The Craig's

Catch up and Christmas Time

2011-12-20T15:39:00.001-06:00

I'm not even going to bother w/the excuses!

Fall was filled with Garrett and FB and Brent refereeing FB. Brent and Maddie's bday was in September. Our anniversary was in October and made a quick overnight stay to celebrate in Topeka. November was Thanksgiving in South Dakota and Christmas Shopping towards the end of the month. The flu bug that knocked Garrett out of his holiday concert right before Thanksgiving break. Maddison and Brent got it too..Owen a week later!

December brought NO winter activities for our family. BB can wait for Maddison and Garrett had no interest in playing this winter. Which is fine with us! Enjoying our evenings..

We have gone church caroling, rang the salvation army bell for an hour in Clay Center, Church Christmas program. 2 Christmas's so far...and a partridge in a pear tree!

We hope your families are all doing well..We are enjoying our first real snowfall of the season and having a snow day today. Cinnamon rolls, monopoly, snowmen, chili and hot cocoa are on the agenda the rest of the day!

We had our family pics taken in early November.

I will get some christmas pics up soon. I even did a homemade advent calendar and photo garland..maybe just maybe I can get some pics of those!

Final Days of Summer Vacation..Day 4 & 5

2011-10-04T15:11:00.000-05:00

Yes..i know I'm slow, but thought before I started posting "Fall" things, I better finish Summer. Better late than never!

At dusk on the 4th evening, we went to Sheep Lake to watch Big Horn Sheep come drink and feed. We sat for 2.5 to 3 hours and saw nothing but a coyote. Our kids were fit to be tied we stayed that long. Garrett sat in the car the whole time and Maddie and Owen were back and forth, in and out. Later we find out through a different park ranger that no sheep had been seen for a week and were lambing up high in the mountains. Regardless...the beauty of God's Creation was wonderful!

Trying really hard to see something!

It was also funny to watch cars pull in cuz we are sitting outside and pointing at things. Cars would pull in and then 5 minutes later pull out!

Last day we did what the kids had been dying to do since we got to Estes Park. Fun City! We played putt-putt.

Garrett and Brent getting Maddie's ball out of the water!

Owen and Garrett going down slide. Owen's one and only time! He did NOT like it.

Bumper Cars!

Maddie wanted to do the bungee trampoline thing

AND Go-KARTS...the funnest thing. We had races and competitons. Just so you know...Owen is totally faking the smile..he was not happy he had to ride with MOM..

Maddie finally got her way and got to ride with Dad...I was totally offended!

Few misc. pics from here and there.

We also walked up to some falls that were created by a flood. Kids had a good time crawling around on the rocks. Garrett wasn't into posing with statues!

I didn't get a shot of our little condo/cabin. But this was the view from the back deck. owen and I walked down there one evening and he threw rocks and talked to himself. It was priceless.

And looking towards RMNP. At sunset.

There is nothing more special than a Family Vacation. Even though the first couple of days are rough as we are not used to being around each other 24/7. But for the most part we all did well.We grilled hb's and hotdogs and ate on our deck two nights in a row and just relaxed. I am thankful for my husband who works so hard for us to be able to go on vacation and that he was able to get a break too! Even if only for a short while. The kids might have complained some, as well as I, but they are already talking about things they did and remember and can't wait to go back! You don't have to go anywhere fancy or special or far away, taking a break as a family and doing things as a family is what is important. Try it sometime!

Vacation Day 3 - Alberta Falls Day

2011-08-29T20:57:00.000-05:00

We took another hike on Saturday (day 3) to a waterfall..It was really, really busy. A lot of people, in fact we had to park in a big parking lot and then acutally ride a shuttle bus to get to the parking lot to start this hike. All in all it was ok, but could only take what we could carry, so we opted on not taking lunch and eating later....so we carried water bottles and granola bars and trail mix.

Some smaller falls on the way up.

View of Alberta Falls from a distance.

Quick rest stop

On top of Alberta falls

Boys checking things out- a little too close for comfort for mom.

Family Picture

Up top looking down...and yes I took this picture. (courtney h..this one is for you)

After Alberta Falls, we decided while we were there we would go ahead and walk around this lake (don't remember name). Kids were getting hungry and our granola bars and trailmix were LONG gone..

Finally found another picnic spot and ate a late lunch, of you guessed it...pb&J, grapes, carrots, chips, and water!

We saw this guy on our way back to cabin after lunch...

Vacation - Day 2 Rocky Mountain National Park

2011-08-24T14:48:00.000-05:00

On Day 2 we came up from the southwest part of Rocky Mountain National Lake at Grand Lake..The Lake was huge. Not such a great picture. My camera and I had a difficult time deciding on settings..

Stopped at a visitor center and grabbed a map and heard that a momma moose and baby had been hanging out along our route north and east. She also said that we should check out Sheep Lake which is at the Estes park entrance and watch Big Horn Sheep come down and drink and graze in evenings.

I bet we hadn't been in the car 10 minutes and we spotted the moose along with about 100 other people, but we were still able to pull over and get some pics.

Then a little on down the road...a small herd of elk.

(which Owen wanted Brent to get his gun and shoot them. Thinking the hunting channel might be off limits for a bit!)

There is only one road that goes up and all the through Rocky Mountain National Park to Estes Park (our next and final stop for the rest of vacation) What an absolutely BEAUTIFUL DRIVE.....

We stopped and ate lunch at Bear Lake (I think?) But the mosquitos wanted us more than our food. I think we used 3 days worth of bug spray at lunch that day. And no, we did NOT have subway..good 'ol pb & j, chips, grapes, gatorade, capri sun and water!

After Lunch we hiked down to Bear Lake..

Continuing on across the ONE road..we stopped SEVERAL times for some scenic pics. This is how the conversation went after about the 3rd stop.....

Brent and I " hey this looks really cool. We want to read what this sign says and takes some pics.Ok?

Nothing...Silence.

Brent and I " Ok? Sound good?"

Nothing Silence..Quick look in mirror.

Brent and I " PUT AWAY the IPOD and DVD Player...I thought we said no electronics in RMNP?"

Kids..."oh...you meant ALL DAY the WHOLE DAY?

Brent and I..."yes and yes, Owen you have to put on your shoes AGAIN. DO NOT TAKE THEM OFF AGAIN or you won't be able get out?"

We saw a couple dozen elk along this road (which I know has a name for it, but can't remember and I'm not looking it up) There is a place to stop and get out and take another good walk/hike across the tundra. It was cold and windy and damp out, but we did it anyway. hey we were on vacation and nowhere to go be but RIGHT THERE.

Maddie posing on some rocks.

My throat caught for a moment when I took this picture. I think he looks SOO grown up.

More pics from Tundra.

We made it to Estes Park and stayed at some cabin/condos right outside RMNP entrance. Only a couple of miles. It was really fun to be so close, where we could come and go as much as we wanted.

Summer Vacation Day 1 -Georgetown CO

2011-08-23T15:03:00.000-05:00

This summer we had the opportunity to go on a family vacation. A vacation where no one played ball, or had meetings, or really an agenda. Sure we wanted to hit a few places but no real specific time frame. In fact our first stop was the only place we had reservations and had to be on time.

We did some research and I would HIGHLY recommend Trip Advisor. I used it everyday to check out different things to do and many, many people gave ideas and off the beaten path roads and hikes and even where to find coupons..

Anyhoo...first stop was Georgetown Colorado. We road a train and toured an old Silver Mine. It was ok. Owen enjoyed the train and the weather was great. It is amazing to me how in the mountains it can be sunny and then rain and storm and then be sunny again..in a matter of 10 minutes or less. CRAZY.

Waiting for our train..yes bridge in background we go on it and under it...

Still waiting

waiting some more.

Finally...here it comes

View from top of bridge...we had an open car on the way to mine and closed car on way back.

We ate Subway sandwiches along with chips and grapes that we packed in cooler before train trip. It was a good thing, cuz our train left at 11:45 and on the way back from mine train broke down for about a 10-15 minute repair. I think we were back to car by 2:45...

We had stopped to ask about white water rafting and a local told us about this glacier so we decided to check it out. Owen fell asleep on the way up in car and we did drive a ways. So between being woke up and hungry..he was in no mood to hike. And it was a little jaunt to the glacier.

You can sort of see all 4 of my family. Garrett didn't hang around to close to us. Apparently he thought our family cheer was to embarrassing for an 11 year to stand!

Maddie was faking this fake smile...she wasn't really in the mood to hike either and again it was a bit rough and hard, but in the end SO WORTH IT..

Taking a breather...Seriously Owen was in NO mood...

AWWWWE...There she is St. Mary's Glacier

It is hard to see but it started raining on us...

G & M posing for a pic.

Owen wanted to eat..but no picnic in the rain. And seriously he had atleast 2 granola bars on the hike up.

FINALLY FOOD...He was good after that. Yes we ate subway again..5 dollar footlongs are just to hard to pass up..

A very nice man offered to take our picture.

Owen still didn't smile for him though.

Brent and Garrett slid down the glacier on their rear ends right before we left. Pretty sure that was Brent's favorite part of the entire vacation..

State Champs 2011

2011-07-18T15:23:00.000-05:00

This past weekend was CRAZY, CRAZY, CRAZY....

Maddison's ball team placed FIRST at State this past weekend in wichita. Where heat indexes were 110-115 degrees for 3 days that we played. We won Friday night and then played Sat. morning. After a heartbreaking loss 10-11 we came back and played and won Sat. afternoon. Then played again Sat. night and won again.

Sunday morning we played at 9:30. We won. Then we had to play at 11:15 the team that beat us on Sat. morning. We pulled it out with time ran out on game (we were home team) and won 11-10! Because we beat them and that team had not been beat we played them again at 12:30. We then won giving us the CHAMPIONSHIP. Very proud of 11 girls playing their hearts out this weekend..

DIY Corkboard

2011-06-03T09:13:00.000-05:00

Owen's room got a small makeover a couple of weeks ago. I say small because a plain brown corkboard that was hanging on his wall got a makeover.

A regular corkboard (i found at garage sale YEARS ago). I spray painted the frame black

Sorry I can't rotate this picture. Took off newspaper so this is the painted frame.

Let frame dry and then taped off the frame with painters tape.

Primed the corkboard with white spray paint

Let dry and then I spray painted the whole thing with red matte spray paint

Let dry and removed painters tape

Then Owen decorated it with stickers from hobby lobby. Stickers on sale half off. He put them on where he wanted. I only made sure they were right side up...(yes, I was anal about that!)

Finished product on the wall of his room. The stickers are football and baseball his two FAVORITE sports

In a nutshell this project took about 2 hours and cost less than 5.00. However I did have the extra spray paint, painters tape. But still well worth it and he LOVES it.

Issues

2011-05-31T21:40:00.000-05:00

Blogger and I have had some "issues" so for now, its basic template and older pictures. Hoping to update soon, very soon. And this time I really am going to try.

Playin'

2011-05-11T15:26:00.000-05:00

Well...our family has been playing. Playing a lot. Here's a quick glance...

Garrett played 3 on 3 soccer agin this spring. They had their tourney last Saturday and took 3rd place. Very, Very, proud of him...I would show you pics, but they are lost. I have no idea if I deleted them or not, but I can't find them on my camera or in any file or folder on the computer. grrrrrrr

Garrett also plays in the 5th grade band playing the trumpet. He also played special music at church!

Playing Ball....Maddie is playing this summer on a traveling team. We have been to Beatrice, NE and then to Abilene last weekend. In Beatrice they took 1st and Abilene took 3rd. Both weekends had some great ballgames.

Owen has been playing with cows and friends. Here is his friend Jonah at the CC Sale Barn....

And we can't forget Lucky...Here he's playing dead!

Here playing in the pond!

Brent and I have been playing as well....we play the drivers, referee's, coach, washers, dryers, cooks, gas pumpers, gardener's and everything in between....BUT we LOVE it and wouldn't trade it for anything!

My Mother's Day was great and had a wonderful day...AND A BIG SHOUT OUT to my parents who celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary on Mother's Day!!!!! Couldn't ask for better parents, how blessed am I that God chose them to be my parents! Love you!

Spring Break 2011

2011-03-28T15:26:00.000-05:00

As some go skiing or to the beach and warm temps, we have in last 3 years or more gone to SD. No, not San Diego, SOUTH DAKOTA. As was the same this year, we miss out on 80 degree weather in Kansas and bring back 30 degree weather with us. BUT this year we did get to enjoy 2 days of 60-70 degree weather. Regardless of weather my kids and I had a blast! (Brent was solo for 5 days and survived!)

Sunday after church weather was nice, by lunch it was great. So after a quick lunch we headed to Wagner Lake. Which is a man made lake with a walking trail around it. Great place to run off some energy from a long car ride the day before (which btw, my kids did AWESOME. Only a slight "moments" over dead batteries on dvd players was all)

Little Gazebo

Of course we had to have a cattle stick..see Pooky the dog in the corner. OR the calf

Stopping to throw a few rocks.

These are some pics of the "Goldhammer Century Farm" that we stay at. My mom is from South Dakota and her sister JoAnn still lives on the "home" place. The kids and myself included LOVE to look at and check out the old buildings. Garrett did a "name" collage with nature items with my mom's camera. I'll see if I can get those soon.

The Barn

Check out the hinges on this old shed. See the stars?

The loading chute. I don't know how long this has been here, but I think a LONG time.

Inside the barn

Owen playing sale barn. Obviously some updates have been made in the barn. Thus the green metal gate.

Aunt Jayne and Carter working the gate.

shoo'n cattle up the chute

Maddie working the gate for the boys loading more cattle

Awesome weather vane.

We are so blessed to have family that welcomes us in the drop of hat. We were no small group with my mom and my sister Katie with Carter and yes 4 wk old Gemma! Also my Aunt Jayne from Minnesota came and even brought along my cousin Rebecca with her little girl Natalie, who was born in January. Not to mention our Hostess Aunt Jo and her companions Pookie and Lexi (who had to be bulls, cows, and calves, more than they ever WANTED too!) We love you and THANK YOU!

The weather here today stinks and we are praying the weather man is right and we WILL have 80 degrees by Friday!!!!!

Visitors

2011-03-08T14:53:00.000-06:00

Last week we had some visitors come hang out for the day! Its was great.

Miss Gemma and finally a pic of Owen holding her, but that lasted all of 30 seconds!

I'm not sure what she is doing here, but I think she is

One of a Kind!

Oh and her hair is so FUNKY. It always stands up!

Gemma Kathryn

2011-02-25T15:33:00.000-06:00

Gemma Kathryn had some visitors last Saturday...I talked to Katie today and Gemma's 1 week check up went great and she is doing great.

Garrett and Gemma

Maddison and Gemma

Where is Owen and Gemma you ask? Owen could have cared less about Gemma, he was just too excited to be at Carters and play bull riding and rodeo and hauling cattle. Hoping soon to get some pics.

Quick Trip to KC

2011-02-25T15:28:00.000-06:00

A couple of weeks ago we made a quick trip to KC on a Sunday afternoon because Brent had a work meeting. So we met my brother and family at the Legends and messed around while Brent went to the meeting.

Cousins checking out animals at Cabella's. What a Great FREE thing to do when killing time. IF your kids enjoy "stuffed animals"...which mine do.

Group Shot

Going to feed the fish but Cabella's was out of fish food and miracoulsy no one fell in. That is one of my biggest fears.. Don't ask me why, but it is.

These two yahoo's took a break from "hunting" for a quick photo shot.

Morgan enjoyed some free space to wander

Another group shot

Mark and Family toted us to Granite City for supper where ALL the kids ate free on Sunday nights. It was a great deal. Then to Target. Brent got done with his meeting and picked us up there. Thanks Rundquist's for tagging along!

Honor Choir

2011-02-25T15:18:00.000-06:00

Garrett was selected to attend the 5th Grade North Central Kansas Honor Choir in JC early in February. The concert was about 20 minutes long, but was very nice. I was pleasantly surprised at how well all the 5th graders sound. Its an age when voices start changing. But they were really good. Very proud of him!

A few of my favorites

2011-02-11T12:43:00.000-06:00

With many snow days the last couple of weeks the kids and I were running out of ideas, so we did some baking. Thought I would share with you two of my all time favorite cookie receipes...a sweet treat for
V-day!

So I'm trying to upload photos, but blogger and I are having issues soo here are just the receipes. I promise they are TASTY! If I can get pics soon I will

Sugar Cookies

1 c. Sugar 1 tsp cream of tartar

1 c. Powdered Sugar 1 tsp soda

1 c. Butter 1 tsp vanilla

2 eggs 1 tsp almond extract

4 ½ c. Flour

*Cream together wet ingredients. In separate bowl mix dry ingredients. Then add to wet. Mix Well

*For cut out cookies. You might need to add more flour. Dough can be sticky. Wrap in plastic wrap and put in fridge to cool. (a couple of hours) Roll out on lightly floured surface and cut out.

*For drop cookies-Drop by teaspoonful onto cookie sheet and then flatten with glass dipped in sugar

*Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes.

Cool and Frost as desired

I like the drop cookies the best!

Thank you Susan for sharing this great receipe.

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

1c. Crisco

1 tsp baking powder

1c. Brown Sugar 1 tsp salt

½ c. Sugar 1 ½ tsp vanilla

2 Eggs 1 1/3 c. quick cooking oatmeal

2 c. Flour ½ bag or more of chocolate chips

1 tsp baking soda

*Cream Crisco, sugars and eggs. Add vanilla and mix well. Add all dry ingredients and then chocolate chips. Mix well

*Drop onto greased cookie sheets. Bake at 325-350 until browned. Cool on rack. (may add m&m’s too)

My notes:

*I have used ½ butter and ½ Crisco. They do come out a little flatter, but still tasty.

*I usually do 350 for about 12 minutes switching sheets at 6 minutes.

*I have made the

This receipe was given to me as a wedding shower gift. Thank you Nancy!

se with old fashion oats, but for some reason they make the cookie dough a little softer (have NO idea why)

*Due to my lack of coordination I have made these with only one egg. Don’t ask why. They turned out fine, but wouldn’t try it on a regular basis!

Sledding Weekend

2011-01-24T19:55:00.000-06:00

On Thursday we had a snow day and we took the kids sledding and then again on Sunday afternoon to sled and try ice skating. We had a great time and no one broke a bone!

Shoveling Snow Wednesday Evening

Thursday Sledding

Sunday Afternoon Sledding

Kiddos sled ride

Owen Sledding

Garrett Surf Sledding

Maddison Ice skating

BB Weekend

2011-01-24T19:15:00.000-06:00

Last weekend Garrett played in his first BB tourney. We didn't fair so well last weekend. BUT this weekend we did great. We improved and even though we lost the first league game we came back and WON the 2nd. This mom was proud of the entire team and Garrett. They played so hard.

See the kid next to him that is about 2 heads taller. Let's just say he did a lot of scoring by standing in the lane.

Playing Defense

Coach, "Garrett you HAVE to stand tall"

Score of last game. We are guests!!

So happy for the boys who practice and play hard and finally get a win. Great job Boys!

2011-01-10T16:54:00.000-06:00

We have been playing the wii alot in the evenings as there seems to be NOTHING on tv espcially for the kids. Is it that hard to produce a quality show without boyfriend/girlfriend stuff OR that doesn't demean parents or talk back OR call each other names etc..

ok off my soap box.

Owen loves to Sword Fight. There is some commentary as well..

PS-and NO we haven't hit the tv....YET.....

Bad, really, really bad

2011-01-10T16:41:00.000-06:00

Yes, I know, I've been bad, bad, bad, and more bad about blogging. I'm working on it.

We had a great Christmas and was so low key and which made it great even though we had 4 christmas's. The kids today are enjoying a snow day and maybe even another one tomorrow..we shall see

I started PT last week. It was good to start, although hard. Several stretching exercises wore me out within 30 seconds, but after almost a week, feel pretty good. I go back on Thursday. Hoping to only have to go about 6-8 weeks, but we shall see what happens.

Brent's boss, Mike, had a house fire last week. Please pray for him and that he can be in his own home soon. A lot of smoke and water damage and he lost two cats.

Garrett has his first bb game on Saturday at a tourney in CC. Garrett also starts honor choir practice tomorrow before school (if they have it). That concert is in JC on Feb 5. Very proud of him for making the choir.

Maddison is still begging for a horse. That is about all that's new or maybe not so new with her.

Owen is fighting a cold, but still haying, loading, feeding livestock on a daily basis. He also enjoys his new playdough things from Christmas.

Ok..a few pics

Thanks for sticking with me and letting me catch you all up.

KC Chiefs

2010-12-03T06:39:00.000-06:00

In November we went to a KC Chiefs game. Took the whole family. It was a first for Maddison and Owen. The weather was really very nice for November and we didn't have to wear hats and gloves and blankets during the game. The first shot is arrival at the stadium. All did well except Owen wanted to go into the game at 8:30. Guess he's not much for tailgating.

Garrett and friends getting ready to play footbal in the parking lot

Some moms brought face paint

Posing

More boys with face paint

Maddison's face paint

The whole "football team" tailgating before the game

Opening ceremonies of the game. Owen looked high and low all game for KC Wolf. He doesn't really make too many appearances.

Game time

PS-sorry about text and pics-blogger and I are having issues and now its deleting images..grrrr

Oh-no phone call yet from dr. calling this am. can't stand it anymore

Promise

2010-11-20T16:56:00.000-06:00

Have stuff to post, but not taken the time to do so...I PROMISE I will get better...

I do have a BIG prayer request...Go for another set of x-rays on Monday please pray that I'll get the ok to FINALLY start physical therapy... Patience is not a virtue for me...God is Good and he is in control..pray I remember that!

What we've been up to.

2010-10-20T15:52:00.000-05:00

My favorite time of year is upon us...my least favorite holiday is in 11 days, yuuuuucccckkkk.. All I know is O is going to be a cowboy and the other 2 could be wearing paper sacks...

ok enough of Halloween. We have been doing a little of this and a little of that this month..here is a quick rundown..

Soccer 2010

The last 8 weeks have been spent doing this on Monday and Tuesday evenings. Last games wrapped up this week. Garrett and Maddison both did a great job and each scored several goals..ALL of which I failed to catch on camera.

Watched KSU play NU and KU....KU was the MUCH, MUCH, MUCH, better game to watch on TV.

Made it to KC to see this little gal (our niece Morgan) celebrate her 1st bday!

Went swimming

Stayed in a hotel...this is what happens when you are too cheap to spring for a cot and no one will sleep on the floor...

Took in God's beauty of fall-and man made -see the deer stand.

Watching my family do all the work..they are there can you see them? Have a hurt back lets you out of doing this chore! (blogger won't take my cropped pic)

Did a little dirt work

Went on a nature walk.

And each new day...we do it all over again

6 screws and 2 pins

2010-10-01T17:12:00.000-05:00

My kids got a kick out of this and thought you might too...These are after pictures that were taken today. We didn't get any before pics. It was 35 dollars (and you know how my hubby feels about "crap" like this) to have OUR medical records released to us from Wesley. You would think after the amount we payed them, they could throw that in...Heck a hotel atleast gives you breakfast and/or coffee for 80 bucks!

Anyway...they aren't too gross...
I have no idea of the angles these were taken at.

The part with the biggest gap is the L-1. The one I broke. It's hard to see a difference with out the before and after. I am hoping we can get some type of pics. We will probably just bite the bullet and do it.

Where it is hallow is where he cleaned out everything in between the vertabrae's.

Post Op Appt. #1

2010-10-01T15:39:00.000-05:00

My prayers have been answered. For all that prayed for me these last 10 weeks, thank you is NOT near enough. I could not have done this on my own.

We did NOT see the surgeon instead his PA. She was nice and I can't say I'm real surprised by this, since she was the one we saw the last 3 days at the hospital. I was released from wearing the brace. That was my biggest worry. Not because I was feeling bad, but just not healed enough to get rid of it. She said everything looked really good.

I am still limited in my lifting, still 15 pounds, and occasionly up to 20 pounds. I can NOT run. I can still walk and do my recumbant bike that I have but to manage all according to my pain level. I will repeat xrays in 2 months. Those will actually just be mailed to them and after review will do a telephone update and go from there. If all goes well and I keep on this same progress its looking like maybe starting physical therapy in December.

So for now its no brace and starting back to the daily routine stuff. We started talking about house cleaning and Brent and started joking about it and then we never let the dr finish telling me what was ok and not ok. I secretly think that was Brent's plan all along!!! I'm thinking that as long as I handle all in a slow and easy going process I should be able to stay on track.

The natural curve of my spine around the L-1 looks real good on the xrays and the dr really did a good job of trying to keep that as normal as possible. I think I should be able to retain almost all range of motion, but that will be later down the line.

Again, thank you for all your prayers. Please continue to pray for my recovery and my PATIENCE. I do not want to do anything that will set me back.

Erica

Less than 24 hours

2010-09-30T12:30:00.000-05:00

I'm less than 24 hours away from finding out what my next step is in my LONG recovery of a burst fracture in my L-1 (doesn't that sound more official than "I broke my back". )

Time has flown by, but has seemed to come to a skidding stop the closer I get to this appointment. I'm nervous, anxiety-filled..A lot of "what if's" are running through my head today.

I SOOO want to be done or atleast ready to move on to the next thing. What I CAN NOT handle or DO NOT want to hear, is that I've "even(ed) out" and still need to wear the brace for 4+ weeks or longer. 10 weeks has been a long time.

I feel good. I really do. I mean I still have soreness and muscle spasms everyday, but NOTHING like the first 4-5 weeks.

Please Pray for me and my family tomorrow. I'm ready to find answers and to know exactly what I need to be doing and where I should be.

You all have been so AMAZING. Prayers have been answered and I know this is all GOD"S Plan for me, but wow is it hard to trust right now. THANK YOU ALL-

PS-If you see an orange glow south of town tomorrow night I am having a BURN PARTY or Security will be dragging me out of dr's office Kicking and screaming.

Sale Barn Day

2010-09-21T15:26:00.000-05:00

Owen sold his calf today...this was right when he woke up this am. Excuse the ants in pants, hands in pants, tongue sticking out, and the messy background.. He was just a little excited.

Waiting to go to Sale Barn

Climbing the gate

PS-His notebook to keep track of the steers and heifers he sold/bought is tucked under his hat and his phone and pen were right inside the back door all ready to go.

Maddison is 8

2010-09-21T15:14:00.000-05:00

Maddison turned 8 on Monday. We had our family bday party over the weekend.

.Maddison's Cake (last one until June 2011!)

This cake was acutally pretty easy and it was the first time I worked w/fondit. It was pretty easy actually.

The topper is a wooden M from Hobby Lobby that we spray painted white and then dipped in glitter

Topper Sprigs were from Hobby Lobby 50% off (i actually bought too many because we couldn't decide and then I was going to return the ones we didn't use. well..maddie wanted all so the "leftovers are now in her room waiting for just the right vase to be put in)

Opening presents...clothes, clothes, boots, shoes, cd's, and a coat, plus some cash..

I know the men and boys were BORED to death if Maddie opened yet another box of apparel

Just an FYI out there for ya. When you purchase gifts for your children, make sure its not something Santa Claus tried to give last year, but was too small. Atleast this time the size was right...

Sigh..don't even ask

A Must Read

2010-09-16T15:02:00.001-05:00

My sidebar has P31 devotions..Today's post is a must read for every man, women and child (in my opinion)...

or click here P31 9-16-10

Labor Day

2010-09-13T15:55:00.000-05:00

Over Labor Day weekend we had a family weekend.

Owen and "Peanut Butter" or Callie" or some other name I can't remember...

Hot dog roast complete w/smores after fishing.

Uncle Mark helping the kids..

Going Fishing

Little Miss Morgan

Now for your viewing pleasure...

2010-09-13T15:49:00.000-05:00

LONGFORD RODEO

2010

Aunt Katie and Cousin Carter....

2 of my 3 cowboys...

(G was on the church float and of course he was on opposite side of road)

City Folk

(JK-Mark and Heather)

Maddison wanted to mutton bust we said no...

go ride a bull instead and she DID.

For the First time....

2010-08-23T15:05:00.000-05:00

Lucky went to the lake and so did the rest of the family..Lucky loved the water and for a puppy, thought he was very well behaved....

and for the first time since the accident I felt NORMAL. Even if only for a couple of hours. Some friends said they were going to the lake and wanted to know if we wanted to go. Brent and I debated, but we decided to try it out. We only live 12 miles away if it didn't work out we could always come home. But it did work and felt good. I sat in a lounge chair in the water and the kids played and I had some much needed social time.

It felt so good to be out and about. Thank you friends for the invite and giving us a since of normalcy. Hoping for more of that soon!

On a side note...I'm really disappointed to learn that my neurosurgeon has changed his schedule and my Sept 15 post op appt has been changed to Oct 1st... That will be exactly 10 weeks since I put the brace on. The only way to get in sooner is if someone cancels. Hoping for a sooner date, but maybe more time in the brace means a better chance of being rid of it for good instead of going in too soon and having to wear it longer.

But I have decided that even though I'm not that crafty, I'm dressing this brace up. Some embelishments and ribbon of some sort...Now to decide on colors. Hoping Hobby Lobby will give me some inspiration. Anyone have a bedazzler I could borrow???

1st Day of School 2010

2010-08-19T08:56:00.000-05:00

First day of school 2010

Garrett-5th Grade

Maddison 2nd Grade

Lucky had to get in on the action too!

Solo Shot of Maddison

Garrett a no go on the solo shot

When I think back to the last day of school and MY plans for this summer, everything fell into place. Until God showed us HIS plan for our family for the remainder of the summer and from now until who knows. I am so PROUD of my kids. Even though Owen still hasn't quite figured things out yet. He still asks everyday, "back still hurt mommy?", the older 2 have stepped up and done more than I would like to have them do. As a mom I had hard time having them HELP ME instead of the other way around. I am so glad that they get to go to school today and be a kid! Have recess and PE and lunch with their friends. Here's to a great school year!!!

I am also very, very proud of my husband who has done more for me than I care to admit, but he too has learned a great deal about our day to day stuff and I have learned that maybe MY way can be done SEVERAL different ways-God sure is humbling...One thing I know for sure. I appreciate my HUSBAND more than ever and I know he appreciates me more too. Lesson learned.

Hospital Pictures

2010-08-14T09:41:00.000-05:00

Some might not want to see these and to be honest I really debated, but thought maybe people wanted to see what I had going on for the 5 days in the hospital. Every day since we have been home Brent will say something about my hospital stay that I had know idea had happened. Things that the kids said, or a dr said, or a nurse did, or people who called etc..been kinda neat finding those things out, but a little un-nerving knowing that I really was out of it, for longer than I thought.

Meet my new best friend - THE BRACE. This is what I have to wear for the next 4 weeks. It really hasn't been so bad, and I'm hoping when the weather gets cooler I can wear a tank top under it and put a shirt OVER the brace, but for now it goes over my clothes. I really feels pretty good to put on in the morning but by 8pm I'm ready for it to come off..

There is a reason you can't see my face in this picture. It was just waaay to scary. This picture is the first time I put on the brace about 14 hours after surgery. They wanted me up

and walking right away.

Up close picture. The little bag was a drain tube from my incision area. They took that out the day we left.

Warning: The next picture is of my incision. It is a little graphic. They removed staples on Thursday and then put sterile strips to hold it just a little while longer. They should peel off in about 5-7 more days.

It made my day w/all the flowers and balloons that were sent to me. It brightened up my dark room.

Walking is my healing therapy. They say the more I walk the better, but I can't believe how fast it wears me out. To think I ran almost everyday and now I can't walk to the mailbox and back w/out being tired is kinda depressing. But everyday I think I'm little stronger. I can definately tell when I have done too much one day because the next day I'm a lot stiffer and sore. Trying to back my pain meds down a little by little.

I can't drive until I'm done w/pain meds AND have been cleared by neurosurgery which will be Sept 15. So until then I'm at the mercy of my family and friends for rides.

After I have been cleared and my brace can come off I will start physical therapy. Not sure what all that will involve, thinking I need to be researching that a little bit more.

My family wanted to say that we are so thankful for EVERYONE and EVERYTHING that you all have done. The response has been truly overwhelming. People in a small town and community really do care and have blessed our family BEYOND anything that we could imagine. THANK YOU. God is GOOD. I'm walking and have feeling in my hands and feet. What could have been so much worse was not and for that we are THANKFUL.

Day 15

2010-08-12T08:52:00.000-05:00

So I'm just a tad behind and my apologies but as most/all of you know, things haven't been exactly normal around here. July 28 I had an accident involving a calf and a stock tank, long story very very short, I broke my L1 on my spine. On July 29 I had my L1 fused together w/Rods and screws to my T 11 & 12. (atleast we are fairly sure, sometimes dr's talk in code and when you have been on morphine for over 48 hours and other pain meds you don't always know exactly what is going on!)

Fast forward about 13 days. Today I'm headed to have my 30+ staples removed from my back along w/my catheter (yes I still have this and yes it is gross and yes it is a pain and I can't wait for them to tell me its coming out) I did leave out that on Monday I went to the dr because I was having some blood in my urine and they are thinking kidney stones! SO I'm praying those have passed and I will be able to pee on my own. Sorry to be so frank, but that is what it is.

I will take pictures of my brace soon. Everyone is slowly but surely adjusting. It didn't take Owen long to figure out that I can't carry him or bend over or really give him a spank'n very well..and school starts in 7 days. One word-PRAY. Thank you so much for everything, thoughts, prayers, food, gifts, flowers, plants, cleaning, laundry and much much more!

Fighting in the Garden

2010-07-27T14:59:00.000-05:00

Erica-1 vs Bees - 0

I've been fighting this for about 5 days in my garden. Some type of wild bee nest...This hive/group was on my tomato plant and the next morning had moved to ONE stalk of corn...

This morning I was finally able to get 2 tomatos off this vine w/out bees around. Praying we got them cleaned out for good.

In the middle of NO WHERE

2010-07-27T14:52:00.000-05:00

On our way to the lake/camping trip, we had to drop off a tractor for my in-laws. Maddie and I were following Brent and the boys in our truck and we were on this little 50 mph county road and we pop over a hill and we see this.....

mansion/house/bed and breakfast???

truly out in the middle of NO WHERE....

I soooo wonder what the inside looks like?????

1st Annual Camping Trip

2010-07-27T14:41:00.000-05:00

This weekend our family spent the weekend at Melvern Lake with my parents and siblings and families. We had a great time despite the weather and flies. We were definately a crew. 3 campsites and 4 tents between all of us. This was the first time G, M, & O had ever been camping and for me a long time! Weather was Hot and Humid, but I kinda expected that, Friday night was miserable in the tent, but Saturday night a cool front came through and brought a little shower and cooled things off a bit.Our tent held and no puddles in the tent. Sleeping was a little better and Sunday am we awoke to cloudy skies but no rain and not all that muddy.

Hubby and I (maddie took this pic and rolled her eyes the whole time!)

This is what lack of sleep and too much humidity will do to a person!

All grandkids headed for our nature walk Sunday morning.

Grandpa and Grandma w/all grandkids.

Nature walk

Owen only a few paces behind

Melvern Lake

Stuffing rocks and shells in his pockets. (which by the way-washed in the washer yesterday.)

Where does it say your 3 year old can't have an ENTIRE can of pop at 9am?? We were camping!

We had a great time and can't wait to do it again-soon!

Birthday Cake

2010-07-19T14:47:00.000-05:00

I am NOT an artist. NOR am I REAL crafty. But I am CHEAP, soo paying for a bday cake is usually not an option. However as G gets older his cakes are becoming more and more of a pain in you know what. He has such high expectations for his mother to "whip" up some great 5 star cake. I do enjoy TRYING..however sometimes they are a FLOP. And I should say that the cake itself is not the problem it's that decor and/or icing that is the problem.

This year we tried something different. Garrett's bday is always hot and humid and this year was no exception. So we did ice cream cake

One package of snack size snickers chopped up. (you can use any candy or cookies you would like)

2 boxes of 12 count ice cream sandwiches..we used 1 box vanilla another box peanut butter chocolate chip

One layer of ice cream sandwiches in 9x13 pan.

1 jar of chocolate fudge syrup warmed up (makes it easier to pour, can also you caramel or butterscotch)

Pour on top of first layer of i.c.sand. then cover fudge w/candy. and start another layer of ice cream sandwiches.

Cover w/ whip cream or plain vanilla ice cream. Then freeze. After a good 12 hours take out and decorate.

I opted for whip cream. I don't think I would recommend that for decorating w/frosting or gel frosting. The whip cream thawed waaay to fast and the frosting ended up being a jumbled mess.

Finished Product-Its ok if you laugh out loud. I did, and because I won't be there watching over your shoulder as you read this- it really is ok to say-Yes, she isn't an artist!

In case you are wondering what on earth that yellow thing is..

G wanted a JOHN DEERE emblem-not just the words but the EMBLEM/TRADEMARK

Happy Birthday G-Man!

2010-07-19T14:00:00.000-05:00

My oldest is 10...how can that be? I remember thinking he would NEVER be born. He took forever to get here, but once he did..life has NEVER been the same.

Garrett you are wonderful and WE LOVE YOU!

We had our family bday party last night and a little friend party tonight...to be continued!

4th of July

2010-07-11T16:14:00.000-05:00

On the 4th of July we headed into Clay Center to watch fireworks. Our neice, Boston, and nephew, Brooks and family joined us. It was wet and drizzly but for the most part didn't rain until later.

First pic of all 5...some people were lighting fireworks off a few cars down....

2nd pic of all 5...apparently fireworks are
more important than a crazy mom and aunt wanting to take a group pic!

Finally...3rd time's a charm

Brooks and Owen decided that sitting in the back of the van was funner than in the rain!

Summer Ball 2010

2010-07-11T16:05:00.000-05:00

Well...ball ended this past week. Several solid weeks of 3 games a week ended. Overall it was a great season. It was hot a few games, but not unbearable and we never had ONE rain out, which is amazing considering the wet summer we had.

Maddison enjoys ball A LOT. She did very well. However she is getting a little impatient w/the "t-ball" thing. Meaning not keeping score and everybody bats type of thing. She is just a little more competitive than t-ball. We shall see what next year brings.

Garrett's team WON the championship on Thursday night. It was very exciting. This season Garrett played many if not all positions. His team only had 9 players and he was at church camp during the first 2 games of the tourney. Our team in fact only played w/ 6 boys and won both early games. On Thursday night G was back so they had 7.

Here he is catching

Batting

He even pitched one inning.

Sorry for the blurry pic, but my camera and I were having issues.

Owen spent a lot of time at the ball field too. He loved to "warm up" outside the fence

OR he was snacking!

For as much as we were at the ball field he did amazing and only one instance of pulling down his pants in front of everyone to pee on a tree! For a country boy who sometimes goes wherever and whenver, I'd say that's pretty good! In some ways I'm sad ball is over, HOWEVER-I feel like my summer can BEGIN!

Royals Game

2010-07-01T15:18:00.000-05:00

So once again I'm LONG over do on posts.. sorry

These are pics from a recent Royals game we went to. It was fun. Kids actually enjoyed it and we had great seats-thanks to a sales rep from Brent's work.

Tailgating-Pops and Chips (we were a little unprepared!)

Owen thought it funny to NOT look at the camera.

Family Photo

Can you see a pattern starting w/Owen?

But we still kept taking pics.

Fountains

Daddy and kiddos

The older two were a lot happier to take pics

Maddie's fave player.Do you know????

Food-The kids each get one thing and then Brent and I get the leftovers.

Garrett had a sundae, but it was practically melted before we got back to our seats!

answer: Billy Butler-I think she just likes saying his name!

2010-07-01T15:17:00.000-05:00

1- What’s your staple meal (ie. what meal do you cook most often when you can’t be bothered to be adventurous)? Spaghetti no question

2- What do you want to be when you grow up? I think a travel agent would be waay fun. I love looking up cool trips and getaways. I would however have to get over the fact that I wasn't going along w/my clients!

3- What book are you reading at the moment (if any)? I am ALWAYS reading a book or magazine. Even if its one that I have and read a dozen times. I like that 15 minutes of quiet time after lunch. Right now I have a stack from the library- you see I was going to do my own "parent" summer reading program just like the kids have. Well...apparently my children have more time than me, I have finshed 3 books and one was REALLY long. And absoulutely amazing. I truly think it is one of the best books I have ever read. BUT right now I'm reading Painted Dresses by Patricia Hickman. Its ok, not what I thought it would be about, but I'll continue.

4- How do you relax? Read or go for a walk/run.

5- What color are the interior walls of your home? All log or log paneling. I can't remember the name of the stain. I think it is Chestnut. The basement we did sheetrock and painted. There is a reason the upper 2 levels are all one color!

6- What is your guiltiest pleasure? Dark Chocolate

7- What time is bedtime and getting up time? Summer whenever going to bed and 6:30am get up time
Winter around 10pm and up at 5:30

8- How long do you spend reading blogs (per day or per week)? Have no idea. Especially summer time. More in the winter. I'd day 20 minutes/day

Ok...who to tag? well of course my sister Katie. Lindsay at the Henry Bunch, and Beth at Foster Roster.

Note: I don't recommend my current book-Its really kinda depressing.

Road Race

2010-06-22T16:52:00.000-05:00

Our church held its 12th annual Road Race. Its a fundraiser for our youth group. Its a 10K and a 1 mile fun run/walk. I actually ran the 10K both last year and this year and I'm pretty sure my time was EXACTLY the same...not sure good or bad, but I finished and I didn't walk. But O my goodness was it hot and humid and little breeze, did I mention humid??? I have run a few races and even done an adventure race and I didn't get as hot as Saturday, but again I finished and glad I did it. (I was very tempted to back out at the last minute)

O's job for the race was to ring our old church bell when runners approached the finish line.

(Maddie apparently needed to help as well)

Faster than a speeding bullet! hahahaha

Yep, that's me and that is how Brent took this pic, I promise you I didn't crop it.

FINISH LINE

Owen did the "1"mile too...only his one mile was from the start line to the finish line, without .99 miles in between, but isn't he cute??

Garrett Start of 1 mile........end of 1 mile

Maddie start of 1 mile.......finish of 1 mile..

notice the facial expressions have changed from smiling to nearly crying? I felt the SAME way.

My mom walked too and even shaved a few minutes off her time from last year, sorry no pics! But still proud of you! Then the rains came down...right after we started breakfast and the awards ceremony. Glad no one (including me) was still running because it was NASTY out.

We shall see about next year.....

Owen's 3rd Birthday

2010-06-21T15:15:00.000-05:00

Friday was O's birthday. He was so good all day while I cleaned and prepared food. However he just could not figure out why his friends aka cousins weren't coming over Friday night. We celebrated w/family on Saturday night.

Helping make cupcakes, with the leftover cake batter

Taking a break..talking on the phone w/daddy who was telling him "Happy Birthday"

IN HEAVEN...the last of the batter

Decorating

Final Product

The five of us celebrated Friday night w/homemade pizza and cupcakes

Being Silly

Saturday Night Supper, Presents and ....

COW CAKE

PS-He would look everywhere but me for the cake pics and bummed because I didn't take one of all three kids together, oh well...

Fish in the water.

2010-06-15T22:29:00.000-05:00

First week in June we went to KC for our nephews bday party. We then caught a Royals game. It was a good game, but hot and they lost. The kids were definately ready for a dip in the pool. Owen is like a fish in the water. Will have more pics later of the game.

VBS

2010-06-15T22:26:00.001-05:00

This past week we had VBS. We had an average of 50 kids each day. It was crazy and yet very exciting. Owen was sick Wed and Thursday, but came back around on Friday. The video is of Owen and our nephew Carter "practicing" for the program. They were doing so good, I figured I needed to catch it then, just in case on Sunday he decided not to. PS-it is a little long. oh and he did do it on the program, but this was MUCH cuter!

Memorial Day

2010-06-01T16:00:00.000-05:00

Our week officially started off MUCH, MUCH better. We had a great time yesterday despite the fact that O didn't have a nap.

After working around the yard yesterday am, the kids and I went to Grandpa Dave and Grandma Donna's for some fishing and a picnic.

Owen fishing. I'm pretty sure the longest the bobber actually stayed in water was whenever it was cast the farthest! He didn't have the patience-he kept saying every 2 seconds

'Gotta bite' bringing it in

This creek "hole" was one we used to swim in all the time.

And yes the water was that dirty if not more. Kinda grosses me out now.

Trying another spot to see if the fish are biting any better here.

(note: they weren't, but Grandpa Dave caught a few)

Stopped on the way home to get our feet wet.

See the nice 2011 Tiger Graffiti behind my dad.

Apparently this creek has been renamed "keystone creek"

Just a note to you, and I quote, "2011 Kick Ass Tigers" signing your initials doesn't make you any cooler!

So glad my children who now know how to read will have some reading material when we want to go fishing or to throw rocks or to just get our feet wet! NOT

I took this pic because I thought the blue in the sky was really pretty!

We then had a hot dog roast

And a picnic outside.

After supper..we went to pasture to check cattle. Owen thought he was BIG stuff driving!

View from pasture hill top

Owen and Grandpa Dave waving at us from the bottom of hill

Ending the day w/a bath and chocolate ice cream cone

We had a great day, thanks mom and dad for providing entertainment. oh-I really was going to bring

Lucky along, but decided that wet dog smell in the van on way home, was not worth it. (brent had the truck)

(note: just in case anyone wondered where/what brent was, he worked all day. He worked on a rental in the am and cut waterways in the afternoon and by 9pm last night he was broke out in hives and eyes fiery red. Stuffy/runny nose all at the same time. Must have gotten into something while unplugging the swather. He is better today, but still stuffy.)

Week 1- Summer Vacation

2010-05-30T21:20:00.000-05:00

Week One of Summer vacation was a bit rough! That is all I'm going to say about it. I don't have any pics and I'm glad, because they might see an angry, screaming, nagging mother! And 3 children doing the same!It was a tranisition period. We did have SOME GREAT moments. I know our summer will progress better and we all just had a rough week.

Owen was acutally the one that had a BIGGER issue than anyone.

I vow this week will be better!

Bright Moments in the week.
*Tuesday-Sale Barn day. "white face" sold. That is G's cow that he has had his ENTIRE LIFE-all of nine years almost 10! (i know we have a pic of her somewhere, but can't find it right now) That part was sad, but good part was lunch at Wendy's with Grandparents, O likes the sale barn, period! And some cash in the bank.
*Garrett had a his first ball game on Thursday night and got a hit!
*Went shopping on Thursday
*Garage Sale Saturday-made some cash
*BBQ w/friends Sat. night. (did take my camera, but didn't take a single pic, I don't think the kids would have sat still for more than 2 seconds anyway)
*Grandma Chase celebrated 95 years yesterday and had a bday party at the park tonight.
* Signed kids up for summer reading program. (I sort of have selfish reasons behind this, I really ENJOY quiet moments in the afternoon, so I make the kids read for 30 minutes and sometimes more if I want a quick cat nap, I know, I know selfish,)

This week:
Agenda for Week 2- I promise to do better and take more pics.
Monday-Fishing and maybe visiting some cemeteries
Tuesday-Maddie's first ball game
Wed-One year check up w/ENT for O's tubes.
Thursday-G & M both have games
Friday-Maybe a trip to KC for the weekend to celebrate nephew's bday!

Week-3 VBS & Ball Games -Enough said!

Owen's New Dance Moves

2010-05-20T15:46:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday Brent and I went to the Ft. Riley Garage Sales. It rained almost the whole time, but found some good stuff. One of my good buys was a electric keyboard. The kids have had a blast messing around with it. Right now its in the living room, not sure how long it will stay there, as at times it can really be quite loud and dare I say it..annoying with the kids doing their own "re-mixes"...However Owen has found the preset "beat" buttons and dances away. The older two won't admit to doing that, but they do dance as well and sooner rather than later I'm going to catch them on video too! We have the WHOLE SUMMER!

Only 1 more day of school. WoooooHooooo!

One Room School House

2010-05-20T15:21:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, Garrett's 4th grade class had the opportunity to attend a one room school house for a day. From what I saw it looked like all were having a good time. They even got to pick new names for the day. Garrett's was "Mark"...yes, brother Mark, you should be so proud! Marcus was also my grandpa's name who attended a one room school house in South Dakota.

Here is the class and room. Garrett is in the back row w/the red shorts.

Here he is working with a quill pen and ink. (stupid blogger, won't rotate my picture)

Here he is smiling so I would leave!

While waiting for lunch time, Owen played at a little park.

After a "sack" lunch that was carried by tin pails, the kids played boys against girls in a softball game.

Wedding Weekend

2010-05-12T14:14:00.000-05:00

My cousin Jill was married this past weekend to Larry. Our family loves them to pieces.

Here is the crew before the wedding.

Maddison ALWAYS thinks we need to have a funny face picture. Garrett wasn't so sure.

Owen dancing in the parking lot while waiting for bride and groom to get done w/receiving line.

Rundquist cousins!

Grady-Owen-Garrett-Maddie-Kael-Carter-

Maddie is holding Morgan

Grady doing a little jig while waiting for supper!

Jill and Larry.

This was about the only good shot. The lights in background were wrecking my perfect picture taking!

Owen dancing w/the bride and maid of honor!

I should probably mention too, that Garrett caught the garter and Maddison caught the bouquet. G-flicked the garter to the maid of honor's (cousin Lanelle)boyfriend. Hint, hint Jared! and the maid of honor insisted that Maddie keep the bouquet.

We had a great time and congrats

Jill and Larry. Wishing you both years of happiness!

Home Improvement Project 100 and something (i've lost count!)

2010-05-12T12:44:00.000-05:00

After 6 years here we are finally getting around to finishing some projects. Well atleast in one way or another. The spot below has footings poured for our fireplace of our dreams. But after seeing the cost of our dreams, that has been put on hold indefinately. Sooo I decided I wanted to get my landscaping done and finally front steps off the front porch along w/sidewalk, plants, bushes, etc. But what to do w/this spot? A hot tub would fit perfectly in this spot, BUT it faces the front of our home. So we decided to extend the deck at an angle and put our front steps off this new deck. In the words of my husband, "its cheaper to do it this way!"...

We shall see how it comes together....

BEFORE:

Brent showing off his muscles mixing quick-crete. Maddison covering her eyes because she is totally emabarassed by her father (and it was just us there!) is this a sign of what's to come?

Setting posts.

Getting ready to start laying deck boards. Garrett and Maddison have been such a big help. Garrett has learned how to use a router, along w/other skills.

Whenever I go out to take pics.. All I see is Brent doing is standing around!

The deck floor is almost all layed. I would go out and take pics today, but its raining AGAIN...so more to come! Pavers or stamped stained cement for sidewalk? Any opinions?

Deer

2010-05-12T11:21:00.000-05:00

Last week one morning I woke up an saw these nice creatures walking down our lane. The didn't have a care in the world, well atleast they didn't act like it. These deer are ok to look at as long as they keep going because I don't need them in the garden or eating bark off my ornamental pear trees! This was taken from our back deck.

This was out the front porch.

Oh...and just in case you were wondering what/how Lucky Dog reacted. He didn't have a care in the world either. He never jumped up, smelled, barked, howled. In fact he watched them while laying on his belly.

Some watch dog huh???

KSU Field Trip

2010-05-05T15:45:00.000-05:00

I had the privilege of joining Maddison on her one big field trip of the year. On Monday I rode the bus w/30 plus 1st graders and many parents and teachers to Manhattan to tour some buildings at the KSU campus.

I was a little nervous about the bus ride. I thought it would be WAY loud, but the kids were awesome. Bus ride to and from was uneventful (THANK YOU LORD).

First stop was the sheep/goat barn.

2nd Stop was Bill Snyder Stadium...

This is in the front office.

Maddison waiting on "game film"...These seats were very comfortable

Game jerseys and shoes

Football Locker Room

Running out the tunnel and out on the field!

Doing the splits and practice cheering!

Maddison running to me after a 50 yard sprint!

She got a little football in too!

3rd stop was Bramlage and the indoor practice facility.

Bramlage had the floor up for a banquet and the locker rooms were locked, but the kids did get to run in the indoor facility it was really nice. Maddison took a little "bet" for a 100 yard race, from a very nice mom and her son. Let's just say Maddison won! But I don't have pics to prove it. Maybe the nice mom could send a few pics my way or did they "accidentally" get erased??

We then ate lunch at the Union courtyard and then made a track for Call Hall for ice cream. Maddison got Chocolate Brownie delight and I had peanut butter nut. Both were YUMMY.

We had a great day, the weather was PERFECT and the kiddos were great!

PS-Sorry about spell check...can't get it off and I can't repost for some reason. So please excuse the yellow hightlights!

Lucky Dog update #2

2010-05-05T15:07:00.000-05:00

Owen and the dog go round and round and round ALL day long. O is in and out of the house a million times. There are a couple of upsides:he can put his boots on the right feet by himself, he's not watching tv, and is taking good naps from being outside a lot in the morning. Down side...he leaves ALL doors open no matter how many times I tell him. Which fine for now, but when its hot and ac is on, and ALL the fly's, then we could be in trouble.

Playing Ball

2010-05-05T12:34:00.000-05:00

I know, I know, you are all just dying for me to post something. Posting something, anything, a little or a lot, has been on my "to-do" list for 2 weeks and everytime I think I will do it, I get distracted by someone else's blog, facebook, emails, vbs, laundry, well...you get my drift.

We have been busy, but not busy w/things that are interesting to post about. School, church, work, kids, dog, bills (again you get my drift)

These next to videos are Owen and playing ball. He spends a lot of time outside and likes to play ball. However he doesn't think he can hit AND put the ball on the tee so Brent or I have to "load" the tee. The other night I noticed him making funny faces when he was trying to hit the ball hard. Thus the two videos.

Lucky Update #1

2010-04-19T15:10:00.000-05:00

Sooooo...this is who are family life is revolving around lately.

This is what Lucky does pretty much all morning...He and Owen have become really good buddies. It's actually worked our rather nicely to have Lucky. He occupies some of O's time outside. Believe me, I would MUCH rather be OUTSIDE than INSIDE, but somedays you just can't. Lucky hasn't been hit by a ball or bat (yet), and he does shag some balls and seems to know when to stay out of O's way.

Lucky does take the "gentleness" of Owen rather well. Lucky is the first thing O talks about when he wakes up and the last thing he talks about when he goes to bed.

One evening last week we took Lucky on his first big walk. We weren't sure how his leg/paw would hold up, but he seemed to hold his own. He was a little slow, but no slower than O, who was picking up every stinking stick/cattle prod you could find. I'm afraid Lucky might start thinking he is a cow if O keeps that up! Taking a break at the pond.

As far as we know this is Lucky's first swimming expedition. Acutally it was more like getting his feet wet, but he seemed to enjoy it.

Lucky has been petty good. He doesn't whine or scratch at the door. He has drug a few rubber boots and ball gloves out, but hasn't actually done any damage (yet!). However the night it rained, it refused to go to the shed, doghouse, or even into the garage AND he won't eat or drink unless we are standing right next to him. Which is fine for now, but when it gets hot, I'm hoping he will get a drink on his own. Any comments or suggestions on the eating/drinking part, would be greatly appreciated!

As for us humans, the kids have their last soccer games on Sunday afternoon. We then have a couple of weeks before softball and maybe baseball (G's still not sure if he wants to play) starts up. I've been working on VBS stuff and Brent has been doing odds n ends around here. We are headed to Sears tonight to pick up our new mower! WhoooHooo. I really do like to mow, so hoping this mower will be great!

Lucky

2010-04-12T14:31:00.000-05:00

Meet Lucky our new dog!

After being virtually pet free (we've had one stray cat for about 1 month and some kittens that ALL disappeared after 3 weeks or so and NO the Rabbit does NOT count) for our entire married life we got a dog. Lucky is pretty "lucky". He was going to be put down by the owner because she couldn't sell him. Lucky has a limp on his left front leg/paw. Not sure what is the problem other than he got a cut as a puppy. 90 percent sure it will be permanant, but that's ok. To be honest I'm a suprised as to how much this DOES NOT affect him. I was kinda thinking that maybe this would slow him down enough that he wouldn't be able to get around as much. Meaning maybe he wouldn't dig, or chase cars, or tear up things. uhhhhh not going to happen, which is a GOOD thing, but still, just thought we would be broken in gently. He has yet to do any damage. Lucky is a little shy, but is quickly warming up. I'm a bit concerned that he has not eaten much, but hoping that its the transistion. He came from a lot of dogs to no dogs, so thinking he might be a little sad.

Owen has been in and out all morning. He LOVES this puppy. He cried yesterday am when we told him we couldn't take Lucky to church with us. I really think they are going to be the best of friends. As you can see in this picture, he doesn't look to disabled. Lucky runs much better than he walks. (not sure THAT is a good thing).

Owen and his not so cute moments!

2010-04-07T16:08:00.001-05:00

This is to all my friends and family that think Owen is just so darn cute ALL the time! He has his moments. (you all might think this is funny, but this was taken about 45 minutes into the crying session. Talk about annoying!)

Easter Weekend

2010-04-07T15:56:00.000-05:00

Easter was gorgeous! Sunrise service was not freezing! Even though the sun was rising and the clouds blocked its beauty it still was a beautiful morning. Potluck Breakfast's after sunrise service's are the BEST. Getting ready for church at my parents house after sunrise service is always a little rushed. This year was no exception. These are really pretty good picks considering that 5 minutes before this I was still cutting tags off of clothes, (don't ask) my parents got a phone call that my grandma needed to go to the ER. Could they come in and help grandpa get her there? AND the Easter bunny had come and left a few goodies.

PS-My grandma spent one night in the hospital, but is home now and doing fine. Had a little vertigo (inner ear infection) problem.

Easter Bunny

2010-04-02T07:21:00.000-05:00

The Easter Bunny came early to our house.

He ( I think, maybe a she), brought itself and apparently is staying awhile!

Brent's boss Mike was so ever kind and brought our family this little addition. Complete with all the "fixings'. We have the cage, food, water bottle, and the bedding.

When we moved to the country Maddison was 18 months. It was soon after that she asked for her first pet. We said NO. From then until now, we have been asked, told, requested of a dog, cat, hamster, horse, cow, pig, chicken, guinea pig and yes even a rabbit.

Maddison was in 7th heaven. Literally. Her reaction was priceless. OUR reaction was priceless as we didn't know we were having a full time occupant until 4:30 yesterday afternoon.

As excited as Maddison was, the boys weren't so sure. Garrett just isn't a huge animal person. Owen loves animals, but apparently not Fluffballs. All he kept saying was:

"put in cage, put in cage". Apparently cows are still going to be his thing.

I guess you could say we Maddison is officially a "pet"owners,

Oh, no name has been decided on. As of last night at 10:30 it was between Snuggles and Fluffy.. How original I know!

Bacon and Eggs

2010-03-31T21:07:00.000-05:00

I have a confession. I'm a grumpy gus on April Fool's Day. I really see no humor in this holdiay at all. Sorry to all you hardcore holiday celebrators, but this makes no sense. I don't know who, what, when, or why this day even occurs, and I really don't care, BUT I have children who think this is a great day

So in the spirit of April Fool's Day we made a snack for Maddie's class tomorrow. Bacon and Eggs. It is really really easy and its not much, but I will admit, I thought they turned out rather cute and look something like Bacon and Eggs.

A little closer...sorry lighting was so great in my kitchen tonight.

Ingredients: pretzel sticks, vanilla almond bark melted, and yellow candies. We used reese's pieces, but could use m & m's or skittles.

Put 3 pretzel sticks together, add a dollop of chocolate, and add yellow candy on top.

Its A Boy or a Girl or

2010-03-31T21:00:00.000-05:00

A Big Green Tractor. This tractor is the latest addition to our ~~shed.~~ Home. I will have to say Brent has been wanting something like this for awhile, but tractors in general are not cheap. He bought this at an auction last Friday. It's a little rough and needs some work, but it did make it the 11 miles home with no problems. He tells me there are all sorts of possibilities for the tractor....

Owen was just beside himself. You all really have no idea how hooked this kid is on tractors! Here he is practicing his farmer wave!

All smiles

PS-Brent did tell me last night that it when he is scraping the grease of this tractor it makes him smile knowing its all his. Only God understands what can make a man smile!

A quick note. Garrett was sick yesterday so he was unable to attend this photo shoot. But he is just as excited as the other two gentlemen in the home. This might be a really good bonding experience. Now if only Brent wouldn't work on it when its the kids' bedtime. (I think he does that on purpose!)

Spring Soccer

2010-03-30T09:54:00.000-05:00

I think spring has definately sprung! Yesterday was awesome. Sunny and warm. Could actually go for a quick run without hat and gloves! Thinking I might get out my new cushions and take a break this pm and read outside.

This weekend Garrett and Maddison had their first 3 on 3 soccer games. They each played 2 games on Sunday. (I'm not thrilled that they are on Sunday, but 2 out of the 5 games are on Saturdays AND they only play 5 weeks and then season is over) The kids have not done any extracurricular stuff since last fall which happened to be soccer. Ok..back to the games. Both did really well and both scored some goals. The rules are a little different and they run A LOT. (which is good for them, considering the little physical exercise we got over the LONG winter) There is no goalie and only 6 people on the entire field at a time. Sub in an out a lot. AND they only play 2 12 minute halves with only a 2 minute halftime. The bad thing is there are so many kids and other games that there is some waiting around in between games, but it does help that Maddie and Garrett never play at the same time and that helps the time go when you are watching someone. And they start ON TIME if not a minute or 2 early so you have to be ready to play. Weather was great on Sunday and the kids actually got a little pink. Will definately need to remember sunscreen. Thinking its time to start getting together our "summer box" together to leave in the van.

Garrett scoring his goal. And yes that is his obnoxious mother yelling! Sorry...kinda forgot I was taping. (not that it would stop me) How can some moms and dads NOT say a word??????

Maddison

Garrett

Owen wanted to be in on the action too! He did really well considering no nap, but a movie in the van and 2 cheese sticks later and some twizlers he was good to go again!

Cattle and a Stick.

2010-03-19T15:57:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was so nice out. Brent took the afternoon off and helped his parents work cattle and wean some calves. It was terribly muddy, but the kids had a good time.

After the cattle were sorted they needed to be put into the loading chute for shots. Garrett thought he could help, but got stuck.

And still stuck

That is Grandma Debbie's hand trying to pry him out. They did evenutally get it, but it was a little work. By the way Garrett didn't go that way anymore.

Owen and his cattlestick...waiting for the sorting

waiting in the chute while they still sorted

This video is of him getting the calves in the chute. If you listen close you can hear him make sounds that only "cattlemen" say when you work with cattle.

Spring Break

2010-03-19T15:39:00.000-05:00

We have been to South Dakota and back over our Spring Break. Spring Break would be a whole lot more fun if the weather would acutally "act" like SPRING. My mom and the kids and I went to visit my Aunt JoAnn. I would be lying if I said the kids didn't like going. They LOVE it there. She has a big farmhouse and many barns. Great places to go out and about to explore. My mom and I even thought about staying at a hotel on the way up there to break up the 7 hour car ride. I thought the kids would like to swim eat the "continental" breakfast and chill out. They said NO! Can you believe that? They complained they wouldn't be able to stay 3 nights at Aunt Jo's. Ok..so we drove the whole way. Kids did great. Owen loved Pooky, her dog. The poor thing hardly got a moment's rest while we were there. But 2 things werern't so great. The weather STUNK!. It was cold, rainy and windy and oh lets not forget the mud. They still have snow. The snow is melting, but is causing some major flooding. We did some shopping in a bigger town on Tuesday and had to take a different ways to get their and back because of rivers flooding and going over roadways. On Tuesday we also visited a butterfly house. I had never been to one before. It was neat.

Another not so great thing was Me, myself and I who has not been sick all winter...got a terrible sore throat and ear ache and had to go to Urgent Care Monday morning! Kids just couldn't believe that I got sick on THEIR VACATION. So this about all the pics I have because I really did just feel yucky and didn't really care if I took pics or not! But we are home now and weather was good yesterday but raining today and probably all weekend and the kids go back on Monday..Happy Spring Break!

Construct"men"

2010-03-11T10:31:00.000-06:00

Last night everyone was a little tired.Not much on tv, Brent and I were both tired, kids wanted to do "something" but no one could agree. Owen wanted to play with blocks, but he has a hard time with those because he wants them to "do something". Garrett got these "marble" wood blocks one year for Christmas several years ago. They are great. A little wobbly, so have to use hard surface. There is a million ways to build but the challenge is to make sure the marble can flow through the design.

Here are pics of my men making something....

This was G's final product. Worked great until O tried put a marble in the top and "CRASH" it came down. Good thing it was snack time then bed time!

Pink Sunrise's

2010-03-09T15:18:00.000-06:00

This picture I took on March 4 of the sunrise. Notice its a litle pink. I'm still trying to figure my camera out..wish I was better at it, but oh well.

This one was taken March 6. More pink. If you look REALLY CLOSE...you will see a small flock of ducks on the pond aka..black spots

Pink sunrise in the morning sailors take warning, pink sunset at night sailors delight.

I can't decide!

2010-03-09T15:12:00.000-06:00

Today the weather can't decide if it should pour or sprinkle, rain or shine..

I can't decide if I should actually deep clean something or just spot clean like normal.

I can't decide if I should try a new reciepe for supper or use the standby of spaghetti.

I can't decide if I should do a paper invite for a baby shower or do an e-vite.

I can't decide if should do a spring garage sale, fall garage sale, summer, none or all.
Other issues...print my own pics or pay for them.

Dust cabinets or actually murphy oil them, vaccum or steam clean, clean van or wait, unplug the computer or finish up some long overdue "computer' projects.

I am driving myself craaaaazzzzzy.....I really think weather, upcoming spring break, have something to do with it..but I really know what most of it is....Its this darn book I've been reading. Acutally its FABULOUS. REALLY, REALLY GOOD...but I can't tell you what it is because I'm embarrassed to tell you. I will share I promise, but just not right now. Come April if not sooner I will tell you. You can all guess if you want and maybe I will give a little "something" away if you get it right. For those of you who DO KNOW...you can't tell pleeaaaase!

Anyway..i've been working on a project for the kids for Easter and its been taking a lot of my free time. Really in fact probably to much free time, (not that I really have "free" time, but you get my drift. ) I will tell you about that later too. Just wanted to share my excuse for lack of blogging.

Over the weekend we went out to dinner with Steve and Tina and had a great time. What fun to catch up with them.

Sunday we had church and naps and then went and looked at some stuff one of our neighbors has for sale at an upcoming auction. (not like we NEED anything, but still fun to look) then headed to Brent's parents for a live trap. We have an ugly disgusting opposum in our shed...they really do have to be one of the ugliest animals alive. Gross....Kids "helped" do some chores.

After bathtime Maddison styled O's hair. He thought it was absolutely hilarious.

We watched the Amazing Race. This season isnt' too bad and yes the cowboys are my favorites. I have a few that I would be glad to hear "you are the last team to arrive..I'm sorry to tell you, you have been eliminated from the race!"

Sorry I know this is really boring...but I COULDN'T DECIDE WHAT TO WRITE ABOUT!

Saturday Mornings

2010-02-27T09:36:00.000-06:00

On Saturday Mornings if we don't have to be anywhere pressing to be I try to make something different for breakfast. The usually eat ceral on average 6 times a week. I had come across this receipe:

Brown Sugar Biscuits from Money Saving Mom. Looked fairly easy and good.

I didn't take pics of the mixing...these are what they looked like before baking.

I would recommend a few tips: make sure you flour, flour, flour your surface..I didn't, and they stuck to my counter, not enough that I couldn't handle, but a little stickier and of course not as "perfect" looking.

They take about 12 minutes...Kids did this while waiting

It's called zoning/vegging infront of cartoons!

Ta DA! Finished product...

Yep...I told you they didn't look perfect. Another tip. Roll a lot more tightly than I did. I think that would have been easier had the dough not been as sticky. Also I used all butter instead of the crisco/butter mix. I think the butter tends to make them a little more runny and flater (atleast for me they do, I notice that in cookies)

Breakfast...yummy. These were really good. They do taste a lot more like a biscuit than cinnamon roll. (hince: the title of receipe, but i still thought maybe it would be like cinnamon roll(ie), but their not) Maddie thought they needed more brown sugar...I would concur. But whole process only took about 30-40 minutes, so I would say its a keeper.

PS-G thought it was silly to smile while eating...I told him it was better than frowning and explaining to my HUGE list of followers what his problem was!

Heart Sister Banquet

2010-02-23T15:40:00.000-06:00

On Sunday our church was hosting our annual Heart Sister Banquet. I had the honor of helping with it along w/3 other great gals. I thought Evie did a fantastic job on table decor that I thought I would share.

Yes...we (I) did paper plates as I didn't want to be in the kitchen all night doing dishes. We had lasagna, bread, cookies, cherry dump cake, chocolate chip peanut butter torte, and then each lady brought some type of salad. A lady from Manhattan was going to come and talk about quilts, but because of the weather she had to cancel. So we just socialized...It was so much fun.

Next year it was decided that we would still have a banquet, but try doing something different called a Purse Ministry. We are going to try and do this twice a year. I think in June we might fill diaper bags/big Purses with essential baby items and take them to various shelters and pregnancy centers. Then in February have another banquet and fill purses to take to shelters that deal a lot w/battered women and families. Thinking we will fill these purses with things that women so often forget when leaving an abusive circumstance. I think it will be fun and what lady doesn't like a new purse?

Randomness

2010-02-20T14:16:00.000-06:00

Ok. You would think that in 7 days since my last post, I would have something interesting, inspirational, motivating, political, educational, motherly, wife(ly) to say..but I got nothing.

We almost managed for both school aged children to make it this week all 4 school days (no school on Monday), but Maddison screwed that up at 4am Friday w/fever, sore neck, and sore throat. Enough of this stuff, she has been fighting a cold for 2 weeks now, so I took her to the doc. Yep, strep throat. So 10 days of meds. She is taking a nap now. AND she is missing a very good friends birthday party this afternoon. She is really, really mad at me for not letting her go. Oh, the drama

Last year at this time I was tan. This year I am not. Not even a little pink. Is the sun ever going to shine? Oh and they say more snow to come. Like winter storm warning kind of snow. Really??? Postitive note to this: Brent worked on our boat this morning, putting a new floor in it. Yep, did you know we own a boat? Yep, but took it out only twice last year. Had a few problems...Hey Lindsay, remember O, Max and Tess and sand and no sign of the rest of our families????? This year I am going to make ourselves use it more, even if it is an inconvience sometimes!

Postitive notes: Brent got off work early on Friday. Owen is doing a lot better potty training. He actually told me 2 times yesterday that he had to go. I managed to get a majoritiy of my house cleaned Thursday. Brent and I were able to go eat Mexican and go to the CC BB game in abilene last night for a quick date! Boys and Girls both won. AND maybe, just maybe found me some kitchen curtains FINALLY. THANK YOU CLAY GOURMET. Oh-still no pics on my sofa table yet, but hoping to work on that this weekend. Also I think I might have found some patio chair cushions at Target yesterday. Picked up one to try, but haven't been able to get outside to try it on. But thinking it just might work.

It has been brought to my attention that G-Man doesn't have any video posted on here. Well...I haven't found anything that wouldn't embarass him too bad. I have a ton of video from soccer this fall, but I'M yelling in all of them, so then I would be embarrassed thus not putting them on. SO I will be on the lookout for a good G-Man video. Until then, you are going to have to watch owen dancing. Yes its winter time and yes he does just have a diaper on. And yes he was mad at me for taking him away from the wonder pets tv show that was playing in the other room.-Kristi, Jill, Lanelle this one's for you...

Owen dancing to Hillbilly Bone

New Furniture

2010-02-12T06:34:00.000-06:00

As promised here are some quick pics of some of the stuff we got at NFM. We did get a tv too, but I am not taking a pic of the tv (this was really on Brent's want list, I could have found something else, BUT-ya know, sometimes you have to let the man win-hahaha) I (we) had finally decided on some new patio furniture, but all they had out were some gas grills, guess it was a little early yet. AND we were still a little nervous that the credit would "magically" disappear, so we went ahead and got a few other things on our "wants" list.

Bar Stools.

These suckers are heavy and sturdy. Hoping they last a LONG time. My nephews aren't going to be to happy with us when they find out the don't swivel like our others!

Sofa Table.

I like this a lot. Its a little bigger than I anticipated (or remembered), but its still good. Now just need to get up my pics and put a few little "something's" on the bottom shelf. HOWEVER-its a lot easier to dust when there is nothing on it right??

Much to her brother's dismay we got Maddison a desk for her room. She got to pick it out (with a definate price point), and this is what she picked.

"I" really wanted her to get this cute white wood one, but this is what she wanted. She eagerly did her spelling homework on it last night.

After the desk pick out, you can only imagine the conversations taking place between the older brother and his parents. So he also got something. It was some wii game. I think Indiana Jones maybe??? He was happy after that.

The kids didn't have school on the Monday that we went to NFM. The kids were troopers the whole time we were there a while, (ummmm...like 3 hours). Thank goodness for escalators, strollers that look like cars, and movie projection screens that play Night at the Museum 2 repeatedly!!

We also spent the night in a hotel. It was a really fun "getaway".

Mr. Helper

2010-02-11T20:39:00.000-06:00

Brent was putting some non skid/mark mat "thing-y's" on our new bar stools tonight and Owen thought he needed to help. He came downstairs carrying his tools and toolbox. Oh-We really do have 2 other children, but they didn't think this was very exciting at all. Thus they are not in this video.

Ickies at Home

2010-02-10T14:11:00.000-06:00

Sunday night G came up to me and said, "I don't think I feel very good...I want to go home!" Oh boy...this was bad when he wants to leave his friends and a party with unlimited amounts of food to GO HOME. We hit the road fast. He came home and things well..you get the idea. Things started flowing. (THAT IS ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW). About 2am Maddison started in as well. ...They have been down since. Today I kept them home from school ONE more day to be safe. Still a little puny, but I want them to be fairly back to normal before I send them back to their GERM INFESTED SCHOOLS. I know the schools can't help it, but from what I hear it sounds like they need to open the doors and windows for about 12 hours and air the rooms OUT.

So that is what has been going on here...

ON A POSITIVE NOTE. A couple of weeks ago we hit NFM to use up our credit. IT WORKED and our furniture was delivered this morning. Right on time. The delivery gentlemen were very nice and polite. I will post some pics soon.

Maddison Cheering

2010-02-08T15:50:00.001-06:00

Here is a quick video of Maddison Cheering at the girls bb game during half time. She had a great time.

Prayers for Jace

2010-02-03T06:02:00.000-06:00

Jace (zippy) is having surgery today...Please pray for him and his family. LC is at home with Aunt Whitney. Pray that all is well for her and that LC leaves her tubes alone! Justin and Courtney we are praying for your strength and wisdom to make difficult decisions and for the doctors to have stable hands and God's healing touch for Jace. I know they would LOVE your prayers too!

click here to visit Zippy's site: Pudge and Zippy

All good

2010-02-02T10:05:00.000-06:00

So far so good at our house today...O seems to be the only one so far to get this yucky stuff. And he was better by 2pm yesterday afternoon and has been going strong (trust me) since then. Woke up at 6:30 ready to move his cows to the pasture! Maddison is supposed to cheer tonight at the halftime of girls bb game. Hoping to have some pics and maybe a few video clips too!

Take a guess!

2010-02-01T13:13:00.000-06:00

Guess what hit my home this morning?

I truly thought it would skip my home. So far O is the only one. I PRAY HE IS THE ONLY ONE. He has been such a trooper. He's sleeping right now, hope he wakes up w/it gone!

Tree Hunting

2010-01-31T21:25:00.000-06:00

Today we had out annual church meeting. We had a yummy lunch and then a LONG meeting. The kids were pretty good, but bored and we sat a long time. After we got home we needed some exercise and fresh air. We bundled up and headed out to the pasture to hunt these

little cedar trees. Cedars are a lot easier to handle and take care of if you catch them when they're little. Brent had an attachment he made that goes on the weed eater. It has a blade and you can just cut these little trees right off. We cut 97 trees this afternoon.

Garrett "looking" I think he was doing a little more wandering and daydreaming. But it was still fun to do something all together.

I pulled Owen in our wagon. It worked great. I thought it might be a little tough, but it wasn't. We moved right along. Although my arms did get a workout. And I GUARANTEE you they will be sore tomorrow!

Kansas Day

2010-01-31T21:15:00.000-06:00

The 29th was Kansas Day and Garretts school does a lot of different things for this day. Owen and I decided to head up to the school and check it out. We made it just in time to hear all about cattle drives. It was interesting and I actually learned something about horseshoes. The man talking had a saddle w/a rope and spurs, chaps, boots. Really about everything but the horse. Owen was pretty good while they talked and then got the chance to sit on the saddle. Would have been a real great picture had I remembered that I actually HAD my camera. BUT I did remember I had it when Garrett got to talk about sod houses on the local radio station. He was nervous but did a good job. I was very proud of him.

This was Owen messing around in the hallway of the school. It was shortly after this shot, that we left. Apparently listening about cow patties being used as meds and how to make your own butter just wasn't fascinating enough. But running up and down the hall was!

Puzzle

2010-01-24T19:03:00.000-06:00

Not this Christmas, but last Christmas Garrett received this 1000 piece John Deere Puzzle. I like puzzles and so does Garrett. So one weekend last January, my family along w/my parents started on this puzzle. We got about as far as sorting the edges and middle. So all thru the winter this puzzle was worked on. Brents parents helped too and my parents again on and off. One weekday night, Brent had a meeting and we were soo close to being done, that I just finished it. Stayed up late, but I was almost addicted to getting it done.

It sat, and sat, and sat. About 6 months ago, we matted it. Progress was made. Then again it sat and sat. Went to Hobby Lobby to buy a frame. Ughhh..they don't make this size. Has to be custom. I said NO THANK YOU. I am sorry but it was outrageous for a frame. So again it sat and sat.

Fast forward to Friday night. Brent made a frame out of some old lath painted it black. Mounted the mat, hung on the wall and Ta Da.

Happy to say a long awaited project crossed off my list and looks really good in his room.

For the Love of Books

2010-01-23T15:05:00.000-06:00

This Gal nominated me for this award

So apparently I AM a princess....I always wondered if I had what it took. Well, actually I don't think I am what the "world" would call a princess. I am the "book" princess type. First I just want to say it is honor being nomniated and I would like to thank my family for putting up with me when I read a "really" good one. For my parents for supporting me, for my agents (the librarians) for pointing me to a new read every now and then. And my grandma Dorthy. She was an avid reader and shared a lot of books with me. And also to my mom's 3 sisters who read continously. Oh....I think.I hear my exit music.

This award is about books and how much we like to read them. Here it goes

1. Name an author you love.

I LOVE Lauraine Snellling. A lot, like the gal who nominated me. In fact, I am pretty sure I was sitting poolside at the CC swimming pool, in the baby pool. When Mrs. Hayes was telling me about this author and what a great series it was. I was a little skeptical, but I INSTANTLY fell in love after 2 pages for Red River of the North. I bawled in bed at night while reading it. (my husband thought it was ludicrious to be crying over a book. not much of a reader is he?) She is my favorite. I also like Tracy Peterson, Stephen Bly, Jennifer Chaivarini. Karen Kingsbury. Al and Joana Lacy. John Grisham, (his books are way better than his movies). Janette Oke and her Love comes softly series. Again these books are WAAAY better than the movies, but I will watch the Hallmark Marathon when they are on. Mary Higgins Clark-I need a good mystery every now and then. Beth Moore, not only does she right awesome Bible Studies, she writes some pretty good books too.

2. Name an author who highlights your personality.

I can't really think of one that highlights my entire personality. But Marty from Love comes Softly has a good start. She loves her family and her friends. Truly does she only want the best for them. She has good days and bad. She messes up every now and then and gets embarrassed, but then her loving husband ALWAYS makes her feel better. She loves her kids and tries to teach them right and wrong.

3. Name some books you love.

She's Come Undone. Love Comes Softly. Get Out of the Pit. The Drifter. Hadasah:One Night with the King, (very good movie too, but read the book first!) Voice of the Wind, Mark of the Lion, Little House on the Prairie..And now I have drawn a blank. I promise I will add more when they come to me.

4. Something that always excites you.

Finishing....When I finish ALL the laundry (even if it only lasts 20 minutes), finish pulling weeds in the garden and flower beds and can see the stuff you are supposed to see! When I finish MOWING (I love to mow), nothing like smell of cut grass and a yard that looks even and neat. When I finish my run for the day and I have pushed myself and FINISHED. And laying in bed at night because I am finished for the day!

5. Something you hate

Peas and Cooked Carrots-gag me!

NOTE: I would pass this award to all 3 of my children if I could, but they are tied in with me, but its worth mentioning. My children love to read. Garrett was made for AR tests! He has red every Magic Tree house book, He loves Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew. Maddison loves Fancy Nancy and Berenstein Bears and I read the American Girl series to her when I have the chance.

When I was in the 5th or 6th grade my grandma Dorthy started buying me Mandy Books by Lois Gladys Leppard. I have almost 35 books of this series and going to complete entire series and pass onto Maddison. I have started Garrett on a series of Sugar Creek Gang by Paul Hutchens. They are a great series for 5-8th grade boys, but I think girls would like them too. Hoping he will pass on the love of reading to his kids. And even though Owen can't read yet. You give him the Farm Journal magazine or the Fastlline Tractor or Farm and Ranch Magazine and he will be occupied for hours. Just looking, but I don't doubt for a minute that he is soaking up words and letters to help him later.

NOW I am passing this award along. All they have to do is grab the princess award and post the questions and answers. Thanks for letting me share about my love for reading!

And the nominess are:

Lindsay @ The Henry Bunch

Katie @ Bring on the Lloyds

Tiffany @ Wertville

Jerrilyn @ The Henny's

Happy Birthday Mom

2010-01-21T06:45:00.000-06:00

Today is my mom's birthday. She has to work. Its NOT fun to work on your birthday. But she will be working hard as a nurse all day. My mom is pretty special to me. We talk on the phone atleast once a day and occasionally more than once on the weekends or her day off. We go shopping together and sometimes get groceries together. And the last 5 years or so we have made a special point to go Christmas Shopping together w/out kids. She is pretty special to me and my family. Garrett, Maddison, & Owen LOVE her because she lets them cook w/her. (did I mention she has patience???) Mom is so willing to babysit too whenever and wherever. She has sewed her fare share of Halloween costurmes for her kids and grandkids. She has given up a lot to give us kids what we needed. I thank God for her everyday when I call her to ask about the kids snotty noses and fevers. Or how to not strangle one of the kids after a day gone bad. Or just to talk about nothing.

When dad and her got married they moved away from her family (in South Dakota) and moved closer to dad's family. I know it was hard, especially after having kids. She was more than just a 30 minute drive away from her mom. Yes, she could phone, but its not the same.

I am so thankful that my mom is close and that we are close. I LOVE YOU MOM. Hope your day is a good one!