Animal School

This clip is amazing. I have thought about this often. Now I pray that God will give me wisdom in training them that together we can be successful. I need His guidance.

Yahoo Answers

I like to go into Yahoo Answers and look around at questions people ask. This was one I ran into. Had to answer it. I am copying here in case anyone runs into my site and might wonder the same. :o)

If it's human nature to sin, why does God get all bent out of shape about it? After all, he created us... -Giovanni

My Answer:

You're missing it! Remember, God created Adam and Eve. They were deceived in the garden and chose to disobey God. Because God loves us so much, He gave us a free will. However, He cannot allow sin in Heaven. We choose who we want to serve. Some don't believe in hell. But even if there was only a 5% chance there was a hell, it is in my best interest to avoid it. But! Remember, sin always comes with consequences. Yes, we have the free will to sin, but we must also accept our consequences from it. If sin was such an "okay" thing, why does so much heartache come with it? Face it, the pleasure of a certain sin is only temporary, then you usually have to move onto something more, and more, and more..... Instead, see it that God loves you so much that He gave His only son. That way you HAVE a chance to be redeemed. NOT ONLY THAT! But to live a life free from the consequences of sin. Sin paints such a pretty picture. But it'll never show you the other side. God loves you so much He'd rather spare you than have your life down spiral into sin. Think of it like that.

("The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is Eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord") Romans 6:23

("All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God") Romans 3:23

Sister in Town!

My sister and her family are missionaries in Capetown, South Africa. They come back every two years for a visit so they just took a 28 hour flight in to visit for a month! We are just so excited and we can't get enough of them. We met at Sweet Tomatoes just after they got off the plane. Dan is still there because he will only be visiting for two weeks. I will share some funny stories with you soon when I get the time!

On the left is my mom, me, my nephews, my niece, my cutie pie Charles, my kids, then my dad, some more of my nephews, my sister Tammy, and then Jodee (being silly) who is visiting from South Africa. Her kids are mixed in with other kids at the table. She has four. :o) Click on picture for better view. It's cute seeing what all the kids were doing. Trust me, going to Sweet Tomatoes with 11 kids all under the age of 10 is not an easy thing. ((Chuckle))

New Homeschool, New Schedule

Okay, I am writing this for my friend. ;), who wants me to update.

Yes, I am homeschooling now with my 6 and 7 year old. I was off to a rough start because we have all been very sick the last month between flus and colds. On top of it, my newborn hasn't been sleeping well because she has a stuffed nose and tries to breathe out of it. Last night I finally found my "booger sucker" and was finally able to help her go to sleep around 4:30am. The other night my son woke up shaking violently with a 104 temperature. It was the middle of the night so I made a tepid bath for him to cool him down and gave him medicine. That quickly put his temperature down by 2 degrees. Then I laid on the floor next to him for the rest of the early morning so I could keep checking on him. By morning, his fever was gone. Sooo, things have been a little rough around here. As I was starting the homeschool process, I hadn't realized that it would take some time for the books that I ordered to come in. Once it came in, my computer started to act up. Thankfully it is all working now. My only thing I am working out now is how to set up my schedule. I am finding that I might need to wait until the little one's naptime in order to really be able to work with the boys well. Either that, or split the work up throughout the day. Any advice is helpful! I truly am happy with our decision but it'll just take some time to work out what will work best for our family. :)

Oh, by the way. I am not a "quiverfull" mom. For those who don't know, that's a mom who lets each baby come as God allows. Actually, if I did that I would have one baby every year because I am so fertile. I did that before which is why I have a 6 and 7 year old. Hee, hee.... But actually, I have a lot of work to do with my kids such as disciplines and behavior so I really want to focus on that for awhile before I welcome in a new one. :)

I hope all my blogging friends are having an awesome Christmas month!

Everything Breaking?

This pic is so cute. It's my mother-law, and my cute husband with his little sister Melanie.

Man, this has been a weird month. My family has been getting sick like crazy and our fridge is dying and our van is having problems. Sheesh-la-weez! But, you know, instead of freaking out, I have to remind myself that life happens and sometimes when it rains it pours. I was not feeling good today and I could hardly stand. After running into a couple of walls because I couldn't keep my balance, I admitted that it was time for me to go lay down. You have to know me, I rarely sit down unless I'm at the computer. Even when I eat, I tend to stand up. So, I finally went to lay down (sorta fell down into couch) and crashed with my son on top of me and my little girl next to me. Anyhow, my sister is as I write this, heading on a plane from Capetown, South Africa and the family will be visiting for one month. Then they will return back there for another couple of years. Boy, do I miss her!!!!!! It's a 22 hour flight so they will be in around evening time on Monday. Can't wait!

Tell Me About Yourself

These are fun. Let me know if you do one too on your site!

TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF - The Survey
Name:	Jenny (or Virginia)
Birthday:	June 14th
Birthplace:	Globe, Az
Current Location:	Not telling dork
Eye Color:	Blue
Hair Color:	Blond
Height:	5'5"
Right Handed or Left Handed:	Right
Your Heritage:	Irish, German, English, and Cherokee
The Shoes You Wore Today:	None, love to be barefoot at home or else heels
Your Weakness:	Stylish Clothes (Even though I'm a homemaker) Love to stay cute.
Your Fears:	Losing a loved one close to me
Your Perfect Pizza:	Hawaiian
Goal You Would Like To Achieve This Year:	Homeschooling with success
Your Most Overused Phrase On an instant messenger:	LOL
Thoughts First Waking Up:	Need some coffee
Your Best Physical Feature:	Hmmm.... Everyone says my legs. /always has.
Your Bedtime:	Around midnight
Your Most Missed Memory:	The three days my husband and I spent when dating walking downtown just talking and holding hands
Pepsi or Coke:	Coke (Not really. Diet Dr. Pepper with Cherry and Vanilla
MacDonalds or Burger King:	McDonalds
Single or Group Dates:	Single dates all the way.
Lipton Ice Tea or Nestea:	Lipton
Chocolate or Vanilla:	Totally Chocolate!
Cappuccino or Coffee:	Coffee
Do you Smoke:	No way
Do you Swear:	No, I'm a Christian
Do you Sing:	Yes, on stage at church
Do you Shower Daily:	Duh
Have you Been in Love:	Of course. Love can hurt sometimes. But can't live without it.
Do you want to go to College:	I would love to go to chef's school. Mostly though, just want to help people in need or lonely
Do you want to get Married:	I am so married. 9 years.
Do you believe in yourself:	At times. I really am hard on myself. A lot people said I'd never be a mother. Now I'm a mom of five. I love it.
Do you get Motion Sickness:	Yes!
Do you think you are Attractive:	Somewhat. Not crazy attractive though. Just get by.
Are you a Health Freak:	Not a health freak food wise but an exercise nut.
Do you get along with your Parents:	With my mom sometimes, with my dad, all the time.
Do you like Thunderstorms:	NO! ((Scared))
Do you play an Instrument:	Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Piccalo, flute, and some piano
In the past month have you Drank Alcohol:	No way. Christians don't drink. So no.
In the past month have you Smoked:	No. Although I admit I like the smell of it. Would never willingly kill myself for it though
In the past month have you gone on a Date:	Yes. Due for another
In the past month have you gone to a Mall:	Yes, bought a cute shirt at my favorite store Charlotte Russe
In the past month have you eaten a box of Oreos:	Ummm... well, it's sitting right here next to me. The mint ones. (I am so caught)
In the past month have you eaten Sushi:	No way. Try to. Doesn't work for me.
In the past month have you been on Stage:	Oh yes, all the time.
In the past month have you been Dumped:	No. Um, that's not supposed to happen in marriage but unfortunately there are selfish people out there.
In the past month have you gone Skinny Dipping:	Uh no. Used to but I got delivered from that. Thank God! Oh the wild days.
In the past month have you Stolen Anything:	No, just maybe a chocolate from kids halloween bin
Ever been Drunk:	Oh yes. Easily. But don't drink anymore.
Ever been called a Tease:	oh yes. Not while married though.
Ever been Beaten up:	Almost lots of times. hated school. Girls always wanted to beat me up over guys.
Ever Shoplifted:	oh yes. Thankfully I am clean of that!
How do you want to Die:	given a chance to tell friends goodbye and make sure heart is right with God.
What do you want to be when you Grow Up:	Like, uh, I am so I guess what I am now. A homemaker and a loving wife.
What country would you most like to Visit:	France. Not so much. I am very happy here.
In a Boy/Girl..
Favourite Eye Color:	Green
Favourite Hair Color:	Looooove Dark Brown. Never blond hair on guys.
Short or Long Hair:	Short. Nice and clean cut.
Height:	6 foot or more
Weight:	whatever, just not obese
Best Clothing Style:	American Eagle
Number of Drugs I have taken:	never
Number of CDs I own:	I don't know. Just love praise music
Number of Piercings:	just one in each ear
Number of Tattoos:	None
Number of things in my Past I Regret:	Here, now? Hold on, I have to count... could be here awhile. Gee, a lot. I hurt a lot of people in my past. Sadly.
CREATE YOUR OWN! - or - GET PAID TO TAKE SURVEYS!

YES, I'M A BAD AMERICAN

(This is so awesome!)-Virginia

Am I a bad American????
YES, I'M A BAD AMERICAN
By: George Carlin

I Am Your Worst Nightmare.
I am a BAD American.
I am George Carlin.
I believe the money I make belongs to me and my family, not some mid level governmental functionary be it Democratic or Republican!
I'm in touch with my feelings and I like it that way!
I think being a minority does not make you noble or victimized, and does not entitle you to anything.
I believe that if you are selling me a Big Mac, do it in English.
I believe everyone has a right to pray to his or her God when and where they want to.
My heroes are John Wayne, Babe Ruth, Roy Rogers, and whoever canceled Jerry Springer.
I don't hate the rich.
I don't pity the poor.
I know wrestling is fake and I don't waste my time watching or arguing about it.
I've never owned a slave, or was a slave, I haven't burned any witches or been persecuted by the Turks and neither have you!
So, shut up already.
I believe if you don't like the way things are here, go back to where you came from and change your own country!
This is AMERICA.
I want to know which church is it exactly where the Reverend Jesse Jackson preaches, where he gets his money, and why he is always part of the problem and not the solution.
Can I get an AMEN on that one?
I think the cops have every right to shoot your sorry rear if you're running from them..
I also think they have the right to pull you over if you're breaking the law, regardless of what color you are.
..and, no, I don't mind having my face shown on my drivers license. I think it's good..... And I'm proud that 'God' is written on my money.
I think if you are too stupid to know how a ballot works, I don't want you deciding who should be running the most powerful nation in the world for the next four years
I dislike those people standing in the intersections trying to sell me stuff or trying to guilt me into making 'donations' to their cause.
I believe that it doesn't take a village to raise a child, it takes two parents.
..and what is going on with gas prices... Again?
I believe 'illegal' is illegal no matter what the lawyers think.
I believe the American flag should be the only one allowed in AMERICA!
If this makes me a BAD American, then yes, I'm a BAD American.
If you are a BAD American too, please forward this to everyone you know.
We want our country back!

We NEED GOD BACK IN OUR COUNTRY!

Sore Loser

So now that my baby is 3 months old I've been wanting to jump back into my exercise routine. I've loved working out ever since I was a teen. Although back then, it was more for just toning. Um, now it's for serious toning. Yeah. So I attending my first TBC class (total body conditioning). I thought, "oh man, I am seriously out of shape". Man, what one pregnancy can do in just 9 months time. So, in order to do some serious repair work, I am going three times a week. So I wake up this morning and I am so sore I can hardly bend over. I mean, it really hurts. On top of that, I only slept maybe 4 1/2 hours. In the middle of the night my 2 year old wanted water so I got up to give her some. The problem with that is sometimes when I get up like that, I can't go back to sleep. So I was awake for an hour before I could fall back asleep. Yikes. Then I realized my little 3 month old needed a diaper change. Just as I was going to start falling asleep, she woke up hungry. (Chuckle) That's how it is with a newborn! All in all, this has been a sore day for me but I will do it again tomorrow! Then be sore Thursday. Then workout again on Friday.... until I get used to it again. Hopefully with all this workout, I will also be a sore loser. (As in losing weight.)

True Meaning of Thanksgiving

Today some schools are teaching children that the pilgrims gave thanks to the Indians and thats why we have Thanksgiving. Sadly, the schools teach this because they don't want the kids to know that the purpose of Thanksgiving is that pilgrims gave thanks to God. Learn The True Meaning of Thanksgiving so that you can also teach your own children!

Christmas Tree Fun

Tonight was our Christmas tree fun decorating with the kids! The kids really loved it and although Charles and I have of course done it for many years, this is a tradition the kids are newer to and will look back on it for many years! Right away the kittens have had fun with the ornaments. But... have no fear. We have shatterproof ornaments. Yes, this idea comes from my smart in-laws. So, now I don't have to come running in from another room 10 times a day to see who just shattered another one. Ahhh... relaxing. :o) The next best thing is reading next to the tree with a good book and sipping hot cocoa. All I'm missing is a fireplace! I know there are some lucky ones out there with one! Even luckier, those who have snow. Don't worry, we're gonna take the kids out this year for the first time to see snow. Yay!

Forgot to mention...

Do you see how late my post is? That's how freaked out I'm in about almost getting killed on the road. I am so shook up.

Also... my son Kyle has been waking up so early. This morning he woke up at 4:30am! He was just all ready for the day. Ready to play and eat. I kept telling him to go back to bed but he just layed awake next to me and then played in the playroom till I woke up. Talk about an early bird. Sheesh.

Night Out

Anyhow, since that last post was so down, here is the highlights from tonight. :) My dad took Ivy tonight to spend some time with her and had her play in the snow. Also, when he came back with her she spent some time with my mom and my mom put this hat on her that has a wig attached underneath it. So funny! Looks like she has long blond hair. The other pic is of me and my dad after I got back from the dinner. The one on top is at the dinner with my husband's company. I couldn't get the whole table in it though.

Tough Day

This has been a really rough day for me and I am just so shaky from it. Tonight was my husband's office party night at a restaurant across town. Well, I asked my husband where it was but somehow I didn't listen close enough. I just started driving to where I thought it was and there was horrible traffic. Along the way my husband and I just kept seeing horrible accidents and it was raining on top of it. Really bad accidents. We must've seen at least 10 tonight. We started at 4:30pm driving to take kids to different babysitters (the boys and a friend's, and Ivy at my moms). We didn't expect such bad traffic all the way there. So, I finally get there and it slowly dawns on me that I was on the wrong side of town. I mean, WRONG side. We were already 10 minutes late for the party. So we headed to the other side of town and it took 45 minutes. We got there an hour late! We sit down and have a nice dinner with presents and bonus checks. When we go to head home I give Charles the wrong directions out of the restaurant. I got mixed around. So then we had to find the freeway and once I did, I went the wrong direction. We went even further into the next town till I realized my mistake. We had to turn around and drive REALLY far back to my friend's house. After we left, we were sitting at a stop light waiting for it to turn green. When it turn green, for once I was just relaxed so I took off slow. All of a sudden I heard Charles yell at the top of his lungs STOP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I slammed on my brakes in time to see a large tow truck barrel right past me. He had ran a red going extremely fast, way over the speed limit. Also, he was driving erratically like he was drunk. If Charles hadn't of literally screamed at me, I know we would've been dead because he was that close. If I had not been relaxed, starting to edge out slow, and then slammed on my brakes fast, he would have broad sided me. I was so shaky I pulled over to where I saw a cop and told him what happened. He then went after the guy to catch him before he could kill someone on the road. I was going to go to the store but we just went straight home. By just 6 that evening there had already been over 15 accidents on the road. We just want to be safe inside. Scary night.

Beginnings of Homeschooling

Well, I've officially started homeschooling. I have never been busier in my entire life! Whew! I mean, I literally don't have much time for cleaning so it is essential that we learn how to clean as we go along. Pick up after ourselves. I think I literally have the laziest kids on the planet. (Except for my middle son Ryan). I mean as soon as I say it's time to clean, they go from playing to lying on the floor saying that they are just so exhausted they can't even stand up. Sooo, I tell them to get their so called tired butts off the floor and help out. :D We are a family so we work together. Three times a week we go to the YMCA so I can attend my aerobics classes. Although I've never been busier, I am truly the happiest I've ever been. I love staying busy. I can't stand being idle. I know my parents (who remember my teens so well) might fall over from that last statement but it's the truth. People do change! LOL! Between lesson plans, cooking three times a day, cleaning, nursing, errands, laundry, and running to that darn phone, it leaves little time for free time. Which.... I might add.... can actually be good thing. I spend my free times after 7:30pm when kids are in bed. That's the, "Let's kick on the music, eat some snacks, and lounge around time." Fun! LOL! Thank you to my homeschooling friends for being an encouragement to me and helping me to see that it is possible. :o)

Our 9th Anniversary!

I am now 28. I got married when I was 19 to the sweetest guy I've ever met named Charles. He is the most thoughtful and fun man to be with. Get this. My husband loves go shopping. Even if it's just to window shop. He helps me pick out my clothes. He always wants me to try on stuff in stores that he thinks is pretty. He changes diapers without asking. He lays down the kids every night. He encourages me to take nights off with my friends. He gives me back rubs whenever I need it. Draws me a bath when I'm tired. How could I have ever gotten so lucky searching on my own? God brought him to me and I am so grateful for him. Doesn't mean everything is always perfect but that's what love is about. For better or worse. Whether you're rich or poor. Sickness and in health. Till death do us part. The world may be able to brush aside their vows over trivial things. But as Christians, we cannot. Thank you God for being the glue that holds us together. :o)

Elf Yourself!

Hey, I just made a total elf of myself. Check it out by clicking here. . Hee, hee...

Mud Mania!

(1. Chaz getting mud out of hair, 2. Ivy staying clean, 3. Chaz, proud to be dirty, 4. Alexandra and Ryan, 5. Ryan after the soap slide.)
I never got to post this awhile back because I was waiting for my friend to email the pics. My kids really loved attending Mud Mania this year. There is just so much to do and they just love getting dirty. However, Ivy wouldn't go near the mud and stayed clean all day. It's just a huge event. Chaz surprisingly loved getting dirty, and Ryan loved the soap slide down the hill to get clean. In one pic, Ryan is with his little friend Alexandra on a rocking horse. It was a great family day out, that's for sure!

Funny Questionaire

You Are a Christmas Sweater!

Over the top, colorful, and totally flashy. You're not afraid to be a little tacky.

What Crappy Christmas Gift Are You?

100 Things About Me

1. I have 5 kids. Three boys and two girls.
2. I have been a Christian for 14 years.
3. I was raised in a Christian church since in my mom's tummy.
4. I am married to Charles. (Sweetest guy on earth!)
5. I've always wanted to have a large family (like at least 7!)
6. I was born with blond hair and had it all growing up but now I have to highlight it to keep it blond! Argh!
7. I look terrible as a brunette.
8. I have blue eyes.
9. I am terrified of Alligators (and snakes) and will not look at them at the zoo.
10. I was blessed to have parents who have stayed together my whole life.
11. My mom was a homemaker and still is!
12. I love to sew. (Although it's hard to find time for it. I love sewing parties.)
13. I love country music but usually don't listen to it because of the immorality in it. Every now and then I find a good song and then I just belt my heart out!
14. I love praise music more! (I love to sing to it while cleaning house.)
15. I thought I was 5' 7" for years. Come to find out I'm 5' 5". It was just my heels I wore. LOL
16. I love to shop. (Duh. I'm a girl. I don't blow money though. I'm a good girl!)
17. I have a best friend Brianne. Although we are opposites in many ways and even have some different beliefs, she is dear to my heart.
18. I long to be my pre-baby weight at 125. (Who doesn't?)
19. I love God with all of my heart. Although at times I've walked away from him, He has never left me.
20. I love dogs. I have a beautiful Great Dane.
21. I used to have cats till they kept peeing in my laundry.
22. I love birds but since I can't keep them alive in my house... well, I keep my distance.
23. I don't really like going to people's houses that don't have a fence around their pool. It is most unrelaxing worrying about my kids.
24. I looooove Christmas time because it is so much fun giving and baking cookies. It's cold and we have to bundle up. I love the music and Christmas lights.
25. My anniversary is in December.
26. I was born on Flag day, June 14.
27. My nationalities are Irish, German, English, and Cherokee.
28. I have a french last name because of my French husband who is Hungarian and French Canadian.
29. I own a home with 4 bedrooms and big back yard!
30. When I was single I supported myself on $5.75 an hour and only made $600 a month.
31. I felt like I was gonna starve to death. I was way underweight at 110 lbs.
32. I had no car and would take the bus to my job at JCPenney.
33. I love being pregnant but hate the very beginning and the very end!
34. I love giving birth. It is such an exciting experience. With or without the epidural. (Even though it hurts like crud!)
35. I love the zoo. I'm just an animal lover! Although I'm not a weirdo about it. I don't knit clothes for the poor giraffe's in the winter.
36. I met my husband at my sister's church where her and her husband pastored. Thank goodness they found him for me! LOL!
37. I think homemaking at least while your children are young is so important. (It meant a lot to me!)
38. I love to cook.
39. I love even more to bake. I love to make the cake but not to eat it. I'm not much of a sweets person.
40. I hate doing dishes.
41. I love doing laundry.
42. I love new technology. I want the new Scuba robot that mops your floor.
43. I loooooove my laptop. It's my baby and I love having Wifi.
44. I have a hard time making friends after being betrayed so many times. Who hasn't? But I'm trying to come out of my shell. There is no life in unforgiveness. But it is a true fear I have, making friends.
45. When I was a teen I seriously battled depression.
46. I am completely free from that. I think the teen years are very rough and would never want to go through them again for nothing.
47. I love my elementary school years until my parents moved. Then I disliked school every since.
48. I never finished high school. I got my GED and then a certificate from courses I took in College.
49. I was terrified of high school because girls threatened to stab me there. I eventually pulled myself out and went to work. I tried homeschooling myself but couldn't afford the cost.
50. I love to sing. I sing on the platform at church for song service. Not for reason's people think. I only love to sing praise songs to God. God loved David's songs to Him.
51. I love the colors red and black.
52. I've always wanted a red convertible.
53. I think the love of money really is the root of all evil (as the bible says).
54. I love the mall and so does my husband. Just to walk around and window shop.
55. We own a red minivan although I long for an SUV instead.
56. As of December 5, 2007, my husband and I will have been married for 9 years.
57. I am 29 years old and my husband is 31.
58. Between my 5 kids, I've had 10 babyshowers. Such a blessing!
59. I hate talking on the phone. I'd rather email or IM. I think it's so rude that people will call just because they're bored! Why should I stop what I'm doing because they're bored?
60. I always love talking to my dad though.
61. I attended teen bootcamp in New Mexico every summer 6 different times.
62. I have dimples. (How come none of my five kids do?)
63. I played flute for concert band in school.
64. I played alto sax and tenor sax for Jazz band in school.
65. I was 4th chair in honor band once but hated it because girls were snobs. (So weird).
66. My sister and I got to cheer lead for The Suns on court once for the half time show when I was little.
67. I love pink roses.
68. I love pink sweaters.
69. I love shoes that have a high heel on it. (That explains why I thought I was 5'7" all those years!
70. I absolutely love homemaking. I feel like I'm living my dream I've always wanted since I was a little girl.
71. I am now homeschooling my children.
72. I love to swim.
73. I love snow but have to travel to see it.
74. I hate mopping but my husband loves it so he took over that chore for me. Wow! What a man.
75. I love to ride horses and also day dream about living on a farm. (But still close enough to drive to a city).
76. I love Bookstores!
77. I am the youngest of three daughters.
78. I lived a sheltered life growing up which I am very thankful for. My husband quite the opposite.
79. I absolutely LOVE Diet Dr. Pepper Cherry and Vanilla soda. Yummm...
80. I had braces when I was a teen.
81. I learned how to drive on a stick shift first before an automatic.
82. I hate horror movies. They are so evil. What is the point? "Yay! Let's scare ourselves to death. Fun!" Not like I own movies or a TV anyway.
83. I love middle eastern food like crazy.
84. I am terrified to go camping. Afraid to get robbed or shot.
85. I love taking pictures! I've always wanted to be a photographer.
86. I dislike confrontations. I can't see why people seem to seek them out at times.
87. I can play piano but mostly by ear. That's what makes it fun for me.
88. I am a major beach girl. Love the beach but don't live by one.
89. I know all the states and all the books of the Bible by heart.
90. I love Rocky Road and Mint chocolate chip ice cream.
91. I hate stuffed animals. What's the point? They clutter the place.
92. I'm in love with Girl Scout's Thin Mints. When I see a girl scout, I practically chase her down.
93. When I can't find a girl scout, I settle for Mint Oreo cookies with milk only.
94. I can make killer cookies, pies, and cakes. Only if not in a rush though.
95. I love to read.
96. I was raised without a TV and I don't have one now. Time waster!
97. I love to play volleyball and basketball. (Played basketball in school).
98. I got to play one and one basketball with Meadowlark Lemon (Harlem Globetrotters). He trained me how to play.
99. I love board games such as Guesstures, Risk, Clue, and Scattegories.
100. I love going to bed with peace in my heart knowing if I die I'll make Heaven my home because I have a relationship with Jesus Christ. The bible promises me that!

Whew! That's a lot!

Fun Diet

Yes, I have found the perfect diet. So called. Well, as soon as I had the baby and I had recovered (which is always right away for me), I went to the usual place I like to go to monitor my eating habits. Sparkpeople. Well, I signed into the section for moms who are breastfeeding so I can make sure I get enough calories each week to keep my milk coming. Well, they said I need to have 2200-2500 calories a day. So I thought, great, no problem. I'll just start tracking my calories now so I can lose some weight. Welllll.... come to find out, I don't eat enough! My daily intake is about 1500 calories a day and they are telling me that if I don't start eating more I could lose my breast milk! THIS EXPLAINS WHY I'VE NEVER BEEN ABLE TO BREAST FEED FOR VERY LONG WITH MY OTHER ONES. I never eat enough. In these last few weeks I just would write down what I ate for the day in Sparkpeople without even watching what I was eating. I WASN'T trying to eat less. Charles always did say I didn't eat much. Okay, so if I wasn't nursing, actually 1500 is great. But not good if I want to keep my milk. So I'm like 1000 calories under my daily intake. So, now I'm going from trying to scale down... to looking in my fridge to force myself to eat more than I'm used to. This is really weird. I have no choice in the matter since I always have trouble keeping my breast milk. I guess this is what you call a fun diet. I've even gone to Mcdonalds just to cheat to add up the numbers quicker. Like getting a 500 calorie double cheeseburger. Sigh. So much for losing weight this way. I guess I'll go back to my aerobic classes again. Those are always fun anyway. Especially when the grannies are quicker than me.

Babyshower for Ashley

On Monday, my friends and my mom held a babyshower for me and Ashley. It was wonderful and such a blessing! We had lots of fun and I am ever so grateful. :o)

Potty Business

Now...onto more important business. Potty business. I went out to buy Ivy a potty chair to let her get acquainted with it. She is terrified of the big toilet so I got her a little one that looks just like it. She is only two and a half but I always like to put one in the bathroom so they are comfortable around it when they start learning. Whether or not she decides to use it, there is no rush. She has gone in it a couple of times so we'll see. She is just so ready to learn.

Kitten Fun

Okay, I know I'm posting a lot about kittens here. But we are just having so much fun sitting in the living room watching the little kittens play. Unfortunately, they now have figured out how to get out of the cage and are climbing over. Now, I don't mind them having some freedom. What they don't understand is that I'm just protecting them from the kids. My boys are so rough that I have to monitor their time with the kittens. Now.... I can't because they just don't want to be caged anymore. Almost time to let them go. Sniff...

My Family Life

This is great. I got this from Teresa's site. Let me also know if you post your own answers on your site. I'd love to read them.

I don't want my children to be spoiled so I make sure they...
do their part to help being they are a part of this family.

I may not be a perfect chef, but my kids love it when I cook....
anything Italian. They just love lasagna and any pasta.

I felt like Super Mom when I .....
realized that having 4 kids wasn't that hard! Once I got past that notion, I went on to five. LOL!

I realized I had turned into my mom (or dad) when I heard myself say.....
"Watch out for cars because they won't watch out for you!" My dad said that so many times it's stuck in my head even when I cross the street. It saved my life once.

They may not thank me now, but when they're older my children will thank me for....
teaching them that laziness in not in fact a virtue!

My proudest moment as a mom was...
whenever they are good in a restaurant. When one doesn't ever barf on the floor, or a baby doesn't diarrhea down my leg, or my toddler doesn't take off running so she can sit with another family. When someone says, "wow, you have really good kids", then I'm sooo proud. Proud as a peacock! LOL!

My most prized gift from my children are...
when they volunteer to pray for me when I'm sick.

My kids know not to interrupt me when....
I'm taking a nap! (Ooooh, those naps stolen in the middle of the day are just the best.)

So Incredibly Thankful

(First picture is of my sister Tammy (brown hair), my dad, me, and Charles holding our little girl at Thanksgiving).


Today I was going around visiting some of my favorite blogs and I was reading Homemaking Homesteader's. She had a great blog about A Season of Thankfulness. These are my thoughts after reading her article.

Lately I have really sat back and reflected on things. Especially my family. Even though many around me are against larger families, I have began to really appreciate my kids more and more. I love life with them more since I had made a choice to set down some of my selfish desires. Especially since some of them are so unsatisfying. Lately Charles and I have been really talking about life before our kids. Boring! All we did was go to work, come home and either pop in a movie, or eat somewhere. I mean, there wasn't really a lot to do. Making dinner just for two wasn't as much fun either. Now, I have a little baby to snuggle, a little toddler girl to hear all her cute antics, boys I play kickball with in the backyard, and my dogs to run around the yard with and play, my birds to hear their pretty chirping, and my kittens to watch playing and wrestling. I love to hear my little girl pacing around the room while she pretends to talk to someone on her little phone. I love to teach my boys from the bible and hear them praying for each other. My life is just so much fuller than back when all I had was our jobs and money. Whoopeedo. There is only so much happiness you can gain from money. It's just so temporary. Of course we need money to live our lives but I learned not to worship it and build my life around it! My family, God, and friends have been the most fulfilling thing I could every have imagined for my life. Thank God for His blessings.

When Children Fight

You know, I have always thought about this and wondered what to do when siblings constantly argue. Now, my kids don't ALWAYS do that but they do have their moments. I went to visit Owlhaven's site and found this article When Children Fight to be very helpful. There are some days where my kids are just getting along like Sesame Street. Then there are other days where I think they are competing like are guests on Jerry Springer. But... in... a more normal way I assure you. Sheesh. That show is sick. Anyway, back on track again. I just thought maybe you guys might like to check out this article also. It's definitely something to think about. I will give it a try.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Saturday Chores

I hate the word "chores". For some reason for me it carries a symbol of boring work. It just sounds bad. I say it's fun when you do them together as a family! We even let our great dane out with us, but you should've seen the look on this lady's face when the dog crossed the street. That lady started going the other direction with her son. What she doesn't know is that Daisy is just exactly how her name sounds. Gentle. She's not the one that would save us in a burglary. It would be our lab. Daisy just yawns at stuff. Anyhow, here is some cute pics of us working together. You don't know how hard it was to convince Charles why he shouldn't spray all of us down just for fun. I told him I didn't want to get sick. Real reason: I'm a chicken pants when it comes to cold water.

So Much Cute Stuff Happening Around Here!

I can't keep taking so many pictures! I go through so many batteries for my camera that I had to go buy some rechargeable ones. I was supposed to be getting some chores done today but after we got our bible reading and prayer time done, we went outside to play. We had fun burying Daisy in the sand, playing in the house (Dog included), and digging holes with the kid's shovels. After Kyle and Ivy invited me into their little house, I told them it was really dirty and they should clean it. I mean, geez, they had dirt all over the floor. LOL! Just look at Ivy's face. Look at the picture where Ivy is hugging Daisy. Ivy didn't know I saw her or that I took her picture. I just love catching them in natural (nonposing) moments. These are just so cute. I didn't get much done today but these were sweet, sweet moments together. :o)
(You can click on links to see pictures better)

Americans Despise Children

You guuuys! Would you stop reading my thoughts? I stopped at Kristin's site and found this article she wrote about how Americans Despise Children. You people keep saying exactly what I'm thinking. And before I can put it down into words, one of you smart people will say it first before I can even put it together as well as you did. Sheesh. Kristin says it so well here. I have been sharing these same thoughts with my husband the last few weeks. Gosh. How am I gonna have anything to write about on my own! LOL!

Similar Thoughts Shared From a Friend

After posting "Thoughts From My Heart", I had a friend write to me and let me know that she had just went down this same road as me. Same thoughts, concerns about our children. You can read Kristin's blog here about it. It was really encouraging. Thank you Homeschool and Etc. for your encouragement also. Thank goodness for women like you.

Thoughts From My Heart

Lately I've had some things pressed on my heart that I've been giving a lot of thought to. I don't share it because I am trying to welcome critisism nor am I needy of approval. I'm just sharing.

 My kids near future (as teens) have been really weighing on my heart. Why? I'm not sure. Maybe because we humans tend to put things off in our mind that we don't want to really have to think about. I don't want to think about those turbulent times. I want my boys to stay little boys and my girls to stay cute little girls that just click their little play heels around my tile and hold dollies. Sometimes I stop and think, "Am I really doing whatever it takes to raise them in the Lord? Am I raising them up to really understand responsibility, how to treat their spouses, how to serve the Lord through good times and bad?" I don't quite think what I am doing is adequate enough. Right now they go to school for 9 hours, come home, do their homework, play an hour each of computer games, then do their chores, eat dinner, take a shower, have some playtime, and go to bed. Next day repeat. Where in there am I training for any of the other important things in life? Weekends only? Summer when schools out? Somehow, it doesn't seem good enough! When they were out of school. This is more what their day looked like.

1. Wake up and play quietly in their playrooms or watch story books online while mommy woke up and got ready for the day.
2. Ate breakfast together.
3. Had prayer and bible time with mommy.
4. Played while mommy gets caught up on her emails with friends.
5. Take care of all animals who need to be fed.
6. Each separates into their own list of chores for that day.
7. Lunch time which means whoever's turn it is to learn a meal with mommy.
8. Another's turn to load kid dishes in dishwasher. Plus we learn different chores together such as sorting clothes, cleaning dirt off walls, sweeping porch. Whatever extras need to be done that day.
9. Play time inside or out.
10. Nap time for two youngest ones.
11. Each kid gets one hour on computer for kids online games
12. Next round of feeding animals
13.Free time to do whatever while mommy does her own cleaning.
14. Storytime.
15. Next kid's turn to learn a dinner with mommy before daddy gets home
16. Dinner ready by the time daddy walks in and we all have family dinner time.
17. Fun with Daddy! (Usually means it our traditions "Wrestle! Wrestle!" time or Hide N' Seek).
18. Shower and bath time.
19. Prayer time and talk with daddy in beds
20. Bedtime 8-8:30pm
21. Mommy and daddy time
Now add into my schedule homeschooling time now that it is school season.

Okay, that's a big difference of training time I have with my boys compared to when they are in school. Those schedules vary depending on the day or errands to run. Also if there is church that night. So, I have been thinking, if I want them to have more time with me, get closer to God, and learn how to grow up with good training habits in the home and later on in their own lives, maybe I should homeschool. Okay, so this is new for me. I don't want them completely away from interaction with other kids. That's when, through my friend, I found this great program. 2 days at school, 3 days at home. The two days they are at school they are doing things such as P.E., Computers, Music, and touching base on some things they are learning from home. So still, all their curriculum is at home. When I visited the school, Charles and I were stunned and what the kids were like there. ALL were homeschooled kids who only come once or twice a week. They were all playing coordinated games together in recess. They were cordial, a boy said "excuse me" when his ball came bouncing up to me. No one was arguing, cussing, being rude to each other or adults. They was almost just a calm demeaner about them. We just stood and stared. I've seen public school and charter school kids. NOTHING like this. I know there some kids that are still respectful. But this was amazing. The teachers were great, the most in the class was 16 kids. You could tell the teachers really, really loved what they did. I thought, if this is what homeschooled kids are like, I definitely want to give my kids that chance. A chance to have bible study every morning, like I did when they were out of school. More time to train them in the kitchen and chores around house. Also time to care for their animals and learn responsibility. More time to train them in caring for others besides themself. When they finally come home from school, I have so little time to have any of that! 

 I worry. I sit and think about, their current schedule and wonder if I leading them in a good direction. It's great if they grow up wanting good careers. It's great if they learn their math, reading, (false or true) science that school teaches them. Those are all great. BUT, there is SO MUCH MORE than that. So, so, so much more. Most important, their relationship with God. Do you know what it's like in public school to have teachers and kids alike who could care less about God even though you do? You see just a hatred towards anything Holy. A hatred towards anything pure. No matter who puts me down, or who tells me I'm wrong, these are my convictions. And they've been heavy on my heart for quite some time. I can keep swallowing them and turning my head. But what price will I pay just a few years from now? I can go down that path, or.... I can stop and change things now. Give my kids an opportunity to go down a different road. A road better for them, better for us, a better chance for their souls. I love all these little guys and I want the best for them. So what if I have to sacrifice my time and not have as much free time. Kids really are fun and such a joy to be around when you stop thinking life is all about yourself. That's a revelation I had a year ago. I am a better person, first, because of God, second, because of my children. Anyhow, just some of my thoughts. Hope I was able to say it with clarity. It's hard to really do it right because there is just so much more and not enough time to write about it all. It would be too long! As if this isn't already. :P

Impressing Adam

November 2006 Flashback!

Click here to view my blogging in November 2006!

I always love doing this because first off, it reminds me how long and faithfully I've been blogging, and second, I love to see how much has changed in just one year! There is some stuff in there I never would've remembered if I hadn't of blogged all this time. Thank goodness for blogging! Here's some things that have changed.

1. We now live in a house rather than in an apartment. Thank goodness.
2. My hair looks better year ago than it does now. Bummer.
3. I have that second little girl I was hoping to have someday. Although she won't be my last like I thought.
4. The little kitten Chaz rescued last year is now a mommy to 4 little kittens of her own.
5. My little baby girl Ivy is now a big sister! I can't believe how much she's grown!

Anyhow, come see for yourself.

Wisdom From a Young Boy

This just really touched my heart.

Logan is a 13 year-old boy who lives on a ranch in a very small town in Nebraska. Logan listens to Christian Radio station 89.3FM KSBJ which broadcasts from Houston, TX. Logan called the radio station distraught because he had to take down a calf . His words have wisdom beyond his years.

Why I Need to Remember to be Grateful

This story is so tragic on Deedra's blog. It reminds me why I need to be grateful for my little ones. This is heartbreaking.

Bad Colds and such

It's been a rough start to a new season with my kids and their colds. It's been hard not being able to go to church. The rules state, "No babies with green discharge allowed in nursery". Sooo, with both of my little ones having just that, I haven't been able to bring them. And believe me, I miss church. :( Anyhow, so we are home tonight and I'm about to lay all my little stinkers down. I've been sick myself and so in this pic above I had just woken up with a nap! Obviously. You can tell. So don't make fun of me. Ryan dressed the cat and wanted me to hold her while he took a picture.

Homeschooling and Enrichment Program

Today I was really tired from doing a lot of running around. Generally, I don't like running errands because it breaks up the harmony of the day. It's weird to think how much I've become a home person. That must be why they call it a "homemaker". Hee, hee. Anyhow, I went to go check out a new "school" for the boys. I will be homeschooling my boys soon and I finally found the program that I wanted. It's online so they only do 50% of their work with textbooks. Then twice a week they go to the Enrichment Program where they stay like a regular school day but they get stuff like P.E., computers, music, and touch base on other stuff that they wouldn't get at home. Not only the big factor, they love having friends. So they would be at home 3 days a week and at the Enrichment School twice a week. It's just really a great program Charles and I are really excited about it. We couldn't believe how different the attitudes and temperaments were with the kids there compared to the the previous public and charter schools my kids were going to. It was unbelievable! I've never seen such calm and well behaved kids who were so extremely respectful to each other and their teachers. The classrooms were small and orderly. Kids had great attitudes. Wow. That's basically it. Anyhow, you can tell I'm excited.

The Old Paths

This is really Powerful and so true! I couldn't of said it better. -Virginia :o)


THE OLD PATHS
I liked the old paths, when
Moms were at home.
Dads were at work.
Brothers went into the army.
And sisters got married BEFORE having children!

Crime did not pay;
Hard work did;
And people knew the difference.

Moms could cook;
Dads would work;
Children would behave.

Husbands were loving;
Wives were supportive;
And children were polite.

Women wore the jewelry;
And Men wore the pants.
Women looked like ladies;
Men looked like gentlemen;
And children looked decent.

People loved the truth,
And hated a lie;
They came to church to get IN,
Not to get OUT!

Hymns sounded Godly;
Sermons sounded helpful;
Rejoicing sounded normal;
And crying sounded sincere.

Cursing was wicked;
Drinking was evil;
and divorce was unthinkable.

The flag was honored;
America was beautiful;
And God was welcome!

We read the Bible in public;
Prayed in school;
And preached from house to house
To be called an American was worth dying for;
To be called a Christian was worth living for;
To be called a traitor was a shame!

Sex was a personal word.
Homosexual was an unheard of word,
And abortion was an illegal word.

Preachers preached because they had a message;
And Christians rejoiced because they had the VICTORY!
Preachers preached from the Bible;
Singers sang from the heart;
And sinners turned to the Lord to be SAVED!

A new birth meant a new life;
Salvation meant a changed life;
Following Christ led to eternal life.

Being a preacher meant you proclaimed the word of God;
Being a deacon meant you would serve the Lord;
Being a Christian meant you would live for Jesus;
And being a sinner meant someone was praying for you!

Laws were based on the Bible;
Homes read the Bible;
And churches taught the Bible.

Preachers were more interested in new converts,
Than new clothes and new cars.
God was worshiped;
Christ was exalted;
and the Holy Spirit was respected.

Church was where you found Christians
on the Lord's day, rather than in the garden,
on the creek bank, on the golf course,
or being entertained somewhere else.

I still like the old paths the best

Beautiful Day

We moved our birds outside since the weather is nice. Anything here is beautiful when it's not hot. While we were working outside, little Ashley was sleeping away. I know some of you people are thinking, "why is that baby not bundled up?" Although it's November, it's still 80-90 degrees where I'm at! I won't be breaking out the jackets anytime soon. Um, not till it gets in the 70's.

Kennel Club!

I thought today this would be a good project. We put blocks underneath the dog's kennel. I had an idea though that we could somehow connect the Kennel with the Dogloo to where they stay together always. I have big dogs, a lab and a Great dane, so there isn't much space in there. We made it permanent to where whenever we had to lock them in there, they could sit in kennel or in the Dogloo for shade. They love it. Project well worth it for doggies!