Ivy Six-Pack - Old

I'm Moving

2012-01-08T23:16:00.000-07:00

Both physically and technologically. Our family is relocating to St. Thomas, Pennsylvania, where Mike will be working for JLG in McConnellsburg, PA. (Funny thing, Mike used to work for JLG's direct competitor, Genie Industries, when we lived in Seattle.) The physical move is a result of a very difficult decision. Yellowstone Church is our baby, and it was very difficult to know God was leading us to hand our baby off to someone else. However, for the health of the church and the health of our family, we know this is the right decision.

The technological move is more symbolic. This is a new chapter for our family, a new location, and I have a new outlook...so, I thought we needed to transform the blog as well and move it. Now you can find me at Ivy Six-Pack. I know, not a huge change, but c'mon, I have lots of change going on right now!!!

See you over there!

Things I missed for my Birthday

2011-06-11T21:45:00.003-06:00

my family - they live too far away!

Costco cake, but the frozen yogurt was yummy!

my far away friends!

sleeping in (that's what happens when your birthday falls on a Sunday and you're the pastor's wife!)

a magically clean house

my private beach and fruity drink (okay, so that's really not a birthday necessity, but someday I will spend my birthday on a beach with a yummy drink!)

First Day of Summer Vacation

2011-06-04T08:06:00.003-06:00

It seems there are a few things consistent about the first day of Summer Vacation:

The sun is always bright and shining...especially at 5:30am

Children seem to forget that they can sleep in.

The mommy has all sorts of plans and can't understand why no one else is excited about cleaning the garage

The daddy always makes breakfast...or second breakfast since some people have been awake since 5:35am

No one is fully dressed before noon.

The kids start asking when we are going to set up the pool...every hour...starting at 5:45am

Older Kids Playdates

2011-05-31T16:18:00.002-06:00

Things I do when my older kids have "playdates":

Remember to not call them playdates

Straighten up the house since they are now old enough to tell their parents how messy my house is

Fix a healthy snack

Stay close enough to hear the conversation, but not too close so I look like I'm listening

Make mental notes of what they are talking about so I can google it later

Remember to close the door when I go to the bathroom.

Hog Ridin'

2011-05-13T17:38:00.002-06:00

Six things that are hard to experience unless you are riding a bike:

Feeling the temperature change from the heat of a plateau to the cool of a valley.

The smell of sagebrush, fresh cut wheat, and cattle by-products.

The time to just think...no phone, no conversation.

And then the time to listen to God...no phone, no conversation.

Being close to my husband (since I don't drive).

The instant massage from the rumble of the big v-twin motor.

Cough, cough, cough, cough

2011-03-04T19:51:00.001-07:00

Is it possible to cough so much that you just pass out? You would think I've been a chain smoker for years the way I am coughing today!

Scripture Memory #5

2011-03-03T07:16:00.000-07:00

Almost two years ago, God challenged me to ENJOY my life. ENJOY the little things; ENJOY the people; ENJOY what I already had.

I have felt a bit ashamed that I have attacked this so poorly. I thought I could just easily decide to ENJOY things. But so easy it is for me to see the problems, the frustration, the discontentment.

My husband made me a beautiful metal sign with the word ENJOY. It sits above my kitchen cabinets for me to see the 50 million times a day that I walk into that room. And still, I struggle.

Daily, I walk in and see the dirty dishes, the dirty floor, the piles of paper, the dusty window.

I am reading Ann Voskamp's book, one thousand gifts. I warn you now, this is profoundly changing my perspective. You will hear me talk about it a lot. The hard part comes in how exactly to put into words the stirring inside of me.

What I know and can express right now is this. I am not ENJOYing life because I am not thankful for the things that God has given me.

Ouch. That hurts to even write to admit.

And being thankful to the point of ENJOYment is not something that happens overnight. It takes practice. So very few things in my life require me to practice. But then I think, how much am I not accomplishing because I am not practicing?

So I start here:

He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to
his God. --Daniel 6:10b NLT

It starts with practice...practicing thankfulness.

Routines Rule

2011-03-02T14:09:00.004-07:00

I am such a creature of habit. I drive the kids to school the same route every day. I clean bathrooms the same way I have for over 20 years (meaning not very well!). I know this about myself: I function better with routines.

So, in an effort to get on top of some of my goals, I set up two new routines today.

I have a routine for laundry. It goes like this:

Mon: Master bedroom & bathroom
Tues: little girls
Wed: little boys (although they really aren't that little)
Thur: Judson
Fri: Master bedroom & bathroom
Sat: Mikalah (technically so she can do her own, but...)
Sun: delicate/hand washables

It works for me. I used to have a day where I did 20 loads of laundry. Now I do two loads every day in between everything else. It really seems like I am never doing laundry.

However, that has been the only area where I had a specific routine and somehow the only area I felt like I had some control over. So, new routine:

Cleaning:
Mon: Master bedroom
Tues: Girls & boys room
Wed: Living/dining/kitchen (these are lumped together because of the flooring)
Thur: Bathrooms - deep clean
Fri: basement
Sat: garage/outside
Sun: relax!

So the idea is that on that day I will spend time in that room cleaning/straightening something. Some days I will have a few hours and it will be amazing. Other days I may only have 30 min and will manage to straighten things up or just dust. So, we will try this for four weeks and I will check back with you at the beginning of April (lordy how does the year go by!) and let you know how it is going.

Another routine developed - kitchen duties.

Three chores: helping with food, clearing the table, and the dishwasher.
Rotate children through so they help every other day.

Example:
Mon: child 6 helps with food, child 5 clears the table, child 4 loads the dishwasher
Tues: child 3 helps with food, child 2 clears the table, child 1 loads the dishwasher
Wed: child 4 helps with food, child 6 clears the table, child 5 loads the dishwasher
and so on...

Again, we will try this for the rest of the week and see how it goes.

Costco Wedding

2011-03-01T13:21:00.003-07:00

I may have a few years before this is a reality in our house, but it is nice to know that Costco is there for me!!!

Sick Day Activities

2011-02-28T10:49:00.002-07:00

I know, the fact that I am sick is not new news. And I'm not complaining (much), but this is day FIVE! So this morning I went to the doctor to make sure it wasn't anything more than just a bad case of the flu. The good news is I don't have strep and I don't have pneumonia. Just a really bad case of the flu! My kids that had the flu were down and back up within three days. Somehow they also still had energy. I have no energy.

I have been in bed for the past several days. My computer next to me and occasionally I will work on it, but really, my fingers almost hurt too much to type. (pathetic, I know) So I have watched quite a bit of TV. HGTV, TLC, CNN, Food Network. After four days of this routine, I have discovered a few things.

1. News people stretch a 10 sec news story into 30 min and really say nothing new

2. All the good food contains lots of butter, chocolate, or cream

3. People looking for a new house are unrealistic and picky

4. People remodeling their home underestimate how much what they want will cost and aren't usually willing to sacrifice to stay on budget

5. It is possible to cook in a kitchen without granite counter-tops

6. Most families who participate in pageants spend more money than it would cost to send that child to college.

7. I really want to learn to make cupcakes

8. Christiane Amanpour is my favorite reporter.

9. I now know that T.U.F.F. Puppy is. I could have lived without knowing

10. My husband is amazing and does a wonderful job caring for our children when I can't.

Too Much

2011-02-25T17:23:00.003-07:00

Some days take too much out of you!

Dr. Visits

2011-02-24T13:47:00.002-07:00

Kickin' Butt

2011-02-22T18:06:00.003-07:00

Unfortunately it is my butt that is being kicked. It seems we have three or four different illnesses in the house right now. So we are boosting immune systems, spraying the lysol, and wishing for warmer weather where we could open all the windows. I'm taking Morgan and Jeffrey to the doctor tomorrow, and Mikalah's antibiotics don't seem to be kicking the sinus infection. So far, Mike and Meredith win the prize for health!

I'm just praying the sub zero temps and the snow that is headed our way for the next five days doesn't drive us all stir crazy!

Influenza A

2011-02-17T14:56:00.004-07:00

I have always had this theory that we don't get flu shots, because we are not in a high risk situation. We got flu shots one year and we all got some strain of the flu. It was not pretty. You can't make me do that again!

Well, this year, the first time in six years, the flu has struck the Iverson household. Yesterday I took JJ to the doctor for a strep test. I thought for sure, the fever, chills, and cough were going to result in strep. Nope. Influenza A.

Others in the family seem to be fighting well. No one else has succumb yet.

And JJ...the doctor gave him Tamiflu. That stuff is amazing! Less than 24 hours later and JJ is up and running like nothing was wrong. Who knew? An Anti-Viral! I'm on to them now! No more going to the doctor and coming out empty handed!

Where to Start?

2011-02-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

So remember way back when I said one of my goals was organizing and setting up routines for our household? Yeah, me too...

Well, this is the week I am beginning...I have finally thought my way into a plan.

Unfortunately, I'm still not 100% which room to start with.

The kitchen? It is the hub of the house.

The living room? It is the room I spend a lot of time in and the first room you see when you enter and the "hospitality room".

The master bedroom? It is my retreat, my sanctuary.

The basement family room? The room the family spends a lot of time in.

(That in no way implies that I try to spend a lot of time away from the family!)

I have long found it interesting that each person has one space in their house that they go to first when it is time to clean. Their place that once it is clean, they can think, can breathe.

If you had to pick one space in your home to start with, to organize, to decorate, what would it be?

Scripture Memory #4

2011-02-15T09:15:00.004-07:00

I can not believe how fast this year is going! This verse is one that I think I really need as a warning signal every time I open my mouth!

Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:6 NLT

So many times, a few minutes after a conversation, I think of ways that I could have handled things so much better! I want God to speak through me, not just to me after the fact!

Snow is Melting

2011-02-14T17:06:00.002-07:00

...so can you guess what I will be doing tonight?

That's Who I Am

2011-02-11T01:35:00.000-07:00

Right now I am finishing up some MOPS training in Denver.

I am a M-O-M!

Old is the new New

2011-02-10T01:18:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite hymns

Be Thou My Vision

Move

2011-02-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

What better music to play when you need to be moving!

Gone...

2011-02-08T01:09:00.000-07:00

I will be out of reach for a few days, but will resume next monday...until then, enjoy some of my favorite songs. These are the ones I throw on when I need to keep my energy level up

Teaching Moments

2011-02-07T00:00:00.001-07:00

As mommies, we look for those moments to take what we are doing and turn it into a teachable moment with the young jedi in our lives. When those teachable moments happen, it is a very prideful moment as a mommy.

This past Friday, Morgan and I met Mike for lunch at our favorite Chinese buffet. We greatly enjoyed the crab rangoon, sesame chicken, and jello - both red and yellow! Of course there was also the end of the meal fortune cookies. Mike headed back to work, and Morgan and I started running our errands. Mike does not like fortune cookies, so he gave his to Morgan. Once she was buckled in her seat, she broke into her cookies.

She passed her first one up to me to read. It said something like, People find it hard to resist your persuasive personality. Now, to explain that to a four year old! The conversation went something like this:

Mommy: That means when you ask nicely, people are more likely to do what you ask.
Morgan: Like when I say "please"!
Mommy: Exactly - I love it when you use your manners!

And the mommy pride grew! Yeah for taking a silly thing like a fortune cookie and using it to reinforce manners.

Morgan ate her cookie and read the numbers on the back - double yeah for working on knowing our numbers!

Then came the second cookie. Morgan passed it forward and I read it. Follow your heart and have a prosperous day. Oh sure - this should be easy to explain!

Mommy: (high on the success of the first fortune) that means that when you do the things you know you should do, like make your bed, put your clothes away, and obey mommy and daddy, you will have a good day

Morgan: well, lets just crumple that one up

Mommy pride deflated!

Scripture Memory #3

2011-02-04T19:33:00.002-07:00

I completely forgot to post my verse for Feb. 1st that I am now memorizing:

Strength and dignity are her clothing and she laughs at the time to come.
Proverbs 31:25 ESV

Sometimes I worry too much about how things are going to work out and I want to have strength and dignity and be able to laugh at the days to come.

Delicious, Hot S'moes

2011-02-04T10:35:00.004-07:00

There may have been a few viewings of Toy Story in the past few weeks...

Cabin fever has also caused us to get creative in our family time. Last night we took advantage of the great fire in the upstairs fireplace... ...and broke into the campfire size marshmallows from Wally World.

Something my boys would try...

2011-02-03T10:32:00.000-07:00

Windsday

2011-02-02T13:52:00.002-07:00

I love Winnie the Pooh. My Dad used to read it to me when I was younger and I loved the different voices he would use. Even today, I can hear his voice every time I read Tigger or Piglet.

Today the wind is blowing hard - like 30+mph. The sun is shining brightly and the sky is a brilliant blue. The wind makes a beautiful pattern in the snow. And the snow blowing across the street looks like it is dancing. It is fun to watch...from the warmth of my living room, while I am sitting by the fire.

Baby Its Cold Outside...

2011-02-01T09:29:00.003-07:00

I am thankful for a warm house. I am thankful for a fire in the fireplace. I am thankful for warm coffee to drink. I am thankful for a functioning heater.

This Morning it was -18 degrees. Our house was built in the 1950s. The two do not go together well.

The threshold of the back door.

The corner of the bathroom.

The mail slot.

Excuse me while I put another layer on.

Tuesdays Make Me Laugh

2011-02-01T06:50:00.000-07:00

Copied from someone I don't know on Twitter:

Learning taco bell meat is not meat is like learning cigarettes are
addictive.

Pity Threw A Party...

2011-01-31T13:37:00.002-07:00

Perspective.

Everything in life has to be evaluated with perspective.

This past weekend I attended a women's retreat. This was not your typical, high energy, fun, stuff your face, stay up until midnight playing games retreat.

This was also not, sing some songs, hear a speaker, get emotionally touched, go home type of a retreat.

This was all about experiencing God. Listening to God. At one point, they even had us bring our pillows and rest - soaking in God's love for us.

It really was a retreat - a rest. But it was emotionally draining as well. Sort of a "dutch uncle talk" with Jesus kind of draining.

Our speaker had been in a horrible car accident when she was 34. She was a mom to two young children at the time. The accident left her a quadriplegic.

When you think of all the things we moms do - especially with young children - the idea of being physically helpless is overwhelming.

She talked a little about her accident, but the words that she spoke about how we "plug" the connection we have to God's love, is what really touched me.

She described three things that hinder us from receiving God's love. I'm sure there are probably more, but these three were enough to start with!

1. Self-pity
2. Unbelief
3. Unforgiveness

No dancing around the issue there!

Self-pity is one that I definitely struggle with - big time. But she talked about perspective. One man that had been at the same rehab facility she was at came back to visit while she was there. He, too, had a major spinal cord injury, but with rehab, had been able to walk again and almost completely recover. When he talked with the current patients, they asked him how he was doing. I'm sure they were expecting some encouragement, some inspiration. Instead, he complained that he was unable to type as quickly as he had before the accident. Here he was talking to people that couldn't walk, couldn't use their arms and complaining about not typing quickly.

There are many things I complain about. I am a "glass half empty" person. I am the man complaining about typing too slow.

The solution?

Gratitude.

Recognizing the blessings.

Proclaiming God's goodness.

Thanking Him for the air I breathe - the children I hold - the husband I love.

Celebrating the sun - the moon - the food - the dirt - even the snow.

(waking this morning to sub zero temps makes this even more difficult!)

I'm sure many of you remember Oprah's famous gratitude journal. Five things every night before bed that I am grateful for. Silly, but so profound at the same time.

I want to be grown up thankful - not just thankful for the day, the house, my bed - like my kids pray.

I want to be child-like thankful - seeing the bugs, the rocks, the simple things we grown ups miss.

I think God's timing is perfect - no I KNOW God's timing is perfect.

Ann Voskamp has written a book, One Thousand Gifts - A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are. I have followed her blog for quite a while and felt quite a connection to her life (and not just the six kids part). I guess you would say more of an awe to how she lives her life. Simple, honest, grateful.

I am starting my own gratitude journal - to see the simple things in my life and to be grateful for every moment.

Women's Retreat

2011-01-28T14:05:00.001-07:00

Because sometimes we just need to get away!!!

Red Sky in Morning...

2011-01-27T15:31:00.006-07:00

I remember my grandfather and my mother quoting an old sailors rhyme:

"Red sky at night, sailors delight; red sky at morning, sailors take warning."

So, what happens if it is red in the morning and at night?

Anyway, yesterday I was reading in Matthew as part of my read through the New Testament in a year. I'm a little concerned that I am still in Matthew and we are at the end of January, but this plan says we will finish Revelation by December 31st!

Matthew 16:1-3 NLT

"One day the Pharisees and Sadducees came to test Jesus, demanding that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority. He replied, 'You know the saying, "Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow, red sky in the morning means foul weather all day." You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don't know how to interpret the signs of the times!'

How cool is Jesus! And how old is that saying!!!!

It also makes me think twice about how I am interpreting the signs around me.

When I feel so lonely...am I missing all the people God has put in my life?

When I feel like a failure...am I calling God a liar?

When I feel insignificant...have I forgotten the beautiful children God has blessed me with?

Thank you, Lord!

To Do Lists

2011-01-26T09:59:00.004-07:00

I love lists. There is something so amazing about being able to cross a task off of your list. I really love how Google calendars has a to-do list right on the side, but there is something satisfying about pen and paper and making that X.

Kind of like paying for something with cash instead of just swiping your card - satisfying!

I used to make a daily to-do list, but that got too cumbersome. Now I make a list on Sunday evening and try to accomplish everything by Sat. night. There are usually a few items that get carried over.

Unfortunately, making dentist appointments for my kiddos has been on the list for a month. Maybe I will do that tomorrow.

To Gray or Not To Gray

2011-01-25T14:50:00.003-07:00

Most days I feel pretty young - pretty full of energy. But other days I feel like I should just sit on the sofa with a blanket over my legs and a cup of tea. That's just my warped picture of me as an old lady.

The bible study that I am currently participating in is about defining our vision, our passion, our purpose. I think it is important to revisit this idea every few years and make sure that we are staying "on track".

Every once in a while I lose sight of why I am here. I am a mommy 24/7. I am a wife. I am a daughter. I sometimes lose focus of Jennifer.

I see that in my reactions. I see that in how I care about myself. I know that I need to get rid of some extra weight. But honestly, I don't feel very motivated. Right now, it isn't a health issue. Right now, I still fit in my clothes. But right now, I don't have energy. Right now, I don't feel comfortable. And I know that if I don't make changes right now, it will be a health issue. And it will be more difficult to change.

Somehow that still does not motivate me. Ugh!

So back to focusing on Jennifer. Right now in this study we are supposed to review our lives. Place events of our lives into "chapters", and look for a re-occurring theme. I can see the events. I can see the chapters. I don't see the theme...other than change. Constant change. As soon as I get comfortable, things change.

The hard part about looking forward is that I desperately want that comfort zone. I don't get the opportunity to stay in that comfort zone for very long. I want to be there for a while - not just a short visit.

This past week, the gray hairs have begun to show themselves again. That does not help me feel young. I have dreams of being the silver haired lady full of energy and color and people being surprised that someone that old has that much energy.

It has made me realize that to accomplish that goal, I have to make some changes.

But today...

...gray hair is not a change I am ready to make!

Delayed Monday

2011-01-25T08:50:00.002-07:00

No one in the Iverson household really wanted Monday to start...

Comfort vs. Cute

2011-01-21T11:16:00.002-07:00

I'm giving into the world of comfort...sort of...

I will be the first to argue that comfort plays second fiddle to cute shoes. However, I also think suffering for cute is not necessary.

I will wear heels all day long and be just fine. I have discovered that working on a concrete floor for six hours is taking a tole on my body. So this week I gave in and went looking for a comfortable shoe.

Each shoe that I look at, I can hear Clinton and Stacy reminding me not to sacrifice style just for comfort. It is possible to have both.

I am skeptical. At least from the shoe selection in Billings...

So I am trying these on for a while. They are comfortable. Although my heel is getting cold. I have never really liked slip on shoes like this. I feel like my foot slides out too easily. But for the past six hours of running errands, they are growing on me.

And they are still cute...right???

Tornado Thursday

2011-01-20T13:54:00.003-07:00

A glimpse into my Thursdays...

Deliver 14 year old to Jazz band while it is still dark

Pick up 14 year old & deliver her to the high school

Deliver the 12 year old to the junior high

Deliver the 9 year old to his school

Deliver the 5 & 7 year old to their school

Home for a quick shower

Pick up the 14 year old and deliver her & friend to junior high

Pick up band book that I forgot and deliver it to the 12 year old

Mail package to new nephew (insert excited aunt giggle)

Pick up Starbucks so that the taxi driver doesn't fall asleep

Pick up 14 year old for eye appointment

Stop at home so 14 year old can pick up glasses

Deliver 14 year old back to school

Stop at home to feed 4 year old

Do a load of laundry

Calculate the distance between hotel and PF Changs for MOPS training in Denver
(anticipation works better than the Starbucks)

Pick up 5 & 7 year old from their school

Pick up 9 year old from his school

Meet 12 year old at home and give youngest five enough snack to hold them over until dinner

Supervise homework

Pick up 14 year old and friend from junior high and after school activities

Hand 14 year old mac & cheese boxes and escape with hubby!!!!

Winter

2011-01-19T10:03:00.003-07:00

Guess, what? It is winter. It snowed last night. Underneath that snow is a bunch of ice.

Guess what else? I don't like winter.

Are you surprised?

I know, no one is really.

This morning a friend reminded me that for me, winter is to remind me how much I love summer.

But really? This is my street...this is where I get stuck on a regular basis...this is where my husband got stuck this morning.

The good news is that I got to use my tow rope that my father-in-law gave me for Christmas!

Yummy, Yum, Yum

2011-01-18T13:43:00.002-07:00

Today is cold and windy and yesterday was the same and tomorrow promises to be the same too. When we get in a rut of weather like this, I just want some comfort food.

Pioneer Woman has an amazing Stew recipe that I made yesterday.

Because of my sweet husband's no-carb diet right now, I left out the potatoes and instead made a small batch of mashed potatoes that I could serve the stew over top of for the kiddos. He has also missed drinking an occasional beer, so the beer flavor in the stew was an added bonus.

The added bonus for me was getting to use my cast iron dutch oven. I LOVED it!!! I love the red color on the outside, and I love the way the food cooked in it, and I loved how easy it was to clean! My hubby and kids gave me an awesome Christmas present!

Scripture Memory #2

2011-01-17T13:43:00.002-07:00

One of my Spiritual Goals is to memorize scripture - two verses every month. So we are moving on to the second verse of the month.

In preparation for something I have coming up, I decided this would be a good verse:

Colossians 4:2 NLT
Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

I need to be focused on being thankful right now. And as tired as I am, an alert mind would be a good thing too!

Can we start over?

2011-01-14T12:30:00.002-07:00

Today is one of those days that needs to be a mulligan...

I have spilled things, lost things, burned things, and created a computer info nightmare...

...and the day is only half over!

The good news is I know some amazing people that have found things, helped clean up things and are fantastic code monkeys!

Just Move

2011-01-13T13:07:00.002-07:00

This eat less and move more thing is not easy! I know that, but it is not easy!

The chocolate calls to me all day long! The snow makes outside moving yucky, and really, I am not an outside person!

So just so you know...I haven't "moved" for a week and I am eating triscuits and lughing cow cheese.

There has to be a way to work exercise into my schedule...today I barely worked a shower into my schedule. So instead of trying to do 30 min., I am going to do some core exercises in between all of my other things. 15 squats on my way to the van; 15 push ups before folding a load of laundry...I'll let you know if this works...

Chatting with Morgan

2011-01-12T04:38:00.000-07:00

Money doesn't grow on trees...

2011-01-11T09:21:00.004-07:00

Today I am feeling completely overwhelmed...

I know I mentioned last week that finances are tight. Money is by far one of the most stressful subjects. I don't wish health issues for anyone - that can be scary. But for me, money is by far the most difficult subject to deal with.

While Dave Ramsey has helped us feel more secure, and I know that we are in the top 5% of the world as far as wealth, I still worry. I know we are where God has asked us to be, but I don't see the big picture yet. My husband is working two jobs, I am working, my kids get reduced lunch at school, we qualify for medicaid. We don't eat out as a family, my kids don't participate in gymnastics, music lessons, swimming lessons. We don't take vacations every year. We don't go to movies, or amusement parks, or even bowling. None of these things are needs and we have fun as a family, but I hate having to tell my kids they can't have gymnastic lessons, they can't go rock climbing, we can't go see that movie, we can't go eat at Texas Roadhouse...reason being there is no money for that. I have to pay the electric bill and buy groceries. I want my kids to understand that, but I don't know how to say it.

How much information do you tell your kids about money? Do you tell them you are struggling to pay the bills? I want them to learn that we rely on God to provide, but how?

The other day I overheard the kids talking to each other. One said they wanted to eat at Texas Roadhouse. The other said, "yeah, me too, but it costs too much money". I can have a great steak (venison steak) dinner at home and try to make it fun. No, I can't take six kids to Texas Roadhouse. I don't even know that I want to - just the chaos of ordering, cutting food, opening peanuts...but I don't like having to say no to things just because of money.

I want them to have piano lessons, I want them to learn to swim. I want to take them to visit family every year. I don't want them to worry if they will get enough food that day.

I am thankful that they have clean drinking water. I am thankful they have beds to sleep in and blankets on those beds and warm pjs to wear. I am thankful they have snow boots and coats to wear on this sub-zero day. I am thankful for the venison in my freezer. I am thankful for a vehicle that runs and can carry my whole family. I am thankful for a Lord that loves me and cares about my every worry and fear.

And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you
are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. Luke 12:7 NLT

Lord, help me not to worry, help me to not be afraid, help me to know that I am valuable!

New baby

2011-01-10T09:32:00.003-07:00

Somebody out there just had a heart attack thinking I was making some sort of announcement!

There are not to be any new babies from this woman...just to be clear!

This past weekend was my sister-in-laws due date. We all know the actual date means nothing, but somehow, the days after that due date seem to drag on forever! At this point you are about ready to punch the next person that says, "You haven't had that baby yet?"

I am mourning the fact that we are thousands of miles away from them and I will not have the opportunity to love on my sweet sister (I'd rather call her my sister than sister-in-law...she really is a sister anyway!), make her lunch, bring her tea, change babies diapers, do laundry...it just makes my heart ache!

The distance from family members (and the never ending cold and snow) makes me feel very isolated. One thing I have tried is skype. We successfully chatted with some family at Christmas, but otherwise we seem to miss people when they are on. I'm sure the time difference has something to do with that too.

One of my goals for this year was to pick a family member every week and pray for them. I made little cards for each member and put them in a basket. For the past two weeks (this being the beginning of week two) I have randomly selected one. I put a picture of them as my desktop wallpaper and pray for them every time I sit at my computer (which is about 20 times a day!!!!). In just that short of a time it has really touched my heart. However, it has also caused a bit of the pity party. the family members that I have been praying for so far like far away, and the possibility of them visiting us or us visiting them is pretty slim.

So the blessing of having a nation and a time that allows us to travel and move and see amazing places comes with the curse of being far away and not able to just "pop over" for dessert or to hold a fussy baby for a new mommy.

How do you makes the miles seem smaller and connect with family????

Beautiful

2011-01-09T08:06:00.001-07:00

It is so hard to let this sink in and allow my heart to realy believe...

Recreational Goals

2011-01-08T08:48:00.002-07:00

I love to travel. I love packing the bags, packing the car, and going. I love to fly, I love to drive. I just love going places!

Thankfully, my husband shares this joy. Over our marriage and many hometowns we have been able to travel. Living in Montana has not changed that, but it has made it a little more difficult. It's not like the big city is just a few hours away...Billings is the big city...sort of.

Last year we were able to take a trip to Texas to see my family. It was an awesome trip and necessary since my family can not travel right now. Unfortunately it is not a trip we can make every year. 4,000+ miles and three weeks is not a trip that happens every 12 months!

This year we have a few work things that have to happen, but for this goal, I am talking about recreation for the whole family.

2011 Resolutions:
1. Take three trips to local attractions that do not require an overnight When my cousins Dave and Amanda visited last summer we went to explore Custer's Last Stand site. Now, my kiddos were a little fussy that day, but I had fun and I liked that my kids got to see some history. We also watched many hilarious Veggie Tales videos on the trip to and from. I know that is not educational, but my kids still talk about singing the silly songs together. Its the memory building that I loved. And maybe some of the history sank in somewhere...

2. Water skiing We love going water skiing and tubing and spending time at the lake. We enjoy going with friends and I know that will happen without much thought. However, going just as our family requires us to plan. Otherwise we just say we want to go and it doesn't happen.

3. Camping Let me start by saying I love not camping. But after 16 1/2 years of marriage I have learned that I can not avoid something that my hubby loves so much. So this year I want to plan some places to camp that HAVE A SHOWER FOR THE MOMMA! If I get a shower every day I am in a much more agreeable mood!

4. Family night Right now family night is all about games or movies, but that has more to do with the beautiful frigid winter weather we have been having for the last 60 days! As the weather warms up, though, I would love our family night to involve more outside activities. Even if it is just the park across the street for an hour or so.

Household Goals

2011-01-07T08:31:00.003-07:00

Right before Christmas I got a new book: Organized Simplicity, by Tsh Oxenreider.

The woman has no vowels in her name...I just had to point that out!

Anyway, I LOVE organization, but I rarely buy any books about it, because they all say the same things. However, this book is different!

The book is about 5x7 and has a spiral spine...that just makes this office supply junkie girl very happy! It makes the book seem more like a workbook instead of a "read and try to implement my ideas" book.

The tag line to the title is, The Clutter-Free Approach to Intentional Living. That just makes me want to take a deep breathe! This book sums up how I want our household to be! Intentional about what we own and how we keep it, and clutter-free! It takes the idea of simplicity and makes it real-world livable. We aren't talking sell everything and live with one pair of pants and one fork kind of life! This book is about make choices about what you have and in what room of your home - understanding that if you choose to have five bookshelves of books because you love books that's fine. You made that choice, but it may mean that in order to have room for those books, you may need to let the Precious Moments figurines go.

And wait, there's more...right now on Amazon, this book is only $10.42!!! So head on over to the Amazon jungle and get yours now!!!

2011 Resolutions:

1. Go through room by room and create organized simplicity I am starting with my living room and focusing on one room at a time. My hope is to finish the decorating in that room as well, but the organization and the simplifying is the main goal. And consistent with Dave Ramsey, my plan is for a big garage sale in the spring to pawn off my junk to someone else in order to build the 3-6 months savings!

2. Create and follow a household cleaning plan I have a plan for laundry that I have been able to follow for the last year and it has allowed me to not have those 20 loads of laundry days. It has been relatively easy to follow, however, I enjoy doing laundry. I do not like cleaning my house, but I am hopeful that if I only have about 45 min worth of cleaning every day that the house will be clean and I won't be overwhelmed.

3. Regular chores for the slaves...I mean kiddos We have tried chore charts galore and have never been able to stick with them. My plan for January is to create a new system for chores for our family...one that works with our kids and our schedule. Most importantly...one that we can maintain for a looooong time!

My main purpose with all of these goals is to have my house be warm and inviting and a place that I am not embarrassed by if someone unexpectedly comes to the door. I want to be able to spontaneously invite someone for coffee or dinner without running around hoping the bathroom is clean or that there isn't laundry laying around or a kitchen full of dirty dishes. I don't want a spotless house, but I don't want my guests to have to move things to find a seat either. And I want to know where things are. I don't want to have to hunt for that receipt or bill or Mike's wallet (that's a whole 'nother story!)

This will be a year long process, but I want to look back on December 31, 2011 and say that we have made progress! I want to know that we are moving forward, not backwards!

Culinary Goals

2011-01-06T01:56:00.001-07:00

The thing I like about goals is that they have the freedom to change.

Originally, one of my goals was to try some new baking items each week. However, my husband informed me that he is going on a no carb diet for the next few weeks, and really baking doesn't exactly fit into my physical goals either.

So, time for adjusting of the goals.

I enjoy cooking. I think I can prepare some yummy meals. However, without a recipe I am in trouble. None of the meals that I have attempted without a recipe were received well.

I enjoy collecting recipes. Trying new recipes is kind of scary for me, though. I think that fear of failure thing gets in the way.

Last night I tried a Blue cheese-onion sauce for steak. I was so nervous about it, but it turned out really yummy and will probably become a regular thing when we have steak now.

So, lesson learned...new things aren't always that scary!

2011 Resolutions
1. Make a menu I am usually good at making a menu for a week, and then not for the next two weeks. Menu planning always makes things less stressful for me and we definitely spend less money. I'm going to try to menu plan for two weeks at a time, but shop twice during that time. We just can't keep enough fruit/milk in the house for two weeks!

2. Try a new recipe each week This was where I was going to try a new baking item every week, but we'll make it more general. Easier to obtain goal...I like it! And since last night was a new recipe, I have already made my goal for this week. Yeah me!!!

Physical Goals

2011-01-05T02:05:00.001-07:00

Let me first start by saying, yes, I had a bad attitude yesterday. I am serious about my financial goals, but right now with Mike and I working three jobs between the two of us, in addition to being parents, we are tired. I feel like we have been at this for two years and I'm just not seeing a rest. I am living like no one else, but not yet living like no one else!

Alright, next goal!

I thought it was appropriate that the new season of the Biggest Loser was on last night. Part of their challenge was to complete a 5K as a team and all teams did in under one hour. I'm not sure I could do that!

Weight-loss always seems to be a goal of mine and I still struggle with how to create steps to accomplish that goal without being miserable. I know the simple formula...eat less + move more! But somehow it doesn't seem that simple when you actually try.

These goals are for the next 30 days. After that I will re-evaluate and possible change goals. In this area, though, I need short term goals!

2011 Resolutions:
1. Eat less For breakfast lunch and dinner I will make sure to have color and fruit or veggie. I will have reasonable portions and no seconds. I will not eat/drink anything after 8pm except water or a half glass of wine.

2. Move more I will do some form of exercise for 30 min four times a week. One day in the next 27 days I will attempt a 5K on my treadmill and see how long it takes me. My hope is that by May I will have some tangible improvement.

I know it is not that simple, but I need to keep this area simple to start or I will give up very quickly. I miss going to a gym with a friend, but yesterday's goals are affecting today's, so no gym for now. I am thankful for the treadmill in the basement, the wii, and Jillian yelling at me through the tv! I know I do best with accountability so PLEASE feel free to ask me during these next 30 days how I am doing...I really would appreciate it!

Financial Goals

2011-01-04T02:33:00.000-07:00

This is one area of my life that I dread more than weight loss! I am a Dave Ramsey gal and definitely a free spirit. However, my sweet and wonderful husband is also a free spirit, so we both dread having to be nerdy and make sure we know where our money is going. Combine that with the fact that rarely does the income match the monthly expenses!

I know there are always areas to trim, but we are getting pretty lean, that there isn't much more to trim!

This category is out of duty, not desire.

2011 Resolutions:
1. Make the budget at the beginning of the month and stick to it! There is nothing more to say about this...just yuck!

2. Trim the groceries. I hear stories of people surviving on monthly food budgets of $400. Impossible I say! However, I know I could be creative and cut our food budget. I'm going to try cutting it by $25 each month for the first four months of the year. Of course resolution #1 might require this goal to be altered.

Relational Goals

2011-01-03T03:23:00.000-07:00

So this one is all about people! Life would be easier without other people, but it sure would be boring!!

One thing I have learned over the many moons of my life (just call me Meemaw now!) is that you have to be intentional about your relationships or just like everything else in your life, you may not end up where you wanted to be.

For example, there are friends of ours that we have wanted to get together with for several months. We keep saying we should get together, but our schedules never seem to gel. Really, we should put something on the calendar even if it is two months out, or it will be six months from now and we will be saying we should get together soon.

The second issue I seem to struggle with is communication. I know I am bad at answering email and responding to voicemail (really I only check voicemail about once a week). Having been on the receiving end of that, I know it is frustrating. So if I have neglected responding to you, I apologize right now!

2011 Resolutions:

1. Choose one family member or close friend to focus on for a week. This will involve praying for them, sending them a note, making a phone call, etc. Tonight before bed I am writing their names on small slips of paper and putting them in a basket by my computer. Every Sun night, I will pull out the next name and tape it to my desk. (yeah for action steps) This is an experiment to see how this one works. I'll let you know how it is going in the next few weeks.

2. Communication. If that isn't the root of most difficulties, whether work, family, marriage, church, etc. I don't know what is! For MOPS, I am supposed to respond to email and voicemail within three days. I usually do pretty good with MOPS stuff (I think), but my personal stuff...not so good. I listen to the voicemail, read the mail, read the email or facebook message and then think I will respond later only to get distracted later and never follow through. So like Creative Memories says, I am starting today, staying current, and then work backwards to "catch up". So if you sent me something and I didn't respond...send it again and it will go to the top of the list!

3. My family. I'm adding this as another area for me to work on. I want to have my "chores" done by the time the kids come home from school so that I can have time to sit and work on homework, read that book, play that game (as long as it isn't monopoly!) and just be with my kiddos. Because this as a goal seems a bit overwhelming, I decided to start with a day...Wednesday...and make sure that every Wednesday is reserved for my kiddos. Hopefully by May there will be more than one school day afternoon like that.

Spiritual Goals

2011-01-02T01:48:00.000-07:00

If it doesn't start there is is doomed isn't it. In years past I haven't made spiritual goals other than to say I was going to read my Bible every day. This year, my generic goal is to grow closer to God. But really? That should still be my goal when I am 78! This year I am trying to be more specific about how I am going to strive for that goal.

2011 Resolutions:

1. Read through the New Testament I have been the voice in the past to say it was silly to read through the Bible in a year. I know open mouth insert foot...I do it so well. I did not see how anyone could possibly get any depth from reading that many chapters every day. But I was inspired by a couple that we know that decided to read through the Bible as a couple for 2010 and on Dec 31st. they finished. Hearing the things that they learned from doing that was amazing. They may have not come out with these deep theological "aha moments", but the sense of accomplishment and the way they saw how the Bible intertwines themes - it was very cool. Reading through the New Testament is a compromise for me...and an attainable goal.

2. Memorization I have tried to be consistent with memorization, even having a wonderful accountability partner. But busy schedules have derailed me after a few months. Also I tried to memorized large sections of the Bible in small time periods. So this year I am participating in Beth Moore's Living Proof memorization challenge on her blog. Memorize two verses every month for 12 months and there is a party at the end and prizes...I'm not ashamed to say that I will memorize for prizes! My first verse for the year:

And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you
are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. Luke 12:7 NLT

I often feel insignificant, forgotten, unnecessary...I want to remember that I am valuable to God and ultimately He only should be where I find my worth.

1-1-11

2011-01-01T21:47:00.003-07:00

If that doesn't signify a new start!!! I love new starts. I love lists. I love goals. So New Years and its resolutions just call to me. Every year I make new resolutions and like everyone else, often by Jan. 2nd, I have messed up on most of them. Almost every year there is a resolution to lose weight, and to keep in better contact with friends and family. Most years in the past I have resolved to send cards for birthdays and anniversaries. I usually make it to Feb. and fizzle out.

So this year I have a new approach to my resolutions. I am approaching the "marathon not a sprint" analogy and looking long term to make these resolutions stick. I will be taking this first week of January to set goals (really just another term for resolutions) and to really think out how to implement them and follow through.

Here is the schedule I will follow this week:

Sun: spiritual goals

Mon: relational goals

Tues: financial goals

Wed: physical goals

Thurs: culinary goals

Fri: household goals

Sat: recreational goals

Seems God even thought today should be a fresh start and blessed us with fresh snow!

Walkin' the Catwalk

2010-12-02T20:29:00.005-07:00

Yesterday I had the unique opportunity to be a model. It was more fun than glamorous though. A friend of mine works at the country club and was in charge of the ladies luncheon. He had asked a local boutique to put on a fashion show for the ladies. Only problem was that he had to supply the models. He must have be desperate, or I was just in the right place at the right time, because he asked if I would be willing to do so.

I do like doing thinks that stretch me, but this was opening myself up in an area that I am self-conscious about. The boutique is one of those stores that is very trendy, expensive, and made for women that wear a size 2. Or at least, that is what I thought.

The day before the luncheon, I had to go to the boutique so they could figure out what outfits I would wear. Then the day of the event, we would walk around to the individual tables and tell the ladies about the clothing and the boutique. Really, we were glorified sales-women.

I had the opportunity to go to the boutique sans kiddos, which was a good thing since things were pricey. One of the rings that I thought was very cute was $198, however the shoes that were very fun were only $80.

The owner was very nice and a great encourager. We settled on two outfits. The first was a sequin tank with a cropped off the shoulder sweater, skinny jeans, and a J.J. Winters clutch. Apparently sequins will be a hot trend into the spring and the sweater made it more casual. The jeans were a problem. Size 2 two and not a size 2 body. Actually she has larger sizes, just not my size. So I wore my own dark wash jeans. and the clutch - very cute, but so not practical for a mommy - even one out on a date with the hubby.

No pictures of me...I even had a camera with me...but I took not a single picture! That seems to be a trend with me. And why my "day by day" blog has not been successful. I'll try and link some of the pieces so you can see what they looked like.

So we started in outfit #1 and walked around from table to table. Some of the ladies asked questions about the outfit and the store, others ignored us and ate their lobster squash soup. One older lady even lifted my sweater to get a good look at the sequin tank!

The second out fit was a black long tunic with a high collar, and a gray cardigan that had a lace back - like see-through lace. Good thing for the black tunic. I wore fun strappy, 4 inch heels that were surprisingly comfortable and carried a Botkier bag. That name meant nothing to me, but I do know that it cost $495!!!

It was a fun afternoon and Morgan got to sit with the bartender and eat maraschino cherries and talk to the older men playing gin. That could be a whole story by itself! Needless to say, I had difficulty getting her to leave!

Snow Driving and other Stressful Situations

2010-12-01T17:54:00.003-07:00

I'm thinking I should write a book with that title! It is no surprise that I do not like the winter. I would far rather be laying poolside toasting my skin in 100 degree temperatures than layering clothing until I feel like a marshmallow and attempting to find lost gloves daily.

This past weekend, Billings received a bunch of snow. Really no one knows how much, so we'll just define it as a "butt-load". I really couldn't define how much that is, but I know it would be less if I hadn't given birth to six children!

The city of Billings has done a stellar job of plowing the main roads. Those roads are almost bare, dry pavement now. The side roads, however, are a different story. They are deep ruts of snow with a layer of ice underneath.

My large van really isn't the greatest in the snow, but it does okay. However, in the past three days I have gotten stuck - so stuck that people had to either push or tow my van out of it's stuck place. Six times in three days! I have learned several techniques for getting unstuck. I have done the research, and I will tell you that the best solution so far is a tow rope and another vehicle. Digging out around the tire, moving forward and backward, throwing down salt or kitty-liter - all possible options, but the tow rope - it is the least stressful. My shoulders can testify to that.

So, I'm thinking a letter to the city asking why streets surrounding schools are not plowed might be in order. Then maybe another one to the school superintendent questioning why school is in session when it is unsafe to travel. And for good measure, how about a letter to the news station asking them to investigate the city's policy on snow removal and to point out how ridiculous it is.

I hope they don't mind hand-written letters since I am stuck on a side street in the snow.

Veg-e-table

2010-11-05T06:37:00.001-06:00

I was cleaning out my drafts in my blog todayand discovered this little gem:

Vegetables are a must on a diet. I suggest carrot cake, zucchini bread and
pumpkin pie.
— Jim Davis

I put it in my posts back in 2007 - apparently this is a life-long struggle I have with dessert and vegetables!

12:30am

2010-10-19T00:55:00.002-06:00

Waking up at 12:30 am and thinking it is 3:30am could be a good thing. it would mean I really get three more hours of sleep than I thought I would get. However it also means the last two hours of sleep that I got were not peaceful. I was tossing and turning so much you would have thought that it had been five hours. Tonight, or this morning, (however you want to think of it) I have traced the cause of my insomnia to two possibilities...or maybe a combination of the two.

1. I finished the cup of coffee I had been reheating in the microwave all day at 4:30 in the afternoon. In my defense it was a 24 oz. mug.

2. Taking Midol Max at 6:30pm might not be the best idea, but it was necessary, trust me.

By the way, as I lay in bed thinking about it for the past 30 minutes, I think drinking 24 oz. of coffee and taking two Tylenol or Ibuprofen might be the same as taking two Midol Max. I'm just saying - same ingredients...

Sunday Study

2010-10-03T16:37:00.002-06:00

My emotions are all over the place right now. I'm in that girly confusion that really makes no sense. I'm frustrated with life in general, discouraged by a lack of harvest to things I am sowing, and not pleased with some choices I am making. Those combined do not make a happy girl!

Some verses I am clinging to this week:

Ecclesiastes 3:11 - He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.

Psalm 126:5&6 - Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.

Thursday Thought

2010-09-16T13:38:00.002-06:00

Earlier this week I was throwing myself a pity party, and let me tell you, I can throw a good one! But thankfully I have a good friend that is good about gently pushing me back to where I should be. While feel overwhelmed and disappointed, she reminded me to go back to what I knew I should be doing...back to the basics. Was I reading my Bible every morning? Was I getting some exercise? Two things that can easily change your perspective and give you energy. After getting back to what I knew to do...my heart began to refocus. I still feel a bit overwhelmed and disappointed, but I'm not allowing it to consume me or dictate my emotions and reactions. Thank you, Lord for amazing friends that you have put in my life! Now if you would just move them a little closer...

Music Monday: Hymns

2010-09-13T12:17:00.003-06:00

Sometimes hymns can be slow and old-fashion, but they are what I remember singing in church growing up. they bring back wonderful memories of snuggling with my mom in the pew watching my grandmother play the piano. Or memories of sitting on the piano bench with my grandmother. Both grandmothers played the piano or the organ for church. Sunday morning, Sunday evening, Wednesday evening...you get the idea. I've listened and sung a lot of hymns.

I love how some musicians are taking the hymns and updating the music. The same wonderful words and melody, but fun music. One of those musicians are the Go Fish Guys. I love their music; my kids love their music; judging by the dancing, my van likes the music. They have a new CD, Kickin' It Old School. They have taken lots of hymns and made them funky. and my kids LOVE it. We have been listening to nothing but that CD in the van for the last six weeks!

There is just something gratifying about hearing your four year old sing "sweet, sweet song of salvation" while she is coloring!

Go Fish is releasing one of their songs for the radio: My Father's World. You can listen to the whole album by clicking on the music in the side bar of Jamie's (one of the Go Fish Guys) blog. Enjoy!!!

Thursday Thought

2010-09-09T22:19:00.001-06:00

My tip for dealing with life's craziness?

Ask for help

Wordy Wednesday

2010-09-08T21:22:00.002-06:00

Some one asked me what I do all day now that I only have one child at home. Really, I wanted to come up with some snarky comment, but I was too dumb-founded that they would actually ask me that question. I said something about still having lots of laundry and cleaning and cooking to do, but then their comment stayed with me all day today. It is now after 9pm and I am just sitting down with "nothing" to do and I thought I would recap the day...

Alarm goes off @ 5:45am
Hit snooze
Alarm goes off again @ 5:50am and I know I have to get up or risk being late
Shower
get coffee
get dressed
do my hair
wake sweet children
help Mikalah print her english assignment
wake sweet children for a second time
make sure sweet children have their clothes out for the day
encourage sweet, sweet children to get dressed quickly
bribe child #5 with being able to ride his bike if he gets dressed and eats quickly
fix breakfast
warm dryer
explain to children that they must have cereal this morning because they are all moving slowly
explain to sweet crying children that I will fix eggs tomorrow
tie four pairs of shoes
floss three sets of teeth
load children in van
deliver child #1 to the high school
deliver child #2 to the junior high
deliver child #3 to elementary #1
do child #4's hair
deliver child #4 & #5 to elementary #2
do child #6's hair
call school of child #1 to inform of dentist appointment
call school of child #4 to inform of dentist appointment
call orthodontist to reschedule child #2's appointment
stop at home to unload/reload dishwasher and clean up breakfast
warm dryer
pick up child #1 from high school
run to music store to get new book for baritone
deliver child #1 to junior high
run to store for groceries
pick up child #4 for dentist appointment
pick up child #1 for dentist appointment
pick up #4 from dentist and have a mcwonderful lunch
pick up #1 from dentist and get her St.Arbucks for sore mouth
deliver child #4 back to school
deliver child #1 back to school
run home to go potty - child #6 does not like public restrooms and self-flushing potty
unload groceries and warm dryer
go to Costco for rest of groceries
go home and unload rest of groceries and warm dryer
make lemon bars and call friend
brown ground beef for dinner
unload and reload dishwasher
pick up child #4 & #5 from school
go home to go potty and get snack
go pick up child #3 from school
go home and meet child #2
call teacher of child #3 to schedule meeting time
make lasagna
watch child #5 ride bike
look through all papers from school
read mail
warm dryer
pick up child #1 from softball
make salad and heat bread
get child #2 snack and ready for football
send child #2 to football
warm dryer
finish dinner prep
answer survey woman at door
eat dinner
direct children for evening clean up
lock self in bedroom and talk to awesome friend!!!
(while amazing hubby gets kiddos ready for bed)
warm dryer
answer email and make a few mops phone calls
realize I forgot to do five things on today's to-do list
add them to tomorrows
warm dryer
load dishwasher
get ready for bed
fold load from dryer and start another
snuggle with hubby and watch top chef...or at least the first 20 min before I fall asleep before 11pm

Tasty Tuesday: Texas Sheet Cake

2010-09-07T22:07:00.002-06:00

There are several desserts that I only make when I am serving a crowd or in need of gifts. Lemon Bars of course I make and then try to give away half of the pan or I will eat the whole thing myself! I will admit to telling my kids that they can have one only to eat four or five myself! The other dessert that I only make for a crowd is the Texas Sheet Cake. Any recipe that calls for almost a pound of butter and requires a jelly roll pan is not meant for the family dessert!

Yesterday being our church picnic (welcoming Fall apparently), I made a Texas Sheet Cake so there would be enough for everyone. I am happy to report that I had one brownie and magically the rest of the pan disappeared! Thank you to my Yellowstone Church family for helping me out!

Anyway, I had several people ask for the recipe and I can not take credit for something that is not mine. I got the recipe from...Beth Moore! If you want a Texas Sheet Cake recipe go to a real Texan! You can find the recipe here.

Monday Music: Football

2010-09-06T19:18:00.003-06:00

It is Labor Day, and while I was raised that that meant LABOR, like clean out the garage, or do lots of yardwork, in Mike and my creation of a family that means FOOTBALL!

We love the start of the football season. There is the NFL...there is Little Guy Football...and then there is fantasy football with its live draft. Each year Yellowstone Church hosts a fantasy football league. Each year I learn a little more about how the fantasy game is played...one year I even won!

This year I am more focused on Judson playing and today was his first practice. i know when he gets home he will want a small amount of food (really I thought he would want to eat more) a shower and then BED!!! He will be asleep before I can count to 10. It is going to be a great football season! Go Colts...Go Dolphins...Go Ivy Six-Pack (for the six kids incase you were wondering)!!!

Night Owl

2010-07-28T02:00:00.004-06:00

Years ago I can remember being at one of those home parties where you sit in a circle with a bunch of ladies, eating yummy food and all looking for something to buy to help the hostess earn some free stuff - you know what I'm talking about.

Anyway, the hostess was what I would describe as a super woman. She was a mother of four, crafty, always doing for others, had a clean house, cute figure, loving personality. Somehow in the conversation it came up that she doesn't go to bed until 3am because she stayed up cleaning, cooking, doing laundry, etc.

The rest of us were in shock and proceeded to tell her that she couldn't maintain something like that. That eventually she was going to burn out. Another girlfriend and I talked about it later. We could see the wear and tear that it put on her.

That conversation came screaming into my mind this evening (this morning) because this is the fifth night that I have not been in bed before 2am. Most of the time is spent doing emails or projects or reading, but I have also been cleaning and doing laundry and doing dishes.

I know I can not maintain this routine. I am ready for a change in schedule. MOPS Convention, family reunion, camping (yes, I failed to avoid that this summer), visitors and SCHOOL! Hopefully these will turn my routine upside down and back to something more reasonable. If you see another post at 2am, call me on it and tell me to go to bed!!!

Thank You for Your Sacrifice

2010-07-17T16:12:00.002-06:00

Today I had the opportunity to represent MOPS at a pre-deployment event for the families of some of our service men and women. It was an all-day event where the men and women and their families were informed of everything they would need to know before they deployed, covering subjects like how get get your will and finances in order to the high rate of suicide (NOTE: in the Army alone soldiers are committing suicide at the rate of one per day). For seven hours I watched these families cling to each other, react to the information they were receiving, and try to process what the future may hold. The Army had several vendors there to offer aid to the soldiers and the families members that would be on their own, and MOPS was one of those.

MOPS motto this past year has been No Mom Alone, and this event opened my eyes to a group of moms that are very alone. I watched those women specifically look scared and unsure and determined and strong. I just wanted to invite all of them for dinner and take their children so they could go shopping by themselves or out to coffee with their girlfriends. But realistically, that was 140 family units...that's just not possible.

I know we hear a lot about how to be grateful for our soldiers and the sacrifice they make and how to send them care packages. I don't want to deter people from doing that, but remember for every service man or woman that is deployed there is at least one family member at home that is sacrificing as well! Mike doesn't travel much, but when he is gone I have a new perspective on what it would be like to be a single mom and it is hard. But to be a single mom for six months, nine months, twelve months at a time?? And add to the stress not being able to talk to your spouse at a moments notice or to be wondering if they are safe, knowing they are in harms way...it is over-whelming just thinking about it.

So here is my challenge to myself and to you...

1. pray for the soldiers and their families

2. ask God to show you how you can help and be an encouragement

3. keep your eyes open for a family to "adopt"

Athena Hall, Area Developer for MOPS International is a military mom. Their family has been through one deployment and is about to go through another. In July/August 2010 issue of MomSense, Athena outlines how to help a mom during a deployment. Here are her suggestions:

1. Prepare and deliver a meal

2. Watch the children for a few hours every month or every week

3. Schedule a girl's night out with her

4. Don't complain about your husband to her

5. Invite them to share holidays with you...even the little ones like Halloween and 4th of July

6. Mow the lawn

7. Remember deployment lasts a long time...don't just be there in the first month

8. When he returns, celebrate and still be a friend.

Athena says it a much better and more humorous way...you really should read the whole article and read more about her and her family!

I have a renew sense of awe and compassion for these families today. I pray that I still do in a week, a month, a year. I want today to change my attitude, not just effect me for a moment.

Thank you to our soldiers. And THANK YOU to their families for the sacrifice that you have made as well!

Hospitality

2010-07-01T12:55:00.003-06:00

We are home from a crazy trip to see my parents in Texas. And by we, I mean my wonderful husband, my six sweet children, and my fantastic mother-in-law - all together in the car for 4500 miles and 18 days! See, crazy trip!

Believe it or not we all arrived home still liking each other and all saying we had a great time and would do it again...in 5 years...when we had time to forget how much we disliked being in the van for that long listening to small children declare they were "starving" and needed something picked up from the floor and constantly listening to Disney movies!

I found myself being very introspective on this trip. It could be that I was reading the new book for this MOPS year, Momology. It could be that we were visiting my family that we hadn't seen in three years. Or it could be that there was so much social interactions going on that I needed to retreat some. Whatever the reason was, I was focused more on the root of each activity, each relationship, each individual. It was really quite fascinating! And while I won't bore you with all of my thoughts, there was one theme that really stood out - hospitality.

We stayed with several people, met people for meals, and met people for activities. I noticed that each group of people welcomed us differently. I love this quote from Emilee Barnes, "Hospitality is so much more than entertaining - so much more than menus and decorating and putting on a show. It means setting aside time for planned fellowship." We had such wonderful fellowship with so many people! Fellowship - that perfectly defines what we enjoyed about this vacation.

Whether it was our time in the van (sometimes too much fellowship), time when my parents and all my siblings were together in place at the same time, time when we were reconnecting with friends, time when we were relaxing, time when we were learning a new skill, time when we were meeting new people, or even time when we were in hotels - it was ALL hospitality!

Each time of fellowship was different and it made me rethink how I do hospitality. Do I welcome others in a way that makes them feel welcome? Do I set aside time to fellowship with them or do I spend time being busy? Have I prepared (even for the uninvited guest) so that people feel important?

The difference in each time of fellowship also made me realize that there is no one "right way" to practice hospitality. While some invite people into their homes other celebrate that fellowship at a restaurant. While some people let kids play in the house, other create play spaces outside, and others suggest activities that aren't at their home so that the kids feel welcome too. God wants us to do what he created us to do, to use the talents he has given us, to share His love.

There are several times of hospitality that stand out in my mind.

We visited one family that lives in a sizable house and had beds for almost all of our family to sleep in. The had yummy meals planned, and we had great conversation while the kids played. It wasn't the size of their house, or the type of food we ate that made it so enjoyable. It was the conversation and the depth of the conversation. We cut through the "hows the weather?" to topics like "what happens when you don't trust your pastor?" or "how unique God made each of our kids". The atmosphere was relaxed and everyone pitched in to cook and clean - even the kids.

We visited another family and just relaxed. The kids swam or played with legos or were really loud and created a band. The parents reminisced about years ago and played games. Food was made, the kitchen was cleaned, laundry was even done. It was as if we were family.

We got to see all of my siblings at a casual restaurant - Joe's Crab Shack. The kind where the kids don't have to be silent and where you use your fingers to eat. My parent's hospitality was creating that opportunity and paying for the meal. They wanted the family time and they knew we needed to eat. It was a fun time and great memories.

When we arrived home, one friend had broken into our house and left us dinner on the counter, milk and eggs in the refrigerator and fruit in the fruit bowl. Then knew we had a need and they made our transition from vacation to "back home" welcoming.

All different experiences - all wonderful fellowship.

"May its doors be open to those in need, and its rooms be filled with kindness. May joy shine from its windows. And His presence never leave it." --Jewish home blessing

Five Conversations You Must Have with your Daughter

2010-04-10T09:29:00.002-06:00

I have wanted lead a moms group for pre-teen moms for a while, and do Vicky Courtney's 5 Conversations study. But I have procrastinated in getting going. So, if it is something you would be interested in participating in, leave a comment and let me know. Meanwhile I'm trying to win a free study over @ LifeWay's Women All Access.

Soccer, Part 2

2010-04-07T20:01:00.002-06:00

Up next, Judson's game. Judson started as goalie and did awesome!! His team has only had one practice and they were a bit rusty. Judson stopped four attempts in the first 10 minutes. He finally gave up a goal and then two more quick ones. He was getting quite discouraged, but considering he was defending a goal with three offensive players coming at him and no defenders nearby, I say he did pretty good. His team mates even look a little scared of his kicks! Most of his goal kicks went at least to the center line, some even past!But there were times when this was Judson too. Ah well, we will make him run some laps!

My Brothers Visit

2010-04-06T21:56:00.006-06:00

My brothers, Josh & Jon came to visit us for almost two weeks. It was neat to be able to spend some time with them. We did several things, but unfortunately I misplaced my camera several days. This is what I did get documented!

We took them out to the ranch one day so they could experience the "big sky" and fresh air.

Josh got to open a gate...and get caught on some barbed wire. Morgan loves spending time on the tractor with grandpa.

Okay, both girls like to be on the tractor!

Jeffrey tests my patience daily. While this is not the best picture of him, it is one of his many faces. This one I will call the shrek face - lol.

Josh learned to ride the motorcycle and shot some clay pigeons - actually caught the edge of one.

Jon tried the shot gun as well. He decided it was too heavy and too loud. He said his favorite part of the visit was riding the 4-wheelers.

That is Jarrett's favorite part too.

Meredith even got to try a solo run this time. She did awesome and mommy held her breathe the whole time.

The whole gang. Our family, Josh and Jon, and Mikalah's friend Malia.

We also checked on the cows. It is calving season and there were lots of babies - this one was less than six hours old!

I have so much sympathy for this momma!!!

And we checked on the horses.

And fixed a tractor.

And played with the dogs. I think Morgan would love to live out here!

A day of fun!!!

So, missing my camera for a few days, we skip ahead to Easter.

Josh helped filled eggs for the great hunt.

Jarrett's goofy look.

This girly just doesn't take bad pictures.

Dying eggs is such a fun tradition. And thankfully our kids like eating the hard boiled eggs, cuz neither Mike nor I can stand them!! Jon said he didn't remember ever dying eggs. So he dyed one - I couldn't talk him into any more. Must not have been that much fun for a 22 year old!

My girls...I love them all...

And then I lost my camera again. I think it needs a permanent home!

Radom Thoughts...

2010-03-01T10:50:00.002-07:00

I have neglected blogging...enough said.

The sun is shining, the snow is melting, and my kids are riding bikes outside...I am so ready for spring! But being the pessimist that I am, I woke up this morning thinking, "It is the first of March and beautiful outside...great, the end of March when I have to travel will be awful!"

You know it is going to be a trying day when before you even get out of bed your four-year old is already saying, "N-O...NO!" to being asked to get off your bed.

I finally used the last of the q-tips today...good thing I am going back to Costco tomorrow!

I have gotten serious about losing my baby weight (that would be from the children that are now almost 4 & 5). I restart my seriousness almost weekly. But this time I'm really serious! I'm using www.sparkpeople.com - cool site with lots of tips and a great community! And it is more about being healthy than losing weight.

I am addicted to www.thepioneerwoman.com She has great recipes - most of which don't fit well with the previous paragraph.

I have 78 weeks until I send my last sweet and wonderful child to kindergarten. It will be a sad day. What? you doubt my sadness? The tears are already flowing...really!

The library and I still do not have a good relationship. Last week, I was brave. I took five of my children to pick out books. I searched high and low for one particular book. The computers for searching are down. There is no "card catalog" like we had when I was younger with the yellowed cards that everyone and their germs had touched. And the librarians had their usually, "why are you bothering me again" look on their faces. Jeffrey had to go to the bathroom, Morgan had to go to the bathroom, Jarrett just wanted to play on the computer, Meredith wanted to check out chapter books, Morgan wanted CareBears books (located in the TV show themed books section - not alphabetized or organized in any fashion), Mikalah disappeared into the teen pit, and Jarrett only wanted non-fiction books about animals...any animals. After 45 min I was done. We went to check out at the main desk (remember the computers are down) and my children did not want to stand in line. They were all over the place - too close to the people in front of us, too close to the metal detector (not sure that is what it is, but it beeps loudly if you try to walk out with a book that has not been checked out...we know...from experience). Finally Morgan just sat on the ground. I asked her to get up. She responded that she didn't feel good and then promptly threw up all over herself and the floor. I figure we don't have to show our faces there again for at least another six months!

Why must my children run through the house? Do they not have a "walk" setting?

The Talk

2010-01-14T22:09:00.002-07:00

Based on some of the responses I got from my last post, I am going to be brave and ask a question...

In the next two weeks I am talking to a MOPS group about sex. (Insert scream here!) So here is my question...if you were attending what information would you like to hear?

I will be sharing the hour that I have to talk with a doctor. I get to talk first and the doctor is supposed to talk about the physical aspects of sex.

So, any suggestions???

I'm Getting Old

2010-01-13T10:05:00.003-07:00

There are things that happen often that make me feel old. My thirteen year old daughter being just 1/2 inch shorter than me is just one example. I remember her as being quite small still...

Last week when the creator of Gumby died and I shared the news with my family, my children all said, "who's Gumby?"

I remember my mother driving me to school when I was in elementary school. she would put in the 8-track and listen to her favorite music. I thought it was boring old lady music. That's the music I listen to now...when I'm allowed to listen to the music I like.

Side-tracked note: Am I being a totally uninvolved mother if I let my children listen to their music, and then put my mp3 headphones in so I can't hear it?

Last week I went for my wonderful annual visit with my gynecologist. I was being a good girl - it had only been 18 months since my last visit. However, as always I was required to fill out new medical history information. I wish there was a box to check that said nothing has changed since the last time! and skip answer questions about if I've ever had arthritis or emphysema or any other horrible disease. Never mind the fact that all of my medical records are on file here since I don't have any other doctor.

I do love that I get to skip the family history questions since I was adopted and have no medical information about my biological family. The only thing we have figured out is that there are blue eyes somewhere in the genetic code since even though Mike and I both have brown eyes our first three children all have blue eyes!

At the bottom of the form are person questions. I've always gotten a chuckle out of this part of the form. They ask questions about whether I smoke or drink or use drugs. A few years ago they added some sexual questions. A few years later they stopped referring to "spouse" and substituted "partner". This year this part was revised again. Here are the questions they asked...

1. Do you smoke? yes or no How many packs a day? Are you smoking now?

Ah, hello, there is a no smoking sign above my head so I hope not!

2. Do you drink? yes or no How many oz. per day? When did you start drinking?

Do people really measure their alcohol? Since my drinking consists of a 4 oz glass once every two months, I just said no.

3. Do you use IV drugs? yes or no When was the last time you used them?

What about other drugs? Don't care so much to know about them?

4. Are you sexually active? yes or no Have you ever had sex? yes or no # of partners?
Male/Female/Both Do you use contraception?

WHAT????? Did that just ask me if I have sex with males/females/or both????? I was shocked!!!! and disgusted...I admit it. I try to have unconditional love...I know that God's word says that God sees sin as sin...and I try...but this was so unexpected that it threw me. I did pull it together enough to circle male. And wondered what the gray-haired lady sitting next to me would think when she got to that part of the questionnaire. Lord, I hope she doesn't have a heart attack, because I just about did!

But then the questions continued as if it was just a routine question...

5. Do you exercise? yes or no How often?

Wait a min...that was a heavy question and we just moved on like it was nothing...

6. Do you feel safe? yes or no Are you afraid of your partner? Does your partner force you to have sex?

It was tempting to answer yes. Oh I kid. I love my husband and he would NEVER force me to have sex. But you gotta admit, men and women look at sex differently. Men NEED it. I would be happy if my husband just hugged me and did the dishes.

So I am old...old-fashion...I like my slow-and-softer-so-I-can-understand-the-words music. I think sex is for marriage between a man and a woman. And apparently I have reached an age where the gynecologist starts talking about menopause.

Hello 2010

2010-01-04T08:31:00.002-07:00

I say hello today, because the kids just went back to school. So now is the official start of the year. And the official start of resolutions. Do you make new year's resolutions? I do. I'm a sucker for them. Growing up I made them and I still do. The usual: exercise more, read more, eat less dessert...and my favorite, remember everyone's birthdays and anniversaries. Every year over Christmas vacation I fill in my new calendar with all the important dates. I organize my cards and I start sending them. I usually do pretty good until the end of February. So if your birthday is in October, you are out of luck! Thankfully the invention of Facebook has made keeping that resolution easier. But there is still something about getting a card in the mail as opposed to a Facebook, "Happy Birthday - hope you have a great day!" [Submit] Just not as personal...I'm just saying.

So this year, my resolutions aren't that different from previous years...
1. journal what I eat and eat less sugar and more veggies
2. read my bible every day
3. be organized about cleaning my house
4. meal planning and prep
5. exercise three days a week
6. blog more often
7. remember birthdays and anniversaries with cards

Seven...because it is the number of perfection.
1. already have the notebook for this year and ate oatmeal for breakfast
2. one day behind already
3. making a plan today
4. ditto
5. tomorrow
6. yipee
7. missed my aunt and uncles anniversary yesterday - belated card from the store today

Ahhh, well, I'm in for the long haul this year, not the perfection of everyday only to fail come mid-Jan.

oh, and my picture a day site - I want to get back to that...I miss that. Maybe I'll cross off the exercise so I still only have seven! :-)

Christmas Games

2009-12-15T14:50:00.002-07:00

Every year we look for new games to add to our family collection or to give to our "game friends and family". I came across this blog reviewing two that will not make it into our list for this year.
Joel Osteen's Your Best Life Now and a game from Taiwan called Rich Daddy God. I know, real winners. Read his review here.

Crazy Kids

2009-12-11T08:53:00.002-07:00

Jeffrey: Mommy, I need apples and cherries to make my famous chocolate milk!

Morgan: Old McDonald had a farm, e-i-e-i-o
And on his farm he had a pig, e-i-e-i-o
With an oink, oink here and an oink, oink there
here an oink, there an oink, everywhere an oink, oink
Old McDonald had a farm, e-i-e-i-o

Old McDonald had a farm, e-i-e-i-o
and on his farm he had a moose, e-i-e-i-o
With a moose, moose here and a moose, moose there
here a moose, there a moose, everywhere a moose, moose
Old McDonald had a farm, e-i-e-i-o

Warm, Melted Wishes

2009-12-08T10:14:00.004-07:00

Yesterday, before bed, I asked Morgan to pick up the Little People Nativty and put it by the fireplace. We have a beautiful stone fireplace in the living room. We hardly ever light a fire in it, because it is a corner and very open to the room, but I like to decorate it and every year the nativity that the kiddos can play with gets put at the corner (really to distract them from playing in the fireplace).

So Morgan was very obedient and picked up all of the pieces so she could watch a short video before bed.

About 15 minutes later I smelled something hot...like burning plastic. I immediately sent the kids looking for what the smell was. Mikalah yelled that she found it in the basement.

See, we also have a wood stove in the basement. So when I told Morgan to put the nativity on the fireplace she did just that.
Joseph and the camel suffered 3rd degree burns on their feet and the creche is no longer standing. However, I am happy to report that Baby Jesus escaped without any marks. I'm sure that had something to do with the angel that was standing on his head at the time.

Now, hopefully we can replace this set before next Christmas!

Little Things

2009-11-13T14:58:00.006-07:00

You know there are times when I go all out and rearrange a room and drastically change its layout. Sometimes that can take hours or even days...or longer...to ever reach completion.

Then there are times that I do something little...something that takes just a few minutes, but makes a big difference in the room or just in my attitude about the room.

This project is a little of both. I found these picture frames at IKEA (oh, how I love and miss IKEA) and had a fun idea to put pictures of my family eating in the frames and hang it in my kitchen. I gathered pictures, but fell short of the nine pictures needed to fill the frames. I don't remember what happened, but after Meredith was born, I quickly gathered pictures of our family - really any pictures and filled the rest of the spots. That is how the frames stayed for the next FIVE years!!!

Here's the killer part, even after we moved I still hung them in my kitchen knowing that one day they would contain food pictures. But every time I walked past them (a million times a day) they would just whisper to me, "still haven't finished this project." or "see just another project you started but haven't finished" or "so you have pictures of four children - six children are too many for you to handle". Silly how a picture frame can breed such guilt!!!

Well, I am here to say that last week I took 10 minutes of an afternoon and finished my project. I know, ten minutes. Seriously, all that grief for just ten minutes.

The difference? I had to give up. Give up my original idea and allow God to give me a new idea. How many times do we hold on to an original idea when God has something better for us to experience? Too many in my life!

The end result...

...those are my six beautiful children that God gave me and intended for me to be the mother of, all eating their first birthday cake. The spots in between are some of our families favorite recipes or recipes written in someone special's handwriting.

There is my dad's mother's meatloaf recipe; my aunt's Sweet Potato Souffle; my mother's mother's Scotch Shortbread; my mother's BBQ sauce; my Texas chili; and my friend Elaine's banana bread. Not to play favorites, but my favorite is my grandmother's shortbread. As far as shortbread goes, it really isn't very good. In fact it resembles my play dough recipe. But she would make them into balls and press them down and put a red or green m&m in the middle. I would eat around the m&m and save it for the last bite. And the recipe is written by her. I'm sure she is now making Christmas shortbread cookies for Jesus!

And tonight, I made my other grandmother's meatloaf. It just says comfort and homey and is perfect for this cold day with fresh snow on the ground.

A simple project, made complicated by me.

Consistency...or not...but maybe...

2009-11-10T14:41:00.003-07:00

I have thought long and hard about this post...so long and so hard that it has taken me ten days to write. I know...crazy!

Here's the thing, I have discovered that everything I struggle with comes down to two things - pride and consistency. And since no one really wants to talk about pride, I'm focusing on consistency.

I read my Bible, but not consistently.
I clean my kitchen, but not consistently.
I discipline my kids, but not consistently.
I pay attention to my husband, but not consistently.
I care for my friends, but not consistently.
I exercise, but not consistently.
I am thankful, but not consistently.
I am generous, but not consistently.

You get the idea.

About the only thing I am consistent about is caring about me. That's the pride...we aren't talking about that right now. Well, I'm also consistent about eating chocolate.

So I have been spending time in November developing my consistency. I have been setting aside time to read my Bible. Sometimes that means I read with Jeffrey laying on my bed next to me. Sometimes that means I read with Morgan asking me questions every two seconds, "Mommy, what is your favorite color? What is your next favorite? And you like pink too?" Here's what I figure...we are supposed to meditate on His word all day. Not just carve out 30 min of utter uninterrupted silence in which to focus on just what He has to say to us. And we are supposed to pray without ceasing. I'm sorry, I am a mother of six beautiful, but very needy children and the wife to one amazing, but very busy husband. Some days I'm just happy to take a shower without correcting a child or answering questions. To find time to read and study and pray seems impossible.

So I picked a book of the Bible and am reading maybe a chapter, maybe just a few verses each morning. After I am dressed and have eaten breakfast - otherwise I fall asleep on God. For me, this is the time of day that I can focus. But it also meant that I said no to just about everything that happens first thing in the morning. I knew I needed to get this part of my life under control. Most mornings, I have read my Bible by 9am - its not like it has taken me forever.

The other thing I have done is started writing out what I am praying for. And then those things are on my mind all day, and I can pray for them throughout the day.

The funny thing is that as I have started to become consistent with these things, the other things are starting to fall into place. Not perfectly, but its a start. I am keeping up with laundry. I'm keeping the kitchen clean. I am focusing on talking with my kids not just disciplining them (harder to do with the four year old - God love him!!) I'm trying to find little ways to show my husband I love him and am so thankful for all he does for our family.

The other thing that has happened is that I am reading my Bible and seeing themes without a Bible study aide. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with devotionals - I think many of them are wonderful and really help. But I wanted it to be just me and God. Not Oswald Chambers, not Chuck Swindoll, not (gasp!) Beth Moore. Just a conversation between God and me.

This week I have been reading through Ezekiel. I have no clue why I chose to start there. Really it is quite the depressing book of the Bible. God has asked Ezekiel to lay on his side for 390 days, to eat food cooked over dung, and to not appear to be mourning after the death of his wife. Not the most encouraging. God has pronounced judgement on just about every people in existence (okay not sure that is true, but it seems like it), but here is the cool part...God's goal with all of this is so that we will know that He is the Lord! That is my goal... I want to know that He is MY Lord!

My New Favorite

2009-10-18T09:16:00.002-06:00

When the world seems to be crumbling around me, this song says it all...

I'm not saying life is horrible, but sometimes our circumstances can be overwhelming. Then the next day they aren't so much. I've discovered it is all perspective. Do I have a kingdom perspective? Do I remember that life here on earth is temporary? Do I remember all the blessings God has given me? Do I trust that He loves me? Do I trust Him to provide for me - physically, emotionally, spiritually?

Nothing outward should effect my trust in Him!

Weekend Wedding

2009-10-14T18:45:00.008-06:00

Last weekend my cousin, Kristin, a cousin I remember being born, got married. Talk about making me feel old!!! On top of that, I took my thirteen year old daughter to the wedding with me! It was such a special time of visiting with family and I think Mikalah enjoyed the time of feeling like she was "grown up".

Looking over the pictures we took, I realized I need to be better at taking pictures. I am glad that my cousin's wife (would that make her my cousin-in-law?) was taking a ton of pictures too!

The view from our plane ride to Minneapolis.

When we arrived at the hotel we were greeted with lots of family. The hotel manager gave us a list of local restaurants. Perkins was on that list. As soon as I saw that I knew that was where the crew would want to eat. Yummy food, homey atmosphere. Not Bucca di Beppo, but at least we were staring at large naked women while we ate!

When we got back to the hotel the game between the Yankees and Twins was on - don't remember which game, but the one that went into many extra innings. My brother, Jon is a Yankees fan, but the hotel was full of a football team that was vocally cheering for the Twins. Here is Grampy, his sister, Aunt Ellen, and his good friend, Nessie, watching the game.

My cousin's wife, Amanda. She's the one with the awesome camera that took lots of pictures. It was great to get to spend some time with her and get to know her more. If you want to see more pictures, bug her for them!Even though we were celebrating Kristin's wedding, it was also Grampy's 85th birthday.Nessie, Cousin Sean, Cousin David (married to Amanda), and Grampy. However, we discovered there were many October birthdays and Grampy wanted to spread the joy!

Uncle Kenny - next year he turns 60! That makes me feel a little younger!Nessie. Grampy brought the crown all the way from Jersey with him. What a fun prop!My mom, Sherry. It was so good to see her! I wish we could have had more time to visit, but I know that she was visiting with family she hadn't seen in over two years. And I know I will see her soon...I hope. This was her 31st anniversary of her 29th birthday!Grampy's sister, Aunt Ellen - she turned 80!That night we - the cousins - went to the Mall of America. We really only saw about 1/4 of the mall, but we did get to enjoy some of the amusement area in the middle.

Jon, Sean, and Dave chose to try the rope course. Basically get into a harness, clip yourself to a cable, and climb to the ceiling following beams, ropes, and rope bridges. Especially since both Sean and Dave are nervous about heights. I think Jon gave them confidence. Of course he was confident because he couldn't see. His glasses dropped fairly near the beginning. Thankfully we were able to find them and he could still wear them.Hard to see, but Dave at halfway back down.My sister, Juliet, and I and our purses at the MOA.The cousins! Jess, Jon, Dave, Sean, Me, Amanda, Mikalah, and Juliet.

That night we got to stay up way too late and played games. It was a very neat time to connect and realize that even though we don't have a lot of contact on a regular basis, we can really just have fun together. I am so thankful for grandparents that instilled a wonderful family heritage.

Now...on to the wedding!

Cousin Scott, Kristin's baby brother. He's now taller than her!Kristin & Ryan. The wedding was at a country club and we watched the ceremony from our reception tables. It was nice to have a comfortable seat and a drink while you watched. Pleasant setting for a wedding. And cost effective! Bonus points!It was very fun to watch Grampy and Nessie together. They took good care of each other. Amanda got a cute picture of them holding hands...again...Amanda...we are waiting for your pics now!!!Kristin and Ryan are such a cute couple. I'm looking forward to getting to know them as a couple. Sean and Uncle Kenny - you can tell they are father and son!Kristin and her sister, Amy. Talk about family resemblance! Kristin made her dress - beautiful! And the brides maids all wore "little black dresses". Finally a brides maid dress that might get worn again!On their way to Hawaii.After the wedding Mikalah and I headed to the airport and home. The Colts were playing Sun night football and we were able to watch until halftime. They were trying to board the plane with 45 seconds left in the the half (which we all know means 5 minutes) and no one would board. We were all waiting to see Peyton drive the Colts down for another touchdown. We actually left 15 minutes late. Priorities people!!!

New Hair

2009-10-14T18:32:00.002-06:00

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

2009-10-13T17:57:00.003-06:00

I know I have posted about Morgan's sweet curls. I just can't bear to cut them! I just know that once they are cut, they won't come back! They are sweet ringlets! Can you see them?

But alas, the decision has been taken out of my hands! This afternoon, Morgan was cutting paper into tiny shreds - a common activity in our house and one that neither Mike nor I can stand. However, this time she must have decided that she didn't want hair in her eyes and cut off her pony tails...both of them!!! It is about six inches of hair gone.

Nicole, the most wonderful lady that cuts my hair, assures me that we can do a sweet emergency cut for her tomorrow. I'll post an after picture then...

Travelling

2009-09-29T18:54:00.002-06:00

Back in the Denver airport - love the free wifi!

I am headed home from MOPS convention & then a few way-to-short days in Indy. There were so many people I didn't have time to see! I hated that! But I was thankful for the few I did connect with.

You see lots of interesting things when you are travelling. The lady that flew behind me on one flight wearing her pjs and big pink fluffy bathrobe was one of the odd ones.

The flight I just got off of...well, two hours ago...two more hours to this layover to go...I sat in the row behind the exit row. I have no problem with sitting in the exit row and on this flight I think I would have preferred to. The woman sitting in the exit row was probably about 65. The flight attendant asked her if she was okay lifting the 40 lbs door and throwing it out over the wing. She said yes...WHAT??? There is no way she could have done that - she may have broken a long hot pink fake nail or lost one of the seven gold rings she was wearing on her fingers!

But have no fear, my safety was reassured after she had three OJ and vodkas.

Speech

2009-09-20T15:46:00.002-06:00

Jeffrey has been in speech therapy for about two months now. We are seeing some improvement, but the main problem is that his tongue is not very strong. It's like it doesn't know what to do...so we are training it. We get a lot of "L" sounds, and struggle a bit with "T" and "D". For instance, "Glama" instead of "Grandma". However, this afternoon Jeffrey was singing a Sunday School song and the mistake can not be attributed to speech - at all!

Today's Song: "I'm In The Lord's RV"

What? You didn't learn that one in Sunday School either - who knew?

Sun AM Reading

2009-09-06T07:37:00.003-06:00

This morning I was reading Song of Solomon...and well...I have no comment on that! But I was also reading Psalm 50. A couple of verses struck me.

14 Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God.
23 But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me.

I really struggle with being thankful. It is so much easier to see the negative - the problems - than to be thankful for the good things. I thought I would end this time with a list of things I am thankful for, but even that sound difficult to do. Really, ten things and not just listing the names of the people in my house - that would be cheating! Well, here goes...

clean dishes and a dishwasher
a moment of quiet to be able to read my Bible in the morning
the WonderPets for occupying my 3 year old while I read
God's provision of food in these tight days
a beautiful sunrise
protection while our garage door was open all night
a circle of friends that care about me, my well being, my marriage, my kids, etc
my husband who is willing to sacrifice so much
my kids who keep life interesting - what would I possibly do all day without them?
my God - who makes life worth something!

Breaded Ranch Chicken

2009-09-05T09:03:00.002-06:00

So after a few requests, here is my Breaded Ranch Chicken recipe that I got from Chris, that she got from Pam, that really was originally from Mandy. Where did you get it from Mandy???

Breaded Ranch Chicken

8 chicken breasts (I use boneless skinless tenders - they cook faster)
1 c. crushed corn flakes (really who measures that?)
1 c. grated parmesean (I use the powdery stuff in a can - again with the measuring)
1 envelope Ranch dressing mix
1/2 melted butter

I use 2 pie plates. Melt the butter in one; mix the dry ingredients in the second.
Roll the chicken in the butter; roll the chicken in the cornflake mixture
Bake @ 350 for 45 min (that's the time for the breasts - tenders take just long enough for the rice to cook - 25 min.)

Easy recipe to make more cornflake mixture if you run out. Also, a great recipe to make for a lot of people. I use jelly-roll pans to bake them on. Enjoy!

Who Knew God had Stinky Feet?

2009-09-04T08:15:00.002-06:00

Breakfast Conversation:

Morgan: (pointing to the empty chair at the table) who is gonna sit there?

Jeffrey: God is.

Morgan: No, Jeffrey, God is in heaven.

Mommy: God is every where, even though we can't see Him. He can sit in that chair.

Morgan: He's not there...I can't smell His stinky feet.

Decisions

2009-08-23T13:51:00.001-06:00

Sometimes People magazine actually has something good...sometimes.

Kourtney Kardashian Agonized Over Whether to Keep Her Baby

My God is AWESOME!

2009-08-14T22:51:00.002-06:00

First, let me say that I am working on a post from our anniversary trip, but my sister is visiting and I just don't want to take the time to add pictures and tell you everything I learned while riding on the back of a motorcycle for 1500+ miles right now!

However, I had to sit and tell you a story about tonight. It is a story that even though you may not be connected to, will give you goosebumps and make you want to start singing Awesome God (the old version by Rich Mullins), even though that song has bugged you forever!

Friend A called me on Tuesday to tell me that she was leaving her husband. (Is it weird that I call her friend A, cuz I don't do that in real life?) Shock...I wanted to reach through the phone and shake some sense into her. Love...I could hear the hurt and I wanted to reach through the phone and hug her! But because of the miles between us, I could only tell her I loved her and pray...and pray...and pray.

The next morning, I decided that keeping what she had told me to myself was not the right option. I started making phone calls. I called our circle of friends...really we are family...and told them to pray. I called people I trusted...and told them to pray. We kept the lines to God working hard that day. One of my friends described to me how usually when she says she will pray for someone, she'll pray two or three times and then sort of forget about them, but that she just couldn't stop praying for Friend A.

One of the people I called was Friend B. Friend B and I haven't chatted in close to a year, but she is the kind of person that has amazing faith and can pray like no one else can. She was someone I needed to be on her knees for this marriage. Together we prayed and cried on the phone together. Both of us wanting to get in our cars immediately and show up on Friend A's doorstep. But both of us lived too far away. One of the things that we specifically prayed for was that God would work a miracle...that He would get Friend A's attention...that she would have her own "Damascus road experience".

Well, Friend A decided she would go and live with her parents. But Friend A's family wouldn't allow that to take place. Instead they told her she could just come and visit for a week. MIRACLE #1

So, this evening, Friend A started driving to her parents. Along the road, she stopped at a rest area to go potty. (Since we have given birth to children, we mommys must do this very often!!!) As she is walking out of the stall, who does she see?

Friend B's young children!

Yup!!! Friend B and her family were going on vacation. They just happened to be driving that night...on the same road...and stopped...at the same rest area...AT THE SAME TIME!!!!

IMPOSSIBLE, INCONCEIVABLE, MIRACULOUS!!!

Oh how I wish I could have seen their faces!

I have goose bumps just writing that out right now!

God was jumping up and down in heaven, singing, "See what I can do!", "See how much I love you!", "See how important I think your lives, your marriage, your children are!"

These two friends were able to talk, to pray, to touch! And what was supposed to be a quick potty stop for both parties, turned into a par-tay!

Angels were rejoicing!

GOD IS AWESOME!

Friend A had her own "Damascus road"...err..."Interstate experience." Hallelujah!

Friend B saw a miracle...saw prayer answered...saw God grant the desire of her heart to see and touch Friend A. All-powerful, Lord!

Other friends involved saw prayer answered...rejoiced and spread the word...despite the late hour. Praise you, Jesus!

Others of us were reminded just how much God cares...how much He knows our needs...our hurts...and how He can heal. Yeah, God!

This is not the end of the story. There will be more to tell. But this is just a peek into a modern day miracle.

There is no such thing as coincidence. This story ranks off the charts in probability.

Our God is an awesome God. He reigns in Heaven above with wisdom, power, and might! Our God is an awesome God!

"Twas the morn of my 15th Anniversary

2009-08-06T07:06:00.003-06:00

'Twas the morn of my 15th Anniversary, when all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not a child, not a dog, not even a louse.
The bags were all packed and ready to depart,
In hopes that vacation soon would start.

The children were gone to grandma's to play,
With visions of treats and swimming all day.
And dad resting peacefully and I...wait a minute...

The kids are gone, the dog is gone, so why am I wide awake at 6:15???

Feel the Love

2009-08-01T20:29:00.002-06:00

Daddy to Meredith: What's wrong sweetheart?

Meredith: My neck just hurts.

Daddy: I'm sorry, I have a headache too.

Jarrett: I get a headache every time I think of tornadoes

Mommy & Daddy: Huh? Well then don't think of tornadoes, I guess.

Jeffrey to Mommy: I get a headache every time I think of you.

Thanks, kid! Today, the feeling is mutual!

Photo Editing

2009-07-31T16:36:00.003-06:00

This is the picture that I posted today over at my Day by Day blog.
Now if I hadn't been quite so hasty and had taken a few sec to "perfect" the photo, it would have looked more like this...

Just getting that silly bunk bed out of the picture makes a difference.

My favorite part about taking this picture (aside from how sweet these kids were being with each other) was Meredith yelling down the hall, "You should put that on facebook!" Apparently I have an addiction that my six year old noticed.

Don't Ask

2009-07-30T22:46:00.002-06:00

Just know that my children are not allowed in the basement for quite a while...like until they are leaving for college.

Overheard Today

2009-07-29T14:47:00.003-06:00

Jeffrey: Are we going swimming?

(Mind you today it is 72 degrees, overcast and windy)

Friend of mine at the park with us: Oh no, you would freeze your tail off!

Jeffrey: We don't have tails! (as if that makes it okay to go swimming)

Training

2009-07-27T09:03:00.003-06:00

I know this will come as a shock to some of you, but I was a bit of a princess when I was younger. I know, shocking isn't it? I'm so glad I'm over that...really, I am.

But I can clearly remember times when I was walking around proud of the good I was doing and thinking that everyone should be so grateful that we (the royal we) were in their presence. About that time my mother would grab me by the ponytail - probably because it was the only thing she could catch as I sauntered past quickly to find the next group of people to oppress with all my goodness. She would get my attention and impart some gems of wisdom that would pop my princess bubble...lovingly.

This morning, God grabbed my ponytail.

I Have Been Trained - Part 2
By Missy @ It's Almost Naptime

So I'm driving the long 30 minute drive to VBS last week and
something makes me think of this whole bible study thing, and how this is not
the season for it, and how someday it will be, but how now - as I told Lisa - my
first priority is my family. And the mountains of laundry that they
accumulate. But some day, some day, I will get to lead my bible
study.

As I am pondering all this, I glance in the rear view mirror at the four
little souls in the four car seats behind me, singing along to their CD.
Then the silent but deafening voice of the Lord whispers to me, You are their
bible study. I think, yes, I am. I know this. I know that
after years of teaching other young women and other people's children, my job
right now is to teach my own little ones. And what a blessing that
is! They have learned so much! I begin to think about all the
Scripture they already know, between Seeds and the
book that we use, not to mention what they learn at Sunday School and VBS
to which I so diligently take them. Those tiny little kids already have so
much scripture hidden in their hearts...I guess I am doing okay at leading this
particular bible study! My heart rejoices at this. My heart even
gets a tiny bit - just a tiny bit - of the P word going. You know the P
word. The one that rhymes with bride.

And then the Lord whispers, that's not what I'm talking about. You
are their bible study. Immediately a flashback: the previous morning, when
Shepherd had left out a screwdriver. A tool, which he has been told
a thousand times is not a toy. A tool that he had retrieved from the
toolbox in the garage that he has been told a thousand times he is not to
touch. A tool that he had left on the couch, and his baby brother
had gotten, and was chewing on when he fell into the couch. The tool that
caused Ingram's lip to bleed. The tool that caused me to panic when I saw
the blood, imagining that the baby had stabbed the inside of his mouth with the
screwdriver. The tool that caused me to completely and utterly lose my
temper, to yell loudly at my child until he sobbed his apology, the tool that
hardened my heart even as I hugged him and lied to him and told him that he was
forgiven.

You are their bible study. My child can say from memory Proverbs 15:1
, A soft answer turns away wrath. He can also recite Psalm 34:13, Keep
your tongue from evil. How many times have I quoted to his sister
Ephesians 4:26, In your anger do not sin. I have taught them to forgive
one another seventy times seventy. Yet I negated every one of those bible
teachings in five minutes one Tuesday morning.

You are their bible study. How much easier would it be to just lead a
group bible study! I could prepare for you a wonderful lesson on
Philippians 2 about putting others above yourself. Then if on the drive
home I refuse to let someone cut into my lane of traffic, you'll never
know. I could research and teach you what the original Greek text
of Ephesians 5 says, then come home and chew out my husband for not
taking out the trash while I was gone, and you'll never know. I could give
you a wonderful exegesis regarding exactly what God meant when he said "Thou
shall not steal." And if the next morning, the teenager at the grocery store
charges me for regular apples rather than the more expensive organic ones and I
don't correct him, you'll never know.

But if I tell my children that I love God and seek to obey him, and then
dishonor their own grandmother with my tongue, they will learn more from my
hypocrisy than from the Word. If in my anger I choose to punish instead of
to discipline, then bible lesson for that day will be on vengeance, not
grace. If I teach them to do all things without complaining and disputing
- Philippians 2:14, another one they can rattle off - yet constantly gripe about
having to clean up their messes, then my lesson for the day is selfishness, not
servanthood.

I am their bible study. I am not saying that the Holy Spirit will not
and does not work on their hearts in spite of my actions. I am well aware
that the double edged sword that is the Word of God is a million times more
powerful than my sin. But, oh, dear Jesus, do my actions sometimes cause
the Holy Spirit to have to work harder? Are there days when the Lord must
work around me, instead of with me?? Oh Lord, forgive me and help
me! Remind me to practice what I teach! For this I have been
trained!! Amen!

Number 300!

2009-07-17T23:46:00.003-06:00

Wow, that kind of shocks me...especially considering I can completely ignore this blog for weeks at a time!

Well, I have started something else to distract me from this blog...another blog.

I know, crazy, but this one has another purpose.

I have long since realized that I am not a photographer. I have many friends that take AMAZING photos. Some of them have picture-a-day blogs or sites. While they are fabulous, that is not my goal. I like that they take pictures of me and my family!

What I hope to accomplish with this new blog is two things.

I want to document what happens in my family. I realize that there are weeks...no really months...missing from our photo library. And what little pictures there are are locked on my computer. Many things in my life that I am trying to improve (reading my Bible, exercising, eating right, cleaning my house) are things that require me to work at them day by day. This is no different.
Many days I struggle to ENJOY my family. They are a lot of work! I have felt like God was encouraging me to ENJOY them for several months and I just didn't know how to. I hope that by taking more pictures I will be able to see some of the enjoyment. That even those pouty faces really are sweet.

So this new blog is my version of a picture-a-day. Since I am afraid of failure, it is very scary to announce this project. I don't want to get to day 16 and discover that I forgot 13, 14, & 15! So there may be many late night last minute pictures of sleeping children...but they are definitely sweet then!!

So I am on day three and you can see it is already challenging...but I am having fun.

http://memoriesbyday.blogspot.com/

Check it out and let me know what you think...and if you have any other suggestions for ENJOYING your family.

Weaknesses

2009-07-15T17:18:00.004-06:00

Some days you just have to admit that you can't do landscaping; you can't decorate; you can't make your children obey; and just do the things you do well...laundry and cleaning. It may not be a pretty house, but it can be a clean house.

**EDIT: I can't clean my house either...

Disclaimer

2009-07-11T19:34:00.007-06:00

The entrance to the campground and marina just outside Lovell, WY.

Meredith at the swimming area. Grandpa put the boat in the water and it would not start, so we swam instead. They even had a lifeguard!

Next to the swimming area was a huge playground and picnic area with at least 20 picnic tables - enough for a crowd.

Meredith and Jarrett

Jeffrey

Meredith mastered the monkey bars.

Jarrett escaping a game of tag by climbing on top of the playground. Why must they all be monkeys?

The wind picked up about 5pm and was probably 40mph. Too windy to have a campfire or even be outside with the dirt blowing for that matter. Morgan decided to color.

Jarrett and Mikalah played cards.

The next morning while Grandpa went into town to check on the boat, Mike, Grandma, the kids and I explored the rest of the National Park Area. There is a Wild Mustang Preserve. One hundred and twenty mustangs run free.

We saw big horn sheep. A baby nursing. Big horn sheep grow a ring per year on their horns and do not shed them like antlers. These sheep are not very old.

A view of the canyon that connects to the lake that we were camping at. From this viewpoint, the water is 900 feet below. The water at that point is over 150 feet deep.

A floating outhouse - necessary when the canyon is fifty miles long.

Jarrett, Meredith, Grandma, Mikalah, Morgan, Mike & Jeffrey. Judson was at summer camp.

The family - minus Judson, but including Morgan's babies that go everywhere with her!

My little girl that's not so little anymore. She regularly reminds us that she will be 13 in just two short months!

More big horn sheep. I take pictures of people...Mike takes pictures of animals and scenery...we make a good team.

Boat is ready and we head out to the lake! The hotdog is the younger kids favorite!

Grandma and Mike relaxing as we head into the canyon. Meredith tired out after swimming for a bit.

Morgan...finally resting. She is a ball of energy!

About fifteen miles into the canyon the boat stopped. Mike and his Dad worked for 30 minutes trying to get it started again. Because it was the middle of the week the area is almost deserted. We hadn't seen another boat for almost an hour. I was thankful for lots of towels and the cooler of food we had brought when I started wondering if we would be stuck out there over night. Somehow, I ws pretty calm even though I was frustrated and a little nervous.

But God answered prayers and another boat came along. They towed us back to the marina. However because we couldn't go very fast it took us almost two hours. At least it was a pretty trip!

Another view from above. You can see how the canyon winds through.

What happens when Morgan takes a picture. She was so proud of her picture of the fence.

My wonderful family!

***Pictures from our recent trip to Horseshoe Bend near Lovell, WY. They show people having fun. This in no way proves that the blog author now enjoys camping. This disclaimer is in place to state that vacation - true relaxation - includes a five-star hotel and a spa treatment.

Polish Boy

2009-07-02T04:40:00.000-06:00

Tuesday we did major shopping at...of course...Costco. The nectarines and cherries are BEAUTIFUL and so delicious right now!!! I was going to start telling you what special finds I get at Costco, but this was truly a "stock-the-shelves" trip. However, there was Dove shampoo on sale for $4.97 with a free conditioner included. Gotta watch those prices that end in $0.97. Those are the lowest price that Costco will offer. There's my tip of the day.

However, my favorite part of the trip was lunch...and not just the hundreds of samples. Otherwise lunch would have been bread, pina colada sherbet, chips and salsa, ham, black licorice, hummus on a chip, and salad. I guess you could probably call that a well rounded meal.

But, no. our lunch was eight polish sausages for $1.50 a piece and each comes with a drink. Can't beat lunch for the family for $12! Mike got sauerkraut on his polish dog. Jeffrey in a loud voice in the middle of a huge lunch crowd whines, "I want sauercrap too!" Priceless!