Betsy's Random assortment of thoughts

Wordless Wednesday

2012-02-01T10:57:00.002-07:00

Okay, so I don't think any of these are actually wordless. lol. I am going to say just a few. This is my McKayla playing a "counting" game. What you are "supposed" to do is put the number of objects in the space that the number at the bottom is. For example the one she is drawing in in this picture is the 4 spot, she should be putting 4 beans in that space. She wanted to draw instead. So in the 1 spot is 1 bunny, in the two spot - a two ball snow man, the 3 is a mommy with two kids (3 people). Unfortunately she didn't have time to finish (this was at her school's kinder 'game' night where we were given stuff to play educational games to help the kids at home) Loved seeing her in action with her classmates! I also just love the way their little minds work! =)

Not me Monday

2012-01-30T15:39:00.002-07:00

This weekend I did not sit on the couch with my blanket and pillow and watch almost an entire season of America's Next Top Model.

I also didn't postpone bathing my children one night in hopes of feeling better. Didn't work. Ended up bathing all three, while feeling like crap, at the last minute last night.

I did not eat an entire mini bag of quakes. (in my defense it was only 3 servings and I was only 5 points over for the day. I'm being much better today!)

I definatly didn't hide my healthy veggie snacks in my lunchbox so my family wouln't eat them (again defending myself here, it was just the sliced apples that I knew they would eat all of!! lol)

What didn't you do this weekend?

Book Review

2012-01-27T14:38:00.007-07:00

I have read quite a few books lately. Most of them I have really enjoyed. The last one was:

This is how Amazon describes the book: Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.
Insightful, bold, irreverent, and raw, The Fault in Our Stars is award-winning author John Green’s most ambitious and heartbreaking work yet, brilliantly exploring the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.

My thoughts: Its a book about a kid with cancer. As expected I did cry a bit, but I wasn't sobbing throughout like I thouhgt I might. I admit that it was different then the books you usually read about kids with cancer, and really thought provoking. It is a young adult book, so easy to follow. I would reccomend this to a friend.

The next book on my list is

This is what Amazon says: In the tradition of Marilynne Robinson’s Housekeeping and Elizabeth Strout’s Olive Kitteridge, a dazzling debut novel about the family bonds that remain even when they seem irretrievably torn apartGrowing up in hardscrabble Kentucky in the 1920s, with their mother dead and their stepfather an ever-present threat, Bertie Fischer and her older sister Mabel have no one but each other—with perhaps a sweetheart for Bertie waiting in the wings. But on the day that Bertie receives her eighth-grade diploma, good intentions go terribly wrong. A choice made in desperate haste sets off a chain of misunderstandings that will divide the sisters and reverberate through three generations of women.

What happens when nothing turns out as you planned? From the Depression through World War II and Vietnam, and smaller events both tragic and joyful, Bertie and Mabel forge unexpected identities that are shaped by unspeakable secrets. As the sisters have daughters and granddaughters of their own, they discover that both love and betrayal are even more complicated than they seem.

My thoughts: I am excited to read this one. I have a sister and understand the complex relationship that is there. Will share more when I am finished!!

One other book on my list to finish is

This was an impulse pick up at the library. This is what Amazon had to say: Wickedly hilarious and utterly recognizable, Girls in White Dresses tells the story of three women grappling with heartbreak and career change, family pressure and new love—all while suffering through an endless round of weddings and bridal showers.

Isabella, Mary, and Lauren feel like everyone they know is getting married. On Sunday after Sunday, at bridal shower after bridal shower, they coo over toasters, collect ribbons and wrapping paper, eat minuscule sandwiches and doll-sized cakes. They wear pastel dresses and drink champagne by the case, but amid the celebration these women have their own lives to contend with: Isabella is working at a mailing-list company, dizzy with the mixed signals of a boss who claims she’s on a diet but has Isabella file all morning if she forgets to bring her a chocolate muffin. Mary thinks she might cry with happiness when she finally meets a nice guy who loves his mother, only to realize he’ll never love Mary quite as much. And Lauren, a waitress at a Midtown bar, swears up and down she won’t fall for the sleazy bartender—a promise that his dirty blond curls and perfect vodka sodas make hard to keep.

With a wry sense of humor, Jennifer Close brings us through those thrilling, bewildering, what-on-earth-am-I-going-to-do-with-my-life years of early adulthood. These are the years when everyone else seems to have a plan, a great job, and an appropriate boyfriend, while Isabella has a blind date with a gay man, Mary has a crush on her boss, and Lauren has a goldfish named Willard. Through boozy family holidays and disastrous ski vacations, relationships lost to politics and relationships found in pet stores, Girls in White Dresses pulls us deep inside the circle of these friends, perfectly capturing the wild frustrations and soaring joys of modern life.

Another one I CAN'T WAIT to read. =)

I love that I have started to expand my horizons. It wasn't so long ago I was only reading about 4 authors (though I still do LOVE them!!) Its good to read something that challenges you.

So, what is on your nightstand at the moment?

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-26T06:32:00.000-07:00

Another week to count my blessings! Here are just a few of the things I am thankful for today.

I am thankful for a willing friend to be my accountability partner in my "Made to Crave" book study. I might actually finish this time!

I am thankful for the few dry days we have had.

I am thankful for the beautiful view of the snow covered foothills (I will try and get a picture up here soon!)

I am thankful for my mom & dad helping me get tickets to fly home. Not for the reasons I wanted to, but I am thankful to be able to say goodbye. Without their help, it wouldn't be possible.

I am thankful that the numbers on the scale are going the right direction. I only pray that when they start slowing (if I hit a plateu, or if it slows down coming off) that I can keep my motivation. I have lost 6.5 lbs in two weeks, so its going awesome right now, but I have a habit of giving up when my "hard work" isn't showing.

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-25T09:03:00.003-07:00

Some people come into our lives and quickly go.
Some stay for awhile and leave footprints on our hearts,
and we are never the same.

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-19T10:44:00.003-07:00

This week I am going to stick with my weather theme here. =)

1. I am thankful that the snow didn't cause us any accidents. There were SO many in our area, I am grateful for the safe travel I had to and from work.
2. I am thankful that my mom and dad are in a place where they aren't too worried about flooding. Not near any rivers or anything. Makes me feel a bit more comfortable with all the rain they are getting in the Pacific Northwest.
3. I am thankful for coworkers who don't laugh too hard at me when I am snapping picture after picture of the snow yesterday. I think they understand that this isn't the "norm" for me.
4. I am thankful that it didn't freeze last night and make the morning commute hard.
5. I am thankful that I am used to the rain. =) Coming from Oregon I am pretty well adjusted to having to get wet.

What are you thankful for this week? What is the weather like in your neck of the woods. We have been pretty out of the norm here, from what I have heard. =)

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-18T10:50:00.006-07:00

Being new to the area, I had to really photograph the first "big" snow of the season. The girls at the office are laughing at me still!!

The view from our 3rd floor window at 8:30

The outdoor lunch area (shows just an idea of the accumulation we had in just 2 hours!)

Pretty snow covered trees

The same view outside our 3rd floor window at 9:30ish. They started plowing the lot.

And one the hubby sent me from home.

Happy Snow Day!!

Funny Friday

2012-01-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

Hope I made you smile! Have a fantastic Friday!! =)

Wordless Wednesday

2012-01-11T12:53:00.001-07:00

She is my daughter. Only someone related to me could stab themselves in the lip with a "big girl" fork. :-( Healing nicely though. And the red cheeks are getting some help from the new carmex healing cream. Happy Wednesday all!!

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-05T09:07:00.003-07:00

I am really trying to get in the attitude of gratefulness. I think its important to count your blessings often. I think that by writing things down every week that I am especially thankful for can help me to have a more positive outlook about life in general. So, here are the top 5 things I am thankful for this week.

1. I am thankful for the new church family I am a part of. I was worried when we moved that I wouldn't have the support that I did back home (lets face it, nothing will compare with a church that you have literally grown up in) but I was pleasently surprised that I have quite a few friends at the church (some I have known longer then others) but they are willing to help when we really need it. One babysat for me yesterday and another drove me home from winco so Jimmy could still get home without me having to take the kiddos out at 10 at night. =) Very helpful!

2. I am thankful for the online support I get at myfitnesspal.com. The community is amazing helping me come up with new ideas, ways to stay on track and just motivate me to keep at it. I have completely fallen off the wagon, and they let me get myself back up, dust off and get back in the saddle. I have been diligantly tracking my food since the 1st. =)

3. I am thankful for mostly healthy kids. We have had some SICK patients around this office, and I am so grateful that my kids haven't been brought any gifts home from my work.

4. I am thankful for healthy and relitively quick deliveries of all three of my girls. We have a girl here at work who has been in slow labor for the last 8 days now. I really, really wouldn't want to be in her shoes, but she is the one gunning for an all natural birth, so she is happy with her decision. That is all that matters, just makes me more thankful that I was able to have those quick labors.

5. I am thankful that I am liking the Curves workout. The only disadvantage to signing up was the 1 year minimum commitment. I just pray that I continue to like it. And right now I am feeling like I am getting a good workout. I have sweat all over and my heartrate is getting up to the range I want it to be in (60-80% max heart rate)

What are you thankful for this week? I would love for each person who comments to leave me one thing YOU are thankful for! =)

Christmas Eve

2012-01-03T06:45:00.000-07:00

As I told you before, in this post, we had an amazing thing happen this Christmas. And as promised, here are the pictures!

This is the girls helping Santa unload the bags/box of gifts under the tree (just an fyi - he told the kiddos the only reason they got to see him is because they had been extra good this year! Gotta keep the faith as long as we can)

Then he let them open one, thankfully it was the perfect one for them to share! =) A chest full of dress up stuff (3 dresses and accessories)

Then we got a few pics of the girls with him. This is the best one.

And Mrs. Clause and their helper elf.

Their generosity made my girls an amazing Christmas! =) Talk about spoiled.

Happy New Year!!

2012-01-01T22:52:00.001-07:00

Nothing like sending the old year old with a nap in the car!

And nothing like ringing in the new year with a glass of bubbly!

or maybe Diet Dew =)

Happy New Year my friends. I pray that God richly blesses you in the coming year. =)

New Year, New Goals

2011-12-28T16:12:00.005-07:00

I am going to try really, really hard this year to set attainable, reasonable goals for myself and my family. I am not going to call them resolutions, but goals. That way I can also set an action plan to complete said goals.

1. Complete the "Made to Crave" book study. (Feel free to join me if you would like, just click the link and join on Melissa Taylor's website) I also have a devotional book I want to finish. I am going to complete this goal by going to work a bit earlier on Wednesdays to read in a quiet spot on my hospital's campus. (Wednesdays because its a day when hubby is usually home for the kiddos.)

2. I am going to implement a family game/activity/movie night to do once a week. (I got that idea from my good friend Leah!) We have so many board games now, and I would really like to spend more time doing things together as a family. So, every Saturday night we will play a board game or watch a movie or do something togther as a family.

3. Continue my workouts at Curves at least 3x per week. I will complete this by making sure on "scheduled days" I have my workout bag packed and in the car the night before so I have no excuses.

4. Complete the 5 mile "Dirty Dash" in August. I will complete this by beginning a training plan March 1 and jogging at least 3x per week for the 5 months prior, working back up to the 5 mile total. I will also keep myself accountable by talking to my friends and family about it and having them check on me.

Those are the goals for now. So, if you are around me in other avenues of my life (facebook, if you have my number, ect) Please bug me about these, help me to make these goals a reality and not just well-meaning resolutions. =) And, let me know what your goals are, I would love to help keep you in check!

Christmas wrap up

2011-12-27T13:11:00.004-07:00

Christmas is over.

There is some relief in saying that. It is always so stressful leading up to get. The budget has to be reworked, the time managed more carefull, but in the end, its all about the family. We celebrated the birth of our king. Opened all the presents that Santa brought then packed up in the car to head for church for a WONDERFUL party for Jesus. The girls were so well behaved and even sweet Liv was trying to sing along with the carols. Too stinking cute! I will share some pictures in a blog to come, but lets just say it was an amazing holiday, one we will NEVER forget.

I am not sure how many readers know that my family has had a very transitional year. We moved from where I have lived FOREVER, where all my girls were born, back to my husband's birthplace. With the move came the struggle to find jobs. Thankfully I was able to quickly get a position with one of the biggest healthcare providers in the valley, but the hiring process was still lengthly, and I didn't start until into July (after moving mid June!) Needless to say, the moving costs and the lack of income caused some financial strain. Come the holidays we were needing a bit of help, so we went to The Salvation Army's family services office and signed up for help. We were just hoping for a few things to help the girls have a better Christmas.

What I wasn't expecting was a gentleman to sponsor our entire family's Christmas. His generosity seriously still leaves me speechless. There are no words to express how deeply thankful I am for that. He (and his helpers) seriously made the best holiday out of what I thought for sure would be the worst.

It was amazing to see all those presents for my girls under the tree. Things they wanted to have, (pillow pets for each one!) and things they needed (socks, gloves, some warmer clothes). I am blown away at what was put under our tree. If I ever find out the name of this annonymous "Santa" he will be getting my thank yous forever!! In fact, I am working on a letter to thank him (not nearly enough, but heartfelt!) I would also like to send him the photos I took of him with my kids. See, he dressed up as the jolly Santa himself, and brought along the Mrs and an helper elf. It was just priceless to see my kiddos interacting with him and just the joy in their eyes.

Anyway, just wanted to share my Christmas story with my friends. We are TRUELY blessed this holiday to have seen the generosity of men, and feel the love of our Heavenly father through the hands and help of a stranger.

Photos

2011-12-24T22:04:00.002-07:00

I always hear that a picture is worth 1000 words, and it is something I honestly believe in. That is why SO many of my posts involve them. I believe that capturing the moments of my families life is vitally important. That is also why I am getting some serious mommy guilt here. We haven't had a real family picture taken in two years! Can you believe that?? So, when I found this blog post, I had to jump on the chance to win a free session. So, if you are local to the Treasure Valley in Eastern Idaho, go on over to Petersen Photography and check them out. From their portfolio and the photos on their facebook page it seems they are not lacking in the talent department. I would really love to win this prize! If I don't I am seriously considering saving my pennies until I can afford to buy a session with them. =)

A Cup of Christmas COCOA

2011-12-19T09:05:00.002-07:00

This time of year always seems so stressful, so hectic, its hard to find time to do anything. Much lees blogging. I don't know how some of my friends do it! But one thing that I really do love is the devotionals brought to my inbox from Proverbs 31 Ministries. I posted one the other day, but here is another that just hit that spot in my heart.

Enjoy!

A Cup of Christmas COCOA

Tracie Miles

“They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.” Psalm 145:7 (NIV)

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the holidays, there’s one thing that always calms my heart and quiets my thoughts – a cup of hot cocoa. Who doesn’t feel warm and peaceful while sipping a cup of steaming cocoa with marshmallows piled on top?

But, there is another reason I love cocoa. Each letter of my favorite winter drink helps me focus my heart on Christ at Christmas:
C – CHRIST“This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 1:18 (NIV 1984)
We all know Christ is the reason for this season, yet it’s easy to focus on shopping and planning instead of Jesus. This month, let’s spend as much time seeking God’s heart as we do searching for the perfect gifts.

O – ORNAMENTS“Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” 1 Peter 3:3-4 (NIV 1984)
We can easily spend more time decorating our house to look like the holiday edition of a magazine, than we do adorning our inner spirit with God’s love and compassion. Let’s ask God to make our hearts beautiful by giving us His patience and kindness. Then let’s look for ways to bless those around us, especially those in need.

C – CHEERFULLY CELEBRATE THE SEASON“A happy heart makes a face look cheerful. But a sad heart produces a broken spirit.” Proverbs 15:13 (NIV)
As gift lists grow and calendars get full, our physical and emotional energy can be drained. Although Christmas is meant to be a joyous season, many of us struggle with depression and discouragement during this time of the year. Let’s take time each day to focus on how much we are valued and loved as children of God. The holidays are merely a season, but God’s love and compassion for us are permanent.

O – OVERJOYED not OVERWHELMED“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:10-11 (NIV)
Do you ever feel overjoyed to kick off the holiday season but overwhelmed by the middle of the month? If we take time each day in December to thank Jesus for coming as our Savior, we could become overwhelmed by His kindness instead. When we focus our hearts on all God has done, we won’t get as easily overwhelmed by all that still needs to be done.

A – ABUNDANCE“…I came that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10b (NIV)
Whenever I think of Christmas morning, from my childhood to the present, the word ABUNDANCE comes to mind. Abundance of presents, food and activities. But these things are temporary. What we need is the abundant life Jesus came to give us. Our hearts need His mercy, peace and love, not only on Christmas day, but every day throughout each year.

I don’t know about you, but I’m ready for a cup of Christmas cocoa. Will you join me? Let’s take time to ponder these Christmas truths and, as that chocolaty goodness warms us, let’s allow the warmth of God’s love to pour into our hearts and His abundant goodness to pour out into the lives of those around us.

The Manger of My Heart

2011-12-14T08:06:00.002-07:00

This Christmas, Lord, come to the manger of my heart.

Fill me with Your presence from the very start.

As I prepare for the holidays and gifts to be given,

Remind me of the gift You gave when You sent Your Son from Heaven.
The first Christmas gift, it was the greatest gift ever.

You came as a baby born in a manger.

Wrapped like the gifts I find under my tree,

Waiting to be opened, to reveal Your love to me.
Restore to me the wonder that came with Jesus’ birth,

when He left the riches of Heaven and wrapped Himself in rags of earth.

Immanuel, God with us, Your presence came that night.

And angels announced, “Into your darkness, God brings His Light.”
“Do not be afraid,” they said, to shepherds in the field.

Speak to my heart today, Lord, and help me to yield.

Make me like those shepherd boys, obedient to Your call.

Setting distractions and worries aside, to You I surrender them all.
Surround me with Your presence, Lord, I long to hear Your voice.

Clear my mind of countless concerns and all the holiday noise.

Slow me down this Christmas, let me not be in a rush.

In the midst of parties and planning, I want to feel Your hush.
This Christmas, Jesus, come to the manger of my heart.

Invade my soul like Bethlehem, bringing peace to every part.

Dwell within and around me, as I unwrap Your presence each day.

Keep me close to You, Lord. It’s in Your wonderful Name I pray.

Thousands of years ago God gave us the gift of His one and only Son, born in a humble manger. Making room in our hearts for Jesus through prayer during this busy season is a gift we give to Him, and ourselves. Right now, let’s quiet our racing thoughts and take a moment to enjoy the hush of Immanuel—God with us. His presence in our lives is a gift we can open every day of the year

Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T07:28:00.001-07:00

I got this in an email (thank you Proverbs 31 Ministries!) and had to share it today. This is so true. Take every moment of your life and give thanks to the God who gave it to you. =) Happy Thanksgiving my friends.

My Thanksgiving
Rachel Olsen
“Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good. For His lovingkindness is everlasting.” 1 Chronicles 16:34 (NASB)

This Thanksgiving morning I will wake up thankful. Not because my life is perfect and I have everything I could want or need, but because I’ve decided to take the time to count my blessings and give thanks to God.
• I’ll be thankful my husband and I are off work today, and that we have work to return to.
• I’ll be thankful my children are able to enjoy a day of play at home, and thankful they have days of learning ahead that will help shape them into who God intends them to be.

I’ll go downstairs. As I pass my desk on my way to the kitchen, I’ll select one of several Bibles on my shelf.
• I’ll be thankful for the Word of God I am able to freely read, distribute and teach in this country.
Mostly likely, I’ll do as I did last year and put on a CD of hymns sung by one of my friends.
• I’ll be thankful for the various friends in my life — both far and near — who enrich me, challenge me, lend me their ear, pray for me and make me laugh. And I’ll be especially grateful for the friendship of God.
• I’ll also be thankful for the blessing of music and its ability to lift my mood, touch my heart, energize my body and connect my soul to an eternal God.

I’ll turn the lights of my Christmas tree on — I like to have my tree up by Thanksgiving Day. The lights and ornaments will twinkle amidst the backdrop of an evergreen tree.
• I’ll thank God for giving us some trees that stay green all year long despite the cold weather.
• I will thank Him for giving us the day and the night, and the stars that twinkle in the sky. I will also be grateful for the Light of the World and the eternal life that He brings, represented by the evergreens in our holiday decorations.

Soon it will be time to start cooking the Thanksgiving meal. In my home that will be turkey, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, green beans, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes and gravy. Oh, and deviled eggs.
• I’ll be thankful for God’s provision of food — including being thankful for the farmers and ranchers, truckers and grocers, and for the kind family member who gives us a turkey and a box of sweet potatoes every year.
• I’ll remember contributing to a local church’s Thanksgiving ministry for those less fortunate, and I’ll be thankful for the people who act as the hands and feet of Christ in ministry — they inspire me.

As I cook, I’ll set aside any cans, plastic bags and cardboard boxes to put into our recycling bin.
• I’ll be thankful for this beautiful planet teeming with life and flowing with water that God entrusted to humankind to steward. And I’ll look forward to the day when I, like the writer of the book of Revelation, see a new earth recreated by God, free of Satan’s influence.

More family members will join us and we will gather around my kitchen table to eat. We are no Norman Rockwell painting — our family has its struggles and issues just like the next family. But on this evening, we will set aside any differences as we laugh together, talk together, pray together and eat together.
• I’ll be thankful for the bond of family — that there are people who know me fully, and love me anyway. And I’ll be grateful for the family of God to which I am bonded through Christ.

After dinner we’ll play cards or board games, or perhaps watch a movie. Then I’ll say goodbye to our guests, tuck my children in bed, sit and reflect on the day. I will ask God to show me any blessings I missed or failed to count, because I’m convinced each one of us has more to be thankful for than we ever notice. Today, let’s purpose to notice, and to be grateful.

Dear Lord,
thank You for the blessings You have bestowed — help me notice them.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen

Happy Day!!

2011-11-23T11:05:00.001-07:00

Thankful Thursday

2011-11-17T11:17:00.002-07:00

Today I am very thankful for the small things, that make it a great day, any day.
1. I am thankful when the drug reps bring us free Starbucks (sure they are bringing it in hopes our doctors will prescribe you their medicine, but its still free coffee for me!)
2. I am thankful that we are able to use my grandmother-in-law's car to help since we are down one car right now.
3. I am thankful that all three car seats do fit in the back of our car. Its a SQUEEZE but they fit! =)
4. I am thankful that McKayla did MUCH better on their testing this last week. I still have a letter I am going to send to the teacher, but I am feeling MUCH better about it then I was!
5. I am thankful for the wait list at the library that allows me to read all the new books (eventually) that I can't afford to buy right now.

What are you thankful for? Post a comment telling me just one (or two or three) =)

Things that make me laugh

2011-11-16T09:44:00.004-07:00

So you have all read (hopefully!) the posts I have written, lessons in parenthood (click the words if you want to read them).

Today while checking the news on yahoo I stumbled across this "10 ways NOT to raise your toddler" and HAD to read it. Totally had me giggling at my desk. =) I just had to share that laugh with you.

And while I am on the news posting kick, why not share this funny one as well, PETA never fails to make me laugh at what they are advocating this week. I admit, I also laughed out loud at that article. =)

Sometimes I just love reading the news just to see the new levels of ridiculusness that people stoop to. Anyone read an interesting article today you care to share?

An Award!

2011-11-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

I promised last week, in McKayla's update, that I would share pictures and what she got her award for. On Friday we packed all the kiddos over to the school for the awards assembly. They were actually well behaved and I am happy about that. Miss M was right near the beginning (they started with the younger kids and worked up, only to third grade though!) And her award was for being a fantastic friend to everyone. =) Sounds about right. I only hope she keeps up being friends with everyone.
In this one you can see the little gap in her teeth (look closely, its small, on the bottom middle)

And this is the "good" one. I love that kid, but getting her to smile nicely is like pulling teeth! lol

I am so proud of my little girl. Thanks for letting me brag. =)

Thankful Thursday

2011-11-10T08:53:00.004-07:00

This week I am going to focus on the freedoms I am thankful for. Most of all I am thankful for the military personal (and their families) who sacrifice EVERY day for the freedoms I am so thankful for.

We are the land of the free because of the brave.

1. I am thankful for the freedom of speech. I can say what I want, when I want and not be prosecuted for that.

2. I am thankful to be able to practice my religon. Many countries can't say that, and I am eternally grateful that I can have a family at church, out in the open, in the daylight, and not fear for my life everytime I go to worship.

3. I am thankful that I can peacefully protest if I so desire. It is becoming more and more common for people to go out and show their disapproval for things that are happening. And as long as they are peaceful in their protest, they can do so.

4. I am thankful that the country I live in is one where I feel secure and safe walking the streets. We may not be perfect (who is) but I don't have to fear a suicide bomber or something like that.

5. I am thankful that I am allowed to have as many children as I want. I may not agree with how many some people have, but that is THEIR choice. In some areas of China you can only have two, and their population is suffering an abundance of men.

One special thank you to all our military who have served or are serving. I am grateful for your service. =)

Alivia

2011-11-09T10:51:00.004-07:00

My sweet baby is showing me a little more every day how she isn't so much that "baby" anymore. Half of me wants to just cry because I want her to stay little forever, but the other half knows that there is so many more milestones to look forward to.

Miss Liv is now 2 1/2 years old and really starting to explode in the language department. My family back home especially notices now that she can really talk on the phone! She is really patient and eager to learn. McKayla sits and plays "word games" with her where she says "Liv say Daddy" and just changes what word she has her say. Last night they played for a good 15 minutes and Liv just kept repeating those words back at her big sister! She often surprises us with what comes out of that little mouth. Full 3-4 word sentences already!

Liv is my biggest (at her age) She is only about 2 pounds smaller then Nat and probably a couple inches shorter. She is so full of spunk that she makes everyone around her laugh! The nursery workers at church just love her and she has these chubby cheeks that you just wanna pinch (not hard of course!)

Eating is one of the things I don't have trouble getting her to do. She is always willing to try new things (which the other two don't really do!) She is also constantly falling asleep in the weirdest positions/places. I have more pics of her sleeping then any of the other kids. Sadly she doens't get her naps nearly as often as we wish (thanks big sisters!) but when she does, she is an excellent napper. She sleeps really well thruogh the night, though on occasion we do get her sneaking into our bed. I can't tell her no because she is like this little heater in our bed. Love it!

I feel like I don't have nearly as much to say about Liv, but I swear she is so fun. She just isn't in school yet, and isn't causing me any trouble, so I have nothing to ramble about with her =)

Natalie

2011-11-08T10:18:00.001-07:00

My middle child. How much I love this kid!

She has always been the one to push me to my limits. To what I don't think I can handle anymore, but then makes me smile just as much... She is four now, with all that personality. Natalie just ADORES playing dress up and can nearly ALWAYS be found in some kind of dress or with "princess shoes." She is eager to learn (on her terms) and still loves to be read to.

Natalie is slowly gaining on her sister in the size department. I would say they are less than 2" apart and only 2 pounds separate them. I often get people questioning if her and McKayla are twins. Thank goodness I only had to deal with one baby at a time. God knew I wouldn't have the patience for two.

Lately Natalie has been hissing at people, a lot. Its quite frustrating for her daddy and I. We have been trying so hard to just focus on her using her words and that we don't like it when she hisses, but it still comes out. Frequently. I have also been telling her that we can't understand what she needs when she just hisses, we really need her to use her words. Hopefully with time she will grow out of that! It is quite shocking to some people who aren't around her very often. Natalie also does the 'humming' that McKayla did (still does!) all the time. She can get quite loud! We have to constantly tell her (especially when she is doing something like coloring or detail type work) to quiet down a little. I don't mind the humming, it just gets deafening sometimes and I have to ask her to please do it quietly.

Miss Natalie continues to have the "adventurers spirit" and is always marching off to different places. Her imagination is certainly growing and I love hearing the stories she comes up with. =) Natalie is really loving going to her Moonbeams class. Its quite a bit like girl scouts but for the 4, 5, and 6 year olds and has a christian twist to it. Its good for her to hear it more then one day a week =)

McKayla

2011-11-07T13:16:00.001-07:00

I thought for the next few days I will update on each one of my kiddos. I will begin with my oldest Monkey, McKayla.

McKayla started in kindergarten the end of August and this past week we had her first parent teacher conference. It didn't go like I expected. Every time we have talked to anyone about her it has been very positive. How smart she is, how well behaved. But the teacher told us she is "just below" grade level on her letter recognition. To say I was disappointed is an understatement. They have switched her to another "reading" group so she is able to get some more one on one attention. Plus Jimmy and I have been working extra with her (we are attempting at least 15 minutes a day of "homework" and I am planning on finding some more workbooks)

But the more I look at the level she performed at, the more I am convinced that it was just an "off" day for her. She didn't feel like doing what they wanted her to do. Or she took her time at it (she tends to go um... ah... um... I don't know, instead of just saying "I don't know") I am sure she will do better next time. The rest of the results were about where she is supposed to be, so I am happy with that. We just got to work on those letters. =)

The one glimmer of good I got from the conference was that our sweet little girl is getting an award. Not sure what it is, but we will find out on Friday the 11th, when we go to her awards assembly. So excited!

Besides school, McKayla is really into playing with her "Little Pet Shops" and building with legos. She plays really well with other kids and is getting to be a real helper on the playground. She still has that soft heart and is really good about sharing her love with everyone. =) We get compliments all the time from others about how sweet and well behaved she is. I do wish that more of that would flow over at home, but in time I'm sure.

McKayla remains to be my "puzzle girl" and even tells other people this now. She got a 50 piece puzzle for her birthday and got it together in less then 30 minutes. I was SO PROUD of her!

She remains to be small in size, but is making up for that with her attitude and personality. I can never guess what will come out of her mouth! Makes mommy and daddy laugh all the time, sometimes because you can't even think of anything else to do.

There you have it, the update on my first baby. Stay tuned for my other precious children. I am so proud and love to brag on em!

Knowing Me Knowing You - November Edition

2011-11-04T11:18:00.000-06:00

It is time once again to play Shan's getting to know you game, Knowing Me Knowing You. It is so easy to play, simply copy the questions, post them on your blog with your answers and link up over at Tales From the Fairy Blogmother. And I just ask that you comment and let me know you played, so I can read your answers. =)

1. What keeps you up late at night?
The Internet, the dvr loaded with shows I can't catch when they are on and most importantly the three children who live with me. They like to sneak in and sleep with us. lol

2. Do you collect anything?
I collect JD Robb books, VC Andrews old ones, key chains.... I don't really have many things I collect anymore... Hubby collects shot glasses. lol

3. Are you addicted to Angry Birds?
Not addicted, it gets me too frustrated when I can't win. Thankfully its a free app on the android market. =) I play when I have time, but I can stop anytime. :P

4. What's your idea of a perfect evening?
my family, some popcorn, a movie and a full night's sleep. =) I have similar taste in family movies to Shan's. We are loving Tangled and the old Disney classics of course =)

5. Are you looking forward to winter?
NO! Not even just a little. We have just moved to an area that gets actual snow and I am scared to drive in it and I commute 30 minutes everyday to work. I don't like being cold AT ALL and winter is not a favorite season of mine. :(

What about you? Would love to read your answers! If you play, just let me know.

Thankful Thursday

2011-11-03T11:30:00.000-06:00

This is a very special edition thankful Thursday because today is my 1000th post!!

So, today I am going to focus my list on the reasons I am thankful for my blog and blogger friends. =)

1. I am thankful that I can share my life with my friends and family in a different way.

2. I am thankful that I can complain and whine or just not even post, and I still have some loyal followers. Hopefully I can keep up on the posting. Right now my goal is at least weekly. I am due for another update, so keep watch for that!

3. I am thankful for my friends blogs that make me laugh and cry, sometimes both at the same time.

4. I am thankful for the uplifting blogs that I have a chance to read. Sometimes I am so touched by a blog I can't help but share.

5. I am thankful that I am able to give comments that (hopefully) uplift or encourage the writers of the blogs I follow. =)

What are YOU thankful for? I would really love to hear about it.

Halloween!

2011-10-31T09:31:00.000-06:00

I must admit, I'm not very in to it this year... Not sure why. I was thinking all weekend of what I could wear to work and came up with nothing. So I am me for halloween. My three girls, on the other hand, are so excited. Especially the oldest one! She wouldn't give up on the idea of being Darth Vader for Halloween, and she got the costume for her birthday, so Darth she is. LOL! I will be sure and share pictures later this week. =)

I am going to try and get myself into the spirit by listing five things I love about Halloween:

1. mini candybars

2. kids in cute costumes

3. pumpkins with faces glowing on porches

4. babies in costume

5. pumpkin seeds

What do you like about Halloween?

Wordless Wednesday

2011-10-27T10:26:00.000-06:00

Well, not exactly. I might say just a little about this picture

Not the greatest picture of my three children, but you know what? Still makes me smile. We were at a coworker's harvest party and the girls were chowing down on some roasted hot dogs and chips, and another coworker asked if she could take a pic. I said sure, and this is what came out. Might not all be smiling, or even looking in the same direction, but these are my girls. My three sweet girls. This picture gives you just a glimse of their personality. McKayla up there in the yellow, she is all business, doesn't care to have her picture taken when it isn't on her terms (note the grumpy face lol). Then there is Liv, in the striped sweater. She may not even be looking the right direction, but she is smiling and just going with the flow. And Natalie, the one in the pink, seems to be obviolous to the fact a picture is even being taken. Love it! Makes me smile everytime. Its those unperfect shots that sometimes are the most cherished.

Monday

2011-10-24T09:57:00.000-06:00

Just a warning =)

Thankful Thursday

2011-10-20T10:24:00.000-06:00

This week has given me another opportunity to find the good amist a bad situation. Its not as easy to count the blessing when you are feeling like nothing good is happening, but look closer and you will see them.

1. I am thankful for the beautiful sunrise yesterday. It was brilliant orange and pink. Just amazing. I love the master artist and seeing His work.

2. I am thankful for the bigger picture. I know that sometimes it is easy to just get caught up in all the little things going wrong, but when you look back at all those little bad things that happened, you see a much bigger picture and the blessings that come out. Let me just say, I might be in a stormy part of my life, but I am trying really hard to dance in the rain. =)

3. I am thankful for good friends to vent to. People who don't judge you based on the decisions (good or bad) you have made. Friends who stick with you and offer that shoulder ANYTIME the need arises.

4. I am thankful for the safe delivery of the newest member of our church. He was born yesterday evening 6lbs 80z, 19.5 inches long, and is absolutely adorable! Welcome to the world baby Elijah!

5. I am thankful for my friends back home who are keeping watch on my family. They miss me terribly (as I do them!) but its nice to know I have friends stopping by my mom's and helping her out. <3

What are you thankful for today? I would love to hear one or two in a comment on this post =)

This weekend

2011-10-17T15:48:00.000-06:00

I made my middle girl's dream came true!!

My sweet Natalie (and her big sister) both got to ride a "Real life horse!" I loved to being able to let them do that. I am looking for somewhere locally that does longer rides (or maybe if we can swing it, lessons). I would love to let her really get into it because she really does love horses. (I know, probably every little girl on the planet at this age does. lol)

We were lucky enough to have some incredible weather this past weekend. Took that as a sign to go to the pumpkin patch. This is the one we went to: CLICK HERE to go to their website. I must admit, as glad as I was to fulfill my little girl's dream, this pumpkin patch was a bit to much for me. When I think of a pumpkin patch, I think of hayrides, pumpkins and maybe a petting zoo where they can see real animals up close. This one had all kinds of things - corn maze (which is amazing, just not for me to chase 3 kids through by myself), carnival rides, bounce houses and even a rock climbing wall. Next year I plan on finding one that is a bit more "rustic" =) It was fun though. I will share some pictures later on. Just wanted to "document" the experience while it was fresh in my mind.

The one damper on our wonderful time was missing out having daddy with us. But even that wasn't too upsetting because he had his first full day at work (and actually enjoyed it!) We are beyond blessed to both be working and only needing to have help for about 3 hours a day. =)

100 Things - Part III

2011-10-08T07:04:00.000-06:00

I am just continuing on with my 100 things challenge. You can read the first 20 things that make me smile here and here. I love thinking about the positive because it can really change your outlook in general. I may not love the situation I am in right now, but I can find joy in parts of my life still and that makes me the happy person I am. =)
21. I smile when my coworkers ask about me (I had my first flu shot here at work yesterday and I told them what a baby I am, and the nice nurse who gave it to me asked me how I felt this morning.)
22. People having babies
23. Pregnant ladies
24. Family game nights actually happening even though two-thirds of my kids are really a bit young for board games
25. Princess ziplock baggies in my lunchbox
26. Gaps in a child's grin
27. Seeing my mommy's face show up on my phone when she calls
28. The sounds of dinner cooking when I walk in the door at night.
29. Pumpkin candies (the small candy corn like ones - SO yum!)
30. Pumpkins decorated with Mr Potato Head pieces.

What makes you smile? I would love to hear some of those things. You can let me know you are joining by just commenting on this post =) Can't wait!

Knowing Me, Knowing You - October edition

2011-10-07T08:25:00.000-06:00

Its time once again for Shan's monthly "get to know you" game. I like playing, so here are this months answers. If you want to play, simply copy these questions, post them and the answers to your own blog and link up HERE. If you could also leave me a quick reply letting me know, I would love to read your answers. =)

1. Are you watching Revenge?
I don't even know what that is, so nope. Not watching. :P

2. Do you decorate for Halloween?
Not too much. We do get pumpkins to carve, but that is about it. Oh, and last year we did smaller pumpkins with Mr Potato Head pieces. =) Must have been an awesome idea because they are selling kits now!

3. Do you have any crafty plans for Christmas presents?
Nope. I am not the craftiest person there is. Might do some small crafts with the kids. We had fun with it last year.

4.What's your dream vacation?
Somewhere warm. A beach in Hawaii maybe?

5. Which of your relatives live closest to your house?
We live with my grandmother in law and brother in law, so I guess they would be closest. Outside the house it would be my uncle in law. =)

What about you? I would love to read your answers, so if you play along, let me know =)

Thankful Thursday

2011-10-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

It has been months coming, but here is the announcement you have been waiting for:

JIMMY GOT A JOB!

I know! Pretty exciting right? He will be working nights (which sucks) but it means we don't need a babysitter too long. And its only part-time (3 nights a week at this point). I am just feeling like God gave my husband this job for a reason. It may not be the pay we wanted, or the hours, but it is a job. Something to be thankful for. =) Plus, the fact that he has five years of experience in a grocery store and another five with Coke, I am sure he will WOW them with his experience and knowlege. The interviewer even told Jimmy that once he gets started and does a good job they can move him to days. =)

Anyway, just had to share that tidbit of great news. Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

Nails in the Fence

2011-10-02T20:29:00.000-06:00

I stumbled across this on facebook and had to share it here. This story just has a wonderful moral and great illustration to remember. =) I also want to make sure that all my readers know this story isn't mine, I just borrowed it. If I knew who wrote it I would give credit, but sadly, just a chain letter on facebook - just one with a bit more (in my opinion) =)

There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His Father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence.

The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Finally the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all.

He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper.

The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.

The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, 'You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. But It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound will still be there. A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one.

Remember that friends are very rare jewels indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed; they lend an ear, they share words of praise and they always want to open their hearts to us.

Knowing me Knowing you - July edition

2011-09-23T06:59:00.000-06:00

So I know it isn't July, but I have been playing with Shan since she started this (I think!) It is a montly "getting to know you" game, and I think it is fun to answer some questions that you don't normally think about asking. It also gives you a glimse into my life, the little details that make you feel like you know me just a little more. =)

1. It's less than 6 months until Christmas, have you started your shopping yet?
HAHAHAHA! That is me laughing uncontrollably! Not only have I not started shopping, I probably won't be able to until the end of October. AND in this new place we are living, there is like no where for me to hide presents, so I am not sure what I am going to do there... Did you really have to remind me it was coming up so soon!?

2. What's your guilty pleasure?
I think my guilty pleasure would be my internet time. Those few minutes or half hour of getting to see what all my friends are doing is nice. But sometimes I get so guilty because that time isn't spent with my kids. It gets better when I do it before they are awake or after they are in bed. I also really really like those candy corn pumpkins that come out this time of year. Eating those is most definately a guilty pleasure! =)

3. Are you on Pinterest?
I am. Haven't been on for awhile, and to be honest, I am still getting used to how it works, but I love all the ideas that you can get on there. I love the funny sayings that people find. I just love it, when I have a few spare minutes. =)

4. Popsicle or an ice cream cone?
Ice cream cone. Especially chocolate. Though I do once in awhile enjoy a popsicle. They are lower calorie (and therefore not nearly as fun! lol)

5. Are your toes painted?
They are! I just got a pedicure done as a reward for losing at least 3 lbs in 3 weeks. Right now they are a beautiful deep red with some sparkle. I will share with you a secret, I don't ever pick any color that isn't in the pink to red range. Its silly!

Anyway, there you have my answers. I would love to know what your answers are! If you would like to "play" just copy the questions, post them on your blog, and let me know you played so I can go read them. And you can link up at Shan's blog too, since she is the creator of the game!

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-22T09:30:00.001-06:00

Another week to count my blessings =)

This week I am thankful for:

1. Coffee, especially when you have an early am meeting

2. Diet Mountian Dew. I don't think that needs any explination =)

3. Weekly meetings at our church for the children. Its a time for me to get to spend one-on-one time with Liv and a time for them to learn about Jesus in a new way.

4. For retreats like the one I am going on this weekend. As much as I love my life, my husband, my children - it is SO NICE to have some time just for me. And I know that us moms have a hard time with that, but it is so important!

5. a flexible office. I have been able this week to take shorter lunches so that I make up some of the hours for being off on Friday. I don't have paid time off yet, so its nice to be able to make up a few hours. Plus the early meeting means I am only 4.5 hours short of 40 for this week! Not all businesses let you do that, so I think its wonderful I am in a place that does.

I encourage each of you to list just a few of the things you are thankful for, you would be amazed at the change in your outlook on life. And just today, I would like a comment from everyone saying just ONE thing you are thankful for. =)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-21T13:09:00.000-06:00

This is where I will be this weekend, no kids. I'm ready. =)
Photo courtsey of a google search - "Sunriver Oregon Images"

TGIF!

2011-09-16T10:18:00.000-06:00

HAPPY FRIDAY! I don't know why but I was so ready for this week to end. Feels like it has taken forever, but Friday is finally here, and after this, two days of freedom! Then only 4 days of work before I get THREE DAYS! Can't wait!

My friend Leah shared this on her blog today, and I had to steal it! I am going to give her credit though, since her son's teacher sent it home. =) Can't help but wonder some days what M has done in kinder, since everytime I ask "How was your day" all I get from her is "good." lol

The most I have gotten from her is that she has a friend named Mustafa (not Mufasa, like on the Lion King - lol) and she likes to play on the playground. =) I did get a good story from her yesterday, she said that they were playing a matching game and someone picked a zipper and "it was so funny" and then she just LAUGHS! Too cute! I guess you would have to be there. Anyway, here is the poem (and thanks Leah for sharing!)

Tell Me What You Did Today
When children come home
at the end of the day,
The question they're asked
as they scurry to play is,
"Tell me what you did today?"
And the answer they give
makes you sigh with dismay,
"Nothing, I did nothing today."
Perhaps nothing means that
I played with blocks,
or counted to 10 with Mr. Fox.
Maybe I painted a picture of red or blue,
Or heard a story about a mouse that flew.
Maybe today was the very first time
that my scissors followed a very straight line.
Maybe I led a song from beginning to end,
Or played with a special, brand new friend.
When you're 5 and your heart has wings,
"Nothing" can mean so many things!

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-15T07:26:00.000-06:00

As always, there is SO much for me to be thankful for this week. This is my top 5, I am thankful for:
1. A very patient, motivated, and encouraging physical therapist. The broken ankle saga continues after 2 sessions with her. We are now at a point where I believe she will be perfectly fine, as does the therapist, but if we are concerned we are to call her immediately. And she also wants weekly updates until we feel she is back to 100%. Love that she cares what happens when we leave the door.
2. The nice long visit that we had with my sister. She even stayed overnight with us most of the nights. I am so thankful she was able to come. =)
3. that my brother got a job. =) Not only will this help him, but he will help us by paying us for the car we sold to him (he was on a payment "break" until he got a job again)
4. SO THANKFUL that Jimmy has been able to keep things together while I have been working. Though we do wish he had a job, we are trying to enjoy the time he has at home with our girls.
5. for a church family here who cares about us. I got an email this week inviting us for the weekly programs for the kids. They are just starting up this week, and to have them think of us (even though the kids aren't quite "of age") just touched my heart.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-09-14T19:23:00.000-06:00

Seriously, could they be any cuter? They did this all on their own! =)

Knowing Me, Knowing You - September edition

2011-09-13T17:07:00.000-06:00

Its time once again for Shan's getting to know you game. If you want to play along, head over to Tales from the Fairy Blogmother and get the questions (or copy them from here) and answer them on your own blog, then let her know by linking up, and let me know by posting a comment! =) Easy peasy!

1. What's on your bedside table?
a lamp, my charger for my phone and my camera, a fan to give the a/c a little help, a couple books I have finished, the graduation cards I have yet to mail and a stack of bills and statements that I have yet to file. A bunch of random junk lol!

2. What is your favorite kind of cookie?
It is a tie between oreos and chocolate chip (soft ones!)

3. How long does it take you to get ready?
if I have to shower, probably half an hour. Otherwise its about 15 minutes.

4. What would you like to be doing right now?
sleeping maybe, or shopping with money someone else gave me. lol

5. Is your kitchen sink empty?
HA! Nope. About half full of dirty dishes. I hate not having a dishwasher!

The big 4!

2011-09-12T20:16:00.000-06:00

I can't believe my sweet Natalie is FOUR YEARS OLD! Where on earth has the time gone? We celebrated this weekend with a small party at the park with some family and a few friends. It was nice, but had me missing my family. Though my sister did get to come, so that helped! =)

Natalie got like six My Little Ponies and is loving them! That girl LOVES horses!! =)

Sweet Natalie, I can't believe it's been four years. You still drive me crazy with your stubborn heart. You were late the day you were born, and you make us late to this day! You are always willing to try new things and meet new people. You sometimes pretend to be shy, but that never lasts. You are a great friend to all those around you and never forget to give hugs and kisses goodnight! =) I love you sweet Natalie and can't wait to see where the next four years will bring you.

Long Weekend

2011-09-07T13:05:00.000-06:00

And I got so busy having fun that I forgot to post, again. But I am here, and its only been 6 days since I last posted. We had a very full labor day weekend.

Traveled over to see my grandparents in Washington (about a 4 hour drive). It was nice to see them, though hard to see them getting older. I am so BLESSED to have all four of my grandparents still living and in relatively good health. My grandpa is in a rehabilitation facility, re-learning how to walk and climb stairs before he can go home. Thankfully he is out of the hospital though, he had pneumonia that kicked him hard!

After visiting "Big Papa" we went with my aunts (from the other side) to the fair (I promise to share more about that - with pictures - later this week!!) The last part of our day was spent with my grandma. We got to watch the bronco game (we won in case you care, GO BRONCOS! So I had a happy hubby) Then headed back home late Saturday evening.

We had an amazing thing happen on the way home though, we ran out of gas.... well, my van told us we had "0 miles to empty" and we drove nearly 40 miles to the next station - What a blessing to make it just to the gas station. I was praying the whole way that we would make it to a gas station and we did. Seriously no logical reason we should have had the gas for that...

Sunday we didn't do anything special, just had the youth chorus at our church. I got some serious homesickness started... got better when I talked to my mommy.

Monday we went to a "Park-tacular" hosted by a local christian radio station. Lots of vendors, free music (that was safe for kiddy ears) and the chance for the kids to burn some energy - We had planned to meet a friend there, and we did, but she brought someone very special with her.... my sister! I am so happy to see her, especially when I am feeling so homesick. Really a special time to be with her. She is here until next Tuesday, so that is pretty great. Keep watch for more pictures of our adventures. She has never been here before so it should be fun. =)

Thanks for reading my long boring weekend post. =) I will try to be more interesting the rest of the week!

Thankful Thursday

2011-09-01T08:33:00.000-06:00

This week I have MUCH to be thankful for. You already read my post on Tuesday about Liv... so, my number one is that. =)
1. Thankful for quick healing bones.
2. Thankful for the dentist who was able to get us in quickly, and despite what we had heard from an earlier check, had ZERO cavaties for the whole family (except me- I haven't gone yet...)
3. I am thankful that we got a wonderful visit with my mom this last weekend. I miss her A LOT but its nice to be so close that she can visit me. =)
4. I am thankful for the abundnce of foods that I can eat that aren't so unhealthy for me. I am working at this healthy lifestyle, and it makes it easier when there are options. I will give an example, since you know I love telling stories. Working in a medical office, we get a lot of drug reps who bring us breakfast and stuff, today was one of those days, but thankfully the rep brought fruit as well as the muffins, so I was able to make healty choices and avoid the muffins!
5. I am thankful for a job where they work with me for my family events. The past two weeks have been really crowded with appointments and stuff, and they have been more then willing to let me come in later or leave early so I can be a part of those.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T07:00:00.000-06:00

Today you get two pictures and just a few words. This beautiful rose bush is actually one of those mini-roses that you get at big-box stores. My mother in law brought it to us when we were in the hospital after having Natalie. So, its name is Natalie's Rose. This is the bush after my aunt took guardianship. I wasn't sure where we could keep it after our move, and she graciously took it in for us and planted it in her beautiful garden. It will stay there until we have our own home and garden to plant it in. =)

And a close up of the bloom. From what she tells me, the bloom is about 1 1/2 inches across and more of a pink then this photo shows.

Pretty huh?

Injury update

2011-08-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

Well, today Miss Liv had her follow up with the orthopedist (if you forgot what happened, you can read the story here)

The first thing they did was take the cast off

The machine they used can't cut skin (apparently) he even pushed it against his hand to show us. It still scared Liv though... can't blame her really, it was LOUD. The doctor actually compared it to a vacuum. lol. It was about the same in loudness though, (and not those new quiet vacuums, the older LOUD ones that scare everyone under 4 out of the room).

After the cast was off, they scooted us over to the xray room (in the same office) and took a couple views of her ankle and escorted us back to the room.

Not even 3 minutes later, the doctor came in and told us it was healing beautifully! He even showed us the xray. Her little ankle bone is re-growing in the fracture area. I am so grateful! The best part is we don't have to have another cast, don't have to have a boot, don't even have to have a follow up!
Liv and I post-appointment, CAST FREE! =)

Jimmy told me that once she got home she didn't want to walk on it too much. I imagine it is still really tender. Gave her a dose of tylenol, just in case, and let her go. She got a nice long bath to remove the smell. lol And she seems to be walking just fine on it tonight, maybe limping a little. I am sure in the next few days, she will be as good as new. =)

Back on track...

2011-08-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

I am going to be brutally honest here, I have gained over 10 pounds since our move over here. It isn't something I am proud of by any means, but it is fact. This week I decided to get back on track. I have set for myself some short term, longer term and eventual goals. I am going to share them here so I can have even more accountability. If you are interested, I am tracking my calories here. I think you have to join and add me as a friend before you can see, but I don't remember. lol.

Anyway, my daily goals are to have no more then 1470 calories.

I got this goal from myfitnesspal.com, and how it is figured is by taking your BMR, (basal metabolic rate, the number of calories your body needs to function if you are just laying in bed all day - using your weight, height and gender) your normal daily activity level, and your weight loss goal (mine is 1 lb a week). The thing that sets this website away from the rest is that it uses "net" calories. Meaning the more you work out, the more you can eat (healthy calories are best of course!) MyFitnessPal figures in a daily calorie deficit that will get you to your goals. Anyway, not all people agree with this method but it is what has worked for me.

Right now I am focusing just on my nutrition. Once I am able to get a handle on that again, I will add in the workouts again. I know that optimum weight loss happens when diet and nutrition are hand-in-hand, and I will get back there again, I just don't want to do too much too fast and burn out again. Anyway, onto the goals.

* Short term goal: lose 3 pounds by my next doctor's appointment on 9-13-11. This is only a pound a week, so totally do-able. Reward for meeting that goal is a pedicure in time for the Women's Retreat I am going on.

* Longer term goal: lose 20 pounds (including the 3) by New Year's Day. This gives me 19 weeks. Just over a pound a week, and should keep me motivated over the holidays.

* Eventual goal: lose 35 pounds. I would LOVE to meet this goal by the time I go to my 10 year high school reunion next summer. =)

So, there you have it. I will try and post updates when I can. If you are interested in joining me in my journey, please email me (address is in the sidebar) or leave a comment here with your name and email so I can get back to you. Support + accountability = SUCCESS!

Thankful Thursday

2011-08-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

This week there is (as always!) so much to be thankful for. Here are the five on my mind today:
1. I am thankful that my mommy is coming to visit me THIS WEEKEND!
2. I am thankful that my new doctor was able to think of something else to try for my headaches. (fingers crossed this pill works, also supposed to help me sleep at night!)
3. I am thankful for a new family of coworkers who I love. I have been training with a girl that just makes me laugh, often!
4. I am thankful for patient patients. If you ever call the doctor's office, remember that the person answering the phone might be new (and if you are calling St. Luke's Internal Medicine in Meridian it might be me!) and they might be having an off day. Be nice to them. They deal with a lot during the day!!
5. I am thankful for nurses who are willing to listen to my silly questions (or take my blood pressure) and tell me if I should make an appointment.

What are you thankful for this week?

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

I almost deleted this picture. I had a great shot lined up for this beautiful flower shot, then along comes Natalie... my Natalie! Good thing I love her! She reached her little hand over and picked it right as I clicked the button. I can't help but smile at the pic now. Her little hands are growing so fast!

Boise Train Depot

2011-08-22T07:00:00.000-06:00

There is another wonderful thing about living in the capitol city, there is an amazing opportunity for us to explore and get some serious history lessons. Idaho really does have a rich history and this weekend we had the amazing opportunity to visit the train depot. It is where the train used to come in from all over the country. The depot featured an amazing Union Pacific engine that sadly, I got zero pictures of :-( but I did get LOTS of other pictures (too many to put on one blog for sure!) But here are just a few for you.

This is the sign right at the train entry. Union Pacific is the railroad my grandpa worked for. I love seeing that name. =)

This is the train depot clock tower (and the bright HOT sun- it was nearly 100 degrees!)

This is the back side of the building: I love the Spanish tile on the roof.

And this is one of the three bells in the top of the tower (we got to go up on an elevator!) This is the one that still rings, three times a day. The bells were given by a family for the tower in 1927! I am just in awe of the history this building holds. I am hoping to go back another day (probably without the kids, since they still get bored easily...)

This is the AMAZING view from the top of the tower. It is actually the window that is opposite that last picture - You can see most of downtown Boise in this pic. So beautiful!

And lastly, one of my beautiful little girls. They seemed to enjoy it, even though they were beyond ready to go by the time we were done. =)

Knowing me Knowing you - August Edition

2011-08-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

So, it has been MONTHS since I really blogged, so I have fallen behind in Shan's "getting to know you" game, but I don't want to miss any, so you get three months of knowing me knowing you in the next few weeks. So here is my first installment of Knowing me knowing you for the month of August. If you want to "play" as well, just head over and link up (Shan explains it better than I can!) and make sure to tell me so I can read your answers...

1. Are you going to BlogHer?
Nope. Never really got that into it… I don’t think my blog is “big enough” to go there…

2. Do your kids share a bedroom? Did you share a bedroom?My girls all three share a bedroom right now. It’s tough to get anyone to go to sleep this way and to be honest, it isn’t an “ideal” situation. But we are trying to save up to buy our first home, so this temporary situation of living with my grandmother-in-law…. And I did share as a kid for most of my life. Until my dad built me a room in our garage. It was wonderful for the whole year I had it. =)

3. Have you bought anything using a group buy website like groupon, wagjag or the like?
I don’t think so, I haven’t even heard of the second one… lol

4. Are you watching Big Brother?
Nope. I started watching one episode, and it just wasn’t for me. My reality tv is Biggest Loser.

5. Do you have any tattoos?
Nope. I am a total wuss. But if I ever “woman up” I would get something to incorporate all three girls (like McKayla’s name means “magical” so I would probably have some stars and Natalie’s means “born at Christmas time, so maybe something to do with that and then poor Liv, her name means “from an olive tree” lol. I have no idea!

So, again, I would really love to know if you answer too, so I can get to know you! =) Let me know!

Kindergarten Assessment

2011-08-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

Disclaimer: sadly this post will have no pictures of the actual assessment or even of the classroom...

I'm sorry, you can blame my husband. He said it would distract her (which I guess I agree with...)

On Wednesday Miss McKayla had her kindergarten assessment. If I am not completely off on this, I believe it is just to check where she stands to see how she learns over the school year. I might tell you if I am wrong later!

The teacher started off by introducing herself to Jimmy, McKayla and I. Then she got the parents to work filling out some forms and sat Miss M down to see what she knew. Most of it left me impressed with her recall, but a few funny things stood out. My proud mommy moment was her knowing all the shapes and all the colors and I *think most of the letters (both big and small!) It also really impressed me that she was able to tell the teacher which letters her sisters names started with. =)

The teacher told her to count as high as she wanted and McKayla just kept going all the way to 29 then she just skipped right to 100. I still crack up when I think about it, even though I am sure every kid does it at some point!

She wasn't as good with the letter sounds (though she did tell the teacher about this catipillar that she had at home that taught her ALL the letter sounds) but she wasn't able to give the sounds too well. She kept just repeating the letter like it was the sound. lol.

Another thing that made me laugh was when she pulled out the list of sight words that they hope they know by the end of kinder - she asked her what the first word was, spelled it out M-O-M, and McKayla gets all excited and yells KINDERGARTEN! I love that kid!

We absolutely cannot wait to see what the rest of this year brings us. Bring it on Kindergarten, we are MORE then ready for you!!

Thankful Thursday

2011-08-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

I find that listing the things I am thankful for helps me to stay more positive in my whole life. I think that more people should get in the habit of "counting their blessings" and really seeing how He is providing. Even the small things (like my post yesterday about the sunshiny weather!) So, here are just five of the things I am thankful for this week:

I am thankful that Liv's cast only has to be on for two weeks. I was thinking at the least it would be six, and this is a serious blessing!
I am thankful that I have family here to help us. For those who don't know, we are living in Jimmy's grandma's house (with his brother in law!) and it is such a blessing to know that no matter what the job situation, or the cash flow we have a roof over our heads.
I am thankful for two running cars. I can't even begin to imagine how families do it with just one, especially in a city as big as this one.
I am thankful that my mommy's parents live just over halfway here, so we will have our first visit with her in just a couple short weeks. I miss her A LOT!
I am thankful that I was able to get a job so quickly and a job that I love! I know of so many without, and it is honestly a God thing that I got in interview just days after moving here and started work after only a month here!

So, what are you thankful for this week. As the song goes, "Count your blessings name them one by one, count your blessings see what God has done!"

The forecast this week...

2011-08-17T09:40:00.001-06:00

Sunny and warm - Temps in the 90s all week.

And this is why I love my new home <3

Hopefully I can get some pictures this weekend of the family enjoying this beautiful weather. I have noticed a sharp decline since beginning work... I know for sure I am the picture taker in the family. Without me, there are none!

A milestone

2011-08-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

And not one we necessarily wanted to get to.... Let me explain.

Natalie was climbing on some boxes in their room (I take some blame there, we didn't get them out in a timely manner) and they toppled down. They couldn't be empty boxes, nope. They were full, very full. And one landed smack on Liv's leg. Her uncle did everything he was supposed to, comforted her, got in contact with daddy, and daddy called the doctor. They recommended bringing her in, so we did.

The doctor at first told us that he thought it was just bruised or possibly a sprain. She wouldn't bear weight or walk on it AT ALL. So we practiced caution, carrying her and using the stroller.

Then Saturday, the doctor called. He wanted us to come back in, immediately. So, we did. It was there they informed us that she had a fracture in her ankle. The doctor prodded around some, finally found where it was causing her pain (not where he anticipated it!) So, to be on the safe side, he decided it would be best if he splinted it and referred us to an orthopedist.

Pictures of the splinting:
And the finished result:
Monday, we saw the orthopedist. He is right in my building, so I was able to go at lunch! =) Plus he specializes in pediatrics, so he was a great choice.

He looked at her x-rays and determined that it would be best if they casted her leg.

And that is the milestone we hoped to never hit - first broken bone and first cast.

She will have this lovely cast on for just two short weeks (much better then the six to eight we were anticipating!) So, keep us in your thoughts and send lots of quick healing vibes. And
I will be sure to post another picture of her now autographed cast. =)

ABCs of me

2011-08-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

A: Age: 27, but half the time I can't remember! lol

B: Bed size: Queen, but if the kids keep joining us, we might go bigger. But then we would have to find a bigger house to fit it in.... lol

C: Chores you dislike: Um, my least fav would have to be cleaning the oven/stove. But I'm not in love with any of them.

D: Dad's name: Hans. But everyone calls him Jaye (for Junior actually lol)

E: Essential start to your day: nothing really... I enjoy a shower, but not absolutely necessary. same goes for a cup of coffee.

F: Favorite color: Yellow. Unless you mean to wear, then it is probably shades of blue.

G: Gold or silver: most of my jewelry is gold, but I like both.

H: Height: do we really have to talk about this? Fine. Five foot and a half inch.

I: Instruments you play(ed): WAYYY back when the trumpet.

J: Job title: Mommy, wife, sister, daughter, and patient business associate.

K: Kids: 3 and they are the reason I work.

L: Live: like where do I live? In Boise, Idaho currently.
M: Mom's name: Lynn.
N: Nicknames: Betsy is technically my nick name. My real name is Elizabeth but I have been Betsy FOREVER!

O: Overnight hospital stays: once when I was like 12 to have my tonsils out, then three more times for my kiddos.

P: Pet peeves: Oh my goodness the list is endless but most of them come out when I am driving: People driving too fast behind me, people driving too slow, people who don't use a turn signal, people who forget to turn off the signal. Like I said, way too long!

Q: Quote from a movie: "just keep swimming" A great motto for life!!

R: Righty or lefty: Righty.

S: Siblings: I have one of each :-)

T: Time you wake up: work days between 5:30 and 6:30 depending on if I want to walk the dog

U: Underwear: Bikini and I really like the elastic-free waistbands.

V: Vegetables you don't like: broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts and sprouts are the ones I can think of right now.

W: What makes you run late: what else? The kids! lol

X: X-rays you've had: on my finger when I jammed it really bad. And on my kidneys when I had kidney stones.

Y: Yummy food you make: well I try not to make food often because I'm not great at it, but I make a pretty mean bowl of cereal. lol

Z: Zoo animal favorites: We haven't been often, but I love the half underwater exhibits, where you can see em swim on top of water and under.

Apologies

2011-08-12T20:26:00.000-06:00

I am so very sorry for being such a horrible blogger this month (and the months before that!) WOW! Its been far too long between posts and far too long since I posted on any regular basis. I am going to REALLY try to post at least a weekly update. Things are happening so quickly and keeping me so busy lately.... I will just start where I left off last.

My last post was about the Strawberry run. Right after that I had to get to packing. We have been planning this move for most of the time I was in school. We left Oregon for Boise, Idaho on June 28.

It took us some time to get settled but not too much time for me to find a job! Thankfully my externship (a school placed internship basically) gave me work experience that landed me a job with St. Luke's.

(the building I am in is just at the left edge of this photo almost behind the hospital.) It is the largest medical network in the state of Idaho (and also the most awarded!) I am now a patient business associate in the Internal Medicine office. I really love my job so far. (started July 20) and am SO thankful to have gotten it so quickly. Jimmy is still looking, but we are hopeful he will be hired soon. I am positive that God has far greater plans for us then we even imagined.

The kids are slowly settling into the new house and the new family we are now surrounded with. I will do a more detailed update on each of the girls in the coming days/weeks. I promise! (with pictures not shared on facebook!!) We are all learning to love the dry heat we have here. We spent the best part of July with temps over the 90 degree mark. It is WONDERFUL to have the sun almost all the time, and even when it does rain it isn't for long!

I am working on re-styling the blog. Thanks Kaci for your help!! I am going to beg another friend for a new header sometime in the next month or so. =) Anyway. That is it for today. =) Hope I haven't lost all my followers! =)

100 things - part II

2011-08-11T20:21:00.000-06:00

So I started this challenge WAY BACK and thought I would keep at it.

11. Watching three little girls play in the sprinkler
12. Seeing six dirty little feet, knowing that is the true sign of a great day.
13. A nice hot cup of coffee in the morning.
14. An awesome new "family" at work.
15. Seeing my little baby snuggle with her blankie still.
16. Knowing I am helping someone even in the smallest way at my work.
17. Seeing someone post on my facebook wall.
18. Getting random texts from my friends back home just saying hi.
19. Skype chats.
20. The smell of my scentsy warmer when I walk in the house.

What are the things that make you smile?

Strawberry Run

2011-06-06T10:33:00.000-06:00

Every year the city that I live in has a Strawberry Festival. This year was the 102nd annual one and for the first time ever I ran in the Strawberry run. It is a 5k run just before the "grand" parade on Saturday. This year we were so blessed with BEAUTIFUL sunshine, the only downside is that it was unbearably hot on the asphalt. I finished the 5k in 39:44. Not my personal best, but I was fighting the heat (after not having any for the last 12 months!) I am happy with my finish. =) Here are a few shots for you
Me mid run:

Jimmy and I before the run (he said he was going to run with me, but then his competitive side got the best of him and I told him it was okay to take off without me)

And this is Jimmy and I and our TOPS (Taking off Pounds Sensibly) group. We have been a part of this group for nearly two years now. Just another reason we will be sad to go! W e have been urging the group to all do this together (or the 1-mile walk) and we had about half show up! I figured that was an awesome turn out! =)

Knowing Me, Knowing You - May edition

2011-05-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

So, once again I am here, joining into Shan's monthly getting to know you game. Here's the deal, you pop over to Shan's blog, Tales From the Fairy Blogmother, and check her out. Then you copy the questions and answer them on your blog. Then, you go back over to Shan's and link up and then let me know you played so I can read your answers. Not too hard, though my explanation makes it seem way more complicated. lol. Anyway, here are my answers!

1. What was your wedding song?
Is it sad if I tell you we didn't really have one? That is just sad right? :-( I feel somewhat deprived now... I was young when I got married and it wasn't a real priority I guess.... way back in the day when we were still dating there were a couple Backstreet Boys and N' Sync songs that we would play together. lol.

2. If you could guest star on any TV show which one would you pick?
Friends. No question. I know, it isn't on anymore, but I would still love to guest star on it. If that isn't an option then I would have to say Mr. Sunshine. Still has a Friends cast member on it, and makes me laugh =)

3. What is your favorite children's book?
One of my FAVORITE things is to read to my girls. They are sometimes all the willing to let me, so I grab those moments when I can! We have quite a few favorites, but this one is mine:
I still get teary eyed reading it to my kids. I can't imagine them growing so fast, but they are! :-( Makes me want to hold them tight and read "just one more story"

4. Did you watch the Royal Wedding?
No. I did watch the recap on Good Morning America though. Gotta say, "the kiss" was pretty disappointing and I don't care if there were two! But I also have to admit that I still love the "real life fairy tale" feeling it gives me.

5. What is your favorite thing to have off the barbecue?
I would have to say that kabobs are. Load up some chicken, peppers and all kinds of stuff on a stick and grill it? YUM! Plus you can make it whatever you want it to be. Beef, chicken, Hawaiian (pineapple and chicken with teriyaki sauce, YUM!)

So, now its your turn! Answer the questions, link up with Shan and tell me you played. =)

Have a happy Monday!!

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T18:58:00.000-06:00

"Mothers hold their children's hands for a short while, but their hearts forever." Author unknown

Today is mother's day. My 5th mother's day actually. I can't believe it still some days that I am blessed enough to be a mom of three beautiful girls. Anyway. I had a wonderful mother's day. Lots of love from my babies.

This is what I got from the older two on Thursday (preschool day)

closer up of the flowers

And the pictures

Lastly a picture of me and my three babies.

Happy mothers day to all the mommies out there and also to all the women who help raise the babies of the world. =)

Cheadle Lake 5k Fun Run

2011-05-07T21:35:00.000-06:00

So, if you are keeping tabs on my running (and really, who isn't! lol) But today I ran my third "race." It was my second 5k and although I didn't beat my personal best (from my 1st 5k - 37 minutes 35 seconds) But I am okay with that. It was raining the entire race, and who doesn't that bother.

I did end up finishing at a respectable 39 minutes and 40 seconds. I was 91st overall (out of 215, not too shabby!) and 10th in my division of 16 runners. Like I said, I am very happy with my finish.

Here is a pic of hubby and I after the race.

He amazes me! Barely trains, and he finished 20th overall with an amazing time of 24:51! I couldn't believe it!! He was 6 of 13 in his (apparently VERY FAST!) division. =)

Just thought I would share our Saturday morning adventure with you. Next week we are headed out on a hike of Petersen's butte. Pretty excited about that. I love that we are finding new ways to get active together.

PS If you are ever interested, on the sidebar of this blog is my races I have finished with times and the ones I have signed up for. One left for the time I am still in Oregon!

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-29T10:24:00.000-06:00

I know, it isn't Thursday, but life gets busy sometimes! But, I still want to reflect on the things that I am thankful for. =) So, thankful Friday it is!

1. I am thankful for my TOPS group that keeps me accountable for my week. I am also thankful for the supportive atmosphere they give me. I don't have to worry about being shunned for one bad week. They just want to help me pick myself up and start again.
2. I am thankful for my friend K who invited me to lap swim with her on Fridays. I am so excited to start something new for myself. Its nearly an hour of laps, today we only did 40 and I still burned over 300 calories. And I know that I worked some muscles there, I'm sure I will feel it tomorrow. =)
3. I am thankful for a husband who is a "neat freak" without him, our home would be a disaster area! As I type he is in the girls playroom helping them clean it.
4. I am thankful for people at my work experience site who genuinely want me to learn from this experience and are doing everything in their power to help me learn all the skills I can before this is over.
5. I am thankful again for my DVR that makes it possible for me to watch the shows I love at a time that works for me.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

Who doesn't need a laugh on Wednesday.
My point remains, everything (yes I said EVERYTHING) is more fun with coffee =)
Happy Wednesday my friends.

Easter

2011-04-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

Well, most of my bloggy friends are also my friends on facebook, so you have seen all the pictures of Easter weekend, but you didn't see this picture (see I'm holding back so you aren't bored with my posts!) lol.

My BRILLIANT husband came up with this idea to tell the girls which basket belonged to them. We waited until after church to give them their baskets, telling them that we had to go celebrate first. Then the Easter bunny would come. This offered a "less distractions" day at church where we could focus on why we are really celebrating!

So, anyway, back to the point right?! Hubby texted me and asked if I had given them the baskets, to which I replied the above. He told me he had an idea and sent me this picture

Each girl's basket is on their blanket and they LOVED it! This year in the baskets they each had a color book each then some little pets (I got two ziplock baggies FULL for 10 bucks!) topped off with one chocolate bunny and some smarties. Then M got a game for the DS and Natalie got a Veggie Tales move and Liv got "All Dogs go to Heaven." I think I did pretty darn good avoiding too much candy!

I also wanted to talk about how hard it is to celebrate this day (or any holiday!) without going completely overboard with the candy and JUNK that seems to be everywhere. I know that I personally ate more than enough junk yesterday and ended up sleeping on the couch. So not the healthy option. So back today to the tracking and the diet I know is good for me. But what I am wondering is what you suggest for these "special" days to cut back some on the junk? Does your family do something different we could try (my birthday is next month!)

Meal Plan Monday

2011-04-25T11:40:00.000-06:00

In an attempt to keep at the meal planning thing, here I go again, with a new week. And to see how I am keeping up, I am also going to post last week's menu with how I did. Maybe next week some pictures?

Last week's menu:
Monday – spaghetti bake and mixed veggies - DONE!
Tuesday – Chicken with rice and salad - I got the chicken made, but ended up with corn.
Wednesday – Dinner out, Mac and Cheese for the kids. - No question here, but I kept within my limits for the day DONE!
Thursday – Turkey burgers with steamed green beans - DONE!
Friday – baked tilapia with steamed corn - So didn't happen
Saturday – Chicken marinara and steamed mixed veggies - meal plan hit a wall...
Sunday – beef stew (in the crock-pot)and salad - Again didn't happen.

So, last week wasn't a complete loss. I did keep my plan 3.5 days of 7. lol Hopefully this week, not being a holiday, will be better. =)

Monday - Leftover chicken with salad
Tuesday - Beef stew in the crock-pot
Wednesday - Dinner out with Hubs, for the kids, corn dogs and carrots with ranch
Thursday - Baked tilapia with green beans
Friday - Spaghetti bake
Saturday - BBQ Chicken with fiesta corn
Sunday - Turkey burgers with tomato and peppers

What do you have on the menu this week? I would love to hear how some other families are doing meal planning or some quick, simple, HEALTHY options for my family. =)

Tis the Season...

2011-04-23T12:22:00.000-06:00

I just LOVE seeing all the mommas with their babies. This lucky momma had 10 and I just wanted to scoop em up! Too stinking cute. I love spring because of the babies.

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-21T20:20:00.000-06:00

This week I am thankful for
1. the sunshine. However cold it is and however short lived it is. I am enjoying it!
2. the amazing loss I showed on the scale at TOPS last week. At this rate, I can totally meet my goal.
3. my day at my internship site today. I actually got to do some answering of phones, and the "real stuff" I will be doing!
4. the ability I have to pre-plan, and the fact that I have an amazing God who has the master plan for me. I don't have to worry!
5. my new couches have finally arrived!

What are YOU thankful for?

Count your blessings name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the Lord has done!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T07:51:00.000-06:00

The forecast for this week

And there is ZERO chance that we are missing out on this =)

Need a laugh today?

2011-04-19T20:28:00.000-06:00

These are some pictures taken from failblog.org
It's one of my favorite time wasters. lol

And another

And one last laugh for tonight =)

****DISCLAIMER****
This site has many inappropriate pictures, however funny, that aren't appropriate for children. =)

Meal Plan Monday

2011-04-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

This is my weekly post about what I have planned for the next week's dinners. After this week I am also going to post how I did on follow through for the week before. It is my hope to be able to make it a new habit to plan our family's meals each week.

This is my menu of dinners for the next 7 days. =)

Monday – spaghetti bake and mixed veggies

Tuesday – Chicken with rice and salad

Wednesday – Dinner out, Mac and Cheese for the kids.

Thursday – Turkey burgers with steamed green beans

Friday – baked tilapia with steamed corn

Saturday – Chicken marinara and steamed mixed veggies

Sunday – beef stew (in the crock-pot)and salad

If you have any EASY, healthy recipes that you don't mind sharing, please feel free to email me at betsy_s4@yahoo.com =)

Palm Sunday

2011-04-17T19:31:00.000-06:00

As many of you probably know, today is palm Sunday.

This was my week at church to teach the Sunday School lesson, and I chose to read this story to the kids. I was amazed at how quickly they were picking up. The elementary age kids had already learned some about it and were able to remember the story and help me tell it, this made my day! I love seeing children learn, and its even more wonderful when its about Jesus. I love especially to see my girls learning about Him. =)

For those who don't know what Palm Sunday is I got this description from Ask.com:

On Palm Sunday Christians celebrate the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, the week before his death and resurrection. For many Christian churches, Palm Sunday, often referred to as "Passion Sunday," marks the beginning of Holy Week, which concludes on Easter Sunday.
The Bible reveals that when Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowds greeted him by waving palm branches and covering his path with palm branches. Immediately following this great time of celebration in the ministry of Jesus, he begins his journey to the cross.
The biblical account of Palm Sunday can be found in Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; and John 12:12-19.

Next week is Easter and I am excited for the object lesson that my sister has planned. I think things stick in a little mind more when they are wow-ed by a lesson. I am even more excited to see my girls in their new dresses, made just for them by their Aunt Sissy <3

Another weight loss post...

2011-04-16T15:43:00.000-06:00

Feel free to stop reading if you are sick of hearing about it.

The past few months have been 'rough' to say the least and I have gained more weight than I care to admit. That being said, I am making myself another lofty goal to try and get back on track. I have just 32 days until my birthday. I will be 27. I would love to bring in my birthday being back down to my lowest weight, so I need to lose about 13 pounds.

That equals out to about a 2.5 lb loss per week. Like I said, lofty. But I think its manageable. And IF I do meet this goal, I am going to seriously treat myself. Still trying to decide what I am going to treat myself to, but it will be good. =)

My goals for the running still stand, though it has had to take a sideline because of my injury, I plan to start again as soon as I can! I am guessing I should be back to running by this time next week. HOPEFULLY! I am starting to miss it.

Meal Planning

2011-04-16T00:27:00.000-06:00

I suck at it. I am looking for tips, and praying it will work THIS TIME! I am just going to start with one day.

Tomorrow's meals:

Breakfast:
Cereal of choice with milk

Lunch:
Eggs (mine will *hopefully have peppers chopped in them)
sausage or bacon for the kids and Jimmy (who doesn't love breakfast for lunch?)

Dinner:
Turkey breast
Steamed green beans

Snack:
Popcorn

That is a pretty good one if I don't say so myself. We are working on the side dishes. I grew up not eating much more than the main dish, and its been tough getting used to making more. =) But I would love to train these kids of mine up right! I would also like to start family meal times at least once a day. Might not be possible all the days of the week, since I eat so much earlier on Tuesday and Thursdays than the rest of the family (and I'm not even home Monday and Wednesday nights!) Man alive, that might be harder than I thought!!

Anyway, your tips for meal planning would be much appreciated (if you have them) as well as any lower calorie dinners you can think of. I have a new folder on my desktop labeled recipes, so we shall see how fast that fills (and if I use them!)

Oh, one last thing. Sunday dinner plan:
Turkey burgers (turkey dogs for the kiddos)
steamed mixed veggies

I am also going to start a weekly blog post with at least my menu for the week's dinners on it. =)

If you would like to join, feel free. This is just something to try and keep me on track with my eating and hopefully start getting into the habit of meal planning.

Thankful Thursday

2011-04-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be GLAD in it!"Psalm 118:24

Do you sometimes feel yourself being dragged down by all the "bad" things that keep happening in your life. I know I do. I am usually a happy person (or at least I like to think so) but when I am just having a bad week, it changes that perspective and makes things darker, harder to get through somehow.

That is why I started this weekly post, to remind me that I do have SO much to be thankful for, and I have someone to thank for them. This is my weekly thank you to Him for all He has provided for me and my family.

This week, as some of you may not know, I fell while shopping in Walmart. To be more accurate, a rug slipped right from under me (come to find out the rug was resting on what I believe was a puddle from a leaking cooler!) Anyway, I am thankful that it was me who fell.

I can just see some of you scratching your heads at that one, so let me explain. Lets just imagine for a moment that it had been an older lady or man who slipped and conked their body and head on the hard concrete floor. The damage could have been far worse! I am thankful that my body is cushioned and I didn't suffer broken bones or even external bruising. I just keep thanking Him that it was me who fell, someone who could handle it.

I am also thankful for the associate I found, Michelle. She sought me out, after I had told her I didn't want to fill out an incident report, and urged me to just fill one out. I am so glad I did. I am so thankful that she was able to find me and get me taken care of.

I am thankful that the ER doctor took a closer look at me and stopped me from getting an unnecessary CAT scan. I am thankful for his wisdom in making the decision and expressing his opinion to me in a way that I understood. He literally told me that if it was a family member, he would tell them this. That really assured me more than I think he knows. I am thankful that He put the right doctor in the right place for me.

I am thankful the CAT scan machine was down, so that I was able to get that second opinion first.

I just keep looking over the details of those 12-hours and there is so much to be thankful for!

On top of all, I thank my God for keeping me safe. Even though I am young and relatively healthy, so much could have gone wrong. I am glad You held me through this. That you put a few friends around who reassured me when I was so scared! (You can't believe the "what ifs" that run through a mind like mine when I am left alone in a room for 30+ minutes!) I am thankful you sent Tabi to sit with me, Leah and Cassie who texted me all through it and Sam who helped me pay for my pain medicine.

I am SO BLESSED!

What are you thankful for this week?

You Capture

2011-04-13T11:21:00.000-06:00

I am taking another lead from Shan, who participates in a weekly photo "challenge" where you have an assignment each week and you take a photo and post it every Wednesday over at "I Should be Folding Laundry"

This week's assignment was spring.

Sweet Alivia on the swings. I can't get enough of this smile!

To me these just DEFINE spring:

And we got a break in our normal spring rain to play bubbles for Liv's birthday.

Knowing me, knowing you - April

2011-04-07T07:00:00.000-06:00

YAY! I was out of ideas for blog posts and last night Shan over at "Tales from the fairy blogmother" posted her monthly getting to know you game, knowing me knowing you! =) SCORE ONE ME! Perfect way to get to know me, and follow along and get to know others. So, if you wanna play, go on over to Shan's blog, and link up so she will know, and then let me know by leaving a comment here so I can read yours! =)

1. Do you text?
All the time. In fact, mom and I have a system (she is my babysitter) for emergencies that involves texting. She texts first then calls. Then by the vibrations in my pocket (being during class, or at work) I know its important. I am nowhere near as many as my husband though! I am thankful for the unlimited plan though, it makes life a little cheaper.

2. What's your favorite kind of cheese?
How in the world can I pick a FAVORITE?! I don't think that is possible. I love, love, love cheese. All kinds of cheese. I love havarti best in my clam chowder. I love the mexican blend on my tacos. ALL KINDS! =)

3. Got big plans for the weekend?
Not really. I have a class this weekend, the normal church on Sunday. Sunday we are also having Liv's 2nd birthday party, but even that is going to be pretty low key. =)

4. How do you keep track of your families activities and obligations?
My brain and cell phone calendar at this point. I am sure as the girls get bigger it will move to a wall calendar, but at this point I can pretty much keep it together. And hubby gets information on a day to day basis. I don't think he would even know what to do if he knew everything all the time!

5. Who's the last person you talked to on the phone?
My sister. She was saying sorry for butt-dialing me. lol
I also got ignored by my friend Sam, so I heard her voice mail!

So, what are your answers? Would love to read em. Just let me know you played!

What a weekend

2011-04-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

I am trying to really start spending some time on this blog talking about the things we do as a family. I know that these "day to day" things might not make for the most interesting reading, but they are the stories that make up my life. And someday, I hope that my children will be asking what we did when they were little to have fun. This will be one of the posts they can read =)

Friday I had a class in Albany, about 20 minutes from here (for a stinking 50 minute class!) so hubby thought it would be a good idea for the whole family to go and him and the kiddos would just play while I was in class. Worked out well, they ran for the nearly full 50 minutes! Then it was back in the car to pick up my friend's daughter who we were babysitting for the weekend.

After we had Jasmine, we decided the fun couldn't end there and headed for a local park. Spent another hour there (didn't realize how much busier Jazz was keeping the kids then hubby and I would have been able to do on our own!)

And on the way home we stopped where my sister is house sitting and used the trampoline for another hour! It was crazy that the kids were still going. Not 4 minutes into the trip home, the two younger ones were passed out in the backseat. That is how you KNOW you are successful in a fun day. =)

Saturday was the start of a whole 'nother day of fun. We had planned, before agreeing to take Jazz, that we would come hang with my friend K and her kiddos. They had some new baby chickens on their "farm" and we wanted to see. Turns out we only spent about 15 minutes total with the chicks. The rest of the nearly three hours we spend with them was either outside on their play-structure and GIANT swing or inside in their toy-room full of "new to them" toys.

We made an attempt at rest time around 12:30. Didn't work in the slightest, and was told later that it was Jazz's "least favorite" part of her time with us. But, Mom's gotta try right? The remainder of Saturday was spent at my aunt's house at a family get-together. It was to meet my new 2nd cousin (I consider him more like a nephew though!) And Jazz was a huge help in keeping my kiddos and the other older girl in the play area and they actually had fun! =)

This weekend was so full and so fun. My baby slept Sunday night for 14 HOURS straight! Talk about a weekend right?!

Not just one...

2011-04-05T07:00:00.000-06:00

BUT TWO!

I am really going for it my last months here.

I already knew I would be doing the Strawberry Run. A local 5k here just before our annual Strawberry Parade. It was one that I have been really unsure about. You see, it is on the same route as the parade, right before it starts. So, I would be running in front of basically the entire town. Not something I am comfortable with. But I stepped outside that comfort zone to just DO IT!

Then a good friend told me about another run I could do if I was interested. I jumped on that chance and had her email me the details.

I will be running the Cheadle Lake 5k Fun Run and Walk on April 7. =) That makes not one, but TWO opportunities for me to improve my time. And two opportunities for me to keep with my training as to not make a fool of myself in front of the whole town!

Keep reading to see how the training and runs go. =) Hopefully this opportunity will keep me focused on my training, and HOPEFULLY some weight (or inches at least) will come off.

My Reward list:

If I complete 3 days of running for two straight weeks I will treat myself to a new color polish for my toes.
If I complete a full month of 3x a week training, I will reward myself with a new pair of running shoes.
If I complete the Cheadle Lake 5k I will buy myself a new outfit for the Strawberry run.
If I complete the full two months of 3x a week training runs I will reward myself with a fancy date with the husband (thanks Aubrey for the ideas!)

I am just going to end there =) I still have my 10 minute streak going, this will just be my 3x a week running plan. If you happen to have any good reward ideas, send them this way!

Lacking motivation...

2011-04-04T11:04:00.000-06:00

Its been one of "those weeks."

You know, the ones where you can't seem to find the energy or the "want to" to do much of anything. Though we did have a fairly full weekend, that is about all we got done.

I would love to be able to blame it on the "extra kid" I had this weekend, or the fact that our schedule was full, but I can't.

I simply didn't want to work out at all.

But today, today I have a run planned. I have everything set out to keep me going on that run. The only thing that might hinder me is rain, and I have extra clothes so hopefully that won't even be a problem.

My lack of movement is beginning to wear on me, and I need to change it again.

I am going to begin a streak again today. Starting today, I will get AT LEAST 10 minutes of movement in each day. Whether that be a walk outside my "norm," or a run, or doing one of my workout dvds.

I WILL do something to get off the sofa for at least 10 minutes everyday for the next month. And if i do, I will treat myself to a pedicure! =)

Keep me accountable my friends, I need help! If I can lose the inches again, I have practially a whole wardrobe of size 12 pants for work! So, if you don't see me for awhile, bug me! Make sure I am keeping with it!

Its No Secret

2011-03-30T12:43:00.000-06:00

So, as most of you know, I am God's girl, trying to figure out just what he has for me. I am trying out some new things to really get me into His word more regularly. So, something I am trying is a christian online bible/book study. I am so excited to really get into Rachel Olsen's new book "Its no Secret." I have already read chapter one, and did the devotional in the book and its really encouraged me to get a plan in place.

The book is all about "unlocking" the secrets that God has for you in his book. I know that I'm not the only one with a hard time reading the bible. I am already learning from this book about how to "decode" that message and apply it to my life.

The words for this week were, Show up. You can read more about it here on Melissa Taylor's blog. I just wanted to share some of what I am doing today.

He has a party planned for us, have you RSVP-ed (asked Him into your life)?
Now, will you "show up" when he calls you to His party? (Are you gonna follow Him to heaven?!)

If you want to know more about either of these questions I will really try and answer them, and if I can't will get you an answer. =) Please, don't hesitate to ask.

My first 10k

2011-03-26T20:13:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, as most of you know, was my very first 10k race. I have been training for more than 10 weeks, so I was so ready! I got to the race site (with hubby) 45 minutes before the scheduled start time, or so we thought! Turns out we were an HOUR early. Plenty of time to warm up. Jimmy and I walked all over to do that.

Got our place in the pack and took off at 10:15 am. The first 5k went really well for me. I did have a slight stitch in my side for awhile, but a short prayer later it eased up. Weather was gorgeous up to that point, but I could see the sky darkening. The lady I as pacing with lost me about this point. I think I slowed here...

The second half wasn't as smooth for me. I almost fell off the path, lol, leave it to me right? I got held up at the traffic signal for about 2 seconds, and that was irritating. But not too long there. I was keeping pace with a couple ladies that I think helped, but they passed me on this hill that felt like it went on FOREVER! Even a walker passed me. So discouraging, but I kept with it. Only took short walking breaks about every 10 minutes.

Ended up finishing at 1 hour, 21 minutes, 11 seconds. That was my personal best time! I didn't even stay to see the results because they had no where to sit or rest! So, home we went and impatiently waited for results to be posted. I posted them below.

Thank you all for all the support and encouragement throughout this journey. I don't think I could have done it without it. =) I will end with a quote I saw on a girl's shirt and HAD to share:

Sweat cleanses from the inside. It comes from places a shower will never reach.
George Sheehan

Final result: 1:21:11
15th of 15 in my age group
89th overall (out of 98)
pace 13:04 per mile

McKayla

2011-03-24T17:40:00.000-06:00

My oldest child continues to be the most like me. She is stubborn and wants it HER way. (though not quite in the same way as Natalie) She is all attitude and definitely makes you bite your tongue to keep from giving it right back to her (as gratifying as that sounds, it won't help in any way with her!) McKayla continues to grow SLOWLY! She is now 31 pounds (with Natalie at 29 and Liv at 28 they are gaining on her!) and is 38.25 inches tall. My little shortie and I love her!

I have started really working with M on her letters and numbers and all the stuff she will need for kinder. Since her birthday is the end of October I choose to keep her out until she would be older than most of her class, rather than the youngest. I really believe this was the best choice for her, especially since she is so little, she might get that much closer to her classmates. Plus, with the move, this gives us the chance to get into the new area and in school and not have to move one year in. She knows her ABCs and recognizes most of them. She can spell her name, and pick out all her letters. She is working on writing it. =) Slowly we are getting there. I find that I get pretty impatient with her, we are SO MUCH alike that she has the trouble focusing just like me. I find that her and daddy or her and grandma work really well together on her workbooks. =) I have a few projects that we are planning in the next few weeks to work more on the speech recognition and even letter sounds.

My sweet girl is still a hummer. In fact, I can hear her right now in the bedroom, humming along to no music at all. She does it most frequently when she is super tired or when she is reading or doing her "homework." I just hope the other kids aren't mean to her when she starts school because of it.

Anyway, that's my update on M. =)

M at like 3 months
M sometime during her second year (one year old)
M in her third year of life (2 years old)
McKayla on her 4th birthday
McKayla's school picture this year - 5 years old
McKayla this week - 5 years 5 months old
How can this be my baby? They grow TOO fast!

Nattie-bug update

2011-03-23T09:49:00.000-06:00

What can I say about my Natalie? She is truly my challenge. I love every minute of it, but I would be lying if I said sometimes I didn't get frustrated. She can be such a sweet girl, like when she is helping her little sister "read" a book and then turn outright naughty two seconds later.

Natalie is loving preschool. Her teachers have nothing but good things to say about her! I love hearing that. She sings often and loud (something I NEVER tire of hearing!) She loves her bedtime stories and spending time with anyone "grown up." She isn't stingy with her hugs and kisses and still loves to cuddle.

Natalie is very quick to help anyone when she can. She is more stubborn than any kid I have ever seen. If it isn't her way, she isn't doing it. We are working on that one. I will give you an example. All the kids were told if they cleaned the bedroom (which was a disaster) they would get to go to the store for a new book. She outright told us she didn't want to. I made sure that she understood what would happen if she didn't help (McKayla and Alivia who were helping would get something and she wouldn't) She made her decision, chose to sit on her bed until we were finished cleaning and then didn't get her surprise, and didn't even throw a fit. I was proud of that last part at least. I only wish she would use that determination on something that I asked her to do! lol

I think I already mentioned that Natalie was the first of my children to get a hold of the scissors, and sure enough gave herself a haircut. BAH! It is obviously chopped but not too noticeable if you aren't looking that close. It made mommy cry, but lesson learned (I hope!) and it won't happen again! She is the one to keep mommy on her toes making sure that things are up HIGH and locked up =) Anyway, that is Miss Nat's update, here are her pictures through the years =)

Natalie around 3 months =)

On her first birthdayOn her 2nd birthday

On her 3rd birthday
And at church last Sunday =)

Sweet Liv

2011-03-22T13:19:00.000-06:00

I thought I would slowly update on each of the girls. Liv never gets to go first since she is the littlest, so today I start with her. =)

My sweet baby will be two in just over two weeks. I can hardly believe it! Seems like just yesterday she was born.

She is slowly potty training. In her own time. I can't wait for it to happen! I have been changing diapers for the last 5 years and am so ready to be done! She has already gone in her potty like three times without being asked. =)Liv continues to be our great eater. She isn't afraid to try anything. I love it! Such a vivid contrast with the other two who are still so opinionated. Helps that she isn't really great with the speech yet.

Speaking of speaking, she does talk. Most people can't understand her but today she kept saying "medicine, mouth" telling mommy that is where her medicine should go. She "talks" all the time when she isn't sleeping, or when I want her to of course! lol. She is very mobile and very active and I love to chase her around. The more active we are the easier she goes down for her nap and bedtime. I still love that she will mostly take one!

She's come a LONG way in 2 years =)

Alivia month 1Alivia 1 yearAlivia nearly 2 (this Saturday)

The luck o' the irish!

2011-03-21T10:36:00.000-06:00

My kids are lucky enough to have two wonderful teachers who try and make the holiday's special for them. =) M is on the far left corner of the table and Nat is at the top in teacher K's lap =) I had no idea that Miss A submitted this picture to the local paper until Sunday when I was told they were in it! Too fun! And in those "pots" around their neck were real gold (candy) coins. They didn't get to eat them till they got home. Fun for mom too. lol. Just had to share the picture.

Knowing me, knowing you - March

2011-03-18T11:21:00.000-06:00

Its time again for Shan's monthly "getting to know you" post, knowing me knowing you. If you would like to play along, just copy the questions and post them on your own blog, then go link up at Shan's blog, Tales From The Fairy Blogmother, and link up. Simple enough right? =) Without further ado, my answers!

1. Do you consider yourself a foodie?
I don't even know what a foodie is. lol. So, I guess I would have to say no.

2. Are you a spender or a saver?
I wish I was a saver, but I am a total spender. I am really working on it, but its hard when all you know isn't about saving. If you have any tips for me, feel free to leave me a comment!!

3. What was the last movie you saw?
The last movie I saw at home was Vampires Suck. Honestly, it sucked. Horrible, horrible spoof. The last movie we saw in theaters was so long ago I can't remember. How sad is that! I am going to say for the first time ever that kids really do change the way you live. =) But, its a good thing!

4. What is the closest book to you?
Dr. Seuss's The Lorax. =) We love that book!

5. Do you celebrate St. Patrick's Day?
Not really. We wear green, but that's about it. Again, its another thing I would like to get into doing, celebrating all these little holiday's, but right now its just not at the top of my list of things I must accomplish! Maybe when school is over and I have some more time for my own thing it might happen. =)

Thankful Thursday

2011-03-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

Its time I brought it back, don't you think?

Today I am thankful for the rain. Without the rain, we wouldn't get the pretty spring flowers all blooming.

I am thankful that the windstorm that we had Sunday didn't do any damage to our apartment or cars. It was fun trying to explain things to the girls, like why the power was out =)

I am thankful that I am starting in on my LAST term of college. Its been a fun adventure, but I'm ready to start the next chapter.

10 Days!

2011-03-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

Until my 10k!!
Are you getting sick of hearing about it yet? lol

I only hope I look like this on the run (not me, just a random google search!)

Look how focused she is (wouldn't mind being that thin either, but that's another story!) And doesn't seem to be worried about the runners around her or the time she finishes... just running.

I really hope I don't look like this:

Though, at least Homer is getting out there and trying right?

I know that compared to some people's times (many people actually) mine won't be stellar, but it will be mine and I WILL finish this run. =) I am trying to just be positive about the whole thing. I am doing this for me anyway. Who cares if I come in last place. I just want to beat my own personal best time, right now that is 1:34:10 for 6.87 miles. That is a 13.68 minute mile. Not too shabby for Betsy! =) I can do it! I plan at least once more of going the whole 6.2 miles. Then some rest the week before the race (NEXT WEEK!) for a hopefully awesome run.

Today

2011-03-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

is my final final of Spring term.

Can you believe it? I am just ONE TERM away from GRADUATION!

I even have the commencement date on my calendar, June 9.

I just feel so excited to be THIS CLOSE to being done. I never in my life imagined I would be graduating from college, ever. I'm not sure that I have ever shared this here, but I never planned to go to college. It just wasn't for me. Walmart forced my hand. I was miserable there and knew that something had to change.

Thankfully I got into the college before too long (its flipping FULL now) got to enjoy my first year slowly. (I had Liv in the middle) and now, just three years of school later, I will have my associates degree in administrative medical assisting! =) Not only that, but I will be graduating (if my grades don't plummet before then!) with a 3.67 gpa. I personally think that is AMAZING! With all the things I was juggling while in class, to pull that good of grades. I am dang proud of me!!

Anyway, just had to share some of my excitement.

100 things

2011-03-14T12:11:00.001-06:00

that make me SMILE!

I have decided that since my last challenge is over, I will start something new, hopefully mixed in with other posts. 100 things that make me smile. It is going to be ongoing, and hopefully will give me some new perspective when I am feeling especially overwhelmed and frustrated with life.

Onto the list!

1. My kids make me smile when they still ask me for help.
2. My husband makes me smile when he kisses me when he walks in the house.
3. The sun after a strong wind storm makes me smile.
4. Knowing I have a God who loves me for me.
5. Hearing my kids playing nicely together.
6. Seeing my kids playing with others at school or church and sharing.
7. Watching little feet as they run down the hallway.
8. Hearing a little voice trying to read Dr. Seuss.
9. Watching my kids pick a book over the toy at the store.
10. Little hands trying so hard to do what her big sisters are doing.

What makes you smile?

Feeding the ducks

2011-03-12T10:02:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday we had a wonderful spring day. It was sunny and in or near the 60s for most of the day. It was so nice we decided to go to the park to feed the ducks. As you know from yesterday's pic, that didn't last as long as we would have liked, but we had fun while it lasted. I can't wait to do it again when all the baby ducks are running around!

Liv enjoying her time, she would squeal whenever she threw the bread. Even if the stupid seagulls got it! lol
And Natalie had so much fun (before she fell lol)

And a few shots of the ducks themselves. =) I got a kick out of the ones in the middle, almost looks like that one has a fro. lol.

Then came the fall :( Poor Natalie slipped in the mud and crashed to the ground on her back. She looked worse before I took her coat off...

We had such a great time though. =) Seriously fun. Who knew that $2 of duck bread would make for so much fun! =)

Day 30

2011-03-11T16:30:00.000-07:00

Happiness is

Feeding the ducks on a beautiful spring day! =)
We had so much fun until Natalie fell in the mud. More pictures of that once my computer decides to cooperate. =)

Day 29

2011-03-10T11:14:00.000-07:00

Guess what? Its raining, again. Big surprise right? But you know the best thing about this rain? It isn't terribly cold so I can still run in it! =) Only two weeks left till my 10k. Getting really excited to get it done with. Oh, and did I tell you all that my husband tried to schedule our trip over the 10k. Yeah, and I was going with it until this week when I realized! lol. Needless to say, we aren't going on that trip. He may still go on his own, but not the whole family. =)

Oh, and you know what else is great about the rain? It cleans everything. After the rain, or even during, everything looks clean, smells clean. Reminds me of a shower for the whole valley. Love it!

Day 28

2011-03-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

So, I can't take credit for this, my auntie took it, but she said I could share!

This was the sunset the other night (Saturday I believe) Isn't it just amazing! Our God is so incredibly artistic. =) Who else could paint such a magnificent sunset?

Day 27

2011-03-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

The things some companies do to get attention...

All I can say is, I'm glad my husband didn't have to build this display! lol

Day 26

2011-03-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

I seriously love that my freezer is covered with pictures of all the people who love me. It reminds me every time I go for that ice cream of all those who might look to me as an example. =) My kids deserve to have a mom who is healthy and I am getting there. Can't say I'm perfect (who can!?) But I am getting there, and I am proof that it can be done. I am down nearly 30 pounds now, and slowly developing a healthier lifestyle. Take last night for example, we had turkey burgers on 100 calorie buns with sweet potato fries. And I stopped when I was full! It was an amazing feeling of empowerment that I can make the right choices for me! =)

You know what else I love about my fridge? It is covered with people who support me! =) I can look and remember if I am having a bad day that I can call any one of them for help (or email them :P)

If you can believe it, I have thinned out the pictures that are up there. I have a special album for old Christmas pictures so I don't toss em. =)