Tis the Season!

I sit here finally posting an update while Abby and Keara are watching the Muppets "Letters to Santa" show.  I remember watching them every week and it was the best show ever!!  They are mesmerized.  Ian is off at a friends house, Josh is out watching the Mav's with his bff Kevin.  So here I am, christmas lights glowing, candle burning and a quiet house.  Ahhh....so peaceful!

I am now 21 wks, 2days along in this pregnancy and all is going well.  I haven't posted it here, but we are expecting another girl!!  I am excited, and Josh has had some grieving to go through.  He is heartbroken to not be having a boy and I feel saddened for him but very grateful we are having a healthy baby (so far).  All the morning sickness is gone, the heartburn has gone into full gear and I am desperately watching my weight gain.  I have been very controlled since getting my thyroid under control, but am battling the initial 10 lbs I gained when from a health stand point, I don't need to gain anymore. Josh wants me to "eat for 2" and I have to keep reminding him that I am eating for quality, not quantity.  

I am so blessed.  To have my family, friends and Faith.  I love this season!  I promise to write more when my head is not hurting and I'm less tired :)

Busy, Busy, Busy!!  That is how life has felt for the last month.  It seems like each week, each day just flies by and before I know it...I still have not completed what I set out to accomplish.  I am so badly wanting to get together with some of my "mom" friends, take my kids to some kind of function to enjoy.  I'm hoping we can make the Veterans Day Parade.  

Ian had his Homecoming game and dance on October 24th.  I promise I have pictures, just no way of uploading them at the moment (my computer crashed so I am in between).  He and Lauren had a nice time and they looked fantastic!  They and 2 other "couples" went to a little french restauraunt for dinner where Ian even ordered for Lauren!  By george, our drilling of manners has paid off!!!!  He was a true gentleman, and I a pride filled mother. 

I am now 17 wks 5 days into my pregnancy.  It seems like a long way, but feels like I've been pregnant forever.  I feel so much better energy wise after being on the Synthroid for 4 weeks now.  I still have some intermittent morning sickness, an aversion to meats (but it's getting better) and have a hard time tolerating my pre-natal vitamins.  That last part is nothing new, I'm like that with all my pregnancies.  My weight gain is much better...2 lbs at the last visit.  Heartburn and acne breakouts seem to be the most annoying part this go around.  Maybe a boy??  We may find out on November 23.  I am scheduled for my sonogram, but we still have not decided whether or not to determine the sex or let it be a surprise :0) Guess everyone will have to wait until then!

Keara's skin is a bit ugly at the moment.  I'm not sure if it's the time of year or if she is playing outside too much and reacting to the grass, trees and pollens?  I bathe her and change her clothes after lunch/before nap when she is outside in the morning.  I've been using the cutivate more often even though I hate using steroids on her!  It is helping and therefore I will oblige.  

I just wish she could eat some more foods, even just dairy, but until we know for sure....she will continue on her vegetarian diet.

Life is full of so many blessings.  I am so thankful for all the friends and family that I have in my life, even when they are there for me in a long distant way.  I sure do wish we could all get together more often,  maybe that can be my goal for the next year; to make more effort with my friends.

Be thankful each day, hug your children, love your spouse.  Each day is precious and no one is promised tomorrow.

Ugh. It is a feeling.

I sit here in bed.  Yes, bed.  Might I say that for the last 4-6 weeks I have had absolutely NO desire or motivation to get out of it!  I mean, I literally could lay in bed all day.  It's not that I'm tired or sleepy, just totally disinterested and fatigued.  I honestly started to believe that I am suffering from depression this pregnancy.  Then I went for my 12 week appt and found out that my thyroid is not functioning properly...what a relief!!  I mean that in a "thank goodness I don't just have to suffer through this" kind of way.  It also explained the 10 lbs I have gained in 6 weeks and how I have had so much difficulty with my weight over the last year, and why I've been increasingly tired.  So today, I start on my thyroid replacement medication and look forward to feeling better.  To feeling up to actually getting out of bed, schooling my children and cooking dinner for my family!!  

I'm missing Ian's game tonight and I'm a bit sad :(  I know he's almost 16, but I really enjoy supporting him in all he does.  They are playing in Keller, the late game, and I have to work tomorrow.  So in my place, his Uncle Eric et al will be there to root him on!  Thanks Eric!!  

Abby and Keara were very excited to hear the baby's heart beat yesterday.  It was 160 bpm and loud.  He/She was moving around quite a bit, another good sign.  Aliza told them she would need their help next time with finding the heart beat so they are looking forward to the next visit.  It is so much fun to watch 2 excited siblings be giddy over having a baby brother or sister!  

I also found out today that my brother's neighbors had their baby very premature, 27 weeks and she only weighs 15 oz.  Please pray for them and that God's will be done for their family.  Wrap them in Love, Faith and Grace.

Blessings to all.

Morning

Ahhh...I am actually feeling well this morning! I woke early to get Ian to school for a re-take of his Geometry exam. Seems like the entire class did not do so hot, so he is letting everyone re-take it. He has a game tonight against his old school Liberty HS...should be a good one!!

My in-laws are coming into town next week. I always enjoy having them visit :) My dear FIL doesn't get away to often with his job, so I hope he gets a lot of relaxation in while he's here! We don't have any plans set, everyone will just take it day-by-day and see what comes our way. I do plan on taking the kids to Western Days in Hallsville on Saturday the 3rd. Donna and the family should be there so it is a time for all of us to catch up (as if we don't talk on the phone daily!) and let the kids play. It's an annual event and a lot of fun. I pray that the Lord guides them in this next stage of their lives, with the desire to move and the startup of a new business venture they need to let Him show them the way. I always pray that every need is met.

Time to get busy...it's table time and I promised the girls we would go to the park this morning when we are all done.

FAITH IN ALL THINGS WE DO....

Catch-up

I notice it's been a while. I was sick, still am if you count the parasite living in my uterus. I had the most horendous sinus infection/allergy flare up that I can remember ever having. It last for 5 days with me takig Tylenol Sever Sinus around the clock suffering aweful so that I did not "exceed the recommended dosage". UGH!!! And my midwife said there was really nothing else to do unless I started to run a fever, which thankfully I never did. I just hope that all that medicine had no adverse effect on the little embryo? I even dragged my butt to work for 2 days because there is only 1 of us per shift and I didn't have the heart to call my only 2 co-workers and ask then to pick up my slack :( By the grace of God, the days were uneventful and I was able to rest myself a few times throughout my 12 hour day.

Now I'm just nauseated. You know that sick-to-your-stomach feeling you have when you're hung over...okay, think way back to those single-not-a-care-in-the-world-days....remember?? That is how I feel all day, every day. I have no desire at all to cook. Meat grosses me out. Although, I did suck it up and saute chicken tenders to cut up for Chicken Spaghetti tonight :) Yea for me! I honestly could live off of cereal, sandwiches, soup, cake and ice cream. Preferably cream soup...not brothy stuff. Ok, really, just tomato soup. With a good ham/cheese sandwich....and a big bowl of ice cream on top of a warm chocolate brownie. Yum. We'll see how well this "no weight gain until 7 months" goes. That was my goal, by the way. I was attempting to lose weight when we found out about the baby, so I must limit my overall gain.

And lazy!! Woa is me, I am LAZY. I have slept in until no earlier than 0830 on my days off. What a waste! I am usually up by 0630 to get my day rolling. Not now, and this had better pass because Abby and Keara are not changing their schedule's for me. I guess I shouldn't be so hard on myself for slacking 3 months out of my childrens entire lives. Life keeps moving, and things get done. Maybe it's my own hiatus from feeling overwhelmed with all that has to be accomplished. I take care of the housework, laundry, cooking, some yard work (Ian mow's) shopping, bill paying, kids engagements, little ones in general, yada, yada, yada. Don't get me wrong, I take it all in stride and do what has to be done, but right now it just seems a bit overwhelming. Unfortunately, my dear husband still thinks his only job in life is get up, work, golf, repeat. Nowhere does he offer to help at home or do any "manly house repairs". Hmmm. Did I marry a "metro-sexual"?? There was a time where he had a load of home improvement ideas, now he won't even handle changing out the air filter. Such is life. At least I know we can survive if something should ever happen to him, God forbid. Not much slack left to be picked up.

Guess I'm a bit moody, too. You think?? I just finished a great book, "The Lace Reader" by Bunonia Barry. What a fantastic tradgedy of a novel. It kept me intently interested, to the point of forcing myself to close it at night for sleep. I cried through the last chapter, the spin on the plot was wonderful yet sad.

The kids are great. Abby wants to know how the baby "got in my stomach". Great. Pandora's box is open. She also tells me that her and Keara will babysit when the baby comes out. I'm feeling confident. Ian is playing football, great at it I might add! He is at the mall seeing a movie with some friends. He is pretty accepting of another sibling. There will be 16yrs in between so it's hard, I guess, to feel overly excited. He is very supportive of me and helps out when I feel real bad...a great big brother :-)

Signing off. I can't sit too long or the stomach acts up worse. I need to call my dad anyways and check in on the family...I miss them. NY Giants play tonight....those poor-poor Cowboys.

Anew

What a mad rush of a last week it has been! I feel like my cup is just about empty at this point. When was the last time I made it to church? Don't get me wrong, church is not the only place that Jesus reveals himself, but being around friends that are spiritually supportive and hearing the Bible taught to you on such a day-to-day survival basis is so refreshing and fulfilling!!! My August weekend's have come to an end and this coming Sunday I will be back in service, 5th row, right side :)

We found out Sunday August 16th that I'm pregnant (again). It wasn't the usual jump-for-joy and hurry-up-and-call-the-family kind of reaction. There was anger and frustration to start off with, my feelings of being a let-down, and then having to answer a million questions which kept including "how are we going to afford another child". There were a few things said that can't be taken back, but can be forgiven. Well, the questions of the worldly nature came from my non-believer husband. Me, I have faith that all will work out and this is now God's timing. We had not ruled out another child, just felt that now was not the best timing (isn't that normally how it goes?). 1. Ian in High School 2. Josh starting the PGM program 3. 3 bedroom house. Did I mention the 3 bedroom house? Not that we need a bigger house, but an extra closet for the kiddo would be nice! But as I said, all will work out and our needs will be met.

Now I am excited and Josh is coming around and has shown support to me and our child. I have to take the vitamins that, in his words "will make it a boy". I only wish it was that easy!! He just doesn't like to hear that the sex is determined the moment of fertilization. That was his job, not mine :) And for those few people thinking this...NO. I did NOT "trick" Josh into another child. I am a bit more grown up than that and I respect my husband and our marriage. Surprise! These things happen in a married relationship where no one is "sterilized"!!

Time to get started on my day. I actually slept a bit and now I need to check out Libby's blog on how there trip to Korea is fairing. They are picking up the newest member of their family, Hudson. I am so thrilled beyond words for them!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward" Psalm 127:3

Morning

I feel like I finally had a decent nights sleep! That would explain the rising at 0445 to make my dh breakfast, and then the choice to stay up and get started on my day. A perfect time for scripture reading while the sun is just beginning to crest on the horizon. It's like God breathing a clean, fresh breathe over the earth to cleanse us all and renew our spirits. The crisp morning air, despite how thick and nasty it will be by lunch time.

I realize His timing is everything. We must have faith that all things happen in harmony with His plan. I can only accept what He sends, know that it can be worked through and will have such great rewards when it is all said and done :-) How different my life is when I accept His plan and give up my own desire to control my life. It is not my life. It is His life. I am here to fulfill His Word and commandment. It's a serene calmness and peace that one has when one turns his/her life over to Christ Jesus. I find that I don't get so worked up about what most people think are negative situations, or crises. I don't worry as much. Don't get me wrong, I worry by nature. I have just learned that the Lord does not want me to "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Mt 11:29

It's still a struggle for me at times. There seems to be so much negativity in our home that I become drained trying to maintain peace and balance. If I let the negative take the power, then all will go wrong. Life and Relationships. I renew myself with His word, church family and close friends who walk in Christ. They give me strength and have an understanding that my non-believer friends and family do not. I look out upon my family that does not have a personal relationship with Jesus and think, "you have no idea what you are missing out on, let me show you, come walk with me!! Come and see how wonderful life can REALLY be!!" But it is not I that will lead them, but Him. I only pray I can be an example for Him and continue to grow in my own relationship.

Life works out. It really does. This I know. I appreciate all my friends and family that have been so supportive over the years, I thank God for all the blessings in my life and for those yet to come!! May His love continue to shine down on my family and His arms encircle us in His love.

August 13

I guess this post will be more of photo journal of our summer? I haven't been able to upload anything for a while and want to get some actual visual representations of what fun we have been having! We had the pleasure of spending time with friends at Hawaiian Falls(we adore the Johnston's), playing in the backyard, Roller Skating (go Katy!!), and completing a few home improvement projects (ahem....see the floor pictures? I'm proud of the job I did!).

This summer has gone by so fast and I hope we did not miss out on the important things? I tried to plan our days and activities around friends and family since they bring us the most joy. I wish we could have gone to Louisianna again, but Ian's football practice made that next to impossible. I also hope we can make a trip back to NY next summer, start a tradition of every other summer? Ian starts 10th grade in just over 2 weeks, and the girls will be back to their homeschool taught preschool. I look forward to learning with Abby and what direction she will take. And I think Keara is going to be a quick study, but I may be wrong. I have lots planned and each day will bring us something new and exciting.

Abigail and Keara's bedroom. I finally added curtains! The plaque came from Canton, Tx and reads "I love you to the moon and back" which is one of our favorite phrases to quote. Yes, one is a Pink freak and the other Purple Passion....

I've taken up a little more sewing, though not what I would have liked. Maybe this winter will bring a bit more time, more initiative and motivation. I don't think I will ever master the dress making, probably better off ordering them or finding them at the local flea markets. Abigail loves her little house style dresses!

This is our master bedroom. If you recall, it was painted Dallas Maverick Blue for 2 years. Talk about headache inducing!! Well, now (with the help of my mom) it is a nice serene, calming grayish beige. The bathroom actually has a green hue and the bedroom more of a cool gray. Yes, we primed all the walls first!! I think a lot of it depends on the lighting, but I love it!!!


We had more fun at the skating rink in Grapevine...talk about some cool kiddie "walkers". Keara took off without any help from anyone! Abby on the other hand needed about an hours worth of lesson and encouragement before venturing out on her own. But once she did...LOOK OUT!! Ian was such a great sport with all of them and the girls really enjoy doing anything with their cousin Katelyn.

Sprinkler=$10

Pool=$20

Catch toys=$6

Sisters having a blast in the yard getting along=Priceless

Hawaiian Falls!! Yea!!

Abby repeatedly climbing all the way to the top slide. For HOURS. I swear we were there from 11-4pm. It could not have been a better day for Keara. 91 degrees, overcast. She does not do well in heat and sun, so God made a day for her :)

Melody and Judy Johnston playing in the kiddie pool.

Ian and Emily being retarded.

Need I say more? Emily is a great girl :)

Ian must be her special Ed friend project.

July 29

FINALLY!! Josh's Level 1 PGM books arrived yesterday.  Let's count...4 inch binders=2, 3 inch binders=3, 2 inch binders=4, dvd's, 2 inch hardcover books=2.  I would say he has a lot of reading, studying as well as a 4 inch binder of "Work Experience" to fill...he is most comfortable with that one :-)  Now life becomes a bit more difficult for the next 3-5 years, but it will be so well worth it in the end!  Hopefully I will be able to arrange my schedule with his so that he has at least 2 days a month that he can devote the entire day to his studies.

My last couple of days at work have been good :)  I actually left Monday night with a feeling of accomplishment and peace, not reliving the day in my head to find errors or things I may have forgotten!  I felt much more comfortable with Rapid Responses, even feeling a lot better with STEMI's/AMI.  I know I will be good.  To quote my step-mom Pat (a former long time cardiac nurse herself) "Jenny, you just need to have the same confidence in yourself that everyone has in you".  She is right, and I will give myself that, just not right off the bat. It keeps me safe and humble :)  

I made plans to go through our closet and get rid of old, unused clothes when I received an email from church about a family in need...a sign!!  This family which includes 2 teenagers and a toddler.  They lost everything....I mean everything!!  They left with the clothes on their backs and that is it.  So I will go through my kitchen and bathrooms and see if there are any unused items I can donate.  I URGE ALL OF YOU TO DONATE UNUSED/UNWANTED ITEMS TO YOUR LOCAL NON-PROFIT CHARITIES AND SHELTERS!!  Think about it people, in our society and lifestyle of today look around your house and tell me how many "things" you really need??  Everyone has items/clothing that are not a necessity of daily living. Let's quite working to pay for a style of living that is not within our means but keeps us within a social cirlcle.  If someone is only your friend b/c of what you have, then they are not your friend in Christ.  I want people to be my friend in Christ, don't you?  Let's step back and re-evluate why we live and how we live and do as Christ instructs us..."Love you brother as yourself".  

"He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done." Proverb 19:17

July 23rd

I am so proud of Ian! The girls and I went on about our usual Thursday routine of watching "bubba" play ball from 10-11am. Unbeknownst to us, today was going to be playoff day as well so thankfully the weather was much cooler than usual! We stayed for all 4 games to see Ian and the Heritage Coyotes become the Champions!! And to think that all the other HS's believed that Heritage would suck this year since they are a new High School. EAT YOUR WORDS!! They rocked the place, running over Wakeland and Centennial as if their teams never showed up :) Ian had 2 TD's, 2 beautiful interceptions (one for a TD) and many blocked passes....he shined both offensively and defensively. What a player, and to watch him take a leadership role on the team makes a mom proud! He really knows how to be a positive influence with his team and friends, he really is a great young man and we are so proud of him. I wish I had pic's to put up, of he and the entire team. They all work great together and lift each other up, treating each other like family...so great to see.

This was a great way to mend from my emotionally stressful day at work yesterday. I am now 2 days into my CV Clinician role and loving it! Both days have been a bit "quiet" yet I have had some great exposure; 2 Rapid Response's, 1 Hypothermia protocol, and 1 STEMI. All went very smoothly, with order initiation taking minimal time. The STEMI was hard because it was not a good outcome. I realized for the first time that losing a patient in the unit is not the same as loosing one that comes in to the ER and passes in less than 60 mintes despite all of the effort's of the medical team. It broke my heart to bear the news with them, and yes I cried with them...who would want to hold back that empathy? It also gave me a whole new sense of respect for one of my preceptors who is undoubtedly one of the strongest, smartest, professional and empathetic/compassionate people I know. Watching her handle the entire situation has taught me just how important a role and how much responsibility I will be shouldering in the next 4-6 weeks. I pray that I can develop a bit more confidence so I can be somewhere in the realm of her aura. I look forward to my time with the other Clinician so that I can utilize her skill and confidence as I find my place as well. This is such a great role and I am so proud to be given the opportunity to fulfill it, I hope that my bit of "fear" helps me to become more confident and implement the protocols correctly and safely.

Yesterday

I have come to realize that people come and go out of our lives for different reasons and purposes. Sometimes they are not even part of your life, but the life of someone you come to know. Then you find yourselft wanting to be sure to "check in" on these people once in a while. I know....I talk confusion. Anyways, Josh has a "friend" that he has chosen to distance himself from a few years ago. I honor that decision because when he did, it was a time that the relationship was unhealthy for both parties and our marriage was suffering from some social decisions.

Well, over the past few years I would on occasion call Kristy or send an email to see how she and Adam were doing, check in on the kids. They have 3 daughters who are now 3 1/2 (twins) and 2 yrs old. I pray for them, as I do all of my friends and family. Now, I don't have a prayer list that I go off of, I just pray for people as they cross my mind. I find it more personal when I pray that way, rather than utilizing a To-Do list as if it is a chore.

Me, Ian, Abby and Keara met up with the Lamb's yesterday for a play-date. The girls had a wonderful time and played very well together!! It was cute to see all 5 girls playing and sharing :) Ian spent a little time with Adam playing guitars....Adam would play in his sleep if he could learn how and Ian needed some time with a well experienced guitarist. Ian enjoys playing with older people who respect music. He was strumming along with Eric Clapton on a DVD. He's amazing (Ian).

I had some time to talk with Kris and how God is blessing their lives. It seems that she has come to accept some "quirks" about her husband (as I have mine) and let go of the control, making a big difference and releasing a burden. They are in a better place financially, in a bigger home and both enjoying their jobs and better pay. I am happy for them!! Praise God for his blessings when we are obedient!! I hope to meet up regularly, at intervals.

Sometimes we need to space ourselves from people for just the shear fact of growing and maturing. Sometimes it's a one time deal, and when the job is done....we move on. Then there are times where one may realize that reason for the initial seperation wasn't due to one person's behavior, but for you to reflect that your behavior was just the same....and continues to be the same.

I will continue to pray for them, pray for blessings on their family and hopefully have occasional get-togethers with the children. We had a very nice time and I am glad to still be an influence in their lives.

"The Lord reigns forever...Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsken those who seek you." Ps 8:7,10

July 13, 2009

I just finished reading a friend's blog today and came the realization that I have never blogged about myself or my family in a true sense. So here I go....

The year is 1992 and I am in the midst of a tormentuous relationship. He is controlling, demeaning, addicted. UnChristian in every sense of the word. He is the Devil. And yet, I love him or so I convince myself. He is the first "man" to show me love and attention and while I am without any self dignity and without any self esteem I lavish in his negative attention. It is a short relationship for he spends a majority of it in jail for minor offenses. It is during one of his "out" times that it happens....I become pregnant. Great. Now what do I tell my parents?? Fortunately, they are supportive. Praise God!! He knew I was going to need them for the next 5 years. For that is how long I was going to have my Step-dad with me and we needed to mend our relationship (which we did before his death in June 1999...10 yrs, 1 month and 1 day ago). Ian was born Nov 4, 1993 at 2341.

The next 9 years would prove difficult for me. (I had left the Catholic Church in NY when my mom/step dad moved us to Texas. I remember my mom would occasionally take us to St. Matthew's but nothing routine. Prayer was not a part of our lives and I was lost.) During those 9 years I would attend and graduate college, lose not only my step-dad but my grandma and grandpa Templar, my uncle's Richard and Bob. I would go through a few relationships and party a little more than a responsible mom should. What was I looking for? I don't know. Thankfully Ian had my mom as a good role model. Don't misinterpret...I raised him, provided for him but was a lousy role-model. In retrospect I was an irresponsible parent. Remember, Jesus was not my priority at this time. In 2002 I had begun attending the local LDS church. My boyfriend at the time was raised Mormon and my interest in him sparked me to begin my research. That is why I walked into Sunday service one morning. WOW!! How welcoming, warm and non judgmental they were! I needed that kind of support at that time in my life. It helped me through the breakup and began my search for a real relationship. I still keep in touch with many of them, but have come to "disagree" with some of the traditions of the church. So yet again, i am left to ponder my role in this world.

At the urging of some friends at work during the summer of 2003, I posted a profile on Match.com. Why not? I wasn't making any progress as is and I was about to 28!! I had always wanted a large family and time was of the essence! So I go on a couple of "dates" (safely I may add...met up at a neutral public place). Nothing felt comfortable. It is in October that I get a wink from "Phelixdecat"...hmmm? I wink back. I look at his profile. Cute!! I'm lovin' the bit of gray in the hair (I'm a sucker for that dignified look) and glasses...what a smile! If you know me, then you know my obsession with clean teeth. We chat online, talk on the phone and finally meet for a date in December. He picked me up with a bouquet of flowers. I opened the door and realized at that moment. "He's the one". Simple as that. I will marry this man. 6 months later we are engaged. Mind you, I did not probe him on his belief in Christianity. What was I thinking!!?? I wasn't...I was "In Love" (said with that ooey, gooey sound) We had planned to be married in the church that his grandparents and parents were married in but in the end, chose the JP. We decided using the money towards the purchase of a new home was the wisest option. *November 23, 2004 is the magic day* Ian is know calling Josh "dad" :-) This is how Ian will come to feel about him for the rest of his life.

Within 18 months we had moved into a new home, had 2 daughters, made it through 2 job losses and the loss of his grandfather. That was hard for him. That summer, July 2006 I began attending a local Fellowship church since Ian enjoyed the youth group. He had friends from school there. Josh has without a doubt taken on the full role of being Ian's dad. Christ was still not a part of our lives and I was coming to understand that Josh would never return or turn to Jesus. He is an Agnostic. He believes in a higher power but does not believe what he can not see. He is a stubborn capricorn who thrives off of proof in any area of his life. He does not attend church, he is lost. His work life is crumbling, our marriage is beginning to suffer from the society influence in his life. He has dreams, but despite any support, he is unmotivated to reach them. All he has ever wanted to do is Golf. It is his passion and life dream. He has golfed since he was 6 (and a strong bond he helps me keep with my beloved step dad). I love him. I do not like him. He is suffereing with depression. I need someone in my life. I turn to Jesus with full force and submission. My life is not my life, it is His. It is His will that must be done. Use me, however you need to. Teach me. I need to know how to lead my family when my husband can not. Strenghthen me, for I am bearing the yoke of my entire family for which I will turn over to you. Protect me. Satan is alive in my house and I need you to protect us all.

October 2007. I am baptised. For real this time. How amazing that once I put my entire life in His hands that things began to turn around!! I'm not saying that roses, poppies and tulips were scattered in my house, but the stress of "making things work" began to lessen. Relationships began to heal. My head was clearer for I had my sight on the real prize. I began to tithe. Not a full 10% for my husband is my husband and I am bound to honor him regardless of his beliefs. 5%. It keeps the peace and allows me to give with a pure heart. I am now involved with LifePointe Fellowship. I love my "new" life!! Josh in the meantime has helped to start up a new Ebay Company, EasySale.com and is now making a good income. We are comfortable. I drop to Part-time work, 2 days a week. January rolls around....BAM! He is laid off on the 25th. 3rd time.

I don't know if it was the prayers, the Grace of God through me, or his own insight. Josh finally decided to pursue a role in the Golf world. He put out over 50 applications online and in person. No one was hiring...it's a hard line of work to get into especially when you are not a PGA member, but can not become one until you work for 6months in the field and are accepted. July 7, 2008 we are en route to NY when he gets the call...HIRED!! Heritage Ranch in Fairview, close to home. YEA!!! Praise our Lord and Saviour!! (I quietly pray to myself).

This last year has been just as up and down as all of them. Josh was accepted into the PGA, beginning his studies to become whatever he wants to in the PGA (as well as play the amateur tour). We have even had some "deep" conversations about God. I have beared my testimony to him with joy and tears. He is ok with raising the children to believe and know God/Jesus. He doesn't dispute my taking them to Church every Sunday, he is even invited whenever he wants to come. He doesn't. He still doesn't believe. That's ok. "What??" you say! I know, it has taken me too many years, but I finally came to the realization that Josh and I were not brought together so that I could make a believer out of him. That is God's place. Only He can turn Josh's heart and open him up to the life of a Christian. We came together so that MY faith could be strengthened. So that I would come to realize what I had been missing all along. That void? Yea, Josh was my missing piece, but God, He was what I needed to fill the void. Josh knows that if God needs to use me to bring him to Christ, that I will whole-heartedly give my life. For that is how deep my love is for both of them, for it would be my honor to give up my own earthly life so that Josh will have his own eternal life.

"Be still and know that I am God" PS 46:10

Summer Update

We have had so much fun!! I have tried to keep the kids somewhat busy, but that is very hard to do when the temperature is over 100 degrees and your youngest child is somewhat allergic to the sun :( With the Lord's blessing we were able to spend a full 6 hours at Hawaiian Falls with the Johnston's! It was 91 out, overcast and perfect for little Keara. She and Abby spent the whole time climbing all the way to the top and sliding down the longest slides....eventhough Keara was a smidgin' bit under the height requirement. She knows no fear!!

The 4th of July was fun!! Hot, but fun. Josh and I took Ian, Abby and Keara to the Ranger's game and watched the fireworks afterwards. I must say, not the long show that Arlington is know for, but a great time as a family and memories were made.

Yesterday I took them all to Skate Town in Grapevine and we spent 2 hours learning to roller skate, Keara yet again being the daredevil and Abby requiring a little bit of instruction. By the time we left they were both worn out and Ian was Mr. Skill's on the Rink. ;)

I'm having some issues with the main computer, so unfortunately I am unable to post any pictures :( I have been collecting them on the memory card an will upload them as soon as I can. I know many of you would like to see updated pictures of the kids!! I also dug up (with the help of Josh) another flower bed in the backyard...thanks to my mom who gave me her birdbathe so now I have my own "bed and breakfast" for the birdies!! Abby and Keara love it...Ian isn't all too interested. As I expected....he is almost 16!!

I start a new position at work the week of the 19th....CV Clinician. It is a role I have admired since its inception in 2003. I finally came to myself in regards to my knowledge base, experience and confidence and applied. 11 days after the interview I was offered the position!! I will dearly miss my CVICU, and hope to maintain a good relationship with ALL of them and work with them on a regular basis. They are all part of who I am and my experiences.

Summer Cometh

Is it me or is becoming a bit warm??  I would give my left arm (since I’m a righty) to be able to step in my backyard and Dive in!  Oh, the luxury of a pool right in your own backyard.  Ugh….the upkeep of your own pool.  Not to mention the added electric expense (not too significant I have been told) and initial water bill.  {sigh} but I think I could handle it all when I think of the payoff! J

 

I am slowly turning out back lot into a back yard.  Added 2 trees (Arizona Ash and a Bradford Pear) and a small flower bed in front of my bedroom window which will be succulent with the scent of Gardenia in a season or 2 J  My dear husband will be so happy (do you hear the sarcasm?).   I got the bedroom and master bath repainted with the help of my mom “the painter”.  That woman loves to paint!!  The color came out fantastic!!  Once we add in the new King size bed and bedding…how sweet it will be!   A room we can relax in and enjoy rather than walking in and having the immediate onset of a Migraine. Those of you who have seen the Dallas Maverick Blue know what I am talking about.

 

Keara is now “officially” potty training.  Granted, I had to force her into panties, but nonetheless, she is doing it!  Yea!  I apologize now to all of you whose furniture she may pee on (and those she has, sorry Sheila and Wes).  What will I do when no one is in pull ups??  I’m not ready for that!!   

 

Lastly…A huge shout out to my Dad and Pat…THAN K YOU SO MUCH!!!  I have the most wonderfully caring parents and I cherish my dad.  He is so awesome and such and example with his forgiving, caring, support and guidance.   A truly wonderful man and I am very proud to call him my dad J  I love you both.  I’ll end know before I start crying.

 

 

 

Jen, Jenny, Jennifer

Blessed be the name of the Lord……

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control" Galatians 5:22-23

 

 

So Much Fun!!

So I took the girls today to the 8^th annual Plano Kiwanis Butterfly Exhibit and they had a blast!  My friend Jen and her husband Malcolm along with their 2 kids Caitlin and Dylan met us there.  Dylan was a bit freaked out just like me.  I don’t do flying insects very well, even the pretty kind.  I think it just reminds me of both the movie “The Fly” and also the time my brother Eric had a silk worm try to crawl in his ear.  Which could then lead me to the Star Trek movie, don’t know which one it was, that the slugs invaded the brains of some people.  Which then leads me to Malcolm being a Trek-y and totally stoked about the new Star Trek movie.  Oh. That’s right.  Butterflies…wish we had our camera.  But, I guess having the name Jennifer implies we are forgetful J  But at least all the kids had fun.  They were so cute trying to get the butterfly’s on their little “sweet sticks” and then keep them there.  At one point I had 5 of them on my shirt and 2 on my head. EEKS!!  GET THEM OFF ME!!  Keara was all about having them land on her hand.  I really enjoy doing things with the Mitchell’s.  Now I just need to get Josh to come along, not that Malcolm needs a friend, but it sure would be nice for them to meet.  And for me to not look like I have an imaginary husband…

 

Ahem….we could do a few things as a family.

 

 

Jen, Jenny, Jennifer

Lovin’ life as a SAHM

So here I sit, updating my blog while in the background is Abby and Keara counting to 10 in Spanish; learned most appropriately from Dora the Explorer!  Abby of course leads, and Keara follows.  It’s like listening to a teacher and student…how wonderful!!   We went to the park today as Keara is unable to play in the backyard.  Our yard is in dire need of weed treatment and I am begging my husband to take care of it!  The minute she goes out, her legs turn red and she begins to scratch.  So much for the purpose of the play set!  My goal is that it will be done this weekend, since my DH has Saturday off.  Maybe.  One can only hope.

I am hoping to go and visit a friend of mine tomorrow, but she has failed to return my call and message.  I do miss her, Rachael, so call me back!! 

There is this fantastic Christian gathering on May 5 if anyone out there in the DFW area wants to go, it’s God of the City (www.godofthecity.org) and it only cost $5.00! Kids under 6 are free.  It is being held at the Dr. Pepper Park in Frisco with seating first come, first serve.  I am taking my kids as it is only 2 ½ hours long and very well worth it J  Check it out!

Maybe I will get some bread made this afternoon.  Better yet, I’ll get caught up on my Bible Study!

 

 

 

Blessings~

Jen, Jenny, Jennifer…..

 

 

Spring is in the Air

Yikes!! Time does get away from us, doesn't it? As if??? Abby is now 4, Keara just turned 3 (yesterday), Ian is finishing his freshman year and all I can think of is "when do I get to have my final baby #4?" I am getting older, you know. Oh, come on....you didn't think I would stay 29 that long did you? *sigh*....I love that the weather is warming up. I don't like the pollen counts. Poor Keara, she has does nothing but produce buckets of snot for the last 3 days. And I mean BUCKETS. This is despite 20 mg of Zyrtec daily, 12.5mg of Benadry 2 times a day and 10mg of Atarax as needed. One would think she'd be a sleepwalking zombie....oh no, not my little sedative tolerant baby girl. She'll be a nurse's worst nightmare one day if she ever has pain issues! Or if she ever has to be sedated!! Load her up like you would a big stallion...Ian is doing better. Spanish class is picking up (now that he is really working at it). He must maintain B's for at lease 3 marking periods to qualify for Driver's Education (our family rule) so he has a bit of incentive. Not to mention Football, he will finally play again after his season ending injury last summer. Josh and I look forward to seeing him play this year, not just chatting with the other players. He really is a good teenager. I hear horror stories from friends of mine who are having major behavioral issues with their boys and I think to myself "What a great kid we have". And the icing on the cake....he adores his sisters. Oh, he finally cut his hair. Short. Thank God, he looks so much better.

Abby is reading!! Now mind you it is just 3 letter words, but she is doing it!! I don't push her, just grab the opportunity when she is ripe for the picking. She loves to do homework, but reading is sometimes not her favorite. She is working hard on her penmanship and starting a little math (addition). She is still mommy's big little helper, but she can definitley be bossy to Keara. I have been looking into Irish Dance for her for next year. She likes to watch it and I think it would be a nice change. Plus, it's heritage for her.

Keara...*sigh* (again). She is so sweet, stubborn, and smart. Tolerating her allergy shots and hopefully outgrowing a small bit of her eczema. She too, likes homework. She counts to 15, knows her ABC song and will occasionally do flash cards to learn the letters. She likes to sing, play in the dirt and drive trucks around. My tom-boy. Every family needs one :)

Josh is working hard. Now that the weather is warm he works later and tee times are hard to come by. Clinics and lessons are starting so he will be working more, making extra money (yea!!) I worry about our economic times, but men always find the means to golf!! We don't have a lot of time together due to our schedules, but we work it out and find small moments to remember we're married :)

Me, I'm still working. I was picking up extra shifts during the winter but with Josh's schedule and the census at work being low, extra work is hard to find. I do my 2 days a week and will pick up a few hours here and there as I can. My duties at home increase when Josh and my work shedules shift balance. I like being home. I have my plans to get jams, jellies and fruits canned this summer. Strawberry jam is my first priority since we are just about hitting peak season!!

My 2009 Late Start!

Today felt a lot like a "Rochester Morning in July" which brought back great memories of our trip. It is cool, light breeze and damp out. I let Abby and Keara ride their bikes for a bit as they were begging me to. I enjoyed my coffee watching them play wishing everyday could be like this!

They are getting so big! Abby is now 4 ("almost 5, mommy") and maturing so much lately. Listening to her talk now is bitter-sweet, she sounds so grown up and yet I want her to stay a little girl forever. She is now moving forward to read! She has mastered all of her letters and sounds and will begin short words this upcoming week. She has mastered numbers 1-20 and with a little help, can add simple numbers. She likes to point out letters and numbers as we drive, looking for 20, 40, and 45 (the average speed limit signs here in Tx). Keara starts her allergy shots today, I'll keep everyone posted on how she does. She is looking forward to being 3 in a little over a month. Ian is doing well. Testing boundaries and limits, slacking a bit in school, being as social as he can, but all-in-all....it could be a whole lot worse!

I went ahead(with the blessings of the Farmers Almanac) and planted a few early summer veggies yesterday. You see Sweet Peas, Strawberries, Rosemary, Texas Sweet Onion, and Red Onion. Scattered in there is our helper Marigolds. I'll add the cucs, beans, sage, and squash in the next couple of weeks. Tomatoes will be potted this year to reap a big crop without the hassle of those Horn Worms.

I planted a Raspberry bush. Potted it so that it has a chance since our soil here is awful. I hope to get at least enough for the kids to pick and eat this year. I also planted a Blueberry bush as well. If I had to have one produce more, the raspberry would top my list. Yumm....Raspberry jam!!!