i shall now reveal what has been consuming my life...

Our new home...I'm in love...and happy...but very very tired.  :)  Enjoy the pics of our new home...we have a little way to go...but we've got a good start!

the one where i pretend i didn't just abandon my blog for a month...

My dear pretty (and handsome) readers, I promise I haven't forgotten about you...life has been sort of...hectic.  What with moving and starting school and visitors we've had just a little bit going on.  I've been meaning to post some house pictures, but just realized I haven't taken any and can't now because the kids are sleeping and my kitchen is a mess...so you'll just have to wait patiently for those.  Maybe by this weekend I'll have that done...after I get a couple of projects done for Bryce's room.  But for now, here is an update. 

We are moved and have a good deal unpacked.  That isn't to say we don't still have a lot left to unpack...because we do...A LOT.  But, we've done without most of the stuff for the last year and a half, so really...how important can it be? We are settling into a routine and the kids love it here.  They spend their nights playing with the kids in the neighborhood riding bikes, running laughing...things kids are supposed to do.  I bet most weeknights our TV doesn't get turned on...I LOVE it.  I love that the kids are playing outside (and begging to go out most times) and I even love that we have kids in and out of our house almost every night.  This place truly feels like home.  My heart is happy.  And now that we are on the other side (and are living to tell about it), it was so totally worth every sleepless night, every fight, every tear, every penny...I have never felt so much that we are exactly where we are supposed to be.  That isn't to say everything has been sunshine and roses, but the good far outweighs the bad and I am thankful and feel very blessed.

Brianna started 1st grade last Monday.  She seems to be happy although she doesn't tell us much about school.  Can't get the kid to stop talking most of the time but get one word answers when you ask her about her day.  Go figure!  Here is her obligatory 1st day of school picture.

Bryce started preschool today.  He was so excited and had a great day.  So great in fact he fell asleep about 2 minutes after Bob picked him up and slept for 2 1/2 hours.  He apparently didn't sleep at nap time and no nap and full day preschool will take a lot out of a kid.

I just got back from a walk so it is time  for this girl to take a shower and head to bed.  I'll be back soon with a tour of the house...I promise!

to my sweet girl on her seventh birthday...

Dear Brianna,
Well, I'm a little late on this, but I still have a bit of time before your birthday is over, so here goes nothing.  I've had such a hard time writing this birthday post, I've written and rewritten it dozens of times, I just cannot seem to find the right words to tell you what is in my heart.  How do you explain how your heart is so full and happy seeing the independent strong young lady your baby girl is becoming all the while your heart is breaking because the more independent and strong you get, the less you need me.  I look at you and I am amazed...amazed at the person you've become and the wonderful things I know will come for you.  I wish so much I could help you avoid heartache and pain...believe me I've made some mistakes that I would love to help you avoid, BUT I know in my heart you are so much like me that even if I tell you the answers and give you advice to help you avoid the hurt and heartache, you will still have to go off on your own, just to make sure I'm telling you the truth.  Sort of like telling someone something is hot and they inevitably have to touch it just to make sure it really is hot.  As much as it may frustrate me that you have to take the hard road to figure it out on your own, it also makes me immensely proud that you want to pave your own way and not take the easy way out...that you want to lead and not always follow.  The day you were born you took a piece of my heart with you...everything you feel...I feel.  Your hurt is my hurt, your joy is my joy, your tears are mine.  I hope life always brings you more laughter than tears and joy than hurt, but during the times of hurt and tears...always remember the hard times always make the good that much sweeter.  You are my life, my love and will always be my baby girl.

This quote always makes me think of you and your brother...

"No one else will ever know the strength of my love for you.  After all, you're the only one who knows what my heart sounds like from the inside."

Happy seventh birthday my sweet Brianna, I love you more than you can possibly know.

Love always,
mama

late night ramblings...

Apparently the only ways to get me to post regularly is to give me a book that I really love and dangle the reward of another great book in front of me if I post a review about it...or...to have 1 million things running through my head and no ability to shut them off so I can go to sleep.  Tonight it is the latter.  Since I'm not thinking super clearly tonight I think bullet points are in order, unless you'd like to read this entire post as one long run-on sentence.

• We are on track (at least as far as I know) to close on our house on the 31st of this month.  THIS MONTH people!!  It will be the longest/shortest month ever.
• By the time we move out, the kids and I will have been at my parents for almost an entire year.
• My parents are saints.
• I fall more in love with our house every time I step foot into it.  (and I LOVED it from just the pictures online).
• As much as I love it, I am at this point still trying not to get too attached...things have had a way of falling apart for the last 2ish years...so I'm being cautiously optimistic.
• I know many will read the above comment and think that I am negative, but really...I'm just trying to protect myself a little from heartbreak...it has been a very long road.
• I am itching to get into the house and do stuff (it is empty right now), my patience is now practically non-existent.
• I realize my last couple of bullets are completely contradictory.
• My pinterest board for the house is completely out of control right now.  I think I could craft 24 hours a day until our closing and still not do all the stuff I want to do.
• Who knew that finding bedding that Bob and I both like (and doesn't cost as much as the house) would be so hard?
• Do you know that Walmart sells a shower curtain that can range from $199.99-$512.00?
• If you are paying $512 for a shower curtain...why are you shopping at Walmart?
• I have a hard time paying $20 for a shower curtain...it is a piece of fabric that gets wet...seriously...why should that cost me that much money?
• We have a spreadsheet of stuff we need for the house, complete with links to things we like and prices.  We are nerds.
• If you haven't guessed by now...the house is consuming my life.
• Although I'm never entirely happy with my baking exploits...I feel it is fairly safe to say I've made some kick ass cakes this month.
• I made one tonight for a co-worker...angel food cake with strawberries and whipped cream frosting that I decorated with raspberries, blueberries and almond slices and made them look like flowers. 
• I made one a few weeks ago that was yellow cake with raspberry chocolate ganache and chocolate glaze frosting, garnished with fresh raspberries.
• I'll post pictures of said cakes soon.
• I'm so excited to make Brianna's birthday cake in my new kitchen!
• The kitchen is my favorite part of the whole house, it sealed the deal for me.
• I will now stop talking about the house.
• I had about 12,000 more things to say...but I've forgotten them all. 
• I guess that is a sign it is time to stop rambling.

Thanks as always for checking in, things are bound to be a little crazy for the next few weeks, but I'll try to pop back in just to let you know I'm still alive! Hope everyone has a great week and a happy and safe Fourth of July!!

another installment of my favorite witches...

I'm starting to think Debora Geary has some magical powers herself, since it seems that every time I need a break from reality and a really really good book to get lost in an email from her pops up in my inbox!  This past weekend was no exception.  I may have sounded like a 10 year old girl at a Justin Bieber concert when I saw that book arrive in my inbox on Friday morning!  Darn that little thing called work.  I managed to find enough time over the weekend to get lost in my favorite witch community, it was just the break this tired mama needed.  Anyway, enough of my rambling...onto the book review.

A Nomadic Witch takes us back to Nova Scotia where the lovable but hard-headed and somewhat grumpy Marcus was biding his time, trying to get back to his solitary life and away from the meddling witching community, when suddenly a message from a suspicious stranger turns Marcus's and the entire community world upside down.  Throughout the book you get a glimpse into why Marcus is the way he is and how one tiny girl with lavender eyes can rock him to his core and help him to start living again after forty-three years.

Another fantastic book by Geary, I don't think I have to tell you  after all this time that I'm a huge fan.  Seriously, why haven't you read this series yet??  My only suggestion...make sure you get all of the available books at once, because once you start you aren't going to want to stop. 

**disclosure:  While I did receive this book from the author, the opinions are all my own.**

god bless the usa...

I know I'm a few days late in posting this, but things have been a little hectic actually since today is officially Memorial Day...I'm right on time.  Here is my little man paying tribute to all those who have served and are serving our country.  I couldn't say it better myself.  No words are ever enough to thank you for what you have done and continue to do for us.  Thoughts and prayers are always with your and your families.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

thirty-two...

Before the day is out I want to write a birthday post to my very best friend and the love of my life.  I don't know how to put into words how much I love this man and how much I have missed him.  I've been sort of disconnected these last months and I think sometimes he doesn't think I miss him at all, but the truth is...if I actually  let in how much I miss him, how much it hurts not to see him everyday, I don't know that I could pull myself together enough to make it through the day.  He has always been my biggest fan and my strength, and even though these last few months have been hard I know that we have always been on the same side, fighting for what is best for our family.  We may not always agree, but we are always there for each other.  I love you more than you can possibly imagine.  Here's to many, many, many more birthdays TOGETHER.  Miss you and love you!!

ramblings of a cluttered mind...

Oh goodness, I don't even know where to start.  Our house is under contract.  Did I tell you that blogland??  I am so overwhelmed with life that I don't even know if I wrote  a post about that.  So, yes...we are under contract, have gotten through the inspection and the appraisal was last week.  May 14th seems to be the magic date, but we haven't heard anything official yet.  Our house...our home...is packed up.  Pretty much everything we own is boxed up sitting in our garage ready to be loaded into a big truck and driven away from our very first home.  I'm such a mixed bag of emotions.  So happy that my family will be together again, sad that we are leaving the place we became a family and the only home my kids have ever known, scared because there are still so many unknowns, angry because of the stupid housing market, excited because of this great new chapter in our lives and peace because somehow in the middle of all of the turmoil...it just feels right.  For the last 9 months while we have been living separately I feel like I've had to keep everything together, to put on a happy face, to suppress most everything I was actually feeling so that I could just make it through.  Now, with the light at the end of the tunnel peeking through, it is like I'm feeling 9 months worth of emotions all at the same time.  Today a feed from a blog that I read popped up in my inbox.  It was centered around this "Be still and know that I am God".  I need this right now.  Stillness.  I need to focus on the peace that I feel knowing in my heart, this is right where my family needs to be.  While I adore that little house in Streamwood, it is just a house, because home is wherever we are together.  There are lots of memories there, but there are lots more to be made...it is just the beginning.

monday smiles...

witches in flight...

The third and final (boo hoo) installment of the Witches on Parole series landed in my inbox early last week.   I don't know what it is about these books (I think Geary puts a magic spell on them or something) but I'm like a child when I find out a new one is headed my way.  I will stay up until all hours of the night, ignoring pretty much everything else until I finish it.  There is a wonderful magic about this series and these characters...I swear I would love to live in this place and have these characters be my neighbors!  Anyway, on to the book review...

Elsie and Lizard's time with witchlight is quickly drawing to a close.  They have discovered parts of themselves they never new existed and found a sense of belonging and love they never knew they were missing.  Both Lizard and Elsie have a large hurdle they need to overcome and with the help of the witching community and each other they are sure to accomplish it.

I cannot say enough about this series.  In my 25+ years of reading, I can honestly say Geary's books are some of my absolute favorites.  How many more ways can I say this...GO READ THIS SERIES!!!

anyone still reading....

Wow...I really have nothing to say about the unintentional hiatus I've been on.  Life is crazy.  To give you an example of how little time I have these days.  I opened my google reader for the first time in quite a while and saw that I had about 700 unread blog posts (that was about a week ago...so we're probably nearing 850-900 by now).  I quickly closed it because that is pretty darn overwhelming.  I have probably 15-20 shows on the dvr that I haven't had time to watch...and people...I LOVE TV.  There is just not enough hours in the day.  Anyway, I know lame excuse for not being around...but that is all I've got.
Ha!  I even started writing this days ago and just got back to it.  I have so much to say...but have the hardest time coming up with the words that don't make me sound like the whiny cry-baby I am and the constant need to defend myself and the way I feel. 

In short, things are hard and crappy around here lately.  The house is still unsold and is now priced so ridiculously low it makes me physically sick to think about it.  But, if it means we can all live together that is what we have to do, because the only thing harder than not being able to sell this house is not being able to be together.  We're giving the house until the end of June and if it hasn't sold, we're going to pull it from the market and look for a renter. 

I feel like one part of our life is in a holding pattern while the other parts of it are moving at the speed of light.  I want us to have a normal life again, not just weekends together.  I miss parenting as part of a team, I miss cooking meals for my family in my own kitchen and I miss curling up next to Bob to watch a movie or play cards or just talk.  It is hard. I try to put on my brave face and go about my days like nothing bothers me, because I have to for the kids, but inside...I'm a wreck.  Sometimes I fall apart, but mostly I keep in on the inside because if I completely fall apart I'm not sure how long it will take to put myself back together.  I truly feel like it will all be worth it, but right now...it is just so damn hard. 

OK, pity party over.  Onto something else...

Brianna learned to ride her bike without training wheels!  I'm so proud of her and more importantly she is so proud of herself.  The look of sheer joy on her face when she "got it" was the best thing I've ever seen.  On another note, we had her parent teacher conferences tonight and her teacher said she is really a model student and we should be so proud of her, and we really are.  She is doing so well in school and loves it at Aquin (a big part of the reason it feels so right  to be living here).  I'm so ridiculously proud of this kid, she is pretty amazing.

Bryce is...Bryce.  He is sweet and funny and too smart for his own good.  His teacher also said he was a wonderful kid to have in class although she did say she has to be careful about changing the schedule if she already told the class they'd be doing something because Bryce will call her out and tell her that she said they were going to do something else if she changes her plans on them.  She said he knows things that some of her older kids don't know and she is amazed at how well he does with puzzles.  He is a good kid and we're so very proud of him...I just really wish he wouldn't use up his allotted listening for the day at school so he could listen a little better at home! :)

As for me, I've had a couple of great weekends with some wonderful friends (much needed) and I'm still really enjoying work (other than feeling like there isn't enough time to do everything I need to do). 

Bob just got back from a conference at Disney World and is here spending the week with us.  (yay!)  He is busy (as always) with work and I think is tired of the quiet empty house.  We love having him here and the kids are over the moon now that daddy is under the same roof. 

I think that about does it.  I really want/need to share more about this amazing conference I went to a couple of weeks ago, but I'm too tired to do it tonight.  I promise I'll be back, I forget how therapeutic it is for me to write, even if no one reads it or if it doesn't make any sense to anyone but me.  :)

Thanks as always for checking in on us. Much love to you all!

keeping my promise...

A real update!  I know you're all shocked, but it was bound to happen sooner or later, right?  So, where to even start...I guess at my last post I had just gotten my new job.  I've been there for 2 months now and I can truly say that I love it!  It just fits for me, the people are great the job is interesting and I am very very happy.  Bryce is adjusting to daycare.  He still has days where he cries and he's afraid I'm not coming to pick him up, but he adores his teacher and he is always pretty excited about the things they do each day.  Brianna still loves school and we just got her very first report card.  We are so happy and proud of how she is doing in school it is so reassuring to see her thriving here.  Bob is still busy at work and comes to visit (or we go back to IL) about every other weekend. 

The house still hasn't sold, which stinks.  We are closing in on a whole year that it has been on the market.  It is frustrating to say the least.  I'm just soo soo ready to have my family back together again.  In the last month I have really fought the urge to pack the kids up and head back to Illinois.  If I didn't love my job so much I probably would have.  It is just so hard and I'm tired of seeing the kids sad, I'm tired to trying to keep everything together and trying to be OK. I'm not OK, I miss Bob...I miss our family just being together and I hate saying goodbye more than we say anything else. 

BUT, I know this won't last forever (even if it feels like it will) and I am constantly reminded of why we are doing this.  Seeing Brianna playing with Kelsey (my cousin and best friend since birth's daughter) doing exactly the same things we did as girls makes my heart happy and makes me certain the decisions we're making are the right ones. 

However, if anyone wants to know what they can get me for my birthday...an offer on our house would be the perfect gift! :)

Time for bed...5:30 will come too early in the morning! 

(Thanks Grandma for always checking up on us...I'll try to give you something to read more often!  Love you!!)

i know i owe you an update, but first....

A book review!  (Grandma I promise to come back and write again soon!)

I received Witches Under Way by Debora Geary a week ago.  Believe me it didn't take me a week to read it, this is just the first chance I've had to write a review.  Witches Under Way is the sequel to Witches on Parole Unlocked, a spin off (of sorts) of the Modern Witch series.  I may or may not squeal with delight every single time Debora's name appears in my inbox.  I truly have loved every single one of these books, and she always leaves me itching for the next installment.  Anyway, enough rambling...on to the review!

 Witches Under Way finds us once again catching up with Elsie and Lizard, both of whom are working through their personal baggage on their way to becoming the kind of women and witches they were meant to be.   Lizard is becoming quite the realtor-in-training, but shows her true passion when she begins taking poetry classes at the local college.  Elsie is slowly trying to recapture some of the childhood she never even knew she missed, and all of our favorite witches are there to help them along the way.  To the shock of everyone, even themselves, Elsie and Lizard have formed a bond and are becoming each others biggest supporter, while at the same time being the one to help push the other to do things they didn't know they could.

I'll admit, I was sad when I got to the last page of this book, I couldn't believe it was over so quickly and I wanted to see what happened next in the lives of Elsie and Lizard.  I cannot wait to see how their story ends (however, I will hate to see it end at all). 

Another wonderful book by Geary.  This entire series is a must read in this girl's opinion!

a reckless witch...

I received the third installment of the Modern Witch series by Debora Geary the day after Thanksgiving.  And while I normally devour this series in one sitting moments after receiving it, this time I was in the middle of another book and Christmas shopping.  Then, I started a new job so my reading time was drastically cut.  All of this to say, I would have read this in one sitting if I could have.  This was hands down my favorite one of the series so far.  I love seeing how the characters grow and change throughout the books. 

We once again get to catch up with all of our favorite witches and are introduced to a new witch Sierra.  She has been separated from the witching community for  her entire life and has now found her way back to them.  As the other witches get to know Sierra they discover she is a very powerful witch, so much so that even Sierra herself doesn't realize the magnitude of her power.  The downside to all of this is that Sierra's mother was a very reckless witch and didn't teach Sierra the safeguards necessary to protect those around her from her magic.  As the community tries to teach Sierra about being safe while using her magic they all learn a necessary lesson about finding a balance between safety and being free.

I think A Reckless Witch spoke to me so much because as a mom, I am constantly trying to find the balance of letting my kids be free to be who they are and to have fun, all the while trying to teach them to be safe and responsible and trying to protect them from things that can cause them harm.

Can I say again how much I LOVED this book?  Oh yeah, it is my blog...so I can.  I LOVED this book! I don't know what else to say other than go get yourself this series and read these books, this series just keeps getting better!

three on the third...

Three...it is such a small number, but today it seems so big.  Three means being able to do stuff yourself, carrying on conversations, being a big boy.  You are not my little baby anymore...I mean I will still totally refer to you as my baby, but you are my little boy now and there is no going back.  It wasn't great timing that I started a new job right before your birthday, but when you came in the office today wrapped your arms around me and said "mommy, I missed you soo much!" my heart ached because you and me little man, we've been together since the beginning and now there are so many changes coming our way.  I never realized how much I would miss your hugs, kisses and laughter throughout the day.  I know that this is a great change for both of us, but I know it is just another sign that you are growing up and I'm not quite ready for that yet.  You, little man, have my heart in the palm of your hand.  As much as you can push my buttons, you also know that your smile, laugh and a hug and kiss go a long way to making mama feel better.  Everyday you grow I get a glimpse into the man you will one day become.  A sweet, kind, loving man who knows just when to be a goofball and just what to say to have everyone eating out of the palm of your hand.  You, baby boy are one amazing kid, you never cease to amaze me with the things that come out of your mouth or the looks you give me when I'm trying to get you to do something that I want you to do.  You are way too smart for your own good.  Thank you for giving me a glimpse of the baby you were every now and then when you cuddle up in my lap or snuggle beside me while you sleep, it helps me hold onto my baby for just a little while longer.  To everyone else three may be a small number, but to me, right now, it is much too big.
Happy happy 3rd birthday monkey boy!  I love you more than you could possibly imagine!
Love always,
mama

so i'm a couple behind...

Sorry I've been MIA for the last couple days.  I've been busy...getting a job!  Yes, on Thursday I'll be re-entering the land of the employed full time for the first time in 3 years.  I'm excited and nervous and a little sad.  Excited because adult interaction and another income...YAY!  Nervous because I have to get up and get dressed everyday..no more days of being in yoga pants and t-shirts...boo! And sad because tomorrow is my last day at home with the kids.  This will be the first time that Bryce has been taken care of by anyone but me on a regular full-time basis.  I will miss being at home with him and Brianna, but it is certainly time for me to get back out there.  We're running around trying to figure out daycare, as the place we thought he would go doesn't have any openings now.  There is a daycare right next door to my work so we are checking that out on Thursday night and if all goes well he will be starting there on Monday.  Cross your fingers!  Brianna is super excited about starting the latchkey program at Aquin where she will go before and after school.  Mostly because she'll get to play with her friends longer in the afternoon.  I know it will definitely be an adjustment for all of us but I'm really hoping it goes as smooth as possible.  Besides the craziness of starting a job and finding daycare...Bryce's birthday is on Saturday and we're having a little party...so I have to get all of that ready as well.  There is just not enough time this week!  But I know we'll get through it and it'll all be OK.  I'm looking forward to this new exciting chapter in my life...now if only we could sell that darn house!  Hopefully this job is the first of many good things happening to our family!  Much love, blogland!  Thanks for continuing to come back to read my ramblings...it means more to me than you know!

finding our normal...

Today was such a great day.  We played games, napped, and watched movies together.  It isn't often anymore that we are able to enjoy days like this...where it is just the four of us.  Amongst all the family fun I cooked twice and did laundry.  It was such an ordinary normal day...but it was wonderful today.  It didn't feel ordinary or normal.  It felt special and rare.  Maybe this is one of the lessons I have to learn during this whole process.  Being together is such a blessing, I need to cherish this time we have together, even if some of it is spent doing laundry and cooking.  I spent my day feeling appreciative, loved and very very blessed.  It was a good day.

black friday...

(OK so I'm cheating a little bit and actually writing this on Saturday. )

Did you spend Black Friday shopping?  I sure did, but I did it from the comfort of a chair in my pjs.  I made quite the little dent in my shopping list yesterday and I found some great deals and saved a bunch of money and I didn't have to stand in line once!  I stuck to my budget, got what I wanted and am pretty happy with my progress.  I even got our Christmas cards ordered yesterday and they are in my grimy little hands ready for me to get addressed and mailed.  I just make so much more progress on my shopping when I do it from my computer, as I said before it is easier to stay within my budget and I can jump around to find the best deals without driving all over town.  Plus I'm giving the UPS guy job security right? :)  I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving spent with family and/or friends!

from my turkeys to yours...

Happy Thanksgiving!

a post between cooking and baking...

Just wanted to pop on here to do my blog post for the day while I'm in between recipes!  Mashed potatoes are done! Still have dessert and scalloped potatoes left though.  It is a good thing I like being in the kitchen! It has been a crazy day trying to get everything put together for our trip to Illinois but we made it and I would really like nothing more than to curl up with my book or even just go to sleep.  But I will be glad I got everything done tonight once it is done so I'll just push on through!  I should get back to it, the longer I sit here the harder it is to get started again.  Oh, one piece of good news today...Bryce made the whole trip without a pull-up on!  We did have to stop once to go to the bathroom, but it was pretty good for our first attempt.  I'm hoping this pack of pull-ups I bought on Monday will be my last!
Happy cooking and baking to those of you out there preparing for tomorrow!

i really should be sleeping...

But, I just finished drinking some caffeine and even though I am exhausted I know I won't be able to sleep (good thing I have some new books to keep me occupied during my insomnia!).  I really should try to get some sleep, tomorrow will be crazy!  Brianna gets out of school early (which is a very good thing since we're heading back to Illinois tomorrow afternoon) but it seems like there just isn't enough time to get things done when I have to pick her up at one.  Thankfully I got laundry and my work done today so tomorrow I really just need to pack and pick up some stuff.  I'm going to try to con my mother-in-law into taking some photos of us over the weekend so that I can possibly get our Christmas cards ordered (can't really beat Sam's Club 100 cards for $15 plus they are ready in 24 hours).  I'm hoping for a pretty laid back weekend overall though just some good times with family.  Just what the doctor ordered!  I'm going to really try to remember to post while we are gone, but we'll see! I promise that I will still have 30 posts for the month of November!  :)  If you are traveling tomorrow, travel safely and enjoy your family and friends...they are what make everything worthwhile. 

blocked...

I'm having a severe mental block on what to write about.  My life is pretty much consumed with the same things all the time these days and I'm sure you are tired of reading about them, because frankly I am tired of thinking and writing about them.  I've spent a good part of the day trying to come up with Christmas gifts for those on my list.  I usually am really good with this, I can figure out what someone wants and find a good price (usually) and I know it isn't about the gifts but one of the best things in the world is watching someone open something you put a lot of thought and care into, knowing that they will love it because you know them.  This year...I am blocked.  I don't even know what to get my own kids.  I'm hoping the holiday spirit overtakes me soon, because it just isn't hitting me thus far.  Plus, I can't even comprehend that my baby is turning 3 in only 12 days.  So, what is going on with you guys these days?  Anything you want to discuss or know about?  Throw out some suggestions so I can stop  boring you with my pointless rambling!  For now I will leave you with this question...what is the best Christmas gift you've ever received?  For me I guess it would be my engagement ring.  :)  But after that it would probably be my Flip, I love being able to quickly and easily record fun things!

sunday smiles...

These four kids crack me up!

This next picture pretty much summarizes this saying I found recently.

So there's this boy. He kind of stole my heart. He calls me "mom"

birthday boy...

The birthday boy with his cake.  He is the best 6 year old boy ever!

missouri state of mind...

We made it to Missouri about 8pm.  I worked on Braden's cake when we got here and just finished a little bit ago.  Now it is time to get the kiddos to bed (yes they are ALL still up at 11pm) and get some sleep myself.  I'm guessing none of them will want to sleep in tomorrow morning!  I'm pretty happy with the way Braden's cake turned out.  He asked for a Mario DS cake...and that is what I tried to give him!  Night all...I'll be back tomorrow hopefully with a couple more pictures (if I can steal them from Angie or mom since my camera is still broken). But here is my cell phone picture of Braden's birthday cake!

PS.  Happy Birthday Grandma!  Hope it was a great one!  See you tomorrow!! Love you!

he's here...

Bob has arrived safely in Iowa (for the weekend at least).  I'm so glad he is here even though we really didn't get a chance to talk.  It is just nice having him here.  I have a big list for tomorrow that I have to tackle and get done before it is time to pick Brianna up from school...so I should probably get to bed.  Hopefully none of it will actually take me that long tomorrow.  Can't wait to see Angie, Nick and the boys tomorrow night!!  I hope Braden's cake turns out as good as I picture it in my head!  I'm sure I'll post a picture or two Saturday night!  Yay!  I haven't made a cake in a while, and I'm excited to make his birthday cake.  Then I need to get into gear and start planning the little man's 3rd birthday!  (ugh...it hurts my heart a little that my baby is going to be 3!).  OK kiddos, I'm heading to bed...all four of us under one roof...I think I'll sleep well tonight!  Much love!

still have a headache...still have nothing to say...

Still have this headache I can't quite kick.  Booo!  And I seriously have nothing to talk about today, I did laundry and made some chocolate mustaches for Braden's birthday party this weekend.  They didn't turn out too bad, but I still have a few more to make.  That was pretty much the extent of my day, other than wrangling the kids who seem to be a little crazy this week (or else my patience is running really thin..probably both).  Bob will be here tomorrow night and we can't wait!  Bryce woke up from his nap today and looked so sad, I asked him what was wrong and he said "I'm just sad because I miss daddy"  It took me a while to pick my heart up off the ground.  If you could all just say an extra prayer or send a good thought or two our way so that this house will just sell so we can all be together again sooner rather than later, we'd really appreciate it.  I'm very thankful that we'll all be together this weekend and then again on Wednesday for Thanksgiving.  I think it will be just what we all need.  I'm off to bed peeps, maybe tomorrow will be headache free!

my attempt to write something of substance...

I know I've been sort of "phoning in" this one post a day thing, but I don't have a lot to talk about or I'm too exhausted by the end of the day to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard if you will).  I'm at a loss for what to say, things are the same, no big news to share, no huge revelations or solving of great mysteries.  Our days are strangely ordinary, with the exception of missing Bob dearly.  We're doing OK, getting by, making plans...just not the plans we thought we'd be making by now.  I truly thought when we put our house on the market in February (yes it has really been that long) that by Christmas time we'd be settling into a new house enjoying this new chapter in our lives.  Now, that isn't to say things aren't going just fine, but we're still in the same holding pattern.  On the bright side, the kids are doing well, other than missing daddy.  They played outside until it was dark tonight.  I love that about living here, they have spent so much more time outside and they love it.  They were already talking about going sledding when it snows again.  They are keeping me going and keeping me focused on the good stuff.  Alright, now that everyone is finally asleep, I need to try to get some sleep myself to get rid of this headache that has been plaguing me all day.  Until tomorrow friends!

just a quick one tonight...

Before I forget and drop into bed, just a quick post. Angie asked me to make a rosary for her and tonight I finally got it done!  What do you think? (sorry for the not so great photo...so sleepy!)

sunday funday...

Oh weekend...how fast you go. Today I was a busy little jewelry bee and got a bunch of stuff made to be delivered next weekend.  Brianna got to go along with her little friend Mya to hold her hand while she got her ears pierced (Mya not Brianna).  Brianna hasn't said she is ready to get hers pierced quite yet so we'll see how that changes in the next few months/years.  :)  Otherwise, it was just a typical Sunday...just ask Bryce and Papa Lester!

i forgot again...

Man...I forgot to post again.  We were gone all day yesterday and after I got the kids in bed, I read a little bit and then went to sleep myself.  The kids are both still sleeping and Bryce is currently trying to push me out of the bed.  Although, he did just crawl in here about 20 minutes ago, so that is a vast improvement on what has been going on lately.  I almost hate to say this out loud so as not to jinx myself...BUT he is almost entirely potty trained.  Thank goodness!  He still has pull-ups for at night, just can't seem to get that down, but otherwise he is good throughout the day.  Well, I have a lot of jewelry to make today so I should probably get at it.  Can I tell you a secret though...I really would love nothing better than to just curl up with my book!  It sort of reminds me of the Dan Brown books The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons, if you are into those sorts of books you should check out The Guardian by Robbie Cheuvront and Erik Reed.  I'm about half way through and am really enjoying it.  With that, I will leave you with this picture of the kiddos from yesterday...pre-fighting!  (Sorry Grandma that you had to listen to the endless fighting and complaining yesterday!)

friday photos...

Some belated Halloween pictures.  Here are the pumpkins that we painted.  Hope everyone has a great weekend!

trying to end on a good note...

I just erased the post I was going to put up.  It wasn't a happy post, but it was what I thought I needed to get out.  Well, after I wrote it down, I deleted it, determined not to put any negativity out into the world tonight.  Instead I'm going to focus on 3 very special people today.  Today, 3 people dear to me have their birthdays. 
The first, my Aunt Jean.  This is the woman who babysat me when I was little, who would only give me 1/2 a glass of milk when I was a kid (but believe me I now know why...kids spill EVERYTHING!) and who I've shared a few beers, laughter and some tears with over the years.  She is a good egg and I'm so glad she is a part of my family.  I know she'd always have my back and really what more could you want in a family member? 
The second, my dear friend Dawn.  Dawn and I met at Knox and I adore everything about her.  She is sweet, kind, funny, and the perfect balance of being a grown-up and yet having the heart of a child.  She always seems to know exactly what I need to hear when I need to hear it and I know that I am a better person for knowing her.  She makes me want to be a better person, wife, mom and friend.  I am truly blessed to have a friend like her.
And last (but certainly not least)...Ian.  Ian is my cousin's little boy who only spent a short time on this earth.  He is the angel watching over our whole family and he has the best mommy, daddy and sister anyone could ask for.  I'm sure he is celebrating his birthday in heaven eating some M&Ms and Skittles with Papa Joe. 

Thanks you three for reminding me of just a few of the blessing I have in my life.  Love to you all!

snow...oh no...

Today was the first snowstorm of the season.  We got a bunch of heavy wet snow in a very short period of time, it made for quite the mess!  While a good deal of it has melted already it is still leaving a mess behind.  The gravel was a muddy gross mess before the snow and it is about 100 times worse now.  It was a long drive into school this morning.  The 5 mile trip took us about 20 minutes.  I really want to like the snow, I do...but I HATE driving in it.  The kids got up this morning and were so excited about the snow.  I don't like that my first thought when I see snow is a negative one.  I miss being a kid where the winter meant late starts, snow days and playing in the snow.  Oh to be a kid again! :)

my great escape...

I love books and reading.  It is pretty much my favorite thing to do.  I have read a lot this year (like 110 books so far) I think part of the reason that I have devoured so many books is because it is my escape.  When my brain is idle I obsess over the house not being sold, money, not finding a full-time job yet and on and on.  Mindless TV sometimes can do the trick, but there is nothing better than getting lost in a book.  Reading is my trick to let go of all my stresses, it is the ultimate "me" time.  Don't get me wrong, I love hanging out with friends and the kids, but when I'm alone I read.  As much as I love quiet time, I don't really like being alone.  Shopping is no fun by myself, and while sometimes I need a few hours where I just veg in front of the TV...I never feel guilty about spending spare time reading like I do when I waste time watching TV (that probably tells you the caliber of shows I watch that I feel guilty watching them).  Books are my great escape.  I love everything about the process from picking out the books at the library to seeing them stacked up next to my bed to watching my "to be read" pile grow smaller as my "read" pile gets bigger.  I love that my kids love the library.  While I don't love that my kids (ahem...Bryce) are hard on books, I love that they touch them and look at the pictures and make up their own stories.  I love that their books are used and don't look brand new.  I hope this love of mine sticks with them and becomes a love of their own.
I will admit when at Brianna's conferences last week my heart broke a little when she said reading was her least favorite part of school, we'll definitely have to work to change that! 
I'm so appreciative of my parents (especially mom) for instilling in me a love of reading. If you can believe it, I think she actually reads more than I do.
This is a completely random post that has no real point except that I have books on the brain and I'm trying to keep up with my one post a day so this is what you get today!
If anyone needs some book suggestions, let me know...I can share ones with you that I have really enjoyed this year! Anyone want to guess how many I'll have read by the end of 2011?  My goal was to make it to 100 but maybe I'll make it to 120! (an average of 10 books a month...wow...apparently I either need to sleep more or get another hobby! :))

am i the only one...

Do you all plan out your Christmas shopping?  I'm just wondering if I'm a little crazy and my frugalness (so totally a word) is becoming a problem, because I have spreadsheets.  I've started researching what each person on my list will be getting for Christmas, I search for the best deals, I use ebates if I shop online.  (If  you do a lot of shopping online ebates is totally worth your time to look into www.ebates.com and if you sign up...use me as a referral! :)).  I know exactly how much I'll be spending on each person on my list and I know exactly what I can/will get for that amount.  I like my money to go far.  And yes I know that Christmas isn't about gifts, but I personally get so much joy out of seeing someone love a gift I've picked out for them, it makes me happy and it makes them feel special.  Here is the thing with me...when I am shopping for gifts I am a total impulse buyer and if I don't have a plan I will totally blow my budget in no time.  Hence the reason I shop online, the pull to just get one more thing for this person or that person isn't quite as strong.  Inquiring minds want to know...do you do your Christmas shopping with a plan or do you just buy whatever strikes your fancy while you're shopping? 

(sorry for the completely random post, but I feel like time is moving so quickly these days and there isn't enough time to get everything done so I'm trying to get a jump on things!)

lucky...

So tired tonight so I'm going to start my week out with the reasons I feel so lucky.

• a peaceful, quiet drive back to Iowa this evening
• goodnight kisses from my babies
• a sister to chat with on my drive home
• a husband who listened to me ramble for an hour
• the support and unconditional love of an amazing husband
• an email that said exactly what I needed to hear from a dear sweet friend
• faith that there are brighter days ahead
• knowledge that even if the stormy days continue for a while...I am never alone in the storm

I hope you all feel as lucky as I do. 

This is what I'm keeping in mind this week...

"Faith in God includes faith in his timing."
"I'm not telling you it is going to be easy, I'm telling you it is going to be worth it"

not much to say...

I figured I would get my post ready while I'm sitting here waiting for Bob to get back from dropping the kids off at Bob and Nancy's.  Silver lining of living apart...we get more date nights now than we did before! (Thanks Bob & Nancy!)  Before I get back to reading my book while I wait I thought I'd share with you some of the stuff I made for Brianna's class for their Halloween party.  As much as I've complained about being room  mom, it is actually pretty fun and I have an excuse to make this stuff.  Enjoy the rest of your weekend (they always go too fast don't they?)!

 owl cupcakes

 broomstick goodie bags

apple slice mouths

string cheese fingers

oh shoot...

Wow, 5 days in and I've already missed a post.  Darn it! I guess I'll just have to post twice today. I don't even really know what to write about.  So I guess lets go back to October and see what I've missed.  Brian & Mary's wedding!  I never shared any pictures, did I?  Well let's remedy that right now shall we?  It was a beautiful wedding and Bob and I had so much fun celebrating with them. Here are some pictures from the day.

 the happy couple (photo borrowed from Mary's mom, Diana)

the post where i continue to talk about our unsold house...

(This is a very random post...I'm exhausted and this is the only thing I could think of on the 3 1/2 hour drive back to Illinois today...you've been warned.)

The weirdest part about living with my parents while Bob is still in our house is that when people ask my address, I honestly have to think about what to say.  I constantly wonder which address I should use.  My drivers license is still issued in Illinois and all our bills, etc still come to the house in Illinois, but I really live in Iowa now.  So all of Brianna's school stuff I have the Iowa address, and my resume has been updated to show the Iowa address, but when people ask me (like they did in the ER the other night) I have to stop and think about what the appropriate answer is.  It is just a strange situation when you have to really think about your address.  Who knew an address could be so complicated? :)

it may be a long month...

Day 2 and I'm already struggling to get my post done. Not a good sign for the rest of the month. I'm hoping this exercise in writing everyday will be a good outlet for me. I think it has been hard for me to write the last couple of months because there is all this stuff that is hard to discuss, and I guess part of me is worried that people will be upset that I'm complaining about things that in the scheme of things aren't that important, we are all healthy and relatively happy, we have a roof over our heads (two actually)I get all of that and believe me I am truly thankful for all of those things, but I'm struggling...this living apart thing is hard, harder than I thought it would be I think. I'm tired and I feel like I'm not being a good mom, wife, daughter, friend or employee. I feel like every day is a battle just to keep my head above water, and while I'm surrounded by people who love and support me, I feel like I'm failing them. I feel a little beat down and broken right now. I have faith that it will all turn around and someday I will look back at this time in my life and know that it made me stronger and shaped the person I am, but right now, in the thick of it it is hard to see the positive side. This is the right thing for us, in my heart I know that to be true, but I'm sort of wishing what was right didn't have to be so damn hard all the time. But as they say...this too shall pass.
This is a pretty "woe is me" post. I know all of this is hard on our entire family, please don't think I am that self-absorbed to think this is only hard on me, but it is my blog and from my point-of-view so this is what you get! :)
But given that this is a month to be thankful I would like to say thanks to my parents (both the ones I was born to and the ones who have treated me like their own since I met their son)...no words could ever adequately thank you for all that you do for us..for me. We could not do any of this without your love and support. You mean more to us than you could ever possibly know. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for everything.
And with that I'm going to work for a while. Goodnight Blogland!

i'm baaaaaack...

Oh my it has been a while! I'm challenging myself to post every day during November...which may actually be a huge challenge since we will be on the road almost every weekend in November, but I'm going to give it a try. So, November started out with a bang, since early this morning (right about midnight) Bryce woke up with a terrible croupy-cough.  We took him outside to try to see if the cold air would help, gave him a nebulizer treatment, but nothing seemed to really help.  He sounded terrible and you could really see in his chest he was struggling with his breathing.  So we headed into the ER at 1am, got him some medicine and sat around waiting to see if he would regress.  He did fine so we were discharged about 3:30am and headed to get his prescription filled.  We got home about 4:15ish and the rest of the day was pretty much a wash.I did take Brianna's girl scout troop (well I guess they are actually my troop since I'm the leader) to an event tonight and I'm about ready for bed. 
November has been interesting so far...lets hope the rest of the month doesn't bring too many surprises...or at least only brings good surprises!

my sick little monkey boy

trick-or-treat!!

witches on parole: unlocked...

Just had to pop on tonight to tell you about the book I literally just finished.  I honestly would have finished it in one sitting if Bryce hadn't taken off with my nook earlier! 

Witches on Parole: Unlocked is another AMAZING book by the very talented Debora Geary.  It is a spin off of her Modern Witch series, with some of our very favorite witches making an appearance. 

Lizard and Elsie could not be more different, it seems like the only thing they do have in common is that they are both witches.  Both women have turned to WitchLight for very different reasons, Lizard to stay out of jail and Elsie to help her firm up her ethical boundaries when it comes to her clients.  Jennie is assigned to mentor both of the women, and sees a lot of herself in Lizard but has a very difficult times relating to Elsie.  Jennie enlists the help of those near and dear to her to help both Lizard and Elsie break out of the chains that are holding them into the destructive parts of their lives. 

I feel like I can't summarize anymore because I really just want you to read the book (and you don't have to read the Modern Witch series in order to understand this, but you should read them anyway, because they are fantastic).  As always, the character are lovable and relate-able and I could not put this down.  A must read in this girls opinion. 

I'm linking all the ways you can purchase these books to make it easy for you because I'm here for you my loyal readers :)

Witches on Parole: Unlocked is available at Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and Smashwords.
A Modern Witch is available at Amazon.com (kindle and paperback), Barnes & Noble and Smashwords.
A Hidden Witch is available at Amazon.com (kindle and paperback), Barnes & Noble and Smashwords.

Happy Reading!!

Source Disclosure: While I did receive a free copy of Witches on Parole: Unlocked from the author, the opinions expressed are all my own and have received/will not receive compensation for any copies bought through these links!

wordless wednesday...

where do i start...

Since it has been a little while since I've posted, I'm doing this post mind dump style (bullet point list). Sorry if this comes across as a complaint list...I am really not complaining (I save my complaining for phone calls with my mom :) I am just trying to rid my brain of all of this garbage and also so that maybe one day I can look back at this time in our lives and pat myself on the back for making it through!

• 3 weeks ago the alternator went out in my car plus it was in desperate need of 4 new tires.
• did you know that you really shouldn't drive 7 years and 89,000 miles on the same set of tires...oops!
• 2 weeks ago we got locked out of our house when the power went out and we had left home to go to a movie not realizing we didn't have a house key (it was in the realtor lock box)
• last week the fuel pump and relay went out of Bob's car
• in case you're having trouble keeping track...that is 2 major car repairs in 3 weeks
• the tire pressure light is on in my car
• reminder...the tires are 3 weeks old...taking it in tomorrow to get checked.
• oh yes, my brakes are making a horrendous noise
• why not add a 3rd car repair in 4 weeks?
• the kids and I moved in with my parents on Monday
• they are wonderful but I feel terrible about imposing on them (I know, Mom, we're not)
• yesterday I did some therapy baking...it was what I needed
• we're back in IL now thankfully because I don't need to eat what I baked
• did you know stress is NOT good for weight loss?  (go figure!)
• because the kids have been getting into trouble when I put them to bed at my parent's house...I have been forced to go to bed at 9pm...this is probably a good thing
• my baby is starting kindergarten on Monday...she is ready...I'm not so much
• had an interview today...that is all I'm saying
• the only thing not happening at warp speed in our lives right now is selling this damn house
• Guess what...our house still hasn't sold
• I am confused as to where home is now.  I don't know whether to call IA home or call the place the house we own home.
• I think the "home" distinction would be much easier if we were all living together.
• I'm the luckiest girl in the world to be married to a man who everyday pushes me to believe in myself and not sell myself short, to believe that I am worth more than I think I am
• As rough as the last month has been I have never felt so surrounded by love and support

Happy Weekend Everyone!  Love and Peace to you all!

tired...but thankful thursday...

Whew...you all...I am tired.  This has been a crazy busy week and I am running on empty. I can't even think straight, so I'm not sure this post will entirely make sense but I'm going to try.  I think my thankful post is going to be mostly pictures this week with a few words thrown in.  Enjoy!

First of all I am thankful for my in-laws for not hating us for waking them up at 1am after our power went out and we got locked out of our house.  And for letting us sleep at their house for a few hours. I am also thankful for...

  these people every single day

 my beautiful babies

 Brianna had such a great 6th birthday

the sweet friends my baby girl has

i turned around and you were six...

Dear Brianna,
I start thinking about these letters to you months before your birthday.  I write and rewrite posts in my head and when I finally sit down at my computer to type it out I am at a loss for words.  I have so much I want to say to you, but no words ever seem adequate.  You are one of the greatest joys of my life.  Being your mommy has fulfilled a dream that I have had since I was very young.  Your smile lights up a room and I cannot help but smile when you laugh.  You are sweet and kind and love your friends and family fiercely.  It is truly a joy to be your mommy.  That is not to say being your mommy has been all sunshine and roses...oh no my dear, you and I...we are the same, so we butt heads and are quick to anger at the same things.  We also have the same heart, one that can get bruised easily but one that loves big.   It is all going so fast. My tiny little baby girl is turning into an amazing young lady right before my eyes.  My sweet baby girl, I hope 6 is everything you want it to be.  I know this year will bring so many changes for you and so far you are handling them all with the grace that I knew you would have.  I know this year will bring you more independence and in some ways a little farther away from being my little girl, but know that I am always here and you are never too big to be wrapped in mommy's arms.

I love you my beautiful girl.  Happy, Happy 6th Birthday.
Love always,
Mommy

a hidden witch...

A few months ago I was selected to receive a great book A Modern Witch, I reviewed it here. As a thank you for reviewing A Modern Witch the author, Debora Geary, sent her reviewers a copy of the next book in the series, A Hidden Witch.  The email with the book came at such a perfect time, it really made my day, I was so excited.  I have to say, it didn't disappoint, evidenced by the fact that I read it in one sitting.  All of our favorite witches were back with the introductions to some new characters.  I think one of the things I love most about The Modern Witch series is that I fall in love with the characters, I feel for them and with them you are definitely along for the ride when you read this book. 

Elorie is a woman who was born into a witch family and wished to be a witch throughout her whole life. When it became apparent that Elorie didn't have powers she was devastated, but took to a different role so she could still support the witching community she loved.  She has accepted her place in the witching community and has come to terms with the fact that she doesn't have powers...or does she?  After a scan, developed by a young witchling and her 2 sisters,  reveals some magical powers in Elorie the entire witching community comes together to figure out exactly what kind of powers Elorie has and how best to use them.  Another wonderful story of a family's love, empathy and humor helping them through even the toughest of situations.  I loved every page of this book and cannot wait to see what happens next!

For those of you who don't have ereaders...you are in luck...A Modern Witch is available in paperback on Amazon and A Hidden Witch will be available in a few weeks!

Source Disclosure: I received A Hidden Witch from the author but the opinions of this book are all my own!

thankful thursday(the random edition)...

So, today my thankful post is going to be a little on the "I'm thankful for the small things that make me smile" side.  I am always of course thankful for the big things, but sometimes it is the little things that can make your day...so here is mine today.

• ELECTRICITY...we were without power for 12 hours.  Thankfully, a chunk of that time was while we were sleeping but the natives were getting restless.  I felt so disconnected. 
• The people who worked hard to get our electricity back on.
• Saving $4 on a pair of shoes that I bought for Brianna.
• A great book given to me by the author (review coming tomorrow!)

I know these storms have been hard on so many people, I hope and pray that everyone stays safe!

new stuff at links of love...

For those of you who don't keep up with me over at links of love (although there hasn't been much to keep up with these days) there is a new post up!  But for those of you that don't want to click over, here is the gist of the post.  I have tried my hand at making watches and I'm fairly pleased with the results.  Happy Tuesday all!

my girl...

Today Bob took Bryce to the Illinois Open to watch Brian play so Brianna and I had the afternoon to ourselves.  (Side note...apparently Bryce was amazingly well behaved at the course and quiet and listened well...the kid has a serious love of golf already.  It is all he has talked about since being home).  Anyway, Brianna's birthday is next week and since we are moving soon, her two little friends from daycare/preschool are coming over Monday night for a sleepover and then Tuesday we're taking the girls to the mall to have their hair, nails and makeup done at a little girl's party place, then I had the bright idea to take the three girls and have their picture taken together all dolled up.  Of course I am me, so I decided they needed matching outfits so I decided to make them tutus.  (wow, I went off on a little tangent here).  All of this to say that we headed out this afternoon to get supplies for the tutus and also shoe shopping for the wedding we are going to this weekend (both of us needed shoes).  It was so fun shoe shopping with her, she definitely has an opinion about what she likes and doesn't and having conversations with her now it so fun.  As I said on facebook tonight, having a girl certainly brings a lot of drama to life, but days like today make all of it worth while.  I know Brianna and I will certainly butt heads in the future, but hopefully there are also many more days like today in our future. 

4th of july (catch up post!)...

We spent the 4th of July weekend at our friend's house in Milwaukee.  It is a tradition to go up there the weekend of the 4th, and this is the first time we've taken the kids.  While we were there, our friend's baby was baptised and we were lucky enough to be able to witness it.  The kids are in love with Ben, Amanda and especially baby Molly (or Maui as Bryce calls her).  We all had such a good time hanging out with friends and being together.  We're grateful that Ben & Amanda keep letting us come back! :)  Here are a few pictures from baptism.

much needed family time...

Sorry I missed you last week, but we were out having a long family weekend. Last Thursday the four of us spent the day at the waterpark with my sister, brother-in-law, and two nephews. We had a great time, even though it was pretty crowded. I think the lazy river was everyone's favorite :). After the waterpark we headed to Wisconsin to Bob's family's lake house. We spent the next 3 days there. Mom and Dad joined us at the lake and we had a few days to just relax, play in the water and spend time together. We also had a small, and very early, birthday party for Brianna. Everyone's schedules are so insane this summer we weren't sure when we'd be able to do it otherwise, so we celebrated her birthday with my family (and Bob's parents) at the lake. Unfortunately, because we decided to do it at the last minute, I didn't make her a cake, but be on the lookout for one when her actual birthday approaches! Overall it was such a great weekend and went by too fast. 

thankful...part 2...

Seriously...how can you not be thankful when you get to see stuff like this everyday?  Makes me know everything will be just fine as long as we're together.

the big thankful post...

Most of you know that this year has not been easy, our house still hasn't sold and we're (the kids and I) are moving to Iowa without Bob in a few weeks so Brianna can start school.  I don't know that I will ever look back on this year (at least the first half...hopefully the second half redeems itself) and think that this was a great year.  It has been hard, much harder than we thought, and stressful...and to be completely honest, this house selling hasn't brought out the best in me.  I truly feel like we're doing the right thing for our family by moving, but after hitting roadblock after roadblock the doubt is definitely creeping in.  This wasn't the way it was supposed to go...but, this is the way it is going and we are dealing with it the best way we can. That brings me to my thankful...As tough as these last six-ish months have been....there is no way we could have made it through without our friends and family.  They are always ready with encouraging words and even just an ear to listen when we need to let out our frustrations.  They are all the best.  And for me personally, I am so very thankful for Bob.  He works so hard for all of us and keeps me sane (well as sane as I ever get), he makes me laugh when I want to cry, and is just there for me always.  So, through it all...I'm still so very thankful.AND...I get to spend the weekend with some of my very favorite people in the world so I'm very thankful for that as well! :)