Sunday, May 31, 2009

Happy Anniversary Micah and Glenda!



Good things DO come to those who wait! Congrats and lots of love!

Random week recap

Ever since Chris and I had birthdays (30 and 28)...we can't seem to keep our eyes awake past 11, music and TV seems louder, and the mornings are harder to get going. Coincidence? Doubt it. We've had a great week. Very busy. Lots of excitement about the future. But, also trying to balance that with reality and trusting the Lord. Life as usual.
On Friday, mi cumpleanos, the kids and I went to Sara's to help with laundry duty. She was wanting to get it wrapped up before her boys get out of school next week. I know, it may seem like a wierd thing to do on your cumpleanos. But, I enjoy ironing. My love for ironing goes back to 8th grade when I ironed to make money for my school trip to Washington DC (from Mexico City, that is) (see picture below). I'll tell you - my family had the most ironed clothes ever! Anyhow, back to Friday, it was a relaxing time and successful for Sara! Chris got home early (!), mowed, and we met a bunch of family and friends at Mad Pizza. As a disclosure, I only had 2 pieces of pizza and salad. But, I am still dealing with what I've self-diagnosed as food poisoning. Mad Pizza may be on the Osmon List of Fired Food Places. We'll see.
We also went bowling at Fast Lane. It was fun, but very chaotic...thanks to the low lights and loud music. (See first few sentences) But, it was good for us to do something different. Plus, Eli thought it was fantastic.
Yesterday the kids and I went to my parents to help them lay sod. Well, Eli helped. Abi and her Mama hung out on the front porch. Hey - someone has to do the hard work! Chris worked at school all day on a big paper. Yeah for him for getting it done 2 days early! Maybe this is a new characteristic of 30. I'll have to ponder that one for a while.
Anyhow, last night I watched Bride Wars...which I got a week ago for my cumple. It was good. I'll watch it again today with Glenda. Who, I might add, was in a bad wreck on Friday, my cumple. Fortunately, she only broke her arm. Ugh. Painful. Yet, in perspective it is good. I guess she'll be vehicle shopping soon.
Oh, and Tara, who works at a local camp and stays with us on her days off, locked her keys in her car last night. Chris got the neighbors involved - one works for the Sheriff's office. It took 6 of us to make it happen! Well, really only 1, but the rest of us enjoying watching!
This post is very long and random. But, I can say I've folded clothes, started a load of laundry, made Tara breakfast, and made coffee all by 7:30am. Oh, and had 3 Tylenol to help with the massive headache.
Now...on to enjoy that coffee, iron my dress for church, and try and get the 30 year old up for church.

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Happy 30th to my Love!

Chris turns 30 today! Crazy! As he (and Lee) commented (and not while together) while watching the Bachelorette that those 29 and 30 year olds look old...but not me!


So, my post today is for Chris. If I had all the money (or some of the money) in the world, these would be your presents. Love ya! Nikon D90 - for the Stephen (Spielburg) in him


Endless movie tickets


A trip back to Sorrento, Italy


A trip to the Bahamas


A trip to Disney World...oh yeah!


2010 Mustang


Lots and lots of sushi!


And...endless Bang Bang shrimp!


A shopping spree at Banana Republic (although you have the blue shirt in the middle)


A new house!


Happy Birthday my love!

Friday, May 22, 2009

Praise Him!

Because at this moment I am totally overwhelmed by God's goodness I will save my words for later and ask you to watch these videos as a testimony of His love, faithfulness, provision, and amazingness!



Thursday, May 21, 2009

It must be Thursday

I've blogged about this before. Thursdays are rough days for me. It's like my mind and body are ready for the weekend. Ready to see my husband. Ready to have my family awake and together for more than an hour at a time. Ready to do projects together.
And...this morning. My mind and body knew it was Thursday.
Oh, Thursday.
On the positive - before work this morning, Chris and Eli sprayed the yard to kill weeds. Then, Eli and I planted wild flower seeds. If they come up...we win. If not, it was a fun morning activity.
Pretty much, after flower planting it was just like seeing thru mud. Like the auto industry, our home is going thru "restructuring." Painful. But necessary for survival. And, ultimately for the best.
I should just know to stay inside on Thursdays. I made an attempt to run some errands and take care of business on the phone while driving them. (It helps b/c the kids are strapped in one place!) But, this just led to more pain and I changed plans and returned home. Do you ever just want to be home? Like it's a shield from the ugly world? It's just comforting to snuggle with your children. Their warmth and kisses breathe fresh life on me.
My Dad came by and took us to McDonald's. Eli hearts that place (even though he's only been a handful of time). Like his father did as a toddler. And. We got caught! My Mom pulled in the parking lot as we were getting the kids in the car. She was coming on a surprise visit!
The kids showed their grandparents the frog swimming pool. Which reminds me that I need to post pics on here. Mom took Eli to WalMart and he came back with a ball, swimming trunks (vs his underwear!), and sunglasses. Abi got a polkadot dress for her daddy's bday party on Saturday.
And, Chris had a rough day at work. Why? Why on a Thursday? It's always a lesson in grace and love for me to care for him after a long day. No time to burden him with more. Just to love him where he is, get him a cold drink (grape koolaid!) and a hot meal.
I had good conversations with Dad. Talking with him is like putting balm on cracked skin. Know what I mean? He is so patient and wise. Must be the gray hair! And, encouraging. And, loving. And, kind. Always kind.
So, now that it's the end of the day...it's still Thursday. But, like before, I've survived it. And, tomorrow Chris gets off early for a long weekend! Plus he turns the big 30!
I am blessed. And thankful.
God is good all the time.
All the time, God is good.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

A for-real post

I am teaching/demonstrating to my cousins how to create and manage a blog. I know, it's exciting!
As mentioned before, I get together on Wednesdays with Loren and Sara.
Ok, done posting. Just wanted to show them how to create a link! Enjoy their blogs!
And...leave comments! It's fun!

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Recently

Am I a bad mother that I let my toddler play with a foot massager?! Probably not. He thinks it feels so funny!
Anyhow, we have had a very busy week. I coordinated a garage sale for our church last week. All proceeds went to the building fund. It was fun! But, I think I'm still recuperating! So many people contributed stuff (treasures). A family let us use an empty rental property they had. It was in a great location, out of the weather, and with a clean toilet! I enjoyed visiting with our church members that helped out. They were great entertainment for Eli! Plus, there were a few families that shopped that were very interested in our church! Hopefully that will develop in the future!
The Northwest Arkansas Baptist Association has a volunteer building group. They've been at our church for the past week and a half. Wow! They are amazing! They've got the framing basically done! Last Thursday was the first time I'd entered the new building - and, I almost cried! It is just a beauty! With the framing done you can "see" what's what! I couldn't hardly sleep that night. I mean, God is good. I am just giddy at what He's done for us, and me. People's lives will be changed at that location. Families will be changed. And, many lives will be changed by the Savior, our Redeemer. Can I get an "Amen"?!?! I'll have to post pictures soon!
So, now life is sorta back to normal. I'm catching up on laundry and cleaning. We've got some changes coming our way, so I'm trying to "plan" for those. And, why is it that when there's so much to do, all I want to do is be lazy? Ugh. I hate feeling like a slug.
Ok...time to not be a blogging slug!

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

The family, trials, and the Lord

As I'm busy trying to work down my to-do list, my thoughts have gone back to a few conversations I had with my cousin this morning. Christians and conservatives (I don't use the terms as mutually exclusive) are under attack at each turn in life.
My cousin was dreading going to a PTA meeting at her sons' school because it is fiercely competitive and to quote her "it is totally acceptable to throw someone under the bus at any time." She also mentioned that 2 dads have such filthy mouths. And, they comment "Oh, don't say that because (insert cousin's name here) is here."
While this seems petty, it is reality. My cousin should be excited and energized at supporting her sons' school. But, there is a dread of facing these people. That's tough. Makes me wonder what PTA will be like when my kids are older.
We also talked about how Satan hates family. I'll say it again. Satan hates the family. And, he will do anything to destroy it. Anything. Everything. Starting with a white lie. Starting with inappropriate TV that plants seeds contrary to God's plan for the family. Starting with noticing and leading to coveting your neighbors any and every thing. Starting with a harsh word. Often it begins slowly. Innocently. Almost not worth the mention. Harmless. And, low-and-behold! Before you know it, the whole thing has fallen apart and you hardly recognize what it use to be.

Yes, I'm rambling a bit.

The Bible tells us this:
"but, each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." James 1:14-15

Sin starts in our minds. Satan uses our minds to deceive and entice us. But, in the end, it still leads to death.

The Bible also tells us this:
"Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." James 1:16-17
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." James 1:2
"I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about that which is evil." Romans 16:19
"Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God." 1 Peter 2:16

And, finally, the Word of God says:
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

Don't give up! Guard your mind! Guard your heart! Keep the words of the Lord close to you so that in times of trial you will persevere!

Lots of love to my family!

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Pics of Kids

As I've mentioned before, I get together on Wednesdays with my cousins Loren and Sara. Loren is working on building a photography business. We had a photo shoot at the house last week!
Check out some of the pictures on her blog!
I am SO happy! And, Chris can't stop talking about them!
If you're in the 479 and looking for some good pictures, consider Loren! Plus, the kids love her!

Miss California


I'm not a big pageant follower. At all. But, I have been appalled at the treatment of Miss California, Carrie Prejean, after stating in the Miss America pageant that she believed marriage should be between a man and a woman. And, of course, the liberal back lash began. Digging up her past, misconstruing things, being hateful in the media (this is mainly directly from the Miss California pageant co-director Shana Moekler).
All over the headlines it has stated that Donald Trump (owner of the Miss America world) would issue a decision on Tuesday if Miss California would keep her crown or not. On Monday afternoon, the Miss California organization announced who would be Carrie Prejean's replacement. The audacity! Already counting her out!
I am thrilled that Donald Trump has announced that Carrie will keep the title and crown! And, he stated that her response was a good response to a difficult question. Way to back her up.
So, in the end, there is a bit of justice. I'm saddened at these attacks. But, this is how it goes with liberals- especially about topics that cause great emotion. They are so tolerant...as long as you agree with them. If not? Well, they'll haunt and hunt you like you were Osama Bin Laden.
So, congratulations to Miss California on taking the high road!

Monday, May 11, 2009

Recipe Updates

I've posted a few new recipes...happy meal planning!

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

I heart Wednesdays

Wednesdays tend to get a bad reputation. Hump Day. But, I now so look forward to them.
You see, last week I began a new tradition with two cousins, who are more friends than cousins. (Or, are they more cousins than friends?)
Anyhow, they come to our home (since I still have kiddos at home) in the morning and hang out most of the day. We visit, drink coffee, have lunch, and usually do a craft or two.
I have so looked forward to today all week long! Loren took a TON of pictures of the kids. She's working on building a photography business in the 479. She is so talented! Plus, great with the kids! And, thankfully the sun was shining today! I'll let you know when the pictures are up.
I made the delicious PF Chang's Lettuce Wraps. I'll get the recipe up soon (I'm currently using the computer at my parents' home). They agreed. It is such a fantastic meal! And, light and healthy. In fact, I believe the Woods will be enjoying it for supper tonight!
Well, I just wanted to say that I love spending time with these ladies. I love how they love on my kids. I love how we talk about what the Lord is showing us. I love how we spend time encouraging each other.
AHHH...girl time is great!

Monday, May 4, 2009

Picture Time 5

Food from Kimber's shower.














Picture Time 4

Pictures from Kimber's shower that Deb, Mom, Abi, and I hosted.














Picture Time 3

Prep work for Abi's party and the dedication itself. Thanks Auntie O!









Picture Time 2

Pictures of cupcakes and cookies from Abi's shower and some from the party.














Picture Time

These are pictures from the house, Kimber's shower in Oklahoma, and Eli's first night in his big-boy bed!



Saturday, May 2, 2009

P90X Update!!!

Well, I should be cleaning my house. Definitely. But, I can't resist the lull of the computer. What did I do back in the good-ole days pre e-mail? I specifically remember telling someone when I was in 10th grade (living in Mexico City) that writing a "letter" on the computer was stupid. Oh, the sense of humor in that! I do, however, believe there is still strong value, if not more value, in the handwritten message.
Ok, I'm rambling.
Another funny thing! I was the #1 skeptic of this P90X craze. I taunted my husband, calling it the BMX89. I know, I'm a dork.
Anyhow, back to the point.
Two weeks later and I'm wearing a size smaller! PTL! And, there are visible changes to my mid-section (I know, not hard to imagine that either!). And, I'm no "pro" - I can't do all the reps and definitely don't have perfect form. But, I guess it's the time invested of getting up and moving. The only different thing I'm doing in regards to eating is having a salad for supper. Not a "poor me I'm eating a salad" salad, but a "this is SO good!" salad. We're talking boiled eggs (more protein), hamburger meat or turkey, spinach (for iron), and finely (b/c I'm no veggie fanatic) chopped broccoli and cauliflower for the crunch factor! And, yes, still the good-ole Ranch.
I share this because it's positive news on the weight front! I have some goal clothes that I keep in my closet as a reminder of the cuteness that awaits. So, last night I tried them on! It was great! I was like a child on Christmas morning - I can so tell I'm getting closer! HIP HIP HOORAY!
And, this morning, I did Ab Ripper X and Legs and Back. About 90 minutes of exercise.
Wow. I'm so into P90X. Well, I'm really into having found something that keeps me motivated and is producing results. On with the healthier me!
Ok, now...back to that house cleaning (in my pre-maternity sweats that aren't tight anywhere now!!!)...