The Brown Family

Cabinet-Take 3

2010-05-11T13:12:00.001-07:00

This is how she started. Sad but functional.

And then she went red. I liked her lots more. Cause, you know…she at least had character. Then, we got a new table. And suddenly we had no more room for her in the kitchen. I seriously almost sold her {{begged for someone to take it}}. For one, it was broken and the doors always fell off. Two, it was painted hastily.

Darn...she needed a makeover.

So I stripped her down…bye bye red!Hello primer!

My first thought was white…then I remembered the leftover paint from the garage walls. Some stain, baskets and new hardware…and hello new entryway cabinet.

Before:

After:

EDIT: The baskets are from Target. The stain is Minwax Dark Walnut. The paint is Scarborough from the Olympic paint line at Lowes.

Thoughts

2010-01-05T19:43:00.000-08:00

So, I've known for awhile that this was going to happen...it was inevitable With the temptations out there, the many options available, I knew that I would be left in my own despair. For the last two months, I have been neglected, and my esteem has suffered greatly. That's right, I'm Jaime's blog, and I don't think she's coming back. MySpace, Facebook, others?... I knew one of them would snatch her up when I was least expecting. Well Facebook, you've got a good girl now...treat her right. Just know Jaime....I'll always be here, patiently awaiting your return.

Until next time...

YOUR BLOG

Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T17:59:00.001-07:00

Supers to the rescue!

Their best superhero moves….

That ended up with a bloody nose before we even left!

Mission: fight off the h1n1 bug in our house and rescue us from the udder destruction of being locked away for 9 days!!!

The new “old” desk

2009-10-14T18:22:00.001-07:00

I can’t believe I didn’t get a picture of the top. There was huge scratches and blemishes. Nothing a little sanding can’t fix.

Don’t you just love the drawer lining. It’s wrapping paper that I found on clearance!

Cost?

Desk 11.00

Knobs 4.00

Pulls FREE (old ones from the kitchen remodel)

Black spray paint for pulls 4.00

Wrapping paper for drawers 2.00

Used leftover paint and stain from other projects FREE

Total= 20.00

Weekends are wonderful

2009-10-11T20:45:00.001-07:00

Don’t you love when weekends go well? I do! I do!

Even though it’s ~~winter~~ fall here and unseasonably cold, we braved the chilly weather and ventured out for some fun on Saturday. Once the glorious sun peeked it’s head out, it was actually a beautiful day to spend with my wonderful boys!

We made our way to the pumpkin patch in a small town 20 miles or so from the house. Gees, we would have thought we were going to the moon with all the complaining and horsing around in the backseat :)

Can we watch a movie? NO

Can we have a snack? NO

Are we there yet? NO

Are we almost there? NO

Three minutes later…..Are we there yet? NO

We’re so spoiled because we live SO close to everything. More than 5 minutes in the car is apparently FOREVER to the boys. It’s ok, nothing a little music turned up won’t fix :)

The pumpkin patch here is fantastic. There is a ton of stuff to do for the kids. Check it out:

We went down a huge slide

Visited the petting zoo there

This picture cracks me up! He was so proud he found a nice spot for his finger…

We rode on these things….I don’t know what they are, but the kids couldn’t peddle them and they were VERY hard to push…But it was fun running into the hay bales.

The kids thought the magician rocked.

There is a hayride that takes you out to the field to pick your own pumpkins right off the vine. I made someone take our picture. It always cracks me up when I hand them my camera and they get a look of horror on their face…like, “What am I suppose to do with this?!”

The pumpkins are still somewhat green due to the lack of sunshine around here lately. Apparently winter is being a little pushy this year and fall has taken a backseat. Hopefully to be see again soon!

I tried to get a picture of the boys with our loot. As usual this is what ensued…..

Then retaliation…..

Ekk!!!!

Anyways….

We had a great time!

We also got the chance to check out the new wind fairs that are popping up around here.

Here is the boys standing at the base of one.See them there????? At the bottom?? Isn’t that amazing? There are 100’s of them in the fields. It was very cool. The boys loved it!

We hung out at home the rest of the night and let the ~~chaos~~ fun continue.

Check out their ninja moves:

And who can’t get enough of this?!?!

BONUS: no naps + lots of rough housing= early bedtimes!

On Sunday we had a relaxing afternoon at home. It’s great now that the boys are older….we don’t have to rush home to get naps. We can have a nice lunch and hang out. While Cam and Nol were sleeping, me and Gavin made cupcakes. Yum! I think they boys liked them too!

Then it’s a movie and bedtime. Here’s to a wonderful weekend!

Productivity

2009-10-07T20:45:00.001-07:00

If you have been around me for any sort of time, you know that I HATE mornings. I am a night person. Love them. Love the quiet. I am motivated at night. Mornings…not so much.

Jason has had to be @ work by 6:30 the last few days. DO you know what the means for me? Gees, always thinking of himself. No seriously, I feel bad that he has early mornings, but now I have to roll out of bed early and get Gavin motivated for school. Do you know how hard it is to motivate when I am not motivated in the slightest???

Anyways.

I have been going to bed WAY earlier then usually. It’s the ONLY way I think I could survived. And you know what? I have survived. I have been more productive because I have to be. Funny thing isn’t it?

Now don’t get it wrong. Staying at home is hard work. I mean I have to do things that I could be paying someone else to do. Like clean pee off the bathroom wall for the second time in an hour.

But really, I get hear story after story with each one ending….”isn’t that cool?” Like, “I want to take Nolan outside and turn the hose on him. Isn’t that cool?”

And maybe I complain and stress about things that really should be treasured. I KNOW that these moments with my kids are fleeting, but who likes a kid who repeats your EVERY.WORD when they get in trouble. I mean, seriously? I don’t know whether to laugh at his cleverness to distract, or pull my hair out in frustration.

And while I am on to complaining. What’s up with every time I get on the phone my kids start acting like hooligans. Gees.

Ok now I am way off topic.

Still with me?

Back to topic here. Getting up early has it’s benefits. Like actually being semi-productive in the mornings. Call me crazy, but it’s nice to have a load of laundry done, email checked and kitchen cleaned before all the kids are up.

Gavin is on fall break now. I am sure things will get back to normal again tomorrow :)

An since this post really turned into such a random ramble anyways. Here is what we have been doing lately.

Gavin is working on a school project. Any guesses on what that entails???

We lost power the other night for an hour or so. My camera was the only electronic device that was charged and working. Guess what I did for awhile.

Did you know that if you did a kid scissors, you can keep them busy for almost an hour??? And guess what? No one cut anything they weren’t suppose to!

Keep them busy while I did this….. Took forever to get organized, but it pays off big time.

Last time I went to the store, I saved $58.00. I spent $0.51 and got $3 back in printable coupons (Catalina's) plus a coupon for a free dozen eggs.

Now it’s way past my bedtime.

10.06

2009-10-06T20:19:00.000-07:00

Wowee! Jason mentioned today that I haven't posted in a week!? Seriously, how does that happen!?!

We had a busy weekend. Even with the rain canceling a major activity, we still had a whirlwind of activities. MY next post may contain some pics...if/when I get them off my camera :)

I am also done editing some fabulous pictures from my shoot last week. Maybe she'll let me share some of my favorites with all of you!

My little desk project is almost complete too. I am so excited to share the finished product. It's been so much fun to work on.

Normal

2009-09-28T21:01:00.001-07:00

what is that anyways?

Things around here are quite normal.

On Saturday we headed to see Josh and Stacy (Jason brother and sister in law) for Josh’s birthday. The boys played, we ate

they played some more,

we ate again…you know…the usual.

That’s what we normally do when we get together anyways.

Sunday we hung after service. I got my haircut (really short…maybe a little too short…but whatever….) and did a little shopping.

Played outside

wrote that LONG blog post and didn’t pay attention to the two year old in the other room…oops

This thing tried to enter my house….ewww…… and this stumbled into our yard… Just a normal Sunday.(She or He whatever) Is so sweet. She takes this so well….

The kids adore he/her. Sophie…..well not so much. Today the cat hung out in the garage and endured endless torture. It has been named too….Butterscotch. Now what are we to do?? Anyone need a cat?

Today was super windy. and cold. So I bundled the kiddos up, got out their bikes and started working on this:You can see the potential, right?? That’s what I thought! She needs a little work…but she’s on her way. I love me a good project!

We did date night switching tonight and had ourselves a good ‘ol time. I think the kids like this way better than us. They get to hang out every week together. We spoil them when they are here. Shhhh….don’t tell their parents!

And, like normal, it is 11:45pm and we are still up. Looking forward to what tomorrow and all it’s “normalcy” brings!

Catchiness

2009-09-26T17:27:00.001-07:00

Attentiveness: listening with your ears, eyes and heart

Randomness: wearing whatever we want, when we want, and them wanting to go to the store in said “random” costumes.

Craftiness: doing something beautiful with something ordinary

Intangibleness: having girlfriends who love me for who I am

Sweetness: celebrating your first birthday Inventiveness: dreaming up your own fun…..

…..and getting your brother in on it!

Sadness: seeing your child go from first grade….

to second…

Happiness: knowing that he is growing and changing and becoming a wonderful person that his brothers (and parents) adore!

Gladfulness: having 20+ couples and all their kids over for a fun filled afternoon of root beer, burgers, and conversation.

Eventfulness: watching the demolition derby @ the state fair

Funniness: watching Nolan’s reaction to the first few crashes!

Boringness: waiting for the broken cars to be taken off the track for the next heat to start. Remedy: use the fisheye lens on my camera to combat said boringness.

Colorfulness: watching the FREE fireworks after the demolition derby.

Artfulness: putting my dad and niece to work on some art for the boys bathroom because I am too cheap to buy some.

Ruthlessness: Cameron beating Grandma Bachtel in Mario Cart

Boyishness: can’t be explained….

09.23

2009-09-23T19:16:00.001-07:00

When you haven’t blogged in a while…it’s really hard to even know where to begin. It’s sad really, because I take SO MANY pictures that will never make their way to being published. Bear with me as I try to sort out the last month or so of our life!

My baby boy turned two! On the second of September, we celebrated him! He is talking so much now. He is very independent and sometimes gets mad when we do it for him. He’ll scream, “I do it” He loves to play outside. Especially in the sandbox and on his bike. He LOVES to sing and read books. He is also a great eater, a big drinker and gives the best sloppy kisses ever!

Then, on the 3rd, we celebrated Jason’s 30th birthday! He’s 30!!!! haha…..we didn’t have 30 candles so 3 had to suffice.

But, like a 8 year old…he got baseball cards for his birthday (and storage for said cards) and he was SOOOOO happy! We had a great day too…we meet @ lunch for Mexican and had Chinese for dinner. Not my thing for sure!! We headed to the bowling lanes for a quick game too! I LOVE YOU BABY!!!!

On the 12th we headed to Chicago with Jason’s dad Bill, his brother Josh, our sis-in-law Stacy and nephew Alexander. Jason and Josh’s birthday’s are close to each others, so Bill got us all tickets for the game. It was beautiful weather and always alot of fun.

That Sunday, Grandma and Grandpa had the family over for lunch. We LOVE the farm! The boys have so much fun there. As always, I took a million pictures of all the action. My facebook friends can see them on there.

Sadly, some great and close friends of ours took a new job in Indy and moved there last month. We went to hang for the day , and got to help them hang some molding in their dining room when we were there!

There kids are very close in age to ours. Little Emma and Nolan love to play together.

I even got to take some maternity pictures of her and her family. They are so cute :)

Last weekend, we celebrated Nolan’s birthday with a party. As always, we eat lots of yummy food (thanks to my Grandma :) Here is Nolan’s “under the sea” cake we made. The kids LOVED all the candy.

We ate ice cream too!Opened lots of great gifts…

Played outside….

And with the Wii…. Too funny! Thanks for a great time everyone…we love company and appreciate you driving to come visit with us.

The other night, me and my bible study girls headed to visit our friend who just moved to Indy. But….she didn’t know we were coming! Thanks to her husband, we pulled off the surprise and had a great night of conversation and laughter. I am so thankful God had put these Godly women in my life to challenge me, grow me, and keep me accountable!

Wow! Are you still with me?? I think this catches up with the majors and hopefully we will start blogging my favorite everyday moments again….

09.22.09

2009-09-22T21:00:00.001-07:00

Hello! We’re still here. Aren’t you sick of seeing my black kitchen cabinets since they have been the last post for weeks???? Well I have lots to share…lots to document…but no more do-it-yourself projects to share just yet….

I’ll be back soon with lots of little post to share what we’ve been up to lately…especially for you Grandma Bachtel!!

In the mean time…..

Welcome to our “new” old kitchen

2009-08-26T19:24:00.001-07:00

After much persuasion on my part….partly because the task of painting seemed so overwhelming and time consuming to Jason…we finally took the plunge. We painted our oak cabinets black!

<<BEFORE>>

<<AFTER>>

The process……

-2. Look at a million different kitchens online for months to make sure that you know exactly what you like…..

-1. ~~Pester~~ Have discussions with your husband until you ~~convince~~ ~~him~~ agree that it’ll look great. (not that I’ve ever seem a single black kitchen in my real life…but still…..)

1. Take off all cabinet doors and dispose of all the yucky brass hardware. BUT save those hinges and spray paint them black. Those suckers are expensive!

2. Sand the surfaces just enough to “rough” it up. Be ready to answer questions from silly neighbors (like, “Are you sure you know what you are doing?” haha. If he only knew…..)

Make sure that you wipe them down with a damp cloth (or tack cloth) to get all the dust off. Sawdust + paint = not cool

3. Go to Home Depot and buy their enamel undercover primer and paint. This stuff is awesome. Have the primer tinted black….or blue….which is how dark they can get it apparently. This stuff is hard as a rock. You can’t scratch the finish off even if your trying.

You can see the upper cabinets have already taken a coat of primer and the lower ones are on their first coat of black.

4. Recruit lots of help in painting. It gets a little boring by yourself.

5. Use a brush to get into the fine corners (a good brush is so worth the investment!) and a foam roller to get a smooth finish. DO NOT go over your paint when it starts to cure (dry). If you realize you made a mistake it’s better to wait and sand it down after it dries.

6. Decide that one project is really not enough. Realize your husband must really love you when he holds his tongue and says, “whatever you want babe”

7. Coat all cabinet doors, drawers, and base cabinets with one coat of primer and at least 2 coats of paint. It was most likely three when all was said and done. Give it plenty of time to dry between coats. Spend days looking at open cabinets :)

8. We added bead board and an extra piece of molding to the bottom and sides of the cabinets for some extra flair. I think it makes the kitchen!

9. Hang your doors back on with your newly spray painted hinges. Put on your new bling…um…your hardware.

10. Leave cabinets doors open because your husband insist they may stick if you don’t. Leave them open until you can no longer handle looking at your messy cabinets.

11. Enjoy your “new” old kitchen!

Costs:

Paint and supplies: $45

New cabinet hardware: $60

Beadboard and trim: $30

New look = $135

What do you think?? Love the black or missing the oak?

Beach Photos 2009

2009-08-14T06:59:00.001-07:00

I really wanted to shoot on the beach while we were on Hilton Head Island. It’s been since last fall that I got some decent shots of all the kids formally together. Here is what became of our little photoshoot. The family pics were taken bt tripod and a few by random passerby’s (they must have felt sorry for us?!). The ones of me and Jason were taken by Gavin. Just another examples of the wonders that editing can make :) Enjoy!

Hilton Head 2009

2009-08-07T17:13:00.001-07:00

It looks like this is the best it’s going to get. Here are our vacation pics in all their unedited glory....Enjoy!

10 days of pure bliss. I could be on vacation all the time :) We can’t wait to go back!

Up next: family photos on the beach

Board and Batten

2009-07-10T23:24:00.001-07:00

ok I don’t even clean my living room before I start a project!
1. Here is the 1 x 2 going up to help “support” our creation….it will help support the boards….that lay on the crown…that makes our shelf.
Wow! I sound like a nursery rhyme!
2. Hang the crown just like you would from the ceiling. Only nailing the bottom half. Those boards in the previous picture are now behind the top of the crown.

3. Used these boards painted white to create our shelf. When set on top of the crown it is nailed to it and into the 1 x 2 I talked about earlier. Makes a nice steady shelf. Still with me??

4. Paint before you hang your vertical strips. MUCH EASIER!!!
We used lattice found here for our strips: http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=5990-1487-L%2026710PINE&lpage=none . NO MDF CUTTING FOR US! These come in 8 ft and 10 ft sections at our lowes and are perfect for conforming to the wall. Since they are only 1/4 inch thick, they also butted up nicely against our baseboards. We choose to add a horizontal strip (of lattice) under the crown for a good transition between the two. It really adds to the the look if you ask me.

5. You can see the horizontal strip in this picture. Here my husband is using a paint stick to mark the width between strips….just to make sure we liked how we centered then and that they didn’t hit any outlets. It was the perfect tool to get accurate widths!

6. Boards up now! He used 2 in brad nails for the bottom of the crown (to get into the studs) and 1 in brads for the top shelf and the vertical boards. You can see that how that 1/4 x 4 x 4 boards lays here. It wasn’t nailed in yet. But, caulk and wood filler will be your best friend :)

7. Almost done. It was a little tedious painting those strips. I would recommend hitting them with spray paint before you put them up and then given them a coat of your glossy trim paint when their up….wish I would have thought of that sooner :) Once everything is painted, you caulk, wood fill and touch-up.

8. All done! Supplies cost was as followed:
Vertical boards were 4.90 each. We used 7 of them. They come in 8 and 10 ft sections. We used 10ft so that we could cut then in half (or less than 1/2 in our case) 5 1/2 were used for the vertical strips, 1 1/2 ish were used for the horizontal strip below the crown.
Crown was $19 for a 16ft piece. We only needed 13ft. Anyone need a 3ft piece of crown???
1/4 x 4 x 4 boards were less than 5 each. We used 3 1/4 of them.
1 x 2 boards were 2 something each. We used 2 of them
You’ll also need caulk, a saw and a tape measure. A laser level is a great idea too!
Total cost with trim paint (cause we were out) was a little less than $100.

Living Room

2009-07-09T06:55:00.001-07:00

Drumroll please.......
When we bought this house 3 years ago it was boring. Clean, great yard, good size....but no character. So for 3 years we have been sprucing her up with paint and flooring and flowers.....
But then there was this beast in the living room. She was comfortable and held alot of people! Like 12! But it was so hard to even think about decorating around her. I mean, she took up the entire room. So we painted the room and left it. I hadn’t even hung curtains. It was a sad little room. As you can see, a dumping ground :)

So we saved and then sold. Sold that sofa for more than we purchased it for 7 years ago! (we did purchase it used….but still :)
And bought this….obviously still in the store here.
BUT………….now what???
Saw these and got a fabulous idea
http://thedevinehome.com/hallway-makeover/
And this post from Kimba:
http://asoftplacetoland-kimba.blogspot.com/2009/03/meet-layla-palmer-lettered-cottage.html
Which leads to this post:
http://itsthelittlethingsthatmakeahouseahome.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-board-and-batten.html
So off to the store I went. Having an idea of what I wanted. I am sure the guy in the trim department loved me. Four trips (and a few returns) and we got all the supplies we needed.
FINDING THE MATERIAL was the hardest part. Seriously.
JUST FOR FUN.
When we bought this house (previous owner stuff)

and now….

What do you think??? It took less than 6 hours total and painting it was 3 of it! It will still be a dumping ground…But at least it’s a pretty dumping ground!

If you are interested in a tutorial on how we did it, check out http://brownfamilyfour.blogspot.com/2009/07/board-and-batten.html

06.26

2009-06-26T05:55:00.000-07:00

Next weekend is July 4th! Where did this come from???

If anyone is interested. Purdue has a rockin' fireworks show on Sat and our church's picnic in on Sunday. It will be a great time if you are interested in joining us for a fun-filled weekend!

06.23

2009-06-23T19:47:00.001-07:00

And so the weeks goes on…

It is hot here. So hot that we have the air on! I am sure the kids appreciate it.

We ventured to the big park today. Too bad that some punk kids were performing dangerous jumps off the equipment. Using foul words to boot.

We ventured down the another play area. 10 minutes later the kids were ready to go. Gavin has been begging to go to this park forever too! It was just too hot today!

Apparently, Even had a thing about being sweaty. He had his shirt completely off by the time we hit the car.

We came home and pulled out the slip-n-slide. I don’t think they had fun at all :)

Then they broke the slip-n-slide and improvised. We have some smart kids on our hands!

VBS is going really well….me and Jason are helping with the outdoor games and it’s really hot. But a lot of fun.

I think we may be going swimming at a friends pool tomorrow.

06.22

2009-06-22T20:22:00.001-07:00

It’s VBS week around these parts…..Vacation Bible School. That means that it is a fun and fast, and LOOOOONG week of lots of activities. It also means that the kids sleep well. There is lots of action around the day here too….cause we have some visitors.

Say Hello Evan

Alyssa, you too!

A house with five kids can get really loud! But there is always something going on. Like this:

And some of this…..

And who couldn’t resist some of this:

But….all I ever get from him is this…..

Ok…maybe not always!

We are planning a picnic at the park tomorrow. A trip to the pool and maybe some Chuck E Cheese. I am sure that the kids are going to be bored some next week. This momma only has so many tricks up her sleeve.

On a serious note….or not so serious. There is this little rumor going around that I am expecting another little brownie. That would be FALSE if any one cares to know. I would like to believe that it started with my little April Fools prank, but I tend to lean towards my love for cookies. K?

Relay for Life

2009-06-18T10:59:00.000-07:00

Jason is doing something really cool....and really fun!

He is part of the Caterpillar Relay for Life team.

He recruited his wife to make their poster. It's being plastered all over the facitilites...in 11x17 color.....no pressure there! (Click to make it bigger)YOU (Yes...you!) CAN HELP HIM REACH HIS GOAL!

Now, I know you've got big plans with that wad of money sitting in your pocket, but this is a great cause.

Go here to donate: CLICK ME!!!!!!!!!

His goal is just $200, but I know that we can surpass that if everyone gives just a little. $5. $10. How about $50?

Now, stop reading me and go!

06.16

2009-06-16T19:44:00.000-07:00

I have good news and bad news. Well actually I just have lots of news.

We just saved a lot of money by refinancing our house. Me + saving money = :) :) :)

Gavin's last game baseball game is Thursday. It the championship game and they are playing a team that they can't seem to beat.

I am taking the kids swimming with a friend tomorrow. Pray for us :)

Jason is sticking with the exercise routine. Down 15+ pounds and up to 5 miles every other day. He's still on track to lose 30 by Mid-July.

We got to go to Chicago on Saturday with some dear friends. It was so much fun to hang out. Too bad the weather was rainy and cold. I don't think the kids missed us at all.

Oh...and I got my new camera. I've only taken about 400 pics in the last few days....cough, cough....only 400! Not that I NEEDED a new camera, I just wanted one. I want to feel confident taking pics for other people and my other camera had some limitations that were holding me back. So no, I didn't need anything, but my husband caved to my nagging....cough, cough. I mean he wants to give me opportunities to let my creativity blossom. Or something like that.

Eek!

I have so much to learn. Here are a few favorites from this week. I obviously love faces best. I need to work on that.

P.S. My grandmother passed away in Connecticut last Thursday. Please pray for my extended family. She will surely be missed.

06.10

2009-06-10T18:36:00.000-07:00

Just some randomness since I haven't had a good picture post lately. Who doesn't love a good pic post.

We celebrated my mother in laws birthday at Jason's grandma's farm a few weeks ago. The boys LOVE the farm and are always super excited to spend the day there! Meet Little Nakayla. My sweet little niece. He's not to fond of Jason and seems to tolerate me. Oh well...I think she picks up that I don't know what to do with girls....haha.
His Grandma has the best perennials I have ever seen. I can't wait to "help" her divide some of them. They are seriously gorgeous and she has flower beds around her whole house. So jealous :)

They have a barn for the babies. The boys love to let the cows suck on their fingers.....ewww.....I don't go near them. I do help them sanitize and wash and sanitize afterwards! Ha!
The first sign that summer in near...the sprinkler of course.
Made these for rodeo day for Gavin at school. See what you can do with a swiffer stick, a computer printout, some googly eyes, and some felt! I was of course the coolest mom ever for this one! They play with them all the time. Darn, guess I can't swiffer now.
All I wanted for my b-day....ok NOT all....but I love a good family picture with me in it. Hey at least everyone is looking. Too bad I need a haircut and Nolan ain't smiling.....I really shouldn't complain....

I LOVE MY BOYS!

Gavin

2009-06-09T20:36:00.001-07:00

I am so annoyed with blogger. I can't move my pics around....but you get the idea.

Let's just take this opportunity to share about my eldest son...who just happened to have a huge day today! He's been playing baseball (as you know) but as the season has went on, he just couldn't get on base. He got on in the first few games, but the kids get better and he would either strike out or get thrown out. It was starting to get to his confidence. Guess what? He got on base twice tonight! He even scored a run. It was so exciting. He is improving so much and as him momma... I was so proud of his accomplishment.

And......

I am sure that I shared this. I can't believe I haven't.....See that pin on his shirt???

Gavin was chosen as the eagle award recipient in his class this year. It is an award given to one boy and one girl in each class who has shown Christ-like character and leadership throughout the entire year. It's a huge honor and says so much about him as a person. You always hope that the things that you teach your kids carry out into real...well you know. It just makes me proud that he chooses to respect others and show love to everyone.

2009-06-08T20:30:00.000-07:00

It's been forever since I have share pics of the boys....Unfortunately I am too tired (read: too lazy) to make an entire post at the moment. But here's a good one.....says so much about things that go on around these parts these days.

05.08

2009-06-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

We survived our first week off of school! Things are starting to hit a groove with the kids. Today me and Gavin made a list of the things we wanted to do before school started again. Here are some of the many things we came up with:

1. trip to the zoo

2. plant green beans

3. wash the cars

4. make a lemonade stand

5. have a sleepover

6. go to the beach!

7. have a family game night

8. dig for fossils

9. stay up late to use the telescope

10. create our own holiday

Pretty creative, huh? There are many, many more! I think we will pick a one or two each week and see what we can do to accomplish them. Some may take a little more creativity to accomplish :)

We are working on developing godly characteristics in our kids so we decided that this summer would be a great time to start learning a new character quality every few days. We'll work on honesty, love, gentleness, self-control, attentiveness, courtesy, fairness, generosity, tactfulness....etc.....there are so many. It'll be great for us parents too! We need to be reminded of the things we should be doing...but aren't.

We decided that our first character quality would be creativeness......it means doing something in a new way. Today, we worked on being creative with our time this summer (the list above) and were creative in making up a new game this afternoon.

This week we are also memorizing I Timothy 4:12...

Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for other believers in your speech, behavior, love, faithfulness, and purity.

If you want to start something like this with your kids....shoot me an email...I have some great resources to get started.....

In other news, we are planning a trip up north this weekend for a Cubs game. Jason is soooo excited! It's gonna be so much fun to hang out with great friends. Praying for NO rain!

Not much else to report on. I just made a huge purchase....a VERY stressful decision that I hope works out like I hope. I'll share more when it comes in! I am so excited for this one.....

05.05

2009-06-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Hey ya'll. Glad your still with me.

It's been a busy week. Actually, it's been busy, but I've been lazy. I like those kinds of weeks!

Nothing new and exciting really, so I guess you get to hear about all the boring stuff going on here.

Gavin is almost done with baseball. One more week of games and then the playoffs. He is doing better every game. They came back and tied last night only to lose in the end. It was exciting to watch. I am amazed at the talent these 7 and 8 year olds have.

Jason continues with his weight loss goal. He is aiming for 30lbs by mid-July and has already lost 15! He running 4+ miles every other day and doing a Jillian Michaels (biggest loser trainer) video on his off nights. Watching what he eats, too. I am so proud of him for sticking with it. You can really start to see the difference already. Now, if only I wasn't so lazy......

We had a great garage sale last weekend. We sold tons of stuff. I always go through the entire house every year. If I haven't used it in a year....it goes. I love uncluttered closets and empty 18 gallon tubs. The garage is still a mess, though.....need to work on that this weekend. We even sold our sofa for more than we bought it for 7 years ago. Gotta love that!

I have been busy working on a few misc graphic design projects. I even had a newborn shoot the other day. Check out on of my new favorites..

He was a great little listener. Sat so still for me :)

Speaking of shoots, I've been meaning to get some new family pictures taken. Ugh...not so easy when I am always behind the camera. I really should do it before it gets too hot.

Garage sale season is in full swing now and we hit some really go ones in the past few weeks. It's been fun to get some new stuff for the kids and even for me :)

ok...so that was the most random post ever.

06.01

2009-05-31T19:33:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to updated this blog...really. It's always the same old thing. It's late, it's quiet and the last thing I want to do is type some lame ol' post about how our day went/what we've been up to/how my kids are sooooo cute/etc......

Then the fire. The fire that took the lives of one amazing women and her two beautiful children. Then I could no longer find the words to say what I have felt. Let me start at the beginning.

It was Saturday the 16th. I had just celebrated my 26th birthday. We had big plans that Saturday afternoon. We got a call around 8am and we ignored it. I came down around 9 to listen to the message, check email and get the kids breakfast.

It had stormed the night before. It was one of those storms that the waetherman stays on for. No shows, just satellite images and National Weather report updates. We went to bed around 12 and it seemed to be over.

As I listened to my friends voice on the answering machine that morning, I was a little confused. Something about getting the call around 5:30am.....not sleeping since...Wagoner family accident. I thought of the storm and maybe they had a tree fall on their property. A car accident. Then I checked my email.....

The Wagoner Family is one of those beautiful families. So kind and gracious. Leah was so full of life. We were not even good friends with them...but, she knew my name before I even knew her. Just full of life and ALWAYS smiling. Little Sophia was four and was the size of Nolan. She was the cutest thing with so much spunk. Harrison was seven.

The storm that past through here went through their town too. A small town about 30 minutes from here. I read that lightning hit a pole and traveled up to their house. The fire started in more than one place.

I can clearly remember the fear that overcame me when my car was burning and my children were still inside. I LEFT THEM TO GO GET HELP. Left them. What was I thinking?

I've heard that the smoke and fumes from a fire can overtake a room in a matter of minutes. Brian awoke at some point. Confused I am sure. Not fully awake, unable to see, brain starved for oxygen. He burned his hands trying to get out, trying to save his family. God chose this for him for a reason. I have faith that God has a big plan for his life. My heart aches for his loss.

In the days after, me and Jason talked a lot about it. Their grief, God's provision, their pain.

I've heard that the Wagnoner family was doing a family devotion on the book Heaven by Randy Alcorn. They were teaching their children about the very place they would be going. MY God is BIG.

I feel so inadequate to be sharing this. I didn't know them well. Never had a play date, never had the over. Leah was a MOPS mom, their family such a blessing to our church. Barley.knew.them. And yet, their lives and deaths have changes me forever.

This is where my words leave me.....God grant me the wisdom to say the things I need to.

Leah, Sophia and Harrison were believers. They believed that Jesus actually lived here on earth, died on the cross, and rose again. They believe that Jesus is alive in heaven on His throne. They have chosen to accept that they are sinners and that nothing they could do could earn their way into heaven. Nothing that they could do.....nothing. They had a personal relationship with him.

Works do not save. Words do not save. Repentance and faith in Christ saves.

How many people go through life putting more thought in the car that they drive then where they are going when they die?

The bible is very clear. Jesus is the only way. You believe it or you don't. You just can't go through life expecting that you have another day. You are not guaranteed tomorrow.

Since the accident, I have been trying to put life into perspective. I always get so wrapped up in the moment. Always getting around to the things that need to be done now. I am already slipping back into old habits. Too tired to read my bible, to frustrated to continue devotions with the kids. Too wrapped up in myself to see what God is putting right in front of my face. Today is a gift that I surely take for granted.

I am struggling here. I know that God can use this tragedy to pull people to Him. I know it.

I just feel like I am preaching to you.

I don't mean too.

But I know that the people who read my blog know me. I can't help but fear for you. We all die. I just think that something that you know if going to happen....well, it should be thought about.

Choosing Christ is a choose. A choose you have to make. You either believe in who he says he is, or you don't. NOT making a decision is making a decision. He can't make a decision without the facts. Do you know the facts?

Ok, so what if I am wrong?? What if life just came from nothing and we are here and then we're gone and forgotten and all this doesn't really matter??? What if the bible is wrong? Jesus never lived and if he did he was just a really good liar?

I am not wrong. There is only one truth.

But, do you live life without ever seeking the truth? Ever thinking about eternal things? Too me, that's crazy. At least make an educated decision.

God will not crap your lifestyle. He brings joy, peace and love where other fail.

Think about, k?

Heavy heart

2009-05-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

Late Friday night, the Wagoner's home caught fire. By God's choosing, he called Leah, Sophia and Harrison home. I feel blessed to have known them and am broken over the pain their family and friends are feeling. Please pray with me as Brian said goodbye to his family today. His heartbreak is surely immeasurable.

I have so much I want to say about the lessons God is teaching me through their trial, but words today are lost.

God, grant us peace and cover us with your unfailing love.

Happy B-Day!!!!

2009-05-14T10:43:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to You,

Happy Birthday dear Jaime,

Happy Birthday to YOU!!!!!

Where U At?

2009-05-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Hello.......this is your blog........you still out there anywhere?

04.21

2009-04-21T19:20:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it??? Only 18 days since I last blogged. I haven't gave up...just trying to find a nice balance in life so the blog gets pushed to the bottom of the barrel. It's been a good break for me, but I feel like I have tons to share.

We had a great time on Ohio as the beginning of the month. The childrens museum there is a great place to hang for the day. A family pass is just $69 a year and it lets you use it in Chicago Navy Pier museum, Museum of Science and Industry, Ft. Wayne zoo, South Bend zoo, and lots of science centers, childrens museums, and zoo across the country! We are already planning on stopping at a few for breaks on our way to/from Hilton Head this summer. I am sure it will pay for itself :)

We spent Easter weekend with family this year. We even got to spend some time with my best friend! It was nice to spend sometime hanging out and catching up with everyone. It feels like we never get up there anymore. Sunday we spent some time at Jason's grandma and grandpa's farm. Gavin said it was the best Easter ever. There is so much to see and do. You know...boys + dirt = fun!

Gavin has started baseball this year. He is the smallest kid on the team, but it doing really well keeping up with the bigger kids. Technically, because his bday falls in July he still should be in tball, but he wouldn't have enjoyed that.

Gavin and his best friend Micah:

Cameron is completely potty trained. He doesn't even wet at naptime/bedtime. It was relatively easy. I guess we caught it at the prime opportunity.Nolan is talking and interacting more and more. I can't believe that he is already so big. He is very sweet and loves to give kisses and hugs.

Check out his new do':

Me and Jason have been busy with running the nursery at church. It really more work then I thought. We oversee about 160 volunteers so keeping everyone in the loop is a challenge. We have been making some major changes over the last few months and more are in the works. I like the challenge, but sometimes it seems like we are just spinning wheels and aren't getting anywhere :)

Cameron took this picture the other day at the park:

Last weekend we spent a whole day at Purdue's bug bowl. The weather was the best part of the day! It was perfect. It is mainly student run event, and these kids seem genuinely interested in teaching others about their major. There are tons of hands on experiments to see and lots of animals to touch. The boys had a blast with that. You can even sample bugs if you desire (mealworm brownies anyone??) We couldn't convince the boys to do the cricket spitting contest. Can't say that I blame them.

Ok. Enough already.

03.03

2009-04-03T06:03:00.000-07:00

Jason has the day off today....we are headed east to spend some time alone. No computers, phones, or projects. See ya when we get back!

P.S. Got ya! I know that it was so funny and all. I am surprised so many people fell for it. It must have been the photoshop editing that I did to the random ultrasound that I found online?? I should have put triplets up...would you have fallen out of your chair?

04.01

2009-04-01T18:47:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been almost a week since my last post. Life has been crazy around here! Gavin starts his spring break tomorrow. We are planning a little weekend trip to relax and spend some quality time together. Jason is still being slammed at work! The weather has been iffy the last few days, so we have had to get creative with our time so that we don't go insane being coped up all day.

Oh, and then there is this little bit of information that we wanted to share.....

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:) OR NOT! HAPPY APRIL FOOLS DAY!!!!!

03.26

2009-03-26T20:43:00.000-07:00

It's 11:45pm. Jason is still at work. This is got to be over soon. I miss my husband.

On a brighter side, he did surprise me by coming home for lunch and we meet for dinner.

Things have been a little weird around here lately. I have been busy with some random project. Like a beautiful baby announcement and a wedding invitation. My car still needs to get it's second repair job, I need to wrap up some random craft projects junkin up my counter, and I really, really, need to make something with the chicken that's been defrosting in my fridge for 2 days. It always seems like one step forward on my to-do-list and three things get added. Just so you know...I am a huge list maker. I make list so that I can cross things off. I think I will make a list tonight when I am done. I will put update blog on there and cross it off. It's therapeutic.

Cameron's allergy test all came back negative. That's good, but the doctor said something about that doesn't mean an allergy doesn't exist still. Whatever that means. He hasn't been complaining of pain as much...we'll see.

Funny things

2009-03-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

My sister sent this today in my email. I never forward emails. But this is hilarious.

Here is what Jeff Foxworthy has to say about Hoosiers...

If your local Dairy Queen is closed from September through May, you may live in Indiana .

If someone in a Home Depot store offers you assistance and they don't work there, you may live in Indiana .

If you've worn shorts and a parka at the same time, you may live in Indiana .

If you've had a lengthy telephone conversation with someone who dialed a wrong number, you may live in Indiana .

If "vacation" means going anywhere south of Muncie for the weekend, you may live in Indiana .

If you measure distance in hours, you may live in Indiana .

If you know several people who have hit a deer more than once, you may live in Indiana .

If you have switched from 'heat' to 'A/C' in the same day and back again, you may live in Indiana .

If you can drive 75 mph through 2 feet of snow during a raging blizzard without flinching, you may live in Indiana .

If you install security lights on your house and garage, but leave both unlocked, you may live in Indiana .

If you carry jumpers in your car and your wife knows how to use them, you may live in Indiana .

If you design your kid's Halloween costume to fit over a snowsuit, you may live in Indiana .

If the speed limit on the highway is 55 mph - you're going 80 and everybody is passing you, you may live in Indiana .

If driving is better in the winter because the potholes are filled with snow, you may live in Indiana .

If you know all 4 seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter and road construction, you may live in Indiana .

If you have more miles on your snow blower than your car, you may live in Indiana .

If you find 10 degrees "a little chilly", you may live in Indiana .

If you actually understand these jokes, and forward them to all your Indiana friends & others, you definitely do live - or have lived - in Indiana .

03.22

2009-03-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

Get this. I went to the gym twice this week. Twice people. I am proud and definitely bragging. Yes, it may not last....Yes, it really sucks. But, it makes me happy that I am doing something for myself. I am way more motivated afterwards. The sunny weather is helping too. I think I was in a pit of self inflicted winter gloominess.

The kids have been playing outside no stop for the last few days. Maybe that's why I have been so productive?! It's heavenly to throw open the doors and throw the kids outside. I done my share of swinging and ball throwing in the last few days. I feel like I can breath again.

Jason has been working tons the last week or so. I feel bad because I have become 'that wife' You know the naggy, clingy one who is always complaining about work/family priorities. I am working on it.

There have been lots of long nights staring into his laptop screen. Poor guy can't get anything done with us around (read: can't I just say at work late tonight??) Poor guy also has a wife that hates mornings (read: doesn't want to take the young-in to school at 8am). This all equates to some negotiations. Basically, I am gonna have to drag my booty up and start taking Gavin to school so that my poor husband doesn't have to stay at work till 7pm to get his work done. At least this is *hopefully* temporary and at least it's warm(er) in the mornings now?

This extra stress at work has a halt to my wants and needs. Ok, I'm exaggerating, but I really want to move forward with 'my' plans. My plans involve lots of paints, glue and trim pieces. I'm the thinker and he's the doer. So, I'm stuck without a doer and it sucks!

Me: "When do you want to start on the kitchen"

Jason: "Start? 1990-Never"

Real funny.

In other news, Gavin lost his 5th tooth today. He's super excited for the tooth fairy to pay a little visit tonight. I wonder what time he'll pop into our room in the morning to share the news. 6am anyone???

We scored some great deals today while doing some random shopping. Toys-R-Us had free Thomas the train engines (12.99 value). Each boy got one. Total savings: $41

Target had their energy efficient light bulbs on sale this week for $1 (73% off). They were out. We got rain checks for 33 of them. Ha. So we don't think that we'll need 33, but it's better to over estimate then underestimate, right?

On a money saving note, I went grocery shopping on Thursday and spent $130. I saved over $160! I think I had $56 in coupon savings alone. Maybe someday I can put a little tutorial together to help those of you that don't "get" couponing. It's time consuming, but so worth it! There are lots of websites that make it super easy to link your coupons with store sales, which is the best way to go!

So basically this turned into the most random post ever. It's 12:40 in the morning and we have to be at church at 7:40. Nice.

03.17

2009-03-17T19:23:00.000-07:00

Today was busy.crazy.fun.

I dappled into still photography. I shot these photos today (for a girls who's wedding I shot this summer) These are just 2 of the 210 I took. She has some great items and I hope these pictures will be able to help her launch her small business in the coming months.

I went to back to the body shop to discuss my little problems. It looks like they are gonna make nice. They ordered me a part and I plan to go back later this week and get it all touched up. Anyone up for some kids one afternoon this week or next??

We had steak and potatoes tonight. Green potatoes actually. The kids got a big kick out of it. Nolan ate the mashed potatoes with his fingers and had green hands the rest of the night.

We hit Targetand scored some more free steaks. They are priced cut at my store for $1.99lb. A $2 off coupon makes a 1lb steak free or almost free. We also picked up 3 boxes cereal and 5 boxes of granola bars. Total for 6 steaks plus 3 boxes of cereal and 5 boxes of bars = $13.00!

After target we headed to Krispy Kreme for some donuts. Back in January if you bought a dozen you got 12 free donut valentines. I kept them :) They had the light on (light on=free donut) and we got free glazed ones when we walked in. We just ate those, got 4 free ones with our coupons for tomorrow AM and bought a soda. Total for 9 donuts and a large pop = $1.70. And who saids you have to spend a fortune for some family fun!?

Oh, and sorry about all the grammatical errors and run on sentences. I can't seem to make things sound right lately so I just gave up and type away :) Are you still with me???

03.16

2009-03-16T19:11:00.000-07:00

After much anticipation, I finally got my car back today. See, I was rear ended last month. Everyone was fine, but the van needed some repair. It was inconvenient, yes, but I was very thankful that no one got hurt and the damage was contained to the rear of the van. ( I am sure I have already shared this :) Switching the car seats out wasn't much fun and the rental van had some annoying kinks. Turns out, when we picked up the car today, they made a mess of the interior of my van with their dirty shoes (which it was messy to start with....but size 12 shoe marks all over the rear seats and floor aren't from my kids) then as I was putting the stroller away I noticed that the paint is already starting to peel on the new hatch....ugh. It was a aftermarket hatch(I have an '02 which I guess is considered ancient to insurance companies) I am ok with that, but don't give me something worse than what I had. They also didn't put this plastic piece on right and it just pulls off. Plus, my rear hatch ajar light still is on. Seriously...you wouldn't think there would be that much stuff wrong. I hope that all this is fixed right this time.

In other news, it was gorgeous out today and my flowers are starting to bloom. Yeah! We played outside lots today. Afterall, I had a car to clean after those dirty men.

We also babysat for our date night tonight. The kids had a blast in the yard (and mud) and we even got to take them for a walk around the block. On guy stop, stared, counted...and said "wow, seven?" Haha. They are very close in ages, so it would be possible with twins or a set of triplets, but I think we would have stopped long before seven. We wore then out and they all crashed in bed with no complaints tonight. Gotta love the warmer weather. Bring on the 90's!!!! I have some pictures from the last few days, but my camera batteries are charging. I have a photo shoot tomorrow that I am super excited about. I hope to share some photographs tomorrow pending they turn out as I hope!

03.13

2009-03-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

Old habits die hard.

Why is it so hard to keep you all in the loop and update this darn thing?

In my defense (and this seems like a common theme with alot of people) this week has flown by! I can not believe that we are to Friday already!

I took the kiddos to the doctor for their annual checkups today. Cameron is experiencing some issues so we are in the process of checking for food allergies....the upcoming blood draw is sure to be lots of fun! Nolan had an ear infection. Poor guy, I didn't even know :( Other than that, they are doing great.

Nolan is in the 50% of height and weight. Cam is the in 75%. Shocking, really.

I worked on Tuesday, church business on Wednesday (we're in the mist of a major nursery project), bible study tonight. Nothing tomorrow....phew.

Two really random things:

1. Old Navy is having a 30% off friends and family event. 30% your entire purchase if you have the email printout. Let me know if you want it and I will send you over a copy. It's good until Sunday. I got 9 pairs of pants and 5 shirts for $100! Too bad none of the pants work. We'll be doing some exchanging this weekend.

2. I had Little Ceasars for the first time tonight. Yum. Best deal ever. $5 large pizzas if you carry out. We only have a south side location, but we decided to give it a whirl tonight for fun. If you have one close, you need to try them out. A DiGiorno from the store cost at least that much!

03.09

2009-03-09T19:22:00.000-07:00

My car went into the shop today. Which means that I had quite the adventure trying to handle two kids, two cars seats, and two well meaning gentleman at the repair shop. It's a lot of work to switch everything out. We survived and look forward to doing it again in four days ;)

Me and Jason had date night tonight. Nothing spectacular, just a quite night of dinner and shopping with no little voices fighting for our attention.

Tomorrow brings MOPS in the AM and maybe a work night for me. It's been a long time since I've gotten a chance to work...we'll see how it all plays out.

2009-03-08T19:09:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great weekend. Seems like Friday thru Sunday always flies by, but Monday thru Wednesday drags on...so is life, I guess.

We didn't do much of anything again this weekend. I miss the smell of saw dust and wet paint...sigh. I do love spending some quality time with the family, sleeping in, and naps, though :)

We played outside a lot this week. The warm weather was sure a tease. I think it's gonnna get cold again, too. The boys loved playing outside and I loved the fresh air and the change of something a little different.

They seemed to enjoy feeding Sophie grass. Dumb dog ate it...We got a swingset late last summer and the boys never really got a chance to use it. They love the swings. I love that there are 3 of them...no fighting.This happens everything I try to take a pictures of Gavin. Darn kid.
We even look a neighboorhood stroll the other day. Poor Nolan is always left in their dust. He thinks it's fun to chase after them, though.

03.05

2009-03-05T19:39:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week. I can hardly believe tomorrow is Friday! A good friend of mine is having some health issues and I have been helping her out with her kids.

Another good friend is moving away....sob sob....so we had a going away party tonight. It was a great time out with the girls! These are many of my wonderful friends, but there are alot missing too!

I have spend a little too much time at target today. See, I am a coupon magnet, you all know that :) So it just so happens that a went to Target with a friend who just so happened to hear about these great Target.com coupons. Of course she shared (thanks Melissa!!) Basically, you just go to their site, click on grocery coupons at the bottom of the main page, and print of some awesome coupons. The kiosk that print gift registries allow you to print in store...no need to use your own paper and ink! Anyways. can you guess who much all these things cost???

8 steaks

2 roast

12 cans of cream soup

11 applesause 6-packs

10 boxes of rice krispy snacks

$40.59 plus I got $10 in gift cards to use for a future purchase!!!

This one might be hard to top.

Now, if you need me tomorrow, you know where you can find me. I will be buying some more steaks!

03.03

2009-03-03T05:13:00.000-08:00

This issue is very close to my heart. Don't just sit around and let the goverment tell us what we HAVE to do!! I may not be in the medical field, but I have some close friends who are. Let's stand up for our rights!

Obama seeks to take away religious rights of doctors and health care providers who refuse to perform abortions

Urgent: send your e-mail to the White House today!

March 3, 2009

Dear Friend,

According to several news agencies, President Barack Obama will rescind the "conscience rule" that protects health workers who refuse to participate in abortions or other medical procedures that go against their moral and religious beliefs. If the rule is rescinded, doctors, nurses and other health care workers could lose their jobs or be punished professionally for adhering to their sincerely held religious convictions. Obama's proposal would take away their religious freedom.

The current rule empowers federal health officials to cut off federal funding for any state or local government, hospital, clinic, health plan, doctor's office or other entity if it does not accommodate employees who exercise their right of conscience. It applies to more than 584,000 health care facilities.

The Obama administration is doing the bidding of pro-abortion advocacy groups who seek to penalize health care providers who refuse to participate in abortions.

According to The Washington Post, Obama administration officials stressed that the proposal will be subject to 30 days of public comment. That is why it is so very important for you to let the White House hear from you today.

CLICK HERE LET OBAMA KNOW YOUR POSITION!!!

03.01

2009-03-01T12:08:00.000-08:00

In an effort to not be completely lazy this weekend, I will at least give a little hello to all of you!

Yesterday was completely weird...at least for us. We did nothing. Jason commented on how nice this nothing was....we caught up on some laundry, cleaned up the house, watched movies, slept....and then ran to the store for some nightlights and bread....11 loaves for $4!!!...and smoothie mix. I am so thankful we live 1/2 sec from the store. I don't know how you country people do it!

On the nightlights....Cameron decided about 6 months ago, that he HAD to sleep with a hall or bath light on. Really annoying. Especially since if you shut it off he would wake in the middle of the night and turn on his room light (Gavin loved that!) or crawl in bed with us (annoying!) It got to be that the only light he wanted on was the bath light....the new bath light....the one with energy efficient/mega bright bulbs. So after much procrastination, we decided that last night would be the perfect time to get a new nightlight for their rooms. It is very dark in there still, but somehow the nightlight seemed to work. Ah....darkness! We'll see if this last.

We have a busy week ahead. I will try not to ignore you :)

randomness....

2009-02-27T19:44:00.000-08:00

We had a fab time out tonight with our friends. Most of us got bad service, however. Maybe it was because there was 60 people, or maybe it was because we redeemed 30 buy 1 get 1 coupons...hehe. We headed over to Chick-fil-a afterward for buy1 get 1 shakes....yum.

We have no real plans this weekend. In fact, this is the first weekend in a while that we have nothing in particular to do. I am gonna try to let Jason have a break for a while. But, don't worry, I will start the kitchen just as soon as it begins to warm up :)

I want to take pics of the bathroom, but we still need to hang the hooks and I am working on some wall stuff. Hopefully I can make some concrete decisions and share the final product soon!

Here are some pics from Cam's birthday party last weekend!

Check out the new 'do! I am really enjoying this nice change!

02.26

2009-02-26T20:07:00.000-08:00

What a day! Am I the only one that seems like I just need a few more hours to accomplish everything I set out to do??? We did go swimming today, which was alot of fun. I also got the craft projects done that I needed to accomplish!

Tonight I went to bible study. I am so thankful for this group of girls. I have grown so much these past few weeks in my walk with God. Even though I know this....it always amazes me how He intercepts me where I am and grows me in ways I didn't even know I needed. God is so good.

Tomorrow our Sunday school class is all going out to eat for dinner. 30 couples, 80+ kids being babysat by another class. It's going to be a fun time. Best of all, the newspaper had a buy 1 get 1 free coupon om Wednesday that we all plan to use. I am sure they will be thrilled.

I am uploading pictures right now of all the happenings of the last few weeks. I should have some new ones to share tomorrow, so stay tuned!

Hey ya'll

2009-02-25T20:33:00.000-08:00

Miss me yet? I have been totally ignoring this blog in hopes of catching up on my to do list....

Bathroom remodeled x2....check!

Spareroom painted...check!

Cabinets in said bathroom painted.....check!

Whole house cleaned....check!

Threw a big birthday bash with all the fixin' (with lots of help)...check!

Laundry caught up...is that possible????for tonight it is....check!

Bible study done....check!

Ironing done....check!

I also have finished 2 invitations for some people. All I have left to do is make a nursing cover and I am all caught up! It feels good, but who knows what's around the corner????

Oh, I also have to arrange for a 'minor' repair to be made on the van after someone rear ended me last week. I am procrastinating on that one because it really doesn't sound like much fun to sit in body shops for quotes and deal with a rental.

Some more random news......

The kids and I are going swimming tomorrow morning at the community center. I am sure that they will have a blast in the water!

This may be old news to most of you, but I CUT MY HAIR! 9 or something inches.....

I am really behind on here, so I plan to work on pics in the next few days!!! Gees, and I was just talking about feeling all caught up!

Hopefully it won't be long before you hear from me again....

2.11

2009-02-11T20:16:00.000-08:00

Nolan was officially sick today. Poor guy had a fever of 103 this morning. He was so fussy and whiny all day too. By this evening, he seemed to be doing a little better. He went to bed just fine tonight, so hopefully he will sleep off the rest of it! Tomorrow brings lots of laundry and Clorox!

Cam had another great day potty training! The plan was to take all the boys for Cam's reward this morning, but since Nolan was sick, Jason took Gavin and Cam after dinner. I got to stay home and cuddle on the couch with the wee one. It was nice to spend some time alone with him, and I know that the other 2 had a blast with daddy!

The weather here today was crazy...so windy and rainy. It felt like a summer storm. Good thing we got some time outside that last few days. I just wish the nice weather would stay around. It's getting cold around here already.

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No big plans on the books tomorrow. I know that Nolan is going to dictate what happens! My play group is going to a local nursing home and handing out v-day cards. I would have loved to take the boys (especially since Gavin is out on break) but I don't want to get any of the older people sick with what Nolan had/has. Grrr....have I mentioned how much I hate winter and all the yuck that comes with it!

2.10

2009-02-10T19:45:00.000-08:00

Blogger is doing some funny things to me....so annoying! Hopefully I will have more patience with it tomorrow.

Is it just me, or are you ready for spring, but can't really believe that Feb is almost half over? Weird.

We got outside again today and it was great! Meet Jason for lunch and then fought the kids for naps...I lost unfortunately. I also worked tonight. Just so you know...I work to get away from the kids and around adults...that did not happen today. I love kids, but someone brought theirs...it was hard, but I got through it....haha. It was fine and fun regardless...I'm just sayin'

We are planning a trip to the big cheese tomorrow (Chuck e Cheese) because Cam stayed dry all day today! We even went out in underwear with no issues! I just hope this sticks around.

Nolan seemed a little irritable tonight and was feeling a little warm. I really hope that he is not coming down with something. That would be a little damper on the rest of the week!

Jason is installing light fixtures in one of the bathrooms as I write this....woohoo!

Tomorrow we are having some friends over for dinner and a play date....guess we'll be making a trip to the grocery store too tomorrow!

Have a great Tuesday ya'll!

2.9

2009-02-09T19:16:00.000-08:00

Wow. I last published on the 27th! Sorry to everyone that has been fishing for an update. I don't really have anything to explain my absence....

Things are still going on the remodeling (eyes rolling here) it is coming along. Electricity got cut off last night so that Jason could rework the wiring and make 2 lights from one. All the wainscoting is hung and the painting is done. Now we just need to add the molding, hang the fixtures and mirrors, caulk, patch the holes, touch up paint, paint the cabs and we're done. It actually feels like alot, but it's relatively small stuff compared to what we've done!

I guess since I haven't given a round up of what's been up around here...I think I'll take the time tonight. Better settle in folks, this is looking like a long one :)

Gavin is on 'spring break' this week. His school/the church is hosting 1500 people for a biblical training conference this week and need the classrooms for teaching. This is a major conference that people from all over the world attend. We hosted a guest a few years ago...basically the church ask people who have an extra room to host someone who otherwise wouldn't be able to afford to come (between housing, food, cost of conference, transportation) We figured a NON functioning bathroom= not a great host. So maybe next year!

Back to Gavin...he is way into video games/computer games lately. Thankfully learning games are still his thing. He has become quite the math whiz, which does not come from me. He loves anything creative and loves to do 'crafts' of any sort...which does come from me :) Although he hates that he is the big brother (I am guessing this has to do with them following him around/wanting to do everything he does) he can be quite kind and sincere when he WANTS to be. It's been really neat to see him mature these last few months.

Cameron is well into becoming a big boy and using the potty. In fact, today we only had one very small accident and we wore underwear all day!! I don't really even have to ask him most times, he just comes a-runnin. He has picked up some bad habits from his brother lately...like saying "I don't want to play with you" when I tell him to do something he doesn't want to. I think these 3's are going to be a little more challenging then those 2's. He is picking on the love of said video/computer games too. He now can ride a tricycle just fine (thanks to the wonderful weather these last few days!) and has actuallybecome quite indepenent in the last few weeks. He loves to pick out his own clothes and get dressed by himself. You will know when this happens, cause it usually ain't pretty.

Nolan is saying more and more and is in the middle of a huge intellegual growth spurt. He is repeating tons of words and can now communicate what he wants. His little personality is coming out full steam and most of the time he is a joy to be around. He loves to do just what the other two are doing, so we spend alot of time in other parts of the house when Cam and Gav are actually playing together nice. Nolan never gets that destroying their tower is not fun for them! He loves baby einstein 'mobies' and I sadly admit that they are played quite often during the day so I can fold that load of laundry or take a shower!

Jason is busy with bathroom stuff.

Ok, so not really! He just enlisted in a biggest loser contest, so bug him about it, k? I think it goes to the end of May so he has lots of time to reach his goal! He started running and we hope to get to the gym at least a few times a week. Free childcare is a great excuse to go, right? He still is working, but right now we really don't know what tomorrow will bring. They just laid off come contract workers so hopefully that will suffice for awhile. If things don't pick up, no one is really safe. We really not stressing about the whole situation. I am confident that God will work it all out for us as long as we trust Him. Regardless if it's our plan or not.

I have been busy with not much of anything. I have been doing some sewing here and there and been trying to just 'keep up' with life. On a really big note, I did win a 7 night hotel stay in Hilton Head in July. It was through a website and for 15 minutes a day all their hotels were $1 a night. So, technically I paid $7, but still! It was quite the process to win and I stayed by the stupid computer for 12 hours one day just to go to bed 15 too early. Sadly one night I was also up till way to early in the morning. I almost gave up and caught it by accident! I am so glad that I won, I worked for that thing!! I've never been to Hilton Head Island and it's been a long time since we went anywhere as a family, so I am so excited for this summmer. The 14 hours in the car? Not so much!

We have a weird week ahead of us with Gavin out of school. I am sure that we will be making some trips to the library to stay sane!

Here are some completely random pics because I am way to tired to write anymore:

Jumping on the bed at the hotel....

the boys before their haircuts...sniff sniff...

A couple of pics that didn't make the birthday card cut.

Hopefully I can get back on the wagon and update regularly again :) Leave me a comment and let me know that your still here????

To out of town family: Cameron's birthday is still on for the 21st. I sent the invites out today so you should be receiving them soon. Can't wait to see everyone!

Blogger is doing crazy things...I will be back, hopefully soon, with some more pics :) I didn't even proof read, so sorry if this doesn't make sense! Night night.

1.28

2009-01-27T19:21:00.000-08:00

Today I learned about gardening with your kids at MOPS. I think I might try my hand at it come spring. It sounds like so much fun now...being outside...where its warm...and sunny. I think I have cabin fever. I already have 'another' little project brewing before then; that has to do with spring...

Jason has to remind me...we are in the mist of a project now...we have to finish it before we start a new one...darn it.

To all my out-of-town family and friends....We are planning on having Cameron's birthday party on February 21st. He's super excited about his birthday party this year. Ask him!

I feel so random tonight. Hopefully I can get it together tomorrow. Maybe I'll get some pics on here soon too.

1.26

2009-01-26T10:51:00.001-08:00

It's Monday...blah. On the bright side, I am still in my pj's, the kids are napping, and it looks like we are on the tail end of a nasty virus.

Cameron got it on Thursday, seemed to be over it by Friday. We left for the MI water park to meet up with my sister and brothers. On the way, Cameron surprised us...again. But after a good night sleep, he was definitely better.

Saturday was great. The water was warm, the park was just the right size, and it was so much fun to be with everyone. The kids had a blast and even the adults enjoyed it all. It was at least 12:30am before we were all up in our own rooms top sleep. I don't think I have laughed that hard in a long time :)

Nolan did seem to have some sort of reaction to the water on Saturday night. His skin was very dry, red, and prickly looking. You could tell it was bothering him, because he would whine if you tried to touch him. I guess I never thought to be cautious of his time in the water. But those chemicals are probably not the best mix with baby skin like his. Luckily, he went to sleep fine...but....

...sometime early the next morning, Nolan's belly started to feel bad. He won't eat breakfast and within an hour or so of waking, was fevering and getting sick. Poor guy. I was really worried about him. He was so lethargic and sad looking. It broke my heart. Thankfully, the car ride home was uneventful. He even managed to get some lunch in. He slept most of the way home. Last night he was still a little sick. Today was better, besides being sleepy (and a little cranky) he is acting and eating like himself again. Hopefully this ends our little bout of illness for a while.

We don't have big plans for this week. I have tons of laundry to conquer, clothes to unpack, counters to clean, and little boys to plan with. We are in the mist of a large project with the nursery ministry, so hopefully I can tie up a few loose ends there this week too.

Hope you all enjoy the start of another great week.

1.22

2009-01-22T14:10:00.001-08:00

Cameron woke up from his nap today complaining that his stomach hurt. We were on our way out the door, so I guess it kinda got shuffled under the rug.

We ran some errands and ended up on the west side at the bookstore on campus. Stealing lots of those great coupon books that they give out twice a year :) Then it happens. I am sure you know....

Don't worry, the mommy in me kicked into high gear at the first little gag.

I caught it with my hand.

Great.

I hope those college kids didn't notice, I probably scarred them for life. I then shoved 800 books into my bag. I was already mortified, so it was just a little icing on the cake.

It's all good now, I think. I think he may have gotten ahold of some peanuts yesterday, because the other end ain't so pretty either.

You still with me???

The good thing is that I have to work tonight. So, Jason gets to deal with it if it wasn't an isolated incident.

We're also leaving tomorrow for our little adventure that has been in the works since November....

1.20

2009-01-20T17:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Tuesday! Jason had yesterday off work, so I took the opportunity to feel like I was on vacation too. Lots of playing and lounging around ensued. I love it when we have no where to be!

We did venture out last night to celebrate the day. You know..our anniversary. Just a low key dinner and some great conversation. It's amazing the things you can talk about when little voices aren't present. Jason even wrote me the sweetest letter. I love it when he surprises me with stuff like that.

The bathroom remodeling is still trucking along. I am not sure when it will be done. We'll just aim for spring :) Actually, Jason worked on it for about an hour yesterday and make huge headway...just enough till the kids needed quiet to sleep. I'm getting used to getting ready among paint brushes, nails, and sawdust :) It's looking so good, can't wait to share.

Nolan has his three month check up in Indy tomorrow from his surgery back in October. I'm sure it'll be a quick 3 minute check after driving 2 hours and spending who knows how long in the waiting room. Hopefully, the kids will do ok during the trek...I think I am going to do it alone...eek.

Besides that, everything else is going well. Everyone is defrosting from the sub-zero temps and waiting anxiously for nice enough weather to play outside. We are planning a big trip to an indoor water park next weekend, so the kids are countin' down the days. I am excited to spend some time with family that I definitely don't get to see as much as I'd like.

1.18.08

2009-01-18T12:36:00.000-08:00

It's almost 6 years to the minute. January 18, 2003. 6 years ago we devoted our lives to eachother. Pledging to love and to cherish, honor and respect and forever stand by one another.

I am sure that anyone that has been married for any significant amount of time can attest...it seems so short, but yet you can't remember what life was like 'before'.

Back to February 14th, 2002. I, a recent high school graduate. Jason, a sophomore at Purdue. Us, expecting parents. He proposed that night. "Let's get married before the baby gets here." he asked. Me...I wanted more. I was selfish, yes, but I wanted the dress, the ceremony, the party. I couldn't have all that then. So, we waited.

Flash forward 7 months. A 4 month old baby. Me in a new town. A new semester at school...my first. It was all such a blur then. Sleepless nights, lots of homework, many adjustments. We started talking about church and God and what the 'right' thing to was.

Looking back, I can see how God worked so wonderfully in those days. Taking us here and there. Gently guiding us along life's path...protecting both of us until part of His plan could be realized. So many things Could have gone so differently.

It was His plan to bring us to Faith Baptist that day in October.

It was His plan to have the perfect couple intercept us at the door to greet us so lovingly.

It was His plan to lay out the sermons in the weeks proceeding.

I don't remember it all. I actually don't remember much of it. But, the love of Christ that shone through those people will never be forgotten. It was them that helped show us the way. Show us the sin that we lived in. Showed us that TRUTH was so simple, nothing we did could earn us this free gift.

After accepting Christ that November day. I wish I could say that Christ instantly softened my heart and all my selfishness about marriage and myself instantly melted away. I wish I could even say that I felt something after walking out of church that day. Nothing. God is patient.

In the weeks after, God worked in my heart. Sometime in early December I remember being greatly convicted. How could I choose to live for God and please Him if I was choosing to live my life for myself. After all, if I really believed God was who He said He was, why was I holding back. I was choosing to live apart from His commandments and for no reason other than choosing to live for Him meant giving something up of myself.

I can't say that I ever had this great perception of marriage. There are very few people in my life that have had a lasting marriage. In fact, I never really can say that I viewed marriage as a lasting promise. I never took it seriously because it was a promise between two people. It was always missing the third critical link. Making the promise to God, the creator of marriage.

We set a date. Everything fell perfectly into place in those short 4 weeks. The dress, the flowers, the party. I can't believe how in my little faith, God choose to bless us so abundantly. I am forever grateful to those who made sacrifices for us. Choose to show love to complete strangers.

These last few years have not been easy. God promises that if we follow Him, our path will be made straight. But, there are many peaks and valleys that we must endure together before the end. So many obstacles we have overcome since that snowy day 6 years ago. So many trials, blessings, adventures. I could have never imagine being married to anyone else. God is so good.

1.16

2009-01-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

The day has gotten off to an interesting start. Cameron and Gavin were up bright and early giving eachother grief about this and that. Gavin was even on a hour delay, but still managed to be up and around at the same time. Funny how it takes him forever to get moving when he actually needs to. I have no idea where he gets that from......

They woke Nolan up too. Don't worry, I ignored him because I really want to sleep, even if it's only for 10 more minutes. Things then go quiet because the boys go downstairs with Jason for breakfast.....until he storms in the room and wakes me up with "we have a BIG problem"

Um, ok. I'm up in seconds to find that our kitchen faucet's pipe is frozen. Not cool.

All the other cold water was working, but we have no idea where the main supply gets shut off other than at the meter. (in case the pipe does burst and water come flying out!) A call to the water company tells us that we have to have one of their workers come and do that. Great.

Thankfully, a heating pad on the pipe unfroze it after an hour or so and things are now flowing properly. We're still not sure what were it froze, but it may have frozen from the spicket outside (right on the other side of the wall) and backed up into the kitchen one. We don't think it burst, but who really knows. Hopefully this in the end to that.

As we were 'waiting' it was hard to patient. But, I was reminded that God is still in control. Even of things like our stupid pipes!! I am thankful for the outcome!

My bible study last night went great. We really have an awesome group of girls! I am so excited about all the things I will be learning in the next few weeks!

I am planning on spending the rest of the day checking some things off that LONG to-do list. Hopefully, the boys will take nice long naps so that I can get lots done. Phone calls, especially, are no fun to make when they are awake.

Hope you all have a great weekend. I am excited that it is a 3 day one.

1.15

2009-01-15T11:12:00.000-08:00

I bet you've just been dying for my 'big' announcement. Some of you have even called to inquire personally...hahaha....

Toys went 75% off at Target. They actually didn't go Wednesday as predicted, but today. Of course, the stuff that I wanted was still only 50%. There is tons at our local store. It's a great time to tuck some things away for birthdays. And yes, that means that I have officially a bad mommy. I dragged my kids out to Target in negative degree weather for a deal :)

I am starting a new women's bible study tonight. I am looking forward to some great learning and changing with the girls (adult converstation is just a plus)!

The weekend is almost here and it looks like it might be exciting. Our 6th (yes, 6th!!!) wedding anniversary is on Sunday and I think we have babysitters for Saturday and Monday...score! I have NO idea if we'll do anything exciting, but it will be nice to spend sometime alone sans kids. I am sure we'll pull out that old video and watch (our skinner)-selves devote our lives to eachother. Maybe I can convince him to rent a tux and I'll get into that dress and we'll go out on the town...hahaha. Wouldn't that be a sight?

1.13

2009-01-13T07:05:00.000-08:00

It's Tuesday. There.is.nothing.going.on.here.

It's snowing, it's negative something or other, and the kids are making a huge mess 'playing'

I guess I'll clean the house today, do laundry and spend some time snuggling up with the kiddos under a warm blanket! Good thing we have lots of books and the the kids love to read.

I can't wait for spring!!!

I work tonight and tomorrow is looking up too. I think it might be the 'big day'...stay tuned to find out what I mean...

I scored big time at the store yesterday. I was looking for a new winter coat for Gavin, but came home with lots of clothes for all of them. Still searching for a coat, though.

14 shirts

5 pairs of pants

$44.72

1.12

2009-01-12T04:57:00.000-08:00

It's Spirit week at school this week. Which means that I have to get creative. Today was historical figure day, so we choose Albert Einstein. Funny huh?

Hope you have a great Monday. I think I will be off to the store today in hopes of landing some great clearance deals :)

1.10

2009-01-10T20:06:00.000-08:00

Are you still here? I am sorry for not updating sooner. It seems like everything is just plain weird around here lately. The week started off so slow...and then seemed to get away from me. We are knee-deep in potty training. But, it's going well and we have come along way! The remodeling projects continue on and it looks like we may be seeing an end in sight in the next week or so. I am already thinking up new things for new rooms...Jason just rolls his eye and pretends to ignore me :)

We have church tomorrow at 8am! Then it'll be home for naps and it will be Monday before we know it. I hope that you are having a great weekend!

P.S. My last post brought over 300 people to my blog....isn't that insane??

2008 Before and After

2009-01-06T19:38:00.000-08:00

Rhonda at Southern Hospitality is having a before and after party. Great motivation to share some of this year's favorite transformations. If your visiting, welcome! Let me know what you think!

Garage. Basically no shelving and no organization whatsoever. I am sure that you all can relate :) We got a great deal on these cabinets and even at full price they would have been worth the cost! We can actually find things now. Of course, we had to paint...because well, we just had too. It used to be just drywall. Now it's a great teal color. Sorry, but this is the best before pic I could find. More of a 'in process' picture.

Landscaping. I wish I had pics of the huge bushes that came with our house. I guess I hated them so much that I didn't take any. This spring, we pulled them out and planted flowers. Lots of flowers. No bushes. It looks really dead right now, so bushes would be nice in the winter. But now I have flowers blooming 3 season long. I like the trade off. I AM NOT A GARDNER either. But I can water and give them flower food. I can't wait to see how big I can get them this year.Laundry Room. Not so nice. Not even close. With the new washer and dryer, those ugly doors wouldn't close. What's a girl to do? Paint and be creative with the space. This little cabinets cost $50. Add some black paint and some 0.99 knobs..... And you get this.... I LOVE BLACK SPRAY PAINT + I LOVE GOODWILL = lots of trash to treasure. I think this took 15 minutes and cost about $5.00. I printed the 'welcome home' on some scrap booking paper.

Back in the spring, when the boys got their bunk beds, we searched high and low for a matching dresser. The actual matching one wasn't sold locally, so it was going to be about $800! Not something we were willing to pay. We even went to Indianapolis for a whole day and looked at every second-hand, discount and furniture within a 50 mile radius and came back with nothing that remotely matched within our budget. A good friend, who watched our kids that day, mentioned this beast that was saved from the trash a few months prior. It was in her shed in bad shape, but with oh-s0-much potential. It was our first time at refinishing anything and was relatively easy. I actually really enjoy this piece and with the stain and the glaze, it matches their bed perfectly.

I wonder what those people would think of it now....

1.6

2009-01-06T08:34:00.000-08:00

I really have nothing of interest to share today. We went on date night last night and although we didn't do anything romantic or exciting, it was nice to just be 'us' for a few hours. I highly recommend doing an official date night with your hubby. We do every Monday and trade kids with another couple. Every Monday is tied up. but we have fun with their kids on their week, our kids love the play dates and we get to go out every other week. It a win-win. (or at least I think? Do you really like my kids as much as you say??) I am sure that theirs a couple you know that would love this opportunity as much as you :)

We were suppose to go out to dinner tonight with some family that was coming to town, but it looks like the roads will be getting bad later, so they are heading out early. Bummer. Not only do we not get to see them, now I have to make dinner...dang.

I working on a great post of tomorrow. Lots of before and afters for a blog party that I am attending. Check back tomorrow to see some of the redos I've done this year.

1.05

2009-01-05T09:14:00.000-08:00

Jason went back to work this morning....Gavin went to school. Nolan and Cam were both up by 8:30 this morning. I guess life has to get back to normal.

Jason had 12 days off of work, so we spent alot of time getting some things done around here. We're making major strides, the spare room is all put back together! I have reclaimed the hallways, but it looks like this: It's ready to be rolled, but we're waiting for a ladder...because of this monstrocity....

Since we we're painting the bathrooms anyways, we just decided to check off a few 'extra' things we wanted to accomplish too. New mirrors and light fixtures...and hang some beadboard. What an adventure it's been! It's not hard, but hard when you have three lil' ones who want to help. The stuff that needs to be done can only be done during the day.....not during naptime or bedtime because of the noise.

Here's our Master bath...it's a disaster area. The pink is what we are PAINTING OVER...You can see a little bit of the light green in the corner. I also am painting the cabinets in there black. The medicine on is already done, the doors just have to be put back on. The larger cabinets may not happen right away. We'll see how much budget we have left :)

The boy's bathroom...lime green on the walls...yum!

Old light fixtures and mirror is still up in here.

The bead board going up. (by the way, my extremely talented-jack-of-all-trades husband had to not only change all the switches in both bathrooms from off white to white, he also moved them to not interfer with the molding and make the switch more accessible to the kids. He's awesome :) Now on to more exciting stufff....We had a great Christmas. A great mix of traveling to see family and spending time at home.

The boys had matching pj's this year...one of the items that we waited in line for 2 hrs for on Black Friday. So cute, but definetly not worth that wait!

Since we have spent alot of time as home this last week, the kids found some interesting ways to entertain themselves. I had to practically pry it off of him to go to the store.....

We watched lots of movies, and played lots of Wii. Laundry and dishes actually got done too! We played alot...The boys enjoying their new jumpy-thing. They love it and it fits perfectly in the room is you take almost EVERYTHING out. ...hehe.

I know you've just been dying to see these babies...they turned out so cute and the boys actually wear them alot.
I can't believe that it's 2009! I really wanted to offically recap 2008 and look to where we are going in 2009, so stay tuned!

12.26

2008-12-26T18:24:00.000-08:00

Phew...what a great 24hrs. While we relax and visit with family, I think I'll take a little break from blogging and just enjoy all of my blessings. Hope you have a great rest of your week!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

As we tear open the wrapping paper and enjoy this day...may you remember the true meaning of it all! Wonder at the most magnificent gift ever given. Revel in the miracle in the manger....

From our family to yours....Merry Christmas!!

Luke 2: 1-20

Jesus' Birth in Bethlehem

Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth.

This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.

And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city.

Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.

Whle they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.

And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.

And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

"This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."

When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."

So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.

When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child.

And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.

The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them.

12.24

2008-12-24T09:26:00.000-08:00

A trip that would change the world forever....

12.23

2008-12-23T19:48:00.000-08:00

Nothing much profound around here. Unless you consider this crazy cold weather...I am chilled and can't get warm!

Me and Jason had date night last night. It was 3 hours of bliss! It's amazing the things that can get done without three wee ones in tow. It's sad that we had to spend date night finishing up our last minute errands before Christmas hits, but it was way better than the alternative. The kids have a blast with their friends and we get to do whatever we want. Maybe come January, we will have more 'dates' hopefully.

Today brought rest, and no Internet or phone! Verizon accidentally cancelled our services. Funny, since we have automatic payment that comes out the same time every month! By 7 or so, everything was back up and running. Needless to say, it was kinda nice to find something else to do while the kids ate breakfast. Jason was home by 3....He is very excited about having 12 days off. I am too. I am sure that it will fly with this week being so busy.

I managed to finish a little project for the boys for Christmas. They are so cute, but you'll have to wait till Christmas to see them!

12.21

2008-12-21T19:01:00.000-08:00

What a weekend! The Christmas shopping is almost done. Most of the cookies are baked, and almost all of the presents are wrapped and under the tree. We are ready for Christmas!! The boys are so excited. I think we may go see the big man himself tomorrow at the mall....

On Saturday, we baked the day away. In fact, I think I ate too much of the leftover dough = way too much sugar and not enough 'normal food' ...I had a really bad headache by 3:30 and ended up ruining our plans for the rest of the day. We missed a sweet little ones bday party too :( After a nap and some much needed Tylenol, we ended up at the Living Nativity for a walk through. It was really cold, but everyone had a great time. Afterwards, we did a little last minute Christmas shopping.

Today, we went to church for the Christmas musical. It was great. The numbers in the nursery were way done, so we had a rather relaxing morning. If you didn't already know, me and Jason have taken over the nursery ministry at Faith. We are co-coordinating with another couple. It's been quite the adventure, but it's a ministry that is very close to our hearts and we really enjoy working with the parents and the children. Our numbers continue to grow, so it should be interesting to see where God takes our ministry in the coming year.

After church we attending a party for a dear friend of ours who's husband is stationed in California in the Navy. He is home for the holidays and is getting ready to deploy in the coming month or so. It was nice to see him and even better to see her in such great spirits! We love you Jodi!!!

Jason's work Christmas party for the kids was tonight. It was a laser light show. The boys really enjoyed it. Even Nolan sat through the entire thing without much complaining, and it was 45 minutes long! We were going to see Santa afterwards, but he had already left by the time that we got out of the show. The boys were a little disappointed.

It is soooooo cold here today. The car said 2 degrees, but the wind chill is probably much colder....brrrrrr. This is why I HATE winter.

It's back to work tomorrow for 2 days...can't wait for Wednesday and the nice vacation that it brings!

I still have a laundry list of things to get done before then...laundry for starters actually :) I haven't even done my Christmas cards yet!

12.19

2008-12-19T19:22:00.001-08:00

We are catheter free!! It was a uneventful trip to the surgery center for removal!! Our first bath in a week, yeah! Now that the bandages are coming off, I am SO glad we moved forward with the surgery...he looks so 'normal' !

Jason was such a great husband today. We ended up staying in Indy to do some shopping...8 stores later....and no complaining! Not that he complains, but I think he actually enjoyed it :) Ok, maybe I won't go that far. We had a great lunch and then did a little gaming at our favorite little corner of the world...Chuck E Cheese, of course. $10 can go a LONG way at that place. Especially with their handy buy 40 get 60 free token coupons. Gotta love cheap entertainment. By 4, the little ones were spent and feel asleep in the car. Jason was even gracious enough to stop, on the way home, at the Goodwill in Carmel for me to shop...that's love...I didn't even see it and he stopped because {{and I quote}} "I know you would have wanted to" aw...I love you babe!

We were home by 7pm and the kids were in bed by 8 or so! They were spent from all that walking today.

Jason even went to the grocery store for me tonight . We're planning a BIG baking session tomorrow. It's our annual tradition to make TONS to cookies for family and friends. I know that everyone always gets lots of goodies around Christmas, but we have so much fun making and giving them away....Plus, the boys are getting old enough to help...make a mess that is ;)

Tomorrow we have our last bible study of the year and we are having a big breakfast together. The boys are excited to get to wear their pj's to their friend's house. You know me, I am all for staying in my pj's for as long as possible...less laundry and way more comfortable.

12.18

2008-12-18T07:20:00.000-08:00

Only 6 more days till Christmas...I am so NOT ready....

I have Christmas cookies to bake
Packages to mail
Christmas cards to send...wait Christmas pics to take too....
Gifts to wrap
I have people I STILL need to buy for...
GRR...I should be shopping!

Cameron continues to do well and we are planning on getting that pesky catheter taken out on Friday morning. Jason's off tomorrow and Gavin's last day of school is today, so we are all going to make the trip to Indy and make a day out of it. Maybe I'll get some shopping done?!? Let's see 4 boys + 1 busy mall = 0 accomplished! (I know, my math sucks!)

Yesterday, we attended a funeral for one of our dear friend's mother. I didn't know her personally, but really wanted to share in the celebration of her life. She was a very strong Christian woman and her funeral was so wonderfully done, so God honoring.

This woman was fine just a few months ago. She's didn't know that she wouldn't be spending Christmas with her family. She's gone. Her family finds comfort in knowing where she went, because she had accepted Christ as her Savior. Those thoughts, that she was in heaven, were so comforting to them. I can't even imagine the hurt, the pain, if they didn't believe that God was still in control............didn't know that His ways are bigger than ours!

Until a few years ago, I had always feared death, I have always feared that 'unknown' But as I have grown in my faith, as I have read more of the bible, I have come to a peace about the whole situation. IF I really believe in Jesus and his work on the cross....the fact that he died for MY sinfulness, then why not believe all the glorious things he says about heaven??? So, in believing in him, living for him, I am not afraid to leave this world. I know we all stand before the judgement seat of Christ and give an account of the way we lived. I still fall so short of God's purpose, I am sure. But, I know that through His son, I am accepted and will be given eternal life.

This probably sounds so preachy. I'm just sharing my heart. I know that many of the dear people I love still don't know the peace and joy that I have in life, in Christ. I AM NOT PERFECT, I still am very sinful, I still DO NOT MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES. But I know that God accepts me and forgives me for the things that I do...because I have asked.

Our friend's didn't know that they only had weeks to spend with their mother...she was taken so quickly. They DID KNOW where she went when she left this earth.

Life in itself is so simple...we live, we love, we die. We get so carried away with the stuff of life...the house, the kids, the money, the drama...that we forget that we were given life as a gift and we can accept eternal life if WE CHOOSE TO. God wants us to accept Him, but it's a choice that you make. You can go through life and choose to live another day apart from Him, but what if today is your last? If today is mine...I have chosen God, and I will be going home.

Read this...

2008-12-16T13:27:00.000-08:00

http://www.onenewsnow.com/Legal/Default.aspx?id=352856

It's quite interesting and sad that Walmart holds a higher parental consent standard than planned parenthood.

12.15

2008-12-15T20:30:00.000-08:00

Not too much new to report here. In fact, I didn't blog yesterday and as I sit here today, I can't even remember anything significant that happened...hmmmm....my life is so boring sometimes :) Boring is good, because I know some people who are having lots of life problems and I feel blessed to be boring.

Jason's dad came for a visit today. It was nice to have the company and he helped Jason with a few chores that were better left up to boys anyways. He stayed with the boys for an hour or so and me and Jason went to pickup some new storage for our playroom. As I sit here tonight, Jason is slaving away trying to make it look good. Too bad I am gonna mess it up and paint it black as soon as I get the chance...maaahaaa...suprised? Didn't think so!

Cameron was in more pain today. OR maybe he figured out that we cater to his every whim when he says his 'pepe' hurts. Smart kid. Hopefully his will feel better tomorrow? He gets his catheter taken out on Friday. We should be uphill from there, hopefully??

All of our Christmas decorations are up. The kids are totally digging Christmas and the hoopla this year. I accidentally put baby Jesus in the manger scene and Gavin promptly took him down and hid him. He remembered that Jesus doesn't come till Christmas and the empty manager is to remind us what the holiday is all about! It's so cool to see him 'getting it' more and more.

I leave you with these

The boys decorating the tree...notice their in the pj's still....

Yum....chocolate covered bananas. Got the chocolate kit for 0.88 at Walmart. Take a a few frozen banana's and your kids think your the coolest ever. Shhh....don't tell them their eating the fruits!

Like Cam's hair?? I wanted to grow it out and see if it would curl. It's been out of control lately, but so cute :) That stick was promptly taken away, darn boys.

Gavin at his Christmas program a few nights ago....Check me out....I am not a baby anymore!

12.13

2008-12-13T20:04:00.000-08:00

I love Saturdays...

Today we had lots to do around the house, but took it easy to see how Cameron would do. He was great today! It's actually much better than Nolan's surgery because he can tell us what is wrong...every time Nolan fussed, we would wonder if he was in pain, hungry, sleepy....Cam just tells us if it hurts, he hungry, tired....much better.

I took off for a couple hours in the afternoon to work in the clothing closet. Then we got the Christmas decorations out and ready for our tree tomorrow. Jason also put up some Christmas lights. The boys were so excited to see them after nap! We ventured out after dinner to get some shopping done. Again, Cameron did great and actually wanted to walk in the store. I was afraid he was gonna get hurt, but he was fine. I think it was good for him to get out of the house too. We also picked up these...they turned out too cute :)

After some light shopping, we drove through the our church's Living Nativity. It was crazy busy. I think we waited 45 minutes to get to the start and it only took 10 minutes to get through. Gavin got to tag along and be apart of the Bethlehem scene with some friends. He had a blast regardless of the freezing weather....There are two sets of casts, so he rotated out every 20 minutes or so...brrrrr

We still have church tomorrow, but one of us will stay home with Cam and Nolan because of Cam's catheter. Hopefully tomorrow will go as great as today! But isn't the 3rd day after an operation the worst???

12.12

2008-12-12T19:37:00.001-08:00

Hey all! Thanks so much for those who prayed for us today. Things went well and Cameron is home resting. He is doing great (walking a little funny) but seems to be only mildly uncomfortable. We'll see what tomorrow brings. You can find out more info here about his surgery, if you are interested.

It's been a long day....too long and I should be sleeping.

No big plans this weekend. Hopedully we can drag all our Christmas stuff out and get a tree. Maybe finish some VERY loose ends on the latest remodeling project...wishful thinging I know :) Jason is off till Tuesday. Then it's 5 more days of work for 12 days off...whoohoo!!

12.11

2008-12-11T19:19:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the big day. Cam is going in for surgery at 10am. If you are thinking of him would you say a prayer for him? We would appreciate it so much!

I preregistered him today and went over a laundry list of questions pertaining to his health. If got me thinking. Our family has truly been blessed. No cancer, no lifelong illness, no problems with our hearts, lungs, brains.....haha!

I am working with a clothing closet and food pantry....and it's so sad the situation some of the people are in. No financial problems here. How often do I take things for granted and appreciate what I have 100%??? NEVER!! What if the tables were turned, what would I do in that situation? Should I be worried about my stupid paint colors, when there are people who are hurting so much? What would $40 do for them? I'm struggling.....

I guess I wonder how much of yourself/your money do you give and how much you keep and enjoy? Because when it comes down to it, we all could live on alot less if we had to....

12.10

2008-12-10T19:41:00.000-08:00

I hope I am not the only one that feels like life just gets away. Run here, run there. Buy this, take this back. I ordered 4 sets of cards today. From a different printer, because it was a little cheaper and more convenient. Colors are off. Ugh! Guess that's what I get for trying to fix something that wasn't broken. I need more play time.

We had a lunch date with Jason today. It was a little last minute, but we meet at Denny's for a great brunch. I love doing things like that. It makes my day go by so fast and I know Jason likes it too....or maybe we stress him out and he is happy to go back to his quiet desk?!

I took some pics tonight for a friends Christmas card and for her daughter's first birthday.

I also took pics of the boys... This is about how it went....

We might have to try for round two another day.

12.9

2008-12-09T20:57:00.001-08:00

I tried, I really did. But I can't seem to get a video up that I wanted to share....maybe another day.

Gavin's program went really well today. He actually sang this year. Last year he kinda stood up there with a shocked look on his face. Their so sweet at this age. He was so proud of himself and we were too!

Life seems to be getting back to normal around here. Not that we have a 'normal' really. I have lots of volunteering stuff to work on this week and I am dying to get the upstairs in some sort of order. Even if that means shoving all the stuff that in the hallway in the spareroom in a pile. I miss my hallway. The trim is almost all done, so pending Cameron's surgery going OK, we may be able to knock a few to-do things of the list this weekend. I don't think we will be running alot with a 2yr old with a catheter....anyone want to come entertain????

Christmas shopping is ALMOST done. It's so hard to buy for some people in our family that we are having to get creative.

I hope to get our Christmas cards pictures taken in the next few days so I can make and send out our Christmas cards. Don't worry, I always share some of the bloopers here.

Here's a pic for my sister-in-law. This is just one of a few of your beautiful daughter!

12.8

2008-12-08T20:37:00.000-08:00

We're back!

It's been a long few days.

Friday night was sewing with the girls. I worked on Nolan's Christmas present, one of these. Each boy is gonna get one. Nolan's turned out great!

Saturday was going to be busy. But around 9 am, I started feeling icky and mentioned it to Jason. He said he didn't feel good. By 10 we knew is wasn't going to be a good day. I haven't had a bad stomach bug like that in a long time. Neither of us were very function-able, but somehow we made it through the day. Jason held it together enough to 'watch' the kids. It sucks when we are both sick, but diapers still had to be changed and kids needed to eat. Thankfully they played really well and took long naps. Jason deserves all the credit for holding this house together. I am such a baby. By 10pm, me and Jason were feeling a little better. By 4am Sunday, Gavin was up and sick. Nolan got sick in the morning too. Cameron acted like he wasn't feeling well one minute and then was fine the next. He has surgery on Friday, so I hope he doesn't come down with it in the next couple days....

There was no church on Sunday for us and no school for Gavin today. We are now over 36 hrs sick free and most of the house and toys have been disinfected. What a job it is to be sick!

We finally ventured out this evening to shop for some kids that we 'adopted' for Christmas. We got some 'boys' and our boys had fun picking out some things for them. It was so nice to be out of the house and dressed!

Gavin's Christmas program is tomorrow night for school. Watch for pics to come.

And I will leave you with a few things that I have been working on the last few days....even in my deathly state...ok I did most of these before I became so gravely ill....

A collage to be inclueded in their Christmas card:
My sister in law wanted something for her blog:

A Christmas Card

12.7

2008-12-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

So....guess who's sick?

Let's just say, "everyone"

We have a BAD stomach bug...and it sucks....

12.4

2008-12-04T20:43:00.000-08:00

In 4 minutes it will be Friday. This week has flown by! There are definetly more things are my to-do-list that HAVE NOT gotten done then HAVE. Oh well...tis the season, right?

I worked on a collage for my sister-in-law and am tying up some loose ends on some other cards. I am in the process of creating 3 others. Stay tuned and I will share...

Tomorrow is sewing night with some girlfriends...I am excited to get a few things at least started.

Oh, by the way...sorry about all the poor grammer and spelling errors. I know it's horrible.

12.3

2008-12-03T19:52:00.000-08:00

Hello. Hello. Did you miss me. Probably not.

Here is what we've been up to the last few days...

Monday night after blogging, I made a cute nursing cover for my sis's best friend. I am such a procrastinator. I told her I would make it months ago and now she's delivery Thursday. My sis is taking it to her personally now though.

We got around on Tuesday, it was off in this freezing snowy weather to the post office. (Now that's love) I even was there before 11am...gasp! All kids and me dressed and showered...double gasp! Then, it was back home for lunch and naps. I was going to finish painting the last coat of white on the trim, but the darn can was sealed shut with dried paint. I hate being a wimp. So I did this instead:Isn't she the cutest. Yup, I took that pic too...Don't come banging down my door for yours...

Wanna know a confession? No, too bad! Last night I didn't blog because of this! Stupid TV!

I finally got ahold of Cameron's urologist and scheduled his surgery date. It is next Friday. I am a little nervous about how he'll do, but I think it's best for the long run. It's the same surgery that Nolan had done in October, so at least we know what we're facing.

I took Nolan to the doctor this morning for his 15 month check up. Guess what? Double ear infection. Man I feel bad. The doctor thinks that it may be related to this running nose, which he's only had since last week. He's still drooling like crazy and I think the teeth are the biggest issue. But, I still feel bad. We'll see if he perks up the next few days.

A friend came over for lunch today to help make this for her mom:

Then it was off to church tonight. Our boys love their Wednesday night program. It focuses on Godly character qualities and they take to it really well. Cameron is learning about sharing and being kind. He gets these papers that he is SO proud of!

Then it was time to put the kids to bed and finish these up for a friend, which one do you like?? He's a real estate agent and he's gonna mail them as postcards, so this would be the front.

This one would have the 'looking forward" part on the other side with the address.

12.1

2008-12-01T18:07:00.000-08:00

Happy December!

Have I told you that I hate snow? Ugh. It's cute to see the kids be excited about something so simple. Me, I just complain. About the cold, the dry skin, the coats, extra laundry....you get the idea. I should be thankful that we have a warm house, plenty of warm clothes, dependable transportation...

I think Jason did a great yesterday blogging for me! Maybe he can give his 2 cents more often!

We didn't do anything exciting today. Stayed around the house and made a HUGE mess playing :) Picked up Gavin from school and headed to Meijer. If you don't know, we go to Meijer almost everyday for something. The greeter recognizes us. The lady at the cheese counter knows us.

I also made a meal for someone who just had a baby and ran it over there while Jason feed 7 kids. That's right, my wonderful do-it-all husband held down the fort and feed the kids (We were watching some friends kids, in case you thought we went off and adopted a few extras without telling :) Then we filled them with sugar...hot chocolate, marshmallows, and apple pie...before we sent them home. I hope they went to bed ok ;)

Now it's off to finish some Christmas shopping (it's Cyber Monday and I've been shopping online today!) and start and hopefully finish a nursing cover.

11.30

2008-11-30T18:48:00.001-08:00

OK, so I guess you pros call this "guest-blogging"? Jaime said she's sick of writing, so I had no choice. In hopes of lowering your expectations, I'll have you know that creative writing is not a requirement for engineers, but just jotting down a few things about our day shouldn't be too hard, right?

Well, like usual Sunday mornings after our crazy Saturdays, it took about 4 snoozes before I was actually awake enough to realize we needed to get out of bed. 3 snoozes later, I was able to convince Jaime that we HAD to rise and shine. We figure if we get to Church nursery a little late, that would be OK because Dave and Mel will be there on time to open up. As we are walking up the steps, we greet Dave and Mel on their way in as well :). Everything still got set-up on-time, and we were ready for the kiddos. As a friend is dropping off their little one, they asked for their Purdue B-ball parking pass back, which was in the van...no problem, I'll have it for you after church. Mid-way through 1st service, I venture to the van to grab the pass. After searching for 20 minutes, I decide hmmmm, must be at home. I drive home only to spend 1.5 hours turning the house upside down, searching high-and-low. I give up and arrive back at nursery to help close up after the last service. Jaime had seen them in the hall, so mentioned it was at home and we'd have it for them. They'll be here Tuesday to get it. Tried calling them 3 times today but wasn't able to connect. Hopefully I'll get ahold of them tomorrow morning before they drop by my blog.

Had lunch after church. We were thinking ahead enough yesterday to pick up some cheese from Meijer for lunch. Grilled cheeses just aren't as tasty without it. After playing Little People, puzzles, more Little People, and blocks, all 4 went down for naps. Woke up around 4:30. More Little People, more puzzles, more Little People (I think). I decided it was time to go play in the snow. Bundled up the 3 little ones, and went out and built Woo-Woo (true Cubs fans might get that one!):

Don't ask about the tarantula right-eye, not sure what happened there. And Cameron didn't grow a mustache, that's Woo-Woo's left arm. Anyways, they were very proud of him. We woke mom up to snap some pics, but it was too cold out for her so I had to use my photography skills. Nolan was getting chilly and his cheeks were rosy, so he came in. Cameron, Gavin and I threw snow balls at each other for about 45 minutes until Gavin got whacked in the face. That always seems to end a good snow-ball fight. Really I was just getting cold and I knew that was the only way to come in without being called a wimp. j/k

Jaime prepared us some hot chocolate. After Cameron's first sip his taste-buds were gone so Gavin got 2 cups; he was pretty excited. He thought it was a good trade for taking a snow ball to the left cheek.

Dinner was some delicious Dream Dinners (some tasty spicy chicken stuff). Then we had some popcorn while watching The Amazing Race. Kids finally went to bed about 9:45. Hopefully Gavin will wake up for school tomorrow.

All-in-all, a great day!!

11.29

2008-11-29T20:55:00.000-08:00

Darn...I didn't get more than a few days and I already messed this up!

Nolan was feverish and restless most of Wednesday night. He woke about 10ish and we went ahead and gave his tylenol. He went to bed around 12 and woke up fever free. I felt a little queasy and tired too, so we sat around most of Thursday with the intention of just 'wait and see' Nolan never fevered again and I felt better in the afternoon. We made the call around 5 to eat here and head up after dinner. Jason threw together our feast. "Feast" as in ham, potatoes and green beans. But it was good none-the-less and was fun to sit around as a family and talk about what Thanksgiving really is meant for and what we have to be thankful for. Then we were off....

We didn't make it to my sis's house until about 9:30. The kids feel asleep in the car so when we got there, they were ready to go in and play! Jason and I had this bright idea (ok, I had this bright idea) to head to an outlet mall 1 hour from my sis's house to do shop. The sale started at 12 midnight (yes, that is 12am on Black Friday)! My intention was to go there, do a little Christmas shopping and be back in bed by 3:30 at the latest. This particular outlet has a Stride Right and Cameron needed new shoes. They were also having a great sale that would make that this trip worth it if the shoes where the only think we bought! Plus, it was a free night with Jason. My kids would be sleeping and me and Jason would have some alone time.

I really didn't expect the outlet center to be so busy. We arrived about 12:30ish and there wasn't a parking spot to be found! It was insane. I should have known better. We didn't dress for the weather either. It was cold and we expected to be able to drive from one store to the other. We should have seen all the cars and ran the other way...I know Jason probably wanted too! Some stores even had lines to get in because they had reached their maximum capacity. The shoe store ended up being pretty slow and we were able to find some shoes and get in and out within 20 minutes. The other stores that we ventured into had such long lines that we ended up leaving without even looking at much merchandise. We ended up at the Gymboree outlet to find that their deals were too good to pass up. Outlet store prices, plus an additional 25% off the entire store= Tons to cute clothes for super cheap. Jason was smart and started to stand in line before I was done shopping. the line was only about 40 people deep, but it took 2 hours to get through!!! Needless to say, if I knew then what I know now.....

Poor husbands were being left while their wife went to different stores and would come back amazed that they moved so little. It was bad.... It wasn't the people it was their computers that were so slow!!! Needless to say. we didn't get back to bed till 6am. It made for a long day with the kids. But hey, Cameron has some new (cheap!) kicks and me and Jason will know better next time.

After that whole excursion on Friday, we took it easy. Nolan was still fussy and did not sleep well Friday night. Sleep as in NO sleeping for us either! We were able to catch up on some sleep today between naps and sleeping in. But, we are VERY thankful to be home.

On a fun side....we received these from a local Freecycler! It's all baseball cards. If you don't know what freecycle is, check it out here. This is a once in a life time sort of gift! It was her husband's and he didn't want it anymore. There are some great cards in there too! He spent most of the night looking through them. Now, where to store them...his collection has now almost doubled!

11.26

2008-11-26T18:56:00.000-08:00

Nolan has a fever, won't eat, and it very restless.

Maybe we won't be traveling tomorrow afterall....

11.25

2008-11-25T20:17:00.000-08:00

We painted 8,000 pieces of trim today....or at least it felt that way. All primed and ready for their final coat of white. All 1900 sf of trim is white. It just took 2 years and 6 months!

11.24

2008-11-24T21:26:00.000-08:00

Date night! Me and Jason went out tonight sans kids. We did a little Christmas 'looking' for the kids. Our problem is that we really hate to buy them something just to get them something. Take Nolan...what in the world does he need/want?!?

It was so nice to run in and out of stores without the extra 'weight' and to have dinner without interruptions. The kids had a blast too, they didn't want to come home!

We still haven't put the spare room back together, but picked up the rest of the needed supplies tonight. Maybe after MOPS tomorrow morning, we will make a dent in the room. Jason did brave the cold for more than an hour this afternoon and put away all the porch furniture and kid toys from the yard. We were dragging our feet...mainly me...hoping for a spike in temps so that we could sit out on the porch one last time! My flower beds are so dreary and dead now. I am starting to question not planting any bushes!

We're headed up north on Thursday and looking forward to spending some time with family...and maybe some friends we haven't hung out with lately!

11.23

2008-11-23T17:54:00.000-08:00

It's Sunday...and Sunday's are always busy...and relaxing in the Brown household. We're at church by 9am to set up for Nursery. That means that everyone, including myself, needs to be up and around by 7:45ish to be on time....ugh. Poor Jason has to drag be out of bed! I hate mornings. After church it's lunch and off to naps for the boys. Today, that included Jason. So I had two whole hours of peace to do whatever I wanted. I should have been doing laundry, but instead, I was lusting after this....

We went to the Faith's annual stewardship banquet tonight. It our church's wrap up of stewardship month. The theme was gratefulness for God's provision. Our church has been blessed tremendously this year with the community center and Vison of Hope but we have also experience many blessing in our own family. Thank you all for helping us along the way! It reminds me so much of where I started and where I am today. God has been so good!! The speaker tonight talked about how important it is for us to show appreciation to not only God, but also to others. I see how I fail so miserably at that. I know how special a hand written note means to me, and yet, I often fail to recognize someone else generosity.

Will you try to thank someone this week that has helped you in some small way?? I will.

And I leave you with these,

My toothless wonder:Mini-me

11.22

2008-11-22T17:12:00.000-08:00

Three days running...whoohoo! Try not to get too excited :)

We were pretty lazy most of the morning. Jason helped set up Living Nativity at church this morning. If you haven't ever been with us, you should come this year! It's a reenactment of the bible, mainly focusing on Christ and His reason for coming to earth. I think we have about 15 or so sets around the church campus and you can either walk thru or drive. There are live actors at each set to help tell the story and make it 'real' It takes hundreds of volunteers to pull it off. Definitely worth it, though! The kids always love the live animals. Plus, it's free! This year it's Dec. 12-14 and Dec. 19-21. Plan a trip, will ya?

I finished this collage and they picked it up today. It is a Christmas gift for her mother-in-law who loves Purdue. I also wrapped up a business card design that I am working on.

Gavin attended a b-day party for a friend. Don't you remember how cool and exciting going to a friend's b-day party was? He was so excited ALL morning!

We were out doing errands this afternoon and the kids were being pistols. So, we stopped at our favorite local park...a really quiet one even in the summer...and made the kids get out and spend some energy. It was like 20 out there, but they were so excited! Too bad we stayed in the car and watched :) It lasted less than 10 minutes, but really made a difference. They were better when we went to CVS and stocked up on batteries. They had a great deal going on, but the lady was clearly annoyed. Now I have enough batteries to last us through Christmas ;)

Jason was so kind to go to the grocery store tonight for me. I secretly think he wanted to get away from the madness! I appreciate it anyways. Nolan has been really fussy lately. He gets so mad and is starting to throw little tantrums. I think he might be cutting his molars, but usually not even Tylenol helps. Poor guy. Pray that it's just a teething issue and we're not overlooking something else.

11.21

2008-11-21T11:20:00.000-08:00

I took pics this morning for a girlfriend. Her kids are the cutest. Next, I am working on her first birthday announcements.

I stole one of Cam while I was at it :)

Our bible study meets tonight and we decided to have dinner together. So after I pick up Gavin from school, it's off to Meijer for some fixins'. The kids don't care...they get free cheese as their reward. It a small form of bribery.

Jason if off for the next 9 days...hopefully we can get our spare room put back together so I can reclaim my hallway and laundry area.

We have offically taken over the nursery at Faith and with the new 8 am service starting up on the 1st of January, we have some serious recruitment issues. I have a long list of calls that need to be made in the coming days...

Now, I am off to TRY to catch up on laundry before the weekend.

A post a day?

2008-11-20T15:09:00.000-08:00

I know that I don't post as often as I should....so for the rest of the year....gasp!...I am going to try to post one thing a day. This might get really boring, but at least you'll know what I have been up to when you call me for the 100th time and I still don't call ya back :)

11.20

I had the pleasure of hosting a play group for some mommy friends this morning. 8 mommies and 24 kiddos! I think it's so much fun to have everyone over for lunch and playtime.

Nolan and Cameron took super long naps (no suprise) so I got lots of emails caught up from the last few weeks of scarce internet connectivity. It's all good now!

I have picked up some 'freelance' work designing a full page brochure and business cards for a friend. I have also begun christmas card designing.

Gavin lost his 3rd tooth in about a week this afternoon. His response, "tic tack toe, three in a row" The tooth fairy is about to go broke if he keeps this up.

See ya tomorrow!

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T19:50:00.000-07:00

Check this out!

2008-10-23T09:48:00.000-07:00

Calling all mom's of girls....check this out!

If you win, I take your daughter's pic for free! Now I really do wish I owned a girl.....hehe.

2008-10-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am still alive and NO I don't just blog about political stuff anymore. Nolan had surgery last week and we are still on the mend. I will update soon...just as soon as I get somethings on my to-do-list done, and read this book being shoved in my face :)

Obama test?

2008-10-13T09:57:00.001-07:00

Confused about where you stand come November...or what a politician stands for....check this out here:

THEY SUCK

2008-10-07T11:53:00.000-07:00

The cubs that is. I don't think I can make it though another season of disappointment....

it's been a bit gloomy around here lately.

Article of interest

2008-10-02T20:53:00.001-07:00

I came across this article...published in 1999. Interesting that the future was fortold.

Check it out here.

Happening....

2008-10-02T13:21:00.000-07:00

If you happen to walk past our house and hear strange noises coming from inside. Like crackly, loud, statically noises....

You know the ones if you happen to walk by anytime in the last...oh....6 months or so......

It's AM radio.....

THE CUBS ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS!!!

It's our year...right?

Looking forward..

2008-09-26T07:36:00.001-07:00

We've had a busy week! I can't believe it already Friday. Nolan had an eye appt this morning for his uncooperative clogged tear duct. Doc wasn't as helpful as I was hoping...so now we wait some more....

We scored tickets to this weekend's Purdue vs. ND football game. We are so excited. It'll be nice to be away from the kids awhile and visit with some friends too!

On another exciting note...we finally bought a new ring. Shocking, I know. It has only been since November that I lost my original diamond. I was worth the wait.

Check back early next week and maybe I'll have pics from this weekend.

Happy belated party Nolan

2008-09-23T20:04:00.000-07:00

Bad mommy just realized she never shared Nolan's b-day party pics. Bad mommy almost didn't even have a b-day party for Nolan. I mean, does a one year old even need a party? The good mommy in me, however, thought better of it, and started planning. And then...things changed. We ended up going up north to celebrate, but we had two parties, which is really twice as fun! It was nice to visit with everyone and eat cake..twice actually. Thanks to all who helped out!

Here is Nolan's special birthday banner I made. It took forever to make but it was worth it. All I have to switch is the pics and it's ?? birthday banner! Don't you want one now too?

Nolan on his actual birthday. The boys helped make the cake. Nolan didn't really know what to think of all the fuss...the singing, the candles, the cake.

Party #1..see how excited Nolan is:

Living the good life for sure. All tuckered out.Party #2: by this point he thinks we've gone mad.