Make Scrapbooks, NOT dinner.

2010-06-27T11:42:00.000-05:00

You can follow our current life at www.ministeringinmexico.blogspot.com

2010-03-30T10:30:00.002-05:00

What a busy week!! I have a lot going on, but the most important thing is revival at our church. My heart is being stirred through our speaker, Tim Keep. Pray for me, my family and our whole church that we may accept the changes God has for us.

We are sick of being sick...

2010-03-21T18:23:00.002-05:00

Jada and I are home from church tonight. She seemed to be much better yesterday, but tonight her fever has spiked back up again. I hope this coming week is better than the last one. 8-)

The boys do seem to be fine now - Nathan has been untouched by all of it. I had a hard time with it and Jada is still hanging on to it. Hopefully not much longer.

10th Anniversary

2010-03-17T07:53:00.018-05:00

(Just fyi: the asterisks are for new paragraphs because blogger is not currently letting me do it my way)
*Nathan and I had an incredible second honeymoon in Phoenix, AR. He planned the whole thing and I never knew a thing about it. How exciting!! He did give me the itinerary one month ahead of time (I was totally shocked) so that I would be able to prepare myself and the kids and get everything covered with the business.

*I had never flown - can't say I'm dying to again, but I made it. Probably the most scared I have been in a very long time. I am always able to work myself through anything - never get really keyed up. Yeah, not so much when it comes to flying. Yikes. Poor Nathan. 8-)

*We were gone from Feb. 11th - the 15th. It was beautiful weather!! We left 25 inches of snow and landed in 80 degree weather. Uh-huh. Lovely.

*We drove around in a great car, ate together QUIETLY, drove around some more, ate some more....sat by the pool, brushed only our own teeth, combed only our own hair, put only our own shoes on....8-)

*Why Phoenix?? Nathan told me years ago that he would be the first person to fly with me and that when I did fly that first time he would make sure it was to a state I hadn't been to yet. So - Arizona it was. We then drove to New Mexico. That finishes the lower 48 for me. Now...just Alaska and Hawaii...hmmm...did I mention I do like to fly???

*We had such an unbelievably awesome time - I am still living off of it.

*I will say this - it was terribly hard for me to leave the kids. I had serious issues with that. I usually don't have that hard of a time, but I think it had to do with flying. It was just overwhelming to me. I knew I couldn't get to them quickly if something happened. Who knows. I hadn't ever been so far from them, I guess. But it was sooo great once I got there.

*Scared!

Akron/Canton airport - on the plane, but not really "experiencing" the plane...if you know what I mean.
Does anyone besides me see the relief in my eyes??? Of course, there is also a shadow of fear because I knew we had to do it all over again in a few days. lol
Our hotel was great - had a beautiful suite.

Nathan would say our car was even better than the hotel. I think he would have liked to have slept here.

Got in to Phoenix really late - got to bed around 2:30a I believe. Got up the next morning at 6:30 and headed for Mule Creek, NM. Hilarious story about Mule Creek...a blog wouldn't do it justice.

I also decided to take a pic with the Arizona sign - it's the only one we saw since we flew in.

Couldn't help but take a pic of this town we drove through on the way to Mule Creek. It reminded us so much of Mexico. Just a perfect experience.

Driving to Mule Creek we saw a sign that said, "Caution: Creek Bed Ahead". Huh??? Yeah, so this is the creek bed we drove through - and this was a "big" road that we were on. It wasn't some back road to nowhere.

On the way back to Phoenix.

We got cleaned up and went out for dinner. It was so nice.

If you know where we went from this pic, then you win the non-existant prize. 8-) It was to die for.

This was the next day for our anniversary dinner. We went to Ah-So's Steak and Sushi. Oh, wow - loved the food and the entertainment.

Please excuse the hunchback of notre dame here - you are supposed to be looking at the car.

Cleveland Indians Spring Training Complex. LOVED this. Totally loved it.

We put the top down on the car and drove up and down the streets of downtown Phoenix. It was perfect.

While driving around, we stumbled up on this little place. It was so quaint and the tacos were wildly good. Nathan begrudgingly gave me a bite because I didn't order anything myself.

Oh, yeah - did I mention it was 80 degree weather??

Nathan's food at Dave & Busters was too cool to not take a pic of. Isn't that a beautiful burger??

We waited a long time - a very long time - for our food at D&B. I kept myself occupied with my camera. I might see a little bit of "Really?...Again??" in Nathan's eyes.

And just like that - it's over. Over. And we are back in one of these crazy things. Of course, when we got out of this thing there were 3 of the most adorable kids running up to us yelling, "Daddy!! Mommy!!" And everyone in the airport was smiling that "Awww" smile. Yeah, perfect ending.

2010-03-16T10:14:00.001-05:00

Hi, Peeps.

Just for you, my dear sister!

2009-08-18T08:01:00.005-05:00

After much complaining and hateful remarks from a family member of mine, I have finally given you ONE new picture to look at! lol

Okay, make it one more -- this was taken on the porch of one of the cabins in Cade's Cove. These are our best buds that are with us.

Me and my beautifuls.

Awww...I love my family. Not sure that I could be any more lucky than I already am. ("lucky" being used here even though I know it has nothing to do with that)

Ok, whew. If the sis still isn't happy, then I'm afraid her anger rests inside herself. lol "...coming in fine..."!!

Dear Friends....LOL

2009-03-13T08:47:00.004-05:00

Alright - just letting you know that Scrap Solutions has closed up shop. See all of you thought you were going to come here and get some great post. So sorry. No, I do have some customers there and thanks to my newest business endeavors 8-), I do not have time to keep up with both. I'm just afraid that someone would come along and order some huge order and I won't have time to fill it.

I guess I will put a pic on here - just one! lol. Just to satisfy my precious friends!

This is a picture of my precious - and I do mean so very precious - sister that I will be meeting here in a couple days and spending a couple of days with near the Dayton area. Shopping, eating, chatting...who knows...maybe I will even post a couple pics of that, too. Anyway, I can't wait!!! Sunday afternoon just can't get here fast enough.

This does mean, of course, that you will have to be patient while I am gone as I won't be able to update as often!! lolol

I also want to mention that I do have two other VERY precious sisters as well. 8-)

It's finally here...

2008-10-17T09:04:00.002-05:00

Our 10th Annual Cropover.

So exciting. I'm just waiting to get on the road.

Meet at the hotel tonight at 7:30p. Dinner reservations for all of us at Carraba's and then back to the hotel. The conference room will be available at that time and you can scrapbook/sleep/swim...whatever you want till whenever you want.

The official crop starts tomorrow and goes from 8-8. Many fun prizes and contests.

Wish you all could be here.

Now I need to get moving and get the rest of the decorations ready and packed. Almost done with it all and not feeling any pressure.

On a side note - we usually don't do a 24 hour cropover - just 12. However, since it is our 10th year, we decided to double our time together. YAY!!

Later!

Thank you -

2008-09-16T06:42:00.003-05:00

Thank you to those that remembered Treyton's birthday. I know you can't all be here, but it just makes his face light up when you call to talk to him or when you text.

Can't even believe that my little (BIG) 9 pound 1 ounce baby is 6!! 8-) He was the sweetest and easiest baby - and although he is a regular kind of kid now that does regular kind of kid stuff, he still have an incredibly giving heart and shows the rest of us up in un-selfishness.

Pictures will be here soon - oh, in a year or so. 8-)

Oh, yeah!

2008-09-09T07:22:00.001-05:00

This is by Cal Thomas for a FOX news forum!

You Can’t Fake Authenticity

What is it about Sarah Palin that has gotten the liberal media’s knickers in a twist? Why are they criticizing, even mocking, everything from her hair to her faith?

She is exactly what the feminists claim to want and admire in women: strong, self-assured, a working mom, a political leader. But wait, she is a conservative Republican and because of that they hate her for displaying all of the aforementioned characteristics.

They are appalled that she would keep a Down Syndrome child when she could have aborted him. They are outraged when she speaks of God as if she knows Him, when their only acquaintance with the name is as a curse word, followed by “damn.” They are even disgusted that she has five children, as they think one (or maybe two) is enough.

Sarah Palin is to the left what sunlight is to a vampire. Her high heels have knocked them back on the heels of their comfortable shoes.

She has galvanized and united the social and economic conservatives, when the left thought it saw an unbridgeable divide between the “oil and water” elements of the Republican Party.

The USA Today-Gallup Poll published Monday shows a ten point advantage for McCain-Palin among likely voters — the most important constituency. That is a remarkable turnaround when you consider Obama received an eight-point bounce from the Democratic Convention, which has now been wiped-out.

I think it has something to do with the fact that average people, who live in what the left thinks of as “flyover” country, identify with a woman who has an intact, yet imperfect family. They can visualize her pushing a grocery cart at the supermarket and shopping at Wal-Mart.

You can’t fake genuineness and if this trend continues, Obama and the entire Democratic Party — which thought it had this election in the bag — will be left to wonder over the next four years how they got their pockets picked by someone they arrogantly consider a yahoo from moose country.

Back to school...FIRST GRADE!

2008-08-20T11:22:00.003-05:00

We had "Meet your Teacher" yesterday afternoon and we were so excited to see Treyton's name on Mr. Pennington's list of students. I was so shocked. Shouldn't have been. I felt again this year that God wanted me to leave my hands off of the teacher thing and let Him take care of it. So I did - was kind of hard. You see, Treyton wanted Mr. Pennington to be his teacher so bad and so I wanted to just go in and request that Treyton be in his class. And I could have - but didn't because of the real feeling that God wanted to take care of it. And He did. What an amazing answer to prayer. Serious Faith Booster at a time when I really needed it.

Looking at his new books after finding his new desk

Nathan showing him some stuff in the classroom yesterday. The twins went with us.

A very happy and excited boy this morning. He couldn't even eat. He told me, "I'm not sure I can eat all this; I'm just so excited to get to school".

After some guidance from Aunt Paulette and from Mommy and Daddy, he decided that he really didn't need a new back-pack this year. He did have money for it, and we told him he could if he decided he really needed one. We were proud of the decision he made. It wouldn't have hurt a thing if he would've bought a new one, but I think he made a very mature choice.
An 8:00am phone call from Daddy this morning. We leave at 8:05. Although this mommy would love to say that his eyes look like they are teary because he just can't handle leaving me, it is actually just that he has really sensitive eyes and I had just taken a picture and so they were still watering. Way to burst my balloon! 8-) It's okay - I want him to want to go.

At his desk - ready to go....errr...should I say...ready for ME to go. lol
Backpack in his locker.

So there you have it ... we are back to school. The twins are fine - although they do keep asking how much longer until he will be home.

I miss him - can't wait till he is home. Can not even wait until I hear what he learned today - which probably isn't much since it's first day review.

Riding, Roping and .....

2008-08-15T14:15:00.002-05:00

Revitalizing family time...yup, we are off to the Millersburg Fair Rodeo tonight. 4th straight year. All the boys can think about is whether they will be able to ride the sheep tonight. We will see...Daddy says yes if we get there in time. I think they are already pre-selected though.

They can ride them - as long as they promise me it won't bring a future of cowboy hats, cowboy boots and belt buckles. LOL! Not a thing wrong with all those things - just not how I see them 10 years from now. ...brings a smile to my face...

2008-08-04T12:13:00.002-05:00

Jackson's wrist was proven to be a nasty spider bite. He is okay and was in no terrible danger, however, the Dr. says that had he gotten the same bite on his neck or face it might have been an emergency. It seems as though the spider bite wasn't totally awful in itself, but that Jackson was just really allergic to it.

After the Dr. mentioned a spider bite, Jackson piped up and say, "Oh yeah, I was just letting it play there and when I was done I hit it off on the rocks". We assume that the "hitting it off on the rock" scared the spider and it then bit him.

He still has some scale-y looking stuff where the bite was, but it is just from where all the blisters have gone down and we are left with the dead skin from those blisters.

Sorry it took so long to update this info - we were on vacation all last week. I would assume that pictures will follow in a few hours/days, however, I won't promise as we all know how my blog-background looks.

Love all!

Jackson's Wrist

2008-07-24T09:29:00.003-05:00

Just a quick blog to ask for some prayers for Jackson. He has apparently either hurt his wrist or has gotten a spider bite. It is extremely swollen and has some discoloration. The Dr. at the ER says it is a possibility that it is cracked, but not completely sure as "4 year old wrist X-ray's are hard to read because of all the movement still going on with a child's bones" (will someone in the medical field verify that this is true). He is now on a couple of medications, but we aren't totally sure what is going on so don't know for sure that the medicine will be doing much for him (I am in no way in favor of giving my child medicine if he doesn't need it, but something does have to be done). We are watching it for 24 hours and then if not any better will be going to Akron Children's for more tests and possibly blood work.

Just pray that we would figure out what is going on. I do have a couple pics of it, but haven't gotten them downloaded yet.

Treyton did fall down steps yesterday and Jackson was coming up the same stairs so he knocked him down. Treyton has a huge, nasty black eye from the fall and it is possible that Jackson's arm got hurt when this happened. It is also possible that it was hurt on a trampoline that he was jumping on on Tuesday night. It could also look like a bug/spider bite, but there is no actual bite place visible.

Thanks for the time that you take to say a short prayer for this issue.

8-)

Summer fun!

2008-07-17T15:23:00.004-05:00

It was actually last spring when I took these pics, but I was looking through all of my pictures the other day and these just looked like nothing but summer fun. They had so much fun - just gettin' dirty! Isn't that what summer seems to be all about? If you think differently than that, your laundry apparently differs from mine! 8-)

I seriously had combed the childs hair in the picture above, but it was just amazing how fast it was looking like this again. Marci will kill me!

I should also say...

2008-07-08T14:34:00.002-05:00

To those who have been a little impatient....(MELODIE)...I have been working many, many hours a week. I'm so sorry to all of you....(MELODIE)....for the delay. I know you missed me greatly!!

8-) 8-)

It isn't so normal around here after all...

2008-07-08T14:31:00.002-05:00

Treyton is now at Uncle Jack and Aunt Paulette's. He wasn't supposed to be going until mid-august or so, but Aunt Paulette got a little worried that something would happen during that exact time and then school would be starting and he wouldn't be able to go.

So...He is there - and having the time of his life to be sure.

He left on Sunday and they said they would just let him decide when he was ready to come back. I should've told them Merry Christmas, because you can be sure if he had his way that is just how long he would be there.

I miss my smart little man, but I am so happy he is getting his time out there with them.

They are just the best!!

2008-06-24T20:39:00.000-05:00

...And so, yes, life is now back to normal!

They're almost home...

2008-06-24T16:00:00.002-05:00

It has been 5 very different days around here since Friday. Jackson and Jada left Friday morning to spend some time with some very, very favorite family. Those of you that know us at all have heard plenty of times about Uncle Jack and Aunt Paulette. Well, that is where they have been and we are leaving here in just a few minutes to meet them to pick them up. Can't wait to see them!!

It's early...

2008-06-17T04:30:00.003-05:00

...but I'm still up and awake and ready for the day and have been since 4:45. The last 2 weeks have unfortunately been heavy on awake and light on sleep. I know it has to do with some extreme allergy issues that keep me from breathing good. Saturday and Sunday nights were the best nights of sleep for quite a while, but last night (Monday) was again a little light on sleep. Although I certainly don't require 8 hours of sleep a night (which has been a good thing in the past), I would still like to have more than 3 or 4. My "feel good" runs down really quick when I go for a long time without a good nights rest. Don't really know why I'm telling you all of this except for the fact that it is laying HEAVY on my heart - and I'm getting a little sick of it!! 8-)

I have to work at Nathan's office today from 9-5. When I get home, I will be working on different things for the early weekend. Plans seem to be going good for the party and we are excited about it. Wish you all could come!

Also, a HUGE congratulations to some of our really great friends - Jonathan and Leanna! We are so happy for you. Aubrey is totally and completely gorgeous...just adding to the beauty that Lindsey had already created! Can't wait to see ya!

I was looking around on my computer this morning and found this layout I did of the twins when they were 10 weeks old. It's amazing what 3 years and 42 weeks does for a baby, huh? I think they both look very different from what they did when they were babies. Obviously you can still tell that these pictures are of them, but .....

Have a great day!

Love!

The twins had a FUN birthday!

2008-06-11T08:29:00.002-05:00

We had a wonderful day together as a family yesterday. Nathan takes off work on the kids birthdays and so we just do whatever it is that they ask. One of them wanted to go to McDonald's and swimming and the other one wanted to go to El Rodeo and to Sluggers and Putters (a great putt-putt, bumper boat, go-kart, batting cages type of place). We were headed to Sluggers and Putters when it started raining - it was pouring actually. So we had to cancel that this time, but we did go swimming and were there for a few hours. We also went to both McDonald's and El Rodeo. Our church is having VBS this week so we went there last night.

We have started a (somewhat) fun tradition for our family - at least while the kids are young. We have "family bed" on the night before any one persons birthday and we all sleep together here in our bed. A king size bed gets small REALLY quick with 3 squirmy kiddies. 8-) They love it, but like I said - it is for while they are young. Can't see us doing this with an 18 year old and 2 17 year olds. LOL!

Our party isn't till Thursday the 19th. We are combining their birthday with Treyton's Kindergarten party. Should be great fun!

Anyway - Happy, Happy 4th Birthday to our precious "babies"!

Have a great day.

2008-05-12T07:56:00.004-05:00

You know, it is powerful to me how much responsibility lies on our shoulders as mom's. I'm glad to see that Jada is understanding what being a mommy is so young in life. This was over-heard a few days ago.

Jackson - "I'm going to be the mommy."
Jada - "You can't be the mommy because you are a boy."
**Jackson let this go because it was true after all**
Jada - "No, I'm going to be the mommy and I'm going to make supper - Let's go to McDonald's!"

Ahhh, yes - that is what being a mommy is all about!

8-)

It's been a long time...

2008-05-07T07:33:00.002-05:00

Hey, friends. Not sure I have anyone that still checks by now, but I am here for a second. I'm sorry I have been MIA for so long. Several different things are and have been taking all my time and so it seems to me that those things must be taken care of before I can justify time spent here online.

For those that are concerned, Treyton is much better. We are down to 2-3 bandaids at this time. Still have just a touch of infection, but it is totally under control. Thank you so much all of you for your prayers - and thanks to my precious sister for blogging about it so that there were prayers being said for him. I love you, Mel!

TAGGED...

2008-04-10T12:04:00.002-05:00

1. What I was doing 10 years ago. (I was 17)

Getting ready to graduate from high school
Planning to go to College at GBS
Falling in love with a guy that had the biggest and softest heart - and still does

2. 5 things on my to-do list today.

Dust
Sweep
Clean all three potty's/bathrooms
Vacuum
Read with Treyton for "right to read" week which they are having at school
Set up for the crop tomorrow night
Settle a dispute
Settle a dispute
Settle a dispute
Settle a dispute

3. Snacks I enjoy

Ritz Crackers
Townhouse Crackers
Triscuits
Cheese-nips
Graham Crackers
Yep, ANY kind of cracker would always be my first choice of a snack

4. Things I would do if I were a billionaire

Pay for my kids school/college, and then their adult housing needs
Give generously and consistently to both sides of my family who are called to ministry.
Give a large sum to my church
Pay off my house
Invest

I must add a few "real" things here too....all of the above things are the important things and I would definitely do them first...but there are things that all of us want, too. Here are mine.

Open the largest scrapbook store you could find
Buy a 1967 Ford Mustang: Fastback for Nathan 8-)
I'll just take a little BMW or something...lol
Fly my family to Paris for a month vacation

5. Bad Habits I have

Not getting in touch with family and friends like I want to
Procrastinating - It all gets done, but not as fast as Nathan would like. lol
Would taking too many pictures fit in here? Depends on who you ask. Like Nathan...or Amanda?! lol
Getting sick to death of routine; I am always up for change. Any type. Sometimes though it could verge on not just being happy with life as it is right now. Like it is perfectly fine that my great room furniture hasn't been changed around in a couple of weeks. 8-)

6. 5 places I have lived

Brent, Alabama
I could list several million here while we were traveling, but oddly enough they only lasted a week
Beach City, Ohio
Cincinnati, Ohio
Bedford, Indiana
Massillon, Ohio

7. Jobs I've held

Ice Cream Specialist at Midway
Waitress at a restaurant Nathan and his family owned
Kindergarten teacher at BCBMC
4, 5 and 6th grade teacher at SCCA
Teller at Hoosier Hills Credit Union
Scrapbook Instructor at Scrap Happy Scrapbook Store
I do happen to be a Mommy, too although I'm not sure I'm employed because the paychecks seem to be non-existent. lol

8. 5 people to tag

Don't think I will tag anyone...this was fun though.

Later!

Wanna hear Treyton read?

2008-04-03T09:32:00.002-05:00

Here is a link that will take you to a page that Treyton's teacher uploads to when her students read a book. Enjoy. It is cute. Of course, I would think that.

http://tuslawblogs.org/communities/files/85/3976/The%20Race%20(Treyton).mp3

Wedding Day.

2008-04-02T08:48:00.013-05:00

Here you go - meant to do this a little quicker, but due to an extremely hectic last couple of weeks it just didn't happen. WARNING: red eyes will appear due to extreme low lighting - haven't had a chance to go through and fix them yet.

Picking up the groom to take to the wedding.

Getting ready

We are ready - if this picture doesn't show the differences in their personalities, I don't know what would. A slight grin vs. a full-blown cheeser.
Actually, in reality - one of them just knows how to smile for a camera and the other one is still doing a bit of a fake look. 8-)
I know I'm his mother, but....
And yet another who can't keep his eyes open because of the flash so we nearly always have a lazy eye look. It's okay though - he means well. lol
Love this pic - with her you have to just catch her just right for a decent pic. Otherwise you get the aforementioned "cheese".
Yep, love that hair.

My incredible husband and his brothers who sang a simply beautiful (and nearly tearful for me) rendition of "The Rose". It was undoubtedly the best they had ever sung together.
Getting ready to come down the aisle. Nathan was on the other side of the church with a different camera so I don't have great pics of the coming in.

She did drop more than one flower this time. They walked seperately.
It was the bride's choice to have them walk up and then sit on the front seat with us. So this was taken once they got to us.
Jackson was the ring-bearer....they used an adorable bear for that. It was so cute.
Jada's basket

Mr. & Mrs.
A couple relaxed shots on way to reception.

D J - Introducing Jackson and Jada Weaver
If you will click on this picture you will see how seriously Jackson took his dancing. His tongue is out in fine fashion. He takes dancing very seriously and was the center of attention more than once on the dance floor.

The got this move down quickly. She had a "princess" look on her face each and every time and he felt like he was quite a success.
Treyton wasn't feeling too good. Felt bad for him - just wanted to sleep.
And so here he is - if a child can sleep through music being this loud, then more than likely a parent should let him sleep. Here he is sleeping on a couple of chairs lined up, but he was moved a couple of times through the night and still slept on.Just love this pic.
A very nice uncle who grew even more cool in his neices and nephews eyes this night.
Very cute picture of Nathan's nephew smiling and dancing with Jada.
Daddy and his princess. He can get sappy just looking at this child. I do admit to crying a little while holding the twins and listening to "...I don't know much, but I know I love you" being played by the DJ. Beautifully emotional moment.
Daddy and his very humorous (really) prince. He makes us laugh consistently.
Here you can see the people standing around in a circle around Jackson while he took his liberty there on the dance floor. Awww.....Certainly you knew this picture was coming.
And we made it...they were absolutley perfect. I know - I'm bragging. Seriously though, when you are a parent and you have two children in a wedding, you can get pretty nervous as to what their actions might be through the day. I was so pleased with how good they did.

We were sleeping when our heads hit the pillow at nearly 1:00am.
Mama's boy
Mommy's baby boy. I know - I still call the twins "the babies". Bad habit, but I don't see it being broken any time soon even though they are (unbelievably) nearly 4 years old.

I certainly hope no one was bored with these pictures. Tons of them and I apologize to those of you working on dial-up speed. You can shoot me later. 8-)

Love

An open invitation to all...

2008-03-31T21:33:00.002-05:00

Hey, there! It is spring - and I have yet to have a crop this year. I'm so sorry to those of you that are missing it. I am missing it horribly, but there have been so many things that have just not allowed it to happen. Oh, well.

Just letting you know that the next crop will be scheduled for April 11th. I hope as many of you as possible can make it. I enjoy having you here in my home to do one of my favorite things.

Again, the specifics are the same. $5.00. Bring a drink if you would like and you are welcome to bring a snack to share, but it isn't a requirement. I always add this so that those who choose not to bring something don't feel like they did something wrong if they get here and others have brought something along. Also, bring any and all supplies that you would want to use. The crops start at 6:30p and go strong until midnight. You may come and go as you please.

Please send this email along to any friend that you would like to invite. Everyone is welcome here. I do need to know (thank you for doing this for me) who is coming by Thursday the 10th. However, I am usually always able to fit one more in if someone forgets or has a change of plans.

Feel free to call me or email with any questions.

Scrapfully,
Myranda

330.806.6964

SCREEEEAAAMMMMM!

2008-03-26T17:07:00.002-05:00

8-)

It really isn't that bad, but I just want you all to know that my 5 year old has found the sustain pedal on the piano and I have listened to "Mary had a little lamb" and "God is so Good" at least 472 times today all while never letting up on the pedal.

And even more up to date; Jackson is now singing both songs with him with Treyton telling him where he messes up...all while continuously holding down the sustain pedal!

I do so love my life - really!

Hello - from beautiful NEW YORK CITY

2008-03-21T23:17:00.002-05:00

Hi, to all my faithful blog readers. We are having a blast here in NYC. So much fun to be with family and friends. I am sorry to say that pictures will not be uploaded until I get home. Although there is wireless connections in every room, you have to pay a decent amount daily to use it. I am currently in the business room here at the hotel and I don't really want to mess with uploading pics and then deleting them all from a public computer.

Have a great weekend.

Ta-Ta for now!

2008-03-19T07:51:00.003-05:00

And so we are off to New York City (yay) for a few days. We have a wedding to attend there. One of Nathan's best friends is getting married. Jada is the Flower Girl and Jackson is the Ring Bearer. They are so very excited. Jada keeps telling him little bits of info of how it will happen and what to do. She acts like she is the pro since she was already in a wedding. LOL.

Anyway, I will have my computer with me (have to...home-based business...must be available) so I can still have email access and may check in on my blog while we are gone.

Better run. Excited. Loads of things to do. Will leave tonight and be back Sunday sometime.

This will also be a time where Nathan's entire immediate family will be together. Always so very fun - I expect many, many laughs! And many, many hours of lost sleep! 8-)

Love to all!!

Expect pictures when I return. 8-)

Look, Mom! I won.

2008-03-13T18:06:00.006-05:00

Treyton was being creative today at our Breakfast Nook table when he held his paper up and said, "Look, Mom. I'm the X's. I won." What he had done was become the x's and the o's in a Tic-Tac-Toe game that he had drawn and played as a one man team.

I said, "Wow, honey. That is nice. Good job.", but I didn't stop there. I started thinking about what he had said. I think I could learn a lesson from him. This is how:

He was dealt a situation - a simple game. Somewhere in his mind he decided that he was going to be the X's and that he was going to win. He could have just as easily been the O's and I think that he would have still chosen to win the game.

So...when I am dealt a situation, either good or bad, I need to choose what I'm going to be (X's or O's) and then win it. Just that simple.

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

Excuse my ramblings...they may mean nothing to you, but I was struck down by it. I got something from it and maybe you will too.

Love to all!

Oh, the beauty!!!

2008-03-07T15:35:00.003-06:00

It is so beautiful outside!! I so so love it. However, I did leave here this morning at about 10:30 to run to walmart to get a something and I got stuck out in it. And if you think you can't get stuck in it within 45 minutes, then you haven't been in this storm. When I left here it was snowing, but there was no snow at all on the roads - and it wasn't snowing hard at all. I was in the store for 10 minutes and when I came out everything was totally covered and the roads were like ice. I made it home, but not without first sliding through several stop signs and having a near accident after I couldn't stop at a red light. It was fast - fast!! I did get home, but it took me twice as long as it would normally take for me to get home from Walmart.

It's okay now though. I'm home and tucked in my little house - my baby is home from kindergarten, so this mother hen has all her babies under her wings and is just waiting for the love of her life to get home. He's a good driver and knows just how to drive in it - but he did drive 2 hours one way to work this morning so that means he has to come back home now in this weather. It's taking a long time to be sure.

Was supposed to have a crop tonight - CANCELED. State Troopers have said that all should be off the roads and not leave their residences unless it is an emergency. Good enough for me. I'm gonna curl up with a blanket and some hot chocolate and enjoy this beautiful weather!

Love to all!!!

Ski fun!!

2008-02-19T10:13:00.004-06:00

A couple weeks ago while the boys had their ski lessons, I decided to go along so that they could all three be out in the cold and snowy weather. Although Jada didn't take the lessons, she had more than one employee of Snow Trails comment about how she appears to be a born skier. She was the only one of them that came down Mt. Mansfield, but only because there wasn't time for the boys to come down with their lessons. They all did good and we had fun - although I was a bit frozen. 8-)

Treyton with his instructor

Jackson after just having put on the second ski

Treyton - looks like he may have something on his mind.

Doing a great job coming down the bunny slope

Also doing a nice job coming down the bunny slope - he has no fear. That is good and bad.

Since the boys had lessons, Jada had plenty of time with Daddy. She loved every second of it.

Jada coming down Mt. Mansfield

I am not a skier, but if I was you can be sure I wouldn't be an instructor. Kids were everywhere! 8-)

Jack with one ski

So very excited - and cute! If I must say so myself. And yes, Jack did have a helmet, too.

Coming down the beginner hill

Obviously she needs to work on her posture. haha

She was cheering herself on

And just one more cheer for herself when she got to the bottom

Happy Birthday!

2008-02-07T07:17:00.001-06:00

So I had a great 27th birthday! 27...twenty-seven. Unreal. Nathan had a great weekend planned for us and we had so much fun. His parents had the kids for a couple days and he took a day off of work so we could have some time together.

We started the weekend with Breakfast at Amish Door - it was really good.

We went from there to Borders and spent some time there. Love this place - or any like it. He got me an Indians calendar here and it might have been the best gift! 8-) Go, INDIANS!

He had asked Derek and Lori and Dusty andPam to go out with us on Saturday night. Here you see Nathan, Dusty and Pam. Jada was in their wedding in October....remember all those pics?! 8-)

Derek, me and Lori.

Dusty made sure to tell them to come sing to me and right when they were done - you know, when the whole restaurant is quiet and looking...Derek said, "Happy 36th birthday, Myranda" very loudly. Yeah, he will pay!

Nathan had bought an Ice Cream Cake for all of us for when we got home. We all shared the dessert from Outback and then all had a piece of this. It was yummy!!

Pam

Derek and Lori. She was trying to do so good for the picture...Derek...not so much!

Dusty - lovely arm!

My man!!

So - here are the pics...

2008-02-01T09:44:00.000-06:00

Here is his Chrismtas party pictures.

Very cute Christmas cookies...

Giving his gift to Mrs. Hostetler

Giving his gift to the teacher's aide, Mrs. Bleigh

Getting his candy cane from Santa

Right around 100 of them. They were so good and stood so still. Their voices were just so innocent and sweet.

Can you find him?

There he is. Okay - if you still can't find him ..... 8-)

Here are some of them waiting. We had to drop him off in this room and pick him up here as well. His teacher is in the gray and his teacher's aide is in the red.

Christmas Baking.

Now the next few pics....It all started so innocently (and very badly - nasty pic!).

They saw the total fun (lol) we were having and a couple decided to join in.

And then the growing just got out of hand. People were everywhere.

Still growing.....

And here we are - fully grown! 8-) So you see...it all started so nice and easy...and it ended even better. I love these pics of my brothers and sisters! Does it look like we aren't sure where we all belong??? We are sure though - we belong TOGETHER!

I had to take a couple sets of pics at Christmas Time.

My mom:

Like this one...

Love this one...

Shuman Family:
One of my fave's

Another good one

My fave...and theirs, too, I think.

Wisdom teeth...

This was quite an ordeal...I know lots of people have been through it, but anyway... The dentist mentioned that he hadn't worked this hard ever to get someone's wisdom teeth out. And I was awake the whole time. 8-) It was okay. Just a little nerve-wracking - and painful only when they would hit the nerve with the saw. Actually, not totally true...it was painful the whole time. lol It's okay though. I had this done 3 days after Christmas and it is still making itself known.

So, I'm sorry....I know I was MIA for a very long time. I was terribly busy - but more than that...I just wasn't in the mood to blog. Hopefully it is coming back........

Christmas Program

2007-12-20T20:35:00.000-06:00

We had a great time watching Treyton with his classmates in their Christmas Program tonight. It was just so incredibly cute. You could see their personalities. Some of them were just so exctied to be there and then others never made it to the stage because of tears and fright. I too a bunch of pics and I will post them soon.

I should say - they aren't ALL in his class. There are 4 kindergarten classes, but they are all the class of 2019. 8-)

Talk again soon! (I know, you are all rolling your eyes right now)

Treyton's first SNOW DAY!!!

2007-12-05T16:34:00.000-06:00

We have had a wonderful day today. At 6:45 this morning it was broadcasted on the radio that Tuslaw Schools were closed for the day. I was so excited - our first snow day. Nathan left for work at 7:00 and was back in just a few minutes due to a wreck holding his brother up for over an hour. Anyway, when Nathan got back home he decided he was going to shovel the drive. When I heard that I decided to get the kids all bundled up and let them to play in the snow - just like you are supposed to do on a snow day!

Here are a few pics - it was beautiful...and fun!

He's Home!!

2007-11-07T13:55:00.000-06:00

Nathan is home from the business trip that he was on to South Carolina. He left here in the middle of the night last Tuesday morning and got home Friday morning around 8. The put in a full kitchen and 3.5 bathsrooms. It was a lot of hard work and and a little bit of sleep! Anyway, I made it okay, but it certainly isn't my favorite thing to do!

Welcome Home, Baby! I love you!

(PS: I'm including this picture because one of my favorite things about him is that he can have fun and is not inhibited. Self-Confidence, you might say!)

Our First Field Trip

2007-10-24T13:25:00.000-05:00

We went to Nickajack farms on Friday. It was such a neat place. I had never been there - but I suppose we will be taking the twins with us sometime when we go. Nathan would like to go as well. It is just down the road from us - don't know why we hadn't been there.

Miranda, Shaun and Treyton.

A couple of group pics - there were about 120 of us. When you have 90 kindergarteners running around it is all you can do to keep up! Treyton's teacher has the short, dark, curly hair and the gray jacket. She has her back to us.

Took a nice long hay ride - the kids loved this. There were two trailers full of us.

This poor mommy was expecting twins. I told her just to lay there and keep that ugly look on her face - I knew just how she felt! "WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING AT, PEOPLE????" People really do stare when your stomach is as large as it gets with twins. It's okay though.

I was just slow enough that I didn't catch Treyton petting the Llama.

Here is my group that I was in charge of. They were totally incredible.
Austin, Shaun, Treyton, Tamekia & Miranda. These kids all love Treyton so much - everyone wanted to stand beside him. It was just neat to see that he has friends and they really like him.

This bunny gave birth to bunnies while we were there.

They have a huge corn maze, but of course, that would be very dangerous with all those kids. They have a straw maze so that the kids can at least get the same idea. All of them loved it.

I told Treyton to go pet the horse so I could get a pic of him - he said that he had to wait his turn and he didn't want to break the line. He did pet the horse, but again, I don't have that picture. ARGH!

We had a great time. I have GREAT admiration for his teacher - each one of the kids are so sweet, but when you have 20...... 8-) She is just incredible.

I'm back -

2007-10-22T07:26:00.001-05:00

Although I'm not sure that any of YOU will ever be back here. I'm sorry it has been so long. Some of you have been very patient - others haven't. (MISSY!) lol.

I think mainly you are all wanting to see the pics of Jada's wedding she was in. Here you go. Hopefully I will be back tomorrow or the next day to give you more pics of other events.

Rehearsal Night.

The Ring-Bearer, Chase.

Dusty and Pam - Bride and Groom.

Hair Appointments. We had to leave our house at 7:30a to make an almost hour drive to get to the salon where the Bride and Bridesmaids and Jada were getting there hair done. I was a little nervous about this becaue the wedding wasn't until 4:00p, but it ended up to be just fine.

Love the yawn - she must've been a little tired! 8-)

Jada with her hairdresser - she really did a good job.

It was finally time to get ready. Her hair piece was so pretty.

She was so patient all day (SURPRISE) - here she was just looking around and waiting.

We told her to share her basket in hopes that Chase would then walk down with her.

They made about 5 steps together when Chase stopped, held his arms out and said, "Where's my daddy?"! So cute. Jada kept going since we had told her to just keep walking if he stops.

One of only two petals that she dropped on the way down the aisle.

The happy bride and her incredible dad.

She stood very still and just looked around. Although she did find Treyton, Jackson, Nathan and I and would make a cute little wave at us some times.

I suppose that once she got up there her nerves settled down because she suddenly decided that there on the step would be a great place to deposit the rest of her flowers. Since she wasn't making any noise and not moving around, they decided to just let her do it. 8-)

Whew - this means that we made it through the wedding without any major problems. The only thing she did that made me a little nervous was during the prayer she found me on the back seat and whispered very loudly, "I have to go potty"! Everyone heard her and chuckled, but she had just gone so I made her wait. She didn't mention it again.

Celebrating the new Mr. and Mrs.!

While they were ushering people out, she had a seat and started playing with the flowers. She looked so pretty there - she must've had 100 pictures take of her while she sat there.

Jackson was totally in love with her. He told her over and over that she was beautiful. She just thinks he is the coolest and would squeal and hug him every time he said it.

There was most definitely not a prouder daddy in the world that day.

Our incredible kids! 8-) Love those little stinkers!! They're beautiful, aren't they?!?! Ok, you don't have to answer that. I'm sure it is a mommy thing! haha

The Bride, my great friend - in a relaxed shot.

The wedding party's first dance. Dancing with the Best Man - Stu, and the Matron of Honor, Lori - one of my best friends!

Jada dancing with Pam and Lori.

Waiting to catch the flowers.

Taken during a very, very touching and emotional Father/Daughter dance that left Nathan hanging on to Jada with more than one tear being shed. Wow - that was a tough moment.

This is the way her night ended. It was 9:30 by this time and she had been going strong since 7 am. She fell asleep on Nathan shoulder while he was be-bopping around on the dance floor.

She was so good and obeyed everyone. She was the talk of the wedding.

After all of that, I'm happy to tell you that on Saturday night Jada was asked to be in yet another wedding in March. She is thrilled with the news and can't wait. Thanks to those of you who are choosing her to be in your wedding - makes us so proud.

I've been tagged...

2007-09-27T07:01:00.000-05:00

Thanks, Julie! 8-)

I'm supposed to tell 7 random things about myself. Here goes.

1. I have an incredible husband.

2. I had the largest baby (9lb, 1oz) and the two smallest babies (6 lb, 1 oz - 6 lb, 2 oz) in my family. And I am very fortunate to be able to say that I "had" all three of them. That is a rare things with twins these days.

3. Scrapbooking is my "fun side" of life.

4. I have been to all but 4 of the 50 states. Arizona, New Mexico, Hawaii and Alaska.

5. It has been 1 year, 1 month and 3 days since I nearly lost my life in an emergency - which then resulted in a major surgery that I am still recovering from. But I'm here!! 8-)

6. I told Nathan that I would NEVER date him, much less marry him. Look at me now! lol

7. I will be working 6 days a week for the next 2 and a half weeks. Good luck seeing any action on my blogs!

Seven people...

1. Melodie
2. Lizzy
3.
Time has run out - have to get out the door for work. Sorry. Will try to come back to this.

UPDATED

2007-09-04T14:25:00.001-05:00

I have recently updated my SCRAP SOLUTIONS blog. I have forgotten to scan the last couple of orders, but I got this order scanned and ready to send out tomorrow. Enjoy.

www.scrapsolutions.blogspot.com

First Day of School Pictures!

2007-08-29T14:55:00.000-05:00

I took a bunch of pictures of Treyton's first day - I will try to limit them to just a few. You know how I am about that, though! Hope I don't bore you too badly!

Yesterday was his second day and his teacher told him that he was the "goodest" kid all day. Way to make a mommy proud!! 8-) He is absolutely LOVING this so far!

His Teacher, Mrs. Hostetler

YAY!!!

2007-08-28T09:12:00.001-05:00

I try to keep my blog free from controversial or confrontational things, but I would just like to brag on our Indians! They are incredible!! Love them.

They made a TRIPLE PLAY last night in their game against the Twins. It was only the second triple play for the indians since the year I was born - which was 1981.

I'm pretty sure that it is all because of Grady - although he actually didn't have anything to do with the triple play. 8-) I'm pretty sure that he has a lot to do with them being in first place right now though!

And, yes, he did make that catch in that first picture - however, it was not in the game last night!! And, yes, we did win the game last night.

GO, INDIANS!!!

Kindergarten Orientation

2007-08-25T19:42:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pics of Treyton's Orientation yesterday. It was cool getting to tour the building there and see where he will be. Love his teacher - forgot to take a pic of her! How crazy!!!

He has mentioned several times today that he can't wait till Monday. He doesn't appear to be nervous at all. I'm not nervous - maybe apprehensive...excited...anxious. Does that all add up to nervous?? 8-)

Here he is - as the day gets closer it is dawning on me that he is actually still just the little...er...big baby that I had 4 years ago topping the scale at just over 9 pounds! The only difference is about 37 more pounds and about 27 more inches. Oh, well, I guess there are 4 years in there, too!

Standing in line waiting for his bus ride. All the way up - near the front. White stripes on sleeves.

Getting off the bus.

His classroom - there are 4 Kindergarten classrooms - roughly 20-25 in each.

Mrs. Hostetler's Desk

Computer station in the classroom.

I'm back - at least for this post...

2007-08-23T09:17:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pics of Jackson while he was at the hospital for his surgery. Sorry I have been missing for so long.

At home - opening a gift to help us through the day!

Waiting...

(Throwing "Graham" as hard as we could)

This girl was incredible. Loved her. She was explaining everything to him.

Last few minutes together before surgery.

Crying for Mommy.

First time we saw him post-surgery. Recovery Room #1.

Recovery Room #2. We were able to hold him here.

If he could eat this pop-sicle and keep it down then he could go home....They didn't know who they were talking to. This kid could eat anything!! 8-)

We're doing good...

2007-08-06T08:51:00.001-05:00

Jackson is coming along just fine. He sometimes still cries and says he hurts, but for the most part he is up and around. Which is much quicker than they had thought. He has been so incredibly patient through the whole thing and many times has tried to encourage me instead of wanting help for himself! 8-)

I do have lots of pictures from the hospital but to be honest I still have not even downloaded them onto my computer - way weird for me since I normally do that as soon as I get home from the event.

Thanks to all of you who have prayed for him - I know that is why he is as good as he is.

More update later and probably some pictures, too.

Love to all!

To the hospital...

2007-07-27T08:15:00.000-05:00

We are leaving in about 45 minutes to go to the hospital. I'm nervous. I'm okay though. Just keep praying for us.

Jackson seems to be good - he had a big gift (Thank you, Uncle Jack and Aunt Paulette) to open this morning and it helped get his mind off of eating. He is our eater and so he is not all that happy to not be able to eat, but... Daddy took him on a little drive this morning so that he wouldn't be here when Jada and Treyton were eating.

Marci and Micah are here with us. Thanks, Anthony and Josh! I can't tell you how much better my evening went last night when they were here to get my mind off of things.

Anyone is welcome to call anytime. With my list of people to call I am sure to forget someone - Please call me if you have any desire...after all, that will take my mind off of everything, too! 8-)

Love always...

2007-07-23T09:15:00.000-05:00

I hope that your summer is going slower than mine. I think I could have summer all year around. It just can't get hot enough for me I don't think!

I thought I would update and ask for some prayers. Jackson will be having surgery this Friday at 12:45. I won't go into details here in case someone has a weak stomach or doesn't really care to hear about it, but if any of you have the chance to pray we would really appreciate it. It is not a life or death surgery, but there is always a risk when you are putting someone to sleep. We don't have the choice of whether to do it or not - we have to do it or it will lead to some other problems. Jackson is fine with it all - he doesn't know what is going on. I, on the other hand, probably need more prayers than him.

I am fine with you asking questions (the5weavers@sbcglobal.net) if you would like to know more about it, but that is up to you since you all know what you can handle. You can also feel free to call anytime at 3308066964.

Love to all of you and I will try to update if I have a chance after the surgery. And again, any prayers are appreciated!

We're home!

2007-07-17T12:40:00.000-05:00

We got home Sunday evening and we were happy to be here. We loved ever minute of vacation, but it was nice to see home, too.

We went to Franklin BMC on Sunday morning - we had no intention of going (If you couldn't tell by our clothes), but with Marc and Melodie there and with us in the area, we just couldn't pass it up. We enjoyed seeing all of you and wish we could have visited longer.

I will get started soon on the rest of the 100 pictures that I promised. We took over 1,000 pics so 100 good ones shouldn't be hard to fin at all.

Love to all of you!! 8-)

HEY, THERE!!

2007-07-12T23:35:00.000-05:00

Here we are! I thought I would just take a second (a very short second) to upload some pics and just say hi. We are having an absolute blast!!! Can't believe we only have a couple more days. So sad - but we have thoroughly enjoyed every minute of our vacation.

I've missed you guys! (**whatever!**) 8-)

Here's the pics - enjoy!

(On our way)

(Scrapbook store where Amanda works)

(Us on 07-07-07)

(One of the 7 bears we saw in Cade's Cove. They were all at a good distance away. This is probably the best pic.)

(The best pic of a deer that I got. This one was with another buck - they were both probably as close as 15 feet.)

(We packed a lunch and found a peaceful spot to eat. It was great. We also hiked around a little while there - at least as much as you can with a 4 year old and two 3 year olds!)

(The kids learned all about the ant while we had lunch. We all had a great time watching this ant take lunch back to his family.)

(We were so very excited to have Marc and Melodie and the boys join us on Monday. We went to Dixie Stampede together Monday night.)

(Please, please click on this picture to enlarge and look at all faces up close!!! Especially Marc!! Love my Brother in law!!)

(Tuesday we went to Dollywood. Had a great time. Here we are waiting on the Water Rampage ride on which I was completely soaked to the skin while everyone else seemed to only have a little mist!!!!!!!)

(Our kids were game for anything that they were tall enough for as far as rides. I was totally surprised since their mother seems to want to stay away from them! 8-) )

(Another great face!)

(We were so sad when Marc and Melodie had to leave on Wednesday morning. We did get to do some Go-Kart riding that morning and then we to lunch together. We had a GREAT time together! So glad they could join us!!!)

(Need I say any more about these pics?? Nathan was kind enough to house a great amount of Scrapbook supplies on our way down here and we have had a great time SBing a couple of nights. This store is GREAT!!)

Please click on any of the pics for a larger version of the same file. It was quicker for me to update with all these pics in a smaller version. I know you think that is a lot of pics - you haven't even scratched the surface. Remember there are TWO Scrap-addicts on this vacation. We are working up on 800 pictures so far. And we love every one of them!!! 8-) I promise I will NOT make you look at all of them!

Thanks to each of you for your well wishes on my last entry. Hope you enjoy the pics that you begged for! 8-)

Love to all of you!!

PS - the picture clear at the top of the blog is a picture I took in Cade's Cove. It was just gorgeous the day we were there! We have had HOT, but beautiful weather!

NO more days!!!

2007-07-05T21:03:00.000-05:00

YAY! Can't believe it!!! I'm so excited. My vacation started when Nathan got home from work tonight. Just knowing he was home for good put my vacation into motion!!

We are totally ready. Van is loaded except last minute stuff. House is in near perfect order and completely cleaned. Laundry is done except what we have on and that will be going in the washer as soon as we don't have it on!! 8-) And there is not a dirty dish in sight. I love going away but the best feeling is going away knowing that you are coming home to a house that needs no work!

I will have my laptop and will try to update at least one time while on vacation. I love hearing from fellow bloggers while they are on vacation so I will try to let you know what we are doing and maybe post a picture or two.

Have a great 10 or so days until we come back!! 8-)

Love to all.

You are more than welcome to call us any time on vacation. If you get our voice-mail, leave us a message. We will try to get back with ya!

3308066964 - M
3304959330 - N

3 more days!!!

2007-07-03T12:34:00.000-05:00

The packing has started - can't believe it is actually happening.

Although I am so so so excited to be packing there is always that fear that I am forgetting something. Take a minute to share with me what you have forgotten to pack when you are going away. I like to hear that others are human, and besides that maybe I will learn from YOUR mistakes!! 8-)

Really - take a sec and do it. I'm excited to hear from ya!

4 more days!

2007-07-02T12:11:00.000-05:00

The excitement is building! Only 4 more days till we are outta here! I can't promise lots of updates between now and then, but I do promise to share at least 100 pictures with you when I get back?! How does that sound? Someone is going to have to tell me how to do the web album thing - or maybe I am going to have to take the time to figure it out.

If you or anyone you know is going to be in Tennessee while we are there - please let me know. Would love to say hi!

The twins are THREE!

2007-06-27T05:57:00.000-05:00

We had so much fun at the party. It's one of those things that seem to be a lot of work, but yet you are always happy you did it. The turned 3 on the 10th, but we didn't have the party till the 21st. Here are some pics for ya!

Jackson and Jada (Duh!)

Jackson, Jada, Treyton and their cousin.

Two more cousins.

And yet another cousin. 8-)

Gifts

We all got a good laugh out of this. They really wanted to leave them on, so we did for a little bit, but they were so hilarious looking.

New bike - it is so fun watching them on these new bikes.

Our balloon launch

My two nieces riding Treyton's dirtbike and the twins 4-wheeler.

We are fortunate to have an empty lot beside us. What will the kids do when we can't use it as our "road" any more?! 8-) Everyone had fun with it this night - even the adults.

If you click on any of the pictures you will be able to see the bigger file.

bak2u...

Janella~~Thanks for the comment. I'm waiting on that update! 8-)

Julie~~Good memory. Here are the pics to prove they are 3.

Tamra~~While at the Dr. yesterday she said that my lungs sounded almost 100% better. Don't have to go back for a month. YAY! Thanks for your concern.

...peeping into blog-world with a scared look on my face....

2007-06-26T06:44:00.000-05:00

I am so sorry! There - now that should make you all relax. I can't explain all that has happened in the last month. And on top of all that has happened, I have been sick - really sick. It was all allergy induced, but the Dr. says it was nearing pneumonia by the time I got to her (she was happy to let me know that I waited way too long to see a Dr. Why do I ALWAYS hear that?? lol) Anyway, thanks to those of you that checked in with me during this time to make sure I was okay - or to remind me that I really DO have a blog! I will give you some pics to look at today - there will probably be more pics than you want to see over the next few days.

I am off to the Dr. again here in a little bit. It has been a week since I have seen her and she says that is as long as she would wait to check-in with me.

Hope you all have a great day!

I would like to have more pics of our little fishing outing, but by the time we had been there maybe 20 mins one of my eyes were completely swollen shut and the other one was getting there. And yes, I even have pics of that! lol We had to leave - I felt bad for the kids, but we really had no choice.

{.....}

2007-06-05T18:40:00.000-05:00

The parade was great fun!
The wedding was beautiful!!
Children's Church was incredible!!!

Only 6 days till VBS!

I am working all day every day this week at Nathan's office. This is probably all you will hear from me. Kind of a fun change of pace, but yet difficult to talk to customers on phone or in person with little ones around! 8-)

Still here...

2007-05-30T11:31:00.000-05:00

Hey - still here. Getting ready for our month of Children's church and a parade we are in tomorrow night and a wedding this weekend and VBS next week!! 8-) Love to all!!

ICE CREAM TRUCK!!

2007-05-23T09:10:00.000-05:00

YUM!! They sure did love this - ALL of them!

bak2u

Heather - we know you would love to be at all the things, but can't because of your life there in Columbia. Some of us would love to be where you are at, too though - so if you ever feel like we are hanging things over your head from here in the states, be sure to remind us that not all of us get to live where you are living and learn all the things you are learning. 8-) Trying to help ya, not sure I did though.

Mel - same thing goes for you. I would love for my kids to be learning spanish and I would love to learn it to - but we aren't able to be where you are. Again though - not sure i'm helping. Love ya, though!! 8-)

I understand, Dawn. I'm sorry about all of it. Love ya!

It was great!

2007-05-22T09:53:00.000-05:00

I had a great time at the WOW Retreat!!! It was so relaxing and so beneficial to me. I had been feeling pretty low before that and I am much better now!

The concert was fun. Not saying it was perfect, but it did go okay and without any major problems.

I did NOT take pictures. I am so surprised at myself! Lori kept telling me, "You have only taken one picture," but I still didn't do any better. She was so amazed. Couldn't believe I wasn't taking more pics. There was a photographer - but that is a story for a different day!!! HAHAHA

bak2u...

Heather - I wish you would have been there, too. There was a great session on "Surviving life in teh ministry". Both you and Melodie would have really enjoyed that one. I even did and I'm not directly in Ministry. Thanks for the compliments on the kids - and yes, we did all have to sing. 8-) Scrapbooking is just incredible. LOVE it. It is great therapy for me!!

Julie - I missed you. Expecially after I saw Kristy! Wished so bad that you could have been there. I understand though - I didn't go when I had small babies either. Yes, You are right - I was pregnant with Treyton. Unreal!

Dawn - I need updates. Can't post to the same thing 10 times, silly!! lol You don't need to delete it - just keep going. I go there often and re-look at the pics. Why are you worried about not having a computer? You moving again?

Women of Worth Retreat

2007-05-18T10:53:00.000-05:00

This is what we did for hours last night - PRACTICE, PRACTICE!!! Just because we did it for hours doesn't mean we actually feel comfortable with it all. I really thought Marci and Anthony should have traveled all the way back over here to help!!! 8-)

We had fun though - trying to figure out Mama's new toy seems to have even Nathan baffled. We didn't have the correct book though so that didn't help. It is an incredible piano - and if we had had the book it would have been even more fun!!

I am leaving today at 3 and will be back Sunday afternoon. I am so excited. Lori is going with me and we are going to have a blast. Maybe I will see some of you there.

bak2u...

>>>Julie, maybe someday you can come visit and we could go there together. It is a blast.

>>>Mel, it is!

>>>Nancy, it is called Massillon Recreation Center. It is like the Y kind - except quite a bit bigger with more options. http://massillonohio.com/parks/reccenter.htm
>>>Janella - thanks for watching. Your blog looks great - and I enjoy looking at it.
>>>Thanks, Leanna. We so enjoyed you being here. Hopefully it isn't 2 more years till you come back.

Fun day!

2007-05-17T07:27:00.000-05:00

It all started actually on Tuesday night. After the group left that was helping us with the yard at about 9 or so, Jonathan and Leanna and Lindsey got here about 10:15 or so. We sat up and talked for a couple hours and then yesterday morning they didn't leave until nearly noon - we had a great time. I'm so glad they came. Lindsey is just precious and our kids loved playing with her.

Then last night was Swim Lessons again and we actually all went and paid the couple bucks for the twins to get in as well - and Daddy, too. It was so fun. They loved it. The toys there are incredible. We could just spend so many hours there.

An update: The goggles completely took care of the problem - as Treyton had "promised me with all his heart". 8-)

(If you look closely - Jada is in focus. It was a new thing I was trying. Trying to catch motion.)

We have a yard!!

2007-05-16T07:23:00.000-05:00

Well......ok - at least they tried. These guys came over last night telling me they were putting my yard in - I don't see any grass?? 8-)

Really, they were so nice to help. We had a great time and their work was stellar! Hopefully we will see green poking up through in a few weeks.

Ernie actually was here, too, but when I had the camera out he had gone home to get some more hoses for us.

Thanks to you guys - Nathan, Brent, Derek and Ernie.

Bak2u...

Thanks, Linda! I thought it was pretty neat, too. You doing okay?

I'm so proud!!

2007-05-15T13:10:00.000-05:00

As you all know - I love to scrapbook. Nathan makes many remarks about my paying for pictures and then cutting them up (someone should let him know that cutting them all up isn't even the style any more). 8-) Anyway, he does make some comments about it, but never actually complains about my spending on scrapbook stuff. He never sits with me and works with me on it or anything either. MUCH to my surprise and delight he made my mother's day card with his own two hands. Is that not just adorable?? And for those of you that are really scrapbookers I have to tell you all that he did. He used 2 different trimmers, three different papers, ribbon, ink (all edges), a rub-on (inside) and as if that wasn't enough - he figured out how to use my CRICUT and even used the negative image because he thought it was cuter to see through the "mom" part. He is amazing, isn't he? And really, honestly - the card is cute. He did a great job. He got up after I was in bed Saturday night so that he could surprise me with it - I can just see his huge hands doing all this.

Last night was another swim lesson for Treyton. He did good. I was able to get some cute pics of him.

(Looking just like his Daddy)

(His swim-mates)

(The Bob)

(The Front Float)

(The Back Float)

(The Spider)

("Swimming" down to the end and back up using arms and legs. He did really good with this.)

(The Sinker)

(The Sinker, contd. Yup, that is him under all that water. He was okay with this basically. Says the water burns his eyes and so he doesn't really want to open them to look for the sinker. I got him goggles last night after the class - he promises he won't mind opening his eyes. He was okay - I wasn't really. Most of you know that I have an extreme fear of water - some of you know why. It was all I could do to act calm while his instructor (who is really incredible) shoved him under the water to search for the sinker. It seemed like she would hold him under there for an eternity. I was more than a little nervous. I didn't say anything though - and just acted to him like that was normal.)

(The Sinker, contd.)

Bak2u...

**Julie - glad someone missed me. Braxton is improving. We saw him on Friday night - he is mobile. Pushes himself around with his hands. HE has very good control of his "red" leg - as we all call it. Thanks for being faithful to my blog while I was gone. We are very sorry about Grandpa as well - however, for those of us that saw him every day in the hospital we are glad that he is all better now.

**Ames - I certainly hope "normal" is right around the corner as well. I beginning to think that "normal" is just a thing that we all reach for and can't quite get any more. 8-) Love ya!!

**Tamra - glad to be back. Hope to see more of you guys now at your blog! Glad you have joined us!

**Leanna! Never give up, Friend!! lol Let me know about tonight - would love for you to come by!

I'm back...

2007-05-14T12:28:00.000-05:00

Did you even know I was gone? I sure did. I feel totally non-connected right now. Everything in the last few weeks has just made it impossible for me to keep up with my blog. I hope to get back on track now.

I should have some pics for you tomorrow.

Thanks for all your prayers during this time of loss for my family. We appreciate them.

Love to all.

M

It's a great day..

2007-04-27T10:12:00.000-05:00

I'm so sorry to those of you who have checked every day to see if I have updated. We have been busy - so busy.

Just an update -

Braxton seems to be doing good. Missy needs your thoughts and prayers as she is now having to change his dressing at home. She does a good job and it doesn't make her sick, but she just hates to have to do that to him. Gerald is doing some better it seems - please don't forget to keep praying for him though.

My grandpa is back in the hospital as of about 8:30 last night. We were there till Midnight and by that time they had discovered some heart problems that were needing to be watched. They also said that he was severely dehydrated and his kidneys were hardly functioning at all. His blood pressure is really low - one time it read only 60/37. PLEASE pray for Nellie - she is completely exhausted.

I promise to get back to all of you in the "bak2u", but today isn't the day. We were to be packing to go to PA today to visit family, but with Grandpa back in teh hospital we canceled. I am right now working on a Scrap Solutions order. Kids are outside. 8-)

I also will get around to all of your blogs soon - promise!!

Love,
M

Here are some pics...

2007-04-11T08:56:00.000-05:00

Can't chat - lots of things to do...most of you would rather pics than chat anyway!! 8-)

BAK2U...

Dawn - uh oh! What happened? Here's your Easter pics.

Anthony - yes, most definitely. Notice I added those pics on here before I metioned it to you or M.

blah blah blah

2007-04-06T22:09:00.000-05:00

I really don't have any exciting to talk about. We are busy this weekend. Lots of stuff to do.

Last night Nathan's mom had all of her grandchildren....11 in all...at her house so they could color easter eggs together. While she did that Nathan and I and his 2 brothers and wives went out to eat together. That was fun. Tonight we had to be in Salem at 7 to sing in an Easter Cantata with a couple other little choirs. It was really enjoyable. Glad they invited us! Tomorrow morning I have to be at our church to practice for a couple songs for Sunday and then we have a community Easter Egg Hunt that we are taking the kids to. Then after that I have to pull all the strings together for my part in our annual school auction. This is my first year to do this - Missy is helping so it is nice to do that together. After that we are possibly going to Pittsburgh to pick up Nathan's dad from the airport. He doesn't even fly in until after 10. Then back home and to church on Sunday morning.

Not sure I will be updating again before Sunday but HAPPY EASTER to all of you. He is Risen! God bless each of you during this time and may we all realize that beyond the cross is a tomb that is EMPTY!

LOVE!!

bak2u...

We miss you, too!! Wish you were here, Mel!

Dawn, I'm happy for you Dawn! Wanna go to church Sunday with us? Stenn can go, too! We miss you there!

Fun Weekend!!

2007-04-02T08:44:00.000-05:00

Well, it was more than just the weekend. Marci and Anthony came over on Wednesday and stayed until Saturday. We had a great time with them. LOTS of laughs and lost sleep, but who can go to bed when you have so much to talk about?!

Marci and Anthony left Thursday morning for a little getaway and I kept the kids. They came back on Friday early evening. The kids were good. Thursday night we took them to Safari Sam's here in Canton and we had a blast. Nathan was playing hide-and-seek with all of them in the Jungle Gym.

I'm so glad we got to keep them. Thanks, M & A!!

The much desired "mohawks" that Marci's boys really wanted.
I made sure not to let M & A know I did this until AFTER the event!

There is a free putt-putt course there. So cool.

BAK2U...

Dawn - I want you to have what we have too. Just keep looking and make sure you have the right person.

Thanks, Mel! Love you!

We will take the Leather, Tara! 8-)

Thanks, Brenda! Thanks for commenting!

Happy Anniversary to US!

2007-03-27T18:13:00.000-05:00

Yes, nine years ago today Nathan told me that he loved me. I was so happy. I didn't tell him that I loved him right then, but I did before the day was over.

And then - eight years ago today Nathan asked me to marry him. I was even more happy. I could do nothing else but say yes. It was so fun being the only two people in the world that knew the news. It didn't last long. We made some phone calls very soon after. So special!

The funniest thing is - we didn't even realize it was the same day until a couple years later. It wasn't planned at all.

I sent him a text message today at work. I told him that I still love him and I would say "yes" a million more times.

So great to know that we still love each other after this many years, and are still together. It's sad to say, but we are definitely beating the odds.

LOVE!

BAK2U...

Dawn - I'm sorry. I have been extremely busy. I will check it out soon! Love ya!

Hi, Uncle Jack and Aunt Paulette!!!!

2007-03-22T21:38:00.000-05:00

No, I really wasn't that close to you, but I was in PA today. 8-)

So we waved good-bye to our "pap-pap" today. He is on his way to South Africa for a mission trip.

Dad called Nathan earlier and said that he had reached Detroit and was waiting out his lay-over there and then was boarding a flight for Amsterdam. He will have a 2 hour layover there and then will be back in the air for S. Africa. He left here today at 3:05 and will not be back on the ground for good until tomorrow night after 10pm. He did have two layovers of 2 hours of less but besides that he will be in the air the whole time. He didn't seem too worried about it.

When asked his what his greatest fear was for this trip where he will be flying for so many hours and staying in a very primitive area (not even electricity), he quickly replied, "Cold Showers"!! I know, Dad. Those cold showers will get you ever time!!! 8-)

So "Good-bye", Father - in - Law. Safe travels!!

LOVE!

bak2u...

Mel - so glad you enjoyed it. I'm getting so much out of it.

Michael Bay - no, I didn't know there was a company names that. Neither did I know there was a you!! 8-) Come back soon! Really though - do I know you?

Dawn - call whenever you are ready to go to church. You are always welcome!!

Believing God...

2007-03-20T22:22:00.000-05:00

Nathan, Amanda (one of my best friends) and I are doing Beth Moore's Bible Study on Believing God. I'm learning - we all are.

There is so much more to faith that what we all take advantage of. After our 1-hour session tonight, I am so encouraged and amazed at that fact that we are exactly what God says we are. And that if He says He will - HE WILL!

Here is our 5-point Faith Statement. Read it and let it sink it. We all have it memorized and think of it often!

1. God is who He says He is.
2. God will do what He says He will do.
3. I am who God says I am.
4. I can do all things through Christ.
5. God's word is alive and active in me.

Love!!

Bak2U...

Thanks, Leanna! Me, too! 8-)

~ From my Promotion Manager ~

2007-03-17T22:30:00.000-05:00

Introducing.......Scrap Solutions

Dear Friends and Family,

I have something very exciting to share with you. My sister, Myranda, who has been blessed with incredible creative talent, has, after much thought, decided to open a home-based business called Scrap Solutions. She offers to share her creativity with you, by way of handmade greeting cards, scrapbook pages, checkbook/planner covers and other projects. To read more, visit her business blog at www.scrapsolutions.blogspot.com. You can view samples of her work, read info on ordering, find item and shipping prices and contact Myranda to place your own order.
If you're into scrapbooking/card making, you will find Myranda to be a great source for design ideas, advice, tips on the best scrapbook tools out there and more.
If you're not a scrapbooker, let her help you get started or just simply do it for you! I have already placed my order for some greeting cards in Spanish. I can't wait to receive them and share them with my friends here in Mexico.
Either way, I know you will be happy with her products. Take a moment and check out her website today. New samples and "special deals" will be added frequently. You may also contact her at: scrapsolutions@sbcglobal.net or 330.806.6964.

Thanks and have a wonderful day,
Melodie Sankey

I'm MUCH better!

2007-03-17T12:02:00.000-05:00

We had the crop last night - I ended up with 8 people here. A couple people canceled, but it was fine. We still had a lot of fun.

Today we are going to see my grandpa hopefully and then we have a birthday party tonight.

Hope everyone else is having a great weekend. Hopefully this is our last REALLY cold weekend.

Love!

Dawn, I still haven't checked out your new post! Sorry! Hopefully soon!

Julie, Glad you had a nice time outside the other day - It is very cold again! 8-(

Anthony - there are no words to respond to you! You are past ignorant!

Leanna - Is your mom continuing do to better?

Tara - Thanks for wanting me to be sick more. Nothing like the true love of a friend! I wish you were closer, too!!!

I'm sick...

2007-03-14T10:15:00.000-05:00

But the kids seem to be fine. Hopefully it will end soon.

Last night we took a 2 mile walk with the kids. It was great. Treyton rode his dirtbike and the twins rode in the wagon. Treyton can only ride his dirtbike when Daddy walks with us because I don't know everything about it and wouldn't want to do something wrong. We had a great time - the weather was just too nice to pass up. Wish I would have taken my camera - there were some very cute moments!

Today it is RAIN! Oh, well. I'm thankful for yesterday.

Love!

bak2u....

Dawn - okay, I will just keep checking. Hopefully something interesting happens soon. Do you know yet if you are going bowling tomorrow night? Hope you have fun, if so!

Tara - oh, don't be normal. How boring! 8-)

Julie, how cute! I'm sure she was just beautiful! I love the glove thing!

Leanna - Thanks!

Princess Jada

2007-03-12T13:44:00.000-05:00

Wow - did we ever have fun doing this?!?! Jada was thrilled and thought she was the icing on the cake. The close-up of her and the bride, Pam, is so cute. LOVE it. I wasn't able to get many pics of her like in front of the mirror or anything because they kind of frowned on it there at that bridal shoppe. The dress with the red sash is the one that Pam chose. It will have to be altered a little, but it really is pretty. Simple and little girl like. Pam was so concerned about that - she wanted Jada to look like a little girl and not a pre-teen. Thanks, Pam.

bak2u....

tara - if you must know....8-) they are called colorbox ink pads. they are really small and look like cat-eyes. in fact, most people call them cat-eye inks. you can use any type of ink pad, but the bigger they are the more messy they are to use. these are perfect for inking edges. any color/any size - as long as they are archival safe.

melodie - thanks. no orders yet. i did answer you though on the comment section. i will answer here again just in case you didn't see that. yes, i would make spanish cards for you - as long as you get me the script like you said. go back to that comment section and read the rest. not sure what else i said.

Card day -

2007-03-08T15:07:00.000-06:00

I've had several cards on order and the deadline is drawing near so I had to get them done today. I will post a couple of them on here. If any one of you would like to order cards, I do take orders. Shipping would be pretty cheap for you - especially if you got an order together so you weren't having to pay shipping each time you need a card. If interested, email me at the5weavers@sbcglobal.net.

Tonight I have a Tastefully Simple party to go to. Tonight is also Women of Worth night - however, I decided to go to the Tastefully Simple party since it is one of my new neighbors that invited me. She is just across the street. Lori called this week to make plans for Women of Worth. When I told her I wasn't going to that - she consented to go to the party with me. At least we will still get to hang out.

Back 2 u...

tara...i really want something funny to say back to you, but really - you outdid yourself. you had me howling laughing. love your sense of humor. never fails to make me laugh!! so when can you come up again?

dawn - love ya, sugar! all is cool with me! 8-)

i didn't have a chance last night to respond to my somewhat impatient sister - you know who you are. she posted that one minute before i posted my update. she begged my forgiveness later though when we were chatting!! 8-) (NOT!! wasn't even sorry at all)

If you could only see me...

2007-03-07T21:11:00.000-06:00

Bwah ha ha...you would laugh. For you see, I am on my knees begging forgiveness to those of you who have faithfully checked my blog to see if I have updated. I'm sorry, friends. I do call you that because I love each one of you - even Tara. Who publicly mortified me on my own blog. Even going so far as to call my scrapbook pages STALE!! See if I ever invite her back to my house - OH, WAIT!! I didn't invite her the first time around - she invited herself!! 8-)

I really do love ya, Tara - and look - you produced results with the "stale" comment! 8-) Really, I'm laughing. I could care less - just having fun with ya! You know how seriously (not) I take things. Really, we were so happy to have you here!

A few weekends ago Nathan and I and our kids, Missy and Gerald and their boys and our cousins, Brent and Mary all went to my grandpa's house to celebrate their anniversary with them. We had a great time. We took Grandpa and Nellie to Amish Door for supper and then we hung out at their house for a while. Here are a few pics of our fun!

Love to all.

Back to you....

Melodie - you aren't going to believe this. I JUST saw a layout about culture shock. Just a day or two after you left this comment. So cool - the page was awesome!

Thanks, Leanna!

Good, Julie - glad to hear that you think you will work it out somehow!

Tara. What do I say to someone like you? Maybe.......you made me laugh??? 8-)

Dawn...are you saying you don't like to see those pages and you aren't happy with seeing them every day for the rest of forever maybe??? lol Love ya, too!

Jet!! Your first post. So excited for you - and for me!! Love the matching paci idea. Since you bought her SEVEN bags of stuffed bunnies the other day.....I don't think it would surprise me to see all matching paci's!! 8-) Thanks for looking at my blog! Love ya!

Scrappy stuff...

2007-02-27T11:51:00.000-06:00

Here are a couple things I have done recently. Lots of my scrapbooking stuff is still in my basement in boxes, and you can tell that from the lack of embellishments on these layouts, but it is okay. 8-)

You can click on the pics to see a larger version.

The next two pages are a 2-page spread. The first one is the left and the second is the right.

Back 2 u...

Julie - that is hilarious! You just never know what is going to come out of the mouth of a child, do you? Mollie is constantly coming up with cute things! I'm glad that we got to take them. It was great! Have you worked anything out for IHC yet?

Nancy - you might be right. I think it goes to Cincinnati as well. It was a lot of fun - it was also expensive. Thankfully they let the twins sit on our laps!! 8-) We are glad we get to do these things with them, too!

Leanna - Nathan thinks he is my best bud - but it is really my camera! After all you only acheive "best bud" status if you go everywhere with me - in my purse. QUIETLY!! =) We just love making memories!!

Our weekend.....

2007-02-26T07:08:00.000-06:00

We had a great time. We got up early on Saturday morning and took Treyton skiing for his first time. We didn't put him in lessons because it is so near the end of the year that we almost felt like it would be a waste of money because he might forget what he was learning before he can go next year. We had a great time. He went down the bunny slope with Nathan a bunch of times and by the time we left, he was skiing by himself down the little tiny hill at the bottom of the bunny slope. He was very proud of himself!! 8-)

After that we came home and got cleaned up and went to The World's Toughest Rodeo. It was so fun. We had a great time. After that Diamond Rio was in concert so we stayed just long enough to get a couple of pics and then we left.

Back to you......

Dawn - if you ever decide to come back to church then you will get to see Caden! 8-) Just playing with ya! Luv ya!

Leanna - Caden was born October 24th. Of course, I'm sure you figured that out. 8-)

Missy - I was hoping you would freak out! lol You deserve it for all those times you let Jada laugh out loud and carry on in church when you would hold her when she was a baby! 8-)

Julie - I know. When Bryce was born I thought it was so neat that you had named him that. I really like that name, too! Love!

Baby Caden Bryce!

2007-02-22T14:16:00.000-06:00

Yes, most people do only use first names - but it has become a habit for me to call him Caden Bryce. Actually, the twins always have called him his full name since the day he was born and it just stuck with me. They say, "Cayun Bice".

This baby has wound his little fingers through the fingers of my heart. I can't believe he will be 4 months old on Saturday! He is incredible! As are all of my nephews! 8-) This one of course, lives closer to me than all but one of the others do so I am fortunate enough to get to see him and Braxton a lot more often.

**Disclaimer**

Neither Missy nor myself ever took our children anywhere in just a onesie. It is completely my fault that there is a picture of Caden on here with a onesie on. I am prepared to recieve the beating I will get from his mother.

Back to you....

Julie, would there be anyone that you know that has one? I wonder if you can rent things like a double stroller? A wagon?? Okay, I am really trying here!! 8-) I just want to see you and visit for a while. 8-)

Tara - BREAK THE BAD HABIT! I am such a good friend. I doubt a day ever goes by that I don't comment on your blog...cough/sputter/gag! 8-) It's okay, really. We all do it. I know you are interested.....I think! haha Can't wait to see ya!

Ice Skating...

2007-02-21T06:45:00.000-06:00

About a month ago we went Ice Skating with our youth group from our church. It was a lot of fun - of course, I sat with the twins, but that was okay with me. Treyton had not been before and he did really good. Nathan loved it as well. We will probably go again soon - Treyton keeps asking! 8-)

I'm sorry that the pictures are bad quality. I had to take through the glass.

Back to you....

Julie - you are always so faithful to comment. Wish we could get together some time - you will be at IHC, right? Hopefully we can spend some time together there. I would love that!

Melodie - so glad you are home. I really missed you around here! Thanks for stopping by! Wish you were here! Love you!

Valentine's Pictures...

2007-02-20T07:49:00.000-06:00

I know these are a little late, but I have been a little extra busy the last few days. We did have a great Valentine's Day and had fun making cookies with the kids. They loved them and just thought it was so cool that they got to "make" them!

Back to you....

Hi, Leanna! We had a great time taking all those pics. It is so fun making memories. The older I get the more I realize that that is really all that is important to your kids! Love ya!

Snow Play!

2007-02-15T16:59:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday night when Nathan got home from work he told me to make supper wait for a little bit because he wanted us all to go out and play in the snow. It was so much fun! I'm so glad we got to go out. It was nearly 30 degrees - although that is still cold, it is a lot better than the 2 - 4 degrees that we had been having! We were out for about 30 mins or so. The kids loved it. It was still pouring snow while we were out there, so they didn't really care for the snowflakes blowing in their eyes, but they loved sliding down the drive. We had about 10 inches or so on the drive-way.

Back to you....

Julie - thanks for the anniversary wishes. We did have a great time. Ready to do that again any day!!! Love ya!

Hi, Dawn. I wondered how the funeral went. Thanks for letting me know. Hope to see you again soon. Call if you are ready to go to church with us again! Lovums!

Our FANTASTIC weekend!

2007-02-13T12:49:00.000-06:00

Happy 7th Anniversary to us! The best gift Nathan gave to me for our anniversary was a weekend without the kids. That sounds awful, but sometimes I just need a little time away. It all started with taking the kids to his mom's house on Saturday morning at about 9:30. We didn't get them back until yesterday afternoon at about 3:30 or so, I believe. We stayed here at home. We just had a great time with each other!

On Saturday morning we went to the business office to take care of customers and answering the phone for a couple of hours. We were there until about 12:15 or so. It was really fun. So quiet and if there was noise it was from other adults!

We went from there to Berean Christian Book Store. Earlier in the week Nathan had won a book from a radio station. The book was very appropriate for what we were celebrating. Thanks, 95.9 The Light. 8-)

We went from there to the Mall where we got Lunch at a great Chinese place there in the mall.

Nathan had an Aeropostale Gift Certificate from Christmas and so we went there and got a couple of shirts for him - then went to a different store and got him a pair of RL pants from me. Pretty cute, huh?? 8-)

We spent the evening with our great group of friends!! Thanks so much for having the get-together. The food was delish, Lori!!

Sine Nathan doesn't know how to play Poker - he was the all-time dealer.

On Sunday we slept in till almost noon. That is absolutely unreal to think that we did that - even still. I think that is as long as we have slept since our kids have been born. That would make it about 4 1/2 years. Yeah, we felt lazy, but it was okay - we had nothing else to do.

Monday we decided to go to the cute little bridge where he asked me to marry him and take some pictures. So, yep, we took the tripod and all. It was snowing fiercely (as you can see in the pictures if you look closely) and it was not even 20 degrees, but we were un-stop-able!! I'm sure we were quite a show. Laughing and being loud - racing each other back to the camera to see what the picture looked like!

We got lunch and by this time we were missing the kids pretty bad. So we called and talked to them and told them we would be there to get them before too much longer.

After lunch went bowling and then to Nathan's parents to pick up the kids.

It all ended with a candle-lit bubble bath in our Jacuzzi. It was gorgeous. The new candles were part of my anniversary gift!

So there you have it. That was our wonderful weekend! Enjoy the pictures. Hope you all had a great weekend as well!

I want to mention - last night we went to the viewing of a friend of ours. They were our neighbors while we lived on 24th street. Their house burned almost completely a couple of years ago and then about 10 days ago one of the sons was in a car accident. He was the passenger. He lived for a week and then passed away. These people are devastated and we told them we of course would be praying for them. They said they knew we were and expect us to continue. Please pray for these friends of ours!

LOVE!

Back to you.....

Julie - I don't curl her hair that often. I should do it more. She loves it so much! Thanks!!

Thanks, Dawn! So glad I got to see you last night! Luv ya!

Leanna. Thanks for the compliments. I'm glad I got to take a few pictures of them. I'm sorry to hear that Jonathan is still so sick. I will be at your blog soon to see how he is!

More pictures of the kids....

2007-02-09T13:31:00.000-06:00

I took these pics of the kids on Sunday before church. I meant to share them earlier. I forgot!! 8-)

Her hair really is long for a 2 year old. When I curl it - it looks so short from it shrinking it up! 8-)

Last night was Women of Worth. I had a great time. It was a valentine's theme. There was a chocolate fountain and lots of "dippy" things. It was delicious. Ms. Carol spoke about relationships/friendships. Now that I have conquered being a good wife...8-)...I really just want to be a good friend. It was well thought out and very well delivered. I enjoyed everything she said and I may even ask her for a copy of it if she allows copies of her "sermons". Anyway, I really needed what she said. Thanks, Carol! I'm glad you are our pastor's wife!

Grandpa and Nellie's anniversary is today. Earlier this week I contacted them about Nathan and I and the kids going out to eat with them tonight. Then I thought about inviting Gerald and Missy and the boys. And then I wanted to invite Brent and Mary. So - all of us are going to Amish Door tonight at about 6:00. I am sure I will take pics and maybe you will get lucky and I will share them with you!! 8-) I believe this is their 6th anniversary. Happy Anniversary, Grandpa and Nellie!!

LOVE to all of you and yours on this Valentine's Weekend!!

Back to you.....

Julie, Thanks for pushing me even a little farther. I may put a few things on here - mainly cards. The worst thing is that I would have to charge a little more because shipping is involved. We will see.

Leanna - Just keep thinking about coming up - no pressure. You have lots of things happening. I will be looking at your blog to see how Jonathan's Dr.'s visit went.

I'm still alive.....

2007-02-08T07:09:00.000-06:00

This is the longest I have gone without updating my blog. Who knows why I didn't get it done. Just didn't do it. No good excuses beside my normal lifestyle. 8-)

I did get to Scrapbook just a little bit yesterday. This was a challenge between Amanda and I. We share a Layout with each other once a month and the other has to scraplift it. This is our first month and I still haven't even gotten a new LO to her yet. Oh, well. I will soon, Manda - promise!! Here is mine - and I will give you hers as well to show how the LOs are alike. Unfortunately they aren't exactly alike since she had enlargements of her pics and also because my printed paper had words that I had to keep right side up so I didn't have the amount of leftover pieces. But they are still almost exactly alike. I enjoyed this, Manda!

I also made a card for one of my friends in Indiana whose father passed away on Sunday night.

Last night we went to church. Pastor Cravens had gone to the Philippines in January, so in our service last night he showed a bunch of pictures and let us know what all went on over there. It was interesting. We are glad he got to go.

Today I have to finish up laundry. Don't have much left. Did most of it yesterday. Tonight is Women of Worth. They will have a chocolate fountain there. YUM! I shouldn't be eating it, but I am sure I will have a little. A very little! I called Pam a few times to see if she wanted to go - still haven't heard from her. I'm sure she is really busy. I think I will still go though. Lori can't go this time.

Hope all of you have a good day. I will try to update again quicker than I did this time. Poor Aunt Paulette checks this every day. I'm sure she got awfully bored looking at the same thing every day!! 8-)

LOVE!

Back to you.....

Dawn - Missy doesn't have a blog. Sorry. We will see each other soon!! l8r, g8r!

Missy - I really wish you could have been here, too. I waited for you all night. Hoping that you would be able to come. I understand though. There are more of these and there is only one time a year where you guys get together. It is fine. YOU BETTER BE HERE NEXT TIME THOUGH!! 8-) Luv ya!

Leanna - Yes, you should start. Or you are at risk of getting terribly behind like me!!! haha No, I understand that it is a big deal to just make yourself start with it. And I k now it is frustrating to get it out and put it away every time. Maybe sometime you and Jonathan can come up on a weekend when I am having a crop. Is Jonathan any better?

Didn't get a thing done....

2007-02-05T06:56:00.000-06:00

But we had so much fun!! We laughed and laughed and talked and talked! It was just great. The best part was when Nathan and Brent called from Applebee's and asked if I wanted anything. Nathan was kind enough to bring me boneless buffalo wings. They were so hot my mouth was on fire. But they were good. I have a few pics of the evening.

After everyone else left, Amanda, Nathan and I sat out there and talked. Amanda and I were still scrapbooking some.

Then we decided to all get in the Jacuzzi. It was fun. We were in there for an hour - we were so hot after that as the heater in the Jacuzzi warms the water up so much. After that we got out and were going to watch a movie about scrapbooking. We didn't get very far - we were all so sleepy. Of course, by this point it was 4:00, so we gave up and went to bed.

LOVE!

Back to you......

*****Dawn - We will chat sometime today or tomorrow to give you directions. I'm excited to see you and to meet Stenn. luv ya.

*****Nancy. Thanks so much for commenting. All of you have me thinking about selling some of my stuff. Maybe I should make a few things and even just put them on here. I could just see if it would work. Hmmm. At least you got me thinking! Thanks for the compliments on the paint. Some people think I am way too out there. I like color though. 8-)

*****Yeah, Tara. I sell Creative Memories stuff. Do ya need anything? 8-) Maybe you and Matt could come up so weekend and you and I could scrapbook and Nathan and Matt could....hmmm..I don't know....BABYSIT???? haha

*****You know what, Julie? When I picked those colors it was just because they were all in here comforter set. Then she got tons more Dora stuff for Christmas and when I put it in there it all goes so good. It is like we did it all for Dora. So neat. Glad it matches because that stuff is her fave!!

Getting ready to scrapbook....

2007-02-02T12:50:00.000-06:00

I am so excited! It is finally time for the crop and I can't wait. Tonight is the night. Hopefully I will have some SBing stuff to share with you tomorrow. Just pray that some creativity spell gets cast on me so I can make something happen. Not sure how much I will get done. There are some beginners coming and sometimes that means I am up and around a good bit. That is fine though - that is why I am here.

I have got tables sitting up everywhere! My house looks hilarious. I think there are 11-12 people coming and so I had to have a decent amount of table space for each one. I think we will be fine.

Here is the pic of my Great Room - I'm ready for this!! 8-)

I also have been making sure everything else is in order so I got the kids rooms all fixed and cleaned up. Now to make them stay out of stuff till their daddy takes them away tonight!!!

One of these days I will post a pic of my room. Right now is NOT the time!!

Love!

Back to you.....

Aimee - thanks. They must all look like their daddy!! 8-)

Dawn - so glad we are back in touch. PLEASE be good and don't do anything you know you shouldn't do. I love you and I only want what is best for you! I know I holler atcha, but you know it is only cuz I care!

Julie - I guess if we put their relationships in writing now - what could they say??? haha. Really, it would be wonderful if some of them got together - but I'm afraid we don't have any control over that!! Too bad!

Tell me to go clean!!!

2007-02-01T06:57:00.000-06:00

I have to get away from here and get my house cleaned. My crop is tomorrow night and I have to get everything cleaned and then set up all the tables and chairs. I think we are really going to have a good turnout. Hopefully no one changes their mind. I'm really excited about it.

I don't have much to say today. Just that I am so enjoying everyone's blogs. Keep up the great work!

Here is a pic I took of the kids. It is awfully cold here. The high on Tuesday was 13 and the high on Sunday is 11. Brrrrr!!

Back to you.....

Melodie, if everyone else was as big of a fan of my work as you are - then I would have a booming business. You are a bit biased I think, but I'm okay with. Makes me feel good! 8-)

Brenda - get started again. It is so fun. I'm sure that you need something fun to add to your life!! 8-) Really, I do know that life gets a little busy. When we were building and after my surgery I took months off. I'm glad to be back at it. Thanks so much for stopping by!!

Julie, Thanks so much for starting a blog. I love seeing all the pics!!! I would be happy to make you a planner. Just let me know.

Leanna, I'm so glad I could help you come to that decision!! 8-) I'm glad you have a blog, too! Love seeing all the pics and you do a great job with it.

Altered Day planner...

2007-01-30T09:31:00.000-06:00

I had a great day yesterday - hope you did, too. As you remember - Nathan's mom and dad took the twins with them to Columbus Saturday. That means that they weren't to be back until Sunday night around 10:00 since they stay for both services down there. Then Treyton went home with a friend on Sunday night. While Mom and Dad were on their way home with the twins, they called and said that Jackson and Jada were asking if they could stay at their house again. So - for Sunday night it was just Nathan and I here at the house. I didn't get the twins back yesterday until about noon and Treyton didn't come home last night until about 7:30. I had a great weekend.

This was the last thing I did. It is a pocket planner that I got at Walmart for a couple bucks and then I altered it. I like how it turned out. I had my checkbook cover altered, but when some VERY BAD person decided to steal my purse last year they took it with them. 8-) I will do another check book cover soon. Then I will share that with you!! Aren't you excited? I do sell these if anyone is interested. haha Nothing like pushing your own stuff!! The first picture is the front and the second picture is the back.

My Mother-in-law was planning on coming over today to workout with me, however, the roads are really bad and now I'm not sure she is. Most of the schools in our area were canceled today. Wish I were in school so I could love the feeling of having a snow day!! 8-)

Talk again soon.

Love!

Back to you...

Julie - so GREAT to see you here. I'm so excited for you and your new addition to your family. He is beautiful. Are things going okay for you? How are things going at school? How is Mollie loving her new baby? Come back soon. Love ya!

Leanna - thanks for stopping by. I'm always excited to see your comments. You are faithful to come back to my homely little blog! 8-) Luv!

Melodie - I know that you miss the snow - I miss our warm weather, too. I think it would be great to have warm weather year round, but I'm sure I would miss the cold after a while.

My little Man...

2007-01-28T08:06:00.000-06:00

At least the one that is with me today. As I mentioned yesterday - Nathan was skiing yesterday and will be home this afternoon. Nathan's parents took the twins to Columbus with them. So I am ready a little early today - only ONE child to get ready really goes fast!!!

Here are a couple pics I shot of him this morning. Some cool ones and a fun one.

LOVE!

Back to you...

Tamra - thanks so much for the compliments. There is nothing I would love more than to make a business out of it. However, you DO have to have customers and that seems to be something I am short on!! haha. Thanks for looking!! 8-)

I WON!!!

2007-01-27T07:51:00.000-06:00

Gerald called Nathan earlier this week and said that he and Brent were going skiing today and wondered if he would go. They were going to go to Hidden Valley in PA. He wanted to so bad, but he hates to leave the kids and I home alone for another day out of the week. I tried my best to get him talked in to it. He wouldn't budge. However, yesterday I called his mom and asked if she would keep just one of the kids today so that I wouldn't be stuck home with them all day again. Of course she agreed and when I told Nathan you could see that that had really helped him. Then last night we went to Gerald's birthday party and of course Brent was there also. They put a little (very little) pressure on him and he caved. So he left this morning at 10 after 5. They are there now. Just talked to him - says he is having fun but they haven't started skiing yet.

This is the card I made for Gerald's 30th birthday. Thanks for the food at The Barn, Gerald. It was delish! By the way - can I burn your CD that we got you?!?! haha He doesn't even look at this so don't know why I'm asking here.

Missy and I are going to go shopping today - probably all day - or as long as we can. Mom is keeping at least one of my kids and Aunt Judy is keeping Caden. We will have a lot of fun.

Hope you all have a wonderful day.

Back to you....

Pam - you know, I do make scrapbooks for other people. All you have to do is ask. I'm cheaper than most, too!! 8-) I would love to work for ya! Thanks for your compliments. Tons of luv!

Winter Wonderland!

2007-01-25T09:42:00.000-06:00

From the inside of course. It is gorgeous. I know a lot of you have been having this for a few weeks, but this is the most we have had this year. And probably the longest stretch of cold weather as well. 50's and 60's in January just don't get it. Love snow - but I am more than ready for it to be over after a while.

If you look closely - you can actually see some of the snowflakes. They are huge - and just slowly falling. Kind of like tumbling through the air. So pretty.

While I was taking this picture below, I never even saw Jackson standing there looking out. So cute. They love the snow and Treyton can't wait to go skiing.

Hope you are all doing good. Aunt Paulette - did you get those cabinets all finished? If so, you need a full week break!!

LOVE!

I finally made something...

2007-01-24T08:13:00.000-06:00

I made some thank you cards yesterday. I had several people that I needed to thank for stuff and I had some store-bought cards, but I took the time to actually make them. I'm so glad I did. I had a lot of fun doing them. I know it probably doesn't mean as much to those getting them as it does to me, but I love doing it.

They all basically were the same -just different papers. In fact - some were the very same papers so I only posted two different ones here.

Back to you...

TARA!! I've been looking for you! So glad you found me! I was so excited to see you had posted. I have looked and looked at your blog. So excited about your house. I may just have to do that 50's thing in one of our houses!! Loved it! Come back soon!!

My Birthday Dinner!

2007-01-22T07:41:00.000-06:00

It finally happened. I had been so excited about my birthday dinner with Dusty and Pam, Derek and Lori. It finally got here. On Saturday night we went to the place of my choice ~ Cheeseburger in Paradise. None of us had been there before and it turned out to be a good decision. It was delicious!! Really, Derek does not always look like Donald Duck! 8-) He did it on purpose though!!!

Derek and Lori got Sweet Potato Chips for their appetizer. They were good. Different, but good. Dusty and Pam for mini-cheeseburgers for their appetizer. So cute. And very tasty! Nathan and I both got the BBQ Cheddar burger. It was incredibly scrumptious.

Dusty promptly told someone that it was my birthday so when we were done with our meals, they brought me ice cream and sang to me. They made me stand up and I heard a couple of "Get up on the table and dance" comments. It was a little embarrassing and very funny. It was good ice cream though.
They got me gorgeous flowers and they were put in to a pottery vase that Lori and Pam picked out specifically for me. It is heart shaped. So pretty. They even picked the color to paint it and painted it themselves. Much more of a memory. They also got me a hilarious card. So funny!

Lori's parents, Mr. Chuck and Ms. Nancy (This is what we are trying our best to get the kids to say), kept the kids for us while we went out. The kids absolutely adore them and all Chuck and Nancy do is play, play, play the whole time!! They are incredible people.

Thanks so much, Friends, for a very fun birthday dinner.

LOVE!

Back to you......

~~~Aimee - it was so incredible to see you here. I'm glad you took the time to stop by. Hopefully you can come back by soon. I will be looking for you. Luv ya!

~~~Becca - I can't believe I found your blog. I had been looking for it for several days - I knew you had to have one out there somewhere. Glad I found it. Thanks for commenting here. Hope to see you again soon. Love!

~~~Leanna - it was so fun. Loved it. So relaxing. Have you guys talked any more about when you are coming up? Let me know when you decide. Hopefully you can soon, but I do totally understand that you are very needed there.

~~~Merrilee - I was so surprised to see your comment the other day. That made my day. How are you guys doing? Hope everything is going well for you!! Do you have more time on your hands now - maybe we could get together some time. Love you!

~~~Melodie - ask Nathan why I deleted it!!!!!! Did you see it at all?

Fun, Fun!!

2007-01-19T17:10:00.000-06:00

Although yesterday was my birthday, it didn't feel like it at all with the funeral and everything. Nathan told me late last night that he wasn't working today so that he could be with me and celebrate my birthday today. 8-) Gotta love him!

This morning I woke up to a steaming hot bubble bath in the jacuzzi. As if that wasn't good enough - there was also a man there with some toenail polish ready to paint my toenails. It was so sweet. Loved it. That is the first time in nearly 7 years so it was a wonderful surprise!

He also made lunch today for us and he is in the kitchen now making supper. Lasagna, corn and rolls. Table is set and he is just waiting for the lasagna to finish. Won't be too much longer.

I suspect we will go out tonight - I have some birthday money. However, if not - we will just continue to have fun here.

Also, yesterday after we got home from the funeral he tucked me in bed with a lot of pillows all around me and told me to read or watch something - whatever. Then he closed the door and kept the kids out of here so that I could have a little time by myself. When I got up, the kitchen was completely cleaned and much more presentable than I had left it before the funeral.

Last night he took us to El Rodeo and told them it was my birthday and I got a delicious fried ice cream out of the deal. Of course, it came with 5 spoons so......I did get some though. I got all I needed!!

It has been a very happy day-after-birthday today!

LOVE!

We're doing okay.

2007-01-18T18:19:00.000-06:00

Just letting you all know that today was the funeral and we have all made it through it and we are doing good. It was tough - of course. I think we were all ready to get this day over with though. It is somewhat draining.

Treyton kind of fell apart today right before the funeral started. It was very different. He is not usually like that at all - just kind of takes things as they come. However, he cried and cried and said he was so sad that Grandpa died. He was happy though that he went to heaven. I felt pretty bad for him. He stopped after a while - but he must have cried for 20 minutes. Then any time he saw someone else crying he would cry again. I held him for a long time.

Hope you all had a great day today.

Love!

On a different thought ~

2007-01-16T07:17:00.000-06:00

I was so excited on Saturday morning about some pics that I wanted to share with you that we had taken on Friday night. However, with Grandpa's death it seems a little harsh to look like all we wanted to do was have fun. It has been a couple of days now and I do really want to share these pics so I am going to go ahead.

Friday night we had a complete family night - at home! We ate supper here and then got up and played with the kids until bed time. It was so fun. Nathan and the kids played Jenga Blocks until I got supper cleaned up.

Then when I was done with the supper stuff, we played memory for a while. Treyton won - fair and square. It is unreal how good a kids memory is.

Then after that - the kids and Nathan would run to the edge of the tile from the foyer and see how far they could jump. The twins weren't very successful. It was hilarious. However, Treyton and Nathan did good. Treyton's biggest jump was 4ft and 8in. I thought that was really good - even taller than him. Nathan's jump was 11ft 5 in. I am going to post pics of them jumping on here - however, if you aren't here to see them before Nathan gets home tonight then you probably won't see the one of Nathan. He will make me delete it as soon as he gets home!! 8-) We were absolutely howling laughing!

(REMOVED PICTURE)

After that we played tag and then hide and seek in here. We had an incredible night with the kids. So much fun - without spending a penny! Don't have any pics of tag and hide and seek. Nathan was scaring us so bad I was freaked to carry my camera around!

We wish a great day for you!

Love!

Back at you....

Melodie - thanks for the message. We appreciate your thoughts for the family. Thanks also for the TM the other night to Nathan. That really helped him!

Leanna - It is hard to see one's you love hurting so bad. They are doing as good as can be excpected though. Thanks for your continued thoughts for the family.

Another Monday...

2007-01-15T12:51:00.000-06:00

It's Monday again. This is a different Monday though. Phone calls, questions, discussions. I don't usually have this many thoughts going through my head on a Monday! 8-) We are trying to get everything in order for the funeral. Nathan's Dad and his sister met this morning with the funeral director and got things in order with him.

We had a nice time together last night. We are all sorry that Neal and Bev and their family weren't able to be with us.

Continue to pray for the family - they have a hard week ahead of them.

Hope you all have a great day.

LOVE!