Far Above Rubies Wife

Life is CRAZYYYYYYYY........................

2009-01-11T18:28:00.001-08:00

Enough said right? Christmas, New Years, Hubby working evenings, now to top it off all of my babies are sick! Yes, even the baby. Indiana has bronchitis while Peter is better but still recovering and Wendy has come down with it all as of yesterday. How nice of them to pick this time and this 'thing' to share!!! How many times have I preached, 'you have to share with your brother'????? Do you think they got it? Well, it's not what I would have picked for them to share but they obviously love one another so much that they can't stay out of each others face! HA!

It's late. I'm tired. Going to BED!!!!

All is Calm....

2008-12-19T20:03:00.000-08:00

Well, at least for now. Hubby is working nights......again! Which means I'm home with all the kids and animals by myself. Have I mention I don't do animals? I mean before we had so many kids I really did love my dogs and cat. But now they are just another thing that needs to be fed or let out or told to "BE QUIET!". My friend Happy Mommy and I were talking about this the other day and she brought it to my attention as to why I no longer love my animals the way I used to. Friends are great, when you can't see, they can! Love you lots Happy Mommy! Now, back around the barn. All is calm now, kids are sleeping, dogs are sleeping, somewhere in this house a cat is sleeping. Tonight we had a Christmas Party with the women from my women's Bible study group. This party was for the whole family. Husbands and children. Just me and my kids tonight. It was lots of fun but we missed daddy a lot! We had lots of food and laughs! Lots of laughs about this '30 and under thing'. If you don't know comment and I might explain at a later time. :) It really is funny. Okay, so anyway the husbands competed to see who could say/sing this poem to his wife with the most creativity. Me and another women who's husband had to work, were the judges. One of the fellas sang it to his wife, who by the way is so stinkin' cute, about to have baby any day! Did I mention he was down on one knee, that's right ONE KNEE!!!! Of course, he won! Oh well, Hubby will be glad he wasn't able to make it. :( Although, it would have been nice to see what he would have come up with!

Good Night!

Pictures

2008-12-11T17:49:00.000-08:00

I can't believe out of 3 kids, not ONE looks like ME!!!!!

OH MY GOSH!!! Look at that smile!!!

Look at those blue eyes.......not mine either.
Thanksgiving 2008

Of course, a proud Maw Maw

Best Friends Christmas Pictures

2008-12-10T14:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve 2006

Christmas 2007

I must say how cute we are and how much we look alike......Merry Christmas Mum Mum!

Baby Face and Cuddly Kitty

2008-12-09T10:38:00.000-08:00

Day of Delivery!

2008-12-02T15:41:00.000-08:00

On the way out the door.....of course I had to take pictures before we left. The kids were already in the van waiting. The second pic I look very happy. Can't you tell? There just wasn't any more room left........He got the EVICTION notice!!! Some how my camera didn't take very many labor shots.......my MIL's camera has all the good ones. This is one of Wendy and me. She was just as hot as I was......down to the tank top.

My doctor finally broke my water at 2:30 pm. I was at a 3-4 and 85%. And 1 1/2 hours later at 4:05 on 10/10/2008 my boy was born! That's me......once I set my mind to something let's not waste any time....let's get it done!

Weighing in at a whopping 8 lbs 2 oz and 21 inches!!

*my other babies weighed 6lbs 8 oz, 19 i nches and 6lbs 11oz ,20 inches!!!

Wedding Photos

2008-09-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was mine and Hubby's anniversary. For this event I like to look back on our wedding pictures. These are some of my favorites. We had a beautiful outside wedding. We were married on the front porch of this hand built log cabin. My sister's husband's grandfather built this house by himself. There was beautiful landscaping and shrubery. And the weather could not have been any better it was a slight overcast with the clouds looking like a layer of lace just above us. A very calm breeze. And the temperature was between 72-75 degrees. No humidity at all. I did get my way and all the men wore light pink shirts with black and pink ties. My father-in-law said he wasn't but he loved me enough to do it anyway........forever before and to this day he has not worn anything pink! I'll have to post some pictures of all the men another day. They all look very comfortable in their masculinity!

Cutting our beautiful cake that had real flowers on it and then I was so thirsty I think I could have drank the whole bottle of champagne. Actually, there is a picture of me carrying around my glass and the bottle later...........honestly, I was thirsty.....not celebrating that finally all the stressful planning of a wedding was over.....no not me! And the last........well you know you stand there after the ceremony for what feels like an eternity taking all the family pictures and wedding party pictures. We said this one was more of us and how excited we were........really informal......we are so cool. I think of this picture being the one our grandchildren will laugh at and love that we 'once were cool'!

37 Week Visit

2008-09-25T10:42:00.000-07:00

Update:

I went to the doctor yesterday thinking I wouldn't have changed much since I haven't been having as many contractions as the week before, just some pressure. Well, I was shocked when the Doctor said Wow! You're at 3 cm and 70% thinned out! Seeing that I still have three weeks until my due date, this is moving on along. WoooHOO!

2008-09-22T16:20:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I know my last post I was feeling a little pulled in both directions....ready to have baby.....not ready to be done being pregnant. Well, over the weekend when I realized I could not reach my foot to put my stinkin' sock on I was DONE!! Not to mention when the contractions start they are very uncomfortable. Whine..........yes that is me and not my 3 year old! The end of this week would be good to have a baby. But this is my plan not God's. He will deliver this baby when it's His perfect time and when baby is healthy. In the meantime, I guess I get to take every day one day at a time. Wednesday I go to the doctor again, please pray we have made more progress. A little every week would be nice so I don't have to walk the halls at the hospital for hours.

Right now I have no ankles!!!!! My toes feel like at any minute they are going to pop like a champagne cork! Although, they are nicely painted and even have flower decals. My non-pregnant shoe size is normally a 5 1/2-6. I'm struggling to wear flip flops! Now, I know some people hate feet but they really don't bother me. Call it partly gross, partly boredom.
Enjoy!

36 Week Visit

2008-09-18T07:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was THE doctor appointment. I have to admit I was a little nervous......about the exam and what he might say. At this point I'm so excited to meet our new baby boy but on the other hand I love being pregnant and know how quickly it's over. I wanted him to say 'anyday now', but then I want him to be 'on the inside' for as long as I can take it, to enjoy it. I am ready to be able to bend over and tie my shoes, walk up a flight of stairs without gettng winded but it all goes away after delivery. And lets face it......taking care of baby is much easier when they are in the belly!!

And the verdict was............. 50% effaced and 1 CM dilated!!! He said, 'if your water breaks give us a call'. I thought WOW! Wait a minute, already? I'm excited and noticing every contraction thinking ooohhhh is this it? Of course, next week we'll see if any progression has been made!

Kick 'Em in the Knee!!

2008-09-16T16:49:00.000-07:00

Wendy's first cheerleading game was this past Saturday. I know, I know, it's a football game but honestly we don't have a boy playing football yet, so to me the football aspect doesn't exist. It's just my little girl showing us her team spirit! Isn't she just the cutest?! I love it! I used to be a cheerleader so for my girl to be one just makes me smile! :)

Wendy and I made home made chocolate and peanut butter chip cookies! Yum! I'll post the recipe later!

Have a great night!

More Maternity Pictures

2008-09-16T09:48:00.000-07:00

Here are some more maternity pictures.....I tried to upload some lastnight but my internet or computer was acting silly (well I was thinking another term)!

Maternity Pictures

2008-09-15T10:27:00.001-07:00

I have a lovely friend Happy Mommy who takes wonderful pictures. I asked if she would take some maternity photos of me and some family ones as well.....she said yes. Only she didn't know I was going to change clothes 4 times and we were going to spend 5 hours and over 200 photos during the event!

Here are some of my favorites....

I'll have to post more in another post this is the max it would let me.....I didn't even get to put some with Peter!:( Check again in a little while!

These boots were made for STOMPIN'!

2008-09-13T12:34:00.000-07:00

After a couple of days of rain we had new landscaping.......lots and lots of mushrooms. Wendy couldn't get out quick enough to stomp 'em! I looked out our kitchen window and saw she had even put on her stompin' boots! I couldn't resist.

Yes, that's a nasty green mushroom smushed under her little foot! I just wish she would clean her room with such enthusiasm.

My Color

2008-09-13T12:21:00.000-07:00

Your Blog Should Be Yellow

You're a cheerful, upbeat blogger who tends to make everyone laugh.

You are a great storyteller, and the first to post the latest funny link.

You're also friendly and welcoming to everyone who comments on your blog.

What Color Should Your Blog or Journal Be?

Huh! I don't know......I guess it depends on what mood your in!

Packing for the Hospital

2008-09-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

I go next week for my 36 week visit. And any woman who has had a baby knows this is when you go weekly to get, well, you know what checked.......weekly. We live 45 minutes away from the hospital and I have the feeling I need to be ready in the next week or two....even though I usually only have my babies a week early. I plan to have suitcase packed and in the back of the van, ready. The car seat is in, the stroller in the back, clothes washed. I hope he stays in a little longer than the next 2 weeks.....my doctor is in Italy!! I'm also packing a bag for Hubby, Wendy and Peter.

Now, don't laugh but I will be doing my hair and makeup while in the hospital. There are going to be pictures taken and I don't want to look back on them looking all 'rough'. I gave a key to a very trusted friend this morning who when I call is going to come by and get my hair dryer, curling iron, mousse and hairspray and bring them to the hospital when she comes to see the baby. I will also do my makeup on the way to the hospital, even if it's the middle of the night. I know Happy Mommy is smiling and nodding right now as she agrees she does the same! I'm just funny about it I guess. Considering, I have blond eyebrows and eyelashes......without makeup I look like a little boy!!

Tomorrow is my little girl's first cheerleading game. Well, its a football game but I won't be watching football......sorry Happy Mommy. I know our teams are playing against each other and your boys will be playing. I love watching her cheer! Only, if she doesn't clam up which she can do when put on the spot. I'll post pictures of her in her cheerleading uniform.

Have a great Friday! And a wonderful weekend!

Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

2008-09-11T06:28:00.000-07:00

As promised.....

1/2 Cup hot fudge ice cream topping, warmed
1 tub 8 oz. of Cool Whip, thawed, divided
1 pkg. 4 serving size Chocolate instant pudding
8 Oreo cookies,chopped
12 vanilla ice cream sandwiches
*Opt. 1-2 Tbsp of milk....if fudge, cookie, dry pudding mix if it's too thick/chunky. Depending on what brand of fudge you use will determine if you need milk to thin it out.

Lay out a sheet of aluminum foil.......24 inches long or so. Warm fudge in microwave, stir in 1 cup of Cool Whip until well blended. Add dry pudding mix, stir until well blended. Add chopped Oreo cookies. If too thick to spread easily, add milk.

Lay out 4 ice cream sandwiches side by side on foil. Spread 1/2 of fudge mixture. Another layer of 4 ice cream sandwiches. Spread the remaining fudge mixture. Top with remaining 4 ice cream sandwiches. Use the remaining Cool Whip to 'ice' the cake. I like to crumble 2 more Oreo cookies on top of the cake for a finished look. Cover lightly with foil and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight. Let stand at room temperature for 2-3 minutes before serving. Slice like a loaf of bread to reveal the beautiful layers. Store leftovers in freezer.

Enjoy!

Dinner for 14

2008-09-10T04:23:00.000-07:00

Tonight I am taking dinner to a family from our church. The wife has been ill for some time now and is expected to be that way for a while as well. But we know God can heal her and prove all doctors wrong. Don't you love to hear one of those stories? Where they can't explain it other than a miracle. Any way, we have Bible study tonight at Happy Mommy's house. Now, Happy Mommy is a little under the weather as well.....so it works that I offered to bring us dinner tonight before hand. I counted the people that will be eating my mom's yummy homemade Beef Stew tonight and all in all it is 14......3 families. Anyone who knows Happy Mommy she doesn't like the rain and we are expected to have rain all day today! She will be really 'happy' when I get there!!! I have also made a homemade ice cream sandwich cake......really easy and pretty. I will post that one later.

Have a great day!!!!

Mom and Me MEME

2008-09-08T10:49:00.000-07:00

I've been Tagged to do Mom & Me MEME...

First, post a picture of you and your children.......

1. How many children do you have?
I have 2 beautiful children on the 'outside' and 1 in the oven! 5 more weeks and counting!!
2. What are their ages?
Wendy is 4 and Peter is 3.

3. What time do you start your day?
Hubby gets up around 5:30 and me shortly after, depending, we do our couple's devotional bible study, but we don't stick to this like we have in the past. He'll take a shower and I make his lunch and then fix breakfast for him. Pray over him before he leaves and kiss kiss at 6:45!! At 7 the kids get up eat breakfast and get dressed for preschool. And out the door at 8:10.
4. What do you eat for breakfast?
We eat homemade cinnamon vanilla french toast, Wendy's favorite, chocolate chip pancakes, bacon, eggs scrambled or fried, egg and cheese sandwiches, bagels with cream cheese, and of course cereal.
5. Do they watch TV?
Yes, now that preschool has started we don't watch much during the morning. A show during lunch and then maybe one or two in the late afternoon after nap time. Evenings are busy right now we usually aren't here. At night we love to 'pile up' eat popcorn and watch a movie all of us together.
6. What are their favorite activities?
Peter~ Loves Playmobile, Light Sabers and Ninja Turtles. Wendy~ Loves to play kitchen and serve people, dress up and practicing for her new baby. Both love to paint, I have paint on my kitchen chairs that won't come off to prove it! I'm not a big fan of a messy activity but they love it.
7. Do you get a break during the day for some you time?
I used to everyday when the kids took a nap but Wendy has recently like within the last few days stopped taking a nap. Being pregnant I like to sleep myself when they are but can't if she's awake.
8. How do you end your day?
We get dinner wrapped up....or get home from where ever the schedule may take us, get in jammies, pray and go to bed. Some times we have to make mulitple trips back to the bed when little feet come down the hall.
9. What is your best parenting advice or tip?
For me, I've learned to love and enjoy my children in the moment that they are in now and not where I want them to be or where they will be. It makes life and the days so much easier. It's not easy by any means to not wish that 'they could just do this' or that 'this phase is so hard'. But to realize they won't be where they are at right now in this moment for very long and I need to enjoy it before its too late. I look forward to being able to do this with my new baby from his first breath.

Once again......

2008-06-23T04:51:00.000-07:00

Once again I haven't posted in a while. Anyone who reads this will know that my computer has been broken for like 6 weeks now. They have sent it off twice and still broken....why won't they just replace it? They had to replace the hard drive which means I lost all photos and documents that were saved!! Currently, I'm at Hubby's Aunts house dog sitting for 4 large dogs. Been here a week and will be here another week while they are in Florida.

Okay, so anyway we have found out that the baby is a boy!! I won't give out his real name but anyone who knows me knows which name it will be. He is kicking all the time and doing all sorts of somersaults in there.

So that's all for now!

Type of person

2008-06-23T04:50:00.000-07:00

You Are Sunrise

You enjoy living a slow, fulfilling life. You enjoy living every moment, no matter how ordinary.

You are a person of reflection and meditation. You start and end every day by looking inward.

Caring and giving, you enjoy making people happy. You're often cooking for friends or buying them gifts.

All in all, you know how to love life for what it is - not for how it should be.

What Time Of Day Are You?

Ballet anyone?

2008-04-28T07:49:00.000-07:00

Today my sweet, little, adorable, angelic, princess starts ballet classes!! I have waited so long for her to be able to attend a class. She is soooooo excited, I mean we have counted down the days and now she is ready to go down for "quiet time" early just because I told her when she gets up we will be going! The clock and time doesn't play a role in her mind. We went Friday to get her some 'real' ballet shoes and tights and the leotard with the skirt and everything. Look at her! I think she knows what she's doing already. She struck this pose on her own believe it or not!! My baby is growing up!! HAHA

Update on Pickles, Crackers, and Crumbs.....

2008-04-28T07:08:00.001-07:00

I thought since I hadn't blogged about our feathery friends Pickles, Crackers, and Crumbs in a while I would post this one so you could see how big they have gotten. I filled the pool for my little ones and the ducks thought the water looked refreshing too! They hopped right in with Wendy! I'm amazed at how cute they are and how neat it has been to watch them grow. I will admit there have been times when I was/am ready to find them a nice home on a farm!! With the weather getting warmer it's easier to take care of them and have fun while we are playing outside. You can see their white feathers are growing in and they are so soft. Now, I'm a little scared for them to eat out of my hand, I'm afraid they will nip me too hard!

Casting Crowns

2008-04-15T06:56:00.000-07:00

I'm a big fan of Christian music. I really like contemporary bands like the Casting Crowns. They recently came to a town near us and my hubby and I decided it would be so awesome to see them in concert. We listen to them on the radio, ipod and we sing some of their songs at our church. My mom-in-law and pop-in-law said they would watch the kiddies for us. 'Whew!' An evening without children! We grabbed something to eat at a Mexican restaurant in town and headed on over to the concert. All pumped up we pulled in only to have to park a mile away and walk with the crowd to the awaited event. I just knew I would get some unbelievable pictures of them. You know something I could scrapbook. UUUMMMM NO! this is what you get when all the lights are out and the the view you have is so good you want to tell and show everyone.

So anyway, we jammed to songs we knew and listened to ones we didn't. Overall, it was good concert. I have to admit this was our first Christian concert. And look forward to going to more in the future. I also have to admit how good lookin' hubby and I were!

Yes, that's me holding the beginnings of my fourth month belly! Placing my hand there disguises it quite well. Don't you think?! I thought we look really 'pretty'! (I'm bloggin'!)

New Look

2008-04-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

I thought since I haven't posted anything worth reading lately, if anything at all. I would make a new look to let you know I have been here. I hope to new look is appealing to everyone. I'm going to make it an effort to blog something every day.

Now that the morning sickness has mostly subsided and I can actually get up and do something I will blog about what has happened the last couple of months. For now I'm tired it has taken me 3 hours to make these changes and of course after I changed everything I changed it again, and again, and again.

Our new friends!

2008-03-21T10:46:00.000-07:00

Blog world I have not blogged in a loooooooooooonnnnnnnnnnnnggggggggggg time. I will catch everything up later from fevers to bronchitis to trees! I'll explain later but for now please meet our new family/friends Pickles, Crackers and Crumbs! Easter presents from my mom to our family, well really they are suppose to be for the kids but Hubby and I love them so much!

We have made a nice home for them in Goldie's old kennel which works very well and is spacious. Today we put them in the tub with just enough water for them to take a bath and swim. The kids and I were so surprised how well they liked it and they were swimming and going under water and swimming. This has been nice for us to experience together and teaching Wendy responsibility and giving her some chores!!

Amen!

Ruby Wife's Yummy Granola

2008-02-29T04:15:00.000-08:00

2 1/2 Cups of regular rolled oats--NOT instant
1 to 1 1/2 Chopped or Sliced nuts or seeds. Pecans and almonds are what I use.
1/2 Cup of Wheat Germ--Be sure to store it in the refrigerator.
1/2 Cup shredded coconut
1/4 Cup of flour, white or whole wheat
1/4 Cup nonfat dry milk
2 Tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
1/2 Teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 Cup Canola oil
1/2 Cup clover honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 Cup of craisins, or any dried fruit--cherries, apricots, raisins.

Directions:
*Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
*In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, wheat germ, coconut, flour, dry milk, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly.
*In a small bowl mix oil, honey and salt; then pour over dry ingredients. Hint: Measure the canola oil before the honey. This will help the honey slide out of the measuring cup.
*Mix thoroughly.
*Spread in a rimmed baking dish. I use a rectangle glass 9 x 13 sprayed very well with nonstick cooking spray.
* Bake for 30-40 minutes stirring every 10 minutes. You need to keep a close eye on the granola during the last 10 minutes to make sure it does not burn. It should be nice and golden brown when it's done.
*Remove from oven and stir in dried fruit then cool.
*Continue to toss until cool to avoid clumping.
*Store in an airtight container.

Makes 5 Cups.

I serve it with lowfat Vanilla yogurt on top! Yummy good breakfast or snack for kids. I've also made a cereal out of it. Just add some milk.

Question?

2008-02-29T04:10:00.000-08:00

Now how do I get the time at the bottom of a post to not be 3 hours wrong? It looks like I post at 4 AM. I'm just rolling over at that time!!

More Credit!

2008-02-29T04:07:00.000-08:00

Okay here is to my bloggin', techno savvy friend Happy Mommy. You go girl teaching everyone your smarts from bloggin'! Love ya!

Top Ten Changes When Pregnant

2008-02-27T13:46:00.000-08:00

10. Complexion--do I need to explain?
9.Gas--she's gonna blow!
8.Shaving every other day--taking prenatals makes all you hair grow!
7.Taste buds nothing tastes good
6.Favorite food is no longer your favorite
5.Peeing every 10-15 min. including at night!
4.Smells--every thing stinks!! which will lead to the next 3
3.Moody--I strongly caution you!!!!
2.Nauseated--hand over mouth
1.Vomiting--Please excuse me.....I have a date with the toilet!

These are subject to change at blogger's discretion without notice to readers.

Give Credit Where Credit is Due

2008-02-27T13:41:00.000-08:00

This is my word cloud. My nifty friend Happy Mommy had one of these on her blog and it was cool. I totally stole the idea. Thanks Hun!

The website is Snap Shirts.

The Good & The Bad

2008-02-19T04:07:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the first day that I have felt like CRAP! I was doing so good up til that point. Not only did I feel like I might lose my breakfast I was coming down with some sinus-sore throat-head cold junk. I'm trying to not take anything this early in pregnancy just for safety reasons. Anyone who reads this pray for healing as I'm already tired from not having coffee for a week and not sleeping good. Last night I woke up soaking wet and freezing.

On a lighter note.......my friend Happy Mommy and her family are flying back today after her Hubby's surgery yesterday. Please pray for a safe flight home for them and quick recovery for Happy Daddy. I know she is so excited to finally have this done. I've known the hurt and pain that their 'mistake' has caused them.

Surprise!!! We're PREGNANT!!

2008-02-18T04:30:00.000-08:00

Well........God sent us a surprise! Notice my ticker above! I haven't blogged in what feels like forever. Last Tuesday I suspected that there might be a bun in the oven. I prayed, took the test, and surprise there were two lines! And then I prayed again. Praying for a healthy baby and pregnancy. I told hubby when he got home from work. He was immediately happy and of course surprised. We told a few friends before we told family. My friend Happy Mommy is in Texas right now for her Hubby to get a vasectomy reversal. Their flight had been cancelled last Wednesday morning and when she called for me to pray for them being in the airport with 3 kids waiting an extra 4 hours for another flight I told her...........she screamed with excitement and was so happy for us. I pray for them to get pregnant right away after her Hubby's recovery. I told my friend Dia as well and she was very exicited as well for us. We didn't tell Hubby's parents until Saturday and the rest of his side of the family. I went by my mom's yesterday and told her and my sister and they were excited. Then I called my other sister lastnight and she said that her and another sister of mine were just talking a month ago about me getting pregnant. And she said she thought I would be pregnant by summer......I guess she was right!

It's still really early and I don't see the doctor for a while. But I will definately have a lot to blog about with baby #3 and 9 months to do it.

Sunday Super Bowl.....Babies....&....Horses?

2008-02-04T14:02:00.000-08:00

Okay, so everyone in America watched the Super Bowl last night except for me and two other women. My friend Happy Mommy, her aunt has two very cute babies who will soon be 1. Yes, that's right two as in twins, God bless this woman!! Mine were 18 months apart and I thought I would pull my hair out!! Back on subject, I have admitted that I only do Super Bowl parties for the food. I mean lets face it who doesn't like nachos, stuffed jalepeno poppers, hot wings, dips, and plenty of other sweet and salty goodies? And then all at the same time. Okay, back on subject again........anyway since Aunt D has two babies I always try to take one of them to love on and hold and like last night hold while he napped!! Then I got my time with the little girl who is absolutely a doll baby! She is a dancer, unlike her family member who will remain nameless!!! Just kidding hun, your moves make laugh, laugh with you I mean! She, the baby, laughs and smiles even when she just looks at you! How cute is that? So after my time with each of the babies I believe, let me count, the game started at 6 and we left at 9:30, so I held a baby from about the time the game started so what about 3 1/2 hours? I did get a break some when I had to go make sure Wendy didn't break her arm falling off of Happy Mommy's bed. Don't get me wrong I loved being able to hold these babies and love on them and smell their sweet soft heads and then give them back to their mommy and daddy. But man oh man, my arms are KILLING me!!!!! I am so sore I could barely lift my coffee this morning! Right now, I just reached up to scratch my neck and my bicep muscle was tender.
Not to mention, after church yesterday before the game I rode a horse. In which my legs were too short for the stirrups (spelling?) I had to hold on with squeezing my knees against the horse's sides...........what an inner thigh workout!! Suzanne Somers ain't got nothing on Ole' Marshall!!!!! Who is now my best horse friend. (I have never rode a horse before yesterday) Didn't even plan on it when I went to my friend's mom's house. I hopped, well hubby had to give my butt a BIG push up, making sure to not mess up my black dress pants and scuff my cute plaid flats with a little bow on the toe...........whatever you are imagining.....you're probably right! All around cute on that horse yesterday!! NOT! I tip toed around you know what too! Next, time I will plan accordingly and where some rugged jeans and boots!!
All in all, yesterday was a good day, I'm just paying for it today!

Saturday Outing

2008-02-04T13:15:00.000-08:00

I have a friend who I am getting to know more everyday. This friend of mine is a very good mom and wife. She loves her husband and two beautiful boys very much and sacrafices a lot for them including her wardrobe. Over time she has been given things and bought things from the the thrift stores but she has lost some weight and is really I mean really skinny now! She was in need of some clothes to flatter her now! She shared with me that she financially could afford to buy herself new clothes but doesn't feel like it is a wise purchase and somewhat that she is not 'worthy' of new clothes and that clothes just need to 'cover' your body. Not enhance it. Her thinking has changed!

God has blessed this woman with height, a flat tummy (after two babies) none of the flabby stuff that I so 'dearly' hold on too, long lean arms, great shoulders and face that lights up when she smiles. I was blown away when she peeled of the boxy sweater.

So anyway, we went shopping all day on Saturday. And when I say all day I mean all day like from 8 AM to 6 PM!!!! She told me she HATES to shop. I could never imagine not enjoying shopping. Something clicked in her that day. She realized that when two women go together it can be very fun and sometimes funny! During the day I moved her from the too baggy pants and too big shirts and sweaters to 1. a smaller size than what she thought 2. defined the differance between 'fitted' and 'tight'. She had a complete para dime shift!! It's not hard to be a teacher when your student is willing to learn and become a sponge!! We not only changed her style of pants and shirts but down to the well........lets say.......the 'unmentionables'!!! Yes, that's right ladies, a THONG!! Which this was something we took a minute to talk through why you would need a thong, and not just for hubby!! If you need this question answered, comment and I will gladly explain it to you! I wasn't the only one learning that day she taught me some new words, 'schluply' (spelling could be wrong!) this means sloppy, unkempt. Example: "this shirt makes me look schluply" My girl was doing so good by the end of the day she was rating on how 'well' people were dressing for their bodies. "oh no, she has a shelf booty and her jeans are cutting the back of her thighs, too tight" At the end of the day we headed back home where it took both of us to carry, two fisted, all her purchases into her house where her hubby's eyes were so big, I think he was thinking, "do we have anything moolah left to eat on?"! No, I'm kidding, well not about how many bags we carried in but about the budget. She took a budget and very defined list of what she needed and what colored she needed it in. She stuck to her budget and I don't think she paid full price for any thing!! Clearance racks first ladies!!!

Mommy Can I Help?

2008-01-29T18:40:00.000-08:00

There once was a time when every child wanted to help their mom in the kitchen cooking and cleaning. Wendy has always wanted to help cook. Since she was able to stand she has been interested in mixing and pouring. But today, oh today was unlike any other day that I have experienced as a mommy. I am the type that I can't start dinner when the dishes in the dishwasher are clean. They must be put away and any dirty dishes that have 'managed to accumulate in the 45 min. the dishwasher was running' must be loaded before I can start to cook. I was in the process of unloading when Wendy walked and in and in her sweetest, kindest voice asked," Mommy, can I help?" I thought, "hmmmmmm this could be a chance to let her do them and give myself a 'break'." So, in my most loving voice I said, "sure!!". Have at it I thought. I ran through quickly on where in the dishwasher things went and gave her a towel to throw over her shoulder. Within minutes my girl was doing dishes better than I could have ever imagined. So good that after during dinner I told her if she ate all her food I would 'let' her do the dinner dishes. Pots and all! She was so excited! You better believe that I'm going to use this as a privilege now. I was a teenager once and know that this will not last very long. She will soon realize that this is a chore and no longer fun. I intend on letting this go on as long as possible. As I am posting this she is in there singing and washing. Man oh man. I didn't know at first what to do. I mean I walked around the house for a little bit and realized there was nothing at the moment to do but blog!!!

Expectations?

2008-01-28T12:29:00.000-08:00

I pride myself in keeping a clean house, laundry caught up and meals cooked. Recently, and I mean recently like a few days ago, God has revealed to me through two different conversations with people that I have way too high expectations of my husband spiritually and my self in serving him. God revealed to me that my husband's spiritual leadership within our home is right where He wants it to be. I have this vision in my head of what I know God has planned for hubby but I need to trust God and His perfect timing. I need to not try to take the control from God. I know He is so much better at this than I am. DUH? This really shouldn't be that difficult. God vs. Me? We know who wins!!! Contentment has been a big word coming up a lot lately. And the Scripture about God giving grace to humble and Him opposing pride. I am praying fervently for God to grow my heart in these ways. I committing to taking it one day at a time and letting God grow my family and me.

Been Catching Up

2008-01-28T12:19:00.000-08:00

You know, I have been clicking links on other people's blog to go to other blogs. I have realized that a person could sit in front of a computer for hours reading this stuff. I never comment on the other blogs but a friend of mine has gone world wide literally. I asked how did these people find out about her blog and she said she leaves a comment and then when other people read the comments they click her name and go to her blog then they become regular readers of her blog and so the cycle continues. Obviously, this is huge. I mean when I was reading some of these people I felt like I was reading their personal diaries! What a way to 'get in' someone's head!!

Ruby Wife's Potato Soup

2008-01-27T09:37:00.000-08:00

There is an unwritten rule somewhere that says if you have a recipe and you alter it in any way it then becomes your recipe. You are in the free and clear to claim it your own. At my husbands request for a soup similar to Olive Garden's I found this and 'made it my own'! This was what was for dinner on Friday. My family loved it! Peter and Wendy actually asked seconds! We were just finishing up when our small group got here and they all tasted it and said YummY!! It has been requested for me to release this one as well. Which I love when people like something so well they ask for the recipe. The sound you hear now is the sound of my head swelling!!!!!

Toscana Soup

1 pound of ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1/2 Cup bacon bits
1 small onion chopped finely
1 1/4 tsp minced garlic
2 quarts (boxed) chicken stock
7-8 medium redskin potatoes, cut in half lengthwise then cut into 1/2-3/4 inch slices
2 Cup Kale leaves, cut into bite size pieces
1/3-1/2 Cup Heavy Whipping Cream
2 Tbsp Olive Oil

In a Dutch Oven, add olive oil, onion, garlic,bacon and sausage. Brown sausage half way. While this is cooking slice potatoes leaving skin on.
Add all chicken stock. Bring to a boil add potatoes. Reduce to medium heat and cook potatoes till fork tender (about 15 minutes).
Meanwhile, wash and cut up Kale, set aside.
When potatoes are done add Kale and reduce to simmer for 3-4 min. add cream.
Serve with freshly grated Parmesan on top.

A Day at the Museum

2008-01-27T07:47:00.000-08:00

Okay, I said I would post pictures from our day trip to the museum. We had so much fun. This day was so blessed by God. We managed to drive 1 1/2 hours with 4 children without having to stop for someone to go 'poop' or someone getting sick in the car from all the snacks they ate on the way there. It was a little overwhelming at first with what felt like thousands of preschool age children every where you turned. After lunch we were able to have so much more fun without having to be shoulder to shoulder with someone we didn't know. Here are the pictures I took of my little blessings.

The museum had lots of fun things for the kids to do. They played in the water with animals. If anyone has kids they know they love to splash and make a mess. It's even better when they are allowed and don't have to clean it up. Well, make that good for mommy not having to clean up the mess.
One of the pictures is of Wendy and Peter inside a cracked dinosaur egg. Of course apple pickin' was an absolute competition. Seeing who could get the most apples the fastest. Believe me there are alot more pictures but for me to load all of them I'd be here all day.

Where are my children????

2008-01-27T07:10:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday I was cleaning house and notice a strange quietness in the house. Which anyone with children knows this can be a dangerous situation. Something has there attention so strong they are actually not yelling. I went to my son's bedroom to investigate what could be so enthralling. I was shocked to only find one of my children. Curious, I asked Peter where Wendy was and with his Dennis the Menace smile he said, "right here". I looked around the room to see only every toy he owns scattered as if a tornado, or should I say two, came through.

Then with a lift of the lid, of what is suppose to be holding his toys, he revealed his sister had been 'right here' all along. They both laughed hysterically. Kids and there imagination. This actually kept them busy playing together for about 20 min. Just taking turns getting in and closing the top. To think, they were actually sharing. After a few minutes I heard Wendy saying, "keep your head down Peter, just put your head down!!". I thought, 'oh no he's stuck'.

Of course, he wasn't. Wendy just thought it would be funny to squish her brother in as far as she could get him. I couldn't get any cleaning done for having to stop and grab my camera to capture these moments in time. I will look back on days like this one and laugh and remember the beautiful gift of children God has given me.

Cold Weather

2008-01-22T13:16:00.001-08:00

I can't believe it has been as cold as it has been without snow! I mean it was 9, yes that's right 9 degrees the other night. Not to mention the wind chill factor. My little ones are so ready to go outside and play. And momma is ready for sun and tanning lotion! Don't get me wrong I love the winter as long as we get snow to play in. I love making snowmen and women and of course snowbabies!

Thursday will be fun. A friend of mine and I are taking our total of 4 children to a museum not far away. It will be nice to get out of the house and the kids will play. This is going to be an all day event. I can't wait to see how excited the kids are going to be! I'll will definitely post pictures from our 'field trip'.

Sunday Church Service

2008-01-21T12:46:00.000-08:00

Our church is doing a really good series right now "Happily Ever After". Yesterday's service was on submitting yourself to your spouse. Obviously, the husband is the head of the household and makes the final decisions. This is relating to the selfishness that can easily creep into any marriage. If you are a proud person and don't say you are sorry or always have to have your way or the last word your heart can become hard toward your spouse and ultimately to God. You will no longer hear God. I have experienced this in my own marriage. When I feel like I'm right or that things would be 'easier' my way I can get a little flustered and everyone knows it. I've had to tell my husband and my children that I'm sorry and ask them to forgive me for my actions and/or words. I know for sure that when I 'bite the bullet' and humble myself to them that God gives me His grace. I can feel His love again and I can almost see the repair it does to my relationship with my husband and children. When my children aren't, well lets say, don't get along it is very difficult to make them humble themselves and sincerely say they are sorry. This then becomes a heart matter. I have read some of "Don't Make Me Count to Three" by Ginger Plowman. There is also an enlightening 'Wise Words for Moms' biblical chart that hangs on the front of my fridge. She provides you with heart probing questions for your children. I have found this is the best way to talk things through with a child. You aren't 'preaching' at them or lecturing them on something but involving them in conversation with you on the issue. From the appropriate questions the child can think through what they have done or said and search their own heart for the disobedience along with providing the parent with Scripture to teach pretaining to the particular behavior and thus 'training a child in the way he should go'. I want nothing more for my children than to always know what it means to 'humble yourself'. And to know what grace means at a young age. To know that this can only come from God. For this to happen my children have to learn it from the most important people in their lives, Mom and Dad. Yes, that means me and Hubby. They have to see us living this out. They have to see us humble ourselves and submit our will to one another and most of all God. I pray everyday for Jesus to help me live like Him. I would like to say this is not an easy task for me to do. By which I mean living like Him. Everyday is a different day with the same choice, my way or God's? I believe God knows best. It's not easy to let go and let God lead my life and decisions. I'm really trying to pray and grow in this area of my life.

Home Made Pizza

2008-01-19T16:56:00.000-08:00

Okay, here it is. It's time for me to release this recipe so that it can bring families together for a good meal. This can be made as a deep dish if you use a 13x9 glass baking dish. Or if you like a thinner crust divide the dough in half and roll out onto pizza pans. Also Stuffed Crust.

Dough:

1 (.25oz.) pkg Active Dry Yeast

1 cup warm water

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. sugar

2 Tbsp. oil

2 1/2 cups flour

Sauce:

1(14.5oz.) can of diced tomatoes......or 16oz. can of tomato sauce

1 tsp. minced jarred garlic

1 tsp. dried basil

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/4 tsp. salt

Toppings:

Mozzarella Cheese

Any you like. (Bacon, Ham, Mushrooms, Onions, Green Pepper, Pepperoni.)

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Dissolve yeast in warm water in a large bowl. Add remaining dough ingredients. Let sit while you make sauce. Mix all sauce ingredients together in a medium bowl. If using diced tomatoes, I have found it best to not drain the liquid. The dough absorbs it and makes it that much more yummy!

If using a 13x9 glass baking dish spray with non-stick spray. Sprinkle some flour onto ball of dough to keep it from sticking to your hand. Spread dough on bottom of dish and pinch up on the edges. If making two thin crust, spray pizza pans with non-stick spray. Sprinkle some flour onto balls of dough to keep it from sticking to rolling pin. (If you don't have a rolling pin you can use a drinking glass, like a tumbler.) (Stuffed Crust instructions at bottom.)

Spread sauce over dough. Top with Mozzarella cheese and other toppings you prefer.

Bake deep dish for 20-25 min. Two thin crusts--place two oven racks in the middle of the oven. One pizza on each rack for 10 min. then alternate and back for another 10-12 min.

Note: You can also make Stuffed Crust. Using a 12-inch pizza pan roll out dough (without dividing). Spray edges with Parkay Butter spray. Sprinkle a little Mozzarella cheese at edge and fold dough over. Pinching to make sure crust is sealed. Working all the way around the edges of the pizza. Spread sauce and top with toppings. Bake at 425 for 23-27 min. Watch closely.

More Snow Pictures

2008-01-17T09:14:00.001-08:00

Look at these babies! That's George climbing up the rock wall in such dangerous weather conditions. Followed by our canine family member, Goldie. She loves the snow. My Nephew made her a snowball to eat. She was having a 'ball'! Peter was going to brave the snow covered slide. Another beautiful snow angel by Stuart. "This is for my mom", he said.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow........

2008-01-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

We woke up this morning to snow falling!!! Immediately my little ones and my neice were so excited. They couldn't wait to go out. These are some pictures from this morning. The first is Peter, Wendy, and my neice Angelina looking out the window at the snow falling. Over from that is my nephew Stuart making a snow ball. Then one of all the beautiful little children. Then you see Wendy and my other nephew George trying to make a snow man. And last is my beautiful neice Angelina again! Doesn't she look like a snow angel? I'm so proud of them for playing so well together. I don't think it would be better any other way than to have them all together out burning up the energy. After lots of snowballs and running noses and wet cold fingers we came in and made some yummy hot cocoa with marshmallows. We will be going out again later to play some more.

Today

2008-01-16T10:02:00.000-08:00

Ok so my mom left this morning. (sigh......) Can you tell my bottom lip is stuck out? I really loved having my mom here. We got up and drank some coffee sitting at the kitchen table talking and enjoying each other's company. Then I fixed us some breakfast. Homemade pancakes with butterscotch chips and sausage links. Okay, I won't lie. The pancakes were boxed just add water kind! But they sure were fluffy and yummy! My babies were so hungry they ate like pancakes were going out of style. Then proceeded to run like maniacs around the house from all the sugar that their very loving and smart mommy gave them. Pat on my own back!

Hubby has to work tonight again night shift out of town. And we are suppose to get some icy,snowing,freezing rain weather tomorrow. I pray for him to be safe on the roads on his way home tomorrow. OHHHHHHHHHH!!! I can't wait for him to be home! I will spend today cleaning my house and preparing for him. We will be having homemade pizza tomorrow. And I mean this is really homemade! Sauce and dough. I'll post that recipe soon.

Tonight I will be myself with these children.........may God's grace be with me!

Taco Soup

2008-01-15T11:56:00.000-08:00

2 Cans of Hominy, white or yellow
2 Cans of Pinto beans
2 Cans of Rotel tomatoes (diced with green chilies)
1 8 OZ. can of tomato sauce
1 Taco Seasoning packet
1 Ranch Dressing packet
1 onion, chopped
1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
1 lb of ground beef or chicken/turkey

In a Dutch Oven, add onion, pepper, and meat. Brown slightly. By not browning all the way the meat will continue to cook slowly in the pot while it simmers. Making the meat more tender, not a chewy hunk of meat!
Add all remaining ingredients. Do not drain any of the cans. Do not add water to pot.
Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer about 35 minutes. Stirring occasionally. Soup is done when hominy is softer than before you put it in the pot.

Serve with shredded cheddar cheese on top and tortilla chips to dip. YUM-O!

All alone......

2008-01-15T11:37:00.000-08:00

Not really! Hubby has gone out of town to work this week. It's tough with him not being here. I love our time together. My mom came up and spent the night with me. Which has been really nice. I haven't had hardly any time with her like that since I lived at home. We've cooked and talked and of course laughed. I hope to have many more years like this one.

Peter is doing so well with potty training. We did have a set back over the weekend but we got through it. Sunday afternoon he told me he had to go poopoo!! And today as well!! I'm so happy for him, hubby and me.

Wendy is doing so well in school. She can write her name all by herself without looking at it anymore. And is starting to see words and spell them, of course then ask what it says. I can't believe my babies are growing up so fast. I wish there was some sort of Pause, Stop, Rewind button. Some days I want to have a Fast Forward button though!! Just kidding! I love my children at the season they are in now. I know 'this too shall pass'.

Our small group has been amazing. With Hubby working second shift we haven't been able to meet on Wed. nights. And everyone was willing to meet on Friday night to make it available for Hubby to be there (or here, we meet at our house). This Friday we are having a potluck dinner. YUM-O! My friend is making baked chicken. And whatever she cooks is always sooooooo good! This should help me with losing my five pounds that I gained over the holidays! (Not Really!)

Well, I will post more throughout the week. It's only Tuesday, a lot can happen in the remaining time!

READ IT!

2008-01-09T16:36:00.000-08:00

I just finished the best fiction book I have ever read! It was well worth the time. It put God in a different light for me. I want everyone I know to read this book. It will change your view on everything you thought you knew. I was captivated by the main character's life and loss of hope. The Shack made me cry, laugh, pray and have more of a thankful heart for God and His love for all His children. A MUST READ!!!!

If you only read one book this year please make it this one. We are all taught that God loves us and some actually feel it. But for those who have had difficult times, it may be hard to think that God is there when time is dark. The author of this book makes it easy and interesting to trust, believe, and really know God is with us.

Poem

2008-01-09T06:01:00.000-08:00

It sometimes very difficult
for us to understand
the wisdom and the love behind
the things that God has planned.

But we wouldn't have the rainbow
If we didn't have the rain;
We wouldn't know the pleasure
If we never tasted pain.

We wouldn't love the sunrise
If we hadn't felt the night;
And we wouldn't know our weakness
If we hadn't sensed God's might.

We couldn't have the springtime
or the yellow daffodil
if we hadn't experienced
the winter's frosty chill.

And though the brilliant sunshine
is something God has made.
He knew too much could parch our souls
so He created shade.

So God's given us a balance:
Enough joy to keep us glad,
Enough tears to keep us humble,
Enough good to balance bad.

And if you'll trust in Him you'll see
Though yesterday brought sorrow,
The clouds will part and dawn will bring
A happier tomorrow.

Authour Unknown

Still here

2008-01-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in a while. I wanted to let everyone know my baby is potty training so well. He has pooped in the potty for 6 days now!!!! Of course, pee pee too. We also started my woman's Bible study back yesterday. I love all the woman in my group and we were able to be real with one another and heal beyond any imagination. Thank God for His grace and love.

Hubby is working second shift again this week. Today was really nice despite I woke up with a horrible migraine, nausea and all. I felt better after taking some medicine. Which had caffeine in it so I then had lots of energy. I liked that!

Reading a really GREAT book right now! The Shack by William P. Young.

Well I'll post more later!

Prayer for Friends

2008-01-04T05:19:00.000-08:00

A couple of friends of mine and Hubby's are getting a vasectomy reversal in February. After lots of prayer, thought and of course research, they have found a doctor who God lead them to and are very comfortable with. They have made the appointment. Two years to the day they had the first surgery. This is a chance for them to right the wrong that they admittedly did on an emotion. Their story is real in so many familes. You won't believe how many couples do this without thinking of the consequences and taking into thought what they have done. I know we met them at exactly the time we were contemplating getting one. Listening to her, tears in her eyes, telling the me the emotions they went through and still at the moment left me and Hubby not quite sure we would be making the right decision. You see, so many families that we know personally have done this and would recommend it to those seeking the information on a Vasectomy. For now, Hubby and I decided we are content with the two children the Lord has given us, but aren't shutting the door on God's plan for our lives.

To our friends: We love you so much. We will be praying for you as God takes you through this and teaches you that He is in control and knows what is best for you and your family. We are so blessed to have you in our lives. We know you are undeniably from God. He sent you, as angels, to teach others (us) along the way that He has the final say in our lives. "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6:24-26

Everyone else that reads this blog. Please pray for our friends. Although this is exciting time for them it is also a little scary. The sugery is painful and they have to travel quite a distance to have the procedure done. With or without their three other children. Please pray for quick recovery and safe traveling.

Thanks to everyone!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T15:45:00.000-08:00

I can not believe another year has passed. This year will bring so many things......1. I will have been a mom for 5 years! 2. I will be 24! 3. Hubby and I are close to paying off our car! 4. I've been a Christ Follower for 3 years! 5. Peter will be potty trained, soon! He pooped in the potty yesterday! And he has been telling me all day when he has had to go potty..........after a few drips though. It's still progress!!

New Year's Eve was nice. My sister came up to eat dinner with us. And Hubby's parents came to eat and stay the night and bring in the new year. We had Crab Stuffed Pasta Shells.....it was okay but the sauce was little spicy. I had a good time with my sister, I don't get to see her that often. We talked about her daughter and watch her cheerleading competition video. Man, my niece can cheer it, shake it, and dance someone right off the field! I guess she's the only reason they took 1st place in her age anyway! Well, atleast I believe that! I am so proud of her and my sister for how well she has done things on her own.

New Year's Day we ate breakfast, and I laid around in my jammies till 5 PM! I like days like that. We did take down all the Christmas decorations......tree and all. We did this extremely early this year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!!!!

New Year......Resolution?

2007-12-30T12:41:00.000-08:00

I've always laughed at New Year's Resolutions. I think its silly to think that you're going to change the minute the clock strikes midnight. Of course, some people will accomplish their goals. I've never really made a resolution before. I have made change in my life, big changes in some areas. And I've not had to wait till the Jan. 1 to do it. I committed in March of 2006 to lose baby weight and did that by God's grace and power. No, it wasn't much but it was an accomplishment for me. By June of 2006 I had lost what I wanted. Being a young mom of two small children, I seem to get busy and weeks go by and before I know it I have missed someone's birthday or anniversary. This year I'm making a stab at remembering people's birthdays and anniversary by sending them a card in the mail to let them know that I am thinking about them at their special time of the year. I'm going to be praying and taking one month at a time to do this. I don't expect to be perfect but I have already written down everyone's birthdays and anniversaries. Only time will tell if this is a 'silly' resolution or not. Good luck to those who have made a pledge into the new year!

Better to be Safe than Sorry.......

2007-12-30T12:33:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine brought it to my attention that having mine, my husband's, and children's real names wasn't safe. So, I have updated everything. Those of you who know me will understand and you know them anyway. All of the postings will be real things happening in my life at the moment though. I love my family and never want any harm to come to them.

Christmas Eve Pictures

2007-12-26T11:43:00.001-08:00

The first picture is of Hubby's parents Pop-in-law and Mom-in-law. Then of course of my hubby and I followed by my two little ones.

Christmas Day!

2007-12-26T10:36:00.000-08:00

Whew! I love Christmas! But does it take a toll on your body! I mean schedules are rearranged and you can forget nap time. One day seemed to blur into the next! Hubby and I are blessed with such great family. Christmas Eve we went to his grams house. Seeing everyone is nice. Even though we all live with in 35 miles of one another we still don't get to see them as much as we would like. The kids had a great time and this year was the first year Peter actually opened all of his gifts. He really got the hang of it this time around! I really love seeing their faces light up when they open their gifts. Hubby's parents came and spent the night at our house Christmas Eve. That was lots of fun. I told my mom that she needed to come next year and we would have a big ole slumber party with the in-laws!!!! After opening present I made sausage gravy and biscuits with homemade fried potatoes with onions, eggs and heated some bacon and pancakes for my little children. We all chowed down! We then went to Hubby's other grandma's, opened presents there and then ate some more food! I confessed to mother-in-law that I have officially gained 5 pounds throughout the holiday season. And with gaining my extra pudge I even got Rachael Ray's new cook book for Christams!! How ironic?! No, my New Year's resolution will not be to lose weight. I fully intend on cooking more YUM-O food in the new year!! All the women who like to cook, can I get an AMEN?

Church Christmas Tree Pictures

2007-12-23T19:19:00.000-08:00

Busy, Busy......

2007-12-23T18:37:00.000-08:00

Man how time flies. I can't believe it's been since Thursday that I've posted. My sister told me this evening that's not being a 'good blogger'. So, here I am. Let's start with Friday. My sister kept my kids for what was suppose to be a few hours so Hubby and I could finish shopping and so she could do a Christmas craft with my kids. But it turned into an all nighter. She offered to keep the kids over night since they were having such a good time playing with my two nephews and my niece. We were like yeah! We enjoyed ourselves so much. It was nice to not feel rushed to get everything done and to enjoy our time with one another. After children you cherish all the time alone that you are blessed to get. We went to an early dinner at Olive Garden, which is one of my favorite restaurants. Thanks Sis, I owe you BIG!!! After all the hustle and bustle of the stores and traffic we went to our friend's house. Mike and Dia were married only two weeks ago. We sat and talked, which is something we don't get to do very often, uninterrupted I mean. They are a great couple. I truly believe that God has huge plans for them together. I'm so happy for them and pray everyday that God will bless their marriage tremendously. Okay, mush mush I'm starting to get sappy!

Saturday was a bit of a lazy day. I started to feel like I was coming down with a cold on Friday night and it finally hit me Saturday. We picked up the kids went to the grocery store and came home! I did manage to make some Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Balls. Actually for the first time, they were sinfully delicious! Just kidding, they are really good!! Movies and hot tea was all I wanted.

Today we had our Christmas play at church. It was a good drama. The kids were so cute in their jammies and then they did this cool glow in the dark butterfly thing with music. You just had to be there. Between the time after church and before my mom's house we went to Hubby's parents. It was nice to see them. We haven't been able to visit much lately. Someone has always been sick lately or we have had some risky weather. Mom-in-law had cooked a ham with greenbeans, potatoes, sweet potato casserole, baked beans, and rolls. YUM! I was starving when I got there so I ate like there was no tomorrow!! Thanks to you Mom-in-law! And her sidekick, Pop-in-law! We also had Christmas at my mom's house tonight. The kids opened their gifts from my mom and sister and her family. Everyone was so excited. We ate pizza which was different from what we normally do but I think it was one of the best ideas. The kids were able to eat right away and not a whole lot of mess to clean up. My mom has to work a double on Christmas Eve. This will be the first year ever that we won't be together on Christmas Eve. Life does change. Just with the holidays it's nice to be with family. I'm looking forward to the rest of the Christmas festivities.

My family!

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These are some pictures from different times. The first two are from a camping trip we went on back in June with our small group. My hunkie husband was teaching our little ones how to catch some dinner!! The rest are of my babies when we went on a hike here at home. This is a small bridge we went over and the kids loved it.

Kids

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I have two children. Enough said, right? Well, my two seem to keep me so busy some days. I wonder where the day has gone or that bed time can not come soon enough. I know many moms who feel this same way. Like I said in an earlier blog that Hubby is working 3:30 in the afternoon til 1:30 in the morning and with where we live he has to leave at 2:30 to not return til 2:30 in the morning. That means I have dinner, bath, and bed all by myself. Whew, I'm wore out just writing about it. (Props to single parents who have to do it alone.) Not to mention, I don't sleep very well in the bed by myself, I never have. Ask my mom! This week has been challenging. I mean its nice to have him here for lunch. But I will be so glad to have him here in the evening. After tonight he will be home until after Christmas!! I've come to really appreciate our time together. I enjoy just being at home with my husband and kids. That's one of the things that makes me the happiest. To not have to be running up and down the roads and we are able to enjoy the time we have together.

Tomorrow my sister is going to watch my kids for a few hours so she can do a Christmas craft with them. This will give Hubby and I some time alone to finish our shopping. Speaking of shopping, God has really been good to Hubby and I this season. I've mentioned in my profile that I'm a Cosmetologist. I have been so blessed to have people call and want to buy their family members 'gift certificates' from me for hair services. Which has been such a blessing to get the extra money here at Christmas time.

My daughter is 4 and has started to put Christmas and presents together. She asked the other day, "How many days till Santa brings us our presents from Jesus?" I was so shocked. She in her little mind thinks that Santa works for Jesus. We explained that Santa doesn't work for Jesus but that Jesus loves us so much that he wants them to have the presents for His birthday. We have decided since it is so close already that we aren't going to tell them that Santa isn't real this year but have decided for now we are saying, 'it's only -- days til Jesus' birthday.' For Christ Followers, this is a touchy subject. Many parents face this ordeal at sometime or another. Obvisouly, God is letting us personally know that it's time to be honest to our children. The Bible has so much that we believe without seeing as adults. For my children, I don't want them to think that the stories in the Bible aren't true. I'm in awe of God and how He brings things forth in our lives.

Barbie Princess Cake

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Ok here she is! This one was a bit challenging. The doll was a lot taller than the cake. I had saran wrapped the doll so she would stay clean put her in the cake and then said, 'Oh no!'. So I ended up using some silver Christmas ribbon to tie a huge bow around her waist that came out over her butt.

The party was great. Everyone loved the cakes. My nephew was so happy to see his snowman cake. And when I told my niece to look at her cake she nearly jumped out of her highchair!! She is such a girly girl! Hubby has been working all evenings this week. Its been nice to have him here in the mornings but I'm used to us having dinner together and putting the kids to bed together. The house seems big and lonely after the kids go to bed. We usually talk about our day or watch one of our favorite shows like House or CSI. I haven't watched night time TV all week. That has been nice. The peace I mean. Hopefully only one more night with him being gone and then he'll be off til after Christmas! That's lots of time to be with him that I'm looking forward to. Well, it's late and I'm off to read or maybe just sleep!

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Frosty the Snowman Birthday Cake

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I have become the cake maker for my family. Which absolutely thrills me! So far I've mastered princesses, gameboys, butterflies, sunglasses and Lightening McQueen from the movie Cars.

Today is my nephew's 7th birthday. He asked for some sort of Christmas cake. I just finished this one to take tonight. Isn't it the cutest? He is too cute to cut! My niece's birthday is on the 23rd. So my sister planned to have their parties together. I'm getting ready to ice my niece's. Of course it's a Barbie princess cake. I'll post pictures of that one afterward. Stay tuned!

First Blog

2007-12-19T05:41:00.000-08:00

This is all new to me. My close friend has this same blog spot and I read her blog everyday. For a while now I have been thinking about making my own. It seems to be the "thing" now. My sister has a blog on MYSPACE. Although I'm late catching up with everyone else, this seems like it will be lots of fun! So, we will see how well I can keep up with posting everyday. God knows there is a lot of stuff to post with being home with two small children. So here I go!