Smallest Angel

For Sunday

2011-09-13T20:30:00.001-05:00

She's On Her Way Home!

2011-05-30T21:12:00.001-05:00

Carrie's mother found her in Morgantown today and she is on her way home! Thank you to everyone who offered prayers, reposts and offered to help. Prayers have been answered!

Somewhere, Out There

2011-05-29T22:11:00.003-05:00

The Gospel text for today was John 14: 15 - 21. Jesus assures his disciples and us that we will never be alone. God sent the Holy Spirit to comfort and guide us. It's good to know that God walks with us through everything, no matter what. How great it is to know that we are not in this alone, that God is with us along the way. Knowing this offers us comfort, it offers us hope and it helps us to endure hardships.

Last week we heard the sad news that my husband's cousin was missing. Carrie Zucker was last seen on Monday, May 23rd, 2011 in front of St. Lukes Lutheran Church, 401 Scammel Street in Marietta, OH. Her picture is above. She has dark blue eyes, very short brown hair, she's around 150 lbs, 5'5"-5'7" tall. When she was last seen she was wearing a dark brown v-neck shirt, black capris and sandals. If anyone has information on Carrie Zucker's whereabouts, please contact the following authorities: Marietta, OH Police Department: 740-376-2007 or Parkersburg, WV Sheriff Department: 304-485-8501.

We would appreciate it you would pass along the word. We know she's somewhere out there...we just wish she'd come home!

Pray that God will hold Carrie is God's strong loving arms, pray that she might return home or at least contact her friends or family to let them know she's ok. And pray that God's love and strength will wrap around all those who love Carrie. Thanks!

Happy Birthday to My Oldest!

2010-01-12T22:11:00.004-05:00

Today my oldest turned nine. It seems like just yesterday I was in the hospital giving birth to this little boy. Now this little boy is starting to get almost as tall as me. He's developed into quite a smart, talented, handsome and wonderful young man. Happy birthday. I love you!

Boy, How Time Flies

2009-08-17T22:46:00.007-05:00

It's hard to believe that tomorrow is our baby's birthday. He'll turn three. It seems like just yesterday he was being welcomed into our world.

He's still my little one who loves hugs and nuggles (snuggles) and spending time with Mommy. But I know he's growing up way too fast and those times will all too soon be gone.

Soon he'll be grown up enough to really play football like his big brother. He's wanting to do that already.

I'm Happy Birthday my baby boy...boy you have grown WAY too fast.

Gotta Give Him Credit

2009-06-28T14:12:00.002-05:00

No matter what you think of Michael Jackson's music or the lifestyle he lived, you must admit the difference he made in the music industry will never be forgotten. Some of the choices he made later in life may not have been the best for him or others but the talent he shared is something rare and special.

Our eight year old said he was about like the DaVinci of Pop. The impact he made will never be forgotten.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-09T21:55:00.002-05:00

I love this video. Somehow I see my guys doing this some day. Happy Mother's Day!!

Happy Star Wars Day!

2009-05-04T21:48:00.002-05:00

May the 4th be with you : ~ )

This Weekend

2009-05-03T20:22:00.005-05:00

Hey Mommy!!

This weekend we have made a new focus on fitness. Our oldest trying out new poses/exercises.

This will be my nemesis over the next several weeks, months and years, but hopefully it will get me back in shape.

Days in Pictures

2009-05-03T20:06:00.010-05:00

Our oldest working on his homework Monday.

Our youngest with ice cream all over his face.

On Wednesday we stoked up the grill for some burgers and dogs. It was good to have freshly grilled meat from the grill. Jim is a GREAT grill cook!!

My guys playing out in the yard.

Another Big Day

2009-04-26T21:59:00.003-05:00

Today, the Bishop preaching at our church during morning worship. He talked about following Jesus and then offered a blessing for our new addition that is getting closer to completion. It was a joy to have him join us for worship. During the children's time today, the woman leading it gave the children bubbles. My boys enjoyed the beautiful sunshine and day blowing bubbles on our front porch after church.

Big Day in Our House

2009-04-26T21:32:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was a big day in our house. Our youngest began sleeping in his big boy bed and our oldest was taught how to mow by his dad. They're really growing up now, which causes me to have mixed feelings right now. They're no longer my babies.

More Catching Up...

2009-04-26T21:06:00.008-05:00

Monday our first butterfly came out of its cocoon.

Tuesday I took more pictures...now we have two

Wednesday, on more pic of our butterflies in their hatching environment. Our youngest was especially amazed to watch them. And our youngest cat tried to terrorize them by jumping up and hitting their hatching habitat.

On Thursday I took this picture of our very clever cat sitting in the hall watching the butterflies.

Friday I snapped this picture out front of the church of a cherry tree.

Picture Catch Up

2009-04-26T19:21:00.012-05:00

I'm behind yet again.

Thursday - April 16 - my boys blew bubbles.

Friday, my youngest does flips, with daddy's help, of course.

Saturday we found a potential playhouse/hideout for the guys.

Sunday, both boys attended a birthday party at our local inflatable place.

Hey!

2009-04-15T19:49:00.002-05:00

Our youngest up close and personal.

I've Got My Glasses!

2009-04-14T21:27:00.002-05:00

Our youngest got all dressed up today...put his Elmo snow boots on, his ONU sweatshirt, his sunglasses and was ready to go somewhere. He climbed up on the coffee table and announced I've got my boots, I've got my glasses, Mommy, I have my pants, I have my ear, I have my other ear. I thought of the song I Want to Be a Cowboy. Later this evening, he got out his rocking horse, got on his Scooby Doo PJs and cowboy hat and rode off into the sunset while watching Sponge Bob.

Fun at the Park

2009-04-13T23:28:00.002-05:00

The boys had a great day off with Grandma at the Beach. We went to McDonald's playland for a late lunch. After that we went to the Strike Zone to bowl a couple of games. Finally we went to the park to play on the new playground equipment. Here is a pic of our oldest on the stone dinosaur.

He Is Risen!!

2009-04-12T21:22:00.003-05:00

Today was a wonderful Easter Sunday!! It started out early for me at the Sunrise Service at Beech Fork Lake. Boy, was it COLD (around 32 degrees) but the setting was pretty and watching the sun come up over the lake was pretty cool. I saw about 6 - 8 deer on the way, which really woke me up at that early hour.

Later in the morning it was time for our service. The sanctuary was decorated with fresh flowers and butterflies. The title of the sermon I did was He's Alive it was a first person portrayal of Mary Magdalene after she found the tomb empty and talked with Jesus. Attendance was AWESOME today...I hope folks come back!

Hopefully I'll Stay Caught Up

2009-04-12T20:02:00.010-05:00

Being Holy Week I haven't had the chance to post my pics from this past week. But here they are and hopefully I'll stay caught up from now on.

Monday our youngest posed for this picture....

On Tuesday I got this shot of our ever growing caterpillars are ascending to the top of their container. We're getting close, but still no cocooning...

On Wednesday our caterpillars began their assent to the top of their container they came in. And then they began to spin their cocoons...

Thursday I took the lining of the lid out and this is what it looked like with the 5 cocoons.

Friday I took this picture of the cocoons that have been transferred over to their hatching environment. This is where they will stay until they come out of their cocoons and are ready to be set free to fly.

Yesterday we had an Easter egg hunt at the church. There were several children that came to find eggs hidden throughout the church. Here's a picture of most of the kids that came.

Come On Cocoon!

2009-04-05T21:25:00.002-05:00

Well, as you can tell by some of the pictures on here our caterpillars are growing quickly. I keep talking to them each day to encourage them to cocoon soon so they can hatch by Easter Sunday. It looks like a couple of them are complying with my request. There's all kids of this silky looking junk in their container...hoping that means cocooning soon and maybe hatching by next week.

Catching Up

2009-04-05T20:59:00.006-05:00

I am behind yet again posting my pics from this week. The first three, from Monday - Wednesday are our caterpillars as they have grown....

On Thursday I took this pic of our boys' Jesus and Peter toys....the boat does not float and neither do the action figures.

Friday I caught is pic of my oldest and Jim making paper airplanes.

Yesterday, we went to a birthday party of one of our oldest friends. Here is a picture from that...

Events of this Weekend

2009-03-29T20:37:00.006-05:00

Friday we had a concert by our boys. It was quite the show.

On Saturday, I had a BUSY day. It started out with giving blood at the Red Cross Blood Drive at our church. That experience went kinda weird, I started to feel quite dizzy and told the guy who had poked me and they got me fixed up eventually. After sitting for a while to feel better, I helped get things ready for the community dinner that our church was having. This dinner is held each year and is offered free to anyone wishing to come. I had to leave early from that for a wedding of a family friend. The wedding was held at a local theatre and was gorgeous! Congrats to the bride and groom. Here is a picture from their special day.

Today, the effects of my blood donation became VERY visible. I knew that guy hurt me when he took my blood. This is why I didn't want to give blood when I was in college. It'll get better but right now it hurts. But knowing that my donation could help save a life makes it worth it.

They Arrived

2009-03-26T20:24:00.002-05:00

I was surprised when our butterflies (larvae now) arrived today. They were just FedExed yesterday and got here today. I had not expected them to be here until Monday. They are unpacked and hopefully will begin to grow and thrive.

I'll post pics from time to time showing their progress.

Here Butterfly!

2009-03-25T20:31:00.003-05:00

Our youngest found the Butterfly Garden box. He thought that the butterflies were in it already, but I told him that we were to get them in the next several days. He decided that the butterflies must be around here somewhere so he went around calling, "Here butterflies....butterflies...here butterflies."

Butterflies for Easter

2009-03-24T20:45:00.003-05:00

This year for Easter we are giving out suckers with butterflies on them. I'm doing the children's time during that service and plan to talk about life out of death and Jesus emerging from the grave. I decided to further illustrate the point it would be cool to have real butterflies to release. I should have thought about it just a little earlier but ordered the butterflies today and purchased this Live Butterfly Garden. When I talked to the lady she said the deadline for Easter was last Tuesday but I hope that our butterflies are overachievers. The caterpillars and their food should arrive either Friday or next Monday. Then we'll watch them grow. This could be very cool!

The Diva Mobile

2009-03-23T22:22:00.008-05:00

OK...I have to gripe a while. I don't understand Hummers...I don't know why anyone would want to drive one because of how big they are and how much gas they guzzle. Quite frankly I don't think that anyone really needs a hummer to go about their day to day lives. Emergency Medical workers, yeah, they need one to be sure they can get to folks who are in trouble. They need to be able to go across terrain that might not be easily traveled by other vehicles. Our military needs them for essentially the same thing. But I don't think that someone needs it to run errands, to drive the kids to school or to go work out. The past few days that I have gone to work out and have seen this Hummer in the lot. It interests me because of the vanity plate on it...something about Diva. But the fact that it's Pepto Pink is a little much for me. I think the owner is a student and I don't really understand the point. To each their own I guess.

I Was Doing So Well

2009-03-23T21:48:00.011-05:00

I'm behind again, but have the pics.

Allie sits and rests a while.

On Friday, the boys went outside to play for just a little while.

Saturday night, Jim cooked chili for the 2nd Annual Chili Cook Off youth fundraiser. The chili had really good flavor...steak and everything...but was a little hot for me. Jim wound up tying for first with last year's winner.

Another picture of our dear little Allie Cat

Patty's Day and the Left Overs

2009-03-18T20:28:00.007-05:00

This pic is from yesterday...a pot o gold for St. Patty's day.

The second picture is from tonight, our oldest decided he wanted to have green hair, but because it was picture day at school we asked him to wait to get his hair colored. Tonight we washed the green out of his hair. I took this picture so that he could see how green the soap was. I thought it was pretty cool.

Here Comes the Sun Do Do Do Do

2009-03-16T20:10:00.003-05:00

As I was doing dishes, I noticed a welcome stranger coming in the kitchen window. It seems like a long time since we've seen the sun shine through and tomorrow it looks like it'll show up again after clouds and maybe rain tomorrow morning. The rain stuff in one thing I don't like about spring...well, that and the pollen (achoo!)

Got Your Nose!

2009-03-15T21:13:00.002-05:00

For some time our youngest has been fascinated with getting people's noses. He'll grab your nose "stick it in his mouth" and then spit it out and put it back on. He does it to people but he also does it with his action figures and stuffed animals. Here's a picture as he was getting ready for bed tonight getting a nose.

A Whole New Do

2009-03-14T20:45:00.003-05:00

My guys all got hair cuts today. My favorite cut of the day was this new do that our oldest got. He wants his hair long, but it was getting WAY out of control. This style keeps his hair longer like he likes it and more in control the way we like it.

Art Time

2009-03-13T20:38:00.002-05:00

Today after school, our oldest wanted to get some new markers to finish a picture that he had started in Art Class today. We went to the nearest store and got some pretty cool Crayola washable markers (some are scented). After we picked up little brother they colored together during dinner and then later this evening I snapped this picture of them coloring together. I love it when they play/color together, it beats them fighting. Now they are putting their works of art on the frig.

This Week in Pictures

2009-03-12T21:30:00.008-05:00

Monday I caught this pic of our oldest cat in action.

On Tuesday, I got a picture of my super blogging honey...

I snapped this picture off of our little one's bomber jacket last night...it's such a cool coat...one that grandma gave him. Finally, a pic of my youngest....cheese...

Still more, now I'm caught up

2009-03-08T20:34:00.007-05:00

One of my favorite foods....

One of my youngest's favorite characters (at least for now)

This pic is in honor of this weekend's weather...very spring, almost summer like...

And finally, my youngest in his new Scooby PJs...

More Catch Up Pics

2009-03-08T19:54:00.009-05:00

A leaf brick from a local restaurant

Our Youngest "hiding" on the dining room table.

My favorite guys

OK..So I'm Behind Again

2009-03-08T19:46:00.004-05:00

Once again I'm behind on my posting of pics...so, in an attempt to catch up....

From last Saturday, our youngest

From Sunday, our oldest cat on one of her favorite perches in the house...

From Monday, our boys watching one of their favorite shows before bed.

I See the Moon...

2009-02-27T00:41:00.003-05:00

Tonight I couldn't think of what to photograph, so I took the tissue box beside me and took a pic of the moon on it. Something different...reminded me of some recent conversations I've had.

Remember You are Dust

2009-02-27T00:33:00.004-05:00

I took this picture after our evening Ash Wednesday service last night. We looked at what it means to practice piety and how to practice our piety. So, how will you spend your Lent? Are you giving something up or taking something on? Will you, following this holy time of year, be closer to God or will Easter come with no change in your life?

Lent is a journey in the wilderness of our faith with our Lord and Savior. How we choose to spend it is up to us. The question is will this journey be one that changes our lives and potentially the lives of those around us?

I hope you have a blessed Lent.

Now I'm Caught UP

2009-02-24T23:53:00.002-05:00

From yesterday, our oldest with his toothy grin.

This evening I was looking for something to take a picture of when I spotted these bandages sitting on the table next to the chair I am sitting in. I got these for our boys when I was on a business trip in Nashville. Both of them are really into pirates. These band aids are pretty cool. They seem to help the pain subside when you are in pain ARGH!

More Pics

2009-02-24T23:43:00.004-05:00

Here are more of my pics from Project 365:

From Friday: our youngest sitting as still as I've ever seen him while he watches his dubbies in real life.

From Saturday: a couple of parishioners have suggested I read this book, The Shack, and let them know what I think. I have just begun the book and haven't gotten too far but look forward to reading it soon.

From Sunday: Our youngest trying to get away from me.

Catch Up

2009-02-24T23:34:00.006-05:00

I'm still playing catch up for my Project 365 pics. Here are some that I've uploaded from last week.
They're a little different than others I've posted before.

From Monday: Smile!! The eraser from our oldest's new pencil.

From Tuesday: This is a pic that our oldest drew in art class.

Wednesday: A motorcycle that our boys play with on occassion.

Thursday: Our oldest and I went to Dollar General and found this Sponge Bob ball...both of our boys love this strange little character.

A Storm, A Cat, A Dance, A Wedding and A Bath

2009-02-15T20:26:00.014-05:00

OK...here are my pics since Tuesday. On Wednesday, not too long after we had all the ice and snow the two weeks before, we had a strong wind and rain storm. The weather was really weird...the trees that had been weakened by the ice were blowing and bending in the wind. Our power was going on, off, dimming, brightening. It was strange. Then after a while, the sky got really weird looking...this is a picture from that day when the sky turned a weird yellow.

On Thursday, our oldest cat, Stimpy was sitting close to me so I decided to snap a shot of her. As you can tell she was less than thrilled to get her picture taken.

Then on Friday, our oldest went to his first school dance. They had a Valentine Dance complete with loud music, glowing necklaces, food and fun. Here is a picture...it looks kinda wild I guess because of the dark...of our oldest as I went in to pick him up.

Saturday we went to a wedding of a friend. It was a beautiful ceremony and the tables were really pretty with purple rose petals, rocks, evergreen and candles. I snapped this picture of our table's centerpiece to show how pretty everything was.

Finally, tonight I snapped a picture of our youngest as he was finishing up his bath. He loves his time in the tub and is sad when the water has to "go back home to get ready for bed." Here is one of the times I actually snapped him as he said "Cheese" and smiled.

Hopefully, from now on I can keep up better with my pictures. I'm taking them but I am getting bogged down with posting them.

The Battle Lines are Set

2009-02-10T23:39:00.002-05:00

Tonight our oldest got out his Battleground game he got for Christmas. He and dad put the stuff together and got things ready to have the big battle tomorrow after school.

I'm Behind Again

2009-02-09T21:15:00.004-05:00

OK...I'm behind again with my Project 365 pics. Between being under the weather and swamped with various other things I didn't get to post these:

From Friday: when my boys are happy with their outfits, you can always tell...they walk around with their hands in their pockets. I just had to take this pic when I saw our youngest walking like that.

Saturday we went to a birthday party of two of our friends. The guys had fun on the inflatables. Our youngest loves riding in the little car on the track. I think he believes he might be a NASCAR racer.

On Sunday, we talked about reaching out to others in the name of Christ. We talked about how the early church had to go underground...the sign of the fish was used to signal other Christians that they were among friends. Jim used this pendant during the Children's Time to talk to the young ones about the early Christians and how the children could share God's love with those they met.

Tonight our youngest stopped to pose for this pic...of course while saying, "Smile."

Hi Allie!

2009-02-05T23:35:00.003-05:00

Allie up close and personal

Rubbing Mommy's Feet

2009-02-04T19:39:00.002-05:00

Our youngest learned how to rub my feet tonight. Oh yeah, this could come in handy later. Ahh.

My guys

2009-02-04T19:25:00.002-05:00

I love my boys...and my heart is warmed when they show that they love each other. Through the arguments and the fights their love shines brightly.

OK...I've Gotten Behind

2009-02-03T16:29:00.006-05:00

With all the stuff going on with weather and my tiredness, I haven't updated my Project 365 stuff...so here's the pictures I've missed posting up so far...

From Saturday...Peace, Baby, Peace...off of some lounge pants.....

From Sunday a picture of our wooden Noah's Ark...our youngest always calls this a Pirate ship...it was made for us by a family friend who cut each animal and each piece of the ark individually...it's pretty cool

From Monday, a picture of our youngest cat.

Look Mommy, It's Snowing!!!

2009-01-30T21:17:00.004-05:00

We got some more snow again today...it was very pretty as it fell in big flakes. The boys ran to the window to watch it come down. I love the snow but also like it when I can get more out and about.

Our Kitten

2009-01-30T00:02:00.001-05:00

She's growing quickly...but here's our Allie cat! Doesn't she look innocent?

The Tolls of Snow Days

2009-01-29T23:57:00.003-05:00

Another snow day...it's beginning to be a little "too much togetherness". Even the cats are fighting : ~ ) 'Course they don't need a snow day to do that.

SNOW DAY!!

2009-01-27T23:58:00.002-05:00

Today was an official snow day. We had a few inches of snow so we went outside to play in the snow. The boys seemed to enjoy themselves even though rain was beginning to fall on us. We tromped around, made snowballs, and made this little snowman. I think they had fun even though it wasn't long before our youngest said, "Go in Mommy?" And so we did. Maybe we'll go out again tomorrow since there's no school.

Look at Those Pearly Whites

2009-01-27T23:54:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, our oldest went to the dentist. He got a "clean bill of teeth". I'm excited that he likes the dentist far better that I ever will.

These Shoes Are Made for Walkin'

2009-01-25T23:18:00.004-05:00

I got new walking shoes today...my old ones have holes in them. I'm hoping that this will encourage me to get back to the Y walking again. We can hope.

Last Chance Harvey

2009-01-24T23:34:00.003-05:00

Saw Last Chance Harvey with a friend tonight. It was a good movie, a little sad in places, but good.

Potty Training?

2009-01-24T23:30:00.004-05:00

If only she would actually use this potty. But she does really well with her litter pan so I can't complain too much.

Mommy, I've Got a Boo Boo

2009-01-22T22:23:00.003-05:00

Today our youngest had to get some blood drawn for a follow up allergy test. He did really well...he cried but was very brave. And after he was done, the nurse gave him some Scooby Doo stickers. Here he "shows off" his boo boo.

My Temptation

2009-01-22T22:11:00.002-05:00

Many times, as I am watching Biggest Loser, I get the urge to eat...don't know exactly why and I know I'm not the only one who feels this way. These are just one of my tempations.

Not doing real great on my quest to losing weight...but I'll get there.

A Day that Will Not Be Forgotten

2009-01-20T22:12:00.003-05:00

Today was a day that will go down in the history books. Our first African American President was sworn in. The atmosphere reminded me of New Years Eve in New York City and the parades, parties and balls reminded me of New Years too. It is a new beginning, a new era, the time of change has come. May our leaders, our country and each of us be blessed in these years to come.

Jim found this cool action figure during the campaign. I thought it fitting for today.

Long Lost Jonas Brother?

2009-01-19T22:37:00.004-05:00

While watching the Disney Kids Inaugural special: We are the Future, Jim begins to rock out. Could it be that Jim is the long lost Jonas brother? You decide.

Power Source

2009-01-18T22:07:00.001-05:00

Had to replace my power source today...hoping it works for a good, long time.

Hear No Evil

2009-01-17T23:03:00.002-05:00

Our youngest plugs his ears while his brother's ukulele is being tuned.

Lazy Day

2009-01-17T00:23:00.003-05:00

Today was so cold there was not much you wanted to do. Our oldest cat, Stimpy, had a great idea today...snoozing.

Playing with Dubbies

2009-01-15T20:26:00.002-05:00

Our youngest loves to play with his wrestlers (his dubbies)...especially with his big brother.

Wanting, Waiting for Snow

2009-01-14T22:18:00.004-05:00

Our oldest is wishing and wanting snow tomorrow...actually for the rest of the week so school is at least delayed and hopefully canceled. Tonight, he decided to help the process along by "making it snow" silly string outside. Since it's still not doing anything, at least it wasn't last I checked I'm thinking school will not only be on tomorrow but it may just be on time.

Words to Live By

2009-01-13T22:46:00.005-05:00

I found these words on a book in a local bookstore...I had to take a picture of it so I'd remember it.

Happy Birthday!!

2009-01-12T22:44:00.006-05:00

It's hard to believe that 8 years ago I was in the hospital holding my new little boy. We'd gone in at like 6 o'clock in the morning for a scheduled c-section that was supposed to be at 9 am. But because someone else was having complications and they needed the room, we didn't go into the OR until 11. And my little guy was born about 40 minutes later.

Because he'd had a little bit of trouble breathing, they wisked him off to the nursery to be sure he was ok. I hadn't had a chance to see him and I wasn't sure if he was alright or not. Finally when I got back into my room, Jim brought him into me and said, "Let me introduce you to your son." It was wonderful. A little while later, our oldest looked at me and said his first word (and I'm not making this up at all) he said "Mom".

It's hard to believe that was 8 years ago. Where has the time gone? It seems like just yesterday he was learning to walk and talk...and now he's half way to his 16th birthday and driving. I've enjoyed watching him become the boy he is today, but sometimes, just sometimes I miss that little little boy who came into my life 8 short years ago.

Happy birthday, my "little man". I love you!!

The top pic is from 8 years ago...back in February 2001, the bottom is my pic of the day.

Night Before His Big Day

2009-01-11T22:43:00.003-05:00

Our oldest the day before his 8th birthday.

Happy Birthday!!

2009-01-10T19:32:00.004-05:00

Today our oldest had his 8th birthday party at our local YMCA. We swam and had a lot of fun. His cake was Surf's Up. I can't believe he's about to be eight years old. Where did the time go?

Castle at Home

2009-01-10T00:07:00.003-05:00

One of our youngest's favorite playsets. I wouldn't mind living in something like this too...or at least having one in our back yard.

Bath Time

2009-01-09T01:11:00.002-05:00

I took this while giving our youngest his bath tonight.

Holy New Shirt, Batman!

2009-01-07T20:07:00.005-05:00

Our youngest also received a package from Grandma at the Beach. Here he rides his Batmobile as he dons the Batman shirt and cape from his Batman PJs. He LOVES his new outfit too. Thanks, Grandma!!

Cool Guy

2009-01-07T00:49:00.003-05:00

Here's our oldest in an outfit that arrived from Grandma at the Beach. Thanks Grandma!!! He LOVES it!!

Allie Sleeping

2009-01-05T20:24:00.004-05:00

Today's pic is of our new, well not so new anymore, kitten/cat...Allie.

Hi Mommy

2009-01-04T22:36:00.004-05:00

Our youngest was watching as I was out in our front yard. I thought what a good opportunity for my picture for today.

He LOVES His Cookies

2009-01-03T22:08:00.003-05:00

Our youngest loves cookies...here's proof.

Getting Fit

2009-01-02T22:10:00.003-05:00

One of the resolutions we have made in our house is to be healthier and more fit in 2009. We'll see how it goes. The guys like the Iron Gym we have. Our oldest enjoyed doing pull ups tonight.

Project 365 - Restart

2009-01-02T15:33:00.002-05:00

Since starting my attempt on my birthday this past November, I have fallen behind. So, in the interest of truly trying to do this right, I have decided to begin again....'course the pictures I took yesterday have yet to be uploaded. So, here's one of my favs from yesterday.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T16:32:00.003-05:00

As we welcome in 2009, we want to take a moment to wish a very Happy New year to all of our family and friends. We hope that this year is one of the best we all have ever had.

Happy New Year!

A Little Post Christmas Humor

2008-12-28T17:11:00.002-05:00

I shared this in my sermon today, found it on esermons by an unknown author. It fits me, thought it might fit some others.

’Twas the week after Christmas and all through the house
Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.
The cookies I’d nibbled, the eggnog I’d taste
At the holiday parties had gone to my waist.
When I got on the scales there arose such a number!
When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber),
I’d remember the marvelous meals I’d prepared:
The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared,
The bread and the cheese/ And the way I’d never said, “No, thank you, please.”
As I dressed myself in my husband’s old shirt
And prepared once again to do battle with dirt
I said to myself as only I can: “You can’t spend a winter disguised as a man!”
So away with the last of the sour cream dip,
Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip.
Every last bit of food that I like must be vanished.
I won’t have a cookie‑‑not even a lick.
I’ll only chew on a long celery stick.
I won’t have hot biscuits or corn bread or pie.
I’ll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.
I’m hungry, I’m lonesome and life is a bore. But isn’t that what January is for?
Unable to giggle, no longer a riot. Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!

Sad Today...Goodbye to Mitchie

2008-12-06T00:04:00.003-05:00

Tonight our dog Mitchie got out of our yard and got hit on our road. It's been a very sad night. I'm going to go off of the 365 stuff for tonight posting pics from a couple years ago. We'll miss you, Mitchie, you were a really good dog.

Long Time Coming

2008-12-04T23:05:00.003-05:00

I've been going to post these pics of the boys at Thanksgiving and things finally settled down to do it.

I'm skipping some of the other pics from my Project 365 on here...but will try to keep it up more from now on.

Missed a couple of days

2008-11-20T11:09:00.006-05:00

I've missed a couple of days on here...but here some pics from the past few days. Our oldest went to a birthday party of his oldest and dearest friends (they've known each other since they were 18 months old). Her party was at Pump Up the Fun...an inflatable place outside of town...they had a BLAST!

Our youngest had fun too, jumping on the toys and riding the cool car that rolls down a hill.

Enjoying Lunch

2008-11-16T21:39:00.003-05:00

Some pictures of my boys enjoying lunch today at Chili's.

Computer games

2008-11-15T11:48:00.003-05:00

Last night our oldest had a friend overnight...they have been playing video games most of the time they've been together. I think both had a good time.

A Timeless Classic

2008-11-14T20:54:00.005-05:00

Tonight, we watched some of the Wizard of Oz with our youngest. He was cute dancing as the Tin Man danced around. I hope that he will gain a love for this movie as he grows older. It truly is a timeless classic.

Alton Brown Has GREAT Tips

2008-11-13T22:49:00.002-05:00

We watch Food TV quite often in our house and one of our favorite cooks is Alton Brown. He has such great ideas and tips for how to cook some of our favorite foods. Jim often takes the tips offered by Alton and cooks some of the greatest foods. Tonight was no exception. Jake had decided he wanted steak for dinner and Jim cooked them. Boy, were they good!!!

She's Back

2008-11-13T00:05:00.005-05:00

A month or so ago, we added a new member to our family. Her name is Allie and she's a baby calico. She's a sweet lap cat and is so patient with our youngest.

She has been at the vet's office over the past few days. She was spayed and declawed on her front claws. She seems to be doing well, but has to be hurting...she's not as peppy as she usually is. But she's home to rest and gain her strength and is as snuggly as always.

Welcome home, Allie.

My Blogging Boys

2008-11-12T23:59:00.003-05:00

A Little Help From a Friend

2008-11-11T00:40:00.002-05:00

Today, the boys and I were on our way to the funeral home for a visitation. Because we're new to the area, I wasn't really sure where this particular funeral home was, but we set off to find it. We drove through the town and I didn't see it...we were on the outskirts of town and I thought, "OK, we can either drive around aimlessly and never find this place or we can stop and see where to go."

Just then I saw a WV State Police sign and an officer getting into or out of his car (he was sitting in it with his door open). We pulled up behind him and I asked him if he could tell me where it was. He said he thought he knew where it was and pointed the way. But he also asked another office just to be sure.

I didn't feel so bad since he wasn't sure and it was another lesson for the boys of the folks you can trust to take care of you. If we hadn't asked for directions, I don't think we would have gotten there.

Milestone and New Project

2008-11-09T16:45:00.010-05:00

I've been wanting to do Project 365 for some time, but didn't start it right after the first of the year. Today I hit the "Big 4-0" and decided I would mark this milestone year with a picture each day.

Oh, great AARP is sending me emails asking me to join...our oldest says, "You can't do that, mom, you're not old enough." That made me feel good.

Here is what the front of the house looked like this morning thanks to some of our more mischievous members.

Trick or Treat

2008-11-03T16:40:00.005-05:00

Here's some pics from last week...there would be more but my camera's memory card was loose and I only had internal memory for Batman and Robin.

For preschool our 2 year old went as Mickey.

ONU Homecoming

2008-10-22T23:34:00.006-05:00

Last Saturday we went to Homecoming at Ohio Northern. The Polar Bears won their game 28 - 0 over Marietta. The boys enjoyed some football, cotton candy and rides. Here are some pics from the day.

Things I Learned at the Corn Maze Tonight

2008-10-22T21:56:00.007-05:00

Tonight I went with our youth group to the local corn maze. It's a good fall night here...by good fall night I mean COLD. But I bundled up and and off to church I went. We got to the maze and things seemed to be going well except it was about 7 o'clock and getting dark. The guy who runs the maze told us that if we got stuck in the maze for over 2 hours, someone would come find us. I was hoping that there were torches along the way or some kind of lighting devices. There were none. Did I bring a flashlight...uh no.

So off we went. I checked the time as we entered the maze...thinking if I hear, "If you build it, he will come," I was going to make a run for it. We chose to answer the movie, music and TV questions. I didn't want to do the biblical questions cuz I didn't know how hard the questions would be and didn't want to get stuck in the maze any longer than I had to be.

It started off well. We found the first post for the question with little trouble...actually that's how the first five questions went. Then it got REALLY dark. People were screaming in the maze, folks (which ran the danger of being maimed by me) were jumping out of the maze, cutting through the corn stalks, and screaming which was a little un-nerving.

Finally, less than an hour later, we emerged from the corn...we unfortunately were the last ones out. But we made it none the less...and in 50 - 55 minutes.

Things I learned:
1. Don't go to the corn maze at night.
2. If you do go at night take a flashlight. Using your cell phone works ok unless you keep pressing the camera button. (I have great pics of blackness of the corm).
3. When wandering around in the corn, it might be a good choice to continue turning the way the previous clue told you...when we followed this tip we got to the next question easier...and this might just be true of this particular maze.
4. Dress warm...I was fine but my legs are still a little chilly...reminded me of the ol' marching band days in November.
5. Make sure that everyone uses the restroom before you leave your starting point...especially if they say they have to go to the bathroom before you enter the maze.
6. It helps to pick a topic/category that you have a handle of...or have someone who has a bunch of trivia in their head.
7. Did I mention to take a flashlight?!

All in all it was fun...just wish I could have seen a little better.

Happy Birthday!!

2008-10-01T15:42:00.004-05:00

Today is a special day in our house...as is most birthdays. It's Jim's birthday and also his brother Tom's birthday. Happy Birthday my honey I hope your day is great. We love you very much!!

This Season Won't Be the Same

2008-09-08T22:50:00.002-05:00

As a Michigan and Patriots fan, I must say this year might very well turn out to be a disappointment. I will miss seeing Tom Brady, one of my favorite player on the gridiron this fall due to his knee injury.

College football is off to a rough start too as Michigan lost their season opener to Utah. This past weekend was a win but was hoping for larger margin of victory.

Could the Polar Bears of Ohio Northern pull off a good season? Time will tell.

As the season goes on, if you see me dressed in black, you'll understand why.

Batting Down the Hatches

2008-09-01T17:08:00.002-05:00

It looks as though this hurricane season is going to be one that will make history. As we collected money to help the rebuilding efforts of the churches that were devastated by Katrina, as we prayed for family members who were hoping to flee from Gustav's wrath but were having trouble finding gas for their car, and as we hoped that the storm would weaken or change course, it marched on. Now the weather officials and others are keeping their eye on Hanna and Ike, other storms that could reek havoc on our coasts.

Let us remember all those who are trying to gather their most prized possessions and leave their homes to find safety. May they travel safely.

The Timing is a Little Eerie

2008-08-30T21:50:00.002-05:00

It always sets me back a bit when things in life are a little to perfectly fit to one another. A while ago our conference was sent letters by the bishop to collect a special offering for the continued Katrina efforts either last Sunday or this Sunday.

Last week our congregation had a LOT going on. We did a blessing of teachers, students, administrators and staff as most prepared for the beginning of school this past week. Our service ended with the breaking of ground for our new Family Life Center. So, the service didn't really lend itself to having a special offering.

This week we see the potential of Hurricane Gustav to cause significant damage in that same part of our country. As folks seek to find a safe place to go until the storm eventually passes, as once again some face the horror of losing everything they have again, and as folks are still traveling down to that part of our country seeking to help rebuild the devastation, we will gather. We will gather to pray for those who are once again being effected by these acts of nature and we with gather together to offer from our blessings so that others might know the help and love that God offers.

Hard to Believe It's Been 45 Years

2008-08-28T09:10:00.003-05:00

Forty five years ago today, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his "I Have a Dream" speech. Today is another day to be a milestone in history.

Enjoy this video from the past as we think about the future.

First Day Went Well

2008-08-26T16:47:00.002-05:00

My 7-year-old started second grade today. I was nervous for him because he was switching schools and this was the first time he'd be away from one of his best friends since they were 18 months old. The little one and I walked with my oldest to the art room where he and the other kids would wait for their teachers. I asked if he wanted me to wait and he said no.

All day I wondered how he was doing. When I picked him up, I prepared for the worse. The "I hate this place why'd we have to move." But he said he had a good time. There were kids he knew from his summer program as well as those he knew from church. He likes his teacher and he said, "I actually made a new friend today too." I hope his enthusiasm continues...and he continues to like the school and his new friends.