tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25913582824685172562024-03-05T20:49:23.392-08:00This is the Day...Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-74886281026777095212016-11-22T20:47:00.000-08:002016-11-22T20:47:04.613-08:00Tuesday Twelve1) It has been over a year since I last posted. Over.a.year...<br />
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2) My kids and I just spent almost six weeks with my family in the Panhandle of Texas. Life is slower there. We hunted for chicken eggs, studied rabbit bones, watched the sun rise and set almost every single day and saw the super moon. I skipped a treatment, for the first time in three years. I went in desperate need of rest, and upon our return home today, I feel rested.<br />
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3) My youngest is an animal lover. I am not sure where we got him.<br />
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4) Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I like that it isn't as commercial as other holidays. I love the opportunity to be intentional in giving thanks. And, I love cranberry sauce (fresh, not canned) and pumpkin pie, and, 'gasp', green bean casserole.<br />
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5) I still want chickens and goats and now I think I would also like a donkey.<br />
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6) Being with my family for an extended period of time makes me miss my family.<br />
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7) No matter where we are, a library feels like home. We never, ever tire of books.<br />
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8) My kids 'invented' a hand held VCR. They each created a story on a strip of paper that we watched on the 'VCR', like a movie reel. They are such fun.<br />
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9) I am glad to be home with my husband. Parenting without him is hard. And he's super cute.<br />
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10) My sweet grandma broke her hip. She is 95. She had surgery yesterday afternoon and the doctor said she is healthy and has strong bones. She is bound and determined to be up and walking as soon as possible. I want to be like her when I grow up. <br />
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11) We've not had a tree since we got married. We always decorate a 6' wreath. It's gorgeous and served a purpose when we had so many littles running around, but I think this year I'd like a tree. I think it would be fun to make ornaments out of gingerbread and string popcorn and put up hundreds of strands of tinsel. Can you even still buy tinsel??<br />
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12) It is always good to be home...Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-64897042237021249942015-04-21T09:09:00.000-07:002015-04-21T09:39:01.933-07:00Tuesday Twelve1) We all have stories of heartache and difficulty and brokenness. Every.single.one.of.us. It's so important to remember to extend grace to people and to share hope.<br />
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2) My middle boy just hit his older brother on the head with a stick. "But I didn't know I hit him on the head. He was a chameleon in the tree." <br />
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3) My youngest is a thumb sucker, actually all of the boys are, but the youngest, he recently started sucking his thumb with one finger in his nose at the same time. Every now and again he finds a booger in there and he's so good to bring it to me, "Here Mommy, a booger for you." <br />
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4) My husband is the hardest working man I know...<br />
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5) and the kindest...<br />
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6) I recently received news that two friends, from my life many years ago, are moving close. One, a girl I taught when I lived in Nicaragua, will be two hours away. God has been so faithful to allow us to maintain a friendship, even though it's been years and the distance between us has been great. I'm so excited to intentionally get to be part of her life in person now. AND, another, a friend who is in a similar life stage as me and who is such a kindred spirit, is moving to FORT WORTH. I am thrilled, so very thankful. <br />
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7) My beautiful brown-eyed son became a child of the King yesterday. It is THE one thing we desire more than any other thing for our children, their salvation. After disciplining him I asked him if he wanted to pray and he said, "I want to ask Jesus to come into my heart, all by myself," and he did. I am so glad I got to be there and that I get to walk with him as he grows in the grace and knowledge of Christ.<br />
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8) The baby hunted me down this morning, "The boys need a 'pank." I'm not sure what wrong had been committed against him, but he is not afraid to make sure everyone receives justice, at least his idea of justice. <br />
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9) So, in the wild world of <a href="http://www.mydoterra.com/monicapatrick/#/">essential oils</a> I continue to be amazed. My oldest had a bloody nose yesterday. I rubbed some cypress oil on his forearms and it stopped bleeding; seriously, it just stopped. <br />
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10) The other day the sprinkler guy asked me if I ran a daycare. I informed him that all of them were actually mine...I'm always surprised when folks act like we have a large family. <br />
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11) We are reading a biography of Jim Elliot at night before bedtime. "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to find what he cannot lose." <br />
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12) I am fond of the ellipsis... Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-60637689263559236352015-03-26T08:55:00.000-07:002015-03-26T08:55:01.625-07:00Never Give Up...When I was diagnosed with breast cancer a sweet friend sent me and my family shirts that said, "Never Give Up". I'm sporting mine today, because it's indicative of so much more than just fighting cancer. And today, I need to be reminded to never give up.<br />
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First, I will never give up on my fight to better health. And a huge piece of that right now is my fight to lose weight. An oncologist I met with said, "Your fat feeds your cancer." It's harsh, but I know it's true. So, I'm meeting with a trainer and knowing, in my heart of hearts, I must be serious about eating healthy and moving. My sweet trainer. I try to keep her informed on how.very.difficult things are for fat people, especially fat, older folks who have little kiddos. I say things like, "It is never easy for a fat person to get on the floor, perform an exercise, and then try to get back up off the floor." It just isn't. She pushed me hard last night and by the time our session was over I could barely lift my arms over my head. I mentioned she may have to come over this morning and lift the baby out of his crib and change his diapers. She just laughed. After my workout I felt I deserved a shake, but, yay me, I refrained! Never give up...<br />
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Secondly, I will never give up on being a crazy dreamer of dreams. One day I WILL have a motor home and we will travel the country in it. We will hike the Grand Canyon and live in and travel through Europe. One day I'll write a book with my husband. I will, I will, I will, have chickens and goats. One day my hubby and I will host grandparent camp, each and every summer for our grandkids. One day we will retire and serve as missionaries, here in the U.S., and around the world. One day I'll make my own soap and have an etsy shop and I'll sew my kids' pajamas and we'll have a garden and I'll can and on, and on, and on. Never give up...<br />
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Third, I will never give up on delighting in my children. Let's be honest. Sometimes this parenting thing is hard. I took all of the kids to Walmart, yesterday. Yes, you read that correctly, Walmart. No one knocked anything over, or laid on the floor, or threw a fit (not even me). We did open a box of cereal bars to eat while we shopped and we left with four different kinds of jelly, because let's face it, sometimes, it's just easier to let everyone choose their favorite than to come to an agreement. I wore the baby in a backpack and made my middle guy ride in the cart, and we survived. And, as we left, with little guy's head leaning against my back and his sticky hands in my hair and on my shirt, and rubbing my face, and a beautiful browned-eyed boy telling me in the sweetest, most sincere voice, "Thank you, Mommy for letting us each pick our own jelly," I was reminded how very grateful I am that I get to be mama to these four kiddos. They are a delight. Never give up... <br />
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Last, I will never give up on my pursuit to know God more intimately. He knows me perfectly, but my knowledge of Him is so very imperfect. I do not even know how to articulate this well, but I do know I want more, more faith, more hope, more thankfulness, more dependance, more delight, more surrender to Jesus, the lover of my soul. In this quest, on this journey, I will NEVER give up...<br />
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Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-87255883624777642352015-03-18T07:23:00.000-07:002015-03-18T07:23:22.334-07:00Wordless Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1E9O6ZhVfpMMZqMMxrOhmYkG5d1myRqRxNRMWQJ1cyUDzqP3GeZXnhvQBw5Ut2I8LB1q3A9o3GcqQhNsGi6DxQI8LGlwKCc5E_rOLHR_W1QfDMEKzizfxNIBdc69XFgOLf9gRKYAbRJU/s1600/just+born2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1E9O6ZhVfpMMZqMMxrOhmYkG5d1myRqRxNRMWQJ1cyUDzqP3GeZXnhvQBw5Ut2I8LB1q3A9o3GcqQhNsGi6DxQI8LGlwKCc5E_rOLHR_W1QfDMEKzizfxNIBdc69XFgOLf9gRKYAbRJU/s320/just+born2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKWdh-eIPAe8urZ-v0z4d9ZZ3YvLmFCB_9HmXj1E43G2lGWMKVei5K8V450A_RAs4J157Koy5vLOlzDA3MR6kFV6TPsB7_cj1Xam-350N3wx5Gnud184AXJD6olatDpeTYWRlcSXoTMil/s1600/IMG_0004_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzrGCijrU0wxDXBy1t8UQjuhyphenhyphen4sBEX27GxyF9NwMOGqXvhmRpK4iPy2-q1sv_Mv4YIoNBfDQdQ43RthmVX9NpBAnkJcZcFe-ExWBZUO_TVW4pbomc0QaFvlt1iixjOwijIAPuvHF5pzOns/s320/IMG_6478.JPG" /></a></div>Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-75863172416518995772015-03-11T20:34:00.002-07:002015-03-11T20:34:14.796-07:00Blogging...Well, my hubby has a <a href="http://www.charleswpatrick.com">blog</a>. AND, not only does he have a blog, but he has a really great blog, AND he posts in it on a fairly regular basis. I'll be honest, I feel a need to keep up with him. So, here goes...<br />
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1) My kiddos wrote an awesome haiku in school today. We have been reading a book about salamanders, <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Salamander-Room-Dragonfly-Books/dp/0679861874/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1426129167&sr=1-1&keywords=the+salamander+room">"The Salamander Room"</a> by Anne Mazer. It is such a fun book and my kids really enjoy it and today, well, they wrote a haiku about salamanders. They are a delight.<br />
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2) It is almost time to begin potty training Baby. We even bought some training pants and a little bitty seat to put on the toilet for him. Every time I mention it though he says, "No, I wear a diaper." He's adorable.<br />
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3) I've ventured into the world of <a href="http://www.mydoterra.com/monicapatrick/">essential oils</a>. I have loved the idea of them for such a long time and once I finally tried them out I realized they truly are fabulous. I have had great success using them so far. One thing I've really loved is putting onGUARD on my kiddos feet as well as diffusing it. I feel like it has really kept the cold bug and the flu at bay this winter. <br />
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4) We got a new van. <br />
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5) We are getting family photos taken next week. We've never had family photos taken, ever. We are going to Abilene to have them taken by a gal whose work I've seen and really, really admired. I know she will do an incredible job, <a href="http://www.miacoelho.com/">Mia Coelho</a>. I am excited. <br />
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6) Sis is going to be 8. <br />
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7) Did I mention we got a new van?<br />
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8) I just turned 43 and I'm wondering how I missed celebrating 40. Seriously, where does the time go?? My middle sister will be 40 next year. (Don't be sad, Jules, it's not bad.) I'm hoping we do something really exciting. <br />
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9) If anyone has read my blog before, I still want chickens and goats...<br />
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Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-74717778855092434492014-11-14T09:39:00.001-08:002014-11-14T09:39:05.923-08:00Thanksgiving Blues...I'm tempted to skip Thanksgiving...not the heart of it, but the event. I want my sweet family to remember and be grateful, but I want us to do that, every.single.day. I'm tempted to forgo decorating and a big meal and those things. We're listening to Christmas carols, watching Christmas movies, reading Christmas books. Is there anything wrong with dragging out the decorations this weekend?! I feel like there is only one big holiday in me this year. And, to be honest, I am okay with it.<br />
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Yay! It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas... Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-86125764531965458572014-11-06T11:20:00.000-08:002014-11-06T11:20:52.852-08:00Little Miss...I love my daughter's heart. We are not doing school today. My emotions have been so out of whack for a couple of days so I needed to go through and clean out the playroom and the kids needed to be outside, running and whooping and hollering. So, Sis, has taken it upon herself to "school" the boys. She just came in for supplies, paper and pencil, and robot stickers, "Of course, Mom, cuz' the boys love robots, right?" She's doing a little math and some spelling and then I believe she plans to read to them. She is so very patient with them and really creative in the ways in which she teaches them. Sometimes she will explain something to them and I'll think, "Hmmm, now that makes sense! Why haven't I explained it that way?!" She's a delight...Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-23380382512216649862014-11-04T17:56:00.000-08:002014-11-04T17:56:34.194-08:00Tuesday Twelve 1) It's a rainy day...it seems to match my mood.<br />
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2) My littlest is well on his way to being two. There are days I think there is no way our family is complete...<br />
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3) I am excited that the holidays are upon us. I love this time of year.<br />
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4) My hubby came home and made meatballs for supper. He's a good man.<br />
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5) My sister just reminded me I am living my dream. I don't always feel like it, but she's right.<br />
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6) In my next home I hope to have a big tub, preferably in the master bathroom.<br />
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7) I think Daylight Savings should be done away with...<br />
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8) I'm going to plant lots of bulbs this fall. I am looking forward to tulips, gladiolus, hyacinth and daffodils. <br />
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9) I may start water aerobics this week, may...<br />
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10) I'd still like to have some chickens, and some goats.<br />
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11) I performed a scene from "Greater Tuna" for my high school speech team, such a fun play. This weekend my husband I are going to "Tuna Christmas". I can't wait.<br />
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12) If we had a motor home I'd travel the country and write home school curriculum about the places we visited.Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-32632014916213441702014-10-31T10:26:00.000-07:002014-11-04T17:57:40.223-08:00Beautiful Day...There are days life seems harder...<br />
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* more laundry<br />
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* dirtier floors<br />
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* more tears from the littlest one<br />
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* more bickering<br />
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* more fear <br />
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* less checked off the to-do list<br />
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* less self-control<br />
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* less patience<br />
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So, we turn on YouTube and listen to Jamie Grace and Matthew West and Toby Mac and we try to dance a little and laugh a little and hit the reset button. AND, even though it's already noon, we start over. It's a beautiful day...<br />
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-8032150889298849882014-10-29T14:24:00.000-07:002014-10-29T14:24:28.954-07:00What I Learned from Battling Stage 4 Breast CancerI was asked to do an interview for a fabulous <a href="http://biblicalwoman.com/battling-breast-cancer/">blog</a>...<br />
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-50004509471325313232014-07-10T14:56:00.003-07:002014-07-10T14:56:58.063-07:00Heart's Desire...For almost as long as I can remember I've wanted to be a missionary...not only someone who is actively involved in telling people about Jesus here in the States, but a real-life, bonafide, living in another country, telling people who've never heard, or had the chance to hear about the vast love of my Savior, the One True God, missionary. I honestly don't even know where I first heard about missions. I don't remember when my love affair with the world, with those who've not been told, began, but it's been a part of who I am since I was a child. <br />
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I served as a missionary after college in Central America for two-years and when I returned to the United States I did so with the intention of returning, not necessarily to CA, but wherever it was that God may call me, as a career missionary. It wasn't God's timing, but I knew that eventually, I'd end up serving Him internationally. I started a career in the oil and gas industry and it seemed my door into missions would be through this professional career. And then, I met my husband. Honestly, as I got to know him and fell in love with him and began a new life with him, I still knew we would one day end up ministering Jesus to those with no easy access to Him. And then...<br />
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We've so many friends who serve as missionaries, after all, people who love missions love missionaries. I read blogs, pray over newsletters, look at pictures and hear stories and I'm so excited for what God is doing, and I'm torn, because I want to be a part. I don't know what this cancer journey is going to look like, but I know, that for this season, here is where we have to be. My heart is not completely at peace with that, not completely settled, but I'll just keep praying for God's hand to move mightily around the world. I'll keep telling my kids about our friends who are missionaries and reading them biographies about Gladys Aylward, Lydia Trasher, David Livingston, William Carey. I'll continue having a heart for the world and I'll trust that God's hand is actively involved in it all. Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-44623173108885044742014-06-29T14:51:00.000-07:002014-06-29T14:51:50.490-07:00Reconciling...I just read a post from the blog of a sweet woman who is dying of cancer. I don't know her whole story, don't know how long she's battled the beast, but I do know she is dying and she is leaving behind a husband and three small boys. I also read a post from the blog of another mama, the mama of a little girl, who is battling cancer; her battle is hard and she is fighting fiercely, and things do not look good...
I go in for a CT scan on Tuesday. It's been six months since my last scan, so my doctor feels it is time. I cannot begin to express the range of emotions I feel. I feel strong, really, really strong, and hopeful; and at times I feel afraid and uncertain, really, really uncertain.
I met with a gynecological oncologist. My medical oncologist feels I need to have my ovaries removed, to keep my body from making estrogen. One of the drivers of the breast cancer I have is estrogen. I am on a medication that is supposed to block estrogen from being made in my body, but it has not. The gyn-onc doctor said my ovaries are survivors, just like I am. (I love her for saying that!) Like I said, I feel strong, like healing has and is taking place in my body and it is as though my body is simply doing what it knows to do IN SPITE of the beast.
I don't know how to reconcile the reality of what cancer does in the lives of so many and the reality of the healing that has taken place in my body and the continued healing I feel is taking place. I don't know how to reconcile the incredible hope I have that I will bear fruit in my old age with the reality that my doctor says 'a few' with my diagnosis make it to five years. Yet, whatever may come, truly, WHATEVER may come, complete healing, or something else, I know my God is good and He is faithful. And, because of this, because of His grace, it truly is well with my soul.
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-19323976282353397722013-11-12T06:13:00.001-08:002013-11-12T06:13:11.981-08:00Life UpdatesHow do you begin blogging again when it feels as though too much of life has passed? It's so hard to know where to begin and yet, I want to document all that is happening. So here we go, again.
First, our fourth little one arrived ten months ago, seriously, ten months! We had an incredible birthing experience with a midwife; maybe I'll blog about it one day, but probably not. Suffice it to say, we arrived at the birthing center at about 10:15 pm and were home around 2:00 am. Charles said it was like we went through the drive-thru and came home with a 9lb 9oz baby. It wasn't exactly like that for me...ha! At any rate, he is a delight.
Secondly, in July my baby sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. I do not feel I can adequately express the depth of emotion her diagnosis brought. I will be honest, as she went in for her biopsy, after a mammogram and an ultrasound, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt she did not have breast cancer. There was no way!! I was so very wrong...after the biopsy and a day of various body scans, she was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. She began chemotherapy right away and has been receiving treatments all fall. There are moments in life that define life and this is one of those. There will forever be life before my sister's diagnosis and life after.
And then, in August, another such moment occurred. I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Even typing those words it almost feels as though the air was knocked right out of me, again. Stage 4 breast cancer...honestly, there are days I still do not even know how to process it.
Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-9209780154941043292012-04-10T07:36:00.004-07:002012-04-10T08:02:15.963-07:00A Happier Mom...I just read a blog post, "5 simple ways to be a happier mom today". I'd link to the post, but for whatever reason, cannot figure out how to do that this morning. Needless to say, she shared some sage advice, but as my morning seems to spiral farther downward, I'm having a hard time getting the 5 "simple" things done. <br /><br />First, she suggests you just breathe...think the kids would notice if I went into my closet, well, maybe my husband's closet, as I can't get into mine, shut the door, and stayed in there for a few minutes, or 30, to breathe? <br /><br />Next, she encourages you to say "I'm sorry." Yes, I have taken full advantage of that one this morning. I've apologized to each of my kids, to my daughter more than once. I almost feel as if I need to call and tell my hubby I'm sorry, just for good measure.<br /><br />Third, reach out to somebody who lifts you up...Paula, are you almost done homeschooling your kids this morning. I need you!!!<br /><br />Fourth, do something that relaxes you. She actually suggests taking a bath or walking around a bookstore or something. We only have one tub, and quite honestly, it was made for children or itty-bitty skinny people, of which, I am neither. AND, the way I am acting, I think a trip to the bookstore would result in tears, for all of us, and maybe a tantrum or two, and I have been trying to refrain from throwing tantrums in public. Why oh why doesn't Starbucks deliver?!<br /><br />Last, and at this point, maybe the only plausible thing, reconnect with your kids. I guess I'll try it and go ahead and join them on the picnic they are having in the boys' room. I'm hoping it works, but, if perchance you can't get a hold of me, look for me in the closet...Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-24117246550844735942011-12-13T18:35:00.000-08:002011-12-13T18:36:06.517-08:00The Beauty of ChristA friend sent this my way...I love it.<br /><br />Mary's Song<br />by Lucy Shaw<br /><br />Blue homespun and the bend of my breast<br />keep warm this small hot naked star<br />fallen to my arms. (Rest ...<br />you who have had so far<br />to come.) Now nearness satisfies<br />the body of God sweetly. Quiet he lies<br />whose vigour hurled<br />a universe. He sleeps<br />whose eyelids have not closed before.<br />His breath (so slight it seems<br />no breath at all) once ruffled the dark deeps<br />to sprout a world.<br />Charmed by dove's voices, the whisper of straw,<br />he dreams,<br />hearing no music from his other spheres.<br />Breath, mouth, ears, eyes<br />he is curtailed<br />who overflowed all skies,<br />all years.<br />Older than eternity, now he<br />is new. Now native to earth as I am, nailed<br />to my poor planet, caught that I might be free,<br />blind in my womb to know my darkness ended,<br />brought to this birth<br />for me to be new-born,<br />and for him to see me mended<br />I must see him torn.Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-41119178647824853282011-12-11T09:15:00.001-08:002011-12-11T09:32:47.803-08:00Doing the thing...I've been struggling with doing the thing. You know, the living life well thing? I feel as though my life is in a perpetual state of chaos. Ughhhhh...<br /><br />So, I am asking God to bring order into my life. There are a few things I really long to do well and I am asking Him to help me prioritize. I know He is faithful.<br /><br />1) I want to really seek Him and know Him, you know, the Creator, our Everlasting Father, our Provider, the Prince of Peace, the Ancient One, you know, that One? I want to know Him...<br /><br />2) I want to glorify Him...not as an act of show, not to please Him, but because He is worthy. <br /><br />3) I want to hide His Word in my heart AND I want His Spirit to begin to instill in the hearts of my kiddos a love for His Word as they begin to hide it in their hearts as well.<br /><br />4) I long for my home to be a place of refuge, a sanctuary, a place where people experience the presence of the Holy Spirit and can rest. I long for that for my husband, our children, the people we have into our home, me...<br /><br />5) I want to live more simply. Yes, I mean, stuff and activities, and whatever it takes.<br /><br />6) I want to sacrificially love people...even more than I love myself.<br /><br />7) I want to laugh. Every.single.day.Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-51545018904197015222011-11-16T05:45:00.000-08:002011-11-16T06:17:04.133-08:00Getting Motivated...So, a few of the items on my list of things I'd love to do are the following...<br /><br />1) Make matching pajamas for the family for Christmas. Seriously, can we say, "Cheese!!!"? Regardless, I think it would be fun and if I don't get on the ball, my boys will be old enough to say, "No way, Mom, we ARE NOT wearing matching Christmas tree jammies!".<br /><br />2) Cut, roll and hot glue pages from books to make dozens and dozens of flowers that will adorn a wreath form. The finished wreath would be so, so cute! Think the hubby would mind cutting and hot gluing while we vegged on the couch in the evenings??? Hmm...<br /><br />3) Applique Christmas dishtowels for, well, for Christmas. I saw some of the cutest for sale for $21 each. No, that is NOT a typo, $21, EACH. Dollar store, here I come. I can buy two flour sack thingies for $1 and some fun Christmas fabric with a 50% off coupon and voila, darling dishtowels. If you get some as a gift, act surprised!<br /><br />4) Embroider and applique some onesies for the blessed abundance of new babies in my life...mary,ian,olivia,eve,micah,brooke,benjamin,ariana. For a couple of those sweet baby girls I want to do tutus and Christmas onesies. Adorable!<br /><br />5) Sew a silky blanket for my baby. His brother and sister both have two, in case one needs washed of course, and he only has one. Poor little guy has to cozy a chew toy with a silky corner if his is in the wash.<br /><br />6) Make wool dryer balls, for me, Mom, and my sister-in-law.<br /><br />7) Read my book club book before the afternoon of book club...<br /><br />8) Get up out of this chair so I can feed my children, finish the mountains of laundry, iron clothes for the love of my life, empty the trash, feed my children again, pack for a trip...well, those are things I have to do, rather than want to do, but I'd best get moving on them, or the other will always only be a dream.Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-59329463982252068812011-11-11T21:59:00.000-08:002011-11-11T23:15:55.103-08:00Midnight Musings...It's midnight...I should be in bed, but my mind doesn't seem to want to shut down.<br /><br />My hubby graduates from seminary with his Master of Divinity in five weeks. Seriously, in just five short weeks, we will be done. The last three and a half years have been hard, really, really hard. But, our God is faithful and I know He will redeem the time.<br /><br />A dear friend from high school just brought home two precious babies from Uganda. Two.precious.babies. I cannot even begin to express what their journey has done to my heart.<br /><br />An old friend and his family serve with Samaritan's Purse in Kenya. For the last several months he has been flying both people and supplies to a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_vOCGtimpI">refugee camp</a> on the border of Sudan. (I knew him while I lived in Nicaragua, where he flew flies. That is another story for another day...) I cannot even begin to express what the story of these Sudanese refugees has done to my heart.<br /><br />I follow the blogs of a couple of women who are in Ecuador on a <a href="http://compassionbloggers.com/trips/2011-ecuador">Compassion Blogging trip</a>. They have shared such beautiful stories of the children in Ecuador, children whose lives have been forever changed by the love of Jesus, because He has honored the faithfulness of Compassion International and the folks who have determined to partner with Compassion through <a href="http://www.compassion.com/">sponsorship</a>. I cannot even begin to express what the pictures the bloggers have painted this past week have done to my heart.<br /><br />My kiddos and I have been collecting small gifts for <a href="http://www.samaritanspurse.org/index.php/OCC/Pack_A_Shoe_Box/?hometab">Operation Christmas Child</a> for the last several weeks. Tonight we got together with some folks from church to pack our shoeboxes, wrap them, and pray over them. Over the last few weeks we have watched YouTube videos of children scouring dumps for items that can be sold so their families can survive, videos of children who have treasured gifts that they have received for years after receiving them...and I have wept. I cannot even begin to express what this opportunity for us to share with children from around the world has done to my heart.<br /><br />I do not know what God has in store for us after graduation. I do not know if He will redeem the last three and a half years by granting our family the privilege of serving in an orphanage in Africa or by bringing little ones into our family through adoption. I do not know if His plan for our lives will include serving refugees on the border of Sudan or somewhere in the United States, this incredible country we live in that offers asylum to so many. Maybe He will redeem the time by pouring out our lives into the lives of children who have been devastated by poverty. I simply do not know, we do not know. But, of this one thing I am certain...I cannot even begin to express what He has done to my heart. And, I cannot wait to see what He will do.Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-53215105602804254842011-07-11T13:25:00.000-07:002011-07-12T13:01:25.590-07:00Tuesday Twelve1) It's hot here this summer...hot, hot, hot. AND, our pool has sprung a leak. What a bummer!<br /><br />2) I've made my own toothpaste, am using rubbing alcohol instead of deodorant, vinegar instead of rinse in the washer, and am loving my clothesline, well, sometimes loving my clothesline. I also have plans to make my own laundry detergent and hope to wash my hair and the kids' with baking soda and rinsing with vinegar. Who knew I was such a granola?! I may begin wearing patchouli oil too. (Just teasing, Babe!)<br /><br />3) My girl starts swim lessons in a couple of weeks...it is time, but I'm a little bit anxious. Thank goodness she doesn't know enough to be anxious yet. She's just excited and intent on "teaching Bubby how to swim" once she learns.<br /><br />4) A friend asked my boy what his favorite thing to play with was. His reply, "My dad."<br /><br />5) Speaking of playing with Dad, the two of them worked to put in a patio of sorts for our grill. They worked so hard, the littlest man lugging around a sledge hammer and giving his daddy water, the biggest man, carefully lining up pavers in the incredibly hot Texas sun. They are the two hardest working guys I have ever seen. It looks amazing!!<br /><br />6) We're trying to simplify our lives, getting rid of things we haven't used since moving here, three years ago. So far, I've gone through several kitchen cabinets. I need some motivation to carry on...I certainly don't want to look in the entryway in six months and see those same three boxes full of kitchen stuff.<br /><br />7) My littlest has begun pushing a small child's chair around the house...forget the toy that is supposed to serve as a walker, he wants the chair. He's going to be one in less than a month. Seriously, how did that happen?!<br /><br />8) Going to the grocery store takes the entire morning and every bit of my energy...and my kiddos are usually really good. By the time I get the kids loaded in the car, to the grocery store, buy the goods, get them to the car and unloaded, kids buckled in their carseats, home, groceries to the house, kiddos out of their carseats, groceries put away...I'm tired even thinking about it!<br /><br />9) Started a book club. We're reading a book called, "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp. It is life-changing.<br /><br />10) My girl's heart is being softened to sin and the sorrow it brings to the Father and to us, His children. The other day she said, "It makes me so sad Jesus had to die on the cross for our sins." Me too, little one, me too...<br /><br />11) Homesick for the cool mornings/evenings of Colorado, my sweet grandma, and my best friend...wish it wasn't so far and my kiddos weren't so little. <br /><br />12) I still want chickens...Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-7498170459905634842011-04-26T13:25:00.000-07:002011-04-26T17:11:22.070-07:00Tuesday Twelve1) Well, my middle boy has pottied in many a public restroom. I hate to admit it, but I stand him on the seat and just let him take aim. However, we've never gone, ahem, number two. Today, we attempted to, and shall we say, the floor, my son, and his very inept mommy, were all a little more damp when we left than when we arrived. Lovely...<br /><br />2) My youngest son is the fastest "inch-wormer" I do believe I have ever seen. Heaven help us when he finally figures out how to crawl!<br /><br />3) My husband has a paper due on Thursday, two finals, and then, for one short week, he will be completely ours. After that, summer classes begin...we are looking forward to December.<br /><br />4) There are buds on my daisies. We cannot wait until they begin blooming.<br /><br />5) We filled Easter eggs with candy and stickers for our church's Easter egg hunt last week. I told the kids the church was inviting kids from the community who had not heard about Jesus and how much He loves them. We prayed for the children who would be coming while we stuffed our eggs. Then, Saturday morning, we gathered up our baskets and got ready to go to the church. My daughter asked me why we were bringing our baskets. I told her they were to hunt Easter eggs. She said, ever so sweetly, "But Mama, those eggs are for the children who have never heard about Jesus." How I love her...<br /><br />6) I have reenacted, told, or sung the story of David and Goliath at least 2,000 times. I.am.not.kidding. We even tell the story while sitting on the potty and my son, who is always Goliath, leans back as far as he can on the seat, dead.<br /><br />7) I am struggling with consistency in my parenting. 'Nuff said...<br /><br />8) My husband gave me the most gorgeous pot of blue hydrangea for Easter. I love hydrangea. I'm tempted to plant them in a bigger pot, rather than in the ground, so, if graduation takes us away from Fort Worth, I can take my hydrangea with me.<br /><br />9) Speaking of moving...I long to live in the city. I can think of all sorts of cities I'd love to move to one day. I am a city girl. However, I would like a garden, the kind of garden that will produce enough to really feed our family, fruits and veggies we can can, freeze, dry, etc., some chickens, fresh eggs you know, a couple of cows, and some goats, cows, to eventually eat, goats, because really, who doesn't want goats? Oh, and a bunny, because my middle son loves, loves, loves his aunt's bunny. Think I kind find a space in the city that will sustain all of that?!<br /><br />10) I've found a Mexican restaurant that serves a dish called chilequiles for breakfast. It's chicken and corn tortillas in a yummy tomatilla sauce. It's delicious...I wonder if I can make it at home. I could eat Mexican food every single meal. If I had my dream garden I could at least make and can salsa.<br /><br />11) We had the biggest hail I have ever seen last week. There were several pieces that were bigger than golf balls. It was a bit unnerving.<br /><br />12) My middle boy just told me he was doing the potty dance, suppose I'd best go. Hope we both stay dry!!!Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-14401964070236123962011-04-20T11:31:00.001-07:002011-04-20T11:36:25.665-07:00Wordless Wednesday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyXbbnqwWOXZ2_xgKuVLGsCLiVy9tvFS4mzYafcHia3zBEPbk7p-nRshCBtCnVkk8V0MqYRIjYnDevd4OYu3aszdAysKEjprxntni-ImI5XmwOV6kk6SShWestuXyIW5lRayVYsRJKKXgm/s1600/Susanna.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyXbbnqwWOXZ2_xgKuVLGsCLiVy9tvFS4mzYafcHia3zBEPbk7p-nRshCBtCnVkk8V0MqYRIjYnDevd4OYu3aszdAysKEjprxntni-ImI5XmwOV6kk6SShWestuXyIW5lRayVYsRJKKXgm/s320/Susanna.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597735846518503938" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf2MRmccssjeXZBPGrw87ZeAJdstLy2OhUWAKbojLswLXFbaBAB0fB7r7Xx5y6dfytK_ogEWDfWuoxCl4MSIhbVmxuZj0ZZ9AoFc_Rpur2Au92GFzdZAIQXaxjdmwEphTT997JWedyyYlV/s1600/Nate.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf2MRmccssjeXZBPGrw87ZeAJdstLy2OhUWAKbojLswLXFbaBAB0fB7r7Xx5y6dfytK_ogEWDfWuoxCl4MSIhbVmxuZj0ZZ9AoFc_Rpur2Au92GFzdZAIQXaxjdmwEphTT997JWedyyYlV/s320/Nate.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597735842431844322" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbpi-3ukkihJz3MBQPh7F8m5CQseBjNTgi3gHXp659nGcAy2T_ZT0fomMONe_7muG5Dbuu9zkZSrHmQ01loysMyzj_JeBjBlB6LSOaRVyrFIWnstgCXNcRX0klV46pkfPXHRY8TxK_52V/s1600/Joey.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbpi-3ukkihJz3MBQPh7F8m5CQseBjNTgi3gHXp659nGcAy2T_ZT0fomMONe_7muG5Dbuu9zkZSrHmQ01loysMyzj_JeBjBlB6LSOaRVyrFIWnstgCXNcRX0klV46pkfPXHRY8TxK_52V/s320/Joey.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597735839937369826" border="0" /></a>Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-65691736400045055632011-04-19T13:08:00.000-07:002011-04-19T14:19:53.668-07:00Tuesday Twelve1) I have determined not to use my computer while the kiddos are awake...I've been using a dry erase board to jot down things I want to look up and saving the list for naptime or bedtime. It's been a good thing, but I'm cheating right now. Hope I'm quicker than usual!<br /><br />2) In the past week we have become a family where my oldest can buckle herself into her carseat, all.by.herself. What a tremendous amount of freedom that brings. I also realized we are now a family of one diapered kiddo, one sippy cup kiddo, and three kiddos who can feed themselves cheerios. It's a new day at our place!<br /><br />3) Bubby just asked his sister for some help and she responded, "Just a second, Bubby. I'm strugglin' here. I'm just strugglin'." Wonder where she's heard that phrase?! Actually, I can hear myself now, "Hold on a second, Sweetheart. Mommy's struggling here."<br /><br />4) My boys are already the best of friends. And, I think they're going to be trouble!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTaDDoGJl4Ku8WTR5QwijjpPu6SesPWsQNN6jTwi7Vw5GQYY2SBFsjfsyJmurroIhW_fm02JEHXKl-0xrkvc6Mo68Y83CaCMmmt8Zy4nhKGilrcslUcI91Z0aiJFtnZUVeeBPijZ0NAVY/s1600/BoysBotanicGarden.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibTaDDoGJl4Ku8WTR5QwijjpPu6SesPWsQNN6jTwi7Vw5GQYY2SBFsjfsyJmurroIhW_fm02JEHXKl-0xrkvc6Mo68Y83CaCMmmt8Zy4nhKGilrcslUcI91Z0aiJFtnZUVeeBPijZ0NAVY/s320/BoysBotanicGarden.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597396834615652914" border="0" /></a><br />5) We made an Easter Garden, to reflect on, and celebrate this season where we remember Christ's death on the cross and His resurrection.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsjG1Z4Ri9O515BqGHH-2Ozf3ZWUZad0S_VX8F7KdRH15BkC0snjDPmM5JIwvTLHMhxVd10WrF1W8tIVnSW4KC7TEpXvdFDKNehwzMhjCKQFfBO17ksnu8ZX3MY0ZhaJax6s9A1ghAxyBs/s1600/EasterGarden1.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsjG1Z4Ri9O515BqGHH-2Ozf3ZWUZad0S_VX8F7KdRH15BkC0snjDPmM5JIwvTLHMhxVd10WrF1W8tIVnSW4KC7TEpXvdFDKNehwzMhjCKQFfBO17ksnu8ZX3MY0ZhaJax6s9A1ghAxyBs/s320/EasterGarden1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597396003734820946" border="0" /></a><br />I think it's going to be such a meaningful tradition for our family.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZNWwXZn0wpjca-3-mUsXHq0RgX05Kq78GkotfncrZCX2om3nAzQMSap2ZTzT_VvR95PiuhEwXAwlvLRZCXgwCiUbYiRgxZVzL51JKPphFVCF8IAe2haoTQ4vo7G9GPmrx7_-dBJSfcB7r/s1600/EasterGarden2.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZNWwXZn0wpjca-3-mUsXHq0RgX05Kq78GkotfncrZCX2om3nAzQMSap2ZTzT_VvR95PiuhEwXAwlvLRZCXgwCiUbYiRgxZVzL51JKPphFVCF8IAe2haoTQ4vo7G9GPmrx7_-dBJSfcB7r/s320/EasterGarden2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597393067699107490" border="0" /></a><br />6) Somehow I deleted my pictures at least a half dozen times and had to upload them all over again (and again, and again). Why is it so difficult?!<br /><br />7) How we have loved watching new life in our garden...cucumbers and green beans coming up from seeds, flowers on a watermelon vine, with the promise of watermelons this fall, green tomatoes, and strawberries that have grown and ripened and been eaten. As a matter of fact, I think we have a few out there right now that need to be picked by chubby little toddler hands and eaten, straight off the vine. The Giver of Life has blessed us so richly and we are reminded daily. <br /><br />8) I put my youngest in his first pair of cloth diapers. There is something about the bulk of a cloth diapered bottom. He is a.d.o.r.a.b.l.e.<br /><br />9) My sweet husband got me a new pair of clippers for the yard and a new attachment for my hose that mists, showers, sprays, etc. What joy they bring me! He knows me so well. Oh, the little things.<br /><br />10) I have not become a finisher since my last post nor am I ripped. I'm not discouraged though...today is a new day!<br /><br />11) My husband and I love music, but you'd be hard-pressed saying either of us is musical. I've been pondering what we can and should do in order to instill not simply a love of music in our kids, but maybe some skills, even at an early age...<br /><br />12) My kiddos are jumping up and down singing Jesus is alive...maybe I'll take a moment and join them!!Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-23135185299208560962011-04-05T10:56:00.000-07:002011-04-05T11:40:31.317-07:00Tuesday Twelve1) My sweet little girl has been sick. She is on the mend, but was the sickest she has ever been. In fact, the doctor told me this morning she is borderline dehydrated...what a horrible mommy I am!!!<br /><br />2) Additionally, my girl turned four. What?! I'm not sure how it happened, and not sure I like it! She's growing up so fast. What a delight she is.<br /><br />3) We've planted a garden, a container garden, but a garden nonetheless. AND, my middle guy has already enjoyed the first fruits, an overripe strawberry. How we love watering everything and watching it grow.<br /><br />4) My husband's sweet mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's just after we were married, almost five years ago. She lost her battle against the dreadful disease last night. She is rejoicing with the Savior, but there is much sadness here on earth. How she will be missed!<br /><br />5) I'm trying desperately to be a finisher...I'm tired to death of starting things and never getting them finished, watermelon dresses, button "P's", owl art, matching batik tees, ruffle scarves, birthday banners, and so much more. I'm going to do it. One day at a time I'm going to do it. Today, after I get some ironing out of the way, I am going to work on my batik tees. Next week a pic!<br /><br />6) Speaking of finishing...check out my fabric canvas. My mantle is on it's way to being completed! Isn't that fabric fabulous?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTi0tyFheYoYQHrkFI-rFp7rEFiFrS2b2gqA0mfMiOr3PukPsJad0lWWX6OopgzKCcnZl_Wd69mYlUlpe14oPh-7Z3atZIBuQZeEOcKkJxEXHEQg0APxMuaptdEtkFScCnMb-YrgU9lgCF/s1600/IMG_0012.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTi0tyFheYoYQHrkFI-rFp7rEFiFrS2b2gqA0mfMiOr3PukPsJad0lWWX6OopgzKCcnZl_Wd69mYlUlpe14oPh-7Z3atZIBuQZeEOcKkJxEXHEQg0APxMuaptdEtkFScCnMb-YrgU9lgCF/s320/IMG_0012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5592166034534534034" border="0" /></a><br />7) And, while we're at it, speaking of fabulous...aren't my candlesticks pretty fabulous as well? Mom passed those on to me last time I was home. They were her grandmothers. I.love.them.<br /><br />8) I started "Jillian Michaels Ripped in 30". I'm not shooting for ripped, but I am hoping at the end of 30 days to be healthier than I am today! It's a journey and I am hoping I will stay the course...<br /><br />9) How did I do life before I had a van with doors and a back hatch that all opened with the touch of a button?!<br /><br />10) I'm trying to talk my husband into selling our house and buying a motor home once he's done with school. I say let's travel the U.S. while we can...I don't know if he's game, but I've been internet shopping for the perfect home on wheels.<br /><br />11) My middle son loves to play Lazarus...when I get him out of the tub at night I have to wrap him in his towel like he's a mummy so his daddy or I can say, in a really loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" He is such a joy!!<br /><br />12) Once the baby is weaned I think I may try to get a job at Starbucks...Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-44056758615195766242011-01-18T13:01:00.000-08:002011-01-18T21:21:47.578-08:00Tuesday Twelve1) A couple of weeks ago I got online and looked up 'women's Bible study + childcare + Fort Worth'. I found a church just down the road that has a Bible study Tuesday mornings, with childcare. It began last week, but I had sick kiddos. This morning we were slow getting around, and even though I was a week behind and we were half an hour late, I loaded up the kids and took them. I'm so glad I did...<br /><br />2) For the last few weeks when I have gotten my middle son out of bed he has told me his big toes hurt. I've looked at them, kissed them, clipped his toenails. Finally I realized he's outgrown his pajamas, the footies are too small. What kind of mommy am I?!<br /><br />3) I made homemade chicken noodle soup for the first time this weekend, yep, the first time. My husband asked me if the recipe really was supposed to take all day to make. I don't know if it was me or the recipe! Regardless, it was good...<br /><br />4) My daughter has a pair of shoes that don't quite fit. She keeps telling me, "These make my hips hurt, Momma." (Ha! That would be her heals!!)<br /><br />5) We bought the kids some toy cleaning items, a broom & dust pan, mop & bucket and a dust mop. My daughter told me I no longer have to clean. She and her brother will clean and I can take a nap. If only it was so!!<br /><br />6) I found some new bread at Wal-Mart, Sara Lee 45 Calories and Delightful. Seriously, that's the name! It.is.delightful. I'm sad though; I mistakenly thought it was whole wheat. It is not.<br /><br />7) My daughter just started fastening herself into her car seat...thank you, Jesus!! I still have to help her unfasten it, but she's doing great getting herself fastened. How did she get so big?!<br /><br />8) I backed into my husband's truck. He was parked behind me, me in the garage, him directly outside the garage. Seriously, how does a person miss a super-size, maroon, Toyota Tundra?! Ugh...<br /><br />9) Naptime ritual with my middle son...he tells me, "I not get out of bed." I ask, "What are you going to do when you wake up?" He says, "I call you guys." At night, similar exchange...he says, "I cry for you." I tell him, "Don't cry for me." And he asks, "You come get me?" I tell him, "Absolutely, I'll come get you." How I love him...<br /><br />10) After reading our Bible tonight I put my middle child into his crib and came back to my daughter's room to tuck her into her bed. She, her dad and the baby were all waiting. We played with the baby for a few minutes, resulting in much laughter. I eventually sent the baby with his dad for a bath, sang a song to my daughter and as I left her room heard my middle son calling me. He was still awake and so sad. He'd heard us all 'yucking it up' and asked, "I come with you guys?" I felt so bad. I took him to talk with baby as he prepared for his bath, tried to recreate some of the frivolity, but to no avail. Poor little guy.<br /><br />11) I'm going to the Fort Worth Home and Garden show this weekend...hope I come home with some ideas!<br /><br />12) A lawn crew stopped at our place today to see if they could rake the leaves in our front yard. We have an oak tree whose branches are bigger than our house, not kidding...GORGEOUS!! But, it does drop a lot of leaves. A.lot.of.leaves. Guess the kids and I'll try to get out tomorrow and rake some of them.Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2591358282468517256.post-13680543173576612542011-01-13T07:40:00.000-08:002011-01-13T08:17:12.994-08:00Wordless Wednesday, on Thursday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinD4WEic7BXsWOY0t19pZ2cbnLBsMl82OSiAppqK5EuQFJlQtiufvAFOqKWbE1SfEkSztlylsgOmBe-d6IygvWCuhm4eBnxwXz9zeJBu04kTQ0upZF7ufVMVO-qm25Sff69S5ia71oQ_8L/s1600/Nate.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinD4WEic7BXsWOY0t19pZ2cbnLBsMl82OSiAppqK5EuQFJlQtiufvAFOqKWbE1SfEkSztlylsgOmBe-d6IygvWCuhm4eBnxwXz9zeJBu04kTQ0upZF7ufVMVO-qm25Sff69S5ia71oQ_8L/s320/Nate.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561703715317555506" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPQY7TeEB78ygSLiXMmVxFEA3nK_R5Zn8AgC-MT_kd_485FD35ljlKLXxeYSlyzFZYFvEq62AqEN7bN_xcd7v-mH2FK6uKj2uSXfhx-Ap3ysfTK7pGE-2WfJ8eT3YRIdisfIMwZQYlT6fG/s1600/Playdough.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPQY7TeEB78ygSLiXMmVxFEA3nK_R5Zn8AgC-MT_kd_485FD35ljlKLXxeYSlyzFZYFvEq62AqEN7bN_xcd7v-mH2FK6uKj2uSXfhx-Ap3ysfTK7pGE-2WfJ8eT3YRIdisfIMwZQYlT6fG/s320/Playdough.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561703709597199586" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWdvkMRmnHWYrijZeaaOjVp_0KjmziC4X6KNGhjh_6DyV4XtEJHaTCjBYbXzPKpamaRoToxxPH9HYkgXyhbWymc09KI74ipYbNUb0VqvYTzgh6O1D-7HLulxZbaee0ylSQaAQIuX3tIqI/s1600/JoePainting.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWdvkMRmnHWYrijZeaaOjVp_0KjmziC4X6KNGhjh_6DyV4XtEJHaTCjBYbXzPKpamaRoToxxPH9HYkgXyhbWymc09KI74ipYbNUb0VqvYTzgh6O1D-7HLulxZbaee0ylSQaAQIuX3tIqI/s320/JoePainting.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561703706398169858" border="0" /></a>Monicahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03154664827712498093noreply@blogger.com2