One foot, Two foot, Left foot, Right foot

2012-01-18T09:55:00.003-06:00

Wow. I am so missing my children right now but know they are having a blast with Grandmas, Grandpas, Aunts and cousins. This house is much too quiet for my liking. I've quite gotten used to constant noise of laughter, screams, and chattering. It's hard to have 3 little ones 3 and under who can't carry on a conversation or ask one hundred questions a day! Not in an, "I can't handle this way", but more so, "This quiet is unnerving!" I've read and re-read the same 15 books to the little ones more times than I can count. I've re-organized shelves and closets...Today I will start re-organizing our homeschool binders, closet, and the overstock we have.

I miss my kids and it's only day 3.

Media: Feast to Famine

2012-01-12T21:51:00.004-06:00

Does this resemble your kids? Maybe you? I have to admit that although our family was not worshipping our television, it was on more than I'd like to admit. Not that the tv was on all day long, but more so my husband and I would just plop onto the couch after putting the kids to bed and channel surf until bedtime. During the day the kids and I didn't watch much television but I would flip it on to watch the Food Network and just leave it on sometimes.

The noise pollution tv creates is astounding. I never noticed it before. I was used to it. It's when you turn the tv off...sit in silence...look at each other and wonder, "How on earth did we live with that noise all day?"

This new year brought with it a new start. We didn't make it a resolution of any sort. One day I looked over at my husband and said, "I'm so sick of the tv. It's such a distraction." To which he replied, "Let's get rid of it!" And get rid of it we did! We unplugged ourselves from our television and plugged back in to our family.

I will admit. It was hard at first. We sat on the couch after putting the kids to bed and stared at a blank wall......

*chirp......chirp*

*silence*

Now what? How do you get out of a bad habit and replace it with something good? Well...we started by turning toward each other and just talking. Remember that? Haha! We picked up books to read. In fact, the most engrossing book I have, my Bible, has been read more over the past month than it has in probably the last 6 months. My husband picked his banjo up and started to play again. Our puppets that had been gathering dust were pulled out and given lead parts in new shows. Our little ones became enamored with the sudden upswing in read alouds momma now had time for. (I have been reading an average of 20 books a day to them!) We now have each other's undivided attention.

No distractions.

Getting rid of our tv was one of the best decisions we have made. I can't imagine our house with one in it now. That's how drastic the change has been. We went from feast to famine and are loving it.

Monthly Menu

2012-01-09T14:04:00.002-06:00

So here is my monthly menu that I use for our home. Every 24 days I prepare a new menu and just replace the dates and meals to fit our needs. I usually just change up the dinners and keep the breakfasts and lunches the same. This month I've prepared almost every meal in advance save for the burgers, and shrimp. Last night I pulled out the pre-made meatloaf mixture from the freezer and put it in the fridge to thaw. At around 4:00 I'll stick it into the pan and pop it in the oven. I'll steam some mixed veggies and cook up some potatoes. How easy is that?!

Tonight I'll take the chicken I cooked out of the freezer, stick it in the fridge to thaw, and heat it up in a skillet tomorrow. I'll cook some pasta and mix broccoli and parmesan into it and voila! It'll probably take me about 20 min. tops!

Any questions? I'd be glad to answer!

2012-01-04T08:36:00.002-06:00

O Lord my God,

When I in awesome wonder

Consider all

The world Thy Hand hath made,

I see the stars,

I hear the rolling thunder,

Thy pow'r throughout

The universe displayed;

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

When through the woods

And forest glades I wander

I hear the birds

Sing sweetly in the trees;

When I look down

From lofty mountain grandeur

And hear the brook

And feel the gentle breeze;

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

And when I think,

That God, His Son not sparing;

Sent Him to die,

I scarce can take it in;

That on the Cross,

My burden gladly bearing,

He bled and died

To take away my sin.

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

Then sings my soul,

My Saviour God, to Thee,

How great Thou art!

How great Thou art!

When Christ shall come,

With shouts of acclamation,

And take me home,

What joy shall fill my heart!

Then I shall bow

In humble adoration

And there proclaim,

"My God, how great Thou art!"

Training for Servanthood

2012-01-03T12:02:00.005-06:00

What a night we had last night. The night started out with our middle son having difficulty breathing again. Once we got that under control he went to sleep in our room as a precaution. He has croup right now which tends to get quite serious for him. We've been to the hospital many a late night as his airways just do not open up without steroids. Thus, he slept in our room.

I got our baby to sleep and just as my husband and I climbed into bed ourselves up popped said baby! I got back up with her and let my husband sleep even though my flesh was yelling out, "I don't wanna get up!!!" Around midnight I started to feel sick from lack of sleep over the last few days. I woke my husband up around 12:30ish and asked if he would rock with her a bit. Bless his heart he said yes and I plopped down into bed.

I was just starting to drift off into blissful sleep when in comes my 8 yr. old daughter whimpering and weeping about her ear that is so painful she is shaking. I try to comfort her by stroking her hair, praying over her and giving her Tylenol. The cries grow louder and the shaking turns to rocking. An hour later my husband says he is going to take her into the ER. Our baby finally falls asleep around 2am. (Poor thing can't breathe with all of that mucous!) My husband gets dressed and heads out the door. I fall into bed. I hear the pitter-patter of feet almost instantaneously. My eldest son comes in and says his chest hurts so bad he can't sleep. His throat is swollen and painful. I try not to begrudge him for making me get out of bed. "Lord give me a servant's heart." I get back up and give him a dose of medicine and send him back off to bed. I come back into our room and my croup-y son is coughing so hard he is throwing up.

"Lord," I pray, "Please give me the strength I need. I have nothing left. My spirit is willing but my flesh is weak. Please, give me a servant's heart."

I get him cleaned up and fall back into bed. I drift off to sleep at 2:30. I hear my husband getting into bed at 3. I see my daughter climb in next to me and want to ask how it went but I'm so tired I can't even muster up the energy to open my mouth and form words! I know some of you know what I'm talking about! I drift off to sleep.

6:00 comes and our little one wakes to nurse. "Lord give me the strength to put my feet on the ground." I feel my way into her room ,as my eyes won't open, pick her up and bring her into bed with me. I nurse her and put her back down at 6:50. I wake at 8am with all of my little ones in bed and my husband smiling down at me. (Did I mention how much I love him?)

My first thought this morning was to ask God to give me energy for today and to give me a servant's heart. I've had to ask Him many times today to help me not be grouchy, to help me serve my children, to show them that no matter our circumstances, we need to show each other courtesy and love.

We're half-way through the day and I can say with conviction that I believe we're going to make it through the day! We're all lying around half-asleep, some whimpering, some fussing...but we're going to make it.

Tomorrow is another day.

2011-11-30T08:20:00.002-06:00

I'm exhausted.

exhausted

I know deep down that this is only a season. I know. It's hard to translate that information to my weary body. I'm tired. I feel as though I'm dragging through the days. I watch the clock to see how much longer it is until Daddy gets home. *sigh* I'm tired.

Did I mention that already?

I suppose if it was only a physical depletion I could manage just fine. Sleep deprivation just doesn't take its toll on me like it used to 4 children ago. I can handle that. What is difficult for me is the emotional, mental, and spiritual drain I've been experiencing.

Homeschooling is so rewarding, yet so taxing on me. I revamped the kids' schooling to meet their needs this past week. After our district testing I was astonished to find that I wasn't challenging them enough. They knew far more than they were letting on. I've upped the workload and they've met the challenge with eagerness. My 3 yr. old has been asking to do school every day so I've added him into the mix. Just light, fun, learning with his hands stuff. I will admit...at times I'm frustrated. I now have 4 doing school and it's stressful on me trying to juggle all of their questions, strengths, weaknesses, more questions...

There isn't enough time in the day.

Which brings me to cleaning. Oy vey. It seems that my home is always a mess now and it's driving me insane. I seriously get stressed out just looking at something that's out of place. A toy on the floor, a sink full of dishes, a room that needs vacuuming, a floor that has crumbs just SITTING there, dirty clothes next to but not in the hamper. These things make me grimace! I'm a neat freak and the messes are taking over me. I know it may seem trivial to most, but for me this has become a major stress in my life.

Spiritually I feel so far from God right now. Even though I pray throughout my day I can't seem to hear His small still voice with all of the yelling and screaming going on. It is so loud in our home that I find it hard to meditate on God's word. I feel a spiritual deficit within me.

There isn't enough time in the day.

A verse came to mind this morning as I sat nursing my youngest with glazed eyes and a deflated soul.

"So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up." (Galatians 6:9)

I needed that verse to pop out of my memory file at just that moment. I've been meditating on that verse between each scream, cry and argument today. Oh how I need God's word! As I've been meditating on this verse I came to the realization that the things I'm stressing over are so irrelevant and are stresses that I'm putting on myself.

I'll never be the perfect mother with squeaky clean children whom are seen but not heard.

I won't be able to teach my children everything. They will grow up with a literature-rich education, but inevitably some things will slip through the cracks.

Cleanliness is not next to godliness. I have to re-learn this as I was raised with this belief. It's a LIE! We are not going to hell if our homes aren't white-glove clean. There will most likely always be a room or closet in my house that will be messy. (We have 6 young children!!!) My home will never look as though we have no children, (and really...do I want it to look that way?)

There will always be a constant ebb and flow in my relationship with God. At times I will feel wonderfully close to Him. In other times I will feel so far. Even Job had times where he felt spiritually bereft. I'll try to consider myself in good company and move forward.

I'm never going to "arrive". This one is hard. We live in a fallen world and I am a sinful person. I will never have it all together. There will always be an area that needs improvement. The important thing is that I am saved by the grace of God through Jesus and will be continually sanctified through Him. I will always strive to move forward, but I will inevitably have setbacks. I need to remind myself of this.

Strike a Pose!

2011-11-12T12:36:00.002-06:00

Here's me doing "Royal Dancer" a la P90X. My eldest daughter finds it funny to take pictures of me working out via Photo Booth. I saw some of the pics which were indeed funny! This one wasn't so bad though! I think I'm doing it rather well, in fact!

I'm finishing up week 2 of P90X. I started it up again after being sick for over a month. Wow do I feel good! I love how it makes me feel....strong, capable, full of energy! I <3 P90X!

2011-11-04T11:37:00.004-05:00

I cry out to you O Lord. Hear my prayer. I will pray ceaselessly; for you are always listening. Pick me up from the mire and create in me a new heart. Take this heavy burden. Let my words be a breath of life to those around me. Let my arms provide your comfort and strength. Fill me with your love and compassion so I have enough to pour into those around me. Fill in the gaps that I leave. Pull me out of this anxiety and bring me your peace and comfort. Give me rest.

On a Slightly Different Note...

2011-10-31T18:18:00.001-05:00

I found a new blog...www.thehomeschoolbaby.com that I can't wait to start reading! Join me if you have kids aged 0-5!

2011-10-31T13:54:00.003-05:00

My dad had a surprising call 2 days ago. It was a woman looking for "... ....'s" son. My dad said it was he, and then the lady revealed that her 75 yr. old mother just confessed to her that my dad's dad is this woman's biological father. She explained how her mother and my grandpa met and had an affair after which her mother became pregnant. My grandpa was in the movie business his whole life, not to mention a record-setting race car driver and quite the looker. He was an infamous philanderer so it didn't come as quite a surprise. In fact, when my grandpa passed away we were given photos of him throughout his life. There were 3-4 pictures that were peculiar. My grandpa was pictured holding an infant girl with another woman looking on. Nobody had ever seen this woman before. My mother wondered whether this could be another sister of my dad's.

Just 3 weeks ago I had asked my sister whether my parents had ever found out who was in that picture. She had no idea what I was referring to so I figured my parents hadn't shared that with her. And now this!

Wow. Wow.

We got to see pictures of her family and the resemblance to my dad is unmistakeable. I cannot believe this! I have 3 new cousins, an aunt and uncle. This amazes me. I am hoping this will be a great, albeit late start to a wonderful relationship for my dad. His childhood was riddled with sadness and misery. I'm so hopeful as she sounds to be a wonderful person at heart. :)

Spiritual Warfare

2011-10-18T13:23:00.003-05:00

We're in the midst of it here. I know many people think it's not real. I know many who would like to believe it is farce. I, on the other hand, have seen spiritual warfare firsthand. I have felt that uneasiness that looms, the heaviness that bears down and makes your skin crawl. I have witnessed some frightening things in my short 34 years. I've visited places where I could *feel* demonic presence. It's unnerving. A battle is waging and I feel as though we are in the midst of it.

"The Christian home is in battle with Satan, just as the individual believer is. The enemy will use any device for dividing us, for destroying our peace, for breaking down our communication, for leading us away from God. When he defeats us personally in any way...he gets his foot in the door of our homes. We are in spiritual battle every day of our lives; we must recognize it for what it is.

We must be armed. We must know what God has to say about us. Equipped with that knowledge, protection, and strength, we won't need to fall victim to Satan's assaults on us."

Norma Kvindlog and Esther Lindgren Anderson

There is wonderful news though. God has already defeated Satan! And my trusty Bible is a fountain of wisdom and encouragement. God has sealed me with His Holy Spirit. I am His. Satan has no authority over me. None. I have that truth to stand on. I admit that it is unsettling right now, but I have God on my side. He is the Truth, the Light, and the Way.

"But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world." (1 John 4:4)

I am finding myself pouring over my Bible. I'm drinking it in.

"And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold-though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world." (1 Peter 1:5-7)

Amen!

2011-10-13T13:22:00.004-05:00

Liam~"Mom? God knows everything, right?"

me~"Yes."

Liam~"Then why did God create Satan if He knew what Satan was going to do?"

me~"...."

Liam~"I mean, if God knew that Satan was going to be evil, and was going to get thrown out of Heaven and turn people against Him, why did He make him in the first place?"

Liam~"And Mom, I'm worried about Murphy. If he dies, will he go to Heaven? He doesn't know Jesus yet. Will God forgive him even though Murphy doesn't know who He is yet?"

Liam~"And also, I think I should go to help the poor kids in those countries we were reading about. I should do stuff like that. Shouldn't I?"

Yes, these are the type of questions my sweet Liam asks on a daily basis. Wow. He has such a spirit of curiosity and God has such a pull on his heartstrings. I have a feeling he is going to do great things for the kingdom of God. I'm excited to see what God has in store for him.

2011-10-08T19:41:00.000-05:00

A pic from the park today.

Happy Fall!

2011-10-08T13:08:00.002-05:00

Enjoying God's World

2011-10-06T12:27:00.008-05:00

We took a lovely bike ride this morning and enjoyed the glory of God. Vibrant red, yellow and purple leaves drew our eyes upward. Leaves dancing about through the invisible current of wind. Brightly colored Monarch butterflies flitting about. The warm sun peeking through the trees. It was glorious.

Here are a few pictures from our ride.

Getting ready for our ride!

Enjoying the beautiful Fall colors.

Fields now barren after the harvest.

Enjoying the park, which was our destination.

L relaxing after the long bike ride.

K resting with our littlest one.

Amazing bark.

Talking about the different colors in the trees.

One of those trees.

My little one and I enjoying the soft breeze.

Lying on the ground looking at...

this magnificent tree.

Mesmerized by the falling leaves.

Thank you Lord for this season.

Homemade Baby Food

2011-10-05T11:06:00.006-05:00

Believe it or not, before this past week I had never made baby food. I had always bought our baby food at the store. No more! Once I realized how easy it was to make, I vowed never to buy a jar of baby food again. I thought I'd show you just how easy it is.

One bag of carrots.

Peel and cut off the ends of 4-6 carrots.

Place carrots in a double boiler.

Cook on high for 20-25 minutes, or until fork tender.

Cut 2-3 of the carrots in half and place in a food processor.

Add remaining carrots through top feeder.

With a ladle, take one spoonful of liquid from the bottom of the double boiler.

Add water to puree through the top feeder while processing. Add a second if needed.

Perfect consistency for our early feeder.

Spoon puree into freezer-safe tupperware. This batch filled 2-4oz. containers and 1-2oz. container which will be enough for 7 feedings.

Place in freezer or refrigerator.

Let your little one enjoy preservative-free baby food!

2011-10-05T08:01:00.001-05:00

We took our nightly bike ride last night and surprised the kids by taking the route to a nearby lake. As soon as we got there I made the kids hop onto a picnic table so I could get a rare shot of all of them together. :)

My girl and me

2011-10-04T13:51:00.000-05:00

My eldest daughter was sweet enough to capture this picture for me.

Family, friend, or foe???

2011-10-03T14:27:00.003-05:00

These past few weeks have been exhausting! My younger sister and her husband visited us recently. They were able to stay for almost a week! It was so difficult to spend any actual time with them though. We also got to visit with my cousin, his wife and their 2 children. With 3 under 3 and 3 older kids just a few years ahead of them, someone is always needing me for something. I am quite accustomed to this, but for them am afraid it was very foreign and frustrating. A few harsh comments were overheard by my little ones. Apparently I am too hard on my kids. My husband and I call it discipline. We set too many limits and are raising them in a bubble. My husband and I call that holding our children accountable for their actions and prayerfully considering what we will allow our children to be subjected to.

And yes, our life is considered boring by the world's standard. We rarely go out to eat. We don't frequent movie theaters. We don't watch much tv. We don't listen to secular music. We don't follow trends. We don't send our kids to school. We don't buy our kids expensive toys. We don't do many of the things that are deemed rights for this generation.

However...

We cook and bake together. We sit at the dinner table and eat as a family every night. We praise God through the music we choose to listen to. We don't find our kids striving to have what their peers have. We are blessed to be able to homeschool our kids and watch as they learn, grow and mature. We take nightly bike rides and revel in how glorious the wind feels, how vibrant the fall colors are and how God has fashioned all of this for us to enjoy! We seek to please God instead of trying to please others. We yearn to pass on a love of God to our children so as to influence generations to come. We expect more from our children, as they should expect more from us as their parents. We are prayerfully attempting to raise our children for His glory.

However...

Yes, we mess up daily. Our children may not listen every time. We may overreact once in awhile. We will sin! We may be Christians, but we are still sinners! We are far from perfect and definitely have not "arrived". We are being refined by God each and every day. Please, hold us to a higher standard, by do not expect perfection from us!

Bike ride with a stop at DQ!

2011-09-05T10:37:00.000-05:00

2011-09-03T08:12:00.001-05:00

Do you read books? Or do you R E A D books. I read on a blog this morning that a person that really R E A D S "does not always remain bent over his pages; he often leans back and closes his eyes over a line he has been reading again, and its meaning spreads through his blood."

Rainer Maria Rilke

I love that.

2011-09-03T08:09:00.001-05:00

What do you believe?

And do you know why you believe it?

Is There Anything Quite Like...

2011-09-01T09:55:00.002-05:00

The sweet smell of a baby's skin

The unguarded smiles of a child

Chubby little hands grasping onto your finger

Peaceful angelic faces sleeping softly

Little eyes searching yours for love

The pitter-patter of frightened feet running toward your room
during a thunderstorm

Singing a sweet little one to sleep in the rocker

Praying with an open-hearted child

Tickling clammy little armpits

The "I love you's" that come right when you need them

Sticky fingerprints on the wall

A million questions asked before you have a chance to answer the 1st.

Little ones who want nothing more than YOU, just the way you are.

A house overflowing with blessings

I Need to Vent

2011-08-28T18:32:00.003-05:00

INEEDTOVENTINEEDTOVENTINEEDTOVENT!!!!!!!!!

I can't take anymore bad news. I'm seriously teetering on a breakdown here. I have had so many friends lose loved ones and family members die suddenly at such young ages. My neighbor spewing profanities at my son, my kids have been so needy this past week. Yesterday was a rough day. It was my birthday, which really has nothing to do with anything, but it was rough. Today, more so with my husband's work-related stresses, Séamus' surgery stresses, and the day-to-day stresses which have just weighed me down more than usual lately.

At dinner tonight my husband was messing around with my eldest daughter, when she slammed the freezer door, which isn't good if your head is in it. Ryan's head was smashed and blood oozed down his face and neck. I thought he was going to need stitches. I ran over to our neighbor's house and thank God they have a very capable dad over there with a medical background! He was able to look at it and determine that it needed butterfly bandaids and that's it. Whew. Dodged a bullet there.

My mom calls about 20 minutes later to tell me that another member of our family has been killed in a car accident. She spoke for a few minutes and I just sat silent on the other end of the phone, half wishing to throw down the phone and run away, and half wishing to throw the phone down and run away. I can't take anymore bad news. I just can't. I'm overwhelmed. I'm tired. I'm in need of prayer. I need God's word to revive me physically, mentally, and spiritually because right now I feel like I'm drowning.

Today is the big day

2011-08-24T05:59:00.003-05:00

Séamus is going in for surgery this morning. Please keep him in your prayers. I know he's in God's capable hands, but I'm a nervous wreck. I've been up just about all night thinking about all of the scenarios that could play out, stop myself, then pray for God's protection over him. Add to that the events of yesterday where a man verbally assaulted him... I don't want to get too emotional about this.

Lord help me to remain calm and to have peace. Keep Séamus safe and secure in your arms. Be with the doctors, surgeon, and anesthesiologist today and guide their hands. Help them to be clear and concise. Give Séamus peace and comfort him as he is so scared about today. Help me to pour out your love on him. Amen.

Random Acts

2011-08-17T12:42:00.004-05:00

I had just finished sewing this crayon roll that I discovered over at PleatedPoppy. I was so excited by how well it turned out and was about to put it into my purse when I glanced out our front window and saw a young mother walking her 3 young children. I looked at my new creation and quickly called for Kate. "Kate! Run out and give this to that lady walking her kids! Hurry!" She jumped up, set her crocheting hook down, grabbed the crayon roll and flew down the stairs, out the door, and down the sidewalk.

I really didn't expect this woman to wait for me to come outside, but a few minutes later I went outside with my youngest two, rounded the corner of our home, and was met by bewildered eyes.

"This is for me?" she said, slightly confused.
"I saw you with a few little ones and thought you could probably use it in your purse!"
"Really?!" she asked again.

We introduced ourselves and found we have quite a bit in common. She and her husband have 3 children 3 and under, just as we do! They are hoping for a large family as well. She is a SAHM like me and her husband even works with cars, just like mine! After talking awhile she asked if we homeschooled. I told her we did and she picked my brain about it since she is considering it also. I asked her if she went to church and she replied that she did...she goes to our church! Imagine that! We exchanged information and will be getting together soon!

I went inside and thanked God for a promising new friendship. You never know what may come of a seemingly insignificant act of kindness. I challenge you to do a random act of kindness for a stranger this week! Go ahead! Not only will you bless that person, but you might find that you get more out of it than they do!

Offer Up Your Prayers Please

2011-08-16T13:06:00.005-05:00

Today I am asking you to pray for a few people I know. All three have lost someone dear to them in the past week. This has been a tragic week...

I have a sweet friend whose father lost his battle with cancer yesterday. The cancer came on fast and furious and took her family by surprise. Please join me in praying for her, her mother, her brother, and her family.

Another such friend lost her young toddler this past week. He was diagnosed with cancer a little over a year ago and his body could no longer fight. I can't fathom losing one of my little ones and can only imagine the gaping hole that is in her heart right now. Please pray for her, her husband, and her other children. Pray this will not embitter her but only draw her to God for comfort as only he can give.

While these two losses are tragic, there is one that, at least to me, is even more so. My husband's cousin died this past week of a heart attack, at age 30. And while this in itself is heart-breaking, the knowledge that he didn't know Jesus is almost suffocating. I am grieved by this. This is an eternal tragedy. Nothing can be done for him now.

Now I am fervently praying for his mother who has rejected the Lord as well. May God move in her heart and draw her unto him.

In Need of His Love

2011-08-11T22:45:00.003-05:00

I'm up late. Our 1 yr. old has a pretty high fever so I've been rocking her, singing to her, and praying over her. I just laid her down and hope to get a little rest before this thunderstorm rolls in and we have 5 little frightened kids flip-flopping in our bed. Before I lie down though, I had to jot this down before it slips my weary mind.

I was praying over Kasey and I felt the need to pray for myself. I asked God to please help me to show love to my little Murphy even when he's being unloveable. For those who read my blog regularly, you know by now that he is the one who stretches me the thinnest. I am tired and burdened by the constant battles with him. I have never met anyone so strong-willed, (besides myself.) I am beseeching God to teach me how to show him love and mercy when I am prompted by the Holy Spirit. In mid prayer.

A thought comes to me...In God's eyes aren't I exactly the same as Murphy? Don't I constantly try to get my way or ignore His small still voice in my head? Don't I live selfishly? Don't I thrash against His authority and mess up every single day? Don't I? Am I any different??? I was stunned at this thought! Here I am, asking God to show me how to love Murphy, while thinking I'm somehow behaving better. I'm just as sinful. How can He keep on loving me??? Doesn't God show me every day just how much He loves me through the sacrifice of His son? Every day, sometimes every hour, my sins are wiped clean. I don't deserve it! What a saving grace!

I am just like my little 3 year old. Just like him. Tomorrow when I look at Murphy after he has sinned yet again, I will grab him by the shoulders, look him in the eyes, and say, "Aren't you glad we are both forgiven through Jesus?" I will wrap my arms around him and thank God for the reminder. We both need His saving grace and His unconditional love.

2011-07-25T17:08:00.002-05:00

Managed to get a run in today with NO interruptions!!! I ran just under 6 miles and feel like I could have gone longer. I really believe the P90X is upping my endurance. Gotta love P90X!

Science Find

2011-07-23T16:18:00.004-05:00

My husband went out into the garage and found this...

Box Envy!

2011-07-21T14:48:00.002-05:00

I've been perusing the forums over at Sonlight, the company we purchase our curriculum from, and I am starting to get box envy. I will explain for those of you who don't homeschool, or for those who aren't familiar with Sonlight just what the big deal is about Box Day.

Imagine with me that you are about to embark on an exciting new school year. You are anticipating dozens of adventurous, comical and thought-provoking books that you and your kids will explore together. Your science experiments and books are begging to be poured over. Your shiny new 3-ring binder is awaiting to be filled with various Instructor Guides. You check off each book as you go down your list of 20-40 books that are included. You lay them all out in rows, stand up, take a step back...*squeal*...

Okay. Maybe all homeschoolers don't get this excited about a new year's worth of curriculum. This gal does. I've been reading all about other homeschooler's Box Days, complete with pictures and I get a tiny tinge of sadness because we've already had our Box Day! We had it 4 months ago! Now I have to wait at least another 5 months for my next Box Day.

Don't get me wrong, this year is so exciting for us. We've been around the world, gone back in time, learnt about ancient civilizations, mastered addition and subtraction, even multiplication...I can just hardly wait to see what is in store for us next year.

I CAN HARDLY WAIT!!!

Learning by observation

2011-07-20T15:27:00.002-05:00

I look over from where I'm teaching my eldest to see my 18 mos. old *writing* on her sister's paper. What they say is true. Kids really do learn by example.

Parks and Recreation

2011-07-07T08:51:00.010-05:00

I crossed into new territory yesterday...I took all 6 to the park...BY MYSELF! Yes! I did it! AND we all came back in one piece!

I was so intimidated at the thought of being all by myself. Grocery stores are a breeze because I've taught the eldest 3 to always keep a hand on the cart, then I have one toddler in the basket, one toddler in the cart seat, and the baby in the Bjorn. All of the kids are confined to a 2 ft. radius. The park? Different story all together! There are rivers and lakes that toddlers could fall in, woods to get lost in, steep hills that little feet can stumble down, tall trees to climb, not to mention the playground! If I didn't have a new baby to hold in my arms it'd be no problem. I could chase them down! But with our new little addition, the whole idea was daunting. But I decided to put on my big girl panties and give it a go. I packed up a lunch, and stuffed us into our van like a bunch of sardines.

Here's our picnic table...(Notice Murphy with little hands still folded in prayer!)
What is living in this tree?

"Mom!!! Look, a REAL Lincoln Log building!" :)

Swinging.

Murph by the river.

Plenty of good walking sticks to be found.

As you can see, they had a great time! It was a little stressful, I'll admit it, but I did it! And you know what? I think we'll go again tomorrow!

Power of Prayer

2011-07-05T09:38:00.002-05:00

Let me begin by saying that I have a little 3 year old boy who is a constant battle. He tests my authority, my patience, my resolve...he is constantly pushing the limits, he's fearless and adventurous. (A dangerous combination.) He has not only fallen out of his 2nd story bedroom window, (a bedroom which now consists of only a bed, and a rug so he has nothing to climb up onto now), but he also has had 2 close brushes w death, both medical.

His name, which means strong, superior warrior, fits him to a t. So why have I told you all of this about him? Have I chalked him up to being a hopeless case? Hardly! You see, amid all of the chaos that is this child, there has been one constant in his short life that has the ability to calm, soothe, and comfort him...prayer.

I realized this by accident a couple of years ago. He was a colicky baby. Besides crying myself, I didn't know what else to do to calm both him and myself down. I sat in my rocker and began praying out loud to him. Half whisper, half out loud, I began to pray for him. He calmed down within a minute. I thought it was a fluke.

A couple of months later he almost died silently in his crib. I blogged about it that year. I was, and still am so grateful to God for the miracle of that night. Our middle son wet the bed that night which was completely out of the ordinary. He came in and woke us up. My husband went to change his bedding and I went to get him some clothes which were still in the nursery with the baby. I had been meaning to move the clothes into his newer room but hadn't gotten around to it. When I went into the nursery I heard shallow breathing and almost silent whimpering. It wasn't even loud enough for the baby monitor to pick it up. I went over to him and picked him up and his skin was absolutely burning. To make a long story short, after a trip to the ER, a transport to the big-city hospital, and a talk from the Dr., we were told that he would have died that night had we not gone into his room. God was surely protecting him. I am still full of gratitude for God's grace.

Fast-forward to a year later and bedtime fights begin! He doesn't want to go to sleep! After trying everything, and I mean everything, I decided to pray over him, out loud in his bed. Not just the short little prayer we prayed with the kids nightly. I PRAYED with him. Praying God's Word over him, God's scripture. I would repeat verses I memorized, except insert his name into them. "Let Murphy trust in the Lord with all of his heart; and lean not on his own understanding." (From Proverbs 3:5) or "I look up to the mountains-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! He will not let you stumble; the one who watches over you will not slumber...The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night. The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever." (Psalm 121:1-8)

I noticed that when I would pray with him in this way he would fall peacefully to sleep. He would literally stop trying to get out of bed, stop screaming, and just listen while I prayed and stroked his head. When Murphy would exasperate my dear husband, he would walk into the room and say, "Your turn, he only sleeps for you." After I went in there and prayed him to sleep, (just about 10-15 minutes), I explained to my husband what I was doing to get him to calm down and go peacefully to sleep. Prayer is amazing! For some reason, Murphy just responds to God's Word like none of our other kids have. The others love God's Word, yes, but to him it it like a salve on an open wound.

I know that there will be many days ahead where Murphy will bring us to the brink of exhaustion...but I have a powerful weapon in my arsenal...

prayer.

2011-06-29T07:50:00.003-05:00

I'm itching for change. I get this feeling every now and then. You know, when you feel kind of antsy, like you're a tad bit unsettled? So what do I do when I get that familiar feeling? Rearrange furniture! Some get a hair cut, buy new clothes, dye their hair...I move furniture. :)

I get some weird kick out of moving rooms around. I'm wondering if I'm the only one who does this. My MIL will comment when she visits that everything is different. (She visits a few times a year.) The furniture in her home has not moved in 15 years. Seriously! I moved her furniture around right after my husband and I married. I tried to rearrange her furniture to get the most use out of their floor plan. Nothing has moved since!

Am I the only one who gets a kick out of rearranging???

A servant's struggle

2011-06-23T13:16:00.003-05:00

"For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:28

These past few weeks this verse has coursed through my mind. Over and over and over again. When I am tired, I have a tendency to slack off in some areas. Whether it be cleaning the floors, keeping up with the laundry, preparing home-cooked meals, or consistently disciplining the kids...sometimes it's easier to grumble about what I *have* to do, than to just do it as unto the Lord. I have literally had to quiet my mind, mentally replace bitter thoughts with those of a true servant's heart, and purpose to serve my family.

As with all men and women, I am a selfish being. I would like to be able to rest when weary, put myself first,(as our society is telling us is necessary for happiness), and do as I wish. Yet I know that God desires for me to have a servant's heart. One who strives to put others first and self last. Oh it is so much easier said than done! I have recited that verse so many times as of late and it has really helped me to stop short of complaining and get on with serving.

"Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love." Ephesians 4:2

I am trying to listen for God's prompting when I feel hopeless or too tired to do it all. Some mornings I wake and feel dread at having to live yesterday all over again today. It is exhausting, draining, and emotionally tolling. Yet when I serve my family as God wants me to, I am being His disciple. I am right where He wants me to be.

Last week I was feeling the weight of my responsibility. I texted my husband with a short plea. "I need your encouragement." He wrote back, "Lord, grant my wife the strength to make it through this day. Amen." along with a 2nd text, "You are an amazing wife and mother." I cried. Yes, I was that weak and in need of my husband to lift me up that I cried. You know what else? I made it through the rest of that day with a renewed energy and skip in my step. God answers prayers. I am reaching for Him each day and laying my burden at His cross.

I am trying. I am learning. I am serving.

Father's Day is Approaching...

2011-06-17T07:59:00.003-05:00

This is my dear husband. My stomach still fills with butterflies when I see a picture of him. Even 16 years after we first kissed. And while I am so thankful that he is such a wonderful husband I am even more thankful for the father that he is to our children. He is the most caring, gentle yet strong, patient, kind, loving father. I watch in awe as he tirelessly plays with them, teaches them, and listens to their endless stories and dreams. He is our family leader, provider, and encourager. I am so thankful to God for blessing me with such a wonderful husband and father for my children. I love him with all of my heart.

(This picture was taken at a beach with our middle daughter.)

2011-06-16T09:04:00.002-05:00

This is one of my all-time favorite pictures. I love the sweet smile on my little Liam's face. It encompasses his personality, which has always been one of absolute sunshine. His warmth just shines through in this picture.

2011-06-10T10:20:00.003-05:00

This little ball of sweetness has proven to be a wonderful big sister. I was a little worried that she would get jealous of her new little sister but the exact opposite has taken place. She is completely in love with her. She will give her dolls, kisses, even her blankie which I have to sneak away from her to wash! She will walk right over to her little sister and selflessly tuck her blankie around her, clap her hands, and give her a sweet kiss. I am amazed at how each child of ours has shown tenderness toward little Cami. What a blessing.

My Cami

2011-06-08T07:28:00.002-05:00

Here she is, a week old. She's wearing a dress that our 1st daughter wore almost 8 years ago! When I discovered it in a bin of girl's birth-12 mos. clothing I couldn't wait for her to wear it. It was my favorite dress and our 2nd daughter was born in winter so she couldn't wear it.

I'm amazed that she was looking at the camera!

Ahhhh Summer....

2011-06-07T08:28:00.002-05:00

This is what I'm talking about! SUMMER!!! I'm loving lying on the deck, cranking up the Bublé, reading my Kindle. Ahhhh...the vitamin D is calling out to me!

D-Day

2011-06-02T14:25:00.002-05:00

So there I am 20 minutes after delivering our latest addition to the family. Do I look ecstatic or what? :) Not only was the delivery quick and virtually worry-free, but I felt WONDERFUL afterward! Absolutely wonderful! I don't think I quite believed our dr. when he said, "It's a girl!" I looked at Ryan, then him, and then asked, "It's a girl?! What?!" Complete shocker. I carried this baby exactly like I did our other 3 boys. Just goes to show you, you never do know!

I went in to be induced late at night. One Cervadil later and my contractions started. I slept through the night, (well, as much as a person CAN sleep in a hospital), and they were ready to start pitocin at 7 am. The nurse went to monitor the baby for 15 min. before starting the pitocin and couldn't find the heartbeat where it should be. Instead, she found it high. Way too high to be vertex. Yep, this little one flipped into transverse position in my sleep. Dr. ordered terbutaline to stop my contractions and went and got the ultrasound. 3 hours later he did the ultrasound and our little flipper had flipped back down to vertex! Start the pit!

I have to say that this labor was totally different for me. My contractions did not hurt nearly as bad as they have with my other deliveries. I only got an epidural when I hit a 4 so that I wouldn't miss my window of opportunity. (When I get to a 5, I have about 1-10 min. before I'm complete.) I wasn't in much pain at all! 30 minutes later I was ready to push! My sweet dr. said, "Let's try one push." I gave a little push and he said, "WHOA! Stop, stop, stop!" Baby's head came out and a little push later, she was out. From the time they started the pit to finish it was a total of 4 hours! It was wonderful! And at the end of it all, I got to hold our dear little girl. I was secretly hoping for another little girl, but was completely sure this was a boy.

I feel so blessed. We are blessed. I am totally in love with our new little girl, and completely in love with the husband and family that God chose to bless me with.

2011-05-31T10:11:00.002-05:00

Our little girl arrived this past week! Yes! A girl!!! I actually asked a second time when the dr. announced that it was a girl. "What?!?!?!" I was SO sure that this was a boy! Little do I know. So now the count is even here in the house. 3 Boys-3 Girls.

We are so blessed and so thankful.

2011-05-11T15:01:00.000-05:00

Had to chase my 3 year old half-way down the street when he took off after his brother. He is getting WAY too fast on his bike and my belly is WAY too big to sprint after him like I did. I barely caught him and accidentally knocked him off of his bike in the process. I have not run that fast in a year.

*ouch*

2011-05-05T08:10:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile since I've posted. I could say I've been busy, which would be true, but really I needed a break from electronics.

Now that I'm feeling a bit refreshed, I thought I'd check in once again. I have just a smidgen over 2 weeks left in this pregnancy! Yeah me! I really don't mind being pregnant, until the last month that is. I am so ready now! I've been experiencing false labor for the past week. Contractions that last ALL day and night but don't progress. My body is exhausted.

We are getting our new bunk beds today. They finally came in after a 3 month wait. I can't wait to get them set up! My 5 yr. old asked Jesus into his little tender heart. I'm beyond thrilled about it! He has such a sweet spirit. The questions he's asked my husband and I over the past few months are questions I never asked until my mid 20's! He's also started Kindergarten in our little homeschool. He's loving it and just zipping through his schoolwork and begging for more.

I went to my little sister's wedding in March. She's a MRS. now!!! My older sister's first daughter is having her 1st birthday this coming week. So many milestones in the past couple of months. So many things happening around here and it's not likely to die down anytime soon! :)

My husband and I are trying to figure out some baby names for this new addition. This one may not have a name when it comes home from the hospital! We'll see! Here's a pic of my blossoming belly. This was taken at about 35 weeks.

2011-03-18T10:00:00.002-05:00

It's hard for me to believe that I have a 9 year old now! In addition, my toddler will be turning 3 in a couple of days. My how time flies. I'm trying my best to really cherish each day I have with my kids. They are such blessings in my life. Thank you Lord for each child you have blessed me with, and for each child you continue to bless us with.

2011-03-15T16:55:00.004-05:00

Despite having pneumonia, bronchitis, ear and sinus infections, I can't stop baking and cooking! I'm in one of those zones. The funny thing is...I don't even care to eat any of the yummy treats and dinners I've been concocting. Due to my sickness, I can't taste a thing so I'm not tempted to eat any of the pastries or dinners. At this stage in my pregnancy I get heartburn if I eat anything other than oatmeal, salad, or Malt-O-Meal after 5pm so that limits my options just a bit, haha! I love making all of this food for my family. I guess cooking is one of the ways I show my love. :)

Here are a few of the goodies I've made recently. I'm already thinking of what my daughter and I can bake tomorrow!

Cream-filled Doughnuts

Shepherd's Pie

Angel Food Cake

Chocolate Chip Scones

Exploring the Snow!

2011-03-08T16:11:00.002-06:00

Our youngest ventured outside for the first time in the snow. It was a fairly warm day, around 35 degrees, so I put on her hand-me-down bibs, jacket, and mittens. We set out the front door and she immediately let out a squeal! Freedom! Fresh air!

Never Too Young...

2011-03-08T07:44:00.003-06:00

Our sweet 7 year old was working on her daily chores while I was in the kitchen. Her baby sister was watching with awe. :) I heard the cabinet open and spied her grabbing a towel and then closing the cabinet. She then went over to her big sister and began to wipe the front of the oven! She beamed up at me! I, of course, HAD to snap a picture. :)

Clenched Fists

2011-03-08T07:34:00.004-06:00

A sweet, sweet thing happened last night. We made it to the table for dinner. It was a rushed night for all. My husband had just gotten in the door and I urged everyone to the table before the food got cold. We had been waiting on my dear husband and the kids were famished and whining the past 30 minutes underfoot for FOOD! We got to the table, sat down, and Ryan clasped his hands for prayer. Right before we started we looked over at our little 1 year old and to our delight caught her as she clasped her hands together, bowed her head, and struck her forehead with her pudgy little fists! She was praying with us!!! Such a sweet event to witness after a stressful dinner prep. It made my day.

There are so many stresses throughout a mom's busy and often hectic day. It's moments like seeing my baby pray with us for the first time that allow me to release that anxiety, and focus on what's important. It renews my vision for our family. It brings joy to my soul! :)

In the Hands of God

2011-03-07T15:51:00.003-06:00

It's been a LONG time since I've posted, I know. What can I say other than life has been happening! If you've e-mailed, I've meant to get back to you, but have been busy, busy, busy! Pssssst....I'm talking to you Valerie!)

We just got back home this last week. It is so nice to be back home! The kids have been gone for 6 weeks so they are discovering everything here all over again. It has also been a time of getting back into the routine of things and getting back on track with discipline and guidelines. (They pretty much got away with every and anything they wanted to at grandma and grandpa's!) Time to reinforce who the parents are!

It's so nice to be back in my own home, able to cook our own food, bake to my heart's content, and CLEAN! Yes, CLEAN! I've missed cleaning. Call me crazy. :)

It's only a few short months until this baby will make his or her debut, Lord willing. I can't believe how fast this pregnancy has gone by. I told my husband last night that we have got to start looking at baby names! We usually have names picked out by the 3rd month. Now we have less than that left until this baby gets here and haven't even cracked open a baby name book! Time to get moving.

I'm starting to get our garden plans together for this year. I'm hoping to go much bigger this year as our kids are getting bigger and consuming much more. Example: I had to take my 5 year old to the urgent care in Az. They measured him and he had grown a whopping 3 inches in 5 weeks! (He had JUST had his physical before going to Az.) When my husband and I got to Az. we noticed his previously fitting pants were now above his ankles!!! It's amazing just how quickly they grow.

So between prepping for an expansion of the garden, getting back into school full-time, preparing as best we can for a new baby, trying to re-establish order, we've kept busy! Blessed, for sure! I can't imagine my life without all of these feet running around me.

The Winter Blahs

2011-02-04T07:37:00.002-06:00

I've had enough of winter! I've had enough of being cooped up inside because it's sub-zero outside. I've had enough of wrestling with the kids to get on snow bibs, jackets, boots, mittens, and hats only to have to peel them off 10 min. later when they come in complaining that it's just too cold.

Spring. Come quickly! Cover my lawn with green blades of grass. Robins, come find big, fat juicy worms after the rainfall. Peonies, bloom and let your breathtaking perfume fill the air. Sun, oh sun!!! I have missed you! Trees, release your foliage and rustle in the wind. Little bunnies, hop lightly across our yard in search of budding bushes. Oh spring. *sigh*

22 Weeks!

2011-01-25T09:35:00.001-06:00

Is it just me, or did my belly get smaller? I thought I really popped as of late, but looking at the pics I'm not sure!

Big Boy!

2011-01-25T07:59:00.002-06:00

I've got one more out of diapers! Do you know what that means? I will only have 2 in diapers when the new baby comes, not 3, as I was expecting! Woo hoo!!! Our little Monster has taken so easily to going in the potty. I don't remember it being this easy with the other boys! Let's just say that right now I am ecstatic!

Early Sunday Morning

2011-01-23T07:21:00.002-06:00

Firstly, I have to say, I MISS MY KIDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was woken up by the little ones a little after 5am this morning. First one, then the other. I knew I was up for the day so I shot out of bed, ran to the bathroom to throw up, then went to make some coffee. (If you're wondering, no I'm not sick, I just throw up every day while pregnant. Yup, good times.)

I turned on the lights, looked outside at the fog, checked the weather which is -17 by the way, and then came downstairs to mess around on the computer. Church is a no-go today as my husband is sick, along with the baby. Today we have 2 football games to watch, yeah!, and dinner is steak stew.

I'm hoping to finish a piece of art I'm making for K's room sometime today. I should be able to finish it. I'm going to sew some pillows for her bed to match the curtains I made the other day. She's going to be so surprised when she gets home! Changing the textiles in a room is such a simple way to change up a room.

This week I'll tackle the boys' room. I'm going to sew new curtains in there as well. Either space themed, or aircraft themed...not quite sure yet. We'll see. Then I'm going to rummage through all of our school stuff and organize it in a sequenced manner. Each month's work will be in corresponding binders. I've got 4 years worth of school curriculum and need to get each year sorted and set for the next set of kids. Hopefully that'll fill up some of my time!

I'm feeling this little one kick all of the time now and find myself getting anxious to meet him/her. I can't wait to see if it's a boy or a girl! I'm feeling like it's a boy, but you never know! I find myself forgetting sometimes that I'm pregnant! I bend over to tie a shoe or pick up clothes off of the floor and for a split second I wonder why it's hard for me to breathe, and why I can't just stoop right over and up again, lol! I've really popped these past few weeks. I am so worried that I'm not going to fit into the bridesmaid dress for my sister's wedding! I don't know what I'm going to do if it doesn't because it's a special order color which takes 3 months to get in. I just may have to safety pin myself in and cover my back with my hair so nobody can tell, lol!!!

I best be off and running to make some breakfast. Everyone should be up and at em soon here.

My Daily Schedule

2011-01-20T07:38:00.006-06:00

Thought I'd post my daily schedule for anyone who's curious! ;)

5:30am: Wake up, make hubby's breakfast and send him off to work with a kiss.

6:00am: Sit with my coffee, catch up on the computer, watch news, read my Bible or devotional etc...

7:00am: The 3 eldest wake up. I tousle their hair, kiss them good morning, and get their breakfast started.

8:00am: Kids get dressed, hygiene, and do their morning chores. I do the same after I clean the kitchen.

9:00am: 2 yr. old and baby wake up. Feed them and get them dressed and ready for the day.

9:30ish: Start school with the eldest 3. Set the 2 yr. old up with play-doh or coloring stuff at the extra table. The baby crawls around or is perched on my hip.

11:00am: Done with the heavy portion of school! How cool is that? I LOVE homeschooling! I get lunch started with my lunch helper and the other kids play with each other. We eat!

11:30am: Clean up lunch and read to them.

12:00pm: The youngest 2 go down for their nap. The eldest 3 go to their designated quiet time area and play quietly for an hour. Usually I set them up with legos, books, or stamping stuff. I lie down on the couch for a 20-30 min. shut eye. I NEED this time.

1:00pm: Get the eldest 3 outside. If it's warm enough I'll go. I draw the line at 0! If it isn't above 0 Mommy stays in!

2:00pm: Kids come back in. I read aloud to them from the remainder of our school books and then we do fun stuff.

3:00pm: Little ones wake up. Everybody gets snacks at the kitchen island. While they're chomping away I start prepping anything I can for dinner.

3:30pm: We all start our afternoon chores. I put some fun music on and we all get busy. Believe it or not, this is one of the kids' favorite times of day!

4:30pm: Neighbor kids are home from public school so the kids go out to play. I stay with the little ones and we play!

5:00pm: I get dinner going if I haven't already. I do a last minute pick-up before my husband gets home.

5:30pm: Daddy's home and the kids run home to play with him. The dinner helper for that day helps me set the table and fill glasses, etc...

6:00pm: Dinner time! We eat, then everyone piles on daddy. He rough-houses with them for an hour or so while I clean up dinner.

7:00pm: Baths and showers oscillate: younger 2 one day, eldest 3 the next. I shower when Daddy's home. (A whole lot easier that way!) The ones that aren't bathing get to play and prepare for bed.

7:30pm: Daddy reads to them before bed, tucks them in, and I come in for kisses and prayers.

8:00pm: Mommy and Daddy time!!! Woohoo! I check on what needs to be done the next day, take out meat for the next day's dinner, and make sure the kitchen is spotless. (I'm OCD about a clean kitchen. I can't work in one that's not!)

10:00pm: We head off to bed!

Saturdays: Swim lessons for the kids. (Year-round)
Sundays: Church day and family time. (No friends on family day.)
Mondays: We go to the library.
Wednesdays: Church group with homeschool'ed kids
Thursdays: Grocery day.

Now in the spring and summer our schedule is SO different! Bike rides, nature walks, and daily trips to the park are the norm. School is done outside in nice weather. Each evening after dinner we go for a bike ride, weather permitting. Basically, we are never inside during the warmer seasons!
Fridays are sleep-over nights in our home. Kids around here are not allowed to sleep over, and as we don't allow our kids to sleep over at other kids' homes, (unless we know their parents WELL), the kids sleep over in one another's room. We blow up an air mattress, rent a movie, order pizza or I make homemade happy meals, pop popcorn, and the kids pile into someone's room and stay up late. They look forward to this every week!

Homeschool: Since I use Sonlight Curriculum I don't really have much in the way of planning to do for each day of school. I get their workboxes set up the evening before, just dispersing their daily work into 12 boxes. Easy as pie. I LOVE Sonlight. I am such a planner and crazy box-checker. Sonlight does all of the daily planning for me so all I have to do is show up and teach!

So, in a nutshell, that's our schedule! Any questions? I'd be happy to elaborate, but don't want to bore you!

She's growing up

2011-01-03T13:49:00.001-06:00

way too fast. I love her so much. She is such a blessing to me.

Wow!

2010-12-31T10:37:00.002-06:00

At first I didn't see much of a bump forming, so I decided to do a comparison. The first pic is from when we found out we were expecting, at around 7-8 weeks. The second pic is of my bump at almost 17 weeks. Now I can see a difference! :)

Christmas gifts #6 & 7

2010-12-16T07:32:00.002-06:00

Here is another outfit I made for her AG doll. Shirt, skirt, and a matching purse.

The last dress I made which I just know will be her favorite! It was kind of a pain doing two layers. I did a pink base with this tulle-type material with glittery designs on top. Love how it turned out!

Christmas gift #5

2010-12-15T07:46:00.003-06:00

Yet another dress for her Christmas gift! I'm getting pretty quick at these. It took an hour tops to make the dress and bonnet. These have been great "quiet time" projects for me. The little ones go down for naps, the older ones have quiet time with legos or books, and momma gets to get crafty!

Christmas Projects #2, #3, and #4

2010-12-14T08:53:00.005-06:00

Here is the little mini sleeping bag I made for my younger son's teddy bear. I made a matching pillow too. I embroidered his teddy's name on the bag after I took this picture. He's gonna love it!

Here are 2 outfits I made for Kate's American Doll. I was delighted to find that the free patterns I found online fit the doll to a t! I was leery about whether or not they would actually fit right. They fit beautifully!

The first is a "school dress" with an apron.

The back:

And her "apron dress", which I like without the apron!

I was surprised at how easy these doll clothes were to make! Super easy and I made them with remnants of fabric and embellishments that I have in my tubs of craft supplies. So, these were easy AND free!

Christmas Project #1

2010-12-13T08:32:00.003-06:00

Here is the sleeping bag I made for Kate's American Girl doll! We got her a doll for Christmas and I wanted to have something that she could put her doll in to sleep but didn't want to pay for the sleeping bag they sell. I figured, I have material, I can come up with something!

So I measured the doll and sewed two fabrics together in the shape of a rectangle. Then I put batting in between the two layers. I quilted a pattern onto the bag and then added a zipper to one side. This was my first time quilting so I was a little nervous, but save for a few squiggly lines, it turned out great. made a matching pillow and voila! It took about 2 hours in all from start to finish. Easy afternoon project! It turned out pretty well! I'm happy with it and I know my daughter will be so excited.

Kasey

2010-11-29T08:18:00.003-06:00

We've had a few trying days. Our little baby slept 20 hours on Saturday. I kept checking on her every hour to make sure she didn't have a temp and to make sure she was still breathing. Finally, at 1pm I woke her up because I was just a tad concerned that she was sleeping so long. I went to change her clothes and pulled off her socks and booties. Her feet were bluish-purple and absolutely freezing. I instinctively grabbed her hands and they were purple and cold as well. She looked at me and was just...lifeless. I called my husband and told him. I got our stuff together and went in to the ER. By the time we got loaded, her lips were blue as well. I had tried slapping on her back to make sure nothing was blocking her airways but nothing.

As soon as the admitting nurse saw her bluish tone she rushed us back and put Kasey on oxygen. The next 24 hours was a complete fog. Dr.s, lab techs, x-ray techs, cardiologists, pediatric specialists, and probably a few more that I just can't recall were in and out, poking her, prodding her, stretching her, pulling her...it was heartbreaking to watch. So many medical terms and jargon were tossed in my lap I didn't know what to do with all of the information. I just wanted them to make her well, not scare me with the what-ifs. I just couldn't process that much information while I was so worried for my daughter and trying to comfort her.

All of the tests so far have come back negative, which is wonderful. She was found to have a heart murmur, which isn't that big of a deal. What is worrisome is that her WBC and her platelet levels were way too high. Some of her other levels were too high or too low, indicating either her body is fighting something, or fighting to maintain her current normalcy. For now we're left wondering. They don't know yet why her levels are so off and why oxygen isn't being passed in her blood. We have another appt. in a few days along with more blood tests. She's stable right now but just not back to herself yet.

Please keep her in your prayers.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T09:19:00.002-06:00

I have almost an hour before it's time to get in the kitchen. I'm preparing a feast for our little family. My first turkey will be in the oven in an hour! I've always made ham because I KNOW how to make it, lol. We'll see how my first turkey turns out. Along with that we'll be having garlic mashed potatoes, broccoli & corn casserole, homemade wheat rolls, festive cranberry salad, stuffing, and of course pumpkin pie.

I am so thankful to God for the wonderful job he has blessed my husband with. I'm thankful that we have food on the table and in the pantry. I'm thankful for our health, for our home, for our cars. I'm so thankful that I'm able to stay home with my children and bring them up with a God-based education. I'm so thankful that God loves me so much that He sent His son to die for my sins. What a gift of mercy! Thank you Lord!

Whether you're with family or far from it, may you have a blessed Thanksgiving.

Text from my husband yesterday:

2010-11-20T08:34:00.005-06:00

"Good morning sweetie, I want to tell you how proud I am to have you for a wife. You have taken on the righteous task of completely raising our children. Only two percent of women in this world care enough to do that and I feel blessed every single day that you're one of them. So when you're feeling down, just remember that I love you and will help you with whatever you need. You are a wonderful teacher, mother, and wife. Have a wonderful day."

Then, after not hearing from me in 5 minutes sends the next text:

"Sweetie, dry your eyes and get to work."

HAHAHA! He knows me so well. I love that man!

Thirst

2010-11-16T15:03:00.002-06:00

I went to church on Sunday for the first time in almost 2 months. Yes, 2 months. Thankfully, I am able to download sermons on my iPhone, but it's just not the same as being there. Our family has been sick, I've been very sick with this pregnancy, and life has seemed to just get in the way the past 7-8 weeks. I was so excited that everyone was well come Saturday night. We get to go to church!

We dropped each of our kids off at their different classes and went into the sanctuary. We started to sing worship songs and my eyes just filled with tears. Now, I'm the kind of person who would rather eat mud than cry in front of others. It's just not my thing. Even in sappy movies I'll blink back tears. (I know, I probably have some deep-rooted emotional problems, lol.) I could not help it. My soul was so parched. I drank in the words we sang, lifted my voice, let the tears come. I was in need of some spiritual replenishing.

I soaked up our pastor's words like a sponge. I thanked God for the words I was able to hear. For the freedom to come to church. For His divine ability to replenish my soul. I didn't realize just how parched I was for fellowship, His Word, to sing praises to Him. What an awesome thing it is that we are free to worship God in this country.

2010-11-16T07:28:00.003-06:00

2 nights ago I had my 3 eldest kids around me as I was preparing dinner. My eldest was tearing the bacon to bits for the twice-baked potatoes, Kate was adding the spices to the potatoes as I gave them to her, and Liam was watching. We had just finished up the potatoes when the oven timer went off. I walked over to the oven, pulled out the pork chops, and reveled in the "oooh's and aaaah's" from the kids. I explained to them that they were breaded, what spices and cheeses I added, and how I got the outside to brown so well. I plated the food and my eldest looks at me with wide eyes and says, "MOM! You could be on a cooking show!"

Hee, hee. Yep, he made my week. :)

phew

2010-11-12T07:28:00.002-06:00

It looks like the last of us is going through the flu. Thank God!!! We have all been through the flu this past week and it was a bad one. I was on the bathroom floor for about 12 hours, sitting up every 15 minutes to yak. I'm not sure why but when I'm pregnant and I get sick, it is compounded. I seriously get so sick and vomit so violently that I end up in the hospital for i.v. fluids. Weird. Meanwhile, my kids get sick for 8-12 hours, then hop out of bed and run around like they were never down for the count! How can they do that?! It's amazing!

Anywho, I've got a house that needs some MAJOR cleaning now! My wonderful husband was so great about keeping the kids away from me and taking care of them while I massaged the bathroom floor with my face...BUT...I walked up the stairs to find the house looking like a bomb had gone off! Seriously! I was tempted to post a picture of what it looked like but felt bad because he had done such a great job with them. They're all that matters, right? So, cleaning house today is a must.

So, off to the kitchen I go and I suppose I will work my way out from there! Have a great day!

Happy Meals!

2010-11-04T08:25:00.006-05:00

If your kids love Happy Meals just for the toy or for the excitement of their own little bag of food, why not try making a homemade one instead? :) A few years ago I started doing just that after actually gagging while cleaning out the van and finding a month old, (could have been monthS old), fry from McD's which my then 3 year old proceeded to pick up and eat. EWWWW! If something can go that long without even changing shape or color, or size, it's NOT edible in my book. I decided to start making our own Happy Meals. So here's what I do:

First I buy a pack of white or brown bags. (Whichever is on sale.) I staple a place card onto the front. I always wait until a holiday has passed, then I raid the name card and little goody bag section. I was in a hurry this time around as my 11 mo. old was a ball of fuss that night so I just put some stickers on the bag. When I have time I stamp them or add jewels or clip-art to the front. Then I grab a goody bag from my clearance find. (The one I used that night was a carrot bag from Easter.) I put a cookie, candies, or a couple of prize bucket toys. (Oriental Trading has a set of Treasure Chest toys I love. It comes with bubbles, necklaces and bracelets, cars, glow in the dark stuff...) This time I had Halloween candy so I used that. Then I grab a juice box. This is a treat for my kids as they get juice only with their Happy Meals. Then I add their meat and veggies in little tupperware bowls. Corn dogs and green beans this go-round. Sometimes I put in chicken tenders or fish sticks. It's really whatever I have on hand. I add in a cheese stick and a fruit. I forgot to put the banana in until the last minute. I just put the juice box on bottom, banana next, then the treat, then the meat and veggies stacked on top!

Voila! Easy as pie and SO much healthier than a "real" Happy Meal.

Not only are the kids happy, but I'm happy as well!

Chore Packs

2010-11-03T13:37:00.011-05:00

I'm finally posting about chore packs! These life-savers called Chore Packs were brought to my attention whilst watching 19 Kids and Counting, (I think they were 17 Kids and Counting when I saw it.) The concept is based on a book called Managers of Their Chores.

I bought the book because I was having a hard time getting all of the housework done around the house and really wanted to start incorporating the kids into helping out more. I didn't really know which chores would be age-appropriate. Their book was integral to doling out the workload appropriately. We've been doing chore packs for nearly two years now. Each year I evaluate their work and see if there's a bigger job they could do or if they're struggling with their load. (That's never been a problem as of yet.)

Here are what the chore packs look like.

In the morning, they each go to the pantry and take their respective pack. I put velcro on the back of the chore pack holder and on the pantry so we could keep them in an easy-to-reach place.

The eldest 3 clip it onto their shirt or pajama.

They tackle each chore, then when finished with it, place it to the back of the holder. Each of my kids has 10 chores to finish during the day. Some are easy, some take 15-20 minutes. When they've finished their daily chores they have a chore that is only done one day of the week. This is their weekly chore.

Here is my 8 yr. old's pack.

As you can see, some are simple self-care chores. Others are more time-consuming. Right now his favorite chore is to vacuum the dining and kitchen areas. This is such a help to me as now my floors are already vacuumed and ready to steam mop every evening! It gets messy around here with 5 kids! His least favorite is brushing his teeth, lol! Now, on Mondays he washes down the dining chairs, Tuesdays he sweeps the bathroom floors so I can mop them afterward, Wednesday he helps me to tidy up the inside of the van, Thursday he grabs the sheets off of all of the kids' beds and takes them to the laundry room so I can wash them, Friday he and Kate help me straighten up the garage, and on Saturday he takes the small trashes out to the can.

Here is my 7 yr. old's pack.

If you'll notice, the kids have a couple of days in which they help me prepare dinner. Whether that be helping me prep or setting the table, they are the helper for that day and don't have to help clean up dinner on that day. She gets mom and dad's sheets off our bed on Monday, she vacuums the steps on Tuesday and Saturday, Wednesday and Thursday she uses Windex to clean the fronts of electronics and appliances, and Friday she helps her brother and I pick up the garage. Her favorite is to vacuum the steps and her least favorite is being done with her chores. (Seriously.)

Here is my 5 yr. old's pack.

Now his special chores are to change the hand towels in the bathrooms each day. He knows where they're kept and grabs a new one, takes the old one down and puts it in the laundry bin, then replaces it with the new one. He also puts the stray shoes in the shoe bench at the entrance of our home. He is also in charge of the entryway. He makes sure toys are put away, coats are hung up, and garbage is thrown away. On Mondays he makes sure there are at least 2 rolls of tp under each bathroom sink, Tuesdays and Thursdays he cleans the front of appliances with Windex, Wednesdays and Fridays he takes a wet rag and washes down windowsills, and Saturdays he takes the bathroom trashes out to the garbage. His favorite chore is to clean the front of the refrigerator, and his least favorite is brushing his teeth. (Maybe it's a boy thing!)

Now when starting the whole chore pack thing, know that you're probably going to face some resistance. If your kids aren't used to having to pitch in, it may take awhile for them to assimilate! My kids stopped whining about it and resisting about a month in. I think they became routine to them after that point. Now they're excited about review times to see what new chore they get and what they are passing on to the next kid. Right now the older two are vying for steam mop duty! Not quite yet.

It does take quite some time to get to the point where you can let your child do their chores without you guiding them every step of the way. For me it took about 3 weeks with the eldest two, and 2 months with the youngest. (He was 3 then.) Every day I would teach them each step of a chore, one different chore a day, for a few weeks. Then I would follow them and make sure they were doing it correctly. Now we're at the point where it's very rare for them to do a chore poorly. My best advice? Praise, praise, praise them! Let them know how much they are helping you out, what a great job they've done, how important they are to the family...etc...

I don't know how I did it before chore packs. Cleaning is enjoyable now! We put on some music and set about our chores! Happy cleaning!

2010-10-26T13:31:00.003-05:00

Okay, I seriously promise to post about the chore packs soon! I have been so busy the past few weeks it's unbelievable! My sunshine, Liam had his 5th birthday yesterday. That child can light up a room in a blackout! Love him.

My first houseguest is coming in 2 days! My little sister will be here Thursday afternoon and it won't get here soon enough. I haven't seen her in nearly a year and it's been too long. We've got a wedding to go to and much planned for her short trip. It should be fun!

The next week I have my In-Laws coming. Then a week after that it's my little baby's 1st birthday. OH! I JUST remembered that tomorrow is my week to bring treats to my Bible class! Ack! I better go and bake a little. :)

The Daily Grind

2010-10-15T07:48:00.002-05:00

It's getting to me. The daily grind. I can honestly say that I have never been this exhausted with any of my previous pregnancies. I am exhausted to the bone. To. The. Bone. Oh my word, I just keep telling myself that I'll be over it in a few weeks. The second trimester will be here shortly, then I'll feel better, right? Ugh.

We've told everyone about the pregnancy. My MIL was appalled, as we expected. We just didn't expect the extent of her distaste for our large family. She is a wonderful, godly woman, but one who thinks that families should consist of 2 parents and no more than 2 children. Finally, after hearing the chiding remarks after we announced each pregnancy, I decided to write her a letter. I explained that we view children as a blessing, not a burden. I questioned why she consistently tells others to just trust God with all matters, yet can't trust in Him concerning her son and his family. God has always taken care of us. We put our faith in Him, not the world. I had Ry read over the letter before I sent it because, well, I just think it's important that he approved it. The day after she got the letter she called my husband and apologized for the remarks she made. I haven't heard from her and she's visiting in 3 weeks, so this may make for an awkward visit. At least I've shared my feelings with her about the hurtful remarks over the last 5 years!

School-wise, we've hit a big milestone with my 4 year old. He's started reading! He's so excited as he wants so badly to be able to read his favorite books. He's been adding and subtracting and all around astounding me. I've always known that he would do well academically. He's very bright and very logical. I've never met a 4 year old like him. He'd do school all day long if I let him.

Our 11 mo. old took her first steps yesterday! No matter how many times I experience these milestones, they're still all so amazing to me! She's cutting 2 more teeth which will make it 5 now.

The monster is still, well, a little monster! He is going to be the one who will refine me the most, I think. He is wild, loud, rebellious, and strong-willed. Sure, he's only 2, but WOW! I'm going to constantly be on my knees in prayer for him.

Sea is maturing so fast it's a little daunting. To think back on how he was a year ago? It's like he's a completely different person! And his face! He's lost that little baby fat that was left on his face. He looks so grown up. My heart aches when I look at him. He's growing up. Fast.

K seems to be growing an inch a day. She's amazing with the kids. She's my little mother hen. Each morning when we hear the littlest two, she's right there begging to go get them. She cannot wait to see their faces each morning. I have to be so careful with her eagerness to help though. I don't want her to one day look back and think that her siblings were a burden placed on her. I let her help out, but remind her that she can go out and play.

That pretty much sums it up. I've got to get to the laundry before we start school. Then I need to make the menu for next month. I need to pick some things up at the store, and be back before the UPS guy comes to drop off our 50# bag of Cream of Wheat! Then we need to do our chore packs, put laundry away, and thank the good Lord, it's Friday, which means PIZZA night and no cooking for Momma!

2010-10-01T13:04:00.003-05:00

Last night I was woken up for the umpteenth time by our baby. She's been pretty sick the past couple of weeks and hasn't slept very well. Thus, I have not slept very well. That, along with being pregnant and utterly exhausted had me harumph'ing up the stairs yet again at 2 in the morning to comfort her. As I was making my way down the hall I suddenly remembered a night almost 2 years ago.

In the early morning hours I awoke to our little Liam telling me he wet his bed. He was no longer sharing a room with his baby brother, but I just hadn't gotten around to getting his clothes out of Murphy's room. It had been on my to do list for weeks, yet I never got to it. I tiptoed into his room to get another pair of clean pj's for Liam and heard a faint wheezing. I picked Murphy up and not only was his body on fire, but he was barely breathing. I rushed him to the small town ER where they put him on oxygen, shot him up, then were rushed to the big city hospital. Long story short-I was told in very certain terms that had we not gone into his room that night, he would have died. It was an absolute miracle. Divine intervention. Had I gotten to moving Liam's clothes out of Murphy's room, I never would have heard Murphy struggling to breathe. If Liam hadn't wet his bed, I would have woken up refreshed the next morning only to discover that my baby had died silently in the night.

I can't thank God enough for the miracle I witnessed that night. And I pray I never forget His protection came in the form of a 3 year old angel. I pray I can get up for the umpteenth time on a cold night and remember that He used a night just like last night to save my little boy.

Women's study

2010-09-16T07:20:00.003-05:00

I've been anticipating this week for months! Women's Bible study started this week!!! I have not been able to attend a women's group in 3 years since the churches did not offer childcare for homeschooled kids. To be a part of one now is such a blessing. We are going through the book, Power of a Praying Parent. I've read the Power of a Praying Wife and loved it so I'm excited to start this one. The fellowship with other moms is such a blessing. The kids enjoyed their class as well so it was a slam dunk! I so look forward to the next few months in this group and can't wait to see what God has in store for me.

In full swing

2010-09-15T14:55:00.001-05:00

We are in full swing here. Our homeschool is going week now that we're in our 7th week. Now I've got 2 second graders and a preschooler. Today my preschooler read his first word! I'm so excited! Such an important milestone in the life of a homeschooling momma. It almost brought me to tears. I'm so proud of him!

And speaking of Fall.....

2010-09-01T14:52:00.002-05:00

For my 33rd birthday, (yes, 33rd), I got to go get my haircut for the first time in 2 years! They took 8 inches off!!!

Now, the last time I had my hair cut they cut a huge chunk in the center of my hair along my neckline. Yikes! Ryan's mouth was agape when I came home with 12 inches lopped off and a huge chunk missing from the back. "What did they do?!?!" he exclaimed. Well, I was salon-shy after that and did my research this time. I went to one of the swankiest places in "the city" and although it was about 3 times as expensive as my usual haircut, my wonderful husband said, "Just do it. You deserve it." So I made the appt. and decided to get highlights as well. *gulp*

This place was amazing. The colorist examined my hair and said, "Honey, I don't want to even touch your hair. People would kill for this color." I thanked him and asked if he would reconsider, lol. He gave me the most subtle highlights which I LOVE! Then the girl who cut my hair did a full-on-sit-down-and-chat consultation with me about how I do my hair, problems I have with it, the best cut for my face shape, and how to get the most out of different cuts. She lopped off 8 inches and proceeded to give me uber-layers. THEE best cut I have ever gotten!!!!!!!! I LOVE my hair! I have not put my hair up in a ponytail in a week now. Seriously, I always threw my hair up into a ponytail. Every day. Now I love to style it.

Ryan told me in no uncertain terms that I am to get my hair cut there from now on. I won't argue! Here's a pic of it while we were driving back from the salon. I don't have a better pic so sorry!

Fall is here folks!

2010-09-01T14:17:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year again! Women's Bible Study!!! This year our church is offering childcare for kids who are homeschool'ed, which means I get to go to women's bible study! Can you tell that I'm excited??? I have not been able to go to a women's bible study in 3 years because the churches we attended didn't offer any childcare for kids above 4 yrs. old. I never quite understood that. If anyone needs to be in the Word and needs encouragement in walking with the Lord, it's homeschooling moms! We're with our kids literally, 24/7. We don't get that alone time. And, although homeschooling is more rewarding than I ever could have imagined, it can be depleting. I am so thankful that our church is finally offering this great gift to homeschooling moms! I can almost guarantee that my kids will benefit directly from momma getting an hour and a half a week to renew her spirit. Praise God!

Today was the kick-off party for the women's group and the kids got to enjoy a carnival afterwards! Fun! Here's 4 of my kiddos~And here's #5 in the Bjorn~

Right now I am so thankful. Thankful for my church, thankful for the ladies who volunteer their time to watch our kids so we can be re-energized, thankful to God for my 5 healthy, tender-hearted children. God is good.

2010-08-25T07:58:00.000-05:00

THE KIDS ARE HOME!!! THE KIDS ARE HOME!!! THE KIDS ARE HOME!!!

:)))))))))))))))))))))

2010-08-17T10:55:00.002-05:00

I'm feeling very restless as of late. I feel as though I need to do something yet I don't know what that is. I know that part of this is that my eldest 3 kids have been gone for 2 weeks and still have another week left to go. I feel so out-of-sorts with them gone. I feel like a part of me is missing and it's left me feeling very restless and anxious. I miss them more than I thought I would. I thought I would feel free and would finally get some rest, yet I find myself trying desperately to keep busy so I don't have time to think about missing them.

It isn't so bad when my husband is home. It's been absolutely wonderful getting to spend time alone with him. We're able to talk on a more intimate level without interruption. It's fantastic. We've been able to take more leisurely bike rides, sit outside with our coffee, discuss politics and dreams, and we've been able to just chill out with one another.

It's hard when you go from busy-round-the-clock mother of 5 little ones, to a quiet house with only a toddler and baby. My ears had to adjust to the silence! I'm counting down the days until I get to see my kiddos. It seems so far off. Isn't homesickness supposed to work the other way around? Aren't they supposed to miss being home rather than me missing having them at home???

Phew!

2010-08-05T12:32:00.001-05:00

Not the chicken pox but an allergic reaction to the heat wave we've been under. Thank goodness because she was so worried she wouldn't be able to go to her G & G's house in a couple of days. This trip has been planned for months!

3 days till the kids leave and...

2010-08-04T10:23:00.002-05:00

Our eldest daughter looks like she may have chicken pox! Ack!!! We're keeping a close eye on her today and hope it's an allergic reaction to something. Poor girl if she doesn't get to go with her brothers to grandma and grandpa's...

DA BEACH IS DAT WAY!

2010-07-31T14:40:00.001-05:00

YUP! Those are my new guns I'm sportin'! Thank you P90X! I'm only 1/3 of the way through the program and was skeptical at first but am a believer now! This program is rockin'!!!

ACK!!!!!!!

2010-07-29T19:15:00.003-05:00

MY SKINNY JEANS ZIPPED UP WITH EASE TONIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Can I get a woot, woot?!

Relapse

2010-07-24T08:52:00.004-05:00

So, here I thought I was over the hump, then BAM!!!! I wake up with another muscle spasm in my back. Arggghhhh !!! So frustrating! Now, here I am, at 9am, on a heating pad, and full of meds. What? I feel like an old woman! My body is literally aching to run. I think I'll go nuts if I can't run soon. I have my little 4 yr old cuddled in my lap right now so that's the plus side to being laid out. He's like a magnet to anyone sitting or lying down. He sees an empty lap, he's got to cuddle! He so reminds me of myself as a young girl.

On another note....it's only 2 weeks until 3 of my little ones head to grandma and grandpa's house for a few weeks! What am I gonna do with only 2 kids here at home? I'm sure my house will be spic and span! I'll be sure to take a picture to remember what a spotless house looks like sans 3 rambunctious children.

Which, by the way, I have to just say that I am truly blessed to have 5 healthy, loving children. My heart could not be more full! When I'm out with all 5 and somebody inevitably comments on how full my hands must be, I can't help but reply with,"They sure are, but my heart is overflowing!". Usually they smile and leave it be. Funny, the ones who usually ask if they're all mine and when I answer yes, reply with a, "Good
for you!", are always over the age of 60. I really believe that elderly people understand the joys of a large family, whereas younger people usually have the attitude of, " Better you than me!". For most in our materialistic generation, it doesn't make sense to them that anyone would actually want a handful of children! Give up the big house, designer clothes, new car, and numerous toys and vacations??? Are we crazy?

Maybe, just a little! ;)

Summer, summer, go away...

2010-07-23T07:50:00.002-05:00

Can I just say that I LOVE Land's End clothing?! Love it, love it, love it! They are having a huge sale right now on hundreds of items for everyone in the family. Let's just say that my family of 7 is set for the coming fall and winter seasons. Not just for this next year, mind you, but for the next couple of years. Land's End was clearing out some skirts, matching hoodies, and pants that the kids and I just love so we stocked up for the next couple of years.

I absolutely adore their skirts for girls. Not only are they adorable and well-made, but they are modest to boot. They drop just above the knee and have a pair of shorts sewn into them. Perfect! My daughter loves the patterns too so that's a plus. As for the boys trekker pants and climber pants? LOVE them. My sons love them. They'd live in them if they could! They sold out quickly in my eldest son's size so I'm hoping they bring them back next year.

I bought several of their tees for the first time. Long sleeve, short sleeve, and tanks for myself. Verdict? I could live in them! They are so soft and comfy. I got a pair of their yoga pants as well and wish they had them in my size so I could buy another pair. They are so super soft and fit perfectly. (They sold out of my size the day after I purchased them. Phooey!) I also bought 2 of their hoodies and have to say that I love the fit. I never buy hoodies because they just tend to make you look boxy and masculine. These ones, however fit very well and look feminine. Love it!

Now all I have to do is wait for fall to arrive. Tick, tick, tick...........

*it won't get here soon enough-I love cold weather*

Relaxed muscles

2010-07-16T09:19:00.002-05:00

As in, every single muscle is relaxed in my body at this very moment. I'm on muscle relaxers, vicodin, and steroids for a herniated disk and sciatica. fun. I herniated my disc from a certain push-up called the dive bomber. It's an advanced push-up. Great for the body, bad for my disc apparently, lol. Now here I am, drugged up, walking with crutches, and awaiting another dr. appt. on Tuesday. Another MRI and then we should know what to do from there.

Can I just say that I have the greatest husband and kids in the world? My husband has totally picked up the slack around here. He's taking care of the kids as soon as he gets home from work so I can lie down and rest. My kids are more helpful than I could ever have hoped for. As a matter of fact, my 7 yr. old daughter came into my room this morning with a cup of coffee complete with creamer for me. How sweet is that??? Séa, my 8 yr. old son, came to my bed after his sister and asked if he could do anything. I said that if he wanted he could pick up the laundry room. (It's gotten a little out of hand with Mom on bedrest and 5 kids-worth of laundry piling up!) I get up to find that not only did he pick up the laundry room, but he started a load of laundry as well!!! Do I have great kids or what? I am so blessed.

Even though I am in quite a bit of pain, I feel so blessed.

2010-07-09T07:36:00.004-05:00

CAN.

BARELY.

MOVE.

I started training again and my body is FIGHTING it! Seriously, I don't recall EVER being this sore!!! My workouts are kicking my butt! Yesterday I packed away the rest of my maternity and post-pregnancy/transition clothes. I'm ready to get back into my favorite clothes. I was unpacking my "skinny" clothes and reminisced for a while, lol! My favorite soft blue jeans, my favorite/soft as my baby's cheeks tees.....I really don't care if I get down to the weight I was, I just want to get back to feeling the way I did when I was in the best shape of my life.

These aching muscles are screaming at me that I'm heading in the right direction....
:)

Stayin' Put

2010-07-07T07:58:00.003-05:00

After much confusion, praying, and yes, waiting, we've decided to stay put. No move for us. For over a month we put all of our plans on hold. God was clearly telling us to wait on Him. Even though I couldn't answer Ryan when he asked me, "Wait for what?" I knew God had told me to wait. Those who know me well know this was excruciating for me! Once I've got a plan I like to move ahead and get things done. To just wait and wait for God to let us know what direction He wanted us to go in was like torture for me!!!

However, after 2 weeks went by, one door was closed. After another 3 weeks, the other door didn't feel right. "Is this your doing God?" I asked over and over. Around this same time, Ryan began being blessed with plentiful work! "Really God?" I kept asking. You see, I've never really liked where we are. In fact, of all of the states in the US, I've always said that I would NEVER live here. (Hmmm....maybe God is working on my humility a bit?) Maybe God has plans for us other than what I have in my little brain, ya think?!

I'd much rather be in God's will than trudging along on my own path through the muck and mire. I may not understand yet why He wants us to stay here, but really, how far is my scope on life? Really? My gentle-hearted Liam says he's supposed to be a missionary. At 4 he's saying this. Maybe God's plans for him run through our mission-minded church. I can't suppose to know. All I know is that God has answered our prayers and has given us a tremendous peace about it. :)

Our little Liam, with the most generous, gentle spirit.

2010-07-02T19:16:00.003-05:00

My 4 yr. old- "Mom? Someday I wanna have God in my belly just like you."

Me- "You mean you want Jesus in your heart?" *laughing inside*

Him- "Yeah, I just want him to know I love him and he can hang out in my body."

LOL!!!

Life Just Keeps Throwing Curveballs

2010-07-01T08:01:00.002-05:00

We have yet another unexpected hurdle in our lives. It's funny how you start to get comfortable with the idea of something, and then, BAM! everything changes. We have 2 job offers on the table and my husband already loves his work here. One place has family, the other-everything else we love, here-a great job and a great church. I've prayed and prayed and......nothing. I'm not sure what it is we're supposed to do. I guess for now, all I can do is keep praying and asking God for His guidance.

Other than that, school is going great so far! Our 1st week back is at an end. I love that we have the freedom to homeschool our kids! Not only do I get the honor of teaching them, but I get to watch them learn and develop a love for learning. I get to see them grow on a daily basis. I can't imagine sending them off to school for 8 hours, then seeing them for an hour before they play with friends, having them in the house for dinner, then homework for the day, and what? getting to have some time with them for 2-3 hours a day? Argh! I know that's not the life for me! I'm just so thankful that we have the choice here in America to teach them at home.

I'm back on my running schedule. Hopefully I won't lose my milk this time. K is almost 8 mos. old now, so I've got a good 4 mos. left that I'd like to be able to nurse her for. I'm just going to half my usual running schedule until she's weaned. Assuming I don't get pregnant before then, HA! :)

School's Back!

2010-06-27T20:28:00.003-05:00

I am too excited!!! We're back to school tomorrow! We're officially starting our Pre-K, 2nd, and 3rd grades! And I am not the only excited one! Today the kids would NOT stop asking if we were still starting school tomorrow, and they were asking it with smiles on their faces! They are just as excited as I am. All of their workboxes are full and ready for the beginning of another school year.

May God guide us this next year and teach us to follow Him.

2010-06-27T11:18:00.001-05:00

God's plans for us are coming together. This whole waiting on God business is harder than you think!!!

I'm seriously loving these storms.

2010-06-25T18:22:00.001-05:00

2010-06-24T22:15:00.002-05:00

So, we've listened and waited for the Lord to direct us. And now I am beginning to understand the importance of putting my trust in Him and waiting on Him. While reading my Bible today I came to 2 verses that I know God was using to encourage me.

"Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD." (Psalm 27:14)

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

It's been beyond challenging for me to just sit and wait for.....well....I didn't know what we were waiting for. I just knew that God wanted us to wait. We were thisclose to putting an offer in on a house when I heard God answering my prayers, telling me to wait. I am so glad that I was able to obey Him. I had to fight the urge to take control of the situation! I had to stay in prayer asking God to reveal His plan for us as I just wanted to have an answer already! I'm so thankful we have a patient and loving God!

I am astounded by the way that God works. Amazed!

2010-06-23T14:42:00.002-05:00

I recently finished this series. I have never read Christian fiction before trying this trilogy. Not only were these books well-written and fascinating, but I am forever changed. The books take place in Roman times. They follow the lives of a Christian Jew, captured in Jerusalem, and sold into slavery within Rome, the family she serves, and a German warrior, captured during war and sold as a gladiator. The author, Francine Rivers, has certainly done her research. I was amazed by the detail. I was touched by each character and my only complaint about the books is that there wasn't a fourth! I highly recommend them.

Squished them into a picture and snapped before they could run off.

2010-06-22T17:17:00.002-05:00

SEE?!?!?!

2010-06-22T16:15:00.002-05:00

It's been quite awhile since I've posted. I couldn't possibly write down all that has happened in the past month. I'm thankful to report that I am healthy and back to normal! Praise God!

We've been in the midst of trying to move and find a home. Everything seemed set and we were ready to move forward...I had this nagging feeling inside of me. "Lord, what do you want us to do? Are you telling us this isn't right?", I prayed. Over and over and over I prayed. No answer. Then, in the middle of the night, after praying for hours and finally drifting off to sleep, I heard a voice as if it were audible. "Wait." I started praying again. "Is that you Lord? Are you telling us to wait?" Thinking I may have been dreaming I waited again. Yet again I heard in my mind, "Wait." So....we wait. I'm not sure for what...but we wait....

2010-05-15T15:19:00.002-05:00

I am asking for prayers. I have been sick now for quite awhile, but things have taken a strange turn in these past few weeks. When I had posted about a week & a half ago, I was confined to the couch as I couldn't even move. I barely had the energy to walk; my legs were so weak. Fast forward a couple of days...my entire body ached with such intensity. I was sure it was the flu. I could barely move my neck. It felt like I had whiplash. This dissipated after a few days. Then the tingling started. My legs started to tingle and my skin became so sensitive to touch. The next day my back started to tingle. Then the numbing started. The sensitivity and tingling was only on my back side. Nothing on the front of my body. This feeling continued until I could hardly stand my clothing as it hurt so badly. I finally went in to be checked out again. (NOTE: I started to panic.)

They are thinking it is either 3 things. All are neurological, which I had figured. On Tuesday I will be going back in to get a CAT scan and a spinal tap. I'm hoping I can get some answers as I am starting to freak out a little over here. Today the numbness and tingling has moved around to the front of my legs and is now creeping down my arms. It is the WEIRDEST feeling. I just pray for God's wisdom to be given to the dr. and for the strength to get through whatever this is. I am so blessed to have gotten a Christian ER Dr. When he came into the room he had on a beautiful tie with Bible scriptures imprinted on it. I shot up a little "Thank you Lord" prayer. He wants me to ask for him when I go in on Tues. He is very curious as to what is going on with me. We shall see.

Could you say a prayer for me please? Thanks! :)

2010-05-13T08:46:00.002-05:00

An update on Séamus and his math...I have given him 4 tests now and he's aced them. There's 5-6 weeks he won't have to sit through when he already knows the material. He's getting another test today. I just don't want him to get bored in school. Ever.

On a completely different note-my sister had her first baby! I'm so excited for her! Her new baby is beautiful and perfect. Thank you God. I am so overjoyed.

Not only this....but my baby slept 6 hours straight last night! Hurrah! :)

Homeschooling Moms!!!

2010-05-07T13:49:00.002-05:00

If any homeschooling moms come across this blog, I need your advice please. My son just started learning subtraction to the tens within the past 2 weeks. This is not the problem. My problem is this....all of the sudden he is spouting multiplication facts and subtracting by thousands. We have not even begun learning multiplication. One day he came up to me and started counting by 2's, 3's, 4,s, and so on up through 12's. We have never even touched on multiplication! He started subtracting (10,560-8,440), in his head and gave me the correct number. Just yesterday he came up to me with many pieces of paper with numbers 1-12 on them. He gave me 12 different numbers, laid them out and said 97. He looked at them and added them in his head! Then he picked out 11 numbers and added them in his head. He was right again. He added for 20 seconds and knew the answer.

Now, he's always loved numbers. Math has always been his favorite subject. He always counts things everywhere we go. I just figured he loved math. I had no idea he knew so much more than I was teaching him. So my question is this....does it sound like he's gifted in this area? Or is this normal? He's my eldest child so I don't know. If he's gifted in this area, how do I know? What do you suggest? Obviously he's way ahead of what I'm teaching him right now so I need to get the next year's math for him.

I would love any input!