A Day in the Life of Us

Nancy

2012-01-27T03:11:00.000-08:00

When I first started going to my church I didn’t jump in feet first. I took things very slow because I wanted to make sure this was the right church for us. After all, I was looking for our forever church. The church we would raise our future kids in. After months and months of just attending Sunday services I decided to join a women’s bible study on Wednesdays. Ill admit, I was nervous. What if these women were judgy? What if they were bible experts and talked about things above my realm of reasoning? But when I walked in that small room and met eyes with Nancy all my nervousness faded away. Her warm smile comforted me and invited me in, in a way that felt like coming home from a long trip. She welcomed me and listened to me. She was very relaxed and led our small group of women with love, patience, and a passion for learning more about Jesus. Over the few years I was in Nancy’s Women2Women group Nancy and I became very good friends. We laughed, cried, prayed, and ate some delicious food. We learned a lot about the bible, and ourselves.

Nancy rejoiced with me when I decided to make the commitment and become a member of our church. She literally leaped with joy when I told her I had decided to be baptized. When I shared news of my pregnancy with her she cried tears of joy. When I confided in her that I was interested in serving in youth ministry and maybe not be in a women’s bible study anymore- she encouraged me and prayed for me. But of course, our relationship wasn’t all about me. I was able to share in several of Nancy’s life experiences- but those are her story to tell and not mine to share. The one I will share is the fight for Nancy’s life.

Over the last few years as cancer riddled Nancy’s body I was always amazed to watch her determination. She was always positive. Always pursuing. She never blamed God. She was the definition of grace and hope. She went from being a mentor to me, to being a real-life hero. She went out of her way every single Sunday to come hug Scott. Always saying how he gave the best hugs. I have to agree. We were able to bring and have dinner with her a few months ago. Scotty made his famous chimichangas and we ate and talked for awhile while the boys played on the floor. That night she shared with me that she was seriously considering moving to Florida to stay with her sister. It broke my heart but I understood why. Ive sense realized that evening will become my last with Nancy and I will hold memory close to my heart forever.

Nancy moved to Florida and is now in hospice. Her fight is ending. She isn’t so much giving up, as giving in. She is no longer fighting cancer and accepting God’s will. She knows her fate and continues to be brave and graceful every day. I read her CaringBridge and facebook pages every day. As I click on her pages I start to feel a rock in my stomach that only slightly eases as I see she is still here on earth with us. Selfishly, I want her here. But I know when she passes she will truly be at peace.

About a year ago Nancy and I talked about why she still had this cancer. It was the first time I ever saw her sad about it. With every tear she shed my heart shattered more and more. I am so thankful God gave me the words to express what my heart was feeling in that moment. I don’t know why Nancy had to fight for so long. But I do know that in it she taught me more about living. She taught me about the love, forgiveness, and grace of our heavenly Father. And it wasn’t just me. Nancy was placed perfectly in the lives of many and she made a giant impact on them.

So today, as you go about your day please stop and say a prayer for Nancy and those closest to her. I am personally thanking God for the time I got with Nancy, for her reaching in and encouraging me to move forward in my faith. To step out of my comfort zone. To live the life I was intended to live

***Update*** I actually wrote this post in the early morning of 1/25/2012. Nancy went to heaven that same day. I cant help but wonder if she compared Jesus's hugs to Scott's.

Throwback Thursday

2012-01-26T03:10:00.000-08:00

My little drool baby when he was teething....can you tell? : )

Choosing Schools

2012-01-25T04:52:00.000-08:00

First of all, let me start by saying that when I was a kid- we just went to the school closest to your house. Easy Peasy. Now, not so much. I think this cultural change is wonderful. It gives us options and choices that otherwise we would not have. But you know what I would prefer? I would prefer that my kids could just go to the school closest to our house AND that school be fabulous. Full of teachers who love their jobs, classrooms full of useful teaching materials, fantastic extra curricular activities, involved parents, and a hands-on principal. Maybe by the time the boys have kids in school? ...One can dream.

I cant believe this time of year is already here but we are looking into schools for NEXT school year. That is, school that starts in the "fall" of 2012. I add my quotes because August isnt really fall here. Its more like late summer. A.K.A. The hottest damn part of the year. Anyhoodle, on Friday I went and looked at two schools. That wasnt my original plan. You see, I had done a ton of research on schools in the area. Google, GreatSchools.net, friends in the neighborhood, people at the grocery store, parents of the kids who played baseball with the boys, the mailman, everyone. Looking back I was kind of obsessive. Maybe.

Steven will finish Kindergarten this year at Bridges. Bridges is a very small private-ish type school. We chose this school after much research(see a trend here?) and it has served us well for the last 3 years. Wow...didnt realize it was that long. Shawn did Kindergarten here as well and we adore the teacher. Their preschool program was fantastic too so it served Steven well also. We went into this school year knowing that there was a 95% chance we would have Steven repeat Kindergarten at the public school level the following school year. The main reason- he is really young. He just turned 5 in December and we wanted Bridges to serve as a solid foundation for him going on with his education, and it has. Bridges is about a half hour drive away from our house. So, when Shawn graduated from there we picked a school close to Bridges, that we liked, to keep things simple. Since we are facing the end of our time at Bridges we feel it would be best to move both boys to a school closer to home.

After all the research there were 2 schools at the top of our list. We will call them F and K. Both are public schools and are within very close distance to our house but are still considered out of our bounds so we have to apply to go there. F was my first pick. It is run very differently then other public schools and has a very heavy emphasis on Spalding and math facts. The school has very strict policies and seemed like a good fit for us- matching up with our goals and desires for the boys education. Before you can enroll in this school the parents have to come watch a video at the school, observe 2 hours of classroom time, and meet with the principal. Well, long story short...after I got there and watched the video and met with some of the staff...I was less then impressed and had that gut feeling that this was NOT the school for us. So, off to K I went. What a difference! I love K! The principal met with me and was very kind and most importantly- knew exactly what was going on in her school. I love their policies and curriculum fits well for us. Plus, they are walking distance from our house. Oddly, they are actually closer to us then the school that the boys are supposed to go to based on our boundaries.

So, I filled out the early paperwork for the boys to attend K in the next school year. Im hoping they get in there and we dont have to do F. I did start the process for enrollment in F just in case K doesnt have enough space for the boys.

Man, this stuff is tough work!

Youth Ministry

2012-01-24T04:56:00.000-08:00

Scotty and I have been youth leaders at our church for awhile now and Ive come to realize that these kids have a much bigger impact on our lives then I thought they would. I went into this with an open mind and wide open heart. I knew that we would be working with junior highers. For me, that was the hardest time of my life and I wanted to be there for the kids. I knew we would be at church every Wednesday night and Sunday morning with a few events sprinkled in here and there. Let me just tell you, that is only the tip of the ice. Maybe not even the tip but the tippy top tip that isn’t really a part of the ice. Maybe that scheduled time with them-- it’s just the cold you feel off the ice.

1. I had no idea how much we would love these kids. No joke. I feel like I have 30(give or take) more kids. We find ourselves constantly praying for them, checking in on them, and answering their texts and facebook messages. The amazing thing is that it doesn’t bother us one bit. In fact, we love it. Sometimes it’s heartbreaking, especially when they make poor choices or when life hands them struggles they may not be mature enough to handle on their own. But it is so worth the heartache when we get to see God bring them through to the other side of their own person tragedies.

2. With all the kids we love…there are some we really don’t like. Whoa, whoa, whoa…before you go writing your hate email to me let me and jumping on the judgment train tell you- we still love them. Very much. But it seems in every group of kids there is that one kid with a crappy attitude, fowl mouth, and constant cry for attention. These are the ones Scotty flourishes with. He amazes me with his gift of connecting with these kids. Maybe because he is an ass himself?  He has a way with these kids that can be hard to explain. It’s like he knows exactly what they need-if it’s a strict voice or a strong hug- and he provides it. Last year we had a young boy who was on the border of being out of control. He was constantly disruptive and had some ticks…he had to constantly have something in his hands or he would get into trouble. I give God, Scott, and this kids family a lot of credit---totally different kid this year. Im so proud of him!

3. We hear it all the time but Im totally serious- kids deal with a lot more today than we did as kids. There are a million and a half ways to get high. Kids are very open and willing to experiment sexually. Some parents don’t feel the need to shelter their kids from anything- and I mean ANYTHING. Kids are exposed to an unlimited amount of information without full disclosure and explanation. It messes with their minds! Politics, the economy, our government, education, environment…. All of this is in their faces every single day. It can wreak havoc on a young mind. They NEED a soft place to fall. A place to know that no matter what – they are loved.

4. For every set of parents who could care less there are the parents who over shelter their kids and they are the biggest whiners! The funny thing? Their kids are usually the ones who act out the most. Every semester I challenge the kids to something. I change it up every semester. There have been things like- memorize an entire Psalm, write a paper on a story in the bible and how it is parallel to your life, and make a piece of art that represents who you are- and we display it in our room. Every challenge has a clear deadline and we discuss it every single week. At the end of the challenge there is always a reward. Usually participation in something fun (pizza party, movie night, night out somewhere.) I cannot tell you how many times I get a call the night of the fun party thing wanting to know why their kid didn’t know about the challenge- and therefore couldn’t participate in the event. This last one was the worst. I don’t know if it is because I have a lot of 6th graders (we get them in 6th grade and keep them until they enter 9th). It’s just like life- you don’t do the work- you don’t get the reward.

5. We deal with some pretty big stuff. It requires us to be available at all times and be willing to be extremely flexible. For me this isn’t a struggle but for Scott it was. We have set up boundaries from the beginning and they have served us very well. I highly recommend setting boundaries from the get go when you start out in any ministry. You have to take care of yourself or you will not have the love and patience to serve anyone. Our boundaries- Our children we birthed come first. If they are having something going on we will not sidebar their issues for one of our junior high kids. We do not answer any phone calls/texts/emails during dinnertime. Whatever it is can wait until after we have had our family time and checked in with each other. Lastly, we make our time with Jesus a priority. Sometimes that means waking up a half hour earlier to read or pray or sit in silence. Downtime with Jesus is critical. If we aren’t doing this for Jesus then what is the point? He is the reason we do this and if we lose sight of that then we are doomed to fail at this.

I think the most important thing I have learned is not something I’d really like to “list”. But rather, explain. Time heals. It does not cure, but it does heal. Scott and I were in a very different place in our marriage 3 years ago. Our marriage was saved by the grace of God, through service. Not only to each other but to others. We both made huge mistakes in our marriage but since we have been serving together there is more clarity in our lives. Life is put in a better perspective. We have healed and we have watched, first hand, God heal others. Service is not just something to do, it is a way of life. Or at least should be.

A New Chapter

2012-01-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

Its a big week for me. Im going back to school. I cant believe it! Finally! Im starting slow. Taking one class to get my feet wet and then decide where Im going to go next. Im still not sure what I want to major in but I hope that by taking a few classes, Ill figure out what I want to do when I grow up.

A lot has changed in the last 10 years since I left college. I had started out on such a fast track- starting college my junior year of high school. But then on September 8, 2001 Scott proposed to me and my life changed forever. Then, just a few days later on September 11, 2001 everyone's lives changed forever. Having kids became such a strong priority there was no more desire to wait for anything. I left college and never even really had a strong desire to go back until this last year.

Now, both boys are in school full time. Starting next fall they will be going to a school much closer to our home, cutting 2 hours of drive time every single day, out of our lives. Scott is in a very secure job with a promising future. There is no better time then now. I have the full support of my three men and with that I feel like I can conquer this head on.

Wish me luck!

Throwback Thursday

2012-01-19T06:56:00.001-08:00

This picture was taken in December of '08. That sweet smile melts my heart every time.

Double Trouble

2012-01-18T14:01:00.000-08:00

How am I supposed to get work done while these faces state at me?

2012-01-17T06:39:00.000-08:00

The chickens are doing really well. I'm still pretty surprised at how easy it is to have them. The boys love going out and finding eggs. It's like Christmas everyday for them!

This is Arlis BockBock.....or at least that is her name this week!

Lesson Learned: Other People's Families

2012-01-13T01:38:00.000-08:00

Ive always been one to admit when I was wrong. I think the best way to learn is through watching others mistakes but sometimes they aren’t clear enough and we need to learn from our own mistakes. I don’t know if I would really consider this particular blog topic a mistake Ive made in the past but I will say that I am more aware of it now and I will for sure keep it on my heart for the future.

Growing up with B wasn’t easy. One of the fall outs of that is that my family life growing up was nothing less than a complete shit show. Yes, I had family members who loved me dearly and cared for me but I never had a real strong extended family life. I still don’t. I have a few wonderful aunts and uncles here and there that care about me and make a point to be in my life. I have one set of Grandparents. I dont talk to my cousins regularly and Im not super close with my brother, step-brother, or step-sister. But up until recently I never felt like I was missing anything. God protected my heart from that pain by providing substitute families all throughout my lifetime.

In Kindergarten I met Melissa and her entire family took to me like I was their own flesh and blood. Her brothers, to this day, still call me their sister. As well as her parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins- they all treat me exactly like they treat Melissa. I was never, and still am never- just a friend of Melissa’s. Now, Melissa has never seem bothered by this. In fact, she probably encourages it. For that I will always be thankful. I love me some Melissa! : )

As we got into junior high Melissa and I started taking separate paths. At that time I became friends with L and once again- her family always treated me like their own also. It was always easy to be around her family. They are loud and crazy but more than that, they are so full of love. And they made me feel loved. They always greet me with kisses and hugs. On a pretty regular basis either one of her cousins, aunts, uncles, whatever it may be- send me a text/ email/ phone call/ facebook message to check in on me.

Because my home life was such a mess I spent all my time at Melissa and then L’s house. ALL my time. Looking back I am so thankful for their parents being okay with that. I love having the boys friends over but I also love the quiet time we get as a family when then friends go home. But with Melissa and L’s families- I was/am family! It didn’t matter! Vacation coming up? Lets plan make sure Heidi can be there. Dinner plans for Friday? Great. Heidi will be there. It’s just the way it was and that is such a blessing in my life. From these families I learned how to function as a family in the home. Honestly, if I didn’t have them I don’t know if I would know how to raise my boys. How to get them to get along. What a “normal” sibling fight looked like.

Eventually, I met Scott and we started our own lives and with that the building of our own little family. Not for any other reason than lack of time, I don’t get to spend as much time as I would like with Melissa, L, or their families. At some point L started hearing rumors that I was spreading information about her family around our sort-of small town. I wasn’t. I never would. In fact, Melissa and L’s families mean so much to me I would probably punch anyone who spoke badly about them! But this caused some tension for L and I. She is very protective of her family(rightly so!) and she didn’t have any evidence leading her to believe me. At the time this came to head I was having a horrible time with another “friend”(more on that later) and I just flat out, didn’t have the energy to try to help her believe me.

Last month I was invited to the birthday party of L’s cousin. As I read the invite to the party I noticed wet spots dropping on the card. It wasn’t until after I looked up and noticed the roof wasn’t leaking, that I realized the invite brought me to tears. Here it is, it’s been years since L and I really hung out and even longer since Ive seen her family, and me and my little family were still thought of on this special day. I felt so loved.

Ive made some mistakes in friendship choices the last couple of years. I know I have. She was right about a particular person (same person mentioned above!), but I didn’t listen. By doing this it has driven an even larger wedge in the space between L and I and after some awkward discussions about the party I was left feeling like she didn’t want me there. Or at least she didn’t seem to understand why I was invited/going. We talked, over text anyways, and she ensured me she was looking forward to seeing me. But at the party we didn’t really talk. When we said our good-bye’s I had to hold back tears. I wanted to spill everything out, but it wasn’t the time or the place.

I wanted to tell her how much I loved her. How badly I wanted nothing more than to sit and talk with her for hours about what is going on in her life, her family’s life. I wanted to hear all about her new boyfriend, get to know him even. I wanted to know how her house was coming along. How her dog is doing. How does she like her career. The real stuff. Not the on-the-surface “Ya, everything is great!” stuff.

Since the party we have spoken a few times over texts. She has moved on with her life. As it has been the last several years, we are in very different places in our lives. I just hope and pray that one day our paths will be more parallel and we can be close again.

But what I have learned from all of this is that while I have been adopted into these families, I have taken this kind of stance that all families are like that. Look, I don’t want to intrude on anyone’s family time! While God gave me these amazing families to help raise me when I was younger, I now have my own little family and I don’t want to overstep anymore boundaries with a friend’s family. To be fair L and I have not discussed the issue in detail but I do get the feeling that she didn’t understand why I was invited to this family event. If I don’t hang out with her why should I hang out with her family? Especially if she believes that I spread rumors about them. So from now on I will be more cautious of the family boundaries.

Throwback Thursday

2012-01-12T07:34:00.001-08:00

Recap and small PSA

2012-01-10T11:08:00.000-08:00

I scheduled myself to be off work the entire week after Christmas and not go back until the day after my birthday(Jan 4). Let me tell you, I loved my week and a half off! The boys were both off of school and we spent our time playing with their new toys, games, watching new movies, and just being a family. It was phenomenal. Scott had to work most of the mornings but still was able to spend most of that time with us also. About the time I was starting to go crazy trying to find new homes for all the boys new loot the new year was right there with us. We celebrated New Years the same we we always do- with the neighbors and lots of fireworks and fun!

My birthday was nothing crazy. My boys were all gone all day long so I could have the house to myself. I spent the day watching movies, writing, and reading. It was nice but for someone who works from home and is alone 80% of every single day it wasnt fabulous. I probably wont do that again. But the boys took me to dinner in the evening and we had a really nice dinner. At the end of the night my throat starting hurting and by the time I got up in the morning I was full blown- kill-me-now- sick. Perfect timing, right?! First day back to work in well over a week and a half and I cant stop throwing up. I was able to work a few hours but that was it. Went back to bed at 9:30AM and didnt wake up until the following morning when my alarm went off for me to get up for work. Long story short- Strep Throat is my enemy. Lots of antibiotics and a few days later and Im finally back to "normal"

By Saturday I was itching to get out of the house and it worked out well because the boys had plans to go shooting. So, we all loaded up and went out by Four Peaks and the boys shot their guns and a few others.

I am so proud of the boys. They really have learned a lot about the responsibility of guns. They respect them and I hope that if nothing else sticks about guns, knowing how to be responsible with them, does. There was an article in the local paper that a child had a gun in their backpack coming home from school on the bus and it "accidentally" went off. Luckily, nobody was hurt. Here is the thing peeps...If you are going to have guns and children in your home BE RESPONSIBLE. I dont care that my kids have their own guns and know how to use them- those things are locked in a heavy duty safe that they have ZERO access to. When we take the boys out shooting we review the rules, in detail, every single time. We have shown them the damage guns can do and constantly remind them that if they see a gun at a friends house to stay away from it -tell their friends to stay away from it-and tell an adult immediately. Thats my rant for the day. : )

Its been a great couple of weeks....

2012-01-03T14:41:00.000-08:00

Throwback Thursday

2011-12-22T02:37:00.000-08:00

Steven's first Christmas.

A Rant About Public Schools Calenders

2011-12-21T03:56:00.000-08:00

Shawn is in second grade and attends a public school. We didnt enroll him in the public school in our neighborhood because it is a failing and over-crowded. We did a lot of research and picked a school that is doing much better with a smaller student to teacher ratio. The school is closer to Steven's school, which we also did a lot of research in picking. So we drive 30 minutes, each way, to take the boys to school. Not something we are thrilled about but we are fine doing it knowing it is for a better education.

I have a few complaints about Steven's school. One of the things we loved about the school is their "strict" dietary requirements. In the kids lunches they are not allowed to have chips, soda, candy, or cookies. Any juice must be 100% juice. Sandwiches must be made with whole wheat bread. We loved this because we dont feed the boys a ton of junk. But one day I sent Steven to school with a Capri Sun WATER. If you are not familiar with these- they are flavored waters. WATER. He was told he could not have it and it was sent back home in his lunch box with a note saying, "No juice allowed". I went in the next day and notified that this was not juice. But was told it still wasnt allowed. Fine. I can handle that. However, what really irritates me is that they are constantly fed sweets by the teachers! I would say at least 3 days a week the kids are given cookies, cupcakes, or candy! It is so frustrating! I cant send my kid to school with flavored water but you can hop him up on sugar before he comes home?! When I bring my concerns to the administration it is met with, "Well, it was so-in-so's birthday!" or "It was a special day!" ......I dont care!

But this food thing is nothing. Really. Yes, it frustrates me but the staff at this school is beyond amazing. They genuinely love the kids, they love to teach, and it shows in everything they do. They have new and fresh ideas all the time to keep the kids engaged. All the good far out weighs the food issue.

Then there is Shawn's school. A public school. There are a few things at this school that really irritate me. One of those is a district thing- and something I am finding happens in a lot of districts. What is with all of these half days?! Every single Wednesday is a half day. Then, before holidays they have "extra early release". Oh, and during parent/teacher conference week the entire week is half days! Ummmm, why? Yes, I know that the teachers use this time to grade papers, plan lessons, and meet with parents. What was wrong with that system? Now, I know when I was a kid I loved half days! They were awesome! But for the working parent they suck! We already have Shawn in the before and after school program, which isnt cheap. It is something we have to do because of our work schedules. It is a pretty good program- they play games, do homework, play outside, watch movies, and the teachers are pretty great too. But, like I said- this isnt cheap. What do parents do that cant afford these programs and cant alter their schedule every time they district feels the need for a half day?!

And can we talk about the teachers for a second?! Great teachers! Phenominal!....When they are there! Shawn's teacher is constantly out. He has a sub all the time. His teacher has been teaching for a very long time so Im sure she has accrued a lot of time off. I also feel that this time off is well deserved. But, at what cost? Im sure the substitutes are very nice people, wonderful teachers, but they arent why I brought my kid to that school. Plus we all know what its like when there is a sub in the class. There just has to be a better way.

This year the calender for the school district is a little screwy too. Shawn is on "Winter Break" from Tuesday afternoon(today) until he January 4th when he returns to school. Oh ya, that day he returns is also a half day. Yesterday, the day before break, was also a half day. In fact, it was another "extra early release" day. Of course! Why wouldnt it be?! Its just weird that it is all middle of the week start and stop.

We are moving both boys to a traditional academy next year. It is closer to home and, as the name states, more traditional. I CANT WAIT! I know the boys are bummed to be leaving some of the friendships they have made but we know it will be best for them.

Okay, Im done complaining now. : )

Christmas Activities

2011-12-20T06:37:00.000-08:00

The usual Christmas activities are in full swing! We have been busy with Christmas shows, plays, parties, and dinners. I LOVE this time of year!

Steven at his classes production...he was looking at his best friend from across the stage and they were giggling at each other. So cute!

Santa came out at the end and surprised the kid.

Notice the other two girls all excited and Steven keeping his calm and cool? Ha ha!

Steven was all business when talking to Santa.

"My name is Steven and I want roller-blades and legos for Christmas."

We have the house all decorated. My favorite is our train that goes on the roof. Apparently it is a favorite of many of the neighbors too! I think this year will be the trains last though...its looking a little rough.

Ill have to try to find another one for next year.

The boys were so excited to get on the roof and "help" Scott with the train. Although, all they really did was check out the neighborhood from the roof.

This made me nauseous. Shawn was so close to the edge!

Checking out some lights with some friends.

Birthday party for Jesus at our church. We were there early because Shawn was in the play and while they were rehearsing Steven had the bouncy to himself. That kid loves to jump!

Shawn in the play. I really have to learn to take better indoor pictures for this stuff. : (
Shawnie was an adorable shepherd.

Hope you are all enjoying your Christmas festivities!

Throwback Thursday

2011-12-08T09:19:00.000-08:00

It took Shawn forever to get hair. I was the same way. My Mom would use tape, karo syrup, anything- to get bows to attach to my head so I wouldnt look like a boy. Luckily, Shawn is a boy- so I didnt have to mess with any of that. He has been growing his hair out lately. He has always had a buzz cut of some form but most of his friends have some form of longer hair. So every morning, while he is brushing his teeth, Im styling his hair. I kind of enjoy it. His hair is so fine and straight there isnt much you can do with it. But its nice to be able to style his hair in some fashion.

But he was an adorable baldy.

Happy Birthday Mema!

2011-12-07T10:01:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow, my Mema turns 76 years young. I love this woman so much. One of my favorite TV shows, The Big Bang Theory, has a character who holds his Mema in very high regard. I relate- very much. My Mema has shown me fierce love my entire life. She would do anything for our family. She has lived one amazing life. I keep begging her to write some of her stories down but she never does.

Maybe one day Ill just sit with her and write them myself.

(Mema giving me a bath in 1983)

(Mema and her sisters)

The boys adore their Mema. They fight with me all the time that she is THEIR Mema and not mine. I had her first! I love you so much Mema and I so thankful to have you in my life.

Happy 5th Birthday Steven!

2011-12-04T21:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday sweet boy!!!!

For the last several weeks all we have heard about is how badly you want a trampoline.

"Wouldnt a trampoline be fun? I could jump on it!"

"If I had a trampoline I would clean my room."

"All I ever wanted, my entire life, was a trampoline."

"I bet I could jump on a trampoline and reach the stars."

"I dont want any other toys for my birthday. I dont even want a party...I just want a trampoline."

"Im sorry Mommy, what did you say?

I couldnt hear you because I was thinking about how fun a trampoline would be."

and my favorite.......

"Why did they bring Jesus Frankenstein, gold, and fur?

I bet he would have rather had a trampoline.

I know I would."

You really sold this thing kid. We told you we didnt know. Afterall, Mommy has had 3 knee surgeries as a result of trampoline fun(and crappy genes). But, I also dont want to be a wacky-do, overprotective Mom. Ive been reading about "Free Range Parenting." I would say I dont agree with this parenting style 100% but I do like some of the logic involved. Our society likes to prevent a lawsuit at massive extremes and it kind of makes parents over-think and over-protect our children to the point that they arent really living. Daddo and I have never been over-protective. We let you take falls and make mistakes. We believe that is the best way to learn and to gain pride and confidence in what you do.

But, believe me...when you cross the street to go to play with your friends we are right there at that window making sure you look both ways and hold your brothers hand.

So, we talked about it. Thought long and hard and eventually decided to get you your precious trampoline WITH an enclosure so your ITP self does not jump off the side and crack your bleeding head open. If that sounds graphic, you should see the images that were in my head. Daddo stayed home from church today to set up the trampoline so we could surprise you when we got home from church. Unfortunately my plan for an enclosure backfired. It didnt fit the trampoline!!! So, Daddo took it back and now we are waiting for the correct one to come in.

But in the meantime, you sure are enjoying this......

Look at that face! That is sheer joy while jumping on that thing! There is no way I could show you this thing and say..."Okay, I know you're excited...now stay off it until the correct enclosure net comes in!"

After jumping for a while you and Shawn came in and patiently waitied for our family and your best friend to arrive to celebrate your big day. I use the word "patiently" very loosely.

Now, in the theme of tradition Bapa and Grandma got you a .22 rifle for your 5th birthday. It is the same thing Shawn got for his birthday. They let you open it as soon as they got here and it went straight in the safe where it will stay until we go shooting and you are taught even more on gun safety. But, ya...it will always stay there...until you move into your own house. You were so excited!

But you still took joy in playing in the box. : )

There was the birthday spankings along with a pinch to grow an inch. Just do me a favor and dont grow that inch for a few months because I just bought you new pants, again, and Id like them to not look like you are waiting for a flood in the next week. Seriously kid. You're killing my bank account!

You and Shawn got tired of waiting and went and jumped some more while the adults watched the football game. You two would come in and check out the game every once in awhile and grab some snacks.

Finally your best friend, Steven, got to the house. You grabbed him and dragged him outside as fast as you could. You couldnt wait to show him the trampoline. He was also a big fan.

I dont know what this pose is. Some weird boy thing? But, you two are pretty cute.

You two are little peas in a pod. Same names. Birthdays in the same month.

Same adorableness in your own ways. I just love watching you two together.

YES! The sock monkey from Grammy!!! You wanted this thing so bad too. You promptly named him SimpSome and declared that he looked just like you.

By the time you were headed to bed you still hadnt even put him down.

I have a feeling SimpSome is going to get a lot of baths.

While singing happy birthday to you I had to fight back some tears. Im sorry. I just cant believe how fast the time goes. You are truly and completely such a joy in my life and I savor every second with you.

Last Sunday we celebrated your birthday with Nana and Fred. It was a lot of fun watching you play with your brother and cousin. Im so proud of how well you share.

As the 5th birthday festivities come to an end I want you to know that I never stop celebrating YOU. Honestly Steven, you complete our little family. I cannot imagine a day without your laugh, your hug, or one of your silly stories. I love dancing around the house with you, snuggling up to read a book with you, but most of all I love just being in the same room with you. I am so blessed to be given the gift of not only being in your life but of being your Mom. I love you so very much. Happy Birthday Steven. I pray it is a fabulous year for you.

xoxoxoxo,
Mommy

Chicken Update

2011-12-02T03:21:00.000-08:00

Having chickens has been going really well. (First mentioned here) So well in fact, that we decided to add two more chickens to our family. Chickens typically lay 1 egg every 1-3 days. With us eating so much at home and the holiday baking season in full swing, I felt silly buying eggs from the grocery store when we had chickens in our own backyard! But our 2 original hens couldnt keep up with our demand. So, we picked up two more from a friend and now we have just the right amount of eggs being produced for our little family.

I love having a colorful egg carton!

Seriously, having chickens is ridiculously easy. The basics- make sure they have clean water, a clean coop, and plenty of food. They eat just about anything we have as scraps or the left overs the dogs dont want. My favorite part? How much responsibility my boys enjoy having with them.

I have to say, that is the best part of having pets in general. Our boys are responsible for most of the animal care and they do really well with that. It gives them confidence and pride.

All the girls. (It is a lot harder to get a picture of all of them together then I thought it would be!)

The bossy hen. : )

Throwback Thursday

2011-12-01T05:32:00.000-08:00

This Sunday my sweet baby boy will turn 5. A whole hand. I cannot even put into words how wonderful it is to have this little man in my life. He is a constant source of fun and laughter and has one of the kindest hearts of anyone I have ever met in my life.

I love you Steve-o! xoxox

Elf on the Shelf! (Part 2)

2011-11-30T03:50:00.000-08:00

Our Elf on the Shelf, Jingle, has been making the rounds. We are slowing getting into more fun stuff for him to do. I didnt want to use up the best ideas right away and still have a month left. Here are some of his adventures so far....

Hanging off of picture frames...

Just chillin' outside of Shawn's room

"Hanging around"

Jingle playing the DS with some other toys.

Going for an airplane ride

Sitting on the bench in my Christmas village

As we get closer to Christmas he will be doing some more mischief type stuff. I love how excited the boys are to find him every morning/afternoon.

Thanksgiving Recap

2011-11-29T06:50:00.000-08:00

It was another wonderful Thanksgiving weekend with the family. Lots of love, delicious food, and laughter.

The unintentional twins

Watching the neighbors light show

The whole Simpson clan

Steven with his new ornament(a DJ Monkey)

The Karate Kid with his new ornament.

Our tree. Ready for Christmas!

Throwback Thursday

2011-11-24T01:54:00.000-08:00

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Steven at about 3 years old, picture taken at my best friends house. Steven is wearing his friends Tu-tu! Such a proud moment for Scott! : )

Recommend: Mascara; Loreal Volumnous False Fiber Lashes

2011-11-23T01:38:00.000-08:00

I have friends that I envy every single time I look at their pictures on facebook. They have naturally long, thick eyelashes that look better then my best pair of fake lashes. I have very little eyelashes and what I have is very light in color. Pretty dang lame, if you ask me.

Ive stuck with my usual mascara, Loreal's Voluminous, for a long time. But then Loreal came out with a new mascara and I was sent a sample from them. Oh my gosh am I madly in love!

This stuff does every single thing it says it will and then some. I love it.

Before- no eyeliner or mascara After- eyeliner and mascara added

The False Fiber Lashes mascara retails at about $8 at every retailer and you can always find coupons for about $1 - $2 off in the Sunday paper for any Loreal product. I also really like how clean this mascara washes off with just a little mild soap and water.

By that I mean, I dont get out of the shower looking like a raccoon.

I dont wear make-up most days. I work from home and dont see the point. But this stuff actually makes me want to put on at least mascara. It makes me look and feel more awake.

Love it!

*I was not paid for this post. Please see the "Legality" tab for more info on this.

Im thankful for....

2011-11-22T10:11:00.000-08:00

What kind of blogger would I be if I didnt blog my list of things Im thankful for this year?
We all know the obvious things…Jesus, my husband, the boys, my job, my family, my friends, a roof over my head, etc., etc. Here are some of the details on those things I am thankful for.

Im thankful for the way Steven’s body still molds to my own when we snuggle.

The way Shawn leaves notes for me all the time telling me he loves me.

How Scott gets my coffee for me every single morning.

That if my Mom doesn’t hear from me within a 24 hour period I know she will call,

l probably could set my clock to it.

That I can talk to my Dad about anything and he wont be biased or pushing about it.

He fully listens and is there to support me.

That my StepMama put coupons aside for me every single week and

showers my boys with so much love, every time she sees them.

Im thankful for a job that allows me to use and exercise my brain every day.

For the internet, without it I wouldn’t be able to work from home,

keep in touch with friends so regularly, or feed my pinterest addiction.

Having a wide variety of friends in my life. Lots of different perspectives.

DVR- Seriously don’t know how I watched TV before DVR. BEST. INVENTION. EVER.

The quiet moments when I can hear the boys playing, and they don’t know Im listening.

.............Really, any quiet moments.

The freedom to choose what school my children go to.

That when Bandit takes his toys out of their toy bin, he puts them back when he is done. Sometimes.

The cute way Shelby acts so shy when she is talked to.

The delicious eggs our chickens give us pretty regularly.

Good mascara days. Rainy days. Comfy sweaters. Pretty scarfs. Coupons. Glittery red nail polishes.

The book of Psalms, Romans, and Colossians.

The little monkey bar calluses that Shawn has on his hands,

they remind me of the fun he has at school everyday.

That not only does Scott love to cook, he is also very good at it.

Im thankful that Steven is always smiling.

So much so that we tease him that he cant physically frown for more than 2 seconds.

The songs Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy; Party Rock Anthem, Tonight, Tonight; Sexy and I Know It, and really any song you can shake your butt pretty well too. They have given us many nights of fun dancing with the boys. And they are pretty adorable to hear the boys sing.

Everybody Loves Raymond, Friends, Grey's Anatomy, and The Big Bang Theory reruns.

Joe T. at my church. He gives the best hugs and is so sweet. Scott likes that Joe not only shakes your hand but kind of physically pulls you into church while he does it.

Christmas.

Phone calls with Brooke.

Ashley. <- Seriously, everything about her.

Melissa for knowing everything about me and still loving me.

Quite honestly, Im very blessed and Im thankful for all of it.