What time of day are you?

Monday monday

Hope everyone had a great weekend. We still have that virus going around our house. One more down for a few days. Please pray it leaves everyone else alone!!!! We did find out that if you put Vicks vapor rub on your feet,yes i said feet, and cover it with socks you will not cough for several hours. It really works!! We tried it on Saturday and within 10 minutes there was no coughing here. Amazing.
Well, Just wanted to check in with everyone. Have to get the day going. Gotta go shovel us out again. Got about 21/2 inches last night again and are suppose to get more tomorrow. Spring come soon :)

Photo Hunt-Narrow

 

Silly picture of the kids while at Navy Pier.

yet more winter weather

Girly Comments & Graphics



Well, we got about 7 inches of snow at least last night and is still snowing today. The kids don't have school so I won't have to worry about them being out today. Hubby of course went to work but wish he would've stayed home. He went in with a friend in a truck and as they were leaving they were trying to do donuts in the road. Just big kids.
Not going to be on much today,with no school that makes my job even busier with more kids home. The good thing though, is that my girls help with the younger kids,which is nice. May let the bigger kids go outside to play in the snow. I think it is a good snowman snow.
Hope everyone is having a great day. Stay warm and safe.

busy week

Haven't posted for a few days because it has been a busy week. I was gone Monday and Tuesday to Tuscola to see grandpa and grandma. Then back to a very busy house. I found out that you can't leave the house to anyone except mom. :) They all did well taking care of the daycare while i was gone but they needed me home which made me feel good. My youngest daughter watched kids all by herself on Tuesday b/c our oldest was sick. She was there with her but not able to help. She is still sick today but went to the doctor and it is a virus so can't do anything about it but help the symptoms. She has skipped work all week b/c she feels awful. Just hope no one else gets it. Today is just as busy as the last few. Will be looking forward to the weekend when I only have one extra child here. Need to get laundry caught up and get life back to normal. Whatever that is.:P

saturday photo hunt-old fashioned

 

Had a hard time with this one.This is of an old fashioned house in Washington DC while my daughter was there for a class trip.

friday feast #177

Appetizer
How many times per day do you usually laugh?
Don't know how many times but I do like to laugh a lot. They say laughter is the best medicine.

Soup
What do your sunglasses look like?
They are brown and smaller lenses. I would take a picture of them but it is too cold outside right now and don't want to go there.

Salad
You win a free trip to anywhere on your continent, but you have to travel by train. Where do you go?
Probably to visit family.

Main Course
Name one thing you consider a great quality about living in your town/city.
I like that it is a small town

Dessert
If the sky could be another color, what color do you think would look best?
Well, I like the sky when it is a deep purple and pink at sunset I guess that would be my color.

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Baby it's cold outside

It is soooo cold today. -11 degrees right now and not getting better. They actually had school today. I was hoping they would call off since kids have to stand outside and wait for the buses. Am really hoping spring comes soon. Can't wait for the warmer weather.

Wordless Wednesday

This is what teenagers do on a cold night when they have "nothing else" to do.

Weekend away

We went to my sister in law's this weekend since we couldn't go on New Years day because of bad weather. The kids got their Christmas gifts and the girls went to the mall to spend their gifts. We also got to see a preemie baby that was 2 months old and only 5 lbs. 12 oz. He was soooooo tiny. I got to hold him and it was amazing that he was able to leave the hospital so soon. His whole hand was the size of my hubby's thumb. His mom put him on the floor and I was soo scared someone was going to step on him b/c he is so tiny. He will probably end up 6 foot tall.:)
We had a good visit but am always glad to be back home. Especially today since,yes, we are getting more snow.Suppose to get 3 inches or so. It is very cold too but feels warmer since we are out of the negative numbers now. It is 21 right now.
Hope everyone is having a great Monday.

Girly Comments & Graphics


Thought this was cute.

no photo hunt this week

one more week without photo hunt We are not home so can't post pictures. Will be back next week. have a great weekend.

Wait on the Lord

"Therefore I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me. I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me." Micah 7:7-8
Lately, I have been down in numbers in my daycare and wondering if the Lord was telling me if I should find another job or just wait and He will give us more kids to watch. Well, I have been praying for more kids and yesterday I was talking to one of our friends from our previous church and she said she had been thinking about talking to us lately and thinking about getting a part time job. Isn't it great how the Lord works in our lives,even in the smallest ways He can work through other people while at the same time work in our lives. I just love seeing how the Lord works out the small details.
Our friend came by today and they are thinking about bringing their daughter to the daycare and also I have another family that wants to start in a week. Thank you Lord for being there and working through us .
Also, I would like you all to pray for the church's decision on a youth pastor that may be coming to our church. The girls really really like him and I think he likes the church too. They will vote on Sunday and then bring him back to candidate so please keep our church in your prayers.

Wordless Wednesday

Is this the biggest remote you have ever seen???

I need you Lord

You know there are times in our lives when everything is going fine and we think we don't need to depend on the Lord for anything. I know I have been there many times and yesterday at church,sunday school and even the sermon were talking about depending on the Lord even when we think we don't need Him. We sang this song yesterday and it is soooo true(at the bottom of the post) Also, I was reading on Christian women online today and the same theme came up. They used the verse"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety‑nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety‑nine righteous persons who do not need to repent."Luke 15:4-7
The Lord loves us no matter what we do or even if we do decide to stray,but we need to remember that He is always there and wants us to depend on Him for everything.


Sometimes when life seems gentle and blessings flood my way,
I turn my gaze away from You and soon forget to pray.
But when the sky grows darker and courage turns to fear,
My anxious voice cries upward with words you long to hear.

Lord, I need You when the sea of life is calm.
O Lord, I need You when the wind is blowing strong.
Whether trials come or cease, keep me always on my knees.
Lord, I need You. Lord I need You.

Lord, help me to remember I'm weak but You are strong.
I cannot sing apart from You, for Lord You are my song.
Although I'm prone to wander and boast in all I do;
Lord keep my eyes turned upward so I depend on You.

Lord, I need You when the sea of life is calm.
O Lord, I need You when the wind is blowing strong.
Whether trials come or cease, keep me always on my knees.
Lord, I need You. Lord I need You.
Ron Hamilton

Sorry couldn't do photo hunt this weekend. We were having internet issues. Kept going on and off. Ugh!!!! Back on now though. Hope everyone has a great week.

I got an award!!!!

Thank you to Carolyn at Talk to Grams for this lovely award. You are such a sweet person and a great blog friend.

Mean Moms

Someday when my children are old enough to
Understand the logic that motivates a parent, I will
Tell them, as my Mean Mom told me:

I loved you Enough to ask where you were going, with whom,
And what time you would be home.

I loved you enough to be silent and let you
Discover that your new best friend was a creep.

I loved you enough to stand over you for two hours
While you cleaned your room, a job that should have taken 15 minutes.

I loved you enough to let you see anger,
Disappointment, and tears in my eyes. Children must
Learn that their parents aren't perfect.

I loved you enough to let you assume the
Responsibility for your actions even when the
Penalties were so harsh they almost broke my heart.
But most of all, I loved you enough to say
NO when I knew you would hate me for it.
Those were the most difficult battles of all.

I'm Glad I won them, because in the end you won, too.
And someday when your children are old enough to
Understand the logic that motivates parents, you will tell them.
Was your Mom mean? I know mine was. We had the
Meanest mother in the whole world!

While other kids ate candy for breakfast, we had to have cereal, eggs, and toast. When others had a Pepsi and a Twinkie for lunch, we had to eat sandwiches. And you can guess our mother fixed us a dinner that was different from what other kids had, too.

Mother insisted on knowing where we were at all
Times. You'd think we were convicts in a prison. She had to know
who our friends were, and what we were doing with them. She insisted that if we said we would be gone for an hour, we would be gone for an hour or less.

We were ashamed to admit it, but she had the nerve
To break the Child Labor Laws by making us work. We
Had to wash the dishes, make the beds, learn to
Cook, vacuum the floor, do laundry, empty the trash
And all sorts of cruel jobs. I think she would lie
Awake at night thinking of more things for us to do.

She always insisted on us telling the truth, the
Whole truth, and nothing but the truth. By the time
We were teenagers, she could read our minds and had
Eyes in the back of her head. Then, life was really tough!
Mother wouldn't let our friends just honk the horn
When they drove up. They had to come up to the door
So she could meet them. While everyone else could
Date when they were 12 or 13, we had to wait until we were 16!

Because of our mother we missed out on lots of
things other kids experienced. None of us have ever
been caught shoplifting, vandalizing other's
property or ever arrested for any crime. It was all her fault.
Now that we have left home, we are all educated,
Honest adults. We are doing our best to be mean
parents just like Mom was.
I think that is what's wrong with the world today.
It just doesn't have enough mean moms!
__________________

monday monday

Well, it is the beginning of the week again and some of the kids are back in school. The older kids go back tomorrow. Back to the busy days of running here and there. I really enjoyed the time off of the busy schedule,but on the bright side spring is coming in a couple of months-my favorite time of the year!!!! Today feels like spring b/c it is 62 degrees. Can't believe it. Thank you Lord for the warm days we have had. I know winter isn't over but these few days have been nice. The snow we have is all gone and there is actually green grass there.
Not too much going on here. Just same old things. Hope everyone has a great week. Enjoy this warm weather while it lasts.

Saturday Photo Hunt-Delicious

Our youngest daughter is our cook and she made this pizza for us one Saturday. I can say this was definitely delicious.

Friday Feast #174

Appetizer
When was the last time you received a surprise in the mail, and what was it?
When I got the Christmas presents from my parents this year.

Soup
If you could have a summer and/or winter home, where would you want it to be?
Somewhere warm...especially right now since the temperatures here have been below 0.

Salad
Pick one: pineapple, orange, banana, apple, cherry.
Banana.

Main Course
Describe the nicest piece of clothing that you own.
I would have to say it would be one of my dresses. I don't usually dress up that much b/c my job is at home and just a sweatshirt and jeans is all I usually wear. Not much dressing up here except for church or special event.

Dessert
If you could forget one whole day from your life, which day would you choose to wipe from your memory?
I don't think I would want to forget anything in my life. I have had a pretty good life and can't think of any memory I would like to erase.

new years

Well, I know this is going to sound redundant but we got more snow on Sunday evening and it didn't stop until yesterday afternoon!!!!We went to see Alvin and the Chipmunks and came out to snow!!! It actually kept us from going to our New Years eve party-which was at my sister in laws about an hour and a half away from us. Was sort of bummed b/c we didn't get to go. Was really looking forward to it,but you couldn't see about 5 feet in front of your car. I took my daughter to work and it took about ten minutes to get her there and it is not that far from our house.
We didn't do much on New Years day. Just a lazy day for all. We did get our snowblower to work and got the snow off the sidewalks. That was a feat b/c it was bitter cold. Our son wanted to play outside all day but we told him only small times outside b/c it was way too cold. I did get all the Christmas stuff put up,which is good. Time to move on with other things.
This morning it is -2 outside. Glad we don't have to go anywhere today. Hope you all are enjoying your new beginning. Stay warm and safe.

Flash Comments at WishAFriend.com">


Hope everyone has a wonderful new year. May the Lord bless you richly.

More snow

Well, it is snowing again today. We are suppose to get 5-8 inches. It has been snowing since 7 this morning and doesn't look like it is going to quit any time soon. It is a very pretty snow though. No wind just a quiet beautiful snow. I think we have gotten about 2-3 inches since this morning. I cancelled our youngest orthodontist appointment today b/c it is not worth risking her life over an appointment b/c of bad weather conditions. I know they don't like it when we cancel but there is always another day.
Not much going on here today. The kids are really enjoying their time off from school. I think a little too much though. They all sleep in until the "butt crack" of noon and then stay in their jammies until 2:00pm then finally get ready for the day. I think they will have a hard time getting back into routine in a week. I am the only one that will enjoy the end of break,I think.:)
Enoy your weekend. I think ours will be spent digging out of the snow,making snowmen and drinking hot chocolate.

Christmas day

We had a really nice Christmas,but.......we were very cold. Our furnace stopped working on us. It was the igniter that went out. My hubby had a friend of his come over to find out what it was. Well, we had to manually start it yesterday b/c we didn't want to pay double or triple because of Christmas. So, we made it through the day and today he called a guy about the part we needed. Well, come to find out my hubby knew the guy from a couple of years ago-he put in installation for him,and he usually doesn't sell parts to anyone anymore but he told hubby to come on over and get the part we needed. Thank you Lord!!! That saved us money and traveling time to get the part. Now we are toasty warm and enjoying the day much better now that we are warm.
Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas and got what you wanted.

Comment Graphics at pYzam.com

good movie

We went to see this movie this afternoon. Great movie. Definitely a chick flick. I went with my girls and a friend of theirs today,and we had fun.The boys went to see National Treasure. I wanted to see that one too but really wanted to see PS I Love You. If you do go see it, take kleenex with you because you will need it. I definitely would recommend this movie if you are looking for a good Christmas movie to see. Can't tell you a lot about it-don't want to give it away:)

You Should Have a Blue Christmas Tree

For you, the holidays represent a time of calm, understanding, and peace. You avoid family fights, and you don't get too stressed out - even when things are crazy! You like to make Christmas about making everyone's life a little bit better. You don't get caught up in greed or commercialism. You're too sincere for that. Your blue tree would look great with: Lots of silver tinsel You should spend Christmas Eve watching: It's a Wonderful Life What you should bake for Santa: Chocolate chip cookies

What Color Christmas Tree Should You Have?

Wordless Wednesday

Helping out on a Saturday afternoon.:)

Letter to Santa from Moms

Dear Santa,

I've been a good mom all year. I've fed, cleaned and cuddled my children on demand, visited the doctor's office more than my doctor and sold sixty-two cases of candy bars to raise money to plant a shade tree on the school playground. I was hoping you could spread my list out over several Christmases, since I had to write this letter with my son's red crayon, on the back of a receipt in the laundry room between cycles, and who knows when I'll find anymore free time in the next 18 years.

Here are my Christmas wishes:

I'd like a pair of legs that don't ache (in any color, except purple, which I already have) and arms that don't hurt or flap in the breeze, but are strong enough to pull my screaming child out of the candy aisle in the grocery store.

I'd also like a waist, since I lost mine somewhere in the seventh month of my last pregnancy.

If you're hauling big ticket items this year I'd like fingerprint resistant windows and a radio that only plays adult music, a television that doesn't broadcast any programs containing talking animals, and a refrigerator with a secret compartment behind the crisper where I can hide to talk on the phone.

On the practical side, I could use a talking doll that says, 'Yes, Mommy' to boost my parental confidence, along with two kids who don't fight and three pairs of jeans that will zip all the way up without the use of power tools.

I could also use a recording of Tibetan monks chanting 'Don't eat in the living room' and 'Take your hands off your brother,' because my voice seems to be just out of my children's hearing range and can only be heard by the dog.

If it's too late to find any of these products, I'd settle for enough time to brush my teeth and comb my hair in the same morning, or the luxury of eating food warmer than room temperature without it being served in a Styrofoam container.

If you don't mind, I could also use a few Christmas miracles to brighten the holiday season. Would it be too much trouble to declare ketchup a vegetable? It will clear my conscience immensely. It would be helpful if you could coerce my children to help around the house without demanding payment as if they were the bosses of an organized crime family.

Well, Santa, the buzzer on the dryer is calling and my son saw my feet under the laundry room door. I think he wants his crayon back. Have a safe trip and remember to leave your wet boots by the door and come in and dry off so you don't catch cold.

Help yourself to cookies on the table but don't eat too many or leave crumbs on the carpet.

Yours Always,

MOM...

P.S. One more thing...you can cancel all my requests if you can keep my children young enough to believe in Santa.

Let it snow ,Let it snow, Let it snow

We got another snow storm yesterday. About 5-6 inches fell and it was so beautiful. Of course, it wasn't so pretty on the way home from shopping because we were almost in an accident. There was a car coming from the other side of the road that t boned the car in front of us. We had to go onto the sidewalk to avoid the accident. Thank the Lord we were ok and not involved in it.
When we got home we just decided to stay home. It was getting really bad by the time we reached our house. We made homemade chicken noodle soup and watched Pirates 3 and had about 4-5 other kids here. Busy household last night.
Just hope the snow is done so we can dig ourselves out today. We are still not quite done with Christmas shopping yet.

Early Christmas present

My hubby had a Christmas party at work today and won a 19" lcd flat screen tv. Yeah!!! It is perfect for our bedroom. The kids are jealous but I am happy:) We have never had an lcd tv before and I think I am going to watch TV from my room more often now. We may get a wall mount for it, but for now it does have a stand for it so we can watch it without having to hang it up. Am going to go enjoy my hubby's gift for a while.*smile*

Wordless Wednesday

The sun was shining so pretty on the ice covered trees this morning.

Ice ice baby

Yes we are getting yet another ice storm here. All the kids are still sleeping this morning because schools are closed. First closing of the year for weather issues. I just hope and pray we keep our power on. This same storm was the one that Oklahoma had and they are still out of power that I know of. We do have a generator if that happens though.
Today ought to be interesting with no school. I don't think I will have any daycare kids since the whole town is pretty much closed down,but that is ok. I can get other things down around the house. The big challenge today will be keeping our 8 year old busy because if it doesn't blink, flash, talk to you or is a video game he thinks he has nothing to do. What ever happened to crayons, playdough and imagination???
Hope you are staying warm and don't have bad weather where you are. If I am not on in the next few days....we are out of power.

Busy weekend

We did a lot of baking this weekend. I try to get cookies and candies made for all my daycare parents and neighbors every year,and this year I had a lot of help. Luckily, my girls love to help bake. We made sugar cookies, peanut butter balls(or buckeyes) and chocolate covered pretzels. Also, our youngest daughter has a set with snowman molds so we made some chocolate covered snowmen too. I was going to show a picture of our finished project but the camera isn't loading.
We also got an ice storm Saturday evening. Sunday morning was not a pretty sight. You could actually slide down the front sidewalk. After church we were going to town for a while and my hubby fell at the end of the driveway and hurt his wrist and leg. Will see how he is doing today. You know men, they are stubborn and say they are ok and won't go to the dr. Last time he hurt his wrist it was broken and didn't go to the dr. for 3 weeks. UGH!!!
Happy Monday everyone.

Ricky's Christmas program

Dessert
Describe your idea of the perfect relaxation room.

What The Holidays Mean to You

For you, the holidays are about emotional connections and bonds. You are happiest being around those you love. You celebrate the holidays in a minimalist style. You are likely to only give one great present and decorate your house with a few special items. During the holidays, you like to feel cozy and comfortable. You're happy to stay inside with a roaring fire and a warm drink. You think the holidays should be comforting and relaxing. You don't like the holiday rush... you just like the simple pleasure of the holidays. Your best holiday memories are warm and intimate. You remember special moments more than gifts or parties.

What Do the Holidays Mean to You?

winter fun

We got about 5 inches of snow last night and our favorite thing to do is go out and take pictures in the falling snow. I love how the camera catches the snow falling.This is a picture of most of our kids. Our oldest was at work:( We will have to get a picture of all of them at the next snow storm-which is suppose to be tomorrow. The bad thing though....we had an ice storm this past weekend and there are still some slippery spots on the ground. Two of our girls wiped out last night trying to take the dog out. They are both ok.

Something fun for Christmas

Name the carol described in each riddle and then leave me a comment. I would love to see how many people get them all right. Sorry no prizes

1. Oh, member of the round table with missing areas

2. Boulder of the tinkling metal spheres

3. Vehicular homicide was committed on Dad's mom by a precipitous darling

4. Wanted in December: top forward incisors

5. The apartment of two psychiatrists

6. The lad is a diminutive percussionist

7. Sir Lancelot with laryngitis

8. Decorate the entryways

9. Cup-shaped instruments fashioned of a whitish metallic element

10. Oh small Israel urban center

11. Far off in a haybin

12. We are Kong, Lear, and Nat Cole

13. Duodecimal enumeration of the passage of the yuletide season

14. Leave and broadcast from an elevation

15. Our fervent hope is that you thoroughly enjoy your yuletide season

16. Listen, the winged heavenly messengers are proclaiming tunefully

17. As the guardians of the woolly animals protected their charges in
the dark hours

18. I beheld a trio of nautical vessels moving in this direction

19. Jubilation to the entire terrestrial globe

20. Do you perceive the same vibrations which stimulate my auditory sense
organ?

21. A joyful song of reverence relative to hollow metallic vessels which
vibrate and bring forth a ringing sound when struck

22. Parent was observed osculating a red-coated unshaven teamster

23. May the Deity bestow an absence of fatigue to mild male humans

24. Rose-colored uncouth dolf is aware of the nature of precipitation,
darling

Have fun!
Will post answers in a couple of days :)

what kind of ornament are you?

You Are an Angel

A truly giving soul, you understand the spirit of Christmas.

What Christmas Ornament Are You?

Ice storm

We had a fun day yesterday. We had to go to a CPR class for the day and while we were there it started to snow and then sleet. After the class we took about 15 minutes trying to get the ice off the side of the van. Then we had to go rescue our kids b/c the car they were using was broke down at a gas station in town. Got that car going and then had to get our dog picked up from the groomers. She looked so cute. They put Christmas bows in her hair. Our youngest daughter was suppose to go to her Holiday Jazz showcase but it was cancelled due to the weather. They will have it today if the weather is ok. Am glad they cancelled it though b/c she is really run down from all the practices this last week. We went to the show on Friday evening and really enjoyed it.
After finally getting home after driving about 50 on the highway we got chili fixings and movies and stayed home the rest of the evening. I think the ice is melting some outside now. Hope you all are keeping warm this weekend.

What Holiday are you?

You Are Christmas

More than most people, you are able to find magic in life's small moments. Traditions mean a lot to you, and you tend to be quite nostalgic. You are a giving, kind person who really understands the true meaning of holidays. You inspire others to be as altruistic and caring as you are. What makes you celebrate: Tradition and a generous spirit At holiday get togethers, you do best as: The storyteller. You like to recount memories with everyone. On a holiday, you're the one most likely to: Give a gift to everyone you know

What Holiday Are You?

Friday Feast # 170

Appetizer
What is your favorite carnival/amusement park ride?
I used to like to ride roller coasters but now I don't really ride any rides at all. I just like to watch our kids have fun.

Soup
How do you react in uncomfortable social situations?
I don't do well in those situations. I try to avoid them.


Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how much do you enjoy discussing deep, philosophical topics? Probably 1.

Main Course
Did you get a flu shot this year? If not, do you plan to?
Yes I did.

Dessert
Approximately how many hours per week do you spend watching television?
Not that many. Too busy with other things. Maybe a couple of hours a night if that.

Enchanted

Took the kids out for a movie last night. We like to go to a movie on Thanksgiving weekend. Just something fun to do. It has sort of become a tradition. The girls and Ricky and I went to see Enchanted. Cute movie. I thought it was going to be a little different but it was actually funny. I think everyone enjoyed it. Hubby and our daughter's boyfriend went to see Beowolf. They really like that movie. Not a movie for me though.
We got a new Christmas tree this year and all of the girls and I wanted to try something different. Instead of putting up all of their ornaments that they have made over the years,we bought silver and red ornaments with white lights. Looks very nice. I do really miss seeing the kids ornaments they made me:( but I think it is time to just keep those put up. Some of them are getting pretty worn. It is always fun remembering who made this one and what age they were and all the memories with that ornament.
We are not done decorating the house yet.Just got the tree and lights and ornaments up. Have to get in the attic to get the rest of the stuff down. I love this time of year.

glitter-graphics.com

Life in general

Sorry I haven't been posting as much. Again, life has taken over. Today we have CPR classes and the rest of the family is spread out all over. Hubby and the 2 girls are going to U of I for a football game and the youngest is at Grandma's for the day. Maybe after the holidays I can get back to more normal posts,but as for now it will probably be sporadic.
I did put on a new Christmas song on my blog to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.I know it has certainly snuck up on me this year. Can't believe that we will be putting up the tree this next weekend. Seems like it should be a few more months away.Of course the kids are excited about it. Christmas should be exciting for the kids.
If I don't get on to post more this next we I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving with their families. Enjoy the time off and don't eat too much:)

Weekend Wrap-up

We had a busy weekend. Friday night we didn't do much, I babysat and the kids had their usual things to do. Saturday, we took our birthday girl to the mall to shop for her bday presents. It is easier now that they are older to just give them money and let them shop. They love it!!! Of course, dad and mom get to go and spend some shopping time too. I have never had a problem with crowds at the mall, but this time-OH MY!!! There were too many people there for me. Of course, we went to Woodfield mall and that might have had something to do with it. Bigger mall-more people.
Our daughter got all she wanted and was very happy. I also got something for me. I went to Yankee Candle and bought some more of my tarts for my candle warmer and also got another cool candle. I wish I could show you a picture but my camera isn't co-operating today. Will try later. It has this gel stuff on the outside of the candle and a votive in the middle of the gel. Well, the gel doesn't melt,just the candle,then you can put another votive in its place when that one is done and you still have the pretties on the outer part of the candle. I got one with fall leaves and acorns. The fragrance is Autumn Wreath. Very nice. I love candles.
After shopping we came home and crashed. Then on Sunday we had church of course and then had to go grocery shopping since we didn't get it done on Saturday. I don't think we have had a weekend home for quite a long time and don't see that happening in the near future either. Just too much going on. Oh, I forgot, we also cleaned out the basement Got rid of a bunch of things we don't need anymore. I love doing that,makes me feel a lot better.
Today, is a quieter day. Only 2 kids today. Nice break for me.:)

Bloggy break

Taking a break for a few days. Life is too busy in this house to keep up with everything. Be back next week.

Happy 16th

Today is our daughter's 16th birthday. Can't believe she is 16 already. She has been practicing driving and I am still not used to her doing that. Seems like she should still be about 2 years old.They grow up way to quick.
She has grown into a beautiful young lady.Happy birthday Em. I love you.

friday feast #167

Appetizer
How much money do you plan to spend this upcoming holiday season?
Don't know...Depends how much we are bringing in at the time I guess. We don't like to spend that much but get enough to make it a happy day.

Soup
What was the last television show you watched, and was it good?
Didn't watch much tv this week.

Salad
If you had to paint the walls of your living room tomorrow, what color would you choose?
Can't think of the name of it but it is a lighter brown color. Really pretty.

Main Course
Name something clever or practical you have thought of that should be invented, but hasn’t yet.
No...but my hubby comes up with things all the time. Very clever mind.

Dessert
List 3 things you would like to receive as gifts this upcoming holiday season.
My kids to be happy, bath and body things,a new purse.

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you took my parking place..

One day, a man went to visit a church, He got there early, parked his
car and got out. Another car pulled up near the driver got out and
said, " I always park there! You took my place!" The visitor went
inside for Sunday School, found an empty seat and sat down. A young
lady from the church approached him and stated, "That's my seat! You
took my place!" The visitor was somewhat distressed by this rude
welcome, but said nothing.

After Sunday School, the visitor went into the sanctuary and sat
down. Another member walked up to him and said, " That's where I
always sit! You took my place!" The visitor was even more
troubled by this treatment, but still He said nothing.
Later as the congregation was praying for Christ to dwell among them,
the visitor stood up, and his appearance began to change. Horrible
scars became visible on his hands and on his sandaled feet. Someone
from the congregation noticed him and called out, "What happened to
you?" The visitor replied, as his hat became a crown of thorns, and a
tear fell from his eye, "I took your place."

halloween fun

DD#1's pumpkin







DD#2's pumpkin













Thought I would share what we have been doing the week. The girls have been working on their pumpkins. I think they did a pretty good job. There are sooo many cool stencils online that you can find to decorate your pumpkins. Also, had to put in a picture of our Ninja fighter-protector of all.;) He wanted to be a vampire but there is no scary costumes allowed at school anymore(thank goodness,I really don't like the whole vampire thing anyway.)So, we decided on Ninja. He has a sword and sythes,but can't use those until trick or treating. Will post pictures of the other pumpkins as soon as we get them done. Hopefully, this evening.

Signing

I have several babies I watch during the week and we have taught them sign language. It is so fun to see them actually being able to communicate with us before they learn to talk. I really think it is a great idea to teach infants how to sign. It keeps them from being frustrated when they are trying to tell you something. I have had very good success with several of my kids,and the parents really like it too b/c they can talk to their kids easier without the guessing game. Some of the signs we teach them are eat, more, please, thank you. These seem very basic but you would be amazed at how much this helps out adults understanding what the child wants.

Friday Feast #166

Appetizer
Name a great website you would recommend to others.
Realsimple.com

Soup
On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 as highest), how often do you dream at night?
Probably about 2-3 lately b/c I have been soooo tired.

Salad
Did you have a pet as a child? If so, what kind and what was its name?
Yes. I had a kitten named Buttons. She was sooo cute. She would climb up on your lap and rub her head under your chin. We also had a Schnauzer named Benji. I really liked that dog.

Main Course
If you had the chance to star in a commercial, what would you choose to advertise?
Oh I don't know. Maybe a cell phone commercial. i just love that one where the grandma is texting right along with the kids. Too funny.

Dessert
What is your favorite kind of hard candy?
I like Life Savers peppermint candies. Yum:)

another picture

Here is the finished project. We still have a few little things to finish up but am so glad this is done. Painting is a HUGE project and next time.... I think we are going to just side it.:)

painting pictures

Ok. Here is one picture of the girls helping paint the house. It was a dark brown color and we painted it a lighter tan color. Our oldest daughter is hanging out the window and handing our other daughter paint. It looks funny but we had a very good system and actually made the job go much quicker. I have another picture to show you of the front of the house but blogger is not working with me right now.Ugh!!!!Will try later.

yeah!!!

We finally got the house painted. Yes, I know it has taken forever but with our schedule, we are lucky it is done now.I will have to post pictures tomorrow b/c our camera needs charged right now. I am sooo excited that it is done!!!!

Good movie

Watched a really good movie today that everyone should watch. No bad words, just a plain good movie. It is a tear jerker though. Not going to tell you about the movie,just go out a rent it and then tell me if you liked it. The movie is called the Ultimate Gift.

friday feast

Appetizer
If you were a dog, what breed would you be, and why?
I would be Shih Tzu just like my dog,because they are cute and cuddly and very loving

Soup
What does the color purple make you think of?
Calm,quiet, peaceful

Salad
Approximately how long does it take you to get ready each morning?
Usually only about 25-30 minutes. I get up before everyone else so mornings are my time.

Main Course
How many cousins do you have, and are you close to them?
8. Not really. We used to get together when we were little,but not any more.


Dessert
Take your initials (first, middle, last) and come up with something else those letters could stand for. (Example: SFO = Sweet Funny Otter)
Juicy Fruit

100 Acre Woods Quiz

Take the 100 Acre Personality Quiz!
Found this over at Talk to Grams. Guess this fits me pretty good.Fun quiz.

our get away

Sorry it's taken me so long to post about this weekend,but yesterday was so busy I didn't have time to post anything.
We did have a great time. It was sooooo nice just getting away by ourselves. We haven't done this for so long it was sort of hard to decide what to do without 4 other voices with their opinions telling us what they want to do.
We stayed at a really nice hotel/waterpark at the Dells. The first day we went downtown to the strip area and they had a fall festival going on(right up my alley):) and then we just walked around and window shopped. Everything there is very overpriced.Defintely a tourist trap. We ate lunch and then went mini golfing-of course, I did not win,but we had fun-that is all that matters.
We went over to the water park and rode the lazy river and got in the 2 hot tubs. I am not much of a big water slide person. All I'll say is NICE:)
We did call the kids several times. Missed them like crazy!!!!They all behaved and when we got home the house was picked up and dishes done. WOW!!!!:)Guess they did miss us after all.*smile*
I enjoyed the time away,but am also glad to be back home and back to routine.

I have a post about our weekend away but it is on the laptop and blogger wouldn't let me post it last night,so will hopefully get it posted today sometime.

Happy birthday

Today is my hubby's birthday!!! We celebrated this morning at breakfast. We got breakfast for only $6. Amazing, I know. At the restaurant we went to you got to eat free on your bday only up to $8. It was the cheapest meal we've eaten in a long time.
Happy Birthday.... I love you!!!

Tomorrow is the day

Getting excited about our get away. Haven't been away on a trip with my hubby for a long time and we need a break. It is only a few days but sometimes just getting away from it all is exactly what you need. Don't get me wrong, I will miss my kids HORRIBLY,and will be thinking about them the whole time. They all have plans for the weekend so I know they will be okay. Will try to get pictures of where we go to share with you all on Sunday evening.

happy anniversary

Today is our 19th anniversary. We didn't do too much today,but this weekend we are going on a trip by ourselves!!! Yes, without kids,all alone.:) We won a free trip this past year and we decided to use it for ourselves. Can't believe it has been 19 years.It has flown by soooo quickly. Yes, we are still very happily married.

Back Home

Well, we made it back. Had a good time but too short for our youngest.They lost their game last night but Caleb made both touchdowns!!! Yeah!! Our middle daughter got to do a lot of driving on the way there and on the way back. Just wouldn't let her drive through Chicago. I am not ready for her to drive through that town-I won't even drive through there. Too many cars!!!
We are all relaxing this afternoon. Those short trips take a lot out of you. I don't like to sleep anywhere away from home anyway-that's just me.:)
Hope everyone had a great weekend!!!

Weekend happenings

Well, it is going to be another busy weekend around here. I don't think I can remember a weekend that hasn't been busy for awhile. We are going to Ohio to watch one of our daughter's friend's football game. They dated for awhile and he has been keeping us up to date on his football games, so we decided to go cheer him on at his last home game.
The kids had today off and also have Monday off for Columbus Day. I like these days b/c it is not so crazy in the morning trying to get everyone out the door on time. I am just so thankful that our oldest daughter is home to help take kids to school and run errands for me since i have the daycare at the house.She has been a great help to me.
Hope you all enjoy your weekends. It is suppose to be unseasonably warm this weekend. I don't mind. This is my favorite time of the year.(If I haven't mentioned that before)hehe:)

When I say "I'm a Christian"

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not shouting, “I’ve been saved!”
I’m whispering, “I get lost! That’s why I chose this way”When I say, “I am a Christian,” I don’t speak with human pride
I’m confessing that I stumble-needing God to be my guide

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not trying to be strong
I’m professing that I’m weak and pray for strength to carry on

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not bragging of success
I’m admitting that I’ve failed and cannot ever pay the debt

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I don’t think I know it all
I submit to my confusion asking humbly to be taught

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I’m not claiming to be perfect
My flaws are far too visible but God believes I’m worth it

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I still feel the sting of pain
I have my share of heartache which is why I seek His name

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I do not wish to judge
I have no authority–I only know I’m loved

Help!!!!!

UGH!!! Am having trouble adding the award buttons to my blog. I saved the images and then went to photobucket and it wouldn't load to photobucket. Will try tomorrow I guess. Also, tried to make the smile award smaller on paint and it ends up loading really big at the bottom of my page.

To Maddie

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Can't believe you are 9 years old now. I remember the day I got the call that you were born and I went to see you. You are growing up into a beautiful young lady. Love you and miss you!!!!! Hope you have a fun birthday. Send us pictures.:)

Homecoming 2007

Here are a couple of pictures from last night. Can't find the pictures of our youngest with her group of friends but will try to find them later. Pictures are not loading onto our place we usually have them.They had a great time at the dance and all were tired this morning.

Dance the night away

Tonight is the homecoming dance. They lost the football game last night.:( Will post pictures later tonight or tomorrow. Until then... busy,busy,busy.

Friday Feast #162

Appetizer
How are you today?
Am doing just great!!! It is Friday and I have the weekend off.

Soup
Name 3 television shows you watch on a regular basis.
House,Don't forget the lyrics,and Dancing with the Stars.

Salad
What’s the scariest weather situation you’ve experienced?
I was in Florida when there was a hurricane. That is something you don't want to go through. Worst storm you could ever imagine.

Main Course
If you could wake up tomorrow morning in another country, where would you want to be?
I think I would like to visit England or Italy. Have always wanted to go there.

Dessert
What do you usually wear to sleep?
In the winter, one of my hubby's sweatshirts and my comfy pants.

Yippee!!!!

We finally got our computer back up and running!!!! Now i don't have to remember all my passwords to all the sites i go to.:) Our daughter can have her laptop back for college.

Interesting Questions........

Can you cry under water?

How important does a person have to be before they are considered assassinated instead of just murdered?

Why do you have to "put your two cents in".. but it's only a "penny for your thoughts"? Where's that extra penny going to?

Why does a round pizza come in a square box?

What disease did cured ham actually have?

How is it that we put man on the moon before we figured out it would be a good idea to put wheels on luggage?

Why is it that people say they "slept like a baby" when babies wake up like every two hours?

If a deaf person has to go to court, is it still called a hearing?

Why are you IN a movie, but you're ON TV?

Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?

Why do doctors leave the room while you change? They're going to see you naked anyway.



Why is "bra" singular and "panties" plural?

Why do toasters always have a setting that burns the toast to a horrible crisp, which no decent human being would eat?

If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares, why is there a stupid song about him?

Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in the carpool lane ?

If the professor on Gilligan's Island can make a radio out of a coconut, why can't he fix a hole in a boat?

Why does Goofy stand erect while Pluto remains on all fours? They're both dogs!

If Wile E. Coyote had enough money to buy all that ACME stuff, why didn't he just buy dinner?

If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, what is baby oil made from?

If electricity comes from electrons, does morality come from morons?

Do the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?

Why did you just try singing the two songs above?

Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him for a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?

Friday Feast # 161

Appetizer
What is your favorite type of art?
I like paintings that other people have done. If you are talking about what I like to do, I still like to color with the kids.:)

Soup
When was the last time you got a free lunch (or breakfast or dinner)? Who paid for it?
Hmmmmm......don't know when the last time was that I went out to lunch or breakfast and it was free.


Salad
On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being highest, how emotional are you?
I would say about a 5.

Main Course
Approximately how long do you spend each day responding to emails?
Usually, I look at my email in the morning and respond to the emails and then check it in the afternoon to see if there are any new emails. Maybe about 5-10 minutes

Dessert
To what temperature do you usually set your home’s thermostat?
Usually it is set at 69-70 degrees.

how addicted to blogging are you????

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Stay off the sidewalks: )

Our middle daughter is getting her permit today!!!!! Am a little nervous letting her drive. Don't know why, I wasn't that nervous with our first daughter. She of course wants to drive somewhere today, but will have to wait until dad is home. We need to take her out to the country and teach her a few things about driving first. She hasn't driven with the instructor yet,and starting next year they are enforcing some stricter rules for new drivers in our state. My youngest isn't to thrilled about it but I think they are good changes. They have to have their permit for 9 months instead of 3, they have more driving hours to complete b4 they get their license,more hours behind the wheel with the instructor. There are a few more but can't remember them all right now. The new rules start in Jan.

Our cruise

Our kids minus our youngest daughter plus one:)





Post card picture of Chicago





our little captain driving a much smaller boat





My hubby and I at Navy Pier today and behind us is the boat we rode on.




We had a really good time today. The weather was perfect and the cruise was a lot of fun-after you got your "sea legs":P The cruise was about 11/2 hrs long and it was very relaxing. We spent most of our time on the top deck. We had a buffet lunch and there was a dj there and the kids had a great time dancing and just having fun. We also had time to walk around Navy Pier. Everyone except our son and I rode the big ferris wheel. They also rode the carousel. All in all, it was a great day. I would do it again any day.

Busy, busy

Haven't been able to get online much this week. Too busy working.I have a new baby that I watch and he is really keeping me busy.He is only here on Thursday and Friday but those two days are really busy. I like to keep busy though otherwise I go nuts with not much to do. I have to stay busy.
Am really looking forward to this weekend. My hubby's work is taking us on a cruise on Lake Michigan. Can't wait. It is going to be chilly though. The temp is suppose to be in the 60's but on the water it is going to be quite cold. Am a little upset that all of our family can't go. Farmtastic is also this weekend and our youngest daughter wants to go. I don't blame her, it is a really fun time for teens from churches all over the county to get together at a farm here in town and they have games, competitions, and lots of fun but there is also a speaker there.Great way to reach out to the teens of the community.
Will try to get pictures downloaded onto the laptop. Just not sure how to do it yet. Will have to just sit down in my spare time *haha* and figure it out.

Remembering 9/11/2001

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Monday Madness

1. Do you have children in school?
yes,we have 1 in elementary school, 2 in high school, and one in college.

2. Are YOU currently in school (any level)?
No I am not in school.

3. Did you (or your children) attend a public or private school?
I attended private school for 12 years.

4. As far as formal education, what level have you completed?
I went to college for 2 years

5. Do you, or did you have loans out for your (or your children's) education?
Nope. Luckily we have a payment plan for our daughter's college this year.

6. What are your thoughts on the cost of tuition for colleges and universities?
I think that community college is a lot cheaper than universities and you can receive the same kind of education as a big university and also stay close to home.

Football season is here!!

We went to the first ever home game at the new field at the high school last night. Of course, there was a ceremony dedicating the new field. Our middle daughter is in flags so we watched the pre-game show and half time show with the band. She did well. Was sooo proud of her. The hubs won the game!!! Yeah!!! We only stayed til half time b/c our son cannot last through the whole game. I am actually learning a little more about football. Shock:) It is not so bad once you learn what they are doing.:) Am glad we didn't stay though b/c there was a 20 minute delay b/c of lightning seen in the distance. It did not rain,but with fans sitting on metal bleachers and all it was probably a good idea.
Not doing much today. Just watching a 11 month old for a while. Most of our kids are off doing things today. Just a quiet day. Very nice temperatures outside. Suppose to be 78 i think. Absolutely LOVE this weather!!!! If you didn't know by now, fall is my favorite season.
Sorry no pictures to post. Don't know how to download them onto this laptop. Have pictures of our daughter in flags but will have to wait til we get our other computer working.
Have a great weekend!!!!

The Onion meme

I've been tagged by my mom:)flipflopfloozie for this quite revealing meme. The purpose is to strip you down like an onion layer by layer. So now I stand here before naked. (Oh run, hide....it is scary!!)

Let's get going so you can see how this happened!!!




LAYER 1
On the Outside

Name: Julie F.
Birth Date: June 14
Current Status: married for almost 19 years in Oct.;)
Eye Color: Blue
Hair Color: auburn with blonde highlights

LAYER 2
On the Inside

My Heritage: English
My Fear: losing anyone in my family
My weaknesses: Shopping in general
My Perfect Pizza: sausage and onion

LAYER 3
Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

My thoughts first waking up : Thank you Lord for another day
My bedtime : sleep is good:)
My most missed memory: when i was little

LAYER 4
My Pick

Pepsi or coke :pepsi
Single or group dates : single dates with hubby
Adidas or Nike : Nike
Tea or Nestea : don't like nestea. i make tea at home
Chocolate or Vanilla : Chocolate
Cappuccino or Coffee : Coffee

LAYER 5
Do You ****?

Smoke : NO WAY!!! Never want to either
Take a shower : Shower not baths
Have a crush : Mel Gibson
Think you’ve been in love : YES!!! Still am
Go to school :Not for a while
Want to get married : Have been married for a while now and our 19th anniversary is in Oct.
Believe in yourself : Sometimes
Think you’re a health freak : I like to eat healthy

LAYER 6
In the Past

Drank alcohol : a little
Gone to the mall : Yep. Probably too much
Been on stage : Yes but not my favorite thing
Eaten sushi : No
Dyed your hair : Dyed no.Highlighted it.

LAYER 7
Have You Ever***?

Played a stripping game :No

LAYER 8
Hoping

Get married: Already married!!

LAYER 9
In A Guy

Best eye colour : blue
Best hair colour : dark brown
Short hair or long hair :short

LAYER 10
What were you doing

A minute ago : doing this meme
Hour ago : dishes
Month ago : probably working like usual
Year ago : working

LAYER 11
Finish This Sentence

I love :my family and friends
I feel : a ok.
I hate : someone who procrastinates and lies.
I hide : things that will hurt people
I miss : my family when they are gone.
I need : my family with me.


Not going to tag anyone so if you do this meme let me know so I can stop by.

Friday feast

Appetizer
Using only one word, how does grocery shopping make you feel?
Honestly, it makes me feel broke:)

Soup
What is your favorite part about the season of Autumn?
I love Autumn. It is my favorite time of the year. I love going to the apple orchard. I love the cool weather, the smell of fall, the kids going back to school:),wearing sweatshirts and jeans. My favorite outfit:)

Salad
Have you ever had any bad experiences online?
No I haven't.

Main Course
Name three things that make you happy daily.
My hubby, my kids, my job.

Dessert
What one household cleansing or organizing item would you not want to be without?
I love soft scrub with bleach. Cleans really well. I also couldn't live without my vaccum.

Painting continued.....

Well, we got a lot of painting done this weekend but couldn't finish one side of the house b/c of all the stupid mosquitoes. There were enough there to carry away a grown man.:) We are going to buy a fogger and see if that gets rid of them. Even in the sun yesterday the mosquitoes were eating us alive. Wish they would just go away so we can get this done. The poor kids around town look like they have chicken pox b/c they have been bitten so much by those mosquitoes.
Hopefully by this weekend we can finish the one side of the house and be done with it.I would post pictures but we are still on my daughter's laptop. Have to take the other computer in to get looked at i guess. Not working still. We think it is the power supply which won't be so bad to fix.
Have a great day everyone!!!!

Our weekend

We have had a great labor day weekend so far. We took the kids shopping on saturday for some more needed school clothes and shoes. I think it was more fun for us girls than dad:) He usually goes along for the ride. We also stopped by my favorite fall place...the apple orchard. I love going there b/c fall is my favorite time of the year I love to go to the corn maze and get caramel apples and buy my new candle:P
Yesterday was church and then a little more shopping for one of our daughters. We made it home in time for another daughter to go to the movies with her friends.
Today we are going to finish painting the house. It is gorgeous weather and we are soooo thankful for that.
Hope everyone has a safe and happy Labor day weekend.