I am Strawberry Ice Cream!

You Are Strawberry Ice Cream

A bit shy and sensitive, you are sweet to the core. You often find yourself on the outside looking in. Insightful and pensive, you really understand how the world works. You are most compatible with chocolate chip ice cream.

http://www.blogthings.com/whatflavoricecreamareyouquiz/

12 Days!

...until my induction. I'm starting to feel nervous about how it will go. I think this one will be faster than Tommy's labor. I believe she's smaller than he was. We have an ultrasound this Wednesday to check her size, so we'll have more info then. But hey, the good news is that I STILL have a little bellly button left! Never had one this late in the game...except for maybe during my first pregnancy. I have only gained 15 pounds so far and am hoping not to gain any more. The ladies at church are throwing me a shower in a few days and I'm excited to get to fellowship with them. It's always fun when we get together!

Home school is going very well this year so far. We've had some curriculum changes with 2 of the kids. Also, the jury is still out on FLVS Spanish I for Celeste. We have to decide by Sunday b/c that's the last day to drop. I'm thinking I should do some lesson planning this coming week so that after the baby comes things will run smoothly. I am awaiting some new books for Max. He may end up being my biggest challenge yet in the reading department, but I'm plugging away at it.

Please pray for my husband's business. We really need to have a closing before the end of November. We have a house (Misty Oaks) that REALLY needs to sell. I am praying for God's favor...although, I think we have it with the beautiful family he has given us. I think I should rather say I am praying for financial blessing during this time. He is Sovereign. I will leave you with a verse from my son, Jamie: "Do everything without grumbling or complaining..." Phil. 2:14.

Tommy Bahama

Yesterday was little Tommy's 2nd birthday!!! I guess he's no longer a baby anymore. He's been a toddler for some time now, but he still looks like a baby. I can't believe it's been two years already. AND this week Celeste got her learner's permit!!! Anyway, Happy Birthday to Tommy who was born on:

August 24th, 2004
9 pounds, 6 ounces
9:06 PM!

I LOVE YOU!!

28 Days

Actually, my ticker in the sidelines is off. Why? Because I am scheduled to be induced 4 weeks from today! That's September 21st. A Thursday. I have 28 days left until I meet my precious baby. I'm excited and trying to get ready mentally. I still need to get ready around the house, but figure I still have time. I don't have one diaper for her! I went to the midwife yesterday and had gained 1 1/2 pounds, but total weight gain this pregnancy is only 13 pounds so far. I was measuring 35 weeks. I'm usually way far ahead at this point (I'm 34 weeks), so I'm hoping for a smaller baby this time! I just have to watch what I eat for the next four weeks! Please pray for peace for me. I've been worried about the future and how things are going. Thanks!

Announcing...

Samantha Lindsay Vellekamp
August 18th, 2006
5:10 PM
6 pounds, 11 ounces

My best friend, Valerie, had her baby last night! She had a c-section due to a burst ectopic a couple years ago. The docs said when they got in there it looked like a war zone and that's she's lucky to be alive (from the ectopic and this higher risk pregnancy). Glad they had the foresight NOT to let her go through regular labor. Baby and Mommy are doing fine! I will post pics when I get some! I hear she had some dark hair on that little perfectly round head, unusual for a newborn Vellekamp. Her Daddy, Heath, is very proud. Samantha joins her siblings Ciera 9, Zachary 8, Joshua 8, and Rebeka 5. Yea!

Sorry about my complaining earlier. I could excuse it as pregnancy grumpiness, but it truly is a sin issue. I saw this today and thought it applied...

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days." Psalm 90:14

One day runs into the next...

Tommy gives momma some baby love!

Do you ever get the feeling that one day runs into another? I have nothing major to look forward to until this baby comes...that's a long wait, in my book. Right now I have a 5 and a 7 year old fighting over a pop-tart. They don't want to split it, so no one is getting it. The 5 year old is screaming in his room. I will be honest. I HATE this! When does life get fun again? My 12 year old is going out to have fun at a friends with a bunch of other 12 year olds. My 15 year old is going to the mall with her friends and then back here to hang out tonight. At least when the baby comes I'll have something to do that's constructive. I love my little Tommy. Did you see his cute pic as he's laying over that BIG belly? I've got a little under 5 weeks to go and I feel HUGE. My best friend, Val, is having a c-section as we speak. Wish I could be there! Among other things....

They're Back!

The gang's all here!
Nancy & Valerie, very pregnant!

Yes, my older children, Celeste and Jamie, are back from summer! Their plane was about a half hour early, so by the time we got to the airport to pick them up, they were already on the ground with their luggage. No parking, just got them at the curb and drove off!! I kind of missed the grand welcoming we usually have. That's why there's a picture in the truck! Also, I visited Valerie, my best friend. She was 37 weeks pregnant and I was 32. She is having her baby next Friday on the 18th. No more amnios, the baby's lungs should be okay! We're very busy here getting ready to start school next week and enjoying the return of the kids! Thank the Lord for a new year!

Need of a Nap

Okay, since I am in desperate need of a nap and just laid one cute, crazy toddler down, I'll make this short. It looks like baby Eden will arrive on September 21st as that's when my midwife will be available. I was hoping for the 20th. I like those even-numbered days. That's okay. I gained less than a pound in the past 2 weeks, yea! I had low blood pressure which would explain why I've been feeling heavy and light-headed. Drink more water! Also, I am measuring 35 weeks and today I am 32. I grew 2 weeks in the past 2 weeks, so we're right on. Other than that, Jamie and Celeste will be arriving tomorrow evening. I can't wait!! I wish I had more energy to get ready for them. I have a bit more cleaning to do and a few errands to run before tomorrow. We leave in 24 hours to go to the airport in Orlando. On that note, my best friend, Val, lives in Orlando. She was supposed to have a scheduled c-section this Friday, but it's been postponed b/c her baby girl's lungs aren't developed yet. Please pray for them to develop so they can deliver her safely. Thanks!

What's in a name?

We have decided to name our new baby girl Eden which means: paradise, delightful, beautiful. We are still undecided on the middle name, but have narrowed it down to three choices:

Jubilee--a festival in the OT in Leviticus 25 that was a year of freedom, liberty, blessing
Joy--which is Latin and means Joyful, follower of truth
Elisabeth--it's Hebrew and means Oath of God, consecrated

So, just for fun, what do you think? My hubby really likes Eden Elisabeth...and so does my daughter. I'm not sure yet. Maybe I need to meet her first! This is the fun part, though! I will continue to pray about her name and will be interested to see how opinions run. Blessings!

Baby Stuff

Oh, as the pregnancy turns...today I am 31 weeks. It seems like an eternity until I get to meet her face to face. The hot weather probably isn't helping any and I have 2 friends who are having babies in the next 2-4 weeks. I think I found a car seat I really like and a stroller. They are both made by Combi. The car seat looks like this:
It is Celeste's favorite color combination. It is called Lisa Loves Chocolate Pink by Combi and is a Centre DX car seat. I just wonder if that brown will end up being too hot. There's a cute little stroller that goes with it, but I think I am going to get a double. Combi makes a side by side that has a tri-fold and weighs less than the single Graco I have. Or I will get the Counterpart which is a front back, we will see! There's so much to look at for little girls and it's such fun! Although, technically I have everything I could need for her, but I would love some nice things as she's the first girl in 15 years! It's quiet here tonight. Stu's at a meeting and I'm in a slump. 8 days until the kids come home and I just don't know what to do between now and then...

And so...

Me at 29 weeks...
Max & Dan with their balloon creations
Lauren plays in the water with the boys.
Taking a train ride at the book circus

This is what we're doing. I love posting pics. I like looking at other people's pictures, too! I visited my daughter's blog this morning. She has a few cute ones up as well...check them out at www.irishgal247.blogspot.com. I am very excited that the older kids will be home in 12 days! We have a busy weekend planned. I get a fun date with my hubby, yea! Have a very blessed day and weekend!

Welcome to your 30th week...

Okay, a cure for heartburn would be invaluable right now. Also, if I could just borrow a 25 year old's body for the remainder of this pregnancy, that might be helpful as well! From about 1:30 to 3 AM last night I had some terrible pain in my right groin area. It was kind of like contractions, but just in one little place. My midwife says we may never know what it was...I hope I never do again! Needless to say, I'm short on sleep today and having a few more aches and pains than usual. I guess I'll just chalk it up to pregnancy at 38...okay you got me, it is the 6th one that has gotten this far! Hey, I have a screaming 23 month old at my lap. Guess that closes the thought for the day. Now where's my hubby with that pizza??

All You Need

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:16

"...for your Father knows what you need before you ask him." Matt. 6:8

"The Lord protects the simplehearted; when I was in great need, he saved me." Isa. 116:6

I have really felt over the past couple of days that God is impressing on me that He has given me all I need and that He will continue to cover me in that area. This is in the midst of my heart not quite feeling that way. I just needed to remind myself of this and went to the Word to get some reinforcement. Above is just a sample of what I found. I hope it encourages you, too! It's hard to live in this modern, American society and not feel that some of our wants are really needs. I pray today that we all would look to our Father to meet our every need.

Little Pirates

My 3 little boys!

Tommy is a pirate
The boys were being so cute today. I thought I would post a couple pictures of them. They got the pirate bandana in a happy meal. What fun it is to be a kid! I like to remember all the fun I had as a teenager and in college. My Dad, brothers, and I always had a blast together!

Life has been a bit depressing. I don't even know where to start. I guess it all started when my big kids went away for summer...that always REALLY SUCKS! It upsets the balance in our family. My boys miss them and I miss the fun they are. Plus they're lots of wonderful help. I guess I'm just being pregnant. I can't seem to get a babysitter this summer. We haven't been on a date since May and before that it was January. I'm lonely. My hubby is wrapped up with work. It's too hot to go outside--especially when you're almost 30 weeks pregnant. I wish we had a pool--they're soooo expensive. I have so many other things to complain about, but I think I'll just stop with life is no fun right now and hasn't been...

Personality Test

I took this personality test and it was very interesting. I thought you might be interested in doing it, too, for fun. Check it out!! It seems to be pretty accurate for me. I DO like routine, but can adapt to change, too!

You Are An ESFJ

The Caregiver You are sympathetic and caring, putting friends and family first.A creature of habit, you prefer routines and have trouble with change.You love being in groups - whether you're helping people or working on a project.You are good at listening, laughing, and bringing out the best in people. You would make a great nurse, social worker, or teacher.

What's" Your Personality Type?

Just when I think I have it all figured out, God brings something to my attention...my indwelling sin. I think I've been guilty lately of the sin of materialism insomuch that it relates to all the things I want, or wish that I had. I have spent too much time concentrating on how I could get these things: new bedroom set (so we can pass ours to Celeste--whose dresser is for a small child), furniture for Jamie who has been living with only a bed, things for the new baby--such as a new stroller, car seat, crib, rocker, and a pool. As I look around my house I truly see abundance. God has so blessed me with this abundance. I will take today to be thankful for the things He HAS blessed me with.

~a lovely home
~6 beautiful children...almost!
~a dedicated, hard-working husband
~a housefull of noise...and stuff
~forgiven sins...Praise the Lord for that one!
~a wonderful church home with great teaching and good Christian friends

I'm so pregnant...I added one picture twice. Since I think it would be harder to modify the post, here's the pic I meant to put in. It's from June 1992, so she would have been 11 months old. We were visiting in Sarasota. She has much more hair than any of the boys had.

Happy Birthday!

HAPPY 15th Birthday, Celeste!!!
Today is my daughter's 15th birthday!!! She is my oldest child. When she returns from summer with her Dad I'm sure she's looking forward to getting her learner's permit. I can't believe she'll be driving. They grow up SO fast! She was born on July 10th, 1991 at 12:31 PM. She weighed 9 lbs., 6 oz. and was 22 inches long. My labor was 21 hours. She was 10 days late and was born in a military hospital where they didn't offer epidurals. It was pretty terrible, but she was WELL worth it. I LOVE YOU CELESTE! Here is a little picture tribute.

Every good thing comes from above! Thank you Jesus for my daughter!

Small Victory

Well, in the past several days I have managed to get Tommy off the bottle. Hooray! This was no small task for my 22 month old. Like his older sister, he was VERY attached. He may not be getting as much milk, but he seems happy. Another small victory is that I finally got Celeste enrolled at FL Virtual School to take Spanish 1. She is on a waiting list as they form classes. She will have a challenging academic year for 10th grade. I'm sure she will do great! I thank God for both of these little victories.

Nothing much going on here. Dan and Max have a bday party to go to this afternoon. Stu is mowing the lawn. We received some much needed rain the other day, but that makes the grass grow faster. (to the dismay of my husband!) I have had a lot of lower back/tailbone pain the past few days. It is quite hard to deal with...I have some fears as I have over 10 weeks left. I am praying God will be gracious to me, though. So far no insulin. That's a praise report! I guess this body just isn't what it used to be.

I am interested in making homemade bread. You know, grind your wheat, etc. I am going to a bread class next weekend. I hope it helps. When I made it the first time the loaf was quite dense and then my grain got weevils and they spread all over my pantry. Not good for starting out. No wonder it's been many months and I haven't tried again. I would love to make homemade waffles and pancakes from scratch, too! Scrapbooking is going well. I'm almost done with 2005. I hope to be all caught up by the time the baby comes.

Have a blessed day! Read about the Year of Jubilee in Leviticus 25 that proclaims liberty to all the inhabitants of the land.

26 weeks, 1 day estimate weight 2 lbs., 5 oz.

Kind of down in the dumps again today. I guess it's just a pregnant thing. I am VERY tired. I've been going non-stop for the past several days. My best friend, Val, was here with 3 of her kids and we had a good time. Yesterday I had another ultrasound. We're STILL having a girl. She looked lovely! I'll try to add a picture. I'm doing well with my gestational diabetes. I took a blood test that is supposed to tell you how well your sugars are in control and mine came back NORMAL--ha! Baby is measuring about a week ahead, but I don't have excess amniotic fluid yet and fundus is measuring right on 26 weeks. I can't wait to meet this little girl and I miss my kids that are gone :(!

Misty Oaks Home

Looking into the kitchen from the dining room

Hall bath (would be kids's bath)
Huge Bonus Room (Celeste's room!)
Master bath whirlpool tub and shower
The front...landscaped!
Looking into the kitchen.

This is a home my hubby built. It is on 1 acre and is 2635 Square Feet. It has 4 bedrooms and 3 1/2 bathrooms. It was my "dream home" that I wanted to build when we built the one we have now. (It was too large for our neighborhood.) We call it the Shelby model. Black granite countertops throughout the home. It has a really nice, large laundry room that is not a walk through from the garage--see the little round window on the front of the house. It has that 1/2 bath off the kitchen for dirty kids. The main part of the house is all tile and wood flooring. Enjoy the pictures! We're building it again for a client in Alachua. This one is listed around $410,000. We are part owners in the property and the house. They have been on the market since construction began MANY months ago. We really need this home to sell as we are carrying it. Please pray for the sale of this particular home for us. I know it will be a blessing to someone!

Ice Cream Sundaes

Ahhh, the lure of ice cream. It is a family favorite at all times, but especially on a hot summer day. Last night we went and bought toppings and had homemade sundaes. That was fun for the boys. Of course, we bought Publix vanilla ice cream, Hershey's chocolate syrup, strawberry syrup, gummy bears, chocolate jimmies, and whipped cream. It was fabulous! We'll do it again when my friend comes to visit on Monday!

BTW, Tommy turned 22 months old yesterday. Where does the time go?? I just wish he could talk better. I think that would cut down on the screams of frustration we get frequently. Please pray for me as I select homeschool curriculum for my children for the coming year. I have very high standards and it looks like this is going to be a costly year. Of course, I can reuse curriculum once we own it. Every text doesn't always work for every child, though! Have a blessed week!

Okay, I'm doing a little better the past couple of days. I have just been really down in the dumps with my older children gone. Yesterday I took the little boys to the Gator Dollar store and we got new cap guns, yea! I also went by the driver's license place to get a handbook for Celeste to study. She'll be getting her learner's permit in August--I can't believe it! I KNOW she can't wait! I'll be glad when she's driving because she can help me with errands.

Today we're just working around the house and outside. Just a quiet weekend on tap for us. My best friend, Valerie, is coming to visit on Monday for a couple days. I am REALLY looking forward to that. We'll have 7 kids in the house then as she has 4. She's also pregnant with a little girl and is due 5 weeks before me. My pregnancy is going well and my sugars are doing great!!! Fastings have been in the 80's for a week now...praise God for whatever he's doing there! Have a super weekend!

What to do?

Well, we all just finished breakfast. The boys are playing with some blocks that I bought for the baby. They just kind of took over there. At least I have not heard the tv on all morning. Many times I wish we didn't have one! I believe the tv distracts people from real relationships with their family. Plus it is not conducive to getting any work done around the house.

My big dilemma this summer (for the past 4 days) has been what do to every day. I was going to take the kids to the free movies this week. They start at 9:30. Too early for me this morning. We might go to the dollar store that our friends from church own as an activity today. I don't know. Stu needs to take my truck in to get the brakes fixed. They're squeeking pretty badly. I just know that won't be cheap! Any ideas for keeping a 7, 5, and 21 mo. old busy would be appreciated. My brother has a pool, but none of these children know how to swim, so...I would need a helper there with all of them. Plus, I'm 25 weeks pregnant today and at 38 I think I'm feeling it. She has just been growth spurting lately, so I'm a bit sore. I still just LOVE it! I am very excited about this baby!

I was reading in 1 Peter 2 this morning. Great chapter!!! We are living stones and we need to glorify God in everything we do! I will endeavor to accomplish this today. It takes loads of self control when you've got 3 young boys. Blessings!

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.