Bye Bye Guys!

Celeste and Jamie left last Wednesday...sniffle. I have been so busy with little ones that I have not posted since then. Here are a couple pics from the airport that day! We'll take new ones when they come back and see how much they've grown and changed. I LOVE you guys!!! We ALL miss you!

AHHH! I just created a post and it was all erased...stupid computers.

Jamie and Celeste are leaving tomorrow. Please pray for our family as we go through the changes that this circumstance brings. It's hard on everyone. I'm taking them to the movies today to see CARS if I can get someone to watch Tommy. Also, depends on TS Alberto, but right now it's not raining.

I'm not on insulin yet. I got another month from my last visit to watch my sugars. They seem okay when I'm not cheating ;). I have an ultrasound on 6/28 to check baby size, so we'll see how it goes. I turned 38 last Saturday! It was a good day! Friends from church invited us over for dinner and their boys made me a blueberry pie. It was such a treat! TTFN!

Announcing...

My very good friend, Jennifer, just had her 7th son!!! Here is a cute picture of him. Please celebrate with us this momentous occasion!

Elias Blaine
8 pounds, 4 ounces
21 inches
June 1st, 2006

Happy Birthday Jamie!

Today is my oldest son's birthday! He was born at 6:31 PM and weighed 9 pounds, 2 ounces. He turns 12 today! We named him Clifford James Dailey and called him CJ for several years. In 2nd grade he changed his name to Jamie which is also my younger brother's name. I like it and it fits him. He will be starting 7th grade in the fall. Where does the time go...they grow up so fast. Jamie is a wonderful young man! He is always an encouragement to me and very sweet!! Happy Birthday to a wonderful gift from God!

Just a few things to do today. Well, we found out Celeste and Jamie are not leaving until the 14th of June for St. Louis. I breathe a little sigh of relief that I can spend 2 more weeks with them. They will be gone for 8 weeks.

Today I am getting my hair highlighted. I'm tired of the top being brown and gray. Yes, gray. It makes me feel old and I am very young at heart. Also, I go see my back-up OB to discuss my blood sugars. I'm afraid he wants me on insulin for my fasting sugars. My midwife says she can't see me if I go on insulin....but she can deliver. The past several mornings I've had readings over 100. They're really supposed to be under 95. I am praying for favor this afternoon in this situation. God may have already given me favor by providing such a nice OB to work with. I thank Him for that.

Well, off to get started on my day. Laundry awaits. Cleaning awaits. A screaming baby from the highchair awaits.

A small book review

I just wanted to tell you about a book I just finished that I think is a fun, encouraging read. It is Lord, Please Meet Me in the Laundry Room by Barbara Curtis. She is a mother of 12 and she tells about her life's journey and all the things God has done for her. I really enjoyed her insight on looking at life through a toddler's eyes. It has helped me be more relaxed with my toddler as he is learning new things. I found this book encouraging. God knows my path even if I don't. If we trust in Him, then we don't have to worry about the future. This book was a quick read and enjoyable. A great thing for a busy mom!

I am also reading The Mommy Manual by Barbara Curtis, Children of Character II by Mardy Freeman, and Humility by C.J. Mahaney.

Our trip

Stu with Tommy at Jungle Gardens

Me (22 weeks pregnant) and Dan at Siesta Beach

Max holds a bird at Jungle Gardens--great smile!!
Tommy just LOVED the seaweed!
All the boys got to hold an alligator at Jungle Gardens.
The children play in the sand and have a grand time!

I've been trying to add some pictures, but have been unsuccessful all day. We had an unbelievably busy weekend. Here it is:

Friday: Arrive, Lunch at creek with my Dad, go to beach condo, play at beach with kids, clean up, go to Dad's for dinner, back to condo and collapse
Saturday: Up at 7, go to Jungle Garden with kids, Lunch at the Field Club, afternoon at beach, evening dinner plans and pool fun with my friend, Russ, from high school, back to condo and collapse
Sunday: drive to Punta Gorda to visit my mother, drive back to Sarasota and get A's giant sandwiches for lunch (YUM!), eat lunch at condo, afternoon at beach, boating with Dad at 5, dinner at Demetrios (YUM!), back to my parents to celebrate Jamie's bday, back to condo and you know what happens
Monday: up early, boys go fishing with my Dad, girls go shopping (and baby), lunch at the Creek, afternoon cleaning up condo and beach fun, leave and get home at 8:30 PM, do LOTS of laundry and watch Star Trek (old) before collapsing.

It was fun!! Sure was busy! Next time we need more days. The baby proved to be a bit difficult. I think it's just his age, but it's hard to travel with toddlers. I figure we won't get to go next year b/c we'll have a 9 month old and a 2 1/2 year old. We'll see!!! The kids really did have a wonderful time. I love to see them laugh, play, and have so much fun. I am sooo blessed!

Having Fun...wish you were here!

We have done SO much while here! We have eaten well, of course! We went to Jungle Gardens, the beach (several times), visited with friends, shopping, boating, fishing. Today the girls are going shopping and the boys are fishing. We'll finish our trip with one last trip to the beach and then head home later this afternoon. I'll post pics in a couple days when I have time!!!

This is the day that the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it!

Off to the beach...

God has blessed us with a condo directly on Crescent Beach in Sarasota for the next 4 days!! This was arranged by my Dad--a friend of his is letting us use it free! WOO HOO! We're going to have fun fishing, walking, swimming, going to Jungle Gardens, and visiting friends and family. Please pray for Tommy as he has had a fever for the past couple of days, but no other symptoms. Also, Celeste was exposed to an illness that the teens at church are trading. We're praying she doesn't get that and in turn share it with her brothers.

Every good thing comes from the Lord! See you when we get back with pictures!!

God has blessed us with...

IT'S A GIRL!!!!! We are so excited!!! Stu seemed very pleased as well. It was like he has been secretly wishing for a girl, too. We won't worry about those teenage years just yet, lol. God truly has given me the desire of my heart. I am so thankful to Him. Praise Jesus!

On Mother's Day...and new babies!

Here is a picture of me with the children taken on Mother's Day! (See that Celeste straightened her hair!) They were so sweet. They got me a dozen red roses and some chocoloates (which I mostly shared because I can't really have them right now). Thanks Stu! I got 2 ecards from Celeste...one was just a tear-jerker. The little boys both drew me pictures. They were cute. Stu gave me a card, too. I am very thankful to be a mother. It was all I ever wanted!!! And now 6 times over, too, what HUGE blessings I have received.

Hey, today we find out what the baby is (hopefully). Please pray with us for a healthy baby and we'll update you later!

Look Mom, Breakfast!

This is what Tommy did this morning in the couple minutes no one was looking...I didn't get mad. It was just too funny--as long as it doesn't happen again very soon! And Celeste had just vacuumed everything yesterday! We had already cleaned up a bit when someone yelled to get the camera. Too fun!

At Our House...

A picture of our house from the front during winter. It's prettier in the Spring! It looks small, too. It's 2200 sq. ft. We still have several kids who aren't feeling well. Upset stomachs and the like. Max threw up again last night. I won't get too graphic. Just to say this is all getting rather OLD.

I did get to pick up Creative Memories' new Memory Manager for our computer. What an awesome program!!! If you scrapbook, you've got to have it! It's $30 and well worth the cost. You can make individual albums, put things in folders, name and edit your digital photos. I just love it! I spent the majority of my morning playing with it and showing it to the kids.

I'm off to take Celeste to get her eyes checked. She needs a new pair of glasses since it's been a couple years. She wears contacts most of the time, but you always need a pair of glasses as back-up. Maybe one day I'll get contacts again! Have a blessed day!

Flu U.

Yes, I have just graduated from Flu University. In fact, the whole family, all 7 of us have! Needless to say it was a horrible weekend which started very early Friday morning. I had to get phenergan to keep myself out of the hospital. We are all still recovering to varying degrees. Celeste is feeling the best while Max would probably be the last one out. Please pray for Tommy as he has had throwing up and/or diarhhea since last Tuesday off and on. After nearly 3 weeks of this, he's rather thin.

Danny just left to go take his CAT5 testing. I am a bit nervous about how he's going to sit for several hours taking a test. I am praying he's quiet, on his best behavior, and obedient. We'll see when I go pick him up!

18 days 'til the ultrasound! TTFN!

Ridiculous Diet

How would you feel if you were put on this crazy diet and told that you were 80 pounds overweight?? Oh, and you're 17+ weeks pregnant...

You may have NO--Cereal, bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, corn, beans, cheese, milk, juice, fruit except 1 apple daily, fast food, sweets, sugar, fried foods, mayonnaise, alcohol

You may ONLY EAT this: Egg whites, Oatmeal (PLAIN), Beef (but no sausage or bacon), chicken, fish, shrimp, pork, protein shakes, salad w/ olive oil&vinegar, grean leafy veggies (non-starchy), one apple a day, 500 mg 3x day of calcium, mulitvitamin.

You paid over $500 to see this doctor and have to go back in 2 weeks. I understand a diet to stay off of insulin, but does it need to be this strict. I'm FREAKING OUT!

Tommy update

Tommy only threw up about 5 times yesterday. He seems to be acting okay today, but now has some loose diaper issues. We can handle that, but I am praying for a quick recovery and the return of a decent appetite!

New Technology

I am so excited. Stuart just installed my new HP printer/scanner/copier and I was able to print some photos from my digital camera. So much fun!! Also, it prints b&w in record speed! It's the HP PSC 1610. We got a new computer about a month ago and it's amazing how much faster everything is. Fortunately, my older children know how to operate this stuff better than I do--how did that happen?!?

Tomorrow morning I go see the endocrinologist to discuss my gestational diabetes and my thyroid (which is high). I am hoping to stay off of insulin as long as possible. My back-up OB wants me on it, but I'm lobbying for a reprieve at this time. Please pray for me in this regard! My fastings have come down a bit since I upped the Juice Plus. Let's hope that does it! Now that I went to the Chiropracter today I can go for a walk, too. God bless!

Tuesday

I'm 17 weeks today, yea!! I have grown a bit over the past few days, so I'm feeling achey. My right hip is noticing it, too! In other news, Celeste and Jamie will be blueberry picking this morning for a friend of mine. Currently it's for money, but in a couple weeks we can go pick for ourselves. Yummy!! It's better to pick in the morning before it gets too hot.

Dan finished his spelling, handwriting, and will be done with his phonics this week. That just leaves math. He's excited! Jamie finished his entire Saxon Math book last week!! ALL 120 lessons and investigations and the tests. I was so proud of him. He's ready for Pre-Algebra--he's so smart it'll be a breeze. Celeste is working hard on her biology, ancient history, etc. She finishes her logic course this week and her English. She has some papers to write and math will be a challenge to finish before she leaves for the summer. She has a FULL LOAD planned for next year.

As I was typing this earlier Tommy threw up on the kid's card game. He has since done it two more times. He must have picked up something in the toddler room at church on Sunday. I am SO MAD!!! He is the one that can't afford to be sick again so soon. Please pray for him!!! I hope no one else gets it. We've had too much of this!!

When Diamonds AREN'T Your Best Friend

An unwanted visitor--Eastern Diamondback Rattler



Jamie with his kill!
We had an exciting afternoon here at our house! Max found an Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake as it slithered onto our back porch. 5 kids were playing in the back yard and they knew what it was right away. After a quick phone call to Stu, we decided to have Jamie kill it. I didn't want it hanging around anyway!! The snake was young with a small rattle and was only about 1 1/2 feet long, but still! I have always warned the children of this, but was hoping we'd never see one. Luckily, it was an educational moment and everyone was safe.

On another note, Tommy has some sort of horrible flu virus. After 13+ hours of throwing up every 20 minutes or so on Sun/Mon, he started running a fever yesterday. He has since stopped puking and is quite puny. We're having a hard time getting him to drink anything. This is supposed to last 3-4 days, so pray he gets over it soon. Plus I was up getting checked out in Labor & Delivery on Sunday evening (when the puking began--poor Celeste) because I was having spotting and crampiness. Everything is fine and baby looks good. I'm 15 weeks today. I just need to take it easy right now. Pray that no one else gets sick! It's supposed to be limited to babies/toddlers. All this and we're taking Spring Break this week. I'm sorry it's a little boring for the children, but such is life! I try to be thankful to God in every situation. God Bless!

Happenings

Well, if you're anywhere around the news then you know that the FL Gators beat UCLA in the NCAA Championship game that was played Monday night. Go Gators!! The score was 73-57. We don't usually follow sports, but all of us watched the game and it was quite spectacular. It's not every day FL gets this kind of well-earned honor!

In other much more exciting news....my friend, Valerie, went for her ultrasound yesterday. She is 19 weeks along with her 5th baby. Val had a 4D ultrasound and said the baby looked just like her daughter, Rebekah, SO it's a GIRL!! WOOT! I'm so excited for her. This was the tie-breaker. Val has a 9 year old daughter, twin 8 year old boys, and a 5 year old daughter. I can't wait for mine, but it's going to be about 6 more weeks, ACK! I can get 4D, but it costs an additional $150 and we already have to pay for it anyway, so I'm not so sure I'll do that.

Well, I've got 4 baskets of laundry sitting in my room and a child who can't find something to wear. Yes, this is reality. We need to get on top of it. So I'd better go and get kiddos ready and start home school.

Berry Kix Deficit

Okay, BLAST General Mills from discontinuing the production of their Berry Kix cereal!!!! Tommy LOVES the stuff and for the past couple of weeks we haven't been able to get it, so Stu finally asks at Publix and they say, "Oh, they're not making it anymore." You're kidding, right?!? Children everywhere are weeping and gnashing their teeth (I'm sure). At least mine are! Oh well, we'll just have to find a substitute. They sure were great for keeping baby busy in the high chair.

On another note, my friend Valerie (who is 18 wks pregnant) rented a doppler on my suggestion and is having a blast with it. Now she can check on baby anytime. Modern science is just amazing. She had been worrying. I guess I'm at that stage, too. I'm at the I-feel-better-but-not-looking-pregnant-enough stage. So people of the world are thinking, is she fat or is she pregnant?? BOTH! Hey, I'm happy anyways!

Going to Tampa tomorrow to visit my friend, Celeste. Her daughter, Isabella, turned 5 this week and is having a birthday party. We haven't seen them for over a year, so it's time to go. My Celeste has a mimetime performance at the Spring Arts Fair in the morning and then we'll scoop her up and take off. We haven't been anywhere since Christmas, so it's about time! We'll be in Sarasota for Resurrection Day and we're also planning a beach vacation before the older kids leave for summer. TTFN!

Sneak Peek

Well, we got a sneak peek at our little baby this morning. I've been having some issues and we were worried about little one. Jane (my midwife) couldn't pick up a heartbeat with her doppler which is not unusual at almost 12 weeks--plus I have some fluff, so we snuck into the u/s room and took a look. Baby was jumping all over the place. I saw knees and little hands and a beautiful heartbeat. God is good all the time!

On another note, I received my order of Happy Phonics in the mail yesterday. I think this program is going to be great in teaching Max how to read...and Tommy...and baby #6. I have a lot of cutting out to do, but I think that's fun. Celeste is going to help me. We also got a huge world map to hang on the wall. I think I may get it laminated before we do that.

I hope to write again in a couple days. Read John 10:10.

Of pickles and ice cream...

Okay, I have made it to 10 weeks and 1 day already. A small victory for this "tired of this nauseated phase of pregnancy" momma. Please don't take this as a complaint. I am SOOO thankful that I AM sick this time. Everything seems to be just at it should be. Despite 2 migraines in a 24 hour period I am still hanging in there. Even with the hormones, I would have to say I'm less grumpy this pregnancy than I usually am. I'm sure there's a Hallelujah in there from my hubby and kids! So far the only craving I have had has been a "Homewrecker" from Moe's. Well, actually, I got the vegetarian version which is called an "Art Vandalay." It was wonderful going down...we won't talk about later... I have this horrible taste in my mouth most of the time which I try to get rid of by eating various things, only for it to come back moments later. Any previously pregnant women relate??? And now I'm hungry all the time. Not good when you're a little extra fluffly.

I am in the throes of trying to decide on homeschool curriculum for next year. The kids are plugging along with their studies and dreaming of those long summer days. They have been working so diligently that Celeste, Jamie, and Dan will be done with some of their subjects in early April this year. But there is no rest for I have additional studies planned! Max is doing great in K math, but the phonics will take more work. I found a little program called Happy Phonics. It's only $40 and I think we'll buy it and give it a try. It has several games included and I think this is what we need to make it fun!

That's what is going on with us. Stu has been very busy with work and I haven't seen much of him lately. We haven't had a date in so long...but I don't generally feel well in the evening hours, so that's been a little difficult. I'll feel better in a few more weeks...TTFN!

Heartbeat of Heaven

We went to see the midwife and have an ultrasound today. Yes, there is only one baby in there and he/she has a heartrate of 176 BPM. Woo hoo! I am praising God today!!! Just a wee bit of news for ya!

Should I stay or should I go?

Yes, I've been a posting slacker. I have spent most of the days laying on the couch or in my bed feeling rather puny. I've been doing slightly better on a morning sickness remedy that's vitamin B6 and 1/2 a unisom. I'd hate to think what it might be....

There's a concert I REALLY want to go to next Friday 2/24. It's 4Him and it's their final concert tour. I have always wanted to see them and never got the chance to. It's in Sarasota, so I could stay overnight at my parents. I haven't bought tickets yet. I thought I'd go to my appt. tomorrow and see how everything is and then make a decision. Stu thinks I should go, but I don't know how much more sick I'll feel in the next week. I would take my two oldest children with me. I'm going to pray about it. I really don't want to venture out that far, but do want to go to the concert. Ugh, I hate decisions like this!

All Day Sickness

The past several days have found me lying on the couch or in bed. I feel so nauseated that standing up makes it worse. I also have a funny tinny taste in my mouth and can't seem to get rid of it. I think that's contributing to the sour stomach. These are good things! But being that today I am 6 weeks pregnant, I am very concerned about how bad it's going to get, kwim? I will be seeing Jane next Friday and getting an ultrasound. Meanwhile, I praise Him for He is forming a new little someone to meet!

Max's 5th Birthday & Butterfly Garden

Jamie acting like a large shark...RAH! Okay, I
put him up to it and he felt stupid!

The blue morpho butterfly. Isn't God great?

All the kids pose for Mom.

Dan waited a LONG time to get one to land on
him. Boy he was happy when it happened!

Mommy with Tommy looking at the water

Happy 5th Birthday, Max!! Born February 1st, 2001
Max weighed 10 pounds, 5 ounces at birth!

Yesterday was Max's bday and we all went to the Natural History Museum over at the University of FL campus. Max had never been to see the butterflies before and he loved it! We all had a good time as a family. Stu came over from work for a couple of hours, too! The weather was awesome just at 70 degrees and clear skies. It did a lot to take my mind off worrying about my pregnancy. I know I should not worry, but I do. Jane (my midwife) said maybe I should come in for an ultrasound around 7 weeks. I just might do that. I hope you all have a blessed day. I still need to take a shower. I stayed up too late last night.

Think Pink

Could it be? 2 pink lines...okay, a blue + sign will do! Yes, I am 5 weeks pregnant today, woot!!! Now I know it's early, but I am just praying that at the end of this I will have another sweet baby to hold in my arms. (As my youngest tries to steal the mouse again!) We are really hoping for a girl this time, but a boy would fit in great, too! Dan says he wants a boy. This is not up to me, thank the Lord. That's God and Stu's department. Anyway, if you think about praying then please do. I am a little nervous. I have been tired and a little quesy at times among a few other things...this is good. I will go see my midwife, Jane, at around 8 weeks. Pray for God's provision to cover all of the expenses.

Read Psalm 127

Not the best blogger...

Okay, I haven't posted in almost a week. You might be starting to consider that I am not the best blogger. All of my responsibilites at home keep me from doing it. That is a good reason, I believe. Home schooling 4 children, chasing a 17 month old (today!), preparing snacks and meals, errand running, taking kids to their activities, cleaning, and church events tend to take up most of my time! In the meantime I manage to try to squeeze in some reading. I haven't scrapbooked in forever AND I have lots more pics since I got that new digital for Christmas. I better get busy with it--or jiggy with it. Life is full and this is a good thing!

"Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your sons will be like olive shoots around your table." Psalm 128:3

I read this yesterday and was thinking on how I can be a more fruitful vine within my household. Think on these things and how you can honor God on a daily basis in your home. I think we're going to do some more bible reading together. Also, I am still working on a little thing called gentleness....

Much to do!

Max jumps up in the air!



Chris Tuttle with her new baby, Kole Freedom
who was born at home on January 5th.



Celeste gets ready to paintball.



Dan just LOVED swinging on this tree swing!



Jamie decked out to play paintball.


We have been very busy, of course! Jamie just got back from a 3 day scouting trip to the Okeefenokee Swamp in GA. He canoed 15 miles on Sunday!!! Here are some pictures I have been meaning to get up on my blog, too. Please pray for our friend, Susan Wright. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer last week and is having surgery today. We are praying for her complete healing. Also, the Welch's daughter, Valerie Grace, will be undergoing shunt surgery this week related to her brain tumor. She is just a wee one not too much older than Tommy, so keep her in your prayers. "...and by his wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:5 Let us feel that today in ALL of our being. He has saved us from our sins and can heal us mind, body, and soul. But only if we let Him do this. We need to give our lives over to Jesus. In our weakness, He makes us strong. I, for one, don't want to be strong in a worldly sense, but strong in Christ. May Your Holy Spirit, Lord, give me the power to glorify You on this pale blue dot we call earth. The heavens call out your glory, Lord! Check out Louie Giglio and his presentation on Significant Insignificance. You can find the dvd here: http://www.268store.com/cgi-bin/SoftCart.100.exe/scstore/p-2530DVD.html?E+scstore. Blessings!

In a cbyer "fix"

Okay, remember that funk I was talking about a couple days ago? My daughter was on IM on our home computer and clicked on something. Now it has a virus and we may have lost everything. Hubby is going to take it in to see if anything can be done. Meanwhile I'm limited to using his laptop when he's home. I'm trying not to freak out about it....all of my pictures were on that computer!

I took dinner to my friend, Chris, who just had her 6th baby last night. He's so cute and has so much hair! I'll post pics when I can! Also, on Tuesday we had a bunch of the youth over to hang out. That was fun. I drove them home and had 11 people in my 8 passenger suburban...that was fun, too! Gotta love that vehicle! Hope your Thursday is wonderful!

Go-carts, paintball, & migraines

It's been a fun-filled weekend with the kids. We stopped by my brother's house and the kids drove thier new go-cart! They had a Blast! hehehe i love you mom! (That was Celeste butting in on my blogging.) On Sunday the older kids got together at the church property for a paintball party. It's fun to watch. I think the chocolate cake I had may have contributed to the migraine I had this morning. I'm hoping it's a signal of the return of fertility here. I hadn't had one for 4 months until a couple weeks ago. We have had a good Monday despite my rocky start. Thank the Lord for that!

A cheerful heart is good medicine. Proverbs 22:17

Kind of in a funk

I guess I've been in a funk and just not admitted it. I don't have anything to look forward to in my immediate future. I am just feeling like one day runs into the next. Also, I haven't been organized enough when it comes to feeding my family. I need to lose weight, too, but am not motivated...food is comfort, kwim? What else is there if there isn't food...or chocolate...ha ha! I know God knows our cares. I know He has a future and a hope for me. I just wish I could see it so that my hope would be a little greater. I suppose all this melancholy is due to looking over my past year. It wasn't the best one I can think of. It was down right challenging. Things can change so slowly. I'm just lonely lately... Sorry for the complaining. I just needed to get it out. I would love to write something earth-moving or brilliant. Hasn't happened anytime recently. Lord, I pray that your wisdom would enlighten my heart. I pray for your joy to cheer my soul. Amen!

FINALLY!

Here is a picture of the sign! Stu's neighborhood is finally up for sale, yea! He's co-owner in Azariah Development and they are developing this property. Please pray for good sales in a timely fashion as this project has been over TWO years in the making!

Back to school

Here we are...back to school. We started again yesterday. I think the kids are getting a slow start. Their brains are warming up very slowly. We're in high gear for the rest of the year now. Celeste, since she is in high school, has been diligently working. Dan is having a hard time b/c he wants to play. I know how he feels...
Stu is working hard, too! The past 2 days he's had 12 hour work days. He hasn't eaten dinner with us either. I don't like that! I am praying for a very productive year for him in business. I am so thankful for all of his hard work. What a burden to care for all of us...myself and the 5 children. It is amazing what he does! I am thankful that God gave men the job to provide and women the arena of caring for the home. I am reading a great book called So Much More. I got it from Vision Forum. Celeste will be reading it, too. It's about women and their biblical calling as wives, mothers, sisters.
Well, time to go supervise everything here and think about lunch!

They're Baack!

Well, I am so happy to announce that Celeste and Jamie are back! See airport pictures. We arrived home a little after 1 AM. It was a pretty uneventful trip. We got a little lost when we went to park at the Orlando Int'l Airport--that place is huge. I'm sure we'll spend today visiting friends. Stu and I plus the littles went to see our good friends Val and Heath. Val is pregnant, newly anyway. It was so nice to see them! Gotta go make breakfast for the masses!

This is the day the Lord has made!

Stuff of the Day

Okay, good news: my best friend, Valerie, is pregnant!! I am so excited for her! She had a burst ectopic and almost died last year, so this is such a blessing. I am praying for her health and that of the baby's. Bummer news: I am not pregnant this month. I know God's timing is perfect, so we are just waiting for that.

In other news, I picked out a new digital camera...finally!!! It is a Nikon Coolpix S1 and you can look at it here: http://www.nikonusa.com/template.php?cat=1&grp=2&productNr=25529. I am posting a couple of pics I have taken with it. I love that it is quite compact and I can slip it into my pocket and run off to take pictures of the children. It's an amazing camera and can do things I'll probably never do with it, lol! I hope I like it. A few weeks of use and we'll be able to tell. It has a HUGE screen on the back, too.

If I don't get to post until the new year...have a happy one! Our verse for the day was: "A cheerful heart is good medicine." Proverbs 17:22 I am working on getting the littles more into learning the bible. Proverbs is always a good start!

The best Christmas gifts

Sorry I haven't posted. I've been very busy and out of town! What an interesting Christmas this year. I received 2 digital cameras! I am an avid scrapbooker and my 35mm broke a couple of years ago. I have been using those throw aways and couldn't decide what to get to replace them with. My hubby and my dad bought me a digital. We are taking both back and I will pick one out. Making decisions like that never comes easy for me. I'm a details person which can be a drawback. Also, in other news, I got to spend Christmas with my younger brother, Jamie, this year. A rarity for sure. I only saw him one other time this year and that was in July. Enclosed is a picture of us. I believe he's the one on the right. My older brother, Ed, is on the left. I feel blessed!

Busy little hands

As I type this post, my 16 month old son, Tommy, is swinging his arms back and forth and clasping his hands while he stands in front of our recently decorated Christmas tree. Danny, Max, and I finally decorated it this morning during Tommy's nap. We also hung the stockings on the wall. Gotta love those command 3M thingys! Anyway, it's amazing how much better our old tree looks when it's decorated. I had really worried about putting up the tree this year. It's a bit of work with the baby. Every time he reaches for an ornament or pulls one off he gets a, "No, may not!" It seems to be working because he doesn't know what to do with those little hands now. In a few years, I will have lots to keep those little hands busy! I feel blessed today!

The Battle is in the mind

During the message on Sunday our pastor reminded us that the battle we fight day to day is in the mind. I can most assuredly agree with that as I experience the loneliness and frustration that has come with this particular Christmas season. Rather than spend this whole blog telling you about it, I chose to focus on what Phil said. Since the battlefield is in the mind we must put on the helmet of salvation. Preach the Good News to yourself every day. Remember the Grace you have received from Jesus and share it with others. While you're at it, read the book of James. It's one of my favorites and I find it encouraging. That's what you'll find me doing when Tommy lays down for a nap. Also, focus on this:

"But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for ALL the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." Luke 2:10-11

Let us thank Him every day that this life isn't all he has for us. That our salvation is sealed and we will live forever with Him. Thank you Jesus!

When Elves Take Hostages

My children are leaving....sniff...sniff. Here's what Celeste, 14, did to Jamie, 11, last night. I will miss them for 17 days!! I love you guys!

Prayer Requests

Hello! Yes, I know it's been about a week since I posted. We have been unbelievably busy with the children going to events this week. We had a caregroup Christmas party, we watched our friend's 20 month old (they were in labor with their 2nd child), Jamie went to a boy scout holiday party, the older kids had a church youth Christmas party, we went to my brother's to open gifts with the olders and ride the horse, and we've had friends over galore! Meanwhile, I've been busy Christmas shopping and running errands with the children. Jamie and Celeste leave tomorrow morning at 3:30 AM to catch a flight to St. Louis. In addition, we have our church Christmas party on Sunday evening, yea! Please pray for the following:

--Stu's safe travel as he takes Jamie and Celeste to Orlando tomorrow
--the Beck's new baby boy, Caleb, and his mommy's quick recovery from C-section
--my mother is currently living in a hospital and needs a place to live (special circumstances)
--Stu's mom, Sara, recovering from surgery at Thanksgivingtime
--healing for my friend, Charity, who hurt her neck and back in a car accident last week

Also, pray that we will take time to focus on the REAL meaning for this season...Jesus birth. Without this we would not have our salvation. Praise God for his many blessings!

Getting started

Okay, today I got started on some Christmas shopping. It wasn't too bad, but then I ventured out in the morning. Everything is not so safely "hidden" in our closet. I wonder if I have to resort to hiding things in the attic. I was pretty bad as a child....my younger brother and I would carefully unwrap things and then just to get a peek. What was that all about? I think encouragement from my siblings goaded me on! Hopefully, no one here will want to ruin their surprise. I LOVE surprises....and presents. I love giving them and I love receiving them.

I have to type this fast because the 3 older boys are playing outside. It's the nicest day we've had this week and it's quite overcast. Tommy is in his high chair having a snack and watching me type. That won't last long. It's going to be a challenge without my big helpers for 17 days! I can do it. Other people do and I did it all summer long. I just love my children! I enjoy playing games with them. Did I say I took Celeste to see Pride & Prejudice. I enjoy taking them to the movies, out to lunch, and shopping. ALL of them. It gets a little hectic sometimes, but it's worth it and better than being alone. Have a super weekend!

Much ado about something

Thursday greets me with rain, but not in my soul. My heart is light for I have had a wonderful week already. What a wonderful anniversary Stu and I had! Today the children and I will be baking cookies and Nancy's Apple Bread for our caregroup Christmas party this evening. With all of the rain, I'm sure the bonfire is out, but I am looking forward to the fellowship just the same.

Since I home school, we are on an abbreviated schedule this week and will be concluding our studies for the calendar year tomorrow. Celeste has been working hard because she is in high school now. I am proud of her. She may continue with math into next week, but otherwise I am on vacation for 3 weeks. Jamie and Celeste leave next Thursday evening for St. Louis. Their flight leaves Orlando on Friday morning. I will miss them a lot! But I know they will have such a wonderful time with their family in the midwest. Meanwhile, we will try to make the most of Christmas without them. Which reminds me...I need to gather a few gifts here soon! As I really only have a couple. Please pray for Stu's business. We are in specific need for his Beacon Hill project to close--this depends on good weather which we are not having today. I still praise His holy name for He has kept us in good care!

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6

Blessed be His holy name!

Happy Anniversary!

Today is my 8th wedding Anniversary! It seems like longer...but in a good way. Just ask either of us and we'll tell you that. Stuart Bradley Palmer married Nancy Jean Van Winkle on December 6th, 1997 at 2:00PM. Believe me, I remember a magical and blessed day. I stayed at the Magnolia Plantation Bed & Breakfast the night before my wedding. What a beautiful place...and so romantic! Check it out at http://www.magnoliabnb.com/. Stu and I spent our honeymoon night there. And so did the maid of honor, Celeste Rodgriguez, and the best man, Brian Caffee, and my bridesmaid ,Laura Mosimann, and her fiancee, Jasper. I have so many wonderful memories. I LOVED the cake--it was delicious AND beautiful. You know how you're supposed to save the cake and eat it on your first anniversary? Well, it was so good that we ate it just a few days after the wedding!! Stu gave me a beautiful ring. The marquise I had always wanted (but much bigger!) with sapphires and diamonds on the wedding band portion. What a wonderful thing to have a wedding at Christmas. It truly was one of my best days! It reminds me of how thankful I am for Stuart. He is very dedicated to me (and our children), loyal, and hardworking. He has provided for me to stay at home with the children and supports my idea of home schooling them. He honors me in my choices when it comes to planning our family. I am so fortunate! God has truly blessed me over the 8+ years.

Above all, love each other deeply because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

Sugarcane Fest at Dudley Farm

On Saturday we went to the Dudley Farm which is a state park about 3 miles from our home. We had always wondered what they had there. It's an 1880's working farm that has been restored and is 325 acres. They had a sugarcane festival there. The kids got to see them grinding the cane to make juice and then boiling it to make syrup. They had all sorts of old timey things there. How about doing your wash in wooden buckets? Or spinning wool into thread to make things. Anyway, it was a good time. The weather was great and all of us enjoyed being outside. Enjoy the pictures!

Experimental Christmas Pic

I thought I'd show you a couple more cute pics. I tried to take a pic of the kids for Christmas card, but the resolution on the camera was too low. This is what we got. They're really cute even if it's not perfect!

New Graphics

I am so excited! I got a new signature tag (many thanks to Becky!!). It's actually my first one. The rub now is trying to figure out how to use it, lol! I'm a computer ignoramous at times. I'm trying, though. We've had a busy day! Celeste performed with MimeTime for the pastor's luncheon. I'll try to get a picture up for that. Tommy had a well check. He weighed 24 pounds, 2 ounces (45%) and he was 32 1/2 inches long (90%). Lean and mean baby...healthy, too.

Now off to figure out dinner and get ready for Jamie's guitar lesson/care group this evening...