Rob, Jen and Three Little Monkeys

HAPPY 6TH BIRTHDAY ANNA!!!!!!

2010-02-17T23:38:00.002-06:00

OUR WONDERFUL NIECE TURNS 6 TODAY!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!!!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!

2009-11-17T17:43:00.001-06:00

Rob and I have been married for eight years today. The time has gone by so fast, it's hard to believe. He actually joked this afternoon and said, "it feels like it's been 20 years Jen." Ha ha honey!

We met at the Residence Inn in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. If it hadn't been for some rash decisions on both of our parts, we wouldn't have ended up there at the same time, in the same training class.

But we did, and the rest seems to be history from there. :) Well, almost. Rob had to leave training after being there for just a few days. His mother had passed away in Germany, and needed to go there for a month. He left my roomate and I a note, said good-bye, and even called us from Germany. I don't think he did any of it for "us" though. I think he was secretly wanting to talk to me alone. ;) Well, I'll just keep telling myself that any way.

US Airways truly brought us together and I thank them everyday for that!

We are now living just a block away from the small church in this small town where we got married.

I am so blessed and thank God everyday for how my life , our life, has turned out.

Happy Anniversary sweetheart. I love you.

Be a blessing

2009-11-10T09:47:00.003-06:00

God has called us to be blessings, and we are. We bless many people in big ways as well as little ones that seem insignificant. However, no blessing is insignificant. No blessing goes unnoticed by our Father. How have you been a blessing this week? I look forward to reading all about it on your blog. :-)

I would like to share this Meme that my great friend Dawn has come up with. It is all her own, she came up with this idea herself, and I want to be the first to say that I think it is a FABULOUS idea! I am excited to participate in this every week, and I pray that others will follow soon after as well. Thank you dear Dawn for sharing this idea, and may it be a blessing to all of you who participate. I know it will be for myself. My post is below.

This past week has been emotionally rough for Rob's parents. John, Rob's dad, was diagnosed with non-hodgkins lymphoma 8 years ago. It has been in remission for 7 years now, but after an X-ray that showed a spot in his left lung, emotions and nerves have run high for the two of them for the past couple of weeks. This past week on Friday, he was to have a C.T. scan done on that lung to find out more about the spot on his lung. Right before John and Donna left for the appointment , I went to each of them individually and gave them a big hug and reassured them that everything would be alright, now matter what happens. Donna is just trying to stay strong on the outside even though on the inside she may be screaming and crying for everything to be alright. I just can't imagine. I feel that showing them how much I care through my words and actions, that maybe I was a blessing to them at that moment. I'd like to think I was any way. ;)

This meme has gotten me to look at everything I do, big or small, in a different way. Let's just say, it is changing my perspective a little bit. I hope and pray that God gives me the strength, power, and willingness to be a blessing in my family's life everyday that he gives me the chance to be.

Oopsy daisy! Ariana turned 5!!

2009-10-30T11:58:00.004-05:00

My oh my, I used to be so good at updating my blog and making sure I announce or write about those special moments or momentous occasions. Well, I am not so great at keeping up anymore. I forgot to write a post about something very special that happened yesterday. Something remarkable, unbelievable, and quite frankly, unbearable.

What are you talking about you say? Well, I am talking about our little munchkin Ariana turning FIVE YEARS OLD!! AHHHH! Talk about scary! Where did the time go? I am not quite sure, but the three words I used above (ya know the ones highlighted in yellow) say it all, my feelings wrapped up into those three words.

It seems here lately time has just flown by, like a book off of a bookshelf thrown by a mysterious force. Scary!!! Scary how time is doing just that.

I had her on a Friday, one night after trick-or-treating in our neighborhood. They had it early that year. High school football is on Friday nights, and in Western Pennsylvania, you don't skip High School football, not even for trick-or-treating. So instead of having it Saturday the 30th they had it on the 28th. Rob took Ella and Gabriel out to collect candy while I stayed home and passed it out. At that time Gabriel was 2 and Ella was just 13 months old. So hard to believe. I felt fine that evening and even that night. I even had Rob take a couple of pictures of my pregnant belly that night. After 9 months I realized we hadn't gotten a picture of me pregnant with Ariana. Well, it's just a good thing we did because the next morning, while Rob was working 2 hours away, I started to have contractions. At the time, I didn't think I was going into labor. I denied it all day to my friends and family, telling them I was just in pre-labor and that the contractions weren't "the real thing". If it wouldn't have been for some local friends, I don't know if I would've made it to the hospital on time. Rob had to drive in traffic 2 hours to get home. When he arrived, I was in a chair, kids running wild, with our friends waiting for Rob to get home. I could barely breathe I was having so many contractions. When we got to the hospital, I was 3 or 4 centimeters dilated.

I had her just before midnight. She came quicker than her brother and sister, and she is still just as quick now a days.

Ariana, like our other children, has her own unique traits that make her who she is . I wouldn't take any of them away or add a bit. She is our youngest little princess!

She had a great birthday-day though. :) She celebrated her big day at school with cupcakes, juice boxes, and games. She also got to visit daddy and Maw Maw at work, and went to McDonald's two times! It was quite a busy day for her.

She will have her official birthday party on Sunday, which she has themed Dora. It should be a blast for her and I will post pictures next week.

Thanks for visiting the blog, and....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ARIANA!!!

Visit to Bandy's Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-29T10:19:00.007-05:00

So we had our yearly visit to a pumpkin patch this year. It was our first time going to one here in Illinois! We went to a place called Bandy's Pumpkin Patch. It was a blast for the kids. They have the works; A playbarn with a big slide, tubs of corn to play in, and bouncy house. They also have a corn maze , hayride, and snack stand filled with delicious food and drink. We also went with their cousins Brittany and Landon, Uncle Brian and Aunt Sheila, and Maw Maw. We look forward to doing this every year and making it a new tradition! Enjoy the pictures!

The picture above is Ella with her cousin Brittany and Maw Maw peeking through!

Here are all four kids playing in the corn. Landon on the left, Ariana on her belly in the black jacket, Ella , And Gabriel on the right.

Gabriel's turn for the slide!

Ariana in the corn.

Ariana's turn on the slide. They had a blast!

A duplicate!

I just had to take a picture of the pumpkins that seemed to go on forever. They just kept going, and going, and going, and going....

One last phot- op on our way out of the pumpkin patch. One thing we didn't do-get a picture of Rob and I with the kids. That's a tradition and we forgot to do it! Oh well, next time!

The kids showing off their pumpkins. They each got to pick one for their Mr. and Mrs. Potato head pumpkin kits. I will post pics of that too. :)

Inside the hayride and all the corn we were surrounded by. The kids kept trying to reach out and grab an ear or two! I quess they were hungry!

Here is the crew: Rob, myself, Ella (drinking hot cocoa), Ariana (behind me), Gabriel, Aunt Sheila, Uncle Brian and Landon. Their Paw Paw was working and Maw Maw was the one taking the picture.

Ella on the amazing slide they had. They loved that thing!

Me with Ella and Ariana. Rob had a hard time getting this cause he was sitting close to me. If only Ariana would've looked at the camera...Could you tell it was a little bright?

This a picture of Gabriel's badge he won doing the corn shooter. It was pretty neat. You stick an ear of corn in this shooter, aim and fire. He hit the target on the first try , and that target was pretty far. He was so proud.

Here is the proud little man!

Inside the playbarn they had huge tubs filled with corn for kids to play in (adults optional). Here is a picture of Ella in one of them. She doesn't look thrilled, but she was having a great time in the corn. They kept burying themselves in it.

Here is Ariana in one.

I want this!!

2009-09-29T09:21:00.002-05:00

So, it's that time of year again. Fall comes, winter soon after, and we look in our closets and think, "I need something different". Whether it's a new shirt for the new season, a pair of shoes, maybe spurlge and get a new handbag. I myself, am very practical though. Being a stay-at-home mother has made me that way. Jeans and a sweater with a pair of cute boots in the cooler seasons, tee shirt and jeans or capris in the summer and spring. Well, I have changed a bit this season. Maybe it's because we have just moved and Rob and I are getting out a little more since we have free sitters. I don't know. What I do know is I want, want, want! I was on MSN just a little bit ago and I saw a headline that said, Voque's 20 under $100 fall essentials. Like I said, it's not that I don't like fashion, I love it! I wish I could just go shopping for clothes with no spending limit! My job just doesn't demand me to have the latest trends on hand. ;) So let me get to it. I love these two things that you see below. They look great together! The scarf is from target, which I could do. The boots are priced at $90 though, but I love the look! I don't know when or where I would wear them, but I would make a date with my husband so I could wear it! I don't even know how to put on a scarf like that, but heck, I would figure it out! So now I want to go buy these things. Even though I want or can't , I have officially been suckered in!

Ella lost her tooth!

2009-09-24T09:33:00.002-05:00

So as you can see by these most bee-utiful pictures, our little Ella has lost her first tooth! I blogged about it a few days ago, but I didn't have any pictures. So to recap, she lost her first tooth on her 6th birthday, which was last Friday the 18th. The tooth itself was dying, and had been looser than loose for a good two months, so we decided to do it the old fashioned way and just pull it out. Now, after seeing it bleed the day before from my first attempt to pull it, and hearing the squeals coming from Ella, I decided to ask for help this time. Her cousin Brittany gladly helped out and Ella was thrilled she lost her first tooth! She came running in the room yelling, " I lost my first tooth! I lost my first tooth! Finally!" She was thrilled and so were we. Her "big girl tooth" was already growing in behind it and had been doing so for a while. These milestones in our children's lives, they never get old, never seem to repeat, with each child that goes through these milestones. They are always new and special, and it is amazing to watch. Now Ella is such a big girl. Turned six, lost a tooth, learned to ride a bike with no training wheels a couple of months ago, and on top of those things, she learned how to tie her shoes. She had been practicing at school she said, during movies and times like that. As of yesterday, she got it down pat. I can't believe what I see before my eyes. Our children are growing up so fast...too fast. God bless 'em though. They seem to already know where they want to go and where they want to be. Lord watch over them everyday, always.

HAPPY FALL!!

2009-09-22T10:39:00.003-05:00

So starts one of my favorite times of the year, but my favorite season by far. Today is the first day of fall, and although I am not sure who may be reading this, I want to wish you the many joys that this season has to offer. Go for a walk and collect leaves with your children. Head out to a local orchard or pumpkin patch and pick an apple or two. Or simply look around at everything fall. Or do what I love to do. Take a drive during the peak season, and take it all in. All the wonder of this lovely season. Who would think that the leaves are dying in the fall. They are so beautiful. It is truly a gift from God. Enjoy all..enjoy fall. I know I will.

Eventful, tiring, and fun weekend!

2009-09-20T21:17:00.002-05:00

Well, this weekend has been a very busy weekend! It started off on Friday, which was Ella's birthday. The kids didn't have school, so that made it extra special. We started the morning with Ella's choice of breakfast, which was cinnamon rolls. She got a blue candle (her favorite color) in one of her cinnamon rolls, and I lit it and we all sang Happy Birthday. Who says you have to wait for the birthday party?

Later in the morning, I asked Ella to open her mouth so I could check out her loose teeth. She had four loose teeth at the time. Well, the really loose tooth on the bottom of her mouth had turned black. I am assuming that it died, probably from the pull I gave it the day before. It didn't budge but it made a popping sound. It was ready to come out but it started bleeding so I stopped. I am a weak mommy! Any way, I went to her cousin Brittany and told her about the situation. I also told Rob and he agreed that it needed to come out. Well, I couldn't bring myself to pull at it anymore, so Brittany agreed to pull it out. She left the room with Ella, and they both came back with a huge grin. Ella looked at us and said, "My loose tooth is gone! I lost my first tooth!" Brittany had pulled it out with no pain felt by Ella! And it didn't bleed! I quess the pull I had given it the day before knocked it out just about. It took someone other than mommy to finish the job though!

So after a playful, eventful daytime on Friday with their cousin Landon (and little rest time), Maw Maw treated the kids to their favorite indoor play place called Extreme Sports. They had a ball, literally. Ella was very happy about her special day, and that's what counted most.

Saturday morning we were all bracing for a busy day. It started with an early wake up to get ready to go to the Apple Festival Parade in Murphysboro, Il. It is considered the biggest parade in Southern Illinois, and is a joy for both children and adults. We parked at Rob's cousin's house and were set to walk about a block. Well, we ended up needing to walk a little further that, about 8 blocks further I believe. It was a perfect day for it though. The sun was beating down at one point and it was already beginning to feel unbearable out. Then the clouds rolled in and allowed everyone to march and watch in comfort. It was great. Apples were handed to the kids, one at a time. Flags were passed out, tee shirts were thrown, as well as candy of course. It was simply great. It lasted almost 2 hours! It was sooo worth it though.

After the parade we headed for pizza hut for lunch. With full bellies and tired bodies, we headed home. One adult (myself) and two children slept on the drive home. What beautiful countryside we drove through! All of this is still new to me, you know, the corn fields and all. And the flat land. :)

With about an hour of rest after returning home, Rob, me and the kids got ready to head out again. This time, we were headed to a company picnic, brought to you by Rob's friend Jeff. Rob isn't with Jeff's company, but friends were invited as well. They rented out Rent One Park for the night, home of the Southern Illinois Miners minor leaque baseball team. About 150 people were there. There were toys and games for the kids in one area, and softball and kickball as well. The kids got to go out on the field for a game of kickball, and they didn't really know how to play but they had a blast! I think they were thrilled to just be out on the field. They were getting hot there, so God threw them a dose of rain. It rained pretty good for about 5 minutes and then stopped. Pretty soon after they were running through the stands to say they were done and ready to go home. :) It was a fun evening though, for both kids and adults. Rob and I got some time together and with other couples, just mingling and chatting. It was pretty nice, and a good end to a great day.

So we all got some rest Saturday night for Ella's party on Sunday. What a packed weekend, huh? Maw Maw cooked a great big breakfast for all of us. Their cousin Landon was over so the kids played while the adults enjoyed coffee and conversation. After we rounded up presents and decorations, we got the ball rolling for her party to start.

Ella picked a princess cake, so thanks to Wal-Mart, she had a beautiful cake with a light Cinderellla and two other princesses as well. Oh, what a great party she had! She dressed to the 9's and Brittany did her hair for her, just the way she wanted it; in pig tails! She looked absolutely beautiful! She is truly a girly girl! I will post pictures of all this later on this week.

After getting a quick preview of her cake, the present opening began! She got presents ranging from money, to headbands, a jewelery kit, and a make-your-own handbag kit. Rob and I plan to take her shopping with her birthday money next weekend. I would also like to put some aside into a savings account.

Her birthday was a blast for her though. She was pampered and spoiled, and it was truly her day. Well, her weekend! She enjoyed every bit of it and she was so enthusiastic about every present she opened. She is so sweet. She is our sweet little Ella, but not so little anymore. It is so sad to see them grow up, but so wonderful too. I still can't believe she is 6 years old already, with one less tooth.

Always remember

2009-09-11T10:21:00.001-05:00

On this day, 8 years ago, Rob and I woke up to a phone call to see if we were ok. Turned on the T.V., and we were both in shock...didn't think it was real, as we saw smoke coming from the first tower. Then we headed for the Doctor to find out ...that we were going to be parents in a few short months. Then it sank in some more. So sad to hear the commotion on the radio. Soon after, we saw a plane strike the 2nd tower. I think all of our loved ones called us at one time that day, not knowing if we were in the sky, on the ground, or where we were. I remember feeling so happy about our news, but I was in tears for what I was witnessing on the television. God bless all of those lost and the ones that lived. God is watching over you always, and he is comforting you and those that perished. We will never forget.

Trip to Richmond 2009!

2009-07-26T20:31:00.005-05:00

My family and I took our yearly trip down to see my sister. We went in June, I know, I am a little behind on posting pictures of things we have been doing. My mind has been a bit occupied, but I am trying to make an effort to get back into blogging. :) We had a great time, as always, and the hosts weren't bad either! We were able to stay for about 3 days, and it was worth it. My kids are getting to know their little cousins more and more each time they see each other. It is an awesome thing to see! Anna, my niece, is 5 and Ethan, my nephew, is 3. They are precious and I already miss them so much! Thank you all for being so hospitable, and we love you very much!

Here are just a few of the pictures I took while we were there. The kids were constantly outside running and playing. I wish they would do that at our house! They were worn out by the end of the night!

We also took a trip to the local pool, which I think was the hit of the trip. It was kind of cool out by the time we got there, but the kids could care less. We stayed for about 2 hours and they loved it! Gabriel practiced his swimming, Ella was introduced to the deeper end (4 ft.), and Ariana felt what it's like to be able to stand in the big pool! (3 ft.) The water came right up to her bottom lip, but bless her heart she walked around, spitting water out of her mouth and then swimming over to daddy!

Oh, and I forgot to mention, my sister and her husband have their own restaurant. Yeah and it's right in their back yard! 0 My brother-n-law grilled out 2 times while we there! Rob and I joked that it was their restaurant. :) Thanks again you guys!

Well enjoy the pictures!

All of cousins dancing around with their popsicles. They were waving to me from outside. From the left: Gabriel, Ella, Ethan, Ariana and Anna. Aren't they too cute?!

My niece Anna hanging out on the hammock. Good thing we don't have one, I think I'd be stuck on it all day. ; )

The girls with money Grandma gave them

Grandma gave the kids these squirt guns, but they weren't guns. They were like pumps. Anyway, you suck water up in them and push the opposite end, and here she is filling one up. Bad idea Grandma! What did they do then? Refer to the picture below this one.

Then there was also this:
I love it!

Here is my sister icing Ethan's cake for his 3rd birthday party the next day. She did this late in the evening and I wanted to help out or watch, but I was resting in their chair with strep. I felt worse than earlier in the day and I felt so bad that I couldn't help more. She did an awesome job and I think I would like to start decorating cakes for our kids' b-days. It was awesome seeing Ethan's reaction to it and seeing how yummy it was to him! And she made it, she didn't buy it from Wal-mart like I usually do :) Thank you Wal-mart, but I really don't want you to make my kids' birthday cakes anymore. I want to!

Chowing down at the Birthday party.

Ethan opening his birthday presents at his party. I am so glad we were able to be there for it!

Peering into the pond below

Aunt Lori with the kids. Where? The hammock! I think she was half asleep ; )

Ella going through the "water park" at the pool. Jets, sprinklers, arches, water coming from everywhere in there! And I must say, I stepped in it for a second, and that water was freezing! Did they care? No, not really, especially my dear Ella. ;)

The kids minus Ethan. Right at this point they are watching my brother-n-law, Matt, do a dive off the board. He has a very unique dive if I do say so myself!

Rob with our kids in the three-foot side of the pool. You see how Ariana is holding on to him? She could barely stand in that depth. She felt insecure and scared so she kept going back to daddy. It was precious to watch. She'll get there though, that's what we kept telling her.
Just don't grow up too quick sweety!

My sister and I at the end of the trip. Love you Lori!

Today

2009-07-16T12:59:00.000-05:00

Here I am outside with my girls, enjoying this beautiful day God has given us. As soon as I step out here I can feel my stresses, worries, and all the bad things in life melt away. This is what I need. It becomes a time to reflect without me realizing it. Just what I need. I know I need this time because I need to turn to God in times of worry and feeling weary. That is what he wants us to do and Lord, I am so sorry I haven't as much, but here I am. Please continue to keep your grip on me and hold it tight. I need you Lord and thank you for always staying right behind me.

The kids last day of school and Ella's Graduation

2009-06-18T12:58:00.005-05:00

Ella's last day of school! Here is the card that Rob and I gave her at Applebees after graduation. It was so bittersweet, we loved the teacher as well as the pre-school program itself. Ella spent 3 years there, repeating the 4 year old program because of her birthdate. Now, she's ready for kindergarten, and I mean ready!! She is already writing and even reading! She is beginning to recognize so many letters. We are so proud of her. She is ONE of our little princesses! Enjoy the pictures of Ella's graduation!Ariana and Ella with Mrs. Fairley after the graduation.

Ella on the far right with all of the girls of the class! These were her best friends, and a couple of them she's known for 3 years now! She will miss them so much!

Ella recieving her diploma. She was so proud!

On stage being introduced.

Putting on a show!

Singing and dancing!!

Ella being introduced. Mrs. Fairley introduced Ella as "Joy". She gave one word to each child to describe them in the classroom. That word fits her perfectly!

These two pictures were taken at Applebees also. She loved the attention, although her little sister was with us also. She knew it was her special day though! Oh, our little Ella!

Ariana's last day of school! They had a playdate at the park with all of the classmates. They had a blast! After the park we headed back to the classroom to say good bye to the teachers and they gave goody bags to all of the students. Ariana was in the 3 year old class and just loved every minute of it. She still asks when she's going to school. She says, " Mommy when am I going to go to stool." (school) I tell her it's over and that she will be going to a new school. That makes her a bit sad, but I reassure she will make new friends and have a new, wonderful school! Here are some pics of her last day!

Mrs. Fairley giving Ariana a good bye kiss, along with her goody bag. She is such a great teacher and we will truely miss her :( Ariana loved her class!
Mrs. Fairley and others provided so much food, it was like a feast of snacks! Here are Ariana and Ella munching and feeling the heat! Boy was it hot outside.
Ella striking a pose, of course! :)
Ariana getting some assistance rock climbing!
At the school picnic the last day school. There's Gabriel and Sam talking to Mrs. Mineard. She is wearing the pink sweater. He loved having her as a teacher!

With his friend Tabitha at the end of school. He is such a goof ball!

Gabriel going into school on his last day. :( I walked him into his class but I had to get a picture of him right outside the school. It was so bittersweet, more for me than him.

Another shot of Gabriel right outside the school. The bag he's holding is a gift for his teacher. He gave her a mini teacher plaque and a willow tree angel. The willow tree angel was holding a gift, symbolizing his teachers gift of teaching. He also made a card for her and we gave her one as well. It's the least I could do for her. She was wonderful with Gabriel, and the entire class as well. What more could you ask for!

Back to blogging!

2009-05-21T10:24:00.008-05:00

Hello! It has been soooo long, too long, since my last post. My husband has asked me quite often, "When are you going to update your blog?" My answer is continuously the same, "I'm going to get around to it soon." So, on this lovely morning in May I finally made the commitment to do a post. Yay!! I am so proud of myself, it's a big step on my part.

Since so much has happened between "then" and now, I figured I would show a bit of each happening, so here goes! To all of you who are new visitors or friends who are first time visitors, welcome and enjoy!! Thanks so much for stopping by! :)

This was on Valentines Day, can't you tell?! The kids each recieved a stuffed animal and a "bouquet" of lollypops. I figured , not so much candy this year. It was hit! It will also be a very memorable Valentine's Day because Rob and I went out that evening for a wonderful dinner and drinks afterwards. It was awesome! We don't get out much, but to go out on Valentine's Day? It was great. I think it was a first for both of us. Thank you honey, for the wonderful evening and simply...everything.

The kids moved up one more belt in karate! This testing was toward the end of April. Gabriel is now a camo decided belt, and the girls are yellow belts. As you can see, they love to strike a pose in their uniforms! They are too cute!

Here they are dying eggs at Easter! They loved this, but what kid doesn't, right? They painted them, dyed them and stuck stickers on them. We will definitely get the same egg kit for next year!

Here we are on Easter morning, just returning from church. As you can see, I had to take my suede coat off for the picture, but it was freezing! I was literally clinching my teeth going, "is that it? Are we done?" I threw that baby back on and ran inside when we were done. The sun was the problem for the kids, as you can see them squinching their little eyes! It was a lovely easter, great family time spent, and Grandma was there to enjoy it with us! We are truly blessed!

Our little boy turned 7 on May 8th. On that day (it was a Friday), I took homemade cupcakes to his school for him to share with his class. He got to blow out a single candle on his cupcake. He had so much fun and was so glad to share that day with like that. Here are a couple of pictures.

Him and I in his classroom. Isn't he just so handsome!?

Here he is with his class, and he is so proud! He is such a ham too!

Rob's parents were in town for the weekend of Gabriel's Birthday, so we all went to chuck e cheese (his choice) on Saturday. Here he is with his reciept for all of the tickets he won.

After chuck e cheese, we came home and had his party. It was simple, just us and presents , cake and LOTS of money that he recieved from family. Thank you family!!

He got a lava lamp! Rob and I got this for him, he wanted one so badly! He didn't think he was going to get one until Christmas. Aren't surprises wonderful?

Here he is opening up a card with his sisters watching close behind.

Blowing out the candles on his cake. I wonder if he made a wish?

So here we are to Mother's day. Bare with me, I promise we are getting close to the end. It was wonderful. Rob had to work that day, but I got to spend part of the morning with my in-laws before they headed back to Illinois. It was great to spend that time. We exchanged hugs and cards, and then they left. I got to just hang out with my kids for the rest of the morning, and that was nice. We did nothing! When Rob came home, I went upstairs and took a nap :) and then he started making dinner in the crockpot soon after. Ahhh, it was a great day! He took the kids outside after dinner and played badmitten (spelling?) and stayed in and relaxed on the couch. A very nice Mother's Day!

Here is a picture I took of the kids just yesterday, a very rare sight...they were napping!! We had a full busy 2 hours at the park on a playdate with some preschool friends. They had a blast and it was great to see them have fun with their friends that they will soon be leaving. They are precious and I haven't seen them sleep together like this in probably 3 years. Our little angels.

So, here we are back to today. I took this picture just this morning. Our house is on the market now and has been for a little over a week. No calls yet, no showings, but we are keeping the faith and hoping someone will come soon. We still have a couple of things to work on, but smooth sailing so far. And much has been done.

Here is a picture of our living room. I have taken down a few things, mostly personal photos and I try to keep this room picked up all the time. The other part of the room is not in the picture.

This our finished dining room. It had wallpaper that was peeling off, and that just ruined the entire room. Now it's painted , I hung some pictures and candles (not in the picture) and we are quite proud of it. I actually want to eat in there now!

Well, that's it for the updates..for now! Keep checking back, and I promise I will not go that long again! Well, not for a long time at least! ;)

2009-03-13T17:50:00.002-05:00

1. When I look to the left, I see my front door.

2. The attic is the room that has the best view in my home. You can see so far from up there. And when the leaves change it's gorgeous! I came to appreciate that view when my mother lived with us. I would just go up and sit with her and just take in that view. Whether it was snowing, trees blooming...it was gorgeous.

3. Let it work out. Don't worry, just turn to God and he'll take care of it!

4. Dinner done dirt cheap! We had pigs-n-a-blanket and 2 boxes of mac n cheese at .35 a box! Thank you Aldi!

5. Voting is a responsibility that all qualified citizens must share.

6. If you have any money feel free to share! ;)

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to ahhh, just chillin'! Tomorrow my plans include finishing up laundry, going to work and Sunday, I want to just be, and not go to work! Got to though!

2009-02-23T08:53:00.006-06:00

1. Does blogging make you fat? Do you find yourself sitting around and eating more since you started your blog? Or do you get so caught up in the whole blogging routine that you forget to eat?

I don't blog as much as I used to, and I try to limit my time on the computer so I DON'T get too lazy! :) It seems like nowadays as soon as I sit down, I get tired! I just want to go to sleep it relaxes me so much. I eat when the kids do usually so I don't think I have anything to worry about! ;)

2. The one topic I will not touch on my blog is anything that gets TOO personal. I try not to get too deep if you understand what I'm saying. Why? What sorts of topics do you receive the most comments on? What sorts of topics do you receive the least number of comments on? I would have to say that I receive the most comments on the memes. I don't think too many people come to my blog! ;)

3. Spring is coming. How is your wardrobe? What sorts of clothes do you usually wear in the spring? Where do you normally shop for your clothes? How successful are you in finding clothes for yourself?

I desperately need new clothes for spring, mainly tops and a pair of capris or something. I don't wear shorts. I might start wearing dresses this year as it gets to be summer. They are nice and cool! In the spring I usually wear short sleeve shirts and jeans are a staple. I love jeans!! Of course living in Pittsburgh, you usually have to wear a jacket with any outfit, since it's still pretty cool in the spring. Layering is a must! As far as where I shop, it used to GAP, but they closed all of them around here :( I love their sales! Now, I shop anywhere. Typically Kohls, but I like to browse all around when I do shop. And I always look for the deals!

4. We should treat every day as a special gift - we’re alive, right? What made this past week special for you? (And if you’ve already talked about that special something on your blog, then think of something else - something little perhaps, but had a big impact on you or your loved ones).

Being with my kids and not being angry with them. I was getting to the point with them where I was just angry at them for the way they would choose to behave. And also angry that they weren't listening to ANYTHING! Now, I am trying something new. I am training myself , as well as my kids, and I'm not getting angry. I am just doing something about it. There is no more yelling ( just an occasional raising my voice, but nothing major). There is a book that my friend Dawn recommended to me called, "Have a new kid by Friday". It is by Dr. Leman. She has told me some of the basics of it, and that's what I have been using in my house. It is working and I haven't even read it yet! I plan to buy it this week though. Here is a link to the website for the book. I hope I stick with it, and I have faith in myself that I will. My children are listening more and it's making our house more pleasant. It's amazing the impact it has when you change something little about yourself! I'm trying!

HAPPY 5TH BIRTHDAY ANNA!!!

2009-02-19T15:14:00.002-06:00

EVEN THOUGH IT WAS YESTERDAY, I WANTED TO GIVE A SHOUT OUT AND SAY HAPPY 5 TH BIRTHDAY TO MY WONDERFUL NIECE ANNA!!! I JUST HAD TO DO THIS POST IN PINK BECAUSE IT IS FAVORITE COLOR OF ALL . I CAN'T BELIEVE SHE IS 5 ALREADY!!! WHERE DOES THE TIME GO? IT SEEMS LIKE I WAS JUST AT HER CHRISTENING WHEN SHE WAS JUST A TINY THING! ACTUALLY, I WAS PREGNANT WITH ARIANA AT THAT TIME.

ANNA, I AM SO PROUD OF YOU AND YOU ARE SUCH A BIG GIRL!! WE MISS YOU AND LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!! WE THINK OF YOU ALL THE TIME AND I HOPE THAT YOUR BIRTHDAY WAS A GREAT ONE SWEETHEART!!

WE LOVE YOU,
UNCLE ROB, AUNT JEN, GABRIEL, ELLA AND ARIANA

2009-02-13T09:25:00.003-06:00

1. It seems like the winter is dragging, the groundhog seems to have been right!

2. Flush when you're done, please? My children can't grasp the concept of flushing, except for maybe my oldest child. This answer was inspired by my friend Dawn. I just read her blog, and she had a similar potty answer :) I can't help it, these tend to be the things on my/our minds! We're mothers of young children!

3. If I thought you had a suprise for me I'd be thrilled! I really need one right now!

4. Loving you is what I think of most when I think of you.

5. To me, Valentine's Day means what do you think? Love of course! Showering your loved ones (as long as their around) with kisses and hugs galore! It not just about romantic love, it's about all of those that we care about too!

6. God gives me strength, always!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to being with my kids, and enjoying my son who is FINALLY well, tomorrow my plans include creating "hearts" with pancakes, cookies and a cake and going out with Rob in the evening and Sunday, I want to stay home, but I have to work! I am thankful that I got Saturday off though.

Monday morning Meme

2009-02-09T09:54:00.002-06:00

1. How many coats do you own? Do have a good coat? Casual coat? Summer jacket? etc. Do you wear coats very often? Or do you have a tendency to leave your coat at home whenever you go out? What is your favorite coat? Why is this one your favorite? Care to model it for us?

I have a few coats, but I am awful picky so I only wear one. And, it's the one that keeps me the warmest. It is a brown puff coat. It may not look like a million bucks and it's cheap, but it keeps me warm. What's funny is that I have a good double breasted wool coat, but I never wear it. I bought it when I was pregnant and it's a bit too big. It is nice though. I love to stay warm, so I always wear a coat in the winter. Gloves also. I am not afraid to put that baby on once the temps start to dip! I have a black puff vest that I wear when it's not that cold out. It really works too! It's just enough in the spring and fall. I love it!

2. You’ve learned a thing or two about this thing we call blogging. Tell us one thing you don’t recommend to other bloggers. Tell us one thing you do recommend to other bloggers.

Don't get too private. Others can read it and access it, so it's good not to get too specific. That's just my opinion though. It's definitely not like your journal that you keep by your bed :) I do recommend letting your loved ones know you have one so they can keep up with you and what's going on. Even if your family lives right down the road, I think it's a good idea!

3. Is cursive writing a lost art? Should good penmanship be taught? Tell us about your handwriting - good / bad? Do you think your children have good handwriting (given their appropriate age, of course).

I teach my oldest to write neat, at least I try, because yes I think it's important. It kind of says who you are. Some people are too lazy or too laid back to even try to write neat. I don't agree with that. My son tries to just get by with his hand writing, but I am right there to tell him to erase and start over. They have to learn, right?

4. Have you ever struggled with infertility? If you haven’t, or if it wasn’t the hardest thing you’ve ever had to go through — what was?

We had no problems having children. We were wondering if we were going to keep having them :) We got that taken care of! ;)

A little bit of ice, a little bit of snow!

2009-01-28T16:26:00.003-06:00

Ice hanging from the power lines. This is what it was doing in the morning.
The picture above is what happened after the ice. We got about 3 inches of snow on top of everything else.

Can you see the coating of ice on the trees? Luckily, we didn't loose power, but others towards Pittsburgh did.

A warm up!!

2009-01-22T10:42:00.002-06:00

Wow! It seems like my recent bloggings are all about the weather! Well, I was thinking about it so I thought I'd post about it! The sun is actually out bright here in Western Pennsylvania. It's been forever! And quess what? Not only is the sun out, but there is no snow of any kind falling from the sky. Can you believe it? We flurries all day yesterday, and tomorrow it's supposed to get up to a whopping 41 degrees! Whooo hooo!

Any way, we will have a brief heat wave and then back to the 20's by saturday. It's winter though, right? What do we expect? The kids are finally going to get to play in the snow today for the first time in over a week! It's just been too cold! Dangerously cold!

Although I'm not quite ready for winter to be over (time is already passing too quickly), it will be nice to be above freezing...sub-zero temps are killing me ;)

More Snow!

2009-01-18T16:18:00.004-06:00

So, once again it is snowing outside and it has been since yesterday afternoon. I clipper came through from the lakes, and we have gotten a total of about 3 inches from it. It looks like such a winter wonderland here, because we still had snow on the ground from the last week. We got 8 inches, then got another inch here and there after that. And finally this one, so we must have a atleast a foot on the ground. You should see it! I love it though, it's beautiful! Here are some pictures that I took this morning. It's interesting to compare them with the other snow pictures here on my blog. You can tell the difference....It's more! Enjoy, and to my family down south, I wish you were here!!!!!!! :(

Our snowstorm last weekend!

2009-01-13T11:40:00.007-06:00

Working on the snowman!

Rob with the kids finishing up the snowman.

Our dog loving the snow!

Gabriel was closing his eyes because there was a sleet/rain mix coming down!

Getting their "snowballs" ready for the snowman!

Do you see the big ball of snow in front of him? Gabriel rolled that all by himself!

My little snow angel! Rain was getting in her eyes too!

This is a view from in front of our house. It looked like a winter wonderland!

Our blue spruce in front of the house!

See how much snow we got!

The kids had a great time in the 8 inches of snow we got! They built the first snowman of the year, and it was so much fun watching them! It's like one big sandbox to them! Just a bit colder :) Rob and I got in a snowball fight, and he had no mercy! He definetly beat me, and it lasted a while! I was drenched, and the kids helped him! It was so beautiful when it was coming down, and it still is. It's not going anywhere for a while!

Christmas morning!

2009-01-12T11:12:00.006-06:00

Gabriel's telescope/microscope

Ariana yawning while she's showing her doll. She did this all morning! She kept making herself yawn! Silly girl!

Nice and snuggly in her new robe and slippers!

Ariana's new coat!

Ariana admiring the new dollhouse! She's standing back from it, but it is actually taller than her and Ella both!

Gabriel with his walkie talkies

Ariana's new jewelery box. Ella got one just like it!

Ella loves dresses!

Very happy about their presents!

Dishes from Germany from Rob's Aunt Tilly.

daddy playing Santa ;)

Ella waiting in anticipation!

We had such a wonderful Christmas together, and we the kids were so excited about all the presents they received. They were so appreciative of everything little thing they got from us and all of our family. It was a very relaxing, lazy day after they opened. So relaxing that Rob and I got to snooze on the couch for a little bit. Then it was off to the kitchen to make our Christmas ham dinner! Ummm, was it good! The kids loved it too! They about 3 seperate helpings! I think all the playing worked up an appetite! ;) Thanks so much to our family for sending the kids presents and cards, it was so thoughtful. They love getting packages!

Sorry I posted this so late! I hope everyone has recovered from the holidays and that all of you continue to be well! You're in our thoughts!

Snow pictures will be coming soon!

LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW!!

2009-01-09T18:56:00.002-06:00

IT IS SNOWING OUTSIDE AND WE ARE SUPPOSED TO GET 5-8 INCHES THROUGH TOMORROW EVENING!! I AM ECSTATIC, I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS FOR A FEW YEARS! YOU'D THINK THAT LIVING WHERE WE DO IN PENNSYLVANIA, THAT WE WOULD GET LARGE AMOUNTS OF SNOW, RIGHT? WELL, IT'S BEEN SINCE FEB. OF 2005 SINCE WE HAVE RECIEVED MORE THAN 6 INCHES OF SNOW AT ONE TIME. WE USUALLY JUST GET SMALL BURSTS HERE AND THERE THAT ADD UP TO A LOT BY THE END OF WINTER. THIS IS AN ACTUAL SNOW STORM WE ARE GETTING! IT'S BEAUTIFUL, AND HOPEFULLY ROB DOESN'T HAVE TO WORK TOMORROW SO WE CAN ALL ENJOY IT! THE KIDS ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING OUT AND BUILDING A SNOWMAN!

THANK YOU GOD FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL SHOW OF SNOW, AND I JUST PRAY THAT EVERYONE STAYS IN AND STAYS SAFE. TO MY FAMILY, WISH YOU WERE HERE TO ENJOY IT WITH US! I'LL POST PICTURES LATER!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-07T19:40:00.001-06:00

My dear friend Dawn has a son who is turning 5 today! I know it's a little late in the day, but I thought I would write a quick post for him, because what a big number he is turning! Happy Birthday Josh! I do not know what I would do without this friend of mine, she is like a sister to me. If I lived closer and we saw each other much more than we do now, I think I would start calling myself Aunt Jen :) So here's to you, distant nephew Josh ;) Happy Birthday kiddo! And many more......

Christmas photos!

2009-01-01T17:51:00.005-06:00

THE PICTURE ABOVE IS OUR ENTRY WAY. I HUNG CARDS AROUND THE DOORWAY AND I HAVE GARLAND ON THE STEPS AND A LIGHTED WREATH THAT IS NOT SHOWING. I JUST LOVE THE LIGHTS!

HERE IS WHAT THE KIDS UNWRAPPED! THEIR CUTE CHRISTMAS P.J.S!! AREN'T THEY PRECIOUS?!

THE KIDS OPENING UP THEIR CHRISTMAS EVE PRESENTS!

OUR TREE!

I LOVE THE GLOW OF IT! THIS IS HOW IT REALLY LOOKS! THAT PAINTING BESIDE THE TREE ON THE WALL IS ONE THAT ROB'S GRANDMA PAINTED A LONG TIME AGO. SHE PASSED AWAY LAST YEAR, SO IT'S NICE TO HAVE IT IN OUR HOUSE.

I HAVE GOT A TON CHRISTMAS PICTURES TO SHARE, BUT I AM GOING TO START OUT WITH THESE. THESE WERE ALL TAKEN CHRISTMAS EVE, IN WHICH WE STARTED SOME NEW TRADITIONS. I DON'T HAVE PICTURES OF EVERYTHING WE DID (THOSE ARE TO BE PRESERVED IN MY MIND), BUT I DO HAVE A COUPLE OF THE 1 PRESENT THE KIDS GOT TO OPEN. EVERY YEAR THEY WILL OPEN ONE PRESENT ON CHRISTMAS EVE, AND THAT PRESENT WILL CONTAIN CHRISTMAS P.J.S! THEY HAD A BLAST OPENING ONE EARLY, AND THEY LOVED THEIR PAJAMAS! AFTER THEY ALL GOT DRESSED, ROB READ THEM THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS WHILE WE SAT AND DRANK HOT COCOA. IT WAS TRULY ONE OF THE BEST CHRISTMASES WE'VE HAD!

I ALSO THREW IN A FEW PICTURES OF OUR TREE AND THE GARLAND IN THE ENTRY WAY. I HAD WAY TOO MANY CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS TO TAKE A PICTURE OF ALL OF THEM! :) OUR HOUSE WAS DECKED OUT!

WELL ENJOY, AND MORE CHRISTMAS PHOTOS ARE TO COME! GOD BLESS!

Breakfast with Santa!

2008-12-20T11:07:00.005-06:00

They each had a whole 1 min. on Santa's lap! :)

Here they are watching the Elf show! It went on for about an hour!

Here is Shakespeare's restaurant where we had Breakfast with Santa! It's huge, and truly looks like a castle inside!

Ariana insisted on taking this picture and she told me to give a kiss! She's a bossy little thing!

The girls joined in on the show! Along with some other kids!

Someone at another table took this picture. Our family! I love 'em!

Here are the kids waiting for our food. They were soooo ready!

2008-12-12T18:29:00.003-06:00

1. Friends are an absolute blessing and an essential in my life.

2. Good health; it's a blessing.

3. I'm ready for some quality time with my family.

4. My husband's smell is one of my favorite perfumes or aftershaves or smells.

5. The oldest ornament I have is one I can't even think of!

6. Take some snow and christmas lights, mix it all together and you have a festive, beautiful sight!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to snuggling with my kids and relaxing, tomorrow my plans include taking the kids to Breakfast with Santa and Sunday, I want to get a sitter and go shopping with my husband!

Ella's karate metal!

2008-12-12T18:05:00.002-06:00

I wanted to share some AWESOME news! Ella received a metal at

karate the other night for being student of the month! This means that the student has displayed a "black belt attitude". Her and Ariana have been in karate for a month now, and they both love it! Ella gets to wear her metal all month at karate and she can keep it at home as well. We are so proud!

Our first real snow!!

2008-11-18T12:25:00.002-06:00

Here is Ariana beginning to make a "snow" castle.

Ella our little poser, raking the snow. How cute!

This is what it was doing about 1 hour earlier. Snow squalls like this keep coming through all day. It'll be sunny and beautiful then boom, snow!! Gotta love the lake effect!

This is what we woke up to this morning. You can get a good idea of how much accumulated. We got about 2 inches from this little storm. It started yesterday. And how romantic, snowing on our anniversary!

This was Ella in this morning shoveling the deck. Her sister was at school.

What a hard worker!

First of all I want to say, "Happy Anniversary Honey!" It was my 7 year anniversary yesterday, and you couldn't have asked for more magical weather. Although it didn't look like this yesterday, it was snowing and it quickly began to stick to the grass and rooftops.

Once evening hit, it began to stick more and overnight, it accumulated on the roads. Some schools were delayed , but most were on time. We're used to this stuff around here! :)

The kids loved it, and they all got their fare share of "snow time" today. I let Gabriel go outside immediately after school, which is not the usual schedule. (usually it's rest time, then homework and then play time after). I figured with an 18 degree wind chill, he needed to get out ASAP, because it was not going to get any warmer :)

Besides the snow, I had a great evening with my husband yesterday, and I am so happy to be married to a man like him. We both adore each other, and it's pretty neat to reminisce. What better time than on your anniversary to do that, right?

Well, the snow is over and the day is done, but more cold weather is to come. So far the forecast for Thanksgiving a high near 50. Let's see if that sticks!

Rainy Saturday, Snowy Sunday

2008-11-15T09:25:00.003-06:00

So, I have to talk about the weather for a minute. We here in the Western Pennsylvania area are in for a roller coaster ride, starting yesterday. It was by far one of the warmest days we've had in November in a long time. Now, we have a share of indian summers around here, but yesterday it was a couple degrees shy from being 70 degrees! It was so warm and sunny I could hardly believe my senses! Well, we all knew that it would be short lived. The five day forecast says it all, and being the weather fanatic that I am, I saw this coming for a while. :)

Starting this evening, the temperature will go from the 50's to the 30's and the light rain will start to mix with snow. Then, hold on to your mittens, the high tomorrow is set to be a whopping 38 degrees with light snow all day. This will continue into the entire week! I am starting to feel like it's December or January out already! It is typical to see that kind of forecast here in the deep of winter! It's not even Thanksgiving yet. Crazy!

So, I quess the farmer's almanac is right...It is forecasting a numbingly cold and snowy winter here. I am not complaining too much though. I do love the snow, but I dread to get out in it when I start school.

So, to all of my family that read my blog and are stuck in a "No snow zone", come on up here if you want a taste of some winter. Just look for the "Snow zone straight ahead" sign ;)

2008-11-14T08:45:00.002-06:00

1. Please feel free to give me a cup of coffee!

2. When I see my pumpkin candle I can't help sniffing it occasionally.

3. My favorite thing to cook is something sweet so I can lick the spoon!

4. Some Christmas music, some snow falling and a little decorating is something I can't get enough of.

5. That's the thing I love most about the holiday season!.

6. People that are rude and down right mean always makes me think to myself, what the heck?

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to watching a movie with the kiddos (movie night!), tomorrow my plans include cleaning a little and going to work and Sunday, I want to sleep in _____!

2008-11-10T11:48:00.002-06:00

1. Do think it’s okay to bring your own snacks into the movie theater? Why or why not?

I think it is o.k. as long as it's just a little something to nibble on. So I say yes, as long as it's not over doing it! :)

2. If someone were following you, would you:A. Attempt to lose them.B. Turn around and confront them, asking them what in the heck were they doing??C. Nothing.D. Something else (do tell!)

I would find the closest business and go there, or I would go to the nearest person and ask for help.

Tell us about a time when you thought someone was following you. (Don’t we all have those stories? I do!)

I haven't had that experience yet, thank goodness! I have come in contact with many creeps though ;)

3. What is your highest level of education? What were/are your thoughts about school? Would you ever consider going back to school? If so, for what? If not, why not?

I have taken a year's worth of classes at a local community college, and I am going to have my LPN certification by next February.

I don't really like school, but i am willing to go through it to get what I want. I struggled in high school and I have to work really hard now to get the grade I want. I am very determined to get my LPN license!

Ariana's birthday party!!

2008-11-05T09:48:00.004-06:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

2008-10-31T13:23:00.006-05:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!! Here are some pictures of the Halloween festivities around the Jones house! We cleaned out the pumpkin yesterday and I carved it later on. I don't have a picture of that though! Then we all went trick-or-treating at 6pm yesterday. They had a ball and all loved their costumes! Ella was a queen, Ariana was a princess and Gabriel was the red power ranger. We were out for over an hour, and it was 39 F outside! BRRRRRRRR! They had a blast and daddy was able to join us half-way through the night. (he had to work yesterday)

So, enjoy the pics and HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!

Ariana's Birthday!

2008-10-31T12:18:00.006-05:00

Here is our friend Deidre with Ariana on the way back from the airport. She's holding a little puppy that we bought for her at Claire's. It says princess on it! And she was a princess for Halloween! She actually carried it around at her Halloween party yesterday.

Here she is at the play area in the mall.

This a picture of her and daddy right after they sang her Happy Birthday. She was still upset, and her ice cream ended up melting. :(

This was at the restaurant before she got upset. They are having a daddy and daughter moment!

Ariana running around the yard during the snow! You can't see it, but it's there!

This is when the snow first started , around 8:30 am. It was a lot at once! The picture doesn't show it as well!

Here she is when she first went outside. Doesn't she even look cold! You can see the snow sticking to the deck. That's all it did though.

Ariana's birthday was this past Wednesday, October 29th. It was such a special day and little, as well as big things, made it that way. First of all, the day started out with her waking up to snow. There was a light snow shower around the area, and it seemed to start right after she woke up. So after her brother and sister were off at school, Ariana put her coat on and went outside! She was catching flakes in her mouth, and it looked like the wind was about to blow her away!

Later on , Rob and I took her to a family restuarant around here that's very popular. She was specifically asking to go to Eat n Park. It's like a Denny's but better. Any way, we ate some lunch and then the waitress brought Ariana her free cookie they get after a meal. She ate that up. Then, a group of waitresses came around to our table and sang her Happy Birthday and then gave her a cup of ice cream with a huge candle stuck in it. Instead of being thrilled over this, she curled up in her daddy's chest and started to cry! They left her alone, and our waitress felt so bad! So they all left, and about a minute after that, Ariana threw up in Rob's hand. I took her to the restroom and she had a little more to get out, and then she was fine. We think that with a full belly and her getting worked up just upset her stomach. She was fine after that, and our waitress brought her a box of cookies and 2 quarters to help her feel better. They were so nice and so hospitable. I think I'm going to send her a card for all of her help.

So after the restaurant, we took her to the mall to play in the play area they have there. It is a perfect place to take kids when the weather outside is not so great. She had a ball with that.

We also had a surprise visitor come in that day. My friend Deidre from Florida flew in to visit for a couple of days. Ariana loved that, and the attention!

So here are a few pics from "her" day. Enjoy!

Gabriel lost his first tooth!

2008-10-28T12:55:00.003-05:00

Gabriel lost his first tooth at school yesterday and brought it home in a little baggie! He was so excited! He feels like such a big kid now! When he went to bed, we put his tooth in his "Welcome Tooth Fairy Pillow" that he got from Maw Maw when he was just a baby! Then, we hung it by his bed, and he woke up to find money under his pillow. He was ecstatic!! I told him that with each tooth he looses, the tooth fairy will leave a little extra money. That got him REALLY excited, and he actually started to check for other loose teeth. I quess he's got something in mind that he wants to buy with that money :) He's so cute!

So, he now knows what it is like to loose a tooth, and no longer has anxiety about it. He thought it would bleed, and it didn't; he thought it would hurt, and it did not hurt. The many experiences of childhood. What a joy!

Gabriel's special happenings!

2008-10-28T12:07:00.004-05:00

Here is Gabriel at the bus stop the morning he left to go to Janoski's Farm. Kindergarten and first grade went there on a field trip on October 24th and they were gone the whole day. He loved it, and actually came back with straw in his pocket! It wasn't on purpose though, he just picked it up along the way! :) I even decked him out in a flannel shirt and told him, "you'll look really cool and you'll fit in perfectly." I didn't want to tell him he would look like a farmer 'cause he just wouldn't have gone for that ;)

Here he is with his gigantic trophee he got at the karate tournament last month. I tried to put these pics in order, but it just wasn't working! Sorry!

Here he is giving a high five to one of the karate instructors. Such a cool little dude he is!

Here is Gabriel with an instructor and another little boy that is at his same rank. They are about to take their turn.

Getting distracted by the camera. He is a total camera hog!

One month update! It's been a while

2008-10-22T07:57:00.008-05:00

The jack-o-lantern and the bundle of leaves sitting on the stool(on the left) both light up at night. I put orange lights in leaves. I love the glow! Also, I bought a wreath made of twigs and then decorated it myself. It's just enough to add that fall touch!
This is our porch all decorated for fall.
A beautiful fall picture from Brady's Run Park. The leaves were brighter, but it didn't come out that way when I took the picture. The day was also extremely overcast and dreary. Typical fall day around here and I love it!
Here is Gabriel after his karate testing. He is now a yellow belt!!

Ariana is now in karate as well! She also loves it! Here is picture that I took last week of the two of them after karate class. This was taken right outside the class.
Our little Ariana the day of Ella's party. She is such a ham in front of the camera!
So much has happened in this past month. I haven't posted in a while, and I wanted to share some pictures of the kids from September until the present.

Ella had her 5 year birthday party last month! That was a blast! I haven't posted a picture, but Gabriel had his karate tournament one weekend last month, and he received a very big trophy for doing a great job! He did so well! He proudly displays it in his room now. I will post pictures later. :)

Ariana is now doing karate along side her big brother. Ella will be doing it soon also. She just doesn't want to wear the uniform! Silly girl!

We are doing very well, and staying busy with life in general. All of the kids are enjoying school, and Gabriel is actually on a field trip today at a local farm.

I will post more I promise, it's just been crazy and my computer downstairs wasn't working. I will try to post pictures as I take them , and I hope so much my family is reading this!

Trip to Hozak Farms!

2008-10-09T11:14:00.007-05:00

On Saturday this past weekend, we had an outing to one of our favorite farms: Hozak farms.
We had taken Gabriel there when he was just 16 months old, and we took him back several times with his baby sister Ella. She was just a couple months old. We were delighted to return there, it brought back so many memories! The kids had a blast! They did everything from jumping in straw, horse back riding, going on a haunted hayride, to sitting down in the charming gift shop they have and sipping hot chocolate! We had as much fun as they did I think! :) To end the trip we all picked out a family pumpkin that we'll carve very soon, and each child picked out a small pumpkin of their own. It was a time we won't forget, and next year we will be planning a trip back.

We got home late, and the kids were exhausted. They had a fun-filled day though and it sure shows in the pictures below. So enjoy and please come back and visit again!

2008-10-03T17:10:00.002-05:00

1. October brightens my spirit because I love fall! It's my favorite season!
2. Skeletons and gore that you see in stores scare me!
3. Leaves are falling all around, it's clear that it's fall here in this town!
4. My favorite horror movie is nothing particular because I do not like them!
5. A day at a farm on a beautiful fall day = good memories.
6. It was a dark and stormy night and I was scared out of my wits just like my kids.:)
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to eating pizza, watching a movie with the kids and eating popcorn, tomorrow my plans include hopefully a little clothes shopping for the youngins and a trip to Hozak farm to pick some pumpkins and Sunday, I want to relax with the family !

MONDAY MORNING MEME!

2008-09-29T09:24:00.003-05:00

1. How do you define happiness?

I define happiness as being satisfied with your life on a daily basis, and I'm not talking about the little things that happen or get in the way of things, I mean the bigger parts of your life. Being content with who you are, who you're with, and what you have accomplished. Getting laundry done and the having my kids to school on time is an example of my daily accomplishments :) Those seem little but they are HUGE to me, and to my family.
I get down sometimes like anyone else, and I definitely have my moments, but I am truly happy and truly blessed. Praise God for that.

2. What did you have for breakfast? (If not this morning, tell us what you had the last time you had breakfast).

I did have breakfast this morning actually. I had two pieces of toast and a banana. And of course, a cup of coffee. Well , two cups, but one was an on-the-go cup! :)

3. On a scale of one to ten, how sick are you of the presidential campaign? Do you talk about politics on your blog? What about in real life? Why or why not?

I am not big into politics what so ever, but this election has really got me digging deeper into the candidates, more than ever before. I think it's going to be exciting to watch, and I'm not really sick of it either. My television isn't on much any way.

I do not talk about politics on my blog, and I would have to say I don't in general. I'm very private about it. Everyone has their own opinion, but I just don't want to open up that can of worms with anyone. I'd just rather talk about something else :)

4. What about your life today would surprise your teen-aged self?

I think my teen-aged self would be proud of myself now! :) I always wanted to be a young mom, and that definitely happened, but I think it would shock my younger self that I have three children already. My teen-aged self would also think I would've only had one or two children by now. Other than that, I really don't think there is anything else that would surprise my younger self. This is kind of what I always wanted to do! Be a mom and raise my kids at home as long as I could! I guess that makes me pretty lucky huh? No, just extremely blessed! Thank you Lord!

Friday Fill-ins

2008-09-26T12:48:00.002-05:00

Friday Fill-ins (sorry no logo!)

1. Going to the apple orchard, visiting a farm to pick pumpkins, Ariana's birthday, baking goodies and everything that comes along with Halloween are some of the things I'm most looking forward to in October.

2. Sometimes I ponder what it would be like to have a lot of money!

I believe that anyone can do anything if you just put your mind to it and that's why there is a saying, "never say never"!

4. When I'm down, I try to keep my schedule limited so I don't get so stressed out, and I try to do things that keep me busy and that keep the kids laughing. That always helps me out.

5. In my house cleaning, folding laundry or working outside is where you'll find me most often.

6. A rainy day is good for sitting down with a good cup of joe and a good friend and having a great day indoors!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to getting stuff packed for the tournament and then relaxing, tomorrow my plans include sending Gabriel off to his karate tournament with daddy and then taking Ella shopping for clothes and Sunday, I want to read the paper, maybe bake some and relax with my family!

Ella is 5 years old!!

2008-09-18T13:22:00.004-05:00

It has been a while since I have blogged, but I am back and have photos to share of Ella's day!! Today is a big day for my oldest daughter...IT'S HER BIRTHDAY!! AND SHE IS FIVE!! Ella is 5 years old!! I Think I keep saying because it is still sooooo hard to believe!!
The picture above was taken outside our house this morning. She chose that specific spot "in the sun" as she put it. She immediately held her hands up to show how old she is now. She's so adorable!

She is very excited about turning 5, and last night it really hit her that today was the big day. So, we took daddy to work and little sister to school, and then we went to the park!! She didn't want to wait for Ariana, she said, "I want to go by myself". I thought that was so cute! Then we went to the store and she bought some M&M's and got to keep the change! (It was a penny, but she loved it).

The rest of the day has been all about what she wants to do, and we even visited daddy at work and munched on some cookies. The rest of the day will be pretty laid back, but she also gets to pick out what we're having for dinner.

She also got to pick out what kind of cake she wants (she picked a princess cake!) and she got to open two cards and a present! How exciting!

Time goes by too fast, and I still can't believe our little Ella is 5. So sad but wonderful at the same time.

Here are some pics, so enjoy, and leave a comment if you'd like, I love to read them!

She wanted a picture of the two of us, so I held out the camera and here is what we got!
Here is Ella opening a package that Aunt Lori, Uncle Matt and the cousins sent. Thank you all!
Here are the presents she received: She got a card, some faith beads, stickers and a sticker album, and a photo album just for her that says, "Ella's photo book". Isn't it cute?! Thanks again Aunt Lori and Family!

2008-09-12T12:27:00.003-05:00

1. I enjoy being at home with my family.

2. Working out of the house is something I wonder about often lately.

3. In your heart, you knew that he was always there!

4. Take a day, add a little coffee and you end up with a better day for me and those around me!

5. Life has gifted me with good health and a wonderful family!

6. Candles, a movie and no kids around is an instant vacation.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to making pizza and watching a movie with the kids, tomorrow my plans include laundry, making chili and having friends over and Sunday, I want to relax!

Join in here!

A random moment!

2008-09-05T13:16:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to post this picture because it represents little random, crazy moments that are continually happening in my house. If you look to the left of the picture, there I am walking through the kids playroom coming toward the room here in the picture. I figured out was going on after looking at the pic. It made me laugh. I am actually looking for some furniture polish that I had put down but did not have a clue where it was! :) Ever happened to you? Yeah, I thought so! I am also on the telephone, and at the same time I'm saying, "has anyone seen the orange spray?" I then turned around because my son had shouted, "I found it!" It was on top of the refrigerator :) Apparently while all of this is going on, Ariana had found our camera and taken this picture, very beautiful picture :) of our oldest daughter. I love that this captures a moment, and about a minute later, it was over. Ariana was delighted to show me the picture, but I had to fuss at her for getting the camera (it's a big no no). I had the house so clean, I thought I'd light my pumpkin scented candle on top of the armoire. Look, you can see it all lit up in the picture! Of course, my house is once again messy and cluttered, but atleast my furniture is cleaned with the "orange spray" right? :)

2008-09-05T12:55:00.004-05:00

1. Do you live for the start of college football? professional football? Does anyone in your house? Do you know anyone who does?
I do not personally live for football, but I do cheer on the Pittsburgh Steelers when they are on T.V. I will actually be watching the game on Sunday, and I'm kind of excited :) The black and gold has rubbed off on me after living here for 8 years! About time I quess :)
Rob , however, loves football! I used to just dread it, knowing he'd be stuck to the T.V. I would even give him a really hard time and give him quilt trips about "not spending time with the family". Well, I try, try I said, not to do that as much anymore, and I've become more accepting of it. I love it when he says," Jen, if you'd just watch football you might grow to like it." It's hilarious and I just laugh when he says it. I'm like,"no honey, not gonna happen." You can't change a person, right?

2. Did you go to college? If so, what was your mascot? Was/Is that your favorite team? If not, what was/is your favorite college team?

I did not go to college, but we usually cheer for the Southern Illinois Salukis and Penn State (my husband went to SIU and Penn State as well). I don't really care who it is "we" cheer for though, because I don't watch!

3. Have you ever embarrassed yourself at a sporting event? Have you seen someone else embarrass themselves at a sporting event?

None of the above! :)

5. Do you have a sports hero? If so, what makes them special?

I admire and respect all of them, but I don't have one particular sports hero.

6. What's the most memorable sports moment you've watched on television? Watched live?

I watched as Jason Lezak beat the Frenchman at the Olympics in the relay that was lead by Micheal Phelps. They were both awesome, and the reaction that Phelps and another teammate had to the news was incredible! I was so glad Rob wanted to watch the Olympics, otherwise I wouldn't have seen it. Phelps was just incredible, and I also watched as he broke record after record this year. I was so proud of the U.S.! How amazing, what talent!

7. If you have kids or grandkids, do they play sports?

My son, Gabriel, does Karate and then plays indoor soccer in winter. Also, My girls are going to be doing gymnastics here soon.

2008-09-04T11:01:00.003-05:00

Thursday Thirteen~ 13 things on my "list" for the next few days; just thought I'd share!

1. Get out fall clothes for the girls to put away in drawers and hang up
2. Get clothes together for my mom and send package (sorry mom)!

3. Go grocery shopping

4. Go to class on Sunday~Protecting God's Children
5. Vacuum out my car~ Ugh!
6. Order mums from school

7. Get a part-time job!
8. Take some stuff to goodwill
9. Start putting up some of my fall decorations

10. Clean the house~ This actually comes before the decorating
11. Spend some quality time with the kids

12. Water the bank thoroughly with the hose (it's very dry here)
13. And finally~ have a good time doing it all! :)

Ella's first day of school!

2008-09-04T10:42:00.004-05:00

So as I posted just the other day, all of my children are starting school! Wednesday was Ella's first day, and she was very excited to go. This is her 2nd year in the four-year old program, so this year she is to be the "assistant" to Mrs. Fairley, along with 2 other children from her class last year. She did, however, have a little bit of nervousness when it came time to actually go in the classroom. She was pushing herself against the wall, and didn't want to anyone to see her. I think she was nervous to meet a classroom of all new kids! One of the teacher did have to take her finally, but she ended up fine, as always!

I think the fact that I've been home with them for so long and they haven't had many babysitters makes a big difference. There are kids in her class that have both parents working full time, and although they've never been to pre-school, they have a baby-sitter or nanny. I've heard that does make a huge difference.

I love these kids so much and I can speak for Rob and I both when I say that we are sooooo proud of them! They have all come so far, and these little everyday situations (like not wanting to go into pre-school class) are going be far gone and seem so simple as they continue to get older. We're going to wish for these days back.

So with that being said, I'm going to go make the girls some lunch, and enjoy looking at the pictures!

Here is our big girl!
Here are some of the children coming out of school in their single file line. Can you spot Ella? And quess who that little girl is in the right hand corner waving to the kids? Ariana of course! They love to greet each other, it's so cute!

First day of school for my baby!

2008-09-02T08:53:00.006-05:00

Well, I did it again. I sent another child to school this morning. It is Ariana's first day today, and have to say, it was harder to let her go than any of them. Now, I know it's just pre-school (three-year class to be exact), but she is my youngest, so it's going to be harder. And I've come to that conclusion. It's going to be harder to send her to kindergarten, harder to see her graduate, and even harder to send her to college. :( These are all happy things and happy times, I realize that. This morning I was more excited than her just about. I love when they start school! It is so bitter sweet though.

She went in the building fine, and even hung her book bag and talked to the teacher. However, as soon as she knew it was time to actually go in the classroom, she wanted to go back to the car. She was trying to run away, but Mrs. Fairley convinced her to come in by saying that mommy could sit behind her during song and praying time. So, I did just that. She didn't listen to any directions she was given, she simply sat there and watched while sucking her two little fingers (it's a habit she's had and probably won't be breaking any time soon). After I marched down the hall with them, I said my good-byes, and she just didn't want me to go. The other teacher had to pry her off of me, and I left the building hearing her cry for me. :( I was hoping it would be a smoother transition, but not on this day. But pre-school is just that. It's a transition, and it just takes some getting used to on all ends.

I truly believe that she will love it, and it will be better the next time I take her. She'll know more of what to expect.

In the meantime, I sit here wondering how she's doing, and can't believe that my "baby" is at pre-school and is not here with mommy. Tomorrow Ella has her first day and second year in the pre-k class. I'm so excited for her because I know how much she really wants to get back. She's going to be an "assistant" this year! How exciting!

So, here are some pictures of Ariana before we left. She was so happy to finally be going. She practically dragged me out of the door!

She was posing in this picture, but it came out with her looking shy!

She was so proud to be going to school! She picked out her My Little Pony book bag!

I'm in a cookin' mood!!

2008-08-31T12:36:00.005-05:00

I just had to share with you all what I have cooked up lately, and tell you that I'm in the mood to cook today! I've got dinner in crockpot, potato soup on the stove for lunch, and I called my husband and told him to buy some eggs so I can make some muffins! Wooooh! I am on a roll!

So, below you will find what I am cooking for dinner. It's called Burgundy Beef, and the recipe can be found at my good friend Dawn's recipe blog.
And can I just say, it is lookin' delicious and I just put it in!

Here is the potato soup I am making for lunch. It's super easy, and I make it for dinner most times. Here it is cooking as we speak, and here is the recipe.

Potato Soup

2 large cans chunky potato soup

~ 1 envelope Uncle Ben's Wild Rice--microwaveable pouch
~ 4 cups half and half
~1 can crumbled bacon bits
~2 cups shredded chedder cheese

Microwave the rice and then dump everything together and heat. Serve when warm. You can top with sliced green onions if you life.

This recipe is also from Dawn's recipe blog.
She gave this to me a couple of years ago, and it's so simple and good! Try it sometime!

Also, here is picture of the spagetti pie I made last week. Umm, delicious as well! I'm sorry if I'm making anyone hungry! :)

I also made some Banana oatmeal cookies for the kids last week (and for us bigger kids). Those were a hit.

Well, I just wanted to share some recent recipes I've tried this week. I'm trying to this more, so I can establish new meals for the family, and have fun in the process. I love to cook! Have a great Sunday, and you all know what I'll be doing!

2008-08-29T07:36:00.003-05:00

. How far in advance do you start getting ready for back-to-school (whether for your own kids, or for yourself when you were in school)?

I start thinking of it pretty far in advance, and we start buying clothes a shoes typically 1 week before. Didn't go as planned this year, and we still need to buy for our oldest daughter. Not a big deal though, it will get done! We bought school supplies late this year too, we didn't have a list.

2. Do you have any picky eaters who need special considerations for lunches? What does a typical bagged lunch look like in your house?

My son is getting pickier everyday, so I try to make sure everything I pack is approved first ;) I want him to eat it all since he's in school all day now. He buys lunch as well because he loves everything they have! I will be switching back and forth through the week. The first lunch I packed for him consisted of a juice box, grapes, and lunchable that had cookies and ingredients to make a cracker sandwich! You know, lunch meat and cheese. It was a hit with him, but I won't do that every time.

3. What school supply items do you skimp on and what are you willing to shell out the big bucks for?

I didn't skimp. I got everything on the list because I know he will want to use the things. He is our little artist :)

4. Do you get your kids up, or do they get up on their own? Any snooze-hitters that have trouble waking up? How about the opposite, any kids that are up at the crack of dawn?

I have to get all of them up. It takes about 10 minutes to get my son out of bed, and the girls are much easier. Next week, I will be getting all of them up at the same time! ;( Wish me luck!

5. Any cafeteria horror stories? Is school food as bad as they say?

Their school food is great, and he loves it! We are very fortunate.

6. How important is it to you to make sure your kids have the latest styles and trendiest accessories?

Gabriel wears a uniform since he goes to private school (it's Catholic). I love it, and the fact that he's a boy makes it even easier! With the girls it might be a little harder, even with a uniform! They have jean day once a month though, so that's nice. I do all the shopping for him , and he pretty much just wears whatever I buy. He does seem to have a certain taste though, because he'll pick up certain shirts and say, " this one is really cool". Then, he'll want to wear that piece no matter what time of year it is! I had to fight with this summer over wearing one of his sweaters! Yeah, he's a crazy kid :)

7. Remember the movie Kindergarten Cop? If Arnold Schwarzenegger was your child's new kindergarten teacher, how would you feel?

I would feel like,"Ok, maybe he can make him listen! :)

2008-08-29T07:11:00.005-05:00

I'm very excited about this weeks S&T because the theme is "Dreaming of Autumn". Love it, love it! What's ironic is that what I have to "show" I picked out before I knew this theme!

So, on with the "show". One of my very good friends was so thoughtful and sent me a couple of things that she spotted and knew I would love! Love ya girl! She is such a sweet person. She knows me and how much I love fall and decorating.

Here is what she got me:
2 packs of flavored coffee, a decorative resin pumpkin, and a caramel apple with a remover lid! Another thing she sent that you don't see was a pack of brownie bites! And quess where I put them? Well in the caramel apple of course! The little candle sitting there is one I purchased the other day. I couldn't help myself, it's pumpkin spice scent! Ummmm!!

Here is the pumpkin; I love what it says, "Praise God from whom all blessings flow".

Can wait to drink some of this coffee! One of the flavors is caramel apple :)Here is the apple. I should've taken a picture with the lid off, but I didn't want to tempt anyone with what was inside ;)

Thanks so much Dawn! You are such a good friend and a sweatheart! Happy S&T everyone!

2008-08-28T21:11:00.002-05:00

1. When I'm sick I'm very needy and want my hubby to be with me and take care of me. :) I just want a lot of extra TLC. I also want to just lay down, like most people would when you're sick! :)

2. When I take a walk, I think about what is starting or ending in my day. I like to reflect also. Best of all though, I love to just watch nature. I look for animals, and I teach my kids to do the same thing. I myself am just a big kid at times! :)

3. Money can't buy happiness but it can reduce stress and be a very good thing if you don't use it the wrong way or let it take over your life. I have known people that have been in both scenarios, and it never turns out good. Speaking of money, I could definitely use a little right now!

4. Cotton makes me think of something that is very versatile. It can be dressed up or dressed down, and I love it! I love cotton and I am so incredibly comfortable in it, and that's what I'm all about! and leather makes me think of someday owning a really great leather jacket or blazer. I can dream, right? Or maybe I could ask Santa ;)

5. The strangest person/character I've had lewd thoughts about was no one. Wait, maybe my husband? ;)

6. My favorite color these days is anything that surrounds me in warmth. In my house, I'm really loving the Warm Buff color we have on our walls. It's in our entryway, hallway upstairs and now in our bathroom. I painted that last weekend. I'm working on the dining room next, and I would love to go with a color that has a mix of orange with the Warm Buff color. I love that kind of mix because it reminds me of fall!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to eating pizza and watching a movie with my kids, tomorrow my plans include nothing concrete yet and Sunday, I want to just be and not clean!

Participate, it's fun! Just go here, and have a great weekend!

2008-08-28T09:20:00.008-05:00

Hello everyone! This the 160th edition of Thursday Thirteen!

So this week I chose to share 13 things I have bought this week. Between school clothes, supplies, and a few things in between, this one was an easy one for me. Enjoy!

1. Tennis shoes for Gabriel-He is a size two! Can you believe it?

2. School shoes for Ella-We got these in black. She is a size 12.

3. Black shoes for Ariana-These will be worn with sooo much! And even better, all of these shoes were on sale! The guy told at Kohls told us they are marking down more shoes on Sep. 4th.

4. A pair of shoes for myself :) - I hardly ever buy shoes, but when I saw these on the sale rack, I couldn't pass them up! They were too cute and too cheap!! I paid a whopping 5.49 for them! Even better, I can wear them as the weather starts to get cooler! Yay!

5. Rob also let me buy a tank top for myself, that I will layer with shirts this fall. I couldn't resist the color-it reminded me of fall! Here is a picture! And once again, on sale!

6. A pair of tennis shoes for Rob-and boy did he need them! They are an essential for his work, and his were literally falling apart! He waited too long because he doesn't buy things for himself unless he absolutely has too! What a sweet husband, he puts us first!

7. Jean bermuda shorts for ariana

8. 2 pairs of uniform shorts for Gabriel-navy blue and khaki

9. Two sparkly tees for Ariana- One colared shirt as well (below)

10. An outfit for Ariana's first day of school-we let her pick it out. She didn't want a dress like mommy wanted for her. She opted for a preppy uniform type plaid skirt with a cute layered tee to go with it! Now I just need to get her some knee high socks and she'll be set! :) Her skirt looks very similar to this:

11. 2 packs of 8 chubby crayons for the girls-that was the extent of their school supply list! Easy enough!

12. School supplies for Gabriel- There were about a dozen things, not including tissues! It could've been worse, right? I'm so excited for him though, and most of the stuff was pretty cheap! Having three kids in school gets expensive!

13. This shirt in purple for Ella! - we're buying more for her next week, next pay day!

2008-08-28T08:34:00.002-05:00

My "3" is pretty simple:

There are three more days left in August! I simply can't believe it is August 28th already, and that September 1st is literally right around the corner! My oh my, how time flies! And of course, if you read my blog, you know my enthusiasm for the fall season!

So, as we count down the last few days of the month, I will be counting the days 'till the first day of the new season!

When fall officially begins:
September 22, 2008 at 11:44 am EDT

2008-08-26T09:34:00.002-05:00

Ten Things You Didn't Like About School

1. Clicks
2. Homework
3. Studying
4. Choir performances in front of the student body
5. Most of the other girls-I had all guy friends mostly
6. Deciding what to wear every morning!
7. Getting up!!
8. Having to ride the bus
9. My History and Math class
10.My locker- I could never remember the combination! :)

I always struggled in school, in more ways than one. I barely graduated high school, and the kids were just not nice. I switched schools a couple of times in junior high, so that left me as sort of an odd one out for a while. Then in high school, I was focused more on boys and one serious boyfriend until my senior year. That, once again, left me as kind of the odd one because I wouldn't socialize too much with the rest of my class (He was in the class ahead of me). I kind of shunned people away because I was just too busy with him to have any friends. I really regret that to this day, and I wish people from my class could've known me better. I wish I would've let them know me. But the past is the past, and it made me who I am. Boy, this weeks Ten on Tuesday sure brings back memories ;)

2008-08-25T07:57:00.003-05:00

1. What are you up to today? Be specific. We’ve talked about your morning routine before, now walk us through a typical Monday for you after breakfast is over. How do you feel about Mondays? A fresh start to your week? Or do you dread the drudge of getting back to the same old routine?

Well, it's not as busy this Monday as it will be on a "typical" Monday from now on. I got Gabriel off to his first day of school, which is the big thing for today. He said he wanted brownies for a snack, so I will be making those here in a little bit (I let him pick out food choices for today). Then, I will head to the bus stop a little after 11:00 to get Gabriel (It's only a half day today). Then, it will be lunch time, play time for the kids, rest time soon after, karate, dinner and bed time! When he starts a full day it will much busier and I will be feeling the crunch! Especially on MWF. I believe this Monday is a fresh start because this is the beginning of the rest of the school year! It's very exciting! Now, when I start school, I might have a different attitude, but hopefully not! :)

2. Earworms - we all get them from time-to-time. What tune do you have stuck in your head at the moment? How important is music to your life? List some of your favorite songs - and I’m talking about songs that evoke a strong emotion in you; joy, anger, sadness, etc. Do you have one particular song that brings back a certain time period in your life? What is the song and what is the time period?

I have a Brandon Heath song in my head. The name of it is "Steady now". This is going on the second week. It doesn't help that Ariana goes around singing it! The only song I can think of is the song that Rob and I call "our song". It's by East 17 (they are a European group) and it's called "stay another day". I get the flutters in my chest when I think of or when I hear that song. It played on the radio in Germany when we had our smooch!!

3. Who have you needed to say thank you to lately? Who is this person and what did he/she do to prompt a thank you?

I need to thank my children for all of their love and affection! I never really say that to them! They need to hear it too, because they are extra sweet! :)

4. How many candles will be on your birthday cake this next birthday? What do you think about the age you are now? Are you comfortable with what you’ve accomplished in life so far? Or do you wish you could have achieved more? You’re being granted one birthday wish - what is it?

On my next birthday, there will be candles on my cake but probably not too many! Rob might put 11 candles on there. Can you quess how old I will be? Also, I am proud of what I've done in my life. I'm not done with my accomplishments though, there is so much more to come! I will be proud of myself if I get through the next phase starting in February, and I'm going to need all the guidance I can get! :) I love my life, and I wouldn't change it for the world! I am not just saying that either, I truly love my life! I am very blessed to have the husband and children I have, and equally blessed for the love and support I receive.

As far as a birthday wish, if I told you, it wouldn't come true now would it? :)

If you want to participate, click here!

First day of first grade!!

2008-08-25T07:41:00.003-05:00

It's hard to believe that another school year has started already. Gabriel headed off with daddy this morning to his first day of first grade. I had that feeling as soon as I got him out of bed this morning. You know, that surreal feeling like this wasn't really happening. I said to myself, "already?" I am truly happy for him though, and excited myself! Thankfully, he is also very excited to see what 1st grade will be like! I feel like here lately I need the structure that school provides. We will have a set schedule as soon as he starts a full day, which is this Wednesday. Between homework, dinner, karate 3 days a week, and everything in between, it's going to be very busy to say the least. You have to have a set time for everything with that kind of schedule. It will be interesting to see how long it takes us to get in the swing of things! :) To all of you reading this who are going through the same thing, I wish you luck and hope that God guides you through every step!

Here are some pics of our little man! He's getting so big!

My personality by time of day

2008-08-24T11:43:00.005-05:00

You are Sunrise

You enjoy living a slow, fulfilling life. You enjoy living every moment, no matter how ordinary.
You are a person of reflection and meditation. You start and end every day by looking inward.
Caring and giving, you enjoy making people happy. You're often cooking for friends or buying them gifts.
All in all, you know how to love life for what it is - not for how it should be.

Want to know what time of day you are? Take the quiz!

2008-08-22T14:33:00.003-05:00

1. Dancing to the music while with my kids makes me laugh!

2. The last time I flew on an airplane I nearly got sick!

3. When I drive I relax and talk to God.

4. I saw my son standing at the top of our steps during rest time.

5. Give me a peace of mind, give me Peace in my house, give me a little more money!

6. Next week I am looking forward to taking my son to school for his first day in first grade!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to having friends over and nice conversations, tomorrow my plans include clothes shopping for the girls and going to chuck e cheese and Sunday, I want to go to the store and prepare for Gabriel's first day of school!

2008-08-22T13:54:00.007-05:00

1. Are you right- or left-handed?

Right Handed

2. Any nicknames they have (or have had) and the story behind them?

Nope

3. Do you need to do laundry right now?

Of course, always! It's not as bad as it could be though! :)

4. What CD is in your CD player/music on your iPod right now?

I have Brandon Heath in the CD Rom that I've been listening to every now and then. I love him! And my kids love him too! They sing along with me!

5. How/when did you learn to ride a bicycle?

I was about 5 years old and a neighborhood boy taught me how on his little red bicycle. He was my age, but he had known how for a while. Ya know what's crazy?! My son is six years old, and he's still got training wheels on his bike. You know what he said yesterday? " Mommy, I don't want the training wheels off my bike, they're cool!" How cute is that?!

6. What is your favorite weird food combination?

A jelly and butter sandwich, Peanut butter and banana sandwich (my husband thinks it's weird), a baked potato with macaroni on the side :), and that's about all I can think of at the moment! :)

7. What is something you have that is of sentimental value?

I have a couple of items that used to be my Grandma's. Well, I actually grew up calling her Yay yay, which is Grandmother in Greek. No, we're not greek, she just told us that's what she was to be called because "Grandma" made her sound "old". She was such a hoot! One of items is a small, round, glass holder with a very unique lid. The other is a velvet lined box, and I'm ashamed to say I don't know where it is. We also own a framed writing of the Lord's Prayer that was my husband's Grandmother's. She passed away 2 years ago, and I called her Grandma. The picture is hanging in our living room, right by the window. It's beautiful. It looks like it's written on gold leaf. I keep some other things out that were part of my husband's family, and each item is such a reminder of the ones lost and still loved. I believe it's so important to keep those things as part of your home.

This is the framed Lord's Prayer

Here is a close-up of it

Gabriel's karate testing!

2008-08-14T18:31:00.002-05:00

Gabriel had his karate testing last Friday night, and he did great! He went from an orange belt to being an orange belt decided. There is a black stripe on this one instead of being just a solid orange. After this, comes the yellow belt. I'm so proud of him, and he is truly proud of what he does. Although, he won't show us any karate moves. Rob peeked outside one day and some Gabriel doing some moves on the deck, but as soon as Rob opened the door, he stopped. He refused to show Rob what he was doing! :) It was cute. I think he feels like this is his own thing, so he wants to keep it to himself. Here are some pictures:

Here he is hanging out with friends before hand. He is the blonde sitting down.
Here they are warming up!

They are all bowing here to start the testing.

Here he is testing. The woman there does the moves with him. All of the younger kids do this.

More testing!

Here is our karate boy with his new belt! Yeah Gabriel!

Thursday Thirteen- 13 reasons I'm looking forward to fall

2008-08-14T11:37:00.011-05:00

~13 Reasons I'm looking forward to fall~

1. School starts! ~ The kids and I are both ready! Gabriel starts 1st grade, and the girls will be in pre-school opposite days of the week. We are all ready for the structure that school provides. Summer is a break for the hustle and bustle of the school year, but now that August is halfway through, enough already!

2. Crisp days, cool nights! ~ I think we could all agree that there's something about the fall air. Although the temps. here haven't been bad at all, the feel of fall air as soon as it hits your face is just breathtaking! It seems like you can actually smell the air! I love it!

3. Keeping the air conditioner off, for good! ~ I think this one speaks for itself!

4. Hayrides and fall festivals galore!~ I love the activity of festival hopping! If there isn't such thing, well, I just invented it! :) When it's fall, it seems at every turn there is sign posted for a festival that's taking place. Most of them are free, or atleast pretty affordable, so we attend them pretty often. In the fall we always know that if all else fails, we can get in the car and go to a festival!

5. Mums! ~ I love mums! They are, to me, a sign that you know fall is soon to come. They have beautiful blooms and beautiful colors, and they are so harty! I planted some in my garden last season, and what do ya know, they came back!! I had to pick the blooms off of them in July because they started to bloom so soon! I was so excited though to them come back. I got my money's worth, and I will be buying some from the kids school to decorate the porch. They are one of the first things I put out! I just love them!

6. Picking pumpkins~ What greater tradition in the fall than picking a pumpkin to carve! Or in our case, picking 4, one for us, and one for each of the kids. We just started carving together last year ( I let the two older kids help with theirs) and they loved it! Something magical for them to look forward to!

7. Two birthdays! We celebrate the girl's birthdays! Ella's is in mid September, and Ariana's is just two days before Halloween! This year, I'm doing something different and I will be making Ariana's cake myself. I have chosen to make it a fall theme, of course! I'm excited about that, and I'm sure she won't mind. :) It's a busy time for Birthdays here in the fall, but we love it!

8. Decorating~ For those of you who don't know me, decorating is a hobby of mine and a passion. I love to experiment with my house, and it seems I'm always rearranging furniture or pictures! It's always a work in progress, but I just love to make our house warm and inviting! I especially look forward to putting my fall decorations up outside, as well as inside. Every surface is decorated with something "Fall", but in a very tasteful way. I even have fall hand towels for the kitchen! I don't think it's too much, I just think I'm providing an environment for every season. The fall season even inspired the color I picked for an accent wall in our living room. It's called mid evil gold, and it just reminds me of the season. I want to follow that same idea in our bedroom, dining room and bathroom. This color below is similar to the color on our accent wall.

9. Trick-or-Treating~ Once again, this one speaks for itself, doesn't it?! The kids are on cloud nine from the time they wake up till the very late time they go to bed. I love seeing them so happy!

10. Snuggling (even by myself) under a warm blanket- I have to admit, I love to relax and watch T.V. as soon as I put the kids to bed. As it starts getting cooler outside though, I can add a blanket to the scenario, and what a better way to end the hectic day!? Who says you have to be in bed to cover up! ;)

11. Wearing my comfiest pajamas!~ Once again, this ties in with #10. I love to get comfy and toasty on cool days and nights. I'm talking fleece EVERYTHING and socks and slippers on top of it all! Head to toe fleece usually doesn't happen until later in the fall though! :)

12. Going leaf collecting with the kids!~ This is one of our family traditions, and we do it on more than one occasion. Last year, I took the girls around the neighborhood while Gabriel was in school. This year, I'll try to take them on the weekend so he can be involved in our initial leaf hunt. And it's a learning experience on top of it, and you can't beat that!

13. And last, but certainly not least, the colors of fall! ~By far, my big reason for loving fall! Golds, oranges, deep browns, reds, yellows, the colors are everywhere! There's nothing more beautiful than a spread of trees that have been hit with the season! Natures beauty is amazing and shows it's splendor in the fall more than any time of the year!
Here is a picture of some beautiful fall foliage just north of here. Spectacular!

My First Blog Award!

2008-08-11T21:09:00.005-05:00

I received my first blog award from my good friend Dawn!
Thanks so much, and not only are you a friend and supporter of my blog, you are a true friend in life minus the internet! :) Anyone who is reading this, I hope you have a friend like her in your life, because she has truly blessed mine. Thank you.

1. The winner can put the logo on his/her blog.
2. Link to the person you received the award from.
3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.
4. Put links to those blogs on your blog.
5. Leave a message on the blogs of the people you have nominated.

I haven't been a blogger for very long, but these are people that have either visited my blog, or they are ones that I found and visit often. Thanks so much you all and enjoy your award! I appreciate you all so much and you are some of the first blogs I ever visited!

So, here are the people I nominate:

Heather and Reese: kicking-it-in-crazyville!

Life in Words

My life as Annie

Kelli

Jodi

Karen- I love the Monday Morning Meme!

5 minutes for mom!

2008-08-11T07:00:00.002-05:00

1. What is the last thing you attempted to quit? How did you do it and were you successful?
Well, I attempted to quit school last year, but I realized I needed to keep going and had to tell myself, "I can do this." I continued, and although I'm not going into the program I was originally going for, God had different plans and I'll be heading to an LPN program!

2. Are you a roller coaster sort of person (impulsive, takes chances, likes to live in the fast lane), or a merry-go-round sort of person (slow, steady, predictable, peaceful)? This is an excellent excuse to do a little self-analysis!
I have to say, I don't like either ride :) I get sick when I go in circles, and I can really only tolerate those small, wooden coasters. I once rode a standing roller coaster, and I have never felt so scared. I can't believe I didn't get sick! To continue though, I am a merry-go-round sort of person. Although my moods vary from day to day it seems, I love my as a mother and wife. I love our home, and I love to take care of it. I like to go on a hike or two and absolutely LOVE to travel, but that is about as adventurous as I get!

3. Have you ever worn your slippers, or pajamas, in public? If so, when and why? If not, would you ever consider leaving your house looking less than your best? What do you think of people who do so? (Be honest, we all judge on some level).
I have never worn my pajamas or slippers in public during my adult years. In high school I think we had a pajama day and I wore my lounge pants, but that's as far as I've gone and will go! :) I like to wear track pants with tennis shoes to run errands on occasion, but most of the time you can find me in blue jeans of some kind!
Also, when I see people in very "relaxed" clothing, I just think, "to each his own". They're comfortable in what they are wearing and that's simply their decision...I just choose not to go that way. :)

4. If you could go back and tell your 13-year-old self one thing about the future, what would you say?
I would most definitely tell myself to take it all in! Take in what your teachers are telling you and stop socializing, enjoy the environment and don't sweat the small stuff! I would also tell myself that I can go to college and do well, so make sure to try it!

Gabriel's new lunch bag

2008-08-10T14:11:00.003-05:00

I bought a lunch bag online today for Gabriel. I have been looking , and it seems they are all either too tiny or have some kind of character on them. Well, Gabriel is not really into any characters at the moment, so I decided to just order one from L.L. Bean. I wanted to go with one that was sturdy and more affordable than the other ones. What's nice is, without the shipping cost, it is only a few more bucks than the tiny ones you can get at most stores. I figure Gabriel needs one that is going to last and hold up to his roughness (he's definitely not as gentle as the girls with his belongings). I really love the quality of their products, and plan to buy them for the girls when they start school (and maybe get their backpacks from there as well). Any way, here is a picture of the one I ordered. He chose this print out of all the colors. I hope he still likes it when he sees it! You never know with kids!

This bag has got a lot of room inside and the reviews sound great! It's supposed to be bigger than it looks and easy to clean. And with Gabriel, darker colors are always good! :)

2008-08-08T12:23:00.002-05:00

1. My favorite bedtime attire is soft, comfy pants and an even softer shirt! :)

2. The perfect meal would include pasta with a hearty side of breadsticks and salad and a big glass of Riesling wine!!

3. The most memorable girl's night out I've ever had was when my good friend Corrie had her baccelerate party. That was in 19__/2007. I was 27-years-old.

4. My earliest memory is playing in the apartment complex we lived in when I was four. I don't remember much from that age, so I can't believe that I can remember that!

5. The family is gone for the evening and I will spend my time cleaning a little with a glass of wine and then sitting down with a movie on and candles lit. Ahhhh!!

6. Right now I am needing to eat some lunch and thinking of things I need to be getting done!

7. When I am done blogging, I am going to put Gabriel Karate uniform in the wash, eat something, put Ariana down for a nap and then enjoy a little time to myself, hopefully!

2008-08-07T21:12:00.002-05:00

1. You know you're old when you're up past your bedtime... at 8 PM!

2. My heart is divided between being critical of my husband and just loving him.

3. A chill pill is what I need RIGHT NOW!

4. I have felt the love , I have known the depths of it as well.

5. Gah, won't these people open up their eyes and know they're blessed.

6. Make life a good time as soon as you can!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to going to Gabriel's Karate testing and seeing a good friend, tomorrow my plans include nothing concrete and Sunday, I want to make a nice breakfast for the kids and spend time with Rob and the kids!

Things you can do in your own backyard!

2008-08-05T09:46:00.005-05:00

So, the kids got to experience something new and exciting this weekend. Can you quess what? Well Sunday, at the last minute, I decided to let the kids camp out in the backyard! They got to camp with a friend, which is even better! And thanks to my good friend Gretchen, who provided the tents and firepit, they had a full-fledged camp-out experience! They roasted marshmallows, and we made smores of course! They looked up the entire time they roasting just admiring the stars, every last one. I am so glad we made that decision at the last minute. If we would've waited for the "perfect" time, it probably wouldn't have happened. It turned out to be a perfect night for it though, weather and all.

My friend and I slept with the boys in a bigger tent, and Ella and Ariana slept in a tiny little tent that was all their own. It was uncomfortable for me and I got little sleep, but a friend reminded me, "You'll do it again for your kids". "Yes, I will", I thought.

Here are some pics from the "camp out". Didn't get too many because it started getting dark out. Enjoy these though! And next time you're trying to think of something free to do with your kids that is different and fun? Just consider camping out in your own backyard! And don't forget the smores!! :)

Here are Gabriel, Ella and Samuel jumping on the trampoline while we get things ready!

Here are the tents all set up!

Here are the kids and their friend Samuel with his mom Gretchen. We're getting ready to roast!

Enjoying the warm fire! :)

Our neighbor and friend Mark also joined in on the fun! He got a helping of lasagna I made for helping with the tents :) There's Rob at the right of him

It was something they won't soon forget, and I have a feeling we'll be hearing more requests for a "camp out" as some time passes!! :)

2008-08-01T12:18:00.004-05:00

Hello and welcome to this weeks show and tell! It's my first time participating in this, and I'm very excited to show our new oven! I've already posted some other pictures right when we got it, but I'm still very excited about our new purchase :) Our other one pretty much went kaput last week, and we got this one on Monday. It's nothing too fancy, but it has extras that our old one didn't, so that alone excites me! Enjoy the pics, and happy Friday!!!

Here I am with our new oven!! Ella took this pic!
Here's Ella posing with the oven!

Here's our cutie Ariana! I cropped it too much! :)

2008-08-01T10:05:00.003-05:00

1. Which is worse: speaking to a large crowd or working under an impossible deadline? Speaking to a large crowd. I get terrible stage fright, and it's not pretty. I quess it's not as bad as it could be, but I start to ramble and say "like" and "um" a lot :) Oh, and my throat starts to feel like it's closing up. Yeah, not a pretty sight! :)

2. Could you work with your best friend? I could if it were a fun job doing something that we both enjoyed! I used to be a flight attendant, and I got a trip with one of my close friends and it was a blast! We would act so goofy in the galley together and we just both really enjoyed being on the plane together. It made us more at ease with everything we did. Boy, I miss those days sometimes :)

3. Do you eat seafood? Oh yeah!! My favorites are crab, any kind, and LOBSTER!! Oh my , it's time to have some seafood ! I need to schedule that in!

4. What is the worst thing you have ever eaten? Um, I would definitely have to say escargot (snails)! Eghhhh! I tried it on a date, he insisted. It felt like a slug in my mouth, and just kind of plopped around and then slid down my throat! I didn't know what to do, I just knew I didn't want to chew it! At that point I should've known it wasn't going to work out :)

5. Which would make you feel more appreciated by your DH / SO: bringing home flowers, doing a chore without being asked, or asking you on a “date”? For me, definitely doing a chore without being asked! He knows that too, and knows it makes me very happy! You'd think he'd have the house spotless! ;)

6. What is something fun you are going to do today? Bake cookies for dessert and make popcorn for my children for movie night tonight! I love that they look forward to movie night, and they have a good time! They get their blankets and pillows and plop 'em in front of the t.v., and that's it! They don't move from that spot till it's over. I just love serving them the popcorn and watching the looks on their faces when they know it's coming!

7. What qualities you look for in a friend … in other words, what causes you to really “click” with someone? #1, they have to be REAL!! I love it when other moms don't care to say, "my kids are driving me crazy!" Or, "I need a break, don't you?" There's nothing worse than another mom smiling at you knowing that their smile is fake :( I also look for kindness, compassion, a sense of humor, and similar interests.

Want to play, join in here!

Fun, fun, fun times!!

2008-08-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

After the tree guys were done on Wednesday, it started to rain! It was so magical, it started right as they were loading logs. It was magical I'm sure from the kids point of view, because while daddy was standing out getting soaked (which was funny I might add), he invited the kids to join him! Ariana and Gabriel were ecstatic, but Ella refused because she said, " I don't want to get my hair wet mommy!" She was so serious about it too! So I took some pics, of course, and thought I'd post the moment! I love that I can share these moments with my friends and family and hope so much that you all are viewing my blog and enjoying it. I do this all for you!! Enjoy the pics, and more are coming soon!

I know you can't tell much, but it was raining cats and dogs!! I'm talking an all-out down pour!! They loved it, and it was muggy out:)

Here is Rob, already soaked, getting even more soaked when Gabriel threw a bucket of water on him! Rob was just hit with it! Check out the look on both of their faces! I love that I captured that moment!

2008-08-01T07:00:00.001-05:00

1. If I could travel back in time, I'd go to the time when my husband was a little boy, just so I could see what he was like. His mom passed away soon after we met, so I would want to meet her while I was there. It's hard to choose this one though, that's just the first place that came to my mind!

2. Give me love or give me chocolate ice cream!

3. I am listening to Mozart coming from Gabriel's room (he picked the C.D. out himself) and my husband talking.

4. Somewhere, someone is thinking about a loved one they miss that is far away.

5. I'll always be thankful to God for what I have and be kind to others.

6. My idea of a good time includes sitting down with a glass of wine and talking one on one with my husband.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to sitting and vegging out, tomorrow my plans include going to a friend's baby shower and spending time with another friend I haven't seen in a long time, and Sunday, I want to just be with my family and look forward to FINALLY cooking lasagna in our new oven!

Tasty Thursday: After School Snack Edition

2008-07-31T17:01:00.003-05:00

I found this recipe one day when I was searching the internet for... a granola snack!! I can't wait to make these and I have a feeling I will keep the ingredients for this one around ALL the time! If anyone tries it before I do, let me know how they turn out! Also, you can substitute the raisins for anything like chocolate chips, M&M's, etc. When I first read the recipe I thought of using chocolate instead of raisins, which my kids aren't too fond of :) Here is where I found the recipe. Have a great Tasty Thursday everyone!

Gobble up Granola Snacks!!

INGREDIENTS

2 1/2 cups crispy rice cereal
2 cups quick-cooking oats
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

In a large bowl, stir together the rice cereal and oats. Set aside. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Combine the brown sugar and corn syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat just until boiling, then remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until smooth. Pour over the cereal and oat mixture, and mix well.
Press into the prepared pan using the back of a large spoon. Allow to cool, then cut into squares.

Our big tree is almost gone!!

2008-07-31T13:44:00.006-05:00

Well, we had some work done to our trees yesterday. It's been needing to be done, and we finally able to start. We have two problem trees that are bigger and one that was growing too close to a neighbors house that was smaller (it was a maple). So the plan was to cut one of the bigger ones down and cut down the smaller one as well. Well, most of one is cut, only the trunk is standing, and the smaller maple is gone :( I wish we could've kept that one, it was pretty. So, when the guy got to the second big tree, we found out that it is rotted through, so now most of that one needs to come down. We were only supposed to have it pruned, but now are going to have to fork over $300 to have it pruned still, but have the top cut off now as well (the rotted part). I know it needs to be done, and branches are falling not only into our yard, but into the neighbors as well. It's just more money I didn't want to have to spend on trees! :) You do what you gotta do though, right? It will give me a peace of mind as well.

I wanted to share a few pics of the "big tree" in it's stages of being cut down. And a few others as well:) Enjoy!

Here is the tree after a bit was taken off the bottom. For those of you who know me, this is the tree that is beside the deck, that was hanging over it.

Here is another pic of the same tree! That guy is actually hanging from a rope, like the kind you rock climb with! I wouldn't want that job, would you?

Here is the tree in it's last stage for now. It has only the trunk left, and the tree behind it is the one we're going to end up having to cut down as well. I still can't believe it's gone! Well, almost gone! They're coming back this week to finish both!

Dawn's give away contest!

2008-07-30T19:48:00.000-05:00

My friend Dawn has a giveaway contest going on at her website right now. She is giving away a paperback novel called "Searching for Spice". You can read more about the book here . If you'd like to participate, just go to her website and read all about it! Thanks, and I know she'll be glad you dropped by!

2008-07-29T14:05:00.000-05:00

10 things to do when it's too hot to go outside

1. Play on the computer
2. Clean, clean, and clean some more :)
3. Sit down and drink some iced tea!
4. Make some lemonade with the kids
5. Watch a good movie
6. Retreat to my bedroom at naptime and read my bible
7. Play a board game with the kids
8. Snooze on the couch
9. Eat ice cream! Yuuumm!

10. Use a misting fan!

Etcetra, etcetra meme

2008-07-28T14:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a cute Meme that I found on Eila's blog. It's cute, so read, and find out a little more about me!

Do you enjoy drama?

Movie drama's, not life ones

Are you a girly girl?

Most definitely in many ways, but in others no.

Last person you hugged?

My daughter Ariana :)

Small or big purses?

Medium?

Do you think you’re conceited?

Nope

Do you dress up on Halloween?

No, but I would consider wearing a witch's hat or something of that sort.

Where is the weirdest place you have slept?

Ummm, in a chair? Is that weird?

You miss someone?

Family

Do you call anybody by their last name?
Probably just my Doctor

Do you wear makeup?
Yes, I would look dead without it!

Can you put on mascara without opening your mouth?

You know, it would be very hard not to open my mouth just a little :)

Have you ever been called a bad influence?

THIS OR THAT:

Eyeliner or Mascara?

Mascara

Heels or flats?

flats!

Skirts or jeans?

JEANS

Heels or sneakers?
Heels

Straight or curly hair?

straight

Hoops or dangling earrings?

Hoops

Do you prefer light or dark haired guys?
Dark haired of course, cause' that's what my hubby is!

Are you currently frustrated with a guy?
Not at the moment

Do you have a best friend?

A few close friends :)

Have you ever had your heart broken?
Yes of course. I don't know one person yet who hasn't.

Have you ever thought of having plastic surgery?

Do you like your life?

I love my life. I'm very blessed.

Ever walked into the men's bathroom?

Almost one time!

Have you ever jumped in the pool with your clothes on?
I've done that once in my life :)

Would you ever tell someone you loved them even though you didn't?

No, never

Have you ever slapped a man in the face?

Yes

Have you ever cried yourself to sleep?

Yes

Have you ever not been able to get someone off of your mind?

Yes, then I married him! ;)

Do you believe in the saying “once a cheater, always a cheater”?
Somewhat

Have you ever had a good feeling about something?

Of course!

Do you ever wish you were famous?
Nooooo!

Cowboy or Gangster?

Cowboy

Preppy or Punk/Goth?

preppy

Well-educated or Dropout?

Well educated

Contacts or Glasses?
Contacts

Funny or Serious?

Funny

Romantic or Daredevil?

Romantic

Cute or Hot?

Cute

Long Hair or Short Hair?

Short

Good Dancer or Good Singer?

Good Singer

Basketball Player or Football Player?

Basketball player (I play that better than football!)

Smoker or Non-smoker?

Non-Smoker

Out with the old, in with the new!!

2008-07-28T12:09:00.000-05:00

Our new oven is here! It's gorgeous, and functional, and has so many features I love and will greatly appreciate it after using an oven like our old one. I'm making mac n cheese for the kids as we speak! Well, off I go to cook. I think I might make some cookies later! ;)

Our new oven!

2008-07-27T21:27:00.000-05:00

So, I have some news that I'm just ecstatic about. First I should tell you that our oven has been acting quirky, and at one point last week it would not turn off. It's a gas stove, and pretty old as well, so we made the decision to buy a new one. Well, we shopped around for ovens yesterday at Sears, and found the perfect one for us. In our price range, has all the features we need, plus a few extra that will come in handy :) We have gone for almost a week now with no oven, and I cook a lot, so it's been a HUGE (emphasized) inconvenience. At the same time, it's been kind of nice having a break from cooking :)
I thought I'd share a picture of which one we decided on. See what you think!

This oven is self cleaning ( our old one isn't), has a continuous grate on top (love that feature, allows you to just slide a hot pan right on over) and the oven controls are all electronic! It's also got a drawer for storage, which I love! The one we have now is a broiler, and I just don't use it. There is also a simmer burner that functions on very little BTU's, and one that is a 14,000 BTU power burner that will boil water for me quicker. I'm very excited if you can't tell, and I want to say thank you very much to my dad who made this possible. Thanks!

It's Saturday!!!!!

2008-07-26T10:46:00.000-05:00

I just have to say that I am THRILLED that it's Saturday! I have been home all week, sick part of the time, and Rob sick on a day off , so I'm ready to get out! We are taking the kids out and about, and I'm not quite sure what we're doing yet. Gabriel is saying chuck e cheese, as well as Ariana, and in unison, I'm saying, " noooooo"!!!! I don't feel like being in that kind of craziness right now, I just want to enjoy my family, and do something a little quieter :) Heck, who needs chuck e cheese on a beautiful day like today! So, I'm not sure what the day has in store, but I kinda like being spontaneous, free as the wind!!! Well, you know what I mean :) So here I come day! Look out!

2008-07-25T09:56:00.001-05:00

1. I believe whatever doesn't kill you makes you STRONGER!!

2. If you're good at something, use it, and don't take it for granted. So many people don't have a skill or something they are truly good at. It is a gift, and you are blessed to have it, so use it!

3. Why so gloomy, it's FRIDAY!!!

4. Something is out there, it's just waiting to be discovered!

5. If my life were a sitcom, it would be titled My life as a Jones. :)

6. Sitting on my back porch [if you don't have one, use your imagination] I see my backyard, the fence surrounding it, my children laughing and playing, and houses behind us.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I’m looking forward to relaxing with my husband, tomorrow my plans include doing household projects with Rob and Sunday, I want to go to church, relax and possibly go to the store!

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This blog is back and on track!!

2008-07-24T13:52:00.000-05:00

So, today is the first day I've posted on my blog since November of last year! Thanks to my dear friend Dawn, I am back and lovin' this! I just pray I can keep up ;)
It is Thursday, as you know, and it has been a good day so far. I'm feelin' positive and I've gotten a bit done around the house. Of course, that never stops, but I'm getting somewhere!
Before I get going, I wanted to share a picture of my sweet daughter Ariana and her first trip to the dentist! Now, this actually took place over a week ago, but I'm going to go ahead and post a few pictures since this is my new starting point.

Publish Post

Here is the big girl getting her teeth checked out. I can tell why she wouldn't like it! I'm not a big fan of Dentists either :)

I'm a blogger!

2007-11-09T11:42:00.000-06:00

Hello, and welcome to my blog! I could say our blog, meaning Rob and I, but I know that I'll be the one making the posts. I hope that this gets used and that others actually visit my blog and interact with it! It's likely I'll keep it going if I know it's getting any visits! Well, I quess that's it for now! I hope this is a productive day for me, and ..... IT'S FRIDAY!!! YEAH!!