Our Life

12 Days of Christmas

2012-01-09T08:49:00.000-06:00

You know the drill, go to Facebook.com read all the status updates, comment on those that interest you and take a peek at new pictures that have been posted by family and friends. Facebook can be a great way to keep up with all the different activities here and there...

BUT...sometimes, I find myself disappointed, speechless and amazed at what people post.

Gossip
Complaining
Stressing out over something so simple when others have nothing
Bragging
Rude and Hurtful Words
Taring Relationships apart

It gets to me, and I know that I have been one to do this also. In no means am I saying this because I am perfect. Ha! I am far from perfect and know I have SO much to work on in my own life.

SO....I was so excited back in the beginning of December when one of my Facebook friends, Kelly, posted about this blog post 12 Days of Christmas . She encouraged us as wives to take this challenge on and to not get so caught up in the crazy schedules of Christmas, but instead, be an encouragement to our husbands. WOW! It grew like wildfire on Facebook. There were over 100 ladies that joined our group. It was a rather simple, but very meaningful "project" to do for our spouses.

I started compiling my list and kept changing it and coming up with new ideas. Then my kids got in on it and wanted to help give to Daddy too! As I told Kelly, IT WAS WORKING!! They were excited about GIVING!! not getting. Each morning Kevin would wake up to a special wrapped gift. At first he didn't get it...but as each morning went by I could see something in his eye....he felt special and loved. Again, IT WAS WORKING. :) He enjoyed the gifts, but I know that he enjoyed the time I spent coming up with ideas for him and making each gift mean something special. It was funny because on day 12 I totally forgot to put his gift out, and he came walking down the hallway around lunch time, singing On the 12th day of Christmas my True Love gave to me! LOL!! :) Just a gentle reminder to me that was all.

I am certain that this will be a tradition in our house for many Christmas' to come....a good tradition. A reminder to uplift and honor my husband for all he does for me and our children.

Our Christmas

2012-01-08T14:49:00.000-06:00

Our Christmas was a quiet, low key Christmas this year. We spent the morning at home then a few hours at Kevin's dad's house then back home for the rest of the day. It seemed a little odd because the weather was so warm and there was no snow, but regardless, the four of us had a beautiful day with each other.

I only took two pictures on Christmas day!! I couldn't believe it. These were the only two...

Christmas Morning! The kids didn't get up till almost 8 AM! :)

A quick family picture before heading out for lunch on Christmas day.

A few days after Christmas we enjoyed a 5 day visit from my parents!! The kids were so excited for them to get here. It was such a wonderful, low key visit. We spent time hanging out at the house, a little bit of shopping, a movie and we were able to ring in the New Year with them! I enjoyed ever minute they were here!

So EXCITED to open presents from Grandfather and MomMom!

Thanks, MomMom for my cross necklace!!

Logan got some warm gloves and a hat! Hopefully it will snow so he can enjoy them both this year!

Someone loves to bake...The Betty Crocker cookbook. YUMMY!! She has already tried out a few recipes.

They received ornaments from Aiden and Asher! :)

Logan's gift to Grandfather was a calender for his desk at work.

And Victoria wanted MomMom to have some nice smelling soap for her sink at home.

And of course Diesel had to try on Logan's new hat. :) Thank goodness he is such a good sport.

Just some thoughts....

2011-11-15T20:35:00.001-06:00

I recently heard a statistic...

We as women have two or fewer close friends that we can call "bff's". At first I wanted to disagree with that, but than I began to think about it a little deeper. To me a best friend is a friend that I can share anything with. Anything meaning, how my relationship with God is. My relationship with my husband is. What I am struggling with...whether it is my weight, my kids, my thoughts...just life in general. Someone that I can talk to and KNOW for certain that it will not become gossip. Someone that I can confide in. Someone that I can cry in front of and not feel ashamed of it.

As these thoughts went through my mind I began to agree with what I heard. Indeed...I have two people that I consider to be my best friends here on this earth.

Of course without hesitation my number one friend is Kevin. He is my everything, and that's the way it should be. He is who I go to when I need a shoulder to cry on...an answer to a question...someone to talk to...someone who will listen and then offer advice. He knows me better than I know myself. I am so thankful for him and the close relationship that we have.

I also have another very close friend. We will call her my "bff" in this post. She knows who she is and she also knows how grateful I am that I am able to call her my "bff". :) Being a wife to a firefighter/EMT is not easy. Actually, it can be VERY lonely at times, and being lonely when you are playing a "single" parenting role is NEVER fun. Believe me, I have been there. There are days and nights when shifts last 12, 24, 36 or even 48 hours long. Those days can become exhausting...and she understands because our husbands work together.

Over the past year I don't think I would be where I am at today without my "bff". I have had lots of friends in my life come and go. They have taught me much about being a friend. Some have taught me how to be a better friend and some have shown me what not to do in a friendship. I have friends love me for who I am, and some judge me for who I am...but in the end, it does not matter.

So....can my two close friends say the same thing about me? Can they say I am loyal to them? Can they say that I am there for them through the thick and thin? I pray that I am always a "bff" type of friend to them.

This past weekend my "bff" and our husbands were together and with tears in my eyes I shared my heart and how heavy it was about one area in my life. It was refreshing to be able to talk and not feel as if I was being judged for decisions I was making as a momma, and it was refreshing to hear how they as parents have been through the same struggles in their lives. I went to bed that night feeling encouraged and like a weight had been lifted off my shoulder! It has carried me through the first part of this week...

So thank you to my "bff" for all you do for me, Kevin and our children. It means SO much! So very much!

Two Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins!!

2011-10-30T21:00:00.000-05:00

I found this SIMPLE, EASY recipe on a blog just the other day. I thought it would be the perfect addition to our pumpkin carving weekend! It took all but a few minutes to whip up and they were SO yummy!!

Two Ingredients:

Spice Cake Mix

One 15 ounce can of pumpkin

and i threw in a half bag of chocolate chips ;)

Mix the first two ingredients together with mixer and fold in chips. Bake at 350 for about 25 minutes.

We enjoyed them while the pumpkins were being carved and the kids LOVED them!!

Pretty sure I will be baking these up - very soon!!!

Being A Mom of a BOY!!!

2011-10-12T20:09:00.000-05:00

I remember when Kevin and I found out that our second child was going to be a boy. I remember thinking about all the "boy" things he and his daddy would do together. The fun they would have and the memories they would make! :) Oh the joys! Little did I know the joys I would have being this little guys mommy too! Over the last year, I have been so proud of him and all he has accomplished. I love watching him play sports and how much he has grown up! It is hard to believe that next month he will be EIGHT years old!! Wow! Where did the time go?!?!

Logan - First year of Football - 2011

He thoroughly enjoyed his first season of football. The long hours of practicing in the heat and of course the games. I didn't realize the time commitment it would take on both his part and on our part - as the parents. He started the season out practicing every night for 2.5 each week night. Then games every Saturday. WOW! This little guy never complained and that is how I knew he loved it!

His coaches played on a semi-pro team and worked hard with the little guys. Taught them the basics and even went above and beyond - giving of their time.

Logan even taught me a few things about football - here he is in a three point stance. Who knew. :)

As far as being a parent and watch him learn, grow and play - I couldn't be more proud! He is already looking forward to next years football team!!

He learned how to hustle....

and how to play as a team!!

Way to go - to all the Winn Du Pec Hornets!!! :)

2011-10-07T08:47:00.002-05:00

Victoria and Logan have always rode the bus to school, but this year I drop Victoria off on my way to work and sometimes Logan (he is on a different campus and depending on Kevins schedule). Even though it is only a 2 minute drive to her school, I will remember these mornings forever! :) She is changing more each day...turning into a young lady, talking to me about everything and just always wanting to make sure I know she loves me!

I know that one day it will change and she will want/need to be more independent, but on mornings like this morning when I look over and see this...I am proud to be her mommy!! She means so much to me and I pray that she will always know that!

2011-10-05T08:38:00.000-05:00

Victoria and I had been working around the house all day. She kept asking what she could do to help me get my work done quicker. I was giving her little odd jobs and she was doing such a good job at them...after awhile I asked her to cut some of the Hydrangea's from the flowerbed in front of the house.

She was so excited and brought back in handfuls of flowers. She then proceeded to put them all over the house. :) She has 2 vases in her room, a vase in her bathroom, and 5 vases in the kitchen.

It's amazing what some fresh flowers will do throughout the house.

School Daze..............

2011-09-20T22:09:00.000-05:00

School started almost 4 weeks ago!! I couldn't believe how fast the summer went, but when I think how fast the last four weeks have gone by I am even more shocked!

This year Victoria is in the FOURTH grade! I can't believe it. She was able to move up with the same teacher that she had last year and she was so excited - he is one of the best teachers I think in the elementary and Victoria learns so well under his direction.

I remember Victoria's first day of preschool - 6 years ago. She was walking in with a bookbag as big as her and with a lunch box that she carefully picked out. This year, we are doing away with your traditional bookbag and using one of MY bags as her "bookbag". :) She is growing up way to fast! Her favorite subjects are probably spelling and reading. And this year she is IMPROVING in her math. It is all those hours we have spend on flash cards the past month. I am so proud of her!

Logan is in the SECOND grade this year and adjusting very well. He is a mama's boy and usually unsure about himself and his surroundings. The past month though we have been working on a positive attitude and ways to be postive about yourself. He is doing great! We are so proud of him. He has a WONDERFUL teacher this year too! All summer long we prayed together that he would be placed in a great class...and he has been! His teacher is a great leader and takes charge of her class room with out going out of control. Logans favorite subject is math, but he is coming along great in reading and spelling....we spend time each night reading and reading some more!!

I remember when I was a little girl, sitting next to my dad as he read Little House on the Prairie. :) While I am sure Logan would not be a fan of Little House on the Prarie, they both LOVE Charlottes Web. (Which I am in the middle of reading to them now.)

This year we have been working one specific verse and applying it to our school work, house work and, well just about anything...

Do all things to the glory of God. ALL things. :)

Tonight, Logan looked at me and said, "mom, don't you think we should learn a new verse? I got that one memorized already." lol....

Decisions, Decisions.

2011-09-19T09:23:00.002-05:00

I have thrown around the idea of turning off my blog so many times. I have so much to post, but where do I find the time? How do I find the time?

Just last night I decided that it is so important for me to keeping blogging. I am not keeping it for anyone else but myself. (Selfish, I know) I want our children to be able to look back and be able to read about our life. :) I want them to know/understand that God is in control and even when I feel like a parent that can't take one more step, I continued on.

I want them to be able to read this and be reminded of the great family times we have together. How much they mean to both me and their daddy.

So here is to a fresh start on this blog...

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY

2011-06-02T10:33:00.003-05:00

Love this little guy and miss him so much!!!

ALL BOY

2011-03-14T20:21:00.014-05:00

Logan is changing so much lately! Not only has he grown almost 5 inches this past winter, but he is growing into a little man! I love watching him work on projects around the house with Kevin. He will gladly feed the dog, take out the trash, empty the dishwasher, set the table and so much more. (If only I can get him to pick up his toys with such a good attitude we would be set!)

This past winter when some of our friends were heading out to hunt, Logan wanted to go so bad! I on the other hand had NO desire to allow him or Kevin to shoot a gun nor did I really want deer meat in my freezer. Well, I guess you could say that my mind has been changed....it wasn't changed all by my free will...I am a little out numbered in this area) :)

After MUCH persuasion, we headed out with some friends this past weekend to shoot a few guns. I was so nervous, and for some reason I always think the worse in these type of situations.

Logan did think it was pretty awesome when he was handed the gun. Thank you Ryan for taking the time to show him how to be safe with it. :)

Logan doesn't look to little in these pictures! He knew exactly what to do and how to do it!

He did a such a great job and is already making plans on which gun he is going to purchase next year!

I will say that I even picked up a couple of the guns and after being shown how to use them properly, kinda liked it. Good stress relief.

Logan has also started wrestling. While wrestling season is over for now he is going to continue to better himself at it over the next year with some training.

A few weeks ago he was in his first wrestling tournament. Once again, I was not thrilled with this idea, but then again, I knew NOTHING about the sport. After talking to some good friends of ours my eyes were opened.

Logan LOVED it! I wasn't sure how he would do since there were so many people watching but he didn't even seem to realize it.

He even got a trophy and had a blast doing it!

We are already looking forward to next year's season!!!

Way to go, LOGAN!!!

Just Because....

2011-02-21T20:57:00.009-06:00

1. I could sit and listen to piano music all day long if I could...there is just something so soothing about it.

2. Insecurity is something I am learning to deal with and accept...the road hasn't been easy.

3. I HATE working out, but I love leaving the gym dripping with sweat knowing that I just accomplished something that good!

4. I love salt n' vinegar chips...hence number 3.

5. Whenever I see a police officer, paramedic, EMT or firefighter it will bring me to tears....especially when they are in a truck on a way to a call.

6. My poor husband gets kicked a lot through the night because of snoring the reason why? See number 7...

7. I can not sleep unless it is pitch black and perfectly quiet. ;)

8. God has taught me so much over the past few months...and I am praying that 2011 is a year like no other (this will be in a much needed post soon to come)

9. I LOVE winter; I mean I need to love winter. I live in Northern Illinois. If I didn't love winter and I would spend a good 5 months complaining...and we all know that I despise complaining!

10. I pray for Victoria and Logan's spouses. Whoever they are....I pray that they are being brought up in a God honoring home. I love my two darlings to pieces and want them to experience the love that their mommy and daddy have for one another and the love that we have for our Saviour.

11. Logan wants to go to college to learn about fire science and to be a fire fighter, but he doesn't want to be in the Navy because people there go to war and can get killed....I will leave him to believe that right now, but one day soon I will need to explain to him the dangers a firefighter faces every day.

12. Having "the talk" with my 8 year old daughter is NOT something I am looking forward to, but it is a talk that I will be having with her before this summer is over... **shutter**

13. I am an insecure person, and have been reading 'So Long Insecurities' by Beth Moore. Can I just say WOW!!! That is another whole post at a different time.

14. I despise winter coats. If I can go all winter without wearing a coat I would, but you know when it gets below zero people kinda look at you a little odd when you don't have a coat on. :)

15. I throw away just about anything; Kevin saves just about everything. Together we can be dangerous.

16. I would love to visit Germany because of the history that took place...I think it would change my life.

17. Kevin and I have both been on a mission trip separately, but we would like to now go on one together as a married couple and serve together. I think there would be such an awesome opportunity for growth in our marriage.

2011-02-21T12:36:00.005-06:00

Valentines Day was a little crazy in our house this year between parties, candy, cards and fires. :) Kevin has training every Monday evening with the department, but it was cancelled on Valentines Day!! (Thank you, Greg!) I was so excited, and to make it even better, I was getting off work early to attend Logan's school party...so that meant I would be home by 3 and have plenty of time to fix a special dinner.

Monday morning I got up like any other morning to start my day...when I got out of the shower Kevin was already gone which I thought was strange. A few minutes later I heard him coming back home so headed out to the kitchen to see what was up....there on my kitchen table were some beautiful flowers!! He had made arrangements to have them delivered to my work, but when he realized that I was leaving early because of Logan's party he went and picked them up(thank you, Shirley!!!) bright and early so I could enjoy them before even leaving for work! I love that man!!!!

Thank goodness we were able to spend the afternoon together as a family because that evening as he sat down to dinner he got a fire call, then another fire call and then a third call. He ended up coming home around 2 AM and sleeping on the couch. :( It wasn't a typical valentines day for us, but then again do ever do anything typical in our house!?!?!

Christmas Time!!

2011-01-02T17:43:00.010-06:00

I can not believe that tomorrow we head back to school, work and our weekly routines. Christmas break is over. :( I was able to be off work the entire time the kids were off school for Christmas break and we loved each day!!

We spent time shopping as a family, sleeping in, laughing and making memories. Just like I wanted too. Some mornings we would get up and instead of rushing off to do anything we would spend time playing games (especially our new favorite...Monopoly) and eating Christmas cookies. We may have enjoyed our lazy time, but the kids were also a HUGE help around the house!!!

We had movie nights and of course with that comes eating dinner in front of the TV while you watch the movie...which the kids love to do! We had friends and family over and made many new memories with them!

Now that the decorations are put away and things are back to normal (starting tomorrow) I learned how important family is this Christmas season! Nothing can replace my loved ones! Sometimes it is so difficult being away from my family during the holidays, but my parents made it so special for the kids and Kevin and I! Thank you, Dad & Mom! It was greatly appreciated!!!

I surrounded myself this Christmas with my loving husband and beautiful children and was reminded how fortunate we are to have each other! Things may not have gone the way we thought they would, but in the end we were together!!!

A Social Network Christmas

2010-12-23T10:28:00.004-06:00

I saw this on a blog that I read. I have watched it again and again and it continues to bring me to tears each time...

So many emotions go through my mind when I think what Joseph and Mary anticipated the closer it got to the birth of their baby, our Saviour. Remember the Real Reason of the Season this year as His birthday approaches!!

2010-12-11T19:08:00.004-06:00

How can it be that these two children used to be my babies?!!? Where has time gone? Tonight we were trying our Christmas outfits on for church tomorrow and it had just started snowing out. I am pretty sure you can tell by the look on their faces that they thought I was CRAZY!!! :)

They are getting so excited for Christmas this year. They had program practice at church this morning. I walked in the last few minutes of the practice and I was in tears. It is such a good program and I can't wait to listen to them sing tomorrow morning! We have been working so hard on the songs....well, Victoria has. Logan would rather just pretend he knows the words. LOL!

Next weekend we have a Christmas dinner to go to and then a Christmas musical on Sunday evening. Then the weekend after that it is CHRISTMAS!! I cannot believe how fast December is going! We are enjoying everyday of it and look forward to spend Christmas day as a family remembering the real reason for Christmas. CHRIST, His birth and the love the love of his Father for sending Him to this world as a baby.

2010-12-02T22:00:00.002-06:00

I am a person who runs on lists, organization, agendas and schedules like a car runs on gasoline. :) Not everyone is like that and it is OK.

I have lists for...

grocery shopping

weekly menus

what is on sale where

what I need clean on the weekend

where I need to go on the weekend

what I need to accomplish during the day

what homework needs to be done in the evening each night

people to call

what to plan next

On Thanksgiving day, I had a list as to what needed to be put in the oven at what time, and let me tell you...it worked so smooth. It also had our complete menu for that day. If it weren't for that list I would have forgotten to take the cranberries out of the fridge. opps.

You get the picture. If I do not do this, I. fall. apart. Seriously, it is not pretty either. My darling husband is usually there to help put me back together...and to remind me that there is a word called flexibility. I have learned that flexibility is a must.

My mind is always running 3 days ahead. With that said, it doesn't mean that my body is running that far ahead.

My kids know that I like a clean house and that they need to pick up after themselves. We make our beds every morning and when we leave the house in the morning to go to our respected work places and school the house is usually 98% in order. I love that about my husband...we both LOVE coming home to a clean house in the evening.

Don't get me wrong, I have days (and plenty of them) when the laundry is piled as high as the washing machine, when the dirty dishes are stacked in the sink, when the bathrooms are in desperate need of a SCRUB, when you can write your name in the dust on the coffee tables....yeah. I have been there and like I said will continue to go there. It is called life. And life is one thing that I have made myself deal with. We run on busy schedules in this house every day, every night till we collapse into bed.

Kevin's week nights consist of EMT classes, ER clinical, ambulance rotations, call nights and studying in there somewhere. The kids have homework and plenty of it, piano lessons, Awana's, running to the library for more books and anything else they can con me into. ;)

With life swirling around us faster and faster, I have had to learn F.L.E.X.I.B.I.L.I.T.Y. There is no choice. If I go to bed with a house that is not "perfect" than I go to bed. Sleep is just as important. I have learned that life moves in a speed faster than myself....Yes, I still keep an agenda and yes, my mind rarely shuts off, but I have taught myself, with a lot of help from Kevin, that flexibility is something I need in my life....and I must admit, that it is not as bad as I thought.

Tonight was a good example...instead of pushing myself to have the house all picked up before the kids were in bed and sat and read a book with Logan, listened to Victoria read to me and went over a few of the difficult spelling words for tomorrows test. :) That time is far better spent with my kids than picking up around the house!!!

In All Things

2010-11-29T18:56:00.009-06:00

I heard an amazing Sunday school lesson and Sunday service this past Sunday. The church that we are currently attending has taught me and caused me to think about WHY and WHAT I believe in.

We have been attending a new church for the past few months. Well, it is new to me and our children. Kevin went to this church when his family lived in Rockford a long. time. ago. (Around 20 years ago.) So I guess you could say it is "new" to him too. He does know and remember a lot of people. The pastor that was there when he was younger has recently resigned and a new pastor has since taken over the pulpit.

We have bounced between 2 different Sunday School classes. The first one was taught by the pastor of children's ministries. Our first month in the class discussed the topic of purity/sex and how to speak to your children about this topic. It blew. me. away. I was not prepared on how much information (very good information) we would be provided with. We found many of the parents in the class to be older than us, and that was OK. It opened our eyes as to what we would be faced with in the years to come. The pastor also spoke on a purity weekend. He recently did this with both of his boys. And he and his wife could not say enough good things on what this had/has done for their family.

I was really encouraged during this class. It brought up some questions that Kevin and I had. We also realized through some of it that we needed to get better at being on the same page as each other. Yes, I know that dating is WAY down the road when it comes to our children, but it will be here SOONer than we know it. We need to be prepared and be equipped to help our children remain pure.

The second class we have attended is referred to as the Lighthouse class. Those in this class are more our age and we know the teacher. Not personally, but Kevin has recently done work for them. This class was great this past Sunday! There were a couple of married couples in this class that were quoting scripture and referring to scripture faster than I could think of a reference!

We studied Romans 8:28 this past Sunday. I am sure many of you can quote it by heart.

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

I read this verse through a few times when class started. It brought me back to the Friday before...I had met a friend of mine for coffee. We were just catching up on each other. We both agreed while sitting at the table that where we are in life right now is difficult, but we wouldn't change it. She mentioned that her family is bursting out of the seams of their vehicle, but yet she was EXCITED to see how the Lord was going to provide them a new vehicle. To me, she is an example of this verse....IN ALL THINGS GOD WORKS FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE HIM.

She could have sat there and complained about the bad things in her life right now....BUT she didn't. Not once.

Read that verse one more time...AND WE KNOW IN ALL THINGS GOD WORKS FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE HIM. That is an awesome promise to me.

ALL THINGS...financially.

ALL THINGS...sickness.

ALL THINGS...work.

ALL THINGS God will work for the good!

What a great way to start off my week this week. It was a blessing to me to be able to leave church yesterday and be reminded of that promise.

Thanksgiving!!!!

2010-11-23T13:09:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving is almost here! I always look forward to this time of year. I enjoy Christmas, but I can honestly say that Thanksgiving is my most favorite holiday! :) This year we are staying home...don't get me wrong, I am still looking forward to Thanksgiving...I would much rather be in Pennsylvania with my parents and the rest of my family though. It just is not going to happen this year during the holidays. Of course I am sad about this. I LOVE celebrating the holidays with my family. My mom sets the MOST beautiful tables!!! I love that about going "home" during a holiday. I always look forward to her centerpieces and table settings. :) She puts a lot of love into them...and I am sure that we will remember this for many years to come!!!

So for Thanksgiving this year, I have planned a menu of turkey, ham, stuffing, potatoes, scalloped corn, green beans, cranberries, rolls, homemade apple pie, homemade pumpkin pie, pumpkin roll, sweet rice and of course Logan's birthday cake. :) I can't wait to get in the kitchen starting tomorrow and start baking....and this year for the first year ever I am getting help from my one and only Victoria! She LOVEs to help me in the kitchen. And to be honest with you, I love working along side of her too!! She brings so much joy to everything.

While we may not be in Pennsylvania making memories with my mom, we will be in our very own kitchen making memories between Victoria and I! :) This brings a smile to my face FOR SURE!!! Maybe we will start something this year too....beautiful centerpieces!!! :)

Playing for Grandfather and MomMom!!!

2010-11-10T15:04:00.002-06:00

I took this video the other night while Victoria was practicing. I should have taken video of her this morning because she has come a LONG way this week on this song...but then again she will sit at the piano and play it over and over again.

I wanted to get it up here so the Aunts and Uncles could here her play. :)

Fun Times!!!

2010-11-07T20:48:00.013-06:00

A few weeks ago, after church, we headed over to one of the local fire departments for the open house they were having. (imagine that) ;) When we got there I realized that I FORGOT my camera. I was so disappointed. Thankfully I had my phone and was able to snap a couple of pictures with it. The kids had so much fun. Of course, I just love watching Logan's face LIGHT up anytime he is around anything that has to do with a fire station. He adores his daddy and I just can't explain the feeling I get when as I listen to the two of them talk about fires and "stuff" as Logan refers to it.

While we were at the open house the kids were able to ride big ladder truck all the way up!! They loved it!! Me....I wouldn't get caught going up there if my life depended on it.

Getting ready to head up....

Going Up......

Almost there....

Wow!! That's high! :)

The kids had a blast that day and did not want to go home. They got to ride the old antique fire engine, go through a pretend house that was on fire and got lots of free stuff!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This last week the Victoria and Logan brought home report cards. I laughed when I saw Victoria's report card. I am pretty sure 24 years ago my 3rd grade report card was the exact same....especially when it comes to "must work on controlling talking" :) Her grades were awesome though and I was so proud of her. She works so hard each night to complete her spelling, reading and math. She is a perfectionist and does not like being wrong. Everything has to be just so. She has also been working hard on her piano. I can see her enjoying it more and more. I attribute that to her teacher....who is WONDERFUL!! Victoria will actually work on her piano pieces each morning before the bus comes and then again in the evening. Her and I are even working on a duet piece for Christmas! I can't wait!! :)

Logan also has been excelling in school. He loves his classroom and absolutely loves his teacher. I attended parent/teacher conferences last week and his teacher mentioned that, "Logan is one of the only boys in the class that I can assign something to and know that it is going to GET DONE!" That makes me so proud to hear. His favorite subject is math and you can tell! Now reading on the other hand...he rolls his eyes each night when I tell him it is reading time. :)

I know that most of you out there don't care how my children are doing in school, but I know the grandparents, aunts and uncles always want to know.

My children are growing up SO fast right before my very eyes. They have developed these personalities that blow me away sometime. I mean lets face it....they are far from perfect, but I see a side of them that no one else sees. They mean the world to me and I am thankful for each imperfection they have but I am also GRATEFUL for the loving, kind, generous, caring and thankful spirits that they have. They teach me something each and every day...and I love that about them!!!

2010-10-19T10:27:00.006-05:00

I have seen videos of Cardboard Testimonies before and for some reason they just have an impact on me. They are people, just like you and I. But deep inside we all have hardships, victories, difficulties and so on. We pass people at work, at school, at church. We don't have a clue if they are hurting.

When I see a homeless person on the corner of the street it just brings me to tears. I don't know the circumstance of why they are there, and it doesn't matter what those circumstances are. It makes me realize how special my life is. Yes, we have our own difficulties in our little family of four, but they are nothing compared to what other people are going through day in and day out. I have a loving husband and two beautiful children. Each night when I go to bed I know that they love me and am SO thankful for that. For now I need to remember this. When my heart feels the need to complain or grumble, I need to be reminded just how special my life is!!!!

Kevin

2010-10-04T19:34:00.007-05:00

I have this man in my life who I am so thankful for. As I go about my day, I think about him; I keep our home clean for him. I do things during my day to show my love for him. He provides for me and for our children. I want him to feel loved each and everyday. I don't like to disappoint him in any way! He is my everything...my everything in life! This man is my husband...and he is the best thing that has ever happened to me.

Tonight, as I sit here and think about him, I know that he has a lot on his mind. He is sitting in class right now. A class that meets twice a week from 6 to 10 PM. Somtimes it goes later than that. He then comes home and prepares for work the next day and studies sometime in between work and class. I know that his isn't the only man that has ever done what he has done....but it makes me proud...what he is doing for himself and for his family!

I love you, Kevin, and I am proud that you are MY husband. The man I love and respect with my whole being.

I love music and the way a song can have such a deep meaning to it, and I love this song by Dave Barnes!

: Read God Gave Me You Lyrics here.

GOD GAVE ME YOU

I’ve been a walking heartache
I’ve made a mess of me
The person that I’ve been lately
Ain’t who I wanna be

But you stay here right beside me
Watch as the storm goes through
And I need you

God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
For when I think I’ve lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you

There’s more here than what were seeing
A divine conspiracy
That you, an angel lovely
Could somehow fall for me
You’ll always be love’s great martyr
Ill be the flattered fool
& I need you

God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
For when I think I’ve lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you

On my own I’m only
Half of what I could be like
Can’t do without you
We are stitched together
And what love has tethered
I could never undo

God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
God gave me you for the ups and downs
God gave me you for the days of doubt
For when I think I’ve lost my way
There are no words here left to say, it’s true
God gave me you, gave me you.
Gave me you.

Catch Up

2010-09-04T19:55:00.011-05:00

NEW BIKE!!!!

Logan has been waiting for this bike most of the summer. Back in June he picked it out and the owner of the bike shop generiously let us put it back in the back till we could come pick it up!! Well days turned to weeks, weeks into months...and a couple of weeks ago he got it!! He was so excited. I was so proud of him for being so patient till we had the money to get it! He never got upset that he was riding a bike WAY TO SMALL for him. Instead he kept riding that new bike...but now....he can "keep up with the older boys" as he puts it. :)

-----------------------------------------------------------------
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!!!

It is hard to believe that Victoria and Logan are already back in School! Victoria started 3rd grade and Logan started 1st grade. This year they go to school together...meaning that both of their grades are on the same campus. This will be the last time till they are in high school together. :( They get to ride the bus together and even see each other periodically throughout the day.

Victoria has her first male teacher and so far LOVES him. Last year, I heard great things about this teacher...so this past summer we prayed that she would be in his classroom. Needless to say she was so thankful that her prayers were answered!

First day of school!!!!

Logan was anxious but yet a little nervous for school to start. He did great the first day of school and went right into his classroom...I can't believe that he is already iin 1st grade. Where does the time go???

Open house night...showing us her locker!

Waiting for the bus to take him to meet his first grade teacher!!!

LOVES his locker!!!

Goodbye Summer

2010-08-31T12:19:00.004-05:00

The summer came and went. Just like that! We had a wonderful summer. It was one of those "good 'ol fashion" summers. Where the days were lazy and running through sprinklers was just so much fun. We went on walks, had picnics in the park, stayed up way to late and just enjoyed being with each other.

I know I am behind on posts...I have a vacation post to do, first day of school post to do and our weekend of family camp to do. Hopefully I will get them up this weekend. HOPEFULLY!!!

Until then...you will have to do without pictures. :) Sorry Grandparents.

This last weekend we went to Lake Lundgren Bible Camp. The camp is celebrating its 75th year so they though it would be awesome to have a reunion for all staff memembers. When Kevin heard this he was pumped. He was anxious to show me and the kids where he lived for many years as a staff "kid". I will admit, I wasn't sure what to think about it...but let me tell you something...it was awesome! They had a schedule of events and it was basically like family camp. As a family we needed it...just to have a slower pace of life for a few days and to just be near each other. It was perfect. We left on Friday AS SOON AS THE KIDS GOT OFF OF THE BUS...they jumped right in the truck and we started our 5 hour drive up to the North Woods.

We had 4 different messages this past weekend and EACH and EVERYONE I needed! I left feeling so refreshed. One message in particular spoke about how we tend to "try to go around a trial instead of going through it". That is me at this exact moment! The last 2 months I have been trying to take a detour around this trial thinking I could do it on my own. Thinking there was NO need to hit this trial head on with strength from Christ. HELLO!?!?! What was I thinking? That trial is in my life because He put it there....why do I think He can't help me? So instead I gave it all over to Him. I am so thankful for the messages we heard this weekend and for the men of God that brought them to us.

If you have never been to family camp but have thought about it I would say give it a try. We loved it and are looking forward to going back next year and even sending Victoria to their Junior camp. The way she has been talking about it you would think she were going next week.

2010-07-14T14:58:00.004-05:00

Today, my husband of 10 years turns 32 years old! I love knowing that I am growing "old" with this man! He is an amazing person and gives so much of himself day after day. He loves his children and takes time with them each evening to talk to them or do something that they love to do. He just doesn't use the words "I LOVE YOU" but he shows that he loves them. He supports me in my career, and he encourages me to take steps to further my education. I couldn't be where I am today without that encouragement. He puts long hours in, day after day with no complaining. He looks for ways to help others. He is an example to me. I am thankful that he is my husband and the father of my children.

Tonight we are making his favorite dinner....steaks on the grill, homemade potato salad (him mom's recipe) and dessert. I can't wait!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KEVIN!!!!

5k.....

2010-07-06T16:31:00.011-05:00

**The following pictures were taken from my friend's blog**

As I said in my previous post, I ran in a 5k early Sunday morning. It was something that I have been working towards for a few months now. If I am going to work to be healthy, why not do something fun. LOL! I don't know if I would have called this fun or not...

Sunday morning when I got up I kept wanting to just back out. I don't like doing things without someone by my side that I know. I got to the race around 6:30, registered and received a "chip" and then warmed up. HA! My first thought was...what in the world is this chip for. I'll just hold on to it. I started to warm up and stretch. As the time drew near to get in line the more nervous I got. I don't think nervous was the actual word...the more SCARED TO DEATH I GOT! Then I saw my friends. Whew! I felt a little better. They helped me get my chip on where it needed to be and then sent me on my way to the start line. That's when I saw Kevin and the kids. I felt so much better!

As I stood in line they gave direction as to where the race route was...RACE. LOL! Race? I wasn't there to race, to get a medal or to beat anyone. I just wanted to cross the finish line. I had a goal. I wanted to do it under 45 minutes. The horn sounded and off we went. There were a total of 118 people.

I don't think I was more than 5 minutes into the race when I realized I had drank 2 bottles of water...and forgot to use the restroom...my it was going to be a long 3.1 miles. Honestly, I just kept praying that I would make it without my bladder bursting. :)

I hit the 1st mile without stopping. I was so happy to see that mile marker. The heat was bad but the humidity was worse. I just ignored it. Halfway they were handing out drinks. I grabbed one...wrong thing to do. I didn't know what to do with it. Should I drink it? Have you ever tried to drink and run at the same time? It didn't work. Then I was going to pour it over my head to cool myself down...better not. I had a watch on and my mp3 player. So I just threw the cup off to the side. It totally threw my rhythm off...I decided to walk for a bit. Once I got my breath back a little I started running again...

I was able to run until we hit the hill. Now this hill is one that I drive up everyday. It is the road right behind our house. It doesn't look that big, but when you have been running for over 2 miles...it was MASSIVE!!! :)

I decided to walk the hill. Once at the top and around the bend I knew I was almost to the finish line....but wait...they MOVED where we started about 10 blocks further. WHAT IN THE WORLD! I guess I wasn't paying attention during that part of the announcements. Much to my dismay I had to keep running.

Victoria and Logan waiting for mommy!!!!

As I came closer to the finish line I saw my family and friends and I could hear them cheering for me. I will never forget the look in my children's eyes. It brought tears to my eyes! I could also see that I had beat my goal. I made it in 34 minutes! I really surprised myself! Being my first race I wasn't sure how to pace myself or what to even expect. I was so happy that I accomplished it...better yet I was happy I was able to use the restroom!! :)

I love this picture that was captured as Kevin kissed my forehead. He was always by my side helping me make the time to run. Many nights I was hitting the gym around 9 or 10 at night. Some nights I just didn't want to do it, but he always encouraged me and helped me around the house so I could get a run in...THANK YOU, KEVIN!!!

So now I have my first race under my belt...I would like to do 2 more this summer and then I was challenged by a few of my friends to do a 10k this fall! I am still thinking about it, but of course Kevin already told me to go for it and that I CAN DO IT!!!! I love that man!!!

4th of July fun.....

2010-07-05T18:05:00.017-05:00

We had somewhat of a busy 4th of July. It wasn't meant to be that busy, but by the end of the day when I finally got to see Kevin we realized we jam packed our day! While we were walking home from the fireworks Victoria mentioned to me that it was the best 4th of July ever! :) I would have to agree with her! We did have fun and enjoyed our jam packed day of festivities.

Our day started at 6:30 AM. I had to be at the school to register for the 5k! It was a great experience and I am looking forward to my next race later this month! While I was walking to where we would be starting I saw three of my friends that came to cheer me on! Thank you Julie, Joanna and Tancy. It meant so much to have you there. Kevin also woke the kids up and brought them down too. I was almost in tears as the race started and my kids were there waving at me. It felt so good! I have to say a HUGE thank you to my husband! If it were not for him I would never have been able to do this. He was always encouraging me to take the time to go out for a run. Thanks, Kevin!!! :)

After the race we headed home while Kevin headed to the fire station to prepare for the parade. The kids were so EXCITED to see daddy in the parade.

I surprised the kids and decorated their scooters the night before. They LOVED it and I must say I was happy with the way they turned out! The kids looked so cute riding all over our little town yesterday.

It was so hot and humid as we waited for the parade. Thank goodness for the little breeze that made its way around us every once and awhile.

Here comes daddy and the rest of his department!!

So proud of you, Kevin!!! The kids were so excited to see daddy and of course they got a little extra candy from the fire fighters! ;) Those guys are so kind to our children!!

While the parade was still going on Kevin came down to see us and check up on us for a bit. It was so hot out and he said that a lot of people were having difficulty with the heat.

After the parade there is always a "bed race" between the fire fighters and the police officers. The last 3 years the fire fighters have won...

The firefighters had to race in full gear...I couldn't imagine fighting a fire in what they wear. They were hurting afterwards but they WON!!! :)

After the parade and race Kevin had 2 softball games. We had a picnic to go to and we were also able to go to the festival. The kids were so excited for the fireworks of course too! :)

What a great day we had with family and friends! The kids had a blast and did so well with the heat and humidity! What a great family day we had!! Now to enjoy the rest of July and August...then back to school.....BUT we aren't thinking about that yet. :)

What a Song!

2010-06-26T15:21:00.007-05:00

I was sure by now
That you would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "amen", and it's still raining

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who give
And takes away

I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry
You raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I rasie my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth

2010-06-24T12:56:00.015-05:00

I was going through some of my most recent posts and realized I never posted about Logan's graduation from Kindergarten! What was I thinking?!?!

This school year was a year of changes for us all, and this guy is one that I worried about the most. Logan is not one that likes changes. He doesn't like trying something new. He would rather stay home with me than go out anywhere. He will make excuses as to why he doesn't want to do something if he is uncomfortable with it...well you get the picture. At the beginning of his kindergarten year he was nervous, sick to his tummy and always had headaches. Once he got in the routine of things he did GREAT!!! I LOVED his teacher. She was soft spoken and TOTALLY brought Logan out of his shell. She was wonderful for him. She said that in her 20 years of teaching she has never had such a polite child in her classroom. :) That made me so proud.

As I watched him during his program I noticed how much he is turning into a kind, loving little boy. I pray that God uses that in his life.

One of the FIVE kindergarten classes - Class of 2022!

Some of his buddies....

His teacher Mrs. W.

Another buddy.

The proud kindergartner

After graduation Logan was able to pick any place he wanted to go for dinner. He choose Buffalo Wild Wings!! He loves that place and let me tell you....he ate and ate and ate! If the food is spicy that is just fine with him. We were laughing at how he kept eating. If this is a look into my future I better be ready for a growing boy.

These two make me laugh...one day he will be bigger than her. It is going to happen and I keep tell her that it is going to happen. When we just don't know. :)

First he enjoyed his side salad...and yes that is a red onion.

Then he enjoyed his wings...

Then on to some chips and salsa....

Then back to the rest of his side salad...

Then a little bit of coleslaw...

Seriously, he can eat! We had a blast and we are looking forward to see him in first grade this coming school year!

We are so proud of you Logan! We love you and are thankful for you!!

Something to Ponder

2010-06-21T08:33:00.005-05:00

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!

Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things."

Philippians 4:4-8

These are simple verses that I probably memorized while still in grade school, but this morning they spoke VOLUMES to me...especially verse six. I have prayed; I have cried. He knows my heart. So I will continue to pray and continue to give it all over to the Lord!

On a Mission

2010-06-17T16:24:00.003-05:00

I am on a mission...and if you know me; you know that I when I get something in my head I just won't quit. That can be both good and bad. Although this time, it is ALL good!

If there was one thing that you could change about your body what would it be? In all honesty, I would like to change my fingers. I know you are thinking that I am TOTALLY crazy...but really I wish I could grow long, manicured nails. However, I have larger fingers and wide nail beds making it a little impossible. Oh well, I can't change it so I just deal with it. ;)

BUT....

One thing that I can change is my weight. I have always struggled with my weight. Back when I was in the 8th grade I started to pack it on. I didn't realize it until I was in the 11th grade that it made a HUGE difference how much you weighed. So I started to eat healthy, exercise and it worked! The weight dropped. I was happy and I was content with how I looked.

**LET ME JUST STOP TO OFFER A BRIEF COMMERCIAL HERE...I DO NOT WANT THIS POST TO SOUND LIKE IT IS ALL ABOUT ME AND HOW GOOD I AM...BY NO MEANS DO I WANT THAT...I AM JUST WRITING ABOUT MY JOURNEY WITH MY WEIGHT**

Well fast forward almost 10.5 years later, college, marriage, babies and just life in general. I had put weight on. Again I didn't even notice, but it was time to do something about it. So I started to change my eating and exercise. That was 2.5 years ago. I have been able to maintain my weight since then, but when 2010 rolled around I wanted to get even more healthy. I wasn't concerned with losing weight this time; I just wanted to eat healthy and start to exercise again.

So I set a goal of no more sugary stuff (snacks, cookies and chocolate) in the house. We stopped buying all that and started buying veggies, fruit, whole grains and all natural. LOVE IT...and it helps when your children do too! I love cooking healthy for my family...like last night we had whole wheat pasta and homemade sauce (from the Biggest Loser cookbook.) So almost 6 months into changing the way we eat and I am content with that. Don't get me wrong, there are days when we will have something sugary or stop for something not so healthy, but we have turned the corner.

Well, that took care of the eating healthy part...

What about exercise? What could I do that would hold me accountable?!?! It was then that I remembered hearing about the 5k held on the 4th of July here in our little town...DONE! That was my new goal. I wanted to train to run the 5k. Now maybe some of you (or all of you LOL!) are thinking, "Why in the world would one person need to TRAIN to run 3.1 miles. That is easy." Well first of all, I do not run. I am sure if my gym teacher, Mrs. Hayes, saw me run her jaw would drop. "Heather Frey run?!?! No WAY!!!" That, my readers, is why I am training.

So I started to use the Couch to 5k program. Seriously, I had my doubts when I first started this program....but let me tell you IT WORKS!!!! Last night I ran 2.25 miles! I am serious! I ran and ran and ran. I felt like Forest Gump when they yell, "RUN FOREST RUN!" LOL! You get the picture.

My journey through this is almost complete. July 4th will be here soon and I am so nervous, but I am SO excited too! I could totally flop this and may not even be able to complete the race, but in the end, I have found something that I enjoy doing. Something that makes me feel awesome. I can't wait...oh and I have also signed up for 2 more 5k's before the summer is over. :) Let the games, errr I mean, races begin!! :)

Long Lost Pictures

2010-06-04T10:54:00.004-05:00

I found these pictures in my phone the other day. One evening we stopped up at the fire station and Kevin showed the kids around the different trucks. Logan thinks it is totally cool....Victoria not so much. She is closing her ears in a couple of the pictures becuase there was a call coming in for the ambulance services over the loud speakers.

Me, I have mixed emotions. Seeing Kevin and the other guys with their gear on, on the way to a call sends chills down my spine. Seeing them in their uniform at a parade makes me proud. He has worked hard and has given up a lot of his free time to accomplish this.

He will be taking two more tests for firefighting this summer and then he starts his EMT classes in the fall. He mentioned to me the other night that he LOVES doing this and wishes he were younger when he found this passion. :) I am proud of him regardless of how old he is...it isn't easy doing what these guys do.

Summer Time, Summer Time, Sum Sum Summer Time!!!!!

2010-05-26T08:46:00.005-05:00

Summer break starts next week for us!! The kids are so excited and have been counting down the days for weeks. The past couple years summer break has not made much sense to them, but now that they are both in school this year they are looking forward the next three months of NO SCHOOL!!!!

Remember when you were in school?? Do you remember thinking about riding your bike, playing at the park, sleeping in, swimming and of course vacation!! I know I remember those lazy summer days of being a kid. :) Well in the past, summer didn't change much for us. I work outside of the home so Victoria and Logan would have to continue to get up early and go to the babysitter or daycare. Towards the end of the summer last year, Victoria asked me why she couldn't sleep in or just stay at home for summer break. It was then I started thinking about what could be done differently for this summer.

They are still way to young to be at home all day long with no supervision. So that was out of the question. What about a teenager? We live about 40 minutes from our church so having a teen from our church come to our house would probably not work. Through the winter I just kept praying that we would find someone local and young. :) Someone that would love being with my kids all day long and that wouldn't mind coming to our house so the kids could enjoy being at home!

Well back in March I started asking around. I sent a friend of ours an e-mail. She works at the school district here in our town...and has lots of connections. :) About a week later she e-mailed me back. She had someone in mind who was great with kids and who lived down the block from me!!! Praise the Lord!!! Actually, we know her already. She went to the same church that we went to when we first moved to Illinois!!

So we connected and let me tell you...my kids love her!!! She has been over a few times already and is so helpful! She even came over last week at night, after the kids were in bed, so I could go to the gym. (Kevin was in Texas.)

God is so good. I feel like I hardly had to do anything (but pray of course) to find her. I am excited for Victoria and Logan to have a lazy summer this year. :) They will get to sleep in, play at the pool, go to the Library, go to the park for picnics and whatever else that they concoct up or get Mary to do!!!

Six years ago when Kevin and I decided that I would work outside of the home I knew that it wouldn't always be easy, but I am so thankful over the past few years to have friends that have watched our kids during summer break (Julie and Tancy!) and a really good daycare when they were little.

So here's to a wonderful summer break for all the kids that are getting out of school this week!!!

ENJOY!!!!!

2010-05-22T09:44:00.005-05:00

Today is a beautiful day. The sun is shining and it is supposed to be in the mid 80's! Finally a Saturday to be outside....doing whatever we want. I woke up this morning around 4:45. Our windows were open and I could hear the birds singing. How do they know morning is here when it is still very dark out? God is good, isn't he? I mean, His creation is something that I constantly marvel at. This morning was a perfect reminder of that.

My long week without Kevin is over. Last Sunday when he left I don't think I made it through and hour without crying. I cried after I dropped him off at the station. I cried while getting ready for church. While doing Victoria's hair. (She thought I was pretty crazy) :) I cried on my way to church and in Sunday School too. I wanted to just go home crawl up in bed and stay there till Friday. By Monday I was kicking and screaming inside. Questioning why I agreed that Kevin being on the fire department was a good thing.

Without going into detail there were so many emotions that I was feeling inside. There was this one thing that I kept beating myself up over...I just kept pushing through me week though. Keeping my feelings to myself...it was a long week for me. These emotions I had made me just plain 'ol sad.

I am so thankful that I had Victoria and Logan here with me. They were so well behaved all week long. It's like they knew...they knew that I needed strength from them. When Kevin is gone I do not sleep well. A few nights I was up cleaning...scrubbing my kitchen floor, cleaning my bathrooms...till 2 in the morning. :) I was a bit tired in the morning but it felt so good to have a clean home when Kevin came home last night.

I am so thankful for Kevin and all he does in our home. He is a man, husband and father that is dearly loved. The kids and I spent a couple of evenings cleaning out his truck. We detailed the inside of it and washed it too. He was so thankful when he got in it last night. The kids and I also spent our evenings running here and there and trying to remember all the things that daddy does during the week. Like Monday night is trash night. Wednesday he coaches Logan's baseball team. (Thankfully I didn't have to coach.) I did sit and watch Logan as he nailed that ball past the third baseline. :) Kevin also picks up Victoria and Logan from school each day and helps them with their homework and prepares dinner most evenings.

With the help of Victoria and Logan, we had a successful week. We were able to make it all the places we needed to be along with accomplishing having a good time doing it.

To finish it all up I am thankful that Kevin has chosen this new career (or additional career) of firefighting. I am proud of him. Within the next couple of months he starts his EMT courses. It will be harder for him and it may even be a struggle for him, but I know that he can do it and I will be there to encourage him.

2010-05-07T09:16:00.003-05:00

I have been wanting to update my blog for the longest time! I read so many other blogs and I have so much to update on too.

This week I have been reminded of something. Something very important and I am thankful that the Lord has shown it to me.

On Wednesday evening I was miserable. I just wanted to sit and cry. I don't have a clue why. As I was putting Victoria and Logan to bed I was anxious and I just felt like I needed to "get out". Kevin sensed it too and when the kids were down he mentioned to me that maybe it would help if I just walked around the grocery store. (That may sound odd to some of you...but to me not at all.) I didn't hesitate...I grabbed my purse and keys and drove to our little store. As I walked around and put things in my cart I felt myself unwind a bit. After that I headed to the gas station and as I was pumping gas I got a text message from a good friend of mine. She told me that a teacher at her school was diagnosed with breast cancer that day. She is our age and a teacher at the Christian School that Julie works at.

As I drove home I began praying for this young lady and her family. The Lord also brought to my mind a family in Pennsylvania that has a daughter in a coma right now. I don't know all the specifics of either family but I do know that these families love the Lord and are praying for healing in each situation.

While I was praying I was reminded that right now in my life I should be praising my Lord for my health, my loving husband, my beautiful children and the blessed life we live. Whatever I was feeling Wednesday night did not even come close to what these families are feeling right now on a daily basis!

Dear God, be with these families today. Hear the prayers that so many are lifting up before you. Whatever the outcome, Lord, you are in control and for that we are so thankful!

Just a little chorus from one of my favorite songs....

Hold on, hold on!
When the current pulls you under,
And your heart beats like thunder!
Just give me your hand,
And hold on, hold on!
Until the storm is over.
And I'll be fighting for you,
Just give me your hand!
Hold on, Hold on!

A Great Saturday!!!

2010-03-20T21:04:00.009-05:00

We have been busy. Crazy busy. When I got home from work on Friday evening I was a bit frustrated. For the past couple of weeks if I am home in the evening Kevin is gone either at a bid, on a call or at a class, and if he were home I wasn't. It had taken a toll on me.

I have been secertly looking forward to today ALL week long. Normally I work on Saturdays (during tax season) but Kevin had a class today so I figured I would stay home and get some much needed housework done . I compiled my list of what I wanted to get done and knew I would even be able to sleep in a bit. maybe. The best part about today....we would all be home together by 3 PM!! YAHOO!!! I couldn't wait! I worked all morning to get everything accomplished. Victoria and Logan even spent some time helping me. I was so thankful!

Well last night Victoria had mentioned that she was ready to get her ears pierced. I had told her over a year ago that when she wanted to do it she just needed to let me know. Well for some reason she picked last night to let us know she was ready. So Kevin and I came up with a little night on the town as a family. Honestly, I couldn't wait! We made plans to run a few errands, dinner and then off to the mall for Victoria!

What a night we had. It was fun to just all be together. The kids were so well behaved and it was nice to just take our time as a family!

Getting ready for the big moment. She was so brave. As we were walking through the mall I had butterflies. She seemed SO calm. I kept telling myself she was a big girl and I needed to be as calm as her.

Marking where we wanted to the new earrings to be.

All finished! She never even flinched. She was as calm as could be and as proud as could be as we left the store.

She is growing up...that is all I can see in this picture.

A few of my FaVoRiTe things...

2010-02-20T21:22:00.004-06:00

I recently got a new camera and was walking around the house last night taking pictures of my favorite things....here a just a few...

Fresh Fruit! I LOVE fruit in general, but for some reason the past couple weeks I have been in LOVE with oranges. Juicy, sweet oranges.

Pampered Chef Kitchen Spritzer
Recently, our little family has changed the way we cook, what we eat and what we buy at the grocery store. ( I should do a post on that someday)
So in one of my new cookbooks I read that PAM spray and things like it have propellants in them that are not so healthy for you. It suggested using Extra Virgin Olive Oil in a spritzer. So I remembered seeing this in the Pampered Chef magazine. I used it for the first time this morning and LOVE IT!!! It worked perfect and the best part...I hardly used any olive oil.

My mother in law got this book for Kevin and I 11 years ago. Kevin and I read through it during our devotions before we got married. I recently came across it and starting going through the book and the book of Proverbs. It has been a blessing to me. Honestly, I could read the book of Proverbs all the time and continue to learn from it!

LOVE

2010-02-20T21:08:00.003-06:00

I am just a tad behind...should have been posted February 14th.

[LOVE MY BEST FRIEND]

We were on our way home from the grocery store last night and Kevin looked at me and said, "You know I love you and I would do anything for, right?" For some reason that sentence hit me hard and I have thought about that moment many times today. I know he loves me and I know he would do anything for me, but it was SO refreshing to hear it from him!

I LOVE YOU TOO!!!

LOVE

2010-02-15T21:48:00.003-06:00

I did not have my computer over the weekend so....post for Saturday, February 13th.

[LOVE MY CHILDREN]

"Children are a heritage from the Lord"

I love these two children more then I ever knew I could love...They teach me each and everyday something new about love.

LOVE

2010-02-12T13:34:00.007-06:00

[LOVE OF FRIENDS]

"It takes a long time to grow an old friend." - by John Leonard

"It is by chance we met, by choice that we became friends."

"The better part of one's life consists of his friendships." -Abraham Lincoln

"If you live to be 100, I hope I live to be 100 minus 1 day, so I never have to live without you"

-Winnie the Pooh :)

LOVE

2010-02-12T09:51:00.002-06:00

[LOVE FOR INLAWS]

**I did not forget about my post yesterday; I was hoping to find a picture of my father-in-law. I don't have one on this computer. :( **

I love my father-in-law! He is quiet man, but has a huge heart! (Esepcially for his grandchildren) Because of him and my mother-in-law (who passed away 5 years ago) I have the best husband in the world! They taught Kevin, through example, how to treat his wife.

LOVE

2010-02-10T09:30:00.003-06:00

[ LOVE FOR FAMILY ]

I love my family. I am the woman, wife, mother and friend because of them and the influences they had on my life growing up. I am blessed to have such wonderful parents, siblings, a bother-in-law and sister-in-laws. Thank you all for your love towards me, Kevin and our children. I LOVE YOU YOU ALL!!!

LOVE

2010-02-09T09:25:00.007-06:00

I am going to dedicate the rest of this week and Sunday to a DAILY LOVING theme. I want to do a simple post each day sharing with you something I love. Something simple...

LOVE FOR CHRIST

If Christ has my love He has my all, but until He has my love He has nothing from me. I have learned something recently that my relationship with Christ needs to first have love in it. My true love towards Christ should withhold nothing from and for Him. When I love Christ sincerely, I will lay everything down at his feet and give up all to be at His command and service.

Think about it...Can you honestly say you LOVE Christ? I tell Kevin everyday, multiple times a day, that I LOVE HIM! How many times a day do I tell Christ that I love Him? In my opinion, I don't tell Him enough...He gave His life for me. FOR. ME. The least I can do is love him in return and show my love for HIM!

LOVE this song!

2010-02-03T12:50:00.005-06:00

HOLD ON

by 33miles

I've been there a thousand times,

I've felt the rain like a thousand knives

And it hurts,

I know it hurts!

I've been there like a fighter plane,

Tryin' fly my way through a hurricane.

And it's hard,

I know it's hard!

Don't be afraid,

You'll make it through,

Just call out to me and I'll come running to you!

Hold on, hold on!

When the current pulls you under,

And your heart beats like thunder.

Just give me your hand,

And hold on, hold on!

Until the storm is over,

And I'll be fighting for you.

Just give me your hand and,

Hold on!

I'll give you hope, I'll give you faith!

And if it's dark, I'll light the way,

For you, for you!

By your side, until the end,

Until you're standing tall again!

I'm here, I'll always be here!

And if the tide, sweeps you out to sea,

When your strength is gone, and it's hard to believe!

Hold on, hold on!

When the current pulls you under,

And your heart beats like thunder!

Just give me your hand,

And hold on, hold on!

Until the storm is over.

And I'll be fighting for you,

Just give me your hand!

Hold on, Hold on!

When the current pulls you under,

And you heart beats like thunder!

Just give me your hand,

And hold on, hold on!

Until the storm is over.

And I'll be fighting for you,

Just give me your hand!

I could sing this song over and over again today and I am so thankful for the message behind it. Because of my salvation I can call out to my God. He is with me ALL the time!

I don't understand why Kevin's truck would break down again. Right now.

I don't understand why I have friends that are hurting at this very moment and there is nothing I can do for them...but to pray for them!

I do understand that I can call out to Him and "Hold On". I am thankful that He knows the outcome of every situation...and because of that I need to rely on Him for all the answers.

LOVE...

2010-01-31T14:17:00.003-06:00

The Christian Radio station in our area is doing the LOVE DARE from the movie Fireproof. I started to do the Love Dare last year before Valentines Day, but in all honesty it died off. This year, I resolved to do ALL 40 days and what a challenge it has been to me. Each day I look forward to hearing the new Love Dare for the day. Sometimes it has to do with doing something special for your spouse...but for the most part, it has taught me so much about MYSELF! If you have done it, you know what I am talking about. It has shown me where in my life I need to work harder at being a better, loving, Godly wife. I knew I needed help. :) I am FAR from perfect...but this Dare has shown me each day how to change my life and through it all it has shown me how to love my God deeper and my husband better.

Today though...

I heard the Dare when we were about 10 minutes away from church. I didn't think much about it till later that morning....

LOVE IS RESPONSIBLE

Take time to pray through your areas of wrongdoing. Ask for God's forgiveness, then humble yourself enough to admit them to your spouse. Do it sincerely and truthfully. Ask your spouse for forgiveness as well. No matter how they respond, make sure you cover your responsibility in love. Even if they respond with criticism, accept it by receiving it as counsel.

Well, today I didn't have to humble myself to my husband, but to a friend. And to be honest with you...it. was. harder. Much harder. I had done something wrong and had to admit it and ask for forgiveness. Who would have known that I would use the Love Dare towards a friend today and not my spouse.

"Love is responsible and is willing to admit and correct its faults and errors up front." I had to take this HARD responsibility today and apologize for what I had done. For those of you that are sitting there wondering, "man, she must have really messed up!" No that's not it...I value my friendship and would want nothing to come between it. NOTHING.

Hustle and Bustle...time of year!

2009-12-14T09:27:00.003-06:00

We have been running here and there to program practices, Christmasy school projects, Christmas concerts, church programs, Sunday School Christmas get togethers, Christmas family dinners....you get the picture I am sure!

In doing all of this I tend to lose my sense of direction...sense of cheerfulness...of why we are doing it all! Friday night we spent a WONDERFUL time with our friends from church just getting together and laughing. It was a very late night and the next morning we had to have Victoria and Logan at our church for program practice and then home to get ready for our dinner with Kevin's side of the family. It was a long day and while getting ready to run out the door again I stopped...I didn't want to go to the dinner and forget that evening. I wanted to enjoy the moments. I wanted to watch the kids open their gifts with excitement in their eyes. So I prayed that the Lord would just calm my spirit....give me a peace of mind. Like I said, it had been a long couple of days and I was feeling exhaustion begin to poor itself over me.

Let me tell you...God is SO good!! We had a wonderful time and we were blessed above and beyond by Kevin's family! His Grandparents are wonderful as well his Uncles and Aunts. I left that night and on our way home Kevin and I were just talking about the evening and I felt so refreshed. We have uncertainties in our life right now, but what a blessing to know that God is in control of it all...and that we have such wonderful families and friends!

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While we were at church on Sunday it was brought to my attention that there was a little package with my name on it...a card and truffles!! :) When I had a chance to open the card it read: "I am so thankful for you. Love, ??"

If whomever put that package at the church reads this blog, I will never be able to tell you in person just how deeply that card touched me!! Thank you!! I have never had a secret admirer! :)

Let me just say that God knew what my family needed this week and He provided!! He always does and I am excited to see what He has in store for us as the days and weeks unfold...their are always uncertainties in our life, but He is in control of those uncertainties.

Special Moments

2009-12-08T16:04:00.006-06:00

Your Hands

by JJ Heller

I have unanswered prayers

I have trouble I wish wasn't there

And I have asked a thousand ways

That you would take my pain away

That You would take my pain away

I am trying to understand

How to walk this weary land

Make straight the paths that crookedly lie

Oh Lord, before these feet of mine

When my world is shaking

Heaven stands

When my heart is breaking

I never leave Your hands

When You walked upon the Earth

You healed the broken, lost, and hurt

I know You hate to see me cry

One day You will set all things right

Yeah, one day you will set all things right

When my world is shaking

Heaven stands

When my heart is breaking

I never leave Your hands

Your hands

Your hands that shape the world

Are holding me, they hold me still

Your hands that shape the world

Are holding me, they hold me still

When my world is shaking

Heaven stands

when my heart is breaking

I never leave You when....

When my world is shaking

Heaven stands

When my heart is breaking

I never leave....

I never leave Your hands

Last week Victoria and I were on our way home from somewhere and this song started to play. I was singing to it and she started to try to sing it also. The song ended as we pulled into our garage. She climbed up in the front seat and was still humming the song. I asked her if she knew what "I never leave Your hands" meant. She said, "Of course, Mommy, it means that Jesus will always protect us!" What a sweetie!

In the evening we normally have the radio playing in the background. Last night as we were cleaning up dinner this song came on again. She looked at me with wide eyes and started singing it with me. When the song was done playing she said, "You know what, Mommy? That can be our song"

I am so thankful for Christian radio stations! For the most part I enjoy the music and the talking. The new radio station in our area has been a huge blessing to me and and I so thankful for the opportunities it gives me to talk to my children about the love of Jesus Christ.

Birthday Parties, Birthday Cakes and Our New Best Friend...

2009-11-27T18:17:00.015-06:00

This past Wednesday was Logan's 6th birthday. It is hard to believe that six years can go by so quickly!! Logan is soft-hearted and such a little snuggle bug. He is in kindergarten this year and learning how to read. His teacher Mrs. W said she wishes she had 20 kids with Logan's laid back personality and willingness to always help! :) Hearing that makes a mama proud!

On Wednesday evening we had Grandpa and Lisa over for dinner. Logan asked for macaroni and cheese for his birthday dinner. I knew I couldn't make Kraft mac n' cheese so I looked up a recipe for a mac n' cheese bake. I was so excited to make it...I gathered all of my ingredients and then realized I had got the wrong type of breadcrumbs. So, instead I put chips on the top to give it the crispiness it was supposed to have...

One thing...when Logan saw the Mac n' Cheese on the table he asked what was on the top of it. When I told him chips his response was...but, Mom, I asked for Mac N' Cheese. NOT Mac n' Cheese with chips. He didn't quite get why I had chips on there.

One little guy with a lot of energy and love!!!

Logan also asked for an army cake. I could not find one that I liked and I had pretty much given up on getting him one. I was talking to Kevin and he said not to worry about it...he had it under control! This is what he came up with...
I was so happy!! He also made Logan's day...Logan LOVED it!!

Our little family of 4 - November 25, 2009

Logan loved his gift from Grandpa and Lisa...a John Deere pocket watch!!

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Logan had a few of his buddies over a couple of weeks ago...they all had so much fun. Honestly, I wish I would have been able to record some of their conversations...they made me laugh out loud!

Opening presents....

Lego's from Ethan!

Nerf gun from Jacob!!! I am still picking up these crazy "arrows" in the family room. :)

We didn't get a picture of Nathan's gift...it was a Wii game. Logan loves his Wii games!!

They were playing good guys/bad guys when we did the cake.

The boys had a blast and I heard Ethan say that it was the best day ever. What a cutie!

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Our New Best Friend

We had been talking about getting a boxer for a couple of weeks when one showed up at the local dog pound. Kevin went over to see him first and then called me because he was pretty sure it was exactly what we were looking for. Later that night Kevin brought Diesel home with us and I headed to Wal Mart for the basic dog "stuff" since we had NOTHING!

Diesel is a 2.5 year old Boxer and is PERFECT for our family. He knows basic commands such as sit, paw, roll over, shake, fetch and so on. He lets us know when he needs to go out and does not jump up nor does he bark. He was very under weight when he came to our house and we are slowly fattening him up. ;)

I am not a dog person, but he has stolen my heart. It is also nice when I am home late at night and Kevin is at class. I have a companion.

Giving me his paw.

Looks like a good guard dog, doesn't he?

He is a big softie. Lisa told me that he has an old man's soul...he is such a good boy!!!

A Mother's Touch

2009-11-08T18:15:00.004-06:00

The first time that the nurse put Victoria in my arms when she was born, I remember thinking that I now had this huge responsibility in my life. I was a mommy. She would come to me for everything from needing a hug, a band aid, to tell me how her day was, to ask me questions about life and anything in between. She was going to look up to me for many days and years to come. I wanted to be ready for her and ready to pick up the pieces if she needed me to. What an awesome responsibility we have as mommies!

The past 3-4 weeks this mommy has been in such a low mind set. I had no energy. I struggled to get out of bed, but when I was in bed I struggled to fall asleep. While going about my day I couldn't focus. I couldn't figure out what it was that I needed to do in the day to get through it and feel like I had accomplished something. Housework and laundry piled up but I just didn't care. That is not like me. I always know and plan my days and accomplish what needs to be done. Yesterday was the worst for me. I got up at 7:30 after not sleeping well at all and I sat on the couch. I sat there until at least 5 pm in the evening. I got up and made myself go to the store so I could feed my family. After dinner and a movie that I picked up Kevin helped me put the kids to bed. It was the next conversation that I had with Victoria that I knew something had to change...she looked at me and said...this was a weird day mommy, I am still in my pj's from this morning and we never had to make our beds! WOW!! After the kids were in bed I sent a text to my mom. I am 31 years old, but I felt like I needed my mommy! :) I knew she would have encouraging words that would help me. She would make it all better just like I make things better for my kids.

I spent a half an hour on the phone with her. She helped me re-focus. I need to stop pushing myself. She also reminded me that I need to focus on the good things in life and not push so hard to fix the things that I may think are broken.

She also offered little suggestions...like changing my diet...taking vitamins. Since my surgery I have had a lot of things going on in this body of mine. Every suggestion she made I made note of.

There is nothing better than a good talk with your mom.

This is our entire family now. Mom you have every right to be proud of this family! The 4 of us each have wonderful families and because of you and dad we are all who we are today!!

So even though I am 31 years old, a quick phone call to my mom made me feel so much better!

I love you mom and I know that you love me! Thank you for everything!

***Just a side note so you don't think that Kevin just sat around and was no help at all...he has been wonderful...going to parent teacher conferences because I didn't have the energy, helping with each meal and just being there for me.***

2009-11-06T20:17:00.006-06:00

I am finally taking the time to sit and update my blog with some pictures!! This week has been a very long and strenuous week. You know how I can tell? My house is a disaster and it is 8 PM on a Friday evening and we are all in bed already. Logan is sick right now so I know I will have all day tomorrow to spend cleaning the house and getting it back in shape.

Over the last few days my mind has been on a family that has become so dear to many of us. I don't know them personally, but over the last 18 months we as a family have been praying for them. If you have a minute visit their site ivestrong.com. This family and their little girl has touched so many people lives. It is truly amazing!! Please pray for them over the next days and weeks to come.

Tonight when I put my children to bed I spent an extra minute with each of them just holding them and silently thanking the Lord for my little blessings. We never know when He is going to take them from this earth...I do know that I am so thankful that I know we have eternal life and will all be together again in Heaven.

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Just a couple pictures from last weekend when the kids were on their way out to do some trick or treating! We had fun as a family carving pumpkins and walking door to door. I didn't think the kids would be out that long because it was so cold out, but I think they enjoyed seeing there bags get heavier and heavier of candy and goodies. Would you stop?? :)

Victoria loved being a Jeannie. She had a blast and looks so cute!

When I first brought this costume home for Logan he did not like it and would not even try it on. It must have grown on him because he had a blast with it!!

Logan and Daddy's pumpkin they carved was the scary pumpkin.

Victoria and Mommy's pumpkin.

They were very proud of their pumpkins...

Tonight when I put Logan to bed he had a fever and was so congested. I felt so bad for him. His eyes always look so droopy when he is sick. He is still at that age the he will let me snuggle him when he is sick. I better enjoy it now because soon it will be to cool to snuggle with mommy. ;)

I am praying that it is just the 24 hour bug that hit his sister a couple of weeks ago. Only time will tell though.

2009-10-25T08:54:00.002-05:00

The past few weeks have been so different for us. Six weeks ago I found out that I needed surgery. I have been dealing with symptoms for the past 2-3 years and my last OB/GYN didn't really thing to much of the symptoms. Well, 2 months ago when I called to schedule my yearly doctor appointment I asked if I could see a different OB/GYN. The scheduling nurse on the other line said that was not a problem at ALL...come to find out my old OB/GYN was no longer working there anyway. :) So, 2 weeks later I headed in for my appointment armed and ready to demand more tests. I spoke with the doctor for a few minutes and realized that she too was concerned with my symptoms! I was so relived that I had found a doctor that cared!! She suggested surgery on my cervix and after a 2nd consultation with her, Kevin and I we decided that surgery was the way to go.

At first I was so excited that I had found a doctor who listened to me. Then as the surgery drew closer I realized that I was indeed very nervous. The surgery consisted of "removing" part of my cervix. This would hopefully and actually heal my cervix, but they would also be doing a biopsy. I wasn't nervous about the biopsy; I was more nervous about what I would find out after the surgery. What would the test results say and what if they were positive? No likes to hear the word cancer. When I heard that it could be a possibility I was jolted to my core!

Kevin and I spent a lot of time in prayer this past week and just laid it before the Lord. He was in control and He knew the outcome! I had to have faith!!

On Tuesday we headed to the hospital and about 5 hours later we were home and resting pretty comfortably. The next few days I laid pretty low. I was due to find out my results on Friday. In the meantime, we as a family were SO blessed. Each night we had meals brought to our house. And when I say meals, I don't just mean something simple...I mean MEALS!!!! One evening we had a roast, potatoes and carrots and for dessert we had yummy brownies. The next night we had delicious meatloaf, broccoli/cheese casserole, fresh sweet corn, homemade bread and more dessert!! The following night we had lasagna, bread sticks, salad and even more dessert!!

Victoria and Logan asked me why we didn't have dessert each night when I made dinner! HAHA!! Honestly, I have NEVER felt more blessed in my life. Thank you to all of you who brought meals and thank you Joanna for lining them all up for us.

On Thursday, Kevin came home and asked me how I was doing/feeling. Honestly, I was going NUTS!!! I am not one to sit around the house and do nothing. I studied for a long while each day, Facebook actually got on my nerves and just sat around. I never took a nap....I don't sleep that well during the night so I figured I better not make it worse by sleeping during the day.

Thank you to each one of you that prayed for us. I received text messages, e-mails and facebook messages from so many people. How do people get through difficult times when they do not have Christ to lean on and have others praying for them? I wouldn't have had the strength this past week. SERIOUSLY!!

On Friday I got a call from my doctor. There was no cancer!!! They did diagnosis me with moderate Cervical Dysplasia...abnormal growth of cells. While this is not considered cancer it is considered precancerous. They removed the precancerous cells the day of my surgery.

Again, I am so thankful for all the prayers! I am healing looking forward to getting back to the routine in our family!! God is so good to us and a I am thankful for my health.

Changes...

2009-10-09T14:19:00.004-05:00

I am not a person that really likes changes. I like stability, knowing what is going to happen from one day to the next. I like my days and weeks planned out, but that is not how it works all the time. I have to be willing to make changes in my life. I have to be willing to adapt to those around me.

This past Monday, we made changes in our household. Nothing to big, but nonetheless it is a change. Kevin has started classes at the local fire department to be come a firefighter. We have talked about this for as far back as I can remember, but when we talked about it, it was just in passing....like..."that would be a cool opportunity"...or..."I could fit that into my schedule being self-employed". We never really talked about it like it would actually happen. Then on last Wednesday he was approached by a friend of ours, Thursday he filled out the application and on Monday he started. So....this is a change for us. He has classes every Monday night for the next few months and then will be on call every 6th night. After those classes are over he would then like to start the classes to become an EMT. Personally, I think that sounds more exciting than being a fire fighter. :) But that is just my personal opinion.

Many people have commented to us that this is a HUGE decision and can be very time consuming. WELL....after seeing the book that he has to study from for the next 4 months I believe it, but I also believe that there is no one more ready for this challenge than Kevin. Yes, it will take away from our family time, but for the past 4 years, we have been so fortunate to have Kevin around as often as we have. With him being self employed he is around a WHOLE lot more than a daddy that works outside of the home. So....all that to say that I too am up for this challenge along with Kevin. There will be calls in the middle of the night, there is training on the weekend, there are meetings during the week nights and and much more.

So as we venture down this road I will keep you up to date on how it goes. As of now, I have a study partner and I LOVE that. We are doing this together...and that is what marriage is all about!!!

A Weekend with the Love of My Life!!!

2009-10-05T12:25:00.003-05:00

I had been looking forward to this weekend for sometime now. A friend of mine where I work gave me tickets to the last Cubs game. I have had them for while and wanted to surprise Kevin with a weekend away. On our budget I knew that it wasn't going to be possible, so I set up for a sleepover at Grandpa and Lisa's house.

All day Saturday the kids were looking forward to their sleepover. I was a bit worried because Victoria had been sick on Friday, and I just kept praying that her fever was gone. She showed no signs of it come Saturday evening so we loaded the kids up and dropped them off. When we got back in the truck we knew we were planning on running to the grocery store, but Kevin had a plan...I do not have a winter coat and he knew I would need one the next day sitting at the Cubs stadium. So he took me to the mall and MADE me buy one. As a mom, when the budget is tight, I will go without just to make sure my kids have what they need. It doesn't bother me at all, and growing up I clearly remember my mom doing this too. So I was able to get a new coat and even used my forgotten gift card to the mall.

The next morning we got up nice and early and headed into Chicago. It was so nice to just spend time with Kevin...it is a bit weird sitting in the truck talking to him with no interruptions. I loved it! We walked around the stadium and then headed to Harry Caray's for some lunch. Yummy!! I love their food. After lunch we headed into the stadium to find our seats. They were PERFECT seats and we had an awesome view!! (Thanks Jim for the tickets!!!)

By the time we both got home we were exhausted. What is it with that?? We picked up the kids, headed home and just crashed. We did have a wonderful time and I am so thankful for Kevin and all he does for us as a family. It was so nice to just have the time to spend together and be able to reconnect as a husband and wife.

Busy Saturday!!!

2009-09-26T21:53:00.013-05:00

We had a wonderful Saturday today!! Busy, but oh so wonderful!! Victoria, Logan and myself needed to get out of the house for a bit this afternoon to give Daddy some quiet time to sleep. We headed out to the apple orchard for some baking apples and cider for Daddy. The kids were able to play on the tractors, feed the goats and help me with the apples. We had fun and the weather was beautiful. After a few more errands we were able to head home and use the apples for the one reason I bought them...BAKING!!!

I had asked Victoria earlier that morning if she wanted to help me and of course she did!! I had been craving Baked Apples. YUMMY!!! They were SO GOOD!!

Getting ready to core them!!!

We filled them up with brown sugar, cinnamon and pecans.

Of course Logan wanted to help too. :) Actually, he loves watching the cooking show and loves helping me in the kitchen.

All ready to go in the oven!! Yummy. My mouth was watering and I couldn't wait to eat them...

....and they were so delicious!!!

This evening Kevin was out working on his truck and Logan pulled up the handy dandy yellow garage stool and wanted to help daddy fix the truck.

He loved it and I am pretty sure Daddy did too.

He could just barely reach but was able to unscrew what ever they were working on.

Daddy had to tell him what each part was and what it did. It was so cute watching them work on the truck.

Being Organized, Always Helps!!

2009-09-22T20:08:00.004-05:00

I love being organized. I love going to bed each night with my house picked up, kitchen spotless, coffee pot ready and lunches made for the following day. It just is a really nice feeling. I know there are others of you out there like me! :)

This year Victoria is in the 2nd grade and Logan is in K-5. I don't expect to much homework from Logan this early in the year, but I know eventually it will start coming. Victoria on the other had has flash card homework each night, spelling words, vocabulary and reading. It can EASILY take her an hour to get through it all. I would eventually like to buy her a desk for in her room (the kitchen offers WAY to many distractions) but until then she does her homework at the kitchen table. Kevin has been wonderful about doing homework with her when they get home from school. THANK YOU, KEVIN!!

With having two children in school it seems like we get an entire ream of paper sent home each night about various announcements, letters from teachers, school work and so on. I am always going through paperwork for at least 20 mins when I get home. So....back to me being organized. Everything has to have a place in my home! EVERYTHING!

Last year Kevin put up this cork board and I love it!! This year I went out and bought trays so both Victoria and Logan have their certain tray. I keep the papers that I may need to reference later on down the road and the others get pitched.

They also each get 1/2 of the cork board. I always like to know what they are doing through the week so I keep their GOAL sheets up along with the monthly lunch menu. At the beginning of each month they get to choose 2 days a week that they would like to order hot lunch. Victoria LOVES hot lunch. Logan...not so much. I end up making his lunch most every day of the week.

Usually I hang up pieces of artwork that they bring home too. I haven't had any come home yet, but I cant wait!! I love my cork board and I love how organized it keeps me!! :)

So this is my new favorite, quiet corner of the house! ;) I am preparing to take the series 7 Securities License Exam. It will take me longer to get through because my family comes first but have started my way through this monster of a book and I REFUSE to go back!!! I started September 1st and am still going!

Each evening after the kids are down I head to couch and stay there till 10 or 11. I have the encouragement from my hubby and for that I am thankful. Last night he folded 3 loads of laundry while I learnt about securities. :) I would not be able to accomplish this HUGE task without him...and I love him for it!! Last night Victoria asked me what I was going to do after she went to bed. I told her I was going to study for a test. She looked at me and said...aren't mommies to old for tests?? :)

PEE WEE POMS!!!

2009-09-19T20:25:00.009-05:00

On Friday night Victoria and about 160 other little girls performed at half-time for our football team!! I know some of my family was a little concerned that Pee Wee Poms was cheering...but it wasn't! :) It is aerobic and dance. She did a wonderful job. They had Pee Wee Pam boot camp all week long after school. They would bus the little girls to the high school and then practice for about 2.5 hours each evening. Needless to say this little girl had a long week...but she LOVED it!!!

I don't think I would have been able to get her to stop smiling if I could have that night. She was so excited!!!
Getting ready to leave and head to the football field!!! You can't tell from this picture but I put glitter all over her face and arms. And a bit of pink eye shadow. :) I know she is very young but she was begging for it!!

Victoria and her friends Jenna.

Waiting for half time!!!

During the performance. She NEVER Stopped smiling.

This was one of those proud Mama moments. I was video taping and I am sure I never stopped smiling either. I was just so proud of her!!

All of the Pee Wee Poms!!!

First Day of School, Buses and the LOVE of my Life

2009-09-14T19:06:00.006-05:00

We have been in the school routine for a few weeks now and I am finally getting around to blog about it!! The kids are loving their new school and so am I!!! We have settled into our routine (which I love) and have already begun to see the kids learn so much!

Victoria and Logan are able to get on the bus right at the bottom of our driveway each morning. Logan's bus comes just a couple of minutes earlier than Victoria's and after that I am off to work. I am so thankful that my employer has allowed me to adjust my schedule at work to fit around our schedule here at home. I am able to see the kids get on the bus each morning!! I LOVE IT!!

Victoria on her first day of 2nd grade!!!

Logan and Victoria...Logan started Kindergarten this year. He goes full days and is full of stories when he gets home. ;)

Waiting for her bus!!

Logan and his little, cute friend. They are only 2 days apart and have pretty much grown up with each other since we moved into our house 4 years ago.

This isn't the 1st day of school...I had to take it because each morning they both load on the bus and wave to the mommies!! They are always so excited when that bus rounds the turn. (I wonder how long the excitement will last?!?!)

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For the past 3 weeks our household has been going through it's ups and downs just like any other household. We have had changes with the new school, new schedules and just plain 'ol craziness of life. Who doesn't experience this?? The past 3 weeks have taken its toll on Kevin.

As many of you know he has had back pain and it has gotten out of control. We were told that medically there is nothing more the doctors can do for him till we decide that it is time for the surgery. Right now surgery is just not the option for us. It will put him out of work/commission for about 3 months. Being self-employed we just can't swing it. So he had been dealing with the pain and taking the medication.

I can only imagine being the husband of a household. Yes, as wives we do carry a lot on our shoulders, but I believe the husbands carry much more. I have seen Kevins shoulders become so heavy lately. I see it in his eyes, in his walk and in his conversations with me. Today was one of those days for Kevin. We have been having car issues with my car. We spent the money to get it fixed only to find out it isn't fixed...and today I got a flat on my way into work. Then Kevin was driving home from having to get new tires on his truck to find out his transmission is going. AHH...but through it all he remains strong. For this I am SO thankful. He may have the WORSE day but yet he still shows me strength. I am thankful for the times when HE suggests that we lay it all feet of our Lord...to hear that from my husband brings me peace.

Thank you, Kevin for loving me and your children! For providing for us and for wanting to put the Lord first in our family!! I love you!!

Just because....

2009-09-03T16:07:00.003-05:00

....I felt I needed too explain something.

Yesterday, when I posted about public school I posted it about me. I just wanted to clarify (because I feel the need to) that I was speaking about my feelings. I know there will be times in my life that I will not have the support of those around me. That is OK with me. I received comments on blogger, facebook and many of you even sent me a message to my inbox on facebook. I am so thankful for that support!! You don't even know how that touched me.

By no means was I pointing fingers or trying to be controversial. So if I offened anyone, someone out there. I am sorry.

2009-09-02T12:06:00.003-05:00

This school year started with changes. MANY changes. Personally, I didn't want the school year to start. Don't get me wrong I love routines. I love knowing just what needs to be done each and every evening. I am more organized during the school year and things just flow....well they just flow better!

I didn't want the school year to start because I was battling something deep inside of me...just like last year. Last year we made the decision to put our kids in a local private school. I was thrilled. Little did we know at that time, that my hours would be cut back and Kevin would go from having so many jobs to barley nothing at all! My battle was discontentment, anger and complete let down. I felt NO happiness within me.

I knew that a decision would have to be made about school again this year. Please before you read this don't judge me, don't roll your eyes and don't think I didn't pray! I prayed that the Lord would give me the desires of my heart! My desire was to have my children back at the private school....but we knew that because of certain circumstances (that I don't care to go into on blogger) that it wasn't an option this year. Plain and simple. End of story.

After many tears and thinking I was a failure as a mom I knew I needed to make one call and that was to the public school. Now when I say public school this is NO city public school. We live in a little town of less than 3,000 people....but it is still a public school. A school that does not allow prayer and the Bible in it. Something that we have instilled in our children's lives.

I feel as if I have separated my children from their friends at church. I feel as if I have separated my family in some ways too.

I have had the eyes look at me by some when they find out our kids at in a public school that I have made a COMPLETE wrong decision. It hurts, but only I know.

Well, I feel at peace now. Each morning as I watch them get on their buses I know they are learning. I know they are taken care of. I know that they know I love them! On my way to work each morning I have a 30 minute drive. I have started praying for my two little ones all the way there...I pray that they will continue to grow and love the Lord. We pray each morning as a family before they leave after our morning devotions.

We have had the "talk" that there is no praying in this school, but they (Victoria and Logan) are allowed to pray to themselves before each spelling test, before each lunch, before they react...just pray. Logan's response....like in our brains where no one hears?? Yes, bud. In your brain. :)

I didn't post pictures today of their first days but I will. I needed to blog. It is sometimes my outlet...and today it was again.

Vacation Time!

2009-08-23T14:54:00.013-05:00

We left for vacation on a Friday night and made it to Pennsylvania in exactly 13 hours. We learned that the drive goes MUCH quicker when everyone is asleep. We spent Saturday just relaxing and hanging out with my sister. It was a nice to be able to catch up with her and play with Aiden.

On Sunday we went to church where my brother and sister go to church. We had a nice time. It was a rainy day and I am pretty sure we were all praying that it would clear up before Aiden's birthday party! Well when we came out of church the sun was shining!! Aiden had a great first birthday!!

Monday through Thursday we enjoyed time with my family. Hanging out at the pool, getting together for dinner and letting the kids be kids! I was even able to babysit Aiden one day. He is so cute and growing so fast!

On Thursday we headed to Chesapeake City where my parents have their boat. We were able to stay on the boat till Sunday and had a blast!! We spent the days in the sun and water and the evenings cooking out.

Finally Freyday is the name of their boat.
The marina where they keep their boat.

Logan enjoying some fishing.

Mommy, Victoria and Logan. Watching the sunset.

Victoria and Grandfather going for a ride in the dingy.

Cooling off in the water....not much cooling off though since the water was around 85 degrees.

Victoria driving the boat....with Grandfathers help.

Ok...I know some kids love water...but this girl is CRAZY in the water. She has no fear and since I am VERY afraid of water it DRIVES me nuts!!! Thankfully Daddy was around otherwise I don't think I would have let her in the water. Especially when the tide came in and NONE of us could touch.

She was in the water so much that her fingers and toes looked like raisins.

Heading back to the Marina for dinner.

Love his smile!!

Hanging on Daddy....getting ready to head back to the Marina to head home. :(

We spent one last day in Pennsylvania before heading home on Tuesday. What a LONG trip that was. It took us about 14.5 hours to get home. UGH! It was a great trip and we enjoyed spending the time with my family. The kids love having time with Grandfather and MomMom.

2009-08-19T14:31:00.002-05:00

We are home from vacation! I have so many pictures to download and can hardly wait to share them with you all! The kids had a blast and so did Kevin and I! It was good to be able to get away and forget all the stress and craziness of our life for a short time. My parents were so good to us while we were there and we are SO thankful for that!! (pictures coming soon!!!)

Now that I am back from vacation and back to work those feelings of being overwhelmed, lost, confused and just plain 'ol ill are back. At times like this I just want life to stop. I want to "throw the towel in" and give up. But I can't and I won't!!

Last night when we got home there were two BIG bags on our kitchen table. I had a feeling one bag was for Victoria and one for Logan so I had them look into the bags. I was right....ALL and I mean ALL their school supplies had been purchased by Grandpa and Lisa! What a blessing it was to me! One more "money thing" to take off of my list. Just thinking about all their excitement brings tears to my eyes now.

I needed that blessing. The kids didn't understand why the tears were in my eyes, but as I looked at Kevin I am sure he knew why.

(the pictures are not the best because I took them with my camera phone....)

They are already for school now. It is hard to believe that school will be in session this time next week. WOW...and both of them are in school this year.

Birthday Parties!!!

2009-08-11T07:17:00.022-05:00

I am just getting around to post about Victoria's birthday party. Just a tad behind on things. Victoria turned 7 on August 1st. She had the day planned out and everything she wanted to do by the minute! :) Her birthday fell on a Saturday so I was able to be with her all DAY and make the day special for her. We had a blast.

I got up early that morning and headed to the grocery store. She LOVES donuts and I knew she would be happy to enjoy one on her birthday. For birthday's at our house we let the kids pick what THEY want to do for the day. A few months ago Victoria had mentioned that she wanted to go to the local outdoor water park. Kevin and I knew that we wouldn't be able to make that happen but Kevin remembered that we had 4 tickets to a local INDOOR water park that we had gotten last year for FREE!!! PERFECT!! Victoria asked her neighbor friend to go so we headed there for the day.

I have picture of the girls at the water park but they are not uploading to Blogger. Head over to my facebook account and you will be able to see them!!!

After the water park we headed home for cake and ice cream!! Yummy!!!

Blowing out 7 candles! WOW!! Where had the time gone? It is hard to believe that she is 7 and going into 2nd grade.

Victoria got all kids of make-up from her neighbor friends. They all sat out on the patio putting on make-up. What fun memories!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, VICTORIA!!!!

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We are in Pennsylvania 7 days and enjoying every minute of our vacation!!! It is so nice to get away and just be able to forget about work and the business of life!!!

While we were here my sister had a birthday party for their little guy. He turns one soon and is the sweetiest little boy. I told my sister that I am pretty sure he is the perfect child.

Aiden loves balloons and Uncle Heath was just making him laugh and laugh!!!

All the grandkids before the party!!

Aiden enjoying some watermelon!! He loves to eat and I think what is so cute is that he will eat just about anything. He isn't picky at all!!!

All done with lunch!!! Now time to open some presents!!! :)

This was the cake he got to dig into!! So cute!!!

He started ever so slightly...digging into the icing.

Now he was getting into it!!! That is about as far as he got. He kinda lost interest in it after that.

Daddy, Mommy and the birthday boy!!!

So cute!!! He is such a precious little guy.

Our entire Family!! All 15 of us!! What fun times we have while we are all together!!!

When We See Christ

2009-07-26T14:28:00.003-05:00

This morning at church I was able to sing with the congregation since I wasn't playing the piano. I love playing the piano, but I also miss singing the hymns during church. We sang a song this morning that I LOVE. It spoke to my heart and brought things into perspective for me.

Oft times the day seems long,

our trials hard to bear,

We're tempted to complain,

to murmur and despair;

But Christ will soon appear to catch His Bride away,

All tears forever over in God's eternal day.

It will be worth it all when we see Jesus,

Life's trials will seem so small when we see Christ;

One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase,

So bravely run the race till we see Christ.

Sometimes the sky looks dark with not a ray of light,

We're tossed and driven on ,

no human help in sight;

But there is one in heav'n who knows our deepest care,

Let Jesus solve your problem - just go to Him in pray'r.

It will be worth it all when we see Jesus,

Life's trials will seem so small when we see Christ;

One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase,

So bravely run the race till we see Christ.

Life's day will soon be o'er, all storms forever past,

We'll cross the great divide, to glory, safe at last;

We'll share the joys of heav'n - a harp, a home, a crown,

The tempter will be banished, we'll lay our burden down.

It will be worth it all when we see Jesus,

Life's trials will seem so small when we see Christ;

One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase,

So bravely run the race till we see Christ.

Right before church, I was talking to my good friend and when church began I was discouraged. I felt as if the trials in our family where to much to bear and that all I did was complain. I don't mean to at all. There are people in this world that are far worse off than our little family.

This song reminded me that my trials, our trials as a family are for a short time. We are on this earth for a short time and one day...hopefully soon....it will be worth it all!!

Camping

2009-07-17T20:24:00.020-05:00

Last weekend we went camping for the second time this season! My goodness did we need to get away!!! It was so nice to just relax for a bit and hang out as a family. The kids had a blast and so did Kevin and I. The weather was wonderful too!!

I was so proud of Logan. He was jumping in and out of the pool just having a blast!!!
Victoria is a fish in the water! Her and I spend the entire day up at the pool on Saturday!

I love these two kids and am so thankful for all the joy they bring into my life!

What is camping without a nice campfire?

To go with the campfire you need a good smore!!

It was Christmas in July at the campground so the kids got Christmas presents from Grandpa and Lisa. :)

Victoria showing off her new shirt.

Logan loves Pez. ;)

Logan loves to get the camera and take pictures of everyone....

Make a silly face Grandpa and Lisa....

Show your muscles Daddy!!

Make a silly face mommy....

Remember the fish we caught a couple of weeks ago? Well at the campground we had a fish fry and it was SO yummy!! Kevin does an awesome job cooking over the fire.

Trout, homemade baked beans and coleslaw!! Yummy!!!

They also got to ride the pedal "go carts". Those things are a work out. I ended up pushing them most of the way around the campground!!

Victoria looks so big in this picture! I can't believe she is going to be in 2nd grade in just a few short weeks!!

Happy Birthday, to the Love of my life1!

2009-07-15T20:45:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday, Kevin!!!

Today is Kevin's 31st birthday....so here are 31 reasons I am thankful for him...

He is a hard worker!!
He loves Victoria and Logan and shows it!
He likes to do special things for the kids.
He will do anything to provide for his family...anything!
He takes time from his busy schedule to coach his kids in baseball.
He makes the bed,
does laundry,
does the dishes.
He loves to cook
He loves me!! :)
He wants our children to grow up in a Christ centered family!
He takes care of the little things around the house so I don't have to.
He enjoys the little things in life.
He will go the extra mile to help out someone in need.
He adjusts his busy schedule around my schedule
He will sit on our front porch and talk about our day each night because he knows it is important to me.
He listens.
He likes to take me to lunch if he is working near my work.
He likes to relax.
He likes to camp.
He gives of himself.
He doesn't mind watching re-runs of my favorite shows when I am watching them.
He has learnt from me that a Sunday afternoon nap isn't so bad.
He cares about his family.
He sends me texts during the day just to say he loves me.
He lets me sleep in when I need to.
He picks up my "Sugar free Iced Vanilla Coffee" on Sundays before church.
He loves my baking...even if it is not quite like his moms.
He makes me HAPPY!
He snores...I miss it when he isn't next to me at night.

31. He always wishes there were more hours in the day for his FAMILY!!!

It's about time, right?

2009-07-08T20:59:00.020-05:00

Sorry to my one and only faithful reader. You know who you are.....I finally downloaded 212 pictures tonight of our busy lives. WOW!!! We have had a full couple of months, that's for sure!

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To recap it all here it goes....

BaSeBaLl

The kids are in coach pitch this year and daddy is their coach!! The season is almost finished and they have come a long way in hitting and fielding. I can't believe how well they are doing!

Getting ready for their first game!!

Logan - Summer 2009

Victoria - Summer 2009

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BiKeRiDeS

The kids are getting braver and braver on their bikes. Logan started making "jumper racks" (as he calls them) at his buddies house. So one evening while daddy was sitting around he made them a ramp to jump off. THEY LOVE IT!!!

THE RAMP!!

Daddy putting the finishing touches on it.

Trying it out for the first time!

Logan can REALLY get up in the air! He loves it. The only thing is when he is finished he forgets to take it out of the road. We have had a few NOT SO happy drivers. :)

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FaThEr'S DaY

I took a couple of pictures of Kevin and the kids a week or so before Father's Day. I then had it framed, but before framing it, I had the kids write him a special note on the matte of the frame. It turned out so cute and I do think he really liked it!!

Father's Day - 2009

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SuMmEr TiMe FuN!!

My parents recently were here during the hottest week of the year so far. So we wiped out the slippn' slide and the kids had a blast!! To bad I didn't get any pictures of my parents while they were here...what was I thinking???

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CrAbS!!!

My parents also surprised us with our favorite meal...CRABS!! We love them and so do the kids!!!

So cute!!!

I LOVE THIS PICTURE!!!

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FiShInG

This past weekend we spontaneously went up to our favorite fishing spot!! We go here every year and always come home with plenty of trout to eat!! (even if it is a trout farm and is not considered fishing...the kids haven't figured it out yet!!)

Every year we get the same picture....

Logan and Daddy reeling in the big one!!!

Victoria could hardly keep a hold of the slippery thing!

This was a pretty good size one!! He was so proud but wouldn't touch it....I need to work with him on that. Victoria touched both the fish and the worms.

Daddy patiently fixing the fishing rods....

The finished catch!! Can't wait to have a fish fry!!

Hopefully this catches you up on our crazy, little family here in our home!!! Hope you are all enjoying your summers!!

Be At Rest

2009-07-06T16:56:00.003-05:00

For the past 2 weeks my heart has been heavy and I have struggled with getting through each day. As a family we have been carrying a heavy burden but today the Lord showed us He is faithful!

A friend of mine has a song on her blog that I would play over and over again throughout the day and I would find myself begging the Lord for rest.

I am sure many of you know the song, Be At Rest...

Be at Rest

Be at Rest once more, oh my soul

For the Lord has been good

Be at Rest

Be at Rest once more, oh my soul

Oh my soul, be at rest once more

For the Lord has been good to you.

Be at Rest

Be at Rest once more, oh my soul

For the Lord has been good

Be at Rest

Be at Rest once more oh my soul, oh my soul

Be at Rest, once more

for the Lord has been good to you.

For the Lord has delivered my soul from death

My eyes from tears and you oh Lord have delivered my freet from stubling

Be at Rest

Be at Rest once more, oh my soul

For the Lord has been good.

Be at Rest

Be at Rest, once more oh my soul, oh my soul

Be at Rest, once more

for the Lord has been good to you.

Today I am thankful for answered prayer!

2009-06-19T13:10:00.003-05:00

Who really reads this anymore? It is my own fault...I haven't updated in FOREVER! If only I could find that cord that I use to move my pictures from the camera to the computer. I seriously do not know where on earth it went! Oh well....do you mind if I don't have pictures this time?? :)

We are LOVING summer this year! The kids go to our friends house during the day and LOVE IT! This is the first year that we are not using a daycare. It was more difficult for me this way because this was also the first year that Victoria didn't understand why mommy wasn't off during the summer. :( I had a hard time coming to work at the beginning, but I what I am trying to do is take some days off here and there and spend special time with them.

Normally, we would be out camping every weekend, but since work is slow for Kevin we have decided to only go out every few weeks. It isn't to expensive, but we are trying to cut our budget back and this is one way to do it. I will admit to it...I miss camping. I miss spending time with the kids and Kevin...alone. Just the 4 of us doing what we like to do on our own time. ;) Maybe towards the end of the summer we will be able to make it out a few more times. We will see. I am not going to stress about it. The Lord is in control of KL Construction and He knows the desires of our heart! :) The work has picked up a bit. Kevin is steady with "little" jobs. Nothing real big, but hey, it is paying the bills and for that I am SO thankful!

Victoria and Logan are currently playing baseball....or coach pitch.....and LOVE IT!! I think they like it because Daddy is the coach. ;) It is awesome seeing Kevin work with kids. I really do believe he would have made a great phy's ed teacher.

With church, baseball games 2 nights a week, work, mowing 2 times a week(because of Kevin's back I have been mowing) and just everything else that keeps one busy during the summer I don't have much free time to myself. Which is totally ok, but I do miss walking with my friend Julie in the evenings. It was a time to just get some exercise in and talk and laugh.

The best news of all....Victoria is getting baptised this Sunday!!! Father's Day Sunday!! And to make it even better, my parents will be here. HERE! You got it right....they will be flying in to see us for an entire week. I can hardly contain myself!! The kids (and secretly I have been too) have been counting the days down! Tomorrow will be 1 more day till they get here!!!

I look forward to watching my little girl get baptized. I am so excited for her!!

Well, I will keep looking for that cord...I have a TON of pictures to post! :)

Catch-up!

2009-05-07T20:41:00.016-05:00

Well I finally am putting some pictures up on my blog! We have been busy and believe me I am sure after this weekend I will have SO much more to post about!

Last week was Victoria's spring program. I was looking forward to it...and let me tell you what...it was the best program ever! The program was patriotic and every child did an awesome job! The songs were perfect, the poems were perfect and it went so smoothly! You can tell they had worked SO hard on it!

The kids were to wear red, white and blue. I dressed Victoria in a cute white sundress and bought some patriotic ribbon. She loved it!

Below is her 1st grade teacher (in the white shirt) and her assistant. These two women are hysterical and I honestly am very sad to see Victoria move on to 2nd grade to a new teacher! Her teachers now are awesome and love what they do and it shows in every way!!!

Victoria during her program. I didn't take any other pictures because I was also video taping the program. She looks so grown up and cute! I love you, Victoria!

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Once and awhile I try to get pictures of the kids in their Sunday outfits. Especially when I know it is one of the outfits my mom sent them. Well this Sunday morning I was snapping pictures, but Victoria wanted me in on the picture with her so we played around with the timer and got a couple cute ones....

~~ Mommy and Victoria~~

~~Mommy and Logan ~~

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A couple of weeks back we had our Mother Daughter / Ladies Tea at church. I am going to be honest here...I didn't want to go and would have made every excuses in the book if I could have. I personally do not like these types of things for many reasons....but they are my reasons...NOT Victoria's reasons. So I had no excuses on her part. Don't get me wrong. I appreciate ALL the work that goes into them. Our pastor's wife does an excellent job. Everything from the decorations to the food to the program was PERFECT. Thank you Sherrie!!

I struggled when I first got there...but I kept praying and concentrating on Victoria. She needed not to know that something was wrong. We ended up having a wonderful afternoon together!

"Purseuing the Beauty of Holiness" was the theme! The entire fellowship hall was decorated with purses and the pink and brown dot theme. It was beautiful!

Victoria and some of her friends from church...they were all in pink!! :)

Mommy and Victoria

Isn't this cake beautiful?! The lady that made this is SO talented and did an awesome job!!

She cracks me up!! :) If you know Victoria you know that this picture is HER!!

In the end I am happy that I went...I love getting to spend time with my daughter. She is growing up so fast. She is changing in so many different ways. I love you Victoria!!

Fun, Fun, Fun!!!

2009-05-02T22:18:00.018-05:00

Ok...blogger and I are not the best of friends right now....this has taken me WAY to long to post....it isn't perfect but oh well...

This week I will be turning 31 years old. A while back Kevin had asked me what I wanted to do for my birthday. I didn't really know one specific thing that I wanted so I mentioned to him that I could use a pedicure. So he took it upon himself to call a couple of places around town and find one that had an afternoon appointment. (it is prom season here so everyone was booked) Well, I had wanted to get one with my friend because she had never had one before. Over the past few weeks I had tried to surprise her with one but our schedules never allowed it. Well, it finally worked out this past Saturday.

I picked her up on Saturday afternoon because we had already made plans to go shopping for a shower gift that we needed for this week. As we were driving into town I told her that we had a 3:30 pedicure appointment. She was so excited...i think even more excited than myself! ;)

We finished our shopping, had lunch at our favorite place...Chipotle...got a drink at Starbucks (I now have a new favorite drink there...thank you very much) and headed in for our pedicures. It was such a wonderful afternoon and we both had a blast. She laughed during the entire pedicure because her feet are SO ticklish! :)

Getting a massage in the massage chair and a pedicure! What more could a girl ask for?! I couldn't stop laughing because her chair was vibrating back and forth I thought she was going to fall right out of it!

I don't think she stopped smiling the entire time...

....and I couldn't stop laughing at her! What a blast we had and great memories we made!

We even got little designs on our big toes! :) That is my favorite finishing touch! I love getting pedicures. Some may think it is a waste of money but I always feel a bit pampered when I am finished! :)

The finished product! At one point in the afternoon I remember mentioning to her that I don't think I have ever done anything like this before...do you know what our 4 children where doing while we were out??? The daddy's had them all!! Can you believe it?? They were willing to take all the children for the day just so we could have a mommy day out! AMAZING!!! We were so thankful for that.

To my friend....I know you had a great day and I am thankful that we were able to do this! I had a blast and felt SO refreshed this weekend and ready to start the week! I know that there have been difficult times in our lives lately...but through it all we will become stronger women...we have to we have hubbies and little ones that depend on us!! ;)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On a side note.....

Our flowers are blooming and I am loving it! The warm weather is so refreshing and the change in season's reminds me of God's goodness to us each and everyday!

This is a picture of a bush that I was pretty sure I killed last year! It was nothing but a twig...a dead twig at that...by mid summer. I figured I had yet again killed the THIRD Bleeding Heart Bush.

Well, the other night, Kevin called me out to the front door and showed me this!! It was back! I couldn't believe it. I was in amazement that it had come back. I started crying because I have always wanted to grow a bleeding heart bush because that was my Mother-in-laws favorite thing. :) I think I have accomplished it...now hopefully I will not kill it this summer!!! We will see...

2009-04-29T21:32:00.003-05:00

I have been wanting for the last 2 weeks to write on my blog some things that I have been going through in my life. Some things have been good and some have been just plain old, down right bad days...but through it all I have grown as a person. I have grown as wife, mommy and woman!

This last week in our evening church service the title to the message was "When God's People are Met with Despair" I will be honest...if it were not for the fact that I was playing the piano and Kevin was an usher we would not have been there...BUT I am SO GLAD WE WERE!!! What a message from God to me. I sat there with tears in my eyes and just rejoiced in the fact that I made the decision to come that night.

The passage we were in was Psalms 77 and the first point of the message was that the believer took his burden to the Lord. hmmm...had I brought my many burdens to the Lord from the past month? Yes I had prayed for them, but did I actually believe what I was praying for. Did I bring them to the Lord again and again?

This past week in my devotions I decided to look back at the ways the Lord has blessed our family. I have come up with a pretty long list. If God has taken care of me in the past I know he will take care of me today, tomorrow and the days and weeks to come. He is never going to forget about me.

The Bible that I have is the one I bought just days before going to Northland my freshman year. While at Northland I found so many of the pastors would give these tremendous quotes...so I started writing down these quotes each time I heard one that touched me. I have quotes from Steve Pettit, Tom Farrel, Pastor Collard, Dr. O, Dr. Von, Dr. Horn and many others.

On Sunday I added another special quote from Pastor Swanson. "Has God moved or have I moved?" I began to think about that. When I wonder where God is I have to wonder, how far have I moved away from God? What a perfect reminder to me this past week!

2009-04-14T21:34:00.023-05:00

Tonight I am sitting in my bed with my laptop and am perfectly content. I do have laundry to do, bathrooms to scrub, floors to clean and the list goes on and on. I am ok with it though because I will be home ALL weekend long. Kevin and I are hoping to declutter and go through this house organizing it all the way! I can't wait! There is just something about organizing and cleaning for me....it just makes me feel good. I know I am strange. I have been told this before and I am ok with it. :)

In the meantime I have so many pictures to post. I will start with Easter....

Our plans were a bit changed this year. Normally Kevin's mom side of the family comes over, but this year they were all out of town. I was a bit depressed and upset, but Kevin soon learned that his brother would be in town late on Saturday...he is a truck driver and is only in town once a month. We made plans to get our nieces, his daughters for the weekend. I was excited to have them for the weekend but a bit nervous. Throwing 2 kids into our busy schedules...I wasn't sure how I would do.

To share a bit of background on these two girls...I would take them to live with us in a heartbeat. They are so sweet, but unfortunately the conditions they live in are not good. We know that the Lord is in control and I need to lean on him in this situation. I pray daily for their safety and that they will one day experience unconditional love!!

Their mom dropped them off at our house early Saturday morning. That afternoon we were asked to go on an Easter egg hunt. It was the best Easter egg hunt ever! Our friends had candy, eggs and goodies hid EVERYWHERE!!! The kids all had a blast looking for eggs. It was a perfect spring day! Thank you Terry and Melanie for doing this Easter egg hunt for the kids! We appreciate the time you put into it!!!

Cousin #2 looking inside her egg.

Victoria with her cousins during the Easter egg hunt!

Victoria going through her all of her candy and goodies. Some of the eggs were filled with dollar bills. She was hoping she got one...but they were all filled with candy.

Dylan looking in his basket. He had the cutest expressions on his face every time an egg was opened. It was like he was all surprised and had NO clue that something was going to be in it.

Excitement all over again!!

Logan's Easter bucket was FULL! He had a blast looking for all of the candy!

Victoria and Cousin #1 sitting on the deck before snack time. Melanie had the cutest cupcakes and juice boxes for each child.

Two of my very good friends! What would I do without them!!!

After the Easter egg hunt Terry got out the tractor and started giving rides. The kids LOVED it!! Some of them rode and some of them ran beside the tractor. (This is probably why they all slept so well that night!)

After that we headed home to dye Easter eggs. I was bracing myself for this. I wasn't sure how it would go. I mean we are dealing with dye and we all know what can go wrong if it spills. The kids did great and had a blast....and so did mommy!

Cousin #2 wanted ALL yellow eggs. She was so cute and excited. I wondered if she had ever done this before.

Logan made all green eggs. He loved it but at the same time was so amazed that egg actually turned green!! : )

Waiting oh so patiently for his egg to finish up.

I was so surprised that Victoria wanted to do a blue egg. She is more of a pink or purple kind of girl. I think she thought the blue would show up better than pink.

She couldn't wait to take it out and see the coloring on it!

The finished products. I had a blast with the kids and loved doing this. I loved watching the joy on their faces as they each took their eggs out one by one. Oh and we had NO casualties.

Easter Morning! I had little baskets for Cousin #1 and #2 and the day before I took them both out to get a new church dress. I had prayed that morning that wherever we went we would find a dress, shoes and socks. Praise the Lord we did. The first store we went to had it ALL! God is so Good!

Victoria and Logan on Easter morning! They were so cute! Logan's Easter shirt was itchy so he didn't wear it and Victoria changed her mind at least 6 times. Finally we got the picture! :) When I look at this picture I see two children that I LOVE. In Victoria I see a mature side of her. She is growing up and there is nothing I can do about it. I see a little girl who cares about others and wants to do what is right. In Logan I see the softer side of him. He had a rough couple of minutes right before this picture. I can see it in his eyes. I love the fact that he is a mamma's boy. I know it will not last forever so I welcome any minute he will sit with me and snuggle.

For their Easter baskets this year we knew that they both needed bicycle helmets this year. So we bought 2 new ones and turned them upside down and filled them as their baskets. They loved the idea and were so excited.

Still Alive....

2009-04-13T22:20:00.002-05:00

I have so many pictures to post and so much to post about! I can't wait till I have just a few extra minutes in a day/night to get it all done. We had a wonderful Easter at our home. We had
2 extra little girls....our nieces. I was a little hesitant on how I would be able to get everything done for Easter and be able to spend time with my kids doing all that I wanted to do with them...but the Lord helped me get through the entire weekend...and I think we all had a blast.
Check back soon for all of our Easter pictures!!!

I just wanted to thank EVERYONE of my friends and the most important person in my life for all the encouragement each one of you have been to me over the last few weeks. My schedule has been a little crazy, but I can always count on my hubby to take care of everything and I have friends who are always praying for me and "checking in" on me! I am almost on the other side of this tax season and could not have done it without my husband and friends!! So to you all I thank you for the text messages, notes, phone calls and prayers!!!

My Little Logan....

2009-04-02T21:31:00.002-05:00

I don't think I have posted on here about Logan. A couple of months ago we were having our morning devotions and before we finished Logan told me that he wanted to be saved. I asked him if he understood what it meant to be saved. He told me that Jesus died on the cross for his sins and that he was sorry for sinning and wanted to be saved. :) I was so excited. Logan and I sat at our kitchen table that morning and we prayed. He was so proud and wanted to call everyone.

As I went to work that day I remember think that 'we will all be there now'. I will admit that before Logan was saved I was nervous/scared/hesitant about the Lords return...only because I wanted Logan to be saved. I wanted to know for sure that my entire family was in heaven...but that morning I had peace. I knew that we would all be there when the Lord returns. As a mommy I could not have been more proud.

Well, this week at school he has been learning about the death and Resurrection of Christ. He has been so tender toward the story. On Wednesday Kevin had Logan call me while I was working and Logan told me the entire story. He sounded so sad when he spoke about them "whopping" Jesus. He even knew they used a cat of nine tails. Every night he sits in bed and looks at the Resurrection story in his Bible and we read it together.

I am so thankful that both Victoria and Logan are able to learn about Christ at school. It is a sacrifice for us to send them there, but both Kevin and I are so thankful that we have made this decision together. We haven't thought differently since!

Bowling Fun

2009-03-29T17:08:00.013-05:00

The past few weekends we have been having so much fun with the kids. Kevin and I went bowling with our Sunday School classes and ever since Logan has been wanting to go too. So last Friday we surprised the kids with an evening of dinner and Bowling. They loved it!!! Thank goodness for the bumper guards. It could have been a long night without them. :)

I just love this little girl so much and am so proud of the way she is growing up and showing love towards others.

Daddy and Logan having a blast together. They are BOTH competitive and think they just HAVE to win!! Well...neither of them won. Julie beat Kevin good...and she deserved it after how much he picked on her!!!

One of Logan's buddies. These two boys are so much a like. I think they could be a bit of trouble this summer! :) Nathan was really good at bowling...although at first he didn't really want to do it because he wasn't winning. What is it with boys?!??!

This picutre isn't from the same night but of the week before. I just had to put it up here. Isn't she beautiful , skinny and young looking!!

Getting ready to do some bowling!! I love spending time with my family. We had so much fun together and made some good memories!!!

Cute picture, you two!! What else can I say?!?! I have seen a different side of Jeremy the past couple of weeks. This guy can make us all just hurt from laughing!! And of course when him and Kevin are together...they too are dangerous. They get these CRAZY ideas!!!

New Spring Clothes!!!

2009-03-25T20:56:00.007-05:00

Well, this week has been a quiet week for me at work. I know that it is just the calm before the storm but at the same time this quiet week has given me the strength to get through the upcoming couple of weeks. Being home on time this week I have been able to concentrate on my family and spending time with them in the evening....which I LOVE!!!

Kevin's back is continuing to give him problems. The steroid shots that he is receiving seem to "wear" off after 3 weeks exactly. We go to see one of his doctors next week and are hoping for some more answers. I know the Lord is in control and I will continue to pray that surgery is not needed. As for work, he is hoping the weather grows warmer and the phone starts ringing!!

Tonight Victoria and Logan each received a package from their Grandfather and MomMom! They were so excited. I made them wait till we got home to open the packages. I was able to snap a few pictures....

Those of you who know Logan know how much he LOVES money!! He was so excited when he started opening up his envelope!!

Victoria and one of her dresses that she got! She was in desperate need of spring dresses too! Last year all of her dresses were a 6...this year 7 and maybe even 8's by the end of the season!!

Logan loves ANY type of clothing that has ANYthing to do with sports! I am sure by the end of summer this shirt will no longer be white! :)

He was digging into his package so excited to dig out what he could!!!

Victoria and her money!! Thanks Grandfather and MomMom!!!

I love his cute smile!! It is very rare that I can snap a picture of him with his eyes open!! He is like his daddy...flash goes off...eyes go closed.

The three of us....don't you love Victoria's glasses?!?! I think she looks so cute with them on. Now if I could just teach her to keep them on.

Beware...No pictures for now....

2009-03-19T20:51:00.006-05:00

So since I don't have any pictures for right now I will just catch you up on what has been going on at the Watsons!!!

Victoria got glasses!! She looks so cute, but at the same time SO grown up. I can't believe how well she read for me tonight. It was amazing to see her face relax when they put the glasses on her. She could see!!
We are traveling out to PA! I can hardly wait to see my family. It has been since October since we have been out to PA. I just have to make it past April 15th (tax day) and then I will be able to have somewhat of a life again. I will say that I am looking forward to getting away.
It is warming up here in our area. The kids have enjoyed it. They have spent the last few evenings outside playing. They love the warmer weather....and so does mommy and dadddy.
Kevin has been here at home doing things around the house during they...I am so thankful for that!! He has done all the laundry, cooking and much of the picking up for me lately.

Last night I was able to make it home for dinner (first time in over a week and a half) so Kevin and Logan made a special dinner for us all! Shrimp scampi. I loved it. It isn't the best picture but I took it with my phone.

So I just want to share a little story. Last night when Kevin and I headed to bed I just couldn't fall asleep. I was worried. There I have admitted it. I was worried about our business and the slowness of it. It isn't easy and I know that we are not the only ones that are not working right now....but it still scares me! I lay in bed and tossed and turned for a VERY long time. Finally God got a hold of my heart and reminded me of this passage:

Delight yourself in the Lord

and he will give you the desires

of your heart.

Commit your way to the Lord;

trust in him and he will do this:

Be still before the Lord and wait

patiently for him;

do not fret when men succeed

in their ways,

when they carry out their wicked

schemes

I kept repeating that last verse....be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. WAIT on HIM, Heather! So today I had to rely on the Lord for His strength! I struggled at work. I couldn't concentrate. On my way home I just prayed that the Lord would help me through the evening. I hadn't even been in the door for 5 minuets and Kevin told me some GOOD news....he got a call for some work...and a job he had lined up a while ago and then seemed like it would never happen...they too were ready for him to come over and start the work. TWO leads in ONE day!! I try not to get to anxious about calls and estimates till the customer has signed on the bottom line...but tonight I feel better....and will continually pray that the Lord provides for us!!

Thank You....

2009-03-12T20:17:00.003-05:00

I have been trying to get this post up ALL day!!! I just wanted to thank one of my friends for a recent act of kindness!! We all have bad days...we have been there. I had one yesterday and normally I just work my way through it and once I am on the other side of that bad day everything is fine. Well...yesterday seemed like a day that would never end. I worked a long day and when I got home this is what was on my table....

...a card and my favorite candy!! HOW AWESOME IS THAT!!?!?!? My friend just happened to text me yesterday to see how I was doing. I was honest with her and told her my day was just a bad day. She took it upon herself to drop this off at my house! WOW!! I was moved to tears by her thoughtful gesture. So today I say THANK YOU....you are a special friend!!! I pray that one day I can return the thoughtful gesture!!! :)

Prayer Month...

2009-03-05T21:36:00.010-06:00

This month at our church it is all about prayer. I remember being taught in school and in just my everyday life to pray specifically. This past Sunday I decided to do just that this month for 2 specific areas in my life and in our families lives. I gave the Lord complete control in these areas and let me tell you I feel so much better.

Many of our family and friends have had their hours cut or even their jobs cut due to the economy and the recession. Our business is beginning to slow down but we are praying that it is only because of the cold weather and that soon, Lord willing, we will begin to hear our phone ring again!! God is in control of it all. We are trusting Him and this is one of the areas that I gave over to Him. I can sit and worry about the lack of work Kevin has or I can sit and pray faithfully for work to come in...the decision is not a hard one.

Every year Kevin receives a check from the local hardware store...our business receives a percentage back of what we spend. In the past we have put it back into the business...well this year Kevin decided to put it in our house!! I was so excited because I was able to get new counter tops and a new sink for NOTHING!!! It did not cost us 1 penny! We were also given a new dishwasher last year that we kept till we were ready to put new counter tops in....so I know have a DISHWASHER!!! I am so fortunate to have a hubby that knows how to do all he does! I love the little makeover our kitchen got!!!

After shot of the kitchen!!!

Before....

After....

Before....

after.....

Yucky sink before that has chipped all of my dishes....

My new stainless steel sink!! LOVE IT!!!

Sleepovers!!

2009-03-04T20:54:00.008-06:00

I am finally getting around to this post!! Victoria and Logan have been asking to have a sleepover for quite sometime now. To be honest, I have been putting it off for 2 reasons....1 knew that Victoria would not sleep over at someones house and 2 I wasn't ready to let Logan have his first sleepover. I know, I know...what kind of mommy am I. Just a little emotional one I guess. :)

So Saturday, we had our friends over for some pizza and just a night of fun. Well when we made the plans a couple of weeks ago we also made plans to "switch" kids. Victoria's friend spent the night at our house and Logan went to his friends house for the night. I did shed a couple of tears when Logan left, but he did fine. I was so proud of him too.

Victoria and her friend enjoying pizza!!!

Logan and his buddies...I couldn't get a good picture at all of the 3 boys.

Second try...these 2 boys are SO much a like! I think they are going to have a wonderful summer together!

The girls played together so well. They both love their American Girls. I think they played with them all night!! At bedtime they talked for a couple of minutes but it didn't take them long to fall fast asleep. Victoria's friend has diabetes. I will admit I was a bit nervous about this, but I knew I had to be comfortable with it...for both Victoria and her friends sake. I did get frustrated though when I learned that her sugar was high a couple hours after her leaving our home. I don't know how Julie and Jeremy do it...

Getting ready for bed....

Thanks Jeremy and Julie for allowing her to come over for the night. I think they really had fun and can't wait to be able to do it again!!!

Kevin, I love you!!!

2009-02-24T19:24:00.006-06:00

I love my job...I work for a CPA firm. I personally do not work in the tax department. I work in the wealth management department. It has definitely been very stressful as the stock market moves all over, but let me tell you what a learning experience it has been for me. Those who I work with are amazing and have taught me all I know. I respect them for their work ethics and for taking the time to train me. My days move so fast and are NEVER the same. I think that is why I love my job so much. This time of year is the "tough" time though. We are dead smack in the middle of our busy season. Yes, it means long days and evenings and weekends. For those of you who work outside of the home...even moms who don't work out side of the home...you know how it is when you are at work and/or come home to laundry, dishes, dirty bathrooms, bills to pay, a house to pick up, grocery shopping, and the list goes on....

Well, I haven't had to worry about that to much...Kevin has been doing so much for me...for us! He has been picking the kids up from school, helping them with their homework, making dinner for them, cleaning up, doing laundry and the list goes on. I got home last night around 7 PM...everyone had already eaten, the kitchen was spotless, Victoria and Logan were in their pj's, homework was finished and laundry is caught up!! What a loving hubby I have been blessed with!! Our schedules are crazy and are days are full, but we love our lives. Kevin's business has slowed down a bit because of the the economy and because of the cold weather. God knows what we need and when we need it. He knew that if Kevin were busy right now it would be harder on the both of us...so for this I am thankful!

It is not easy being gone from my family all day and sometime late into the evening, but when I come home and realize all I need to do is just sit and spend time with the ones I love...it doesn't get much better than that! Because of this I just wanted to thank Kevin! He completes me that is for sure...I love you, Kevin!!!

Valentines Day Weekend

2009-02-15T21:40:00.015-06:00

Do you remember when Valentines Day included roses, cards, candy, dinner, mushy words, time spent in our loved ones arms, etc.....while the love between Kevin and I only grows stronger...over the years our Valentines Days have changed. Yes, I got flowers and a card this year, and yes I know that my hubby loves me so much and I love him in return...but with 2 kids and our busy schedules we knew there was not going to be a chance to go out for a nice quiet dinner with just the two of us. We were talking about this on our way home from church a few Sunday's ago and Victoria (being the sweet little girl she is) came up with the idea of making dinner for Mommy and Daddy. She was so excited about it and made plans about it all week long. So this year our Valentines evening included a nice dinner at home with some friends and Victoria helped me make everything. I am so thankful for my precious little girl! She is caring and loves to make sure everyone else is "doing ok".

The flowers I got from Kevin...he also got Victoria a bouquet of daffodils. She was so excited!!

Logan was writing the things he loves for our LOVE CHAIN.

Logan's Love Chain:

Aiden (his nephew)
The heavens and the Earth
MomMom & FaFa
God/Salvation
Mommy
Daddy
Sissy
Grandpa and Lisa
Friends

Victoria's Love Cain:

Friends
Jesus
School
Mommy
Daddy
Logan
MomMom & FaFa
Grandpa & Lisa
Salvation

Logan was proud that he was able to write his own
MomMom & FaFa

Victoria was so proud of the table she set.

Our dinner plates even had menus on them!!

Our good friends brought there daughter with them. She was tired and thought my kitchen floor was more comfortable then her mommies lap.

We always have to play the Wii to end a good night!!

CUTIE PIE!!!! I loved her little outfit. It had hearts all over it! Perfect for Valentines Day!

I just threw this picture in...a couple of weeks ago we went to a Hockey Game with our Sunday School Class. For some reason when Julie and I get together we just have fun!! I appreciate her and what a great friend she is for me!

Broken Hearts...

2009-02-05T13:17:00.004-06:00

Have you ever hurt having to watch your kids learn the hard way? I experienced that yesterday! I knew one day it would be here, but how would I react? How would I respond?

On Wednesday evenings I pick the kids up from school at 5:30 PM. Victoria has piano lessons on Wednesdays after school so it works out that they stay for after school care, and then I get them when I get off of work. Normally when I get there they both come running up to me all excited and tell me about their day! It is probably the one thing that I look forward to everyday...hearing about something new they learned. Well, it was not that way yesterday at ALL! When I got to the school I saw Victoria sitting at THE table. And when I say THE table I mean the table where the time outs happen. At first I didn't get it...not my Victoria, she must be sick. Then I saw one of the Teachers Aids walking up to talk to me. I quietly listened as she explained what Victoria had done wrong and why she was sitting at THE table. :) Well...lately Victoria has been doing things AFTER she has been told either not to do them or to wait for assistance. She makes the wrong choice and does it anyway. CHOICE! Key word here. We continuously talk and teach her about choices and consequences.

Yesterday she had a choice to make. She made the wrong one and then received a time out for it. As I knelt down next to her yesterday I remember telling myself not to cry. My heart broke for her as she sat there. I had to remain strong...for her sake and mine. I asked her why she had made the wrong choices. She didn't have an answer for me...she just looked up at me with her big blue eyes and started to cry. Oh my word. That hurt! I hurt for her because she was hurting but this is one time that I couldn't make it better. She had to hurt to learn about making the right choice.

As mommies most times we can fix the hurt with a kiss, hug or band aid...but as our little ones grow up we learn that we can't always make it better. It is then that our children have to learn the hard way. WOW!! I was challenged this past Sunday at church by our pastor to pray for our children. I have always prayed for them but I have started praying for them in a different way....they are growing up and making their own choices so I have to pray for them to make right choices.

I remember this quote from my HIGH POINT days...

"We have choices, choices have consequences, make the right choice" I know that is not word for word but I have always remembered that....and am now applying it to my children.

The Love of My Life....Updated....

2009-01-23T09:24:00.003-06:00

If you read this...please pray for my husband! I believe in the power of prayer and I am thankful that we have our Lord to go to EVERY DAY!!! We don't know how, but Kevin started experiencing back problems about 3 weeks ago. He continued to see the chiropractor but the pain and numbness got worse. He went to see our family doctor last Friday and they sent him for an MRI. We hopefully will receive those results today. It pains me to see Kevin unable to walk, work or do much without pain medication. He is the glue of our family and the kids and I feel the change when Daddy is "down". You should hear our Victoria pray for Daddy..."Jesus, please put your hand of healing on Daddy's leg and back...only you can make him better!" I am thankful that Victoria listens to the way we pray and that she understands prayer in her own little mind! She never ceases to amaze me. We love you, Kevin!!!

Update: We received word from our MD that Kevin needs to be referred to a neurosurgeon. The MRI shows that he has a ruptured disc along with a pinched nerve. We are waiting (again) to receive a call from the neurosurgeon. Please continue to pray for Kevin...this morning I though he seemed better...but tonight he was once again in some serious pain. I thought we were going to have to take him to the ER. He is in bed flat right now and I am praying that tomorrow we will know more!!

Friends....

2009-01-20T08:52:00.004-06:00

A very important aspect in my life are the friends that I surround myself with. I have been blessed since moving to Illinois with some very good friends. I am thankful for the bonds that have been created between us, and I am thankful for the times we share. Friends are those who you can be yourself in front of. They are there for you through the ups and downs. Talking...laughing...crying....you can be yourself in front of them. Whether sitting in a living room or at a kitchen table ;) for hours laughing, telling stories or asking opinions, it always helps me. Why you ask? Because I need the advice of other mommies. It is refreshing to know that many of us wives and mommies deal with the same aspects of life....from child rearing, to exhaustion, to finding more time in a day to run here, do laundry, make dinner, homework, bills, clean and whatever else we fill our days with. It doesn't give me an excuse but it encourages me to try harder or to deal with it differently!

I consider it a privilege to have such close friends!! So thank you all for what you have done for me and my family!!

On the same topic of friends...Kevin has had a few opportunities to get season tickets to the Ice Hogs from a friend of his. Well, yesterday he was once again able to get the tickets. Our kids were not off for MLK day but he decided to take Logan out of K-4 for the afternoon and have one of Logan's buddies and his daddy go with them. They had a blast!! Logan was so proud that they were each able to get a puck from a player on the ice!! He and daddy love spending time at sporting events. I must admit that I was a bit jealous while they were there and I was at work, but I was reminded...by a friend....that it is important for the boys to spend time together!! ;)

He looks so cute in this picture....I think he is growing up WAY to fast!!!

Nathan and his buddy!! These two are ALL boy!!! He loves going over to his buddies house because "he has play guns, mommy!!"

Family Time....

2009-01-02T21:30:00.009-06:00

Kevin and I have had a very quiet couple of days here. We took the opportunity to just relax. In just 2 weeks I start my "busy" season at work. This goes till about the end of April. We both know it is coming and we can't stop it so we decided to just have a couple of family nights to chill with the kids and organize a few things around the house. I have thoroughly enjoyed my Christmas and New Years vacation this year! The kids crack me up sometimes...I am pretty sure I learn something new from them each day. :)

So I found 3 pictures from Christmas day....Kevin took the 2 of the kids opening their gifts...

Logan LOVES Lego's!! He now has the complete city! He will sit and play with them for hours!! Although he will "take them apart" and doesn't remember how to put them back together again...so he and daddy spend plenty of time rebuilding them.

Victoria played this game with some friends a couple of months ago and loved it. She is pretty slick at it too. We played it last night as a family...you gotta watch her!!!

On Christmas night Kevin's brother Todd stopped by with his 3 kids. We haven't seen the kids or Todd in MONTHS!!! I think this is the first ever "posed" picture of the 5 of them. Some of you know Todd from NBBC...and others of you know him here in Illinois. If you think of it please pray for him and these 3 children! Todd is no longer married and drives for SWIFT truck. He is gone for months at a time. It is a different way of life but it keeps him out of trouble...it is sad because he doesn't get to see his kids very often. We were happy to see them all. The 2 girls are younger than Victoria and both have difficulty speaking...but they are SO sweet!!! McKenzie carried Victoria's American Girl Doll around ALL evening. She loved it and I could tell that she would have took such good care of her!! :) Noah is all BOY and he and Logan play together so well!!
So a few months ago we purchased a Wii. I was a bit hesitant on this purchase just because...I thought it was a phase. Well it is...but at the same time we have spent so much time together as a family playing this thing! The kids love it and I must admit Kevin and I do too. We will put the kids to bed and start playing it for hours!! :)

These two crack me up!! They were working so hard on the one game Logan got for Christmas...I think they played it for 2 hours straight while Victoria and I put Christmas decorations away.

They just wanted to points so they could buy bigger and better vehicles....I don't get this game....

I love watching Logan's face when he is racing. He gets into it and tries to beat his daddy!! I do believe he did on this jump!!!

My two favorite men!!!!

Christmas...

2008-12-28T20:47:00.004-06:00

Can you believe it??? I took not one picture on Christmas morning. Not one. What was I thinking and what am I going to do for our 2008 Christmas scrapbook page??? If you are checking my blog for pictures...sorry... Not having any pictures is not that bad though considering how our family has been blessed this year...God is so good!!!

I would have to say that this year was by FAR the BEST Christmas we have had as a family! I have so many thoughts going through my mind that I hope this post is not to crazy to follow...

We began making plans for our Christmas sometime after Thanksgiving. I was looking forward to a quiet Christmas but one full of traditions!! As the week began I realized one thing I hadn't thought of earlier. What if it snows??? What will we do??? Kevin will have to plow but what about all of our traditions?? Well it snowed. If I remember correctly it snowed both Tuesday and Wednesday. A LOT....and Kevin was gone all day Tuesday and then home for about 4 hours to sleep that night and then back out plowing Christmas Eve. He was able to come home around 3 for a couple of hours only to get STUCK in a drift. This took longer than realized; he came home to say he loved us and back out again to clean all the parking lots before they opened again the day after Christmas. It wasn't a huge deal that he was gone Christmas Eve night....all we were planning on doing was pizza and a Christmas movie...but I was SAD!! I felt bad for him but prayed that I didn't have a bad attitude. It was difficult but he was home around 8 or so. Not bad...I am thankful that our friends Jared and Melissa stopped by with their little guy Dylan. That was so thoughtful of you both and it meant so much to us!

Christmas morning was WONDERFUL!!! We all slept in till 8 and enjoyed over an hour of opening gifts from each other and from my parents. We are so blessed. We then enjoyed an entire morning and afternoon just with the four of us playing new games and spending time together. Just what I needed!! We didn't have family coming over till 5 and eating at 6. The turkey that was given to us was 30 pounds. It took a BIT longer to cook than we thought so we all sat down to eat at 7. ;) All in all a Christ centered day that I had prayed for!! God is so good and I am thankful for His goodness.

We see and hear around how horrible the economy is. We have all felt it in one way or another, but isn't God so faithful to us regardless of all that is reeling on around us?? How has he provided for your family???

2008-12-19T13:58:00.010-06:00

On October 31st Kevin and I became homeowners. The house that we have lived in for the past 3 years we have been renting with option to buy. The Lord worked out all of the details and we were able to purchase the house! We were so excited to be homeowners once again. Now...time to get busy and get this place looking good! Don't get me wrong. We loved the house before we bought it, but we were only able to do little improvements on it. Now....we are in demolition mode! The first room we wanted to tackle was the main bath. I couldn't wait to get this thing done. One problem. I am SO impatient!! We (or should I say Kevin) started in on it the Wednesday of Thanksgiving weekend. I came home that day after work and expected it to be much further along than it was. Like I said...I am SO impatient!!! Kevin worked so hard on this bathroom and I am so thankful for the gift of construction that the Lord has given him. He was able to do it all!! Demo it...move all the plumbing around...drywall...tile...set the tub...paint and new electrical!! I was amazed at how he does it all! Every day he goes to work and I don't see the end product of his customers....that weekend I saw it and loved him more for how hard of a worker he is for his family!!!

The bathroom before...gotta love the multi color toilet!!!

BROWN, BROWN and MORE BROWN!!!

He tore everything out...down to the studs!!!

New tub!!! I don't think I have ever owned something this new!!!

The floor!! I have never had tile before...LOVE IT!!!

I love the bent shower rod! It gives SO much more room in the shower!! And it is so bright!!!

Simple and clean....

LOVE IT!!!

This is the first of many projects we have on our to do list...after Christmas we are starting in our family room...I am SO excited!!!

Tis the Season of Christmas Programs!!!

2008-12-15T20:26:00.011-06:00

On Friday night Logan had his first program. He was a wise man in his preschool program. He did such a good job...the day before when they practiced in front of the "big" kids he apparently did not want to go on stage and started to cry so I wasn't so sure what to think. Regardless of all of that he got up there and did great! (even though he was sick) He sang his songs and played his part to make this mommy so proud! It is amazing to me how fast our children grow up! It seems like just yesterday I was holding him as a baby in my arms. Now he is writing his own name and learning Bible verses at school.

The cutest wise man at his school program!!!

On Sunday Victoria and Logan had their program at church. I was so excited for them and couldn't wait to see Victoria as an angel and Logan as a star!!

The most handsome star!!

Victoria singing her little heart out!! She loves to sing!!!

Afterward we were enjoying cookies...yummy!!

I love this picture of Logan....it shows his true smile and happiness.

We were waiting for daddy to finish up at church so we thought we would try a picture for our Christmas card....

Julie wanted in on the action....my kids LOVE her!!

I think I finally got one!!! :)

Posing in the nativity scene from the program...

Our Life

12 Days of Christmas

Our Christmas

Just some thoughts....

Two Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins!!

Being A Mom of a BOY!!!

School Daze..............

Decisions, Decisions.

~~WORDLESS WEDNESDAY~~

ALL BOY

Just Because....

Christmas Time!!

A Social Network Christmas

In All Things

Thanksgiving!!!!

Playing for Grandfather and MomMom!!!

Fun Times!!!

Kevin

Catch Up

Goodbye Summer

5k.....

4th of July fun.....

What a Song!

Something to Ponder

On a Mission

Long Lost Pictures

Summer Time, Summer Time, Sum Sum Summer Time!!!!!

A Great Saturday!!!

A few of my FaVoRiTe things...

LOVE

LOVE

LOVE

LOVE

LOVE

LOVE

LOVE this song!

LOVE...

Hustle and Bustle...time of year!

Special Moments

Birthday Parties, Birthday Cakes and Our New Best Friend...

A Mother's Touch

Changes...

A Weekend with the Love of My Life!!!

Busy Saturday!!!

Being Organized, Always Helps!!

PEE WEE POMS!!!

First Day of School, Buses and the LOVE of my Life

Just because....

Vacation Time!

Birthday Parties!!!

When We See Christ

Camping

Happy Birthday, to the Love of my life1!

It's about time, right?

Be At Rest

Catch-up!

Fun, Fun, Fun!!!

Still Alive....

My Little Logan....

Bowling Fun

New Spring Clothes!!!

Beware...No pictures for now....

Thank You....

Prayer Month...

Sleepovers!!

Kevin, I love you!!!

Valentines Day Weekend

Broken Hearts...

The Love of My Life....Updated....

Friends....

Family Time....

Christmas...

Tis the Season of Christmas Programs!!!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY