. He will help me teach my children a better way.

I want to clarify here that I believe my tendency to yell and get bent out of shape is a genetic one (but one that I can overcome with God's ever-present help). It certainly was not environmental... my parents rarely (if ever?) yelled. In fact, when I was a teenager, it completely drove me batty that my dad could be so stinkin' calm all the time. One of my greatest "accomplishments" as a teen was pushing him until he actually showed some real strong emotion and raised his voice (we were doing a project together and it wasn't going all that well).

I continue to pray for an unearthly calm to surround me. Even in the midst of the chaos that is inevitable in a tiny house with many bodies.

Mid-Night Mania

2011-08-24T21:22:00.000-05:00

With our crew, it's inevitable that at some point after they've been sent to bed, at least ONE will be upstairs again. There are the usual excuses: I forgot to go potty; I need a drink; my lips are dry, I need lip stuff. But last night was not quite so 'usual'.

The first kid to come upstairs was Alex. To his credit, it was about 2 hours past the time they'd gone to bed (usually we're in the 10-30 min range). I'm not sure what his original 'reason' was, but before he headed back to bed he said, "I was thinking about the numbers from 1-9. And I wondered how many combinations you could make. So I figured it out. It's 361,880**." He went on to explain the process he used. Then he headed off to bed as if this was all perfectly normal behavior. LOL (He clearly got his skill with numbers from his dad...) I wonder when he sleeps?

Phoenix often makes a trip upstairs in the middle of the night as well... but that's usually because I'm still up when he wakes to eat, or he needs a diaper change. Last night was the latter. While we were up, I decided I'd just nurse him while sitting on the couch so I wouldn't fall asleep with him in my bed. We both seem to sleep better when he spends most of the night in his own bed... As I got up to head back down to bed, I heard Jericho crying. By the time I got to the top of the stairs, she was nearly all the way up (we moved her from the crib to a cot a few days ago, so getting out of bed is something new for her). I told her I had to put PJ back in bed and she should go back to bed too (this happened around 3am!). Instead, she continued up the stairs. I asked if she needed something. Clear as a bell, she said, "Potty". Wha!? She's not potty trained AT ALL, but I thought I'd better go with it! LOL So, I got PJ settled, and headed back upstairs to get the diaper off the *other* baby and put her on the potty. Her diaper was still dry at that point! She sat on the potty chair, but because someone else used it at bathtime and it hadn't been emptied yet I really don't know if she actually went or not. When she was "done", I put her diaper back on and she happily went back to bed.

Weird.

I hope tonight is a bit less eventful. ;)

**He corrected himself this morning: it's actually 362,880. So clearly he thought about it more after he went back to bed, and caught his error.

That's what you get...

2011-08-23T15:04:00.000-05:00

I had a "mom moment" just a bit ago. The little kids were told HOURS ago to get the toy room cleaned up. It's quite possible it's gotten worse, not better. I was already frustrated about the lack of progress, but then they started fighting. I chose to finish my lunch and was then going to deal with it. Before I got in there, Levi started screaming/crying and I could hear him coming through the kitchen. As I got up out of my seat I yelled (in my best mom voice), "You better be blee.... oh."

It was one of those times when he actually wasn't really over-reacting! As near as I've been able to figure out, he was holding Victory's leg/foot as they were fighting, and when he let go he got kicked in the face. I spent quite a while cleaning floors, carpet, a couch, and a few random toys while the boy sat on a chair with a rag on his face.

All is well now... it was just one of those times when, as a mom, you say something (because of an assumption you've made) and it comes back to bite you! LOL

Cause and Effect

2011-08-22T11:08:00.000-05:00

While correcting Alex's school work today I came across this wonderful explaination of (hu)man behavior:

"One is not a sinner because he sins. One sins because he is by nature sinful."

We are ALL sinners! God's saving grace, in the gift of His son, gives us hope and redemption. It does not mean we are no longer sinners. It does mean that we have forgiveness of sin. Isn't that good news?

Something to consider

2011-08-20T12:13:00.001-05:00

Here are three great posts I read recently:
Surrendering Control - Pt 1
Surrendering Control - Pt 2
What the Bible Says

Just thought I'd pass these on. Read them - with an open heart and mind!

At a loss

2011-08-19T12:21:00.000-05:00

there are days... today has been one of them... when i completely lose the desire to do ANYTHING. i don't want to clean, i don't want to discipline, i don't want to interact. i just want to hide, to run away, to escape. these are tough days for me. it's almost like a battle of the heart and mind. mostly, i believe, it's a spiritual battle. satan doesn't want me to care. if i care, then i'm working on raising little warriors for CHRIST. if i care, i'm nurturing not only 7 little lives, but my own, AGAINST him! if i care, he loses power. if i care... well, the truth is, i do care. if i didn't, then days like these wouldn't be so hard, would they! this morning was particularly difficult, and then i read a post that quoted the following verse:

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."

Colossians 3:23-24

i am not doing this job for my children, or my husband, or my friends, or my parents, or even for me. i am doing this job for the LORD. it's what he has called me to. it's what he's created me for. i will be strengthened BY HIM for each and every day, each and every task.

so, i'm off, to attempt to salvage my day, knowing that every day HE is here WITH me. HE gives me the strength I need. as for satan... he can take a flying leap! he is NOT welcome here, and he WILL NOT win!

I missed it!

2011-08-18T17:40:00.000-05:00

Phoenix is 8 months old!! At 18lb, he is heavier than Victory, Levi, Shiloh and Jericho each were at one year. :) He is a happy, smiley guy! He doesn't always sleep the greatest at night, but is a champion napper - about 2 to 3 hours in the morning, and another 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 hrs in the afternoon. Nighttime has improved recently. He's only up about 3 times per night instead of every hr - hr and a half like he was previously. Nothing is safe around here anymore since he started crawling... and pulling himself up on anything and everything. What a joy he has been! :)

How do you feel about drywall?

2011-08-15T08:59:00.014-05:00

What's important to you? Do you value things? Or do you value life?

Back in 2008, I wrote a post entitled "Quiverfull". It was an attempt to explain our views on children. Those views are the ones we still hold today. Go ahead and read that post if you missed it, or just need a refresher. ;) At the end of that post I encouraged readers to ask questions... the offer to answer questions still stands.

This post was written by someone who was able to say, much more clearly, what I've tried to express. (I've included a quote, but reading the entire post will more clearly explain the title of this post...)

"Comment after comment reveals our abhorrence of multiplying children, despite what the Bible teaches to the contrary. We love one or two; After that, they decrease in value. And not just for our own families. We abhor it in other families. I know. I’ve seen their faces too many times. I’ve heard people take the Lord’s name in vain upon hearing how many children I had. I’ve seen them look at my other children with sympathy–my children who ask almost daily, “When are we going to have another baby?” I’ve heard them question how we’ll feed them, as if they’ve never read Matthew 6. These are Christians! They all want to know if I know how to stop *it*….that “horrid multiplying of those things we don’t want more of”."

Take the time to read the recommended post, and also my old post. Ask questions. Be blessed!

A New Year

2011-08-12T10:22:00.000-05:00

Today marks the last day of our first week of schooling for this year. There have been some snags (as there always are), but I am SO thankful for the fact that I have the option to school my children at home.

Today I read a great post that gave me some things to think about, but also put into words the "why" of what we've chosen for our family. You can read the whole post here. Below I've included two quotes that really stood out for me.

"The reason we are teaching at home (aside from the fact that we believe God has asked us to) is so we can nurture their personalities and bents, focus on the areas God has gifted them, disciple them in life, and continue to cultivate the garden of their souls…which is quite a bit of work (especially because mine needs a lot of cultivating itself!)."

"The biggest goals I have for my children are that they know God, love Him, and love others. I want to teach them about the world around us so that they can reach out to the world…and love well. I suppose if I didn’t accomplish anything else, I’d be most satisfied if my children knew and loved God, gave Him their hearts, and loved people well. "

I love the picture of "cultivating the garden of their souls". And, yes, my own soul needs plenty of cultivating. I pray that this would be a year of learning and growth for ALL of us, that we would know God more deeply, and love him more fully. I'm excited to see what he has in store for us!

For those that don't know: This year we have Alex (8th grade), Chase (6th grade), Victory Joy (1st grade), and Levi (Kindergarten). The other three are just "learning life". :)

It's Deja Vu... All Over Again

2011-08-02T16:16:00.000-05:00

This little guy...

(Levi - 7mo)

...turns 6 today.

Oh, how he's changed!!


(Levi - 5yrs 11mo)

Well, mostly he just got taller! ;)

And, I get to see his little self everyday when I look at this...


(Levi's "mini-me" ~ Phoenix, about 7 months)

HAPPY 6TH BIRTHDAY, LEVI!!

WE LOVE YOU!!

Perfection

2011-07-11T19:05:00.000-05:00

A friend shared this post, titled "The disease called "Perfection"", on Facebook. A quote from the author says:

There is a serious pandemic of "Perfection" spreading, and it needs to stop. Hear me out because this is something for which I am passionately and constantly hurting. It's a sickness that I've been trying to put into words for years without much success. It's a sickness that I have personally struggled with. It's a sickness that at times has left me hiding in dark corners and hating myself.

Some of the comments in regard to this post are absolutely heartbreaking.

Perfection is a disease that affects many (most?) of us. I am affected. I know several friends who are infected. I often see signs of the disease in my own children.

perfection |pərˈfek sh ən|
noun
the condition, state, or quality of being free or as free as possible from all flaws or defects

• a person or thing perceived as the embodiment of such a condition, state, or quality

• the action or process of improving something until it is faultless or as faultless as possible

perfectionism |pərˈfek sh əˌnizəm|
noun
refusal to accept any standard short of perfection.
• Philosophy a doctrine holding that religious, moral, social, or political perfection is attainable, esp. the theory that human moral or spiritual perfection should be or has been attained.

Now, perfection is different than perfectionism... and yet, often driven by perfectionism.

We attempt, in so many ways, to appear perfect to those around us. And when we appear less than perfect, we struggle -- with depression, with anger, with self-loathing, and other demeaning feelings and emotions.

For me, those feelings and emotions rear their ugly head when someone makes a comment like, "You are such a saint!" or "I don't know how you do it!" (These are usually said in reference to the fact that I have 7 children, and have somehow managed to stay out of the loony bin.)

How has "perfection" affected me?

*I yell at my kids - frequently. Often, I yell at them for yelling at each other. Really? What kind of example am I setting? I lose my temper. I say mean things. And then my heart aches for what I've just done to my 'baby'.

*I struggle with managing my time in an appropriate way. I spend WAY too much time sitting in front of the computer at the expense of time with my kids.

*My house is rarely clean (although, I've been working on that particular issue).

*I have bad habits that I've been trying to break for YEARS. I FREQUENTLY beat myself up over these issues, and hide them from most people. If you know about them, it's because a) I really trust you, or b) you found out quite by accident.

*I don't brush my teeth twice a day and rarely floss... even though I know that the hormone changes of pregnancy reek havoc in my mouth. I feel regular guilt over the fact that I have cavities because as a kid, I never had ANY. Wouldn't you think an adult would be BETTER at caring for their teeth than a kid?

*I (mostly) hate my body, and yet I don't do much to change it. This is a struggle I've had since I was quite young. As a young teen, I dismantled a disposable razor and used the blade to cut the word "FAT" into my stomach... in letters about 3" tall. The scars, if they are still there, are now completely covered by stretchmarks (which I also hate; but I wouldn't give up even ONE of the 'reasons' for them!)

*I never feel I'm good enough. Are you my friend? I probably doubt the strength of our friendship (how much you REALLY like me) on a regular basis. I wait for people to give up on our friendship, and when it happens (not really that often, but it has happened) I hurt - for a very long time - and project reasons, and have a lot of self-blame.

*I expect others to behave in ways that I, myself, do not. I expect people to treat me in ways that I don't treat others. I expect others to be 'perfect'.

*I know that getting into God's word, trusting in HIS power, and having communion with Him through prayer, is the ONLY way to heal, to change. And yet I don't do it. (Rather, I'm spending time on FB, or playing online games, or checking my email for the 4ooth time today.)

The above is just a 'starter list'.

Not being 'real' cost me my marriage once. I thank God nearly every day for giving it back. And now, we're real. We saw what the alternative was. We lived it. Our relationship is better than ever. Do we still have our moments? Sure. But, we work through them (usually in moments, sometimes in a few hours, and rarely it takes a day or two) and grow because we are willing to be real.

There are certain people in my life with whom I feel less able to be 'real'. Some, I'm sure, wouldn't care if they really knew all my imperfections, but I have a lot of fear of failure and rejection. Others, it's not a fear, but simply a reality proven by time and by brief moments of 'realness' that made it clear anything but perfection was not to be tolerated.

I see perfection threaten to derail marriages, friendships, parents, on a regular basis. Please, let's be real. Support each other in the quest for 'perfection' as it pertains to Biblical perfection, but be real in your expectations! Remember that we can NOT be perfect this side of heaven... yet we can be (we HAVE been!!) perfected.

Half a Year

2011-06-16T17:46:00.000-05:00

Time sure flies...

It feels like just yesterday we were welcoming Phoenix to the world.

Today he is 6 months old!

At 6 months, he is REALLY close to crawling...

He loves to suck the same fingers his momma sucked when she was little...

He is forever putting things in his mouth...

Fingers, feet, toys, clothing...

anything he can grab and shove in there! :)

Those are some yummy looking toes!!

He smiles... a lot!

(almost makes up for the lack of sleep he causes *grin*)

He tasted his first food (applesauce) and seemed to like it!

(He kept diving for the spoon when I would get it close.)

He is well loved by his brothers and sisters (and his mommy and daddy!!).

They all do a fabulous job helping to care for him.

We are so thankful God chose to bless us with Phoenix.

<3 <3 <3

31 Days

2011-06-07T21:39:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it's already been about a month since I started the 31 Days challenge. While I'm only about 1/2 way through the e-book (not doing one challenge each day) it's already made a big difference, not only in my home, but also in my heart and mind. The house is looking much better, and as a result, I'm feeling better about myself!

Two things, I believe, are primarily responsible for my success (outside of the strength and grace God provides): The 6 List (from the book), and my partnership with an old college roommate. Every day, Jodie and I make a 6 List and send each other a text of our goals for the day. Every day, we send before and after pictures of the areas we're working on. Every day, we text updates on how were doing. Every day, we learn a bit more about each other, and our friendship has grown/deepened through this process. I'm so thankful for her encouragement and support in this!!

Soon (I hope) I would like to do a short video walk-thru of our home to show everyone how things work around here... Living in 1000 sq. ft. with 9 humans, a cat, and a dog, certainly has it's challenges, but we do it (albeit, in an unconventional way). "How do you do it?!" is a question I hear quite often. Up until now, my house has not been 'put together' enough to want to show anyone... but now things are much better! (I would no longer be embarrassed for any one of you to show up unannounced on my doorstep. *grin*)

If any of you are struggling with the heart-reason or the actual process of getting your home clean and organized (and keeping it that way!) I would HIGHLY recommend spending the little bit of money to get Sarah Mae's e-book.

Three verses (among many) that make a difference:

“She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.”
Proverbs 31:27

“Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for me…”
Colossians 3:23

“Do all things without grumbling…”

Philippians 2:14

Phoenix is 5 months!!

2011-05-17T15:48:00.001-05:00

Hard to believe this smiley guy is already 5 months old (yesterday)! He has been such a joy!!

His hair is coming in nicely... and seems to have a bit of strawberry blond tint. :)

This photo was too cute not to share... even if it is blurry. He was just so excited he couldn't stop moving!

His new favorite "toy" is his feet. He will lay and play with them for the longest time! He's also started rolling. Last week it was from front to back, and just today he went from back to front several times (of course he always waits until I've turned my back... LOL).

One more pic for good measure. :) (And, I just realized it's 5 pics for 5 months.)

In honor of mom...

2011-05-04T17:12:00.000-05:00

Status updates on Facebook have been encouraging us to post pictures of us with our mom in honor of Mother's Day. I started looking through pictures and realized the last time my mom and I had our picture taken together (at least with *my* camera) was Mother's Day 2006 -- and it wasn't just the two of us, my brother was in the picture too. I immediately called my mom, told her of the *problem*, and we decided we'll have to fix that this weekend. ;) In the meantime, here are two pictures of my mom...

graduation photo

My mom and me (7 mo old)

I love you mom.

Radar

2011-04-30T20:33:00.000-05:00

Our newest family member!

Radar is a 3 yr old Terrier mix. We adopted him today from the City of St. Cloud Animal Control. So far, so good! I was a bit worried that the youngest ones - in particular Jericho, Shiloh, and Levi - would be afraid of him. Not one of them showed any fear at all... and Radar is SUPER with all of them! Susie is the only one that seems to have issues... ;) I even managed to get out for a walk with him this evening. Since I'm currently working on adding more movement to my life, I'm sure Radar will be more than willing to continue helping me out with that. :)

Pic was taken with my phone... I forgot to charge the camera battery the other day, so when that's done I'll get some better pictures!

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T19:54:00.000-05:00

HAPPY EASTER FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOURS.

12 Hours

2011-04-20T20:52:00.000-05:00

It's amazing the difference 12 hours can make...

7:30 A.M.

7:30 P.M.

Taste of Spring!

2011-04-12T14:19:00.000-05:00

The weather here is BEAUTIFUL today! Current temp is 64˚F. There is a slight breeze, and the skies are blue! The trees and bushes are loving it too... I'm starting to notice they look "fluffier" as they begin to bud out. :) We all went out to enjoy the fresh air for a while before lunch.

Shi got out the rollerblades. She was so proud of herself (and did really well!). Not sure why she had the coat on... I think she's having a hard time rewiring her brain for spring. :) She had the hood on until I took the picture and her hair was just drenched because she was so warm... LOL (I did eventually get her to take it off.)

Shi - so proud of her skates :)

I also performed the acrobatic feat of digging the stroller out of the back of the garage. (I won't even take a picture and show you that! Suffice to say it needs a good spring cleaning!! LOL) Phoenix seems to really like the outdoors, and the stroller! This smiley pic was taken with my phone... not bad!

Happy baby!

After being pushed around the yard for a while by his sisters I noticed he was slumped over sleeping. Wish I'd had the camera with me then! LOL I laid the seat back, and he slept like that for another 30 minutes... not bad for a baby that NEVER sleeps on his back! :)

So precious

I am hoping and praying that we don't get the nasty white stuff that's being predicted for the end of the week. I am READY for true Spring!! :)

Dotsy

2011-03-29T13:53:00.000-05:00

Just one of the many reasons I love kids... :) Levi has a new pet! Her name is Dotsy, and she is a 'leggy bug'. It's been decided that she is a one-ton leggy bug... just look at her size in relation to that dinosaur!! LOL

Dotsy and the dinosaur

Dotsy's closeup

"Where's Jericho?"

2011-03-22T12:15:00.000-05:00

That's the question I just asked the other kids. I went looking, and this is what I found...

No one coerced her... she put herself in there. LOL

Sickie Picnic

2011-03-18T11:50:00.000-05:00

Since none of the kids are feeling well (fevers, cough, runny noses) they just had toast for breakfast... on a sheet... watching PBS...

It's been what?!?

2011-03-16T20:05:00.000-05:00

Three months. Yes, you heard that right. It's been three months since our "little" man finally made his grand entrance into this world weighing a whopping 10 lb. Last check (10 days ago) he was 14 lb. 10 oz.

He is smiley and content most of the time. Though he does have his moments...

He sleeps well. Such a blessing after dealing with Shi and Jericho's nighttime issues for the last 3 years!

He's got a bit of a cold and I wasn't able to get a great smile out of him for pictures today. But he's still cute, don't you think. :)

Phoenix Justice ~ 3 months old

Carrots

2011-03-07T15:48:00.000-06:00

Victory came after lunch and said, "It's a Phoenix carrot and a Kevin carrot!" (If you know my brother - who is 6' 7" tall - you'll get this one...)


"Kevin"... and "Phoenix"

A few moments later I was treated to this...

Get Real

2011-03-04T11:42:00.000-06:00

Usually I try to post the fun stuff here on my blog. Most of the time. Today, I'm going to get real. There are days when I wonder why God called me to be a mom. And why he called me to be a mom to so many! Today is one of those days.

Sometimes the repetitiveness gets to me. The constant crying, whining, and complaining. We've got our share of it today! The declarations that "there's nothing to do" and "I'm bored" and all the tattling gets to me.

The baby, who is seemingly only happy when being feed or held. The kids that don't want to do what they're told. The arguing. It's all too much!

The good news is, God DID call me to this job. And He will give me the strength I need to get through this, and anything else that comes my way.

Would you pray for me today? Thanks. I need it!

Not to be left out...

2011-03-03T10:06:00.000-06:00

The Mouse and the Cat

a story by Levi

The cat saw the mouse and it looked good. Then the cat tried to get the mouse but the mouse brung his friend seal out and it scared the cat. Then the mouse laughed at the cat. Then the cat said, "That's not funny!" But then the mouse went in his home. And then the cat tried to get the mouse. But then there was a rat friend and he scared the cat because he had sharp teeth like a seal. And then his friend squirrel tiger came out. And then he said, "Hello cat. Hello scardey-cat." "Where are you going scardey-cat?", the rat said. Then the rat came out again and said, "What are you trying to get?" And then the cat said, "I'm trying to get you!" Then the rat locked the cat in jail. Then the cat said, "Help me out! Help me out!" And then the person came out and saw the mouse and tried to get the mouse. But then the person saw the cat in jail. And then the cat tried to get out of the jail. But he made it out. And the rat had sharp teeth and poked the cat. And then the rat came out and saw another cat. And then he saw his friend mouse in a jail. And then the mouse found a phone in there and said, "Hello! Can you get me out of jail please?" Then he said, "Ooh, awesome, you can?" Then the rat came out and took the mouse out of jail. And then the police looked and the police thought they were going to take the mouse out of jail. And then they all went in their home. And then their home were surrounded by mouse cats. And then he saw a little hole and a white cheese and he ate it up. Then he said, "Yummy, yummy, yummy in my tummy!" And then he saw a whole bunch of yellow cheese. And then he ate all of them up. And then he said, "Yummy, yummy, yummy, yummy in my tummy!" And then he said, "Look, look! There's a whole bunch of more white cheese!" And then he said to his group, "Let's bring them into our home and eat them all up!" And then they said, "Hey, we could do that! Look at our teeth!" And then the cat said, "Ahhhhh!!" And then they poked him up. Then they saw a pretty bird and then they said, "Come on! Come on!" And then he said, "Look at what we did!" And he said, "We poked him up!" And then the bird poked him up. Then there was a flood of blood and then they shut their door with the pretty bird in it.

The End

And then...

2011-03-02T12:46:00.000-06:00

The Frog and the Fly

a story by Victory Joy

Once upon a time there was a frog. The frog saw a fly and the fly looked good. And the frog ate the fly. And there was another fly. And the frog ate the fly. But the fly tasted bad! So the frog spit it out in a jiffy. And the bee looked yummy. And then the frog saw the bee and then he ate the bee. And then he said, "Um, um, that was yummy!" And then he saw a bird. And then the bird saw the frog and the frog looked good. And then the bird tried to eat the frog but the bird fell into the pond. And then the frog saw another fly. And the he ate it! and when he ate it he says, "Um, um, um... that was DELICIOUS!" And then the frog saw another bumblebee. and then he ate the bumblebee as fast as he could. And when he ate it he said, "Ouch!" and the bee stung his tongue. And then the bee flew away. and then the swarm of bees came chasing after the frog. And the frog said, "Outie, owie, ouch! That hurt!" And he said, "I'm going to leave the pond." The bee flew away. Then all the rest of them flew with it. And then the frog went to his home, into his log.

Better Views

2011-03-01T17:05:00.000-06:00

This arrived yesterday...

54" Panasonic

Someday I hope to have a living room wall that fits the t.v. a bit better. :) But, at least it takes up less room than this monstrosity!

What's really funny is that when I was taking pictures of the new t.v. I had it on before deciding I'd get better pictures if it was off. The same guy from Cake Boss was on the screen in one of those shots. Ironic? It's not even a show I watch that often...

Hmmm. Now I'm realizing how much cleaner my desk was in that old shot... maybe I should work on that!

Casualty

2011-02-22T15:04:00.000-06:00

We had one casualty in the recent storm...

This is what happens when you hit a patch of ice hidden under a foot of snow! ABS goes crazy, and the hoop pays the price. If you look at the dents and scrapes visible on the post in the second picture you can see that this is not the FIRST time it's been hit! I'd like to point out that I'm only responsible for hitting it once (and not most recently! LOL). Thankfully the Yukon bumper is none-the-worse for wear...

Oh, and as a side-note, I LOVE my new camera for snow pictures! It's great how the clarity and brightness makes me really feel like I'm outside. Not bad for a point-and-shoot! :)

Best.Present.Ever

2011-02-20T19:55:00.000-06:00

Tim (being the best husband ever!) bought me the best gift ever! And, he has full intentions of using it frequently... to benefit ME! :)


Ahhhh....

Yes, that is a massage table. Three 1/2 hour massages from my awesome hubby and it will have paid for itself. :) And I don't even have to leave the house!

Random

2011-02-18T15:18:00.000-06:00

Here's another random post in which I write about many and various things...

First of all, someone pointed out that I said Phoenix sleeps from 10am-4pm. He does, in fact, sleep from 10pm-4am as one would expect. LOL The last few nights have, sadly, not followed that pattern. He wakes between 2am and 3am and then is restless and fussy the rest of the night. He's had a pretty stuffy nose at night for a while now, and this morning started in with a cough because of drainage. :( So sad.

On the homeschooling front, things are improving! We'd had a rough time of it with a lack of focus on the boys part. Over our Christmas/baby break Tim sat down and went through everything to really familiarize himself with what we were doing. Since that time school has been progressing at a much more satisfactory rate. I'm thankful for the involvement of a supportive husband/dad!

The weather lately has been, well, strange. It was VERY cold (below zero) for a spell. Thankfully, during the cold snap, the skies were blue and the sun was shining! The end of last week we had a warm up. The snow completely melted off the driveway and the kids were able to get completely muddy while playing outside in snowpants and sweatshirts. Today we are back to COLD and blue skies. I'm am truly looking forward to Spring!

Speaking of Spring... the kids clearly have some sort of Spring/Cabin Fever. They seem to get more crazy and out-of-control every day! Since they don't really have space to run in the house they aren't getting rid of the energy they need to. Sure would be nice to harness some of that! But for now we just try to wrangle them as best we can. It probably doesn't help that because of a lack of cooperation in the "cleaning the toy room" department they have virtually no toys to play with at the moment. They do spend quite a bit of time coloring and drawing.

Recently Tim and I have spent some time purging the house of "stuff". Mostly we've worked on paper... He had the day off on Wednesday and we were able to get through the shelves above the desk, an entire bookcase, part of a box, and two file cabinets. We managed to pare down the contents of the file cabinets (a total of 4 drawers) into one (2 drawers). That has freed up space in the family room. The desk area looks better, though the actual desk itself is still in need of some TLC. Overall we are pleased with the results. I think we'll try to tackle a bit more this weekend since Tim doesn't have to work.

For the most part we've been able to stay healthy this winter, and for that I am VERY thankful! Of course, for myself, having a baby and then having my gall bladder removed has been plenty to deal with! There have been a couple rounds of throwing up that have passed through the house, though Tim and I managed to miss out on the fun. I am ever so thankful that Phoenix has also stayed healthy!

Next month is testing month for the boys... we will again be taking the Peabody Assessment this year. I like the format of the test, and it really seems to be a good fit for the boys as well. They actually look forward to testing!

I feel like there was more I was planning to share, but between a lack of sleep, and the current activity level in the house, I'm not able to remember. I guess this post is probably long enough anyway! (If you made it this far, thank you. *grin*)

Oh, we got a new digital camera with our Christmas money and the new SD card should be here today! Then you can look forward more pictures soon. :)

Two Months

2011-02-17T00:14:00.000-06:00

Well, two months and one day since I'm a few minutes late posting this... :)

Phoenix is such a great baby. He has some periods of inconsolable crying on occasion (like this evening...) but for the most part he is happy and content. He sleeps most nights from 10am-4:30pm. He smiles easily and is beginning to babble. We are enjoying watching him grow and change each and every day. I have such a hard time believing it's already been two months! But then again, he's just so right, it feels like he's always been here.

Fashion Statement

2011-01-18T20:07:00.000-06:00

Victory was so proud because she picked out outfits for all the girls today. Oh.my.word. The picture doesn't do the clash-factor justice... LOL

three little fashionistas :P

YETI OR NOT...

2011-01-16T18:10:00.001-06:00

...HERE I COME!

Better Late Than Never

2011-01-13T00:52:00.000-06:00

...Or so they say :) And in the case of the newest member of our family, quite true! He was late... but he arrived! I can not believe that in just minutes he will "officially" be FOUR WEEKS OLD!

Phoenix Justice

Born @ Home

12.16.10

12:56 a.m.

10lb


one day old

Phoenix is well loved by all his brothers and sisters! Everyone offers several times a day to hold him. :)


just as the shutter snapped he flashed this sweet smile

It is an absolute joy getting to know our new "little" man! I worried that I would miss not having a *tiny* infant, but I LOVE his rolls and dimples and his size!


little is a relative term :)

Welcome to our family Phoenix! Can't wait to watch you grow... you were worth the wait. :)

first photo as a family of 9

Overdue... or maybe just overdone!

2010-12-03T14:21:00.000-06:00

Contrary to what the Expectnet.com link says on my sidebar, I do not have 5 days until my due date... rather, I am 5 days past my due date. If I make it through today without delivering, it will officially be the longest pregnancy I've endured. Now, when I say that, it makes it sound like being pregnant is never any fun. This is NOT true. However, for me, the last few weeks are never fun. And this time around is no exception.

It's quite possible this is the worst it's ever been... especially this last week. Quite honestly I've been feeling kind of borderline psychotic. There have been some REALLY bad days (yesterday was one of them). I think one of the hardest parts for me is the fear of having another gall bladder attack. As of last night I'm up to six attacks since mid-October. I've been asked what triggers them. The only answer I can give is FOOD. I can eat something one time and be fine, but eat it again a few days later and have an attack. I can't pinpoint anything specific. I'm almost afraid to eat anything other than a bowl of cereal. I just want to have this baby. And then I want to talk to the doctor more about taking care of this gall bladder issue.

I'm also kind of tired of everything being "up in the air". We can't make plans for anything because we don't know when the baby will arrive. I don't go to church anymore because I can't handle the comments... I'll either lash out, or cry (neither of which is a good option). Sleep has been elusive. Last night was the first night in a long time that I was *only* up twice. Usually, I'm awake every hour or two all night long, and often can't fall asleep in the in-between time. This makes for one tired and cranky momma.

So... there you have it. I could really use some prayer here! (I know many of you are already praying for me on a very regular basis.)

Ahh... a laugh! I was just informed by Victory and Alex that Chase took Jericho's *dirty* diaper off and she promptly peed on him. LOL So, see?? There are still SOOO many reasons to love my life! ")

I AM Thankful!

2010-11-25T09:15:00.000-06:00

I truly am thankful for so many things in my life. Unfortunately, lately I've been much more inclined to grumble and complain about the things I'm NOT thankful for. So, today, I thought I'd make a special effort to avoid grumbling and complaining. And, I'm making this (very incomplete) list of the things I AM thankful for:

*A husband who loves me, even when I'm a ranting lunatic
*6 children - true gifts from God
*A 7th child, soon to be born
*Second chances
*A home that, while small, puts a roof over our heads and keeps us close
*A God who supplies ALL of our needs

A relative posted this the other day and I thought I'd share it here (since it was pretty much the inspiration for my post):

This Thanksgiving, "will you be grumbly hateful or humbly grateful?"

Birthdays, Babies, and (gall) Bladders

2010-11-19T11:25:00.000-06:00

I am so grateful my birthday was a relaxing and enjoyable day with a couple unexpected surprises! My parents came down and took the family out to eat for my birthday. Tim had worked enough hours that he was able to be home for the entire afternoon. I got a text from the gal that cuts my hair letting me know if I booked something before January I'd get a nice discount. As a result of that text I was able to get my hair done (paid for with money I'd just received for my birthday) and I'm pleased with the results. ") Tim and I ended the evening by watching "Where the Wild Things Are" after which I read the book to Tim since he'd never read it before. ")

I guess there isn't a whole lot to update about the baby. He's still in there. We're all still waiting for him to be out here. The kids are getting more anxious. Levi says, "It's taking for.ever!" Victory is looking forward to being able to hug me good again (tough to get the arms around me these days! LOL).

As for the gall bladder... earlier this week I had another attack. It was the worst yet. Until last night. Last night I went to bed but was up after not too long to spend some quality face-to-face time with "john". Took a shower and headed back to bed even though I still didn't feel very good. About an hour later I woke up and climbed out of bed to use the bathroom. I didn't get further than the edge of the bed. I was in so much pain I couldn't even stand up straight. I woke Tim to let him know I needed to go to the ER.

When we walked in to the ER the receptionist said, "Looks like we're having a baby!" Um, no. I wish! That pain I can handle! (And even if I was in labor, I would be having the baby, not her... duh.)

After about 2 hours in the hospital (being pregnant gives you an instant pass out of the ER up to L&D) it was determined that my major problem was "significant dehydration". Guess I need to be more careful about my fluid consumption!

Back to birthdays... I'm hoping to be able to announce another birthday quite soon!! ") If you haven't already done so, check out my previous post or click the link on my sidebar and enter your guess for when baby will arrive!

Polling Time!

2010-11-13T19:26:00.000-06:00

I almost forgot to do this, but seeings Steph's gender poll reminded me I needed to get a poll going for date and weight of this baby!! So, click below, or check out my sidebar and enter your guess.

Prior stats in order of birth:

#1: boy, 9lb 7oz, born 5 days after due date
#2: boy, 8lb 13oz, born 5 days after due date
#3: girl, 7lb 3oz, born 5 days before due date
#4: boy, 8lb 10oz, born one day before due date
#5: girl, 7lb 12oz, born one day before due date
#6: girl, 7lb 14oz, born 5 days after due date

All my babies were between 19" and 21".

You'll notice my guess defies logic when it comes to delivery date. ") Hey, a girl can dream, right!? And, I have my reasons for picking that date... it was my grandpa's birthday. I fondly remember celebrating with him and my dad every year and think having a baby on his birthday would be a wonderful tribute to his memory. It also means I would have plenty of room to eat a big plate of food on Thanksgiving! LOL

So, have fun guessing!!

Random

2010-11-12T12:00:00.001-06:00

Facebook breaks and more...

Well, I'd been taking a break of sorts from FB (which I'm enjoying immensely by the way!) but I didn't expect to have to take a break from the computer all together! Last week the computer started acting goofy. Tim ran a hardware diagnostic and found an error code. We ended up taking the computer in and found that the hard-drive was failing because the fan for the hard-drive was failing. It's fixed, and I'm happy to have it back! I can't tell you how many times in the last week I've thought, "I'll just go print that off... oh, nevermind!" or had the boys ask a question and thought, "I'll just go look that up. Nope, not happening!" I'm looking forward to googling again. LOL I'm also happy that I can use the computer to develop my menu for the next few weeks along with comprehensive lists for each menu.

Weekly menus...

I think it was back in July when I started planning weekly menus using old daycare food program cards Steph had lying around. She told me I could use it but wasn't allowed to brag about how well it worked (if it did) because it was an unused resource at her house. ") Well Steph, I'm going to brag anyway. LOL When we don't have menu it almost seems as if nothing else works quite the way it's supposed to around here. Strange, because we've gone for years without a menu. When I first started I used the cards, which are separated into breakfast options, lunch/supper options, and snack options, to plan my week Monday-Friday. Supper was always something from our *typical* unofficial menu and I planned for two snacks a day. Since then, I've started planning my week from Monday-Sunday leaving no slots empty. Each week I would sit down on Saturday or Sunday and make my shopping list for the week based on the menu, cross off all items I already have on hand, and then make a final list for the store. This has been working well, but I would love to create a master list for each specific menu so at some point I can simply print off a previous week along with the grocery list and cut my planning time by half (at least!). Now that I've got the computer back, I'd like to get master lists done for at least two more weekly menus (completed one the week before the computer died) so it will be easy for Tim to get the shopping done and menus will already be planned for the few weeks following Phoenix's birth.

Baby news...

Not much to report here. Sunday will be the official 38 week mark. While we've been hoping for an early delivery we realize there is a possibility it could be as much as 4 weeks until we get to meet the little fellow (Oh, Lord, please don't make me wait that long!!). Last night Tim was watching my belly as it did it's typical mutant movements and said, "WHAT was THAT!?" LOL What I assume was a leg (knee on down) *rolled* across the surface of my belly causing it to stick a good inch or two higher than the rest. I love watching him move, but recently I've begun telling him that if he wants to move around THAT MUCH he needs to come on out and do that. ") Not only am I getting anxious to meet the baby, so are the kids. Levi and Shiloh will even talk to my belly and tell him to come out. Shiloh said the other day, "Baby Phoenix, come out! Now!" LOL And so the waiting continues...

Keeping busy...

Over the past 3 or 4 weeks I've crocheted several projects, sewed a few items, and even finished a KNITTING project! For those of you that know me well, you know I always say I DO NOT knit! Turns out, I can... I just don't prefer it. ") Maybe someday I'll put more effort into really learning to knit, but for now I'm just pleased with the very SQUARE corners I managed on that one project. LOL At some point I may have an entire post dedicated to the projects I've completed. We'll see... I've found that promised posts rarely make it to the screen, so no promises on this one!

Blast from the past...

Throughout our high school years our class had the privilege of hosting several exchange students. In 9th grade (20 years ago!!) one of them was a vivacious gal from Brazil named Helena. Last Sunday, three high school friends and I met her at Rafferty's Pizza in Brainerd/Baxter and had a mini-reunion! What fun... it just didn't last long enough!! It was fun to not only reminisce about the past, but also to talk about our lives now and make tentative plans for future reunions. I had to laugh because I think the last time I ate at Rafferty's may have been when I was in 9th grade!

Oldest and youngest...

This morning I found Jericho sound asleep (and snoring) in Alex's bed. She has the pillow blocking the light from the window, and her Wubbanub in her mouth. It was too sweet... I love how Alex shows his heart in the way he cares for her. He's growing into quite the young man!

Yes, they like the dentist!

2010-11-05T14:18:00.000-05:00

Today I had all the kids to the dentist (Jericho was the only one without an appointment). Thankfully, getting my kids to the dentist is NOT like pulling teeth! ") They enjoy the dentist, they like having their teeth cleaned, they even ASK when they can go again!

Today's reports were pretty typical... everyone could brush a little better than they have been. This time, however, Alex and Chase were both instructed to start flossing more often since most of their teeth are the ones they need to keep for life! Alex has 5 teeth left to lose, and some of those are loose at the moment. Chase has 2 baby teeth left, and one of those is loose... the x-rays showed the other should be loose soon. (Sounds like the tooth fairy will be busy around here!)

The bad news was that Levi has two cavities. "( He'll head back next week to have those taken care of. Hope it doesn't change his positive view of the "don-tist"! (Levi always has trouble with "dentist" -- I'm pretty sure it has something to do with all the trips he's made when we took Alex and Chase to the orthodontist...)

The Levi story of the day came as I was scheduling his appointment to have those nasty cavities filled. The dentist let me know that Levi gave him a good laugh. I always make the kids brush their teeth right before we head to the dentist's office. Levi let Dr. Imdieke know that he had only brushed his bottom teeth because he wanted the dentist to brush the top ones. LOL

Staying In Touch

2010-11-02T15:24:00.000-05:00

A while ago Victory brought me a little scrap of a paper towel with some writing on it. She said it was her phone number so when she got bigger and didn't live with me any more I could still call her...

That number is 812-6350.

It's clear that we need to work on our numbers (I'm almost wondering if she doesn't have dyslexia because most numbers get written backward... even when she's copying them directly), but it was so cute! She was pretty bummed when I told her "they" don't allow you to pick your own phone number and she emphatically stated that they really should let you do that! ")

It's a must-see!

2010-10-26T23:40:00.000-05:00

This literally made me laugh out loud. I'm so glad I have TiVo so I could go back and watch it again! Oh, how I feel what the mom says... LOL

If it's not one thing...

2010-10-22T16:58:00.000-05:00

The last week of September I got hives... and they lasted (off and on) for about 3 weeks. The first week of October I developed a nasty cough. That lasted about 2 weeks. Just when I was starting to feel pretty good again I had an attack. And then, two days later another. Gall bladder. At least that's what we suspected.

On Thursday my doctor scheduled me for an ultrasound of my upper right quadrant. While the techs never say much, this tech was sweet enough to tell me that she did think it looked like there were stones. A call from my doctor's office today confirmed that fact. For now, they plan to wait until after baby is here and then perform a follow-up CT. That is, if the pain doesn't get worse. If I continue to have attacks I'll have to talk to the surgeon. I don't know anything for sure, but from what I've been able to find online it seems unlikely they would do surgery at this point in my pregnancy unless it was an emergency (ie. infection of the gall bladder) and at that point it would be an open surgery because the uterus would be in the way to do anything laproscopic.

My midwife has recommended cutting fatty and/or greasy foods from my diet -- in particular animal fats. So, there goes most of my diet... meat, cheese, milk (ice cream!). Could be an interesting month around here. Though, if it ends the attacks I guess it's worth it. But, seriously, cheese?? I love cheese! *sob*

I sure would appreciate prayers that the attacks do not continue, and that the following weeks up to delivery pass quickly.

Progress!

2010-08-28T15:02:00.000-05:00

About a year ago we cut a hole in the wall between our dining room and a bedroom to create an "flow" for what became a dining room/living room.

We LOVE the resulting open feel, but the wall has been bare sheetrock for a l.o.n.g. time.

And, with 6 kids living in the space, the area around the opening has become more and more marred with fingerprints as time passes... (If you click on the picture above to look at a larger version, you can clearly see 4 distinct fingerprints above J's head. LOL)

But, over the last couple of weeks Tim has worked hard to get the taping/mudding completed, and we are finally making progress!

As I sit here typing this post, Tim is working on trimming out the wall so we can paint! I think he plans on getting the trim to complete the opening sometime this weekend as well. Hopefully, soon I'll be posting pictures of the completed space... and maybe I'll even take time to hang the family pictures on the wall before I do! ")

Finding time

2010-08-25T11:05:00.000-05:00

I've looked, but I don't think there's any extra lying around here... Mostly, I struggle because I'm stuck in one or two rooms of the house all day in order to keep my oldest two on track with their schooling. I've found if I leave the room for even 5 minutes they get totally off track and unfocused. *sigh* This means, I spend a lot of my time in front of the computer. I'd love to find a useful way to spend that time on the computer, but so far not much has come to me.

One of the things I would love to find time for is sorting through my sewing "stuff", and actually using it! Thankfully, I have been able to find a few minutes of free time here and there in the last couple of days. Yesterday, in those bits and pieces of time, I was able to make a pouch sling to use when the baby comes. It turned out beautifully! The only issue is, because of my pregnant belly, I can't tell if it's big enough. LOL So, I guess we'll find out after he arrives!

My next project (that I also plan to work on in bits and pieces) is making some kind of slipcover for the stools at the dining room table. The current upholstery -- even on the one I already recovered -- is totally shot because we have little kids that use the stools... I got some great upholstery fabric (free!) from a friend and it will work great on those stools! The biggest challenge (I think) will be creating the pattern for the covers. I plan to make a "prototype" from scrap fabric first so I'm not wasting the good stuff. Maybe by the end of the week I'll have some "new" chairs! ")

An ongoing project I have (that I can do while sitting in front of the computer) is a crochet hat pattern I'm working on. I found a cute pattern, but it just wasn't working, so I've modified it greatly and I am about 2/3 done with the first hat. There are already modifications that will need to be made, but so far, so good!

Lastly, I'm finding time to improving my typing skills by using a typing program (Typing Instructor Platinum) I ordered with our curriculum to help the kids learn keyboarding skills. Because we are still trying to find our "groove" with the basic 5 subjects in their curriculum, I haven't yet added keyboarding. However, I'm enjoying the "learning" for myself. ")

I hope you are able to find time to do some things you love!

Logos Bible Software Giveaway

2010-08-22T14:11:00.000-05:00

Logos Bible Software is having a giveaway! Oh, how I would love to win one of the top four prizes... but even an iTunes or Apple Store card would be nice. ")

I heart Apple.

To find out how YOU can enter for your chance to win, simply click here. Scroll down, and follow the instructions. Simple!

Transformation

2010-08-18T12:05:00.000-05:00

Watching the monarchs just never gets old. When this one emerged from it's chrysalis all of the kids got to watch. It's amazing to watch the butterfly pulse, emerge from the chrysalis, and continue to pulse in order to "grow" it's wings. (I learned recently that their abdomens are full of a blood pool that they use to help their wings expand.) So beautiful! So glad we got to watch this one... the last one emerged while we were sleeping. We have one more hanging, and I anticipate it will emerge sometime over the weekend or early next week.

"Mom, we need this!"

2010-08-13T17:05:00.001-05:00

These are words I generally discourage. I've made a point to explain the difference between a want and a need. It is important to me that my kids understand the difference.

So, in light of that, when Victory came to me today and said, "Mom, this is what we need!" I was about to launch into my typical "want vs. need" discourse when she showed me this...


Love it!

I just laughed and had to say, "You're right! That is EXACTLY what we need!"

Swedish Weaving: Take Two

2010-08-06T00:13:00.000-05:00

Six weeks ago I posted this about the blanket I made for Jericho. I am happy to report that she is finally beginning to like the blanket and will actually pick it up on her own as she moves from room to room. ")

Tonight I finished my second blanket. This one is for my niece, Summer, who was born July 1st (also Tim's birthday!) to my brother Kevin and his wife Casey. I really like how this one turned out too. I made a few modifications to the pattern. Again, as with the last one, the binding was a complete pain! I sure wish there was an easier method for sewing that stuff on. (Maybe it's just my lack of experience, but to be honest, I'd rather not have too much experience... LOL) If you have a blanket that needs some binding... don't call me! ")

I love the bright colors of this blanket, and I'm hoping Summer likes it too. ") I'm pretty sure my brother doesn't check my blog all that often, so I think I'm safe posting this tonight... it'll still be a surprise to them when we see them tomorrow afternoon!

I wish the pictures would do the blanket justice!

Tomorrow we leave for a mini-vacation with my parents, and Kevin & Casey and their family. I always find it a little funny that our family outnumbers the rest of them... there are 6 total, and we've got 8. LOL I'm sure we'll have a great time. And maybe when we get back from THIS little vacation, I'll finally get around to posting about our LAST vacation. (It was only 6 months ago... LOL)

I hope you enjoy your weekend as well! Now I'd better run off to bed... I've got to get up early tomorrow and get everything packed so we can get on the road!

Levi's Tree: Then & Now

2010-07-28T15:19:00.000-05:00

Just over 4 years ago I posted this after we bought an Autumn Blaze Maple for our yard. I love this tree! It is just beautiful, and has the added beauty of not producing "helicopters" to mess up the yard. ")

Then:

Now:

We had also trimmed the bushes in the front of the house before we got the tree... you can see they've done well too! LOL Take note of the height of the power line (the lowest one) in each of the pictures. It gives a great reference point to see just how much everything has grown.

I'm hoping planting a placenta under this poor lilac we transplanted from the parsonage in Pillager will perform the same sort of miracle...

This lilac has beautiful DARK purple flowers and was originally taken from my grandpa and grandma Osell's house in Duluth after my grandpa died. It's never really done all that well in the nearly 2 decades it's been in the yard in Pillager. It's a fond memory for me of my grandpa, and I'm hoping it survives it's second transplant! It got a bit mangled on the trip here due to the fact that it was on the trailer as we traveled 70MPH down the highway. Essentially it withstood hurricane force winds for an hour, so I guess it's not doing too bad. LOL I can't wait to see what it looks like next year...

There you have it, Steph. ") Now I can move on to the 200 other posts that have been piling up in my brain! LOL

For Jericho

2010-06-25T21:43:00.000-05:00

Here's the project I finished tonight....

I used this free pattern called "Venice". It was recommended as a good pattern to begin with, and since this was my first time even attempting to do any Swedish Weaving (also known as Huck Embroidery) I figured a beginner pattern was the way to go. ")

Honestly, I had a hard time understanding some of the written instructions for the pattern, but I had no problem looking at the grid and following those directions. Maybe because my mom taught me how to do counted cross-stitch years ago?

Shiloh has been very attached to the blankets her grandma and great-grandma made for her, and I really wanted to try my hand at the craft. I'm hoping that Jericho will love her blanket like Shi had loved hers. Jericho really hasn't latched on to anything to sooth herself, so it would be nice if she had something... She has a larger one (follow the link to see it), but it lacks the silkies that make some blankets so appealing. ") Tonight is her first night sleeping with it... we'll see if it's grabbed on the way out of the crib in the a.m.

As for making the blanket, I can't wait to make another! I started working on it last night around 5pm, and including the binding (which is a PAIN) it was totally complete by about 8pm this evening. The best part was the cost: about $3. I got the Monk's cloth (enough to make 3 more blankets of the same size) with a 40% off coupon at Joann's, the yarn was already in my stash, and the binding was also in my stash - purchased several years ago for another project that never was.

*******

In other news, Tim and I are taking Alex and Chase to the Air Show here in Saint Cloud tomorrow. Can't wait!! It's been fun hearing -- and sometimes seeing -- the Blue Angels, and the bombers fly over. ") Has the kids all excited for the real thing too!

~Next post: Levi's Tree - Then and Now (for you Steph *grin*)~

Anyone want to adopt a pet?

2010-06-02T17:33:00.001-05:00

We have several. They are very small and quiet. Come pick as many as you'd like!

We believe this is mom.

May!?!?

2010-05-03T20:29:00.000-05:00

What happened to April?? I'm so behind...

Computer issues, pregnancy induced exhaustion and nausea, pictures unavailable due to previously mentioned computer issues.

So, no promises for this month. Though I would appreciate prayers that I'm feeling much better soon and that the 2nd trimester is MUCH better than the 1st!

April!

2010-03-31T23:45:00.000-05:00

Can't believe it's April (almost). This month, we will celebrate 3 years of Shi being part of our family. So... she has the honor of being the blog header this month. ") I, for my part, plan on posting more this month. It's been awfully quiet 'round the blog these days. Check back soon!

An explanation...

2010-03-23T22:02:00.001-05:00

I'm AM working on the long awaited vacation post. I think one of the problems I've had with writing the post is the fact that the vacation didn't end on the best note. As soon as we got home, I got sick, and that was followed by some heartbreaking news. I've been debating for weeks now about whether or not I'd share the following information on my blog...

Over the course of the week following the trip we learned we'd had a miscarriage. I had a *faintly* positive hpt. I began having symptoms of a miscarriage (I won't share ALL the details here) the following day, and the Wednesday after we returned from our trip I went to the clinic for some lab work. My hCG level was very low, but was elevated above typical non-pregnant levels, and at the low end of the expected level for a 4 week pregnancy. The Dr. who reviewed the results suggested that I return the following Monday to retest, which I did. I was saddened when the report came back that my hCG levels were now <1. This confirmed the miscarriage. I'm thankful for the short time God gave me with that baby, and am looking forward with anticipation to any other blessings He sends our way.

I've closed the comments on this particular post because I don't want or need a lot of "I'm sorry for your loss" comments. If you're reading this, I'm probably at least somewhat important to you, so I know that you are sorry, and I would appreciate your prayers as we continue to deal in our own private way. Thank you.

Ta-da!

2010-03-05T11:52:00.000-06:00

One down, 6 to finish (in this batch *grin*)...

I love the fit around the legs - no gapes! Though I may still shorten the elastic just a titch.

My less-than-cooperative model. LOL

Cute little bum ")

Sew What?

2010-03-04T15:15:00.000-06:00

When I was a kid and would say, "So what?", my dad would always reply with, "Sew buttons on your underwear!" Well, no buttons... but snaps are in my future!!

Here's what I've been up to:

It took me two evening to get all these diapers and inserts cut out. All they need now are 112 snaps, serging/sewing, and a little elastic. ") Yes, I'm happy to be climbing back on the cloth diaper bandwagon!!

Tonight I'll get some much needed "sewing therapy". Steph and I will be going to Bonnie's house and sewing up a storm. I can't wait!! Just hope my 1/2 bum shoulder will be up to setting those snaps. ")

Keep a look out for photos of the finished product. And, if you know me IRL and see me, you'll get to see them in action on my cute little "model".

Headers & Hair

2010-02-28T22:36:00.000-06:00

I changed my header again, as you may have noticed. I've made it a goal to change my background and header every month. I love this picture... it's one of the outtakes from our family photo session with Angela that we had back in October. All the kids have *great* looks on their faces. LOL

Now, on to the hair. Victory has been asking to have her hair cut because she hates having it brushed. With all the curls it easily tangles. She asked a few days ago and I said I'd talk to Tim and see what he had to say. Then, it didn't come up again, so I let it go. Today she asked again. So, here's the before and after:

This should be MUCH easier to care for. And, she really likes it, so that makes me happy.

Every time someone in the house (any one) gets their hair cut, Shiloh wants hers cut too. I usually oblige by setting her in the chair and cutting a couple little strands. Tonight I did a bit more... I think the results are great!

Much nicer look. She's always got what looks like a big rats nest in the back no matter how many times I comb it, so I'm hoping this will help solve some of that problem.

I'm still working on that vacation post, so stay tuned!

Friday Fun

2010-02-26T11:30:00.000-06:00

It's been a long time since I posted! There will be a vacation post at some point... just trying to get it together in my head before I put it on the blog. ")

I did have a little fun playing with this photo I took in AZ with my phone. Love the results!

Before:

After:

So, until I get the rest of the story together, you'll just have to settle for this. ") (Tami, I know you'll especially enjoy it!)

Bored

2010-02-05T13:27:00.000-06:00

I love the blog of Ann Voskamp. She always has words that speak to me, to who I am, to where I am. In my inbox today was a link to this article (courtesy of Ann).

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

Children nowadays have more toys to distract them than ever before – toys that are more sophisticated. This suggests they are bored because they are over- rather than under-stimulated. For with choice comes restlessness, a nagging feeling that there might be something better to play with, or something on television they are missing, if only they were not wasting their precious time playing with toys.

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

In our home, we try very hard to limit so-called "screen time". While we do have a Wii, time spent on it is limited -- a special treat (for the most part). Kids DO need to be bored! The imagination that is sparked in a child with a simple box of Jenga blocks, or a container of Legos, or a bin of construction paper never ceases to amaze me.

Most recently, the bigger boys have been building "sets" from Lord of the Rings... Helm's Deep, Soromon's castle.

Characters from the movie are carefully made. Each is placed just so. The story is told and retold. Hours of play. (Now I just need to get them to read the books!)

Jenga blocks have become houses, roads, fences, garages, people, animals... Pictures are drawn of ant home (you would not believe how elaborate these can be! LOL) or pirates, or airplanes -- scenes that all include elaborate stories.

Magazines (Clubhouse, Clubhouse Jr., Highlights, NatGeo Kids) all provide hours of entertainment.

I find that the more T.V., movies, or video games they are allowed to play, the more they want. It's like an addiction that I am loathe to feed. Go, do! Please! Don't waste your life glued to a screen.

While I don't plan on smashing my Wii anytime soon, and I won't be getting rid of the T.V. (though at some point I would love to, but that takes some convincing/conviction of others *grin*), and the computer is going to stay right here on my desk, I do hope that I will be able to continue to keep my kids bored on a regular basis. ")

MPG

2010-02-02T13:34:00.000-06:00

Way back in December, in this post, I promised to do another post about the bike. Finally, here it is... (Thanks, Karri, for bugging me about it. LOL)

We blindfolded Victory and brought in the bike.

I'm pretty sure she liked it -- and was surprised!

She had to check everything out, including the cute little backpack on the front. Did you notice Susie (the cat) had to check it all out too? LOL

As we were removing all the tags from the bike I noticed this:

See in the middle of the tag where it says, "No Gas Needed"? Right above that it says, "MGP Guide". What were they thinking? Are they serious? Or was this just supposed to be funny? It's kind of like the warnings you find on things like silicone packets in pills... "Do not eat". LOL

Just another Manic Monday

2010-01-27T16:44:00.000-06:00

This was supposed to be my Monday post, but things have been a bit hectic around here. I was also having some issues getting my pictures uploaded... new printer problems. I've also been keeping Steph's blog updated rather than my own. ")

Here's what I was wearing on Monday...

I had a couple people give me a hard time about it... "But, they lost!... Favre lost the game... etc." Let me tell you, even though they lost, the Vikings (for the most part) played a good, hard game. As for Favre... I'd like to see you get knocked down as many times as he did and keep getting back up and playing like he did. And that's all I have to say about that.

Look for my Tuesday post, and my Wordless Wednesday post coming soon. LOL

For Fun

2010-01-24T16:07:00.000-06:00

I don't know who took the following pictures of Jericho, but it was quite the sequence. ") I have an idea it was Chase since he is the one who usually "steals" my camera.

I had a little fun with the last picture really making the colors *pop*. I LOVE the way her eyes look! What a beautiful color!