This is where my story begins

Must Be Summer Break...

2010-06-30T15:32:00.000-07:00

When they try their hardest to stay up as long as they can!

Northwest Trek

2010-06-29T14:38:00.000-07:00

One of the places we have been wanting to go for years is Northwest Trek. It's a bit of a jaunt from where we live but with a little planning and arranging of schedules we actually pulled it off this year with the whole family!

We happened to arrive on the weekend of Slug Fest.

My nephew Caleb (the boy not the buffalo!)

While we were on the tram Kaden kept asking where all the animals were. He was used seeing the animals at the zoo and not having to actually look for them in the distance.

Because the young kids didn't really get to see the animals I think they didn't have as much fun as we had hoped. Caleb does this when he is tired..

And Lydia decided it was ok to sit on my lap for awhile. She hasn't decided if we are friends yet though

Like Is said...slug fest

The whole Fam Damily!

Notice Todd is missing his beard?? There is a reason for this but I can't say why yet. Big things could be happening for us soon!

Kaden hitched a ride with grandpa

Caution: Caterpillar crossing!

And watch out for peeing coyotes...

Cute as a bug nieces..

Otters trying to escape and..

The cutest kids on the block!

This Will Keep Us All Thinking

2010-06-25T15:39:00.000-07:00

Who Lives In A Pineapple Under The Sea?

2010-06-22T16:40:00.000-07:00

SpongeBob SquarePants!

Absorbent and yellow and porous is he!

SpongeBob SquarePants!

If nautical nonsense be something you wish...

SponeBob SquarePants!

Then drop on the deck and flop like a fish!

SpongeBob SquarePants!

SpongeBob......... SquarePants!!

Help Me Rhonda...

2010-06-20T20:45:00.000-07:00

...But I can't get over how cute he is!!!!

What A Difference A School Year Makes...

2010-06-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

This is Kyler at the beginning of 6th grade

And this is Kyler on the last day of 6th grade

Can you believe how much he has grown up??

And that hair!! Look how much of it he has!!

School is out and summer is here.

Well that's what the calender says but apparently Mother Nature hasn't received that email yet. Rain Rain Rain Rain and more Rain. But on the last day of school we were fortunate to have a bit of sunshine (really it was just a teaser) I like to do something as kind of an introduction to summer so we headed to the beach for a little bbq and campfire time.

This child has a perma-messy face

Why must we always play with our food...just eat the darn thing without making a mess!

Everything is about looking cool now

Let the good times begin!!

Just Some Thoughts floating Around My Head Today...

2010-06-07T19:17:00.000-07:00

I'm living in a puzzle.

The box lid having just been taken off, and I stare down onto the pieces, some clear, some hidden, and they work together somehow. But I'm just looking at them, smelling the woody pulp, and wondering, all the while knowing it's designed to do so, how in the world I'll make it all fit together and look like something real.

Even the box lid sports no picture to guide.

Many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand.

But I know who holds tomorrow and I know who hold my hand

I have been driven many times upon my knees

by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go

-Lincoln

I....

2010-06-05T23:17:00.000-07:00

Have red toenails all the time

Want to travel more

Wish I had a housekeeper

Hate when my kids get sick

Love sitting around a campfire

Miss my pre-children body

Fear someone in my family dying

Wonder if I'll ever feel like a grown-up

Regret not saving more money

Eat snacks late at night

Drink and don't feel guilty about it

Like watching tv in bed

Dance while I'm cleaning the house

Sing for Jesus

Cry every time I watch The Notebook

Make a really good chocolate cake

Can't drive a stick shift

Need to feel financially secure

Should be a better wife

Once jumped off a bridge

Sometimes get jealous

Still hate mornings

Start my day with Facebook

Finish my day with Facebook

Am saved

Hello??

2010-05-20T18:01:00.000-07:00

Hellooooo??

Helloooo??

Is anybody out there still??

I have to admit that I almost quit. A month has gone by and I am sure there have been a few who assumed it too. It actually would have been very easy to quit. I don't know who reads me and quite frankly I don't really have anything to say. I wish I could be one of those very sassy and clever-like bloggers. One who has an interesting lifestyle and colorful opinions about things. But the last time I spoke my opinion about something I got "defriended" on Facebook. So I guess I have learned my lesson in keeping my mouth shut. It's a sad situation and hopefully I will soon just be able to purge it from my system for good.

But anyways...I am back if anyone cares. I don't have anything fabulous and exciting to post about but I thought if I just give a shout out then maybe it will get the creative juices flowing again. Everytime I thought about this lil ole blog, I would get a bad case of writers block.

I mean I could write about the mountains of laundry I need to do....

The enormous task of yard work ahead of me...

Or the fact that I can' seem to stay asleep at night. But I won't bore you with those kinds of things.

I could post some pictures of...

When we took the train down to Seattle for the Mariners game.

When we went to the Locks in Ballard

When we took the ferry over to Poulsbo for the day

When I took the kids camping up in Birch Bay

Kaden just being his silly little self

But the hard drive thingy that connects both our computers so I can access the pictures doesn't seem to be working right now. (slightly worried about that but nothing can be done till the hubby comes home and rescues the day)

So for now I guess this is just me checking in and hoping the very few of you out there didn't give up on me.

Oh..and Todd got a new job so I am REALLY hoping these things are in my near future!!

What??

I don't think that's too much to ask for??

Picture This

2010-04-18T21:31:00.000-07:00

This a story I came across on another blog as I was out blog stalking. I did not compose this story myself but I love it and if you know me then you just might know why I would post this!

Picture this. You and your family all live in a small and very cramped one room home. There are spaces where there should be windows, but they are boarded-up and no light ever come through them.

Although you share the home with other members of your family, you find it really hard to see them, as the only illumination comes from a small, 5 watt bulb suspended from the middle of the room. So the room is very dimly lit and you can only ever catch glimpses of the other members of your family when they walk directly beneath the .light bulb.

Every-so-often water starts to drip down on to you and your family. This, you are told, is special water sent from God to bless you. Funny. But to you it feels cold and unpleasant. And not much of a blessing at all.

At regular intervals your family is visited by a pair of men who come to check on you and your family to ensure that all is well. They wear strange, thick clothing and have goggles on their faces to protect them from the evil that is outside of your hut.

They knock on the door with a special knock and are quickly hustled in, lest the evil influence of outside contaminate the home.

But still, you sometimes wonder what outside actually is and how evil it might really be. One evening, someone is a little slower than normal in closing the door and you catch a glimpse of outside. All you were able to see was that it looked really interesting. So, you decide to leave the safety of your family home to find out what outside was like.

When the others are praying with the visitors, you sneak out through the door, closing it behind you. You gaze around you. All you can do is say: Wow!” You see the remains of the setting sun in the West, watch the first stars coming out, twinkling in the gathering night.

You wander away, looking at everything. It all looks so beautiful. Presently, overcome by exhaustion, you fall asleep under a hedge.

The next morning you are awoken by the singing of many different types of birds. And you see the sun rise. You look around you, shielding your eyes. You are unaccustomed to such brightness, but your eyes gradually adjust.

You retrace your footsteps as best you can. Eventually you find your home. What a terrible shock. Your home, of which your parents are so proud, is, you see, nothing but a small and cramped shack. But worse than that.

It is quite clear that it is built out of a variety of strange materials, all from different sources. Old packing crates, randomly sized bits of wood, all held together with bent nails, bits of old string. From where you stand you can see the flat roof of the hovel that you have called home all your life. There were so many holes in it that there was no wonder water fell on you and your family.

As you walk towards your home, you see a pair of the visitors staggering down the street, in their thick clothing, clutching each other. You wonder if one of them is ill. But then you notice that they are both wearing goggles that are totally painted over with black paint. They are clutching each other because they can barely see where they are going.

Somehow they make it to a neighbouring hovel that is similar to the one you call home. There are, you notice, a small number of these hovels all gathered together in a piece of rough land bounded by a tumbledown fence. There is a rickety slam as they are hustled into the hovel.

All around them there is fantastic beauty. Trees, vales, open pastures, farmland, gorgeous hills, valleys, majestic mountains. Everything. As your gaze shifts toward your home, the hovel, you start to weep. How could you and your family have lived in such a horrible home, whilst all around was not great evil and horrors but a truly beautiful world?

You resolve to tell your family the truth. You run to your door and open it. The action of your family surprises you. Shocks you, even. As the light of the day falls on them, they scream in terror. They push you out, shouting that you had been tainted by the evils of the world. They slam the door behind you, and you see the whole, pitiful shack shake and vibrate with the force.

You spend hours and hours hammering on the door, shouting for your family to join you in the light. But they do not even deign to give you a direct response. Instead they sing hymns to drown out the sound of your voice.

Eventually, you realise that you will never reach your family. So you turn to leave, noticing that it is already coming upon the evening time, again.

As you stand outside the hovel, wondering what to do next, several people approach you. They identify themselves as fellow former dwellers in the hovels with their own families. Some had their entire family with them, others one or two family members but most were like you, with only themselves having been able to escape their family’s hovel.

They invite you to join them. So you do, wandering off to see what great adventures might exist outside of the hovel that your family called home. Picture this.

He is Risen!

2010-04-04T23:00:00.001-07:00

Sunday is here and He Has Risen!!

Rejoice for He Is Risen Indeed!

I love the Easter holiday and I hope everyone had a richly blessed day. The closer I get to God over the years, the more important and exciting this day is.

The power of sin and death has been broken people!!

How great to know that He loves me enough to sacrifice Himself.

It isn't about the eggs

It isn't about the candy

or the bunnies.

It's about Jesus overcoming the grave, rising from the dead and paving the way for eternal life.

Now that's a reason to have a Holy Party!

There's a peace I've come to know

Though my heart and flesh may fail

There's an anchor for my soul

I can say "It is well"

Jesus has overcome

And the grave is overwhelmed

The victory is won

He is risen from the dead

And I will rise when He calls my name

No more sorrow, no more pain

I will rise on eagles' wings

Before my God fall on my knees

And rise

I will rise

There's a day that's drawing near

When this darkness breaks to light

And the shadows disappear

And my faith shall be my eyes

Jesus has overcome

And the grave is overwhelmed

The victory is won

He is risen from the dead

And I will rise when He calls my name

No more sorrow, no more pain

I will rise on eagles' wings

Before my God fall on my knees

And rise

I will rise

And I hear the voice of many angels sing,

"Worthy is the Lamb"

And I hear the cry of every longing heart,

"Worthy is the Lamb"

(Chris Tomlin)

It's Friday....But Sunday Is Coming!

2010-04-02T17:09:00.000-07:00

Today, on Good Friday, we reflect on how that beautiful babe in the manger came to fulfill a mission. A terrible and glorious mission! God invaded planet Earth. He became a human child, to live as one of us, to call us to repent, to love God with our whole heart, minds, and souls, and our neighbors as ourselves.

And today we should tremble and shudder as we remember the horrible climax of His mission. Beaten, scourged, mocked, and stabbed, Jesus mounted the cross, receiving the just punishment for your sins. For my sins. For the sins of the world.

This is why He came and died....

Yes, Easter is coming. The light is at the end of the tunnel. But that’s days away. Today, stop. Think about why He came and died.

Bring The Rain

2010-03-24T22:42:00.000-07:00

This blog is supposed to be my (very public) journal. Sort of an outlet for my feelings and my life. But as I look back, I realize I haven't been as open as I thought I was. As I've been documenting various activities in our lives, I feel like I've been glossing over something this past year. Something I was kind of ashamed of. Something that at times I felt really wasn't anyone's business. But as we are finally emerging out of the situation, I find myself excited about possabilities, life lessons and my relationship with God. So if I feel excitement after this "situation" then why not talk about it?? Why not share my experience and what has come out of it?

What is the experience????

Bankruptcy!!

Ugh! Such a nasty word! A terrible, shameful and embarrassing thing to admit. Something everyone is fearful of but also something you never think is going to happen to you. (Kind of like the word miscarriage. Yeah...been there too!)

So it's the typical story in these hard economical times. Todd sells cars..our income depends on people spending money...when people stop spending money....we lose out big time!! It was a hard decision to come by. We talked about the possability for months but it finally came to a point where we hit a wall and there was nowhere left for us to go. It's somewhat shameful to admit because you don't want people to know how very broke you are. Especially in these days of who has the biggest house and the fastest car.

Money problems can take a toll on many things in your life. Your marriage, your moods, stress levels (which can affect your weight) and everything else in between. But I was determined from the beginning that this was not going to be bigger then me. And most important.. not going to be bigger then God! Now.. I felt I had a good relationship with God, but there is always room for improvement. (If you haven't read about where I've been, who I was and why I'm not there anymore...then go HERE and be sure to read all 5 parts to the story) The reason I was created was to draw closer to Him an all I do. And to not lose sight of all this, I was dedicated to keeping my eyes on God at all times.

Even when....

I couldn't see past the next week (I literally saw the color black in my near future)

We had to go on state food assistance so my family would have food

I had to be creative with our playtime because there was no money to do anything

Todd would work long long hours trying in vain to make some money

We had no goals anymore

We feared losing our house

We feared losing our cars

We couldn't dream anymore!

I started with a dedication to make it to church every week no matter what! Even when I sure did not feel like going. I went with an attitude that God was going to speak to me and I was going to be comforted by his words. And you know what? That really did happen! It seemed like almost every week I heard what I needed to hear at that time.

I also drowned myself in Christian music. Everywhere I went, whether it was the car, my ipod or in the house...I was listening and drowning myself in the words. I found the right songs that really spoke to me and immersed myself in them. I sang them with a conviction that brought me to tears. I really think that doing this saved me and kept me from getting lost in a dark hole.

I was determined that this was not going to affect our marriage in a negative way. I promised myself that I was not going to blame Todd or resent him in anyway. I was not going to nag. I was not going to cry and whine about our situation. We were a team and since we got ourselves into this together then we would get ourselves out of it together.

I also prayed and prayed and prayed and prayed and prayed and prayed and prayed and prayed! Oh and I prayed a little more!

And I repeated over and over..."God was faithful before and he'll be faithful again"

God gives and takes away but my heart chose to say..."Blessed be His name!" everyday!

That's not to say I was successful in every area 100% of the time. There were days I felt I had been abandoned. I felt God had forgotten about me. But everyday it got a little easier. I used to be confused about the concept of laying your troubles at the feet of Jesus. I wanted to understand how to do that but me being such a worry wart, I just couldn't get past the worry. But after awhile I have to tell you that I kind of figured it out. It wasn't an overnight thing. It was definetly a gradual process. But I soon began to just have the state of mind that God is in control. God has a plan. He knows what's best and He will guide us. He is the only one who knows how this is going to end. It became easier to just let it all go and let him have it because I obviously was not in control of my life! And that's ok! It is his to do with how he pleases. I am ok with not being in control and I don't think it is a sign of weakness. It's very freeing. You should try it sometime!

So here we are a year later. We kept our cars, we've so far kept the house (still crossing our fingers on that one), I've kept my marriage and I've kept my sanity. And it's not that God rewarded me because of my attitude. I don't think that's the case at all because we still are paying for our mistakes in other ways.But "all I hath needed Thy hand hath provided". Not all that we wanted but all that we needed. And I like that. I like learning contenment. Looking back, I liked being stripped of everything but my faith. At the time it was hard but...isn't everything more clear and easier when your looking back on it? I think sometimes God needs to do what has to be done to get our attention. And I don't regret anything. How can I regret something that brings me closer to Jesus! How can a regret the kind of person I have become over this past year? How can I regret a strong marriage? How can I regret a peaceful feeling in my soul? I'm not saying I welcome pain and hardship but I know that whatever comes my way...I can handle it. I can handle it because God will carry me the whole way.

I love the lyrics to this song (of course doesn't it always come down to a song) But if I have to be brought to my knees to draw closer to God then.....

Bring The Rain

I can count a million times

people asking me how I

can praise You with all that I've gone through

The question just amazes me

can circumstances possibly

change who I forever am in You

Maybe since my life was changed

Long before these rainy days

It's never really ever crossed my mind

To turn my back on you, oh Lord

My only shelter from the storm

But instead I draw closer through these times

So I pray

Bring me joy, bring me peace

Bring the chance to be free

Bring me anything that brings You glory

And I know there'll be days

When this life brings me pain

But if that's what it takes to praise You

Jesus, bring the rain

I am Yours regardless of

the dark clouds that may loom above

Because You are much greater than my pain

You who made a way for me

by suffering Your destiny

So tell me what's a little rain

So I pray

Bring me joy, bring me peace

Bring the chance to be free

Bring me anything that brings You glory

And I know there'll be days

When this life brings me pain

But if that's what it takes to praise You

Jesus, bring the rain

Holy, holy, holy

Is the Lord God Almighty

(MercyMe)

Back In The Saddle Again

2010-03-05T20:25:00.000-08:00

Todd is officially back to work so I guess you could say that...

We are back in the saddle again!

A whole month off and to tell you the truth I could have handled a little more. Being married for 13 yrs and we still enjoy each others company. I think that is something to be proud of!!

Everytime I would think of Todd going back I would get this feeling like he was actually going away...leaving us for good!. That's how much we hate his schedule. It doesn't allow him to really be 100% a part of this family. I hate it and it makes me sad. I have been a bit down this week because I actually got a glimpse of real family life and it's now been snatched away from me.

Yes...let's all take a brief moment and feel a bit sorry for Andrea...

Thanks, I appreciate it!

Closer To 40 Then 30 Now!

2010-02-23T21:38:00.000-08:00

Today I am now closer to 40 then I am to 30

How do I feel about turning 36????

Like I'm going to go CRAZY!!!!

Happy Birthday to me!!!!

It's Sooooo Rock & Roll!!

2010-02-20T20:32:00.000-08:00

Todd's been off for almost a month now and I have LOVED having him home but when he started feeling better and the weather felt like Spring, I told him...

I NEED TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE!!!!

It had been since Christmastime that we had a family day out of the house so we packed a lunch, grabbed a coupon and headed to the big city.

This is our day at the EMP (Experience Music Project)

Kaden was so excited to be going to the "Rock & Roll Museum" He wanted to wear his guitar shirt because "It's so rock and roll, ma!!"

It may be February but it sure feels like Spring!!

Cute little boy in his guitar shirt

Then this crazy boy came around and gave Kaden some bunny ears!

The EMP

I guess this is the car from Bladerunner. Todd found out that I had never seen the movie so first thing he did was put on our list for Netflix

This sculpture of instruments was really cool! It somehow had some of the guitars playing by themselves

Kyler enjoyed mixing the music in the Hendrix room

My beautiful family!

This table made music too

There's Kyler mixing the music again. Do I see a future career??

When you play the guitar you HAVE to look cool

Kaden wasn't impressed

So we left the boys to jam on their own

Todd always wanted to be a singer

Again Kaden is not impressed!

So he decided to show us how it's done...

But the pressure to perform was just to much for him.

The fans just wear him out sometimes!

The science fiction museum was also there. We realized that Kaden doesn't know who E.T is yet!

It's time for Kyler to watch T-2!

Can you imagine what this Star Wars set would be worth??

One thing we learned at the EMP....

They can make you a star!!!!

(and you have to bribe Kaden with candy so he will be in the picture)

Ash Wednesday 2010

2010-02-17T21:49:00.000-08:00

Through Christ on the Cross.....

My sins have been forgiven!

Psalm 51

1Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.

2Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

3For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me.

4Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless when you pass judgment.

5Indeed, I was born guilty, a sinner when my mother conceived me.

6You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.

7Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

8Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have crushed rejoice.

9Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities.

10Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me.

11Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your holy spirit from me.

12Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.

I Love...

2010-02-14T05:10:00.000-08:00

Things I Love....

Reese's mini peanut butter cups

A clean house

Sleeping in

Strawberry muffins

Watching TV in bed

Fridays nights

Jeans that fit my body type

Facebook

Love notes

Whiskey and Coke

Guys and Dolls

Surprise parties

Family reunions

Kyler

Road trips

Cilantro

Tattoos

Christian music

Orlando Bloom in Pirates

Hugh Jackman in Australia

Ryan Reynolds in The Proposal

Gerard Butler in P.S I Love You

Todd in...... real life

I Love Lucy

Cats

Kaden

Vendor hotdogs

Selfless people

My neices and nephews

Water slides

True Blood

Christmas Eve

Coupons

Food Network

Mom & Dad

My In-Laws

Big Love

Faith

New York subways

Flip Flops with jeans (even though I can't wear them)

Toe rings

Painted toenails

Lilacs

The Olympics

Fish tacos

Outlander series

Recipes

Spell check

Stemware

Netflix

Giggling at night with Todd

Games with friends

Target

Diet Pepsi out of the fountain

Chinese food

Cold chinese food the next day

Chinese omeletts

Weeping willows

California rolls

Disneyland

Kitty ears

Comments on my blog

Bubble baths with a good book

Grocery shopping

Library

Google

Forgiveness

Freedom

God's Grace

Being Married for 13 years today!!!

Happy Valentines Day to you!!!!!

A Kind And Polite 12 Yr Old!!

2010-01-31T20:49:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again!

The time where my kids get older and time slips through my fingers.

Kyler is now 12 and much to his dismay the all knock out parties are coming to an end. We had family over for dinner and presents a few days ago and last night I took him and a friend out to dinner and then roller skating. Oh and lets not forget that he went to California for a week to spend time with his grandparents. Someday when I have the time and energy I will go through his pictures and post something about it.

But despite the lack of party I think he had a good birthday.

This kid has a love for Halo!

While he was in Californis he discovered that he liked to play tennis....who knew!

And even if mom was slacking in the party department...the cousins know how to put on a party instead!!!

Happy Birthday Kyler!!!!

I am so proud of how you are turning out!!

I mean how many 12 yr olds do you know that won the student of the month award for kindness and politeness???

Yep I have a winner!!

Nurse Andrea...Paging Nurse Andrea..

2010-01-30T20:30:00.000-08:00

I am happy to report that Todd is alive and...I guess you could say well. Surgery went as well as can be expected. Our patient is sore, VERY SWOLLEN (not that you want to but you should see it!!) and he has alot of recovering to do. Doctor wasn't kidding when he said he will most likely be out of work for 3 weeks or more. Poor guy can barely walk (Kaden is always asking..."Daddy, are you still walking slow?") He can't sit in the same position for too long. And he constantly has an ice pack sitting on the family jewels. (" Daddy, is the ice for your penis again?") But things are going pretty good despite all that. I wait on him hand and foot (I even tie his shoes for him!) And I have had to drive an hour away to get him more pain meds but can I say that I love having him home! I love knowing that he will be having dinner with us. I love knowing that when I come home from babysitting that he will be there. I love that he is home on the weekend. It's been YEARS!!! So even though I am playing nurse and servant...I am ok with it because I just love not having to share him with his work!!

Smile baby.....You get to hang out in your PJ's and slippers all day! Plus the happy drugs have got to kicked in by now..

Science Lesson

2010-01-26T16:50:00.000-08:00

I know it's been long time since school for some of us but it's always good to learn new things to keep the mind sharp.

The word of the day today is.....

EPIDIDYMECTOMY

Care to take a guess at the meaning of this?

........Yes, your right. It is The surgical removal of the Epididymis.

What pray tell is an Epididymis??

The long-tightly coiled tube that lies above and behind the testicle. The Epidiymis is where the sperm mature and are stored until ejaculation.

To much information??

Sorry but it's part of our everyday life because Todd gets the pleasure of having his left one removed on Thursday. Did I make you squirm in your seat a little?? And why in Gods name would man put himself through it?? Well trust me it did not come as an easy decision!! For a few years he has been putting up with cysts developing in the epididymis. (ouch is right!) He has had some removed but they keep growing back. The pain and discomfort is becoming to much for him to take,even with a truck load of vicodin. So after much prayer and asking for guidance, he has made the decision to have the entire epidydimis removed to HOPEFULLY take care of the problem. There are alot of worse case scenarios that could take place if this doesn't work. I am not going to go into that right now because I have decided that I will not let my mind even entertain the idea of it.

We have alot of faith that God will take care of Todd!! I get asked alot if I am stressed or worried but....I have to say that I really am not. It's been a roller coaster of year for us in many areas and God has always been faithfull to us. All we have needed He has provided. Whatever it is that Todd needs to go through then we will be ok with it. I have learned so many times that our lives are not our own and being worried or stressed out doesn't do anyone any good. If anything it shows a lack of faith and I have never had more faith then I do in this time of my life!!

So please pray for the love of my life!! He can use all he can get right now. He will be off work for a month and yes money will be tight. But he gets vacation pay and disabilty so I think we will be ok.

See......God is already taking care and providing!!

Will I believe you when you say
Your hand will guide my every way
Will I receive the words You say
Every moment of every day

Well I will walk by faith
Even when I cannot see
because this broken road
Prepares Your will for me

Help me to RID my endless fears
You've been so faithful for all my years
With the one breath You make me new
Your grace covers all I do

Well I'm broken- but I still see Your face
Well You've spoken- pouring Your words of grace

Well I will walk by faith
Even when I cannot see
Well because this broken road
Prepares Your will for me

Hallelujah

Tales Of A Floppy Ear Kitty

2010-01-23T11:28:00.000-08:00

It's been a few days since we talked about the case of the cauliflower kitty. The more I thought about it the more I just felt really uneasy about leaving her ear be. I did more research on the web and talked to another vet in the area and I decided to trust my instinct and have her ear fixed. I felt if I didn't do anything about it then it would probably cause more infections in the future and ultimetly costing me more money in the long run. So I called my parents and asked to borrow some money which they very graciously did. They understand my love for this cat and also the importance of being responsible pet owners. They had a dog with mutliple health problems and always did what they could for her.

So I took her in and I have to say that I love the place where I take my cats!! They are so kind and helpful. Plus I feel they are very reasonably priced. So they put her under and drained her ear of all the blood. 2 hours and a few stitches later she got to come home. I now have the unfortunate task of keeping her ear clean and free of scabs. I have to attempt to wrap her in a towel and apply wet pads to her ear to loosen the scabs

Let me tell you she does NOT enjoy this process. And it's sometimes hard to believe just how strong cats are. Most of the time we are all over the house trying to get this done. There is alot of screaming, squirming and down right fighting going on.

I am also all over the house trying to get a picture of her. She doesn't care because she is trying her darndest to ignore me

Do you mind? I am trying to wash that experience off of me!!

She has about 6 stitches. And the 6 holes are what I have to keep scab free so it will drain properly

I think her ear will still be a bit disfigured. Her little floppy ear kind of reminds of an cartoon rabbit. And this picture of her totally shows how very pissed off she is. She is now just starting to come out of hiding. She is starting to eat more and actually bath herself. She may hate me doing this to her but she usually quickly forgives me and goes back to being my shadow

You know WHERE you can put that camera of yours!!

Wait....I thought I was forgiven? I thought you loved meeeeeeeee!!

Not So Pretty Anymore

2010-01-18T14:27:00.000-08:00

I am feeling a bit sad today (yes again...so what?)

Remember way back when I talked about how my cat is a princess. How she can't help being beautiful and you all are jealous that she is mine..

You don't remember? Well, read HERE so you can get caught up.

Don't worry, I'll wait.......

Isn't she the most precious thing? Yes?? Well not so much anymore I'm afraid!! Yesturday while I was laying on the bed watching the Golden Globes, she was laying curled up next to me like she always is. I was playing with her ears, like I always am and suddenly I noticed that things didn't feel right. Upon further inspection I noticed that one of her ears was all puffed up like someone injected air into it. It's the most weird thing! In 14 yrs and 7 cats (no I don't have that many now but I have had a total of 7 cats in 14 yrs) I have seen alot of strange things but puffy ears has not been one of them. Todd thought she might have had a spat with one of the other cats, which was very highly possible since she can be a royal biotch at times. But as I worried about it all night I decided to look it up online. (I love Google!!) Anyways...after reading online and speaking to a friend of mine who is a retired vet...it's a pretty high chance that she has an Aural Hematoma on her right ear. Because she has struggled with ear mites for quite some time and because it makes her constantly scratch and shake her head (or one of the cats really did get her good) there is now clotted blood from broken blood vessels on her ear flap. I asked this friend what could be done about it and after a very lengthly description of high priced treatments it comes down to the fact that I can't afford to really do anything about it.

Must you shove a camera in my face while I'm mourning the loss of my looks?

Help...I have a small pillow for an ear!!

Is this life threatning? No

Is she in pain? I don't know. My friend says probably not. She is just irritated. But other stuff I have read says that it is painful.

You think she was a biotch before? You aint seen nothing yet! I have tried to leave her alone because she is not in the mood to be handled right now. I feel so horrible because all I can do is sit and watch her be uncomfortable and eventually she will become like this...

Her ear will become flat and disfigured. It's like watching one of your children hurt one of his limbs and not do anything about it. And KNOWING that they will eventually lose that limb! I don't know what to do because I'm told to not worry to much about it but I have read that you should really get it drained at least.

Oh the agony!

Things would be so less confusing if I could just win the lottery!!

It Must Be January

2010-01-13T12:41:00.000-08:00

It's been two week since I have posted anything....

It's been two weeks since anything has even happened in my life

The weather is cold, grey, rainy...crappy

Todd's not selling any cars

I have no money

The cats are driving me crazy

Actually everybody is driving me crazy

I don't have a good book to read right now

I've gained all my weight back that I lost this year

Kyler's having fun in California right now...without me

I'm bored

I'm lonely

I'm down

I don't think anyone reads my blog anymore...

It must be January!

Christmas Day 2009...It Finally Arrives!

2010-01-01T19:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas day finally arrived in our neck of the woods and even the cats were waiting in anticipation for Old Saint Nick to make an appearance, I don't know why because it's not like they get anything. Oh wait...yes they do. They get another year of free room and board. Even though sometimes I really have to rethink that decision!

I like to take a picture of the tree before all choas happens and the moment gets lost in all the craziness

The is the when the kids are going insane because I make them wait! I insist on pictures...

And telling the story of Jesus (notice how very interested my kids are at this moment!) I try to savor the morning and make it last as long as I can. There is so much build up to this day I hate when it's all over so quickly.

Finally I allow the morning to move on and the kids recieve everything they could ever want

This is the big box, saved for last which neither of the boys knew who it was for. Kyler was going crazy not knowing who or what it was. Finally we told him it was for him. Which he was probably thinking "good thing, cuz I sure didn't get alot!"

Oh man...what could it be??? Such a big box! It must be good!

Oh...another box inside

Did I mention I wrapped it in packing tape so he would really have to work at it?

Another box...good greif does it ever end?

Ok this is getting rediculous! What could it possibly be??

The look of shock and disbelief! Because let me back up a bit....

Kyler has been wanting a certain something for a VERY long time. But this certain something is not cheap! We told him "sorry buddy...it's not in the budget" So all year he tried everything he could think of to get this. He entered contests, he studied craigslist and E-bay, He would get excited about being "the millionth visitor" to some random site and thinking he won the prize! He tried saving his money but since he refuses to do his chores...he didn't get too far. He begged every family member for help. This boy was relentless! After awhile you kind of felt sorry for the kid. Then one day back in September I walked into Kmart and learned about a little thing call L-A-Y A W-A-Y!! Oh boy...the possabilities!! Wouldn't he just freak if I got it for him?? And so that's what I did!! Every couple of weeks I went in and paid toward the balance and every time I did I got more and more excited about being able to do this. Finally in November I paid the sucker off and a month later he opens his own hearts desire!!

I was expecting a dramatic performance when he discovered what it was but because he is his fathers son...the reaction was not what I had pictured in my mind a thousand times. I was hoping for at least a few tears!! Oh well....I'll try not to be disaapointed

But Kaden felt sorry for me so he decided to cook us all breakfast. Such a gem! And good thing we had such a good breakfast because he needed his energy for the races.

It was another good Christmas of being together and having fun. I love my family and all I could ever want is just what we have...a good relationship, fun times and lots of love!!

Even if they do leave all the mess for me to clean up!

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!!

From our family to yours..May God bless you in the coming year!

(Yep...this is your Christmas card...so enjoy it!)

Sugar Delights!

2009-12-23T10:29:00.000-08:00

We had our annual tradition of Christmas baking and downtown for the gingerbread display. I look forward to this day because it feels like Christmas has officially started!!

This is the most popular cookie that we make. Caleb got to help put the kisses on

Grandmas little helpers

After cookie baking we all take a trip downtown to see the trains at the Center House, have dinner and then check out the Gingerbread Displays.

The boys got to run the train for a bit

Waiting for the monarail to take us to Westlake Center

Silly boys!

This years theme for the gingerbread displays was Holidays on the Silver Screen.

The first up was Muppets Christmas Carol

The mosaic of jelly beans was pretty cool

Then we have Charlie Brown Christmas

This was the least impressive one....It's a Wonderful Life

The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

A Christmas Story. My personal favorite

Nightmare Before Christmas

And last but not least...Polar Express

Silly boys again!

Day wouldn't be complete without a carousel ride

Macy's Star.

Here's a little known fact...Kyler has a buddy down the street and his grandfather is the one who actually designed that star. Small world!

Another great year for our downtown traditions with the family!

Which display was your favorite??

Strange Happenings!

2009-12-21T13:02:00.000-08:00

Todd got in a fight with an octopus!!

You think that looks bad...

You should see the other guy!

Because it's Christmas time....

2009-12-18T09:51:00.000-08:00

We thought we would let you in on a little secret around here.....

Take a good look at Kadens ears

This one looks normal enough

But look at his right ear

Kaden is part elf!!

Now you know our little secret....Shhh don't tell anyone!

Jolly Ole Saint Nick

2009-12-15T11:09:00.000-08:00

When Kyler had his first Christmas (many many years ago) I told Todd we needed to get Kylers picture taken with Santa. Somehow the subject of santa had never come up so when he replied "We're going to do the whole santa thing?", I was almost speechless! "Of course we are doing the santa thing and we WILL be doing pictures!"

12 years later I have 12 pictures of santa and my kids through out the years. I love looking back and seeing transformation in the boys. I don't have all the santa pictures scanned into the computer yet (which I really need to do) But I'll tell you that every picture we have of Kyler....no tears! He always did so good. A bit wary at times but still really good. Kaden on the other hand....not a fan of santa. I can not begin to describe the tears and the sobbing that would take place every year. I always felt really bad for the kid (not enough to not get the picture though)

But this year.....

I really talked it up to Kaden! I showed him his past pictures and we talked about how we don't want any tears this year.... only smiles. I also went to Portable North Pole and made this video for Kaden (Check it out!) http://portablenorthpole.tv/watch/1cceb91ca1a1c03573e03b08730b0415

Kaden was so amazed! He watches it almost everyday. If you have kids that still believe in santa then I would encourage you to make one for your kids. It's really easy and it's a way for them to try and get over the fear of santa.

How well did it work for us????

All smiles!!

(Santa may look like he's had a few to many but...you can't win them all I guess!) Kyler did inform me this year that he might be a bit to old for the pictures but I made him to do it anyways. Just give me a few more years please!!!

Oh Christmas Tree..Oh Christmas Tree

2009-12-10T14:03:00.000-08:00

After our disaster of a christmas tree last year (Don't go to Lowes!!) We made sure we made the time to go back to the tree farm this year! There are a gazzilion tree lots to choose from around here and its hard to know how to pick which one to go to. Luckily we picked the right one this year! As we were parking the car we saw our tree not 5 yards in front of us

This year I decided I wanted to take advantage of the fact that we have tall vaulted ceilings and get the tallest tree we could get! So we ended up getting an 11 ft tree this year for $36...Sweet!

Kaden wanted to get the "orange" tree

Fact...did you know that if you give a 4 yr old a candy cane that he will get more on his face then in his mouth?? Didn't know if you knew that or not

The tree barely fit! And this is the first year we actually had to use a ladder.

Kaden enjoyed helping with the decorations

I love how kids put all the ornaments on 1 branch

What's Kyler doing while we are doing all the work??

Where else but on the computer

I love our tree this year. I think it's perfect!!

Thanksging 2009...Better Late Then Never!

2009-12-10T13:37:00.000-08:00

As I was going through my camera this morning, I realized that Thanksgiving 2009 has not been documented yet. So here ya go.....

This Thanksgiving was a little different this year. Usually we spend Thanksgiving day with my family and then Todd's family on Saturday. But this year with my parents off on their traveling adventure we changed things up a bit and had the read deal with the Reynolds side on actual Thanksgiving day. We decided to spend the night the night before so we could be there to help early the next morning. So this means Kaden and Caleb had there first slumber party together!

Jeff did his usual carving of the turkey

So pretty...and yummy!

The grub!

But we can't eat before we have a little lesson on being Thankful

And we need to pray and thank God for everything he has blessed us with

Kaden and Caleb are especially thankful for granny helping them decorate cookies

I am forever thankful for this guy!

Matt and Christie again could not be with us. But we are grateful for modern technology and the chance to visit with them

Something is funny but I don't know what

Matt and Christie...we always miss you guys even more during the holidays.....please move baaaaaaack!

Why Go To Church???

2009-12-06T20:57:00.000-08:00

If you're spiritually alive, you're going to love this! If you're spiritually dead, you won't want to read it. If you're spiritually curious, there is still hope! Why Go To Church? A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday.. "I've gone for 30 years now, and in that time I have heard something like 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, I can't remember a single one of them. So, I think I'm wasting my time and the pastors are wasting theirs by giving sermons at all." This started a real controversy in the "Letters to the Editor" column........much to the delight of the editor. It went on for weeks until someone wrote this clincher: "I've been married for 30 years now. In that time my wife has cooked some 32,000 meals. But, for the life of me, I cannot recall the entire menu for a single one of those meals.. ....But I do know this; They all nourished me and gave me the strength I needed to do my work. If my wife had not given me those meals, I would be physically dead today. Likewise, if I had not gone to church for nourishment, I would be spiritually dead today!"

When you are DOWN nothing.......GOD is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible and receives the impossible! Thank GOD for our physical AND our spiritual nourishment!

"When Satan is knocking at your door,simply say, "Jesus, could you get that for me?"

Give Thanks To Him!

2009-11-26T20:03:00.000-08:00

Psalm 100

1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.

2 Worship the LORD with gladness;

come before him with joyful songs.

3 Know that the LORD is God.

It is he who made us, and we are his ;

we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving

and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him and praise his name.

5 For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;

his faithfulness continues through all generations.

On this day of Thanksgiving I am thankful for Gods grace, love and faithfulness. I am grateful that during the trials in my life, there was only one set of footprints in the sand because he was carrying me through it. I am grateful for everything he has blessed me with in my life.

"All I have needed Thy hand hath provided. Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto Thee"

Sweet Dreams

2009-11-24T19:51:00.000-08:00

I don't know if I have mentioned this but I have a slight problem with sleeping. I have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep. (What I would give for like 10 hours of straight sleep!) I usually have to much running around in my mind and so at times I will be awake for hours in the middle of the night. I have tried sleeping pills and sleep aids but I always feel like a druggy in the morning and I feel its not good take all the time. Finally I discovered this...

Melatonin!!

Apparently its what your body naturally produces so you can go to sleep. When I take it I am asleep within about 15 min and I get a good 5 -6 hours until I wake up (usually because I have to go to the bathroom...THAT doesn't help the situation!) I don't feel druggy in the morning and I feel its safe enough to take often.

I am grateful for a better nights sleep because of it!

They Make Their Mama Proud!

2009-11-23T19:43:00.000-08:00

Today I am feeling grateful for how very well-behaved my children are. I can not express how thankful I am that I don't have to deal with tantrums and wild crazy behaviour. I can take them places without getting stressed out or angry. Whether it be the store, a resteraunt, church, other peoples house...they are happy, well- behaved children who listen to their parents.

I am such a proud mama!

This Life So Far...

2009-11-22T19:15:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered what your life would be like if you made different choices or followed a different path? I am not saying that I don't want to be where I am in my life but I just wonder why He chose this path for me.

I also sometimes wonder what my life would be like if I had totally made different decisions.

What if I was more out going instead of the shy wall flower growing up?

What if I would have actually finished college and became an architect?

What if Todd hadn't needed a part time job? Would we have met?

What if THIS hadn't have happened to me?

What if I was still single?

What would my life be like if I had not had that miscarriage and we had more children then we do?

Would I be happier then I am now?

Would I have eventually ended up in same place where I am now?

Even though I sometimes think about these kinds of things...I do know that everything happens for a reason. God has a plan for my life and this is what he has chosen for me so far. I do wonder what the rest of my life will look like but I trust He will lead me down the right path. This life has been up and it has been down but I am soooo very grateful for it!

Ahhhhh Distractions!

2009-11-20T21:59:00.000-08:00

Today is a day to be grateful for distractions and girls night out!

Yes I am a Twilight junkie and I have been looking forward to the movie for quite sometime. I enjoyed going out with the girls and talking about it without anyone rolling their eyes at us.

Thank you for not disappointing us!!

Assistance When You Need It

2009-11-19T18:32:00.000-08:00

Even though it's been a hard year for us, I am grateful for getting help when we need it. I am grateful for the resources available to us that I am not ashamed of accepting. We are hard workers and we try to do things on our own without asking for help from anyone but sometimes things are just out of your control.

I am not one to try and take advantage of the system but these days we really need a lending hand so I was able to get us food assistance each month and my kids get free health insurance....all through the State. It's been a huge help while we are trying to get back on our feet and trying to figure out where to go from here. I am grateful to know that I am not taking advantage of the system because we are working people and obviously we would rather be in a situation where we didn't need this but for now...I am just grateful :)

Networking and Connecting!

2009-11-18T17:34:00.000-08:00

This may seem silly but I am grateful for ...

If you know me then you know that I am not one to pick up the phone and call someone. It's not that I don't want to talk to anyone or not be a friend, I just can't sit still enough to have a conversation. And really my life isn't interesting enough to talk about. But once I discovered Facebook....my whole world seemed to open up. I was able to get in contact with people in high school but not have that full commitment you would need to have to talk to them on the phone. It's also like driving by people's house and peeking in there windows. (Come on you know you do it!) You get to glimpse into the lives of your friends. I am sooo into that kind of thing! (Come on you know you are too!) Facebook as helped me feel like I actually have more friends then I do and I love keeping in contact with long distance friends and family.

Thank you Facebook for giving me a little bit of a life again!!

First Born

2009-11-17T20:07:00.000-08:00

Of course we can't forget to be grateful for Kyler!

Even though I struggle to get him to clean his room, I really can't ask for a better kid! He's just one of those really good kids. Well- behaved, polite, considerate of others, sociable and fun.

He's good with the younger kids

He's going to make a great babysitter

He's growing like a weed! Almost catching up to Auntie Mel. Oh and did I mention we have the same size foot now?

He is also silly and even though we want our kids to stay small sometimes..

I am already liking the young man he is turning out to be.

Grateful To Have A Job

2009-11-16T19:26:00.000-08:00

Today, even though its a Monday, I am grateful for my job! It has everything that fits our family. I am able to take Kaden with me and he gets friends to play with too. I only work part time. The girls are actually pretty good.

Yes they have their moments but it would be strange if they didn't. Their parents are really nice people and I think we are becoming friends. And I make REALLY good money!!

God has given me just what I asked for!

Birthday Boy!

2009-11-15T21:47:00.000-08:00

Today I can't help be grateful for this little guy

Even though he caused me to go through 9 hours of labor 4 yrs ago today...I still love him to pieces!!

We had a big party in our not so big house today. We crammed as many people in as we could get...ate homemade meatball subs, veggies & dip and Chili Con Queso....

Decorated car-shaped cupcakes

Blew out 4 candles

Played pin the car on the race track

(While the guys watched football in my bedroom)

Yeah Yeah...Go Seahawks...whatever!

Opened a ton of presents

I'm sensing a theme here....what do you think?

Kaden was so happy to have all his friends here to be silly with!

Just like any typical kid...it was too exciting to eat lunch so the cousins had cereal when things started to die down a bit

It was a busy and fun day! Its easy to get tuckered out after a day like that.

I am so grateful for Kaden being in our lives. He is sweet, fun, silly and a blessing. I wish I could slow down time and keep him at this age because I am having such a great time with him.

He always makes me smile

An End Of The Day Thanks

2009-11-14T21:18:00.000-08:00

Today has been a busy day of cleaning and preparing food for Kadens birthday tomorrow. Hours have been spent in the kitchen slaving over the stove. I've been on my hands and knees scrubbing and waxing the floors. On days like this I can't help feeling grateful for my nice cozy bed waiting for me to snuggle into.

Today I am grateful for my bed!!

One of my favorite things to do is lay in bed and listen to a storm brewing outside. I love the safe and warm feeling it brings to me. I also enjoy laying in bed and watching tv.

In fact I think I am going to go do just that....

Books Books and More Books!!!

2009-11-13T20:31:00.000-08:00

On most days if you were to ask me what I would truly prefer to be doing....my answer would be to curl up on the couch and read. I love to read and I love books. If I could get payed to read I think that would be the ultimate dream job for me. I would love to have one of those massive, grand libraries of my own where I just sit and read and no one bugs me.

Today I am grateful for books. And not just any ole book....but really really good books!

If you know me then you know how much I LOVE the Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon

Where do I even begin about these books?? I love them and its the only books that I have read numerous times and have actually bought.

These books have everything I love about a story...

Love

Time Travel

Great Characters

History

Humor

Drama

Sadness

Laughter

It's Epic!! READ IT!

Here are other books high on my list..

The Time Travelers Wife

Be prepared to cry!

Twilight Series

Duh...of course!

The Circle Series by Ted Dekker

Very unique story! When your reading the books you'll notice a similarity to the story of the Garden of Eden, The Crucifixion of Christ and the Resurrection. I highly recommend it!

Actually any book by Ted Dekker will do!

Look him up..you won't be disappointed!

Hunger Games

This is an easy read like Twilight. Again this is a unique story with adventure and suspense. The 2nd book in the series is even better..

The 3rd book doesn't come out until next year....I can't wait!!

Well these are just to name a few. I could go on and on because I am constantly reading and go through so many books. I know once I get done with this post I will remember about so many more that I want you to read.

Who needs TV??? Just give me a good book!!

First Day Of Many Thanks!

2009-11-12T13:17:00.000-08:00

With this being the month of giving thanks I have decided to make it my goal to post somthing everyday this month about what I am thankful for. Yes, I know we are already half way through the month but I've been busy so you'll have to cut me some slack! Sometimes I tend to get caught up in a very ungrateful state of mind. I am guilty of feeling like things just aren't good enough. So in effort to not only make a post everyday, this will also help me realize everything God has blessed me with!

So today we'll start out with something easy...

My husband!

He sticks with me through thick and thin. He is of course good looking! He works hard to try and provide for us.

He likes being with me despite my quirks. He is funny and entertains me.

I would be lost without him!

Happy Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T19:50:00.000-07:00

Halloween snuck up fast again this year. It never helps that I procrastinate to find and sew last minute costume items. But I think everything turned out really well. I am one of those moms who refuse to spend gobs of money on a costume. And I refuse to let my kids costumes look cheap and stupid. Kaden is still at the age where I can decide his costume for him. We were at Value Village and saw a cowboy hat at for $1 and so the idea of Sheriff Woody developed from there. Of course I could have just bought one of those premade, packaged costumes but how lame is that?

I bought a black vest and some cow print material...sew them together and you get Woodys vest. I also found a similiar yellow shirt at the thrift store. We already had the guns and the badge.

I think he looks so cute!!

Kyler started out wanting to be a disco dancer but we just couldn't find the right clothes his size. So then he decided on a clown but then at the last minute I suggested a Mime. I didn't think we would find the hat as easily as we did and we had to search the womens section at the thrift store for the stripped shirt and vest. White gloves could not be found but I still think he turned out pretty great!

Total cost for both costumes...

$20!!

It has literally been raining all month but thankfully it stopped just in time for trick or treating.

I had my "adult" hot chocolate to see me through the evening!

Kaden had a blast! He was so excited that every house he went to..they gave him more candy. The great thing about my kids at their age right now is that Kyler can go off with his frends and Kaden is pretty much done once we go around the block

It was a good night with a ton of trick or treaters

Happy Halloween from our house to yours!

Our Feeble Attempt At The Pumpkin Patch 2009

2009-10-29T19:09:00.000-07:00

It's almost hard to admit, especially after last year, we barely made it to the pumpkin patch this year. With it being a soggy month, our schedule changing and me not feeling well...it just didn't happen the way I wanted it to. Kyler was heading to "The Farm" with his youth group for the late night corn maze, so I decided to head over a couple of hours early so I could at least say we went.

Most of the time was spent in the hay maze trying to catch Kyler

Kaden thinks he is this way

Never fail..mom can always find him!

Hay fights are always popular

I was actually surprised at how good of a sport Kaden was. I guess that means he is growing up

I am still finding corn kernels everywhere!

And finally we end the day with searching for some gold.

See I told you it was a pathetic attempt. We didn't even get any pumpkins that day!! Next year we will do better.

Poor Spongebob

2009-10-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

I don't think he really ever had a chance!

State Your Case

2009-10-23T19:28:00.000-07:00

For the past 2 weeks I have been feeling pretty lousy. (NO I AM NOT PREGNANT!) I somehow caught a cold which is just perfect timing with me starting a job and all. Kaden and the 2 girls also had the sniffles so we had a jolly ole time immersed in all of our germs. After a few days everybody but me felt better. Lucky me! Anyways fast forward 2 weeks and I STILL feel like crap. (We won't even talk about the colors of things expelling from my nostrils and throat!) I always struggle about going to the doctor.

1. I don't have insurance so I have to be REAL sick before I will fork over the cash to see one

2. When I finally do decide to see the doctor, I almost always seem to lose my symptoms right before I see her.

3. I always have this feeling that I have to be prepared to "state my case" before the doctor.

Its very strange and I caught myself doing it again this morning. When I finally decided to go into the clinic today I immediatly started having these conversations in my head about what I was going to say to the doctor. I picture in my mind like I am in court and the doctor is the judge, high on her stand. I must state my case for my illness and if I am lucky then my doctor will bang her gavel and say "your approved for antibiotics" I worry that I won't be believable or the doctor will get stern with me because I am really not sick enough and shouldn't have wasted her time. None of these things have ever happened in real life but for some reason I go through it everytime.

Why am I so strange?? Why do I put myself through all this??

And for the record....I was approved for antibiotics for my sinus infection. Phew!

Cookies....

2009-10-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

Don't these look yummy???

I strongly advise you to make Them!!

Still Alive And Kickin!

2009-10-11T20:45:00.000-07:00

Everyday that passes without me posting on this here blog puts a little bit of stress on me. I don't know why.. considering I don't even know who follows me. There have even been brief moments of thinking that maybe I should just give up on it cuz I don't need the sress but then I remind myself again and again that even if nobody reads this...it's still my journal. A memory book to look back on over the years. And if I were to stop then I would very much regret it in the future. So I will still keep on keeping on and if you do read this...Thanks and I am sorry that my lack of creativity has been soooo lacking these days. I was looking back at last years posts about visiting the pumpkin patches and I was reminded of how witty I can sometimes be. I miss my witty self and will work on getting it back.

But I wanted to bring things up to speed while I had a minute this evening. I am on our spare computer...our web browser computer as we call it, which means this post will have to picture-free. It's almost sacreligious but it can't be help.

Its amazing how life can take such a change from one day to the next. One day you are walking through life with little direction...no idea what to do with yourself...and an almost invisible feeling about yourself. This is something I have been struggling with for a long time. I love being a mom. I love my kids. I love my husband. I wouldn't change any of that for anything but I still needed something else in my days. Some kind of change inside of me. I have struggled ALL my life with my self esteem. I have always felt like a nobody..invisible...boring. I have always been a bit shy. I have been going to the same church for almost 4 yrs and nobody knows me. The thought of getting out and making myself known is almost paralyzing. I have always wanted to be one of those outgoing, very social, interesting type of person. But its just not in me for some reason. It makes me sad...it makes me cry. My husband is my biggest fan and he tells me it all the time. He tells me I am beautiful but I only see an average person.

This is my personal demon!!

But things change and God is faithful....

One day at church I read in the bulletin that a womens bible study was starting up on Tuesday mornings. The same morning that Kaden goes to preschool. There was no reason for me not to join. I sat there in service that morning struggling with the nudging that God was giving me. I don't even think I heard what the pastor was saying that day. There was a battle going on inside of me and God was winning (like he always does!) If I wanted to get rid of this invisible feeling I had inside of me then gosh darnit....do something about it!! So I did...I joined! I have been going for a couple of weeks and even though I am the youngest in the bunch, I really feel this is going to help me in alot of ways. Just the fact that I am doing something for ME is a huge thing. The devil has already been at work and still tries to talk me out of it but I am determined to be stronger then that. So that is one of the first bit of changes around here for me.

The second is....I got a job! For over a year we have been really struggling financially. Todd needs to get a new career because this car selling bit is getting really old..really fast. We have been praying and praying for guidance and direction. And either God is laying low on us right now or we are not hearing him scream in our ears...which is most likely the case. But anyways..I have been feeling helpless and wishing I could contribute somehow. But I didn't know how because I needed to be home for my children. I had thought about babysitting but its hard to get your name out there. I advertised on a few websites but nothing ever came of it. Then 2 weeks ago out of the blue I get an email from a lady I applied to way back in January, asking if I was still interested in watching kids. Of course my first instinct is "No" cuz I didn't want to mess with my schedule...the schedule that I was tired of (yeah I know makes alot of sense). But even though change is hard it needs to be done. God really does know whats best and he really is looking out for us. With in a matter of a few days God has given me a job that totally fits my familys needs, schedule (I can still go to bible study!) and I am making a decent amount of money. I am watching 2 girls ages 3 & 4. They live about 10 min away so I am able to go between houses depending on the day. I only work 3 days a week from 9 to 3. And I am able to bring Kaden with me. The money I am bringing in each month will pay for both car payments, student loan bill and Kadens preschool. There is still a bit of adjusting to be done. I actually have to get up at a certain time in the morning and if you know me...you know I am NOT a morning person. Todd and I are not able to spend as much time together and I am running all over the place all the time now. Between preschool, bible study, swimming lessons, kids club at church, taking the other girls to their preschool, babysitting and somehow fitting the gym in...I went from no life to a busy life! It may seem like a small thing but these changes are going to be very good for me. I have a bit more direction and purpose to my days. Not that my family didn't give me purpose but....I just needed something else.

So that's what's going on with me. Change is good because if we didn't have anything else to learn and we stopped growing...I guess we would be dead!

Ho-Hum...

2009-10-03T10:09:00.000-07:00

Unfortunatly this describes me lately. I hate when things get this way because its hard to pull yourself out of it. There's just no desire to do much of anything which is why this blog has been so neglected. My creative energy has beem misplaced and if anyone comes across it,please let me know.

Until then...

I'm just going to rest my eyes for a bit.

And I'm going to need the rest because my life is about to get a bit busier. More to come about that later....

The People Of Walmart....OMG!!!!!

2009-09-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

I think its pretty common knowledge that Walmart seems to attract a certain kind of crowd. I use do alot of my shopping there before Winco came to town. My husband used to refuse to go with me. Why? I don't know.. maybe its because of this....

ooooh that's hot!

Let’s run through my rock star list…. Mullet? – check; big sunglasses? – check; heart shaped tattoo? – u know I love my mom; Cut jean shorts? – is there any other type?; wife beater tied at midriff – check;….. He is an official ROCKSTER!

I think I just sharted!

WTF????

Is that a soccer ball? A map of the solar system? The structure of a sub-atomic particle? Are those pannnie---hose?

I have absolutely no idea what to say… Maybe- Wow?

Is that a gangster leotard?

Everyone loves the man in the yellow go-go boots!

Umm… excuse me, sir…

Now all we need is Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem for a reunion tour.

Don’t worry about where the baby is.

2 mullets, 1 shot.

I…Aahh…..umm…..ya……I.. I ain’t got nothin. Speechless

How cute and cuddly are those stuffed…….OH MY GOD!

Kind of glad we don’t get a glimpse of the front…

Britney spears let herself go…….again.

pimpin ain’t easy at the walmart

Just a goat shopping at Walmart…….I don’t see what’s so funny

What are the chances of finding shorts to match that shirt? What are the chances of finding a girl to talk to a guy who found shorts to match that shirt?

I'll let the picture speak for itself!

Nothing says sanitary like a parrot in the produce section…

If this didn't make you laugh then I don't know what will!

What's All The Fuss?

2009-09-13T19:32:00.000-07:00

As many of you may know I am as big of a fan of Twilight as the next person. The books just really grab you and take you into a fantasy world for us hopeless romantics. I watched the first movie and surprisingly was not disappointed (for the most part...). I am really looking forward to New Moon coming out in November because I think the budget will allow for them to keep to the book even more then the first movie.

BUT......

In my travels through the blogosphere and the internet, I have seen more then a few posts/pictures of a certain man. I have read posts about women gushing about how hot and gorgeous he is. I have seen whole blogs devoted to just him. But really, I don't see what all the fuss is about.

So my question is, What is so great about Robert Pattinson?

I don't get it. I don't really think he is all that good-looking. I have tried to find him attractive becuase he IS Edward after all but After all this time I just have to admit that he doesn't do it for me. Am I to old to appreciate his looks? Because I don't think I am to old to appreciate these men on my list...

Oh my.. be still my heart! This mans cup overflows with sexiness!!

Hubba Hubba excuse me while I wipe the drool from my chin!

*swoon!*

I am fairly certain I have great taste in men. I mean look who I married...

So now, ladies come on, you can't tell me that Robert Pattinson is better looking than these guys.

I didn't think so..

I rest my case!

The First day Of The Rest Of His Life!

2009-09-09T22:08:00.000-07:00

I don't know how its possible but today was the first day of school and my baby is now in middle school!

As I was getting his things ready last night I could not help remember way back when I started middle school. Of course back then middle school started in 7th grade not 6th grade but it still...

How I HATED middle school. Even to this day I cringe at those years. It might have been a different story if I would have had actual friends of course. All my really good friends from elementary school had moved and were going to different schools. I was inbetween friends. I longed to be with the "popular" group but didn't quite fit in...in fact I didn't really fit in anywhere. Add to that...getting your period for the first time...getting zits...and being extremely shy. Oh the agony! Anyways, I obviously survived the middle school years with little to no scars and high school was much much better for me when I found who I really was.

So I couldn't help think about this as Kyler is entering this chapter in his life. I desperatly hope...

He is cool enough

He has good solid friends

He is outgoing

He is confident in himself

And most of all that he will have fun!

I walked him to the bus this morning and once he saw all the kids there and that there were no parents, I could tell by the look on his face that he needed me to turn around and go home. I felt a slight stab in the heart but I totally understood. he was making his debut and the last thing he needed was for his mom and little brother to be hanging around and taking pictures. So alas I have no pictures of him getting on the bus (this is a first since he walked to school all through elementary). No pictures in front of the school. No pictures of him at his locker. Except this one that I took the day before when we stopped off at the school to practice just one more time

When he got home this afternoon he was all smiles with no visible scars. Everything seemed to go smoothly as far asIcould tell. I forgot how much easier it is to pull teeth then it is to get kids to talk about school until they are ready. I am sure the stories will start falling out of his mouth when he least expects it

A Summer Re-Cap...I am exhausted!!

2009-09-09T18:53:00.000-07:00

When I think back to my childhood summer vacations, I really can't remember much about what I did except play with my neighborhood friends. I grew up in an era where there were no computers...no googling about things to do in the area. I grew up in a household with no other children and busy parents. I grew up in an era where the children actually went outside to play and used their imaginations. That era is no longer upon us and there is a certain pressure to keep our kids occupied and busy at all times. I somehow have fallen under this pressure. I have this need to see how many things we can fit into our summer vacation. It's almost an obsession...I need serious help!. And the things we do, have to be free or low cost.

This is a quote from Kyler in the middle of the summer....

"Can't we just have one day where we just stay home?!"

Here are some of the things we did in addition to what I have previously posted about....

We learned to mow the grass
Much to Kylers dismay and come to think of it...he hasn't done it since! Of course Kaden had to help

Forest Park

This place is great on a hot sunny day. You have everything you need...

Toys to play on..Water to play in...And animals to pet

All for free!

Fishing

Of course it was on one of the 4 days it rained this summer. And might I add that Todd was a super trooper that day. He had some sort of ulcer problem going on but he still took the boys because he promised he would. He was patient with them and never became cranky. How I love him so!

Keeping cool on the hottest evening ever on record!

Free bouncy house day at Crista Campus

It was a scorcher of a day but since it was free we were there front and center!

Cinema Under The Stars

This is a free event on Friday evenings. We packed up our blankets, pillows, pj's and snacks and settled in for some family friendly entertainment. There is an opening act of some sort and when the sun sets we watch a movie on a big inflatable screen. This evening we watched Kung Fu Panda

Jetty Island

Always heard of this place and we finally made it there this year. Its a man made island off the Everett marina. You take a free taxi ferry over and enjoy the sandy, warm beach!

The Drive-In Movies!

For the longest time I have wanted to take the boys and let them experience this. Todd always complained everytime I mentioned it because it was not going to be the same as being in a theatre. Well, I finally ignored him and told him we were going no matter what! You just can't beat watching 2 movies for 4 people for $20. And you get to bring your own food in. We watched Shorts (which was pretty cute) and Gi-Joe (The boys fell asleep shortly after it started) And Todds reaction to the whole thing?...."I actually had fun!"

Childrens Museum

Technically this place is not free or low cost for that matter. It was my nephews birthday so we of course had to join in on the fun. But if I can remember....Every 3rd Friday evening is free!

The Zoo

Usually this would not be low cost which is why we put off going till the end of summer. But when my sister inlaw got a membership we were able to go with and get in for 1/2 price....Sweet!

A few noteworthy items..

* Kyler went to boys camp for a week. He received a scholorship so he was able to go for free!

* Free kid movies on Wednesday mornings

*Birthday parties

*Taste of Edmonds

*Going to the lake numerous times

*Downtown Seattle

I don't know about you but I am exhausted from all the fun. And I think this little guy is also..

This Cat.....

2009-08-31T21:50:00.001-07:00

...Is very weird!!!

Birch Bay

2009-08-21T15:53:00.000-07:00

My parents are getting ready to go and travel the USA in there monster of a motorcoach (as soon as they can get there house rented) While they are waiting to go they bought a membership to a resort company that they will be able to stay at all over the country. One of the locations is in Birch Bay (an hour north of my house) and because I am family I get to have a free pass to the place that I can use up to 5 times a year. Works for me! So we decided to take advantage of the opportunity and head up there for a few days. We rented a trailer and took the boys "camping"

Todd wanted me to play tether ball with him but once I remembered that you have to avoid the ball hitting you in face....I passed.

Fortunately the tide was waaaaaay low while we where there. I couldn't believe how far it was out. We never actually made it to the water even after walking...and walking...and walking.
It was odd seeing all the boats just hanging out on the sand

Kaden whined and cried the whole time...it was annoying!
Typical Kyler finds some random guy to show him how to go clamming. That's what I love about him. He is not shy!

You don't see any pictures of Todd because the first night we were there he actually went back home so he could get up at the crackof dawn to go salmon fishing. So yes, I had to spend the night all by myself and we spent most of the next day waiting for him to return to us. I will forgive him this time....even though he didn't even catch any fish!I hadn't seen a sand dollar in years
Mr Crabs may be big....but he is dead
Kaden kept crying over all the clams squirting us in the leg

We spent alot of time at the pool

My man preparing me some meat!

What I don't have a picture of is ME beating Todd at horseshoes. I think that surprised him :)

Must have marshmallows

Man builds fire for woman!
The last day was spent at the waterslide park
No we did not go on the speed slide. AKA...enema slide!

But we did go on the "black hole"

And what I don't have pictures of (again!) is at the end of the day... Kyler got stuck in this slide. When the people behind him came around the corner, he was hit hard and pushed forward. He flew out of the slide and on to the pavement. He was scrapped up and pretty bloody. Needless to say we where done for the day!

We are all smiles here though

Kyler and I going down...

down....

down...

Still going down..

almost there....

Plug the nose because I know Kyler is going to land on top of me!

Splash!!

Bye Bye till next time!

One Of The Kids!

2009-08-15T15:39:00.000-07:00

There is something about summer vacation and hot summer days that make you feel like a kid again!

Weddings in Weaverville

2009-08-05T18:17:00.000-07:00

Incase you haven't figured it out yet...I take alot of pictures and my posts contain alot of pictures. That's just who I am and how I do things. This post has a mega dose of pictures so I wanted to warn you before we moved on any further...

On our way down south we thought a stop to Cabella's was in order. It weird..because we are not outdoor-sports type of people but we still find enjoyment in stopping there. The kids like all the stuffed animals and we like to look at all the crazy gear you can get just to kill a duck or something. One of the things on the to do list while there was have lunch at the restaurant. Every bit of wild game is available at the deli. I wouldn't say I am super adventurous in my eating but I was excited to have some elk. You see...my dad used to do alot of hunting when I was young. We ate elk like most of the world eats cow....all the time. When someone would say they had never had elk, I would be confused because I thought you could get it at the store like everything else. We had it that much! So anyways I was curious to know if I still liked it after all these years.

Kyler had himself a wild boar sandwich. It tasted like ham covered it syrup. It wasn't half bad.
And yes...I still like elk. At least in deli meat form. It tasted like a highly seasoned roast beef.

This was our caravan going down to California. Todd wanted to take a picture because he likes to point out that he sold all 3 of those cars

We had all the boys in our car because we had the dvd player. Fortunately the movies kept everyone quiet. Good thing because it takes about 12 hours to get to where we are going

Mount Shasta

Its funny how a kid can get so dirty when they have only been in the car all day

This is what happens when you don't have any video games available for the boys to play. They try and catch things on fire!

So here it is...the ranch! This is where Todds uncle lives. This is the goal for our 12 hours worth of driving. Weaverville, CA. I love it here! Did you know that about 8 yrs ago, Todd and I were THIS close to moving here? Craig and Nancy (uncle and aunt) were looking into buying a local business and they wanted us to come down and run it for them. We were looking for a change in our lives and they presented an opportunity to us. Long story short..the business wasn't going to make the money that we needed so they didn't buy it and we didn't move. But I always look forward to coming here. I can't describe how peaceful it is. We have family reunions here and everyone comes...I mean everyone travels from the across the USA to come to reunions and weddings. That's how close this family is

Such a perfect setting for a wedding!

If it was 13 yrs ago...I would get married here

The weather was extremely hot. Something like 106 degrees. The wedding was planned for the evening just when the sun went behind the mountains. Good thing because it was sooooo hot! We helped a little bit with the set up but fortunately we didn't have to do to much in the heat. Which was good news for us...more time at the pool!

Kyler is such a character.

We had fun with the camera and taking funny pictures.

Christie is supposed to be posing with me. That was deal.

Pose...
Get ready...
Jump!
And maybe make a graceful plunge!

Pose...

Get ready...
Jump!
Reach for the skies...
Woo Hoo!!

You get the idea

Possible Christmas picture??
Here we are all cleaned up for the wedding. It was Hawaiian themed and since it was so hot, we had permission to go with sun dresses and shorts.
My boys are so goodlooking!

This is Jessica...looking her most gorgeous!

Now that's a kiss!

This is my neice Lydia. I love this picture! She looks like she is modeling or something. Isn't she just the sweetest thing?

This is me fooling around with photoshop...trying to make myself look better!

Caleb and Kaden got the dancing started for the evening. They cut- the -rug all night!

And yes.. we danced in the sand

Its always so hard to say goodbye to everyone. The time always goes by way too fast

I love this picture because it reminds me of Aunt Nancy. Nancy died a year and a half ago to cancer. Her absence was felt the whole weekend. But anyways....she loved all things nature, especially her hummingbirds.
This was the temperature on the way home.

So wrong in so many ways!