Full of Grace-n-blessings Fivefold

2006-12-21T04:59:00.000-08:00

Please Pray for our Church and Town!

2006-06-30T04:34:00.000-07:00

We had a flood last year that caused destruction, however it was nothing in comparison to this one. Tioga County (and many other counties in our area) are still under a state of emergency. We have been in lockdown since Wednesday afternoon. Bridges have collapsed, roads have fallen in leaving fatalities, thousands of people in many towns have been evacuated, homes have been DESTROYED and seen floating down the river, other homes have been ruined, or mostly ruined with thousands of dollars in damage. This photo was taken yesterday after the floodwaters had receded a couple of feet. as you can see the water is still very high and the porch steps that you see are not from the blue house, they are actually from the greenish house next door. Our church is sitting in the midst of floodwaters, down this street, but we cannot get to it until the water recedes. Please pray as we see what direction we will have to take once we get there and see the degree of damage. Please pray for the families of those killed during this disaster. Please pray for the families who have lost their homes, pets, and possessions and are in emergency shelters all over in differing counties. Please pray for our towns as we try to rebuild our lives again. And Please Pray that we all take nothing for granted, for it can be taken away in the blink of an eye.

2006-06-30T04:32:00.000-07:00

This photo doesn't truly show the magnitude of what happened, because you can actually see some grass from the water receding a bit, but if you look in the distance, you'll notice that you cannot see any street only water!

2006-06-30T04:29:00.000-07:00

The sign said "Pray till they're Home", but maybe we should pray that they will have a place to come home to!

Breaking the Silence for a Matter of Prayer!

2006-06-30T04:22:00.000-07:00

The corner of our church is the white building directly behind the far streetsign. We heard rumors that the building separated from he foundation, however until the water recedes we cannot confirm or deny this.

The Last Photo of My Dear Samuel for a While....

2006-06-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

It is with deep sorrow that this will be my last post for a while. Due to my last couple of posts, and many misunderstandings that came about because the people involved did not come to me to clear things up; rather they went elsewhere and I heard about it secondarily, I've been instructed to leave certain people and their photos off of my blog. To do this, would be to cut them out of my life, because the words I write, and the photos I post are straight from me, and my heart. Whether people agree with what I say or not, it is still from me. I cannot take my family out of my life, whether it be on here or on a daily basis- for what would I write about of importance if I could not include everyone from my family. It would be a puzzle with missing pieces. I cannot cut my family out- they are much too precious to me, so in order to be submissive and obedient I must take a "hiatus" from my blog for a time. I am so sorry this is so sudden! I will truly miss keeping everyone updated on my family! I will continue going to other people's blogs and leaving comments, so I am not completely disappearing, and hopefully I'll be able to return to my blog again- now is just not the time! For those of you who are believers, please pray that my family "foundation" will stay strong and not be chipped at. I have email and "snail" mail for those of you who don't have blogs, but I promise I won't disappear for good, just for now! Please keep in touch with me!!!

Catherine, Betsy (and Ashley!) Your friendships have been truly a blessing to me! I have enjoyed getting to know you, and look forward to visiting your blogs to see how you all are :)

Wendy, Michelle, and Leah- I'll see you guys and church and in blogland too!

Abby- now that you live close-by, please call sometime so we can get together and visit :)

Rebecca- this is the hardest for me, because you so recently moved, and enjoy seeing photos of our family and hearing about what's going on- I'm glad we have a phone, and I will be relishing every photo and word you post so keep em' coming!

May the Lord Keep You All In His Wonderful Care Until we Meet Again! :)

I sit here with tears streaming down my face as I say a fond farewell and adieu to you and you and you! :(

SAMANTHA

2006-06-06T03:09:00.000-07:00

It has been brought to my attention that some people were offended by my last post, so I felt it important to clarify my thoughts and unfortunately "defend" myself since I only heard about their offense "through the grapevine" thus I was unable to clear things up with these people myself. I apologize for any misunderstandings my previous post caused, but I hope after this, people will be able to understand better what I meant.

First off, let me start by saying that Samantha IS a wonderful girl. She has many good character qualities and in most ways is a model daughter. She is kind and caring! She is helpful and for the most part VERY obedient! She lives to make people happy and love her! She has a wonderfully big heart! She loves children, and shows it with her own baby brother, and with other children in the family and church! She is beautiful and intelligent inside and out!

People got the impression that I think that Samantha is a bad daughter- THIS IS NOT TRUE! I'm sorry if it came across that way, but it wasn't my intent. Samantha is a good daughter and I Love Her Very Much! Her good qualities far outweigh the "bad". My intent was to point out that Samantha was struggling in school and I was struggling to be a good parent to her. I needed to treat her with love and patience, rather than "beating her up" about it. I needed to be a better parent to her.

People also thought that I was pointing a finger at Samantha's "SIN" and not including other people in the mix. THIS IS ALSO NOT TRUE! Not only bad people sin- EVERYONE does. Even the most wholesome, loving, seemingly perfect person sins.

" I GUESS THAT'S WHERE GOD'S FORGIVENESS COMES INTO PLAY. GOD GIVES US SO MUCH THAT WE DON'T DESERVE YET WE STILL SIN AGAINST HIM. HE FORGIVES US AND IS PATIENT WITH US EVEN WHEN WE STUMBLE. I GUESS I NEED TO REMEMBER THAT MYSELF SOMETIMES AND TREAT HER WITH LOVE AND PATIENCE WHILE SHE IS GOING THROUGH THIS TIME IN HER LIFE. ALL THE WHILE NOT ACCEPTING THE SIN BUT TRYING TO HELP HER OVERCOME HER OBSTACLES INSTEAD OF BEING ON HER BACK ABOUT IT. "

Note I used the words US and WE. I was not singling Samantha out at all. We all sin against GOD. Some sins might not seem like they are as large in degree as others, but it is still sin. The word may seem like a harsh choice but it the truth. Samantha's obstacle / "sin" is being honest about her work and doing it on time, instead of saying she doesn't have any and then the truth comes out later. That wasn't the point of what I wrote though, I just wanted to clarify. The POINT of this excerpt is that "I" need to be more loving and patient with Samantha, and not be on her back. I need to model my parenting after the way GOD treats me. I need to be a better parent to her! Oh, and also, if you go back and read I also wrote " SAMANTHA IS VERY EXCITED ABOUT GOING TO HERSHEYPARK-IT WILL BE A BLAST FOR HER, IT IS JUST MY OWN SELFISHNESS COMING THROUGH." Specifically, I am SINNING by being selfish.

"If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 JOHN 1:8 -9 (from the bible)

Let me end this by just saying, once again, I love Samantha and was expressing the frustrations I was having, only a portion about her, most about me needing to treat her wih more love and patience. She is a wonderful daughter, and I am truly blessed to have her in my life! I apologize if it seemed as though I didn't recognize her good qualities- I do everyday, I just didn't say them this time. I also apologize if my previous blog intentions were misunderstood. I hope this sheds more light on what I meant, even if it came out "wrong".

2006-06-05T03:59:00.000-07:00

Scrubbing dirt and grease off so that my motorcycle can look good as new again. Also, so that I can apply decals to the tank! When Bob got his good bike, he let this one go, so now it's my job to clean it up and make it shine! :)

2006-06-05T03:55:00.000-07:00

The Finished Product, Flames and Shiny Chrome- it's amazing what a little elbow grease can do!

2006-06-05T03:50:00.000-07:00

I had to cut the flames to fit the tank, but all in all I think it looks good, and it makes me feel like it is more my bike now. The top flame also helps camoflauge the dent in the gas tank (not put there by me!)

2006-06-05T03:45:00.000-07:00

Shining Like New Again!

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

2006-06-02T06:21:00.000-07:00

We have had rain and clouds off and on all week long here. I hope that the sun comes back soon because my morale right now is starting to wear down because of the dreariness of the days. I was supposed to go visit my sister this weekend, but unfortunately a school trip to HersheyPark for Samantha is on Saturday so we'll be postponing our trip. I could go without Samantha and Bob, but I really was hoping for us all to go together as a complete family. Samantha is very excited about going to Hersheypark- it will be a blast for her, it is just my own selfishness coming through. Another thing that is somewhat difficult for me, is that Samantha hasn't been trying hard at school as of late, and so I don't want to take away this extra-special school function, but I don't really feel she deserves it right now either. Such is the life of a pre-teen; I'm sure I did similar stuff to my parents, and I know Bob wasn't the model student during his pre-teen or teen years, but it doesn't make it any easier. I guess that is where God's forgiveness comes into play. God gives us so much that we don't deserve, and yet we still sin against Him. He forgives us and is patient with us even when we stumble. I guess I need to remember that myself sometimes and treat her with Love and Patience while she is going through this time in her life, all the while not accepting the sin, but trying to help her overcome her obstacles instead of being on her back about it. I have a lot of learning to do as a parent of an older child!

On an up-note, I had an interview with a mother last night who needs childcare for her 4 year old daughter. It went well, and I am hoping that it will work out. I've had interviews before where I thought it would work out and it didn't, so I'll just be waiting by the phone for true confirmation of a start date, and praying that God has provided another child for me to care for!

My motorcycle (Bob's old one which I am trying to learn on) is finally fixed, so hopefully we can go pick it up tonight. I haven't been able to practice on it at all because the alternator rotor went out on it. We were able to order a used but good part, and it was installed already for us by this nice little used motorcycle salvageand repair place in Waverly. I'm hoping now that it is back on the road I can get the swing of driving a motorcycle.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and thanks for listening to my mundane rambling! :)

2006-05-30T03:55:00.000-07:00

2006-05-30T03:54:00.000-07:00

2006-05-30T03:50:00.000-07:00

They were getting along fine till Nicholas got out a butterfly net, then all of a sudden it was tiny toddler time- seeing who was strong enough to keep the net ( male testosterone at an early age!)

2006-05-30T03:48:00.000-07:00

Samuel and cousin Nicholas having a conversation together!

2006-05-30T03:47:00.000-07:00

Samuel was amazed at all the little flowers and plants growing on the ground!

2006-05-30T03:45:00.000-07:00

Taking time to smell the flowers (or at least observe them!)

2006-05-30T03:44:00.000-07:00

"Come on Mama, I'll show you how to do it...just put your feet like this and then you'll start walking!"

2006-05-30T03:42:00.000-07:00

Slides are Fun Too!

2006-05-30T03:40:00.000-07:00

Samuel playing peek a boo through the foggy plastic lense on the park playground.

2006-05-30T03:39:00.000-07:00

We were so proud of Wayne, and Wayne was so proud of his fish!!!

2006-05-30T03:37:00.000-07:00

On Sunday Afternoon we found out that Wayne is a true fisherman- he kept reeling them in over and over again, for a grand total of 17 fish!

2006-05-30T03:36:00.000-07:00

As soon as the fireworks ended, Samuel fell asleep after a long, eventful day!

2006-05-30T03:32:00.000-07:00

Bright Fireworks light up the sky!!

2006-05-30T03:31:00.000-07:00

A Dandelion Puff Firework!

2006-05-30T03:29:00.000-07:00

Waiting for the ride to start...Once we were moving Samuel was all smiles, but we were going too fast to capture those on camera!

2006-05-30T03:26:00.000-07:00

Our Carousel Steed dressed in his battle finery!

2006-05-30T03:25:00.000-07:00

Samantha and RJ were directly behind us riding on a Lion!

2006-05-30T03:24:00.000-07:00

The best I could do while sitting on the carousel horse with Samuel, was hold out the camera and hope I'd get him in picture!

2006-05-30T03:22:00.000-07:00

"So how long do we have to wait for the fireworks to start?"

2006-05-30T03:20:00.000-07:00

Samuel loves riding on Daddy's shoulders!

2006-05-30T03:19:00.000-07:00

Corynn loved looking at the water!

2006-05-30T03:15:00.000-07:00

My sister up for a visit from PA. She and her kiddos are enjoying the view of Brick Pond at Eldredge Park , near where my parents live.

Scorpions, and Turtles, and Snakes...Oh My!

2006-05-23T03:27:00.000-07:00

We had quite a busy weekend as you can see from my photos! Friday after Bob and I got done with work, we headed to Isaac's 6th Birthday Party. We all enjoyed pizza and goodies, as well as an amazing presentation of all types of creepy-crawley creatures. The presenter had bugs galore, lizards, frogs, snakes, turtles, and even a baby alligator (all varieties and breeds) My favorites were the baby alligator (no photos of him because I was too entranced by him to remember my camera) and the large dragony lizard! It was a birthday party to remember!!!

Saturday we got up early, dropped the van off at a nearby shop to get looked at, because I've been hearing strange sounds coming from it for a couple of weeks. At first we thought it was because of the brakes, because we just changed them, but the sound never went away. Come to find out we need a new wheel bearing, tie rod, gasket for the radiator, and who knows what else- thank the Lord we bought an extended warranty which covers all these parts or it would cost us over 1500 dollars to fix and I don't know what we'd do! We couldn't get the work done at the shop because the warranty company would not accept their svc, and we tried getting it in at a local auto place yesterday, but found out after we had filled out our paperwork that if we get the work done where we purchased the car we have no deductible to pay instead of 100 dollar ded. Guess where we are making an appt to get the van fixed today?? :)

We also headed to Cortland to get Samuel's first haircut done by the barber who cut Bob's hair, his dad's hair, and his grandpa's hair. Barber Vic is still going strong, what a zippy little man! He is this little italian guy with a spring to his step and a tongue that wouldn't stop (in good ways and bad!) but he did a great job on Samuel's hair, and it was very special to be able to get Samuel's hair cut by him (I am a sentimental fool!) We also did some running around afterwards as well, and went to see Bob's mom in her nursing home. We brought her a photo album of pictures with a whole slew of photos in it, and a framed painting Samantha made for her, as well as a large bag full of clothes for her. We made her day and I'm sure the photo album will get used over and over again!

It's been Freezing here, literally- we've had frost warnings two nights in a row, and I actually covered all my outside plants last night, so hopefully they will make it. It stinks that I've had to have the heat on in the house and it is the end of May!!! They say warm weather is on it's way, and I am sure ready for it!

2006-05-22T04:14:00.000-07:00

Watching and Waiting for Samuel's turn in the Barber Chair, to get his 1st Haircut!

2006-05-22T04:10:00.000-07:00

Taking Time to Read- Alway's a Good Thing! :)

2006-05-22T04:07:00.000-07:00

The Full Barbershop experience- Reading a Magazine waiting for his turn!

2006-05-22T04:06:00.000-07:00

Samuel's First Haircut!!!

2006-05-22T04:04:00.000-07:00

SNIP, SNIP!!!

2006-05-22T04:01:00.000-07:00

"What A Good Boy!" is all Barber Vic had to say about Samuel's behavior- he even sat all by himself in the baby barber chair!

2006-05-22T03:52:00.000-07:00

Samuel sat so still for his haircut- the barber was completely amazed at how well he did. He didn't make one sound of protest, in fact he didn't make any sounds at all, just sat completely quiet and still!

2006-05-22T03:51:00.000-07:00

Shaving the sides and back!

2006-05-22T03:49:00.000-07:00

Samuel about to get the back part of his hair shaved.

2006-05-22T03:47:00.000-07:00

Finished Product From the Front!

2006-05-22T03:46:00.000-07:00

From the Side!

2006-05-22T03:43:00.000-07:00

A multiple generation barber- He cut 4 generations of hair- Bob's Grandpa Wayne, Dad Kenneth, Bob's and Samuel's isn't it amazing???!!!

2006-05-22T03:41:00.000-07:00

Getting a haircut sure does make a body tired!!!

2006-05-22T03:37:00.000-07:00

Isaac's Reptile Birthday Party was a grand slam! Everyone started off munching on pizza and snacks then it was time to see all the creatures who came to pay a visit to the Birthday Boy. My personal favorite was the cousin to the Komodo Dragon!

2006-05-22T03:34:00.000-07:00

The Party started with some cockroaches, millipedes, tarantulas, and this scorpion! We got to touch many things, but the scorpion was a bit scared from all the noise so we didn't touch him- that's OK Mr. Scorpion, I didn't really want to touch you anyways, no offense!!!

2006-05-22T03:32:00.000-07:00

Isaac was pleased as punch to be carrying a snake in both hands!!!

2006-05-22T03:29:00.000-07:00

Whoever coined the phrase "Slow and Steady wins the race" must have met Tiny the Tortoise. While everyone watching looking at snakes, Tiny was slowing heading for the door, to the creek he saw on the way in. He almost made it!

2006-05-22T03:28:00.000-07:00

Look what's in the big bag!!!

2006-05-22T03:25:00.000-07:00

Samuel had fun petting the Big Snake!

2006-05-22T03:20:00.000-07:00

Wayne's favorite part of the party was holding the Burmese python!

2006-05-22T03:17:00.000-07:00

Even mama got in on the fun!

2006-05-22T03:12:00.000-07:00

I wonder what this could be??? When he opened it, his words were "That's what I'm talkin' about!" :)

2006-05-22T03:10:00.000-07:00

Isaac opening up his tackle box and fishing gear from us for his 6th Birthday Party!

Please don't tire of praying for me!

2006-05-19T03:13:00.000-07:00

I found out on Monday that Faith's last day is next Thursday. Her mom decided to move to Florida so that she and Faith's daddy could be a family. I am sad because Faith has really settled in here, and her and Samuel for the most part really enjoy each other. I am also a bit worried because that will put me down to one part-time child. I've been there before, and it wasn't good financially, but we made it through by tightening our belts and praying for God to bring another child for me to care for. I don't want to take on a ton of children, but one would be enough for us to make ends meet with. If you could pray that God will care for our situation and send a child or two my way I would really appreciate it!

This Saturday Samuel is getting his first big-boy haircut. I am only letting him get it trimmed a tiny bit, because I love his hair the way it is, but the back is getting sort of long and the bangs could be straightened up a tiny bit. We are taking him to Cortland so that the barber that cut Bob's hair, his dad's hair, and Bob's grandpa's hair can give Samuel his first haircut. We are also going to take a photo of Bob's grandpa, and have Samuel sit in Bob's lap in the barber's chair with the barber so that we can get some generational photos. Hopefully Samuel won't be too freaked out about it!

Samuel's sign language is going well. Besides Please, he knows the sign for Bird, and every time he looks at our bird or a bird elsewhere, he will give the sign for bird. He is also doing well learning Thank You. He doesn't do it on his own yet, but as soon as I do it with him, he repeats it. It's quite exciting :) It is so fun to be able to communicate with him and see understanding dawn in his eyes! He is still working on walking, and will take multiple steps with prompting, but crawling is faster and easier for him still, so it is his choice mode of transportation.

We are going to a birthday party for a friend at church and the kids are pretty excited about it, especially Wayne- it's all he's been talking about!! They are going to have the Reptile Company there with lots of creepy crawlies to touch- right up Wayne's alley! Hopefully Isaac will like what we got him, but since his mommy blogs, I'm not going to say what it is :)

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

2006-05-18T04:54:00.000-07:00

Our Little Jester Clowning Around!!!

2006-05-18T04:00:00.000-07:00

Our beautiful boy with pretty pucker lips :)

2006-05-18T03:54:00.000-07:00

"Samuel, brush your teeth like this....."

2006-05-18T03:47:00.000-07:00

Samuel loves brushing his teeth and enjoys brushing them the right way with mama!!!

2006-05-18T03:34:00.000-07:00

Aren't his "droopy drawers" funny? He's got these little skinny legs poking out of his big onesie :)

2006-05-18T03:32:00.000-07:00

Samuel kept taking his pants off all day long! He was having so much fun I decided to let him have bare leggies for a while :)

2006-05-17T04:40:00.000-07:00

Samuel and Corynn when Samuel was just a tad, and Corynn was just a tad bigger :)

2006-05-17T04:36:00.000-07:00

Look at that cheezy grin :)

2006-05-17T04:31:00.000-07:00

Good going Wayne- Nice Job, you'll have big muscles in no time with our "new" but free mower!

2006-05-17T04:28:00.000-07:00

Look at that face!!!

2006-05-17T04:26:00.000-07:00

A Manual Mower for our two best workers!

2006-05-17T03:03:00.000-07:00

Samuel loves to give kisses. Here he is kissing one of my "babies". It is so nice, when it is time for "night-night" I wrap him up in a blanket, and he immediately puckers up to give me kisses before bed- I LOVE IT :)

A Mother's Day that Never Ends in more ways than one!!!

2006-05-15T03:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend was amazingly good, with a touch of bad mixed in. I'll start with the bad, so that I can end with the good, good, and even better! Samuel got hit with a TERRIBLE stomach bug on Saturday morning. I thought it was just a "hit and miss" thing because sometimes something will make him gag and he will throw up, but he had some terrible episodes. He also didn't have any other symptoms, and as soon as he was done, he would be smiling again! Then on Sunday I thought he was better so I took him to church, but when I got home and put him down for nap, he threw up again! Thankfully, yesterday he only got sick a total of 2 times and one of them was just a tiny bit, and they were over by the late afternoon. He ate well for dinner and kept it down all night long! I believe we are on the homestretch now, but I was really concerned. Samuel has never continuously thrown up before and I just felt so helpless.
On Saturday am Bob, Samantha, Samuel, and I went to some community yard sales while Wayne hung out with his friend Lucas. Samuel was sick once on the way to the sales, but fine the rest of the time we walked around. We didn't get much, but I got a new carseat for Faith. The one I had for her was just a shell, and I hated it. It was so cheaply made and older- the "cushion" part was constantly coming off the plastic part etc... I got a really nice one, similar to Samuel's for 7 dollars! I cleaned it up, and it looks good as new! I also got a few books, and Bob picked up a boy's bike he and Wayne are going to fix up a bit and re-sell. I also got a cool jester hat for Samuel (I'll take pictures of it and him later, when he is feeling himself again)
Sunday morning, Bob took Samuel downstairs so that I could get a little more rest. I had a splitting headache all day and evening so a little extra rest-time really was nice! Bob made french toast for breakfast, and then the family gave me more Mother's Day gifts. Wayne gave me a small plant he had grown for me at school. It is some sort of flower, but I'm not totally sure what it is, so it is going to be planted in my flowerbed, and we'll have to wait and see what blooms! Samantha and Wayne got me a WillowTree sculpture of a mother holding her toddler boy with their heads together. They bought it all by themselves- it was very special!!!! Daddy took Samuel out and he picked out a diamond accent bracelet with a ruby and diamond accent heart dangling from it. It actually choked me up and brought on a few tears, because unbeknownst to Samuel, Grace's birthstone was ruby, so it was almost like I received a Mother's Day gift from Samuel and Grace! Bob also got me a pillar candle with a pretty filigree and turquoise base. Even after all that, Bob made supper! I was spoiled way beyond what I deserve, and have such a wonderful husband...Bob YOU are the BEST,and I LOVE YOU!!! Samantha, Wayne, and Samuel, you made my Mother's Day so special and you are all my blessings- I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!
I hope all of you had a wonderful Mother's Day too!!!

SUCCESS!!!

2006-05-12T04:57:00.001-07:00

"Whatever you do, do well...The fastest runner doesn't always win the race, and the strongest warrior doesn't always win the battle." Proverbs 16:23-24

Well, my inspection passed with flying colors- no violations!!! Hooray and Thanks for the Prayers! It was interesting, there was one regulation that I don't follow and I was honest. When changing diapers you are supposed to discinfect with bleach each and every time you do it. I use cloth changing pads I wash regularly and told her this. Because the house was clean, and my paperwork was thorough, she basically told me she'd overlook it. I believe that had I taken an offensive attitude, she would have NEVER overlooked it, but I was pleasant and welcoming and it made a difference! You know, after answering her questions completely, she didn't even physically check a few things, just took my word for it. It was the most pleasant inspection I've had. Don't get me wrong, she was thorough- she just felt comfortable with my answers and didn't feel that she needed to check everything physically.

So thanks be to the Lord that everything went so well. And thanks to all of you for your uplifting words and prayers! Have a great weekend :)

A Master Plan!

2006-05-09T03:10:00.000-07:00

" FOR HE IS THE MAKER OF ALL THINGS; AND ISRAEL IS THE TRIBE OF HIS INHERITANCE. THE LORD OF HOSTS IS HIS NAME." " GOD alone knows how to create a Master Plan that provides for the good of all those who serve HIM.
Taken from GOD's little devotional calender.

Please pray for a friend of mine. She is going through some serious trials in her life, and is trying to do what is best for her and her girls, while trying to keep GOD at the forefront (which is really hard to do with the things that are going on in her life) I don't feel comfortable sharing her situation, but if you could just lift her up in prayer- the more people praying for her, the more powerful the prayers! Sometimes it's hard to see what the Master Plan is when we go through trials (in fact, sometimes it's difficult to see why certain things are in the plan at all) but GOD knows the details, and can use situations we go through to strengthen us in the long run; even when we are hurting so bad in the present. Keep your chin up my friend, GOD does care for You!!!

Now, on to other less important things:
1. I was so excited; I've been working on basic sign language with Faith and Samuel. Faith has caught on pretty quickly, saying please in sign for weeks, but Samuel wasn't catching on quite as well. He has, since he has been around 3 months old praying before we eat, so when I do the "eat" sign he knows it's time to hold my hands to pray, but I hadn't seen him physically attempt to sign. The beginning of last week, out of the blue when I asked the babies to say please, he signed PLEASE all by himself. I thought it was a mistake at first, so I told him to say please again and he did it again! I WAS EXCITED!!! It's interesting how easily something important can become trivialized, because when I was speaking with someone, they totally downplayed his achievement, and baby sign language in general basically saying "Oh, they only know basic sign, most kids do." I'm sure it wasn't meant to be negative, however it sort of bothered me a bit because I thought it was a wonderful thing to learn for my children, and a wonderful thing to see Samuel not only grasping the concept but doing it himself!!! I am also working on the signs "more, thank you, water, cup, eat, night-night, all-done, yes, no, and gentle" I don't want to be overwhelming, so I try to not use them simultaneously, and scatter them around, and as the babies grasp them, I'll add more. I truly see the benefit in sign language; not only as a baby but as children and adults. For a couple of years Wayne had a friend whose parents were deaf, and a child in his class who was deaf. He learned many signs while in his class, through the sign interpreter, but as with all things, it can be forgotten if you don't use it. So it has been fun for Samantha and Wayne to practice, and even refresh some things that had been forgotten (and learn new ones too!) You never know when you might run into someone with hearing difficulties, and a little communication can go a LONG way!

Our grill died this season. We went to use it about a month ago, and it was gone. It kept having little things go wrong with it, until it finally went to "grill heaven" so we had to go and get a new one. It was good and bad- we live on grill food in the summer, typically grilling AT LEAST once a week, sometimes even more! Even when the temperatures become cooler we still grill! It is a cadillac compared to our old one, and is SO nice!
It was bad because it seems like lately we can never get ahead financially. If it isn't one thing, it's another and this is really frustrating! I'm hoping that soon we can upswing again and get on top of the game again.

I'm starting to go through Rebecca withdrawal. Last week wasn't too bad because I was really busy, but the weather has been beautiful and I really miss spending time with Rebecca throughout the week. Tomorrow I might be going to Ithaca to the Salvation Army there to look for some more summer clothing for my children who keep growing like weeds! It is just not going to be the same without Rebecca and Corynn (and even Andrew) ! Rebecca- you are missed!

Thursday is my state inspection day. Pray I pass with flying colors! I really would love to get through with no write-ups of any sort; it would feel so nice! I only had a couple mistakes the last time, and they were quite minor, however it would be quite an accomplishment to have her not find anything wrong! She will be checking the physical house/ space and my records/ paperwork. Say a little prayer for me :)

Hope you all have a great week, and enjoy the weather as much as we have been!!! :)

2006-05-08T03:54:00.000-07:00

No, we really wouldn't roast our little lamb, but we figured while our grill was new, and clean we could take a couple of cute photos of him :)

2006-05-08T03:52:00.000-07:00

Samuel trying to baste himself with barbeque sauce :)

2006-05-08T03:51:00.000-07:00

"hmmmm it's a bit toasty down there, my bum feels sort of warm and it isn't because of my diaper!" :)

2006-05-08T03:49:00.000-07:00

Seasoning up the baby on our new grill.. Anyone like leg of Lamb? We also have baby back ribs (Wayne) and a hamhead (Samantha) if you have other dietary preferences :)

2006-05-05T04:31:00.000-07:00

My early Mother's Day gift! Last weekend, Bob, with Wayne's help built me a flower bed with matching corner post I LOVE IT!!! They did such a great job of it, and it looks amazing!!! This weekend I will be planting some seeds and hopefully a small rose bush in the center- I can't wait to fill it up. Thank You Honey for a WONDERFUL Mother's Day Gift- I LOVE IT :)

2006-05-05T04:28:00.000-07:00

A matching corner post- It really looks great- so great that when we have a little extra $ we are going to put at least one more up on the other side of the house to match!

2006-05-05T04:26:00.000-07:00

Bob and Wayne did an amazing job on my flower bed!!! I can't wait to fill it with beautiful buds!!! :)

2006-05-05T04:22:00.000-07:00

Our chillins' before bed!

2006-05-05T04:21:00.000-07:00

Samuel is clapping his hands! He loves to be praised for doing things (don't we all!) - this time he came back into the room when we called him- What a good listener :)

2006-05-05T04:18:00.000-07:00

The PJ's Samuel is wearing came with a matching nightgown for me, and said it was size 0. I took some photos of Samuel and I matching in the hospital when he was born, but I had to roll the sleeves up many times, and it SWAM on him. On a fluke, I found it buried in the back of his dresser so I tried it on him- it fit him perfectly! It is crazy that I have photos of him as a newborn, and 1 years old in the same PJS! :)

Taking Time for a Few Words....

2006-05-05T03:22:00.000-07:00

This week I have been inundated with things to keep my busy in the mornings. If I'm not buzzing around trying to keep the house picked up for some expected New York State Daycare Inspector, then I'm busy doing daycare paperwork, replacing broken childlocks that I just keep forgetting about (I have a terrible memory for things that aren't important; even for things that are important sometimes!), or just trying to do things around my whiny baby son, who has been rising before the sun; and feels it's his duty to have all of his mama's attention in the morning (he's not so good about sharing the computer with his mama!) When I went to my sister's blog this am I truly felt guilty for my inadequate posts, especially now when she has moved away and the only form of contact is the phone or blog (except for an occasional lettter from the postman of course!)

In any case, my daycare inspector hasn't arrived yet; I think she is waiting to catch me off guard to see what violations she might beseech upon me (In reality, she seems like a NICE lady- I just tend to be paranoid that she might find things I'm doing wrong, and I don't want that at all- no matter how trivial or minor they might be)

I have also been spending much time absorbing the warmth and glow of the sunshine. We've been going on daily walks here, and weather permitting, I am meeting my friend Nikki at Hickories Park today with my babies, and hers (her own and one she takes care of) for some walking, playing, and picnicing! I hope the weather holds out for us because I heard something about cooler temperatures, and possible showers :( I saw a recent photo of myself and am so disgusted in what I've become- I am bigger than I ever have been in my lifetime and it isn't good. I am hoping that with my daily walks this will help not only turn some of my fat back to muscle, but also help my self-esteem a little. I am thankful for my husband, who never puts me down about my weight, and loves me as I am- I would sink into a deep depression if he didn't want me, but he does and for that I am eternally grateful. In the meantime, hopefully now that the weather has turned I can take baby steps to becoming more healthy and fit again!

This weekend I was supposed to go up to my grandparents' home to visit for the weekend. I was sad to hear that I am going to have to postpone my trip once again. Every time I tell them to write it on the calender, my grandmother in particular doesn't feel well enough to have visitors and in my selfishness I feel sad that I have to continue postponing our visit. I love spending time with them, and was only going to bring Samuel with me so that it wasn't too much for them, but it appears that what I am going to have to do is get a hotel room for one night, so that I can visit with them, but when they get tired I can go off to the hotel room so they can rest. I do understand it is a lot for them and I don't want to be a burden to them, but I want to spend time with them while I can and I want Samuel to have a remembrance of spending time with them too! Samantha and Wayne are older and will remember better than Samuel who is so little.

Well, my daycare kids are all here now, so I suppose I'd best get going now. I'll try to do better about posting more regularly :) Have a good weekend all!

2006-05-02T04:45:00.000-07:00

Good job guys- a great beginning to a long summer of motorcycle washing/ waxing/ detailing :)

2006-05-02T04:43:00.000-07:00

Every little detail is taken into consideration during this motorcycle detailing session!

2006-05-02T04:42:00.000-07:00

Can you see the excitement in their faces as they get their photos taken???

2006-05-02T04:40:00.000-07:00

Samantha hanging her head in shame as she and Wayne polish dad's bike (their punishment for putting a dent in it before he could even ride it!)

2006-05-02T04:38:00.000-07:00

I know this thing goes on my head, but how come I can't get it on???

2006-05-02T04:35:00.000-07:00

Profile of our "pretty" boy.

2006-05-02T04:32:00.000-07:00

Batter Up!!!

2006-05-02T04:31:00.000-07:00

Samantha with all her girlish charm smiling at the camera!

2006-05-02T04:28:00.000-07:00

GiggleBug :)

2006-05-02T04:26:00.000-07:00

I dressed up Faith and Samuel to match in overalls and red turtlenecks because Faith's mom didn't want her getting too dirty due to going away later. When they were in the double stroller together, so many people thought they were twins03

Parties both Happy and Sad!

2006-04-28T03:20:00.000-07:00

Once again, I am swiftly running out of time, but I wanted to at least post a few words about the busyness the last few weeks have held for me.
Week 1.
Easter Sunday- Went to Syracuse to church and to Jonathan's and Jessamyn's home afterwards to celebrate Easter with most all the family, including my Grandma and Aunt who arrived from Kentucky. Had a wonderful meal, and the kids enjoyed an Easter Egg hunt on the chilly sunny day!
Mon- my Grandma, Aunt, Sister, Mom, and their kids all came to spend the late morning/ early afternoon here which meant cleaning the house top to bottom (my G and A had never seen my home) and making a meal.
Tues.- Matt, Rebecca, Corynn, Andrew and Dave came for supper- more cleaning and prep!
Wed- went to Elmira with Faith and Samuel to see G & A one last time before they went home.
Thur- made a box run for Matt and Rebecca and took Corynn for the day to play :)
Fri- made another box run for Matt and Rebecca and then held a surprize going away party for the Newmans at the church complete with balloons, streamers, flower arrangements, decorative tablecovers/ plates/ cups, cake, a going away gift of a patio set all the church people pitched in for, and most importantly a pasta bar put on by my hubby and kids. It was a wonderful day!
Sat.- Bob and Mom's bday. Bob graciously went to Elmira and spent the day there so I could see my grandparents who drove up for Andrew's baptism- Thanks honey- I LOVE YOU!
Sun- Andrew's baptism and Samuel's bday party. We had every one over after church to celebrate. Unfortunately I have no photos from my digital camera because I was too busy with the regular camera, and just getting things done. We had Lasagna, Italian bread, toss salad, cantalope and cake!

This week has been a little better but we still had to go to the Dr. on Monday because half of Samuel's face was swollen. I believe he got bit by a spider, the Dr couldn't be sure other than he had an allergic reaction to something and was put on Meds. Poor Baby was miserable!!! On Tues Samuel had his true birthday and we had a spring concert for Samantha. Wed. Samuel's face was better so he had to get his 1 year shots and I had to go to a training class for daycare. Daddy did an awesome job with Samuel- I was worried because I don't usually leave him for a couple of hrs and with having shots and all, but he was fine! :) Thurs was quieter and we'll see what today holds :)

So much for "a few words!" ;) Have a wonderful weekend all :)

2006-04-28T03:15:00.000-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday Samuel! :)

2006-04-28T03:13:00.000-07:00

So much to do and see, I couldn't get a picture of Samuel looking up, he was too busy playing with his Discovery Table!

2006-04-28T03:12:00.000-07:00

"Look at the little choo-choo train sissy, it even moves!"

2006-04-28T03:10:00.000-07:00

The whole gang gets in on the fun of seeing what Samuel got for his birthday!