For Today

Haven't done this little exercise in a while ... but found out after my little whinefest on comments that some people do enjoy this.

Outside my window: It's dark and muggy and hot ... and it rained a little. Of course it rained, I washed the van.

I Am Thinking: About V.A.C.A.T.I.O.N. Getting close! We're heading to Gulf Shores, Alabama this summer. It's been a few years since we've been to the gulf and we're all looking forward to it. Last year we went to the Atlantic side and the water was just way too rough for the girls. I'm thinking the gulf will be just what they need.

I Am Thankful For: Summertime and all the fun we've had so far this summer. The kids have enjoyed their break and we've enjoyed a whole lot of sunshine.

From The Kitchen: What's that?

I Am Wearing: Blue shorts, white t-shirt. I'm such a rebel.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: We finally worked on the toy room/play room! It's not decorated really but Brian cleaned it out and painted it a few months ago and I finally got around to sorting out toys and taking some old things to Goodwill and throwing out a whole lot of mismatch things ... still more to do but it is looking better.

I Am Going: To bed soon, it's been a busy weekend.

I Am Reading: "The Good Women of China - Hidden Voices" ... wow. Can't hardly put it down.

I Am Hoping: That the humidity lets up a tad - dang it's been hot here.

I Am Praying For: Several things. Well, many things. A dear friend whose husband is undergoing chemo. What a blessing their family is though, definately a lesson in faith, grace and humor from them. Also praying for some friends of ours whose daughter from China is having heart problems and it looks like she may have to undergo surgery much sooner than they thought she would. Lots of things on my prayer list these days.

I Am Hearing: "American's Got Talent" on the televsion and can overhear whatever it is Brian is listening to on his laptop even though he has on headphones. Now if that was Ryan I'd be telling him to turn it down!

Around The House: Somewhat cleaned up but several projects lined up that need my time and attention. Laundry clean and put away. School supplies purchased and in totes just waiting on school to start. A box of pictures that needs to be mailed to my stepson. and Shoes ... shoes are everywhere. What is it with my kids that they can't put their shoes away?

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching the kids play on the playground. We went to a picnic today w/ other families with children from China and the girls just played and played. What a joyous site!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Ryan starts cross country running tomorrow. Rebecca has t-ball practice. Gymnastics for Emma on Tuesday. T-Ball game for Rebecca on Thursday ... just go - go - go.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Haven't done this little exercise in a while ... wasn't sure if readers enjoy these kinds of posts? Or do your eyes gloss over and you come back when there are pictures? :-)

Outside my window: It's dark and rainy. Much cooler than the unseasonable 85 that we had here yesterday.

I Am Thinking: About Rebecca and how it was a really difficult decision for us to hold her back from starting kindergarten last year. Since she has a late birthday, by the cutoff date she could have started - but she would have been starting as a 4 year old. She just wasn't ready and as much as I wanted her to be, there just didn't seem to be anything I could do to "make" her be ready. When it came down to it, we decided the best approach was to let her learn when she was ready and to let her mature another year. And oh my goodness - that's been the best decision we could have possibly made. Girlfriend is more than ready for kindergarten to start this fall!

I Am Thankful For: My family, there was a time in my life I never thought I would truly love someone or them love me. But oh my my ... I met Brian and the rest is history. He's my best friend, a sweet husband and fun to boot. And of course it goes w/out saying how much I love the kiddos.

From The Kitchen: I've tried a few more pioneer woman recipes. One was a sour cream noodle bake thing that we all loved. The girls especially were cleaning their plates! I also made a budget type casserole not too long ago that that kids loved as well. It really tickles me when they really, really like something we make. The yums are music to my ears.

I Am Wearing: Black sweats and an OU t-shirt. Boomer Sooner baby.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Sigh. Is this something that is ever completely done? Seems like I'm in a constant state of piling things up for Goodwill. Still need to work on the toy room some more but think I just may wait for my mom to come out later this month. Mama's have a way of making things like that better :-)

I Am Going: To bed soon, last week was pretty tough at work and today wasn't that much better. I really do love my job, and for the most part it's not stressful ... but lately, well - it's been a tad bit stressful. I even cried today & I hate showing emotion like that. Especially at work. For some reason it makes me think of my dad telling me when I was a teenager that only weak people cry. I really do not remember the complete context, but do remember the words and remember he was upset with me for being emotional. Not that I really agree with what he said but not so sure I've ever cried since then (other than a sad cry) and not thought of him saying that.

I Am Reading: Ryan bought a couple of Grisham books not too long ago and I read one of them and really enjoyed it. Haven't read a book like that in a long time. I noticed he laid the other one on my night stand. He's such a thoughtful son.

I Am Hoping: Hmmm ... not sure what I'm hoping ... that my week gets better???

I Am Praying For: A non-Christian friend of mine that I have been praying for going on several years now. She's a sweetheart, good natured, fun, thoughtful - all those things you want in a friend. But for the life of me I can't ever seem to say the right words when the subject of Christianity comes up. In fact I seem to somehow always say the wrong thing. And to add to that, I do not feel that I always act the way I should either - all those things that I feel keep me from being a good witness. Anyway, praying first and foremost that I be the way I should be ... and secondly, that I somehow find the courage to open up the right door to lead her to Christ.

I Am Hearing: Diners, Dives & Drive thrus and they are showing a restaurant in San Antonio. Oh how I'd LOVE to visit San Antonio again some time! Such good memories of that city! We used to stop and spend the night there every time we went to the beach with my best friend in high school & college. Brian & I took the older boys down there one time at Christmas - the river walk is absolutely beautiful any time, but even more beautiful lit up with Christmas lights! The best time though was spending our honeymoon there!

Around The House: Brian had a deacon meeting tonight & the kids and I cleaned house!

One Of My Favorite Things: Talking to my mom. We talk on the phone just about every day. I love my mama.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Deacon meeting for Brian tonight. Swim lessons for the girls on Tuesday & Thursday. Gymnastics for Emma on Wednesday while Bex & I run some errands. Friday night we're having an adults only dinner w/ our Sunday school class. Two birthday parties on Saturday, one for Rebecca early in the day & another for Emma later in the day. Sunday - baseball draft/tryouts for Ryan. Makes me tired just typing all that.

Have a great week everyone!

Outside my window: It's dark and BRRRR cold. This seems to me to be the coldest winter we've had since moving here. Or maybe it's because it started getting cold almost a month before it usually gets this cold. Regardless - I'M READY FOR SUMMER!

I Am Thinking: About Ryan's birthday. It's really hard for me to believe the apple of my eye just turned 13. Oh how I prayed for that little guy. But what am I saying, I've prayed for all my babies. I'll forever remember the prayerful pleadings to God to please bless me with a child. Now here we are 13 years later with 3! Every time I talk about another one, pretty much the first thing Brian asks is if I've been praying. Haha.

I was teasing Ryan about a week before his birthday that 13 years ago from that time I couldn't sit comfortably. I couldn't sleep comfortably. Heck, what am I talking about - I couldn't sleep period. I had moved to the sofa because it was the only place I could get some relief on my back. Only later did I find out that I had back labor, something I'd never heard of. When I went into labor all the contractions were in my back, I never felt a single one in my abdoment. Ouch-o-marama. The one main thing I was planning on for the maternity ward was to be able to sit in the whirlpool. Ahh, a relaxing and natural birth. Who the heck was I kidding? That didn't happen since my water broke and at work nonetheless and so the whirlpool was out. And why my mind ever thought it wouldn't hurt that bad is beyond my comprehension! Why is that a simple thing like labor can't go as planned? :-)

I Am Thankful For: Friends! We spent Saturday night hanging out with some friends. Brian made deer chili & then Marla and I made some pizza rolls for the kids. Although I think all the kids had some chili too. She had also bought things for the girls to make a fruit pizza - which they LOVED doing and Emma had taken her little juice maker and made fruit smoothies for everyone. The kids had so much fun & I sooo enjoyed the time just hanging out, visiting and letting the kids make all their treats.

From The Kitchen: Emma & I have been on a baking kick lately but we're either going to have to slack off or buy me some bigger jeans. Goodness. We've made brownies, homemade rice krispy treats. raisin oatmeal cookies and a coffee cake. She is having a blast & I SOOO enjoy her company in the kitchen!

I Am Wearing: Black sweats, gray t-shirt & wishing my comfy socks weren't upstairs in the closet.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Finally got around to going through the girls clothes. There were some sweaters, sweatshirts & things like that they had worn when we were in China back in 2009 that they were also able to wear last year & had gotten a few wears in this year as well. But as sentimental as I am I knew that I had to hand them down sooner than later. We have some friends at church that have the most adorable little twin girls and so I make a point of handing down the things that match. Today they had on the girls favorite monkey sweatshirts - oh my how it tickles me to see them wearing things of that were the girls. There really is something to the phrase "it's better to give than receive", because I can say I get just as much enjoyment seeing the little ones wearing the things as I did our girls!

I Am Going: To bed soon, can't believe another weekend has come and gone.

I Am Reading: Lost on Planet China: One Man's Attempt to Understand the World's Most Mystifying Nation - Still reading this. Enjoyed it at first, but having a hard time sticking with it right now.

I Am Hoping: That spring arrives early! Our family is needing some sunshine.

I Am Praying For: Some extended family members who have been on my mind in and my heart - going through a rough time right now.

I Am Hearing: Avatar. Brian is not feeling well so he's already turned in for the night so Ryan is watching it.

Around The House: Kithcen clean - I'm so weird about the kitchen. The entire rest of the house can be in shambles but I absolutely cannot go to bed without first cleaning the kitchen. Not trying to say the rest of the house is in bad shape though! Almost all the laundry done, but a few more loads to do & it still needs to be put away. The upstairs was cleaned yesterday but still need to do a little more downstairs. We're making a bigger effort to keep it picked up during the week and that seems to be helping some.

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching Ryan with his friends. We took him and some friends ice skaing for his birthday party & all the boys seemed to have a good time. There were several other families there who we know and thankfully Emma had a her best little buddy to skate with - she did really well too. But watching Ryan and the other guys playing, messing with each other - messing with some girls from our church ... it just cracked me up. They're getting so big!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Another deacon meeting for Brian tomorrow night. Basketball practice for Ryan on Tuesday. Gymnastics for Emma on Wednesday. Dance for Emma & Bex on Thursday. Game for Ryan on Saturday. After church on Sunday, a nap hopefully!

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Well hello Sunday - really enjoyed you today & hate to see you come to an end!

Outside my window: It's dark and BRRRR cold. On the way to church this a.m. it was a balmy ol' 8 degrees. C'mon summer, we need you.

I Am Thinking: About Rebecca. This week we will celebrate our two year anniversary of us becoming her forever family. How can two years just flash by in the blink of an eye? When I think of those first few days with Rebecca, I think of her instantly bonding with Emma and of her pushing me away. She would walk with Brian but she kept me at arms length pretty much the whole time we were in China. But two years later, she's a mama's girl! She loves to say to me "Have a good day mama lovely" when I drop her off at daycare in the mornings. Of course that just makes my day and puts a little pep in my step. Could there possibly be a better start to the day? I'm so thankful to God for answering my prayers and allowing us to be her parents.

I Am Thankful For: Brian. He & I will celebrate 16 years of marriage in a few months. I love that sweet man just as much today, if not more - than I did back in 1995. He's a wonderful husband in so many ways and is just fun to be with and be around. I'll never admit to him that all those times I roll my eyes at his jokes, I'm really laughing inwardly. Have I ever mentioned he has a really odd sense of hummor?

From The Kitchen: Little Emma also received a chocolate making set for Christmas and we finally got around to breaking it out today. We had great fun making little chocolates! And of course trying one or two as well. Yesterday we made Ginger Cookies, a recipe shared by a friend from our travel group to China 2 years ago & they were delicious! Tomorrow I'm making chicken friend deer steak - my family loves it! Then some taco soup with venison burger. Not quite sure about the rest of the week.

I Am Wearing: Gray sweats, pink t-shirt.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Finally got the toys semi-organized in the basement. Still needs decorating - any one want to come over & offer some suggestions?!

I Am Going: To bed soon, can't believe another weekend has come and gone.

I Am Reading: Lost on Planet China: One Man's Attempt to Understand the World's Most Mystifying Nation - Haven't really gotten that far into it yet but the author's style really cracks me up. Hopefully the whole book will be as good as the first few chapters.

I Am Hoping: That we do not lose any more days to snow this year ... poor kids are going to still be in school come June as it is. Ugh! I would sooo much rather start back to school the first of August than for them to still be in school in June. Any school board members out there who can adequately explain to me why they can't be out by the end of May? There's just something mentally that seems to change after Memorial Day & I know last year that Ryan's classes specifically were watching movies, going swimming - all kinds of non-instructional activities after Memorial Day. Wouldn't it be easier on everyone to just let them out instead? Okay, okay - off my soap box.

I Am Praying For: Our church. Brian has been reading a book called 'Missional Renaissance' and I have liked what he has shared about it so far!

I Am Hearing: Vince Gill - something Brian turned to on TV. Such a welcome relief to football.

Around The House: Almost all the laundry done, but still needs to be put away. The dishwasher running. But other than that, pretty much picked up.

One Of My Favorite Things: Both girls were sitting with me today as we looked through folders of pictures on my laptop. Little Rebecca was leaning over and kissing me and loving on me. What a sweet sweet baby she is! Hard to believe that two years ago today we had left for China to get her. We had left early, early that morning and were already weary of traveling by this time. That is one long flight!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Deacon meeting for Brian tomorrow night. We'll celebrate our two year anniversary with Rebecca this week!!! Basketball practice for Ryan. Gymnastics for Emma. Dance for Emma & Bex. Dinner out with some really good friends on Friday - just adults - What a treat!!!! Game for Ryan on Saturday.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

It's been a while since I've done this little exercise and since I'm behind on blogging and behind on really a lot of things - thought I'd take a few minutes to gather my thoughts.

Outside my window: It's dark and cold. Not as cold as it has been, but still pretty darn cold! I promise to never, ever complain about the heat and humidity again!

I Am Thinking: About the holidays and how much our sweet children enjoyed themselves. Now here we are in a new year already and have so much to look forward to. Ryan will be turning 13 in a few weeks, then I'll be turning (???) in February. We'll celebrate 16 fabulous years of marriage in March. Then little Emma turns 7 in May. So, the next few months are going to be busy busy!

I Am Thankful For: My family and friends. We had such a wonderful Christmas even though by dollar standards it was down from some previous years. But it seemed like everyone enjoyed that even more than some of the bigger celebrations we've had. It was just a good time all the way around. Some friends from Texas came and stayed with us a few days and we enjoyed visiting with them and enjoyed watching the kiddos interact with them. Emma in particular really took up with Ron, and you could tell he was quite smitten with her as well. We rang in the new year with some of our best friends who have also adopted from China and laughed so much I thought I was going to be sore. Good, good times! And I'll have to say I learned a lot of new things about these friends. 'The Not So Newlywed' game is a wonderful way to find out LOTS of things about people!

From The Kitchen: I love cooking in the winter! So I've been busy making venison stew. Also tried a chicken and dumplings recipe from the Pioneer Woman site. The dumplings have corn meal in them - a little weird, but good. The second time I made it I used gnocchi instead and that was pretty yummy as well. Did quite a bit of baking during Christmas and not sure I'm going to want any more sweets for a while! Emma asked for and received a Jamba Juice maker for Christmas so we've also been trying various smoothie recipes. I just love watching her whipping up her little concoctions! Emma and I were out running around with our friend from Texas the other day & ran across a set of really cute little antique glasses which I bought for her to serve her goodies in. Quite tickled that my little one likes to cook!

I Am Wearing: Black sweats. OU Sooners t-shirt. BOOMER SOONER baby!!!

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Oh my, seems like one step forward and 10 steps back at times. We do have the halls undecked - trees taken down and put up, mantle un-decorated. Window lights all down and packed away. But the confounded basement is gonna be the death of me. Brian had taken everything out and repainted it and now the shelving is back in and we did organize the books shelves which was desperately needed. But the kids toys are still not organized. Nor is anything 'decorated' yet - nor do I even have a decorating plan. I tried working on it for a few hours this afternoon but just wasn't in the mood.

I Am Going: To bed soon. Can't believe the holidays are over and it's back to a normal schedule already.

I Am Reading: Recently finished The Water is Wide. I realized after I was part way through it that I had read it before but enjoyed it so much that I went ahead and read it again. Great read! Time to catch up on some magazines before I delve into something else.

I Am Hoping: That we can decide where we're going on vacation. I need something to plan!

I Am Praying For: Patience. In many ways.

I Am Hearing: Football on the tv ... sigh. Shouldn't the season be over by now?

Around The House: A little messy, but manageable. Can't really complain since we did get all the Christmas decorations put away.

One Of My Favorite Things: Christmas! I just love buying things for our family and seeing their enjoyment when they open the packages. It really tickled me this year that some of the really little things I got the kids were the things they seemed to enjoy the most.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Ryan has a make up band concert. They had one scheduled before the holidays but it was cancelled due to the weather. Still have a few more weeks before gymnastics starts back up but I think dance does start back this week. I need to check on that! Then a basketball game for Ryan on Saturday.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark and somewhat warm for a fall night. I know I'll regret saying this later, but I'm ready for some real fall weather.

I Am Thinking: About my sweet hubby. He works so hard, has such a stressful job and then it seems like there are so many things around here that need to be done. He worked all weekend trying to finish up our bathroom. I'll be so glad when we are done with remodeling and can start getting out and about again.

I Am Thankful For: My family. I fuss at all of them from time to time, but I enjoy them so much. Each personality so different and so enjoyable in their own way. I watched the three kiddos out the window off an on all afternoon yesterday as they made up their own little game with sand pails and hickory nuts. Not quite sure what all they were doing but they picked up a bunch & then played and played with them.

From The Kitchen: Made fajitas yesterday which were yummy! Last week I was really in a cooking mood and made a meatloaf, some yummy pecan pie muffins (that are DELICIOUS!).

I Am Wearing: Blue & white shorts, yellow t-shirt ... not so sure they match :-(

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Cleaned out Ryan's closet - that child has hit a big growth spurt and nothing from last winter fits. Also went through the girls clothes and made a goodwill pile and a friend pile. Saved a few summer things for next summer but can tell that 5T's will not be fitting next summer. Makes me a little sad that we're completely out of the toddler sizes now :-(

I Am Going: To bed soon. Busy weekend wore me out.

I Am Reading: Just finished a rather odd book that my mom sent. She warned me ahead of time that the title and subject was not something I would typically read but encouraged me to give it a try. She said it was really good, not so sure I agree, but for some reason couldn't put it down either. The book is called "Imperfect Endings: A Daughter's Tale of Life and Death". It was basically about rights to die - which is weird to me, but the book was well written. Unsettling, but well written. Now I need something new to read!

I Am Hoping: That Brian can get some relief from the stress of his job.

I Am Praying For: A family we know who was in the process of adopting, they were there for the child's birth - no red flags from their agency, all seemed like it was going well but the birthmother changed her mind. The family is crushed to say the least.

I Am Hearing: Football on the tv ... sigh.

Around The House: Clean! Brian was busy with remodeling things, the kids played all afternoon in the yard and so I was able to get the whole house cleaned! Well, except the dining room - but that's another story.

One Of My Favorite Things: FALL!!! Beautiful gold and orange trees. Cool air. Opening the house up. The fresh smell in the air!!! I was going to take the kids to the park and take pictures but just didn't make it this weekend. I did take Rebecca on a test shoot last Wednesday & found the perfect foliage. I would upload my favorite ... but my laptop went kaput.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Baseball is over. Fall break is over. So it's back to a somewhat normal schedule with no sports for a few weeks. Gymnastics for Emma on Wednesday, Dance for the girls on Thursday. Ryan is leaving for a class trip to Chicago on Friday. A church 'senior social' on Saturday that we're really looking forward to. We will be helping another Sunday school class host this and the theme is HeeHaw - we did this last year and it was a blast!!! The class we are helping has a room full of talented people who are just natural at these skits. Funny, funny stuff!

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark and a cool breeze tonight during Ryan's game. Fall is almost here - I can just feel it!

I Am Thinking: About my sweet hubby. He had a deacon meeting tonight and he's still not home. Even if we're not talking, I like having him close by and it feels a little lonesome with him not here.

I Am Thankful For: My new job. Which I guess isn't really that new now considering I've been there almost 9 months. Really, really like the team I'm on. Like our boss - he's a good guy. A friend of mine from the job we were laid off from is now there too and it's nice having her there as well. It's just a good fit and I am so thankful to have it.

From The Kitchen: Where's that?

I Am Wearing: Khaki shorts, white t-shirt. Barefoot!

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Brian & I worked on the basement some more. Then he started in on the garage .... he's a cleaning machine when he's in the mood. Now we have a van full of things to haul off to Goodwill.

I Am Going: To bed soon. As soon as Brian gets home that is.

I Am Reading: Haven't really started anything yet ... have picked up a few, only to put them right back down. My sister emailed today with a suggestion for a book - need to stop by the library and see if they have it. I love to read!

I Am Hoping: That we can save extra money for vacation next summer so that hopefully we could fly somewhere instead of driving. Not sure if we'll be able to, but am going to give it the old college try.

I Am Praying For: Ryan - he really hasn't seemed like himself lately. But I know he's probably just tired with school, baseball and church activities. Also for Brian's oldest son Jesse who will be heading back to Iraq in the next few months.

I Am Hearing: Total, complete quietness. The girls are in bed and I'm thinking Ryan must be too.

Around The House: A little messy, but not terribly so. Not anything I couldn't fix in an hour or so if I'd just do it. Laundry baskets filled with clean clothes and taken to the appropriate rooms, but still needs to be put away.

One Of My Favorite Things: The girls playing at the playground while Ryan is playing baseball. They have such a good time and their evenings are made that much better when they get to spend some money at the concession stand!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Another baseball game for Ryan on Tuesday night. Rebecca's 5 year checkup is on Wednesday & then gymnastics for Emma that evening, while Brian, Ryan & Rebecca go to church. Dance for both girls on Thursday and yet another baseball game for Ryan. A sleepover for Emma on Friday (she is SOOOOO excited!) - this is her very first one. Wish I could go and take pictures :-)

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark and a tad bit cooler than it's been. Starting to believe that fall may really just be around the corner.

I Am Thinking: About family, and how sometimes I really wish we lived closer. We LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Louisville - but I do miss my family. Thankful to have so many friends who treat us as family though.

I Am Thankful For: Rebecca's 5th birthday, she SO enjoyed her special day and was so thankful for her new toys. She's kept all of her new things very close at hand.

From The Kitchen: Oh my my ... I made "Butter Chicken" over the weekend and it was delicious. I'm sure not one bit healthy - but it twas yum-acious. I also made some crispy potatoes the other night while Brian grilled out steaks. Those weren't too bad either. You basically boil the potato until soft, put it on a baking sheet - smash it down to 1/4 - 1/2 inch thickness. Pour on some olive oil and spices then bake until they are crispy. The kids loved them!

I Am Wearing: Blue shorts, white t-shirt. Barefoot! I love going barefoot! It won't be long until it's time to find my sweats :-)

On the 'Go Organize' Front: The basement we tackled, well - yes, we made progress, got things out of there, things thrown away - shelving moved around to make a better play area. Rebecca thanked us many times for 'making it neat down there'. But is it still neat? Should I put an expletive in front of that 'nope'?. Not even close. It's been Rebecca-fied. Sometimes I feel like I'm fighting a battle that I have no hopes of winning. Bless her little bones, I can't stand the thought of discouraging her from playing though. She's the only child we have who really plays with toys.

I Am Going: To bed soon.

I Am Reading: Just finished 'The Help'. It's a thick book and I finished it in about 3 days!!! Great read!!! Now if I could only find another one as equally interesting.

I Am Hoping: That Rebecca enjoys preschool, it starts up on Thursday. She has a brand new backpack that she got for her birthday that she is so proud of - already has her things packed in it and is ready to go!

I Am Praying For: A friend of mine in a painful situation. Hoping she will come to Louisville and spend some time with me.

I Am Hearing: Total, complete quietness. The girls are in bed and Ryan must be tired - haven't heard much out of him tonight.

Around The House: House fairly picked up, thankful that I had a long weekend to work on it. Still have a lot more to do to the basement - on top of Bex-mess that needs picking up. Laundry baskets filled with clean clothes and taken to the appropriate rooms, but still needs to be put away.

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching Rebecca enjoying her birthday. She was SO happy with all the attention, friends, presents, swimming and her horse cake. She's told us thank you several times already for her birthday. She's so sweet about giving thanks!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Emma is changing to a different gymnastics class on Wednesday nights that is more focused than the one she is currently in - that starts tomorrow night. I'm going to take Rebecca out of gymnastics for now and try her in a dance class. She loves music and dancing and I think this will give her an opportunity to do something different from Emma. Things like that are important to me since I was the youngest of 5 and it always felt like I had to do what my siblings wanted to do. That may not have been the reality, but that's how I remember it anyway! She'll start that on Thursday.

Choir practice for Brian on Wednesday & youth group for Ryan. Baseball games for Ryan on Thursday. Hopefully nothing but some time at home on Friday. Then the Simpsonville Fall Festival on Saturday. Whew ... glad I was able to enjoy some down time back in July!

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark and fairly warm. We had a few days of fall type weather but it seems like the hot days of summer have returned.

I Am Thinking: About stress. Keeping it all inside is really not a good thing - but telling everyone how stressed you are isn't a good thing either. What is the answer? Sometimes I feel like God just has to be tired of my worrying, I know I am!

I Am Thankful For: My sweet hubby - I'm always thankful for him. I could have searched the world over and never have found a better mate. So thankful that God is faithful to look out for me even during those times I wasn't really smart enough to look out for myself.

From The Kitchen: Nada. Nothing.

I Am Wearing: Khaki shorts, white t-shirt. Barefoot! I love going barefoot!

On the 'Go Organize' Front: We tackled the basement (aka - playroom, junk room, scrapbooking room, office stuff room) - it's not done yet, but we made a good dent. I LOVE it when Brian is in de-junktify mode. Bless Rebecca's little heart, she's told us thank you several times for 'making it neat' down there. Now if she'll just keep it clean.

We also finally got around to hanging pictures in the girls room. Still need to take a couple of things from China to a frame shop. Just really haven't had the extra money to spend on framing. We also still need to buy a bed for Rebecca as her mattress set is sitting on the floor. Just not sure how to find something that looks similar to Emma's and really do not have the money to buy new beds for both of them. Dilemnas, dilemnas.

I Am Going: To bed soon, still tired from the fair on Friday.

I Am Reading: Still haven't made it to the library. Picked up a Grisham novel the other day but finished that in just a few nights.

I Am Hoping: That Rebecca has a wonderful birthday this coming holiday weekend! She is very excited about her big day!!!

I Am Praying For: Friends from church, with a very sick father/grandfather - wonderful, wonderful people that we enjoy so much.

I Am Hearing: The dryer just buzzed - again. Laundry, seems like it neva' ends.

Around The House: House fairly picked up, with the exception of boxes that had been brought up from the basement. I finally got around to sorting out the 3 boxes I had brought home from the job I lost back in January of 09. Painful few hours for me, but it needed to be done. The company I had worked for was big on awards, cards and the like ... it was difficult to read through the notes about what a great job I had done and then try to reconcile that with a layoff.

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching the kids at the fair. We went this past Friday and could not have asked for nicer weather. It was BEAUTIFUL! The kids were so good and had such a good time. But I tell ya', they wore themselves out at the midway. Emma asked as we were leaving if we could come back the next day!!!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Baseball games for Ryan on Monday & Thursday. Choir practice for Brian on Wednesday, they are already working on Christmas music. Gymnastics for the girls on Thursday. Somewhere in all of that I need to get by a bakery and get a cake ordered for Rebecca. Also need to buy the other things for her party as well. Brian is going to take Ryan & Emma shopping one night to pick something out for her too. She is VERY excited about turning 5!

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's rainy and storming again ... such an odd thing for August here.

I Am Thinking: About how I haven't done this little exercise in a while and have missed it. But life's been a little slower lately and so we've had a few weeks of just hanging out instead of running up and down the road. It's been nice!

I Am Thankful For: My sweet hubby who will celebrate his birthday this Wednesday! Happy Birthday Brian!!!

From The Kitchen: I made a double batch of chicken caccitore yesterday and we enjoyed the first of it today, it was yummy. We also enjoyed a new recipe from the pioneer woman's site yesterday for sesame noodles or asian noodles, something like that - the kids really enjoyed it. Although Ryan would have much preferred something with some meat in it. haha. Brian does most of the cooking around here since he works from home but I've decided I'm going to try to find some things I can make double batches of on the weekends, or possibly some crock pot recipes so I can take some of the load off of him. So, if you have any good recipes for freezer or crock pot meals, please send them my way.

I Am Wearing: gray shorts, white t-shirt. Barefoot!

On the 'Go Organize' Front: All of the bedrooms are now finished!!! Wooohooo! We did go out and buy a few new accessories for Ryan's room but still need to find some more things to decorate with. Still need to hang pictures in the girls room too - not quite sure why we can't seem to find the time for that. And our room, we FINALLY have matching side tables for our bedroom set. I feel like such a grownup :-) Now, that room needs some accessories too. Not a single thing hanging on the walls yet!

I Am Going: To bed soon, I was out all afternoon with the kiddos today at a birthday party and I am worn out from the heat.

I Am Reading: I've started 3 books in the past few weeks and can't seem to get in to any of them. A trip to the library is much needed. Any reading suggestions from any of my friends? Oh, I did pull out Bill Cosby's "Fatherhood" book the other night because I was in need of a laugh and it did the trick. He's so funny! Along those lines, I also finished Dave Barry's book "Dave Barry's Guide to Marriage and or Sex". I laughed so hard I cried on that one - he's a funny guy too.


I Am Hoping: That Brian has a wonderful birthday! I took him out of town last Sunday night and we had some much needed R&R - spent the night at a cozy bed & breakfast overlooking the Ohio river. Had a nice dinner on the river too and then spent our evening out on the deck just talking and catching up. We really should do that more often. A sweet friend of ours, well actually she's probably more so Emma's friend - but I like to count her as one too - came and spent the night with the kiddos to give us the opportunity to have some time together. Hopefully one of these days we can repay the many kindnesses she has shown our family. I like to tease her than when she has a baby, I'll be like the grandma! haha!

I Am Praying For: Little Rebecca, she wanted to start kindergarden and to be able to ride the bus with Emma, but with her having a late birthday we're going to wait and let her start next year. Also praying for Ryan and Emma as Ryan starts the 7th grade (which doesn't at all seem possible) and Emma starts the first. So thankful to have children who love school!

I Am Hearing: The dryer just buzzed but other than that all I hear is the thunder.

Around The House: House fairly picked up but laundry still to put away. School supplies ready to go on Wednesday. Daycare bags packed and ready for tomorrow a.m.

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching the kids swim, they all LOVE the water! The party we attended today was at the local pool and I sat back today (w/out a camera if anyone can believe that) and just watched the kids. I didn't even really visit with any of the parents - just watched my babies. Emma - she's a 'run with the pack' kind of girl and pretty much is with someone or several someones when we are places. Then there's Rebecca, just playing and enjoying the water and pretty much doing her own thing. She did play with some of the kids and played with the birthday girl's older sister for a while but other than that she kept herself occupied. Ryan is more like Emma, he was pretty much playing with or talking to someone the entire time.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: School starts on Wednesday which also happens to be Brian's birthday. Gymnastics starts back on Thursday. Ryan's fall baseball team should be starting up any time now too. These past few weeks have been enjoyabled but now the tide is turning and we'll be on the go again.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's pretty warm here today, but not as humid as it has been - thank goodness!

I Am Thinking: About how nice it is to have Ryan home, and how quiet it seemed to be while he was away. He had a WONDERFUL time at space camp - what a great opportunity for him!

I Am Thankful For: The scholarship that paid his way, airfare, food, lodging, camp and all.

From The Kitchen: Not much! Being gone every night doesn't really make for an easy time of cooking.

I Am Wearing: black shorts, black and white shirt. Barefoot!

On the 'Go Organize' Front: No change from last week - you have to be home to be able to organize.

I Am Going: To just chill out for a while, then head to bed and try to finish my book.

I Am Reading: "The Middle Place" - which admittedly has had me in tears a few times. The story is about the author's battle with cancer and then her dad ends up with cancer too. One of those books that makes you cry one minute and then laugh the next. Having lost my dad to cancer, you can only imagine why I tear up.

I Am Hoping: That vacation time gets here soon ... I'm ready to go!

I Am Praying For: Little Rebecca.

I Am Hearing: Ryan. Like I said earlier, it was so quiet while he was gone :-)

Around The House: Paper to read, mail to go through, thank you notes to write from Emma's birthday party. Never late than never I'm hoping!

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching Rebecca play t-ball! The season didn't start out too well as you've probably seen in some of the pictures I had posted. She loves being up to bat - but can't stand being out in the field. But she's coming around, really hustling for the ball, paying attention to what's going on! I think she just might make a little ball player!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: The girls had a t-ball game tonight, Ryan had batting practice in a different town all while Brian had a meeting at church. Baseball game for Ryan tomorrow night, playoff game. Youth family (church) event on Wednesday at our friend's house. T-Ball game for the girls on Thursday and possibly another game for Ryan if they win tomorrow night. So far Friday night is open. Swim party on Saturday. Then Ryan leaves for church camp on Sunday. Biz-EEE.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's stinkin' hot in the 'Ville, not just hot - but humid too.

I Am Thinking: About Ryan & hoping he is having a good time at Space Camp. I so admire the little guy that he can get on a plane all by himself and go spend a week somewhere without knowing a soul. Maybe I'm just being a proud mama, but I think he will do well in life.

I Am Thankful For: A saviour who gave His life for ours. I so don't deserve it.

From The Kitchen: Not much, busy schedules have pretty much kept me out of the kitchen unless I'm making a sandwich or getting a snack.

I Am Wearing: tan, white t-shirt.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Somewhat on hold again, only because we needed a break. Need to clean out the closets that had things shoved into them. Still need to hang the girls curtains and their pictures. I noticed this morning that our bedroom door doesn't have a handle yet. So really, just a few little things to do to finish up the upstairs.

I Am Going: To bed soon, I just now realized - this part doesn't change much from week to week!

I Am Reading: Family Fun and a few other magazines that I needed to catch up on.

I Am Hoping: That we have some time to just do some fun things like swimming or going to the park this summer. Seems like when we do have the kids at the park that it's always during a ball game.

I Am Praying For: Several different friends who are contemplating adopting again, and for another friend who just accepted a referral for a little girl who has had open heart surgery. Adoption is so special to us and sometimes it makes me sad when I realize that we will not be able to go back again.

I Am Hearing: The dishwasher running, a few giggles from the girls who are supposed to b in bed.

Around The House: House is pretty much picked up! We've been trying to do better about keeping it picked up lately.

One Of My Favorite Things: Emma's dimpled smile. I was looking back through some pictures the other day and noticed that she's almost always smiling, even in those moments you wouldn't expect her to. Like running to a base in t-ball and even when going down the slide at the pool. She pretty much always has a smile on her face. She has such a way with people and I just love watching her interact with others. She makes my heart smile!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Ryan is at camp this week and will be coming home on Friday. It looks like we may be able to sneak a date night in on Wednesday. The girls had a ballgame tonight and then have another one on Thursday. The local fair is opening up at the end of the week and that's something we just do not miss. Not sure if we will go this week or next though.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: The sun has set, the weather is mild ... just wish it could stay like this all summer!

I Am Thinking: About how much I enjoyed my brother and sister-in-law this past weekend. It was a whirlwind of a trip but we had so much fun showing them around town and taking them to a few of our favorite places and even a few that we do not normally go to. Unlike me, my brother married relatively young and so his wife has been like a sister to me for a long time. Sweet, sweet, sweet and lots of fun to boot.

I Am Thankful For: For them coming out to see us, that's such a long drive but oh the joy of spending time with them. Also thankful for a special few minutes I had with my brother while he shared some really kind words with me. I really appreciated it because it was readily apparent that it was from his heart. Our family really isn't the type for deep sentiment but we shared a moment that was and it meant the absolute world to me. It maks me realize that I need to take more time to say kind things to my friend and family - you just never know when someone may really need to hear it.

From The Kitchen: Made fajitas while they were here, not the best I've ever made but the guacamole and salsa were really good. Also made pulled pork to have some in the freezer for quick meals. Making a cake tomorrow night for a coworkers birthday.

I Am Wearing: black shorts, white shirt - no shoes. Love going barefoot!

On the 'Go Organize' Front: WOOOHOOOO!!!! It was a long week last week trying to get everything done upstairs before our company arrived but we did it!!!! The guest room now looks like a real bedroom again! Ryan's room looks great with his orange and cream walls and his new furntiure and bedding. Really need to take a few pictures - just wish I had taken some 'before', but goodness it was so messy up there - not so sure I would have wanted to put them out here for the world to see. We still need to hang pictures and the girls curtains but somehow in all the madness of having something going on every night and trying to get everything done after we got home, we somehow lost Brian's tape measure. I may just go to Lowe's and buy another 'un. We have a few housekeeping things to do with the closets, I had sworn I wasn't going to just shove stuff in - but desperate times call for desperate measures and well, a closet or two may have some things shoved in :-) Not that I'm admitting it.

I Am Going: To bed soon, I am plain ol' worn out from all of our fun and probably a little from the stress from the mess. Think it's time to take a little bit of a breather.

I Am Reading: Still reading "Raising Self Reliant Children in a Self Indulgent World" and think I need to go back and re-read some chapters. I really, really need to change a habit or two ... or ten, twenty.

I Am Hoping: Life settles down a bit, which it looks like it should just a tad for the next week or so.

I Am Praying For: A favorite cousin of mine and her family. My aunt passed away yesterday and she was truly a wonderful lady. Times like this I really miss living close to my family. There's just no way for me to go in for the funeral but my love and prayers are with them all.

I Am Hearing: Total quietness. Well, other than my clicking away on the keyboard. The girls had a t-ball game tonight but I already have them bathed and in bed. Ryan had a late game tonight and he and Brian haven't made it home yet.

Around The House: House is picked up! We had really cleaned before the weekend and then with us being on the run so much it didn't get that messy. And what did get messy, my dear sweet husband picked up before I got home. What a blessing to have such a thoughtful and helpful spouse. I count my blessings every day that we found each other.

One Of My Favorite Things: Laughter. We laughed so much this past weekend that we got teary eyed a few times. We started telling stories about our childhood and with me being the youngest, well - I think they must have had a lot of fun at my expense. But we laughed and laughed. And then my driving, that's enough to make anyone laugh over. I'm fine when I'm by myself but when I have others with me and I get to talking and can't remember where I'm going - it just got a little comical. Of course the antics of the girls caused quite a bit of laughing too - they put on the show!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: As I mentioned above, the girls had a T-ball game tonight and Ryan had a baseball game. Ryan leaves for 4H camp tomorrow. The schedule is actually open for Tuesday & Wednsday - WOOHOOO!!! Another t-ball game on Thursday. Ryan comes home Friday only to turn around and leave on Saturday for space camp in Huntsville, AL. Then a birthday party for a dear friend's daughter on Sunday. Whew! Can't wait for vacation to get here so we can relax!

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's still light outside and pretty warm, seems like we went from winter to summer. Somewhere along the way I lost spring!

I Am Thinking: About "re" words. Restore. Repair. Rehabilitate. When you think of restoring, or restoration, you think of bringing something back to a good or better condition. Pretty much the same with rehabilitation. But what if something wasn't really in that good of shape to begin with, is restoration worth it? Or do you just toss it aside because it was never of value to begin with? And I'm not talking of "things" either, I mean this in the sense of relationships. For the heck of it, I looked up the word relationship and found "Relationships - the connection between two or more people or groups and their involvement with one another, especially as regards the way they behave toward and feel about one another". So, if it was in a "good" state then restoration would be a good thing. But what if it's never been good or healthy or kind ... really, what's the point of restoring?

I Am Thankful For: For the wonderful friendship and relationships I do have that do not need restoring, or if they did - they would be worth it because at some point they were good.

From The Kitchen: Seems like I've been on a salsa making spree lately. I'm not kidding, the 'restaurant style salsa' on the Pioneer woman's website is delish.

I Am Wearing: blue shorts, gray t-shirt.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Progress, progress, progress!!!! We're starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel. Brian took a week off a while back and knocked out a lot of what was still left to do. I took off one day last week and finished getting all the trim work cleaned up from the slopping of paint of the previous owner. Those peeps were terribly messy painters. Brian restained the woodwork & has finished all the painting upstairs! A very dear friend came and painted the areas of the stairwell that Brian couldn't reach. The girl's new room is painted in a beautiful sky blue that was in their old room. Rebecca is out of her toddler bed and now is the proud owner of a twin size bed. Ryan picked a really nice dark orange for his room and Brian painted two walls in that color and then two walls in a cream. New furniture has been ordered for him and hopefully will be in before too long. The remaining two rooms and the hallway/stairwell are having new carpet installed this week. Then it will be cleanup time! We have a lot of stuff piled up in the guest room that needs to be gone through so I can get it ready for my brother and sister-in-law's visit. We are looking so forward to their visit! I pretty much have it planned out as to where all we want to take them. Fun, fun, fun - cant' wait!

I Am Going: To bed soon, the girls had a t-ball game tonight & they are worn out.

I Am Reading: "Raising Self Reliant Children in a Self Indulgent World" and it has been an eye opener. Several things have convicted me in my parenting style and I'm only in the second chapter so far. Truly believe it's going to be well worth the time of reading it!

I Am Hoping: Brian heals up soon! He's having surgery on Wednesday for a troublesome problem he's been having and he's more than ready to be back on the well wagon.

I Am Praying For: My sweet hubby, so thankful for him.

I Am Hearing: The tv, and two little girls coming up and down the stairs when they are supposed to be in bed. Brian thinks it's due to daylight savings time ... I think it's due to two little dumplings being stinkers. But that's just my mommy expert opinion.

Around The House: House semi-picked up, more than ready to get the upstairs finished then we're going to take a break for a while on this whole remodeling thing.

One Of My Favorite Things: Friendships! We had a potluck dinner with several other families the other night and spent the evening visiting and catching up with one another while the kiddos ran and played. They have some land somewhat out in the country and the girls have the best time out there. Such easy going and fun people to hang out with. Yet another thing to be thankful for.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: T-ball game for the girls tonight, Rebecca's first! Ryan and one of his friends are playing a saxophone duet tomorrow night at a school band concert. Surgery for Brian on Wednesday. A make-up game for Ryan on Wednesday night. Still not sure how I'm going to be chief-nurse and taxi driver at the same time. Gymnastics on Thursday, their last night for the spring session. I'm leaning toward taking a break for the summer and then signing back up in the fall. Emma has been going there since she was two and really enjoys it but Rebecca struggles a little with listening to her teacher and she gets frustrated - the teacher gets frustrated. So, I think a break will be a good thing. Somewhere in all of that we need to get Ryan in for an allergy shot. Birthday party on Saturday. Possibly a cookout & swimming over the weekend - but that's still up in the air.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark and a tad bit on the cool side. Ballgame tonight & we needed sweatshirts.

I Am Thinking: How do parents with many children do it? I can't seem to catch up with just three.

I Am Thankful For: For my sweet husband who is working on the upstairs this week, trying to get the bedrooms back in order before my brother and sister-in-law come out to visit in June.

From The Kitchen: Brian has been a little under the weather so I actually have been cooking. Made curry beef over the weekend, grilled chicken for some make ahead dinners and then a southwest chicken/rice type bake for tonight & tomorrow.

I Am Wearing: blue shorts, gray t-shirt.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Looks like we're getting back to that now that Brian is finishing up the rooms. Did have a chance to clean out Ryan's shorts & nice shirts from last summer. Still can't believe he's gone up two sizes! Quick - need to put a rock on his head!

I Am Going: To bed soon, 'twas a hectic night with a baseball game, dinner, baths, checking backpacks. Again, how do parents with lots of kiddos make it through all that stuff?

I Am Reading: "The Memory Keepers Daughter" - great book so far, having a hard time putting it down at night.

I Am Hoping: The colors we picked out for the rooms look nice. As much as I'd love to have 'the decorator touch', I just do not.

I Am Praying For: My hubby & son. Yet more health things going on ... thankfully the girls & I rarely get sick.

I Am Hearing: It's pretty quiet, kids in bed - tv on, Somethng about gravitational pulls, hubble telescopes, galaxies, dark matter ... there's just no way Brian and I would ever pick the same channel to watch.

Around The House: House semi-picked up, at least the kitchen is clean. Laundry to put away. Upstairs still a mess but looks like that will be fixed soon! I know Ryan will be glad to get back in his own room. Still need to go buy him a full size bed/mattress set and a new dresser. Just didn't want to do that until I knew for sure we were ready to set them up.

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching Emma with adults. She has a knack for meeting people and remembering their names. Even adults. Ryan had a ballgame tonight and Emma was being miss social on the playground and then eventually made her way up to the stands. She talked to a few parents with kids on the same team as Ryan. Went over and visited with some parents on the other team. Then of course had to visit with even more as the kids/parents were coming up for the following game. It's really cute to watch.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Baseball game tonight, practice tomorrow and then another game on Thursday for Ryan. T-ball practice for the girls tomorrow night. So far it looks like we may actually be home on Wednesday night. Gymnastics on Thursday. Somewhere in there Ryan needs an allergy shot.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark and rainy, the day started out beautiful but was already clouding up by the time church was out.

I Am Thinking: Of my little Emma bug who will be turning 6 this week. It just doesn't seem possible that our fuzzy headed little dumpling is now in kindergarten, turning 6 and rolls her eyes like she's 16.

I Am Thankful For: For our wonderful friends who will be celebrating her big day with her. And for those friends who can't make it, but meet up with us for dinner to celebrate early! We've been blessed with such wonderful friendships!

From The Kitchen: Hmmm. I don't think I cooked anything this past week. But, I will be making some things for Emma's party.

I Am Wearing: black sweats, gray t-shirt.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: What's that?

I Am Going: Back to work in less that 12 hours. Why is it weekends pass by so quickly?

I Am Reading: Catching back up on magazines. It's funny, I'll be in book mode for a while, then magazine mode for a while.

I Am Hoping: The weather holds out for a cookout on Wednesday to celebrate Miz Divine's birthday. The party was originally scheduled for this past weekend but we had to cancel due to inclement weather.

I Am Praying For: My walk gets back to where it used to be. My logic tells me that when I feel separated from the love of Christ, that I'm the one who is not present ... but sometimes I have those momements where I feel as though He has left me. Needless to say, I need get back to where I was.

I Am Hearing: It's pretty quiet, 2 out of 3 kids in bed, one on the way. Brian & I will be following shortly. We're both worn out!

Around The House: House semi-picked up, at least the kitchen is clean. Laundry to put away. New toys brought in from the AWANA store tonight. Sometimes it seems like "stuff" comes in faster than we can haul other things out.

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching my kiddos interact with people at church. This a.m. I had stopped to visit with some people on our way in and then lost track of the girls. I asked Ryan where they were and he said "keep looking, they'll be easy to spot. Someone will be holding them!". How true that was, found them in the arms of a couple we adore! It makes me so happy knowing the girls are not just 'accepted' in our church, but loved and cherished.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: Baseball game on Monday. A sock horse to make for the "Kid-Tucky Derby" event at Emma's school that is due on Wednesday (we need to get busy!). Emma's party Wednesday evening. Gymnastics on Thursday. Friday - crash.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark and warm, beautiful day in the 'Ville! Bright sunny sky today, play time in the park for the kiddos and time to visit with a very special friend.

I Am Thinking: Of summer. Flip flops. Sunscreen. The smell of trees and fresh air. And even chlorine. Vacation to the Outer Banks in July just can't get here soon enough.

I Am Thankful For: For my sweet husband. I know I say that a lot, but I am. He's such a good guy, so fun to be with. And yes he drives me crazy at times, but I just love being with him, being married to him, heck - even hanging out in the den watching tv and surfing with him. And - he makes me laugh. A lot. He's so ornery but yet you would never really know that just to meet him.

From The Kitchen: The kitchen? Hmmm. Was craving something lemony and a buddy of mine pointed out a lemon crumb bar recipe on the PW site. Oh my my ... can you say yummy?!!! I've made 3 batches now! Also made Swiss Steak last week, not as good as my mom's but not bad.

I Am Wearing: black shorts, pink t-shirt. No socks. Now that sandal weather is upon us, I realize I need a pedicure.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: What's that?

I Am Going: Back to work in less that 12 hours. Why is it weekends pass by so quickly?

I Am Reading: Just finished "Peony In Love". Great book!

I Am Hoping: The rooms get finished, soon. Brian did work on our closet this weekend but then we said the heck w/ projects today & spent some quality time at the park.

I Am Praying For: The ability to remember to let go of those things I can't control. Trust that Our Savior is who He says He is. Know that it's all going to be okay. Remind mysef that my trust doesn't need to be in finances. Or lack thereof. And most of all, that my trust needs to be in Him and Him alone.

I Am Hearing: The floor creaking above me, which is odd ... the kiddos are supposed to be in bed. Hmm.

Around The House: Floors vacummed. Kitchen floor mopped, downstairs bathroom cleaned ... An attempt at cleaning this weekend, but still have some more laundry to put away and cleaing to do upstairs. Guess that's one of those things that's just never completely done.

One Of My Favorite Things: Watching my litte ones enjoy the beautiful weather we've been having. Watching them run and play and laugh ... makes my soul smile.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: We had somewhat of an easy week this past week with it being spring break, but back to reality this week. Brian has a deacon meeting on Monday which means I'll have to take Ryan to baseball practice. Need to get a party planned for Miz Emma's 6th birthday. Was going to have a cookout until Emma's eyes swelled almost shut from being at the park this afternoon. Bless her poor little allergic laden bones. Not really sure what plan B will be. I wouldn't mind just a small family party for her, but that's not easy to do since we do not have any family here :-( . Making a dessert for a co-workers birthday on Wednesday. Such a nice, nice man. Gymnastics for the girls on Thursday. Also need to make an eye appointment for little Bex, the Lion's club did a pre-screening type thing at her preschool and she several areas they marked as having an issue. I tried googling what the issue(s) could be, but it was way over my head. Also need to make appointments for Rebecca for OT. Found some other problems in some testing she had not too long ago. Bless her little bones too. Hopefully after getting her eyes checked and therapy started then some things will be easier/better for her.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark and rainy, very nice weekend until late today. Hear that my family & friends in Oklahoma have had a weird spring snow - hopefully it's not headed out this way.

I Am Thinking: Vacation. Planning a vacation. I used to love planning our vacations, but last year ended up putting it off and then completely winging it. We had such a good time that I'm thinking maybe that's the new way of doing it instead of all this pre-planning stuff! We've decided on North Carolina this summer, somewhere in the Outer Banks and then maybe a few days in Virginia. We should be able to mark off two more state Capitols for the goose.

I Am Thankful For: For the Easter season and all that it represents for us. A God who loves us so much that he would send his one and only Son to die for each and everyone of us. I think I've shared this before, but even though I was a born again believer, had been baptized, regularly attended church ... it wasn't until Ryan was born that I even had a clue as to how much He loves us. Sitting in the hospital the day after he was born and holding him up tight, I was overtaken with emotion of how much I loved the little guy. It hit me, that the love I felt for him was just a smidgen of how God loved us and I was just completely overwhelmed. I had just never gotten it before that. The funny part of that though is that the nurse came in to see me crying and came back later to talk about postpartum depression ... now that's funny. I was overjoyed/overwhelmed with love - not depressed!

From The Kitchen: The kitchen? Where's that? Haha. That reminds me of a funny thing our pastor in Texas said one time. He said he & his wife were discussing dinner and she said "take me somewhere I've never been before". He said that he took her to their kitchen. LOL. Last week I did make some homemade salsa and guacamole for my coworkers and also made a yummy breakfast casserole. Craving something lemon-y though in a major kind of way.

I Am Wearing: blue shorts, gray t-shirt. So glad that shorts weather is almost upon us!

On the 'Go Organize' Front: Still discouraged on our lack of getting anything done on the rooms upstairs. My sweet hubby assures me it'll get done when the weather warms up. I did get all the carpet & carpet tacks pulled up from the stairs this weekend. My fingers are sore! Loved the 'bare' look and even googled images of painted stairs and was all for that, until the 529,342nd time I heard the clomping of short people and decided maybe that's not such a good idea.

I Am Going: Back to work in less that 12 hours. Why is it weekends pass by so quickly?

I Am Reading: Just finished "The Politician". Really not sure why I read it since we lean way right politically but I couldn't hardly put it down. Goodness, what a story. Getting ready to start and Lisa See book, "Peony in Love".

I Am Hoping: The rooms get finished, soon.

I Am Praying For: Our church. We had a prayer walk in our little community a few weeks ago and then handed out "Find it Here" packets to the same homes we had prayed for. Praying that lives can be touched in our little community.

I Am Hearing: Home Improvement on the tv ... Brian loves that show and I think it's pretty funny too.

Around The House: At attempt at cleaning this weekend, but still have some more laundry to put away and some more cleaning to be done. It really seems to be futile at times. Three you know whats are so much harder to clean up after than one you know what. Not that I don't treasure the little mess makers.

One Of My Favorite Things: Hearing my sweet husband laugh. He's so quiet and pretty reserved but he has the funniest sense of humor and has such a gift of making little things fun/funny. He cracks me up.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: A busy week ahead. Of course, like this week would be any different than our other weeks. Baseball practice starts this week, church for Brian & Ryan on Wednesday. Heart doctor appointment for Bex on Thursday. Ryan gets to be a page for our state representative this week. Gymnastics for the girls on Thursday.

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark, but most certainly warmer than it has been lately. Spring has just got to be here soon.

I Am Thinking: About my family in Oklahoma and wishing there was some way I could get back to visit. But, with my new job I will not be able to take any time off until I've been there six months. As much as we love Kentucky, it's really tough sometimes being so far away from family. Back when I was searching for a job I tried to find something in the Norman or OKC area as well as a few things in the Ft Worth area. But, I guess it just wasn't meant to be.

I Am Thankful For: My husband and my kiddos. And my mama. I sure miss her.

From The Kitchen: I made homemade salsa & guacamole last night and took to my coworkers today. They sure are a good group to work with. Tonight I made a breakfast casserole for a luncheon we're having at work tomorrow.

I Am Wearing: black sweats, gray t-shirt. Uber boring, that's me.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: I'm a little discouraged on our lack of getting anything done on the rooms. Hopefully though we can get some things accomplished when it warms up.

I Am Going: To bed soon, I'm tired!

I Am Reading: Just finished a book "If You Lived Here". Great book! Not sure what to start next, I have a huge stack of books to read on my bedside table.

I Am Hoping: The rooms get finished, soon.

I Am Praying For: Little Rebecca, she's such a sweet little soul. For a variety of reasons we are considering holding her back a year. One minute I think it's best since she has a late birthday, it would give her more time to mature, give her extra time to catch up with her peers, etc. But on the other hand, she SO wants to ride the bus to school with Emma and she loves all her little friends. Doing what you think is right is not always easy.

I Am Hearing: The dishwasher. It's impossible for me to cook, even something as easy as a casserole, and not dirty up a bazillion dishes.

Around The House: Taxes done. Ryan has braces now. A freshly vacummed den floor, I won't even go into the details of the MESS the girls made while I was cooking tonight. You would think I would check in on them when they are playing so well together.

One Of My Favorite Things: Hearing the girls playing and chatting with each other, even if they do make a mess when they play together!

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: A busy week ahead. A seminar on learning tomorrow night. Church for Brian & Ryan on Wednesday. Gymnastics for the girls on Thursday. Dinner at a fundraise for youth camp on Friday night. "Find it here" packet deliveries on Saturday.

Oh, and on a Praise the Lord note! Ryan's x-rays showed that his spine is fine! Gotta love those answered prayers!!!

Have a great week everyone!

For Today

Outside my window: It's dark, but we did have sunshine and warmer weather today. Makes me realize spring is right around the corner. We're so ready for some milder weather!

I Am Thinking: About my sweet mother-in-law who is in the final stage of her fight with alzheimers. Sweet, sweet daughter of the King who has been incredibly kind and loving to me. We received a call the middle of last week that they think the end is near. Hospice is with her 24 hours a day now and one of the nurses I talked to the other day told me about being in the room and praying over Mary Anne. What a blessing for her to be in such a wonderful facility that is taking care of her, keeping her comfortable and knowing there are members of the staff praying for her. Mary Anne was a prayer warrior like none I've ever met before and praise was continually coming from her heart and spoken from her lips.

I Am Thankful For: To have known Mary Anne, and even more thankful that she was the first family member on either side of our families who completely supported our decision to adopt. She never questioned it, never asked me what in the world was I thinking - she simply asked what she could do to help. I can say with true conviction that without her we most likely would not have our precious daughters.

From The Kitchen: Brian made some yummy chicken noodle soup today. Not sure who loves it the most, me or the kiddos!

I Am Wearing: black sweats, gray t-shirt. Uber boring, that's me.

On the 'Go Organize' Front: The warmer weather today gave me hope that we'll be back to working on the house soon.

I Am Going: To bed soon, back to work first thing tomorrow.

I Am Reading: Have really just been catching up on magazines this week: Southern Living (the new issue has a recipe from the Charleston area for pickled shrimp - can't wait to try that!). Bon Appetite and a few others. I do have some books to pick up at the library and also want to find the book "Raising Self Reliant Children in a Self Indulgent World". Hopefully the library will have that one too.

I Am Hoping: It warms up soon! PLEASE!

I Am Praying For: Mary Anne and wishing we could be there in her final days but it's just not possible with starting my new job and having two kiddos in school. Knowing she has many wonderful friends spending her last days with her does help though.

I Am Hearing: Some goofy movie on TV. Sigh. The girls are already snug and nestled in their beds. Ryan is aggravating me for the computer. He's a facebooker now.

Around The House: Taxes almost done, still waiting on one stray div statement. For some reason I have this vision of a Newman type snickering over that not being delivered. I just love watching Seinfeld re-runs.

One Of My Favorite Things: Early morning snuggls with the kiddos. Nothing quite like those warm little hugs to get your morning going.

A Few Plans For The Rest of The Week: A busy week ahead. Ryan is getting braces tomorrow, still need to take him in for an x-ray, baseball signups and a meeting for an overnight field trip. Field trip for Rebecca and then gymnastics for both the girls. All the while knowing the phone is going to ring at any minute and we'll be heading to North Carolina.

Have a great week everyone!

Oh, I ran across this shot of Emma while I was searching for old Chinese New Year pictures. This was taken in 2006, a little over a year after having her home. I sort of lost myself in looking at her baby pictures yesterday - she's grown so much!