The Hill Family Journey

Noelle today

2012-02-10T08:16:00.000-08:00

After enjoying the view out the window this morning, she decided to work on her writing...she is amazing, isn't even quite 4 and look what she wrote! (Pony)

Hmmm...what is next today at the Lumberyard?!
Oh joy...help mom get nails!
As she works, she is announcing out loud what great help she is!

She's a shooter!

2012-02-03T07:45:00.000-08:00

The middle of Winter?

2012-02-03T07:40:00.000-08:00

Noelle and her hearts!

2012-02-03T07:38:00.000-08:00

She cut and colored hearts and taped them biggest to littlest and found a chicken feather to attach (oh such brillance!)...and it is now hanging proudly in the kitchen! Good job, Noelle!

Macy's Post Office

2012-02-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

She scored an A+ on her Post Office project, including an interview w/ a postal clerk, constructing the building, and reporting it to the class. Good job, Macy!

V.I.P

2012-02-03T07:25:00.000-08:00

A REALLY excited Julia to be V.I.P in her classroom this week! Josh and I both had lunch with her and played at recess! She had a hard time sharing Mommy with her friends!

Oh Where Oh Where have we been....?!!

2012-01-28T11:01:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe January is nearing an end! I realized I have not made any posts this month, besides Noelle's haircut, and I haven't even taken any pictures since then! Sorry to my regular blog readers...we are still alive and active over here in Southern Iowa!

Hmmmm...in a netshell....

We've been busy with good things such as KIDS, running a business (attempting to, anyway!), laundry (it just seems to never end), exercise (Josh and I both have New Years running goals!), and somehow squeezing in time with the Lord -- EVERDAY! -- or all of the above would take a nose dive!!

School has been awesome for the kids this year! Really, we sit amazed and perplexed (and exhausted)...is it possible to be exhausted AND in awe...the answer is YES! These little beings amaze us with brains that are sponges and personalities that seem to light up the sky! I keep calling Caden a 3rd grader :) he is constantly reminding me he is in 4th GRADE...I just can't believe it! He is a whiz kid...scoring straight A's on his report card this year. His "big" Christmas was a Nintendo DS, it was a battle for us because we are NOT video game friendly people...however, we found that he was playing someone else's on the bus...hmmm....realized with an hour bus ride we'd rather him play HIS OWN game--and then we are sure his hands and feet stay to himself...aka-less of throwing things and ornary boy things that take place on a bus ride (we've all been there, right!!)! We have refrained from activities in town--eventhough flag football and wrestling have knocked at our door with this growing boy, he has been very understanding as we continue to say "no". We know this compliance will not last forever, we will have to let this growing boy leave the house :) however, for now we are soaking up as much family time as we can w/out evening activities and such that seem to sweep through households! He is outside throwing around his football or batting rocks any chance he gets, we have barely had any snow and I have to admit we have missed it!

Macy is whiz #2...scoring E for Excellence in all of the above at school, she is an achiever and takes things very seriously. She recently did a report on the local Post Office, I'll have to post a picture as she constructed the Post Office out of a cardboard box. She loves to read the 'Puppy Place' book series and recently informed me that she's read all of her books 4 times (...BUY THE GIRL NEW BOOKS!!!). Her class has been doing the 'Little House on the Prairie' Series so she is taking a little bit of an interest in that but overall--she just has to be reading about a Puppy!! Macy loves to wrestle her brother and climb trees and get 'Mommy time'..she said to me, "You are always either with Julia or busy!" :( Any Mom knows those words are saddening to the mommy heart--however, any mom knows how difficult it is to manage time between kids. I really have to be intentional! She has recently had more UTI trouble, many of you know she had trouble as a younger little girl but she's been better for a couple of years but has recently has repeating infections again. The nurse looked at me and asked, "Well, is she drinking any water at all?!"....URRRRR I hadn't seen her take a single drink that whole day!!!....I was embarrassed-so a water bottle will now be on her school desk at all times!!!!

Julia is our drama girl! Always a story about 'relational' things at school..such as noone is playing with her or someone got in trouble or she wants jeans like someone in her class...oh joy!!! She has taken to Kindergarten so well and is still somewhat baby loveable and squeezable (soaking it up!!!). She is always first up in the morning and always on my tail to be helping in the kitchen. She has grown to love learning and thanks to her awesome teacher at school! She is reading little books to us and really, really, really trying hard to count perfectly to 100! She says the bus gives her a headache and she hits her head on the window on every bump! tooo funny!!!! Julia goes hard at everything and pretty much always has something to say!

Noelle is my side kick! She and I are the Lumberyard workers. She and I get in the truck everyday at 9:00 AM and head to Pulaski (10 miles away) to work with Daddy. She has come to know our sales reps and has counted about everything on the shelves once or twice. She loves to sweep and mop and very often gets a forklift ride! She has been a perfect 4th child, she goes with the flow! Josh and I have laughed so hard at her and are appreciating our time with her. She loves her sisters Leapster2 game and steals it as soon as she is on the bus! She will probably go to Pre-School next year but I'm unsure at this time where the Lord is leading us to do with her--we may just like her at our side to darn much :) She'll be 4 SOON! I'm sure I will actually take a picture on her birthday!!

As for Josh and I, we have become the best of business partners! I am working 9-3 everyday with him at our Lumberyard. Some days more, some days less...but we do not have anyone else hired right now, so I'm pretty much on call to help and do as Josh needs me. It is trying some days, but it is continually revealed to us the importance of my role in this small business adventure. We still rent Josh's Great Grandma's property for our living, and that has been a blessing. It is little maintenance and cozy and easy to clean (like one sweep through and BAM..CLEAN!), this is how I've managed to work and "do home". I've come to know a lot about PVC pipe, different grades of lumber..screws..caulking..hindges..steel siding..insulation..and our newest adventure is that we are now selling a line of Cabinets and actually sold our first two jobs in the month of January--this is exciting for us! (see http://customcupboards.com) We are learning, growing, and praying alot along the way!!

I guess I have answered "Oh Where oh Where have we been?!". Love you All!! Hope you are finding this New Year to be a Joy!! I promise the next post will be PICTURES and very little words! LOL!

Daddy took her for a haircut!

2012-01-06T11:41:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year from the Hill Kids!

2012-01-01T10:57:00.000-08:00

Yah! They made it till New Years and I had to get a snapshot! Very grumpy and Macy says, "Never again!"....but for once (haha!) we tried to be fun parents. We attended a church party that lasted till mid-night. We had plenty of sugar and laughter to bring in the New Year!

Blessings to you in 2012!

Christmas and Caden turns 10!

2012-01-01T09:00:00.000-08:00

We have had a fantastic week of family gatherings, food, presents, celebrating and savoring each moment. I really wasn't real good with my camera, but here are a few photos of favorite presents and Caden's birthday. The time off from school has just flown by! I have really enjoyed it and will have to gear up for bus time coming on Tuesday. It is very strange with such mild weather. We have been riding bikes and playing at the park this week, instead of usual Christmas break activities-such as snow ice cream and sledding. I guess we'll take what we get and keep plugging away!
We really can't believe Caden turned 10--that means some milestones such as 10 years of parenting... Yikes!

Christmas COCOA

2011-12-20T13:40:00.000-08:00

Being intentional about celebrating the true meaning of Christmas...
I stole this from a Proverbs 31 devotional. It blessed me and I hope it will you!

COCOA

C= Christ.
Spending as much time seeking God's heart as we do the perfect present for another.

O= Ornament
We can easily spend more time decorating our house to look like the holiday edition of a magazine, than we do adorning our inner spirit with God’s love and compassion. Let’s ask God to make our hearts beautiful by giving us His patience and kindness. Then let’s look for ways to bless those around us, especially those in need.

C= Cheerfully Celebrate the Season
“A happy heart makes a face look cheerful. But a sad heart produces a broken spirit.” Proverbs 15:13 (NIV)
As gift lists grow and calendars get full, our physical and emotional energy can be drained. Although Christmas is meant to be a joyous season, many of us struggle with depression and discouragement during this time of the year. Let’s take time each day to focus on how much we are valued and loved as children of God. The holidays are merely a season, but God’s love and compassion for us are permanent.

O= Overjoyed not Overwhelmed
"When they saw the star they were overjoyed..." Matt. 2:10
When we focus our hearts on all God has done, we won’t get as easily overwhelmed by all that still needs to be done.

A= Abundance
Whenever I think of Christmas morning, from my childhood to the present, the word ABUNDANCE comes to mind. Abundance of presents, food and activities. But these things are temporary. What we need is the abundant life Jesus came to give us. Our hearts need His mercy, peace and love, not only on Christmas day, but every day throughout each year.

Praying a COCOA Christmas for each of you!!

All Dolled Up.

2011-12-18T10:18:00.000-08:00

This morning was our church Christmas program. The kids sang a few songs and topped it off with plenty of donuts. We do not "doll-up" very often, but everyone was cooperative today--except that Macy complained about her tights the entire morning. I am cherishing this in my heart, these kids are precious and the days are passing so quickly! I also am not doing an official Christmas card this year, so enjoy these pictures! Merry Christmas to you--most of you reading this are dear to me!

Check out our homemade star...it is bigger than the tree :) It is a tradition (I stole from my grandma when my mom was little) to make our own star...this is a styrofoam star about 2 inches thick and it falls off everytime a wind passes-which is quite often and usually some form of a ball or stuffed animal flying through the air.

I encourage you to read the Christmas story this week (Luke 2). It has given me great joy and peace amidst the preparation of present giving, food indulgence, and the "Santa" craze all around us...."This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."vs.34

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."v14

Tis the Season...

2011-12-13T17:13:00.000-08:00

for the school Christmas concert! Lots of songs about Santa, shopping, food, and reindeer....not our first choice for Christmas songs, but the kids have fun and they are adorable to watch.
Macy in the brown/white sweater.

Caden and his buddy Chris.

Julia, directly in the middle in colorful shirt!

You know you live in a small town when.....

2011-12-12T17:19:00.000-08:00

A note comes home from school requesting "your Grandmother's cupcakes"!!!
What a hoot!! Check it out Grandma Karla....

This is for Macy's class next week. Her teacher obviously wants to eat a YUMMY cupcake--the yummiest are made by Josh's mom--I can't blame the teacher for requesting them!! Tooooooo Funny!!!!

Macy's 1st Drive....

2011-11-25T04:49:00.000-08:00

Macy got brave to drive Caden's dirtbike...oh boy, I think shes got a new hobby!

We've had a few things going on at our house, including celebrating Josh's birthday with pie and homemade presents from the kids, Macy had a Thanksgiving play at school that she was so proud of and she ate up the memorization it required, kids are home from school for Thanksgiving (I can't believe how fast the year is going!), the flu bug (passing through quickly thankfully), beautiful weather = as much outdoor play as possible, we missed one family gathering but have two on the agenda hopefully everyone will stay healthy and we can attend.

I asked the kids to describe Thanksgiving, this is what they responded:
Thankful, Joyful, Mouths-full, Happy!

Turkey Fever!

2011-11-19T05:14:00.000-08:00

She is so funny! This girl has grown and blossomed so much since starting Kindergarten. Her class has been doing many Turkey projects in the past week, and she was SO excited to display them to me after school on Friday! Talking non-stop about her projects and pulling stuff out of her bag as fast as she can. Her love for learning has grown tremendously--she has a fantastic teacher and I am so, so grateful! JuJu is one unique individual and you cannot help but love her!

NO-she did not wear the dog shorts to school--however, she changes ASAP to her "home" clothes when she gets home--just thought I'd clarify her outfit!

Family Pictures

2011-11-18T11:53:00.000-08:00

These pictures have significance to us, not only because our kids our precious and memorable ages (you know, the ages we want to freeze time...DON'T GROW!) but also because the scenery is REAL. We live at Josh's Great Grandma's property, she is 98 in the local Care Center. She LOVES it that we live at her house and the scenery is beautiful, especially through the Fall season...beautiful, beautiful, beautiful...so we went to the back woods for our pictures.

Happy Thanksgiving Week everyone! Thanks be to the Lord, whom has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. Eph. 1:3

Picture session DONE...shed the sweaters and run back to the house!!

A bow and a book....

2011-11-07T06:02:00.000-08:00

...and she's off with her Dad to sit in a deer stand! Macy has been asking to hunt w/ her dad for awhile now. He invested in a 2 seater tree stand this year hoping to have some company. She shot a log with the bow and said she was a little bored, however Daddy time makes it all worthwhile. Nothing like Daddy-time for a little girl!!

Meet the Dog!

2011-10-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

Marathon Memories

2011-10-17T06:38:00.000-07:00

Thank you for those of you who were thinking about me and/or praying for me during this Marathon this past weekend. I am very sore today, more and more so as the day wears on. I am very burnt-out and mindless (I planned two suppers for tonight without realizing it...ummmmm.....snap with it Emily!!). The kids had today off of school so I had to parent--that did not go well for me today! Anyhow, recovery will be another whole journey...right!! I was very happy with how my training and run went. I am very thankful for people put in my path these past couple of months to encourage me and give me training advice...such as the carb load up and eating Skittles during my runs. I am very happy to finish strong, with sore legs but no pains that hindered me from finishing...I ran a steady 4:42:42...I even made a friend along the way and enjoyed the scenery. It was fun and well worth the past few months of discipline.
Enjoy my pictures!

Excited! Maybe even a little giddy!

OK-Josh caught me getting a little nervous....

My brother and his wife surprised me at mile 20 by being spectators...and they ran with me for a little bit--so much fun!

Almost done...and even smiling!

The real deal....DONE! NOT SMILING!

Whew! I got to my husband and he can hold me up!!

Heat sheet...a life saver for my tired bones!
That kiss was a life saver for my tired bones too!! hehe!

I think my new motto is NEVER SAY NEVER!

I studied on several "run" verses up to this weekend, but one I read before I left the hotel room--then was on a girls shirt in front of me at the start line--then came to my mind at mile 18 when I settled into the "tough" running was this:
Isaiah 40:31
"those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint."

The kids were cheering me on from my parents house in Keota. Along with hanging out with Papa Trent, they managed to find his sucker stash in the combine!

Spoke to me this morning....

2011-10-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

On my drive to work this morning, this song (of course, turned up really loud in my car) spoke to my heart. Sometimes my light gets burned out...busyness, stress, giving to my family constantly, just life in general has got my light barely burning--this song reminds me to rely on HIM-Lord Jesus! Oh yes, the SPARK, the SHOT TO THE HEART...that is what I want from HIM! Thank you Lord, I pray your love shine down and you put your light in me! Amen!

One and a half weeks till I run my first Marathon...praying for healing to some of my aching body from 5 months of training and a strong run for HIM! Message me if you need prayer--I am devoting 4-5 hours Oct. 16th 8 AM to praying-YOU will be in the midst of my run if you have a need-I will pray!

His First Squirrel!

2011-10-03T15:36:00.000-07:00

Hunting season has officially begun...it started out strong with a boys Sunday afternoon squirrel hunt. Caden killed his first three squirrels! So now there are skinned squirrels in the fridge awaiting the frying pan...I'm a little hesitant!!

I love this picture!

Forever PANTHERS!

2011-10-03T15:22:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we made our annual trip to the UNI Panther Dome. We have gone on Family weekend to watch a football game for the past three years, and it makes for a great family getaway! Josh and I are both UNI grads and we love that place--so we want our kids to love visiting there too! Purple & gold ice cream, McDonalds happy meals, and a night at a hotel can't go wrong, right! We also hooked up with some old friends for church and lunch on Sunday. What a great time! We look forward to doing it again next year!

Pulaski Corn Show Parade

2011-09-19T14:14:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was the Annual 'Corn Show' in Pulaski, IA -- the town our Lumberyard is located. It is a very, very small town--maybe 250? people live in the town, it is 10 miles from the bigger town of Bloomfield where our kids go to school and it is about the size of 2500. Just so you get a picture here of where the Lumberyard is located, if you are reading this and have no idea! The Corn Show is Pulaski's annual 'days' with games, fireworks, and yummy food in the park. And a parade, which we entered a float this year. We had fun putting it together as a family and even won 1st place prize of $50. woohoo!! This is a very small parade, we may have even been the only float haha!

The kids had fun riding and throwing candy at their friends.
And YES, those are real trees that Josh cut down and bolted to the trailer!

These are our first 'Pulaski Lumber' shirts. Josh has worked at developing a logo this past year, so we tried it out on shirts. We loved them!

Josh was proud to get 1st place. So proud of his kids and me....can't you tell by that smile!??

BLUE today!

2011-09-15T05:57:00.000-07:00

Julia has done well at being a new Kindergartener. There have been a few tears-I believe out of tiredness, but overall she has been a big trooper at the rise and shine hour of 6:30 and the bus time of 7:10. Her report everyday is, "Awesome! My day was awesome!!". OK- that is a good enough report for me! Today she took great pride in dressing in "Mommy's favorite color". She wears leggings about every day and her hair in a LOW ponytail...it has to be LOW-or we re-do it!! I am constantly praying for her confidence in knowing how much God loves her....I have seen the fruits of that prayer in her demeanor. No doubt- she is growing up, changeing and blossoming daily! Luv you, JuJu! You are so, so cute in my favorite color!!

Tucking them in...

2011-09-15T05:49:00.000-07:00

When they are babies we take pictures of them sleeping and I realized one night they are just too cute going to bed and I had better capture the moment!
Macy...even a dog when she is ready to go to sleep....

JuJu.....she loves bedtime and regularly falls right asleep after a puppy song and a prayer...she is like her dad-one minute eyes open, the next minute eyes closed!

Noelle...cute as a bugs ear! She always gives 4 kisses and counts after each kiss...4 because she is anticipating her 4th birthday (in 5 months!).

The All-BOY!

2011-09-15T05:43:00.000-07:00

I don't post much on Caden, he resists picture-taking---I shouldn't expect anything else out of an almost 10 year old boy, right?! He did let me take a picture of his popped bubble-of course, something weird and he doesn't have to smile.haha!

The last of Summer...

2011-09-15T05:34:00.000-07:00

This is Noelle's pink flower garden. She insisted on watering it during one of our last hot "summer" days. She is a little doll of a 3 year old girl, if I've ever seen one! She has been soaking up mommy time but also asking for JuJu during the school hours of the day. I love these pictures....my mommy heart is taking pictures!

Macy is 8~

2011-09-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

How did this happen?!! It just doesn't seem right that this girl turned 8! We had fantastic weather for a family birthday party this weekend...check out her cake made by Grandma Karla. YES, it tasted as good as it looks! Macy asked for a "monkey & dog" cake. It was such a cute cake I hated to cut it.

Macy loves to read. She spends most of her time reading dog books.

Very often I will find her in a tree with a book. Looks like therapy, maybe I should try it next time I need to get away!

We love you, Macy! You are a beautiful child-full of love for others, a love for dogs, and a love for reading dog books :) and making dog clinics, dog shelters, dog pet stores, just plain pretending that you are a dog.....I love to watch it! You are God's Precious child and we are priviledged to get to raise you!!

Our Favorite Food!

2011-09-06T13:05:00.000-07:00

We spent Labor Day "laboring" in the garden. Much needed clean-up work was needing done, as the growing season comes to a close. This is our yummy squash harvest. It will last a few meals through the Winter months and has become a favorite at our dinner table.

Washed and ready to go to storage!

It was a pretty good garden year. It seemed cut short because of the hot July weather. Everything dried up really quickly in the 3 week drought. We are thankful for what we get and will savor every last bite as the weather turns colder.

Back to Basics 2011

2011-08-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

Today was the 3rd annual 'Back to Basics' run in our town of Bloomfield, IA. Many local businesses come together and support this 5 mile/5k/and 1 mile youth run. Caden and Macy participated in the 1 mile and I in the 5 mile. It was so much fun! I had tears in my eyes watching my kids cross the finish line. They did a great job. There was a train halfway in case kids needed a ride back. Macy said, "I started to cry and I really wanted to get on the train, but I just kept going!". Yah!! What a trooper! It was fun watching all of the little tykes, not just my own.

Caden was the 2nd or 3rd boy to finish.

Macy was not too far behind him!!

My Father-in-law also participated in the 5 mile. I got 1st place in the 30 year old girls and he got 1st place in the 50 year old males. He and I both enjoy running, he is a joy and encourages me!!

So much fun!!

And they are off.....

2011-08-25T06:35:00.000-07:00

4th grader, 2nd grader, Kindergartener.....

It's quite the week...as most households, we are off to another year of school!
Wow! The years pass by and these kids keep growing. I am so thankful to be their mommy and most of all to have invested their earliest years at home. No regrets, that is my motto! Caden and Macy had their first day of school on Tuesday. This was an easy transition, because they know the ropes. They know the bus routine and they know the school, so they were ready for this adventure to begin!

I have to share the beautiful countryside, where we watch for the bus to arrive!

Julia and Noelle enjoyed their last two days of playing together as "best friends"...as they call themselves. We watched for the bus to arrive home at 4:00 to greeted Caden and Macy, as I am coaching constantly to Julia..."See...this is exactly what you will do." She is oblivious!!!

Until her and I get to go see the real deal. We visited her teacher and classroom together...she was all confident until we stepped into the school and she saw the lines and lines of kids....LOTS of kids!!

And she gets shy!! I'm thinking, "NOOOOO!"

However, God shows up in many small ways during our hour at school. She comes out of her shell and really takes to her teacher and is proud to now be in the "blue" group!

And there is a glimpse of the bus coming in the distance! And that beautiful scenery!

They are off! No tears for momma....maybe just a few sniffles! I am thankful for Josh's words as he left for work this morning (MY STEADY HUSBAND!)--"You be content and happy today. You have done your job and she is ready.".

Julia has the same Kindergarten teacher that Macy had. Macy made this card for Julia at supper last night. So, So cute! Once again, the Lord showing up!

Our family enters a new season! 3 kids in school, 1 at home! I am looking forward to this year. Noelle and I will be buds, and we will love it when that bus comes home at the end of the day. I am thankful, so thankful how God prepares our hearts for changes.

Imagination.....

2011-08-22T08:52:00.000-07:00

Noelle came into the house from digging in the dirt and says to me, "I found something with a horn coming out of its nose. I think it is a dead Triceratops. I will go get it for my collection!".

1st Annual "Horse Games at Grandma's"!

2011-08-20T07:33:00.001-07:00

Here we go.....

2011-08-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

School open house....we got to visit the classrooms, put supplies away, and meet this years teachers. Yah! 4th grader and 2nd grader-big stuff! This is an old hat for these two. I am happy for their new adventure and ready for them to GO! Next week you will hear about the Kindergartener in the house--that is a whole different story!

Two Extremes

2011-08-19T08:17:00.000-07:00

Anyone who really knows my 4th child - this post will not surprise you! My camera captured the two extremes of her personality all in one day. She will love all of the momma time while the other three go to school this year. I don't even think she will miss them, I think she will enjoy having the toys to herself and mom one-on-one.

Dubuquers

2011-08-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

Friends since 2001, we met at Village Inn in Cedar Falls, and we've never been the same since....I'm talking about my friend Jamie Steele. Jamie and her precious kids came to Southern Iowa to hangout for a day/night. A trip to the Lumberyard, a drive around the county to see the kids' school and a few of the Lumberyards projects, homemade pizza, water balloons, enjoying the scenery, encouraging each other and hashing out a marriage book....were all included in our much needed time together.

Love you, Jamie! We'll visit you in the big city next time!!

One last Hoorah.....

2011-08-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

CAMPING!!! The kids have been asking to camp ONE LAST TIME this Summer. I packed up the car...told Josh to meet us at a campground after work...the kids and I spent two days just hanging out and tent camping at a local park. It was so nice to have different scenery and little distraction from enjoying time together. Josh ended up having to work late both nights, so he joined us for fire and smores and sleeping in the tent--that was a bummer, we missed him...however, MOM proved to her kids that she can "rough it" without Daddy!!

We had a coon attack at dusk. The coons were rampade little creatures searching for food! See my kids-trying to sneak up on a baby coon! They are actually oowing and awwing at how cute it was!! Ewwww.....OK-I'll rough it, but I won't be friends with a coon!!

Tired, sleepy children! They are so fun!

Hmmm....what is left to do this Summer?! There are a few more things on the kids' list that we will try to get accomplished!

Omaha Zoo

2011-08-08T11:27:00.000-07:00

Genesis 1:24-25 "Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that move along the ground, and wild animals, each according to its kind." And is was so. God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that is was good.

We had one big creature lesson with a weekend trip to the Omaha Zoo.
From this beautiful parrot...

to this big Rhino....

Upclose and personal with a Bear...

Fun with Dad and Pop (high priced pop, I might add!) to keep us cool!!

Of course, not a perfect trip w/out at least one kid deciding to cop an attitude for the day....can you tell which kid!??

Praise the Lord...for the random sprinkler systems--the only times she did not whine!!

We touched an Alligator Taxidermy.

Gorillas and Monkeys definately ranked as favorites of the day!

And big brother steps up to the plate...he carries #4 to the car--mom and dad were DONE IN for the day!

Oh what memories....they will last for a lifetime and make us smile!

Playing with cousins.

2011-07-29T15:31:00.000-07:00

The kids' 2nd cousins, Jack and Ben, from Wisconsin visited us for a playdate. As you can see in the picture, the boys played dress-up with the girls and they all had a ball!

Grass for the Horses.

2011-07-29T15:19:00.000-07:00

This is my breakfast plate...I convinced the girls that I cooked some grass to eat, and they thought maybe their horses should eat it instead of me! It is actually shredded, fried Zucchini from our garden. We've had a fairly productive garden this year, better than last year anyway. I'm thankful for anything I can get put away for the Winter months. Yes, there is "grass" in the freezer for Winter soup!

This and That....

2011-07-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

As most of you are too....we are full-fledged into Summertime! I can't believe how fast time is going, as school peeks into the schedule in a mere 6 weeks! Afternoons at the pool, ice cream cones, Smores over an outdoor fire, watching movies in the air-condition, and baseball games top the list of our current "to do's".

This picture says it all...these two are quite the baseball pair! Josh is helping coach Caden's 9 year old All-Star team and they are just too cute! These weekend tournaments have kept us hopping and one more to go!! Let's just say....the girls in this house are ready to say Bye, Bye to baseball for the Summer! However, I am proud of my "Hill" shirt--see 2nd picture!!

And the girls love their brother!!

Happy Summer! I hope your days are full of sunshine and smiles!

4th of July Weekend

2011-07-05T09:06:00.000-07:00

We had a full 4th weekend. The business was closed Sat-Mon, so it was nice to have Josh to ourselves. Lets see....what all did we do?

A trip to the Iowa City Farmers Market to see my brothers Aronia berry stand(http://aronialife.com/). We picked up some yummy, fresh fudge and a bag of kettle corn made from home-grown popcorn. It was really neat to see my brother in action promoting his Aronia products.

We attended a 75th birthday bash for Josh's Grandma. It was a great time of hanging out with family. Yummy food, fireworks, and each family made Grandma a stepping stone of which I took no pictures (sorry!). It was so neat to see each family personalize a stepping stone design and to see the kids make their own creations and best of all to see Grandma's smile...she LOVED it!!! Josh's Grandma Eunice is so special to us!

We slept to the bullfrogs and owls hooting in the back pasture. We wanted to camp, but thought it'd be much quieter (and easier) in the back pasture than to go to a campground. We spent two nights with our kids sleeping in tents. We made smores, caught fireflies, watched several fireworks displays in the distant sky, Josh cooked us his famous campfire breakfast, TONS of quiet family time...and there was a barn to set the tents inside when it rained :) and Caden's dirtbike to ride home if we forgot something. It worked out so well!

We picked the first round of green beans in the garden! And the 19th Zucchini!

We made a trip to my parents house for a 4th of July supper and watched more fireworks in the distance. My kids said, "Can we ever go to the fireworks up close?" haha...they are so deprived!

Lots of dirt bike riding, naps (in the house, not in the tent!), hanging out under the shade trees, and praising the Lord for this great country that we live in.....that pretty much wraps it up!

So, today we slept in till 9:00 and laundry tops the list of "to do's"!

Pink Personality turns 5!

2011-06-27T07:14:00.000-07:00

We had a great day yesterday celebrating Julia's 5th birthday! Heart pancakes for breakfast, hot dogs for lunch, and a heart shaped pink/yellow cake (make by Grandma Karla) topped the list of "wants" on her big day.

Julia LOVES her gift from us. This little dollhouse is perfect for Summer fun, however, she'll need some lessons about how to share with her sisters (notice Macy had to set up a lawn chair outside of it!).

Proof that adults do fit into her little house....Her Great-Grandma rang her doorbell and stepped right in to play with her.

My 3rd Ceaserean birth was not an easy surgery. I cryed the whole way through and told Josh I "WILL NOT DO THIS AGAIN" (somehow Noelle showed up though...funny how that works!). Expecting to have a boy or at least a dark-haired doll (like the Macy that I had at home!), but out came this pink-skinned girl bundle with blonde hair....my first reaction was "WHO IS THIS BABY?". I didn't even hold her I said, "take her to the nursery". I laugh at this story, because this girl known as JUJU to our family has a special place in my heart. She is loving and fun-spirited, she loves clothes and piggy tail braids in her hair, she loves to play with Noelle and follow mommy around (she is my best helper!), she loves ponies and dogs, and if you turn your back....you never now what she will do next! We just LOVE this girl!! We look forward to watching her be "5"....learning to ride her bike w/out training wheels, getting on the school bus this Fall, and tying her shoes top the list for
"5" activities. And of course, continually reminding her that she is not 15 YET!

Fathers Day Haircut

2011-06-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

Julia got the honor of cutting Josh's hair for Fathers Day! It is a one length buzz so she couldn't mess it up. I took over when his head got sore from jabs by the end of the clipper head. This job made Julia feel really special!

End of the Season...

2011-06-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

Macy had a fantastic time this Summer playing softball on the "Crush" team. She was SO cute and loved to hit and run the bases! After every game she said, "I'm so glad I signed up!". Good job, Macy! You are so fun to watch!!

Caden finished up his regular baseball season last week.
See ya next year, Pirates!!

Josh will get to coach the All-Star team that Caden is picked to play on.
All-Star's will consist of a couple tournaments in July.
So, now we change the uniform and the teammates but not the game!
We love Baseball, if you can't tell!! :)

The little troopers!! They've sat through many, many games and chewed lots of bubblegum from the concession stand!!

Fathers Day Ad

2011-06-18T04:55:00.000-07:00

SEND YOUR DAD TO OUR DAD FOR THE BEST BUILDING MATERIALS!

PULASKI LUMBER CO.

This is going on our third year of business at Pulaski Lumber. We have ran this same ad in the local paper each year with a picture of the kids, it is neat to see how much the kids have grown.

2010

2009

New Eyes!

2011-06-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

Really....she has whole new eyes with these new glasses! Her vision had changed drastically since last August. It makes my momma heart happy to know she can SEE now! She loves these frames, they are green on the top and sides even though the picture doesn't show it....her favorite color!! The eye dr. ladies say she looks like Hollywood. NOPE, not Macy...she's a farm girl that loves dogs and is a bookworm--and we just LOVE HER!

Funny....she's so proud to watch TV while laying back on the couch....she had to sit up close with her other glasses! Crazy!!!

WHEN DID HE GET SO BIG?

2011-06-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

Another baseball mom forwarded me these pictures and I love them! Caden is having a great season - lots of ups and downs, learning, and attitude adjustments :)

Josh fills in as coach when needed. They look so serious!!

the sounds of Summer!

2011-06-06T12:03:00.000-07:00

I'm sure everyone agrees....SUMMER IS AWESOME! We are so appreciative of school being out and having lots of down time together. Love it, Love it!!!! I am really enjoying my kids right now. It seems less like parenting and more like just hanging out with my buddies so far (SO FAR!!!). Last week we had no baseball or commitments, so we actually spent the week at home and one day went to a local beach (hardly anyone was there) and that was SOOO nice!

Proof that it is Summer...the 9 year old boy actually went to sleep in the middle of the afternoon!!!

Dam to Dam 2011

2011-06-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

I really struggled mentally training for the Dam to Dam this year. I am thankful for my sister, who encouraged me quite often to keep going through the Winter months. We finished neck to neck on Saturday in 2:00:48 and that was so much fun for us to share!! As in the past, the pain of running 12.4 miles was worth it. This was my 5th Dam to Dam and I'm counting on doing the 6th unless I am physically unable. Beautiful weather, 8,000 runners, obtaining a goal, burning 2500 calories (just a guess), and a memory made with my sister = PRICELESS!

Memorial Fun!

2011-05-31T19:08:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU to the Eekhoff family! Lincoln and Lindsay Eekhoff and their boyz Griffin & Gable are dear friends from Eldora, IA that traveled 3 hours in order to spend an overnight with us on Memorial Saturday! We had such an awesome time hanging out with their family. The kids played perfectly together-chasing chickens and gathering eggs was a favorite activity!
Saturday included a visit to the Lumberyard, the park, and a fishing trip...(Dads and kids) check out the pile of fish they caught! Griffin caught a big monster! They picked up a pile of ticks too at the pond. I think each kid had 10 ticks!!!! Sorry, Lindsay--I forgot to fill you in on that part of visiting Southern Iowa, the ticks are thick!!

Making Smores....

Josh--the designated "fish cleaner".....

Caden showing off...or being dangerous....however you want to look at it!

Tired, starring eyes at the fire....

A loose tooth....

The "fish cleaner" went to sleep first!!!

Star Wars Wii was a favorite for the boys!

Lincoln in his PJ's....hahahaha...sorry, Lincoln!!!

We are so very, very thankful for friends to share life with! Especially friends we don't see for 2 years and can pick up where we left off!! We had so much fun, please come again Eekhoff fam!!

Memorial Day Monday Daddy time! Looks dangerous, but he did have it under control!

Off they go....to make a fort in those trees way yonder!

Another year bites the dust!

2011-05-27T07:28:00.000-07:00

On the bus in August....

Off the bus in May!! Yah!! It's Summer!!!

And Julia wrapped up Pre-School with a cute little graduation ceremony!
Sooo cute!!!

WOW! The year flew by! It has been a fantastic year!
Thank you, Lord, for a great school year!
We welcome Summer with open arms, big smiles, and thanksgiving in our hearts!!

2011-05-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

I said, "Noelle, are you a baby?"

Noelle said, "NO- I am a walking, talking BARBIE!"

I guess I missed the boat....at some point my BABY girl has become a BARBIE in her little mind!!

She is Anxious!!!!

2011-05-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

It has been a great year of Pre-School for Julia...however, she is counting down the days until she is DONE!! We made a chain today in order to motivate her to finish the year strong (with NO more whining when she gets up and has to go!!). Only 8 days on the chain until she officially gets to be in the school with the big kids. She cannot wait to go to school with the big kids. Tomorrow the Pre-School class is eating lunch and having recess at the Elementary, and she informed me that she will "gladly get on the bus in the morning with Macy". That will not be the case in the morning, however, Fall will come way toooooo fast!!!!! Julia has grown so much this year, she has taken leaps and bounds in her classroom at Pre-School and I am glad the Lord has shown me in a number of ways that she is ready to go to Kindergarten! Stay tuned in 8 days for a Pre-School graduation picture....she will be so happy!!!!

Monkeys for the Weekend!

2011-05-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

Thank you to my priceless friend, Julie Peterson, for inviting me along with this group of ladies to Women of Faith in Des Moines last weekend! It was a fantastic time of laughter, tears, food (note to self: take chocolate next time for late night cravings!!!), crazy driving on unfamiliar streets, listening to Gods Word and heart changing testimonies--WOW, I had such a blast!

One speaker was Dr. Henry Cloud, author of the book "The Keys to Happiness".
A worldwide survey was done of people whom claim to be "happy".
These are the top 3 qualities found in the "happy" people....
1) GIVERS (your body chemistry actually changes when you give!)
2) CONNECTED (they had Monkeys or small groups of people who knew their heart)
3) THINK DIFFERENTLY (they claim to think differently than the rest of the world)
You'll have to look up the book in order to obtain the rest of the qualities! I am feeling impacted by pondering these 3 since the weekend!

Josh's brother, Joey and Kristen's Wedding!

2011-05-02T06:27:00.000-07:00

It's Baseball Season!!!

2011-04-30T19:31:00.000-07:00

Opening Day for Baseball season was today! The kids were so excited to dress in their uniforms and parade with their teammates! Caden is a Pirate this year and Macy a Crush!
Let the games begin....

3rd Grade 'Fluency Fair'

2011-04-29T05:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we enjoyed an hour of listening to Caden's class read poetry in unison and play their recorders. We ended the trip with ice cream cones! What a great time with my kids! Caden says he recognized me in the gym by my purse! I guess my purse has made an impression on my son! :) I just love, love, love these kids! I am amazed at their growth this year!

Paying for a window

2011-04-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

Caden broke out my sisters window with a basketball, luckily the Lumberyard man can repair it easily...however Caden is paying us back with chores...one being doing the dishes every night. We don't have a dishwasher....haha...well now we do and his name is Caden!! He is doing such a good job I think he's earned himself a full-time job. I get so much else done not having to do the supper dishes! Anyhow, I hope he has learned his lesson...DON'T CHUCK A BASKETBALL LIKE A BASEBALL AT A HOUSE!!!!! One of many lessons learned this year for a nine year old boy!

Easter Kids

2011-04-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

Jazz up the boxed brownie!

2011-04-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

I really don't mean to keep posting unhealthy recipes!! (OK, maybe I do!) Everyone loves peanut butter brownies, right!? I found this recipe on-line to jazz up my boxed brownie that was sitting in the cupboard for weeks. We Love them!! Yum,Yum!! I just made them for Easter dinner at Grandma's house, so that prompted me to share the recipe!

Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies (adapted)
1 boxed brownie mix for a 13x9 pan, prepared according to box directions

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/3 cup sugar
4 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
Preheat oven to 350-degrees F. Spray 13X9 pan with cooking spray.

Prepare peanut butter swirl: using a stand mixer, beat peanut butter, sugar, butter, flour, vanilla, and egg until well blended.

Spread two-thirds of the prepared chocolate brownie batter into the bottom of the pan. Top with 6 large (or 12 small) dollops of peanut butter mixture. Top with remaining 1/3 of brownie batter. With tip of knife, cut and twist through mixtures to create swirled effect.

Bake brownie 30 to 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted 2 inches from edge comes out almost clean. Cool in pan on wire rack.

Enjoy!

Poppy Seed Muffins or Bread

2011-04-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

This is a favorite in our house! My kids go crazy over this recipe, so I thought I'd share it with you!

1 box yellow cake mix
4 eggs
1 box instant lemmon pudding
1/2 c. oil
1 c. warm water
1/4 c. poppy seeds

Mix ingredients and beat for 4 minutes. Bake at 350.
I make muffins just because we like muffins, but the actual recipe says it makes 2 loaves and bake for 30-40 minutes.

YUMMY! SOOOO YUMMY!!

It's Friday....but Sunday's Comin'!!

2011-04-22T05:17:00.000-07:00

My Friend Liz!

2011-04-18T09:10:00.000-07:00

I love this girl! This is Liz...she is a fantastic person and I just love her to death!! Josh and her husband grew up together...as soon as I met her when we moved here we were instant friends and we make the guys get together often. They like to talk about their good old baseball days. We usually get all of our kids together for family hangout time, but this month we opted for the adult double date night! Such fun...praise the Lord for friends to laugh and share life with!

AWANA Year-End

2011-04-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our official end to the AWANA year at church. Caden was a part of 'Truth & Training', Macy 'Sparks', Julia and Noelle 'Cubbies'. It was a fantastic year of learning Gods Word and fun with other kids. Josh led a group of 6th grade girls and I helped in the Cubbies room w/ Julia and Noelle. It has been a Sunday night family affair for us! It is a relief having the commitment wrapped up for the year with nicer weather setting in, however, we'll be anxious to start up again in the Fall! Awana's is definately a worthwhile ministry for kids and adults to be a part of...learning Gods Word and fellowship-such fun!

It goes on and on....

2011-04-04T15:12:00.000-07:00

I'll tell you what, we've got this nasty flu bug in the house and it goes on and on and on....I'm pretty sure it is a 5 day bug! It has been one week- 2 are done with it, 2 in the middle of it, 1 just spiked the fever today, and 1 (that's be ME) has had nothing of it yet. I have to say it is nice not thinking about what's for supper. Toast, bananas, chicken noodle soup.... kind of nice on the budget, I guess if there is a positive-that'd be it! So, we are doing lots of hanging out and lots of making up of school work! The little girls enjoyed Caden home today, they ruffled him up! Their shrieks of laughter were pretty cute!

Sharing his news!

2011-04-01T08:50:00.000-07:00

Caden attended try-outs this week for the local Major League baseball teams (ages 10-12, 9 year olds can try-out). He picked up the phone last night to call his Papa Tony and his Papa Trent (avid baseball fans) to share his big news! He got picked in the coaches draft....so he will officially be a "Pirate" this Summer. This boy has been practicing in the driveway since the snow has allowed him too. He is such a go-getter and works at it with all his might (Ecclesiates 9:10). This momma is SOOOO happy for him! Good job, Caden! GO PIRATES!!

Which is a great reminder that Summer is right around the corner!!!! Yipppeeee!!

She Smiled!

2011-03-29T07:10:00.000-07:00

We've had the flu bug in our house! Macy and fevers seem to go hand in hand lately! This is her second round of fever in the last 3 weeks. She is so sweet. Yesterday was a grouchy day for her, but today I saw her smile...sure enough the fever has broke. It is nice to see her come back! However, I will not let her leave the couch because I am worried if she moves it will spike again. So--she is watching Sesame Street with her favorite puppy. Leave it to a 7 year old to figure out that cookie monster is NOT actually eating the cookie!! She said, "Mom, the cookie falls apart and flies in pieces all over the place. He does not actually eat any of it.". Very good observation my brilliant 1st grader!

My husband--the master gardener!

2011-03-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

I told him he looks like an arsonist in these pictures while carrying his torch. Really, he is just "spring cleaning" in the garden. There were so many weeds and stuff we didn't get cleaned up from last year. It's almost planting season! Yah!

12 years of pure Bliss!!

2011-03-13T18:31:00.000-07:00

OK, so maybe not PURE bliss...but close to it anyway :) !!! Praise the Lord for this family! We celebrated our anniversary this weekend by taking the kids to a skating rink and McDonalds playland. We had a great family time and the kids were awesome on skates for the first time. Macy says she fell 101 times! I got my wedding veil out to wear for the weekend. The kids were embarrassed and said I could NOT wear it to the skating rink. Josh says I look way less nervous underneath that veil now than I did on our wedding day!! We have had a blessed journey and are so, so thankful for each other! I'd marry him all over again...I'm pretty sure he'd marry me all over again too :) !!

Getting out of the house!

2011-03-12T06:56:00.000-08:00

I'm sure like most people right now--we are dying to get out of the house! We took advantage of a nice afternoon yesterday and took off for a walk down the road. Can't wait till Spring/Summer!!
This is the muddy mess in the chicken coop! I feel sorry for the chickens in there!

We have been letting them out of their pen each day for awhile. As you can see, the dogs do very well--they have not attempted to eat one yet.

It is quite the hike to a bridge the kids love to go to. Up on top of that hill in the background is our house.

Ah! We made it! They love to throw rocks in, let the dogs swim, and just hangout here.

Julia gathers big rocks on the hike to throw into the water.

Noelle--well, her little legs get tired. I did end up carrying her back up that big hill!

#2 down w/ the flu!

2011-03-05T09:18:00.000-08:00

The picture tells all! Caden caught Macy's fever. He is waiting ever so patiently for some chicken noodle soup!

the last few days...

2011-03-03T15:40:00.000-08:00

We've had a lot of girly time at home, as Macy has had a fever...no other symptoms, just a fever. It is OLD! It really can kick anytime and we can move on with life!! I have been enjoying her at home. She has been leading crafts for the little girls. They made these Eagles (impressive, I thought). Noelle's is even a baby Eagle. They spent an hour flying them around the house and now we need a new craft!!

Julia decided to actually help me in the kitchen. Seriously, REAL help! It was nice--she washed dishes and swept floors all by herself. Then hugged me and thanked me for LETTING her help! WOW--hope my teenage girl will act that way!

Caden brought Macy home a book that she had ordered from the book order. Her nose was in that book. I think she misses school!! She read Ch. 1-7 before bed!

Hopefully the weekend will not hold more sickness for us!

When I woke up....

2011-02-27T13:19:00.000-08:00

Caden had made the girls a hot chocolate party! Josh and I had a 1 AM bedtime, because of a painting project. It is nice to have big kids that take care of themselves and have fun together. They even put a towel on their table in case of a spill. Bonus!

Priceless Play!!

2011-02-25T10:01:00.000-08:00

Noelle and Julia were playing "Sick Sister" this morning. As you can tell, Julia is the sick sister. (I snuck a picture quickly!) When the Dr. visited (that'd be Me!), Noelle says, "Hi Dr., I prayed.".

For a Good Cause....

2011-02-23T10:02:00.000-08:00

Noelle got this fleece poncho/hat set for her birthday. She is cute as a button wearing it! A girl that grew up in the Bloomfield area makes these to raise money in order to expand their family by adopting a child from Bulgaria.

Check it out! Great gift idea! Thanks, MOM!
Here is the website:
http://lovehopeadoption.wordpress.com/funtastic-fleece/

The "Baby" is 3!

2011-02-19T07:27:00.000-08:00

Three years ago Josh and I followed a snowplow 30 miles into Waterloo, arriving 2 hours late for our 4th (and final!) C-Section! It was quite the stressful morning after our plans were thwarted because of a bad snowstorm. God sent a helpful neighbor, a 4-wheel drive vehicle, and a snowplow--PTL, I was determined this baby WAS COMING OUT! Despite arriving 2 hours late for the "prep work" for the C-section....the C-section took place on time...(hmmm...why do they make you arrive so early?!). After an "easy" C-Section, you know....as easy as a C-section can be--a little doll joined our family. Oh boy, was she a doll. This little thing didn't make an extra peep, aside from being hungry! (She's still that way!) I'm convinced God knew just what this momma needed while already having 3 little ones at home--AN EASY BABY! So yesterday we celebrated our little Doll!

The party got a little out of hand! For some odd reason they decided to dress as these Ninja/underwear head people!

Valentine Parties!

2011-02-14T15:10:00.000-08:00

I visited the school today for Caden & Macy's Valentine parties. It was a lot of fun! As you can see by the pictures, the kids got to eat plenty of sugar (Fun Dips seemed to be a favorite!) and sticking out the colored tongue was a popular activity for pictures! I embarrassed Caden by asking his classmates if anyone needed a hug....LOTS of kids wanted a mommy hug...awwwww...I thought that was my God given job today- to hug the kids:)

Sunday morning I made a '2nd annual' Valentine breakfast for the kids and Josh. We had a heart shaped breakfast pizza, parfaits of strawberries and whipped cream, and a few special treats on their plates. They are quite the special crew and I love them bunches and bunches!!

Girl Time!

2011-02-03T12:24:00.000-08:00

So, on the 3rd snow day in a row I decided Caden needed some boy time outside of the house. I got him up bright and early and sent him to work with his Dad. Macy's friend, Kylie, wanted to join our girl time. She is a neighbor girl that is home-schooled and she loves any time she can get with Macy, when Macy isn't in school!

Bathroom Update....

2011-02-03T11:02:00.000-08:00

I am embarrassed to even post my bathroom pictures! But I thought some of you family members reading this know it is Grandma's bathroom and maybe you remember putting up this wallpaper that I am removing or remember the green tile underneath??? All in all, it is in terrible need of an update so I decided to tackle the project while snowed in this week. See the last picture for the last piece of wallpaper that needs to come down (the worst piece to do-behind the toliet)!! I'm not quite sure what my plan is yet, but I am pretty sure the Lumberyard will have something to help me out :) I'll let you know when I'm finished!

Playing in the Snow...

2011-02-02T13:32:00.001-08:00

Just got the call that school is cancelled AGAIN tomorrow--at least they give Momma plenty of notice in order to emotionally prepare for another day!!

We played outside for quite awhile today. The snow is really fun!!
Here's the poor chicken coop full of snow.

We have noticed eggs being broken and eaten--well we caught the egg eater! Looks like we will get to eat her!! She made friends with Macy. She sat on Macy's arm and would not leave!!

This is David-our neighbor. He always scoops our driveway, bless his heart!
He made a Winter Wonderland of drifts for the kids to play in!

Josh got Snow Shoes for Christmas. This was the first try to utilize them, they were awesome (so he said)....he stayed on top of the drifts.

YES, my new camera got hit with this snowball! THANKS, CADEN!!!!!!!

Digging Out~

2011-02-02T06:38:00.000-08:00

As most of Iowa, we had quite the snowstorm in the last 24 hours. Here is the story of our morning....

Digging out the door...

Caden climbing drifts....

The dog sneaking in to sit on the couch....

Two eggs were layed in the midst of the storm....GO Chickens GO!....

A bucket of snow to make Snow Ice Cream today....

He's off to work (so he thinks!)....digging out the truck....

He gives up...feeds the dogs....and says, "It's a snow day!"

I'm sure there will be more later!

Today's Activity.

2011-01-21T11:17:00.001-08:00

Today the girls have concocted a fort by dumping many, many of their toys.

Opps...they found a hole!

Got it Covered!!!

It's a Record!

2011-01-17T15:07:00.000-08:00

6 Farm Fresh Eggs today! One so fresh that it was HOT when we picked it up.
We made them into boiled eggs for a snack...oh my, were they tasty!
Amazing!

Girls and HAIR!

2011-01-13T14:13:00.000-08:00

Today we played with BIG Hair-du's!

Funny Girls!

2011-01-11T18:43:00.000-08:00

A witch and 2 princesses riding on a broom! Only on a long snow day would they come up with such an activity!

Snow Day Fun!

2011-01-11T14:10:00.000-08:00

This is our first real accumulation of snowfall for the Winter, and the kids got to be home from school. There were lots of hoops and hollers this morning before 7 AM when the phone call came saying NO SCHOOL! We accomplished lots of activities today including...playing plenty of Wii games and watching cartoons, making chocolate chip cookies, free play including making forts - setting up a library and Macy making us visit to check out books - and playing musical instruments. We spent some time outside and gathered enough fresh snow to make snow ice cream. Oh my it is good! I highly recommend trying it out...
1 gal fresh snow
2 cups milk
1 Tbsp. vanilla
1 cup sugar
Mix it up and YUM, YUM!!
Oh what fun these kids are!!!

Breakfast Ideas....

2011-01-07T14:20:00.000-08:00

Oatmeal-Peanut Butter Bars
Make these ahead of time. They keep well on the counter and can even be frozen.
Line a 13 x 9-inch pan with foil.

In large bowl, mix together 3/4 c. peanut butter, 3/4 c. brown sugar, and 1/4 c. butter, until well blended. Stir in 1/4 c. honey, 1 egg, and 1 t. vanilla. Add 1 c. oatmeal (uncooked), quick or regular, along with 1 c. uncooked oat bran and 1/2 c. nonfat dry milk.

Stir until mixed. It will be a little crumbly. Press into prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes, until edges are lightly browned. After it cools, lift out of pan by the foil and onto cutting board. Cut into two-inch squares.

Berry-Lime Smoothie
Smoothies are a great way to get fruit into your kids. If they like them, you can experiment with all kinds of ingredients, from mango to blueberries to peach nectar to yogurt. Here's a tasty start.

Place in blender 1 c. frozen strawberries, 1 c. fresh or frozen pineapple chunks, 1/2 c. frozen raspberries, 1/4 c. orange juice, and 2 T. frozen limeade concentrate. Whirl together - you can add a bit more juice, if needed. Bendy straws make it even more delicious.

Back to the Grind..

2011-01-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

Back to the school routine this morning with 7:10 AM bus arrival.
Before School.

Monkeys after school.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T19:04:00.000-08:00

Cashed Out!

2011-01-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

We had one final Christmas celebration today at Grandma Karla's house. Caden fell asleep on the couch just before we decided to head home. It's been a good day-I think food, cousins, and more presents are good enough reasons for a boy to have a nap right before bedtime!

Noelle all ready to go home from Grandma's house. She endlessly asked to spend the night at Grandma's house, but is now safe and snug in her own little bed. I just had to share this picture with you, because she is such a doll! We'll sleep at Grandma's soon :) OK, Grandma?!

Can't believe he's 9!

2010-12-31T17:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas, New Years....and BIRTHDAY! Seems like yesterday that Caden was a little four year old scoring touchdowns and playing in the dirt. He is still scoring touchdowns and playing in the dirt...just in a bigger sized body HA!:) We had friends over to play, family over to visit, plenty of presents and sweet treats AND homemade stuffed crust cheese pizza...all in celebration of a 9th Birthday! What a year it has been of watching him grow and change! Playing baseball, dirt bike riding, fishing, clay pigeon shooting, Star Wars action figures...have all been at the top of the list this year in his world.

Caden and his cute friend, Lane..(I love to squeeze his cheeks!)
And as you can see, NO SNOW!

First Egg!

2010-12-31T06:50:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the 40 deg. temperatures we have had lately, our chickens are popping out eggs! This egg is even still warm! Josh was feeding the chickens when he heard a noise in the egg box--sure enough, there was an egg!

Christmas Vacation!

2010-12-29T14:52:00.000-08:00

Lots of Fun! We had a weekend full of food, family, and presents in celebration of Christmas. With kids out of school this week, we have had lots of home/hanging out time together.

A Wii was this year's Christmas surprise. Caden gets pretty intense and has knocked his sisters in the head several times by doing his thing.

Lots of laying around, hanging upside down, and wallering going on!

Lots of smiles and laughing too! I am so excited about these pictures. My Christmas present was a new camera. I am so excited to have CLEAR pictures to post!

Macy, on the other hand, is not so dramatic in her Wii playing! She is very studious about her Dog Rescue game.

Mary Did you Know....(WOW!)

2010-12-20T15:34:00.000-08:00

Worth It!

2010-12-09T18:47:00.000-08:00

If you've read my previous post you will see by this picture that the tree came out of the van, lights got hung, kid decorations hung, and Macy reading "Twas the Night Before Christmas" to her siters in their PJ's....Ahhhhh....this picture is sooo worth the pine needles in the car and on the clean carpet. Mommy's heart took a picture!

Captain Clean!

2010-12-09T14:30:00.000-08:00

The best phone call I've ever made! They showed up and cleaned my carpet while I was gone today. Love it! Love it! It is CLEAN! WooHoo! (It was really bad before, including blue marker, spilled food, and who knows what else!)
I don't even want to move my furniture back. As you see behind Noelle...this is our "war zone". Especially with the cold weather settling in, this is where the kids play all the time, they don't seem to want to go to their rooms or even the basement They want to play - usually extremely rough and loud- right where mom and dad can see them! This is our living room AND dining room space AND computer space. It will probably be full of toys by the end of the night if I don't reclaim the space with furniture!
I highly recommend Captain Clean!

What'd I tell ya......I look up from the computer and see forts--I guess they have officially taken over!

One more piece of information from our household....here's the Christmas tree! Yep, I managed to shove a 6' Christmas tree into the van today while my carpet was being cleaned. But now comes the dilemna of putting the tree on my clean carpet and cleaning pine needs out of the van (maybe I'll hire Captain Clean for that task)! OR maybe I'll just leave it in the van, who'd notice anyway, the kids can find seats somehow!

Hoping for some eggs!

2010-12-02T15:53:00.000-08:00

We ended up with 30 chickens in the freezer to eat, 14 Hens left for eggs (hopefully in the next couple months!), and 1 Rooster (nothing better than hearing that Cock-A-Doodle-Dooooo in the mornings)! It has been a good experience and a pretty easy hobby. I think the hens are beautiful!

Noelle eating a fried chicken leg. She made buddies with some of the chickens, Caden and Macy were telling her, "You are eating your little buddy!" all through supper!

What are we up too?

2010-12-02T15:45:00.001-08:00

We've been a little restless. Lots of wrestling matches going on during these cold nights at our house! This was actually at a Thanksgiving gathering last weekend. They put on quite the show! They had to show their stuff to a crowd!