My Blessings

2008-06-08T18:25:00.000-07:00

Here it is, as promised, the first of my weekly menu's. I have decided to only do breakfast and dinner, as lunch time is really the same everyday, minus the occasional leftovers.

Breakfast: (served with juice and fruit)

Monday - Pancakes

Tuesday - Cinnamon toast

Wednesday - Eggs & grits

Thursday - French toast

Friday - eggs

Saturday - homemade muffins

Sunday - pancakes

Dinner

Monday - Hamburgers, chips, salad

Tuesday - Roast Chicken, Rice, Broccoli, rolls

Wednesday - Spaghetti, bread, salad

Thursday - Ham, hash browns, green beans

Friday - Homemade pizza, salad

Saturday - Talapia (fish), Rice, corn, sliced tomatoes
Sunday - Crock pot BBQ chicken, rolls, salad

2008-06-06T14:48:00.000-07:00

Okay...so as if I don't have enough to do at the moment, I thought I would take another stab at creating weekly menu's. I am hoping that this will aid in slowing down my impending "vacation" to the funny farm, along with cutting down on our food bill (all those unnecessary buys) and it will also be nice to actually have an answer to the daily, sometimes hourly question....OK so in my house its more like every 3 minutes.... "WHAT'S FOR DINNER?????"

I would like to find time each Sunday to post my weekly menu's for you to read....and maybe inspire some of you to join me. If I am feeling really motivated I might even share a few recipes and as always I welcome any advice or feedback from all of you!

Till Sunday then....ta ta!

2008-05-20T05:13:00.000-07:00

Our new patio!!!

2008-05-20T04:55:00.000-07:00

2008-05-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

more puppy pictures!

2008-05-06T09:27:00.000-07:00

I know this picture isn't the best, but it shows the blue eyes, all the puppies have blue eyes!
Skylar with her baby

2008-04-28T07:15:00.000-07:00

I have been spending alot of time in the garden lately....hey, I have to avoid studying, house work, and other duties some how!!! This weekend I planted a whole bunch of beautiful plants...here is just a glimps of the garden!

Veggies - green beans

cucumbers

Onions

Bell peppers

banana peppers

Squash

tomatoes

Sweet basil

Rosemary

Thyme

2008-04-20T10:02:00.000-07:00

So we now have 4 little puppies to add to the household!!!

I told troy before we had them that if she had a pure white one

that I wanted to keep it...she had 2.....what to do what to do?!!!

2008-04-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken the day we went to the park to ride

our bikes and have a picnic.
mama and Bethany
Jack exploring the grass.

Maddie all geared up and ready!
Shortly after our ride started, robby seemed to be having a bit

of trouble so I asked him what was wrong, he said " I think I am out of gas"

Its a good thing he keeps me laughing becasue with the trouble that kid gets

himself into................

get this thing off my head!!!!
Say cookie! er eh I mean Cheese!
Robby hiding from his sisters!

2008-03-26T06:42:00.000-07:00

The anatomy of a temper tantrum.....

These pictures really speak for themselves, but had to post them because I think they are so funny. Jack has taken a liking to temper tantrums. I am not sure why. As with each child we have had, temper tantrum were short lived, if at all, because they never got what they wanted when they would "throw one". However, Jack seems to be particularly stubborn and just keeps trying to see if one day they will work for him. Someone should tell him he is number 4 and if they haven't worked on the first 3, I certainly won't be letting him get away with them.

Oh and this particular tantrum was over a "c-o-o-k-i-e".

2008-03-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter

2008-03-24T08:41:00.000-07:00

Maddie and Bethany had an Easter party this weekend.

It was the sweetest party...and you would never believe how quiet the girls were.

It was so nice. We had strawberry salad (a favorite of maddie's) and strawberry cake.

An Egg hunt, and lots of girlie decorations. It was so much fun!

2008-03-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

HAPPY SPRING !!!!!

I am so excited to be out working in the garden again. The last few weeks I have been watching the seedings grow and lean towards the sunfilled window. These few seeds were a little over zeleous and decided that even without some soil they would sprout. I guess I am not the only one excited about spring time. We have had a nasty bout of sickness in our house the last few weeks. Although we are all on the mend it seems to really have taken a toll on all of us. I think that a little fresh air and garden time will be good for all of us. Just something about it that makes me smile.

2008-03-14T06:33:00.001-07:00

This year I celebrated the last birthday in my 20's...yes mama its true....your baby girl is now 29!!!! A couple weeks before my birthday I had taken Maddie to school in the typical frazzled mom fashion. oh come on you know what I am talking about. Sweat pants, tshirt, old flannel, hair thrown in a scrunchi and raccoon eyes, no time for brushing of the hair, let alone teeth. I had said my usual "prayer" please God don't let me run into anyone I know, and let me not get in an accident on my way (you know the always have on clean clothes rule!) So I had made it safely home and was anticipating the promised toast and eggs when I walked in the door. Well clearly that was not what I came home to. I opened the door and my dear sweet hubby was standing in the dinning room with a weird silly look on his face. I asked him what was wrong and he said nothing, just glanced into our bedroom, what? I asked again, now feeling a sick feeling arise in my stomach. Fearing the worst. And there they were sitting on my bed, all perky and excited and ready to be the bestest friends to a old tired girl who really really really was in need of a vacation! My 2 best friends had apparently been scheming for months!!! They had pulled out a suitcase and all my clothes said "hurry up shower, dress, and pack, we are leaving" I think at this point I was in shock....where is my coffee my brain was shutting down. pack? and the words that came out of their mouths next were like angles singing "we are not coming back till Sunday night!!!" (and my dear readers...this was Friday morning!!!) I think my heart stopped!!!

So off we went, and they blindfolded me...standard procedure apparently for "official girl napping" they had thought of everything, even rescheduling my chiropractor appointment so I could go there first!!! Then off to Disney, yes.... I know, 2 nights in a hotel, and the happiest place on earth! Jen, Laurie and I had so much fun. The food was so yummy, the weather was great, a little rain never hurt anyone! plus without kids who could complain?! For once I got to be that stranger who gives the mother in line with the screaming children a "knowing nod" it was great!!! Thank you to all the hubbies who forked over the cash, and changed all the diapers while we were playing all weekend! What a great birthday!

2008-03-04T06:07:00.000-08:00

2008-03-04T05:49:00.000-08:00

It has been demanded, ahem...of me that I update my blog. Where to begin? Currently in my house I have one 3 year old, two 2 year olds, one 1 year old and one 2 month old. Whom I am pretty certain have already destroyed what little was "clean" in the house, excuse me there are doors slamming.............................................................................................. OK I'm back, all fingers are still attached. phew. OK where was I? I seem to have very little train of thou.....
We are trying out some new flooring, it's kind of like the new bamboo floors, have you seen those? so very "green" and beautiful, however ours are more of the whatever the kids track in over the crumbs the dogs refuse to clean up (yes, my two dogs are on strike...no more goldfish or Cheerios will be "hoovered" till they get a new contract). Apparently our dishwasher is also on strike (aka ME) but thankfully my dear sweet hubby has taken over that job...and thank goodness because it was getting a little (ok, alot) scary!!! Oh and my real dilemma of the day, please help me brainstorm this one, I have a mini van that holds 5 in the back, however only holds 4 car seats...
Today I have to pick up Robby at the bus stop...well everyday actually...but today will be my first day attempting to take BETHANY, SAMANTHA, GABRIEL, JACK AND LOGAN....all down to the bus stop, and pick him up...and since we can't all fit...we will be WALKING!!!!!!! OK it's to much I can no longer think about that.
I also have 2 tests to take tomorrow at school, so at some point today I need to look over my notes, maybe I can do that while stripping down all the kids beds to wash the sheets...why must they all "leak" on the same night? well actually it is better ... but a pain anyhow....
OK so is this enough of an update? I could keep going? Oh I have yet to tell you about my 2 dear sweet friends "girl napping" me for a relaxing get away!!!!! But that will have to wait, I need more coffee and the house just got eerily quiet...that is NEVER a good thing. I will leave you with a sweet line from an old song...."it will be worth it all, when we see Jesus"....and my dear friends...it will.

2008-02-04T08:01:00.000-08:00

Sonya! here is my new office!

2008-02-04T07:55:00.000-08:00

To say that Jack loves banana's would be a real understatement. Nothing can keep him from enjoying his favorite fruit...including a peel. sigh,
that's my monkey!

2008-01-30T06:39:00.000-08:00

This morning Bethany asked me to play hide and seek with her. While sounding like a great idea, I just didn't think that it would be a safe game to play in my present condition. Oh it's nothing too serious...I just try to avoid anything that requires me to close my eyes for more than a natural blink. Mama, I am so sorry for all the times, I refused to nap because I know now, those are the days when you needed a break the most!

2008-01-23T05:55:00.001-08:00

I am sorry it has been so long since I have updated my blog. To say things are crazy is such an understatement!!! Classes 4 nights a week and once a month all day Saturday plus 2 kids at 2 different schools (each on a different side of town!) 2 others at home, 2 extra kids at home, and a hubby to care for and I am really thinking that a clone would be a FANTASTIC idea right about now! Oh and the 2 dogs which are making me crazy, especially when the little ones decide to play the recorders...that I in a very true lack of judgement bought them for Christmas!!!! What was I thinking???!!!!! However it is not all bad news. I still have a loving family who despite an occasional lack of recognition...hey lady have you seen my mommy? and I have amazing friends who have encouraged me along plus my mama who is my own personal cheerleader, without you all I would probably be on my way now to the funny farm, men in white coats, padded walls...jello for breakfast lunch and dinner....hmmmmm, a bed....personal time.....hmmmmm...ok so maybe that wouldn't be so bad! I love you all and wanted to say a heartfelt thanks!!!!!

2008-01-08T06:55:00.001-08:00

I have officially started my therapy classes. I was sent off to class last night with a little cheering squad in the front yard. All the kids were holding up signs of encouragement and telling me how much they loved me...what a sweet hubby to put that all together. I think I am really going to enjoy going back to school and pray that I don't end up looking like my "new best friend" by the time this is all said and done. Everyone in class was given this skeleton to aid in learning about the human body. I have not officially named him/her yet but have been trying to think of a good name that will fit his/her personality. Any ideas? Oh and in case you are wondering this "little" skeleton stands a full 33 1/2 inches tall.

2007-12-22T08:51:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! We had to catch a moment to get a family picture this year. This was taken at Mama's house and she managed to get one of all of us looking in the same direction!!!
Such a hard thing to do with all the little ones. Maybe one year we will have a portrait done with us all dressed up and looking glamorous....but this year we are just blessed to get a picture where all the kids are dressed...and we are thankful!!!! Blessings to all of you this Christmas!!!!!

2007-12-17T08:47:00.000-08:00

A few changes have happened in our house in the last week. The first is that Robby has started at a new school, which he loves. The second is that I have decided to go back to school!!!! I am excited and anxious at the same time. I will be going to evening classes for Massage Therapy. I am still waiting to see how this will all work out. I will be on the go from 6 am till whenever I can fall into bed. And yes the reason I have a picture of white shoes is becasue I will have to wear them to school, along with white scrubs.....hmmmm white and little children....should be fun!!!
Here is a picture of Robby all ready to go to school this morning.

It was actually cold for a change!

oh and hey does anyone have a clue where I put my highschool diploma???

apparently they need that......oh dear.

2007-12-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

SAY PLEASE........

Bethany is our quiet child. In fact it isn't unusual for us to still here people say they have never heard her speak. Which is funny because she can talk my leg off when she wants to. 2 nights ago we were out Christmas shopping and it was getting late. I was starting to sense that if we didn't get them all home soon, that I would lose it. You know that frantic count down in the back of every mom's brain that starts sounding the alarm that a melt down is coming. Troy had Jack with him in the cart and I had the other 3 in the ornament isle trying to not let them touch everything...HA! So I said to Bethany " Bethany, hold my hand" and I was ignored, a talent she has down to a science! So I repeated myself 4 TIMES!!! Finally she looked up at me with her big blue eyes and said with all seriousness "Mommy I am trying, but you haven't said please". sigh, mommies....practice what you preach!!!!!

2007-11-30T08:52:00.000-08:00

Oh well, I’m tired and so wearyBut I must go aloneTill the lord comes and calls, calls me away, oh yesWell the morning's so brightAnd the lamp is alightAnd the night, night is as black as the sea, oh yes
There will be peace in the valley for me, some dayThere will be peace in the valley for me, oh Lord I prayThere'll be no sadness, no sorrowNo trouble, trouble I seeThere will be peace in the valley for me, for me
Well the bear will be gentleAnd the wolves will be tameAnd the lion shall lay down by the lamb, oh yesAnd the beasts from the wildShall be lit by a childAnd I'll be changed, changed from this creature that I am, oh yes
There will be peace in the valley for me, some dayThere will be peace in the valley for me, oh Lord I prayThere'll be no sadness, no sorrowNo trouble, trouble I seeThere will be peace in the valley for me, for me

2007-11-30T07:50:00.001-08:00

My week has been anything but fun. We had a scare with the possible mumps....
thank goodness it wasn't! However all the kids are snot nosed and cranky and
my poor immune system finally gave in and I felt really awful for a few days.
By the way, as I am writing this I am hearing all the toy bins being emptied
one after another on the wood floor...sigh, but I have no more energy to bother
with it right now. Yesterday was a "sneak outside and cry my frustrations out
then back in before any kids noticed I was gone" kind of day, to change another
diaper and wipe another nose. This morning was the icing on the cake...loaded 4
children into the van...and what do you know, I think we might actually make the
doctors appointment on time...but the van won't start!!!! So back out of the car
with Robby trying to diagnose the problem... which I admit at that particular
moment was NOT helpful. So back into the house, which is a total wreak....if I
could find the phone number of our maid...I'd call her and give her a piece of my
mind. (HA!)

2007-11-27T05:38:00.000-08:00

Always thinking of the bugs....Robby seems to have a love hate relationship with critters. He either wants to put them in his pockets or he is having nightmares about them crawling in his bed. This morning Robby came to me and said "mommy I needed to get this toilet paper " then he held up a handful of crumpled toilet paper "so I could get the bug so the spider wouldn't have so much work to do". huh????? was my reply as I was still working on my first cup of coffee and still trying to wake up from the pm cold medicine I had taken last night.
So of course I asked him to explain how exactly he was "helping" the spider. Apparently he saw the bug and thought that he'd help out the "spiders of the world" because it is, after all their job to rid his bed of bugs (can you hear a mommy midnight "everything is OK go back to bed the spiders are our friends" talk in there somewhere???!!!) and he was going to "take care of this bug" so he could give the spiders a break from their "hard work"!!!!

Oh the mind of a little boy is such a wonderful thing! Do you think God made them that way so just when you think you might really lose it on them they say something so cute and amazing that you just melt all over again for them?

2007-11-23T09:46:00.000-08:00

I think a bird flew threw the house, at least that would explain the looks on their faces!!!
sweet cousins, dear friends.
brotherly love!!!! my boys
Madelyn playing outside before the feast.
More Brotherly love.......my dear brothers!

A slight glimpse of our Thanksgiving day.....we are SO BLESSED!!!!

2007-11-21T11:07:00.000-08:00

A little taste of home.
As a young girl I used to talk walk down to our local sari-sari store (a little shack type building with candy and soda and other misc. things) one of my favorite breads could also be bought there, and if you got there early enough you could buy them while they were still warm.
I was reminded of Pandesal when I was eating a roll last night, don't know why then...but it got me thinking that I wish I could have a warm pandesal right out of the oven...so the search began for the recipe....and I found it!!!!

Pan de Sal
1 tbsp. vegetable shortening1 tbsp. salt1 tbsp. sugar1 cup boiling water1 tbsp. active dry yeast4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour4 ounces plain crackers, crumbled (about 40 crackers)

Combine the shortening, salt, sugar, and boiling water in a large mixingbowl. Stir and set aside to cool to a warm temperature (about 110-115F).
Combine the yeast and warm water in a small bowl, stirring until yeast isdissolved. Set aside for 5 minutes. Gradually mix in flour to make adough.
Turn out on a lightly floured surface.
Knead for 8 to 10 minutes, untildough is smooth and elastic, adding flour as necessary to preventstickiness. Return it to the bowl.
Cover with plastic wrap and let rise ina warm place until doubled in bulk--about 45 minutes.Preheat oven to 425F.
Flour two baking sheets.Gently knead the dough again. Divide into 16 pieces and shape into buns.Roll the pieces in the cracker crumbs and place on the baking sheets, spreadwell apart. Cover and let rise 20 minutes. Bake for 15 minutes.
Transferto a wire rack to cool.

2007-11-20T05:52:00.000-08:00

I had the chance to go to a WOMAN OF FAITH conference at the beginning of this month. It was so much fun!!!! Here is a picture of my friend and I sitting in the sun finishing our lunch. It was such an amazing time, we already have our tickets for next year!!!

2007-11-20T05:45:00.000-08:00

Jack is now 18months old. He is into everything and has some spunk that the others didn't have at this age. He is our first to do an "all out temper tantrum". Yesterday I had to take something away from him, and he ran into the dining room and threw himself on the floor and started screaming and kicking....which I IGNORED.... So when that didn't work he pick himself up and ran over to me, threw himself at my feet and proceeded to kick and scream....someone tell him that he is number 4, and he'll have to try a lot harder than that to get his way.

2007-11-19T05:36:00.000-08:00

I came across this old poem I had written in high school. It was tucked away in an old sketch book in a box in the garage. I found it while looking for our expired passports...but that is a whole other story. I read it over and it reminded me oh how easily out faith can be questioned and how frail the human mind is. I don't think that my original thought was to express that, but now that I am in a different place in my life its meaning changes. My children are all sick, except for Jack, we are approaching thanksgiving day and my prayer is that they will all be well by then....but in the midst of the crying and coughing and sneezing and did I mention crying...it is sometimes hard to see the sun. So I think I will put on some sweet music and forget the piled laundry that is overtaking my house, over look the daily grind and spend a moment warming myself in the warmth of the SON who gives me strength.

Tomorrow

I open my eyes to the breaking of dawn, I sense the warmth all around,

safe inside its soft rays.

The peaking of the sun lite sky, over taking my loneliness

Leaving no trace of it behind.

I laugh and celebrate in its warm caress.

All the time believing that I'll forever be free, happy and safe.

The it happens, all to quickly, I cry and beg it not to go.

But unaware of my plea's it fades into the far distance.

As I sink to the ground and hold my own trembling body,

I close my eyes to the cold night air.

So scared, so alone.

Only if we were to see that tomorrow holds a better, brighter sunlight for us.

But in our nature we cannot see, but only wallow in our own misery.

Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

2007-11-16T09:09:00.000-08:00

I feel lately that I am having an inner struggle, well actually it is probably very evident on the outside as well, with myself. I feel like I am always saying one thing and then asking for the opposite. Mainly in the subject of my children and having them grow up. Go to bed, oh let me snuggle with you a bit longer. I hope they sleep in, I can't wait for them to wake up to see this...

Won't it be great when he is in school ALL DAY LONG, I miss him and wish he were here to help me like he used to...by "matching" all the socks. I can't wait till they sleep though the night, where did that sweet baby smell go? I wish they would color in the lines, or anywhere but on the walls....why are you so worried about every little detail? (that one would be for the first born perfectionist). Grow up, where did my baby go? My guess is that I am not the only mom out there feeling this odd pull. One day when my sweet hubby and I are on our in a quiet neat house, and all the children are grown and off on their own we will look back and say how much we miss that....... a little to close to it today, but I know one day....one day!

2007-11-15T09:08:00.000-08:00

Feeling like I was about to loose what little sanity I had left today, I thought I'd do what I love and paint...it worked....I'm still hanging on by a thread!!! yeah for me! it's a bug a blue bug, and I love him. :)

2007-11-13T13:48:00.000-08:00

I know these are late but they are still cute.
I will have to wait for family to send the other pictures of the kids, but these
are they ones I have been send so far...I need to get my camera back. :)

2007-11-06T08:58:00.000-08:00

I have another quote from Robby...it was just to funny not to share.
Last weekend I ran to the store to get a cooked chicken for dinner and I
had Robby with me. I placed the chicken in the cart and Robby looked at
it and asked me "mommy do they tie the legs together so the chicken
doesn't flop around while it's cooking?" - I almost died laughing, so I had
to make a quick call on the matter and either become a vegetarian and put
the chicken back, or say "no honey" in my most controlled "mommy voice"
and ramble some short explanation about cooking and change the subject.
Oh he makes me laugh!!!!

2007-10-30T09:10:00.000-07:00

BOOOOO!!!! We all had so much fun creating our

first jack-o-lantern as a family. The kids were elbow deep

in pumpkin slime, but it was worth it!

2007-10-30T08:34:00.000-07:00

Look - Pictures!!!! My dear sweet hubby was kind enough to figure out how to load the pictures from my phone to the computer...isn't he sweet! So here are some of the many hot banana peppers that came out of the garden this week. I was at somewhat of a loss as to what to do with them, due to mismarked seedlings I was "blessed" with more than enough peppers. So I chopped them up and froze them.... and I'll let my imagination take over one day while making dinner. Maybe stirfry or chill?! Any thougths?

2007-10-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

2007-10-25T05:41:00.000-07:00

I have decided to be creative in sharing with you all. There are ways around the lack of a camera to still share with you all what my latest plans are. I wanted to find a way to share a little bit of love with those I know, and maybe those I don't know this fall season. I came across this beautiful idea this morning and love it! Now sorry but most of you that are reading this will not recieve this little bundle, but it's not that I don't love you or didn't think of you, it's just that well...I don't think the postal service will be delicate enough with them. What am I talking about? well hold on, be patient. First you have to imagine a leaf cookie with fall cardstock. Totally confused? Well follow this link and you will understand.

http://www.justasiam.typepad.com/

Take care!

2007-10-24T10:38:00.000-07:00

My dear faithful readers,

ha ha ha
I bet all of you have wondered where I have been. I am sure it keeps you up at night, tossing and turning. Well it's nothing to traumatic just need new batteries for my camera. We had the nice rechargeable batteries, but I think I recharged them past their life time. They should call them temporary rechargeable batteries. misleading advertising. humf.

So that's is that's why there hasn't been any new crafts posted, and new pictures of the munchkins. No pictures of my blooming cucumber plants. sigh, I know very sad.
I have been contemplating starting a second blog for my gardening adventures......but not sure if I would have enough to write about, so maybe I'll start by combining the 2 and see how that goes for a while.

love to all,
Heidi

2007-10-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

So here are some key instructions for eating a cupcake....now pay attention because it take a lot of skill and concentration.

First place cupcake directly in front of you.

Then while holding your hands slightly out to the sides, for balance, place your face into the cupcake.

Finally sit back up and savor the sweet treat!

Hmmmmmmm - yummy!

2007-10-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

Bethany had her 3rd birthday party on Saturday.

It was still hot outside, but a nice breeze made it seem okay.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BETHANY!

2007-09-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

Anybody wanna go sailin?!

2007-09-25T13:54:00.000-07:00

The other day I asked Robby if he thought Jack was cool, and he said "no, why?"

I told him that when Jack got a little bigger that they would have so much fun building forts and riding bikes, legos, etc... and he just smiled and said, "you mean we get to ride all by ourselves?"

Then he ran off to play. Later that day Robby came over to me and said. "Jack is so cool mommy!" I pray that these two boys will be the best of friends thoughout thier childhood and for a lifetime.

2007-09-25T13:48:00.000-07:00

I miss you Aunt Sonya, Uncle Andy, Charis, Micah, Joel and Eden! I love you!!!

2007-09-22T06:29:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking alot lately about how I can manage to raise 4 children and keep my sanity.
(rabbit trail : had a teacher once who said you raise cattle you rear children....or did he say you rear cattle and raise children??? I am so worried I say it wrong, but can't remember the right way to say it!!!!) Ok back to my original thought, how did my mother do it?! Still baffles me that she is as sane as she is (wink wink mama) and survived all 4 of us kids. I feel sad that I can't just let my kids got outside and play...it just isn't safe anymore, or the fact that I can't just throw them all in the van and run around town. Those of you with 4 or more know what I mean.
I mean how many verses to "the wheels on the bus" can one handle before having a total mental break down, how many knock knock jokes will it take. On a good day I know they don't conspire to drive mama mad, but on a bad day...I'm not so sure. We had family night last night and after a really nice dinner we watched "Chicken Run" it was so cute and the man kept hitting his head saying "it's all in my head" becasue he was sure the chickens were "organized" and trying to escape.... raise your hand if you ever feel like that! Ok now if you've raised your hand, look around and make sure no one saw you, and put your hand down!....don't worry I'm sure you aren't the only reader of this ramble that raised your hand. All this to say, I am sure, or at least I hope and pray that I will make it threw these years with my babes, and that everyone will come out of the other side of it all with all limbs intact and by the grace of God a willing spirit to serve HIM. And at the end of the day, after they are all tucked in AND ASLEEP, I am so thankful for my sweet family and all the blessings that they bring to me. phew, what a ramble.

2007-09-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

My garden got started late this year, but it just couldn't be helped. I am blessed in the fact that I have more days before the first frost...lol - in florida - ya right! I am praying that I will see some results before the "winter". Here are some, well alot of pictures actually of my little garden. Next spring will be twice as big, so this is really just my practice run.
Peppers
Blue bells (above) just getting started. They really need a better home and something to climb on before they take over the ground!
This beauty is in the front next to the mail box.

2007-09-21T08:10:00.000-07:00

Above are the beans (in front) and cucumbers (in back)
Herbs and peppers
more peppers and tomatoes
These purple flowers are in the back corner of the backyard.

2007-09-21T07:35:00.000-07:00

It's he beautiful?!

Jack Ryan 16 months

2007-09-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

I came across this funny story on the web today while sitting in my room attempting to get 2 of my kid-o's to sleep. It gave me a good chuckle, and no they are not alseep yet. Enjoy!

Hi all, Just thought you all would get a kick out of Mommy's Potty Training mistake today. It all started with getting up this morning to a dead fish in our fish tank. I explained to all the kids that things like this happen and that it is natural for things to only live for a short time. I not thinking decided to flush the fish down the nearest toilet. Where I'm trying to potty train. We proceeded to give the fish a water burial (toilet) and they all flushed it away. I made the statement that now the fish was in now in heaven and we said a quick prayer.10 min went by and we are all going about our business of getting breakfast and stuff. I proceeded to ask Joshua (who is trying to potty train) "Do you need to go to the bathroom and go pee." He looked at me with a bewildered face and stated, "But mommy, there is a fish in my toilet." I explained that the fish was gone now to heaven and it is swimming in the crystal pool now. "Then mommy, does Jesus need my pee too?" No son, we flush your pee and it goes down the drain. (I realized I was in trouble) But mommy, you said that the fish went to heaven, did he go in my pee? No son. (Joshua calls for reinforcements......) Then here comes Jacci (who is also trying to potty train) and looks at me and says, "Mommy, fish in toilet?" No sissy, in heaven. You could tell that she was thinking... then Josh pipes up.."Sissy, fishy went in my pee to heaven. I don't know why Jesus needs my pee?" By this point I could tell that I had lost the battle. There was no recovering my blunder. The worst part is that it took me a couple of min to realize that we have TWO BATHROOMS and asked them if they would use my potty. "Does it go to heaven too?" No son. Ok mommy, but...........HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-09-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

Isn't he so cute in his little stripe PJ's. I could just eat himup. This was taken last night right before bed. Jack loves this book becasue it counts how many of each item are on the page. His favorite page is number 5 because it has DOGGIEEEEEEEES, which he loves.

2007-09-08T15:48:00.000-07:00

My sweet B seems to be growing up so much lately. She is very shy and if she knew you heard her voice she might crawl under my arm. I am not sure where she gets her shyness from , Troy and I are not what I would describe as shy. She brings us so much joy with her sweet smile and quiet spirit. Next month she will be 3 years old. It's hard to believe that she was so small when she was born, such a little peanut, what a blessing she is!

2007-09-07T09:04:00.000-07:00

Above is the picture in my heart and below is the picture you'd see if you looked through my window! Vast difference, I know!!! I just feel so overwhelmed lately. My house seems to be out of control, dishes are dirtied faster than I can wash them (yes, by hand no luxury of a dishwasher) yesterday I felt like I was just following the kids and picking up after them. I would usually have them pick up after themselves...but I just didn't have the energy to repeat myself 48 times. I have a few bags to give to salvation army...but I am thinking about adding alot more if it doesn't find a place on the shelf soon. This morning I just had to get out of the house, so while the litte babes were sleeping the rest of us headed out back to enjoy the fresh HOT air and learn a little about composting and see the progress of our little garden. I let the kids play and I weeded a little and moved some starter plants around. One day we will spend more time outdoors than in. I have grand plans for the back yard....one thing at a time. I would love a bird bath, birdfeeder, fountain, more stepping stones, you can never have to many stepping stones!
Well my ramblings seem to have gotten out of control....fitting don't you think!

2007-09-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

Robby informed Maddie on the way home today that he wanted to be a "stranger"
who broke into peoples houses when he grows up....I guess I'll have to revise the talk about how he can be anything he wants when he grows up!!!

2007-09-03T18:30:00.000-07:00

Our friend Jesse was called home to be with her savior yesterday

at the age of 21 when her heart gave out.

We rejoice that she is in heaven but are so grieved as we will miss her greatly.

Our hearts and prayers are with her husband and family.

2007-08-24T05:56:00.000-07:00

Robby has almost completed his first week of Florida Connections schooling. It has been so neat to see him learning, and grasping new concepts! Here is his "book report" about "Curious George" it's an action shot of George jumping off the boat and into the water. Oh and Grammy, Robby wants to know why you never put smoochies on the sun, is it because it's to hot???

2007-08-20T06:56:00.000-07:00

We miss you so much already!!!!

My sister came home from the other side of the world for 3 weeks, and we had a wonderful
time with her. It was so hard to say goodbye last night, and again on the phone this morning.
I don't know how I will manage the next 3 years with out seeing her. I am so thankful for the internet and the ability to connect with her that way. I am so blessed to have such a sweet Godly sister to look up to. I love you sis!

2007-08-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

Jack and his sweet cousin....he thinks she is just beautiful. We have enjoyed my sisters visit, it has been so wonderful to see her and the baby. I thought it would be 3 more years till we got to see them, so this has been a real blessing. They haven't left yet, but I miss her already.

2007-08-15T07:07:00.000-07:00

I'm off to KINDERGARTEN!!!!

Maddie started her first day of school yesterday.

She loves it!

2007-08-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

I found a good use for my left over ribbon. I think I am in trouble though because all I want to do is buy more ribbon and make more hair bows!!! I enjoy making them because they are something I can do fast and then put away with a sence of accomplishment. I hate feeling like projects have been left undone. Which if you know me well you know that I have a million little (and big) projects left undone. Maybe that is why these little bows are so enjoyable......

2007-08-08T07:54:00.000-07:00

Jack has been walking for a couple weeks now, but things have been so crazy around here so I am just now getting around to blogging his latest achievment!

He sill walks leading with one side of his body, but he can get to where ever he wants. Sometimes he gets going so fast, its almost a run...but the breaks haven't been worked out yet so that speed isn't aways a good thing!

It's funny that this is our 4th child that has learned to walk, and yet it never gets old watching them figure it all out.

Watch out world, here comes Jack!!!

2007-07-17T07:57:00.000-07:00

I know I have been posting like crazy lately. It seems to much is happening around this house. I have been looking though the kids school schedule's, Troy's and mine as well. This next school year is going to be very interesting to say the least. Troy will have his day teaching at the middle school, then 2 nights a week at another starter school, then once a week at a high school...oh boy I am lonely just thinking about that!!! however the one is only 1 extra hour a
day. Then Maddie will be off to kindergarten, Robby will be home schooled, and I will have 2 extra kid-o's to watch besides the 3 I will have of my own at home!!!! Are the men in white coats at my door yet???!!! I am telling you all this in hopes that someone will have some great advice as how to organize my life so I can still function and keep all the deadlines and activities straight.

2007-07-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

It's been a long day, well not really for me, but for the nice men who put in our NEW WINDOWS! Aren't the be-a-u-tiful. I am so excited to have them that I can't bring myself to put the curtains back up. However it is getting dark now so I had better get them up soon.

Oh and for those of you who have been in my house....come over, it looks TOTALLY different!

2007-07-16T07:37:00.000-07:00

Just a packet of seeds and a wild imagination.

This is the first of the flowered herbs to be planted.

I am hoping for a cottage style garden, but being

in Florida it will be a challenge to search out what

will grow. From my research it can be done, you

just have to be really creative, but isn't that half the fun!

2007-07-15T10:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was spent working outside clearing a space for my fall garden. We have finally decided on a spot and I have been working on moving plants and trimming our HUGE Mexican sunflower tree/bush. It will have to stay short in order to give the garden the full sun it needs.
I have spent a lot of time researching what veggies will grow in our climate, and what to grow together and what not to do. I wouldn't say that I have a green thumb really, but I think the key to anything is knowing what you are doing. So I am ready to learn. I have room for 2 large beds, 2 small ones and a few pots here and there. With the help of my great friend Laurie we set out to clear and level the ground take the brush to the garbage and start building up the first of the small beds. I have 2 painful blisters and a bad sun burn to show for my efforts but I am sure that my hands will toughen up and I will NOT forget the sunscreen again. No pictures to show off yet, but soon I hope.
Work is also under way in our garage. Troy and Craig (Laurie's hubby) spent all day and most of
the night working on the electric work and now that they have finished that Monday will be spent putting in the insulation. Oh and our new windows will be put in Monday as well.
God has blessed us greatly and we are so thankful for our earthly home, but look forward to the day when we will move on to Glory and live in the home our Lord and Savior is building for us!

2007-07-12T05:11:00.000-07:00

Oh look another face lift!

I added another site to my links for those of you
who like to spend time lost on the web. I was
I think especially excited to see that something
so beautiful can still be created in the state I live
in with out it being centered around the beach.
I love the "cottage" look. hmmmm one day I think
one day! Oh and the ..... well just check it out!
Under Fifi.

2007-07-09T07:27:00.000-07:00

More pictures of the ones we love!

2007-07-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

When you look out the top window you see JESUS cut out of the field below.

2007-07-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

While we were in TN we visited a HUGE tree house.

I must say this was the most amazing terrifying climb

to the top of the "house". It was 125 feet to the top.

All of us went up just shy of the 125 feet, except Troy

who climbed the last little ladder to ring the bell at the

top. We have been told that they hold church in this tree

house. You can see the stain glass window, they also

had a room with pews. Other rooms contained old bath tubs,

cabinets, and chairs...one even had a bed which I dared Grandpapa to lie on....and he did, of coarse!

2007-07-09T06:52:00.000-07:00

Here is the newest 4 legged member of our family. His name is Bandit he is an 8 week old Siberian Husky.

2007-06-27T09:57:00.000-07:00

Well we are now relaxing at a cool 78 degrees. Our Central air is now finished and
I don't know how we ever lived with out it. What a blessing we received by having
a friend of a friend bless us with his hard work. And trust me the attic temp. being
around 140 degrees it was really hard work.

2007-06-19T05:31:00.000-07:00

Here he goes!!!!!

2007-06-19T05:26:00.000-07:00

Where do they learn this stuff??????

Oh never mind!!!!!

2007-06-19T05:14:00.000-07:00

The old cabinet was emptied and torn out and all the tools (and there were ALOT) were put into their shinny new home! Bethany was in charge of the project and made sure that it was taken care of with lots of singing and a little dancing, as there really was not enough room for a full ballet.

2007-06-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

Thank you NASA!!!!
A rocket to the moon cake, with sparkler candles.
Yummy cake!
deep breath.....blow....lol .......trick candles!

2007-06-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

Robby's 5th birthday was a blast!

We decorated the whole house to look like outer space.

Foil goes a long way. we covered the windows with it then poked

hole in it for stars. His bedroom was turned into a space ship with

circle holes for windows. We even had a great friend make alien

balloons for him, and Robby got his own balloon rocket!

Thank you to everyone who helped us pull it off. Oh and hats off

to NASA who picked the day of the party to launch the space shuttle!

We were able to watch it live on TV right before opening the gifts!

Robby has been such a blessing to our family and we thank God for

bringing him to us!

2007-06-02T11:40:00.000-07:00

"Play mate come out and play with me..."

Bethany loves going to her Grammy's house

and loves to sing that song. Bethany's favorite

thing to say about her grammy is

"she's my grammy becasue she is, becasue I love her

because she's my grammy because I love her"

2007-06-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

These beautiful flowers will soon bloom into my summer squash!

I can almost taste it.

2007-06-02T11:26:00.000-07:00

Hey Sonya, sorry it's been so long since I've posted.

Here is our new shed, isn't it purrty. lol

Well maybe not pretty but it will get the job done!

Now the hard part comes to empty the garage and throw

out all the junk. anyone wanna help???

2007-05-23T07:08:00.000-07:00

If I could freeze one moment in time it would be the time when my baby clings to me tightly and snuggles in. You know what I mean. When it doesn't matter what position you are in you stop and barely breath just to make the moment last a little longer (even if it means your arm falls asleep, if you are blessed enough for it to last that long). Jack snuggled up close to me this morning and it made my heart swell with overwhelming love for him. I wonder if that is the way my Lord feels when I "snuggle" in close to Him and rest in Him.

Deuteronomy 33:12
Of Benjamin he said, May the beloved of the Lord dwell in security by Him,
Who shields him all the day, And he dwells between His shoulders.

This verse is an awesome picture of My Heavenly Father.

2007-05-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

If I could stop laughing I might be able to say something about these pictures of Jack....nope, sorry, can't stop laughing!!!

2007-05-21T06:19:00.000-07:00

Madelyn and her self portrait. She looks so grown up in her glasses. I am just so thankful that she is happy with them.

2007-05-21T06:06:00.000-07:00

CCONGRATULATIONS

ROBERT K WHITE!!!

2007-05-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

Preschool graduation was this morning. Madelyn is now on her way to kindergarten.

It is so hard to believe that she is already on her way. The program this morning was so sweet Madelyn was chosen to hold the Bible during the opening pledges, then she was given an award for being the most obedient student (we pray that stays with her through life!).

Robby was a little sad that he couldn't be up there with all of them, but we will be sure to have our own ceremony for him! So watch for his pictures to come!

2007-05-15T07:30:00.000-07:00

I just love these two fabrics together. Thanks Sonya for leaving them to me, I hope you like what they have turned into. Bethany has a new simple quilt for her baby doll and I have a new pin cushion. I am amazed at the ease of using pins when I don't have to reach into a box of pins, owie! It is just one more step in my learning to use a pattern, pins and GASP iron! I am determined to teach myself how to sew "properly" I figure in about 2 or 3 years I might actually make something worth something to someone else (other then my precious babes )however for now my heart will take delight in seeing Bethany's face light up over her new "treasures".

2007-05-10T06:53:00.000-07:00

"Homemaking - being a full time wife and mother - is not a destructive drought of uselessness but an overflowing oasis of opportunity; it is not a dreary cell to contain one's talents and skills but a brilliant catalyst to channel creativity and energies into meaningful work."
(quote by Dorothy Patterson)

I have been reading a really great book by Carolyn Mahaney, Feminine Appeal : 7 Virtues of a Godly Wife and Mother. Usually I find myself reading this type of book and only finding only some of it helpful. However I have been captivated by her thoughts on the topic. I usually take information and filter it though this thought. Is this Biblical or is this something that I can and want to use to my advantage to justify my selfishness. It is really very simple, if it is not Biblical then right then the red light starts flashing and I know that I should be very careful. It doesn't take much to distract the mind from things of God. Which is a really sad statement. My desire is to walk with God. I have a Heavenly Father who Loves me and gave Himself for me!

"Surely we only have to be realistic and honest with ourselves to know how regularly we need to turn to the Bible. How often do we face problems, temptation and pressure? EVERYDAY! Then how often do we need instruction, guidance and greater encouragement? EVERYDAY! To catch all these felt needs up into an even greater issue, how often do we need to see God's face, hear His voice, feel His touch, know His power? The answer to all these questions is the same EVERYDAY!" (Quote by John Blanchard)

2007-05-09T13:48:00.000-07:00

HELP!!! I'm making dolls and I can't stop!!!!!!

This one needs to eat a little more, but she is watching her figure,

after all she is a ballerina!

2007-05-09T09:36:00.000-07:00

I found the pattern for this doll here http://missyballance.typepad.com/crafty_carnival/

She was so fun to make, she will defiantly be the first of many in this house. It will be nice when I get some better material and colors as well, for now I used what was in the closet. I had better go start on a second one before Madelyn gets home from school.

2007-05-08T07:41:00.000-07:00

Show and tell time again. This is what has been keeping me busy at nap time lately. I plan on using it in a pillow for my bedroom (once its redecorated) using the material shown next to it. It was really fun to do the whole thing in one color, makes it a little softer I think. Oh and a lot easier to overlook any errors in it as well. :)

2007-05-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

Here are a few clips of the party....and the little man all tuckered out

riding in style on his way home.

2007-05-06T11:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Sweet Baby Boy!
We celebrated Jack's first birthday this past weekend.
Looking back it is amazing to see how much he has grown in the past year.
Friends and family all gathered at the park to eat and play and have a
great time together. I made a yummy chocolate cake, which Pop Pop
fed to Jack, he loved it. We had a great time and everyone
was worn out by time we headed home.
We missed all the family that couldn't be with us, but we were
thinking of you!!!

2007-04-23T17:43:00.000-07:00

Here is my skinny boy enjoying a cracker, oh and guess what he did today.....started talking.

He says "nigh nigh" and "done"! I can't believe it!!! He is my sunshine!

2007-04-23T17:39:00.000-07:00

I finally found my jean material (50% off) and recovered my dinning room chairs! Well I still have 2 more to recover, but they will be done tomorrow, I hope.

I am trying not to be to freaky about them with the kids...but it is so hard when its nice and clean and they sit down to eat pizza. Aaaagggggghhhhhhhh!!!!

2007-04-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

Look I actually made a second one. This one is less complicated then the first, but I think I like it more. It is smaller (12x12) but has more tabs on it. Jack seems to enjoy it. It's just the right size for a game of peek-a-boo.

2007-04-17T10:43:00.000-07:00

A nap time accomplishment.

Here is my first attempt to make a tab blankie. Now you'd think I'd learn to make a few and show you the best, but I rarely ever get to make a few of anything (except kids, wink wink).

I made a stuffed fire truck with a pocket to hide it in on the back. It is attached. Now comes the hard part of contemplating if it is nice enough to give as a baby shower gift.

2007-04-16T11:05:00.000-07:00

A little glimps into my home today. I hear one way to keep a clean kitchen is to not have any art on the fridge. I am sorry but that just isn't happening in this house! Lemon anyone?

2007-04-16T10:56:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful weekend away! Thank you again to the grandparents, who with out, this trip would not have been made possible. The kids did great and I didn't even call 100 times to check on them! Aren't you proud of me?! I did have a wonderful surprise waiting for me when I got home, yummy things growing. The very eager sprout is a squash, I do hope that they all survive the transplant into the garden. That won't be happening yet though, still have some more work to go . We will be having some very rich compost though. I have been taking all the pulp from our juicing venture with Robby and composting it! Ok enough about the dirt.

2007-04-12T09:53:00.000-07:00

Oh I know I say this all the time, but my babies are growing up to fast! It is hard to see in this picture but Jack is getting hair....one at a time, but it's growing! I will be leaving Jack with Mama for the first time over night. I am sure he will do fine, but I am a little anxious about it. The good part is I will only be across the bridge, so I can be back at any time, if needed. I am hoping to be able to let my mind relax about it so that I can enjoy the time away....but it's still hard. The others will be taken care of as well, but I know they can handle a night with out me.

2007-04-09T05:43:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter to our Family and Friends, we pray that this past weekend brought you renewed Joy and love in Our Risen Lord and Savior! We love you all.