An update on Dad

Well, it's Friday night, and I've been in Wichita for about 28 hours. I've spent hours at the hospital with Mom and Dad, and I've also had time with my brother and sis-in-law, and their cuties. Dad is still in a lot of pain, especially when the nurses move him from one side to another for various procedures. His blood pressure has been a little low today, so they are watching it. Today, Dad has started really grasping what is going on, and I think he is pretty scared. We keep telling him "YET!" No, you can't move your legs...YET! No, you can't wiggle your toes...YET! We kept repeating the verse from Jeremiah "I have plans for you"...God has plans for Dad...whether those plans include a 100% recovery or not, we just don't know. We do know that everything works for the good of those who love Him, and we love Him. We must trust that God is doing what is best for Dad. We must trust that God loves him even more than we can, and will take care of his every need. Even if prayers aren't answered the way we want them to be answered, or in the time that we want them to be answered, they are answered. God hears our prayers, our pleas, and our groans (Dad does a lot of groaning when he is in extreme pain, it is SOOO hard to see). He knows Dad's pain, He loves him and will take care of him. Dad was praying today, kind of under his breath, but he was begging God for a miracle. He knows that only God can provide a miracle, and he's asking for one.
Jill and I are planning to take mom out tomorrow sometime for a little girls' day out...SHOPPING! Mom's 30+ year old refrigerator died two weeks ago, and she needs to get it replaced, she has just been putting it off. But, it will be good to get her out and do something to distract her and have a bit of fun. Aaron will go and stay with dad while we are out.
Thank you all for the continued prayers. We all appreciate them.
To my family back home...I miss you. I love you! Abbie & Andrew, be good for daddy!!
Blessings to each of you. Good night.

It's Thursday...Thankful Thursday. I am thankful for many blessings, but right now my heart is heavy. My dad's health has taken a drastic turn for the worse this week. I'm scared, I'm sad, but I am trying to remember that God loves all of us, and He will see us through. I'm leaving my husband and two of my children today, so that my youngest and I can travel to Wichita to spend the weekend with my brother's family...and see my parents. I am thankful...

1. that my schedule allows for this trip. That finances at the end of the month allow for this trip. That hubby is very encouraging of this trip, even though he can't take time off. That my brother is opening his home to me and Bethany. That the rest of my family in Wichita has offered to help with Bethany so I can be there for my mom and dad.
2. I'm thankful that my mom has left the hospital and slept in her own bed for 3 nights in a row...one perk of having Dad in the SICU is that Mom is not allowed to stay.
3. I'm thankful for my aunts and uncles and cousins in Wichita who have been there for my parents this week.
4. I'm thankful that the doctors have narrowed down the infection so that they can give a very specific antibiotic to hopefully get rid of the staph infection in Dad's spine.

Now on to other thankfuls...

1. I'm thankful for the 5 teens who spent the evening at our home last night. They are a wonderful group of "kids" who love God, and are becoming a very fun youth group. They are all very loving towards my kiddos. Watching all of them dance to the Wii dance game, was HILARIOUS!! Thanks, guys, for making me laugh. (If anyone puts the video of ME doing the dance on youtube...well, I know where you live!!!) :-)
2. I'm thankful for our church family who has kept me and my family in constant prayer this week. The calls to 'just see how things are going' have been comforting, although I tend to cry every time someone asks...it's nice to know people care!
3. I'm thankful for my childcare families. They have been so understanding, offering to take time off so that I can go to my family. It's such a blessing to work with such caring families.
4. I'm thankful that H had a good day with me on Tuesday. He's getting used to spending time with me again, which will be really good once his mommy goes back to work after her maternity leave!

I'm thankful for many things...I pray that God will provide safe travel and returned health to my Dad. If you have a moment, please pray for him. If you want to know what's going on, you can read more of the story here and here.

Thank you, Iris, for hosting TT, and helping us to stop and remember the blessings God has given to us. If you would like to see what other's are thankful for, hop on over to Sting My Heart and see for yourself! :-)

Dad update, and I've been tagged!

Well, as of this morning, Dad hasn't made much progress. He's still in a lot of pain (immense!), and they are trying some sort of pain patch to help. He has wiggled his toes a few times, but they aren't sure if it's voluntary or not. He does have some feeling in his feet, so we are still hopeful. He is still in the SICU, don't know how long they will keep him there. They are trying to make sure his lungs stay clear, so they want him coughing and blowing in this breathing machine, both things bring on more pain. Please continue praying for him.

Mom actually has slept in her own bed two nights in a row (I don't think she's slept in her bed for more than a nap since the end of July), so that is good for her. She still sounds completely overwhelmed. I don't have any childcare kiddos on Friday, so I'm planning to leave after my childcare kids leave on Thursday. Just Bethany and me! We're going on a road trip. Daddy will stay home with Andrew and Abbigail. That way I can stay there as long as I need to. The older kids will be in school on Friday, and then back on Tuesday. I don't have any childcare children until next Thursday, and that one is flexible. So...we're off to see if we can offer any support. My family in Wichita is so wonderful. I have had emails and calls offering to watch my kids when I come to town so that I can just spend time at the hospital with mom and dad. My aunts and uncles have been spending time at the hospital giving mom a break, and just being there to offer support. I can't thank them enough!!!

Ok...onto the tagging thing. I've been tagged to tell you something about me, using my middle name...good thing it's so short, my brain is fried! Here goes!

J...joyful, jolly, jelly...??? I'm usually a joyful person, I try to see the joy in things (I'm having a bit of a hard time right now, though). Jolly and Jelly remind me of Santa (a tummy like a bowl full of jelly)...that pretty much describes me! :-)

O...ornery...my grandpa used to call me ornery, it was my nickname from him. Gee, wonder where I learned to be so ornery?

Y..YOUNG! At least I like to tell myself I'm still young! 33 isn't old, is it?

Now I have to tag 3 people (JOY has 3 letters, so I have to tag 3 people). So, here goes...Elizabeth (I know she's on vacation, she can answer when she gets back), my cousin Loni, and my Canadian buddy, Unashamed.

Okie dokie...I've got to get off the blogger thing and get to work. We've got the youth group coming over tonight for a back-to-school-bbq. Better do some picking up! :-)

Thanks again, everyone for praying for my family....and family, thanks for being there for Mom and Dad.

Prayers Please

My dad was diagnosed with a staph infection in his spine this weekend. He also has an abscess on T5. Last night he could wiggle his feet, push on things with his feet, and feel when people touched him...though he wasn't strong enough to stand. This morning he can not move or feel his lower legs and feet. They are taking him into surgery as soon as an OR becomes available. I will update as soon as I hear what's going on.
Please keep my mom and dad in your prayers. Mom is very stressed out, understandable...and the most I can do is also the "least" I can do. I am 4 hours away, and can't leave at this point. Should I go? Should I call my childcare parents and have them come get their kids so I can go? Do I take my kids out of school (they have only gone 2 days) to drive to Wichita? I will continue to pray and try to support my mom from here...I'm just so torn.
Please pray for all of us. Thank you
Andie
*** UPDATE *** Well, not really. As of noon, they are still waiting for an OR. One of my aunts went and spent some time with my parents, but she had to go back to work and her own doctor's appt. Thank you for praying.

***UPDATE 3:30 pm *** Dad is out of surgery. The doctor was pleased with how the surgery went. He removed some bone and tissue where the inflammation was. He said it wasn't as bad of an abscess as he had expected. We are just waiting for dad to wake up to see if it helps him in feeling and moving his legs. Thanks again for your continued prayers.

***UPDATE 7:00 pm *** Dad woke up briefly, due to the pain killers he wasn't able to stay awake very long. While he was awake, he was able to wiggle his toes, so that is a very good sign. Hopefully by morning he will be able to show us what he's really able to do. Also, in the morning we expect preliminary results from the pathologist. My brother is trying to talk Mom into coming to his house for the night, she has been sleeping in the hospital with dad, and she's not supposed to stay in the SICU over night. Thank you for your prayers, and please continue! :-)

Fit 4 Life Friday

It's Friday...It's Friday...It's FRIDAY!!!! What a great day! I'm so excited to report that I have lost 2 more pounds...for a grand 3 week total of 7 pounds! I'm thrilled about it! I walked at least 1.75 miles 4 days this week. I was planning on taking Bethany for a walk outside today, but it's thundering, and rain at any moment...maybe it will clear up this afternoon. I have been drinking water, but not enough. I had a day or two where the sweets called my name, and I listened way too much.

I continued reading while walking, and was able to finish the book of Jeremiah. God' love and forgiveness are so wonderful...even though He had to punish the Israelites, He always brought them back to Himself.

This week I want to continue to walk. Continue to drink water...even more. I will try to avoid the sweets more. I am going to try to add some ab work to my morning routine. I am going to continue my Bible reading.

Go on over to Deedra's to see how everyone else is doing!

Bethany's first day!

Yesterday was Abbie & Andrew's first day of school. Today is Bethany's! My baby is going to school!!! Here are a few pictures I shot of Bethany and R...my childcare girl who is going to the same school, but different class.

Here they are getting ready to go into the building.

Walking down the hall.

Bethany with her teacher.

Thankful Thursday...What am I thankful for this week? Lots of things! For starters, I'm thankful

1. that my children have started school, and seem to be having fun. Andrew is nervous about going to Kindergarten all day, which he does today for the first time...but I know he will have fun if he just lets himself!
2. that Bethany's eye thing turned out to be nothing serious, and that it is healing already. If you don't know what's going on with her eye, see my previous posts here and here.
3. that the doctors are continuing to try different means of controlling my father's pain. Medication can only do so much...and he is taking too much of it! Please pray for him if you get a chance.
4. for the other pastors in the area, and their families. We had a pastor & family gathering on Monday evening. I only get to see these wonderful people a couple of times a year. It's so fun to get together and share what's going on in our lives with people who completely understand the unique position of a pastor and his wife (and kids). One of the pastors in our area is leaving, and my hubby will be helping out his congregation as their vacancy pastor until they decide what to do next (a very small congregation). Please pray for the pastor that is leaving, that God will direct his steps. Please pray for the congregation, that they will not loose heart, and that they will follow the Father's will. Please pray for my hubby, two churches is A LOT to take on. He has two funerals this week in our church alone, on top of the regular stuff. Please pray for endurance, courage, and discernment.
5. that we have a roof over our head, AC that works (although it's ancient, it still runs), food on our table and in our fridge, cars that run, and many other blessings that I take for granted every single day.
6. that the new principal at Abbie & Andrew's school seems to be a loving and concerned woman. Her daughter is in Abbie's class. She greets the kids as they get out of the car in the 'drop-off' lane. I hope to get to know her better!
7. that Andrew didn't cry today when I dropped him and Abbie off...like I said, he's pretty nervous about this all-day thing.
8. for cooler nights/mornings when we can open up the house and get some fresh air!
9. that I have lost 7 pounds!! YIPPEE!!! I'm thankful for the Fit 4 Life Fridays Challenge. Check it out at Deedra's if you are curious!
10. I've been reading the book of Jeremiah...I'm thankful that even though God punished the Israelites, He used that punishment to bring them back to Himself. Every time it was telling about a punishment (enslavement, banishment, death of the evil people) the section would end with "God will return you to your land" (or something like that....God always restores us to Himself...Praise Him!)

This is just a short list of my thankfuls for today...I think I could go on and on! :-) God has so blessed me, I love making myself take the time to think about the blessings. Thanks Iris for encouraging our hearts! Check out Iris's site for more Thankful Thursday listings!

Blessings to all-Andie

First Day of School!!

Today is the first day of school. There was excitement, joy, and a bunch of nerves...and the kids were excited, too! Abbigail's 1st grade teacher was the crossing guard, and Abbie was thrilled to see her. She has missed her so much! So that started the day off well. Andrew and I took her to the gym where the classes line up to say the Pledge of Allegiance. After we got her to her spot, we went to the library where the Kindergartners were to meet their teachers. I could feel his tension mount as we got closer and closer. He was so nervous, poor guy! But as soon as we walked in he saw Mrs. Schlamen, a very kind, loving woman who helps with the K's. She has become a grandmother figure to my kiddos. We stop to chat with her whenever we see her outside of her home (she lives across the street from our church). As soon as he saw her, he started to relax. She greeted him with a big smile and a hug...that helped, A LOT!

Abbigail, my dear, I pray you will grow this year. Mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I pray you will become more confident. I pray you continue to love to learn and read. I pray you will not be so self-conscience about being so "tiny" compared to the other children. I pray you will know your worth comes from your Heavenly Father, not from anything you do or don't do, look like, or don't look like. I pray you let your kind and loving heart show, and not be afraid to let it get scratched...but I also pray that it won't happen. I pray you make wonderful new friends, but cherish those older friendships. I pray your teacher has a loving heart and a creative mind. I pray God reminds you each and everyday that He loves you...even more than I do! I pray I can be the best mommy that I can to you, show you patience and love. I pray that your daddy and I can guide you and help you grow into the beautiful, wonderful girl (woman!) I know you are meant to be...and I pray that there is a boy out there that is receiving love and nurture from his loving parents. I pray that he knows Jesus loves him, and he is growing into the wonderful kind man that will someday marry you and make you as happy as your daddy has made me.

Andrew, my son. I love you! You have such a kind, sensitive heart. I hope you never guard your heart so much that you can't show your emotions. I pray God will show you His love each and every day. I pray that you will grow and learn this year. I pray you continue to love school and learning. I pray you respect your teacher, and all the other authorities in school. I pray you make new friends. I pray that your teacher has a kind and loving heart, and shows love to you. I pray that she guides you well into the love of learning and reading. I pray that your daddy and I can help you become the kind, loving, generous, and strong man that God intends you to be. I pray there is a little girl out there somewhere that is being hugged by her mommy, and read Bible stories. I pray that she knows love and gentleness, so that she can be a wonderful wife to you and mother to your children.

Bethany, my sweetie. My baby is going to school! You've grown up so quickly...I can't believe you are old enough to go to preschool! I pray you are kind and loving. I pray you respect your teacher and listen to her. I pray you acquire the same love of school and learning that your brother and sister have. I pray you learn more and more about Jesus every single day. I pray your teacher can lead you in this love of learning and growing. I pray she has patience, creativity, and a loving heart. I pray you play nicely with your new friends, and that you share. I pray that your daddy and I can be the best parents for you, and that we can teach you about Jesus' love and forgiveness. I pray we can help you to grow and become the wonderful woman of God that I know He intends for you to be. I pray for that little boy out there somewhere that is learning and growing. I pray that he has an example of Godly manhood. I pray that He learns gentleness and love, and that God will bring you two together at just the right time.

I love you my children. You are three of the most precious blessings God has given to me! Thank you for loving me back, and being patient with me...I'm still learning about this "mommy" thing! :-)

THANK YOU JESUS!!!!!

God is so good!!! I took Bethany to the eye surgeon today as scheduled. She was so adorable! She charmed everyone in the office, telling stories, holding hands, giving giggles! The nurse brought a few other nurses in just to see her, she was so cute! I could even hear the nurses at the nurses station talking about the cutie in the exam room. Bethany walked out of the doctors office with a fist full of stickers!

Anyway...the doctor came in and said she has something with a HUGE name...but basically it's a pimple. Apparently the way her eyelids are growing right now, the oil gland has a kink in it. No big deal. Just to keep doing the hot wash clothes 4 times a day for 10 minutes. She said it looked like it was about to burst, so just keep it clean. She did give me the option of going back to the minor surgery room, tying Bethany down, and expressing it right there, or letting it happen on it's own. We chose to let it happen on it's own!! When we got home I got a wash cloth all ready to hold on her eye, and there it went! It just popped right away. It bled for a while, and I put some of the ointment the doc gave to keep it from getting infected...but she's fine!! Yippee!! God is so good! It is still a lump, but much smaller. She will have a scab that will take a few days to heal, but she will be fine!

Thank you all for your prayers!! Thank you God for taking care of my baby!!!

Prayers for Bethany

Hello all...I am requesting that all of you pray for my little one. She has had what we thought was a sty on her left eyelid for about 6 weeks. I would think it was shrinking and going away, then it would come back. I put warm wash clothes on it as many people suggested. I took her to the doctor (physicians assistant) two weeks ago for her preschool physical and the doc said it was just a sty and to continue the wash clothes, it should go away soon. On Friday it was still not going away, so I called the doc. He prescribed antibiotics (both oral and eye drops) and said if it doesn't go away by this Friday to call back. Well...over the weekend it changed. It used to be just a red lump on her eyelid, now it is a yellow/white lump, surrounded by red. It reminds me (I'm sorry, this is gross!) of a really big pimple that is ready to pop. It's HUGE, and GROSS! Hubby and I decided that it was time to give the doc another call. He wanted to have her seen, so she went to the Physicians Assistant, and she said it's not a sty. It looked like a sty, but now we know it is not. She has an appointment for tomorrow morning with an eye surgeon (I'm terrified just typing those words!!). It is some type of growth that needs to be surgically removed. At first they said they wouldn't be able to see her until October...HELLO???? By October she won't be able to use her eye at all...if her eyelid hasn't exploded yet! So they are going to see her tomorrow and decide if it needs to be removed immediately or if it can wait till later. I'm thinking NOW!! As scared as I am for my baby (ok, she's 3, but she's my baby!!) to have surgery, I want this ugly thing gone from her beautiful face!
If you look at the pics from Wichita, you can see a bit of it. Just a little redness on her left eyelid. You couldn't really see the lump until she closed her eye...but now she can't open her eye fully because this 'thing' is in the way.
So...please keep my little one in your prayers. Pray that the docs can decide what to do, and when to do it. Pray that God will give us all courage and strength.
Blessings, and thanks for the prayers-
Andie

New Pictures

Ok, I know I promised pictures, a LONG time ago from our trip to Wichita. Well, everyone is napping so I have a few minutes. Yes, there is laundry to be folded & put away. Lunch dishes are on the counter...but who wants to do housework when there is blogging to be done!!!! :-)

And without further adu....Our trip to Wichita!!!

We spent many mornings playing at my brother's home. He and his wife have two little girls (Ella 3 yo, and Ava 22 months). They have a COOL swing set/fort that my kids totally love...not to mention, cousins are great fun, as well!

Here Andrew and Abbie are giving me heart failure! We won't fall mom! :-)

Bethany loves to swing!Ella doing enjoying her slide.

Andrew was swinging so high that the entire fort started moving. Aaron didn't like that!

We spent an afternoon or two playing in the water at my parent's home. We put the pool right outside the sliding door into my parents room so my dad could hear and see a bit of the fun. We were there the week before he went to the hospital. He only left his bed once while we were there. But now he's at the rehab hospital, they are helping him get stronger! So how many cuties can fit in this pool anyway???

Apparently 3 is the limit!

Ava and Bethany playing nicely!

One morning we went to Exploration Place...the children's museum in Wichita. They have a huge medieval castle there. You can climb all through it and explore. There is a kitchen, and our kids' favorite...the dress-up room. Lots of medieval costumes.

Bethany of course had to be the princess. Abbie was a fierce dragon. Andrew was a STRONG dragon! (His costume sort of reminds me of Barney!...I know Barney is purple, with a green tummy, but still!!!)

While we were there I took the kids to visit my grandparents. They live in a nursing home north of Wichita. My grandpa has struggled with Parkinson's Disease for most of my life. His mobility is limited, but his mind is as sharp as a tack. Grandma's body is strong, but her memory is not. She's gotten much better since moving to the home, but she gets confused. We love them so much...and they are the kind of grandparents that keep a stash of candy around for the grands...and great-grands! Gotta love that! (I don't know what was wrong with Bethany in this pic...I guess 2 pieces of chocolate weren't enough! :-) )

And last...but certainly not least...right before we left town we spent the morning at my Aunt Shirley and Uncle Rick's home. They have a lovely pool that they let us enjoy! Shirley even treated me to a margarita (a SMALL one...I was driving! :-). Andrew really came out of his swimming shell! He loved wearing a life jacket and jumping off the diving board! He also loved the motorized jet ski! He didn't come out of the pool from 10-1:30...I had to drag him out when we needed to go. He even skipped lunch! I had to go through a drive through before leaving town because he was starving! :-)

I hope you enjoyed my pics. Thanks for your patience about me getting them posted! We are planning a return trip in September for a HUGE family picture. We had one taken in Nov. of 2003...and since then 9 new family members have joined! 8 babies and 1 new spouse. My dad's family is HUGE!!! :o) Gotta love family!

New Baby!!!

I wanted to share a few pictures of the new baby who will be spending a lot of time with me this year! I'm so thrilled to introduce Ella Lynn (she will be known from here on out as "E")...and her family. H is her big brother. Landon & Angie are wonderful parents! H & E will come stay with me while their parents work. I love having these kiddos around. I think that it has really helped keep me from getting "Baby Fever" again!

Fit 4 Life

I just went to Deedra's blog to get ready to post...she has EXCITING NEWS!!!! Go find out for yourself!

Well, week 2 went well. I walked on my treadmill 4 out of 5 days this week. The distance I walked was 1.52 miles, 1.76 miles, 1.5 miles, & 1.8 miles. While I walk, I read my Bible. I have been reading in the book of Jeremiah this week. So, I get two of my goals accomplished at once!

I have been drinking water, but not as much as last week. This is the week of my cycle when water stays put, and I don't feel like drinking more...I know I should, but it's hard! This week during my cycle I usually gain 3-5 pounds, and then loose it within a week (that darn water!)...but this week I did loose 1 pound!!! I'm excited to see what that means for next week!!!

This week my goal is to continue walking...this week at least 5 days! I also plan on adding some crunches to my morning routine. I will continue with my quiet time. I will try to increase my water intake again.

Blessings to each of you on your journey to a fit life!!!

Andie

Thankful Thursday

Ok...I know it's not Thursday, I'm a little slow on the get-go this week. I'm really trying to get back into the routine of things, but it's taking a bit. Forgive my tardiness...but I could not let a week go by without sharing what the Lord has blessed me with this week.

1. ELLA LYN FRANK...H's little sister was born yesterday! She's a beautiful 8 pound baby girl. Mommy and daughter are doing wonderfully! Yesterday must have been BABY DAY in this town...my neighbor (2 doors down) had twin girls yesterday, also. Tressa and Reese are a few weeks early, but still a healthy 5 pounds each! I'm so thankful the Lord brought these girls to their families safe and sound.
2. My dad is out of the "big" hospital, he's now gaining strength at the Rehabilitation hospital in his town. They make him work really hard, so he's in more pain...but it's all for his good. They are helping him regain strength that he lost during his month long injury. Hopefully he'll be there two to three weeks, and then be able to return home.
3. I'm thankful for my children's teachers for this school year. Abbigail's teacher, Mrs. Williams, I don't know...but have heard that she's wonderful! I can't wait to meet her! Andrew will have Mrs. Baker who I know to be a wonderfully caring and loving teacher. I can't wait to see him blossom into a reader! He read something on the TV yesterday that just blew my mind. I didn't know he knew how to read "Curious George"...and it wasn't an advertisement, it was the menu listing, so there were no clues from pictures or fonts...WOW!!! Bethany will have Mrs. Pruit for 3 year-old preschool. Mrs. Pruit has two daughters, one in Abbigail's grade. So I know her. They will all have a wonderful year! I pray God gives these women patience, love, creativity, and strength to lead the children this year. I pray God gives them fulfillment in their careers and joy!
4. I'm thankful that R & L (my two new childcare children) have adjusted so wonderfully! L cries for about 10 seconds when his mommy leaves, and that's it! They play nicely, and give me hugs. Their mom and dad are wonderful Christian parents who teach their children Godly virtues. Thank You, God for bringing this family to me.
5. I'm thankful for the Fit 4 Life challenge (I'll post for that next!) I feel better, and am proud of myself!
6. I'm thankful for my loving husband. He loves all of us, and even gives the kiddos I watch love. He's so wonderful with children!
7. I'm thankful that my children are doing well with the transition of having more children in our home again. It's hard to share not only your home, but your toys and your mommy as well. They have had tough moments this week, but they are doing great! I'm so proud of them.
8. I'm thankful that the triple digit temps are gone for now. I never thought of 96 as a "cool" high...but after 10 days of 105, 96 sounds almost frigid! :-)
9. I'm so thankful for God's faithfulness and love. I've been reading the book of Jeremiah. God's people were rebellious and forgot all the wonderful things He had done for them. However, He was faithful to them. He punished them (as a loving parent punishes his or her children...to bring them back to safety and love). But He always came to their rescue. I am thankful that He loves me and promises NEVER to leave me. No matter how many times I loose my way, or don't follow Him. He always brings me back to Himself with loving tenderness, and forgives my mistakes and give me a new start. Thank You, Father for your faithfulness, love, and forgiveness.

CRAZY WEEK!!!!

Oh, My...is it Wednesday already??? This week has been completely crazy! We've had computer trouble, TONS of kiddos, and a terribly itchy patch on my arm....let me tell you about it! :o)

The computer trouble started on Friday evening when dear hubby decided to try something called "Freespire." Here's a tip, if anyone suggests you try putting it on your computer...tell them to "get behind me Satan!" Apparently it's a decent enough program in the place of windows...but not WITH Windows. It totally messed up our boot menu and the entire computer was inaccessible! EVERYTHING!!!! Somehow hubby was able to boot in Linux, and save most of our data and pictures. THANK YOU!!!!! I wasn't even able to get back on the puter until Monday for a bit. Everything seems to be here, except my favorites list from Explorer. So...all of my blog lists, are GONE!!! I'm going crazy! So, if I usually leave comments on your blogs and haven't this week, it's not that I don't love you, I just can't find you!!! Please leave me a comment so that I can find you again. I've done some internet searches and found some, but can't find others! PLEASE HELP ME!!!! :0)
Yesterday was the CRAZY day with kids. I ended up having 7 kiddos. Yes, that's over my max number, so Warren took the day off to stay home with us. R & L (two of my newcomers) have adjusted so well. L cried for about 10 seconds when mom leaves, then plays nicely the rest of the day. R & Bethany are playing well together for the most part. They have little tiffs once in a while, but for the most part are totally enjoying each other! I also took care of B, a friend of Andrew's from preschool while his mom also attended the inservice. H also came. He is the one having problems. H was so used to coming here last school year. He enjoyed it, and we loved each other. This summer he has been with his mom 24/7. He hasn't spent his Mondays with Grandma like he does during the school year, and he hasn't spent time with me. He really enjoyed his summer with mom! He is really sure that he loved it so much that he doesn't want school to start, and he DOESN'T want to be here with us. He cried for a while, and then started playing. But every once in a while he would just loose it! He would grab his shoes and diaper bag and try to leave. It was a pretty rough day. His dad came during his lunch hour to check on him, and that was one of the times he was just SOBBING. So dad got him to settle down, eat some lunch, and go to sleep. After H was asleep, dad was able to sneak out and go back to work. H woke up about 45 minutes before mom was coming back. H would only settle down if I was holding him, but not in the living room. He wanted to watch the movie the older kids were watching, but he didn't want to be in the room, he wanted me standing in the doorway. H is a sweetie...but he has grown SOO much this summer. He is 18 months old, and only about 1 inch shorter than Bethany, and he is so much more heavy! His mom is due to have a baby ANY day (her due date was last Saturday...she's about to pop!). I told his mom that we've got to get him used to being here before he and the baby are here together. I would not be able to handle him and a newborn. I love this little guy and I feel so bad for him. Hopefully we can have him here a few times a week from now till Mom goes back to work when the baby is born and get him used to us again, so that it won't be so hard when I have him and the baby. Prayers and suggestions are more than welcome!!!
Now to the itchy arm. When I came back from Wichita a few weeks ago, I got an itchy bump on the inside of my elbow. It got a little bigger. I thought it was poison ivy. I put anti-itch cream on it, and it seemed to be getting better. Sunday it was almost gone. Monday was even better. Well, yesterday I woke up and now there is a huge red circle, a little raised, but not the blister type stuff it used to be. I'm wondering if I am not allergic to the itch cream??? I tried putting the cream on it yesterday, and it just BURNED!! It itches so bad, but I don't know what to do for it!!! Any suggestions for this???? :o) Boy, I'm just open for any type of help today!!! :o)

Right before the computer crash, I downloaded a bunch of pictures. I will try to get them posted this afternoon during naptime!

Thanks for letting me rant, but I guess it is MY blog, and if you don't want to read it you don't have to ! If you made it to the end of this post...CONGRATS!!!!

****2000****

Yup, you read right, 2000 readers!!! I'm so excited!! Thanks to EVERYONE who has stopped by to read a bit of my ramblings these past few months! Here's to many more!!!

Fit 4 Life, Week 1

What a week! I did "pretty" well on my goals, but not perfect. I spent a lot of time with my kids, doing lots of fun things. I took them swimming 4 times! I walked on my treadmill 2 times for a total of 3.5 miles. I watched what I ate and drank a lot of water. I had "quiet" time 5 days this week. I have now read most of Isaiah. I did the best on the days I had to get up for something...routines really help me. I know that I will get better as school starts.
For a first week, I think I did pretty well! I'm VERY PROUD to announce...I lost 4 pounds!!!!! :-) I've got a long way to go, but I'm so excited, it's a start!!!!

My goals this week are pretty much the same. More walking, more time with the kids/family, watch what I eat, drink LOTS of water.

So, how did the rest of you do?? If you want to join in this challenge, just hop on over to NspiredByFaith and join in!

Thankful Thursday

YIPPEE!!! It's Thankful Thursday. So much to be thankful for! Here goes...I'm thankful for...

1. A busy, but fun week. Have you noticed I haven't had much time this week for blogging. Not only have I been limiting my time as a part of my Fit 4 Life Challenge, I have just been too busy! The kiddos and I went to the HUGE pool in Garden City on Tuesday. It's so big they have life guard stations in the middle of the pool. The life guards have to swim/wade to the chair. There is also a kiddie section with a little slide, fountains, and fun lily pad type things to climb on. We had a blast, but I forgot my camera!
2. My new childcare families. I had all the kiddos here yesterday while the moms had an in service. It's going to be crazy, but fun. While Abbigail and Andrew are in school, I will have Bethany (my dd, 3 yo), R (girl, 3 yo), L (boy 1 yo), H (boy, 1yo) and H's baby brother or sister (to be born any day now!) I always wanted twins, now through my childcare, I will have two sets of "virtual" twins! :-) It's going to be so much fun!!!
3. That my dad is still in the hospital where he can receive the care he needs. He is so weak. He has been given a spinal block to block the pain in his back. But being bed ridden for almost a month has zapped almost all of his strength. He is now getting some physical therapy to hopefully gain strength so he can be moved to a rehabilitation hospital, for more strength training. Please pray for my parents patience and courage in the face of this difficult and draining time.
4. That while the predator on the loose in my town has not been caught, he has not harmed anyone...just property. A family in our church was broken into yesterday, but no one was home (Thank You, God). The teenage son had just left for band practice, and 15 minutes later the 13 yo daughter came home with some children she was babysitting...and her house was a wreck. She was able to call the children's father who came to her rescue, and then called the police. The police might be able to get fingerprints off the doorknob. Her parents were both out of town for the day. Thank You, God for protecting the family!!! Stuff (like windows) can be replaced, but Krista and Aaron cannot!!!
5. For Air conditioning. The high this week is at least 100 every day...THANK YOU GOD FOR AC!!!!
6. For a FUN evening last night. Hubby, the kiddos and I, all got on our swimming suits and went outside for fun! We stayed cool and had a blast...again, camera was inside...I guess it was safer that way, it surely would have been soaked!!!
7. For my kiddos. They fight and argue, but they really do love each other. We have a lot of fun together. They are truly my 3 blessings!
8. For my hubby, who is home from his trip!!!! He had a great time, but is still exhausted a week later. 9 days with teenagers will do that to a person!!! :-) He loves me no matter what and takes good care of us.
9. For God's never ending love and grace. He is so wonderful!!! Where would I be without Him...NOWHERE! He gives me strength I need daily. He forgives me every time. He loves me unconditionally, not because of something I have done, but because He created me, and loves me!

Well, that's a list of some of the things I am thankful for today. Hop on over to Iris's to see what others are thankful for today! :-)

Kiddo Comforts

Since I ran my Dog Days of Summer Bloggy Giveaway, I've had some questions about the products that I make, and how people can get them. So...here's my story. I have a couple of cousins (yes, that's YOU Becki & Michelle!!) who introduced me to the wonderful world of baby wearing...and I was hooked! Unfortunately, it wasn't until after my two older children were too big for slings. Thankfully, God gave me a third chance! :-) When I was pregnant with Bethany, I decided I was going to get a sling, but pricing them online quickly became scary! As a SAHM, married to a Pastor, the budget is often tight. I could not justify spending $60-???? on a sling. So, I did some investigating, and discovered how I could make one. The big bonus was #1...I could afford it...and #2...I could choose ANY fabric I wanted!! I now am addicted. I think I have 4 slings I use on a fairly regular basis (yes, Bethany is 3, but still brings one to me and says "SWING ME MOMMY!" And how can I resist that???) I also do childcare for a couple of friends, and "sling" those babies quiet often. Then, I decided that when she could sit on her own, I wanted to have something to protect my precious baby from the awful germs in shopping carts. So, more investigating, and...whalla....I figured out how to make a shopping cart cover! People were always stopping me and asking where I got that cool baby carrier or shopping cart cover. A few friends asked me to make them a sling or cart cover to use for themselves, or for gifts...and thus Kiddo Comforts was born. I have even made car seat covers for my kids car seats. The covers are easily removed for washing...and the kids got to pick the fabric. I added a bit of batting between the layers to make it softer and more comfy for long trips. I even made Bethany a pillow that matches so she can nap in comfort.


What do these COOL things look like??? Well, here are a few pictures of the items I have made. If you are interested in ordering any of them...please feel free to leave me a comment...with your email addy and I'll get back with you. I don't have a very large inventory, most of my work is custom. So, if you want ladybugs, I find ladybug fabric. If you want black (great for a sling!!), you get black. Anything that you want...and I can find. If you have a favorite fabric that I do not have access to, you can mail it to me. I will make the item you want, and mail it back to you!

Here are some pics of a few of the slings I have made. The first one is of a friend and her little girl who was born very premature...but is so wonderfully healthy now!!!

The second is of me and Bethany when she was littler. She loved this hold, but still prefers to snuggle in the front. The third is

another use for the sling. It can be used to keep a wandering toddler close, and safe. I have a few other uses in my instructional pamphlet that comes with each sling.

I also make "child slings" the big sister can "sling" her dolls and be just like mom. My son Andrew has his own sling for his baby, and animals!

And last, but not least a picture of Bethany in her very first shopping cart cover! Boy has she grown!!!!

Yes...Hubby did notice my hair!

Ok, for those of you wondering...he DID notice my hair. I had told him over the phone that there were some surprises waiting here at home for him. Well, before he came home I mowed the yard, weed whacked the yard, and cleaned the house. He noticed the yard. He asked if that was his surprise (I think I've mowed our grass in this house two times since we've lived here...I can do it, but that's just his thing, I didn't want him to have to come home from a long, tiring trip and have to mow first thing!). I said it was ONE of them. About 15 minutes later he said, "Is your haircut another of my surprises?" Apparently he already knew I was going to do something with my hair. He said that before he left I kept talking about my hair, and asking him if he like it long or short. So, I remember making a comment or two, but I guess it was more than that! He figured that I was going to do something with it, so it wasn't a surprise. Does he like it...whatever. He says he likes me, and my hair doesn't matter. Thanks honey...but what do you REALLY think?
(How do I like it? I love it...it's so much easier to pull back now, and even when I leave it down it doesn't get in the way like it used to when it was really long!)

Fit 4 Life

I found a challenge/Meme that I would like to join. This is about making changes in our lives to better ourselves. Not only in our physical lives, but other areas as well.
I've become upset with myself for stopping the walking that I had gotten into the habit of doing during the school year. I also have been skimping on my "quiet time." Eating foods that are good for me...not nearly often as yummy as ice cream! Ok, so now is the time to do something about it!!!!
I will be posting every Friday about my progress during the week. Hopefully there will be a weight loss to report. I will report how often I have walked or worked out. I will also post about my goals for the week.
My hubby is also trying to loose some of the weight he's gained by going back on the low carb diet. Four summers ago we both tried to be healthier in this way, and I lost 30 pounds, and he lost about 40...but he kept loosing weight after I became pregnant with Bethany...so that wasn't fair! Now, we're both getting back on the ball. We want to be good examples of a healthy lifestyle for our children.
So...here goes!
My goals for this week are:

1. Watch what I eat. Slim-Fast is a great breakfast, and fruit for snacks. LOTS of water, and sweets only once in a while (NOT DAILY!!)
2. Walk (or someother type of workout) at least 5 days. Walking at least 1 mile, possibly more.
3. Make sure I make my "quiet time" a priority. Even though that means getting up earlier. School starts in less than 3 weeks. My child-care children will start joining me for certain days this week (all the kids I watch have mommy teachers!). So, I guess it's time to start getting back in that routine.
4. Limit computer time. I love blogging, and reading others' blogs, but it's really a time stealer. I'm going to start only letting myself have 15 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes during nap. Like #3 said, school starts soon...I want to give myself to my kids this week, not the puter!!!

Ok, so there are my goals...now let's get down to business!

Thankful Thursday

It's Thursday...my FAVORITE DAY....especially this week! My biggest and best thankful for today is HUBBY IS COMING HOME TODAY!!! He's been gone for about 9 days and I (and the kiddos) miss him SOOO much!

Here are some of the other things I am thankful for this week:

1. God's protection, it's been a scary week around here, but we are safe. There have been a number of break-ins in our town (I mentioned it last week), and they continue. A house just kitty-corner from me was broken into yesterday. I didn't sleep much last night. But I had a golf club in bed with me and the phone under my pillow, and the house locked up tighter than Ft. Knox. However, I know that the club, phone, and locks are not what kept me safe...it was God. Thank you God!
2. For friends that love me and understand my feelings. One friend invited the kiddos and I to spend the night last night at her home because she knew I would be worried home alone. I declined, but looking back, it would have been fun! And I probably would have slept more!
3. That Hubby and the kids were safe and had a great time at the National Youth Gathering. Hubby got to see friends from college, camp, and seminary days. What a blessing! I so wish I could have seen them, too! Hopefully he got email addresses!!!!
4. That God chose ME to be one of His children. That He loves me enough to die for MY sins. That even if I were the only sinner on earth, He would have went to the cross...for ME! Thank You, JESUS!
5. That my dad is finally in the hospital where he can get adequate pain management, and hopefully they will find out what is wrong with his back.
6. I am thankful for the life of Evelyn. A friend of my mom's who was known for doing good deeds and loving EVERYONE. Apparently she did a good thing, for the wrong person this week, and was murdered. A very sad thing...but we have HOPE!! She knew her Saviour. She knew Jesus loved her and died for her. She knew she was forgiven, and where she will spend eternity. She was a very giving person and is now praising God with all the heavenly hosts. Thank You, God for her example of selfless, giving love. Please give her friends and family comfort, peace, and hope at this difficult time.
7. For my pillow, I'm going to try to get in a nap before hubby gets home. This girlie can't make it on the 3-4 hours of sleep I got last night.
8. That Hubby is on the ground! He just called and they are leaving the airport, and driving home...the airport is 4 hours away (yes, we live in the middle of NOWHERE!)
9. That the kids and I had a great time visiting my family in Wichita. My dad was in pain, and didn't get out of bed...but we still enjoyed spending time with him. The kiddos loved playing with their cousins, Ella & Ava...and I enjoyed spending time with my mom, dad, brother, and great sis-in-law. We even went to visit my grandparents in the nursing home. Grandpa was pretty tired, but Grandma was unusually aware. It was a good day!

I could go on and on, but if I want to get in a nap, I have stuff to do to get ready for hubby's homecoming!

Blessings to all on the week ahead!

Home Safe and Sound...prayer requests

Howdy all. Just a quick post to let you all know that I made it home safe and sound.
On the way home I found out that the doctor decided that dad could have better pain management at the hospital, and have the tests run there...so...Dad's in the hospital AGAIN! Hopefully they will find out what's going on so he can get back on the road to recovery. He's been in bed for about 3 weeks now...he's lost so much strength. It will take a lot to get him back on track. Prayers for his health, pain management, and patience...not to mention Mom's as well...are appreciated.
On the home-front...the break-ins in my town have continued. And on a lovely note, the person breaking in isn't in it for the money. He's terrorizing women home alone who leave their doors unlocked. So...my house is locked up as tight as Ft. Knox right now. I can't wait till hubby comes home! Prayers for sanity and safety are appreciated.
The gathering in Florida ended this morning, but hubby's flight does not leave until the middle of the night tonight. Then he has to drive home from Denver. So, prayers for safe travel are also appreciated.
I'll try to get my pictures downloaded from the trip this afternoon so you can see all the fun we had with the cousins in Wichita!