PB&J

CFC

2012-01-27T12:04:00.000-08:00

This is where I'm going this weekend ... called Created for Care an adoption retreat with women from all over sharing the life of adoption with one another. I have been looking forward to this since Sept. when we signed up.
It's going to be a car full of women I'm sure talking non stop about our husbands (sorry guys), our kids and just life. I don't know if I'm more excited about the girl time or learning how to be a better mom, the music worship time, some quiet time with God, how to care for Jonas' hair better, meeting new adoptive moms, or clocking out of being a mom for a weekend! Scott get ready to clock in bright and early .. this mommy is having a well deserved break this weekend.

http://createdforcare.org/ for more information, they do have a retreat in March you can catch!

Fresh Cut

2012-01-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

Some boys in our house got their hair cut yesterday...

Nothing more handsome than a fresh looking hair cut!

Jonas' face looks brighter (didn't know it could)

and beams of joy burst through his smile ...when his ears are lowered.

Plus you clearly see those precious most scrumptious dimples in the world!

He is going to melt some girls heart with those!

I do think I have the cutest boys in the world!

Click here for details

"Kate's Hungry"

2012-01-25T07:23:00.000-08:00

( This is a reenactment)

Jonas was being mama's helper while I turned my back for a minute ...

"Kate's Hungry... Kate's Hungry... Mommy!" Jonas kept saying

"Umm... I think to myself he's up to something"

as I walked in to see the pile of puffs on the tray.

Oh is Kate hungry or is Jonas? he looked up and laughed...
oh Jonas you are just too silly

( FYI They were in their cute Hawaiian clothes dressing for daddy as he was coming home from Hawaii)

Pretty as a ...

2012-01-24T11:05:00.000-08:00

Princess

Brooke strikes again, Jonas has been made over into a beautiful princess.

If you have a sister and you're the brother it's like a right of passage

to be best brother by wearing dress up clothes.

Jonas it's official you have been princess-ified, now you get the true brother award.

He sure did like wearing it! He couldn't stop laughing

You can tell who didn't fall for it this time...

Momma crush

2012-01-19T11:50:00.000-08:00

Yes, Kate has a Momma crush .. it's precious and I'm eating every bit of it up as

I know someday she's going to hate me...

you know it's true, don't all girls go through that phase of hating their mothers? I know I did and still do struggle. .. just being honest. So, these moments won't last forever but I'm going to hold on to them as much as I can. When I walk in the room you can just see her little heart melt and she gives me that huge wide mouth smile with a panting laugh. Oh how I want to save it and put it in a box to pull out her sweet voice. I love this baby phase as when I pick her up I say MAMA and yes, I have heard her say it in return a few times. I know she doesn't really understand what she's saying but still I'm noting it now that she said the word mama first:)

Cuddle time after a nap is the best

I just can't tell you enough how easy she is ... Look at those sweet blue eyes and her innocents glace

Oh, if only she could stay this way forever!

Click here for details

Mean Mommy

2012-01-10T11:25:00.000-08:00

Ok Kate smile for the princess

so I can get a cute picture and put it on my blog...

Not bad but really want one of those toothless grins you do

Oh ya you want to hold it and eat it ....just for a second, then let me have it so I can wave it in front of you for that priceless smile ... "cheese!!"

oops not quite what I was looking for... you can have it now ...

I know I'm a mean mommy:)

One More ...

2012-01-06T06:56:00.001-08:00

The Annual Cousin Christmas picture is getting more and more difficult to take.

This year with two new babies to the group made for a challenge that didn't last long as everyone was antsy and was not in the mood...especially the babies.

This was the best of the bunch

But most of them looked like this, which really captures the moment better.

Highlights over Christmas Break

2012-01-05T11:54:00.000-08:00

I guess I really can't move on from 2011 yet as this last month just went way to fast...

still can't believe Christmas is over!

Yes, I'm still living in the past but here are some fun highlights over Christmas break.

Our traditional Christmas Eve at our friends house

She is so brave having this many kids destroy her house the night before Christmas.
All our small group and her family joins for dinner and
a night of fun with live music from our own accordion player.

Another fun night with friends

We cooked our first Pork Crown Roast ... a gift from my family

So yummy!

This is Gingy from the movie Shrek.

I took the twins to decorate a yummy gingerbread house.

Here's our final creation, we ate the final bites last night

Us girls on Christmas morning.. all together in our pink!

I promise the last embrace the camera pictures from 2011:)

Click here for details

A New Kind of Pockets

2012-01-03T13:35:00.000-08:00

Oh, there is never a dull moment with our little J-man.

You just don't know when he's going to crack you up, he is our very own comedian.

You may see these pictures below and wonder why in the world does Jonas have on a bike helmet and girls swimming bottoms on?

Strange yes, but to Jonas perfectly normal.

He got a new scooter for Christmas and I think he really was more excited about wearing Parker's helmet.

I'm not quite clear on how he ended up with girls swimming suit bottoms??

but the girls were swimming on Christmas day ...

crazy I know but believe me it was warm here.

Then Mimi is giving J-man his gifts... his very own Lighten McQueen and Mater "from Car 2" he will tell you.

They are so he doesn't steal Parker's anymore they can each have their own.

The first thing he does with them is sticks them in his pockets just like Parker does ... opps he had forgotten he has a bikini bottoms on ...not sure why he expected that to work...oh well, might work anyways he kept trying ...
fell right out .... "oh umm" he says

Does it again and again .. concentrating very hard

Then he finally gets it and he's so proud

and of course we are all dying laughing so hard.

So glad I didn't pee my pants I was laughing so hard ...

oh never a dull moment with this cutie pie!

ICE

2011-12-29T12:08:00.000-08:00

Besides having great weather another great thing about living in Fl is all the theme parks and great activities you can do with your kids. This year we took an overnight trip to Gaylord Palms hotel where they had a special event called Shrek ICE. It was a series of rooms you walk through that everything was sculptured with ice. The temperature was freezing just below 30 degrees and for us Floridians that's cold :)

Which gave an extra boost of energy for the kids as they were hyper..

One of the funniest parts was Jonas as he walked he looked like a penguin with his big blue jacket ..

we all couldn't stop laughing

The kids had a ball and just loved every part of it ...

Even Kate liked the cold and the pretty pink dragon

I think you can tell who had the most fun!

We told him he was in the out house where Shrek goes potty and he thought that was funny...

There was multiple slides you could choose to go down JONAS was obsessed and it was hard to keep up with him as he would slide down and then immanently go running up the stairs to do it again. He really didn't get the concept of waiting in line so, we had to find the one with the shortest line. He would ask the guy to push him so he would go faster and boy did he fly down it fast because of weighing less. Brooke got the hang of sitting on the inside of her jacket to pick up speed... but they raced once and Jonas still won. He would have done it a hundred times but our fingers were frozen.. next time gloves are a must.

Click here for more details

1st Christmas

2011-12-27T18:04:00.000-08:00

Kate's First Christmas

It's hard to believe last year on Christmas morning we were finding out the sex of this sweet little baby ... If you don't remember the video we took .. take a look Here ... still chokes me up! I do think my favorite Christmas present ever but even better this year was having her here with us!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T08:35:00.000-08:00

From our Family to yours!!

Isaiah 9:6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

The Annual Company Party

2011-12-22T05:45:00.000-08:00

That time again?? Yes for me the dreaded company Christmas Party.

I struggle every year with wanting to go. So exciting to go hang out with a bunch of people I see only once a year and make small talk about your lives, while trying to impress the big wigs of the company (did you catch the sarcasm??). For me it's kind of fake and not on the top of the things I would choose to do. I'm not good at smooching .. I'm very honest and outspoken so I'm not good at watching what I say.

It's always the busiest week of the year, which can be stressful as my mind is racing on what was I suppose to bring to the school party and program next week. You have to find a nice dress you only wear once... which I hate to shop and waste money. In the past we have gotten in fights because I don't want to go, which I know is not fair. Well, this year I turned a new leaf... I didn't want to complain and I wanted to love my husband as I know this is something that means so much to him. It's his one time of year to introduce me to the people that he sees more than me on a daily basis. It's my job as a wife to step it up! I asked my sweet friend to let me borrow a dress, which was a huge relief. I put all other distractions aside and focused on my husband by listening about all the fun dynamics in the office. In the end, I really did meet some great people and usually do. It's a small sacrifice to show my husband how much I love him and what a difference it made this year. I would ask you to do the same and hopefully feel the same as I did.

Is there something you need to sacrifice for you spouse?

I'm embracing the camera with my hubby this week

Who are you embracing the camera with?

Click here for more details

Parade #2

2011-12-21T05:20:00.000-08:00

Much better than the 1st one in my book. It's at night and in our neighborhood plus with our friends...nothing better

It was another fun night with one of our closest friends here.

Our kids line up so well ...

Mason and Parker The older boys

Lyla & Brooke The girls

Tate & Jonas the toddlers

soon to be Kate and ADA coming home in 2012 from Ethiopia! Yes that is right they are joining the adoption world with us.

Check our their story ... HERE Just can't wait to have her home!

Last Minute Shoppers

2011-12-19T13:48:00.001-08:00

Shopping with New Purpose

Since having Jonas home it's helped me to realize Christmas season in a new light. It's given me a new perspective to the running around endlessly buying gifts for our families that have so much already and really you don't even know if they would enjoy anyways. It's a guessing game you play in your mind of if they already have something like this or would they even like it. Why not give to someone that is in desperate need of it? The past couple years our extended family stopped giving gifts to one another and instead we give to those that really need it. There are endless numbers of organizations that you can pick out gifts from catalogues. Like mosquito nets to prevent malaria, families to grow their own garden to have food, money towards a well project .. it's endless the different opportunities you have to give to make a difference.

Here a few organizations

Compassion Catalog, Samaritan’s Purse Catalog, Partner’s International Catalog, World Vision Catalog, Gospel for Asia Catalog, Mennonite Central Committee Catalog.

Also if you want to still give a gift to your love ones, a friend recently got me a gift from our local Ten Thousand Villages store.

It's a great way to help artisans in developing countries to earn income by bringing their products to our market. It's a fair trade retailer... the artists come from 38 different countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Middle East and America. There are more than 390 retail locations. What a unique gift... handcrafted expression of culture. I would encourage you to find one close to you or order online.

Click here to read more about them

Also if you want if you wanted to know some organizations that help support Africa and Orphan Care

Click Here for some great ideas!

For you locals...not sure if anyone saw the 60 Minutes spotlighting the homeless problem in Florida, but believe it or not 1/3 of all homeless people in the US live in the state of Florida. We watched this 60 minute special with the twins and you could see their little wheels turning. They couldn't believe people in our own town live in cars.

They want to make a difference... which the next day I was on the phone calling the rescue mission.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L2hzRPLVSm4&feature=youtu.be

It's up to us to make a difference to look at this season as a opportunity to be a servant to those in need and to give generously! How are you going to be doing this? Whether it be our neighbor, a stranger, relative, or a person from another country.. lets make their Christmas a little sweeter!

Cookies

2011-12-18T18:51:00.000-08:00

I will be the first to tell you I'm not a good baker. Even though i love to eat sweets, it's not my cup of tea. But I do like to do simple crafty projects... here's some I got from a fun great blog Come Together Kids she has endless fun ideas to do with your kids... her creativity is inspiring.

Brooke had a friend over from school, you like her showing off in the picture below?

Do you remember when you had a friend over when you were young and how you were super confident and showing off everything around your house? You actually hear stuff you thought they weren't listening to but instead they're retelling it to their friends... exacting what Brooke was doing... pretty funny

While the girls quickly got distracted by playing dress up. Parker hung around and helped me finished them. I'm sure the teacher at school enjoyed these for their teacher luncheon.

Tis the Season to be Merry

2011-12-16T06:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas is fast approaching, seems like the stores had it correct this year to start stocking Christmas items before thanksgiving because you forget how quickly it sneaks up on you. I wasn't really prepared this year, I'm sure one day I will learn to plan ahead. With a mad dash, I was able to find their Christmas PJ's on sale after thanksgiving. We usually give them their PJ's on the night we decorate the tree so they have them all month long to enjoy. This year we did it a night early so they could wear them to the local Christmas parade the next morning and then go shopping for our tree.Fun to walk around in your pj's all day:) Parker would live in his Pajamas if he could.

For once it was a cool outside so I wanted to take advantage of it.

This picture is for you college friends out there ...

Does Brooke remind you of someone?

with her pants hiked up... haha

apparently I might have wore my pants too high

At the Christmas Parade bright and early

Jonas not feeling very well :(

We have been to this parade the past few years and we always forget how long it is...

2 hours but lots of candy given to keep us on a sugar high.

Kate's first parade was spent mostly sleeping but many more to come.

It was a great start of the season with getting a tree, decorating it, and then out to dinner with some friends.

Huggable and Lovable....

2011-12-15T12:26:00.000-08:00

DADDY!!

Nothing sweeter than a dad with his youngest daughter!

May he be the example of the man she will marry someday ...

I can only hope she marries someone near as good as him!

Click here for details

"Will you have more?"

2011-12-14T13:56:00.000-08:00

It's funny the mom instincts that come when you are given a child ...
each month I have something new God lays on my heart that I need to work on within all my children's needs. It's a never ending journey and always a work in progress.

Life is rushing passed us and I'm trying to stop and enjoy but hard to do some days. Our thanksgiving was refreshing to get away to the cool crisp mountains and enjoy the beauty all around us. For me, I'm a mountain girl... I just feel so close to God when I'm up in the trees looking down on his beautiful creation. I could live there forever! I know heaven for me will be a taste of the feeling I get when I'm there.

Behind these beautiful professional looking pictures is real life .. yes, it's hard raising 4 individual children, harder than I could have ever imagined. All their personalities and needs are so different but I know I'm going to try my hardest to give it my all and hopefully with Gods help they will turn out to be lovers of Jesus and love the life they have been given here.

Most days I feel like the picture below ...

But know I am given grace and strength by the one that created me! The next day I pick up and try my hardest to do it better than the day before.

One question I get asked a lot is "Will you have more?" I say I don't know... only God does. But, for the 1st time in my life my heart is overflowing and a huge wave of contentment overflows my heart... a feeling I have never felt before.

The Boys

2011-12-13T11:34:00.000-08:00

The boys are bonding but I do have to say they struggle... Jonas adores Parker and looks up to him but Parker doesn't understand and wants his alone time playing with his toys without a pesty toddler bothering him. Everything Parker likes Jonas likes... I'm sure typical for boys their ages. I asked Jonas the other day "what do you want to be when grow up?" he said confidently "Cars 2!" doesn't really make sense but all he knows is that Parker is obsessed with Cars 2 so, he's wants to be it. Just wanted you to know they are normal .. behind these cute pictures of them they are still a work in progress. but aren't we all?

We try to think of ways to build their relationship and know with patience it will come. They couldn't really be any more opposite which I do think will pay off when they are older. Their relationship has a lot of challenges but good healthy ones that will help mold them on who they become one day.

I recently read a friend's blog post that gave me some wonderful insight...
Sibling Rivalry Part I
Sibling Rivalry Part 2
Sibling Rivalry Part 3
Sibling Rivalry Part 4

Parker

2011-12-10T12:27:00.000-08:00

Parker holds a special place in my heart being the first born (only by 11 minutes) and the 1st for me to lay eyes on... I was the happiest momma in the world. He is the one child I see the most in both Scott and I. He is a people pleaser and doesn't want to get in trouble. Getting in trouble has been really hard for him to handle. I think he thinks he honestly can be prefect all the time. I reassure him it's impossible, thank God! I worry about him the most, I don't know little boys as naturally and how they operate. I have a soft spot in my heart for him as I struggle just like him. I want to build up his self confidence. I want him to be prepared for disappointment when it comes his way... to be able to shake it off, to see it's given to build him stronger not defeat him. I wish I could hold him and protect him from the world. He would have honestly loved to be an only child and he strives on the extra attention when it's just with him. He loves his alone time just playing for hours. He craves the one on one time when we can give it to him. His favorite line is "mommy what you want to talk about?" when I sit next to him. He's such a precious child, so handsome and funny. If he only knew all the amazing potential he has to offer believe me I tell him... he's focused, smart, loving and complicated just like us all.

It's funny the mom instincts that come when you are given a child ...

each month I have something new God lays on my heart that I need to work on within all my children's needs. It's a never ending journey and always a work in progress. Hopefully with God's help he's going to grow into one amazing confident young man.

Kate

2011-12-09T05:27:00.001-08:00

Kate is now 5 months old and is starting to get on a good schedule, taking two good naps a day, sleeping through the night from 8pm to 6am. She is rolling over and sitting up ... yes sitting up... just crazy. Already teething wanting to chew on everything in sight. I have to say she is truly an easy baby. She didn't fuss once our entire 9 hour trip and back. All I have to do is look at her and she smiles... we are in love. I think she has a momma crush as i can instantly sooth her like no one else, which I can honestly say I love!

Recently, she has shown being upset when going to strangers. Oh no! I just know we have a stage 4 clinger in the making but truly I'm at fault as I want to enjoy every second of this babyhood before it's gone. She falls in the perfect line for being a 4th spoiled child .. as I am the most relaxed with bending the rules with her. I hope she doesn't get too rotten ..

Do you blame me? Look at her ... she is all I have dreamed of in a baby girl!

Happy Friday!

Jonas

2011-12-08T05:02:00.000-08:00

Jonas is learning his toddler boundaries

He's been so much better with listening but hey, he's two going on 15 what do you expect... perfect example "time to go Jonas," I said

He sits down and says "NO, I don't want to go.. I'm tired" and gives his cute pouting mean face hoping I would fall for it ...

I say "Uh oh Jonas come on ... let's make a right choice" and up he jumps. Wow, that worked I think to myself. Granted every day is different but he's been so much better at listening! But don't let him fool you with the cute face he's one big character non stop talking and has entered into the world of Whys!

Brooke

2011-12-06T14:04:00.000-08:00

The twins are becoming more mature helping me around the house daily. Doing their chores without me asking them. It's so nice not to nag and it's becoming a habit for them. Brooke really has been taking an older sister role. Her instincts of being a momma are so awesome to watch blossom, she reminds me of me when I was little. She knows exactly what her siblings need at all times, she jumps at the chance to change a diaper or feed a bottle or baby food. I just love to watch her talk baby talk to Kate... sounds just like me. Her patience is great when it comes to Jonas...more than mine some days! You would be amazed at what she can get him to do and the love she pours into him without much back in return. She is trying to show him the right way even though some days she needs to take her own advise. Her strong willed spirit is becoming a good tool in her character. Her nurturing heart is just beautiful and so genuine. I love her determination to do what is right.. her bossiness keeping the kids in line because she knows it's a lot on mommy to have 4 children so she instantly wants to help (that's what she told me the other day.. sad, I know) Also, she is becoming quite the cook wanting to help me with dinner every night. She is going to be one amazing wife and mommy someday... she is a little mommy in training!

Oh if I could have a penny for her thoughts in this picture. she was the first to walk up the mountain .. leading all of us behind her.. which I think is a reflection of who she is becoming.

Hallelujah

2011-12-05T14:33:00.000-08:00

The house is quiet .... all 4 kids are taking a nap today at the same time! It's amazing and rarely happens. I'm seeing the light at the end of the tunnel... that someday I will have my hour of quiet in the afternoon back. Without realizing it I took a little blogging break... it seemed the weeks were flying by like days. A broken camera has been keeping me from posting as no-one really wants to read blog post without fun photos to go along with it.

Well, no longer I was feeling guilty as I swear Kate has about 10 photos since she has been born ... so sad totally due to being the 4th child. I went to get a cheap point and shoot camera and walked away with a good one. With 5 different people convincing me I needed a good camera with 4 children, I grabbed it and didn't think twice ... with in a week later Scott had told me he's getting money back from his non sick days he didn't take at work which was the price of the camera. So disciplined and honestly on Scott's end got me a new camera .. nice how things work out sometimes:)

Anyways, the camera was so fun to play with while in NC. Really, it's priceless to capture these pictures. I feel like I have a professional with me at all times.

So much is changing right before our eyes and fun to capture those moments through a lens ...

( more to come )

The Money Shot

2011-12-01T16:00:00.000-08:00

A Dad and his boys in the mountains ... priceless!

More to come about our Thanksgiving in Asheville, NC

Click here to learn more

Captured

2011-11-20T19:10:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, I had a moment in the morning when I felt the walls coming down... really a mother's version of a tantrum. Where my mind starts racing and the overwhelming piles of things I can't get done kept flying through my mind or anxious thoughts about my children how I need to read a book to give me better tips how I parent them, and as a wife all the needs to help uplift my husband. It was a mile long list that I am never ever going to accomplish but somehow my mind still wants to go there. I know we all struggle with the demanding life we live... we are all busy and consumed with so many things that in the long run really don't matter and take our focus off the things that really do matter. Well, I had a perspective change that morning as I had a laundry list of "to do's" that just had to get done..

I had been stressing over all week.

The day before a friend of mine in our girls bible study was having surgery at exactly noon that we all prayed for a "Sun Stand Still" moment that the doctors would not find cancer during her lung biopsy.

It was a pretty good God moment as we as a group were on our knees praying for a miracle without any word until Saturday morning.. I had been anxiously waiting to hear news when my friend texted me back ... "It is Cancer". My heart sank and within a minute my mind shifted and my heart sank after i got off the phone with my friend... really? I thought... what in the world was I stressing about?? I came downstairs and the veil had been lifted and I could see clearly... I have one beautiful HEALTHY family and it's time to put the distractions aside and focus on what's important... the little blessings that are running around this house. We packed the car up with every outside toy, grabbed a picnic blanket, stopped by subway to get lunch and went to the neighborhood park. We ate lunch and played for hours and hours... the kids skipped their naps and we just enjoyed being together as a family. We all didn't want to leave.. it was just prefect. Thank you Lord for that perspective change to capture the moment you have given me on this earth ... we just don't know when life could take a change for the worse.

Throughout the time I couldn't stop praying for my friend, a mother of three little children. Oh how it breaks my heart but her strength is amazing and so inspiring to those all around her ... she is changing people lives all around her.. the light of Jesus is shining right through her.

She is positive and very hopeful. God has big plans for her

and all the people she is touching.

Please join me in praying for her ... a complete healing of her body!

For The Record ...

2011-11-12T08:23:00.000-08:00

Better late than never ... here's a few pictures from our fun Halloween night. It was our 4th annual chili and trick or treating Halloween Party! We invited our neighbors and a few friends to join us. Our neighborhood is great for trick or treating because the houses are so close together. So everyone from everywhere comes and the sidewalks are packed with people. Which makes it feel like a big block party. All the neighbors sit on their front porch to pass out candy, very convenient for the kids.

This year Kate was a ballerina, Jonas was a friendly spider, Brooke a snow princess and Parker Darth Vader, Scott was a pumpkin and I was a witch.

The gang all ready to head out ...

At the end of the night Brooke discovered how fun it was to pass out candy. She sat on the sidewalk handing out all her candy and some of Jonas' because we had ran out. I think she realized it's just as fun to give the candy as it is to get it. Who would have thought you could learn a good lesson on Halloween :)

Birthday Bash

2011-10-25T12:14:00.000-07:00

This year for the twins birthdays, I let them have separate small birthday parties. I thought since being 5 it's a big year and why not do something a little more special for them? They already share so much it's time to let them bring out their individual personalities. They both wanted to help plan every detail. Brooke wanted a princess tea party. She invited 6 of her closest friends to dress up, she picked the invitations, cake, and decorations. We pulled out the great grandmother's china, made tea sandwiches, and set up fun activity stations which were nail painting, necklace making and face painting.

Our family came for the special occasion and made the day so special!

Even wore crowns for the event

The girls in their special princess dresses

Birthday Cake Time!

It was so fun to make your child feel so loved and special .. she was beaming all day ear to ear and appreciated every minute... later that night she told me it was one of her best days ever.

Next was Parker's big day, he was originally the one who started the separate days as he's been begging to go play miniature golf (not putt putt by Parker's standards). He had gone the year before and was scared to go through the cave and boy he's talked about going back ever since. He wanted to conquer his fears and play golf through the dark haunted cave.

He decided on a lighting McQueen theme, cookie cake,

and just father's and sons.

The cave was a piece of cake with daddy by his side.

Parker even got a hole in one on his special day

The cool golf dudes

Parker blowing out his candles, sitting in the kings chair! He was loving all the extra royal treatment! Look who couldn't resist helping him blow out the candles:) It was a packed weekend with lots of fun memories... hopefully one they will never forget.

4th year for...

2011-10-13T11:52:00.000-07:00

our birthday breakfast! It wouldn't be a complete birthday without the special birthday pancakes.

One day they are going to want to change it up and order something besides chocolate chip pancakes. Then one day they might be too busy for their birthday breakfast or one day they might do this fun tradition with their kids:) One thing I do know is that I need to enjoy the moments now as I know they are precious and going just too fast.

Click here for details

Whole Hand Old

2011-10-12T13:03:00.000-07:00

I just can't believe my sweet babies turn 5 years old today!! I know everyone says it goes so fast but it's true, the last 5 years have been the fastest years in my life. All the chunky cheeks have faded and the sweet baby voices have turned to be more wise. You feel like a lot of your molding and instruction as a parent have turned a new leaf ... things you have taught them are being shown in their character and slowly they are becoming their own personality. As you catch them telling a friend about something you have said before or sharing a toy by being generous, or seeing them become such sweet friends, doing things you before have told them but now doing them automatically... making you a proud parent. All our hard work is paying off... the consistency of discipline is making a difference and you are starting to see the impact it making in their lives. As a past kindergarten teacher, at age 5 it's by far the BEST age in my book. Their foundation has been laid but become even more sponges of learning about the life around them.

I truly think the fun has just begun.

Their love is like no other ... this morning I found them snuggled talking in bed together. We joke that they are like an old married couple. They know what the other is going to say before they say it ,they hardly fight and are good about looking out for one another, and having completely different personalities that complement each other so well. They are so blessed to have each other to share life with. I just love how close they are!

1st Parker birthday Kiss...a little strong

Then Brooke lands a big one on him in return...

Jonas is thinking" looks like a little too much Brooke"

Jonas is off to school and the twins head to breakfast

The twins are officially a whole hand old ...

I remember thinking that was cool when I was little

I think this year will be a year of the sillies with lots of jokes that don't make sense but we will always laugh anyways.

Parker hugging Brooke too tight .. her with a fake smile saying that hurts

Then Parker loosen up but pulls another funny face ...

Brooke is thinking "Really Parker?"

When visiting them at school for a little celebration Parker is elbowing Brooke to get her to Laugh... I'm telling you it's like they have been married for years. It's just too cute! Who wouldn't want a Twin brother or sister to share life with!?

Happy Birthday sweet kids!

So glad you made me a mommy 5 years ago truly the best years of my life!

Cousin Lovin'

2011-10-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

With only three months between these two little munchkins .. these cousins are bound to be best friends. They got some bonding time together while we were at the wedding. Kate had lots to tell Ansley...

she talked her ear off and Ansley just replied with her normal bird swak.

So cute to see them interact and already starting with their many stories they are going to tell.

Mr. & Mrs.

2011-10-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

The wedding was beautiful! After Scott being gone for 7 days to Ireland leaving me with the kids we thought it was only fair that I got to attend his cousins wedding. I abousently adore her and wanted to share in her special day!! So I jumped on a plane with baby Kate to Scott's cousin Kelsey's wedding. As with every wedding there was drama but nothing could hold these two back from being united as one. It was gorgeous weather and a priceless setting on a ranch (which pictures really don't do it justice).

It overflowed with Kelsey's fun country side of her soul... daisy's all around, horses to greet you at the entrance of the ranch, and she and her bridesmades even wore cowgirl boots with their dresses.

My beautiful Nieces were the flower girls

They did an amazing job, listened closely to every word the minster said

and were so emotional after

I love this picture, it has been a roller coaster for them all week but it all disappeared at this moment. Really they have had a lot to deal with in their relationship... much more than most.

Look in the sky a bright light shined above them (no I promise it's not my camera )... I took two or three of them right after another and none of them had this in them. All I can say is that there was some celebrating in the heavens for finally this union.

These are two strong and mature Christians that have an amazing life ahead of them. Their minster spoke directly to them and captured all our hearts. I cried tears of joy that finally they are getting a chance to start a family they have always dreamed of... reminded me of the day I got married.

We are lucky... when they return home from their honeymoon they are packing up their bags to move to sunny Florida. We get to share in their new chapter together. Hopefully we will be a wonderful support. I tell you they are one strong couple that has a lot in store for them and their love for Jesus is overflowing to everyone around them.

Congrats Kelsey and Josh to many years of happiness that awaits you both!

By the way baby Kate was perfect, didn't cry the entire weekend except for the last 30 minute delay on the flight. Hopefully she's going to be the easy child??

Off to Oklahoma

2011-09-29T07:55:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm off to Oklahoma for Scott's cousin's wedding. Just Kate and I...

First ever flight for baby Kate!

click here for details

Girls Night Out

2011-09-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had a fun and special girls night out. All the girls dressed up in Princess dresses for the evening event. We ate dinner at Houlihans enjoyed girl talk so much losing tack of time...we quickly hurry to the show. We went to Disney On Ice actually it was Rapunzel on Ice was the main show but still had all the princesses there.

It was very exciting and the girls loved every minute of it!

On the way to dinner

Pretty as a Princess

I enjoyed the girl time too

Hyper and getting excited

Intense audience not wanting to miss a single minute

It was a hit and a night to remember.

One of the sweet mom's actually bought a few fun souvenirs for each of the girls to remember the night.

I still remember when I was little going with my parents, one memory that I hold dear to my heart. There is something magical watching your little girl fall in love with the wonderful fairly tail of love. I think I will remember it as much as she does.

Update from the 5 for 5 campaign they raised another $8000 to help those affected by the famine in Ethiopia!

It's crazy the grand total raised is 33,000 so far

You can still donate at "see your impact" site

Let's take action and make a difference for those in need!

Birthday Breakfast

2011-09-22T13:14:00.000-07:00

Its our yearly tradition to take the kids to our special breakfast place on their actual birthday. This year we decided only to take Jonas to get some one on one time. He loved the extra attention and was so well behaved.

All my kids one on one are a complete joy to be around when they don't have to fight to get attention.

We ordered the best chocolate chip pancakes with whip creme. Yummy!

I think everyone in the restaurant was looking at us as we made a big deal over everything Jonas would say and do. They all knew it was his birthday, people at all the tables were saying hi and talking to him. I tell you he's going to be famous someday as he draws in a crowd. A funny thing happened as I thought I was going to die of embarrassment. The couple that sat behind us kept saying how cute he was and laughing at the things he would say until he kept saying "baby?, baby?" I looked at Scott " Is there a baby over there?" He didn't see one, I turned around and looked and didn't see one either. By this time Jonas had said it about a hundred times then it clicked when he pointed he had thought the lady behind us had a baby in her tummy. I thought I would die what do you I say? Thank goodness baby Kate was with us and I could redirect him that he has a baby sister. I tried to quickly get his attention to something else. He still tells me I have a baby in my tummy all the time but to a stranger that doesn't is another thing. Oh my gosh was I embarrassed!

It's just crazy what kids can say and if you know Jonas he's going to tell you like it is!

He was more excited about the sausage then the pancakes

The yearly family birthday breakfast photo(that's a mouth full)

It's near impossible to get a picture where Jonas is not moving, talking or being funny but you can quickly see his energetic personality! He is one non stop two year old... watch out world here he comes!

click here for details

Party Time

2011-09-22T07:11:00.000-07:00

This last Saturday was Jonas first actual birthday party. He turned 2 years old! To be truthful he seems so much older as he hangs so well with the older kids and has been talking for so long. But he will quickly remind you that he's two when he throws that fun 2 year old tantrum. He had a great day and was on cloud 9 knowing it was his special day. There was an extra hop in his step all day. He was very excited that his friends came to celebrate.

Our cousins Ellie and Abby came!

Super Nanny Rachel was there!

Jonas loves the water splashing game

Daddy and Mimi with Miss Sunshine

Pouring water over Pops game

The cute girls

The handsome boys (Yes Parker is digging in his nose, classic)

Trying to get Jonas' toddler friends together (impossible)

only missing Miss Olivia, too intimating with 3 boys

Miss Olivia and family

Pizza Time

Jonas was lovin licking the cake icing and talking to Elmo and Friends

About to sing "Happy Birthday" (proof I was actually at the party)

It's funny as only three families came but had 16 kids there. That should tell you we hang out with some big families. I don't remember the twins being close to their friends at 2 years old but Jonas is... he loves them and talks about them all the time. It was a very special day and fun to pour into our sweet little J-man.

A Birthday Wish

2011-09-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

Our sweet, fun, loving Jonas turns two today!

Today is the day that God brought this precious little boy into the world. What a gift he has been for us and our family. His joy for life is priceless and like no other.. you can tell when he smiles as it melts the heart of a stranger in seconds. He is a gift and given to us to be in our family forever. I know when God designed this precious little boy in his mother's womb God knew he created him for our family. He is teaching us about life.. he shows us a different perspective from his eyes and personalty. This day for me is also a remembrance of his mother that carried him! I reflect on what she must have endured with birthing him. How she felt when she first held him in her arms? This morning at breakfast I instantly get choked up thinking she is watching us care for her son loving and caring for him. As he eats his chocolate chip pancakes with whipped cream I know she is smiling down from the heavens.. She must be proud and at peace knowing he's in our arms. I also think she must have been just as beautiful as he is! I look deep into his eyes seeing a glimpse of what his mother looked like. I wonder if she had his dimples or distinct Ethiopian looking chin or expressive eyebrows or cute button nose. One day I hope to meet her in heaven and tell her all about this precious child I'm so very proud to call mine.

Happy birthday sweet boy!

Jonas was born in the beautiful country of Ethiopia by a mother that struggled with her health and life. I can only imagine how much she must have endured.... with living is a small village with limited water and resources. Just like the rest that struggle there today. Even while I write this there is a HUGE problem going on in his country. Which makes it personal for our family to want to act and help. There is a food and water crisis going on, the biggest one in 60 years... one that is affecting 12.4 million people within 3 countries.

Jonas and Haben are both from Ethiopia and have family members still there suffering and struggling. If they could I know they would want to make a stand and make a difference for their ancestors.

Until they have their voice it's my job to speak up.

I know when Jonas is old enough to understand his birthday wish could be to help the people in his country.

So today our birthday wish is for you to join us in helping.

Jonas is one of the few children that gets a chance for a better life. A life with endless water and food, now it's your turn to make a difference. We are asking you to join us in participating with Asking $5 for 5! Wouldn't it be a nice gift for Jonas to know we are making a difference for his country and his heritage? We are asking you to give just $5 and find 5 friends to give $5 to help. Very simple donate today at this link all funds are going to World Vision. We can make a big difference!

A fellow blogger has step up wanting to make a difference. Please read about her story below!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Guest Blogger: Sarah Lenssen from #Ask5for5

Family photos by Mike Fiechtner Photography

Thank you Heidi and nearly 150 other bloggers from around the world for allowing me to share a story with you today, during Social Media Week.

A hungry child in East Africa can't wait. Her hunger consumes her while we decide if we'll respond and save her life. In Somalia, children are stumbling along for days, even weeks, on dangerous roads and with empty stomachs in search of food and water. Their crops failed for the third year in a row. All their animals died. They lost everything. Thousands are dying along the road before they find help in refugee camps.

At my house, when my three children are hungry, they wait minutes for food, maybe an hour if dinner is approaching. Children affected by the food crisis in in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia aren't so lucky. Did you know that the worst drought in 60 years is ravaging whole countries right now, as you read this? Famine, a term not used lightly, has been declared in Somalia. This is the world's first famine in 20 years.12.4 million people are in need of emergency assistance and over 29,000 children have died in the last three months alone. A child is dying every 5 minutes. It it estimated that 750,000 people could die before this famine is over. Take a moment and let that settle in.

The media plays a major role in disasters. They have the power to draw the attention of society to respond--or not. Unfortunately, this horrific disaster has become merely a footnote in most national media outlets. News of the U.S. national debt squabble and the latest celebrity's baby bump dominate headlines. That is why I am thrilled that nearly 150 bloggers from all over the world are joining together today to use the power of social media to make their own headlines; to share the urgent need of the almost forgotten with their blog readers. Humans have the capacity to care deeply for those who are suffering, but in a situation like this when the numbers are too huge to grasp and the people so far away, we often feel like the little we can do will be a drop in the ocean, and don't do anything at all.

When news of the famine first hit the news in late July, I selfishly avoided it. I didn't want to read about it or hear about it because I knew I would feel overwhelmed and uncomfortable. I wanted to protect myself. I knew I would need to do something if I knew what was really happening. You see, this food crisis is personal. I have a 4-year-old son and a 1 yr-old daughter who were adopted from Ethiopia and born in regions now affected by the drought. If my children still lived in their home villages, they would be two of the 12.4 million. My children: extremely hungry and malnourished? Gulp. I think any one of us would do anything we could for our hungry child. But would you do something for another mother's hungry child?

My friend and World Vision staffer, Jon Warren, was recently in Dadaab Refugee Camp in Kenya--the largest refugee camp in the world with over 400,000 people. He told me the story of Isnino Siyat, 22, a mother who walked for 10 days and nights with her husband, 1 yr-old-baby, Suleiman, and 4 yr.-old son Adan Hussein, fleeing the drought in Somalia. When she arrived at Dadaab, she built the family a shelter with borrowed materials while carrying her baby on her back. Even her dress is borrowed. As she sat in the shelter on her second night in camp she told Jon, "I left because of hunger. It is a very horrible drought which finished both our livestock and our farm." The family lost their 5 cows and 10 goats one by one over 3 months, as grazing lands dried up. "We don't have enough food now...our food is finished. I am really worried about the future of my children and myself if the situation continues."

Will you help a child like Baby Suleiman? Ask5for5 is a dream built upon the belief that you will.

That something I knew I would need to do became a campaign called#Ask5for5 to raise awareness and funds for famine and drought victims. The concept is simple, give $5 and ask five of your friends to give $5, and then they each ask five of their friends to give $5 and so on--in nine generations of 5x5x5...we could raise $2.4 Million! In one month, over 750 people have donated over $25,000! I set up a fundraiser at See Your Impact and 100% of the funds will go to World Vision, an organization that has been fighting hunger in the Horn of Africa for decades and will continue long after this famine has ended. Donations can multiply up to 5 times in impact by government grants to
help provide emergency food, clean water, agricultural support,
healthcare, and other vital assistance to children and families suffering in the Horn.

I need you to help me save lives. It's so so simple; here's what you need to do:

Donate $5 or more on this page(http://seeyourimpact.org/members/ask5for5)

Send an email to your friends and ask them to join us.

Share #Ask5for5 on Facebook and Twitter!

I'm looking for another 100 bloggers to share this post on their blogs throughout Social Media Week. Email me at ask5for5@gmail.com if you're interested in participating this week.

A hungry child doesn't wait. She doesn't wait for us to finish the other things on our to-do list, or get to it next month when we might have a little more money to give. She doesn't wait for us to decide if she's important enough to deserve a response. She will only wait as long as her weakened little body will hold on...please respond now and help save her life. Ask 5 for 5.

Thank you on behalf of all of those who will be helped--you are saving lives and changing history.

p.s. Please don't move on to the next website before you donate and email your friends right now. It only takes 5 minutes and just $5, and if you're life is busy like mine, you probably won't get back to it later. Let's not be a generation that ignores hundreds of thousands of starving people, instead let's leave a legacy of compassion. You have the opportunity to save a life today!

Conversation with Jonas

2011-09-16T14:27:00.001-07:00

Make a video - it's fun, easy and free!
www.onetruemedia.com

I know this video might be a little long and blurry but fun to
catch a glimpse of Jonas' fun personality.
He still says "no" instead of "yes" but now does it to be funny.

He has a big weekend ahead of him and I don't think he knows what to expect.
It's hard to believe he will be 2 years old on Monday.
We are having a small Elmo party on Saturday so stay tuned for some pictures.

Help Me Jesus

2011-09-15T06:41:00.000-07:00

Just when you think school begins "wow I'm going to have so much more time on my hands now" .. well, that was funny... still not a minute to spare throughout the day and now you throw in getting everyone ready for school in the morning it's just busy chaos. I'm coming to the reality that it's the new norm around here everyday a little different and not to be fooled if it goes smoothly for a hour or two and think I have it under control because within a few minutes it can all go crazy. I really think it's God's sense of humor to think I could actually have control when it's all his and when I'm not leaning on him is when the total chaos begins. I'm slowly learning I need to be leaning on him through every weak moment throughout the day not just when I think I have a little extra time to spend with him. It needs to be every second, every minute of the day when the control goes right from under me to let it go and God will show up, picking me up, sharing his strength to get us through it. My new line I need to get into a good habit of saying out loud is "Help me Jesus" hopefully my kids will learn from my example that I cannot lean on my own strength and do it without Gods help. He has entrusted me with 4 of his children it's my job to do all that I can to raise them up in his kingdom. OH "Help Me Jesus!"

p.s. Thank the Lord for my gift of a wonderful loving Husband that isn't giving up and supports me along the way. (As I type this he's cleaning the kitchen... see I told ya he's amazing) I couldn't do it without you Scott! By the way our 8th year Anniversary was one of the best:)

Click here for details

Blog Hijack!!!!!!

2011-09-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

Only on rare occasions do I hijack this blog, but today is one of those days. Today Heidi and I are celebrating our 8 year anniversary! A little over 10 years ago I laid eyes on her for the first time and I have never been the same since. For those of you that don’t know how we met, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and keep reading.
The year was 2001 and I had my first real job out of college as a graphics coordinator for the production of all the Senior Tour golf events for the year. It was a pretty cool job to have as a young single guy as I got to travel the country (flying) to 30+ events and have a fun job in sports. In the meantime, Heidi took a job with a marketing company where she would travel the country (driving in a Tahoe…road rules style with 3 other co-workers) to golf tournaments getting people to sign up for MasterCards.

At the beginning of the year one if my best friends told me about a girl he knew from college, Heidi, that was traveling around to golf tournaments and I should go check her out/introduce myself. I decided to check her out that week (ya, she was hot!) but I was too shy to introduce myself. It wasn’t until a few weeks later when we were both in Valencia California when we finally met. Our mutual friend Chad was living in LA so he drove out to Valencia to have dinner with me and he invited Heidi and her friend to join us. After that night I knew I had to pursue this girl. She was beautiful, funny, outgoing…just perfect.
The next time I got to see her was in Jacksonville, Fl where I lived. She was there doing The PLAYERS Championship which happened to be postponed to finish on Monday because of bad weather. I was flying on a red-eye back from California on Sunday night and we agreed to meet up Monday night for dinner and drinks with her crew that she traveled with. She was supposed to leave on Tuesday to drive to Atlanta for her next event, but I wanted to see her more. I offered to drive her and her friend up to Atlanta on Wednesday if they wanted to stay and hang out on Tuesday. If I was playing a card game, I basically just showed her all of my cards when I offered to drive 12 hours round trip from Jax to Atlanta just to get to spend one more day with her. Well, she didn’t stay…just kidding! She stayed and we had a day that we will never forget. We stayed up until about 3AM just flirting, talking, and getting to know each other. The next day I drove her and her friend back to Atlanta and actually dropped her off at her family’s house (I think they thought I was crazy!)
A couple weeks later I drove up to Hilton Head to see her (much shorter drive than Atlanta!). This is where we had our first “date”. I came to her tent around noon and we walked to lunch right under the famous lighthouse in Harbour Town. I remember it being such a beautiful day… we grabbed a hamburger and some peel and eat shrimp and found a bench to sit on and get to know each other better. That night we went to a fun place called Wild Wing Café that was right across the street from her hotel where we had a big table of people (her co-workers and a few of my CBS friends)…we had a fun night eating wings, drinking beer, and listing to the live band. When the night was over I walked her back to her hotel. We were having a pretty deep conversation which had the theme of her not wanted to a relationship right now and just wanting to have a fun year traveling the country. We got to her room and continued to talk just outside of her room when I couldn’t stand it anymore… I grabbed her and planted one on her…Our first kiss! If she wasn’t confused before, I just escalated it to another level for her. What is this boy doing? Didn’t I just tell him I didn’t want a relationship?
Well, from then on I stayed persistent…I wasn’t going to let this one get away. For the rest of the year we continued to date, but not just your average dates… this was like dream dating. Since we were in a different city every week our dates after Hilton Head were in Birmingham, Nashville, Boston, Cape Cod, Grand Rapids, Chicago, Park City, New York City, Napa, Minneapolis, San Antonio, and Oklahoma City. Talk about adventure! It was such a fun way to start a relationship… a part of our life that we will never forget.

I love you Heidi Rodenbaugh Armstrong…you are the woman of my dreams, my best friend, my lover, and the best thing that has ever happened to me. Thanks for a great 8 years of marriage!

-Scott

Rainy Day

2011-08-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

Yes this is what we do on rainy days .. build a fort and snuggle

Seems perfect for the winds and rain outside from the passing hurricane

Brooke had done my hair.. you like?

I didn't realize someone was so sleepy

Have a fun weekend!

click here for detail

Ready for School

2011-08-23T19:31:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year, summer has come to a close as the kids are now ready to start school. This is one year I can say we are all ready with the new addition of baby Kate it has left us all a little stir crazy. Back to somewhat of a normal rotinue will be good for us all.
Before the big day there were the many things to get done...

1st on the list getting new shoes. Yes, I pulled the trigger and got the goddy twinkle toes shoes for Brooke... she wanted them so badly I caved when they were on sale. Nice running shoes for the boys..Parker is convinced they make him run faster. Poor Jonas, the minute he ran in his new shoes he tripped and skinned his knee... back to the store to get a smaller size.

Trying on our new shoes.

Next on the list, individual "dates" to get their haircut, lunch boxes, and back packs. The kids have been really craving some one-on-one time with mommy so we call them a date. I love them as much as the kids do being able to just pour into one child and check in with them to see how their doing. You would be amazed the things you can talk about plus whats more fun then just spending quality time making your child feel special?

Brooke's new hair cut and Hello Kitty back pack

Jonas getting a long overdue hair cut .. the summer fro is gone

3. Meet the teacher day. We took a chance with Brooke and Parker's VPK class and picked the class with the new teacher they hadn't hired yet. When we went to it I was shocked to see it was my friend from my church bible study. God knew exactly where they needed to be. After visiting with old friends at school the kids came home to practice playing school.

When I was growing up my Aunt had a fun tradition that I started with my kids this year. It's a special fun day getting to do whatever you want before heading back to school. We loaded up on all the junk food you can imagine.. oreos, chocolate chip cookies, gummies, cotton candy, chocolate covered peanuts, sprite and root beer. The stuff I don't typically let my kids have. Then rented 3 movies and told the kids they can stay in their PJ's all day. Parker was the most excited as 1st thing in the morning he ran into my room asking if today was the day!? It was fun alright and I think a tradition that we will do again.

What a cutie pie!

We made a huge bed on the living room floor to cuddle on

This picture is the few minutes I got Jonas watching the movie ... still doesn't like watching tv

So precious they were holding hands cuddling

After church we went shopping for all their school supplies
We were all prepared for the 2011-12 school year.
On Monday was their 1st day... it went great and both came home excited to start Pre-K

Yes, even little Jonas is trying out school this year.

He's such a social butterfly that I think he's going to love the interaction.

He's always acted so much older than his age.. it's easy to forget he's not even 2 years old yet.

He walked right in and said "bye mommy" so excited to see all the Elmo toys.

Crazy how big he is!!

I was more sad than he was.

When picking him up he was wiped, 3 hours of non stop playing wore him out

His class

J-man was a little excited, it was hard to capture a picture

His smile is just worth a million bucks even when he's not looking at the camera

Not sure how this year will be but they are prepared for the new adventure to begin.

Success

2011-08-18T06:20:00.000-07:00

Success can be measured in the small things!

We had our first successful outing to Church and Steak & Shake lunch with no major hiccups.

Everyone was in good spirits! No melt downs, everyone ate their food, no screaming and everyone

listened to Mommy and Daddy...we even had milkshakes to celebrate.

It was a huge success in my book .. I walked out of steak and shake feeling confident I can do this!

Then the minute we get into the car it was melt down central...

well, I enjoyed it while it lasted:)

click here for details

3 Choices

2011-08-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know there is a horrible drought going on in the horn of Africa effecting Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia. It is the worst drought in 60years! It crosses my mind through the day thinking how awful this must be to deal with heavy flying dry dust and starvation, mothers watching their children suffer. My friend had posted this from CNN on the largest refugee camp:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/08/09/largest.refugee.camp/index.html

Pretty powerful right?!!

At night rocking Jonas to sleep I think where would he be if he weren't here with us? What might he have to endure if he never made it to the orphanage? He could have been one of those children struggling to live!

Instead I watched him playing in the sink washing his hands for the 100th time endless amounts of water he and all of us here have access too. It amazes me to think all what is going on in the other parts of the world while we have so many luxuries we take for granted. While we are getting ice cubes for our water they are without! It makes me sick!

Well if you feel the same way, there is a few ways you can help.. the organization Hopechest (we have our sponsor child with) has a Trees of Glory Well project. You might have hear me mention them before. They are close VERY close to raising enough money to provide a well to their community they are only $1500 away !! More than ever they need this Project to start so I'm asking you to help only with a small donation. There are 3 ways you can do it

1. My friend Heather has another purse auction going with all proceeds donated

For just $5 you can enter to win this authentic coach bag. Go to http://onepurse.org/ for details.

2. For just $10, you can purchase an Ethiopian bracelet via this blog

Click on the bracelet link at the top left, or donate any amount via the donate button below it.

The bracelets say "I love you" in Amharic (main Ethiopian language).

3. Or, go to the Hopechest site and give directly to the well fund:

go to www.hopechest.org, click on GIVE

Select DESIGNATED GIFT and specify the dollar amount of your donation

In the Reference Number, specify ET2119000

In the Notes area, specify TOG WELL

This video was taken before the drought

You are able to see the friends we are helping over in Ethiopia at Trees of Glory.

For all updates please visit Karen's blog at http://family-from-afar.blogspot.com/

Adoption Video

2011-08-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

This is a video of my friend Emily's journey to Elsa..

it captured my heart, hope it captures yours!

If God is calling you, then it's time to ACT

Have a good weekend!

Sweet Kiss

2011-08-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

This morning Jonas jumped up in my bed and said "mommy hold her please, mommy hold her please"

I said "ok" and he was so excited then kissed her .. ahh what a good way to start the week.

Happy Monday Everyone!

Birthday

2011-08-04T12:17:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago was my big b-day, oh how it's not fun when you're in your 30's to add on another year. But whether I like it or not...it's going to happen. It's just payback for all the years I made fun of friends in their 30's "don't ya feel old?" I would say. Now I'm there and yes I do feel old:)

Why am I old you would ask?

I can't handle loud music in my car, I used to say "I would never be a mom that doesn't listen to cool music blaring in the car"
It's harder to multi task
I have no idea what is in style to wear, I wear what is comfortable.
I have no idea what movies are out or the new upcoming movie stars.
The nice spider vein on my legs
I do love naps and feels my body gets much more tired than it used to and I'm out of breath just going up my stairs
My creative mind has left me and been replaced with my daily duties of being a mama.
I'm losing my ability to read from a distance:(
Best of all, I have officially seen a gray hair growing in

Oh, but it is all worth it because look at these beauties I get to enjoy everyday.

This year my mom decided to throw me a little party at her place.

My sweet Mother in Law made me a yummy chocolate, chocolate cake...that we all enjoyed.

It was a crazy lunch with all 4 kids out but we made it because Kate slept most the time... but Jonas was in rare form.

Our sweet Gigi ( great grandmother ) came .. she's 91 doesn't she look amazing!

My mom and Brooke enjoying their cake they shared.

The day continued with a pedicure with Brooke. Then Scott came home that night with gifts, wine, and a movie. Perfect way to celebrate, just mostly thankful I have lived another precious year enjoying the life God has given me.

click here for details

M. I. A.

2011-07-29T15:17:00.000-07:00

Yes I have been MIA lately, just adjusting to having 4 kidos under the age of 4 1/2. It's been busy and truly the hardest new adjustment is trying to find any extra time to do things beyond resting, cleaning, laundry and entertaining the littles. It's a full around the clock job so blogging would come last on the list even though I miss it.

Today our sweet Kate turns 4 weeks old, I feel like I just blinked my eye and those 4 weeks flew by. I'm loving every minute of infant-hood the helplessness as they lay in your arms, the cuddling around the clock and gazing into her eyes for hours as she's trying to figure out your facial features while you're studying every cute inch of their body... the smells of a fresh clean baby, the smell of good baby lotions:), her sweet noises, getting to choose her cute outfit everyday (Brooke's favorite), getting to feed her (as it's much easier this time than with the twins), enjoying her hiccups she gets about 3 times a day. I feel I know her cries and her sweet disposition. She is such a good baby...she only cries when she's hungry... Can you tell I'm in love? I get choked up just thinking how blessed I am to have this beautiful family that I have always dreamed of! I'm not going to lie they are hard work really the hardest work I have ever had to do but worth every minute of difficulty for the love that beams through our family. To see your children so in love with their baby sister is priceless... not one jealous bone in their body just pure joy and love for baby Kate. They ask the minute they get home how's Kate? Where is she? They want to hold her, kiss her, she is one lucky little girl to have older siblings to help look after her and adore her so much. We are one close knit, woven together family that gets to share life together. It just melts my heart to know God trusted me with this beautiful family. Don't get me wrong it's not perfect and we have rough days just like everyone else but the good out ways the bad.

So, in a nutshell we have been busy... even crazy busy where I feel I will never be able to meet all the kids needs, but keeping focus on all the good helps me through the tougher moments. It's just a season that will be gone before we know it. Someday I will even miss all the loud noises, questions of why and where are u going?, touching things we're not suppose too, not eating our food, eating markers or crayons, scared of going upstairs by themselves, forgetting to use the potty, and making a mess right after you pick up...these are the small things that can drive us nuts but somehow they will be the things we will miss when we're older. Oh what a journey it will be with these 4 children...one that I'm sure there will never be a dull moment.

These pictures were taken 2 days old in the hospital

below...she has grown 4 weeks old today at 9 lbs 12 oz of pure cuteness

It is hard to believe 4 weeks have passed but really it's a lifetime ahead to look forward too.

Were Home

2011-07-07T13:05:00.000-07:00

I'm still on cloud 9 having our little girl with us.. it still feels like a really good dream. She is just perfect! I'm just so in love! Just when you think "how could I love another child as much as the 3 I already have?" Well it's instant... your heart burst the minute they are born with an unconditional love for that child. There is nothing you can do as your heart is melted and changed again forever! The whole day was crazy from beginning to end.

The twins got to hold her first without everyone in the room... they had a special time with baby Kate. Then everyone entered the room so excited and full of emotions knowing our little miracle was here

Heading home from the hospital

YAY were home! Everyone was so excited to show off the house to baby Kate

Our new family of 6

Sweet and loving Jonas has really been sooo good! I'm surprised how well he has been doing! It's not easy being the baby and someone taking your role over but I think Jonas was ready to become the big boy now.

He's been so gentle with his touch and loves to kiss her. He gets very concerned when she cries. Kate is one lucky little girl to have such awesome loving siblings!

We have been home for 4 days and I can't tell you how well it's gone with the transition of having a new baby in the house. Everyone seems to be adjusting very well, even though I know it's not going to be easy to juggle everyone this summer this week has gotten off on a good start.

Click here for details

Little Miss Sunshine Has Arrived!!!

2011-07-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

Kate Allee Armstrong was born at 5:55pm last night (7/1/11) weighing in at 8 lbs 3 oz and was 21 1/2 inches long. Heidi and Kate are doing well and are enjoying a nice and quiet day in the hospital room today. More to come...here are some picture of our little miracle.

The Longest Day Ever

2011-06-30T14:15:00.000-07:00

Today has been the LONGEST day ever! The kids and I tried to find something to do to kill our time. After two playgrounds and a quick swim this morning I still find myself looking at my watch thinking today is going sooo slow:) We are ALL excited about tomorrow... it's the big day that God brings another little girl into this world. What picture would fit today's embrace the camera better than one of me and just the PB&J gang.

Poor Lucky our dog as he knows something is up and has been acting strange all week. He knows he's moving down the totem pole one more notch. He's going to have one more child to protect and more food to clean up off the floor... maybe he's resting up for his big responsibilities.

One last picture before Scott ran into work this morning. I promise I won't be posting again without new pictures of Sunshine.

Wish us luck and I'll be back soon:)

Click here for details

The Anchor

2011-06-29T18:07:00.000-07:00

We decided to have Jonas share a room with baby Sunshine. We debated it as Jonas loves to talk! He wakes up during the night sometimes just talking away or crying not able to find his passy only for a few minutes but enough that it could wake up a baby. But knowing he's not at all ready for a big boy bed it was the best option. If you remember, Jonas has a HUGE whale on the wall above his crib and after some thought we decided to put an anchor above Sunshine's crib. I picked the anchor to represent the Anchor or youngest one of the family and it went with the fun ocean theme we have going on. With a help of a friend she painted it on which I think turned out cute. It was funny, on Sunday I was enjoying my last morning to lay around before church watching TV and I caught a great sermon called Our Anchor in Times of Storms. It caught my attention because of the word Anchor .. and he said it a hundred times.. I think it was a hint from God to listen to it. It was mainly about how a ship's anchor doesn't do any good unless it's lowered. The word of God can't impact you unless you take time to read it. We all live sinful lives and need to be grounded in the word or we will drift from our devotion to the Lord. So, we should anchor ourselves in his word so our faith holds firm, just as an anchor holds firmly to a seabed. His word will act as a compass to renew our minds with strength so regardless of what storm might come your way you are able to weather it with confidence and trust because you are deeply anchored into the solid rock of Jesus.
Hebrews 6:19 We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters behind the curtain in the Most Holy place in heaven.
I had no idea the word anchor was even mention in the bible but it just gave even more meaning now to the anchor on her wall. She will be a constant reminder to stay in the word. Jonas' whale represented so much and so does her anchor now. Isn't it ironic that from the beginning of me writing this it was a hot sunny day out and now it's thunder storming? Pretty coincidental:) funny how God works.

Yes, their room is small but I would just like to call it super cozy. Oh the fun these two are going to have growing up in the same room. We are missing her name that will go across the anchor only 1 more day until you will find out what it is.
UPDATE: The Dr. said today that I could go any minute but I do think I'm going to make it until Friday morning at 6 am where I will check into the hospital for my induction. We will see what God has planned but I do know there is LOTS of excitement going on around this house.

Our Ballerina

2011-06-27T16:58:00.000-07:00

Our sweet little Brooke had her recital this month. I can still remember mine when I was little, one of my fondest childhood memories. There is just something so special about dressing up in a fancy tutu and dancing the night away on stage. I was worried a little about Brooke because she is a little shy and kept telling me she was nervous about getting on stage. Well, she proved me wrong, she did great... just like a pro! There was 3 dances to perform. First one of the evening was ballet which I think she did the best in ... she nailed every move and looked so happy just glowing on stage.

Her class that has been practicing since Christmas an hour every week... all their hard work had paid off.

It's so fun to see your child with her friends

It's such a sweet group of girls

She is concentrating hard on her moves

Kaylee is one of Brooke's good friends .. their family has adopted a little boy from Ethiopia too, they have a very special bond.

Next is tap she was a little bashful in this one maybe because her cousins were cheering so loud for her:)

I didn't capture any fun Jazz pictures they were too blurry but I wanted to show how cute their outfits were..

This was their last performance of the evening

She did great! I was so proud of her as she was one of the youngest in the group. Plus there was just so much to memorize and keep up with she never once would show us any moves at home so it was a complete surprise showing all that she had learned. At the end of each performance she was the best at holding her pose until the lights went down. I think she's a much better dancer than I was when I was little. I depended on watching the girl's feet in front of me the whole time. I don't think I was the only one proud... she was pretty proud of herself too.

Showered with Love

2011-06-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

When I moved here over 4 1/2 years ago, when the twins were a month old, I was so worried I would never meet girlfriends with one month year old twins. I thought it would be impossible to meet people while taking care of babies all day long. I didn't know anyone coming here... the first month was really hard, but then God started to slowly pour girlfriends in my life. Not just any ordinary girlfriends, friends that loved the Lord and challenged me to be a better person. God gave me a desire to start bible studies which is pretty funny as I didn't even pray out loud very well without feeling nervous. God wanted me to lead something ... haha too funny I couldn't even pronounce half the words in the bible. But I knew if I was going to make it here then I needed to step up and gather people together and pray for God to give me the wisdom. Within a few months we started a couples group, these girls below were there at the start of it all. We all shared our struggles with marriage and challenges that life was bringing us. Our bond grew quickly and Scott and I had a strong foundation of great friendships starting here. What a blessing it was! Many of the girls, almost all of them, had struggled with some kind of infertility which I know is not a mistake, we were walking the journey together. Throughout the years every one of us... me being the last one, had a surprise miracle pregnancy after the odds were against us. Isn't God amazing?! It's funny too that at least one of us has been pregnant in the group through the 4 years. I was pretty choked up leaving this night just in awe of all that Lord has done in just the time we have known each other. Even though we don't meet anymore, our core foundation will always be there between us all. When we get together we instantly act like we just saw one another yesterday. We are so open with each other and have shared so much.

Neely one of my sweet friends had this small gathering at her house to celebrate little miss Sunshine.

It was a special night sharing stories and catching up... and realizing how far we have come with Gods help.

I'm so excited to get some fun goodies, I can't wait for Sunshine to use:)

Thank you everyone:)

The hostess Neely, they have recently decided to adopt from Ethiopia but I will share her story another time. It's so exciting to have one of my best friends take the leap of faith and follow God's call.

Now about this group of girls...I was craving a women's morning group so a few of my friends from church and I started one up. After a few attempts of meeting at my house it was just too hard for mom's to have the extra time during a week night to meet. So, I asked the church and we organized childcare to meet on Tuesday mornings. It was prefect and had about 15 girls the first season. A lot of the girls above are from our core group the first fall season. With Vanessa's help... she was my wisdom given by God (the girl in purple on the left) we lead the study together. Our group grew quickly throughout the 3 years and has now reach about 50 women that have come in and out of our group. It's been exciting to see this unfold. This past year I had to step down from organizing and passed the reins on. This group has prayed for me and been such a support. I don't think I could have clearly seen God's plan for my life without them speaking such truth to me. We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful group of girls. I didn't really want a shower as I had felt bad for just doing something to celebrate Jonas last year but Amy (below) convinced me it would be fun Any excuse to get a few of us together, which it was. There are two girls that came that are from our new couples study now that we go to. It was a fun night with lots of good laughs and girls talking the night away. I left that night feeling so loved!!

Thanks Amy for such a fun night, one I can't wait to share with Sunshine ..

It's crazy to think that I was worried that I wouldn't have any friends here. I can't imagine my life really in any other place. God knew exactly what he was doing moving us here. I am truly one lucky girl to have so many awesome girlfriends.

You look like you're about to ....

2011-06-23T06:16:00.000-07:00

POP! This is the comment I get from everyone just about everyday. Truly, I can't go into one store without someone saying it. I did get my 1st "are you having twins?" last week. Really people who says that? Even if you think it why would you tell a complete stranger that? It's not to help their self esteem. In returned I said no I already had twins. The best is telling people this is my 4th child they say wow then you look great for your 4th and I just let them believe I have birthed 4 separate children, but if I'm in the mood I throw them off and say no this is only my second pregnancy and walk away leaving them hanging. People are just too funny, for me I just can't imagine even asking a pregnant lady any questions or making comments. To each their own I guess:)

He's saying Weeeee on our front porch swing

Look how grown up he looks ... how time is just flying by.

He turned 21 months this week

It's sad to say he won't be the baby anymore

For an update, I went to the doctor today I'm 38 1/2 weeks pregnant and really do feel like I'm going to POP..haha the people weren't lying. I'm 3cm dilated and really they can't tell me much more than that...I do feel some fun pressure going on. I was induced with the twins at almost 38 weeks past full term which is unheard of... I really had a text book pregnancy with them no problems at all. This time around I definitely feel a little older as I have a few more aches and pains but for the most part I feel pretty good. Crazy to think I only gained about 8 more pounds with the twins another thing I would like to blame on my age. So, really the guessing game begins as we really don't have any idea when this baby will enter into this world. For those of you that don't know my due date is July 4th but sad to say she won't be coming that date as we have a scheduled induction for Friday July 1st. There was nothing available after my due date for the hospital because of the fun holiday and me waiting too long to schedule. Which one nurse said it will be nice to not have it on the actually holiday because everyone will be out of town too busy with their families for future birthdays:) Who knows but I do know I won't be going any later than July 1st which is only 9 days from now!! Crazy

Now that you know the facts what are your guesses?

A few friends have put their guesses in:

Courtney- June 29th 10am natural 21 inches 8lbs 3oz

Rebecca - June 25 11pm natural 8lbs 21"

Michelle- June 28th 4pm natural 7lbs 6 oz 19.5

I said even before knowing the induction date .....

Heidi- July 1st 4pm induced 8lbs 5oz. 20"

So what are your guesses? If you guess right there might be a surprise for you :)))

Yes there might be one really cool give away just for you the lucky person that guesses the birthday, time, natural or induced, weight and length. My first official giveaway to celebrate our sweet sunshine. So don't be shy and let this be fun, post in comments what you think ..

It will be something I can add to her baby book.

This could be our last picture together before Jonas becomes a big brother!

Click here for details

Another Sweet Girl Home

2011-06-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

Our close friends have brought home their 6th child!

The last Mom in our small Ethiopian group..... for now:)

I think our group might be getting a little bigger with a few new friends wanting to adopt.

I just love how adoption is contagious!

Rahel is just one sweet girl, her soul seems so tender and gentle.

I can't wait to get to know her more but for right now we just share smiles and waves as she seems a little shy.

Jessica tells me she reads the bible at night right before bed... isn't that sweet.

Jessica made this journey look so easy as it's her second time... I think she's a pro.

I do think it was harder for her to be away from her other children this time as she was over there much longer.

The family of 8 finally together!

Reunited with her friends from the orphanage

This is a before picture in Ethiopia, now everyone in this picture is finally home. God is just so Good! We get to watch them all grow up together in the same town. Here is Rahel homecoming video...

One of the reasons Jessica was there for so long was to visit Trees of Glory to take them blankets, letters, and care packages from their sponsored families.

You can read more about their trip HERE and the well project they need our help with.

Our sponsored girl Tigist

She got some wonderful pictures of our girl Tigist. What a beautiful girl she is! She was wearing the shirt I had gotten her last time. I don't know if you have ever thought about it but you too should sponsor a child... what a wonderful feeling to being able to watch her grow up into a precious young lady.
Just blogging about Ethiopia gets me missing it and hoping I can return one day, all those precious children in need I love so many miles away. Until I can return I will always be praying as a piece of my heart is there forever. At least we get to share in Rahel being home as she is an awesome taste of Ethiopia. Welcome home sweet Rahel, can't wait to be a part of your life.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T13:54:00.000-07:00

Some days you may not realize just how blessed you are. I guess that is why Hallmark made this holiday, to stop and appreciate the little things your parents do. I hope PB&J know that they are truly loved by their daddy. God choose one special person to be their dad. There is nothing he wouldn't do for them, like looking up on the internet how to make the perfect paper airplane, taking them crabbing on the beach way passed their bedtime, making them their Saturday pancakes with some secret ingredient only the kids know about, building monster truck courses in the sand on the beach that all the kids can enjoy, taking the kids on long bike rides exploring new places, taking Lucky to the dog park to play hide n seek with our dog, doing what it takes to always get a smile or laugh, building homemade hot wheels race tracks, very proudly showing off his children to others around him, and my favorite always telling them "he loves them... more than you know". You know when you marry a man you really don't know how your husband will be as a father, well this man has exceeded my dreams. He truly is so hands on and such a great partner in raising our children. I couldn't do it without him and his support.

We are all very blessed to have you. You're one awesome dad making a difference in our children's lives everyday! Happy Father's Day to the best DAD I know!

Torture

2011-06-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

Do you think that Brooke is ready for her little sister to get here?

Poor Jonas was forced to dress in Brooke's bathing suit top at the beach. I think this picture could be used for future blackmail. He really does make a very cute little girl:) I think we all are getting ready for our sweet sunshine to arrive (btw we are not naming her Sunshine as a few of you have asked, it's just her nickname:) We just got back into town .. let the laundry begin but the nesting has kicked in also. If I put something away I seem to always just empty the drawer or area and re-organize it. I have been tearing up my house and putting it all back together again.. oh how it feels good to organize.

Brooke is hanging on as she is just so excited to finally meet her little sister.

The Beach

2011-06-09T08:26:00.000-07:00

Most of you guessed it... we went to the beach for a nice full week of sun and water. There is a beach a little over an hour away that all the locals head too when they can. It was a prefect vacation with only one morning of rain and nonstop sunshine the rest of the time. We went with 5 other families which means Parker and Brooke never had a dull moment... they had so many friends to play with. Even Jonas had 4 friends around his age to play with.

Everyone got along great, it truly is the best family vacation we have ever taken.

The last night after dinner, our only family picture ... I'm 9 months pregnant:)

Parker for the 1st two days was very nervous about the waves but then he quickly figured out they were fun to catch a wave on his boogie board...

then we couldn't get him out of the ocean.

Brooke enjoyed catching all the sea creatures .. sand crabs, sand fleas, perrywikles, tiny water crabs, and small fish.. she would be busy for hours building her collection.

Jonas liked the water and tried his best to hang with the big kids. He wasn't a huge fan of the sand but loved the ocean water and pool.

This is most of the kids we spent the week with... although we are missing a few in this picture.

We are slowly getting settled back from our vacation but not for long as we have another small trip to take before baby Sunshine is here. I have loads to update you on as we have been busy bees around here... Stay tuned for many cute pictures to come... plus only 3 weeks away until our baby girl is here!

I will be back next week with an update:)

Guess Where We are Going?

2011-05-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

We are officially taking our first full WEEK family vacation!

We might want a few cute outfits?

(These were sent from my Aunt .. she got all the kids matching outfits including Sunshine)

We might want goggles?

We might want some boogie boards?

Wherever we go I know we are going to have a splashing good time!!

So, any guesses?

Karate Kid

2011-05-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

Click here for details

Yes, we have our own Karate Kid, Parker is now a yellow belt. They did their belt testing during the week. I was nervous and I wasn't sure he could do all his skills to pass but boy he proved me wrong, he knew everything and did such a great job. Karate has really built his self confidence up and instills really good values. This past month was about showing self control and teaching what that may look like. They always have to say " yes Sir" and stay focused. They had a fun belt ceremony Friday night showing the parents what they have learned in their class. Of course pizza after to celebrate the big achievement.

Introductions

Watching the other classes perform

White belt's turn to show off their skills.

Let me just tell ya .. Parker can do some awesome push ups thanks to daddy practicing with him.

Scott had some fun with photo shop that I thought I would share.. too funny.

Yes we are very proud of our very own Karate Kid!

Stay tuned for Karate Kid #2 (Parker's orange belt) in the fall

Someone is Serious about .....

2011-05-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

their dancing. Jonas has found his dancing feet as he's got his cute jumping moves when he hears any kind of music. He is very quiet (one of the only times:)) and concentrates so hard on each step.. he just added the clap this week. Enjoy! I'm sure he will be teaching me a thing or two about some rhythm and boy do I need help in the dancing department .. just ask my college friends:)

Chapman Family

2011-05-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

Girls Day Out

2011-05-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

Last weekend one of my best friends came down to visit me, really she came to get me motivated for Sunshine's arrival. I have done nothing .. I mean not even hung up one piece of clothing. I just keep putting it off and think I'll get around to it but with 3 other little ones it's easy to get distracted. She was amazing! She dropped everything at home and took time away from her family to just help me.. crazy! I'm blessed to have such an amazing friend, it meant so much! So fun just to have quality girl time, I think we talked from the minute she got here until the minute she left. We dissected every part of our lives as being a mom and wife. Oh it felt so good to share our hearts with one another. I just love me some quality girl time and let me tell ya ... so does Brooke. On Saturday morning, we had our list ready to go out and conquer, Brooke begged to join us for the day. I told her she could but it might not be fun... she didn't care, she just wanted to join our girls day out. She was so giddy and excited to hang with us. It really was just too cute! She acted so grown up and wanted to help any chance she could. She even offered to carry my purse for me.. isn't she the sweetest. It was a great day and we got tons done... our mission was accomplished.

These were are a few pictures we took before heading out

I now have a crib, clothes hanging in my closet, all her bedding picked out, a way to organize the room, a solution for the mural on the wall, and a couple of new cute outfits for Sunshine. I think it's finally hitting me I'm having a baby in 6 weeks:) Kelly girl it means so much for all your hard work and love you poured over me .. I am so very blessed to have you in my life! Your support has been awesome thanks more than my words can express.

Click here for details

Super Moms

2011-05-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

Yes, I would like to call us all super moms. Wouldn't you? Knowing how many kids we have?

These are the kids of my Ethiopian women's group...I have the least amount, being 3 and one in the belly!
We have been meeting for a while to talk adoption... it's fun to have such a wonderful supportive group. We have been walking a journey with each other these last few months while they have brought their children home. We have just one more little girl from Ethiopia that will be here soon, by the end of the month. There are 8 Ethiopian children, and the total between our five families is 30 children... yep you read that right 30 little lives we watch over and care for! Two little ones are in the belly and 3 were in school. You can understand why it's so nice to have a girls night to talk about kids:) Pretty amazing to have a group with such a love for children and not putting a cap on when their families should stop growing...just trusting on the Lord.

Who knows how big this group will get but I do think it's not finish growing..( I know huge gasp)

Mother's Day Breakfast

2011-05-11T16:49:00.002-07:00

Last week the twins had a mother's day breakfast at a park near their school. Yes I matched my kids, corney maybe to you but they like it and that's all that matters:) I need to enjoy the years they actually love being like their mama as I know when they are older .. I'm not going to be cool. At the breakfast we had to guess who the mom was after reading a list of questions and it was much easier this year than last but still pretty funny.
Brooke said... Parker said ...
My mommy has: brownish- yellow hair brown hair
My mommy has: green eyes blue/ green eyes like me
My mommy is: 20 years old 20 years old
Favorite food: Shepherd's pie Spaghetti
When I'm at school mommy: works in her office stays with Jonas and Mimi comes
My mommy likes: watching TV playing with us
My favorite meal: Shepard's pie Mac and cheese
I like it when mommy takes me to: ballet Monkey Joe's( bounce house)
I love to play: Wii with mommy Wii with mommy

Last year I was only 8 years old so I have really aged:) Watching TV is funny as when do I ever watch TV? I'm sure, work in my office .. means blogging:) It's fun to see yourself from your kids perspective. I guess I should play more with them on the Wii as they both love it maybe because they always beat me at it:)

WATER! WATER!

2011-05-11T12:26:00.000-07:00

Jonas has started swim lessons. We live at the neighborhood pool in the summer... with the heat this week almost reaching 90 degrees we take full advantage of the pool any chance we get. A few weeks ago, Jonas just jumped and fell into the pool many times. He has NO fear and just LOVES being in the water, so I knew it was time to start swim lessons. The 1st day he was all smiles and couldn't get enough, the next day he struggled leaving me but by the end of the week he was so happy again. These videos are only his second week and he's still so happy.. I wish you could see the smiles better on his face in the video. This is rare as all the toddlers that do it before and after him scream cry the whole time. What a blessing that he loves it so much.. it really makes it so much easier for me. He usually chants Water! Water! all the way down the road right before the pool... I had to instigate him this day to do it.

His first activity of many and he sure is mastering it quickly. We are just so proud of him but not as proud as he is of himself doing it!

Great Idea!

2011-05-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

Our friend Heather's heart has been stirred to make a difference and to focus on what really matters to God. She has read a few inspiring books, ones that open your eyes to surrendering your life for Jesus by helping those in need. Here's a short version of her story...

One day she entered into a cute boutique where she saw a purse she so desperately wanted. The purse's price tag was very high, so she controlled her strong desire to buy it and walked away. She still occasionally thought about returning to the store to buy it but instead God used that desire to help her come up with this GREAT fundraiser to raise money for the children of Ethiopia. She has named it One Purse- it's a purse swap party, where you bring your gently used purses and a donation of $10. For every 10 dollars donated you are given a clothes pin to put on the purse you desire. If multiple people like the same purse then there will be a drawing of the names and the one picked will receive the purse. I don't know about you but I know I always have an extra purse that I can do without. All the money raised is going to serve the children at the care point in Ethiopia called Trees of Glory. This last Saturday was a great turn out and Praise God she raised $500. Isn't that Awesome!? What a success, Heather is going to continue by having others host a One Purse Party, the money raised will continue to be given to the freshwater well project at Trees of Glory. For more information on the project please click here. I know she would love our support... if you are local and would like to donate your gently used purses or host a party please let me know and I can get them to her or contact her yourself by email heathercase@cfl.rr.com
She is working on launching a blog for One Purse, once it's up and going I will let you know. It's just so exciting to see what God can do with someone's once desire to buy a purse and turn it into his Glory of helping his children in need. It's such a blessing to be around friends that inspire me. I think I was on a God high all day knowing he's opening the eyes of friends all around me.

This is the verse she put on each purse

Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail.. for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12: 33-34

Girls VS Boys

2011-05-05T05:30:00.000-07:00

It's funny at our house it's sometimes a split household where it's boys vs girls.

The boys think they have us out numbered but in less than two months our precious little girl will be here to even out the playing field.

The Girls

The Boys

Cuteness and Update

2011-05-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

We were at another festival this weekend...one at the twins school,

Scott captured these pictures full of cuteness.

I just can't tell you enough, how fun this little guy is!

Don't you see the joy that he overflows with.. it sure is contagious!

As for an UPDATE for Trees of Glory

So far, the "wrap them in love" (Read about it here)

campaign has raised

$418!

That means every child at TOG will be receiving a new blanket of their very own to cuddle up with!

Thanks to all of you who've donated to this project!

There are still have a few other things that Jessica would like to do while she's in Ethiopia visiting Trees of Glory in just a few weeks. One of these is to buy a bookshelf to start the TOG children's library. The cost for a new wooden bookshelf in Ethiopia is about $120, so if we end up raising anymore funds, they will apply it to that first.

If anyone would still like to donate to Trees of Glory, please use the donate button on the top right hand side of Jessica's blog. You can specify where you'd like your donation to be applied. Either type in WATER --for the well project, read about that more here or LIBRARY (for the bookshelf) in the message section.

I can't wait to see some updated pictures of our sponsored child Tigist while Jessica is over there, these are a few from Jessica's last trip. I do hope someday I will meet this precious child of Gods, she just so beautiful inside and out:)

God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. Hebrew 6:10

Easter 2011

2011-04-27T15:28:00.000-07:00

I finally found my camera so here are pictures of 3 different Easter Egg hunts this past week..

#1 :These were taken on Easter day at the beach

Jonas finding his 1st egg

We spend the weekend with our cousins

Beach Time

The kids played non stop loving the water and sand

#2 Their school Easter Egg hunt

Parker enjoyed the sack races and Jonas got a popsicle from the teacher

#3 This was our Neighborhood Easter Egg hunt

It was a fun filled week of Easter celebration ... I can't wait until next year when Sunshine will join the fun!

Fundraiser for Trees of Glory

2011-04-26T08:01:00.000-07:00

TREES OF GLORY FUNDRAISER ALERT** This message is from Jessica

Jessica contacted the TOG coordinator a while back to get a list of needed items that we could take back to the care point this time. It's really a blank canvas there and I know that they appreciate any donations that they receive, but I wanted to be sure to bring something that would be really useful. One of the items she listed was, "blankets for the chilly nights." Now, you might not think of Africa as being chilly, but it actually gets into the upper 40's and 50's at night during the cooler months.

While that's not super cold, imagine that your home is a grass hut, a makeshift tin structure or if you're really lucky (like the staff and kids at TOG), a block building with cement floors (one of the few structures like this in the area), those temperatures are hard to handle--especially without a blanket.

Aside from the warmth a blanket provides, think of the feeling of security it provides. When I was a little kid, I fell asleep every night with the covers pulled all the way over my head--I was a big chicken (still am--drop me a comment people and tell me I'm not the only one here). It's just more comfortable to be snuggled up under a warm soft blanket.

For most of the kids who are served at Trees of Glory, they don't have the luxury of having their very own blanket.

We want to change that by providing each of the 99 kids currently enrolled at TOG with a nice new blanket to cuddle up with. We want to WRAP THEM IN LOVE.

How cool is this? The same day that Karen wrote me back with the list of needed items, a local friend of mine wrote to me asking how she could get involved with Trees of Glory!!! She doesn't even have a sponsor child at Trees of Glory, but she's heard me talk about it and wants to help this specific community. I just LOVE how God orchestrates these things don't you?

Well, she was going to hand make all 99 blankets, but we discovered it will be much more economical (both money and time wise) to purchase them. We found them for about $4 each. Multiply that by 99 kids, and we need about $400 to complete the WRAP THEM IN LOVE campaign.

I've had these bracelets since Nick's mission trip to Ethiopia back in September. We've been holding on to them waiting for an opportunity to use them to raise money for a TOG project and this is it.

So, here's the deal. We have 20 of these handcrafted authentic Ethiopian bracelets that we'll be sending to the first 20 people who donate to our blanket fund. We'll accept donations in any amount, but in order to receive a bracelet, please make a minimum donation of at least $10.

The "Love" Bracelet with English and Amharic lettering

side view: bracelet has adjustable tie closure

Jessica added a handy pay pal button to the top left side of her blog so you can conveniently donate to this project. Be sure to type in your address so that I can ship your bracelets to you. They'll be coming to you priority mail, so you should receive them 2-3 days after your payment has been processed.

She will hopefully be leaving in the next 2-3 weeks, so time is limited. I'm praying for these bracelets to sell out asap. Any money that is raised in excess of the $400 will be applied directly to the clean water well fundraiser, so rest assured that it will get to these kids in one form or another.

Your love will be felt through the simple gifts of warmth and potentially water. So each time I'm able to send one of these bracelets to you, remember that you're sending your love to them.

Please email me at jirvin79@gmail.com with questions and feel free to SPREAD THE WORD.

PB&J

CFC

Fresh Cut

"Kate's Hungry"

Pretty as a ...

Momma crush

Mean Mommy

One More ...

Highlights over Christmas Break

A New Kind of Pockets

ICE

1st Christmas

Merry Christmas!

The Annual Company Party

Parade #2

Last Minute Shoppers

Cookies

Tis the Season to be Merry

Huggable and Lovable....

"Will you have more?"

The Boys

Parker

Kate

Jonas

Brooke

Hallelujah

The Money Shot

Captured

For The Record ...

Birthday Bash

4th year for...

Whole Hand Old

Cousin Lovin'

Mr. & Mrs.

Off to Oklahoma

Girls Night Out

Birthday Breakfast

Party Time

A Birthday Wish

Conversation with Jonas

Help Me Jesus

Blog Hijack!!!!!!

Rainy Day

Ready for School

Success

3 Choices

Adoption Video

Sweet Kiss

Birthday

M. I. A.

Were Home

Little Miss Sunshine Has Arrived!!!

The Longest Day Ever

The Anchor

Our Ballerina

Showered with Love

You look like you're about to ....

Another Sweet Girl Home

Happy Father's Day

Torture

The Beach

Guess Where We are Going?

Karate Kid

Someone is Serious about .....

Chapman Family

Girls Day Out

Super Moms

Mother's Day Breakfast

WATER! WATER!

Great Idea!

Girls VS Boys

Cuteness and Update

Easter 2011

Fundraiser for Trees of Glory

**TREES OF GLORY FUNDRAISER ALERT**** This message is from Jessica

TREES OF GLORY FUNDRAISER ALERT** This message is from Jessica