Our Family Adventure

My Mom

2008-06-04T13:48:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of my mom...she has finished her "Sassy Shopper" book. She is still in the process of getting a big publisher, but she is able to sell many books just be word of mouth. I was able to go home Mother's Day weekend and help support her at her book signing at Bridgeport Village. She had a great time and was able to sell quite a few books. If you are ever looking for a great girlfriend gift...this is it. It is small enough to put in your purse (checkbook size), but chalk full of great ideas for fashion. You won't need to spend time or money with a personal shopper. Here is her website if you want to order some books, or just browse the book....

http://www.sassyshopper.net/

Memorial Day Fun

2008-06-04T13:35:00.000-07:00

Every year we go on an annual "Jabusch Family" trip with my in-laws. This year we had to do the trip early since both of my sister-in-laws are pregnant. The thought of having 8 adults, 6 kids, and 2 newborns in one house on a vacation just didn't seem right.

We all packed up and went to Cannon Beach for 4 days. We had a great time. The kids went in the freezing cold water and we all got together and built a sand castle, flew a kite and had s'mores. Here are some pictures of our weekend away.

Freedom Friday

2008-05-02T13:58:00.000-07:00

The Before

Well it was April 24th 2007 that I did a Tackle it Tuesday and my job was to redo our Craft room. We have affectionately called it the "Crap Room" ever since we moved in. I have now deemed today "Freedom Friday" since I cleaned out the room and can enjoy all that it was meant to be and I am FREE of any clutter.

It now has a place for everything and the kids can go in there and find the crayons, construction paper, markers and coloring books. I even have a spot for scrap booking. Yes that is right ladies...I am now scrap booking!!! Plus I can wrap a present in there and not have to look for scissors or tape. The kids know that my drawer is off limits.

I am in the process of growing my seeds for my garden in there as well. I will be sure to show off what I have been able to grow and eat this summer. Maybe a pumpkin for this fall too!!!

So, I guess my ambition to clean the room took longer, but I now enjoy it more and can appreciate all the fun things we can create. I just love it when my kids color for me!!!

Mother's Day

2008-05-02T08:31:00.000-07:00

My friend recently sent me this email...I felt that all who read my blog (all 10 of you) would get a kick out of it. I know that I had told Jake in the past 5 years that it isn't what he gives me that makes me happy. It is the fact that he spends time weeks before thinking about what he is going to do and gets the kids involved. Now if this year that includes "Guitar Hero" for the Wii, I will be one happy Momma!!!!

Enjoy............I know that most of my readers are of the female persuasion... but there are a few fellas out there that read me so this post if for you.

I am going to help you-you need to send me flowers to thank me.
May 11 is Mother's Day. There... I helped you.

I tell you this because I just read it on my calendar and I groaned a little inside. I groaned because I am doing it to myself again. I am thinking up all kinds of happy romantic ideas that my husband will do for me for Mother's Day and then Mother's Day will come and go and none of it will happen. I will be left making dinner for everyone, cleaning the house, and ultimately getting in a fight with my husband about the fact that he didn't do anything (or anything that I consider worthy enough) and I will go to bed mad and drunk.

This is what I think a husband should do for their wife on Mother's Day: He should worship her. He should get the kids up early and help them make her breakfast in bed. He should have taken the kids to the store THE WEEK PRIOR and helped the kids pick our little presents for her-some suggestions are her favorite perfume, her favorite candy bar, her favorite flavor of Doritos, her favorite lotion, a frame with a picture of the kids, a good book, a home decorating magazine... that kind of stuff. He should then take his wife and children to Church and pray for his wife the entire time he is there.

After Church he should take his wife and children on a picnic lunch to a park and not one that used to be a battleground. After an afternoon of sunning themselves on a blanket and letting the kids play, the husband should take the wife home and insist she take a nap. He should make sure she wakes to the smell of her favorite dinner cooking and she should come down to a set dinner table and a freshly vacuumed house. When dinner is over, he should hand his wife a beer (or glass of wine) and tell her to go read in the living room while he and the kids do the dishes. After dishes the husband should suggest a nice walk with his wife (no kids allowed) and upon return to the house, the husband should bathe and put all children to bed while his wife watches what she wants on the television.

When the kids are in bed and the bathroom is cleaned up from evening baths, the husband should then bring a bowl of ice cream to his wife and rub her feet telling her how much he loves her and how much he appreciates ever thing she does for him and their children. He should then just gaze into her eyes-never once looking down at her breasts.
If you do this men, I can guarantee you that you will love the close of Mother's Day.

Remember... be good to Mama and she will be good to you.

Start preparing now, because she will know the difference between a well thought out plan and one that you throw together at the last moment.
Good Luck!

Are you Pregnant?

2008-04-30T16:18:00.000-07:00

No....I am not pregnant....get that out of your minds before you read on. But if you are skinny in any way, don't bother reading anymore. You won't sympathize with me.

I am not sure what is worse...asking a stranger when they are due and they tell you they are not pregnant, or when your 7 year old boy says "You look pregnant mom!" I know it has been stressful this past year with the move, and being away from my family and friends. That can sure put on a few pounds. Not ever loosing the "baby" weight is also a problem. Being a stay at home mom does have it's perks. Not having to wear suits to work or even think about doing your hair everyday. My Nike hat sure comes in handy. But the negative side for me is the constant snacking. Eating the crust off the kids sandwiches, eating the last bite of breakfast, finishing the cheese and crackers. I don't know about you...but man oh man, it is hard. So instead of a New Years resolution...I am making it my Life Resolution. So I am saying it here...on a public forum...I plan to loose 50 pounds by next Christmas. I have started working out on a daily basis and trying to eat right. This is my promise...I can't wait to post a picture of me 8 months from now.

I must go now and talk to my son about how to win a girls heart, so far he is batting zero. hee hee

A week in Paradise

2008-04-21T21:42:00.000-07:00

So I know I have be neglecting my blog lately!! Sorry to the few that even check my blog, and haven't seen anything for a month. Ugh...I live a dull life.

But I now have something to share...more than just a girl scout cookie experience.

Last week I was able to leave this wonderful home of four beautiful children and a wonderful husband to the wonderful sunny spot of Palm Springs with my mom and aunt. I was a little nervous to go from 40 degree weather to 100+ degrees in a matter of 2 hours and 37 minutes. I am happy to say I adjusted very well.

As I got off the plane I was overwhelmed with heat coming off of the pavement. It took me a minute to acclimated my body and breath normally. I took off to get my luggage and retrieve the rental car. After an hour I was met by my mom and then off to our paradise.

Once we ate dinner we were back at the airport to meet my aunt. I swear I was in Heaven, or at least pretty close. The rest of the 6 days were spent by the pool, reading and resting with a few days of shopping. Because you can't lay by the pool after noon. Going to eat at restaurants and only cutting my food was such a treat. Not only that...but my food was hot when I was able to eat.

I am happy to be home now with the family...but I am excited to know that we are planning a trip again in a year. I will definitely be looking forward to it.

Me enjoying a a sunset by the pool.

I was a little surprised by the number of humming birds there

were here. I had several attempts to capture this

one male that would let me get fairly close.

Not the highlight of my trip, but pretty cool anyway!!!

Girl Scout Cookie NIGHTMARE

2008-03-19T14:27:00.000-07:00

My sweet Sydney decided this year that she wanted to try Girl Scouts out. I said sure and she has had a good time so far. But several months ago the Troop leader (and neighbor) asked me to be the Cookie Mom. I didn't know to much about it and asked a FEW questions about the job description. I thought it over (5 minutes) and said yes. Boy was I in for an awakening.

Not only did I have to pick up 2000+ cookies in my suburban (I think that the car was a shoe in to get the job) the first week. But I have been in charge of 15+ cookie site sales, moms coming to my house to get extra cookies (all the while keeping track of those cookies too), and also depositing $11,500 into a bank account. I am SO not the paper pusher nor an accountant. This has stretched me so far, I think I am going to burst. Needless to say, my nightmares of loosing cookies in my garage are subsiding. And keeping track of my 4 year old and all the Thin Mint boxes he opened have added to my own cookie count. I started out with 2 boxes we pre-ordered and are now up to 10. Good thing my Nicholas is so cute!!!!!

Anyway, if you ever have a girl in Girl Scouts...stay away from the Cookie Mom job. There is always someone in the bunch who will do it!

Pay It Forward

2008-03-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

Today Whitney and I were running errands and I felt the need to drive thru Starbucks and get a coffee. You know running errands with a two year old is a lot of work. :)

Anyway, I go a head and order my usual...Quad (yes 4 shots of espresso-one for each child I have) Venti, nonfat, no whip, white chocolate mocha; and of course a choco milk for the princess in the back. As I pull up to pay, the cashier tells me the woman in front of me paid $5 of my total order. No, I didn't know this woman she was a complete stranger. The cashier did give me a name and address that she had left. So I have written her a thank you note already.

But what is so great, is that the kids (yes all FOUR) were with me one day about a month ago and we bought a construction worker doing work in the cold weather a Hot Chocolate, and told her thanks for doing what she did. It was a great lesson to teach my kids of giving just to give. Hoping that one day she might do the same for someone else.

So if you are ever $5 bucks rich and want to spread some love and goodness, buy someone coffee or even a cheeseburger. It doesn't take much to give a little!!!

2008-02-01T15:49:00.000-08:00

My camara isn't working right now so I forced to look back at pictures I haven't put up in a while. So here is a cute one of the two cousins. My sister-in law has two adorable kids and another on the way. Yippee for me. Now I can hold and love a new baby soon!!!
Whitney and Allie enjoying a hug!!!

This is Sam and the rest of the gang enjoying the gifts from Santa. We always love seeing all the kids together!!!

Of course Matthew is the HAM of the bunch. He and Sam have so much fun together.

My Baby Girl

2008-01-25T14:26:00.001-08:00

Well my baby girl is not such a baby anymore. For the first time in 8+ years we no longer have a crib up in the house or bottles in the drawer. It has been 4 weeks now that she has slept in her "Big Girl" bed. No it is not a full twin bed yet. She is sleeping in a toddler bed. But since that day she has not once gotten out of bed and still takes a 2 1/2 hour nap every day. I was sure she would have a hard time. But noooooo....it was all me. I was the one who had a hard time the first night. I said to Jake..."I know she won't sleep all night, so lets just put the crib back up for a little while longer". Sure enough, she proved me wrong. So for now I am at peace about the change of season in our household. I guess with no more kids insight, I better get used to it. Right?

The Great Reptile day

2008-01-24T19:57:00.000-08:00

Big Boa's...two headed turtles...albino alligator...what more could you want???

I think the snake would like to have Nicholas for lunch!!!!

Here is just a sneak peak of what you can enjoy if you were to come visit us. The reptile zoo is a great attraction here and we purchased a family pass last spring. So if you ever want to learn more about reptiles...come stay at the Jabusch Bed and Breakfast and spend some time at the zoo!!!! We would love have you.

2008-01-24T19:53:00.000-08:00

Here are just a few pictures of Sydney and Whitney playing in the snow. It is nice to live only 45 minutes away from a ski area. We haven't gotten the kids up on skies yet...but for now the playing and sledding is cheaper and the whole family can have fun.

Lights in Seattle

2008-01-23T14:50:00.001-08:00

Well it is over due, but since I now have a few moments to post and have finally download pictures here are a few from a family outing we did in December with the kids. It is a botanical gargen in Bellevue. They take millions of lights and make it look like a real garden in the summer time. There was acutally a pond and lily pads with frogs in it made out of these lights. It may not be the zoo lights, but we will take it.Let me tell you that this was Jake's idea and he had planned the whole thing. Way to go Dad!!

Oh What a Beauty

2008-01-23T11:51:00.000-08:00

My little Whitney decided she didn't want to wait to try on her new swimsuit. So instead she went downstairs took off her clothes and put on the new suit. As I am walking down the stairs, I hear her say..."Looky mom, I am beautiful". As a mom I couldn't pass up the picture opportunity. So here is the Bathing Beauty. Look out super models...Whitney is coming.

Our new family member

2008-01-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

Well we finally have our very first pet. Since our little Whitney is allergic to dogs and Jake is allergic to cats, we decided on a guinea pig. The kids have decided on naming her Sparkle. I wanted Fluffy....but what do I know. She is cute and furry, with a sweet temperament. She isn't so sure about us though. She likes to be held and enjoys eating oranges.

Some may say I am crazy...but how could I say NO to four beautiful kids??? We always need more to love and feed, right??

A New Year

2008-01-07T14:29:00.001-08:00

I was recently reminded by a good friend (HEATHER) that I have not been posting enough on my blog. So as I sit here thinking about what to write, I ponder the New Year ahead and look back at all the blessings and changes that have occured in 2007.

Since coming back from visiting my HOMETOWN I was able to remember the love I recieved from so many wonderful friends. Sitting in church listening to my favorite Pastor, he brought up the fact that we all have had things in the past year that have challenged us. Whether it is death in the family, sickness, new babies being born, or even small changes...we need to look to Him for direction and strength. How we react to the changes can affect the whole outcome. Our move was one of the hardest things this year for me. Going HOME to visit opened my eyes to that. But it also makes me realize that God has a plan for our family here...right now. As we start attending a new church semi-permanently, I must open my heart to what will come my way. I know my heart will be filled and I will be more at peace .

We need to ask ourselves....What will I do differently this year to strength and build my faith in Jesus Christ?

I hope that your New Year has started off with a bang and you are able to look to the Father for guidance when any challenges come your way. I know I will!!!!

The Hunt

2007-12-11T13:38:00.001-08:00

It all started with the "6" of us piled in the mini van all bundled up in search of the "perfect" Christmas tree. It was 33 degrees outside and very frosty!!! I thought that since we lived so close to the mountains that it wouldn't be hard to find a u-cut tree farm. Boy was I wrong.

I started the day before looking online for tree farms and found there to be a select few in our area. I took down the addresses and put them in my GPS system. Yes, I have a GPS in my van...when you live where we do, there is no other option. Needless to say, if we didn't have it we would have gotten lost!!!

So we went to the first of three. And what do you know...they are SOLD OUT. How can that be when it was only December 8th? So on to the next one. I am not sure the name of the second tree farm, but I will affectionately call it "The Charlie Brown Tree Farm". We didn't find a tree bigger than Sydney, nor were they full. At this point we have two tired ones and a cranky mom, so I decide to head out on my own at nap time.

I drive 30 minutes and came to a big farm that has a ton of trees and hot cider too. Now they weren't all big and full, but they had a better selection. As I am searching I call my mom threatening to buy a fake tree at Costco. (I may just do it Kelly!!) And right then I see it. The one. It may not be like the White House tree (pictured here) and it may need a little grooming at home, but it was the best one yet. It is now up and decorated to the best of my ability since my mom isn't here to help me. Gosh I liked having my mom so close.

Anyway, I have realized that there are nice trees here...but Oregon has the BEST Christmas trees in the world. So for all my Oregon friends....enjoy your tree, because next year I am coming down to get my tree!!!!

She did it again!!!

2007-12-03T18:39:00.000-08:00

Well my friend Christine ran another marathon. Yes, she chose to run 26.2 miles in one day. This time it was the Seattle Marathon. As I was driving her into the city (at 7am) I kept looking at her and asking the same question over and over again..."Are you sure you want to do this again?" And every time she said "Absolutely". It was crazy to see people jogging to the starting line. I am not sure if they were warming up, or just crazy.

So I decided to go to the finish line 45 minutes ahead of when she was to cross the line. I watched people cross the line who either ran the marathon or walked. The walkers started 1 1/2 hours earlier. Some of the ladies that walked the marathon were so excited once they crossed. The tears of joy and accomplishment just poured out of them. So as I sit soaking up all the emotions...Christine stood in front of me saying, "Hello....I am done!!!" I couldn't believe it...she finished 13 minutes faster than her Portland time. I was shocked and mad too. I wasn't able to get the great pictures of her crossing the finish line...but I was able to snap a couple afterwards.

So congrats Christine on a great finish...being able to shed 13 minutes off a marathon time is HUGE!!! A job well done...I am proud of you!!!! No I still don't have the Marathon Bug!!!

Alittle Update

2007-11-13T14:27:00.000-08:00

So it has been awhile since my last post. (sorry friends!!) So here are some pictures to sum up the last few weeks. We had Saturday's filled with Nicholas' 3-4yr old soccer games. (he liked the daffadills the best) pumpkin patch family time, Halloween, Whitney's 2nd birthday,and a sunny day in October with the sprinkler and some neighborhood kids. Yes...it was that warm in October. I also had pneumonia and was able to go to Las Vegas with Jake for a business trip. Trying to get better, thanks to my mom for coming up and helping take care of me and the kids. (that includes Jake...hee hee)

I still can't believe my Baby is 2. I keep asking Jake where #5 is and all I get is "Are you kidding me?" I will just love the 4 that I have now.

We have a house full coming for Thanksgiving, 10 adults and 5 kids. Looking forward to it!! I keep looking at my calendar trying to plan my next trip "Home" and see January coming faster than I woud like. So for those of you back "Home", I miss you all a lot and can't wait to see you again. I promise I will be there soon. Thanks for checking in on us. We love you all.

The Marathon Bug...I found a cure!!!

2007-10-10T10:13:00.000-07:00

I took my friend down to Portland last weekend so that she could run the Portland marathon. Yes...she chose to run 26.2 miles. There were over 9,000 people there at 6:15 Sunday morning choosing to run 26.2 miles. Have I mentioned that a marathon is 26.2 miles. So as my mom and I rushed to the finish line 4 hours later...I thought how cool is this. I actually got excited for all the people. Seeing an older man slowing running across the finish line while holding onto a younger man made the entire crowd applaud and yell. Watching people one after another cross the finish line with their hands in the air.

So for a moment I thought..."I have been bitten by the marathon bug. I could do this. I have 363 days to train...plenty of time." But then reality hit me in the head and I came to my senses. The car ride home was a really eye opener for me. My friend Christine was achy and not feeling herself. I thought..."who in there right mind would want to run 26.2 miles." Now I will tell you that Christine shaved off 3 minutes from the two previous marathons she had done. So I was totally proud of her for that!!! But as we were driving home (4+ hours because of traffic and rain) she talks about the Seattle marathon she is singed up for at the end of November!!! Are you kidding me??? You have got to be off your rocker!!! But then I remember the faces of those running at the finish line...the look of achievement. The emotion coming out of there eyes and smiles. I was infected by the marathon bug.

But only to be cured of the bug and maintain my cheerleading spot at the end of the race. So no plans to race...maybe walk a half marathon someday.

Just thoughts on church

2007-10-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

VS.

I have had three books sitting on my night stand for sometime now and can't seem to find the time to sit and read. Finding time in the morning to do my quiet time has been an even bigger struggle. I can say that at least I am able to download podcasts from my old church. But what has my world come too, if this is how I am fed spiritually. Taking time to put my ipod in my ears while I am vacuuming doesn't really seem all that bad...does it?

I was back home in Oregon this last weekend taking a friend of mine down for the Portland Marathon. (that is a whole another post for later!!) Instead of waiting downtown for 3+ hours on Sunday, I decided to go to church. I was so hoping Pastor Dale would have been back, but no such luck. I did however get to listen to Pastor Greg. He is so good. Just love that guy. And then to top it off Aaron and Courtney sang worship. They were absolutely wonderful together. There was one particular song that they sang during offering that brought tears to my eyes. That morning it hit me....how important going to church really is. The worship and the sermon as a whole is one big piece. You can have a little of one and a lot of the other, but I truly believe they are a package deal.

So we are off to try another church this Sunday. If you think of it pray that we will find the right church for our family. Not only do we have to like it, but the four kids as well. God is good and I know He will show us the right place to get plugged in. I totally have FAITH in that!!!!

Just a Blog Thing!!!

2007-09-14T15:45:00.000-07:00

Your Sensitivity Score: 46%

As far as sensitivity goes, you're a lot more in tune than most people.
You can't help but be touched by what's around you - good and bad.
But when things do get really bad around you, you are strong enough not to break down.

http://blogthings.com/areyouextremelysensitivequiz/">
Are You Extremely Sensitive?

check out the link and let me know how sensitive you are!!!

Thankful Thursday: Friends

2007-09-13T12:59:00.000-07:00

I recently got an email from a friend (she will remain anonymous...you know who you are!!!)wondering why she wasn't on my "thankful Thursday" post. After much thought and deliberation, I realized that my friends are very important to me. I am thankful for them and all they do for me. Whether we have been friends since high school, or friends I have been able to meet in the last 6 months. These woman are my sound block when I don't' think anyone else will understand. My friends are the ones that say, "I totally agree with you", or "you have got to be kidding, are you nuts?" Or a friend that helps delivery your 4th child. Or the one that enjoys a visit with a Starbucks cup of coffee...everyday!!! I smile when I think about my friends. Since moving away from most of my pals, it has made realize...I had it pretty good. But I also have been blessed with a wonderful new friend.

God gives us these relationships for a reason. Through all of life's ups and downs and different seasons of our lives...I am thankful for my friends. The ones you can laugh with, cry with, pray with and experience all of God's blessings. I love you guys. You know who you are!!!!

First Day of School

2007-09-11T12:32:00.000-07:00

Aren't my kids adorable!!!! They grow up to fast.

So the day finally came!!! Not only was it the first day of school, but it was my birthday. With mixed feelings, I sent my two oldest off on the bus to start the new year in their new school. With the exception of 2 kindergarten kids, we now have 15 kids waiting for the bus at 8am. Yes that's right...8am. They were all so excited to get back to school that I don't think I even got a "Love you mom" from the bus. Oh well, the year has started and we are back into the swing of things.

Fun with Friends

2007-09-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

Since moving away from friends and family, we have been able to open up our new house for visits from them all. This visit included Brent, Heather, Lauren and Lydia. We went for a small hike after having a picnic lunch and just enjoyed eachothers company. The next day included a trip to Wild Waves with the big kids and dads; while the moms went shopping and lunch with the younger ones. Thank goodness for pictures. I forget how cute our kids look together!!

A Project Complete

2007-09-11T11:53:00.000-07:00

What does Labor day weekend mean??? Well I can tell you it met lots of Labor for us. After three exhausting days we are finally done with our side and back yard. With one big truck load of top soil, 2200 square feet of sod, two in-laws, 4 neighbors and us...it is finally complete. Now I just need to work on my garden.

We were truly inspired with the help from our neighbors. I don't think it all would have gotten done if it hadn't been for them. And of course my in-laws....what can I say, I am truly blessed with wonderful in-laws. Now we just wait a week or so and then it is playtime! No more dirt coming into the house, or mud pies being made right out side my back door. I just love grass!!!

Thankful Thursday

2007-08-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

I have been visiting some blogs lately that have really shown how thankful they are of not only life in general, but thankful and speaking such kind words about their husbands. (thanks Tami) So I felt compelled this morning to let you all know what I am thankful for.

My husband

He is everything to me. He is a man of God, my friend, lover, husband, brother, son. He works so hard so that I can stay home and raise our four children. Since moving from our family and friends we have had to rely more on God and eachother. It is amazing to think back when we were moving, so many wise adults (those older than me) told us that we would grow closer to eachother and most importantly to God. We still haven't found a church home, but that doesn't mean God is out of our lives.
With that said....I love you Jake and am thankful for YOU!!!

Wordless Wednesday

2007-08-08T17:15:00.000-07:00

Home sick!!!!!!

Friends and Family

2007-08-06T09:01:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few pictures of family and friends that have come to visit us. We are so blessed to have them and enjoy the time they come up to see us!!!

Busy as a bee

2007-08-06T08:36:00.000-07:00

So I feel like I have been so out of touch with the whole blogging world. With summer almost over, birthdays, vacations, friends visiting us, and me being sick for almost 2 1/2 weeks....I just haven't found the time to spend on the computer.

As I look at our family calendar it seems to be filled up until the first day of school. How do we get so busy? We have learned that with moving comes much filled weekends with friends coming to visit from our home town, and parents wanting in on the grandkid action. I haven't kept up on our reading schedule I had for the kids. Hopefully a sprint through August will help keep their minds fresh for school.

We finally got Nick's cast off on August 2nd. I was a little worried about the whole saw thing. But once again he proved to be brave and I was not. He has been on his bike ever since we got home, plus we got a hot tub 2 weeks ago and he has wanted to dive right in. So needless to say he has been in it everyday. I am a little nervous with all the activities he is doing, but he is happy and no sign of any permit problems.

I will promise to be better about updating. I know I love to read all of my friends blogs and stay up to date of the activities. Hope you are all having a great summer!!!

Our First Break!

2007-07-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

Just back from the ER

Showing off the new cast

Well I knew that we would have to deal with a broken bone at some time. With four kids the odds are pretty good. I just wasn't prepared for it now.

Nicholas was riding his big boy bike outside in the cul de sac and I had asked him to turn around and start heading up our driveway. As he proceeded to sharply turn around he fall off on his right arm. Now I must tell you that he has fallen many times on the bike and popped right back up. However, this time he just cried. The mother in me told the eldest boy Matthew, to retrieve his brother and bring him to me on the grass. I knew all he needed was a little mommy TLC.

As he was walking the crying didn't slow down, or even lower in volume. I decided to "check" all body parts, even the one that he was holding onto for dear life. I carried him in the house to calm him down and give him some water. The crying elevated, and swelling occurred.

Now I don't have a clue at this point where the nearest hospital/ER is since we just moved here. So after the decision was made, I proceeded to call three neighbors to get directions to the ER.

After 2 hours, 3 x-rays, a split and 3 stickers, we found out he has fractured (broken) his forearm bones. Luckily it was a clean break and no need for surgery or pins.

We went today to get the awesome blue cast. I didn't realize they have 20+ colors to choose from; even glow in the dark green.

I am not looking forward to the next 4 weeks of keeping a 3 year out of the water, dirt, bike, playstructure and slip in slide. So I am off to put the kids to bed and hope that nobody gets hurt tomorrow.

4th of July

2007-07-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great 4th of July!!!

I've been tagged

2007-06-29T09:37:00.000-07:00

So I am new to this whole tagging thing and thought this one I could do. So here are 8 things you didn't know about me...

1. I do not like being away from my home. Sounds generic, but I am a true home body and love the feel I get when I enter my own house.

2. I was adopted at 3 months old. I was a Christmas present to my parents.

3. I secretly want a 5th child. Someday I know God will either fill that void with either another child or something else.

4. I haven't read an entire book since our trip to Mexico in 2004. I have two different books I have started reading, but haven't had the time to finish. I am tired and ready for bed once all the kids are in bed.

5. I love gardening. I started my very first garden and am now an expert. Yeah right!!! I love the thought of eating something we grew ourselves.

6. I would love to change cars every 2 years. Since growing up with a car dealer for a dad...I have had the opportunity to try different cars. I am my husbands worst nightmare!!!

7. I do not like cooking everyday. I like cooking occasionally, especially for parties, but to think of things everyday for every meal, I could do with out that.

8. I still have my little blankie since I was little girl. I have it underneath our bed. No I don't sleep with it anymore, but I haven't had the heart to throw it away.

So those are my things...since I only know a few of you blogging girls I have no one to tag. So it stops with me. Sorry girls!!!

A Heavy Heart

2007-06-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

Just recently a 7 year old little girl Rachel passed away of cancer, specifically Ewing Sarcoma http://www.caringbridge.org/mn/rachelhansen/. I have been following her caring bridge website for a year now and even though she lives in Minnesota I feel that I have known her and her family all my life. I also know of a little boy Joshua who has had this same cancer, but thankfully he has been cancer free for 1 1/2 years.

Rachel's mom is a strong Christian woman who believed with her heart that there was going to be an Earthly Healing of Rachel. They had been through so much, and yet at the end of every entry ' whether a good day or bad,she thanked God for improvements of Rachel and that Satan wouldn't get his hold on Rachel. I recently read a journal entry about Rachel seeing angels. Rachel has been telling her mom that angels have been watching her and protecting her. She said that there are always angels around and she could actually see them all. Her mom wasn't real sure if she was pulling her leg or not, but soon finds out that Rachel is very specific in her thoughts.

So why am I writing a downer of a post...well for you to remember that angels are always around protecting us and keeping us company. We may not see them, but as my pastor would say...Faith is not seeing, but believing. I truly believe this and thank God everyday for the beautiful children I have and their health too!

Take a moment today to say a little prayer for Rachel's family and also...

Love deeply…Hug often…Speak kindly…Forgive quickly…Love deeply (quote from Joshua's mom)

Viva Las Vegas

2007-05-21T19:54:00.001-07:00

Well it has been awhile since I was last able to update the blog. But with the recent trip to Las Vegas, I felt compelled to share our amazing trip.

Jake and I decided to spend our 10 year anniversary at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. We were able to go for 4 days and 3 nights. We went to see two shows, Jay Leno and Danny Gans. I have to say the Danny Gans is AWESOME. Jake and I were laughing so hard my makeup was running. We did run into one celebrity. Yes, David Hasselhoff was having a good time in Vegas. He obviously believes in the slogan "What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas".

We didn't gamble much, I however did the penny slots and won $10. I had only been playing for 5 minutes and used only $1. Not bad I say. We really aren't big gamblers anyway, so walking around and seeing the other hotels was more fun to us. And the pool of course!! It was 99 degrees the whole time we were there. We were able to start our summer tans early. Thank goodness we didn't burn. We used lots of sunscreen.

The first night we got there was the best night of all. Jake had made reservations for us at a nice place at the Bellagio. As we were waiting for the appetizer the waiter brought us two glasses of champagne. As we sat there looking outside I realized there was something in the bottom of my glass. I looked up at Jake and he had this sheepish grin. And then all of a sudden I realize it is a ring at the bottom and Jake is walking over to my side to the table. And just like he did December 1996, he got down on one knee and proposed all over again. And the funny thing is that he was just as nervous that night as he was 11+ years ago. It was a wonderful evening and made me think how lucky we are to be married 10years with 4 beautiful and healthy kids. God has blessed us in so many ways. And now a new house with a wonderful neighborhood. What could a girl ask for???

The Weekend in a Nutshell

2007-05-02T13:32:00.000-07:00

Sydney and Matthew enjoying a ride with daddy

Well the "tackle" that I had planned on doing (the craft room) ended up taking a backseat to many other projects. With a new house it seems that there is more to do than what I can handle in a short amount of time. Thank goodness for my blogger friend Tami in her acceptance of not doing her "tackle it Tuesday". I have to give myself some GRACE when I am not able to get one thing done, but many others are done. (thanks Tami)

With that said here is the retaining wall we tackled this weekend. I didn't realize how many rocks we have here. So instead of hand digging (which we did for half of a day) we decided to rent an excavator. Oh how the kids enjoyed riding it with daddy. While that was being done I decided to put in a fountain in the front yard. But with the weather I haven't been able to totally complete it. So for now I will stay inside and try and "tackle" the craft room this week and hope that the job will get done by next week.

Before and after of the first retaining wall

My own little project still in the works but sounds great!!

The Fun has Begun

2007-04-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

So we have been here for 4 1/2 weeks and we already had some neighbors over for dinner. We have met a really great family with three kids. Two of which are Matthew and Nicholas' age. The other one is just 2 years older than Sydney. It was nice to have them over for dinner.

We ended up having one malfunction to the evening. I planned on fixing bbq'd burgers and dogs for the kids and grilled chicken Caesar salad for my friend Christine and I, but the propane was out on the grill. Since Jake wasn't here to go fill it, I noticed my next door neighbor grilling salmon. Thank goodness he let me cook my food over there. Good thing his wife didn't mind waiting to eat cold salmon.

I can't tell you how great our neighborhood is. It is like living in your own community. You walk outside and there are kids everywhere. Sydney and Matthew don't have to ask "is there anyone around to play with?" There is such a great feeling knowing that you have someone to talk to all the time.

Anyway, the pictures are from the fun evening the kids had. I look forward to many more of these nights!

Tackle It Tuesday #1 The Craft Room

2007-04-24T14:01:00.000-07:00

OK girls...since belonging to this whole Blog world I have been inspired to start Tackle it Tuesday. The project of getting our "Family Studio/Craft Room" has been a project I have wanted to do and has become a sight for sore eyes ever since we moved in. It tends to be the "drop off" for everything you can imagine. My goal by next Tuesday (I know you all do the whole picture before and after thing)is to be able to wrap presents, scrapbook, and let the kids do their thing with all the craft stuff imaginable. So with that said...I am now committed to getting it done since I have shown you what it really looks like today. Come back and check out my room next week.

Oh how do you find a church?

2007-04-19T21:00:00.000-07:00

Since moving away from home the priority of finding a church as been #1. However, I have been at the same church back home since I was in jr high. So having to "shop" for a church has never been a issue. It is exciting to know that what ever church we end up at...it will be a place that my husband and I have found on our own. I have been on many websites to look at the doctrine and missions of most churches here in town. But I am not exactly sure what to look for. I suppose just going, hearing the pastor and the kids reaction will tell me if it is right or not. It is hard to have a family of 6 and try and please everyone. We have been to one church so far, and I am looking forward to visiting one this weekend. I have tried so hard not to compare to many things to our old church. But it can be daunting at times.

I am relying on prayer and the Holy Spirit to lead us in a direction that will be good for our whole family. But in the end I am sad to think that we may not find the fellowship of friends that we have had before. We must look ahead and know that God will show us the right church for us to belong to and also get involved in a small group. Through Faith and guidance we will find a church.

Fun in the Sun

2007-04-17T13:13:00.000-07:00

The thing I most love to do with the kids is go to the park. It is amazing to me how every time we go each one does something to make me smile. Little Whitney just can't get enough of the slide. At 17 months she shows no fear and continues to surprise me. At this age going up and down the slide just makes her day.

I like how the older kids don't fight and they actually play nicely together. Asking me to push them BOTH on the tire swing or they play chase. And then there is Nicholas. He will bump his head, mouth, or knees, cry a bit and then get back up on the play structure. No memory of any kind and will continue to do what he was doing.

We are so fortunate to have such a park in our neighborhood. It has been a meeting ground for all the kids and moms throughout the day. If we don't make it to the park by dinner, we always try and make a visit before bed time. With the sun out and birds singing it is a relaxing time for me to relect on the positive side of our move away from home. Enjoy your day and have fun with your kids!!!

The Moving Headache

2007-04-16T10:12:00.000-07:00

So I thought moving would be easy and pain free. I figured having someone pack my things and unpack for me would make life so much easier. However I forgot a few things that a MOM must do to keep the house running. For example:

change home phone number

have mail forwarded BEFORE you move

apply for new drivers license

find Doctors and dentists for the ENTIRE family

pre-register 3 year old for preschool for next year

open new bank accounts

have cable, phone and Internet scheduled for hook up BEFORE you move in

This is just part of the list. I have a lot of respect for those of you who have moved more than the one time that we have moved. I guess with practice and an occasional suggestion from neighbors I will get my list completed. I suppose if I am half way down by the end of the school year we are in good shape.

Fun with Family

2007-04-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

Just a few pictures of the kids, nanna and pappa and Auntie Megan. We love to have people come visit. Hope you all had a great Easter. I am excited to go visit Oregon!!! I will be sure to post more pictures!!!

Little Town...Big personality

2007-04-03T20:54:00.000-07:00

Well I have figured out a lot about this little town. If you want to go anywhere other than "downtown" you are planning a good 30 minutes anywhere. This town has a lot of personality and some great antique shops too! The only thing I wish it had was a Winco. I guess Safeway is the next best thing. We even have the BIG Evergreen State fairgrounds near by. I have been told that they hold the biggest Fair in the summer. I am sure the kids will enjoy that. Not to mention a Reptile farm. I am thinking daddy is going to have to take the kids to that.

I am thankful that God has given us this opportunity to live here...and I am sure over time it will feel more like home then just a place we are living. GOD IS FAITHFUL.

A blogger friend (thanks Dawnelle) quoted a great book "Having a Mary Spirit in a Martha World".

"Any life challenge presents us with a very basic choice: fear or faith. And yet, when you think about it, the conditions that inspire fear are often the very same conditions needed to inspire faith."

It really made me think about the differences of fear and faith. I fear not having the closeness I have with the friends back home. But I have Faith that God will provide me with new friends to fill my void. And to be able to continue the wonderful friendships I have made (you know who you are) over the last 8+ years back home. I love you girls!!!

2007-03-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

Well this is what it looked like when I went to Fred Meyer at 2:30pm today. Yes that's right....TRAFFIC. Bumper to bumper. I thought going to the store wouldn't take long. BOY was I wrong. As I drove out of our neighborhood, I realized that there were more cars then earlier in the day. I figured it wouldn't pick up until 4pm. Well now I know...never leave the house after 1:30pm. I was told by some moms in the "hood" that planning your shopping trips was key. Plus you need to plan wisely to get back before the kids get out of school. I guess there will be no last minute trips to Costco anytime soon.Just one more thing to put on my "Have to adjust" list.

Another item on that list is no disposal in my kitchen sink. I was so excited to see a garbage compactor...and Jake informed me it was there because we are not on City water. That means NOTHNG goes down the sink. We have a list of items that can't even be flushed down the toilet. YUCK!!!! I am just praying we never have a clog. I suppose complaining would be a bad thing at this point. So when you turn on your disposal think of me and the silence I hear. :)

The first goodbye

2007-03-29T15:17:00.000-07:00

So we had our first goodbye with my mom today and it was harder than I thought. Usually when she would come visit us back in Oregon, it was Hi and then Bye. We knew we would see her either the next day or the day after that. Now I am experiencing a whole new set of emotions. I didn't think I would cry when she left. This picture says it all. I felt like a kid again. Like the first day of kindergarten and your mom leaves you for the first time.

Then there was Nicholas. He woke from his nap and the first thing out of his mouth was "Go Bye, Bye with Nana?". I am thinking it will get easier as time passes, however right now it stinks!!! As I tell Nicholas that Nana will come again Easter weekend, I am still sad that she is gone. I guess you never really appreciate something until it's gone.

With that said....Mom I appreciate you and ALL that you did to make my new house a home. I love you and can't wait for you to come back!!!!

We made it!!!

2007-03-28T22:57:00.000-07:00

Well we made the move. We are trying to settle in our new house and start living our life out of drawers instead of boxes. We are almost unpacked with the exceptions of a few. With the help of my mom and in-laws I think it will be done by Monday.

The weather has been nice, which has been good for the kids. They don't start their new school until next monday. I am going out of my mind trying to be a mother of 4 and unpack a household of goods. Jake has been a great help as well. Having him home has saved me a ton of work. If you know my hubby, you know that he works hard and never sits down.

The kids have met everyone in the neighborhood...been the park everyday and still manage to be bored. I am hoping I will have more time toward the end of the week to go outside with them, depending on the weather of course.

Well I better go finish hanging pictures.

Our new Blog

2007-03-11T14:53:00.000-07:00

Well, we have decided to start a family blog for family and friends so we can keep in touch during our fun adventure. God has made it clear that we are to move on and try something new. We are all excited and nervous to move away from home. But we all know we will be together and experience the fun that lies ahead.