Memories To Keep

Warm winter

2012-02-01T13:30:00.011-05:00

I thought I'd record what a warm winter we have been having. Yesterday was a sunny, mixed with clouds, 65* day! Today, mostly cloudy, with wind and still 61*. We have had 3 days with snow so far this winter. It came one day, and was mostly melted by the next day. We had between one and two inches each little snow day. We also had a dusting of snow on Sunday afternoon. That was gone on Monday, and then the warm weather came back. So, I wonder if we will get hit with winter in March and April??! Anyway, good to know the One who is still in control, even in the middle of winter when it seems like a presummer day!
After 4 months of being lost, Hannah found our "good" camera. I am happy to finally be able to post pictures again, and to be able to take pictures of my growing children!
So, I will post a variety of pictures, including our re-decorated bedroom.Large fish!
Oh, I was able to finish the business plan in 2011! Yippee!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T15:35:00.002-05:00

Happy New Year's Eve! 2011 is quickly coming to a close. Shawn, myself, Tad and Uncle Bill had a nice visit this morning with Sam, and Shawn and I enjoyed a nice, brisk early afternoon walk. This afternoon I hope to get a lot more accomplished on our business plan, we'll see how that goes! :)
A cute little something to remember at the close of the year for Noah. Every time we get into the car, he always asks me to put on the "Fleeting, flowers are coming down," hymn. That is one of my children's favorite hymns, "Time is fleeting, flowers are falling, life will soon be past." We can see how quickly this year went past, and see the truth behind this hymn. I would like to pause more often and ponder all the blessings I have, and consider where I am going and how I am going about in getting there.

Good ole days

2011-12-20T15:03:00.002-05:00

Last week when I went through a stand, I found "real" film. Like, over 20 rolls of film that needed developed! I knew that would be expensive to develop all at once, so I randomly picked 3. I took them to Walmart, and picked them up last week. Would you believe one of the pictures was of a very, very round tummy, with Noah inside!!!! It was taken just days before I had him. Anyway, it was so fun, not knowing what was on the film. I like today's technology, take a picture and view it right away, delete it if you don't like it, and take a new one. But, I sorta miss the surprise of what will that picture turn out like, or in my case, what IS the picture??:)
Guess I'm old fashioned, but isn't it amazing the technology that has come out in the last 10 years??
Happy Holidays to everyone! Another year about finished, and we can only wonder what they will come up with next!

New heights!

2011-12-12T09:48:00.002-05:00

Hannah has officially by passed me in the height department, with about an inch on me. That happened last week, literally in one week. She and Josh went through a major growing spell, with Josh popping up an inch and a quarter in two weeks and Hannah just about an inch. I knew something was up when Josh continuously wanted to eat, after 2 or 3 days of this(he normally eats next to nothing), I finally put him against the kitchen wall and marked him off. Two weeks later, the new mark was that much higher, and now finally, he is back to his normal eating. Hannah is now about 5'7". Josh is 4'2 1/2".

Wisconsin and back

2011-12-12T09:24:00.008-05:00

Last weekend, we took a "quick" trip to Wisconsin, to spend a day with friends on their dairy farm. We were not there very long, but we did learn a lot while we were there. It took a little over 26 hours with stops to drive there and back, and we stayed 23 hours. We also had the privilege of a gospel mtg on Friday evening. What a special fellowship God's people enjoy, even if they have never met before. We definitely felt at home there, and we are so thankful Marv and Minnie opened there home to us. Thank you Minnie, for letting us come and all the work weekend help brings, and for letting me follow your blog! Thanks to Marv for putting up with 101 questions from me and for letting me "help" him fed the baby calves :). Here is our crew, Dad, my brother Tad, Shawn and me. Then a few pictures of the farm.

Week-end vandals

2011-11-30T11:18:00.009-05:00

We had late night vandals visit on Saturday night. At 11:30 p.m., Shawn and I were getting ready for bed when a very loud explosion rocked our house. It woke up all the children, and terrified Noah. He thought a bad guy was coming, then he decided the Indians must be coming. I guess he must have thought of that because of a Thanksgiving virtual field trip we watched a week ago. The Indians were pounding on tom-toms. Anyway, after surveying outside and finding nothing, and listening to the scanner, and not hearing any runs, we decided to go to bed. On our way to meeting on Sunday(it was our rotation to go to Helen's), as we pull down our driveway, I noticed a white piece laying in the middle of the road. I asked Shawn what that was, he replied, "Our mailbox lid, now we know what the explosion was!" The mailbox itself wasn't in the road, it wasn't on its post either. After meeting, we went to Lowe's to purchase another mailbox. After lunch, we went down to find the mailbox. It was across the street, down in Dad's pasture field. Not sure what type of explosion was used, no evidence of that, just the black gun powder residue on parts of the blown apart box, turned mostly inside out. Dad heard the explosion at his house, and got out of bed to investigate. Noah had to stay in our bed to fall asleep, as I carried him to his bed and covered him up, he said, "I don't like that noise." Sunday night, when I put him to bed, he told me he needed to sleep by Daddy, because that noise might come back. So sweet, Daddy can take care of so much for us! Here is a picture of the sad remains, of what had been our mailbox for 10 years. It stood through sun and rain, ice and snow. Never complained through its many years of service, but it couldn't handle this challenge.The cat and chicken guarding the remains, at Dad's.

Bits and pieces

2011-11-21T21:07:00.002-05:00

We've been keeping up with our studies, and between that, work, and "farm things", I haven't taken much time to post. Looking forward to some future plans, hoping for a lifestyle change for Shawn, the kids, and myself. More on our exciting adventure when we know more "for sure" data!
I get the privilege of having Thanksgiving here again this year. Looking forward to time with my mom's side of our family. We enjoyed Saturday evening, 11-19, at Shawn's mom's house. Had a great time looking through her old photo albums of when "the boys"(Shawn and Shane) were growing up. "Mom" always does so much for us every year, I am blessed to have such a wonderful mother-in-law.
Today, I helped Hannah lose 2 of her baby teeth. She looks a little funny with 2 teeth missing from the bottom. She has around 7 left to loose before she gets braces. Josh had a series of dental work done last week, the rest to be done this week. He had a serious amount of decay that occurred from just 6 months ago. He had 4 teeth filled last week, 4 more this week. Not sure what caused this issue, he does brush his teeth, I wonder if it is a combination of soft teeth and our well water.
We spent2 weekends ago at Dad's, gathering stuff for an auction. It was a very fun day playing remember this?! My dad, both sisters, one brother(and his daughter) , Shawn, the kids and I spent roughly 15 hours gathering treasures!
We had our annual weiner roast a few weeks ago. Wonderful to spend time with true friends, that share in our fellowship. Glad for the same faith that unites us and binds us together. Many had to miss this year due to a funeral. Thoughts of sympathy to Lindsey.
I also finished the goat project Shawn helped me start. We added a lean to addition on to the old swing set we had for the goats to climb on, and put tin over it for additional shelter. Zach and I spent a day taking down our electric wire fence and put up more fence posts to make the pasture bigger. Shawn helped rewire and finish putting up the fence posts I didn't get to.
So, that's a summary of what we have been up to for the past month. Doesn't seem possible there is only 5 weeks left in this year. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Flurries

2011-11-21T21:03:00.003-05:00

We haven't had any "real" snow yet, but last week on our way to town the kids were happy to say they saw snow flurries. Rather big flakes, that you would have missed if you blinked your eyes! This is a picture from last year, I hope our driveway is easier to navigate this year!

Looking back-1 year ago

2011-11-21T20:37:00.011-05:00

Fall 2011

2011-11-20T14:36:00.004-05:00

Wonderful weekend

2011-10-25T15:39:00.002-04:00

We had a very enjoyable weekend. Zach had a harmonica/piano recital on Sunday, and Hannah played her violin in the same one. We also had some very special company drive 2 hours just to spend the day with us. So very thankful for their friendship and the fellowship we enjoyed together. Monday brought visits from the brothers, for supper and the night. I hardly know how or why we have been so richly blessed, but I know I am very thankful for it.
Hannah and I enjoyed a girl day on Saturday with my sisters. We went to a factory outlet and bought some new pictures for my newly redecorated bedroom. After lunch, we went to JC Penny for some bargains of the day, like a beautiful quilt for Hannah's room for $10, new thermal lined curtains for my room @ $4.99 a panel, a new comforter set for my room for $22, shams included, pillows that were $50 for $7.99 and another for $2.99. Diana gave me an awesome gift of her bedroom suite, after I had called asking if she knew anyone with a headboard. I repainted our room, and decided to move the bedroom around, after moving the bed, I broke the headboard. So, we moved her furniture here on Saturday evening. We have misplace our camera, once we find it, I will snap some shots of the new look. I wish I could have taken a before and after shot, but I'll just have to show an after shot.

Our 15 year anniversary

2011-09-21T10:20:00.000-04:00

Shawn and I celebrated 15 years of marriage with a weekend getaway. Just the two of us, how "little" we felt without 4 little ones to look after, but how wonderful to have time with just each other, walking and talking, and more walking. :) Pictures to follow, school demands time right now.
Thank you, Shawn, for all you sacrifice for us, what a perfect pick God had planned for me. I am truly blessed to have you and our little ones to love, and live with in this life.

Happy 40th Birthday, Honey!

2011-09-06T09:10:00.000-04:00

My dear Honey(after hearing me call Shawn this, lately Noah will hear Shawn's backup beeper on his van when he comes home, and yell,"Honey's Home!") turned the big 40! My aunt joked at the party with me that she didn't know I married an old man! Poor Honey. I like to think of you as not getting older, but getting much wiser. I have treasured watching your walk with God getting stronger through the storms we have been through together, from you taking your first steps with Him almost 12 years ago through today. God picked the perfect man for me and I am so thankful to be blessed with being called, "Your wife."

Surprise party for Shawn

2011-09-04T17:06:00.003-04:00

Shawn's mom and dad helped me host a surprise 40th birthday party for Shawn. They had pizza and cake for him, I did the easy part of calling and inviting. We had a great turn out- around 70 total, kids included. His boss and 2 co-workers were among those in attendance,Rick,Dave, and Rick. On the guest list included his brother and sister-in-law, Shane and Christy,their son, Jason, my Dad, 2 sisters, brother and his daughter, Shawn's grandma, his step dad's mom and her step mom, Shawn's uncles and aunts Dave and Joy, and Mike and Cathy, with their grandchildren, his aunt Heidi, her daughter,Brittany with her husband, Adam, his cousin,Elizabeth, with her 2 children, my uncles and aunts, Bill and Marilyn, cousin Leigh, and her 3 children, Harold and Marvis, cousin Becky, and her husband Greg, friends from meeting included Troy and Jody, their son, Brandon and his wife,Brittany and their baby Landon, Vanessa and her 4 boys, and Rick and his 2 sons, and also Shawn's best friend, Scott, and his wife, Deanna. 2 of his firefighter friends, both Jeff's, wandered over toward the end of the party. I think that was the guest list. Hope I got everyone. I will add more pictures to this post later, my children want supper!

School pictures

2011-09-04T16:45:00.009-04:00

Waiting for Emily to get off the bus.Emily, my brother Tad's daughter. I get her off the bus and keep her for Tad while he is working. This little lady is like my second daughter, and my kids sister. I quit my job at the bank when we found out my mom had cancer, so I could keep my children, and help Mom. I took over babysitting for Emily when she was 10 months old. She is 8 now, and I think of her and the future struggles she is sure to face, with the events that are going on in her life right now. Children are truly the ones to suffer when things like this happen, very thankful she has a better chance than most, help that most don't depend on. Glad her Dad is taking steps in the right directions, steps we pray Emily will one day walk in.

First day of school, success!

2011-09-04T16:25:00.008-04:00

We started school on Monday, August 29, 2011. We had a very good day, this year is going so much smoother than last. A new school room was most of the reason, and one year under our belt with the school program we use was another. I am very glad and thankful that I have the time and oppurtunity to help our children with their education. I am so fortunate to spend my whole day with them, and get to see their minds developing. I know these days are speeding past, and one day my little ones won't be little ones, I want to value the time I have with them more.

Wonderful start for a new year, refreshing at conventions

2011-09-04T15:55:00.002-04:00

We had the privilege of 2 full conventions in August. So much was shared, our cups truly run over. I love how God knows exactly what we need to hear, and can speak to us through others laboring with the gospel, that we haven't even meet, yet they speak of things that are in our hearts. At Y.S. on Saturday, Aug. 20th, 2011 during the evening gospel meeting, our oldest 2 boys made their choice to serve God. Zach is 10, Josh is only 6. There were 4 that professed, or rufessed as Josh calls it :)., one of the other 2 was our friends little boy, Jayden, who is only 9, and a 15 or 16yr old girl. My friend Amy's oldest boy,Weston,15, was one of 5 that was baptized. On Saturday, Aug. 27th, 2011, Hannah,12, was baptized (only one). Then that evening, Tad (my brother), and Ellie(Hannah's friend) professed. So, our little meeting has 3 new ones taking part.
A few thoughts that have stayed with me: You can't lead someone any further than you are willing to go yourself, God is trying to get us to stop talking and start listening, You don't have to be perfect parents, with the perfect home, to raise perfect children, The faith God's people have is not just words on their lips.
I don't know why God speaks to me, or has blessed me with a man that walks with Him, and has given me 4 children that I long to return to Him, (thankful for 3 that have felt their need to live for Him((Noah tries, but at 3, he has a bit more to learn))), but I owe Him my life and am so thankful He does want me to be His child.

Moved in pictures

2011-08-05T15:25:00.008-04:00

My favorite reading chair.

ABC's and 123's
Zach's desk
Josh and my work area

Hannah's desk and the classroom pets, 2 birds and 2 guinea pigs

Noah reciting ABC's

2011-07-18T14:14:00.002-04:00

Here is Noah saying his ABC's. You'll notice he does great until he reaches r, then instead of s, he goes to x y z!

New pond

2011-07-18T13:32:00.011-04:00

Well, the pond project is almost finished! After we add some rolls of rock to the side walls, and some blue solar tube lights, it should be done. I laid out the heart shaped scheme, and started digging(with a flat shovel to boot!). I got pretty far, but I'm glad Shawn came to my rescue and helped finish digging it. A cheap roll of 4ml plastic, doubled, from Tractor Supply, that we used as our liner(regular pond liners run around $300 +, this was $29.99) with river rocks gently laid out in a single layer, and larger rocks put at the edge of the different levels(there are 4 altogether), lighthouse put on the top level, pump to circulate the water, turn on the garden hose, 12 little goldfish, and voila, we now have a nice fish pond!

Red,white, and blue, clubhouse too

2011-07-07T15:29:00.002-04:00

I thought this was a neat picture, of the white, red and blue flowers. Below is a picture of the kids clubhouse, one of my summertime projects. I sealed it, and this year I used a red based stain, I thought it turned out pretty, and country like!

My newest project is digging a pond. I spent3 hours digging on it yesterday, I made it heart shaped for Shawn. I told Hannah, I love her Dad so much, I'm out here sweating in the 90+* heat, felt like at least 102* with humidity, just to surprise him with the pond. I finally stopped at 1:30p.m., because I still needed to mow the grass, give the boys haircuts and baths, and shower myself after all that sweat so I could go to work and make it home in time for meeting...Ah, I love summer, and the long hours and great weather to work on projects. I'll post pond pics later, I am on my way out to spoil Shawn some more, and wash our Suburban!

Lake pictures

2011-07-07T15:21:00.006-04:00

Roses for Momma, today's her birthday

2011-07-07T14:59:00.003-04:00

I was blessed with the greatest Mother a girl could ever hope to have. Although I thought I was young to lose her when I was only 28(29 a month and a half later), at least I had more time than many others had. I'm sorry for Josh and Noah, who will never know their maternal grandmother, and sorry for Hannah and Zach, who miss her and tell me they are starting to forget what her voice sounded like and what she smelled like, and for Dad too, who I know struggles with the pain of separation, but I'm so thankful to know Mom is safe from fighting with the devil, and she is at peace with the One she served. I'm thankful she and Dad brought me up in the truth, thankful to have God loving parents who left me an example how to raise my children. I miss being able to call Mom with questions, glad I know One who knows the answers. Today was her birthday, remembering and missing her.

Animals

2011-06-30T11:28:00.012-04:00

I haven't updated on the mini farm we have here. The animals we have right now are 2 miniature horses, Beauty and her 2 year old colt, Peanut, who is only 28" to his shoulder, 34" to the top of his head. His mother is 36" at her shoulder, and 42" to her head. 3 goats, 2 dogs(border collie Lucy, outside, and Rusty inside), 6 cats(Eli, Cassie, Minnie, Tiger,Penny, and Ali), 2 guinea pigs(Gage and Sydney) and 2 birds, Quaker Parrot, Rileigh, and parakeet, Tweety.3 year old T inker b e ll 2 year old Coc o a n d his brother Snow Eli Penny, now a n outside cat! Ali, our newest addition

Garden

2011-06-30T11:05:00.009-04:00

Weedy watermelon, I ran out of mixed gas and couldn't finish tilling this patch of the garden. That old saying kids grow like a bad weed, well, bad weeds really do grow fast. I had some helpers on Monday, 5 small sized ones, and today I told them the garden needed weeded again, for some reason, I get the feeling they really don't enjoy weeding. I also have planted, but didn't get pictures of, winter butternut squash, spinach, 2 types of lettuce, onions, carrots, and cantaloupe.
tomatoescucumbers
lettuce
corn that washed with a downpour, at least it came up!
peppers

Hannah birthday pictures

2011-06-30T10:56:00.005-04:00

Aunt Diana played a little joke on Hannah and got her spider killer, seeing as how Hannah loves spiders SO MUCH!!(that is me being very sarcastic! She jumps around and screams loud enough I'm sure the neighbors hear her!)

Summer dryer

2011-06-30T10:43:00.004-04:00

I love sunny, breezy days when I can hang out the laundry. We had a perfect laundry hanging out to dry day on Tuesday, with a nice strong breeze and warm sunshine to dry the clothes in only 30-45 minutes! I enjoy being outside, and this is a fine excuse to get out there, mowing is another one! On Wednesday, we had meeting here, and Hannah and Zach helped me out by taking the laundry off the line, while I mopped the floor. I don't know if they enjoyed it as much as I do, but,,, thanks guys for your help.Notice the schoolroom in the background :)The green bench is my basket holder.

Moved in!

2011-06-24T22:38:00.003-04:00

We have officially moved into the schoolroom, however, we haven't actually done school work yet! We LOVE our new room. Thanks so much to Dad,(Grandpa), for all the labor and love he poured into our room. I spent several hours this afternoon unpacking boxes and trying to find a spot for all the books. I didn't freeze while I did it either, which was our number one reason for moving out of the basement. Dad is going to add an additional homemade bookcase with a custom built toy box under it for Noah, so during school time I can keep track of him and we won't have to carry toys in and out all the time. Looking forward to putting the room to use, but I'm not rushing summer. We are enjoying our vacation. On Monday we took a field trip with my sisters to a local water park. It was fabulous! Very cloudy day, in fact, it ended up raining for about an hour of our time there, but that keep the crowd down to only a few dozen people or so. We had a great time, I think I enjoyed going down the water slides,(both with and without tubes) as much as Hannah and Zach did. We even talked Aunt Diana and Aunt Angie into trying them out! A huge thank you goes to Aunt Diana and Aunt Angie for paying for breakfast, our admission, a snack, and even our supper! Thanks Angie for finding this great spot, we'll be sure to return.

Happy 12th Birthday, Hannah!

2011-06-24T22:27:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to Hannah. What a blessing you are to our family. Such a soft heart and willing to give a hand anytime we need you, and sometimes even when we don't even ask! :)
Hannah wanted a chocolate/caramel cake with cool whip icing. Grandpa, Grandma and Papaw, and Aunt Diana and Aunt Angie came out. Dad and Mom gave Hannah a new 26" mountain bike, Grandpa and Aunt Diana got her 6 new outfits(and spider killer for a joke!), Grandma and Papaw got her numerous shirts and skirts and a beautiful black and yellow dress, and Aunt Angie got her a gel pad bike seat, bike gloves, and a bike helmet. Thanks for your love and gifts! When Hannah tries out her new bike I'll post a picture. We love you, Hannah!

Almost done!

2011-06-13T09:17:00.004-04:00

Our school room is almost finished. On Friday, June 10th, I installed the tact strips, put down duct tape over the seams, and laid and cut the carpet pad. Hannah helped me put up the border, and I finished a few touch up spots around the outlets. Shawn and I rolled out the carpet on Saturday, and Sunday afternoon, Tad came over and cut the carpet to fit. All we have left to do is put up the trim, and Dad is going to build 2 bookcases. Oh, and buy the pocket doors. Yippee!PadBorderCarpet!

Josh cast off

2011-06-13T09:14:00.003-04:00

Josh had his cast removed on Tuesday, May 31st, 2011. On Monday, June 6th, he tripped and fell and of course landed on the same arm. I wasn't sure what the "lumps" were I could feel on each side of the previous break so I took him to our Pediatrician. He wasn't sure about the x-ray he took, because it was plain to see the break from before. So, he sent us back to the Ortho Dr. and Dr. Allen said it all looked fine to him. The "lumps" are from the bone repairing itself, so we are glad we didn't have to have it recasted!

Josh Graduated!

2011-06-13T09:07:00.003-04:00

We attended a graduation ceremony from kindergarten for Josh on May 26, 2011. It was really cute, I'm glad his school arranged something like that to recognize all the learning that goes into the first year of school. Shawn was able to arrange inspections close to the grad site, and I took my Dad and sister, Diana, along with the children and I. Congratulations, Joshua!

Thankful for changing seasons!

2011-06-13T08:53:00.003-04:00

Very chilly morning here today, 57* with no humidity, reminds me of the following snow pictures. Well, ok, it really doesn't feel THAT cold, and after the very high 90 degree weather we have been having, a little chill is nice now and then. Just think, we could be seeing the white stuff in only 20 weeks or so! Enjoy the heat while it lasts!

Noah playing in powder

2011-06-13T08:46:00.003-04:00

Noah likes to play in baby powder with his tractors now and then(supervised of course), this time however, while I was at work he snuck into the powder and the first shot is after Hannah discovered what he was doing. I'm so glad she thought to grab the camera so I could see. The second picture shows how Daddy cleaned him up!

Good bye to Benji

2011-05-11T10:23:00.002-04:00

Our outside dog, that started as an inside dog (couldn't get him potty trained), Benji, died yesterday, May 10th. We aren't sure what happened. He was fine yesterday, eating, and jumping up to be petted, and then while I was mowing grass in the morning, I noticed he didn't come out of the barn with Lucy. Thankfully, Shawn took Monday and Tuesday off for Josh's birthday, and he was home. I stopped the mower long enough to tell him something must be wrong with Benji, and when he looked, he said he was just about dead. He was right, within about 20 minutes, he died. He was still a young dog, he was born August 20th, 2006, so he was only 4 yrs and 9 mos. He died the same way the cocker spaniel, Fancy, that my mom had when I was young, died. I think it was heart issues for both. So, good bye Ben.

Happy 6th Birthday, Joshua!

2011-05-09T12:27:00.002-04:00

Today Josh is 6. He had a Dr.s appointment this morning to recheck his broken right arm. Both of his bones are healing nicely, 3 more weeks for the cast. We had Reese Peanut Butter Bars and chocolate cake yesterday afternoon(Mother's Day) for him. Shawn took today off to spend with our little man, and to hang drywall. Happy Birthday, Josh. Mommy has to help Daddy hang drywall, so I'll post a few pictures of you and your presents later! We love you!

Very special visits with Dora and other workers!

2011-05-03T11:25:00.011-04:00

Our visiting workers.
Sister workers, Dad, and our children.
Mushrooms we found with Dora Mushrooms from side of road compared to my hand.Food line at Dad's!8 workers with our children.

This past weekend was our Special Meeting. As far as I know, every since I have been a newborn, we have went to 2 special meetings, (excluding the year we went to Florida with Ken and Megan), however, due to scheduling issues, we only had 1 this year. That one meeting was like being blessed 10 times over. Such a wonderful meeting, the fellowship and words heavenly. It humbles me to think of sitting in God's presence, who am I?
This year, the worker I was named after was on our special meeting rounds. So special to see Dora G, she hasn't been home to the states since my mother passed away. We had the special blessing of having the 4 sister workers, Dora G., Pat R.(Canada), Grace O'K. and Dorothy L. here for lunch on Friday. Unfortunately, Shawn had to work and missed this visit, I did ask Dad to come up. After lunch, Dora, the boys and I went mushroom hunting. We found 29 or 30. It was a trecherious hunt, climbing straight up steep banks and climbing over large tree trunks, trudging through the mud, but what a sweet 2 hour walk it was! We then had Dora and Grace for Friday supper and the night. We enjoyed a walk with Grace and while gingerly strolling along with Noah, counting 11 discarded pop/water bottles on the side of the road, I found a really nice sized mushroom along the side of our road. I called to Shawn, and he and Zach picked 5 nice sized ones. Those were the easiest mushrooms I ever found, when I wasn't even looking! On Saturday, all 8 workers were invited to lunch at Dad's, and Shawn, myself and the children went up for that. Angie was also there, and of course Dad and Diana(17 in all). I made BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, fried the mushrooms we found the previous day, made my first strawberry, rhubarb pie(which was a hit and delicious if I say so myself!), and a chocolate caramel cake. Another wonderful time was had. Then the meeting on Sunday. We arrived almost 30 minutes before, however, the only seats available was on the front row! We took those seats, and I wouldn't have wanted to sit anywhere else!So much was shared to feed. A few thoughts..,, God would like to strip us of things that would keep us from Heaven.,/ Some would be our friend to have us taken up with them, others would encourage our friendship with God., /God can't show any more steps to us, unless we're willing to take the first step.,/ Sheep is attracted to the light, wolves are afraid of the light and won't come to the light.,/ What do we pour out?.,/ To be a peacemaker, we must have peace within first.,/ Good when people look on our lives and see our actions and reactions, and they see Jesus.,/ How do I buy?. So much more that was living water, but since I already have a wordy post, I will let that be all. Not a good picture of me, but it's a good picture of Dora!

Josh broke his arm

2011-04-21T14:23:00.004-04:00

Josh took a dive off our front porch stair railing, and broke his arm, both bones, and not just a little break either! We were getting ready to leave, he was the first one ready, and decided to go out the front door to the garage. He couldn't resist his newest stunt of slinging his leg over the railing and sliding down to the bottom of the steps, however, I wasn't aware that was his intentions or it wouldn't have happened! (I asked him later if he had ever done this before, and he said one time. Second time wasn't so lucky.) I shut the front door behind him, and went to put on my shoes and Noah's shoes and coat. Literally not even a minute later, I hear him crying at the garage door. I run over, thinking maybe he got stung by a bee, which would involve the epi pen, open the door, and he holds up his right arm crying. I look at it and realize it's definetly broken, and I turn around, not sure what I was doing, then turn back to look at it again, this time I took it in my hand, put it down, turn around to Shawn and inform him Josh has a broken arm. Probably not that calmly though! Rather hysterically, I suppose. Well, off we go after dropping the other 3 off to Dad, and in the ER we sit for approxiately one minute after being evalutated, and to the room we go. Xrays comfirm what we could visually tell. His arm was sorta u shaped heading into his torso. They gave him a shot of diladed(spelling??), into his rear, splint it and send us home. The next day, we took him to the ortho dr, and he gave us the option of setting it there, or heading to the OR the next day to knock Josh out and then set it. Shawn, Josh and I all felt it best to just get it done. So the Dr put two shots of novacain into his arm next to both broken bones with an inch and a half long needle, waited about 10 minutes, then forced Josh's arm bones back together. Very painful for Josh, but he was amazing. He laid on the table and let the Dr do his job. We had a wonderful Dr that has 4 children also, and he and his wife also home school! He explained step by step what he was doing to Josh, and told Josh he promised he wouldn't trick Josh in any way, he would tell him exactly what to expect. Josh was then put into a bright green cast, which he'll have on for the next 6 wks. He keeps asking if we can take it off now, sigh, what a long 6 wks the poor fellow will have!

School room progressing!

2011-04-21T13:55:00.003-04:00

Some pictures of the school room progress. We have most of the outside done now, just some siding to put up near the roof line. Dad ran electric today, I have started putting in insulation, however, I need to mow grass today, so insulation is on hold until either Shawn or I have time later on to finish it. We do have our lights up, and they work. Dad is moving right along! Shawn, Tad, and Uncle Billy put the shingles on, while Dad measured and cut them. This project is keeping both Dad and I busy. I hardly find time to keep up with the housework and schooling, but we'll make it!

Happy 10th Birthday, Zachariah

2011-03-31T11:46:00.001-04:00

Zach celebrated his 10th birthday on March 31st. I made him a Mayonaise Cake, with half peanut butter, and half vanilla icing. Yummy! He was really excited to see the small pool we bought him. I'd say he made out this year! Happy Birthday, Zach!

Dora's hospital stay

2011-03-09T15:31:00.003-05:00

Well, the hotel I mentioned in my previous post, was actually a hospital stay. Shawn jokingly referred to it as my hotel stay, but it was far from that! I started having more noticeable upper right quadrant stomach pains than I have been experiencing for the past 11 mos. with symptoms coming on as soon as I ate or drank, and lasting 3 or 4 hours, then fading some. Wednesday, March 2, after supper and while getting ready to go to meeting, the pain was a lot sharper and I decided the time had come to get checked out since it wasn't going away. Shawn and I took the children to Dad's, meeting was there, around 7:10, and Shawn took me to the ER. The ER Doc said he was 90 percent certain he saw gallstones, and I would have my gallbladder taken out in the morning. So, I was admitted. However, after another ultrasound in the morning revealed I did not have stones, no surgery. I was still in pain on Thursday, so they kept me Thursday night, and then did a CT scan on Friday, which was normal. Finally, I was dismissed on Sat at noon, with no explanation to the pain. It is much better, but still comes now and again. Anyway, that's where we are right now.

March 4,2011, Happy 3rd Birthday, Noah!

2011-03-06T18:09:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to our baby! Unfortunately, Mommy wasn't at home for his birthday, she was away for a "Hotel" stay, at least according to Shawn. I could order meals anytime I wanted from 7:30 to 6:30, however, even having someone cooking for me with a phone call from me, still didn't make it any easier as I was lying there on the bed, knowing my family was at home without me. :(
Back to Noah, I won't compare him to a bad weed, but he sure is growing fast. He is learning his letters and how to count while I school Josh. We can see pretty clearly he has a personality a lot like his dad, poor thing. But then again, I did marry his dad, so that proves the good is far easier to see than the occasional temper. :) I love both my easy temper honeys. We ended up having cake and ice cream for him on Sat. the 5th, a day late, but I am very thankful to still be here to see it. After I was released from my hotel stay, Shawn took me to my cleaning job that I missed on Thursday night, then to the grocery store to buy cake mix, home and rush to bake the cake and decorate it before the party @ 7 p.m. I will post more pictures when I upload the pictures, and make a post regarding that marvelous,(NOT!) hotel stay.

Pictures

2011-02-28T15:28:00.007-05:00

Shawn's accident= 4 stitches to the brow

2011-02-25T15:49:00.003-05:00

Shawn had an accident at work on Monday, February 21, 2011, that left him with sore head bones, a black, purple, and yellow eye, and a painful back. He was doing a sprinkler inspection for work, and while standing on a ladder, he was attempting access to an attic. The door latch was broken which he was unaware of, and when he reached to open it, it fell down across his eye. The knob hit him right under the brow, and he said everything sorta got black. He didn't think much of it and was going to continue to the attic, when he said he felt some wet stuff on his head. He looked at his shirt and found it covered with blood and when he touched his head, his hand of course got covered too. Luckily his supervisor was on site with him to help him run the panels while Shawn did the leg work of the inspection. He went to the panel and asked Rick if it looked bad. The comment, "WHAT did you DO?" made Shawn realize it must be worse than just a scratch like he thought. Off to the hospital they go, and then Shawn calls me. I asked how his Monday was going, and he said, "Well,,, let me tell you how my Monday is going, I'm sitting in the ER waiting for some stitches." NOT what I was expecting to hear, I am glad it wasn't worse however, and glad he was able to stay on the ladder and not get knocked off. One of us with back surgery is enough I think! His back is sore but we think it was from the way he was knocked by the 10 lb steel door that hit him. I have been taking pictures, later I'll pick out a good one and post it!

Warm weather, school room started!

2011-02-17T12:33:00.001-05:00

We had a beautiful day yesterday, with a high of 67 degrees! It was sunny in the morning, but cloudy the rest of the day. When Shawn got home, he fired up the chain saw, and got started on our new school room. He cut off all the railing on our back deck, where the new school room will go. I'll post pictures later, right now Josh has an online session with his class I need to log him into.

6 years

2011-02-17T12:30:00.002-05:00

Sunday, February 13th, 2011, made it 6 years since Mom passed away. Some times it seems like forever ago, and others, still so new. I still find myself thinking I'd like to share that with Mom. Hannah just mentioned a dream she had with Grandma in it, and said very sadly, Grandma was starting to fade a little in her mind. Thankful for the invention of pictures, to help keep her little memories alive of Mom.

Party time, Thanks Ryan and Vanessa, and also Albin and Mary

2011-02-17T12:21:00.004-05:00

We was invited to Ryan and Vanessa's house on Sunday afternoon 2-13-11 for a party. We really enjoyed fellowship with the friends. Besides Ryan and Vanessa and their boys, Albin and Mary and their 3 children, Rick and Tabi and their boys, and Arlen, Heather and the girls were there(and us 6 too!). We enjoyed visiting and supper. I had a serious brain lapse I suppose I should record. It was very funny. Josh was sword fighting with Paige, and Shawn said, "You're holding that the wrong way, Zach." I said, "That's not Zach, that's George." Shawn said, "George????"At least I got the right name of one of our kids!" I couldn't stop laughing, and have no idea where George came from. I guess Josh, George,, they both start with the J sound! That's my excuse anyway.
A few weeks before this party, Albin and Mary had a party at their house too. That was wonderful as well, and I enjoyed meeting Randy, or seeing again I should say. The last time I saw him, he was laboring in Florida, and I was 12. Wonderful to hear of stories of him spreading the gospel, so thankful for those still willing to go forth as Jesus sent them. Our next party might be here I think. More on that later!

Wonderful weekend away

2011-02-17T12:15:00.002-05:00

Shawn and I enjoyed our first weekend away, in a hotel even, by ourselves, for the first time in 12 years! My sisters kept the children for us, and we headed out Saturday morning. We went to a book store, and then to window shop at Grossman's to get prices for our new school room. Then to the Hampton Inn for some R&R. We enjoyed the pool and hot tub, after a large group of rowdy kids(and 1 dad that behaved worse than the host of kids there!) finally left the pool. It was really strange Sunday morning to go to the breakfast buffet, and not have little ones to fix plates for! We left at 8:45 a.m. to make it back in time for our Sunday Meeting. Thanks for our break, Diana and Angie!

I'm melting!

2011-02-17T12:14:00.001-05:00

That is the phrase Noah came up with after he fell on a toy in his room and scratched his arm. I couldn't figure out what he meant, then I saw a little line of blood and realized he thought he was melting because of the blood. Too cute, and I wanted this memory to be recorded!

Snow fort 2011

2011-01-31T10:30:00.002-05:00

Shawn, Zach, Josh, and Noah enjoyed spending over 3 hours outside on Sunday 1-30-2011, building a snow fort. I will post some pictures after they finish it, hopefully today. Ice is suppose to hit our area tomorrow, so we'll see how will it holds up!
While the boys were outside playing, Hannah and I hung out inside, playing banana grams, and skippo, and then we got the babies out to play with. Baby guinea pigs that is. We got them on Jan. 16 and they were 6 and 7 weeks old. The salesman guarenteed us that we were purchasing 2 females, last week we found out that guarentee fell through, we have a boy and a girl of course! It also looks like Oreo is already expecting, so if any one would like a baby guinea pig, it seems like we'll have some for sale soon. I tried to get some pictures to put on here, but they were playing shy. I'll get a shot soon. Well, that was long enough of a break from school, back to the books.

This one is for you, Hannah

2011-01-31T10:25:00.002-05:00

Just so you will remember coming home from meeting and making these comments, like pepperoni plants :), and that Zach is a rubber, you know, a rubberinner, (or however you would spell that!) Hannah said Zach was a good rubber inner, he always rubs things in to irritate you on purpose. Too funny, she had Shawn and I laughing most of the way home.

Playing catch up

2011-01-28T13:58:00.012-05:00

I finally gave up on getting my new camera to upload to my computer, and found a different way to get my pictures :). So, here are a few pictures from the past month.This is Smurf, my blue goldfish.
(its actually a shubumpkin)
Here is our acquarium.
Another picture of Landon.
Zach, Josh, and Eddie visiting after meeting.
Penny helping the kids color.

Welcome Landon!

2011-01-28T13:50:00.002-05:00

We have a beautiful new addition to our meeting, baby Landon made his appearance 3 weeks ago. He is small, but so pure and perfect. I love watching his new momma and daddy, looking at him with such love on their face. Must be a small picture of how our Father sees us. So good to know Logan's parents are concerned for his soul, and are bringing him before the Almighty One. I can see how quickly my little Noah is growing up, in fact he is rapidly approaching his 3rd birthday already!
Wow.

Remembering Logan

2011-01-28T13:40:00.002-05:00

My heart is heavy and thinking of our friends, Darren and Rebecca, during this time of sorrow. They have been an amazing help to me, seeing so clearly how close they are to our Father, and witnessing their willingness for God's will in their lives. I didn't have the privelage to meet baby Logan, but I know he touched many lives during his short little while here on earth, mine included.

VER:Y COLD and snow too!

2011-01-22T20:14:00.002-05:00

At 1A.M. on Saturday, January 21, we had -3*. At 8:30 A.M. it was even colder, we had -9*! Talk about freezing your nose hairs together! Our horses had ice over their noses, at the corner of their eyes, and hanging off their mouths! We also have 5 or 6" snow. That arrived on Thursday, and then the winds moved in late Thursday night. I guess that is where this cold front came from. Dad and Tad dropped off hay for us this morning, and after Shawn and I stacked that, I had a productive day of sorting through the boys closet. I also got all my laundry caught up, I've probably washed about 20 or 30 loads of laundry in 3 days. Our dryer broke, and we were fortunate to have a spare that Shawn and Dad hooked up. We're in the washing business now! I still am having problems downloading the pictures from my new camera, so soon I hope to post pictures again. I know its boring just reading and not seeing any actions shots! Good night.

Josh is reading!

2011-01-22T20:05:00.002-05:00

After only 106 days of homeschooling, my little one in kindergarten read his first book The Tin Bus with only a handful of words he didn't know. Not that I'm bragging, but I think this is amazing because he only knew a few of his letters when we started. Now he is learning their letter sounds and putting them together to read. Here is the words of the book he read.
The Tin Bus
Sam has a bus. It is a tin bus.
Sam can run his bus on the rug.
Sam can hum and run his bus.
The sun is on the rug. Sam will sit in the sun.
Sam can run his bus in the son. It is fun to run the bus in the sun.
"Can I have my bus in the tub?" Sam says. "Yes," Mom says.
Sam can run his bus in the tub! Sam can have fun in the tub with the bus!
That may be a boring post, but I thought Josh might like to see that when he is older, Lord willing. I don't even know the first books Hannah and Zachariah read in kindergarten, I am sorry I didn't know of K12 when they were wee ones. Every time we bring out the books, I want to remember how blessed I am to be able t o teach my children, both knowledge and most important about our Heavenly Father and His Son.

Back to school

2011-01-03T15:46:00.003-05:00

Today we hit the books,(and computers!) after a 2 week vacation. They day went fairly well, we even finished earlier than I anticipated. Shawn also has the day off for the holiday, he has been busy cleaning the fish tank, and washing our vehicles. He also played Mr. Mom for us, and fixed lunch(pizza) while the kids and I did school work. Thanks, Honey. Oh, and thanks for doing the dishes too! I love you!
We did buy a blue goldfish, and a black bug-eyed fish. We named them Smurf and Pug. :)
Mr. Mom came down and said instead of blogging, I could be doing laundry. Sigh, a woman's work is never done. I guess laundry isn't his specialty today! Well, back to the grindstone.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T16:24:00.002-05:00

Last night we enjoyed ringing in the new year with some of our dear friends, Troy and Jody, their children, and Uncle Harold and Aunt Marvis. Jody fixed a wonderful dinner for us, baked steak and mashed potatoes, salad, and rolls, and hot fudge brownie sunday. We enjoyed listening to Uncle Harold playing his guitar and singing. Thanks so much for such a great evening, and starting the new year in fellowship with friends!
Today we had a productive day of cleaning out the barn and paddock area. We also hauled hay from Dad's for the horses and goats. We were just finishing and enjoying the breezy, high 50's day, when a big gale came through, knocked the temperature to the 40's in a hurry, and brought some blowing rain with it. Shawn and I ran to take the horses from the pasture and put them back in their barn/paddock area. Showers all around after all that and the 6 of us smelling like a barn, then a late lunch. We are planning on sausage and sour crout for supper, yum!
A couple of weeks ago we got our new aquarium set up. It is a 55 gal tank with a nice stand. Tad gave it to us when he cleaned out his garage,and we bought 14 gold fish for it. We only have 5 left, so we are going to buy a few blue goldfish to put in it, soon. Maybe today, if we get any energy back from all the poo scooping we did!
Hoping everyone has a great 2011, and may we know of a closer walk with our Father and His Precious Son. Love, Dora

Memories to keep

2010-12-17T13:51:00.003-05:00

Like, Zach asking me if I was born back in 1842 when we was working on a history lesson this week, and if we had steam powered engines or motors.
Or, Noah eating a fortune cookie for the first time at a China Buffet, and after he took his first bite he said, "Look Mom, there's trash in it!" He then pulled out the fortune, and said,"I got it out, Mom".
Or, Josh saying, "If you had a full-sized job, we'd have to go to the school building, right Mom."
And then there was Zach at lunch today. =) I still smile about this one and the look on his face was priceless. He wanted more water, and when he saw the water jug on the table, he said,"Oh." Then he proceeded to be the funny guy, and pretend to drink right from the jug. As he tips the 1/4 full jug to his lips, off pops the lid, down pours the water, covering his face, some of his hair and ear, shirt, pants, and of course the chair and floor. He said, "Somebody didn't put the lid on!" as I smile and think I know what is going to happen, but it happens to fast to say anything (since I was the one who didn't put the lid on all the way, knowing I would be offering refills)!
And then there is Hannah, whom her Dad asked if the elevator wasn't getting to the top floor, and she replies,"I don't have an elevator" to which Shawn and I busted out laughing about, and is still a fun saying in our home. Aghh, these are the days.

Snow, snow and cold!

2010-12-17T13:44:00.003-05:00

We have only had a few days in December without snow, and the temperature has been...., very cold! Like 5* F. We have made it almost to the 30's, and even one day was a little over 30*F, then back to 16*F the next day with a few inches of snow. We haven't had massive amounts of snow, like our friends to the north that had over 20". The most we've had at a time is 3". Makes me think back to when I was young and the snow fell in November and didn't melt off until March. We were so excited to see grass for the first time in the spring, after the thaw. Oh, I guess I'm turning into one of those, "I remember walking to school and home, uphills both ways," sorta gal. Sigh... =)

Happy Thanksgiving Weekend!

2010-11-27T19:59:00.005-05:00

We enjoyed Thanksgiving here this year, with some of my mother's family. Shawn and I enjoyed some quality time in the kitchen, preparing the turkey..:) He was such a sweetheart and stayed up with me until 3:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving day, while I baked an apple and a cherry pie, cleaned the house, and then he helped me prepare the turkey for the oven. I got back up at 7 a.m. to turn the oven up and peel potatoes, and in between folded all the laundry I had let pile up this week.
We had a huge feast, so much food that it took awhile to figure out where to put all of it! My newest camera is officially broken, it had been acting up and now it only takes black pictures with purple lines on it, so,,, I couldn't get any pictures. :(.. I will just tell you what we had, (it may be boring to read all of this, but for memories sake I will record it:),,,)
A 21.66 lb turkey, that cost $19.33(thought in several years it might be nice to see how much things cost back then), a huge ham, homemade mashed potatoes and turkey and ham gravy(from scratch), stuffing, crescent rolls, sweet potatoe casserole, baked corn, corn, butter beans with ham, cole slaw, beets, jello with fruit, dirt dessert, pumpkin rolls, pumpkin pie, grape salad, and apple and cherry pie. I think that was everything. Our refreshments were lemonaide, sweet tea, Pepsi, Root Beer, and water.
Our guests included my Dad, sister Diana, brother Tad, and his wife, Sandy, and their child Emily. My Mom's Mom, Grandma Hattie, and 2 of Mom's brothers, Uncle Terry and Uncle Billy and his wife, Aunt Marilyn, and their 2 children( daughter Leigh and her husband,J.C., and son Will) and 3 grandchildren(Mariah, MaKayla, and Marshall). We had a wonderful time and it was very special to spend time with Mom's family. Makes me miss her so much, thankful for the time we had with her though.
Shawn's Mom and Dad had a nice get together for Thanksgiving at their house the Sat. evening before. We had a nice time visiting with his family too.
Special note of interest,,, Noah is binky free! I was sure I would have a hard time taking it away, and here he gave it up on his own, 2 weeks ago. He had fallen asleep with out it on Friday, the 12th. Then on Saturday we kept busy the whole day, and he didn't ask for it like he normally does, and fell asleep again without it, and didn't ask for it until late Sunday night. I told him he didn't need it anymore and he just said, "Ohhh" and that was the end of binky's in Noah's mouth! Now he is sucking his first finger,,, from one issue to another. On another good note, he is basically potty trained now, he just did that on his own this weekend. He started taking himself to the potty, even to poo! YEAH, NOAH!!! We are so proud of you, our last little baby is sure growing up fast and in a hurry.
Well, Shawn is reading a story to the older children, while Noah is piling my desk with toy dogs, and tractors saying,"Here's your toys, Mom", so I guess I will go play with him. Good night.

Weiner Roast 2010

2010-11-01T20:54:00.008-04:00

We held our annual weiner roast on Oct.22nd. Enjoyed fellowship, cold weather, and hotdogs(and many other wonderful dishes). And of course, the fire. Wonderful job, Honey! We had around 35 here this year, one of the smallest since we started having them 10 years ago. However, we still enjoyed ourselves, and I enjoyed listening to Albin, Arlen, and Rick playing their guitars. I missed singing hymns around the fire this year, but maybe a hymn sing is in the near future??... I have a few pictures to remember the day by, lighting wasn't too hot(of course not since it was in the low 40's!). I also made a birthday cake for all the Oct. birthdays, including but not limited to Diana, Troy, Cody, Tabi, and Mary.This was a 5 minute decoration job, but hey, it was dark out, right??

Fall pictures of our children

2010-11-01T20:35:00.010-04:00

We enjoyed a walk at a local park, and it made for a perfect photo shoot.

Hannah's violin recital; Zachariah's harmonica recital

2010-11-01T15:21:00.004-04:00

Hannah had her violin recital (violin and cello students only) on Sunday, September 26th. She did very well, as did all the students. Her teacher, Mrs. Sax, is really a special lady that has a lot of patience for the little ones she teaches. Jerry accompanied Hannah on the piano. My camera shut off in the middle, so I've loaded the second half here.

Zachariah had his harmonica recital (with piano, cello,violin,voice and electric guitar students also participating) on October 17th. Zach had 3 songs he was playing in a row, and when he finished, his teacher, Mike, threw him a loop and asked him to play another song. Zach took it in stride, and continued with another song! He did very well too! I haven't downloaded his video yet, when I get it on, I'll post that. I do have a picture of Zach on stage so I'll share that. Great job to both my children!

Playing catch up, again

2010-11-01T15:03:00.002-04:00

Well, I have managed to not take time to post, again. We have been busy the past 5 weeks, and I will try to touch on the highlights, if I remember all of them! It may be easier to use seperate posts.
Josh had a pretty serious bike wreck 2 weeks ago. He just started riding without training wheels on Sept. 12th. He tried to go down a small hill near our garage, and forgot to use his brakes. He instead put down his feet, and lost control. I was just coming from the barn, feeding the dogs and horses, and was too far away to help him. I watched him fly over his handelbars after he hit the swing set, and he caught his neck on one of the plastic swings. He ended up with bruises on his shoulder, knee, and a small bump on his neck. He even managed to rip the swing seat about 2", and his handlebars were left torn and filled with dirt! Thankfully, he recovered within a week, and had only a sore neck from the ordeal, nothing super serious.
Fall has also officially arrived, but without much color this year. We have mostly brown leaves, with a few red here and there. It was so dry, and then in October when we did get rain, most of the leaves fell off while still green. So, no pretty fall pictures to show.

Fun time camping

2010-09-23T15:00:00.012-04:00

We took a mini vacation camping a few weeks ago with T.J. and Lindsey. We had a blast, and I especially loved the time off, just sitting and visiting near the campfire till 2 A.M. both nights we were there, the adults that is :) . The kids had fun playing at the park, and riding bikes. Josh became a pro while there, and his bike was well worn in by the time we left. We ate a lot of food, which is part of camping, right? That was our excuse anyway! On Saturday evening, Brent, Cody and Kayla came to visit. That was fun, sorry I didn't get a lot of time to visit with you guys. Moms sort of get busy that way. The best part of the camping trip was that no one ended up with croup! Yipee!!! We had perfect weather, cold Friday night, and cool with a few short rain showers on Saturday night. Saturday afternoon was perfect, and we enjoyed an airplane/car show. Shawn worked all day and night on Thursday,an he was off on Friday. We had a back to school picnic for the 3 school age children to attend Friday, and that was very fun and informative. Thanks for the wonderful time, TJ and Lindsey, and for the fellowship. You guys are special to us.

Happy Anniversary to us!

2010-09-21T13:37:00.013-04:00

Then 1996,and now 2010`.Just married, so happy!

Today is our 14th wedding anniversary! Hannah put on an anniversary supper for us on Sunday evening. She bought flowers, paper goods, cupcakes, fruit, and had presents wrapped for Shawn and I (with her own money!). What a wonderful daughter I have, the best one ever :) I think. She also rounded up a pretty tablecloth and decorations. Her theme was red, and I didn't realize she was going to do this, and I had made a quick supper of tomato soup. So, unknowingly, I stayed with her theme color, with no suggestions from her. Thanks for 14 wonderful, and sometimes not so wonderful, years together Shawn. We've grown alot this past year, and I pray we'll keep growing closer many, many more years to come, Lord willing.

2010-09-10T00:50:00.010-04:00

Noah and Paige

Hannah and Ryann

Shawn, Dora and Noah

Friends.

Noah doing school. Our schoolroom.

Teachers desk! Corn we harvested.

Happy Belated Birthday, Shawn

2010-09-08T22:41:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday to my darling! It was actually on Labor Day, but we were so busy moving our school room, I forgot to post. I won't mention age, but I will say he is getting closer to being halfway to being old! We officially have a neat school room, hoping it stays neat at least a few months after all the hours Shawn and I poured into it!
School has been going great, really long hours while we are in our adjusting period, but no regrets with our new curriculm. I forgot to take pictures of our first day of school, which was Aug 25th. I did take a couple of lunch shots, if I wasn't so lazy I'd go get the camera and upload the pictures to share,,,,well, I guess I'm going the lazy route and hope to post pictures tomorrow.
Josh started kindergarten this year, and is a very quick learner. The first day he learned about the continents, and he can quickly tell you how many there are. We have this cute song that is teaching him the names, after he has mastered them, I'll put on a video of it.
Noah's personality is really coming out, too. It is amazing to watch him learn new things, the things he comes up with at the tender age of 2 blows me away. He is in this cute stage where if I tell him he is funny, he reply's,"No, me Noah." Of course the other kids crack up over this and continue to say things so they can hear, "No, me Noah."
Today would have been my parents 50th wedding anniversary. 5 1/2 years since Mom's been gone. Glad to remember the good times now more often than the times of sickness and our acute feeling of lose right after she passed away.
Well, another long post with no pictures, sorry!

Long time, no post

2010-09-03T14:52:00.002-04:00

Sorry for so long between posts. We are still here, just understanding a new level of busy. Lets see, our summer consisted of putting up hay, more hay, making salsa and pizza sauce, canning dilly beans, which Noah helped lose a jar of((I had them in a basket for Shawn to carry downstairs to our pantry, and Noah wanted the basket for a wagon for his tractor, so he started unloading jars, and the 4th jar out busted on our carpet, good news he didn't cut himself!)), freezing corn(we harvested about 150 ears this year), freezing tons of green beans(forgot beans continually produce, the kids got real tired of beans when we had to pick and snap/sort every week, finally pulled them the second week of Aug.), chopping lots of peppers, and making pickles(bread and butter, and dill). We loved the pizza sauce! We had some really good friends from our meeting over, and they said it was the best pizza they had eaten. I thought they must not have much pizza experience, but I do have to say it was really good. Sorry T.J. and Lindsey, we loved having you over, and can't wait for our trip with you! I think you know what I meant by that experience comment(if not, I don't consider myself a great cook).
The best part of summer, no question, convention. We had the privelage of 2 full time conventions, and are realizing just how blessed we are. I can't imagine going through life and missing out on these resting places. So good to see how God knows just what we need, when we need it. So many good things we heard, now to apply. The time spent with God's people was needed too!
We also spent a day at an amusement park with Shawn's Mom and Dad, his brother and his wife and 2 children, and his little cousins, Thomas and Michael. We then spent a night at a hotel, and went to a water park the next day. What a blast! Shawn and I liked it almost as much as the kids.
While we are reminiscing, I guess I should tell about what Josh had to go through this summer. He is allergic to bees, thus we have an epi pen. Well, we made it through last year without using it, and as you guessed, he got stung one morning while I was mowing grass. The kids came running up screaming to get my attention. I realized by looking at the terror on Hannah, Zach, and Emily's face, and seeing the tears flow down Josh's checks what happened. Turned mower off, and shouts of Josh got stung followed. I took him in the house to use the epi pen. Got all set to use it, pulled off safety cap(had Shawn on the phone for moral support) and positioned over Josh's thigh, when "OUCH!" That was me! I didn't realize I had the pen backward, and instead of injecting him, I gave myself a shot of epi. My thumb instantly locked into position, so I grab up all 5 of the kids, and off to the F.D. we go, with the spare pin. The guys on station were kind enough not to laugh until we pulled away! Shawn H. was able to inject him while Beam and I held him down. It was a terrifying experience for a little 5 year old , he was a trooper though, and now we have the memory of mom shooting herself. By the way, if you ever inject a digit with Epi, expect it to stay white and cold, have no feeling and look very dead, for 24 hours, mine did!
Lets see, oh yes, the kids school supplies arrived, and we have completed our first full week of school. This is a challenging program, and we are still adjusting to starting at or before 8. Josh started kindergarten this year, Zach is in 4th and Hannah is in 6th.
Zach had a pretty serious bike wreck right before we left Yellow Springs. He actually knocked himself unconscious, and bruised up his face. He felt sick to his stomach that night, and didn't remember what happened. The next morning when he refused breakfast, I knew we had problems. After finally accepting one bite, and severe pain that followed, I ended up taking him to the E.R. We thought his jaw may be broken, but xrays showed a deep bruise and they said he had a concussion. He mended fine after several days of soft food and slow chewing!
We had fun putting up more hay last night, and enjoyed the company and really appreciated the help,from my cousin, Will. I think we put up 230 bales, not a lot, but enough to sweat a little.
WEll, I wonder how many of you I lost after you tired of reading all of this! Pictures will come later, must finish school now. Dora

Garden 2010

2010-07-01T12:26:00.018-04:00

Here are the garden shots I have been wanting to get posted. Everything is growing nicely, except the lettuce and onions(from seed!). Shawn has been enjoying the Hungarian peppers. This is from June 10th.

This is from today(July 1st). Here is Josh in the corn.Butternut squash with my brothers weeds in the background.Cucumbers.Baby cucumber!Bell peppers.Hungarian hot pepper.Green tomatoes.Josh and Noah in front of the sunflowers.Green bean flower.The tractor that "helped" me till the garden Tues. p.m., run by no other than Josh being chased by Noah.Boys playing, you can see how tall the corn and sunflowers are. By Noah is the silver queen corn, Josh is inbetween the super sweet corn and the sunflowers.One of 4 tomato plants that planted themselves in my flowerbed in front of house.And finally the kittens with beautiful blue eyes, who still need homes. Takers, anyone?

Happy 11th Birthday, Hannah!

2010-06-24T22:17:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to our precious daughter! I made a chocolate carmel cake this morning after an hour and a half of weeding the garden. Hannah's favorite cake, but the poor kid, weeding the garden on her birthday! Well,,,, actually, Hannah pulled a chair up to the garden and read a book while I weeded and the boys played in the dirt. Zach got in on the weed action for awhile until the weeds bored him :) and then he was off riding his bike.

We are on the mend this week, after the flu hit us, all 6 of us!, last week. We went to the Lake on Monday, then Josh was sick Tues., Zach on Wed., Hannah early Thurs., Shawn and I Thurs. evening, and Noah on Friday! I also had my minor surgery on Tuesday(22nd) and am awaiting pathology results, however, it does look better than I thought. Glad again of the need to learn to trust God's plan for our life. Thankful for my dear husband that took a day off work in his busy schedule to take me and offer reassurance too. And thanks to my sister for her help with the kids.

I do have some garden shots I'll post later. I am sorta keeping up with the garden, but wasn't counting on the flu and my other illness that set me back a bit.

Here is a parting shot that I think is just adorable.

Garden pictures, Peanut news

2010-06-01T11:50:00.013-04:00

We had a busy weekend, with a graduation party, putting up a small load of hay for Dad(only about 100 bales), and a cook-out at Dad's on Sunday. Also, on Sunday afternoon when I went to the barn to take Beauty and Peanut to pasture, I saw Peanut bleeding pretty heavily on his leg. On closer inspection, I saw a deep cut. Called the vet and he came out about an hour later. He said Peanut didn't severe his flexor tendon, but he did slice it. He gave him a sedative to make him not really care much about what was going on, but as I held his head and Shawn held his body while the vet worked, I noticed he was snoring and getting heavy. Shawn and the vet laid him down, and that little relaxer turned into a heavy sedative for Peanut! Steve was able to clean and put in 6 stitches and give 2 shots without Peanut waking up. After about 40 minutes, Steve took his head and helped him stand. He is on meds now and limited walking to allow the leg to heal, so back to being shut up in the barn with his momma and me scooping up the poo!!:)
Here is the first of the garden shots. We finally had rain on Monday, after a short dry spell. I tilled the garden on Saturday evening, no weeds. By Monday afternoon, there are quite a few now. So, if I don't get stuck in the mud and the rain holds off, I hope to weed during nap time today!
On another note, when I went out to give Peanut his medicine, I heard tiny meows. I looked and
sure enough in the box in the garage, 5 tiny kittens made their appearance in the world early this morning(or late last night!). Kitties, anyone?
Josh with Dan the tree.

Garden Planted

2010-05-28T11:40:00.002-04:00

The children and I planted our garden on Tuesday, May 25th. This is our biggest garden yet, at
42' wide, by 67' long! Shawn had a long hot job on Monday evening tilling it. Dad had brought the tractor up and plowed and disked in the beginning of May, but after all the rain we had the first 2 weeks, I wasn't able to plant the garden and the ground hardened. So, thanks to Shawn, we had nice soil to work with instead of hard clumps. We planted silver and sweet corn, green beans, onions, lettuce, butternut squash, watermelon, cucumbers, sunflowers, 22 tomato plants, 12 bell pepper plants, 6 banana pepper plants and 6 Hungarian Hot pepper plants. Dad gave me the idea of catty corner rows, and I tried that this year. Ever year we seem to have a weed problem, this year(like others) I said we'd keep on top of the weeds. I thought if I posted weekly garden shots, it would motivate me. We'll see how long both last. Maybe we can make it our summer challenge! Hannah thinks this is the best, neatest garden we've ever planted. Thanks, Hannah!
We also tried planting several small trees in the backyard, the one our neighbor boy dug for us seems to be doing the best. It has grown around 6" already, and we've dubbed him "Dan". He has a nice show of leaves, the other little trees are mostly brown.
I can hear the weeds growing, so best go for now. Will try for some yard shots later today.

Happy 5th Birthday, Joshua!

2010-05-09T15:59:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday to our little man! And Happy Mother's Day! I went into labor at 2 a.m., Monday after Mother's Day. Josh received a bike from Dad and Mom, and a plasma car from Grandma. He's learning to ride without training wheels, and doing a great job. So very thankful for the blessing of this little one added to our family, and the other 3 too! We love you 4 so much! Daddy and Mommy

Rusty home, 4 weeks of danger left

2010-05-01T15:29:00.002-04:00

When I took Rusty, (the stray dog that showed up here, I gave to Dad, he came back) to the vet on Friday, to get him started on heart worm medicine, he tested heart worm positive. He went back to the vet and into the hospital on Monday night to started treatments on Tuesday. The kids and I went to pick him up on Thursday. He has to stay in his kennel for the next 4 weeks, that is the danger period for his heart to explode due to the damage from the worms if he exercises it too much. However, he is having as hard a time being separated from Hannah, as she is from him. Last night, Shawn decided it was harder on him to be shut up, and more of a risk, than for him to carry Rusty to Hannah's bed. So, they both were happy and had sweet dreams last night:) . He is very much a people person, and when he is in his kennel, he sits and pants. Anyway, we are hopefully on the road to recovery for him.
Yesterday Zach and I went mushroom hunting, we found 3! Very dry in the woods. We all went last week, and Shawn and Zach had much better luck and found a bowl full. So, I think mushroom hunting is over for another year already.
Today we have had a few showers, not enough to keep the kids from playing outside though. Frost hit a few times this past week, but yesterday was actually hot, and today is pretty warm.
Here is a picture of Rusty without any energy.

Hard decision brings peace

2010-04-27T13:26:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was a very sad day for our family. We had to let go of a dear friendship due to pressure from the husband. To put it plainly, we were I guess you could say, persecuted, for our faith. We became friends with the neighbors on Hannah's 10th birthday. Enjoyed many, many days with them. Then questions started about our faith and yesterday morning, the husband called and told me for an hour and a half about all the things we believe are wrong, and that we are a c---,(many consider this a bad word to say, so I'll insert dashes there, and put the rest here ult.) Hope you caught that. The stipulation was given for us to continue being friends, that we had to know that he knew our way is wrong. We know we are walking the right way, the planned way of God, but as humans, we also know we can fail. So, we felt if we continued to be friends, that we would be making the statement that our way is wrong. So thankful to know it isn't our way, its God's.
Today, I feel peace, knowing that even though Shawn and I have never had to face this or had to discard friendship, God sees and knows what truly is in each heart.
In light of a care update I read for Jess, what we are facing is nothing. She is facing death at 29, with 3 small girls. In the days ahead, I hope to learn the lesson of praying more for others in their needs, like I know many have been doing for us. Thank you for that.

Warm days, then cold!

2010-04-13T13:27:00.002-04:00

We have had wonderful weather, sunny skies and even 90 degrees one day. The flowers all popped up, grass needed mowed,( which I did on April2!), and we were getting so spoiled. Then the cold weather came back, milder than winter, but colder than we were getting use to. So, temp is getting into the low 60's now, and at night dropping back in the low 40's. Don't want to sound like I'm complaining, after thinking of a friend that is facing cancer, I want to appreciate all gifts that come from above. Running to the chiro every few days from the accident, and finishing up schooling, we are pretty busy. In fact, I need to shorten this post today, will catch up later on the extent of my injury and the growing antics of the children, and animals!

Happy 9th Birthday, Zachariah

2010-03-31T10:56:00.002-04:00

Happy Birthday, Zachariah! You missed being born on your mother's birthday by 1 hr and 27 min.! We had a little birthday party last night, and Zach received a double reed harmonica from his parents, and a plasma car from Grandma Karen. Tonight meeting is here at our home, and I am planning on making chocolate chip cookie bars for after meeting. Zach picked out Reece Peanut Bars for last night.
We welcomed spring with the flu! We all were hit, somehow, I got lucky and was mildly sick compared to the other 5. So, we are finally over that, I hope. Josh is having further issues with what the Dr. thinks is acid reflux, if symptoms persist, he will end up at Children's with an ultrasound and a GI study. Hope it doesn't come to that.
Here is Zach playing his first harmonica.

Here is Zach playing his new birthday harmonica.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Noah!

2010-03-04T20:54:00.006-05:00

Today, our youngest grew another year older. Can hardly believe the baby years are leaving our house, with this our last planned baby. It's exciting to see them growing, and exploring this world, and sad at the same time knowing the baby years are only here for a short time. Very blessed to be able to have them in our lives, all 4 of them. Noah was really bashful at meeting last night when we sang Happy Birthday to him, but tonight he did better and pointed to his cake. Here are a few pictures of the B-day boy.Our camera is getting rather old, and the pictures aren't as clear as they use to be. Good night.

Thank You, Thank You!

2010-02-02T16:15:00.000-05:00

I would like to say thank you to whom-ever it was that sent a very generous gift our way. Not sure who it was, but we can't thank you enough. Evident to see again how God takes care of His own.
So, who ever you are, Thank You.

Dora's update

2010-02-02T15:55:00.002-05:00

I have pretty much recovered from my shoulder surgery. I haven't gained full mobility back to the right arm, but it's much better now than even 3 days ago. I am very disappointed that it appears surgery may not have worked after all. I still have a very large bone spur protruding from the top of my shoulder. I return to the surgeon in a few days, hoping I don't hear that I need another surgery! Now another problem has surfaced. I have been experience hip/pelvic pain from the accident. I went to urgent care on Sat. p.m. due to the pain (also I was afraid for further damage like I experienced from non treatment to my shoulder). The doctor said I have nerve damage and will need to see a physical doctor for treatment. So, I hope to find out more this week about the extent of that. However, I am healthy except for those issues, so I shall not complain, so many more so much worse off than I!
Here is a gross picture after the band-age came off.

Recovering

2010-01-23T12:52:00.003-05:00

I had shoulder surgery yesterday. A previous injury to it in Oct. 09, caused 2 bone spurs to grow, interrupting my tendon. So a surgeon took them off. I was scheduled for 10 A.M. arrival time, surgery to start at 11. However, the doctor had another surgery scheduled at the hospital that ran over. So, I didn't go to the O.R. until a little after noon. The surgery was very quick, 15-25 minutes. I reacted strongly to the pain med he shot into my shoulder, and had a difficult recovery. Excessive itching, pain, and then my heart started hurting. I only remember a little about recovery, but I remember telling a nurse my heart hurt, and she said my blood pressure was fine. Then I heard her say, "Oh no, her pulse is dropping. Get the doctor stat, its in the low 40's." So, the doctor came in and order another shot of something to bring my pulse back up. The combination of all the pain pills, Benadryl for itching, and whatever the shot was for my pulse, caused a very long recovery time. I couldn't wake up, and was barely with it when we left, around 4 :30! Poor Shawn, he was stuck taking care of me and watching after our 4 little ones! Made for a long day for the 5 of them. Good to be home today though, still having a low pulse when I take the pain med. or benadryl, not sure which one.
Shawn has the children playing outside, and I feel the need for another nap coming on. Here is a picture of my bandaged shoulder, will post another one when bandage comes off.
The suburban is in the shop, getting 2 new doors, and a new center post from the accident. Estimated damage was $4,982. The insurance companies are arguing over who has to pay. In the meantime, we are driving a rental van, hoping they settle quickly. Have a good weekend!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-07T21:03:00.006-05:00

Happy New Year! Ours is off with a bang. Literally! Shawn took me(and the children) to an orthopedic specialist today, for an issue I have been having with my shoulder. It had started to snow, we are to get up to 8" tonight. I had to get my niece off the bus, then I was going to drop her and my children off to Dad to watch while Shawn and I went to town. It wasn't snowing too much, so Shawn said I could drive. As I drove down the road, just pulling up to Dad's driveway, I saw a truck barreling down the road. I had been going around 10 mph, and quickly pulled into Dad's driveway. The truck driver tried to stop, and either lost control or he too turned toward Dad's driveway, whatever the case was, he plowed into me on the drivers door. His truck then skidded to the side and came to rest nose to back(his front to my back end) wedged against me, and pushed our suburban down into Dad's driveway. Shawn and the kids were okay, the door wedged me against the console. I started suffering with back pain, radiating up to my neck. It was almost an hour and a half before the trooper could arrive, by then it had been snowing in earnest, and quite a bit piled up. I was going to go to the ER to make sure I didn't further damage my shoulder, or re-damage my back, but decided to come home and rest and hope that helps. I didn't want to chance another accident, there would be no protection if we were hit in the drivers side again. I did take a couple of pictures tonight, I"ll post them till I can get a better shot. Be safe and watch for the other drivers!

Winter is here!

2009-12-22T12:23:00.009-05:00

We received winter earlier than normal here. Actually, the snow arrived on the last day of fall. We have between 4 1/2" and 5", just the right amount to play in, but still be able to get around in. Well, sorta. If you don't consider our driveway. Shawn had fun going up it sideways, and Sunday morning on our way to meeting, I didn't have fun going down sideways! That big old oat tree was way to close for my comfort!
We enjoyed sledding with the neighbors on Sunday afternoon. Noah had a great time, with Hannah and Julia escorting him up and down the hill. This was the first year Josh was able to take his own sled up and ride down all by himself! How fast my little man is growing. Zach built a nice fort, where he and Daniel had snowball fights.
Everyone is healthy, for now! Noah's burn healed up so nicely, just white lines on his foot now where the blisters were.
We do have a new inside pet! Rusty, the dog that showed up here quite a while ago, came back. I gave him to Dad back then, and he came back here on Dec. 3rd. We had been thinking of getting another inside dog, so we decided to give him a try. I took him in and gave him 2 baths. He is an awesome dog! He is already housebroke, even after living outside at Dad's for several months he hasn't had any accidents upstairs, yet. He also tolerates a lot from Noah, like tail pulling and neck squeezing, and of course I shouldn't forget climbing on his back like he is a horse. He rarely barks, and we've only lost a few toys to his teeth! Hopefully me pointing out his good traits doesn't change after this post! We think he is around 2, and the only problem we have with him is caging him when we leave.
School is working out nicely, teacher is kinda rough on them, not giving them 2 full weeks off like the public school kids have. They also won't be having snow days here, or rarely if they do! They do have the benefit of staying home, and only working in the morning. Fair trade I think!
We had our winter celebration with the children on Sunday, and we exchanged gifts and made and decorated sugar cookies, in between playing in the snow. Here is a really cute picture of Penny, she enjoyed playing with the wrapping paper!
Well, I plan to rearrange some closets today, and the hours are slipping away. Happy Holidays to you all, and may the next year bring us closer to our Heavenly Father.

Moving along

2009-11-10T22:48:00.005-05:00

Sorry for the long spell and no posts!

Noah's foot has completely healed, or at least has dried up. The only reminder is the white lines, which is so much better to look at instead of the nasty open wound, and Noah himself. Everytime I take off either his PJ's or his sock, he always says,"Booboo." with a sad little face and in his baby soft voice that just cuts to the heart every time! I have started distracting him every time I change him, hoping he will eventually not say this to add to my guilt trip.

We went from Noah's injury to Peanut, Beauty's 5 month old colt. Beauty was bred to a stallion smaller than her which has caused all of his problems. I ended up having Dad take Peanut to the vet to see why he was limping on his front hooves first, then dragging his back legs. They said his stifle area was swollen and did x-rays, blood work, and a physical exam on Peanut. It basically comes down to the way he is growing, and being a mini. He has a 60% survival rate, which is depressing for the kids and I. I am in turmoil wondering if I should have him put down or not. I can't imagine doing that, but I don't want him to have to live a life of pain and being confined to the barn. The vets are hoping he will outgrow this at 1 year of age when he should be completely grown, if we can just bear to watch him that long, and if he doesn't go down before then and not be able to get up at all. He can only move in about a 6' radius right now, and that is pushing it. Sometimes I have to lift him up to his feet. Good thing he only weighs 83 lbs! I have been giving him medication 3 times a day for the past 2 weeks, to help in case of infection in the bones. So....., this has turned into quite an expensive little ordeal, and still not sure what the outcome will be. Here is a picture of the little guy, being wheeled for x-rays at the vets.

Noah update

2009-10-13T15:08:00.004-04:00

Here is a picture of Noah's burn after 5 days.

It looked worse after 5 days than it did after 2 hrs. I snapped this while we were at the doctor's office on Saturday morning, waiting on the Dr. to come in and check. I had to take Noah back again on Monday morning, making it a trip to the Dr.s every 48 hours for the first week. On Wednesday, Shawn and I are to try to dress it and check on it ourselves. I watched the nurse on Saturday, she had a different technique than our regular Dr. had in dressing the burn. I thought to myself, I hope he doesn't get an infection from the way this is being done. Well, on Monday, our reg. Dr. John said it was starting to get red, and he put him on medicine, just to be safe. Unless it gets redder, our next trip back is scheduled for Friday.

Here is a picture of the green cast the different nurse put on on Saturday.

He was very fussy on Saturday afternoon/ evening. I think a lot of it had to do with the wrap, hurting his little foot. It wasn't soft like the other one, and didn't bend when he walked. He has the original type of cast on now, and doing much better!

Major injury

2009-10-09T13:14:00.007-04:00

I wanted to report a major injury Noah suffered this week. On Monday night, Oct. 5th, while I was canning carrots and making supper, Hannah was playing violin, and Zach was playing his harmonica, Hannah called out Noah was crying. I went to him, and found him in my bathroom sink, with the water running. Hannah followed me in, and we thought he was upset about the cold water. How wrong we were, the cries quickly turned to screams and I realize this is all hot water. I turn off the water and extract him from the sink. I knew I needed to get his clothes off so I quickly removed them. Thankfully, they were a thick -button pants, one piece set. After I removed them, I noticed the red on his leg, but thought thankfully this isn't too bad. Well, he now is screaming in earnest, and tears really flowing. I then realize his sock is still on and soaking wet. I pull it off, and feel sick. The sick is angry red, with small blisters. I don't know what to do, but thought I need to get water on this, and put it under cold water. The skin just sorta rolls off. Sorry for the graphic description, but Noah may want to recall when he is older. (I'm so sorry, Noah. I wish I could be everywhere at once, or have kept you in a padded, gated area! You love to climb, even after the accident, this week I've removed you from the kitchen table more times than I can count, and my computer desk ledge, my headboard, the piano. It will be a relief when you get out of this stage, ((by the way, you are the only climber Mommy and Daddy have)).). I manage to call Shawn who is on his way home from work, only 10 min. away, and my sister Diana to come get the other children. We start to head to the hospital, when I think to call our pediatrician. He tells me from what I tell him, we can get some polysporin and advil, and bring him to the office the next day. I took him in, and the Dr. dressed it and put a cast on it, after scrubbing it. He said it was a deep second degree burn, and that we should turn down our water heater. I told him Shawn already did that the night he got burned. He wanted to recheck in 48 hrs, I took him back yesterday. He thought he'd be out of the cast, but it was deeper than he orginally thought, and that he'd have to recast and we'd need to come back in 48 hrs later again. He is making sure Noah doesn't end up with a staff infection, due to the large open wound on top of his left foot.

So, on Sat. morning, we are to go back to the Dr. at 8:15 a.m. He will have to be recast again, then another recheck on Monday, and I may be able to start dressing it here at home. Well, Shawn will that is! Here is a few pictures of when it first happened and the burn cast. Thankfully I don't have pictures of what the burn looks like now, it is 110% worse looking now, than it was then. This actually looks good, now all the area of the burn is missing all skin, bleeding, and seeping.I like to think he is saying, "Oh Mom, I still love you!" in this picture, and it definetely shows just how ornery he is. Notice the cat sleeping in the background? She is taking a much needed nap, after being chased by Noah most of the day :). On a better note, here is the carrots I was canning.Good weekend to all, here is a parting shot of Noah playing, and me hoping his foot heals and all goes well.

13 years together

2009-09-21T16:25:00.004-04:00

Today is our anniversary. Happy anniversary, dear. Such a weird day we are having, too. Shawn left for work at 7 this morning, the children and I went through our home school routine, and in between I canned 7 pints of tomato sauce and made an anniversary cake for us. Shawn came home a little after 3 p.m., and he is heading back to work a little before 6p.m. If all goes well, he should be home around 10p.m.
So, not too romantic, not even a lot of time together today, but good for me to remember its not the day, or what we do or don't do that matters, its the marriage that counts. Thanks for all you put up with Shawn, and may we have a blessed future together, Lord willing.

Wednesday, September 16th, 2009

2009-09-20T16:52:00.003-04:00

Happy Anniversary to Karen and Chris!(Shawn's parents)

Week 3 of homeschooling!

2009-09-16T10:45:00.002-04:00

We are easing into this adventure, and what a wonderful time we are having! We all love it, especially me getting to spend more time with my children. You always hear how fast they grow, and I know for myself growing up, how true this is. I want to spend as much time with my little ones as I can, for I know before I am ready, they will be spreading their wings and starting a new chapter in their lives. This week I think we are finally getting the hang of the schedule, and how to best spend our time.
Imagine fall arriving already! Just 5 days ago, the black birds starting their annual fall meeting around our area, in preperation of the flight south. Not sure exactly what type of birds they are, they are black with orange bellies. We are amazed at the number that appear, and how loud they can get. When they all get here, I hope to video them and put on my blog, so the children can look back and remember the feel and smell of fall. The leaves have been steadily falling off too. Due to the extreme dry summer, most aren't turning beautiful colors, just brown. Maybe we will get a little rain to change that. We did have a strange summer, it really only got hot before convention, and only a few weeks of rain here and there.
Here is a cute little video of Noah spending time with Peanut. Pardon my laugh, if you could have seen it in person!

In other news, we have a new musical instrument being played in our home. Zachariah started taking harmonica lessons 2 weeks ago. He is amazingly good! So much so that his teacher asked him if he would like to be in the recital that is in 3 weeks! He said he normally would not ask but Zach is doing so good he thinks he can do it. He is going to try to play a bluegrass number called Wildwood Flower. Great job, Zach! I enjoy listening to Hannah and Zach playing together,(violin and harmonica). Have a good day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SHAWN!!

2009-09-06T23:36:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday, Shawn.
Today was union meeting, so his birthday lunch was at Dad's house for the union meeting potluck. I planned on baking a birthday cake, with homemade icing and Dora's decorations :), you know, the works, but Shawn wanted carrot cake instead. So, Walmart did the honors of the birthday cake this year. The children made several homemade birthday cards, with pictures to go with them. We all enjoyed a Sunday afternoon nap, then Shawn's mom had us over for cake and ice cream tonight. Anyway, on your day we wanted to say; We hope you had a nice one and we are so thankful to be sharing this life with you!

(The surprise shot by Dora that he didn't even know I took!)

Just some pictures

2009-09-01T12:07:00.011-04:00

Conventions, garden harvest, school starting, summer ending!

2009-08-30T13:51:00.002-04:00

What a busy last couple of weeks we have had. Our favorite of course, and much needed, was the privelage of 2 full time conventions. We have wonderful family, and neighbors, that helped with the animal care to enable us to be free to go. The conventions seemed extra special this year, like we were able to take in all that we heard, and renewed the desire to give our all. Some of the thoughts we heard; [If we love Jesus, it will help us say yes, it doesn't matter what the question is.][ Here we are sitting in the light, in the future we want to walk by the light,][ Don't underestimate the power of the world, don't overestimate that we will always love God,] [Bitter tears hurt painfully, be careful of little steps that lead to bigger steps that cause bitter tears.][We are known by the company we keep, seek the right company-those that can strengthen and encourage when needed. Keep close to those putting their best in this-keep close to those gaining the victory.]
The Monday we returned from our 2nd convention was quite busy. I took Josh(and my other 3 and my niece) to the dentist for 4 cavities due mostly because of our hard water. When we got home we had a quick lunch, then I mowed grass for 1 1/2 hours while the children played. I saw the garden needed harvested while mowing, so I picked close to 100 ears of corn, both sweet and silver queen, pulled some carrots, and some nice tomatoes after mowing. The children helped me husk the corn, then I boiled and cut off what we didn't eat for the freezer. I ended up with 12 quarts of cut corn in the freezer. I also did several loads of laundry, you can image how quickly it piles up for 6 people! Time for supper, then off to work to finish scrubbing the tile I didn't get to, along with the regular cleaning. I think I dozed off about as fast as I hit the pillow! I thought I would record that day for future references, when I am feeling lazy, I can look back and remember. So many people tell me they don't know how I do it,(I think they mean care of the children, the husband, the house, the laundry, the garden, the animals, my cleaning job, etc.!) but I don't feel that way at all. I feel it is part of my life, I dearly love my husband and children, and the work that goes with it is my reward here on earth. So thankful for good health that I can even do the little I do.
I have started the course of homeschooling my oldest 2 children, with some learning for Josh too. I am so thankful Shawn encouraged me to try it when the thought first came to mind at the end of the school year 2009.
I'm not even sure why I thought to in the first place, but the desire to do so was strong, so I talked it over with Shawn. He wasn't entirely into it before, but one Sunday morning a few weeks ago, on the way home from meeting, he felt too this is the direction we should take. Our first week was wonderful! I only wish 6 years ago I would have started with tiny 5 year old Hannah. I imagine there will be days it gets crazy and I wonder if I am crazy, but my children are here, and we live in a country that I can teach them about God, here at home anyway, so I will do the best I can do for them.
Well, the rest of my family is enjoying a little nap before our late afternoon adventure, {The home school group we have joined, is meeting at a lake for a picnic/pow-wow camping adventure. Our neighbors are going and we are looking forward to visiting and catching up!} so I think I will go join them. Will post some pictures soon!

New housepet, new friends

2009-08-04T11:15:00.005-04:00

We have a new house pet. About two and a half weeks ago, we brought one of Minnie's kittens in the house. We were considering a puppy, but the cost of the one we want, plus potty training, and barking during meeting, we decided since we already had 5 kittens, and they were litter trained to just select one of them. So, we introduce Penny.

All the animal babies are growing as fast as summer is speeding past. This is a summer I think we will always remember, because it has brought us some new friends! We have had the privelage of spending time with a family close to us, that also has 4 children very close in age to our 4. Little friendships are blooming, and adult ones too! We are planning a trip to the Lake today, and have enjoyed a few suppers together.

Last week, Shawn and I took the children on a small getaway. We went camping and to an amusement park for a few days. It rained the first day camping, then the next day at the park, but the third day the weather was great. On our way home we stopped to offer help with work day at Yellow Springs and drop off our camper(even though it was after lunch and we didn't help very much, so peaceful to be on the convention grounds).

Came home to a great surprise. Well,... great for me. Shawn didn't seem too thrilled about it. At my Mom's funeral, someone sent an orchid. I have had this flower for 4 1/2 years now. It always gets 4 to 6 blooms, but before they open, the buds drop off. While we were away, one of the buds finally opened. I didn't even know what color it was going to be, but it is so beautiful. This picture doesn't do it justice, but here it is.

Our vacation did have a bad note to it. Little Noah was climbing on the bench next to the table, and lost his balance. He received his first black eye due to falling into the corner of the table. I felt so sick for him, I know it was very painful due to the location, very corner of his eye, and the lump that popped out. Thankful it didn't damage his eye. We have decided this is our accident prone child. Sunday evening while our new friends were visiting, he fell in the barn and landed on the concrete, on his sore eye of course, and on his forhead. He is quite the site right now.

Well, convention in a few weeks, major decision in our lives Shawn and I are praying about for our children and have been contemplating all summer long, and me way behind on posting, turns this into too long of a post, sorry. Happy day!

We welcome another little baby goat, Cream

2009-07-03T14:51:00.004-04:00

Last Saturday, June 27th, I took our 2 baby goats to our vets farm for medication. Erica told me that the momma to one of our babies died on the previous Sunday. She had twins, so I ended up bringing the lone twin home. Quite the challenge to bottle feed 3 at once, now we have one for each of the older children. Sometimes in the morning they sleep in and I get to feed all at once. So here is a running log of our animals....Horses Beauty and her colt, Peanut. Goats, Tinkerbell and babies, Coco, Cream and Snow. Bunny, Floppy. Dogs, Lucy and Benjy. Cats, Eli, Cassy, Minnie and her 5 kittens, Scooter, Midnight, Daisy, Snowball, and Princess. Oh, and our 2 birds, Tweety and Rileigh. What a zoo!

Happy 10th Birthday, Hannah!

2009-06-24T11:52:00.004-04:00

Happy Birthday, Hannah! Wow, today you are 10! In the double digits! We are so proud of you and want you to know how special you are to us, our only girl. Daddy's little girl would be a good way to describe you. You have such a soft heart, and we are so thankful you have the desire to serve God at such a young age. I know it isn't easy for you at school, being different than the other children, but always remember God sees and knows the trials and temptations. If you ask for His help, He will give it.

I remember when I was pregnant for you and anxiously awaited your arrival, our first. Your due date was July 18th, which was your Great-Grandpa's birthday, and our cousin, Becky's too. However, Mommy was under a lot of stress at work, and went into pre-term labor at 30 wks. The doctors were able to hold you off for 6 more weeks by putting Mommy on complete bed rest. Grandma took care of me while Daddy worked. You came into this world 6 lbs, 12oz. and was 19.25" long. Impressive for being 4 wks early.You just qualified being called premature, as 36 wks or earlier is considered premature. You stayed in the special care nursery for 6 days, with breathing problems and jaundice. In fact you ended up on a wallabe light at home for 2 wks. We called you our glow worm. At your first convention, I carried you around in my sweatshirt, and no one even knew you were there. You weighed a mere 11 lbs then, at 8 wks of age. Oh how scrawny you were for quite some time. Still are, except much taller now. Please don't feel bad how tall you are, God made you this way and we love you for you! Even if you grow up taller than me! Thank you for all the help you give me, and for watching after your little brothers when Mommy or Daddy has to do a quick chore with the animals or yard or laundry. You are so special and we love you so much!

Picnic Fun

2009-06-24T11:23:00.009-04:00

On Saturday we went to Rick and Tabi's home for a picnic/get together with 4 families, 6 adults and 12 children. The boys far outnumbered the girls, 10 boys ages 8 and under, and 2 girls, ages 9 and 8. We had a wonderful time visiting and the children had lots of fun playing in the yard. Great food, too! I love going to these get togethers for Shawn and I to have fellowship with other professing people, but also for the children to play with other children of the same upbringing. My boys rarely get the chance to play with other boys, and Hannah had fun with Lauren .

We also took the kids to the Lake for the first time this year. Noah had a blast, and is quite the brave little fellow.

Zach found a fawn!

2009-06-17T14:07:00.008-04:00

Yesterday afternoon, while I was cleaning out the barn, the children were playing in the yard with the baby goats and on their swing set. I ran in the house to grab something and Hannah comes tearing in the house completely breathless saying, "Come quick there's a deer in our swing set!!" I fly out the house collecting the 5 children not sure what I'd find(one attacked our house dog,Maggie, last fall). Between the mini slide and big play gym, there I found the baby fawn! Zachariah found it while doing the monkey bars. He thought he was seeing things due to the medication he received earlier from the dentist(pulled a tooth that he cracked on a slide accident on Mothers Day that had a bad case of infection and the dentist put in a spacer) and called for Emily to see if it was really a fawn. I was able to get some pictures.Can you see him?We put up more hay last night, 277 bales. That brings the total to close to 1375. Not bad for a first cutting, small operation farm! Dad said last night he has 4 more fields to cut and then we'll have a break till 2nd cutting. Both baby goats are finally nursing from their bottles really well. Hannah, Zach and Josh help feed them their bottles. I am so thankful they have the privelage of farm life, even though we don't live on a farm(we have 3 1/2 acres). Just enough for our animals and the kids to have freedom to run and play. Getting ready for meeting here this evening, so I'll get back to work. :)

Hannah's idea of a wedding ceremony

2009-06-17T14:00:00.003-04:00

I have to post this one for Hannah for future references. She is playing Barbie with her cousin, Emily. They are playing with the fancy Barbie dresses that a lady from our convention kindly made and gave(she tries to give all the girls 8-10 yrs old in our state a box of homemade Barbie clothes!) to Hannah. She had the wedding dress on the Barbie and her and Emily were performing a ceremony for "Nick" and "Jen". She asked Nick, "Do you promise to love Jen forever and serve her?" HAHAHA! I laughed so hard at her misunderstanding of the vows. Can't wait to tell Shawn he must have missed out on that part of our vows! I imagine he will say I take care of your animals don't I? Anyway, oh the innocence of a child.