The Mohr The Merrier

It's a good day for blogging

2012-01-19T00:03:00.000-08:00

*Good luck keeping up with me on this one. It's more of a rambling of sentences.*

Also known as a Crying Kind of Day. Ohhhhhhh how these types of days can sneak up on a person. On one hand I want to play the 'pregnant card', and pregnant with a girl to boot! But I've been taking my vitamins with all of the extras. I don't get enough sleep, which is new because those who know me know we are an early to bed early to rise type of family. Eleanor has been sleeping in until 8-8:30 which is unheard of in my kids. However, we have lunch at 11:30, and BOOM down for naps at noon on the dot. Ethan does not sleep for quiet time. He lays on the bed and 'rests'. I'm usually taking that time to mop the floor and catch up on dishes. And though I do try to catch up on housework, it never seems to show. If you were to walk in my home right at this moment you'd see laundry (CLEAN thankyouverymuch) to put away, the vaccum is out constantly, a dirty high chair that I think I'm going to put in the shower to scrub, and two bags of garbage by the front door to take out because I am not lugging garbage upstairs in negative degree weather. Amongst other misc items to take care of.

Nobody wants to see stretch marks, but isn't this the sweetest picture of the kids standing
nearby to hear the baby's heart beep? Yes, the kids say the baby's heart beeps. CUTE!

We went to an open gym kids event this morning at church, a total blessing! It's so nice to give the kids a place to run and play without anything slowing them down. We are able to bring trikes and put them in their play clothes (that gym floor is pretty dirty but that's fine) and let them loose! I wore a denim skirt, big ol' Columbia boots, and am currently 35 weeks pregnant yet I shot some hoops with Ethan. 4 kids in 5 years. Bring. It. On.

Then we went on to the next event, my favorite Bible Study at a little Baptist church. The women who attend this study are phenomenal. Very wise. Sweet. Plain ol' SMART. "When I grow up I want to be like her," kind of stuff.

In the nursery at our homeschool co-op.

However, on the yuck side of life, today I cried THREE TIMES! First, out of plain frusteration with Ethan. That kid.... Lord, give me a break! Show me that I'm mkaing a difference! He won't take no for an answer. Defiant. Hard to handle. He repeats questions constantly. "Ethan, I already answered that. Ask me a different question." Is this for attention? I think it is. I know that raising kids is trainning, hard work, constant, etc. Yes I've heard it. I've read it. I've studied it all. I am in a constant state of prayer. No, really. It is CONSTANT. Pray without ceasing, right? Okay, no problem. It just wears a gal down. Like, Lord give me a break.

Ernest is every teacher's favorite kid. They love him. Constantly. And he runs to me when he sees me. "Moommmmmmmmmmmmmyyyyy!" Love love love it. To me, those moments are my "Christmas Bonus" that the people who work 40 hours get every year. Or at least Chevy gets in Christmas Vacation.

My niece had a pool party for her birthday so the day before I had the boys try on their lifejackets so we'd be able to slip them on and not have any problems at the party. Go me and being ahead of the game!

Ethan finished one of his literature books and was very proud of his accomplishment.

Eleanor is a hoot and likes to look around at people to make sure they are looking at her. Seriously. She is a diva and will bully the two year old. I have no idea how it's going to work out once the baby comes. Eleanor is a 'mama's girl' and claims my lap and my face as hers. She wants to see my face, my eyes looking at her, my lap is available for her and her only and will scream if Ernest sits in it to read a book.

The words in my house that are most spoken are: No, Did you apologize?, ARE YOU GLORIFYING GOD WHEN YOU DO THAT?, and my favorite is- Lord Jesus help this child. Well, after "I love you" because I try to shove it down their throats that eventhough mom is busy and going, mama loves you. I sit on the floor to fold clothes and read an I Spy book with two little children in my lap and a five year old who wants to play with the baking soda/vinegar rocketship indoors right now. As in, right now in the house who cares if it's -2 outside we'll shoot it off inside. Like there isn't enough to do. Lord Jesus help that child.

How to keep the kids content while waiting for the doctor? Bust out the camera and tell them
to make silly faces or act like a (quiet) animal.

I love my family. My job is hard. It really is. To sit and do nothing but reapply lipstick and facebook is a facade. A total myth. I wish my home reflected my hard work.  Too many times I look around and think Where did I go wrong! Nothing got done! I had my family sit down to dinner, got everyone a drink, everyone got a fork, and everyone was content. Then Kendall was done and I said he'd better sit there and watch me eat because I need some time together at the table as a complete family. My food is cold, the baby is out of milk, Ernest spilled his water, Ethan wants more, and I think "Nobody is bleeding, this is NOT a bad night at the dinner table".

It is still STILL onmy heart that my kids are homeschooled. It's so God. Don't ask me why I homeschool, ask God. Never in my life did I think I was going to be doing this. It has it's ups and down like any other day or moment.  Ernest likes to do his 'school' with Ethan, although his consists of a coloring book and three crayons. Eleanor gets 1 crayon and 1 piece of paper. Good enough. Or she's in bed asleep during quiet time.

It's now 2am.  Here's to a good night's sleep.

Make a face!

Lord, remind me that I am blessed with healthy children. I am blessed with a wonderful hardworking man. I am blessed with my own good health and a healthy baby girl who is due to arrive in a few weeks. Lord, remind me that my kids love me and show it in their own little ways. Go ahead and kick my butt Lord, I know sometimes I need it.

Too good

2011-09-29T20:54:00.000-07:00

I'm an avid Avett Brothers fan. Their talent seems endless! Plus, I've discovered the world of Mumford and Sons. Oh my, I just want to bust out the fiddle and jam with people! Talent talent talent....

Here they are at the grammy's. This video is too good to not bring into the blogging world. Enjoy.

What have you read lately?

2011-09-29T20:37:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite past times is reading. I have about thirty blogs in my favorite folder, ranging in categories of homeschooling families, printable worksheets, food (okay, I might have a tiny bit more in my food folder than the rest of them), and even how to manage laundry.
If you were to come take a look at my bookshelf you'd see I wear my heart on my sleeve. The vast majority of my books are book studies covering the Word of the Lord. My Bible studies and all things breaking it down into terminology that a second grader could comprehend are on my shelf. Beth Moore, Kay Arthur, many notes from my years in Bible Study Fellowship, and numerous other authors line the shelves. It's good to keep them around to dust off the perpetually pregnant brain of mine so I'm not walking around saying "Who was that guy in a basket? In the weeds or grass or whatever? No.. .it wasn't Jesus... wait, did that happen to Him?" Oy, yes that'd be me.

Second in line are my parenting/pregnancy books. Swooooooooon... if I could collect them all! Currently I'm in a study where we are reading Sheparding A Child's Heart and I walk away with my head churning in excitment of a new mommy-breakthrough. "Focus on changing your child's heart and the rest will follow" sounds simple enough, but how do I do that? Well this book has brought the light. Love love love it. And my blogs and blogs and blogs about women who have had natural births, who feed their families off the grid, who love on their babies without the constant complaint about them. Like a breath of fresh air. Ending the day on a positive note is good for the heart.

Ahhh, loving my quiet moment of blogging and reading. All I need is a glass of ice water and some Avett Brothers to complete the night.

The Deli Lady told me to

2011-09-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

I have become a bit more aware of what I'm feeding myself and my family. Lately, I'm noticing that what I thought was the purest of foods has been tainted in one form or fashion. My Great Value brand 'pure vanilla extract' listed 'corn syrup' as it's final ingredient. What a bummer that it's so hard to find pure food with nothing more than what was grown and harvested without anything made in a lab.

The kids and I were out and about today, nowhere near home, so I decided to get a nutritious lunch at the grocery store. Guacamole, cheddar block cheese, 7 grain bread rolls, bananas, watermelon, water, and a deli meat. I had purchased the Dean's brand of guacamole last month and it was so acidic it felt like I was eating Sprite, the burning feeling in your mouth after guzzling Sprite was just like a bite of Dean's guacamole. Dad's guacamole never burned my mouth, what is in this stuff? Let's just say 'avacado' was further down the list than I'd like to ever imagine it could be. Disappointed and frustrated at wasting four bucks, I threw it away. Today I purchased a guacamole that was 95% avocado and 5% seasoning. Bingo! All three kids ate it, score!

Then I tried to purchase deli meat. Ham was on sale for $3.99 a pound! WOW! When's the last time any meat was on sale for such a cheap price? However, I had read that many meats are injected with a salt water solution and flavoring built in a lab, so I asked the lady if there was anything funky in the meat or if it was just 'honey and salt, the way our grandparents cured pork?' Low and behold she printed off a page worth of sodium byproducts that you can't grow in granny's garden. In the end, the honest lady said "Even I don't eat this stuff." Somewhat dumbfounded, I ordered a half a pound of the ham, went down the aisle, had a major case of 'protein vs funky chemical salt stuff' guilt and took the ham back to the counter. "I changed my mind. Can I give this back?" She took it back and smiled at me.

This morning we had plain cereal, milk, and Mandarin oranges.

Last night we had 100% beef hamburger patties, pineapple, and broccoli with some cheese.
Lunch yesterday was beef and rice burritos (except Ernest actually said 'spicy' through a grimace and had a peanut butter sandwich, bless his heart!)
Breakfast yesterday morning was, get this, oatmeal with prunes, cinnamon, honey and molasses, and milk to make it creamy, a trick Aunt Patty taught me. The kids gobbled this down and asked for more.

Tonight we had a quick hamburger patty with fruit and pinto bean hummus (yes, it is definitely something to try, I'm starting to believe any bean would work for hummus). Plus I've been putting curry powder on the hamburgers. I read somewhere that we should eat more curry because it's good for you, yada yada yada. One step at a time and God see's I'm trying right?

And, on a side note, I've been doing some easy peasy what-are-you-80-years-old? exercises on my stability ball and Ethan and Ernest do them right alongside me on the floor. Cute cute cute! I feel my thighs toning up! I just might be able to ~~not blind anyone in a bikini next summer!~~ get into a one piece all black don't-even-look-my-direction bathing suit next summer!

Alison's son is sick

2011-08-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

My friend's son is sick. And my heart is breaking for her. She's the one with the mild voice. She's the one with the gentle spirit and the kind and giving heart. I see Starbucks and think of her and her love for caffiene. Her children are so-stinking-cute-and-sweet. No wonder she eight of them! She has a love for the Lord that makes Ruth Graham look like an amateur.

Man, don't you just want to look at God and say "Hey, point your lightening bolt over THAT way, those people you have it aimed at are actually pretty decent!' Lord, I wish I knew what You were up to, what You have up Your sleeve.

Her son has brain cancer.

If that weren't enough, it's a really really bad kind (because some aren't so bad? I don't know). What person would be okay with hearing a family member has cancer? What momma would be able to see straight and stand while learning that her oldest child has not only cancer but it's in his brain?

The few times her son, who is 17, was around my then three year old Ethan, he was incredibly patient and soft spoken with him. Ian, who is sick, is a 'professional big brother' and I know if we lived closer I'd call him to babysit in a heartbeat!

Tonight, would you lift up Alison and her family? Pray for her patience, wisdom, and strength through this ordeal. She homeschools this beautiful family she is blessed with. And her babies range in 17 with Ian, all the way down to just a few month (with the infant exclusively nursed, God bless her!). Pray for Ian's body to heal. For the doctors to have such wisdom it must come from Up Above. Right now, the family and medical team are deciding on a route to go concerning Ian's treatments. Alison is a bit holistic and trying to find treatments, foods, etc that will help and inhance Ian's ability to fight off this cancer as naturally as possible. Pray for those little brother's and sister's to not be scared. Can you imagine seeing your big, tough, go-get'em big brother down and out in a hospital? Pray for these little faces to see Christ in all of this.

Here's a link to Alison's blog:
Alison's Blog

Here's a link to a prayer site on facebook dedicated to Ian:
Pray for Ian Williams

Sweet sweet George Jones

2011-08-12T05:30:00.000-07:00

The story behind George Jones and dad.

Have you heard the song "He Stopped Loving Her Today"? It's about a lady who ends up leaving a man and breaking off their relationship. The song is told in 3rd person and the narrator talks about the man still having her letters and and pictures. In the end, the narrator goes to see the man who is now 'all dressed up' and sees he is smiling for the first time in years. Turns out, the man passed away, therefore, he stopped loving her today. Sweetest. Saddest. Song. Ever.

Our family thinks about dad with this song. Granted, mom never left him, however he always said he'd love her to the end and then some. She was a good woman to him. Do you know of any other story where the husband was sick for 15 years and wife put her life on hold, for FIFTEEN YEARS, to take care of him? Mom should write a book.

"He Stopped Loving Her Today", Lyrics

He said I'll love you 'til I die
She told him you'll forget in time
As the years went slowly by
She still preyed upon his mind

He kept her picture on his wall
Went half crazy now and then
He still loved her through it all
Hoping she'd come back again

Kept some letters by his bed
Dated 1962
He had underlined in red
Every single I love you

I went to see him just today
Oh but I didn't see no tears
All dressed up to go away
First time I'd seen him smile in years

(Chorus)
He stopped loving her today
They placed a wreath upon his door
And soon they'll carry him away
He stopped loving her today

(Spoken)
You know she came to see him one last time
Oh and we all wondered if she would
And it kept running through my mind
This time he's over her for good

(Repeat Chorus)

What might have been

2011-08-11T05:57:00.000-07:00

Today as I'm cleaning up pee and wiping down the floor I get a bad case of the ''what might have been's". I have a wonderful friend who went on from high school to achieve her PhD and is now able to travel and see the world for conferences and leisure. The sweetest, nicest, prettiest gal ever. Another friend lives in New York and works as an achitect. I did attend an impressive magnet high school that concentrated on science and engineering, so these results are not too uncommon. I had plans to go on to college and major in microbiology/biochemistry. I wanted to work for the Centers of Diesease Control in Atlanta and help save the world. I wanted to travel to new places and live the cultures most people only read about in the paper. Work by day saving a west Africa village from a series of outbreaks, eat monkey and watch the stars by night. Ahhhhh. I'd get married 'sooner or later' and maybe have a kid, maybe. I'd never really settle down and I'd live by the ocean so I could see the waves crash every morning and call the seagulls my friends.

This morning, as I'm wiping up pee, handing out more cereal, and making a bath for said-pee-child, I can't help but think of it all. What would have happened if I didn't get married and decided to go on to college? Would I have ever stepped foot in Minnesota in my life? To me, Minnesota had lots of trees and guys that wear plaid. It turns out this is true on both parts, go me! But to live here? In -20 windchills? No thanks. I'm a Atlantic Ocean lover.

Now I'm raising three kids and married to my very own Paul Bunnion (or however you spell his last name... maybe I should say the Bounty Man).

Proverbs 14:30 (K
A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

Ok, fine. I'm just having a 'true' moment. It's true though, I do sometimes wonder.

But as I'm typing this, my 2 year old now has a towel wrapped around his clean pee-free body and has just said "Up please!" so he's sitting in my lap singing. Sorry Africa, you gotta wait.

Until we meet again Thomas

2011-06-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

My youth pastor committed suicide.

Let it sink in.

My.
Youth.
Pastor.
Committed.
Suicide.

He was my youth pastor in junior high, then an intern came in and took over and they Young's left shortly after. At least this is how I remember it, but I could have some dates/times a bit cloudy. We were all so happy for Thomas Young and his family. They were the nicest, sweetest, people I'd ever met at a church and I remember Erin had really long hair and was soft spoken. I also remember thinking that 'church people' at this church were really nice and I wanted to come back. The Young's were the first Christian couple I'd ever witnessed as putting the words "Christian" and "couple" to. So this is what Christian marriages look like. Hmmm...

Thomas (and I still refer to him as Thomas because that's what I knew him by) was so loud and outspoken. He would get loud and excited on Wednesday night's youth group and was totally on fire for God. This guy, was, like, super duper Godly. Those are technical junior high words for you.

I contribute a majority of my 'baby Christian' days to the initial 'church people' I knew. I only knew VBS people, then I knew the Young's, then I started coming on Sunday mornings. From there, I grew in my walk with Christ exponentially and I sought the wisdom of my teachers. Basically, forget the kids, I want to hang out with these grown ups because they seem to have it together. (Ps: my high school Sunday school teacher reads my blog) :).

I remember when the Young's left I totally had a wall built up to 'the new guy'. He was a total dude and was single. Bor-ing.

About three years ago I tried to look up the Young family and sent his ministry an email saying thank you for being such an amazing role model and I look forward to seeing them again if our lives should ever cross paths. I never did receive a reply or acknowledgement that it was forwarded onto Thomas.

Recently, when Kendall and I moved our family to Texas last winter I met up with people from way back and asked about the Young's. It was a somber moment and I later read an article about it on Thomas' website.

But, I thought Christian's don't take their own lives. Isn't that a huge sin (a sin is a sin, is a sin, no worse than stealing a ballpoint pen)? I've heard suicide means you go straight to hell (not true).

I think my dear friend, after losing her brother, says it so well:
The devil is such a thief.

I think about his wife and children from time to time, such at moments like these. All things work for the glory of God, right? Man oh man it's a hard one to swallow sometimes. My heart breaks for them.

Where the sky turns green

2011-06-02T22:50:00.000-07:00

I am still trying to understand Minnesota's weather. And not in the "Haha, so am I! And I'm from Minnesota!" kind of way. In Texas, I knew it would be storming when it was extra smoldering hot the day before. Then a release-type feeling would come in the air and the next day it'd be cooler and raining. The nights were cool and humid every night without fail. The Easter lilies would bloom right at Easter every year, it wasn't hit or miss. The pecan trees will grow baby pecans at the same time every year and you could tell if we had a good rain or not by the amount of fruit the tree put on.

Things were the same. Dependable. Unusual weather wasn't common, the weather was steady.

In Minnesota, the sky turns green when it's hot. I cannot make this up folks.

I was coming home from an evening MOPS meeting and when I steped out of church, the sky was warm in the lower 80's (wow, I can't believe I said the 80's were warm) and the wind had died down to a slight breeze. Up in the skys, the clouds were rolling in and there was thunder and lightening in every direction.

The sky was greenish, like this picture. Where I come from, the sky doesn't turn no stinkin' green.

To the north, the sky was three shades lighter than black. To the south, a light gray cloud waltzed on by, oblivious it's cousin's Vinny and Micheal were making heads roll in the next town over.

I floored all six cylinders of my bad boy Town and Country and headed over to Kim's house. We were planning on having a garage sale bright and early the next morning, several piles of our beloved junk was sitting outside. I rang her bell and said "The sky is scary looking, what does that mean (pointing to the north)? Come on, you're from Iowa. That's, like, south Minnesota right?" Anyway, we brought our junk in for fear it would litter the streets and get completely ruined thus taking away it's fifty-cent value.

Driving the four blocks home from her house I saw many men standing outside looking up at the sky, several were pointing. Geez, that can't be good.

"Kendall! It's hot outside, but the wind has died down, but the clouds are moving super fast, but I think they're kinda low, but some of the clouds are gray, but those over there are black, but look the sky is blue over there, have you looked at the radar? Is there are red line near us? Or is it white? Wait, what color means snow and which means rain? Or does red mean snow in winter and rain in summer? BUT IT SNOWS IN THE SUMMER HERE!"

"Near panic" is an understatment.

My sweet heroic husband stared blankly back at me and replied, "Whoa. You are talking way too fast." He was being way too mellow. The clouds look like they have the flu and he's calmly watching Breakfast at Tiffany's downstairs.

He meanders outside and says "Oh yeah, looks pretty bad. Hmm, well, if a tornado's coming I want to be able to see where it's coming from." Just then the tornado alarms go off and I about pass out.

"All the men I drove by were pointing to the sky in the north. The north. So, I say we listen to them and go in the bathroom and make sure the kids have shoes on."

Ok folks. Here we go. This is what Crystal crams into our 6x4 bathroom when there's a storm brewing:

two mega flashlights
size 5 diapers
size 2 diapers
wipes
two sippy cups (Ethan and Ernest sized)
a box of cheerios
one pair of close toes shoes for each kid
our safe
my purse
a gallon of water
a juice container (whatever's in the fridge)
every comforter not currently being used (I invision falling debris)
socks for everyone
car keys
extra clothes (usually just the diaper bag will do for the diapers, wipes, clothes, baby stuff)

Kendall could barely go in the bathroom to see what I had crammed in there.

Here's my thought- if our house gets blown away, I have three small children who are going to have specific needs immediately. Having your house blown away doesn't keep Eleanor from filling her diaper or Ernest from being thirsty. I bring socks and shoes in there because I have noticed the ickiest (is that word?) weather happens in the evening when my kids are in bed. Footie pajamas won't work on glass, so everyone gets proper footwear. My most important information is in my purse/diaper bag along wiht my car keys.

Oh, and when I just had Ethan and Kendall was at work, I'll admit I put the toddler mattress in our old apartments bathroom. We were on the second floor! It seemed reasonable at the time.

The storm did eventually pass over us. And the apple juice did make it back into the fridge. Kendall chuckled at me and said he'd never think of any of those supplies. Three small children. Three! I need to be prepared. And after seeing what tornadoes have done in the south, I'm not taking any chances.

Our family is still praying for the Lee family after losing their husband/dad in the Alabama tornado. And our Generation Cedar family.

I pray the sky doesn't turn green again for a long long time.

Strong Stock

2011-05-31T21:37:00.000-07:00

A complete stranger referenced to me by a cattle term. It's as simple as that.

Ernest was ten days old and our sweet little family of four decided to go on a walk. A new neighbor in our area was outside taking care of the lawn and started up a conversation with Kendall. I remember the lawn had tremendous potential but had been denied any love due to the property being in foreclosure. It was a gorgeous June evening, warm and just right for being outside.

The man then noticed that Ernest wasn't just an infant but a brand spankin' new newborn to the world.

"Oh, you have quite the little one there. How old?"

"He's ten days today!"
He looks at Ernest, looks up at me in bewilderment, then looks over at Kendall.

"Strong stock."

These are the words he says while nodding his head in my direction.

Can I just say it is the only time a reference to cattle can be made in which I'll take it as a compliment?

Between the three kids, I've not had a real problem bouncing back. Being able to birth these babies without any type of medical intervention is gift from God.

The Very Blessed Garage Sale Ladies

2011-05-27T21:47:00.000-07:00

Audra is having her first ever garage sale this week and invited us to partake in the garage sale festivities. Ever the garage sale-oholics, we said yes and stopped on by. She lives off of a particularly busy road connecting many teeny tiny backwoods communities. On our way to her home I counted four sales, tis the season for many yard sales!

Kendall has not been called in to work lately because both the distyllery and the plastics factory have been slow, so he was our "muscles" for all of the heavier items. Let's face it, it's nice to play the part of a girl and let the man carry the heaviest tote of garage sale junk.

On our way out to Audra's today we stopped at a few sales to see if there was any 'meat left on the bones' of their junk. By Friday afternoon, the people who want to be done say "make me an offer" and you can get the best of deals. Since it's the eve of Memorial weekend we figured there had to be someone who was going to be traveling this weekend and wanted to be done with their sale, so sure enough we found a great sale along the busiest road in town!

Three sweet women and their elderly mother were clearing out the house of priceless momentos because the mother's house was for sale. I stayed in the car with the kids while Kendall jumped out to see what was new. Ethan and I took the quiet time together while the two little ones napped to do some school work out of a workbook while daddy did the diggin'. After a few minutes, Kendall waved me over to come in the garage. Sounded like he scored a big one so I hussled in on the double. Sure enough, the ladies said everything was half priced (their prices were fifty cents to two dollars to begin with so half of it was almost in the free-zone!). Kendall was able to pick up some Tupperware containers (because our plastics from the dollar store are sorely missing lids and most are so warped they don't stay locked), a fan ("It's hardly been used! FOR A DOLLAR!" he was really excited), and some other items for around the house.

I eyed the vintage (aka: things that were around when I was a kid) toys and picked up a Vikings helmet with a twenty-five cent sticker on it. I do my kids birthday present shopping at garage sales. It's how this family rolls. Ernest's 2nd birthday is next month, so I was thinking of gifts for him. One of the ladies asked if I work outside of the home and I said no, day care would cost more than what Kendall and I could bring home, plus I want to raise my kids myself. She then asked where Kendall worked, well that opened a can of worms! "Kendall, where do you work?" I let her know he went to school to be an electrician but for know he works at the two factories in town when they need him.

Next comes my favorite question: "How do you do it?"

I smile when asked this question simply because I can share my faith with others. What a great opportunity to tell others of God's provisions! How do we do it? We don't, GOD DOES! We're just along for the ride!

I do, however, believe that the biggest learning tool has been contention. Be content! I've learned to discipline myself mentally and rework out the kinks in my upbringing and worldly ways. The word "no" is a great tool for grownups as wells as children. NO you don't need bigger and better. NO your shoes are just fine stop comparing yourself to others! NO our family car is paid off, be content!

Seriously, how do I do it? I enjoy it. These children won't be children forever, Eleanor is already feeding herself! Wasn't I just feeling her kicks and leaps in the womb just last month? Ethan is learning simple addition, wasn't I rocking him to sleep in the recliner while reading "Brown Bear Brown Bear" just last summer? And I can't believe Ernest will be two soon, I remember walking around Joann fabrics trying to 'walk the baby out' while walking up and down every aisle at 41 weeks.

My husband is my truest friend. Shouldn't I enjoy his company while the Lord allows me to? I love this man, I want my focus to be towards him and enriching our marriage. Too many times negativity and doubt wants to fill my brain on what tomorrow brings but nobody is garunteed tomorrow. Today is the present. If I can be in his presence, then I'm going to enjoy it! Soak it up while it lasts!

In a nutshell:

Since my husband's been layed off we've paid off our minivan, traveled to Texas and back, birthed two babies, and cut over half of our debt. God is good and has never left us without the most basic of necessities. My children see that garage sales and thrift stores have treasures waiting to be found and are content with what we bring home to them. They appreciate the smallest toys and broken guns because it doesn't need to work in order for it to be an amazing laser gun in their imaginations. Our family lives in a one bedroom apartment and we would like to some day own property, but it's all in God's timing. I feel that living in such close quarters has brought my children closer together friendship wise because there aren't too many places to go with an enemy in the house, so you better get along!

Our life isn't ideal, but by golly it's good. Living simple means we are able to simply live and enjoy life!

Not tired

2011-05-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

Go. To. Bed!

This is the apparent party going on in the toddler bed. I hear the sounds of a motorcycle, a cow mooing, and someone (presumable Ernest) humming the ABC Song.

Good night.

Joyful praises on a park swing

2011-05-13T20:54:00.000-07:00

He will once again fill your mouth with laughter and your lips

with shouts of joy.

Job 8:21

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice!

Phililppians 4:4

Let the fields and their crops burst out with joy! Let the

trees of the forest rustle with praise

Psalm 96:12

Shout to the LORD, all the earth; break out in praise and

sing for joy!

Psalm 98:4

Let the godly sing for joy to the LORD; it is fitting for the

pure to praise him.

Psalm 33:1

A Fuzzodles Party

2011-04-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

Did I even spell that correctly? Fuzzoodles? Fuzzodles? What?

Fuzzoodles

I didn't understand how Fuzzoodles were a new concept. To me, they were big fuzzy pipe cleaners. The kind you can buy 20 for about three bucks, but fuzzier.

The little girls had fun with the extras that came with the kit like the purses, shoes, and eyes.

And the mom's had fun playing like kids.

I'll call them... cute.

This scene of Ethan playing with them lasted for about seven minutes. Then he was begging me to run around and play. I'm pretty sure that if we were at home without all the friends and commotion, he would have lasted about twelve minutes.

Then the fuzzoodles would have become laser guided bullets followed by the words "POW!!!!".

They're so soft.

Food! Look at those hungry little boys who needed to recharge their batteries.

Adult Temper Tantrums- I want cupcake sprinkles.

2011-04-14T21:42:00.000-07:00

How do adults show they are having a temper tantrum?

Some people shut down, either internally shown by not speaking or showing emotionally. Some shut down physically by quietly resorting to their homes and sitting in a dark room wearing the same sweatpants until even the dog won't sniff them. Many men throw their emotions deeper into their work, striving to be a "better provider" by working harder, faster, stronger by focusing on the task at hand. However, some men go to the bar or their buddies garage for a beer after dinner.

Ladies exercise their temper tantrums in either a constructive or destructive way. Constructive as in "I WILL HAVE A PERFECT HOME TODAY" and ignore all else until their floors sparkle and the drapes are vacuumed. Destructive would be "I'm worth these $80 shoes even though my cell phone is about to be shut off and my credit card bill is past due."

My temper tantrums range in motion and season. Mostly, I start projects. I will not fix dinner until my hall closet makes any organized professional glean with jealousy. I go through every box and bag making sure all of the extra toothbrushes are in the correct ziploc bag and my soap bars and perfectly stacked. Wait. I'm not the only one who stocks up on toothbrushes when they go on sale, right? I scrub down my dining room table and chairs with hot water, soap, degreaser, and an SOS pad. One time I got a blister from scrubbing so hard. I'm a freak about clean floors, so getting on my hands and knees all Cinderella style doesn't constitute any sort of meltdown, it's just Crystal being Crystal.

Today, however, was a crying day. I'm tired. This season in life is hard. I don't want to sound all complainy but by golly, not every day is puppy tails and cupcake sprinkles. I'm in a bit of survival mode. The idea of adding on anything more than what I have now is a scary thought to me. I run from commitment. Run far far away. I do not want to be in charge of or accountable to anything other than the day right infront of me. And I prioritize like crazy.

My priorities:
Protein for breakfast. Aka: my kids are getting sick of eggs. Smoothies are helpful. And nice fattening tablespoons of peanut butter on toast is helpful as well. My kids last longer if they get a big healthy dose of protien in them first thing in the morning. Full fat milk is more filling as well.

God. We read and memorize scripture every. single. day. I have note cards taped all over my dining room walls with "happy" scripture like "He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7". Secretly, this momma needs to hear it more than the kiddos. Right now I lean heavily on "Believe on the Lord Jesus Crhsit and you will be saved. Act 16:31".

Dear Lord, I am a dead weight on You right now. Therefore, I could use some savin' right about now. P.S. Thank you for the hidden chocolate chips in the back of the cabinet. I know You got my back. It's our secret. Amen.

Quiet Time- Dear dear small children. Please understand that we have quiet time not only for you to rest your toes, elbows, and lips but because it's only 1:30 and mommy needs Tylenol. So let's play the quiet game so we can tell God thank you for all the nice things we can think of while momma lays down on the couch so she can catch her breath and make it to bed time. Amen.

I'm sure any other woman would say "Uh, what about laundry and dishes? PRIORITIES!" Yes, I bounce back and forth between the two all. day. long. I get frusterated with washing the "super cool cup with the sparkles and dolphins" for the THIRD time that day, so I go pair up socks. Then my socks get to the point where they are missing their mate but I refuse to throw the lone sock away because I know I will find it's missing friend the next laundry go-around and will throw my hands up and say "I knew I'd find this stupid sock! Where were you last week? Your brother was looking for you!" and go back to washing milk chunks out of the sippy cup that was pushed under the bed so far it was nearly against the wall (and how does it get there?!?).

I just needed a nap. Some help. A little support. I needed a wise old owl to say "You're doing the best that you can. Your children will not grow up to be horrible people because you had cold cereal for dinner again."

It's just a season. Everything is just a season. None of this will be forever. Forever, is actually the reward. I'm so glad I know Christ. So so so so glad. I'm so glad that I can keep my senses and realize that the baby will not be nursing for forever, that Ernest will learn how to put on a zip up his own coat, and that Ethan will use his strong sense of will power for the greater good.

And I know that tomorrow they will wake up smiling at me and say "Hi mom! I'm hungry."

Precious in His sight

2011-04-13T21:13:00.000-07:00

Ernest walked up to Kendall's step dad, laid his head on his leg, and stood there in 'hug position' for a solid five minutes. His step dad had recieved a lung transplant February of 2010 and when this picture was taken, he was having a hard time breathing.

How do children know these things? It brings tears to my eyes the thought of such grace, mercy, and unconditional love that children posess. Why can't grown ups be as merciful? Or merrily kind enough to put a hand on one's shoulder when in need? What happens between toddler and adult?

Every day, my kids wake up with smiles. They look to me like I'm God right hand man. Most nights I go to bed thinking of what I did wrong, what I could do better, or how I can fix things in the morning (parenting and life alike).

Lord, help me to show Your unrelenting love to others. The kind that can only come from You.

I needed to rest my eyes

2011-04-11T22:28:00.000-07:00

All I wanted to do was rest my eyes for ten minutes. The baby was asleep, Kendall was home and could keep an eye on the boys, it was the weekend, doesn't everyone want to relax on the weekend?

Mom lays down on the couch and look at what happens.

A dog pile occurs on my face.

Ernest is wearing a winter coat and a diaper with nothing else. And now he is sitting on my face along with Ethan yelling "Let's get mom!"

Thank you Kendall for reaching for the camera instead of saying "Come on kids, let's give mom some quiet time on the couch." Thanks.

Why are my kids so slobbery? They should come with a paper towel dispenser attatched to them somewhere. Ernest clearly has no idea how much he weighs. I'm simply trying to be sure the kid doesn't roll off and put another goose egg on his forehead.

For Pete's sake. This is just ridiculous.

My best picture ever. I got up and hid in the bedroom after this picture.

Just like children, grown ups need 'quiet time' every so often too!

Eleanor's First Oatmeal, Round #1

2011-04-08T19:29:00.000-07:00

Every time I put a fork to my mouth, a set of (nearly) six month old eyes watches, intent on burning a hole through my forhead in hopes of having a bite. This baby wants oh-so-badly to try some new tastes on her palet. However, by the looks of these pictures, maybe she isn't so sure.

Here we go, she was fired up and ready for action.

First taste-

Second try-

I think this look says it all.

"Mom, let's just stick with the good stuff, mmkay?"

Enough animal crackers to feed an army.

2011-03-29T20:52:00.000-07:00

We have an absurdly large canister of animal crackers in the back of the minivan. To say it is a life saver, is an understatment.

There is no top left on the bad boy due to being used so much.

This absurdly large canister of animal crackers comes in most handy when we are at Walmart way too long, everyone is having a blood sugar crash, and we're still twenty minutes from home not to mention I will still need to put the frozen chicken in the freezer, where's the milk? and ohdearLord could the macaroni and cheese boil any slower.

Just eat some animal crackers and to hold you over.

With that explaination said, onward!

The following are pictures of Ethan in the 'way back' of the minivan. Ernest and Eleanor get the captains seats. The bench in the back is free game for Ethan and all of his 'can I bring this into the minivan' modgpodge of stuff found back there.

Hey Ethan! What? What! WHAT!?!

Mom, I'm hungry, and tired. The animal crackers aren't cutting it.

Are there any more juice boxes?

We're getting pizza? Woo hoo, I'm in a much better mood!

Goof to the left.

Goof to the right.

Oh sweet deary, I love this child.

Ernest in the winter

2011-03-26T19:20:00.000-07:00

When Ethan was a baby, I took him to Walmart in a diaper and a blanket. I was a little embarassed that I had him dressed so inappropriately, so I put a hat on him. True story folks.

Now, it takes me forty minutes to get the kids fed and out the door if: nobody takes a bath or shower, I eat standing up, and Eleanor isn't hungry. Sigh.

This is a picture of Ernest at Sam's Club.

You are one cute kid in that little hat of yours.

He is also wearing: a onesie, a long sleeved shirt, thick socks, winter coat on the side, and a one piece fleece outfit.

And by golly, Sam's Club shopping carts ROCK! Two kids in the front, come on!

This is the set up for "going outside to play".

The ensemble includes: onesie, thick socks, sweatshirt, pants, fleece hooded one piece outfit, coat, mittens, and the tail end of mom's sanity.

Plus a diaper change.

Why yes I've been to Africa

2011-03-24T21:29:00.000-07:00

The year: 2004. I was living in eastern Washington off the Puget Sound (like, in the movie Twilight? Yes.) I had a friend who wanted to stop by Applebee's and wish some dude happy birthday. We get there and there's a long table of guys hanging out for said dude's birthday. I make my way to the end, where there was one seat left. I don't remember what we were talking about before, but this big guy named Ken mentions he's going to Africa on a missions trip. His comment caught my attention. Africa? I've always wanted to go there. There's just something about it. If you know what I mean, then you know what I mean. His group was still forming and he said "You should come to one of our meetings and check it out." Instantly, I remember thinking "I'm going to Africa."

Months go by and we are doing fundraiser after fundraiser. Sending out letters for donations. Getting word out that we were needing help getting there. Funny thing is, I remember going to these missions meetings hungover. Talk about a double. faced. life.

No joke.

There were many ducks we had to get into a row before we could even leave the country. Passports, paperwork, proof of this that and the next. And many immunizations.

My story about the immunizations: I needed a typhoid fever vaccine. At that time, they were only available for one hour on Wednesday mornings. I waited until the last Wednesday before we left to get it. I needed a TB vaccine. They stick a needle in you and make a bump. Come back in three days and if they bump is gone, you pass! I had to take it twice because I forgot to go in to have the bump checked. Let's just say, the devil (lower cased on purpose thankyouverymuch) didn't want me on that plane. The blessing in it was, however, all of my immunizations were covered by my insurance. Wow.

I eventually get my act together and make it to Africa. It was completely life changing not only because "Oh wow, I've been to Africa and it so National Geographic" but because serving others changes a person. It's Africa, they wear flattened coke bottles with strings on their feet as flip-flops!

Enough of the hardcoreness (yes, it's a word), on with the cool pictures!

Bush pig hunt!

Some hunters went and shot a wild pig out in the middle of nowhere (as in, walked through a desert, a swamp with snakes, and a jungle to get to a wild pig that made Pumba look like a poodle) and I got to carry the gun and pick flowers. I'd never even touched a gun before until this moment. Was the safety on? Was it loaded? I have no idea. If it works for them, it works for me. Crazy!

Monkey!

This little guy tastes like chicken. They tied his tail around his neck then carried him on the back of a motorbike to get him to us. Chicken, people! Monkey tastes like chicken!

Our empty truck that we filled with fence posts.

Our filled truck. To the right, you can see the pile of fence posts we left behind after the truck was full.

Digging Fences

One of our jobs was to dig holes to put up a fence. Here's how it's done:

1. It's a two man job.

2. "Lucky" gets to use a pick to dig up the dirt.

3. "Fool" lays on the ground and digs out said dirt using bare hands.

4. Communication is key.

5.You and your partner take turns being Lucky and Fool.

Once, when I was just about to put my hands down in the dirt, a village girl pulled my hand back and said something in a panicky voice. No bueno, ese. Whatever homegirl takes seriously, I most definitely will too. Turns out it was a centipede that proved to contain a nasty toxic bite.

Where's the Orkin man when you need him?

In the end, we were able to put up hundreds of fence posts and complete the project.

Crystal's Baptism:

On our way to Africa, I told Ken I wanted to be Baptized sometime in the future. Maybe when we get back, or the next time our Pastor does a baptism. Ken said "Well, why not just get baptized in Africa? There's a river." (Upstream, there were piranhas. We are, thank the LORD, not upstream enough from the ocean and the water was too salty for them).

I had been baptized before when I was kid and received Christ into my heart and dedicated my life to the Lord. Since that moment I've rededicated my life about five or six times since! I'm glad this past time stuck. However, I wanted to tell the world "Hey! I'm a new creation! Out with the old in with the new!"

Freshly dunked.

See the smile? I was so happy. That's the smile of gal who is washed clean. Almost like you just took a bath in Scope and you have that ahhhhhhhh feeling all over.

Reading the Bible to a village boy. He didn't speak English.

Crystal's FIRST EVER COMMUNION:

I had never understood what the big deal was with communion. What's with Jesus' last supper that we have redo it one Sunday a month? And why didn't Jesus have shrimp alfredo and Oriental Chicken Salad instead of a stale saltine and some watered down box wine? Or at least some chocolate?

Lord, how I appreciate communion now. Sacred is the tip of the iceberg.

Vita-huh?

2011-03-22T20:26:00.000-07:00

I am up to five vitamins per day. FIVE. I had to do some research on vitamins because while, yes, it is wise to ingest vitamins, I'm also supporting a whole other form of life (ie: Eleanor) so I had to double check if I needed to up or down my doses. That said, this is what I'm taking for a "lactating female ages 18-50". Got it? Here we go.

D3- 400IU from my prenatal, 1000IU from a softgel. My prefrence is a softgel form because I feel like they break down easier in the stomach and more of that vitamin goodness is absorbed instead of ending up in the sewer. I recently read that if pregnant or lactating, 4000IU should be taken. Hopefully I'm getting the rest in the form of food. And sun. I'm pretty pasty this time of year, so maybe not the sun.

Fennel- simply put, it's good for Eleanor's belly and keeps her from getting gassy. I am not willing to go a day off of it to test to see if it's working or not. All I know is, she isn't gassy. Sold!

Fish Oil- My mom is borderline diabetic, on cholesterol and blood pressure meds. People in my family have had strokes. I like red meat. Houston we have a problem. Fish oil to the rescue! Doododoodoooo!!!! 300mg per day of DHA is what I'm rooting for, not necessarily Omega-3 fatty acids. There is a difference but it involves a lot of big words and it's past my bedtime so I'm not going there. My prenatal vitamin has scored a zero in the DHA section, so I take 300mg in a softgel form. If you are burping tuna after taking fish oil, store your bottle in the freezer and take the pills frozen. Wha-bam, no more fish breath.

B12- Don't take your B12 with an antacid (Tums, Mylanta, etc) because it will inhibit it's absorption! Also, put the pill UNDER YOUR TONGUE before swallowing! My mom mentioned my aunt takes B12 "for energy". If all I need to do is take a simple $4/bottle pill for some added oomph to my day, sign me up. Sure enough, signs of a B12 deficency are memory loss, fatigue, and depression. These are also the signs of an overworked underpaid mother of three young children. I started taking B12 just in the last week and haven't noticed any amazing differences in my energy levels but only time will tell. One pill = 500mg and the bottle recommends taking one to three a day. I'm just getting started so one a day is good enough for me.

Prenatal- generic and boring. I'd love to try Supermom vitamins but they are a bit out of my $4/bottle budget.

One last thing, I have a sneaking suspesion that my thyroid has gone caput.

Low thyroid levels (hypothyroid)

Moms who are hypothyroid have low thyroid hormone levels and elevated TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) levels. Symptoms include cold intolerance, weight gain, dry skin, thinning hair, poor appetite, fatigue, depression and reduced milk supply.

This was a simple copy and paste from the website KellyMom.

Here is my hypothyroid reasoning

*Kendall is tired finding my hair all over the place, but it could be stress and post baby hormones.

*I'm cold but, hello, I live in Minnesota.

*My scale is my enemy.

*I'm going through moisturizer like nuts but I also have the heat running.

*I'm tired but I have three small children.

*One of the reasons I quit nursing Ernest was my milk was dwindling, although I was also pregnant with Eleanor at the same time. (Tandem nursers, unite!)

Let's see what happens, let the adventure continue!

My husband's driving standards

2011-03-20T18:53:00.000-07:00

We have a new roundabout in town. From what I've heard, nobody in our quaint little town was very excited for this new feature to our infrastructure, but it came in with a bang. Kendall says roundabouts are mostly used in Europe but I wonder if he gets that European Vacation.

A few weeks ago, on our way to my sister-in-law's house, we were able to try out the new roundabout. The one we spent all summer watch being constructed. Ethan was excited and apparently so was Kendall. We enter the ring of fire and Kendall layed. on. the. horn. Like, one big honk the whole time we were in it.

me: What are you doing! You're going to get us in trouble! What if a cop sees us? This is so embarassing.

Kendall: What? I want be sure people see us. They don't all know to yield.

Ethan was in the back laughing the whole time, and Kendall had a big stinkin' grin on his face.

A few days later we went through three of those bad boys in place at a nearby Walmart, and once again, Kendall layed. on. the. horn.

me:KENDALL! This is so embarassing! We're going to get in trouble!

Kendall: People need to be sure and see me. Plus we have the rightaway. It's a matter of safety.

Are all men like this? The whole time he's honking the horn and has a big grin while I'm sinking lower into my seat. We were all laughing, especially the boys. Ernest even said "Weeeeeee!"
Today's fiasco-
It's a Sunday and we needed to go to the ATM while in the 'big town'. Our driver's side window has a broken motor and needs some repair, so we don't use it. As a matter of fact, right now there is tape on it holding it up. We keep it classy.

Instead of driving up to the drive through, opening in the door to use the ATM, then carrying on our merry way, what does he do? HE TURNS AROUND IN THE DRIVE THROUGH AND BACKS UP TO THE ATM.

I cannot make this stuff up folks.

me: You're going to get us arrested! Isn't this illegal? Why can't you be normal! YOU ARE GOING TO HIT THE WALL!!!!!!!!

Kendall: Pipe down woman, I've backed bigger trucks up into smaller spaces.

Then, he rolls down my window from his side, asks for a $20, pulls forward to turn around then we drive off.

Once again, that mischeveous stinkin' grin on his face.

Watch out for the minivan with the 'Don't Mess With Texas' bumper sticker on it.

Three in diapers

2011-03-14T18:49:00.000-07:00

When Ethan was a toddler I was the mom who would look at the mom's with three or *gasp* four children and say "I could never do that." "How do you handle all three of them at the grocery store?" "How do you have room for them?" "I would have to have at least four years between kids if I ever even think about having another child."

All the while God is rolling on the floor laughing His butt off at this chick who thinks she's in charge. Clearly, homeboy upstairs has a different plan.

At night, we have three in diapers. Good-nites if you want a more technical term. But three. Three.

That chick who was uncertain on having even two children total has three in underwear that go in the garbage the next day.

I cannot believe it.

A four year old who will be five in May

A twenty month old who will be two in June.

And an almost five month old who will be one in October.

There's a miscarriage in there as well, so we'd have a four, two, one, and a newborn.

This is why my kids go to bed so early. This is also the reason I have cut out all evening commitments during this season in my life. I'm an early bird who's brain ceases to work past eight at night. That said, my children are in bed by seven. Yeah, you heard me, seven. Sometimes earlier and maybe Ethan can stay up later. Maybe. I'm tired. I give give give all day long, and I'm tired. I'm not complaining, but I do want to relay the message that it does take a toll on a woman's brain capacity.

Sorry if you didn't get a birthday card or if the Christmas cards I sent out were from 2009 and Ethan's a toddler in the picture. Whatever. Be glad you get what you get. I'm going to bed.

*Note: while typing this, Ethan stuck his head out of of the bedroom door and said "Mom, just to let you know, I'm taking care of Eleanor." He's probably saying shshshshsh to her and bouncing her in her bouncy chair. God bless that boy.

Ernest and I January 2010, my Texas homestead

SassyFrazz Giveaway- VeggieTales DVD for Easter!

2011-03-10T18:35:00.000-08:00

VeggieTales is one of the small amount of movies/shows I'll let Ethan watch. It has harmless vegetables and wonderful moral stories. 321 Penguins is actually our families favorite cartoon. They are all under the "Big Idea" productions umbrella.

My friend Sarah over at SassyFrazz is giving away Big Idea's newest dvd. Enter to win it!

Frozen Falls before and after

2011-03-10T18:09:00.000-08:00

Audra has some sort of program on her computer called "lightroom". If I were super cool and tech savy I would know what she is talking about. Either way, here are the pictures.

Minnehaha Falls- BEFORE

Minnehaha Falls- AFTER

I want to go put on an extra pair of socks when looking at these pictures. Brrrr

Frozen Minnehaha Falls

2011-03-08T19:35:00.000-08:00

"Mom, are we on the blue line?" This is the all important question coming from the backseat four year old copilot. Whenever we travel anywhere beyond Walmart, Ethan gets his very own printed out map from mapquest showing we are 'a' and we are traveling to 'b'. That way I can reply with "No, we are still moving down the paper".

On our way to see Disney on Ice, we decided that we'd make a day trip of it and see Minnehaha Falls frozen over. The temperatures that day were in the low 30's so it wasn't too cold out for a brisk walk. The steps leading down to the falls were gated off because nobody wants to shovel five stories of steps for the tourists these days. It was fine because I had Eleanor in my Sleepy Wrap under my coat with two little boys itching to make a run for it after the hour and a half drive down to the falls.

I am a 'falls' lover. If you ever see a minivan half on the road half in the ditch with some crazy lady taking pictures of water trickling out of the sides of a mountain with a almost crazed look in her eye, that would be me.

Hey, at least I'm willing to admit it.

Let's start with Cheeks McGoo over here.

Here is a picture of her in post-milk coma.

She is wearing: a onesie, fleece pants, fleece shirt, fleece coat, alpaca wool shoes, and a hat. After being bundled and snuggled to me, we kept each other mighty warm.

Brotherly love. Ethan is instructed to hold Ernest's hand whenever we are a.) in a parking lot or b.) walking on ice and mom's hands are full. That day we did both and they both saved each other from slipping.

Win win baby.

On the other side of this wall there is a mega drop because the river runs underneath this bridge

(aka: "inquisitive slippery toddler death pit").

"Hold on to him!"

The guys.

The boys doesn't stick around me too much whenever dad's around. That's okay, us girls like to have our own time together thankyouverymuch.

The falls are beside Ethan's head. There is a mega drop beyond that fence.

See my red glove holding Ernest's head. If I can't look directly at him, I'm going to hold him by the head to make sure he doesn't try to go all Houdini on me. (Note: I still can't believe I have three kids. Wow.)

Throwing snowballs over the sides. Those rocks are great barriers if there is no snow for anyone to step up that brings them up to if not higher than the top of them.

Minnehaha Falls in early March.

Isn't it gorgeous? The puffy part is the actual falls. The icicles are just leftovers that froze. I'm sure there's a super cool technical term for it but I'm not thoroughly educated in the field of "frozen water fall". Give me a few more winters out here and I'm sure I'll have a masters in it.

Infantino Diaper Bag Giveaway

2011-03-08T14:57:00.000-08:00

I know you know someone who could use a cute new diaper bag. Sassyfrazz is giving one away! AND it's an Infantino brand, which is way better than the bags given at the hospital.

They don't giveaway diaper bags at hospitals anymore? Ok, well that's one of the highlights of having a kid is all the free goods the hospitals give you!

The Homeschool Mother's Journal 3/7

2011-03-07T20:46:00.000-08:00

In my life this week... focusing on arising early to start my day with a skip. It's good to workout the body and spirit before daybreak.

In our homeschool this week... consistanly work on the violin with Ethan, continue our kindergarten books, playdoh and spend time outdoors.

Places we're going and people we're seeing... Mothers of Preschoolers on Tuesday. Catching up with my beautiful friends Friday night for Ladies Night Out. Homeschool Co-op on Friday morning- yes!

My favorite thing this week was... a birthday party for a sweet little four year old. Time spent together as a family is absolutely priceless and hands down my number one priority. Plus Ethan saying he wants to be married to me. Swoon...

What's working/not working for us... workbooks are coming a long nicely to enhance penmanship. I'm big on "nice handwriting" as a goal for my children.

Homeschool questions/thoughts I have... I'm really wondering if I should go ahead with signing up for Starfall. This website has helped immensely with his counting and phonics skills. The kid can can count in 10's up to 100.

From The Homeschool Chick.

Pictures from Disney on Ice

2011-03-07T19:16:00.000-08:00

Waiting for the show to start. This is at 6:30 at night, we were having the boys lay low and not walk around or exert too much energy so they could make it through the show.

Clap Ernest! He was an active participant.

This smile says it all. He had such a wonderful time.

Nothing hotter than a man holding two babies. Ooh lala!

Ok, this man's getting annoyed that his wife keeps taking pictures of him holding two babies.

But I love it!

Enjoying the show. I'm so glad I ented this contest EIGHT times to win these tickets.

Worth every second.

Eleanor slept for about an house in my Sleep Wrap, then woke up about half way through the show. She did exceptionally well and didn't get cranky until the grand final.

We made it! 9:00 at night and everyone's tired but so happy. This is a picture of our whole family (infact, I think it's the first picture of all five of us including Eleanor!) with the ice rink and stage behind us.

Shout out to SassyFrazz for hosting the give away.

I'll be married to you

2011-03-05T22:22:00.000-08:00

"Momma, when I grow up big, I'm gonna be married to you."

"But I'm married to daddy. God will let you marry a nice, sweet girl. She's going to have a heart for God and love you so much. Then we'll both be married."

"Oh, but I'll still buy you some flowers. Okay?"

"Okay."

Thank you Ethan for making momma cry in the middle of Walmart.

Two year old Ethan wanting 'up'

Build it and they will come

2011-02-25T18:39:00.000-08:00

I hope this pertains to tomatoes.

I have decided there is a need for a vegetable garden in my life. Our family eats pretty healthy considering what all is available in a box. The only 'boxed meals' we have are macaroni and cheese. Other than that, everything is cooked and assembled out of love. Awww.

Ethan and Ernest can already eat their fair share of food in this home and that whole "at age one they slow down, then it picks back up in a few years" eatting method must have skipped over my womb because these kids can eat from the get go.

Lord have mercy when I have two teenage boys to feed.

With that said, I need a garden. I've never been one to have a green thumb. My mom used to throw out watermelon, cantaloupe, jalapeno, and tomato seeds in a pile of dirt alongside our house. Sometimes stuff would grow, sometimes it wouldn't. However, coming from deep south Texas, we had a constant supply of grapefruit, figs, pecan, papaya, oranges, and a previous grapefruit tree that was burned down and rebuilt itself as a "sour fruit tree". So sour, infact, those nasty crackles wouldn't even touch it. This is the extent of my gardening capabilities.

I'm not worried about insecticides on plants but that stuff can't be good for you. Even if you do use cool scrubbing brushes and peel the skins, doesn't that stuff soak in? Like how our skin soaks in moisturizers? I'm a girl. This is how I relate.

And now gas is $3.49/gallon. I can totally see banana's going over the $1/pound mark soon, and banana's are still the cheapest thing out there! All that food needs to be shipped, and you know Dole doesn't feel like taking the hit. Of course they'll pass it on to their consumers. Which is me. And you.

I need a plan. So far, I'm collecting every gallon milk, cottage cheese, and sour cream container I can. I plan on starting my seeds off in these little containers, then transfering them as they grow. I'm thinking of using totes, like the kind you see at Walmart to store Christmas ornaments in. Let's just say I'm still in the research stages.

Since I know know nothing of my surroundings, I have no idea what type of soil is in Minnesota (Texas is a clay like mixture, lots of sand since we are on the coast). I don't know what really grows in Minnesota. I do know I haven't seen any grapefruit trees. The one thing I had going for me!

Also, there is a lack of sunlight and space. We live in a teeny apartment with no. real. windows. I repeat- no. real. windows. We have several windows of that cubed-glass-stuff that lets in light but nobody can look in and see me naked. (Not that I walk around naked, but if I ever chose to walk around naked I'd have that option due to the cubed-glass-stuff). And there is one window that pops out in the actual bedroom part of the apartment. There's a fancy name for it, but the only thing you can see out that window is dirt because it leads to a hole in the ground to escape from incase of an emergency. See what I'm dealing with here, people? Madness.

If you have any great ideas, websites, or techniques, send them my way. Gardening for Dummies is starting to look like a good read.

Minivan 0, Snow 1

2011-02-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

Poor poor minivan. You're sweet two wheel drive just wasn't up to our snow fall from yesterday. And you said "To heck with this!" and threw in the towel. I don't blame you.

On my way to pick up a friend before MOPS today, I turned either too slowly or too quickly, missed the slimly plowed alleyway to my friends house, and went right into a snow drift. The minivan was stuck and no amount of "reverse, forward, reverse, forward, reverse, forward" motion was going to free her. It's a good thing I was one house away so I told Ethan to stay in the car, then ran over to her house. Sadly enough, I was wearing sneakers, no hat, and no gloves because "it's not like I'm going to be outside or anything, I'm just driving to church". Tsk tsk, lesson learned.

Two teenagers tried to push me out while in reverse. Nada. Not even a budge. A sweet (cough, older) neighbor stopped by and asked if we needed to be dug out. Yes. Yes we do. This is just pathetic. So the sweet (cough, older) neighbor starts digging us out using a wide snow shovel while we look on helplessly. I wouldn't even know where to begin if I were asked to do it. The snow behind the tires, right? Or the deepest snow? Or the snow behind the back tires? What about the front of the tires, do I rock the car forwards and backwards? Pathetic.

This is the exact reason why I have a "Don't Mess With Texas" bumper sticker on my minivan. I might have a Minnesota license plate but this driver is southern, especially in the winter.

My friend drove her car out to into the alley to nudge the minivan back into the street, but doing so would have caused hood damage because the nose was down deep. Sigh.

Finally, the sweet (cough, older) neighbor retrieved her husband and between her, the husband, my friend, and two teenagers, they were able to push the minivan backwards into the street while I gassed it in reverse.

Who's ready for June?

Simple Woman's Daybook 2/20/2011

2011-02-20T21:08:00.000-08:00

Outside my window: snow! And I hear those rumbling snow plows fly by every few hours.
I am thinking... about how that Neti pot worked on my sinuses.
I am thankful for... heat! Especially here in Minnesota. There are only so many blankets you can put on before it just gets to be too cumbersome to move around.
From the kitchen... Kendall making a late night porkchop. Mmmm, meat. We are definitly a carnivorous family.
I am wearing... courdoroy pants, blue 3/4 length shirt, and wool socks. This is what I wore to church today since I was in the nursery with TEN babies. I called in the 'mama troops' to help out.
I am remembering... to take my fennel to avoid colic in Eleanor! I think she appreciates it.

I am going... nowhere tomorrow. Let's bake!
I am reading...Ohhhhh, so excited! I'm reading Large Family Logistics! LOVE IT!!!!
I am hoping... for some snuggles before Kendall goes to bed. I love that man.
I am hearing... sizzling porkchops and a snoring baby. Sweet sweet baby sounds.
Pondering these words... "The grocery store was packed today. There were three people in line before me and three people in line after me."- Kendall. Compared to the Walmarts in Texas, that would be a quick trip.
Around the house...the ill effects of my nap today. Thank you Kendall for feeding, bathing, and playing with the boys. I'd much rather have him spend quality time with the kids on the weekend than clean up beans and sippy cups.
On my mind... I hope we get a washer and drier in the next few weeks! Lord willing, all we would need is a hook up installed and the man who owns the house we rent from is a plumber. Plus Kendall's sister is giving us her old washer and drier. The drier needs a new thingamajig that Kendall said he could order from Sears. Amen and amen.
Noticing that... I'm really started to enjoy my blog. I'm glad my readers are enjoying my blog too!

One of my favorite things... being creative. I'm so glad I'm getting to use my creative juices as the main Publicity guru for my MOPS group. Plus, this blog has been a great creative outlet for me. Now if I could just get some baby books scrapbooked..
A few plans for the rest of the week: MOP Spa Day on Tuesday, Bible Study Thursday, love on this family of mine every day

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

And her aunt's pretty stinkin' cute.

Simple Woman's Daybook.

Spiral Slicer giveaway- Bring on the curly fries!

2011-02-20T20:39:00.000-08:00

You know curly fries are fun, so let's make some!!

InAShoe is hosting a giveaway of a spiral slicer. I'm thinking fun apple curlies and potato curls. Mmmmm, potato....

Disney Princesses On Ice

2011-02-20T03:59:00.001-08:00

SassyFrazz is giving away a family four pack to see Disney on Ice in March. The boys would get a kick out of seeing people spin and jump around on ice, so I entered to win some tickets.

Go there to enter, wear a tutu and lipstick while you do it! ;)

Apple Valley Natural Soap- scents galore!

2011-02-20T03:27:00.000-08:00

Remember when I won that soap giveaway a few days ago? It was difficult choosing just three because the product description of each soap sounds amazingly appealing. After reading a little I'd think "Ooooh I could use that!", "Wow that sounds refreshing!", and "They can make soap that does that?"

Fancy stuff here people. This ain't your grandma's Irish Spring.

After giving it a well thought out decision, I went with the following (note: I just copied and pasted the products name and description right off the Premium Shampoo and Body Bars section of their website )

MAN Shampoo and Body Bar-

This bar is for men, so we’ll get straight to the point. One big grizzly bar. Dual purpose: body and hair. Lots of lather. Invigorating scent. Strong ingredients that deodorize. No specks of stuff in it. Just pure and natural MAN bar. Get the job done.

Herbal Emu Shampoo and Body Bar-

Formulated for extremely dry hair types, our Herbal Emu bar is full of ingredients that will infuse hair and skin with moisture. This bar is generously enriched with 20% shea nut butter, nourishing wheat germ oil, silky sweet almond oil, hair and skin-loving jojoba oil and finally, our key ingredient: thick and luxurious emu oil, well known for its multitudinous benefits for hair and skin. We’ve also added hydrolyzed wheat protein for strengthening the hair follicle and shaft as well as a delightful, herbal, minty essential oil blend of white thyme, clary sage, spearmint and rosemary…all known for their ability to treat gray hair symptoms. Whether you have graying hair or simply need a super moisturizing treatment for dry, damaged hair and skin, this bar might be for you!

Bella Rose Shampoo and Body Bar-

This delicate, floral scented bar celebrates femininity with flair! Moisturizing mango butter and rich olive, wheat germ, avocado and jojoba oils pack this bar with emollient, conditioning power, while pink kaolin clay and rose hips cleanse toxins from the skin and scalp leaving you with a clean, healthy head of beautiful, easy to manage hair and a silky body softly scented with lovely rose, jasmine and sandalwood essential oils. One customer’s husband said this scent was the perfect aphrodisiac!

Ohhhhhhh Betsy, it's like Christmas over here... I waited one day after placing my order and bam my soap arrived via USPS mail. Fast product delivery = happy me! The box alone had amazing scents rising from it. I instantly picked up on the minty-ness from within. In fact, my desk still has a mint aroma around it. That must have been some good mint...

The package was wrapped every-so-daintily in a clear gift bag and tied with three different colored twine. (If I only had a working cotton-pickin' camera. grrrr). I immediately unwrapped it and gave my husband his "Man Soap". I said "Smell this! Oh my gosh this smells like how a man is supposed to smell!"

Note: I like men to smell like men. Think-

knight-in-shining-armor x Tom-Cruise-in-his-Top-Gun-days + a-dash-of-The-Brawny-Man = man smell.

knight in shining armor

Tom Cruise aka: Maverick

The Brawny Man

The way men should smell.

Got it?

Anywho- the first thing Kendall says is "It smells like Old Spice." then he promptly puts it into the shower. He is currently on an Old Spice kick, utilizing not only their after shave but the deodorant and body gel as well. Whoa, this guy likes his Old Spice.

Next is my Emu soap- hello minty mama! This is the bad boy I could smell from the mailbox. What sold me on this one was the claim: "Whether you have graying hair or simply need a super moisturizing treatment for dry, damaged hair and skin, this bar might be for you!"

Running an electric heater all day every day isn't only hard on your sinuses, it's hard on your skin and hair as well. Moisturizer is my best friend. I also tend to have skin on the drier side (read: Sahara Desert skin). Plus all the natural extracts and oils sounded pretty nifty too.

I try really hard to consume things in their most natural state. The only boxed meal in this house is macaroni and cheese and even then it's one of those meals used in a 'break seal in the case of emergency need of consumption' type of moments. You know, like when it's 1:30, all three children have low blood sugar, I need a nap, and for cryin' out loud who pooped? kind of moments. Being able read every single ingredient in this soap was a major bonus in having good confidence there wasn't anything in it that gave a mouse three heads in some lab factory.

The last soap is my Rose soap that simply smells like a sweet bouquet of roses. Fresh, spring, floral, subtle, feminine. These are all words to describe this bar. I believe it is going to be my Saturday Only soap and not to be used daily, only when I know I'll be around Kendall. I like smelling a girl around him instead of Dawn dish soap with a touch of Clorox. The poor guy sometimes needs to be reminded that I am in-fact a girl and not the cleaning lady so smelling like one couldn't hurt.

And about actually using the soap-

I have been using the Emu soap as a moisturizer on my face and elbows. My poor elbows are so dry that my sweaters stick to them, ew! I lather the soap between my hands and then rub the minty bubbles on the driest spots. This far into winter, everything is dried out from being indoors and around drying heaters. It's like taking a bath in lotion, it feels so good! Everything about this soap screams- rich moisturizer!

The best.

Move over Irish Spring, soft and smooth skin here I come!

For more information on these soaps, the website for this small family owned company is linked here:

Apple Valley Natural Soap

Ernest gets a present

2011-02-18T20:02:00.000-08:00

My camera has taken a poop and is no longer in working condition. I have three, THREE, camera's lined up on the desk that do not work or do not have batteries.

The battery-less camera's are so pitiful I don't even want to purchase the batteries to make them work. Oh the insanity.

So we get to see past pictures of my kids! Squeal!

Aunt Heather is always good for fun surprises in the mail. This is her Valentine's day package for Ernest.

Mom, I have no small motor skills. A little help over here?

A bib! It's Eleanors. Ernest got candy. But it's such a cute bib and, trust me, the boy could always use a bib. Happy second Valentine's day!

Mmmmm, candy candy candy candy. I love you Aunt Heather!

You give me the treats mom refuses to buy.

Baby Eleanor slept the whold time. Look at all of that sweetness! I could just dip you in my coffee!

Won't you be my neighbor?

2011-02-18T13:55:00.000-08:00

Whoa.

I had an overwhelming response to my previous post. Facebook, yahoo, comments, private messages, everything short of an ad in the newspaper. People I didn't even know could give a whoop about me actually read my stuff? And left comments?

So, in response to the response about my response (got it?), I'm going to go out on a limb with a request:

Would you pretty please click the "follow" button on the right side of the page? It shows ten people and if my math is correct (and it very well could be since I had a cup of coffee in the last four hours) there are much more than ten faithful followers.

Yes you have to sign up and yada yada yada, but then that's the end and you never have to mess around with it ever again. Well... as far as I know. And I don't know much about the whole 'blogosphere'. But it is with great confidence that it'd be the last time you'd have to deal with signing up for google stuff again.

I'm trying ok? And I hear the baby crying. And we've seen this Word Girl five times already. And where's Ernests diaper?

I gotta go, click "follow"!!!!

God Allows U-Turns

2011-02-17T20:28:00.000-08:00

I don't remember the exact date or time that I recommitted my life to Christ. All I know is, Ethan was born and I hadn't moved to Minnesota yet.

Life was still turned upside down, baby boy and all. I was "with Kendall" because he was my kids dad. I was forcing my self to keep up with Kendall, to stick with him. I still wanted to go back to the bars. I still didn't want to be in a "commitment" relationship. My divorce form my first husband had been finalized, but it wasn't final in my heart.

Now I'm a single mom, living with my parents. My son's dad lives in Minnesota, I live in Texas. My ex is in Virginia. I'm broke. No education. I have a newborn. Now what? Who's going to want this baggage? Want to sum up my life? Two words: messed up.

I remember I had Ethan with me as I drove by my old church that I went to for Vacation Bible School and Youth group as a kid. No, I didn't grow up "in the church", but I had grown close to some of their members over the few time's I had attended that church. What are the odds that anyone there would recognize me. If they heard my story would they be disappointed in me? Would they smile with sympathy?

I pulled into their parking lot, sighed, and said "Okay God, let's talk."

I remembered where their nursery was, so I dropped off Ethan and headed into their service. I just so happened to be driving by on a Sunday night right before their evening service started. Perfect timing. Thanks God.

I went to the balcony because it's usually vacant. I remember scanning it to see where to sit and I actually recognized an old friend from Youth group! Wow, what are the odds? Thanks God. She recognized me and invited me to sit with her. I think I was on the verge of tears and just said something along the lines of "I just want to go back to church."

Then the service started.

They had always had an amazing choir, they are Southern Baptist after all. Announcements. Soloist sings. "You may be seated."

"Whatever, I'm here to see what you have. What do you have to offer me? How are you going to help me? I'm here seeking something, anything, to change this road I'm on. I know I have dug my ditch and, let me tell you, I'm laying down in it. Face down. Tell me what I have to do, okay? Whatever, as long as I get it together again."

There was nothing less than a tornado of emotions and thoughts in my head until the pastor started to speak.

And my eyes were opened.

I don't remember much about the sermon except for the part about the book. Towards the end, he said (written in the way I remember it, thankyouverymuch) :

"Every one's life is like a book. You're writing a book, every breath you take is written in the book. And things are going good. Then, out of nowhere, you stumble. A roadblock appears. And in your book, the ink is spilled. It smears everywhere. Your book is a disaster. It's a complete mess! But you keep on writing, because you're still breathing. The ink has spilled pretty badly and has saturated the pages, so for many, sometimes chapters worth, of pages are destroyed and ruined. But you keep writing. You're still breathing. Soon, the ink smears are getting lighter. As you keep writing your book, the ink gets lighter and lighter with each page turn. Sometimes it feels like it's taking an eternity, but your pages are becoming cleaner. Prettier. Things are looking up again. If you keep writing your book, and stick with it, you will be able to reach a point where the pages are clean again. But you must keep writing the book. Stick with life, and the Lord, and He'll give you the strength to keep writing your book."

I remember listening to him speak. I also remember holding back sobs and thinking, "Lord! I really really want to get to some clean pages. This sucks, I'm not doing this whole life thing right. What the heck happened? Get me back to where I belong!"

At the end of the sermon there was an alter call. The kind of alter call where if you want live your life for the Lord, then get your butt down there and give your heart to the Lord already! The pastor kept saying "If you have made a decision to give your heart to the Lord tonight, then make it public! We'd love to pray with you!" But I knew that wasn't me. I was already a Christian. Just a really messed up one. There's a difference.

Then he said "I know there are still people who need to come down here. If you need to rededicate your life to Christ then come down here and we'll pray with you."

Bingo.

I turned to my friend and said "Will you come down there with me?"

She didn't even say anything, just nodded her head. I grabbed her hand and about pulled the poor girl down the stairs.

We reached the front and an older gentleman in a suit from the late 80's met us there. I said "I want to rededicate my life to Christ." He put his hand on my shoulder and said "Well, God always allow u-turns."

AMEN! I have clung, clung people, to those words. God does allow u-turns.

The rest is history. It has been a white knuckled, bloodied knees, cry-yourself-to-sleep adventure from there on. The peace, however, makes it worth it.

I do feel bad for those bad choices I made. Man oh man do I ever. People got hurt because of my stinking thinking. Good people got hurt in the midst of it all. I do feel bad for it all. And if you are reading this post, I'm so so so sorry. I was wrong. All of my actions "back in the day" were so selfish and unnecessary. I have carried those hurts for many years. And I've had to purposely give them to the Lord, repeatedly.

At this point in my life, I'm still working through them. The Devil likes to dangle those memories in my face and tell me 'I'm no good' and 'I still have it in me to act like that'. And day after day, I give them all to the Lord.

Remind me, Lord, that I am forgiven. Use this testimony for good, let it be a help an encouragement for those out there in the world that I encounter. Let me give hope to those out there who could use some hope. Let me be the salt of the earth like you have asked of me.

I am no longer ashamed. I'm a woman on fire for the Lord. A gal who wants to tell the world "Hey, I know what it's like. Been there. Done that. And those scars will fade but they never go away. I'll show you where to get some peace."

Inorder to be Merrier, you must first become a Mohr

2011-02-14T20:08:00.000-08:00

How "I" became "us".

The night Kendall proposed. Apparently I had never heard of 'sunlight' or 'bronzer' in this picture. He had always had a goatee, but that night he shaved clean. His mother 'volunteered' to watch Ethan so we could have a dinner by ourselves. We sat by the fireplace and there were fresh purple flowers waiting for us on the table. I shoulda known he was up to something. Our dinner was at Carlsona Beach Supper Club (no plastic silverware and paper napkins at this fancy resort!).

Sad to say, it did burn down. I'll always remember it.

Our engagement picture!

Pure and simple; just two people in love.

His mother took this picture of us on their property up in northern Minnesota.

It was Christmas eve.

Our first kiss as husband and wife. At the end of his vows he said "meow". His mother even got it on tape.

A little Lutheran church up north. I had one friend that flew out from Washington state to be my maid of honor. Everyone who attended was from his side of the family, none of my family was able to make it. My parents were on speaker phone using my cell phone that I held in my bouquet.

Ethan. I now remember he did have Ernest's light hair color as a toddler! He was one year and one month old when we got married.

My maid of honor, Melissa. Isn't she gorgeous? She caught the red eye to fly in and was at work on Monday morning, what a trooper. She also wore cowboy boots and daisy dukes to the rehersal.

I love this girl.

Our wedding pictures were taken on a nearby beach, between the church and reception hall. Gorgeous day in June, stunning in every way.

I've always had a thing for guns.

Our photographer was a complete blessing. He shot our wedding at nearly a fraction of the cost he charges because our original photographer fell through. He and his wife stayed and ate at the reception, she was expecting their second child at the time.

And our honeymoon.

Las Vegas.

I was pregnant, nauseated, tired, and didn't want to be there.

But it was fun to get out and see the country. Plus Kendall let me have the window seat, something he has reminded of a few times since then.

Thanks honey. I love you, too.

Eleanor learns how to read

2011-02-14T19:28:00.000-08:00

Ethan's love for his sister never ceases to amaze me. Let's read her a book!

A posed shot. Because everyone like a forced and/or cheesy grin. Thanks guys.

Pointing to the pictures. This book even had a musical chip that played classical music everytime the book was opened.

Putting baby to sleep. Reading is such hard work at a young age.

Thank you, Ethan for going over "Reading 101" with Eleanor at three months old.

Raising Homemakers Book GIVE AWAY

2011-02-14T19:07:00.000-08:00

Raising Homemakers is hosting a book giveaway. In this house, there is no such thing as 'too many books'. Let me tell ya, it'd be nice to read something other than Brown Bear Brown Bear.

Never give up, Never surrender!

2011-02-12T19:17:00.000-08:00

Guess WHAT!

I won a giveaway at Life in a Shoe! Kim has eight girls and TWO boys. God bless her, can you imagine how much shampoo she goes through?

She hosted a soap giveaway and I won! I try to enter giveaways to blogs as much as possible because it costs nothing but maybe four minutes of your time, plus I'm sure it feels good to see people entering your giveaways. I have been reading her blog for at least three years, I know it's been since Ethan's was an infant.

I feel like a million bucks.

It's totally the little things in life that matter. :)

Just keepin' it real.

Winterfest 2011

2011-02-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

Saturday we were able to enjoy Winterfest, an outdoor event at our local wildlife refuge. It took about 45 minutes to get everyone ready- read: changed diapers, layered clothes, coats, boots, sippy cups, put on my baby sling, in the car, wipe off the sweat). We last about two hours and we able to see a presentation about owls (they have the stomach acid pH of vinegar, who know?!), play in an igloo looking hut thingie, roast a marshmallow, enjoy hot chocolate, roll down a hill, and get some nice outdoor time.

My camera battery died and I was only able to obtain a few shots of the kids warming up in the minivan.

I shed a tear, no doubt.

Momma, why are you taking pictures of me? Don't you have plenty?

There are never enough pictures of a baby in a Tigger snowsuit.

Sans absolutely any makeup, in all my glory. However, I have moisturized like none other. The cold sucks the moisture out of the air like a Hoover.

Be still my heart....

Ernest regularly walks around sticking out his tongue. Bless his little heart he's probably frozen in that position. Notice the snowsuit, two sweatshirts, onesie, two pairs of socks, sweatpants, and boots didn't help any. It's a lot of work living in a Minnesota winter!

Goober in the back with his "rescue plane" because he's going to be a "rescue pilot".

He also claims he's going to marry me because "that would be nice!"

Sweet sweet child.

You have no idea what your father puts up with.

(Note: he is surrounded by bags of clothes to be donated to my MOPS groups upcoming clothing exchange. I really enjoy helping them with their clothing exchange, several mom's have had babies this year in our group and many don't find out the gender- how? I have no idea. Anyway, if they have a boy, I can hook them up in 3t clothes.)

Fat thighs

2011-02-08T16:37:00.000-08:00

This upcoming summer I will be spending plenty of time in the sun with my boys and this one-

Is your baby in a swimsuit?

Why yes, yes she is.

Fat thighs never looked so good.

Apple Valley Natural Soap giveaway

2011-02-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite blogs, Life in A Shoe, is hosting a soap giveaway. Hooray!

Go over there and enter, couldn't hurt! The least that'll happen is you come back smelling better :-).

I'm way cooler than bread.

2011-02-03T13:31:00.000-08:00

Do you think that parents who homeschool are respected by their school aged children more than parent's with publicly schooled children? I wonder simply because I spend so much one on one time with my kids going over phonics, books, cuddles *swoon*, addition, helicopters that maybe my kids see me as more than a mom.

Maybe homeschooled kids see their 'teaching' parent as the one who holds a key to reading on their own. To my four year old, it's like gold! I know how to read, and if I show him how to read then he can read too. Then, because I've given him the freedom of educating himself, Mr. Independent Four-Year-Old-Spiderman-Kid, then I'm the coolest thing since sliced bread.

I love it when he wears the robot costume while adding elephants to pineapples.

The four year old, not the husband. Just clarifying...

Eleanor finally get's a new toy

2011-01-31T18:51:00.000-08:00

These bad boys can cost anywhere from $26-$40 each, easily! I balked at the idea of paying that much for a baby toy. That's, like, for the new mom's to spend money on. Walmart carries them for $30 but I question the quality, and for $30 it better come with a butler to do my dishes. Once Upon A Child didn't even have one. Bummer. However one day I tagged along with a friend who has a Sam's Club membership and lo and behold- I found this awesome Baby Einstein's gym for $19.99! Sweet! I used my Christmas money and it came home with me that day. The funny thing is, even Ernest will sit under it and look at all the bells and whistles it came with. After looking at these pictures I'm noticing that the musical star isn't even attatched to it. It was a great deal, thanks Sam's club and thank's Kim for having a Sam's Club membership.

Playing with her new toy.

This picture speaks volumes of what I have in my home- books and toys, oh- and children. The only thing missing from this picture is a gun of some sort.

Who is this intruder? Can't a girl just have some down time with her puppy?

Behold, the Big Brother in his baseball pajamas. He want's to see the puppy too!

While rolling ontop of her and kicking her face. Not cool man. Not cool.

At least it was more like a "Here, smell my feet" kind of kick and not a soccer kick.

Kid's gotta learn.

From here to there

2011-01-29T18:34:00.000-08:00

I went from growing up there-

to living here.

Dear Kendal, why couldn't you have been from Tahiti?

Redipping the beaters

2011-01-29T18:23:00.000-08:00

Thank you for 'helping' me make cookies. However, when I gave you the beater to lick, I did not intend on you re-dipping them into the cookie batter for seconds. Thanks, though, for not getting the clean dishes dirty in the meantime.

And yes, dear readers, this is ALL THE COUNTER SPACE I have in this kitchen. Ridiculous.

Win a book!

2011-01-27T19:14:00.000-08:00

There is a give away on http://www.raisingolives.com/ for the Large Family Logistics book!

Late night learning

2011-01-24T18:19:00.000-08:00

Tonight, all of the kids were in bed at 6:50. This is not at all uncommon as we are acustomed to an "early to bed early to rise" mindset. However, tonight Ethan came into the living room claiming hunger, thirst, and "mom, can I do school work?" YES. Never turn down an opportunity to "do school work". I have noticed he has a preference towards math and numbers. Writing, not so much. He has a knack for numbers. This is a giant flag waving Electrical Engineer, Physics Teacher, Nuclear Technician, etc. Go child go! Learn those numbers!

Our "school work" consists of a few workbooks, worksheets printed off the internet, and many MANY field trips. The grocery store, bank, WalMart, park. They are all field trips to me, a wealth of education waiting to be discovered.

I'm not so much a late night person because I can hardly form a sentence past 8:30, but by golly if that kid has brainpower at 7 o'clock then have at it buddy.

Meenie, Miny, and Moe. Lord have mercy.

The Griswold's take over Mall of America

2011-01-17T18:48:00.000-08:00

Kendall worked two weeks in a row with no days off, so a 'vacation' of some sort was in order. We like to do as much as possible as a family, whether it's going to church or Walmart to cleaning out the minivan. Our lack of "family time" had taken it's toll and we were anxious for an adventure.

First stop- the airport! We visited the Minneapolis Airport because it's only two exits away from MOA (Mall of America). I remember my family pulling over to watch airplanes take off and land when visiting family in Dallas. Now the tradition continues! Plus, it was a nice pit stop for nursing Eleanor. Here she is sporting her "Little Sister" onesie and her bonnet.

Happy 3 Month Birthday to Eleanor in this picture as well! THREE MONTHS OLD!

She'll be asking for the keys to the car before I know it...

Nick studios has some cool games and rides but Ethan was completley unattracted to them. He didn't even care there was a Spongebob and Patrick walking around in costume. They did have a game where you could be the captain of a little boat and try to launch water on targets and ram other boats, but he was content moving the wheel around then walking away.

Legoland had a helicopter made out of Legos above us, which is what all three of my guys are looking at. Boys just can't help but be enthralled by machine-stuff.

Nursing Eleanor. There are NOT enough benches in that mall and the few they have are in the middle of the aisles where people can run a woman over! No thanks! This is off to the side where the guys could look out at the rides and I could nurse in peace. Look at those little purple feet sticking out!

Kendall is holding Ernest and trying to inquire about a sleep number bed. Ethan is laying down on the bed next to him. This picture cracks me up! We have kids everywhere! Plus it's not too often you see a grown man holding a toddler with his other kid in tow and the sneaky mom nowhere to be found because she's giggling at the scene and taking pictures.

Dear Kendall, did you ever think the day would come that you'd be holding the hands of your two sons, each holding a balloon, and walking in the Mall of America? This picture speaks volumes about Kendall's parenting. He loves those boys.

Watch out world, here we come! I wore Eleanor in my Sleepy Wrap, Ernest had the stroller, Ethan walked, we had one huge bag that we squeezed everything we could possibly need into, a blanket, and two tired parents.

I couldn't help but capture Ernest's melt down on camera. The mall wear's me out too little buddy.

For the comfort of others

2011-01-13T17:57:00.000-08:00

I'm hoping to attend MACHE this year. MACHE is a conference held every year in Minnesota and it stands for Minnesota Association for Home Educators.

I was reading over their brochure for this years conference and came across some lines that really ruffled my feathers.

An area will be provided for mothers with nursing infants up to age 18 monthsOk, then what? There's no area for mom's nursing a two or three year old? Too bad so sad, you no longer meet our age requirements so you can choose the restroom or your car? Hmmm...

Carrying on,

Husbands and other children are not allowed in this area.I can respect that there are women who feel a bit akward having a man come into an area where you are nursing. I totally get that. But if he needs to come in to grab the car keys, or give her the cell phone because her mom's on theline, or something ridiculously simple as such, then what's the big deal? If you are uncomfortable nursing in public, then use a blanket or nursing cover to cover up. Be discreet. If you have your boob hanging out for every Jim and Joe to see, then surely you don't mind the gal next you tossing a set of keys up to the hubby who wants to grab an Aquafina from the trunk. Just sayin...

If there are kids in the area with the nursing moms, then these are kids who, I'm pretty confident in saying, have lived in an enviroment with another nursing mom. I doubt three year old Janie is going to go searching under my Hooter Hider wondering what I'm doing to the baby. Ethan doesn't go up to my nursing friends asking "What's that? Can I see? What are you doing? How does that work?" The kids are used to it. Actually, my kids don't understand what bottles are for!

And for the big finale:

For the comfort of all attendees, we request that you do not nurse your infants in any public areas.

Oh no you didn't! Listen here, whoever wrote this brochure, if I can push a cart, nurse a baby, and get my grocery shopping done at Walmart, then I can nurse at this big'ol confrerence of yours.

Check it, I've got laws on my side:
Minn. Stat. § 145.905 provides that a mother may breastfeed in any location, public or private, where the mother and child are authorized to be, irrespective of whether the nipple of the mother's breast is uncovered during or incidental to the breastfeeding.

This is my favorite stat:
Minn. Stat. Ann. § 617.23 specifies that breastfeeding does not constitute indecent exposure.

I think they are going to step on some pretty big toes by stating these requests. There's nothing wrong with nursing in public. Nothing. I always carry a blanket or my beloved Hooter Hider (oh yes, there is such a thing) because I am uncomfortable exposing my boob to the world. That's just me. If there's a mom in the world who let's it all out without a care in the world, then amen sister you've got the guts to go for it. I applaud you.

In the mean time, I'm going to write MACHE a note requesting these lines be removed from next years brochure.

No bueno, MACHE. No bueno.

Find the baby

2011-01-12T15:11:00.000-08:00

Can you see a baby in this picture? At first I saw a lot of different stuff, then I saw the big baby :)

Ernest's Mohawk

2011-01-12T15:09:00.000-08:00

Dear Ernest, thank you for letting mommy play "hairdresser" with the last of mommy's hairspray. Ponytails don't need spray, and that's all your mom wears anymore. You even kept your hands down while it dried, good boy! Thank you for being a product of your mother's creativity.
Love,
Your mother who has nothing better to do than do cute things to you.

Ps, that's a broom handle in the background, proof that housework does get done around here!

Band and jams

2011-01-08T21:03:00.000-08:00

Did you know I play the violin? I started in sixth grade and was first seat in seventh, eighth, and ninth grade. Then I transferred to a magnet school that did not offer orchestra, band, football, etc. Although I stopped playing in school, my family had a band. When I was little I played the tambourine. Oh yes. My brother played the drums, dad played steel guitar and mom played electric bass. We were "The Johnston Family Band". The winters were our high season of demand and we'd play at all of the rv parks in the valley. Later on in junior high/high school it was my parents, a rhythm guitar player and myself. Our best paying gigs were New Years which was when bands are in the highest demand for parties. After I left they became "Classic Country Band" and we'd play whenever I came home to visit.

Mom in the white shirt playing bass, dad playing steel with the white cowboy hat. Looks like we're at a bar here. I grew up at the VFW, American Legion, and country bars.

A jam at someones house. Mom on the left, dad in the lower right.

Mom and I playing at the Winter Texas Appreciation dance at the

Rio Grande Valley Livestock Showgrounds. Dad played in another band that had a gig there every year during the livestock show, so we got to go every year. Love it!

One more time. We sing well together, good harmony.

A bit of Christmas year round

2011-01-08T18:59:00.000-08:00

I don't know where to start so I'm just going to lay it out there-
Christmas isn't a huge deal in this family. *gasp*

Here me out on this because I think it's pretty outside of the box. To me and our family, Christmas is Jesus' birthday. We bake a cake and sing happy birthday to Jesus. We have a nice meal (aka: not peanut butter and jelly but more along something that must be baked and have some time and effore put into). We do exchange presents in our family. We even put up a tree, although it's a small one. But to me, Christmas is year round. We talk about the birth of Christ in June, on Valentine's day, and whenever else one of our many children's Bibles opens up to the Christmas page.

Our children are taught that Santa is a fun person that someone made up so it's "a fun story to talk about". But usually it's followed with "Isn't that silly though? Christmas is about Jesus being born!" We do watch the Rudolph movie with the abomidable snowman, and the Grinch is a funny looking guy. But Charlie Brown Christmas is our favorite where we pause the movie after Linus recites the book of Luke and explains "That's what Christmas is about Charlie Brown."

We enjoy taking the time to be with our family, since everyone has off that day and we have only so much time left with the grandparents. Next year, Kendall wants to stay home on Christmas to have a "stay in your pajama's all day" kind of day. His dad's side will be celebrating in January and his mom's side celebrates on a different weekend anyway. This was the last year his grandma would be hosting Chrstimas so it's up to an aunt or uncle to host instead, but we don't plan on attending since they do it on Christmas day.

Merry Christmas!!!

Little sister's hat is covering her eyes. Poor thing can't catch a break.

Not that much better but quick the littlest-big brother is about to take off his hat.

The best of four pictures. Merry Christmas!

My doorstep is a safe landing

2011-01-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

To the pregnant reader who doesn't want to be pregnant,

I'm sorry you don't want your child. To you, there are plenty of good reasons. Worthy reasons.

Are you fourteen or fifteen years old? Did your mom say to 'get rid of it'? Does your boyfriend beat you? Are you unable to care for your child? Did you have plans? For college? To finish high school? Are you too old, say 38? Are you done having kids? Are you afraid? Mad? Discouraged?

I heard you wanted to get rid of it. It. To get rid of, as in, an abortion. That nasty a word that nobody wants to talk about. The easiest thing to do, right? Run down to the cities on a Saturday afternoon, in and out, have your friend drop you off and walk around Mall of America while you get it done, then the two of you can drive home and act as if nothing happened. Nobody has to know. You and your friend were at the MOA all day, right? Besides, if nobody knows, then nothing happened. Right?

Hear my heart when I say this: don't. Don't do it. Just don't.

I'll tell you what, here's what you can do: have that baby. Follow through with it and don't hurt yourself or that baby. To me, 'baby' is any stage of the pregnancy. Any.

Then bring that sweet little child right on over. That baby would be welcomed in this family at any age or time. Just knock and run if you have to. Leave a note, don't leave a note I don't really care. If this is what it takes for you to not go throught with what you thought was best, then so be it. Bring that child here and let me take care of the rest.

In this household, there are no "opps" children. They don't exisit. Children are welcomed and loved on, no matter what the situation, what the background, what the circumstance. There are no "mistakes", and nothing is "unplanned".

Quick facts about the abortions performed in Minnesota in 2009
12,388 abortions were performed — an average of more than 33 every single day.
32% of the abortions were paid for with taxpayer funds.
32% of the abortions were performed by Planned Parenthood — more than any other provider.
19% of the abortions used the dangerous and sometimes lethal RU486 abortion drug.
4% of the abortions were performed on women under age 18.

44% of the abortions were performed on women ages 18 to 24.

Abortion as birth control:

40% of the women reported that they had at least one previous abortion.

949 of the women reported that they had three or more previous abortions.

21 of the women reported that they had nine or more previous abortions.

Abortion complications:

9 complications were reported by women at the time of the abortion, including cervical laceration and hemorrhage.

79 complications have been reported by women after leaving the abortion provider, including hemorrhage, infection requiring hospitalization and incomplete abortion.

Reasons given for abortions:

31% of the women reported

“Economic reasons.”

64% of the women reported

“Does not want children at this time.”

Less than 1% of the women reported that the pregnancy was a result of rape or incest.

All of these statistic are from Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life.

Don't be a statistic. You don't need to. There really are options. And there are still people in the world who would love to help you and that sweet little baby.

In Deuteronomy 5:29, God says, “Oh that there was such a heart within them, that they would fear Me and keep all my commandments always,

that it might be well with them and with their children forever!”

And in the end, I'll leave the light on for you.

The chicken dance

2011-01-02T21:19:00.000-08:00

Tonight was absolutely a blast! Kendall turned on The Chicken Dance and we all danced the entire chicken dance in our living room- twice! We talked about firetrucks. We ate dinner together. The boys and I jumped on our mini trampoline, emphasizing on "taking turns" in hopes Ernest will some day catch on it doesn't entirely belong to him. Now Kendall and I are having bits of conversation while watching Seinfield.

My favorite moments are the moments we share together. I love my little family.

In her Harley shirt. What a tough gal.

Big Brother and Jowls.

It's nice to dream

2010-12-29T19:55:00.000-08:00

When cleaning dishes, I let me mind wander. I go down my to-do list, what I got done, something funny a kid did that day, and most importantly I pray. I tell God thank you for His provision, food, family, friends, work, health, and I pray for my children's future spouse (seriously, it's on my mind already)!

Lately, it's been nice to dream. I think of the floorplan of my dream home. I want a wide open floor plan. The living room, kitchen, dining room should all be in view of each other so I can see everyone easily. The thought of being in a different room than my children is unsettling to me. Plus, since I'm home with the children all day long, I herd them. Wherever I am, they are. If I'm in the kitchen, now, they are in there with their toys. The bathroom, not so much if I can help it. One of these days I'll take a picture of little fingers beneath the door.

I want acreage, a large area to play. To be able to say "Go outside and find a bug!' will be the highlight of my day. I have two little boys with enough energy for all of us. For Christmas, my favorite present for them was a mini trampoline for them to jump on. They run from one wall to the other as it is, pretending they are racecars. Boys have energy, little ones have major energy to burn. Plus, I want chickens and two goats. Mainly for eggs, meat, and milk. I've killed every plant I've owned, so I'm not so sure I want to go there yet. But maybe, with enough of a area to cover, it'd be something to dabble in.

A washer and drier is another exciting moment I'm awaiting. We currently do not have any mostly because there is no hook up installed in our apartment. We do laundry about twice a month. Twice. A. Month. We have a monster laundry pile hidden away that Kendall gets to when he can. Kendall washes laundry so they children don't have to go sit at the mat, plus I'm usually pregnant and that stuff get's heavy. We have known no different so it's not hard to deal with, it's just the way it is. Usually there are three or four totes of laundry to be done. To be able to put a wet blanket, a puked on tshirt, or dirty towel into the wash right then and there is not something to be taken lightly. To not have to wait until the next day will be a breath of fresh air. Now that we have two little ones in diapers, plus all three of the kids are on the young side, I have really seen the effects they've had on a simple laundry pile.

And, a garage. You try piling three little ones, blankets, diaper bag, coats, and snacks into the minivan while a.) -10` windchill, b.)snow falling c.)rain that falls horizontaly d.)ice is all around you. On second thought, what in the world is so important that we'd take everyone out in that kind of weather. Anyway, a garage will be great, especially for Kendall and his projects.

$100 Visa Giftcard giveaway

2010-12-29T18:52:00.000-08:00

Fiddledeedee is giving away a giftcard. Scurry over there to enter it!

Never too early

2010-12-23T20:51:00.001-08:00

Why no, I don't believe it's ever too early or children are too young to take some responsibility in the house.

Mom, can I swifer today?

Swifering and sweeping. What a beautiful sight!

Biblical characters with my sleepy wrap

2010-12-20T01:17:00.001-08:00

I purchased my Sleepy Wrap off of ebay after seeing a mom carrying her kiddo in it at the zoo. Once again, it's sooooo amazing good on my back and is the best equipment I've purchased for kid-carrying.

Here, however, it has found a different use. It is now a dressing for either Jonah or David from the Bible. We have the Veggie tales version of Jonah. And David kills Goliath by swinging around a rock.

Both stories are way cool to a 4 year old.

A mess only a mother can love

2010-12-20T01:14:00.000-08:00

There was so much spit up, I asked Kendall to take a picture so the moment will be forever remembered.

Kendall, LOOK AT ALL OF THIS! She is one well fed baby!

And this is why I have "Church clothes" which I immediately take off as soon as I walk through the door,

my "going out into public clothes" for fancy places like Walmart,

and at the bottom of the barrel are my

" we aren't going anywhere so I'm going to only brush my teeth today"-clothes.

Around around she goes!

2010-12-16T11:51:00.000-08:00

Ever since the week of Thanksgiving I have been slammed with business. There have been appointments, social events and general stuff to be done. Plus the weather outside has been more on the "no way am I taking all of the kids out in this weather!" weather. Generally, I wait until Kendall is awake and can actually see Ernest trying to put something in a wall outlet before I leave for the grocery store with Ethan. Ernest usually has a snotty nose and the baby is snuggled asleep, and we all know not to awaken a sleeping baby :).

This was the very first outfit I purchased for Ethan. Now all three of them have worn it!

And, seriously, could you awaken such a sweetie?

Back when I had only one kiddo, I wouldn't mind going out into the negatives. Big deal, no problem, bring it on.

But now I have to think of layers, two different sizes of diapers, and wind chill.

Eleanor had her 2 month check up today and she is in the 93rd percentile for height and weight. Big and well proportioned. Amen.

Today Ernest had an appt and his height and weight puts him into the 40%. When he was 8 months old he was at 0.7%. That sounds like the verge of death if you as me.

Our homeschooling has been...steady? Ethan works his little workbooks about 30 minutes a day, focusing mainly on reading/writing and math. He's starting to recognize the difference between 6,8, and 9. Those are tricky numbers now that I think about it. Same as b,d,p,q. Who came up with this English language anyway? We play dominoes, bingo, cards, and board games as a fun way to learn.

Whose chair is this? Surely not the babies!

Don't lick a frozen pole.

2010-12-05T19:08:00.000-08:00

Ethan got bundled up to "go check the mailbox". I'm sure it was because this is daddy's job and since he's not around, typical little boy needs to take over for dad. However, he was taking a bit too long and when I checked on him he was throwing some snowballs and being silly upstairs. I don't mind this so much because he's a little boy with a lot of energy, too much for our little apartment. A few minutes later he opened the door and was quite the site to see. He wasn't screaming or crying so I knew nothing was broken or terribly injured. The kicker was his jaw was covered in blood.

"Mom, my tongue is bleeding!"

Yes, Ethan and daddy have been watching A Christmas Story. I'm sure the idea of licking a pole or whatever came into his head to see if it would really happen.

"Get to the sink! What happend? Did you lick a pole or something?"

Yes.

Look at how much blood is on his jacket. Poor little guy.

No tears were shed in the recording of this catastrophe.

A few layers are missing on his tongue and a bit of his bottom lip got it too.

A pink swollen tongue.

My little ham.

Oh Ethan, you keep me on my toes.

Sunday Morning in Minnesota

2010-12-05T12:14:00.000-08:00

This kid:

Plus these two:

Dressed like this:

In weather like this:

Just to get to church.

Everyone arrived clean, warm, AND fed (thankyouvermuch). But as I pulled into the parking lot I realized I forgot my purse. Eh, at least it wasn't a kid.

Simple Woman's Daybook 12/4/2010

2010-12-04T19:38:00.000-08:00

FOR TODAY

Outside my window... beautiful snow! It totally made me think of the hymn
"Nothing But The Blood of Jesus"

I am thinking... "I hope Kendall is doing well at work."

I am thankful for... we don't have all night so I'll mention a few: heat!, sleeping children, full tummies

From the learning rooms... the number 5

From the kitchen... my mother-in-law's porkchops with mushroom gravy. yumm-tastic!

I am wearing... mom clothes that are boring but have no spit up stains!

I am creating... a scrapbook

I am going... get out "church clothes" for the kids so the morning will hopefully run smoothly

I am reading... some blogs!

I am hoping... to be a light upon a mountain for the lost.

I am hearing... "Nothing But The Blood Of Jesus" play, and Eleanor squiggle squaggle herself to sleep.

Around the house... calm.

One of my favorite things... Skippy brand peanut butter in 'creamy'.

A few plans for the rest of the week: CHURCH!, working in the nursery on Tuesday, ice skating Friday, Christmas with my inlaws next Sunday.

Here is picture for thought I am sharing...

Ethan's first time meeting Eleanor. Love at first sight.

Find this template at: http://thesimplewomansdaybook.blogspot.com/

Cool Christmas Poem

2010-12-03T08:31:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite blogger's has this posted. She's over at Yes, They're All Ours.

Twas the month before Christmas

When all through our land,

Not a Christian was praying

Nor taking a stand.

See the PC Police had taken away,

The reason for Christmas - no one could say.

The children were told by their schools not to sing,

About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.

It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say

December 25th is just a ' Holiday '.

Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit

Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!

CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod

Something was changing, something quite odd!

Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa

In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.

As Targets were hanging their trees upside down

At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.

At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears

You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.

Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty

Are words that were used to intimidate me.

Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen

On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton !

At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter

To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.

And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith

Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace

The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded

The reason for the season, stopped before it started.

So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'

Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.

Choose your words carefully, choose what you say

Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS ,

Not Happy Holiday !

Whatever you hands find to do.

2010-12-02T20:26:00.000-08:00

Kendall's unemployment stopped abruptly. November 22 he was on the phone with the unemployment people asking if a mistake had been made. There was no notification, no warning. Our "pay day" came with no "pay". He had mentioned to me in early November to not be worried but his unemployment would be ending "sometime in January". Well, the calculations made we a little off. So, November 22, Kendall went to The Work Solution dressed to the nines with resumes in hand. I'm not to familiar with how temp agency's work. I do know that they had to call all of his previous employers and do a background check to be sure he was legit. It took several days but they finally called him back with answers.

All of this took place the week of Thanksgiving.
The. Monday. Before. Thanksgiving. Our. Income. Ceased. To. Exist.

My heart fell through the floor. I don't feel convicted about it either. I was devestated. Ever since Kendall was laid off I handed our checkbook and bills over to him. Out of sight out of mind works well in my little world. I want to see buttercups and kitties when I wake up, not late payments. That's all for the husband to deal with. So now, with no income, what we had was what we had. I didn't even want to know what we were sitting on. We have food, our bills are paid up, we have diapers and toliet paper. (There have been moments when we have wittled down our list of needs to list of "what can we not make it without". Toliet paper and diapers always come out on top.)

So we are fine financially. There is no Bahama cruise for Christmas or a new sports car any time soon, but things WILL be okay. And actually, looking back, we've been through worse. Can you believe it?

In May, I left to pay the electric bill, and our power was shut off while driving to the utilities office. Not. Kidding. So, not only did they want us to pay our bill, but the total amount of the bill, a late payment, and a 'turn back on your power for a ridiculous amount of money' fee. I started to cry right there infront of that lady behind the plexi glass window at the electric company. You want me to give you HOW much to turn back on my electric? It was also the day I had doctor's appointment for Eleanor. So we packed up the kids, went to my appointment, walked around Cabela's to kill time, made phone calls and faxed information, spent the night with no power ("Tonight we get to keep all of the lights shut off and camp in our beds! It'll be fun!"), 9:00am the next morning everything went through and we were back on again.
And an fyi: we were not months behind or anything ridiculous, I was just waiting to pay them on our payday! We are not fond of the electric company in this area, they also charge .13 p/kwh. THEY are outta line.

Back to Kendall....

Monday and Tuesday, he worked from 4pm-2am at a local distillery. Who knew this podunk town had a distillery?!? Wed and tonight he is working at the local newspaper plant folding newspapers on some sort of machine from 3-11. We are hoping he goes back to the distillery because it was longer hours and better pay. He plans on working Saturday as well however I haven't gone there yet about Sunday.

Exodus 35:2 ESV
Six days work shall be done, but on the seventh day you shall have a Sabbath of solemn rest, holy to the Lord.

I'm just sayin....

The kids are adjusting. Ernest is taking it the hardest. Think about it- all the kid has ever known is Kendall being home because he was already laidoff with Ernest was born. However, Kendall was usually up at night and asleep during the day, so it's not too new to Ernest to not have dad around. Ethan is a bit confused about dad being at work. "Is dad at the garage for a sale? Can I go to storage with dad? Where's dad?" It breaks my heart. He thinks dad is having a garage sale because that was how we 'worked' this summer. He is confused about storage because I tried to explain to him dad was organizing the storage area at the distillery and being a helper. Dad going to work is foreign. Dad is supposed to be selling stuff on the computer (ebay), not leaving to work. I've baked two batches of cookies this week and completely reorganized half of our house. I'm keeping the kids busy and clinging to the silver lining.

Seriously, can I just be honest? It is hard. I feel bad for Kendall. He is such a worker bee. Can you imagine being thirty years old with a wife, three little kids at home, and starting a the bottom of the barrel again? He's making $10 less/hr than when he was laid off. PLUS, he was working two jobs at the time.
He is bringing in a lesser amount of income working than when he was on unemployment. Technically, we just took a cut in pay. My husband is hurt and I am feeling the pain.
Back in August some friends of mine mentioned they were going to start a Bible study that talked about finances. They were using Crown Financial. I prayyyyyyyyyed about it and asked Kendall to attend because he's smarter about money and stocks and all that stuff than I am. I don't do stocks. Plus, I wanted him to see for himself what the Bible teaches about wise spending habits. And wouldn't ya know it, Kendall attended that Bible study and brought home a wealth of new knowledge to implement into our families budget. Amen and amen. I also believe it gave him hope. He finally, finally, finally did our taxes and we were able to pay off our minivan and purchase some much needed items for our homw. Like, pants. We were able to pay up on some bills and drastically cut our bills. Wow, thanks God. A new peace fell into our home. The day we did our taxes was also the day Eleanor was born. I've noticed that God always waits until the last possible minute to unleash his miracles. However, if a miracle occured any sooner, would it still be considered a miracle? Deep thoughts.

This is what has happened in the last few days. Has God provided? Of course. Two unexpected Visa gift cards came into our home a few months ago and we held onto them for safe keeping. They have been used for gas in the minivan. Our pantry is full. We stocked up on diapers a few weeks ago. We even have our beloved toliet paper. Kendall's sister gave us her kid's old snowpants and coat for Ethan. A friend stopped by with snowpants and snowboots just today. Our children are fed and clothed. Our home is warm. Ethan is excited about Christmas and Ernest loves being a big brother to Eleanor. My husband loves me and I really enjoy loving him. This too shall pass has always been a saying to get me through hard times. Just last night I turned to Kendall and told him how at our 50th wedding anniversary we'll look back and say 'remember when?' about this chapter in our lives.

Although it hasn't be ideal, it's been okay. God has handed these trials to us and I'd gladly take them instead of a lack of faith or failing health.
(God, keep us healthy and help me keep my faith. Don't take that sentence as a reason to give us a disease or anything funky. I want to be sure we're on the same page, mmkay?)

Matthew 6:31-32

31Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
32(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

Philippians 4:19
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

and my favorite:

Luke 12:7

But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Taken October 10 and, in my defense, I gave birth five days later.

Fun times at WalMart :-)

2010-11-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

Reindeer headband on Ernest. Whata face.

Super Ethan with his Reindeer headband. The Christmas aisle is fun!

Even daddy gets to play in the toy area. Who says guitar video games are just for kids?

I love catching him when he's being a silly guy.

And for my Texas family. This is what it takes to get out the door. Ernest is actually in 18-24 clothes but his winter coat is Ethan's old 3t coat. A jumbo coat, mittens, hat, and layers later- we can go!

Opps, now he has a poopy diaper. Ok, 20 minute later we can leave...

Fish picnic

2010-11-25T19:52:00.000-08:00

While going through our homeschool books and deciding what to put in storage for the winter, we had a fish picnic! One of Ethan's games was a letter sorting game that the kids "fished" for.

Mom, is it good? Let's eat our fish!

Our picnic. Such sweet memories.

Little Ernest's first hair cut

2010-11-25T19:49:00.000-08:00

Well the poor child doesn't have much hair to cut in the first place but what he does have needs a trimming. before.

After! I now have a ziplock baggie of his sweet little locks. I love you Ernest, drool and all!

Full of thanks all day every day

2010-11-25T19:45:00.000-08:00

Clean clothes- clean clothes = the money was available to make the clothes clean. And we have clothes to wear and when they are dirty, get this, there are more clothes to wear! Wow, only in America. Amen.

Chairs and a table- have you ever had to eat on the floor? More importantly, my kids and I are all sitting at the table to eat with no distractions. When this happens, they eat more food and always walk away happy. Sitting as a family at the table is something I treasure.

LIGHT- had your electric cut off? How about lived in an area with rolling blackouts? LIGHT is HEAT too if you have electric heat. And in Minnesota, heat is an absolute es-sent-ial.

CLEAN RUNNING WATER- I was a part of a missionary team in Africa and there was no clean (ie: drinkable) running water. We hauled water up from a well, put the bucket in a wheel barrow (WITH A FLAT TIRE of course), hauled the water up to where we were staying and used it in the bathtub. There was one bathtub so all the girls would go in and sponge off and try to get clean. My hair was long at the time so I kept it rolled in a tight bun and wore a handkerchief most of the time for cleanliness. The only water we drank came in a bottle. To this day I still say "Thank you Lord" every single time I get into my shower.

Church- my church is amazing. We show up, the Holy Spirit rocks and rolls, go home relieved and refreshed ever week, repeat. Love it. My husband once looked over me on our way home and said "He just doesn't preach a bad sermon does he?" The music is contemporary with a few hymns thrown in evvvvvery once in a while but by golly they are talented. And wonderful prayer, emphasis are always made on praying. I am a firm believer in the power of praying so this one is a key note to me.

Godly friends- all I gotta say is "Birds of a feather flock together" so I better get my ducks in a row and figure out who I want to parrot. HA! My old Sunday school teacher once stated "If you lay down with dogs your gonna get up with fleas." Watch out who you hang out with! Gossip, slander, foulness, jealousy, all of it! Women can dance with the devil and not even realize it till you are waltzing down a road not knowing how you eve left the path.

Wonderful family, good health (nothing more than a tylenol can't handle), and having Jesus Christ as my very own personal Savior. Seriously, need I say more?

Give thanks every single day.

It's a Tylenol Gelcap kinda day

2010-11-15T20:25:00.000-08:00

I have a headache. Eleanor has gas. Serious. Major. Clear the room. Gas. I have been giving her sips of boiled fennel all day that have made her feel better for about a half hour, then she wriggles and toots and the process is repeated. She doesn't want to suck. She doesn't want to pacify. She doesn't need to be changed. Or swaddled. Or bounced. Or soothed. Yes, my head hurts. What she needs to do, in my opinion, is poop! She has not been a regular kinda girl, which freaks me out. But she did sleep seven hours the night she was born, so I believe she's just going to be a freak-er out-er.

Also, something or someone stank today. I was even thinking it was me, so I was sniffing my hair, my shirt, the couch, cushions, socks, carpet. What is that stink? I finally discovered it was Ernest, who had pooped, in the kitchen and it was so rank I smelled it in the living room. Seriously, what the heck did we ALL eat!?!? So while I'm changing him and wrangling him down while trying to not get kicked in the face, Eleanor is sitting in her seat screaming that way too sad newborn scream, and Ethan is asking for help with his zipper so he can go outside and play in the snow because although he's still wearing pj's he can CLEARLY get the green light to go outside and play in the snow because he's wearing a coat. Smooth move exlax. This was all at 10:30 in the morning. I think I started to count down the hours to bedtime at about this moment.

I needed coffee and I tried my new Peppermint Mocha creamer and it turned out to be a dud. Big. Fat. DUD. You have to use SO MUCH of it to get a hint of mocha and almost nonexistent peppermint. And the first ingredient is sugar, not the peppermint or mocha I wanted! I also purchased the Cinnamon Bun but it was a big tease because there's no cinnamon flavor in the doggone thing! It tastes like normal creamer but with a bonus of sugar and chemicals. My coffee is instant Folgers (it's a southern thing, mmkay?), milk, cocoa, a teaspoon of sugar, mix and it's a yummy/normal drink filled with stuff you can, get this!, PRONOUNCE! Why do they have to add a bunch of mumbo jumbo chemicals?

Ethan needs a Minnesota winter coat and snow pants. His coat would work in Dallas, not here. He went outside and played in the snow only to come back soaking WET and freeeeezing. Poor guy. Tomorrow I'm going to search for a thick winter coat and snow pants for the dude. Last time we were here for a winter, he wore those little kid looking snowsuits. Now I don't know what I'm doing or how to keep him warm. Geez.

She's starting to look more "baby" and less "newborn"!

Not just size but by gender!

2010-11-11T17:11:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to be organizing baby clothes. First of all, we have been so blessed with clothing and baby items for Eleanor that it is above and beyond what I could ever have wanted! Needless to say, I have been able to 'pay it forward' to our local used clothing store. She's only in newborn sizes but we have so much, I know there is no way we would ever need so many onesises and (oh so cute!) outfits. As much as I want to keep every single outfit, there are others less fortunate who could use those clothes for their precious newborn. Thank you Lord for Your provisions!

Now, as I'm putting Ernest's size 12 month clothes away (sniff*sniff*) I am able to write "12 month BOY" on the boxes. Before I had decided to pack up his clothes I had spent some time in prayer over those little belongings. "Lord, are we done? Technically, we got our girl and according to some people we have spoken to our family is complete. I'm under the impression most people assume we are done. Are we done Lord? Place it heavily on my heart that we are no longer going to have more children." And you know what? It's not on my heart. Nope, not at all. Now we just have our children's clothes divided not only by size, BUT by gender. And I'm totally loving it. :-)

I took this picture at her 5 day check up.

Now tell me, why on earth would anyone want to stop this moment from happening???

My wonderful tough-guy husband holding and talking to her.

Two days old. Precious baby! She looks just like her oldest brother at this age.

Conan

2010-11-10T18:45:00.000-08:00

CONAN is back! I'm so excited!!! Conan is the one show that I always get a great laugh out of. Kendall and I can sunggle on the couch and watch it after the kids are in bed, it's our 'married-person' time.

We also had our pictures taken down by the park today by my friend Audra. She is so good with camera PLUS she was even able to make Ernest smile! I can't wait to see the pictures. Then I can get my Christmas cards mailed out. I can't believe I really need to be thinking of CHRISTMAS cards, but I have already been playing some Christmas music. This year just FEELS more like Christmas. :-)

Feeling loved

2010-11-08T21:20:00.000-08:00

Can I just dote on my friends and family? I love them. No, seriously, I love them. I was just telling Kendall how much I love my friends and family. I feel so much love from them. I know that God has blessed us through them in ways they cannot even imagine.

I've had two people I don't even know stop by and drop off meals when Eleanor was born. TWO. One lady I have no idea where I know her from and she has no friend connection on Facebook or church... hmm... angel?

I have a pretty small family and a pretty small extended family. We send cards and emails and talk on the phone from time to time. Very low key since everyone is busy or retired :-). But when we do come together is so nice to feel right at home, we pick up right where we left off. We love on each other's kids like they are our own. I want my kids to know my family, so we put up the prayer board with pictures of family so they'll know who in the world I'm talking about when I mention them. Ethan still talks about Grandpa George and dad passed away October 2007. My family is so special to me, every single one of them.

Kendall comes from a humungo family. His parents divorced and then remarried so there are two families to keep up with. And both of his parents came from large families to boot. Christmas can be a bit tricky to handle to say the least. I'm really blessed to have them all as my in-laws. Eventhough I'm still trying to figure out who's kid belongs to whom because every time we all get together they've grown some more and I can't keep themy straight. Plus they all look alike!

Hair like Chewbacca

2010-10-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

Today's hair looks like:

Chewy.

Could I at least look like this Chewy?

Rockin' Chewy

My love affair with Braunschweiger

2010-10-25T22:57:00.000-07:00

Christmas of 2008 we were at my husband's father's home for a huge family potluck dinner.

I think I was in charge of bringing chips. Or cups. Since I'm new to the family I believe they are breaking me in gently since Kendall's mom's and dad's sides both have around 40-50 people for any holidy "family gathering".

Kendall's step sister presented a tray of B with crackers to which I inquired, "What is this stuff??"

And stuff replied, "Hello lover, my name is Braunschweiger. And I take tastebuds for a spin."

DO YOU KNOW WHAT IS IN THAT STUFF!?!??!!

It's like a spreadable HOT DOG! It's bits and pieces of liver with spices and SALT. Slap it on bread with mustard and cheese and the German folks eat that stuff up.

But oh dear, that stuff is good. It's my secret love affair. Strong southern women don't like funky things from overseas! We don't eat things with hidden vowels and silent w's.

Oh my this wonder Braunschweiger has won me over. And the worst part? Walmart carries it year round.

SAY IT AIN'T SO JOE!

New Eleanor

2010-10-25T21:27:00.000-07:00

One word to describe her birth- quick. My water broke at 4:45pm, about a half hour after Kendall had left to do some shopping at Menard's. We'd spent the day in Elk River and walking around Walmart, so we came home to drop the boys and myself off, then he turned around and drove back to finish getting things on our 'before the baby comes' list. I hesitated at first to call the store and have him paged, but have a few intense contractions, I decided it was best to get him home.

"Hey, I wanted to let you know my water broke at 4:45."

"Your water broke?"

"Yeah, at 4:45, can you go ahead and come home?"

*click*

Ok, I guess he's coming home.

I had given Ernest a bath and when I bent over to get him out of his little tub I thought my bladder had lost a battle, but no, it was the begining of the end of pregnancy. I made a few phone calls and my friends know what was going on as well as some family.

Kendall came home and immediately started getting kids in pajama's and in the car. He was NOT messing around.

We dropped the boys off at a friends house, ran down to the hospital, and while Kendall parked the car a security guard came with a wheel chair to take me to the third floor. Super cool because Ernest crowned in the wheel chair last year.

As we entered labor and delivery I told the nurse behind the desk, "Water broke at 4:45, contractions are about 4 minutes apart." She nodded her head and directed us to the 'labor' part of labor and delivery. I'm so glad they had a room ready because we didn't call ahead and let them know we were coming in. As soon as I got there I spelled my name for her, let her know I wanted Dr Jensen, she took my blood pressure and temperature, then checked my dilation and I was at a 5. Great! I was a 3 two weeks ago. I then asked "Am I done? Can I get in the shower?" Sweetness, I'm granted release from the prison of the wheelchair! Kendall had made it upstairs by now and I didn't care who saw my butt I wanted in the shower with the hottest water on my back. My nurses said I'd been in there about 30 minutes when they wanted to check me again, now I'm at a 7 and my friends have found my room. I now know to have a designated photographer! These are the most candid pictures of myself I've ever seen.

Between the contractions. See? It is possible to muster up a smile! I think the idea of it almost being over gave me the patience to breath through every contraction.

During a contraction I'd try to swivel my hips around on the birthing ball in hopes that gravity and motion will help the baby on down. Plus, my friend Lisa is ~~digging into~~ rubbing my back. There's no such thing as 'too much pressure' on your lower back when in labor.

This one looks like a doozy. My mind is in a completley other world of concentration and focus. Mostly focus. Also, my breathing reminded me of the song Hosanna so I was also singing while trying to breath and contract. I'm a great multitasker.

She's out!! Relief is an understatement. It is such a good feeling to be DONE delivering a baby.

Men will never understand.

Seconds old. Look at those cheeks! And all of that hair!

Seriously, how precious is this picture! See that pinky finger? Yeah, he's totally wrapped around it.

FAT CHEEKS! This is what an 8lb 15oz baby looks like at minutes old.

My crew. Lisa, Anna, me, Jody holding baby Tessa. Jody came as soon as Dan was home. Lisa was my back rubber and 'quiet and calm' person. Anna was my photographer and another 'calm and quiet' person.

Can we see a trend in the type of people I need around me during delivery?

Ohhhh the pinks and purples and reds and yellows that filled our room.

The girls brought a closet full of goodies and outfits. Eleanor, girlfriend, you will be the

trendiest baby in town.

And check out dad beaming over his newborn. :-)

Due date = no baby

2010-10-14T22:08:00.000-07:00

Bummed doesn't even begin to remotely start how I feel. I've bawled two times today and slept most of the other times. I'm feeling so discouraged from a lack of contractions, or at least of lack of real contractions that feel more like contractions and less like cramps. Bring on the pain! Let's do this already! Lord, give me some patience and perseverence. I'm hoping to look back in a few weeks and be able to piece together this puzzle to see why she isn't coming when I'd like her to. Bleh! I've been able to keep up with most of the household stuff despite being so tired. I don't remember being this tired with the other two this late in pregnancy. Is it because I'm going into this one heavier? Is it because I'm older? Is it mind over matter? Or are women who are 40 weeks pregnant really this exhausted?

My oh so sexy cankles. THIS is why I gained 9 pounds in one week.

The morbid side of me

2010-10-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

I can handle death, pain, and illness pretty darn well. Part of it is from growing up in hospitals and clinnics from following around dad's cancer and COPD. Usually, it doesn't phase me and I can see the person, not their illness.

However, lately I have been reading way.too.many. blogs about death and sickness.

Matt - lost his wife Liz to a pulmonary embolism when she got up from bed to meet their newborn.

Katie- a missionary in Uganda. Oh my word, it makes me want to adopt from Uganda so badly!

Renee- another missionary in Uganda. She has such faith that God will heal the sick. Graphic pictures but I feel that they help to bring the stories to life. Total reality check to appreciate America.

Karol- my pastor's wife. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in October 2009. Her caring bridge site is updated pretty reguarly which is nice because my church is large and I want to be updated on her health. She called and left a message on our answering machine the weekend before her and her family left to California for some treatments. She is always always always smiling. Always. And her hair and makeup look fabulous, you'd never know she had a cold much less cancer. I want faith like Karols.

Ian- critically injured while serving in Iraq but is making an amazing recovery. Totally floored because it is totally God!

The Reed Family- have adopted eight orphans so far bringing their family up to fourteen. Wow!

Raising Arrows- her daughter passed away and you'll need kleenex. On the other side it's encouraging to see how well themom heals. Just hug your kids tonight, okay?

Another side of my morbidity is my total openess to death with pregnancy and labor. Let's face the facts- women die giving birth. 11 out of 100,000 in 2005 is not bad at all but still! It could happen!

Sometimes I catch myself in a fog of worry over this issue.

Does Kendall know where Ethan's socks are? How about his folded undershirts?

Would Kendall sing Jesus Loves Me to Ernest every night like I do? Does he know Ernest needs to transition into sleep and can't just be laid down and told go to sleep?

He'd bathe the kids, right? I mean, at least before church or something?

Does he know what size shoes Ethan wears?

WOULD HE FEED THEM NOTHING BUT TOP RAMEN AND FROZEN PIZZA!??!?!????

Would Ethan grow up on Pixar movies and Veggietales day in and day out?

I hope he'd remarry on the sooner than the later, the boy's need a mother figure in their lives!

Thank GOD my sister in law has boys and all of his family is within an hour and a half.

Thank GOD we have an established church we attend. Those women would step right in and help out if he needed anything.

Thank GOD I have friends out here in Minnesota who know me and my boys. They would step right in and help out if he needed anything.

Scratch that- our church family, blood family, and friends family would step in to help whether he asked or not because they know that's what Crystal would want.

AND thank you JESUS I have all of our children's clothes organized and labeled by size AND gender. I know I have put Ernest in pink pajama's on laundry day but still, it's nice to know the kids stand a chance at getting something on in a size they could technically wear.

A trip to Sam's Club with Kim and the kids

2010-10-11T14:48:00.000-07:00

Remember that friend I mentioned that has 6 kids under the age of five? We went on a trip to Sam's Club last week, and made it out alive!

Everyone fell asleep. It's about an hour drive down to the cities.

Karla 2, Hannah 3

Nicolas 1, Emily 3

Aryanna 4

And this kid, who lovesssssss the attention all those girls give him.

Of course we had to get a 97 cent ice cream cup!

Emily feeding Ernest. Although to her it's pronounced "Oh-nestt"

Two carts for Kim

Enjoying the mondo sized carts

Another view. Amazing stuff to me.

And on the way home. Sam's Club, 8 kids, and ice cream would wear anyone out!

(Kim's oldest is 5 and he was in kindergarten that day)

35 weeks and 1 day

2010-10-08T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today we had our first co-op meeting. It goes from 9-12 the 2nd Friday of the month. To say Ethan had a good time is an underscore! He was so excited and had a great time with his teacher letting me know he was well behaved. Praise the Lord! I am volunteering in the nursery since Ernest and the future Ms. Eleanor will be both be in there. We start with circle time which is the Pledge of Allegiance, singing happy birthday, and announcements. Then we break to our rooms and rotate every 45 minutes to a new class. Ethan started in a classroom, has phy ed, then ends in the classroom again. It is well structured and he was pretty tired by the end. Several mom's rotated in and out of the nursery to help with the little ones, so there was someone new to talk to every so often, which is a great way to get to know the other mom's. I started off tired so I sat a lot and played on the floor. Easy peasy.

Afterwards we went to a thrift store and got a great deal on a beautiful dress for the brother in law's wedding on Sunday. Sad to say I'm waiting two days before the wedding to purchase a dress but I didn't want to get a dress and not go or have it not fit. Plus it's something I can wear in the future, black and white floral halter top. Pretty! The boys did great too.

To end our journey we went to McDonald's which is a TREAT in our family. I didn't know what to get and had to tell them to wait several times while I did calculations in my head. Ethan ate a LOT and I ended up going back to order more! He had most of Ernest's burger, another kids burger, a McDouble, most of the french fries (a medium) and we refilled our small drink several times. A growing boy I tell ya! Then Ernest only had a piece of his first burger since Ethan scarfed it down, so he had another one and some french fries. I'm afraid of the teenage years, let me tell ya! Ethan had great time playing in their playscape said "Mom, I'm done. I want to go home." after about 45 minutes!

Now we are working on cleaning the house and preparing for the baby! It's definitly an ongoing process.

Fall has ARRIVED!

All in a question

2010-10-05T01:41:00.000-07:00

While getting ready for #3's arrival we have been sorting and packing away Ernest's 12 month clothes, Ethan's 5t clothes and all of the summer shorts. Sigh, it's true. It's too chilly for shorts and sandles. We now have to wear socks, real shoes, and at least a hoodie.

Some of Ernest's 18 month clothes are short sleeved and shorts, so I explained to Kendall I don't plan on putting him into these clothes at all, eventhough they'd fit. So question is: "What do you want me to do with them?"

Several times I have exclaimed that I'm done having kids, I can't do it with two much less three, we can't afford three, we can't afford two in diapers, what are we going to do, blah blah blah. But still, I feel deep inside, we are not done. I cannot seem to garage sale or give away baby clothes. I look forward to storing them and awaiting the arrival of the next little baby to wear the handed down clothes so perfectly folded with love, marking them now by gender instead of just by age.

When I asked Kendall "What do you want me to do with Ernest's clothes?" I held my breath and hesistated. What if he says to put them in the garage sale bin? Craigslist? Send them off to the thrift store! MY BABY'S CLOTHES!!!! (ohhhh how a woman's mind can race)

Instead, he replies with "Put them in a bag and we'll put them in storage."

Like, duh.

Ernest resting at the park. "Just hold me and all is well."

Kendall, you know how to win me over.

Hotter than two rats fighting in a wool sock

2010-10-03T17:20:00.000-07:00

Heartburn sucks.

Where did this come from, and so late in the pregnancy. Isn't this something experienced earlier and not at the end? Ohhh the burning. The burning....

The boys eatting spaghetti. Bland spaghetti. But they are so cute :)