Raising kids is part joy and part guerilla warfare

2011-08-11T10:06:00.001-07:00

My wonderful hubby got the opportunity to speak at our church on Sunday. He speaks on to our high school kids weekly as he is the Youth Pastor. But, this was his first time sharing with our adult congregation and it was alot of fun for him. I thought I would share the podcast for those of our friends and family that weren't able to make it. I thought he did a great job. Enjoy!

Snow in the OC!

2009-03-14T22:13:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago the little guy had an obsession with snowmen. We weren't feeling up to taking a trip to the mountains so, Daddy improvised and came up with a quite impressive alternative...A sheet Snowman!

A Sheet, Electrical tape for eyes & buttons, a scarf, hat & marker cap for a nose!

For the cooking impaired!

2009-02-19T18:47:00.000-08:00

Okay Girls, I am not one for sharing recipes, because well...my husband would be happy with a turkey sandwich for dinner every night (I know, don't be hatin'). But, this recipe looked really yummy and I gave it a try. Its super easy, quick and soooo yummy! I substituted with Ground Turkey instead of beef cause thats how we roll. But try it out and let me know if you like it!

Ingredients

1 lb. ground beef
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell's® Condensed Tomato Soup (Regular or 25% Less Sodium)
1/2 cup salsa
1/2 cup water
6 flour tortillas (6-inch) , cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
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Cooking Instructions

Cook the beef in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat until it's well browned, stirring often. Pour off any fat.

Stir the soup, salsa, water, and tortillas in the skillet and heat to a boil. Reduce the heat to low. Cook for 5 minutes or until the beef mixture is hot and bubbling. Stir the beef mixture. Top with the cheese.

Creamy Mexican Fiesta: Stir in 1/2 cup sour cream with the soup.

Ranchero Style: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and shredded Mexican cheese blend instead of Cheddar.

Serving Suggestion: Serve with a mixed green salad with Italian salad dressing and corn-on-the-cob. For dessert serve store bought flan.

San Fran (a little late, but what's new!)

2009-02-06T09:01:00.000-08:00

san fran 2008

Some of you have already heard about my trip since it was a few weeks ago. But, it is blog worthy so I will post late anyways. My 30th birthday was in January and my husband was talking to me about planning a big party. But, we decided instead of spending the money on a party, to get away (sans kids) and go to San Francisco for the weekend! I have always wanted to go and this was the perfect excuse. A few minutes later I was talking with Carolyn and told her about it and said, you want to go...and she said yes! It all came together and soon after babysitters were in place and we were on our way! It was one of those non-stop, jam packed quick trips and I will never forget it. My husband, best friend (aka big sis) and her hubby. They made this trip extra special. In a nutshell...Plane arrived, public transportation, Larkspur hotel, fishermans warf, clam chowder bowls, shopping, cable cars, chinatown during chinese new year, yummy italian dinner, more shopping, golden gate bridge and more. One of the funniest memories is that we could hear Carolyn and Joe talking through the vent in our bathroom as their room was below us. So, Sunday they sang happy birthday to me through the vent! It was hilarious and a great finale to our trip.

THANKFUL!

2009-01-23T09:41:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for several things this morning. In no particular order. I am getting ready to celebrate my 30th birthday. That in itself is a miracle, I was told when I was three and diagnosed with juvenile rhuemotoid arthiritis that I would be confined to a wheelchair by the time I was 30. Well, for those of you who know the story, I was healed and I am definately not in a wheelchair, nor do I have residual pain from the disease that once crippled me. AMEN!

I am thankful for a wonderful family, I get to spend so much time with them and I love it. I am thankful for my husband and beautiful children.

For our home, provision, my church and so much more. I am also thankful for my friends and the melting pot...LOL (So much fun last night)!

These are just to name a few. I am blessed and thankful for all the reasons I can thank God for his faithfulness to me these 30 years of my life. (it's kinda weird to say that still)

Yee-Haw!

2009-01-18T18:46:00.000-08:00

Rachel found her brothers cowboy hat the other day and turned into a little cowgirl. She was spinning in circles saying "yeehaw" she has become quite the ham lately. I don't know where she gets it from!

Olive Oil!

2009-01-15T21:15:00.000-08:00

This is a very humbling post because I know some of you out there will read this and think...Duh! But, I was baking cupcakes for our Jr. High Girls Slumber party tomorrow night and I was out of oil (all I had was olive oil-cause thats what Italians stock up on!). So, I figured...what the heck I will give it a try. Needless to say, the fire alarm almost went off and I think the bottom of the cupcakes could seriously injure someone if I threw one!

Yep, thats a testament to what a great cook I am. Good thing Scott likes sandwiches...ALOT!

But, since I am obsessive about having a photo (I know, I tried, but couldn't hit the publish post button until I added one!) There is something I did have success with...and it is pure SIN & will lead most people down a path of destruction. And, the only ingredients are LOTS of Sugar, Peanut Butter & Chocolate. Can we say...PMS!

Yes...that is one missing in the middle!

Props to the Pooch!

2009-01-14T07:37:00.000-08:00

I have been feeling a little guilty lately about the lack of attention my sweet (horse) dog Rusty gets these days. When we first got him (about 6 years ago) he was Scott and I's baby. He did everything with us, slept in the house and as a puppy even milked us into letting him in bed with us. Yeah, I know...

But, after the first kid, and then the second kid...his living quarters have changed and his attention has been a bit squelched. Don't get me wrong, he is still pretty spoiled. We built out the garage that he has now taken over and we love him to pieces, but lets just say he hasn't been in any more family photos since this one....

She Scolded Me!

2009-01-12T18:18:00.000-08:00

I got scolded by my big sister today for not blogging in so long. Which is funny because she knows more about me than I probably know about myself. But, apparrantly she needs it in blog format to be totally filled in.

I have been having "issues" because when I blog I feel the need to get all creative with photos and such (I guess its the graphics lady in me) and if I can't accomplish that in a timely manner I just say forget it.

It's not that I dont have anything to say, you all know I can chat it up with the best of them, but its this requirement I have given myself to make this all fancy. So, my attempt will be to blog more frequently. With pictures or not and see how it goes.

We had our ups and downs in 2008 (unfortunately a few downs) but I am seeing through all of it and looking to the faithfulness that God has shown us time and time again. I am anticipating great things in 2009!

The kids are growing so much every day. Nathan finally got potty trained and it's been really nice only changing diapers for one little munchkin. Here are a few pictures from Christmas...just for the heck of it (cause I have issues and I can't post without them!)

ONE!

2008-12-13T08:58:00.000-08:00

Yes, all her hair fell out and came in blonde.

I can't believe my baby is one today! She is sooo fun. Her personality is contagious and for the most part she always has a smile or a kiss to share. Last year at this time, I was in labor with a 9lb. + baby and it wasn't quite as easy of a labor as it was with Nathan who was 5 weeks early and 7lbs+. But, it was all worth it, she brings so much joy to our home. I knew I was in for trouble when she started walking at the end of her 8th month. She is a busy body and a half which is probably good for her sake so she can keep up with her brother. I love the relationship that is developing between them. Nathan is beginning to get protective of his sister and they have such a special love for each other. I am looking forward to watching her grow, but sad it is happening so fast!

Princess Party

2008-12-11T17:18:00.000-08:00

Rachel is turning one on Saturday, but we did an early birthday party for her. It was a princess party for our little princess. Rachel wasn't feeling so good on her birthday, so she wasn't her chipper little self, but it was still a lot of fun. I got some ideas offline and they were a hit. We made: Magic Wands (pretzels with white chocolate tips & pink sparkles), Chicken Crowns (compliments of Burger King) Jewel Salad (with raspberries, cranberries & walnuts...yum) Pink Princess Punch, Medieval Chicken, and Ring Pops, it was so fun. We also had face painting (thanks to Sara, Joe's sister) and the kids played in the bounce house most of the day. I can't believe my baby will be one tomorrow. She is so lively and fun...what a blessing I have been given in her! Enjoy the pics...

rachels 1st birthday

Monchhichi

2008-12-03T21:37:00.000-08:00

There are very few things that I am sentimental about. But, My Grandma Burnett has these two monkey dolls at her house that she has had since we were little kids and we always played with them when we went to stay there! I still want to take them home with me when I go to visit because they remind me of her and I don't get to see her very much. Anyways...I about jumped for Joy in the middle of the grocery store today (yes the grocery store) as I walked by an aisle of Monchhichi dolls. I am so excited and hope I have the diligence to keep mine as long as my grandma has. I might even let it sleep next to me tonight for old time sake!

Slacker!

2008-12-02T19:34:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving 2008

I have been totally slacking on my blog lately, but I fully intend to get back in the swing of things. I have to admit...I have been swept away by facebook. It's totally addicting, but not as rewarding. A lot has gone on since my last real post, but it would take forever to catch up, so I will just start with where I am at right now. Thankful...I have to say Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays and this one was great. This year has been up and down for our family, but God is always so faithful and that is what I am most Thankful for. The unending, unconditional faithfulness of the Lord in our lives. He has given us soooo much!

All I have to say now is....I Can't believe it's december!

My new Best Friend!

2008-11-30T19:03:00.000-08:00

This by far will be my most shallow post, but I am not the least bit shameful about it! I have a new best friend as of this evening. And, here she is...

The shark steam mop! My sister and Mom have said how much they love theirs. I have to admit, I thought it would be just another gadget (I am a sucker for gadgets)...but it is awesome! I don't have to use chemicals anymore (which I always worry about with a baby around) and it cleaned my floor so quickly, with such little hassle. No buckets, cleaning supplies...just the washable micro cloth and I was done. Yippee! Hey, if you are not opposed to getting household appliances for Christmas, put it on your wish list.

I have a Birfday coming up!

2008-10-22T21:22:00.000-07:00

That is what Nathan told me this morning. I think he thought I had forgotten today was his birthday. Scott and I had decided we weren't going to play it up too much for fear that he may think he gets another party and the whole melt down that would ensue when we told him he only gets one party. But, I think I greatly underestimated him. He came in my room and said "mommy...I have a birfday coming up" and I said "yes you do...it's actually today!" and he held up his cute little fingers and said "I am fhree!" He melted my heart and I honestly cannot believe how fast time has gone. 3 years ago today I was in a lot of pain...and then I experienced the most amazing gift from God...Nathan! (Yes he was born with a mohawk & yes...it was an indication of things to come!)

"You're the biggest Mama I ever saw!"

2008-10-19T19:01:00.000-07:00

That is what my lovely son told me this morning as I was getting ready for church. And, the funny thing is I turned around and gave him a big hug and said "thank you hunny". I know it comes across as being offensive to some, and I hope to goodness that he doesn't say it to anyone else. But, I know my sons precious lingo and know that he means it as a compliment. For example, this weekend we celebrated his 3rd Birthday and he saw the pinata and said, that's the biggest pinata I ever saw, or the cupcakes...thats the biggest cupcake I ever saw, it truly is a term of endearmant for him so I got a great laugh out of it.

And, yes I am in total awe that my little boy is almost three. It feels like it has gone much to fast. He is such a joy and every day is a blessing to share with him.

Randomness!

2008-10-10T17:52:00.000-07:00

Okay, so its been a while since my last post, so I figured I would just post all of the random things that come to mind since the last time I posted.

1. I got food poisoning and lost about 8 pounds in one week, which is not exactly the way you want to lose weight, but now that I am feeling better I can't complain!

2. My sisters best friend Emily had sweet lil addison and i got some of the credit. She was over at my mom's house and so ready to have the baby. I told her a wives tale I heard when I was pregnant, that she should go eat the Waldorf salad at California Pizza Kitchen and it would send her into labor. Well, she listened and had the baby that night!

3. Rachel is cruising all over the place and getting into everything.

4. Nathan is saying the most hilarious things, he keeps me laughing all the time!

5. I just started getting back on schedule for Women's Bible Study and absolutely love it. I always come away refreshed, renewed and strengthened. If you don't go...you should!

6. I love, love, love all the new kids that came into Jr. High this season, they are all so fun!

7. I also love the new weather...I pulled out my warmer clothes and can't wait to sport em'.

8. I resolved to the fact that I will never have all my laundry done & put away at one time. (well, at least as long as my kids live with me!)

9. I am anxiously awaiting Thanksgiving, my favorite Holiday of the year.

10. Scott and I planned our weekend away for our 8 year anniversary and I can't wait.

11. In light of the economic crisis, I have been overwhelmed by the abundant blessings God has given us and I am so thankful that we find our security in Him!

12. Last, but not least I hope to get back to regular posts next week, so check back then. (Below are a few random pictures to go along with my random post!)

These kids are so funny...right after I got the photo they all fell out of the tree and were so mad at me for making them climb in there!

This is a sneak preview at Rachel's Lady bug costume!

2008-09-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

Apparently my kids think I work for them. (I have no idea where they got that idea!)

2008-09-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

We have had a few sickie poos around here this weekend. And you moms know how not fun that is! Anyways, my son takes after a certain somebody in our house (who shall remain nameless) when it comes to being sick. This morning he woke up with a world of requests...after I carried him to watch Dora ON THE COUCH, and changed his diaper and got his Juice, and found the RIGHT Dora (he had a specific one in mind) and got the RIGHT blanket, and he seemed all comfy and happy, I proceeded to sit down on the couch. And, he says to me "No, your not done yet...you forgot my pillow!" It was then that I had an epiphany...this kid thinks I work for him. Then I just laughed and thought, well I guess I do. And, you know what...I love it. Kids are so precious and I wouldn't trade being a mom for anything. My husband and I were talking last night about a portion in 1 Timothy that talks about our roles as men & women and how that God has designed us the way we are to fulfill certain tasks. I am so glad that this is the role he has for me and I want to strive to do it the best that I can. I took a picture of nathan once he was perfectly satisfied this morning....

Introducing Princess Buttercup!

2008-09-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist. I know some would view this as torture, but I have earned that right. And, in the words of my very own mother "just humor me". That's what she used to tell us when we were shopping and she thought something was cute and wanted to try it on even if we didn't like it! Rachel has earned the title of Princess Buttercup or as some of the more cruel people in the family refer to her...Princess Butterball!

First Step....and Fall!

2008-09-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

It's every mother's dream to see their baby take their first step, and I caught Rachel's on Camera! Just kidding...this is just one of her first steps. I didn't see the first one :( I was in a meeting last night and my sister Nicolle and my good friend Krystin Ikari were watching the kids. When I came out to get them, they said oh she took three steps it was so cute! Of course I said "what" she has never done that before. But, now she is taking all kinds of steps and it's so cute. Those little chubby legs. She is only 8 months, but her Daddy walked early and we had a feeling she was going to as well! Let the games begin!

As for fall...it's not the kind related with first steps. I am talking about the weather. I absolutely love the fall for many reasons. 1. It's not Hot! 2. It's beautiful 3. Thanksgiving 4. The Fashion

Although we are blessed in Cali with beautiful weather year round, I wish I could spend a few weeks every fall in Buffalo, New York. Much of my husbands family lives there and it is sooooo pretty there in the fall. We went for our anniversary years ago and we got to see the season change. It was so amazing, like watching a video of the seasons changing, but it was happening before our eyes. God's creation is so amazing! I can't understand how you can look at his amazing creation and think it happened by chance. God created it, he created you and that same God desires a loving relationship with you...pretty amazing!

Romans 1:20

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

Saran Wrap anyone? I have extra!

2008-09-01T09:05:00.001-07:00

This morning I woke up to this...

Nathan thought it was absolutely hilarious and wanted to go for a drive in my car! I have to say I have always wanted to do this to someone's car... Growing up in a pastor's home we experienced all sorts of pranks and I can't even begin to tell you how many times we were up in the early morn cleaning up toilet paper. I remember one stint in particular where we were toilet papered every Saturday for a whole month. My parents kept blaming our friends and made us clean it up. Finally on the fourth night, my Dad and Mom stayed up to watch for the lil boogers. When they showed up to toilet paper, my parents chased them down, & cornered them in a cul de sac only to find out that it was some of their very mature adult friends. Needless to say, they cleaned up the toilet paper that time! Fun stuff :)

Not your typical Male!

2008-08-24T15:43:00.000-07:00

I know I am totally stereotyping here, but it is what it is! Although my son is very "Male" in a lot of ways, today he surprised me with a desire to help mommy with the cleaning. It is usually pulling teeth with him to pick up after himself. But, somehow I think he knew I was extra tired today and wanted to help me. He took it very seriously and was sooo cute I had to take pictures. Hopefully, this is a new habit...cross my fingers!

2008-08-21T08:48:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since my last post, because (I do graphics) & have been working day and night on a brochure for a new make-up line. It was a super fun project. I usually do Church Graphics and random side jobs, but this project was different than the norm and super fun, but time consuming. So now that I have my first "normal" day I wanted to chime in.

Last night was one of those nights where I walked away from church with a refreshed sense of purpose for my ministry. Scott and I have been working with the youth at our church for almost a year now. It has been so amazing and we feel so blessed that God has used us in this way. I will admit it has been tiresome at times as Scott also runs his own Chiropractic office which demands much of his time. But, the rewards outweigh the stresses!

We had a guest speaker come last night. He is a family friend who I always viewed as "little Matt" because he was always this squishy cheeked lil guy and the baby in his family. He is now a director in New Zealand for YWAM. Anyways, it was so neat to see how he has become this Man of God.

In part of his message he talked about Jesus healing the Blind Man and here's what stuck in my mind...

It seems like "God's Love" has been a theme in my life right now. One of my fave verses right now is Ephesians 3:19 "to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge, that you may be filled with the fullness of God." God loves people sooo much and we need love people the way he does. In the passage in Mark where Jesus healed the blind man, is also where he said, let the little children come unto me. In both instances he stopped what he was doing to show his love. To touch someone in need. It was a good reminder to me. I had to ask myself, am I loving people the way Jesus does. There are so many people in need of his touch. And, we are equipped to bring that to a people in need. Here is a picture from last night that will be etched in my mind. These are the people we are called to bring the love of Christ to right now and I pray that God will continually show me ways, and opportunities to bring the love of Christ to other. To help them understand His love and be transformed by it!

Add a Friend...

2008-08-13T07:17:00.000-07:00

Whether you know them or not, this is a blog worth adding to your blogroll. This is the blog of my dear friend (our churches old youth pastors). They recently moved to Papau New Guinea. The stories she shares are inspiring and really put our world in perspective. if anything add it so people will pray for them and constantly keep them in the hearts and minds of people we are in contact with. She shared a story today about the children's malaria ward she visits. The stuff they are faced with on a daily basis most of us will never experience in our whole lives.

http://missionarymommy.wordpress.com/

Will the REAL Batman please stand up!

2008-08-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I got to keep Johanna overnight for the time. We had a great time that included a trip to Walmart (where we found these fabulous masks!) and a morning trip to the doughnut store (which apparently Johanna has been to because when we drove up she asked for Chocolate Milk too!) Anyways, these two have so much fun together and they did not want to take these masks off, they just kept trying to scare each other...too cute!

I also had some fun with Scott's family this weekend too. A Bridal Shower, and Bob's Birthday. Which I used the opportunity to take a few pics with my new camera, and I uploaded them using a new tool in photobucket. The music is cheesy but it was worth a try!

Update on Kallie

2008-08-05T18:43:00.000-07:00

Thanks for praying! Kallie responded well to the picc line and is making progress. Hoping she will be released in a few days. Praise God!

Those Boots Are Made For Walkin'

2008-08-05T07:51:00.001-07:00

My mom always tells me how when I was about two all I wanted to wear was Red Rain Boots. Well, payback is sweet...yesterday we were walking through target when suddenly, he spotted them. They were off in the distance, but that wasn't going to stop him. And, you know the routine the little look on the face, a sweet "please mommy" and a sale sign and its all over. Those marketers are evil! Well, needless to say he wore them all day yesterday (in the heat) and I hid them when he fell asleep hoping to keep them aside for a rainy day. But, the first thing out of his mouth this morning was "My Boots, My Boots!" and, here we are!

Pray for Kallie

2008-08-04T17:42:00.000-07:00

My Best Friend Kristy went on vacation last week to utah and her 2 month old started getting really sick. It escalated and they took her to ER. She was severely dehydrated from a virus and was unable to keep things in. She has been in the hospital there since Thursday and there is great concern now as she does not seem to be getting better. They just added a picc line (which is a very painful procedure) in hopes of getting protein into her system intravenously. Please pray that this works and Kallie gets better soon and starts gaining her weight back. She was small to begin with and this is taking its toll. Please keep my dear friends in your prayers and Kallie for a quick and speedy recovery. I will keep you all posted. Thank You!

This is the announcement I did for her a few weeks ago:

Shake, Rattle and Roll!

2008-07-29T15:10:00.000-07:00

Today we had a 5.4 magnitude earthquake. It was a nice shaker and I had the privilege of experiencing it with a bunch of strangers in Kohl's department store. I held on tightly to my babies and prayed until it was over. And, then I booked it to the car to get home. I am thankful for God's provision and how he kept us safe when this had the potential to be much worse. It did bring to memory a fun family story that I will share with out reserve and may get in trouble for sharing, but that's never stopped me before. It was years ago and we were all sleeping soundly when a small earthquake hit. My Dad came sliding across the floor screaming at the top of his lungs (for those who know my Dad that is not remotely typical of him, he is even keeled and calm a huge majority of the time.) But, apparently he was having a dream about "the Big One" when this little quake hit. Needless to say, it was the first time I ever saw my Dad in his underwear and I will venture to say it will be the last.

A picture is worth a thousand words...

2008-07-28T13:57:00.000-07:00

This week Scott and I had the privilege of helping with our Youth camp. I can't begin to describe how amazing it was to see over 350 young people focusing their energies on their creator. Lives were transformed, bondage's broken, healthy self image restored, first-time salvation's and calls to ministry. Other than having our door duct taped every morning the pranks were pretty mild, and we had so much fun with the kids. My personal favorite was cardboard boat races it was a blast to watch the kids try to get across the pool in their self-made cardboard boat. Hilarious! The experience was a lasting reminder of the need to reach out to young people. They are at such a crucial point in their lives and they have so much passion. If we can get them to focus that on the things of the Lord they can do amazing and powerful things. Thanks for the prayers. I have added a few of my fave pics!

We were sure this would float!

Neon Night!

Pray for Youth Camp!

2008-07-24T07:34:00.000-07:00

We are heading up to Youth Camp this afternoon. We get the great opportunity to go spend 5 days with a group of over 300 jr. high and high schoolers. Scott and I both are believing for great and mighty things to happen this next week. So, please pray...pray for us for strength, energy and wisdom as we minister to the kids. Pray for the kids to be transformed to the point of no return (we want to see lasting transformation in their lives, the kind that lasts even when we drive down that mountain.) Pray for safety (these kids do some crazy things sometimes), Pray for traveling mercies. And, pray for anything else the Lord puts on your heart, we need all the prayer we can get! I am sure I will have some interesting things to post soon!

Should I be Worried?

2008-07-22T18:49:00.000-07:00

This is what Rachel looked like when she woke up from her nap. I am a little worried. There could be some crazy posts coming in the near future. This is the look of mischievous if you ask me!

Two Peas in a Pod!

2008-07-22T14:33:00.000-07:00

I caught this picture of Nathan and Rachel, it was probably the first time they actually were playing together. It was such a blast to watch. They had each other laughing so hard. I think the reason I find such joy in it is because I have so many fond memories of times like this with my own siblings. I am looking forward to the relationship they will develop. And I had to share a pic. of my little monkey. This girl is into everything now it's getting really fun and really crazy all at the same time.

Promises Fulfilled!

2008-07-21T10:24:00.000-07:00

As many of you know my Sister Carolyn and her husband Joe are in the process of adopting a brand new baby boy. The way this whole thing happened has been one God thing after another. Things have been an emotional roller coaster through this whole process for them. And on friday they got a call that the birthmom wanted to take the baby for 48 hours. She fealt this would bring her closure. Fear began to set in, but we entered into prayer as a family and the Lord gave us promises confirming he would return to them safe and sound. And, after 48 hours of leaning on Jesus, Carolyn just sent me a text that they are on their way home with the baby. Please continue to pray for a quick and smooth adoption. Thank You for your prayers. I will add new pictures later today!

Gotta Laugh About It!

2008-07-16T13:26:00.000-07:00

Scott and I woke up this morning laughing. And, it wasn't because somebody told a joke. You know when crazy stuff keeps happening and you just have to laugh about it cause its the only thing you can do!

For those of you who read my last post you know that our vacation wasn't quite turning out the way we had planned it...(see: Tantrums, Urgent Care & Vacation). Part of it was because Scott and I had a slightly (or more) unrealistic idea of what vacation was going to be like.

We did have one nice day (thanks for all who were praying for our sanity). Yesterday we went to Sea World and Rachel seemed to be happier and Nathan had a good time. Scott and I had a nice time too.

I did feel like complaining a little about all the crazy stuff...sick baby, food poisoned husband, tantrum throwing toddler, crazy hotel room, getting stung by a bee, having to leave early, and the other crazy things that happened (too many to list). But, I won't go into detail...instead I will continue to laugh it off and share some of the things that I did enjoy!

Tantrums, Urgent Care & Vacation!

2008-07-14T20:57:00.000-07:00

Scott said it right..."I knew vacation was not going to be what I thought it was when I was sitting on the balcony, with my coffee & a book and Buzz Lightyear came out of no where and knocked my coffee over." Needless to say we had envisioned our vacation quite differently than what the last two days have produced. Rachel started crying shortly after we arrived to our hotel. She fell asleep and seemed to be doing better and we thought well...we have a year pass to Sea World, lets go for the night shows. It was fun for about an hour until Nathan started to throw the mother of all tantrums because he couldn't get in the pool with the dolphins. Then, we lost one of his shoes so we couldn't take him on any rides which threw him into crazy child mode (you all know what I am talking about) and we had to leave. So we got back to the hotel and things started to mellow out a bit (the portable DVD player helped with that.) I thought things were all good but then Rachel started crying again (this isn't normal for her.) Sure enough she had a fever and it got worse through the night. Let's just say whoever was in the room next to us hates us! So, after more crying and the realization that we were not going to be going to the beach with a little sicky poo we bunkered down in the hotel for a while. After MORE crying I decided I had to get this little one to urgent care. Luckily there was one down the street. Sure enough, she has an ear infection and some funky stuff in her throat. Poor Baby! Anyways, we were given an antibiotic and we are hoping she sleeps well tonight and wakes up feeling better so that our last day here in San Diego will be a good one. There, it felt good to get that off my chest. And, the thing I am learning here is everything is an adventure with kids, you never know what's gonna happen do ya!

San Diego or bust.....

2008-07-13T07:49:00.000-07:00

I know, I know it's glamorous! It's amazing what sounds fun for vacation an what is feasable with two little ones. I actually passed up a bargain I found at a Coronado Bay Resort to stay at a Best Western. You heard me right a luxurious Best Western...they were the same price but the Best Western had a kitchen and extra living space. All kidding aside, I am really looking forward to this trip. It doesn't really matter where we are I am just glad that we get to spend some quality time together as a family. And, we are going to go to Sea World and hopefully get a chance to feed the dolphins. I will add pictures of our adventure when we get back. I've gotta go pack!

Pictures...Finally!

2008-07-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

I only have a few because I got to the hospital just before they were released. But, he is amazingly cute and you can tell he just has such a sweet disposition! (Just like his favorite Aunt) :) Enjoy the pics, more to come!

Caden is here!

2008-07-10T16:33:00.000-07:00

Caden Joseph has arrived. I am dying to see him, hopefully when Scott gets home. He is 6 pounds, 8 ounces and 18 inches with dark hair and everyone is saying he is "beautiful". I will add pics as soon as I get them!

Still Waiting...

2008-07-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

As of this morning we are still waiting for labor to progress and our new nephew to be born. Carolyn is at the hospital (with the birth mom) and has been privileged to be in the room when her new baby boy is born. Joe is on standby and we are all super anxious. I cannot wait to meet this little guy and give him lots of hugs and kisses!

Lucy & Ethel

2008-07-08T17:44:00.001-07:00

There have been many occasions where my sister Carolyn and I have done projects that ended up more like an I love Lucy episode than we would like to admit. I thought today would be much like that. Carolyn asked me to do meals with her...enough to last two weeks! It worked out much better than I had imagined, and it only took 4 hours. Carolyn worked a lot harder than I did (she is the big sister and is always taking care of me.) We will see how everything tastes, that will be the determining factor on whether this is worth it or not. It will be really nice for Carolyn though as she will be bringing her new baby boy home from the hospital on Thursday or Friday. (We are sooo excited!)
I also got to see my Best Friend Kristy's new lil one again today. She is so cute. And, extremely precious to me as Kristy and I have been friends since we were three. It is so neat to be apart of the things we always talked about growing up. I had to post this sweet picture of lil Kallie Lynn and show her off a bit...

Beach Day!

2008-07-05T22:10:00.000-07:00

Today started out as a lazy day which doesn't happen to often at our house with a toddler and a 6 month old. We left for the beach about one o' clock got lunch at one of our favorite spots...Mario's Pizza (Scott and I used to go there all the time when we were dating). Anyways, once we finally found a parking spot down by the wedge we unloaded the massive amount of stuff that you take to the beach when you have kids. And, after we reminisced about the days when we used to bring a towel and sunscreen, we started having fun. Rachel loves the breeze of the ocean and Nathan wasted no time getting all sandy and trying to steal other kids toys. (Yes, I brought him some, but the other kids toys were much more exciting!) All in all it was a beautiful day, God's creation is amazing! Here are a few pics from our day...

Scrub a Dub Dub, lets get all that sand out of all those rolls!

Praise Him!

2008-07-03T15:28:00.000-07:00

2 Timothy 4:18

"And, the Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!"

Last night was a powerful night in Jr. High. One of our youth leaders Katherine spoke and she was talking about praising God through trials. She talked about a portion in Acts where Paul and Silas were thrown in prison, they began to sing praises to God at midnight. An earthquake struck, the walls fell, and the next thing you know, the very jailer who was responsible for chaining them up and whipping them asked, "What must I do to be saved?"

I woke up this morning and opened one of the email devotionals I get and low and behold, It was this same portion of scripture. My automatic reaction is "oh great, do I have another trial coming." I shared this with Scott and he said, that while Katherine was sharing last night, he was thinking about what happened when Paul and Silas began to praise...their chains fell off. The things that entrapped them were removed. God is so amazing and I believe this is what he is doing. As we praise him, he is removing the things in our lives that are holding us back. I believe we serve a good God who desires good things for His people. I wanted to share this because I don't think it wasn't an accident that I have heard this portion multiple times this week. It definately hit home for me in this area of Praise in my life and I hope it will touch you too.

As many of you know, my Uncle Guy passed away recently and I have yet to write about it because honestly I just didn't even know what to say. But, as I am thinking about this area in my life, I go back to the moment when I found out he passed away. I did ALOT of questioning and have been doing that ever since the day he went to be with Jesus. And, I know it is only natural to go through the emotions of sadness and loss. But, I also know that Gods plan is sovereign and I need to trust Him and Praise Him simply because he is good and because I have been privileged enough to know that he is good. So, Lord today I praise you for your goodness and I thank you for being faithful to us even when we don't understand!

Summer Fun Has Begun!

2008-07-01T19:08:00.000-07:00

Well, today was one of those days. I was bored out of my mind its not that I don't have a huge list of things I could be doing, its just I didn't want to do any of the things on that list! :) I wanted to do something fun. I think it started this way because I got a chance to talk to my dear friend Samantha who I am always energized by. She is just one of those people who I have a ton of fun with no matter what we are doing. Her husband is in the military and they are now living in England and I miss her alot. Anyways, I think thats what set my day in motion. I just wasn't in the mood for an ordinary day. So, I went to tuesday morning women's bible study at c-stone and was refreshed as always. And, sure enough Kim was talking about contentment. And, although it didn't fix the itch, it did put things in perspective for me. I am so blessed with so much and when I have days like this I need to remember just how blessed I am. So, after naps and lunch and a little bit of toddler and baby insanity we got this fun little sprinkler mat and had some fun...

And...a little random side note: I looove the dollar bin at Target. There are always fun finds, and this was one of them. Who says $1 sunglasses can't be cute. I was a little hesitant to wear them but my sister Nicolle showed up one day and we were both wearing them. So, either they're cute or we are BOTH wearing stupid Sunglasses.

2008-06-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

About 2 months ago Nathan and I were in Costco and they had this remote control boat. Well, Nathan went crazy and said he wanted to take it to Papa's house. I am assuming he associated the boat and pool and wanted to get it for him. So I decided to get it for Father's Day which was absolute torcher for Nathan because he had to wait a really long time to give it to him. So the day arrived and he couldn't wait to give it to him. My Dad told Nathan they would go to the park the next day and drive it in the lake. I added a few pics to show you, Nathan went crazy and he was telling everyone who walked by..."look at my boat, that's Nae Nae's boat" it was so fun to watch. And, it brought back a lot of memories of how my Dad always made things so fun. He knew the things that were important to us and made sure and got excited too (even if it wasn't that big of a deal.) I realize now, being a parent how important that is. I watch how Scott is with Nathan and am so thankful that I have a husband who is involved in our kids lives that way, he knows what Nathan loves and makes it a point to be apart of it, whether its playing with cars, watching a certain movie, or flying objects through the house, and I cherish that.

2008-06-15T19:58:00.001-07:00

Well...yesterday was quite a fun day at the our house. We have some real dancy pants around here and two videos to prove it. Colette got her rock on with Nathan's electric guitar. She didn't learn to play like that from me...it must be from watching uncle scotty :) Then we discovered that Rachel knows how to dance. She was in her car seat the other day and we told her to dance and she started shaking her head. Well, needless to say she got quite a reaction and has been doing it ever since. Hope you enjoy the videos.

2008-06-15T19:57:00.000-07:00

I have been told many times how special the mother son relationship is, but today was one of those days that I hope to remember forever. Nathan was quiet for a few minutes and just about the time I started to investigate, he came out with a brush from my bathroom. He came over and asked if he could brush my hair and I let him. Well, when he was all done, he looked me in the face and said..."Mommies a princess...Mommy has a crown?!" Of course it melted my heart and I had to share. I am sure one day he is going to melt someone else's heart, but for now, he is MY little prince and I am just cherising moments like this.

2008-06-15T19:54:00.002-07:00

There are a few things I cherish, truly cherish in my life and one of them are my sisters. We just recently spent the weekend at our church women's retreat. It was an amazing time and the only reason my mom is not in this picture is because she was running around making the retreat happen (she did an amazing job!). We all had a lot of laughs.

My wonderful husband kept the kids so I could get refreshed in my body and renewed in my spirit. And this retreat was both of those for me.

Our speaker Tammy Dunahoo kept pulling out these amazing one liners. And, one that really stuck with me was..."Rotten fruit is good fruit gone bad, when its not used for its purpose." That is so true in life. I want to use all the gifts God has given me so I don't have a bunch of rotten fruit hanging around!

2008-06-15T19:54:00.001-07:00

Well, Scott and I were driving to dinner the other night and we just looked at each other and started laughing, then in unison we said..."we're getting old". I was just fitted for glasses and now we are four eyes together. But, I am so thankful that I get to grow older with such an amazing guy. And, each phase of life seems to get more amazing. I am going to try to get better at blogging, I've been inspired by my sister Carolyn.

Anyways, hopefully this is the first of many blogs, thoughts etc. :)

2008-06-15T19:53:00.000-07:00

The last couple of months have been a whirlwind of events and we cannot believe Rachel is already 3 months old. Both of our little munchkins are growing and changing so quickly so I wanted to share some new pics and a cute video with all of you. Hope you enjoy!

Nathan got this cute elephant towel from cousin Joe and he tried to scare me...

2008-06-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Look at us we are getting so BIG! Nathan is saying so many new things every day I can't even keep track. It has been really fun for Scott and I as his little personality is coming through, he is quite the character. He is adjusting well to his new sister and she thinks he is pretty funny, sometimes when he is being loud she will laugh at him. Things are busy as you can imagine but so fun, and everyday is something new. Here are a few new pics to show off our little Lindners!

2008-06-15T19:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome Rachel Carol Lindner!

Thursday, December 13th at 9:15pm

9 pounds 2 ounces 20.5 inches

Her brother says she's cute and we think so too. I have added a few photos and we will post more later. Enjoy!

Kissable Cheeks

My sister just gave me the coolest toy!

Chunky Monkey!

I love to look at daddy!

2008-06-15T19:45:00.001-07:00

Look how big I am getting. I am going to be a big brother in December, and mommy keeps buying pink things. Hmmm....what does that mean. I think mommies tummy looks like a ball and I tell her all the time.!

2008-06-15T19:44:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted anything so I thought I would fill everyone in on what is happening in the Lindner Household. We were blessed with a wonderful 2006 and so far 2007 has been great too. Nathan is usually the center of what goes on around here so I will start there. He is a whopping 16 months now and he is so fun to watch. He has had a lot of firsts this year; First time at disneyland, first time to the snow and today he had his first haircut. Check out these pics...

My first time at disneyland, I really liked the carousel.

Ooh...this stuff is cold, my family in Buffalo, NY would think I am a real sissy!

Uncle Ryan (a.k.a. Ryan Ikari) threw a snowball at me, as you can see I was not pleased!

My first haircut, the chair is like a car, I had so much fun. Mommy and Daddy say I look really big now.

As for the rest of us, we are all doing well, just enjoying life and all that God has blessed us with; health, happiness and a wonderful family.

2008-06-15T19:43:00.000-07:00

I am growing so fast. I like to grab everything in sight and put it in my mouth. I can rollover and I just discovered my feet. I think they taste good, even though mommy thinks its gross.
I like to wear Dad's hats

Hanging Out with my Buddy Roman.

I am in 12mo. clothing already!

#1 Dad

I have a new cousin now. Her name is Johanna Grace and she was almost 9 pounds. She's a big girl, but mommy says I shouldn't tell her that, it might hurt her feelings. She is cute as a button, and as you can tell by the picture...my cousin Colette likes her new sister alot!

Colette and Johanna

2008-06-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

The last 4 months have been so wonderful for Scott and I. Nathan has brought a new joy to our home and his laugh is so contagious. I think he looks mostly like his daddy, but he changes every day. He has grown so fast, and he is at least 20 pounds now.