Thanksgiving 2010

Oh my! I tend to do things the hard way.... LOL! After talking with my brother, Joe, I discovered that there is indeed an easier way to cook pumpkin!!! Following my previous pumpkin instructions, just leave the pan in the oven longer until you are able to scoop pumpkin out of the shell!! No need to cut the shell off that way. :) :)

Joe gave us 5 more pumpkins to cut, cook, and put up for pies! He reminds me of our Grandpa Pletcher. He gardens, cooks, bakes, and also succeeds with mechanical, techy, and electrical projects. He knows how to do a lot of different things (I could really learn from him!). The following birth order photo was taken during Thanksgiving in Indiana ... yes, I'm the youngest. :)

The Shelley cousins all had a great time together as usual ... everyone is growing up so quickly!

I have so much more to talk about regarding our trip, but will have to share more later. My kids are needing me!
~~Hope your Thanksgiving was very blessed with food and family - especially pumpkin pie! :) :) :)

Have a Merry CHRIST-mas! :) :)

We are celebrating our family Christmas today, since this year we will be in Indiana on Christmas Day. After thoroughly enjoying our time worshipping the Lord this morning in church and then eating at a Mexican food restaurant (yum), we returned home with the three most excited children you've ever seen. They could not wait to open their gifts. As we do every year, we first discussed why it was so important for Jesus to come to earth as a baby so many years ago, and what His birth means for us today.

Daddy (aka Richard) passed out the presents to everyone, which included gifts from Richard's side of the family. As always, I did not take enough photos. There was so much excitement and squeals of delight with torn paper flying through the air, I found myself enjoying the moment instead of grabbing the camera.

Once the chaos and wrapping paper settled, we enjoyed reading instructions and putting toys together (removing gifts from their packages requires a Master's degree in gift packaging removal!). lol! Antonin was very happy over the First Act guitar we gave him, and enjoyed trying it out. Basically, we experienced our first guitar lesson together while following instructions on how to tighten and tune the strings. I knew enough about guitars to help Antonin know how to hold his fingers, but I'll be learning this foreign instrument along with him when it's all said and done. :) :) We've told him that he may have guitar lessons in another year if he continues an interest (we've also said that perhaps Uncle Matt can show him some things during our next visit to Missouri ....) :) :) :) Oh-- if Antonin is left handed, does this mean we're suppose to have him strum with his left hand instead of his right? We may be teaching him incorrectly. Hmmm... [we really don't know...do you?]

Antonin has been practicing his "chord cards" all afternoon. :) :) :) The newness may wear off after about a week, but it's been fun watching him and I honestly hope he keeps this interest. :) :)

Caleb was busy building something with his Star Wars Lego's (thanks gma & gpa) and asked Antonin to help him ... soon Princess Ashlyn (notice the apron) came along and decided to give the guitar a try. :) :)

Soon, we'll have the children take some goodies to the neighbors, and then decorate and eat our own gingerbread cookies. We may sing Christmas songs and play some games together, too.

Have a wonderful Christmas with your family ... :) :) :) God bless!

Oh, I just have to mention how excited I am about this new year (2010) ... with trying new things. Learning some guitar with Antonin, cutting the boys' hair myself and using the "saved money" for personal spending $$ .... skiing for the very first time with Richard and the boys in Michigan (when we go to Indiana for Christmas) , and learning more about nutrition with herbs and such (healthy living in general). I naturally tend to get stuck in ruts, so...yay! :)

What a fun time we had in SW Missouri visiting family over the Thanksgiving weekend!!
We had extended family photos taken at mom & dad Sorrell's, attended a play at Stained Glass Theater in Ozark, MO, watched niece Kendra make bread with the family Bosche bread mixer [I'd really like to have one], and threw a little girl cousin party for Ashlyn and cousin Karissa whose birthdays are only two days apart [December 10th and 12th]. Sweet memories... :) : )
Now that we've returned home, it's time to focus on planning a party for Ashlyn with friends here in IL (she's turning 5, can you believe it?!?!), finishing our family Christmas letter, and think-think-thinking. I sound like Winnie the Pooh .... think, think, think..... :) :)

One thing I'm thinking about is how Caleb has been doing well in school. He does require prodding and a ton of encouragment, but he usually surpasses my expectations. For example: he comes home from school upset over spelling words. I tell him to practice, do his best, and not worry about it. He responds with bad attitude and says he does not like his mothers ideas...which begins a familiar cycle of discipline [reprimand, send to room] causing me to feel as if I am a very mean mom. He eventually studies. Picking Caleb up from school the next day, he reports that he received an A+ on his spelling test. *sigh* ..... all the needless struggle we go through every day... Oh--guess what?! Caleb came home yesterday with the news that he was in the top 5 (4th graders) for Zion's Geography Bee!! Wow, that really surprised me. I didn't even know he had taken the test. Tomorrow, he will take another test... and then 2 fourth graders will be selected for the official Geography Bee at Zion, to compete against the other grades. I honestly don't expect him to make the top 2, but I'm thrilled he made the top 5!! :) :) :) :) :) He was supposedly studying tonight, but I'm not sure how much he absorbed.... since he was also studying for his spelling pre-test and English test. I often feel as if there are too many tests in one day!

Ok...remember when I posted about how I was trying to eat healthier? Well, after some more research I realized I am not supposed to be eating Kale or Spinach because it's part of the cabbage family! In case you don't know, the cabbage/broccoli family is not good for those with thyroid problems. I cannot have soy products either (bad for thyroid), so I will need to more carefully select those healthier recipes. I am still formulating a plan for myself, attempting to eat healthy while eliminating certain veggie families from my diet. I think it would be a great idea for me to juice veggies (like carrots), but I'll need to persuade my husband first. :) :)

I always feel a little funny talking about my health on this blog because I know that everyone has his/her own problems to face. I suppose my purpose in sharing this journey is to encourage someone else on his/her own quest for healthy living. Answers may never be found, especially when it comes to autoimmune diseases, but I've often thought it would be nice to read of others' journeys to save a few U-turns in the road... I'll share my "lifestyle diet" plan in the near future with the hope it may be helpful to someone else .

To give a brief background, I have had Hashimoto Thyroiditis for at least 5 years, but guessing I've had it for much longer. The left side of my thyroid gland has shrunk and is no longer working (immune system attacking gland). I find doctors frustrating because they are just as confused as I am, with no answers. I'm obediently taking my medicine (would not be able to function without it), and continue to seek nutrition and healthy living. Unlike most people with Hashimoto, I do not experience weight gain because of some blood sugar problems that are opposite from the norm and quite unusual (believe me, I baffle the doctors with my problems. lol! ) My desire to be the mother and wife God wants me to be is what keeps me seeking nutritional "answers" for myself. I do have my share of problems...for another time, another place.... like in doctor's office (or in nutritionally minded chiropractor's office). lol! :) :)

So.... I keep meaning to call my new doctor to make an appointment. Now that I've written this on my blog, I'll hopefully make the call tomorrow. :) :).... it's time to meet my new doctor! I loved my former doctor, but she privatized and no longer accepts insurance. How disappointing!! :( :( :(

Apple picking & soccer with Grandma & Grandpa

We enjoyed our visit with my parents this past weekend ... and the children had so much fun picking (and eating) apples!! It's beginning to feel more like fall .... :) :) :)

We also enjoyed watching the boys' soccer games (even though their teams did not win). What good games! :) :) We appreciate the focus on Scripture memory and good sportsmanship through the Upward soccer program (similar to Upward basketball).

I like this photo of Antonin showing his excitment over his teams' score! :) :) :)

Making memories with grandma & grandpa Shelley was fun ... :) :) They left this morning for their home in Indiana ... the kiddos miss them and look forward to seeing them at Christmas time when we will travel northward! :)

While grandma & grandpa Shelley were visiting, I found out that grandma & grandpa Sorrell will be visiting us next week!! Richard has a surprise for me ... he is planning a get-away trip for us while his parents watch our kids (here in our home) for three days. I am a bit surprised and excited to find what all he has planned. So far, he has not told me anything but that we are going 5 hours away, and for me to bring fall clothing. Hmm ... how suspenseful! He has been planning this for awhile and has just now told me ... so I suppose there's no connection between my hormonal roller coaster (as mentioned in previous post) and this (must he think I really need a break)!! LOL! :) :) :) No ones' b'day, no anniversary ... just a nice little get-away. How sweet of Richard! I'm looking forward to it. :) :) :)

Woo hoo!!! :) :) :)

I finally got this lap top's system figured out and can share photos!!!
I am positively ecstatic!!!!!!!!!!!! You have no idea just how happy and excited I am!!!
The above photo is our family at the Lincoln Museum in Springfield, Illinois. We had fun learning more about Lincoln and his family this past Memorial Day by visiting New Salem and Springfield, Illinois.
Richard and I could have done much more, but children can only absorb a certain amount of History.... :) :) :)
While immersing ourselves in U.S. History, someone backed into our family minivan in the motel's parking lot!! Richard was sitting inside the van at the time, the "thump" taking him by surprise. The good thing is that there are only two very large dents (quite noticeable) in the back of our van.
The photo below was taken at New Salem, Illinois. Did you know that Lincoln had been a land surveyor for several years as a young adult? He tried several different occupations before settling on Law.
If you appreciate history and find yourself in the middle of Illinois, consider visiting Springfield and surrounding small historic towns. The only thing you'll regret is not having enough time to see everything.

Family...and cuckoo clocks

My parents came to see us! They are here for a few days....we'll be celebrating Easter a bit early since they are planning to be back home by Sunday.

I love the cuckoo clock they brought me from Grandpa's house!!!

My maternal Grandpa Pletcher, who passed away in February, used to fix clocks and watches for people, and I have vivid memories of walking into his workshop to see and hear all the clocks ticking on the wall; in my childish mind, it seemed as if there were a wall full of cuckoo clocks ticking in unison, each taking turns to "COO-COO-COO-COO" :) :) : )

The cuckoo clock looks very nice on my kitchen wall, but I'll have to admit that it has already startled me! I was washing dishes this evening, deep in thought, when all of a sudden I heard, "COO-COO-COO...", I jumped out of my skin before realizing it was only the clock. lol!! :)

The children love keeping track of the time, waiting for the bird to come out during the "coo-coo's". : ) : ) : )

Memories of Grandpa sort of overwhelmed me when we set the clock up on the wall....hopefully I'll get used to it. If I never do, I guess I'll have to write about it {maybe a poem?} :)

Our interesting family adventure

As you may know, we headed on to Washington, DC, after leaving Indiana. It was rather odd mourning over Grandpa's death while experiencing excitement over the opportunity to accompany Richard to DC. Was I supposed to be sad or happy? I felt a bit confused. Oh--I can't forget to mention that on our way to DC we stopped in Gettysburg, PA for the night, and then visited the battle field the next morning. It was a fun day learning more about Civil War History. : ) : ) : ) No, there was no Genealogy finds for me there. I had discovered over the phone that it was only Family fable/myth that claimed our gggrandfather's name was on a monument there. lol! :) Once at Gettysburg, I asked for insight on some National cemeteries.....and hopefully I'll some day find out where my ancestor was buried. :)
The day we drove into Arlington, VA [right across the Potomac river from DC] was cold and windy--but sunny and beautiful!!! : ) We drove along George Washington Memorial Parkway......It was such a lovely drive. You know that an area is very, very beautiful when it's appealing to the eye in the middle of winter! I can't even imagine what it must look like during the spring & summer months. After admiring our surroundings awhile (while making guesses which roads we were to take--at least Richard acted as if he knew what he was doing), we checked into our hotel and excitedly talked about what we were going to do first. We decided it'd be best for me and the kids to ride the metro into DC while Richard was in his meetings. We were a little intimidated by the metro system, so decided to give it a trial run as a family. After riding once through, I had a good idea of what I was doing, and felt prepared to tackle it the next day. Or so I thought. Ashlyn had a fever the next morning. *sigh*. I decided to do some laundry and have the boys work on some school work.We went on long walks underneath the streets near the hotel ["Crystal City"] where there were many shops, restaurants and stores. I found some Tylenol for Ashlyn among other items. :) :) I wanted to take the kids to a museum the next day, so I bundled Ashlyn up, and carried her (Caleb & Antonin walked) all the way to the metro stop and into the National Museum of Natural History. The boys were excited to see all the bugs, skeletons and dinosaurs in the museum. It was an awesome place for them! Caleb was quite interested in the skeletons. Antonin liked the sea creatures and shells the best. By the end of the day my back, arms and legs were aching. As I struggled through the frigid, blowing wind on the way back to the metro stop, one of the boys mentioned, "I'm tired of walking, mom!" I was like, "I know all about it......we're almost there!" I had decided that was the only museum I was going to try in one day--with carrying Ashlyn!! ! :) The next day (Friday), Richard didn't have anymore meetings, so he accompanied us to the Air and Space Museum, and the American History museum. The museums were quite interesting... there was nearly too much information though...it made my head swim. DC is definitely a place to visit again and again!!! One can't see or take in everything in just a few days! :) :) :)
Saturday, Feb. 21st, was our 11th wedding anniversary (yeah). We had planned to visit the Washington, Lincoln memorials and possibly see the inside of the Capitol. I decided that Ashlyn wasn't well enough to walk around DC, so I stayed in the hotel room with her while Richard took the boys to see the monuments, White House, and other places of interest. I have to admit that I felt like crying, "AAUGH!" at the top of my lungs, but I managed to remember that there is a reason for everything and that God never makes mistakes--even with sickness (His ways are higher than ours...that's why we often don't understand Him). The boys had a blast visiting the monuments and say it was their favorite part of the trip.... Richard did not go inside the Capitol because he wants to do it as a whole family (aww, how sweet)....so I guess we'll see the Capitol another time. : ) : ) When Richard and the boys returned from site seeing, they took us on a drive for my benefit...so that I could see all the monuments. The Capitol building was so majestic, glistening in the evening sun!!! Richard agreed with me that it's more magnificent than the White House! Washington DC is such a beautiful city!!! I was in awe! As mentioned earlier, DC is a place one needs to visit multiple times....and even then, I don't think it would be enough. Oh...and in case you are wondering, Ashlyn is just fine now. Even though it was hard having sick kids on this trip, I'm thankful for the time we had together as a family....experiencing life. :) :) :)

Oh my...there's not enough time in a day (or night) to figure out schooling options and plan for a trip to see family (for Grandpa's funeral) and then on to Washington, DC. I guess I need to remember what the right priorities are and stop sorting through the house, putting items in the "goodwill' or "garage sale"pile(s). I have to remember that time is precious and I can clean/sort another time. Our garage really needs some organization now that I think of it....and it's going to bother me as I load up the van for our trip...I'll be staring at all the stuff I should have gotten finished before we left. AAaaaa! Okay...I need to let it go.....I need to breathe in, breathe out......
We visited the library tonight. I think the last time I was in a library that late in the evening was when I was in college! We were meeting with a lady who started a Classical Conversations home school group in this area. We were the only family who showed up, so we had her undivided attention! :) : ) Ashlyn kept us entertained (was distracting), while the boys quietly sat and listened or read books. Actually, Ashlyn was good too. I should give her some credit; she is only 4! :) : ) : ) : )
Long story short: CC is college prep home schooling with accountability (families meet once a week with tutor). I really like many things about it with keeping children (and parents) motivated. I'm still thinking.....
One more private school to visit.....and then maybe I'll have more thoughts to share on this blog concerning the schools/home schooling ideas we've visited.
For now, it's time for me to go to bed so that I can stay focused on packing tomorrow! I can't believe Thursday's almost here already! Going to mom and dad's house won't be the same now though....grandpa is no longer in the house next door to them. It's going to feel really strange not "popping in" to visit with him. Did I already mention that I grew up living next door to my maternal grandparents? My Grandmother passed away 7 yrs. ago. [my paternal grandparents died before I was born...and when I was 12]. How odd to not have any Grandparents alive.

Grandpa passing....and school options....

I know the title to this entry sounds rather odd. My Grandfather in South Bend, IN passed away the other day....and it's taken me awhile to actually write about it on this blog. I grew up next door to my maternal Grandparents, so I knew them quite well. Grandma passed away about 7 years ago, and now it was Grandpa's turn, at age 96. My favorite memory of Grandpa was when he would mow the enormous back yard with his tractor, and would tie the little red wagon to it and give me and my cousins/siblings a ride around the yard. He was always working on some chores outdoors, or fixing vehicles. He was constantly busy with something. Now we are planning our trip to Indiana.....Grandpa's service is going to be on Valentine's Day.
We have also been considering other school options for our children...we'd only be sending our oldest, and would continue to home school the younger two. We visited a private school that's down the road from us and really liked it (of course--I figured we would), but still have more places to visit before we make any decisions. Actually, we aren't making the decision ourselves....we're praying for God's direction. I'm praying for a very clear answer. We'll be visiting something called "Classical Conversations" on Tuesday evening to find out more about what it involves....it's really a home schooling method, but we'll see.....then, right before leaving for Indiana on our trip, we'll visit another private school. It's really hard staying focused on school options when there's been a death in the family, but we'll need to be making a decision soon for any possible enrollment for the next school year.
OK....I need to figure out what I need to be doing in order to be ready for our trip. I hope you have a great week....

Happy February to you....

Our snow has been melting, and we've been taking advantage of what's left of it. I just love sledding with the kids (as long as I'm warm). I really should find some snow pants for myself. I wish that snow skiing was as easy as sledding. We're thinking that maybe the boys and I can learn how to ski next winter. I'd like to learn how to ski this winter. However, it would be nice for all of us to learn together as a family(only Richard knows how to ski), so we will wait one more winter for Antonin to get slightly older so we won't be wasting money on learning to ski--[I think that's the reason??]. Yes, I'm a little disappointed, but sometimes you do things for your kids.....
I think I mentioned earlier in my blog about not having been ' into' Christmas this past year. This weekend I finally did some of my Christmas baking! Around Christmas time I had baked for our neighbors, but it was very rushed and I didn't enjoy the process or even bake anything for my friends at church. I decided to do Christmas baking all over again...this time baking more slowly to enjoy the moments. :) :) Unfortunately, Richard ate one of my creations without asking permission first, so I'll have to bake some more. :) : ) :) I really was upset at him initially.
In case you're wondering, I like baking more than I do cooking. I cook to please my hubby. I bake because I love to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! : ) : ) : ) :) : ) : ) : ) My brother is a much better baker than myself. : ) : ) : ) : ) : ) Last thanksgiving, my brother made a chocolate pecan pie that was out of this world!!! Yes, I have the recipe and he showed me how to make it! :) : )
OK... I need to get off this computer now....have a happy February!! : ) : ) : )

All is well

I just wanted to type real quickly to let you know that all is well. Richard's home! YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
: ) : ) : ) : ) : ) : ) : ) : )
Also, we are no longer snowed in! We had gotten about 8 inches of snow, and I'm sad to say that I did not do a very good job shoveling the drive (we have a very long driveway). Caleb had helped out some too, but the snow was so heavy and tough! We had made a path to the mailbox, but the path wasn't wide enough to drive a vehicle through. Now that Richard's home, he's shoveled more, making it official that we are no longer snowed in. : ) : ) Yae!!! It's good to have my hubby home again! :)

One cold, wintery night....

I'm a little cold. I love the white, beautiful snow that's outside...a whole 4 inches? I'm not exactly sure how deep it is. The snow was still falling as it was getting dark outside...we'll have to try and measure the snow tomorrow morning when we go outside to play. The children and I have been rejoicing all day long over the lovely, fluffy, beautiful snow (we've been ecstatic)!!! Still, I'm cold. My hands are nearly frozen to this keyboard as I type.....the kids are watching a veggie tales video while I pour my freezing heart out on this blog. What's my problem? Richard is traveling right now, and I miss him! Life is actually very good because he only travels a few days during the week.....but I still miss him anyhow. :(
I know, I'll change the subject....that may help. : ) : ) : )
I have been patiently waiting to sign up for some writing classes....I had to put my plans on hold because of our computer problems. The burner isn't working on this computer and I didn't want to start a class if I couldn't save anything (common sense). Instead of getting this 6 year old computer completely fixed, we decided to get a lap top and keep this old computer around just for fun (mainly for the kids). Well....I'm happy because the lap top arrived today! Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Of course, Richard isn't here, so I'll have to have more patience and wait for him to set up the router, and whatever else he will need to do to get the lap top working. It will probably be March, anyhow, before I sign up for a class--considering our family's schedule. The great thing about TUFW-online, is that one can sign up whenever they want to--and still have 6 months to finish a class.
OK....I'm feeling more warmed up (though my hands are still cold). I'm going to go in the kitchen to make some hot chocolate. The kids' video is finished.....gotta go!!!
My plans after we clean up the the house, are to finish laundry and re-organize some of my kitchen cabinets. I still miss Richard, but working (with music) always helps....as does praying for him. It's neat knowing that he and I are praying to the same God even though we're apart. LoL...I'm getting so sentimental over Richard, aren't I?!?! : ) : ) : ) : )
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This is some time later. The kids are in bed, and the house is too quiet. The snow is still lovely out in the cold, dark night.....and I'm still missing Richard, my dear sweet hubby. I think I'll talk about the children's schooling options now. We are planning on visiting two private schools within the next two weeks. We can't afford to send both boys..would just be sending Caleb (if we come to that schooling decision ). We'll also be checking into some other home schooling options that would give me and the kids more daily guidance in our home school. I'm still quite bummed that there isn't a part-time school around here like in Springfield, MO [where the kids go to school 2 days a week, and you home school the other days].....but I have to get over it. We are praying that God will give us a clear answer on which option to go with.
I had told everyone we weren't doing the classes within our home school group this semester [called "Master's Lyceum"]....but then I grew weak and gave in since we like Lyceum so much. We are only going to be there 2nd hour [Friday's, beginning Feb. 13]. Ashlyn will be in a ABC's class, Caleb will be in K'NEX, and Antonin will be in "5 in a row". I'll be helping out in Ashlyn's classroom. Friday's will be our day to run errands and get some shopping done... I like taking advantage of being in that part of town.
I need to go to bed now... Goodnight!!!

Moving to a new state....4 years ago

I can't hardly believe that January 22nd was the 4th year anniversary of our living in our present location. I'll never forget it! It all started with our living in SW Missouri and Richard accepting a job in St. Louis. I was 9 months pregnant with our daughter and on bed rest when Richard received the phone call, and excitedly mouthed the words to me (while on the phone with his future employer), "I got the job!!!!" I was not the most supportive wife at that moment....I frowned and balked at the fact that we'd be moving in 6 weeks. "How are we suppose to do that?! We're having a baby!!". Richard promised that he'd take care of everything for me and that I wouldn't have to lift a finger besides just taking care of the baby.....but I was still concerned....Richard doesn't pack boxes like I do! : ) : ) : ) : ) :) : ) : ) The very next day, we had an unplanned c-section, so I was having major doubts about our moving in 6 wks. "Richard, will those moving plans still work with having had a c-section?". If he was at all concerned, he didn't show it. The moments we spent in the hospital with our new daughter were priceless. : ) : ) : )
My parents came down to help get our house on the market and to pack boxes. Richard also took a short trip to the St. Louis area looking for houses. I missed him terribly during the time he was gone because Ashlyn was colicky and I remember worrying that her cries would wake my parents up at night. They never gave any indication that they didn't sleep well, so either I did a good job muffling Ashlyn's cries from 1 to 3AM, or God blessed them with some sound sleep. :) :) :) The time came for us to choose a house, and this time, Ashlyn (age 3 wks) & I went with Richard [the boys stayed w/ Richard's family; my parents had stayed 3 wks w/ us and had just returned home]. It was fun at first looking around at all the different houses, but then the fun wore off and we became a little weary. We prayed that God would help us to find the right house because we couldn't make such a major decision on our own. The day before we were to return to SW Missouri to finish our packing, we had still not chosen a house and continued to trust that God knew what He was doing (we knew we didn't). A house came on the market at the last minute, and we walked through it three times in 1 1/2 days...because we really liked it (we were leaving the next day), and didn't want to make a rash decision. Making the decision process story short, God led us to this house, and we are so thankful! : ) : ) : )
Richard's family helped with finishing up the packed boxes, bringing food over for us, cleaning our entire house, loading the uhaul, babysitting the boys. We never could have packed up and made this move without family! I literally had nothing to do but simply take care of my crying infant. : ) : ) : ) : ) : ) The day of the move--January 22, 2005--was cold, snowy, and quite dreary. Our U-haul wouldn't start that morning, so a neighbor came over to jump the battery for us. Dad Sorrell drove the huge Uhaul with Richard's car on a trailer behind it, Mom Sorrell drove their own family van with more of our stuff packed inside, and Richard & I drove our family van with more of our stuff packed inside...including our 3 children. After those chaotic 6 weeks, I finally felt we were a "complete" family...traveling together in a van...on our way to a "strange", new land. Once we arrived to our new house, there was so much to be done (of course). Mom & Dad arrived a little later than we did because of driving the Uhaul w/trailer, so this gave us a few extra hours to unpack a few items and get the kids settled in their new home (oh...and also attend the "closing"). Winter days are very short, so by the time the enormous Uhaul arrived at our house, it was getting dark. The guys unloaded just a few items. We all wondered to ourselves if just Richard, Darren (his brother) and Dad could unload everything themselves the next day. I remember laying awake in the recliner (I wasn't feeling well), listening to the strange creaks and groans in the house, along with the strong, frigid winter wind that howled all night long. One thought was in my mind, "We're here; now what?" :) The next morning, the men were busy unloading the Uhaul, while Mom Sorrell worked hard in the kitchen unpacking. I was trying to hide the fact that I was not feeling well, but finally had to admit that I was useless with helping to unpack. I was ordered to bed!!! I did not like leaving all the work to everyone else, but knew I had no other choice in the matter. :) : ) Richard had slipped off the Uhaul ramp earlier, hitting his head on the truck while he fell {knocked the wind out of him but after resting a bit, he was fine}......so when I got sick soon after, I started wondering, "What's going on?! All of this isn't supposed to happen!" : ) : ) :) Somehow, the Uhaul was unloaded by just 3 men...and the kitchen was all unpacked by one mother in law. I had a new kitchen by the time I was feeling better again. : ) : ) : ) : ) : ) : ) : ) We didn't know one soul in the area...then when Mom, Dad & Darren Sorrell left, we felt so strange! It was an odd feeling not knowing anyone and learning the area.
I know this was a long winded story.....it's just so special to me, and I can't leave anything out! God was in our move even in the difficult moments, and He has been and continues to be so faithful [I'm sure everyone has a story to share]. : ) : ) : )
Happy January to you! :)

Water, water everywhere!

How ridiculous. Absolutely ridiculous! I was enjoying a nice afternoon shower (a rare moment alone), when I heard knocking at the bathroom door. "Who is it?" I asked, turning the shower off and feeling annoyed. "Me", said a voice, "The toilet in the blue bathroom [our second bathroom] is overflowing."
I sighed to myself and yelled out, "Just a minute!" Several minutes went by as I threw clothes on and adjusted my attitude...then I walked into the kitchen to find my oldest son mopping and sweeping gallons of water out the back door. The toilet continued to spill water onto the floor from the nearby bathroom, while my other son attempted to use the plunger. I was appalled at the amount of water on the floor. There was a FLOOD of water flowing out the door! I asked both boys, "What was put in this toilet?" Their answers were "I don't know", and "toilet paper". I was like, "Things like this don't just "happen"! Are you sure nothing else was put in there?" I was eventually successful with the plunger, but still wondered what had caused the flood to happen . "Did you put a whole roll of toilet paper in there or something?" *sigh* I'm glad the toilet is finished with its flooding escapade! The boys eventually got the mess cleaned up (kind-of), and this now gives me an excuse to mop the floor and wash my little rugs. I need to clean house anyhow....we are having company tomorrow evening! Of course! That's why the toilet had problems...remember? Every time we get ready to have company over, we have plumbing issues! [well....maybe not every time] : ) : ) : )

computer pain--ouch!

I'm sure you remember my lamenting awhile back about all the computer problems we had. No, the problems are not completely fixed, I'm able to access the Internet on my "side" of the computer. My husbands side still doesn't work, so he uses mine. I have done everything my brother has told me to do...all the scans... etc., etc. I realized that our burner is not working either, so haven't been able to save any photos or documents to CD's during this whole process ......AAAAAAAUUUUUUUUGGGHHH!!! In panic, I began printing things out from files that I didn't want to lose, and then slowed down when Richard came into the room. He is an optimist and tried to encourage me: "Everything will be alright; don't worry", "DOn't WORRY????", I exclaimed, " Don't you see all the important documents I have on this computer, not to mention the photo files that I cannot save...I last saved my photos in April.......so months May through December 2008 are not saved!!!" Richard calmly responded, "Well, that's why you're supposed to back up the photos often."

The moment a female is upset over her computer files, is not the time for a man to be practical (I quickly got over it though, and found his suggestions helpful--thanks Richard!)!! : ) : ) : ) : )

Richard pointed out that it'd be better for me to send any files I want to save, to an email account [instead of frantically printing them all out], and that my photos will be alright....my photos from April 2008 to the present, are still on the memory card in my camera (yes, I can fit a lot of photos on it!), and I can upload the other misc. ones...to Snapfish (or flickr). I guess this means that I'm needing to postpone any special or new projects for now.

I don't want to work hard on something, only to lose it!!!!

We may have to take the computer in to a real "shop" soon, and get it fixed. Either that, or simply purchase something else. I think I've had my share of Computer Science. Looking on the bright side, I'm glad we've been able to use the Internet... and that I've learned something about sick computers. :)

End of 2008.....let's bring in the new year!!

I can't believe that it's almost 2009! One year ago, I was getting used to the idea of Richard traveling everywhere for his new job (training), and the thrill of our family traveling with him a few times. Now, I have to get used to his being home (he still travels during the week about 2 x a month)! I AM glad that he will be home more often--don't take me wrong. lol! I'm actually thankful that 2008 is passed, and am looking forward to the coming year. God has been SO good to us, and I want to concentrate on His goodness! It's easy to take God for granted and not appreciate all that He's done, and continuing to do in one's life. `````````~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You know...though we've enjoyed time together w/ family this Holiday season,I will admit that this past Christmas did not seem like Christmas until the day of. With all our family's travels, I could not get into the Christmas Spirit. Just yesterday, our family walked around downtown to view the Gingerbread houses in the business' windows [it was fun!]. Afterwards, we tried viewing neighborhood lights, but there weren't many to see....so we drove over to the "Way of Lights display" at "Our Lady of the Snows"....what lovely lights! Ashlyn loved the lighted angels in the "shepherd's scene" and she exclaimed, "The shepherds were afraid of the angels, weren't they!" [she said this 20 times]. I finally told her that the shepherds didn't need to be afraid because the angels were bringing good news about Jesus {and that we don't need to be afraid either because God loves us and angels are sent from Him}. She thought the angels were real, even after being told they were "pretend angels"; how does one explain Christmas lights to a 4 year old? lol! :) I'm thankful for God's love that He shows to us daily...let's work at not taking it all for granted. That sounds like a good New Year's Resolution. :)
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I know this is quite a change of subject, but I am pleased with my after-Christmas finds in Missouri and here at our local Walmart! I think we are set for next year (and looking forward to it)..all except for the stockings...hopefully will find some nice ones during next year's after Christmas sales. :) Happy New Year to you and your family!! May God bless you !!!
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I just had another thought. Our Nations' uncertain times, mixed with corrupt politics in the Land of Lincoln, is enough to make anyone sick and not look forward to the new year. I remember one of my Grandparents saying that going through hard times develops character in a person, and in a nation. Perhaps these tough times will bring people together more...and cause us to remember who we are, and Who God is.
:) :) :)

Hope your Christmas was Merry! :)

We arrived home this evening, after visiting family in Missouri for Christmas! The time flew by as always, and Ashlyn had to deal with her emotions after arriving home. While unpacking our suitcases, Ashlyn looked up Richard and exclaimed with feeling, "Daddy...I thought we were going on a long trip!!" Her eyes were big and round, and she was clearly upset. Richard explained that we had gone on a trip, and needed to unpack now that we were home. "Are you glad that we're home?" he asked her. Ashlyn shook her head "no", folded her little arms, then walked to her bedroom, gently closing the door behind her. Richard & I looked at each other like, "What's with her? She's only 4 years old!!!"
Ashlyn did eventually work through all her emotions, and now appears to be happy that she's home. : ) : ) : ) : )
We had a very nice Christmas with the Sorrell family. It was great remembering the Reason for the Christmas season at a candle light service on Christmas Eve [plus activities for the kids] at Mom & Dad Sorrell's church. On Christmas Day, the children had a lot of fun playing with their cousins, and singing 'Happy Birthday to Jesus' together (among other presentations by the children). :) We all continued the tradition of cooking and eating all day long at Mom & Dad Sorrell's house, and making memories together! :) We were also blessed during the weekend, to spend a little time with one of Richard's Aunt & Uncle, and cousin(s). It was nice being able to see them again!
We also went ice skating with Richard's sister's family! :) Right at first, Richard was the only one helping our 3 children skate because I was hugging the wall.... eventually, I warmed up and skated normally (it's like riding a bicycle, right? It comes back to you after awhile). : ) We all had a great time ice skating!! I didn't want to leave the rink, but Richard assured me there is an ice skating rink near where we live, too. :) : ) Besides ice skating more often, I have a new goal for the New Year: Learning how to snow ski. I hear that snow skiing is like flying, so I think I'll like it once I can learn how to stay right side up all the way down the hill. :) : ) : ) Richard knows how to snow ski...he may be teaching me for our Winter Wedding Anniversary (11th)! : ) : ) : ) : )
OK...time for me to go to bed. I have a sore throat, some chills, and need to make myself another cup of tea. Tomorrow will dawn bright and early....and I'm hoping to get over this cold or flu (it came on suddenly). Oh, I need to tell you about our being refreshed with today's Church service in Missouri! The Message was on "Weariness", Isaiah 40:1-31. It was an awesome reminder to step back from the weariness in life and to focus on God --- Who He is. When we lean into God, He will refresh us while we continue to persevere; it's not a time of "rest". He enables us to soar on the wind [troubles] like an Eagle [stop 'flapping & flapping' to survive...that's what pigeons do]. Leaning into God brings Glory to Himself. Read also Galatians 6:9 . There are battles and trials that people face day in and day out... questioning God's purposes ("why is all of this happening to me while I'm trusting/having faith in God?") .
Alright....I really must go to bed. Goodnight! :) :) :)

"One life to Love", by 33 miles

We enjoyed our family Christmas this afternoon....it was so much fun (of course), and I must admit that the best gift given and received was the love expressed to each other and the time spent together. The greatest gift of all, is the gift of God's Son. What a wonderful Savior! :)
Richard heard a song on a radio station and shared it with me today....wow! Powerful anthem!
I want to be the best wife and mother that I can be this coming year....so help me God. :) :) Copy and paste the link below into Internet browser to hear the song by 33 miles. If it's busy, please try again...it's worth hearing! I've also added it to the list of my favorite music, if you'd rather not copy/paste. :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NouK3fxgZXI&feature=related

Happy 4th Birthday (a week ago during computer issues)! :)

We celebrated Ashlyn's b-day with 3 of her little friends; it was a Princess party and they had so much fun together! :) : )

I cannot believe our little girl is four! It seems like yesterday that I was lying in the recovery room at the hospital while Richard handed me a screaming little bundle. She had lots of dark black hair and looked like a little Indian baby! :) She would scream any time anyone else but me held her [she finally got use to Richard in the hospital]. :) : ) : ) She was a c-section baby because I had had problems with pre-eclampsia. The thrilling part was that she was a girl!!! We had thought we were having a boy... so during the birth, when the Doctor held Ashlyn up for Richard to see, and asked him what the baby was.....Richard had stammered, "Is it a g-g-girl??" : ) : ) : )
What's funny, is that at Ashlyn's 3 week check up, I asked the Doctor what was wrong with my baby...thinking there must be something terribly wrong health-wise since she screamed so much. The Doctor looked at me and said, "I think it's just Ashlyn's temperament". : ) : ) : ) : )
Once she grew out of the infant stage, Ashlyn's personality changed! Perhaps all those prayers from 12 Am to 3 AM helped!!! : ) : ) : )
Happy Birthday, Ashlyn! You are such a special gift! : ) : ) : ) : ) Mom and Dad love you so much! : ) : )

Whew! Glad that's over! :)

Hey, I'm back! I went against everything I knew about files attached to emails, and clicked on one in a message I thought was from someone I knew on Facebook.....making a long story short, I downloaded a whole bunch of viruses to my computer! This all took place a week ago Friday. I was pretty scared because there was some sort of spy ware stuff [and other programs] that were added to my desk top and to my document files that I had not added!!! ACK! Wouldn't you know that Richard was on a trip! I kept my Internet unhooked and called my brother in Indiana. He's a computer guy. He walked me through how to correct the problem(s) in the computer, even sending me some anti-virus/malware programs on a disc. After 6 days , the computer and Internet connection now are in working order; Richard came home to a working computer! : ) : ) : ) : ) Yes, all the anti-virus stuff is up to date, and I'll be keeping it that way. : ) : ) : ) : ) I'm so glad that is over.... I learned a bit of Computer Science in the process, but am not certain I'll remember it for very long. : ) : ) Always remember: follow your first instinct and don't open files that sound a bit odd to you....even if you think it's from a trusted friend (it's probably not...it's a computer "hacker" who sent it in the friend's name, and who needs to go and get a real job).