Army Strong McBroom's!

I know I know.....

2012-02-01T11:49:00.000-08:00

It's been FOREVER since I updated this blog! Things have been crazy and so have I! Life is somewhat nuts these days. Here is what our schedule looks like for the next two weeks!

Thursday- Me, School with the boys, the normal
Phil, All day at training and some sort of meeting in the evening.

Friday- Me, School with the boys, the normal
Phil, Work all day

Saturday- Me, Coffee at eleven thirty with Chaplain's wives
Phil, babysit the kiddos ( YES!)

Sunday- All of us....Chapel at 8:30(this is Phil's week to preach), Sunday school at 9:45 ( I am starting to teach...yikes), and then Phil has to preach another service at 11:00.

Monday- Normal

Tuesday- Normal

Wedensday- Phil and I are going to a company ski party at Crystal Mountain.
The only friends we have are watching the boys at our house for us!
Thursday- Normal
Friday- Work in the morning and then head to Phil's Strong Bond's Retreat in Seattle for 3 days!

So, it may not look that crazy to everyone else but you put in all the other little things that come up during the week and it's crazy! We are finally getting caught up a little on school which is nice. I am hoping to be done by the first of May. We are doing really well all things told. I am dealing with some issues with the kids but "What else is new?".

I am still running 5 times a week sometimes 6. I am not losing any weight but I am figuring out what does work. When I workout....I have to eat more....including carbs. When I diet and don't workout....I have to eat less. When I am working out and trying to diet.....it doesn't seem to work at all. Of course, everyone has their opinions about that. I assure you I hear them. So, maybe someday I will get to where I want to be, but for now running consistently and eating less is pretty much what I'm doing.

Phil is a workout machine! He does amazing. He runs EVERY morning...no matter what time he has to get up. He does his push-ups and sit-ups and at least once a week goes to workout with the unit. I think that is going to become more and more of a normal thing several times a week. You have to drive awhile to get there from where we live on Post but he is amazing!

He has several of his commanding officers coming to his Strong Bond's Retreat already. He is excited and nervous at the same time. We are really hoping to build a repoir with the troops so that they will be willing to have a personal bible study.

We are also debating whether or not to move to North Fort Lewis ( where Phil works) or McChord ( where the chapel is). Both of those places are closer to where we need to be. Where we live now is nice but it is a farther drive to the Exchange, Commisary, Chapel, and Phil's work. We are weighing the options on that. The housing is nicer in those areas and there is more room. We would move from a 3 bedroom to a 4 bedroom. Phil will be gone for an enitre year so that really isn't a big deal. We might just stay where we're at for the time being. I am sure at the next Post we will put in more time and wait longer if we have to to get a nicer place and find out all of these details before hand. It is good to learn these things though so you don't make the same mistakes again.

Huh.....I don't know if I am missing anything. I am sure I am but oh well. I am working to save money to buy a laptop for me and the kids. All of my efforts thus far have failed. We NEED one for school and so I might just buy a net book. I tried setting up the desk top but the place we could set it up is WAY too far from the router so we couldn't get internet on it. Kind of useless without it. So, we will see how that goes.

I am going to stop boring you all with our life story. Just thought maybe some of our family would like to know what is going on in more detail than they usually get! We love and miss you all and are enjoying the work the LORD has set before us. We appreciate your prayers!

Tuesday Letter.....

2012-01-24T08:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Husband, PLEASE stop beating me in Boggle!!! It makes me so angry! Dear Jonny and Davy, I think we have finally come to the point where I can't understand half of what you are learning and therefore don't know how we can continue our teacher/student relationship. Dear Jesse, when will you stop saying your r's as awwww instead of arrrr?!! Dear Reuben, PLEASE let me sleep one night completely through without having to get up three times to take you potty!!! Dear self, why in the world did you agree to an 8 week challenge when you can barely make it through a day without sugar?! Dear mailman, thank you for all the packages this week....mail makes me happy. :0) Dear ARMY, thank you for taking such good care of your Troops! Unfortunately, you are taking my husband away for a year because nine months will throw off the balane of the entire ARMY deployment cycle! For that I don't know how I feel about you right now!

Tuesday Letter......STOLEN from Bek!

2012-01-11T12:20:00.000-08:00

Dear Jonathan, must you always get a teenage attitude when I ask you take the dog out?! Dear David, the nose sniffing is REALLY getting annoying. Dear Jesse, when will the screaming end so I don't have to spend my days breaking up fights? Dear Reuben, you are going to be the death of me with the potty training. I don't know how many more nights I can get up two or three times and take you potty! Dearest Husband, I still refuse to believe I was the one who ruined your laptop. I can't help it that everything breaks when I touch it. Dear Credit people......HOW IN THE WORLD did MY social security number get all messed up?!!! Will it ever be good again?! How long must I run to and fro getting copies from the Social Security Office proving I am who I say I am. On a side note, how cool to be two different people with an alias! I could totally do the spy thing. Dear Chewy, could you please quit waking me up in the early morning hours with your barking to go out?! Dear Chocolate, I miss you and don't know how to live without you! I believe today is an eat lunch and go to the park day. I will post pictures later!

Before and After

2012-01-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

So, here are some pictures of the new house. Just a few of the new things we've gotten. I will take more pictures as we get things put together. It isn't all that fancy right now and I probably won't hang anything on the walls. We will have to patch all the holes and stuff if we do that. I don't want to have to deal with that. So, I am going to decorate on tables and such with candles. Maybe the more places we live the more decorating I will do but I'm just not sure yet! Enjoy!

WOW......It's been awhile!

2012-01-02T12:23:00.001-08:00

I am sure most of you know that we are moved now! We are getting settled into a house on post. I am enjoying it! It has it's down falls too but for the most part I am happy we have a place to call home. We are still working on getting beds. We were blessed to meet our new neighbors who let us borrow a queen size air mattress. WAY better than sleeping on the floor.

I am working towards getting paperwork done for the kids school, the dog has to be registered and micro chipped, and we have a few more papers to take to the housing office. The little neighborhood we live in is quiet and there are lots of other kids for the boys to play with. LOTS of women I've met in passing are curious about homeschooling and want to talk to me more about it. The schools down here are terrible.

We went to Phil's bosses house for lunch the other day and met his lovely wife. She is one of the sweetest people I've ever met. The LORD didn't give them any children so she spends her time blessing people in ways that I never could. They are a wonderful couple and also Independent Baptist. It was a blessing to spend the afternoon with them and my boys are absolutely in love with them. I think Russ and Sheryl when Josh and I were little!

I have learned how to get from our house to the Commissary and Exchange. We found the Library which we will be taking full advantage of at some point. I drove on the Interstate once and it was about all my heart could take. That was when we bought Phil's sporty little car. WHICH I AM IN LOVE WITH!

I am thinking about joining a running group down here that is a nation wide group called Running to Remember! They run to remember the fallen men and women who died protecting our freedom! I have been praying about it. They help you train for different things like marathons which I have always wanted to do. The Seattle Marathon is in July and I would really like to run it!

So, there is an update of sorts. Things are definitely different in some ways and it will take some more adjusting. I am sure though that our life here is going to be wonderful as long as we keep our focus on the LORD and his work!

Fun before we leave.....

2011-12-07T11:47:00.001-08:00

3,2,1........Then I'm There!

2011-12-06T11:11:00.001-08:00

I am down to my 3 day countdown! It has been a long 3 months away from my husband but I am thankful for it! Here are some things that I have learned the past three months with Phil away.1. I have drawn closer to my LORD and depend upon him more!2. I have more patience with my children....because there is no one else to step in and help deal with them.3. I am more confident in my decision making....because I have to make them all.4. I REALLY don't like having to open salsa jars or any other kind of jar.....Davy ran it next door to MR. Lance to help open one!5. I am waaaayyyyy more thankful for my husband!6. Now this one....this is hard for me to say.......I miss Cooking!! NEVER thought I would say that!7. I feel as though I can really say that I put my LORD first in my life. I struggle with keeping him there and not putting my husband and children first. 8. I am much more consistent with working out and eating healthier with Phil gone. I can do it when I want!9. I don't find myself getting annoyed with anyone about anything. I have learned to appreciate the people I love while I have them. That will not always be the case!10. I DO NOT like sleeping along. I'm not scared like I used to be, but I just don't like it!Those are just a few of things that I have learned or thought about. There are many many more! I am sure I will learn even more when he is gone the next time for 9 months! I can say that our marriage is better for it and that we are stronger! Thank you Lord for putting us through trials so that your strength can be manifest in our lives. " And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then I am strong." 2 Corinthians 12:9,10

Bear hats!!!

2011-12-01T14:10:00.001-08:00

Here's some hats that Miss Dawn got the boys!!! Thanks you Mr. Dawson and Miss Dawn!!!! We love them!!!

Davy wouldn't stay still long enough for me to get his pic!

10 days to go......

2011-11-29T10:15:00.000-08:00

So, I am pretty much done with everything I NEEDED to get done. I am almost ready to take the boys schooling back on Monday. I got all my Christmas shopping for the boys done except one kid. Which I'm doing Monday. I am also going to get my nails done before I go see Phil. Thursday I am going to pick Mom up from the airport and we are going to get pedicures. It should be fun!!!

I am working on congealing the last little bit of our stuff to throw into the back of the trailer at the last minute. We are enjoying our last couple of weeks, spending time with friends and family before we leave. I am really excited about the work the LORD has laid before us and can't wait to get busy. We are having a family Christmas on the 17th. My parents will be here, Heidi and Anthony, Josh, Ang, and the girls, Kim and Jim, and my WHOLE family!!! YAY! On the 18th. we are having a potluck at church after morning services so Phil can spend some time with everyone before we head out Monday morning.

We are really excited about the drive and the family time. I hope that you are all having a good week! Christmas is almost upon us!!

I changed my mind.....

2011-11-25T12:38:00.001-08:00

I am going to do the 365 day photo challenge in January when we are settled in and life is a little calmer. Things are too crazy right now and I can't even seem to keep my head on straight. 14 days until I leave and I have a HUGE honey do list that seems to be growing every time I talk to Phil. Anyways, I will be glad when the next two weeks are over and most of my work is done! So, until next year....the photo challenge waits!

Day 2....oops!

2011-11-24T09:43:00.000-08:00

I forgot to post it yesterday so I am catching up....pretty bad I missed it already! I'm a mess....oh well....I will keep going!

365 Day Photo Challenge

2011-11-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

Let's see if I can actually accomplish this like I want to! Here is Day 1.......

Random Pics......

2011-11-17T11:50:00.000-08:00

Instead of the Ten on Ten like I'm supposed to do I am posting random pictures when I feel like it. I guarantee by the tenth of December I will be doing Ten on Ten though!!!!

Thank you Daddy!

2011-11-17T11:13:00.000-08:00

Here's some pictures of the boys and I with the little treats Phil sent to us! We just wanted to say Thank you Daddy!!! WE love you!!!

Bad Days.....

2011-11-17T07:36:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday went like this...

Con                                                                                                  Pro

Wake up to frozen water                                                                  Call Pastor and he knows how to fix it
Heater in my bedroom keeps kicking off                                         Have the sweetest brother in the world
                                                                                                          come look at it and fix the problem
Truck horn gets stuck at eleven at night                                           Nice neighbor kid who looks like
because of cold weather.                                                                   mechanic, knocks on door and fixes
                                                                                                          the problem.

I had a good cry after a long day last night. It wasn't just a few things that went wrong it was mainly my ATTITUDE about the things that went wrong. For the most part it was a good day.....it just had a lot of THOSE moments in it. It's funny how we could let a few little things ruin our day. Yeah, things go wrong........but instead of looking at everything and saying "WHYYYYY MEEEEE"? Why not say thank you LORD for solving all of my little problems today with wonderful friends and family! I have to say I have never felt more blessed than I have the last couple of months. I have wonderful, amazing, sweet people who have done nothing but take care of us. I can honestly say I have NO idea what I would do without you all. You have taken care of me and the boys so well. It has been a blessing and it just solidifies even more in my heart and mind that we are doing God's will. I have such sweet peace in my heart even in the midst of chaos lately.

Now, that doesn't mean that I don't have my moments with a bad attitude......like yesterday. It just means that I have a good cry and thank the LORD even more for the things he has given and blessed me with. I may hate the cold right now but I am thanking the LORD for it..........who knows when I will get extrememe cold weather again?! I am sure everywhere I go there will be challenges......what matters is HOW I DEAL WITH THEM!! I pray the right way with the right heart.

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR EVERYTHING YOU HAVE DONE FOR US!!!!! EVEN IFYOU DON'T REALIZE IT!     :0D

WOW!!!

2011-11-16T13:30:00.000-08:00

I TOTALLY stink when it comes to putting pictures on here. I have been SO busy trying to get everything ready to load the trailer and stuff I haven't even had time to take any pictures. I will try to get a few this next week and try posting at least one picture a day! I like that idea. We have almost everything packed except what we HAVE to use. That will get thrown in at the end. I am praying everything fits in the trailer and I've been praying the LORD will answer my prayer concerning that. On the other hand, if it doesn't fit it doesn't fit. Not much I can do about it. The LORD has answered all my other prayers concerning this whole missionary endeavor and I am sure he will answer this one too. He has answered much smaller prayers.

I am excited that I have 23 days until I see Phil and it is going by quickly. I am so excited I can hardly contain myself. I still have quite a few things to get done but they are smaller things that aren't that big of a deal. I will be getting my school stuff taken care of for the boys next week and I will feel much better having that done. There's my update. I will try really hard to stay posting more than I have been! Sorry!

I missed it.....

2011-11-11T20:14:00.000-08:00

So, I had every intention of posting my pics for ten on ten.....but I got busy and didn't get to it. I am going to post them tomorrow. I just didn't get a chance today either since I forgot my camera at my house when I came to Josh and Ang's. So, anyways, I will be doing it tomorrow!!!!

What a Week!!!

2011-10-31T10:43:00.000-07:00

It was quite a week around here last week. Dad and I went to Palmer on Friday to get some long term food to store for them and some people from church. We left here about 8:00 Friday morning and didn't get home until around 8:00 Friday night. It was a LONG night. We took Jesse with us and he did pretty good until the very end when he was getting too tired.

We saw Chris Smith there and he took us out for lunch and we had a nice visit with him. He is doing good these days. I took some pictures I will post later. We stayed home Saturday and just lounged around for the most part since Dad's back was killing him. Sunday was church until the afternoon and then Mom and I played Scrabble. I have actually two of the ten games we've played. We had a lot of fun last night.

We got up this morning and went to the gym. I forgot my shoes so I couldn't run like I wanted to. I did some other stuff and then we had to get back home. Dad and Micah went to Homer to get the sheet rock lift and we are going to sheet rock the lid of the garage today. I think between the four of us it won't be so hard. It will be chilly out there though. I don't know what else we're doing but Mom is making a meatloaf for dinner and getting it ready. The boys are working on school. Not much else going on today. I think tomorrow will be a town day. I will take some pictures today and get some posted.

Oh, we also found the marshmallow shooters last night and had fun chasing each other around the house and shooting each other. Jesse and Roo can even do it and I think the boys have found something new to do.

We should hear something today about Dad's surgery so I will know better when I am going home. We will be going home Sunday afternoon/Monday. We are going to stop and stay at some friends cabin Sunday and then head the rest of the way Monday. If Dad is having back surgery in the near future we will be staying to help out. It all just depends on what we end up hearing. So, that's been our trip in a nutshell.

The Love Of My Life!!!

2011-10-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

I never thought it possible to love someone so much until I got married. As the years pass.....I find I love him more in a deeper, more meanigful way. I miss him, there isn't a moment I don't think of him, but I know he's doing what the LORD wants and that makes me love him even more! We are halfway through our being apart this time and it's getting a little easier. In some ways. I love you Baby and can't wait to see you!!!

Saw this the other day and fell in love with it! I am going to have to get this at some point!!!! Love my soldier!!!!

The Chewy Dog!!!

2011-10-28T00:27:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of the Chewy's haircut and the boys new hats. They look so cute in their new hats and we all love how soft Chewy is now. She is doing so good. No pottying in the house and she's been going everywhere with us! She is turning into quite the family pet!!!

Papa's Surprise 2.....

2011-10-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

Papa's Surprise!

2011-10-24T16:34:00.000-07:00

The boys had SUCH a good time today playing on the new kid four-wheeler that Papa bought! I even had a nice little ride on it before Papa lowered the governor. When they first got on it and started going Jonathan was driving FAST and Papa was chasing him with a rope on the back of the wheeler. He got his workout and we thought he was going to have a heart attack. Mom was definitely about to have one if Dad didn't!!!! It was a BLAST!!!

Snow Men!!!

2011-10-23T16:08:00.000-07:00

Mr. Allen was sweet enough to help the boys make a Daddy sized snowman. They took pictures and Davy and Roo weren't helping since David had gotten hurt and Reuben didn't have any snowgear. These are for their Daddy who couldn't be here to help them! They said it was Phil sized!!! We love you Daddy!!!

Update.....

2011-10-20T11:55:00.000-07:00

SO, as you all know we are Daddiless for now. Things are going really good but we do miss him. The boys are excited about leaving for Nana and Papa's on Saturday! We are working on getting school done so we can pack it up tomorrow and get everything ready to go! It takes a lot of packing for 5 people.

We heard last week that Phil's deployment got pushed back until August which was a blessing!!! That will give us about 8 months instead of 4 months to get settled in. They said it could possibly get pushed back even farther! We have been enjoying the time wtih everyone that we have this week while my parents are here.

I have gotten a lot of things packed this week so when we get home from my parents it shouldn't be as overwhelming. The next couple months are going to go by really fast! Phil got my ticket to fly down to see him so my Mom will fly up here the 8th. and I will leave VERY early the next morning to see him! She will be here watching the kids the whole time. I am sure they will have a great time! We are finishing school up the first week of December...,..well the 2nd of December. Then I will have the last week to goof off with the kids and get some last minute moving stuff done.

So, anyways, that is our life these days. I downloaded all my pictures off my laptop to disc so I will have to take some more pictures to post. I will try to post some pics every night at my parents house of all the cool things we're doing. Road trip pictures are first on the list!

So see ya later for now!

Random Pictures from this week.....

2011-10-13T15:06:00.000-07:00

Angel's Baby Shower Pics~

Cutie!

Really good pic of Mom!

Love this one of Ang and the one of Dawn and MOm!

My Boys!!!

2011-10-07T12:41:00.000-07:00

I absolutely LOVE this picture!!! It turned out really good. I just ended up hanging a piece of fabric on the wall behind them! I will definitely be doing this again in the future!

Rearranging

2011-10-06T11:54:00.000-07:00

So, I decided that I had HAD it with the whole potty training situation. I put Reuben in my room last night which was a transition. He kept me up A LOT but he didn't pee the bed all night!!! Jesse is in Jonny and Davy's room for now. Jesse and Reuben do better separated but it seemed my only chance at getting Roo past his, " I miss Daddy so I'm going back to acting like a baby, peeing and pooping my pants, stage".

I ended up cleaning that one room totally and putting all the church's things back in there so it is TOTALLY taken care of! I have been VERY busy today cleaning and packing and organizing. I have certain days where I feel more motivated to get things done than others. The house is looking nice today and it makes me happy. The boys are doing school, I did the morning dishes, ran some laundry, folded some laundry, we're going to get showers done today, clean out the new freezer( I've been avoiding that), packed all my sewing stuff away and decided I'm not going to get a chance to use it so I might as well pack it, working on a wedding gift for Shannon and Ty. It's turning out cute!

Anyways, busy busy. It keeps me from pining for Phil. it seems to be getting easier though. In some ways. I guess maybe just getting used to not having him around. He has been so busy the last couple of days I haven't talked to him much. I still get a text every morning and I am thankful for every little thing I get. So, that's our life in a nutshell these days!

Sickness...UGH!

2011-10-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

So, Jonny ended up getting a high fever Saturday and had it until Tuesday. He is doing better now except for a bad cough. Jesse hasn't been feeling well and Roo has a snotty nose. Jonny ended up missing school on Monday and the other boys could tell I wasn't feeling well. They ended up being SO bad! Needlesss to say it was a VERY bad day for Momma. Tuesday morning started out rough but the day ended up being okay.

Another struggle since Phil left has been Reuben and potty training. He has been up several times almost every night. I have taken away his favorite blanket, his Pooh bear, I am making him wear potty training pants and plastic pants again, and he STILL pees the bed ALL night. Now, it's not a matter of him sleeping too hard. He wakes up and cries but refuses to get out of his bed and go to the bathroom. I have even tried spanking him.

I am running out of ideas. I can tell you one thing......NONE of my other boys were this hard to train!!! They were all FULLY trained by three! He isn't that much older than three so I'm not too concerned about it. My Mom said that when my Dad went to basic Josh quit potty training....but he was only 18 months old. Reuben knows better! So if any of you have any off the wall ideas and have prior experience with potty training boys!!! I'm ALL ears!!!

Updates on Us!

2011-10-01T13:06:00.000-07:00

Well, I had every intention of doing the 31 Day Challenge like Bek but I couldn't decide on ANYTHING! I also figured with being gone for two of the weeks at my parents it would prove VERY challenging indeed. AKA....I would write at all.

So, I decided to not do it right now. My goal is to write everyday as a type of journal on here. It helps....to write out what happened in our day and how we are coping without Daddy right now. It is all so new to us! As of today Phil and I have officially never been apart this long. It is weird. I thought it would get harder as time went by but it seems to be getting easier. I know it's only been two weeks but it HAS gotten quite a bit easier. We are settling into a routine and it is definitely helping.

I had thought of doing something like just posting a picture of what I was wearing each day to improve my appearance. That seemed kind of silly. I might do it anyways....just for Phil! I have been crafting and working on getting things packed so we will be totally ready when Phil gets home.

I am flying to South Carolina to be with Phil the last week of school. I will leave here on the 9th. of December and fly home with Phil. It will be the first time we have been somewhere alone together in quite awhile. We did go to Hawaii once by ourselves but stayed with friends so we aren't counting that. There are a bunch of Conferences and such for us wives to attend that week. It is spouses week. We will also be attending a banquet. I get to buy a new fancy dress and some heels. It should be fun! I also get to be there for Phil's graduation!

So, that was exciting news! I am going to pick Kluane up in a little while and she is going to watch the boys for me for awhile and then stay the night! It is pretty exciting for me. I am going to a girls game night with a friend whose husband is also away at Army training. Anyways, not much else going on around here lately. Just the usual!

Oh....I almost forgot. We found out this week that Phil is getting sent to Afghanistan next year for 9 months. It was a blessing to hear that it wasn't for a year. That was an answer to prayer. I will continue to keep everyone updated as soon as we know more. We don't know exactly where he will be over there yet!

Boy's Birthday Picture!!

2011-09-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

Jesse Talon

Tristan Phillip

Davy and Ramsey

Jonathan

Ang's Caterpillar Cake

The Birthday Boys!

All the kids!

Davy is crazy!

Days 9,10, and 11....

2011-09-29T01:28:00.000-07:00

I am getting behind keeping up with all that has been going on. Monday was Davy's birthday and we stayed home most of the day. I went to town that evening to pick up a freezer with Josh. I only paid 125.00 for it so that was nice. We are going to sell our old one for the same amount. That will be nice.

We went to town on Tuesday. We got up SUPER early and were in town by seven thirty. We got the truck alignment done, went grocery shopping, went to Ft. Wainwright to do insurance stuff, went by the bank, and to Lance and Dana's for a birthday party for the boys. We had pizza, cake, and banana splits. The boys had a great time! Josh and Ang got a remote control helicopter for Davy and some puzzles for Jesse. Dana had decorated the apartment and got camo party stuff for the boys. It was SO very sweet of them. They are taking good care of us while Phil is gone. We got home around nine that evening and got everything put away and went straight to bed.

Wednesday......we spent the day at home. It was nice to just bum around and not do much. We ended up talking to Phil for about an hour which was nice. Natasha stopped by before church so we got to spend a little while with her. We decorated cupcakes for after church. It was a good day. Jesse sure had a blast. He told everyone all day " I'm 5 today"! He was SO happy. The only thing that would have made it better was to have Daddy here. He is being REALLY good for me so I can't complain.
Off to bed with me now! I worked out and then got a little freaked out by some noises and after writing this I am finally getting a little tired. Pictures to follow in the morning!

Days 7 and 8

2011-09-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't written the past few days on here. It has been nice to just be at home without too much going on. We stayed home most of the day Saturday and then went to Josh and Ang's for dinner in the evening. We had a nice time hanging out with them.

We didn't do much yesterday either. We had church services in the morning and then came home and made pizzas for lunch. The boys wanted Teague to come over and play so they were outside with him most of the afternoon. We went back to church in the evening and then stayed around fellowshipping for awhile. Other than that....not too much going on.

Riley's Birthday Bonfire

2011-09-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

We had SO much fun! I took a lot of pictures and didn't get one of Riley. He had so much fun playing with all his friends. Here's the pictures that I got! The one of me was courtesy of Kluane for Phil!

Day 6

2011-09-22T21:56:00.000-07:00

So today went pretty well. It was up and do school, eat lunch with Natasha, talk to Phil on Skype, talk to my parents on Skype, and various other things. I was having a rough day in that I am exhausted. It has been at least a week since I had a good night's sleep. I wonder why?! Oh wait, I have children and my husband is gone.....gotta love THAT combo.

Anyways, it has only been a week and I am wondering what in the world I am going to do for the next 3 months before Phil gets home to keep myself busy. So, I am working on sewing projects, packing various things, starting a 31 day challenge in October, working out, and TRYING to figure out how to lose weight and KEEP it off. That is the biggest challenge of all. I seriously need my good eating habits to marry my workouts and I would be golden. Unfortunately the two act more like brother and sister and have a love hate thing going on!

I am going to start posting pics even if they are TOTALLY random and have nothing to do with anything. My goal is one a day. We shall see how that works out. Anyways, this is as good as it's gonna get......for now anyways.

Day 5

2011-09-21T14:59:00.000-07:00

Well, my day coulda started out better but oh well. Reuben was up ALL night....and when I say ALL night I'm NOT exaggerating. He cried and whined on and off every hour the entire night. He fell on Monday and his pinkie finger went under his hand and he landed on his knuckle. He didn't complain at all on Monday but didn't sleep well Monday night either. He was up about five different times. Last night at dinner the boys and I noticed it was REALLY swollen, hot, and red. I figured I would see if it was better this morning and then take him in if it wasn't. Well, after the night I had I was convinced it was broken. Thankfully it wasn't but I hate going to the Dr.'s none the less.

We got home after awhile and had some lunch and started working on school. I made some chocolate chip cookies and laid Roo down for a nap. I am pretty much past my super sleepy stage so I am just going to finish up school with the boys and get my workout done. I did it last night and I am SUPER sore today already. It will be good to get it in again and I won't be so sore or tired. We have church tonight so that will help. I am sure most of you know by now that we got word from the Chaplain at Ft. Lewis that the platoon Phil is assigned to is set to deploy March or April. That was quite the shocker but we knew it was a possibility and I am just thankful that I knew way ahead of time. It would be harder if I hadn't known.

So, we are praying for the LORD's guidance in and through it all. Thank you for your prayers and for the great encouragement every one has been to me. That's all for my day today!

Day 4

2011-09-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

We are on day four and already I can't believe how well the LORD provides. He has blessed our lives so very much and I continue to pray He will guide us through this new journey. The boys finished their school this afternoon and we enjoyed some light lunch. They went out to play for awhile and I am working on what we will study next in our daily devotions. I am not nearly as smart as Phil is when it comes to explaining things so I may have to study more than usual. It will be good for me.

We are working on slowly getting things packed and I will be cleaning more than usual too I'm afraid. It is easier to do as you go though and the last thing I want is to have to do it all at once at the end. I enjoy cleaning so it won't be that bad. It will keep me busy and somewhat distracted. I am trying to squeeze in time to workout also so that will help with the stress relief and also give me the physical benefits of being healthy.

I told the boys I would fix pancakes, eggs, and bacon for dinner and they seem excited that I am cooking for them everyday. I enjoy that they are happy with the very little I seem to be doing for them. They are taking good care of me.

Days 2 and 3

2011-09-19T21:40:00.000-07:00

We made it through another couple of days. We had a good Sunday and it was pretty uneventful. My Mom did come to church with us Sunday night which was really nice. We miss that. We went to town with her today and went shopping. It was exhausting but a ton of fun! Things are crazy in my life right now but I can always depend on my Mom to be there when I need her to be!

She is coming to stay the night with me and I couldn't be more excited. I will explain later but there are some unforseen things that came up and I know the LORD is in control. Just helps to have a physical person to hug when you need one or a shoulder to cry on! It stinks being an emotional person. Sometimes I wish I could be tough and strong. I guess I can be in my own way. Being emotional isn't all bad.....at least I can be sympathetic. Anyways, just thought I would write a little bit tonight. The evening was crazy and I just need some girl time and rest!

Day 1

2011-09-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

We have officially made it through day one. We started out by having some breakfast and going garage saling with Nana. No, I didn't take a single picture all day....too bad! Anyways, we got the boys some lunch at Sams, picked up a few things from Wal-Mart, and headed home. We spent the majority of the time garage saling. It was a lot of fun and we did most of it on Fort Wainwright.

I ended up getting a suitcase and a few new shirts and dresses. The boys got some light sabres for two dollars which was cool......courtesy of Nana. It was nice hanging out with her for such a long time. I miss that. I checked out the base thrift store which was pretty cool. We came home and chilled out since I have had a nasty headache for the past couple of days. I am feeling better now and I am sure will feel great after I get some sleep tonight!!!

Talked to my hubby for a little while and he had already made a new friend. That's easy for Phil if you all haven't noticed. He had made it to his apartment and was enjoying how nice it was. Tomorrow he starts the first week, which is mainly inprocessing and such. Anyways, I thought you should all know what was going on. I shall keep you all updated day by day through this process!!!!

More Pictures....

2011-09-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

So, we were taking pictures the other day and again last night before Phil leaves. I wanted to have a nice picture to send to everyone! I guess you get a preview. It is hard to coordinate professional pictures when you don't have time to go get them taken. Anyways, I like the homey ones more anyways...or should I say natural....or should I say the chaotic ones where no one will smile or sit still?! Anyways, here they are! Enjoy!

Pictures!!

2011-09-08T16:31:00.000-07:00

Some new pictures from my new camera! I get to keep it while Phil is gone!!!

Military Id's

2011-09-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

So, we went to Fort Wainwright today to get our new Military Id's. I don't know why I have to look so hideous every time I get a picture taken I have to carry around with me forever!!! Anyways, it was fun!! The boys had a great time on their first Army base. It was surprisingly the same as the last time I saw it.....oh....about 15 years ago!!

We went to Att after that to get new go phones. It is a better price to get two of them and have unlimited talk, text, and web than to stick with a plan from them. So, we have new numbers which I will mass text to everyone next Thursday! I am using my phone until the billing cycle ends that day. I will give both our numbers out. It will take some getting used to having a new cell phone number after 10 years of the same number! Oh well. Just thought I would post a little update!!!

Shopping!!!

2011-09-06T13:35:00.000-07:00

So I went to town with Kluane yesterday to score some good deals at Joann's. I went for some beads and stuff for a Top Secret Project! I ended up finding this book that I am IN LOVE WITH!!!

It has THE CUTEST little girl dresses and leggings in it. I am planning on at some point making a dress for each little niece of mine. Now, I don't know when that will be but the book tells you how to do it all and gives you the paper patterns in the back. I got it on sale with a coupon so it wasn't as expensive as it could've been. Then again....if I had just bought it from Amazon....I probably would've saved myself some money! I wasn't thinking that way then though!! Go figure!

I'm Back!!

2011-09-03T14:04:00.000-07:00

We have internet at the house now. It has been really nice. I am back in touch with everyone. Phil was officially sworn in a couple weeks ago and is now leaving in less than two weeks. He flies out on September 16th. The boys and I are enjoying every minute of him! I am posting some pictures of his swearing in ceremony. It wasn't anything fancy but it is a huge step of commitment to the military. They own us now!

We will be leaving the state December 19th. to head to Washington. We are extremely excited but have lots of preparations that we are making before that gets here. We did get a new camera and I was hoping I would get to keep it but Phil is taking it with him. I am hoping to find something cheap online so that I have something to take pictures with. Anyways, I will try to post pics up until he leaves. So glad to be back on here updating everyone on what's going on in the McBroom household. That way everyone is staying happy!!! Love you all and we appreciate your prayers!

Happy Father's Day!!

2011-06-19T00:28:00.000-07:00

I love my Daddy So much! He has been there for me through a lot. He raised me so well. There is a lot I could say about my Dad. I still call him Daddy, he is an amazing man, he would give you the shirt off his back if he needed to, he is kind, he is SO funny, he loves me more than he could ever express, and he taught me to love the LORD. My Dad and I have a special bond......one only a father and daughter have. He and I were saved the very same night and that gave us another special bond. Like I said.....I could go through and spend several hours writing out how much I care about my Dad and all the times he was there for me.....but we both know and that's enough. I love you Daddy and hope you have a great day!!! Wish I coulda been there with you! Hugs and Kisses!!! Your Loving Daughter

It's been awhile.....

2011-06-17T12:46:00.000-07:00

So, life is crazy! We have been selling quite a bit of stuff on Eielson Base For Sale's Website. It has been nice and making it easier to not have to move stuff or get it ready for the garage sale. We are going to be doing that next Friday and Saturday. Only 4 more weeks until we go to Ninilchik for awhile. That will be SO nice. We are all looking forward to that. We are moving out of the house on the 26th. It is officially Josh and Ang's now! They are excited about it but I know it's a lot of work moving. We are selling most of our larger stuff so it won't be too hard for us!

The last couple of weeks have been insane! We had VBS, appointments, shopping, a baby shower, and a myriad of other things going on. I am looking forward to things slowing down after Phil is done working and the house stuff is finished. I have pictures of Natasha's baby shower on Facebook so I won't post them on here for right now. I'm not going to be running the Mid-Night Sun Run like I wanted too either. It is too busy right now and other things have taken priority. I am a little bummed but there will be more time for those things later. Right now my family and our move is more important.

Anyways, I thought I would let you all know what is going on in our lives. It's insane and I am sure I am missing something I should tell you all. Well, until next time!

Summer Fun!!

2011-06-03T17:22:00.000-07:00

Natasha and Claire

Baby Claire

Kate

Roo.....he looks SO much like Phil right here!

Jonny

Fritz and Davy.....go figure!

We went and hung out for awhile and played outside. It was nice visiting with Natasha, Lisa, and Mallory. It was a nice day for a visit. We will probably be going on a picnic next week sometime with them too. It should be loads of fun! Anyways, thought I would post our little adventure!

Blog Stalking Again!

2011-06-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

So, I was blog stalking as usual, and I found another TOTALLY amazing book I want to get! I know.... I know.....but anyways, if I could get Phil to get me the cookbooks I want instead of other stuff for our Anniversary and Birthdays I wouldn't have to tell all of you. I NEED a stash of cash somewhere to randomly buy these things.....hmm.....an idea is forming. Oh, anyways, here is a copy of it and I am SO excited about finding it later this year and so if any of you are thinking of birthday ideas two months in advance....this is a good one!

Memorial Day Weekend!!

2011-06-01T10:11:00.000-07:00

Josh, Ang, and the Chubba before the big trip in!

Talon snuggled in Daddy's sleeping bag all night. We lost his sleeping bag and blankey on the way in! Ooops!

Chubba and Roo playing in Angel Creek!

Sitting outside enjoying the sun.....we were all burnt that day!

Mac and her crazy hair!

Angela and all the boys( Roo didn't have a jacket so he's wearing Mac's) at 4:00 in the morning!

I LOVE this picture......it's looks like the Beverly Hill Billies. Best picture of the trip.

My guys! Gotta love my guys!

The boys were playing in the creek!!! They had SO much fun!

On our trip out and home!

Here's the crew on the nice trail we found to drive out on! Waaaayyyy better than the one we used to get into the cabin! We had a really good, memorable trip. I don't know how I will ever survive without my brother, sister-in-law, and little nieces!!! It was a GREAT time! The boys riding in the trailer kept saying they liked doing butt smashes. Everytime we hit a bump and the trailer would jiggle they would laugh and scream. Silly boys. They kept telling us to move get their chariot moving. It was so nice to get away for a few days!

Reuben's B-day!

2011-05-28T09:22:00.000-07:00

I just had to post what I bought yesterday! I got his cute lego ice cube tray to make candy lego molds for the tops of Reuben's b-day cupcakes. I have been eying it for some time and I am probably more excited than the boys will be. I know it will get tons of use! We will be celebrating his b-day in Ninilchik with my parents! They're SO cute!

Here's where I got the idea from! She has some COOL stuff!!!

http://www.sugarswings.blogspot.com/

Check it out!

I also plan on buying this one!!!!

Big News!!!

2011-05-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

Well, for all of you who don't know......Phil has been accepted into the Army as an Active Duty Chaplain. You know we have been praying for God's will for some time and decided to just let Him work instead of pushing. Our God is faithful and true!!! All the doors have just been flung wide open and despite all the challenges and long road ahead we are on our way! God had to work through some difficult circumstances to change us and mold us into what we needed to become before He could use us!

Phil will be leaving roughly around September 16th. or 18th. for Officer Basic Training. He will be gone approximately 3 1/2 months and will be home the week before Christmas. As Ang told you, we are selling our house to them which is a HUGE blessing for us and them! As I said the LORD is working everything out perfectly. It is all coming together so smoothly. We are going to be moving out and handing the house over by the July 1st. We are moving into our church's parsonage which they were so kind to let us use until we leave. We are selling most of our stuff and are going to re-outfit once we get to where we're stationed. Since we've had most of our stuff for the 10 years we've been married it is about time to get some new things.

The boys are excited and sad at the same time......leaving everything they've ever known......but they know that we need to do what the LORD asks and He will bless us for our obedience. They are such sweet boys. They have been helping a lot and are just as happy about it all as we are.

We have big plans this Summer since it will be our last one here for who knows how long! We are heading to my parents in Ninilchik for a week or maybe longer in July. We are going to Chitina in late July or early August with some guys from Phil's work.( He took them last year and the two older boys and they had a blast) Phil and Josh are going sheep hunting in August! ( Josh should be kissing my feet for awhile for letting him go with Phil AND use my four-wheeler :0)

Phil is going to quit his job sometime this Summer after we have all the details from the Military. So, we will get to spend some time with him before he leaves. I will probably go down to my parents for a while after he leaves and Angela has the new baby. It will help the boys cope with Daddy being gone having Papa around and it will be nice to visit some with them before we leave and don't get to see them as often! The hardest part about leaving to do the Lord's work is leaving all of the people we love and have grown up with..........but the Lord never said their wouldn't be sacrifice involved did He?! Anyways, not going to get into that or I will start blubbering.

We are excited to see what the Lord has in store and how He will use us. I am going to start posting more often and keeping everyone updated as to how things are going. I will be posting pictures often too and that way I can look back and see it all someday. I may even start scrapbooking our new family adventure!!!! I just have to say how tremendously overwhelmed I am by God's love and how He saved two sinners and has been molding us for this specific ministry for some time. I can see His hand in it all and have an amazing peace knowing we are doing what God wants!

Camping

2011-05-28T08:18:00.000-07:00

We are going out to Angel Creek Cabin this weekend for a couple of days! We are going with Josh, Ang, and McKinley and are going to four wheel in to the cabin. The boys are SO excited! We have all our food pretty much ready to go and today we are getting the camping gear out. We are going to do a little hiking and playing in the creek and just enjoy some time in nature with the family. It should be exciting and I will have pictures to share when I get back!!! I have some on the camera now but don't want to go get it right at the moment. I know, I know, lame!!! You'll just have to wait! Anyways, I thought I would update and let everyone know a little of what's going on around here. I will write more soon!!!

My New Obsessions!

2011-05-13T14:55:00.001-07:00

As I said....I am in a new mode.....food blog stalker!!! I had followed this blog years ago and now what a hit she is! She has some awesome recipes and when a friend of mine told me about her again the other day I was on the computer right away.....stalking. Anyways, here's a new cookbook of hers I am dying to get! You might start seeing more posts like this as I am now doing the Amazon Associates thing on my blog!

Awesome Giveaway and Blog!

2011-05-13T14:46:00.001-07:00

So, I am totally a Food Blog Stalker. Anyone that posts about food.....I follow. I am SO going to learn more about photography, JUST so I can take awesome pictures of the food I make! Mouth wateringly good pictures! Anyways, here's the link!

http://snappygourmet.com/giveaways-enter-now/

2011-05-07T21:08:00.001-07:00

Mother's Day!

2011-05-07T19:57:00.000-07:00

I have the sweetest boys in the world. They tell me everyday how beautiful I am ( when I look my worst). They go out of their way to do sweet things for me ( like help with the little boys). They always give me hugs and tell me they love me. I am SO blessed to have such wonderful kids. They aren't always good but that is part of what makes them mine. They are strange and gross. They tease me like crazy and make fun of me. They also love me unconditionally!!! They always forgive me and they encourage me to have a good attitude and to have fun! I LOVE my boys!

So, after Jonathan went to town yesterday with Ang he brought me this beautiful rose home! He is SUCH a sweetie! He has a sweet attitude and heart about helping ( almost always). He is turning into a young man and it's happening all too quickly.

David is my funny boy! He always makes me laugh. I can't stop cracking up at the things he says. This morning before my run he looked at my running pants ( which are too long for me) and said " You'll grow into those pants Mom". I told him I was done growing and he acted extremely surprised. He is hilarious! Love him!

Jesse is my wild child!!! He is my rebelious, outspoken , and just downright ornerie one! He is also adorable, and sometimes sweet, and occasionally overly loving. He needs constant affirmation of our love for him. So cute!

Reuben is my sweetheart! He is always loving and kind. He has a VERY sweet attitude about everything. He is growing up so fast and still loves his momma like crazy! I love it! He gives me such sweet hugs and kisses all the time! He is SO cute!!!!

Jonny's B-day Party!

2011-05-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

Well, as you can see it was quite the party! The ice cream cake looked delicious!!! They had a good time. We decorated marshmallows and the kids REALLY liked doing that. I have a new craft the boys and I are gonna do. It looks super fun! I will post pictures after we do it. We are waiting until after school is done! Enjoy!

Jonathan's 9th. Birthday!

2011-04-21T15:15:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast Jonathan is growing up. It seems like just yesterday we had him and he was an easy going little chub of fun. Now he is maturing into a very fine young man. He is extremely smart, always willing to help, I hardly ever have to discipline him and when I do it is a simple talking to and nothing more, he brings us such joy and we are so proud of the man he is becoming. I pray that the LORD would find him useful in His service and that Phil and I can raise all our boys to become Godly men that serve Him. I love you Jonathan! Happy Birthday!

As promised......

2011-04-21T15:06:00.001-07:00

This is our living room.
This is my most beloved kitchen!! I LOVE my kitchen!
The boys bathroom.....it's really nice!
The school room that doesn't get used as a school room.
Phil's office......lame....we know.
Our bathroom!
Our bedroom
Our bedroom.

There really isn't that much more to see. The garage is a mess and it has my laundry in it so I decided not to post that today. We might eventually get some nicer stuff but we'll see what is in store for us first! Now.....no more whining people!

Ghost Town.....

2011-04-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's what my blog has become ( according to Bek). So, later today....pictures. I would do it now but Phil is asleep, the boys rooms are a mess, and I am homeschooling. So it will have to come later today. We have been doing really well though. It has been busy with the Revival last week at the Church. I started a diet that is thirty days and so far have successfully avoided cheating. It's going really well.....I have to admit I had a few BAD days though. We have had some sick kids. Including Reuben who we had to take to the Doctors on Monday because his face was SO swollen he could almost not see out of one eye and walk on one foot. We have a follow up appointment on May 3rd. to get the test results on his blood work. They are testing for allergies. They will also do some addition testing for some different allergies that aren't included in the blood work.

So, the snow is melting and it has been beautiful here. We are having a Birthday party on Saturday for Jonny's 9th. Birthday which is tomorrow!!!! I can't believe it! He is growing up WAY too fast. Makes you realize all you need to teach them and to train them so that they can become the Godly men we hope and pray they will all become. He is so very special to us and we are so happy to see him growing in character and in stature. He will be taller than me by next year probably!

I will also post pictures of the party! Anyways, busy busy around the McBroom house. We have some visitors coming next week that my boys will be SUPER happy about! They don't know!!! I'm excited! So, I hope this update was worth all the waiting.....probably not! Pictures to come next!

Monday Madness!!

2011-03-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

It's Monday!! YAY! I love Mondays....a new week, a new beginning, and a week closer to being in our house! Hopefully, this is the week! We are getting our carpet today.....as I'm sure you all know since I've said it a thousand times! I am just so excited. It is so nice seeing things getting done. I will post pictures over the next couple of days to show everything we're getting done. Like the grouting on my tub Phil did this weekend. It makes the tub look SO good! I will try to throw some in of the kitchen again since we have the refrigerator in and hopefully the stove today too!

I got up at six and ran, took my shower, then I changed the sheets on our beds, started the laundry, cut the two older boys hair, made bread, and now I am working on getting some school samples faxed over to the boys contact teacher. I LOVE GETTING UP EARLY! You get So much done and it makes you feel So good! It good be the endorphins from running too. hehe They make me a SUPER happy person. Plus it's nice to have quiet time in the morning with the LORD before the boys get up.....that ALWAYS helps! So, this is my life. We're waiting for Phil to get home from court and then we're going to head over to the house and start working. The carpet people should already be there! YAY!

Best Friends!

2011-03-05T08:58:00.001-08:00

So, yesterday was my best friends birthday. Her name is Natasha Rae Brandt and she is the cutest thing! She is always kind and sweet and never has a mean thing to say about anyone. She has been there for me through many things and we talk almost every day! I met her about 4 1/2 years ago for the first time. Her husband and Phil had met at Fairbanks Police Department where Allen was a new Police Officer and Phil was the Chaplain(this was a year before I met her). Phil attended their wedding and then started having a Bible Study with Allen at their apartment. Phil invited them to our Annual Fall Party and that is where I met Natasha! I still remember her in her flannel shirt and pig tails! She was SO cute and super nice.....a little shy since she came by herself and didn't know anyone but Angela and Phil!

What began as a random visit to someone's house began a TREMENDOUS friendship! I don't know what I would have done without her the last 4 years. We've been through so much together and I remember her there those days when I just couldn't handle life. She's sat with me while I cried, laughed with me, danced like crazy with me, told me to straighten up when I'm having a bad attitude, and even given me fashion advice ( thanks.....I really needed it). We have gone to Hawaii together, been pregnant together, gone fishing together, shopping together, sleepovers together( when our hubby's left us for Chitina), played cards together( and beat the guys)!!! , we've even had a few little spats together. Even through all that.......we're still friends. She means a lot to me and I just wanted everyone to know that I have one of the BEST FRIENDS EVER!

So........HAPPY BIRTHDAY NATASHA! I hope it was a great day!

Fabulous Friday!

2011-03-04T09:52:00.000-08:00

So, my hubby is home! YAY! We have been busy since the day he got home getting back into getting everything done for our house! We are getting it done for sure! He is back to work for today and tomorrow ( 12 hour days ) :0( So, the boys and I are at home getting our stuff done and waiting for the Home Depot delivery guys to give me a call so I can go meet them to drop off our dishwasher and microwave/hood range! I got some laundry done already and I am working on getting some stuff ready to take over to the house too. Mainly kitchen stuff that can be moved into the cabinets. I will be working on getting the rest of our stuff slowly moved over after some of the carpet is done! What else? Ummmmm.....not too terribly much. Just cleaning, moving, and the daily stuff I always do! Not to mention trying to fit in working out again. I'm back at the running and planning on doing the Midnight Sun Run again and then the North Pole Half Marathon in August! We'll see how that all goes! Happy Friday everyone!

Monday Madness!!!!

2011-02-28T08:57:00.001-08:00

So today we are cleaning and gearing up for Phil to come home tomorrow! I already got clean sheets on the bed, doing laundry, getting ready to workout, the boys are eating breakfast, Jonny and Davy are changing their sheets and getting ready to take their showers, then we are going to get school done, eat lunch, I am going to stain some more doors( I may just pull the rest of them out in the garage and do all of them today), and various other things that need done. We are all excited around here for Daddy to be home! Life is different when he's gone.....not a bad different....just different. I think it was getting to the boys the last few days. Especially when Davy said he wish he could fast forward time and wished things would get back to "normal".

Life is crazy good these days. The house is almost done which is wonderful. Hopefully we will have carpet this week and water! Everyone is healthy for now! Josh and Ang are living downstairs at Kim and Jim's so we get to see them more often! I've been talking to my parents every day....which I LOVE! Life is good! So, live life to the fullest. We never know what moment Our Father will call us home! Have a blessed new week friends and family!

Pics for Mom!

2011-02-24T22:07:00.000-08:00

Here's the pictures for my mom of the boys asleep!

House Update!

2011-02-24T20:06:00.001-08:00

My Jet Tub!

The sink is gonna go UNDER the window and the dishwasher goes in that empty spot!
This is where my refrigerator and stove are going. As well as the microwave/hood!
My back door and pantry cabinets! I LOVE those!
The sink is gonna go UNDER the window and the dishwasher goes in that empty spot!

Doesn't rhyme with Thursday....but at least I'm posting right! My parents aren't on Facebook and some of my friends aren't either so here are the pictures of my kitchen and bathroom! I will post the rest when we get the carpet installed!

Working Out Wednesday!

2011-02-23T12:18:00.000-08:00

So, I didn't post yesterday because I was EXHAUSTED! I went to the house and cleaned the floors for the carpet people.....hopefully they call and tell me they're installing it soon! Then I came home and worked out, took a shower, and made dinner. After that....I was DONE! Not really, I ended up cleaning the bathroom and talking to my hubby on the phone for awhile.

I didn't get enough sleep again last night. Reuben is killing me!!! He woke up at ten and cried for a LONG time. He has croup real bad so I don't want him to keep fussing. We went outside for awhile. I finally just laid him in his bed and told him to stop screaming or he was gonna be in trouble. It seems as though ( when they get sick) they get into a habit of waking you up and wanting to be held when they don't really need it! So, needless to say I didn't get up at six this morning ( since I had just laid back down at five thirty) and ended up getting up at seven thirty. That's when Reuben fell out of the bed and wacked his head. I was in the living room chair at this point. I got up and got changed and went down stairs to run on the treadmill. I was a little cranky. I told the boys I would be back in thirty minutes, so Jonny fed them breakfast, while Mommy had a little melt down. My first since Phil left......it was the lack of sleep.

I came back up and talked on the phone with Natasha for awhile. That was after I finally got back into my house....the door lock won't UNLOCK! So, the kids let me back in and I chatted with her and then I took a shower. I ate some breakfast and worked on Math with Jonathan and David. They have a hard time with Math for some reason.......they get it from their Mom. So, I am drinking my coffee and checking out blogs. I am going to work on staining doors a little later and get dinner ready. We will be going to church tonight so we're all excited about that! I can't wait for Phil to get home!!!!! 6 more days!

Monday Madness!!!

2011-02-21T11:28:00.000-08:00

Well, it is definitely Madness around here today. The boys are thoroughly missing their Daddy as am I! It has been a rough weekend. Reuben is still sick and SUPER fussy. What a crazy little boy! He is handling it pretty well considering. We got about 16 inches of snow so Dad is out shoveling the drive way. It's been insane. I am going to run to town later with Kim to pick up a few things we need. Then hopefully we will be able to get over to the new house and deal with the drive way over there before they come do our carpet this week......at least that's the plan. I haven't had a call yet. I have a TON of stuff I want to do over there and no energy to do it right at the moment. I am just praying I can get the floors cleaned up before they do the carpet. I also need to find someone to help with the driveway. Anyways, the boys are working on school and I am working on bills and making phone calls. I don't think I would be too bad a secretary. Have a great snow day all!

Friday Fun!

2011-02-18T22:27:00.001-08:00

So today....we got up and headed to town. We went and picked Heidi up and went shopping for awhile. I had a lot of fun. I got some good deals around town and it was nice to have someone help with the kids. They are NOT fun to have around when you're doing GIRL shopping. Boys don't see the fun in trying on clothes and getting a good deal. It was nice to spend time with Heidi and chat about life in general. I am sure gonna miss her when she moves to Dillingham.

We ended up getting pizza from Papa Murphey's.....I am TOTALLY in love with their cheesy garlic bread. So bad! I left everything at their house so I wasn't tempted to eat it all myself. Now I have to run double miles tomorrow since I didn't get a chance to workout today. The boys had fun hanging out with her too. They are going to miss them. Jonny talked to Ty today too and he had a nice chat with him. I would be surprised if he can still hear out of that one ear. Anyways, I had my camera but didn't get any pictures. Stupid me!!! We still had a great time! Love you Heidi!!!!!

Just Thinking......Thursday!

2011-02-16T19:35:00.001-08:00

I know this is early but I was bored and thought I would post something early. Do you all remember the saying in an old song saying " You don't know what ya got til' it's gone"? Well, whenever Phil is gone for any period of time it gets me to thinking what life would be like without him. I'm telling you right now....I WOULD NOT enjoy it. I'm so thankful for him and all that he does for me and the boys.

He is ALWAYS working hard to provide for us physically and spiritually. He ALWAYS makes me laugh....even if I don't feel like it. He's quite the character ya know. He makes me feel beautiful and important. He plays with the boys and teaches them even while their little how to be men. It's important for little boys to have a Daddy who cares about them, and loves them, and is there to teach them. I know I couldn't raise these boys on my own and them turn out like they should without Phil. Anyone that knows Phil well, knows that he isn't the type to hear you miss him or take a complement well. He is VERY humble and expects me ( his wife) to be independent and in charge of things.

If you have ever read the Created To Be His Helpmeet book....you would know there are three types of men she talks about. One is Mr. Command Man, Mr. Visionary Man, and Mr. Consistent. Mine is Mr. Command Man. He wants a wife that is self-sufficient to a degree and can take care of things when he is away. Who doesn't complain. Now, I have an issue with being a little too dependent on Phil and not on the LORD. I am reminded of that often. I also have an issue with complaining, which I am working on.

So, I guess I said all this just to say that. I would NOT do well without a husband. I think it's good and bad to be away from each other for any given amount of time. Good in that, it makes you appreciate that person more and all they do for you. For that close companionship two people share in a life together with the same goals. Bad in that, well, I can't really think of too many bad things. If the separation is agreed upon.

I look forward to Phil coming home, to holding him close and getting to spend time with him each day. It makes my days more wonderful. It makes me feel like a teenager again when I wait for each phone call or each e-mail. I get that giddy feeling when I think of what I will wear to pick him up from the airport. What special meal I will make for dinner that night. So, that being said.......do we wait for the LORD to come home? Do we spend time with Him each day? Does it make your day more wonderful? Does it make you happy and make you feel young again? Well, I have realized........it does me! I can love my husband more than a lot of things but NOT the LORD. He is my first love and I need to live my life to serve Him. Only then, will my love for my husband and children be the right kind of love!

Just a few thoughts from me! I hope this is challenging for you as it was me!

Wacky Wednesday....or WIW Wednesday?

2011-02-16T14:42:00.001-08:00

I haven't decided yet.....I might do the What I Wore Wednesday from now on but for today it is Wacky Wednesday. David was up with a fever last night and has been coughing all day. He is feeling pretty bad and laying down. Doesn't want to eat or play. So I know he's sick. We probably won't make it to church tonight, which I absolutely hate! I don't like missing church. So, for today that's our Wackiness. Not much else going on......I am staining a door everyday and trying to finish them up before Phil gets home in two weeks. Other than that.....just paying bills and taking care of kiddos.

Turn Back Tuesday

2011-02-15T16:33:00.000-08:00

Weren't they SO adorable!!!!

I figured this would be my memory day. So every Tuesday I will post an old picture or a newer one! Enjoy!

Monday Madness!!!!

2011-02-14T10:41:00.000-08:00

Just to Prove that my house is NOT always clean!
Can anyone find Roo?

So, Monday's are always insane around here. They are crazy because the weekend has left us wondering how we got so much laundry and where in the world are we going to find time to actually get school done! Our weekends start on Sunday but we don't count that since it's the busiest day of the week. So, we have Mondays and Tuesdays that we usually go over to the house and work ALL day long. This week on the other hand.......Phil is gone. So, we are having a quiet morning doing school and getting the sheets washed( a tradition that my Granny taught my Mom and she passed on to me). Monday is ALWAYS clean sheet day.

I am trying to get back into the groove of blogging and keeping those of you in my family that I don't talk to as much as I would like....in the loop! So, Monday Madness begins....I will also be posting a new picture every day! I know you will all love that!

Thankfullness

2011-02-10T11:38:00.000-08:00

I wanted to write today about all the things I'm thankful for! An idea from a friend! So here goes, I'm SO thankful for forgiveness.....the LORD is good! I'm thankful for my hubby.....he works SO hard all the time.....I should treat him better. I'm thankful for my rowdy, dirty, smelly, hilarious, sweet, and rotten at the same time boys! They are SO much fun! Thankful for friends, old and new, who are always there for me(even if we don't talk very often)!!! The list could go on forever but it is so refreshing to sit down and think about the things you have and how we should be thankful in all things.

This is a VERY difficult lesson to teach to little kids. I think they are coming around but you never know! So, just a short list for today but it's all I had time for!

House Update!

2011-01-31T12:41:00.000-08:00

So, we finally got the boiler in and working. Well, it was working.....we were cutting our cedar boards for our window sills and we think it clogged up the boiler or something. So, we are calling a boiler guy to come tune it for us. It needed done anyways, just more money. We are working on flooring and plumbing right now and Phil is over getting the HRV system finished. It's down to the end stuff now and it is pretty fun working on it all. I helped do a bunch of the wiring and was getting pretty good at it, though my fingers didn't agree.

I am looking forward to seeing the tiling get done around my bathtub and will be posting pictures of the finished project pretty soon. The carpet people are coming out tomorrow to measure so we can get the carpet ordered and they should be out to install it while Phil is gone in a couple of weeks. Josh is going to come over soon and get the phone lines finished up so that will be another thing off the list. Let's see.....what else? Well, pretty much when Phil gets home we should be moving in and it will just be a matter of staining doors and hanging trim. I am SUPER excited. In a month we should be moved in!!! So, while Phil's gone I'm going to be packing and cleaning and organizing. I may even take a little trip down to see my parents for a week. We'll see.....Phil is pretty overprotective about me going down there by myself with the kids. It kind of all depends on what I need to be doing here. With Dana having her baby and things getting done at the house. We'll see!!! Just praying about it and waiting to see what happens! So, just a little update and like I said. I will be posting pictures after some more stuff starts getting done!

Who Are You?

2011-01-21T23:56:00.000-08:00

I Am...white!

I Want...to have a closer walk with God!

I Have...a wonderful family full of guys!

I Wish...I could be a stronger godly example for those around me!

I Hate...the feeling of failure.

I Fear…that my boys won't chose to live a godly life full of discipline and love for people.

I Hear...my waterfall c.d. and the dryer running.

I Search...for stronger will power.

I Wonder...if I will be able to succeed as a woman after God's own heart.

I Regret...wasting so many years of my life living for the wrong things.

I Love...my Hubby!!!

I Ache...for the soldiers who are dying and going to hell because there's no one there to tell them about the LORD!

I Always...hate saying goodbye!

I Usually...work hard and am tired.

I Am Not...quiet!!!!

I Dance...ALL the time....mostly with Natasha when we're being silly.

I Sing...in the shower....good acoustics. I don't have a very good voice though.

I Never...drink enough water! I'm terrible about it!!!

I Rarely...have a moment alone!

I Cry...when I'm overwhelmed. It happens a lot these days. I'm working on it!

I Am Not Always...mean.....contrary to what my boys say....and some other people I know!

I Lose.....at just about everything....I don't mind as much anymore.

I'm Confused...by lots of things.

I Need...the CAKE POP BOOK!!!! It is SO cool and looks amazing! It's a need....really!

I Should......workout more....I have been terrible....but I guess building a house and taking care of my family is just going to have to do for now!

Who are you?

(Feel free to leave me some comments answering these for yourself! Or post it on your blog) :)

Bek's Apron!

2011-01-09T09:45:00.000-08:00

Here's the apron I made for Rebekah! I am going to send it this week after I get some other things put together! It turned out pretty cute and I can't wait to do some other projects. My wall hanging quilt for one! We'll see if that happens or not!

A New Year....A New Me?

2011-01-06T10:29:00.000-08:00

Are you one of those people that makes New Year Resolutions every year and never sticks to them? I am (and it took a lot for me to admit it). Life is busy as a Mom of four boys and a Wife who gets called Super Woman. I am a busy person....I LIKE to be busy. It gets over whelming sometimes and I get to the point I don't want to do ANYTHING. I guess that's what's wrong with me....I'm an All or Nothing person. Haha!

I decided that this year things are going to be different. I have a goal in mind for weight loss but instead of shooting for that goal I am just shooting to workout five days a week. I have organization goals but decided this year I would shoot for just getting moved into the new house and getting rid of a bunch of junk we never use! I think I can accomplish that easy enough. I have spiritual goals in mind also and those are going to stay personal.......it's easier to accomplish them when you're telling the LORD about it instead of everyone else!

I also decided that I need a new schedule. I am a morning person for the most part and I have to say I have already failed miserably at the getting up early part this week. Phil on the other hand is doing great. I plan on starting first thing tomorrow and following through. I may need my cup o joe right away but I think he will forgive me! I'm going to be more creative this year and I am going to sew more. Anyways, I was just doing a little musing and decided that I can make all the New Year's Resolutions I want but unless I CHOOSE to do these things they will never happen. So , I am working on a few things but not a billion like usual. Can't wait to see what the New Year holds! Happy 2011!!!!

Christmas Day! Part 2

2010-12-30T22:07:00.001-08:00

Christmas Day!

2010-12-30T16:05:00.000-08:00

This is round one! I didn't have time to put them all up at once. I will post the rest later tonight after Phil goes to work! Enjoy!

We had a lot of fun that day! I'm doing pretty good for getting the pictures online and it hasn't even been a week! YAY me! HAHA! Hope you enjoy them. I did!

Christmas Program!

2010-12-23T00:57:00.001-08:00

We had our Christmas Program at church tonight. It went really well. The boys did really good saying their lines for their skit. All of them were so adorable. The music was amazing. We have so many talented people in the church. We had good fellowship afterwords. It was nice seeing people I don't get to visit with very often. Emily being one of them.....she's such a sweetie! Anyways, we all enjoyed it a lot. Phil wore his new suit so I dressed up too. I wore 3 inch heels which I won't be doing again. Those things are terrible! Anyways, I actually got Phil to take a picture with me! It turned out pretty good. I wish I was thinner though.....pictures show just how NOT thin you are. I like it though. So, I thought I would share it! Love my sweetie!

Holidays!

2010-12-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

So, Phil went to Florida last week and just got home last night......or should I say EARLY this morning. The boys and I had a good time making gingerbread houses and baking sugar cookies. We watched movies and goofed off with friends. It was a good week. The house is being mudded and taped and we are hoping it gets done soon. We are looking forward to our weekend with friends and family. It is so wonderful to spend time with friends and family and appreciate those special moments. You never know when you may get another one.

We are going to continue wrapping presents, singing Christmas songs, and making yummy goodies. My camera is home so I will be taking pictures and posting them soon. I just wanted everyone to have a little update of our week. I noticed I haven't posted since November!! Bad Jenn!

Thanksgiving......2010!

2010-11-26T14:26:00.000-08:00

Uncle Tony with the boys
Grammie and Davy

Kate was sick.....poor baby!

Why do you always look fatter than you really are in pictures?

The deep fried cajun turkey!

LOVE THIS ONE!

Gross Josh!

My Handsome Hubby!

The little ones look like they're gonna fight!!!

My boys!

Thankful!!!

2010-11-24T19:57:00.000-08:00

So, here's my list of what I'm thankful for this year and always!

Answered prayers
My AWESOME hubby who loves me, flawed and all!
My wonderful, cute, and blond boys!
My family....all of them!
Hard work ( it builds character and keeps you from getting into trouble)
Our Military and their families!!! Thank you for protecting us and serving our country!

God's word.....the hope that it gives and the comfort. I know that these aren't very many but I could go on and on and on. It is nice to be able to share my faith and have the freedom to do so because I live in America! Have a Wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Soooooooo...........

2010-11-20T00:06:00.000-08:00

I really don't have a ton to tell anyone. We're buys working on sheet rocking the upstairs in the house. We have three rooms almost done.....meaning we still have a few pieces in two of the rooms to do. We are getting it done it's just a little time consuming. I'm SORE from lifting it all and I seem to find a new bruise every day. I think it's more because I"m a GIGANTIC clutz than anything.

The boys are all good. We're trying to get a picture of them and get it sent out. Some of them to grandparents and some to Aunties. I need to take them to WalMart and just have it done since I will NEVER end up finding time to borrow a camera and do it myself. Plus.....I would really like a nicer picture of the kids for everyone. I think early next year when the house is done we will go to Sears and get a family photo. The first professional one EVER!!

Gearing up for the Holidays. I am super excited about Black Friday shopping. Tasha and I are going together for the second year in a row. It will be SO much fun! We even stop by Carl's Jr. afterwards and get burgers and shakes. So, that's about all the updating I'm doing today!

House Update!

2010-11-12T22:21:00.000-08:00

We have heat!!! YAY!!! It makes Mommy happy when there's heat and I don't get so cranky. We've been having a good time working on the house. I helped Phil with the vapor barrier yesterday and we were finishing up some stuff today. We got the upstairs cleaned up and are hoping to get some more sheet rocking done on Monday and Tuesday! It is SO exciting. It's finally looking like walls!!! I can't wait. We are shooting for having all the sheet rock done by the time Phil leaves next month to go to training in Florida. He is excited about that. Then we're going to have some guys come mud, tape, and paint while he's gone. I hope it doesn't take too long. We might even start moving in after that is done. We are going to get the rest of the plumbing finished up for now and then we will be doing the finishing plumbing once the walls are done. It is coming along quickly and Phil and I are excited about all the progress that is being made. Anyways, happy happy!!! I am having a good time with Phil doing it ourselves. It has been an awesome experience but one I will be happy to be done with for now! So, other than that, it's school everyday and the normal mom stuff. Have a great weekend everyone~

One 2 One Review

2010-11-05T18:43:00.000-07:00

So, I have obviously been doing reviews lately. This one was for Norah Jones' new C.D. called ......Featuring Norah Jones. It was interesting. A lot of the songs I didn't care for but there were a few that I liked. I like her more mellow stuff and there was more country and pop type music on here than I liked. I am pretty picky about music and don't like the instruments to actually overpower the lyrics and that's pretty much what I felt was happening A lot on this c.d. So, I wouldn't run out and buy it but if you like more modern stuff like this you might!

Bzzzz Agent Review!

2010-11-05T14:03:00.000-07:00

So, I started doing Bzzz Agent and I finally got my first product to review. It was Tom's of Maine Wicked Fresh all natural toothpaste. I was skeptical at first but if you get a free product to try and review then who can beat that. It is surprisingly good!! I like it and have been using it every night. If you're not used to all natural stuff you might not like it but sometimes you have to give something a try to see if you will! I sure do. It's nice knowing you have fresh breath and you're doing something good for yourself! So, there's my review of it. Try it for yourself sometime!

Soooooooooo.......

2010-10-29T16:44:00.000-07:00

We're SHEETROCKING!!!!! Isn't that amazing? I can't believe we're getting so close to the house being done!!! I am loving it! The staying home and making good meals a few days a week has been wonderful and just what I needed. I am sad that Phil has to go over every day but I think he just wants to get the thing done!

We are all doing good....no sickness. I had a good visit with my parents this week. It was nice to see them again. They probably won't be back to the Interior until Spring so we will have to stay in touch Via phone, e-mail, and Skype. The boys had the best time ever with them here and we actually saw Josh, Ang, and McKinley outside of church for a change!! hint hint!

I am excited about the Holidays and can't wait to start making candy for Christmas and all the goodies for Thanksgiving. I don't know how much of it I will eat but we'll see. Sugar isn't very appealing these days and actually makes me sick if I eat too much. That's is definitely a good thing don't get me wrong. I am just going to cut way back on my intake of it! I am doing a diet with Mom starting Monday and it will be hard but I think it will be really good for both of us. It's only for a week and then you continue to be good after the initial loss. So, not to bore anyone but I'm REALLY excited. I got my ipod shuffle this past week and can't wait to start running on the treadmill again and training for next year's North Pole Half Marathon. I was bummed I didn't get to run it with Ang this year but I had wayyyyyy too much on my plate at the time! So, next year......here I come!!!

One to One....

2010-10-28T23:54:00.000-07:00

http://bit.ly/MRSAvid

Check this out!!

Crazy Life!!!

2010-10-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

I love my life!! It is crazy and wild with a house full of guys but how bored would I be without them? I love staying busy and getting all my chores done, cooking, cleaning, schooling, and all the other things that fall into my lap!

We have been busy at the house every day and getting lots done. Phil and I got the house insulated this week and he has been over working on other little things. I have been staying home on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday and only helping on Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday! It seems to be working out nicely!

We got the sheet rock delivered on Thursday so we will probably be working on that next week! It is SO exciting that so much is getting done and we are going to be moving in in no time!! Anyways, we survived the sickness and all seem to be doing SO much better! It is a joy to be healthy and you don't truly appreciate it until you are sick! That's all for now Folks!

Update on us!!

2010-10-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

We have been SUPER DUPER SICK!!!! Someone has thrown up everyday since last Wednesday! We seem to be doing better so far but we'll see. Phil has been working on the house as much as possible and we have ALL the wiring done!!! YAY!!! Thank you Serre!!! Lance and Travis are planning on coming over later this week to finish up the plumbing and we are going to start insulating and putting up vapor barrier. We also have Ventilation Solutions coming out tomorrow to check out the HRV system. So, we're making progress and getting it done about when we wanted to! Not much else is going on....just the same ol' same ol'.

Quilt Giveaway!!

2010-10-02T13:16:00.000-07:00

Check this out!!! It's awesome!! I hope one of us girls wins it!!

I tried to grab the pictures but couldn't figure out how!! I'm not compute literate enough I guess. Anyways, here's there web site!!

http://mariemadelinestudio.typepad.com/mariemadeline_studio/2010/10/the-happy-scrappy-quilt-giveaway.html

Busy Busy!!!

2010-09-23T13:11:00.000-07:00

We are always so busy these days. Phil gets up around noon and we head over to the house and work til' five when he has to come home, eat dinner, get showered and go back to work. That's after the kids and I have spent all morning doing school and chores so we're ready to go when he gets up!! We are getting things done though and that's good. Gabe has come over once or twice to help get the dirt work finished outside and so that's almost done. We are getting alot of the rough in stuff done and Josh is coming over next week to pull the cable and phone lines through. Lance is probably gonna come over and help with the plumbing and Phil is actually in town right now getting stuff to plumb part of the house. We are having some people come over and finish spray foaming and I am praying Phil will just pay to have someone come sheetrock, mud, tape and paint the place. It would save us SO much time and energy. We'll see though.....he's trying really hard to stay on budget and even though it would take us longer it would save us about eight thousand dollars. Anyways, we're doing good and I'm sorry there's not more to update on! I'll try to borrow mom's camera again and get some pictures to post!

House Building Update...

2010-09-09T23:55:00.000-07:00

Well, I haven't updated for awhile and I HATE not having a camera. We got the insulation around the foundation finished up today. We got the windows and doors in and things are moving along. G.V.E.A. came and hooked up our electricity and we are SUPER excited about that. The H.R.V. people are coming tomorrow to give us the supplies and walk us through how to put in the ducting and stuff. We are pretty excited things are getting done. We are hoping to start pulling wires and hooking up electrical outlets, not to mention getting the plumbers to come get the plumbing done. We have been putting in long days and I haven't worked out all week but I am still SUPER sore from all the shoveling of gravel and hauling blue board. That stuff isn't light I can tell you that. I feel good and I'm happy though and that is what's important. I enjoy working with Phil over there and it gives us some time together. Anyways, I just thought I would let everyone know how the house is going. I will try to start updating more often!!!

WOW!!! AUGUST!!!

2010-08-26T15:41:00.000-07:00

When did that happen??!! Summer is officially over and now it is Fall!! It is happening so fast. I am turning 27!!! On Sunday!!! Insane....it feels as though I was just 16 yesterday! Anyways, it is a wonderful thing and I am happy to be turning a year older. It happens so fast though. I have four little boys running around and none of them are babies anymore....which is kinda nice and bitter sweet at the same time. Phil and I have a wonderful marriage and I couldn't ask for a better hubby. He is the BEST! He even asked me today when I wanted to go birthday shopping. He's such a sweetie.

Things have been good and busy. Phil went sheep hunting and got home from that and he accidentally ran over his leg so he is still healing up from that. It was nuts. He is working on the house when he can and we're trying to get our septic in next week!! It is really exciting and we can't wait to have it finished. That is a lONG way off right now though. The weather is cooler and it is probably one of my favorite times of the year here in AK!! The boys started school last week and we've been having fun doing that. It is harder for them and more time consuming for me but we are enjoying it. Jesse and Roo are definitely making it more difficult. Well, a small update but thought I would let everyone know we're doing good! Have a wonderful weekend!! I know I will!!

Update!!

2010-08-15T11:18:00.000-07:00

So, I know it's been awhile since I wrote anything. We've been busy and things have just been...well, crazy!! Phil has been gone since Sunday sheep hunting. The boys.....of course....got sick while he was gone. They have had croup, coughing, sneezing, runny nose and fevers. I was so bummed I didn't get to go to church today. I was up all night with the two little boys yelling and screaming for four hours that they were scared something was getting them. I think it was the fevers talking.

Anyways, we went to spend time with friends this week, went to the fair, went out to eat, went shopping and a million other things. Jonny and Davy went blueberry picking with Jim and brought home 5 gallons of berries. It was a lot of work to clean and freeze them but I got it all done. I am hoping there will be enough room for all of the sheep when Phil gets home. I sure hope they get one! He went with Allen. Well, as busy as we've been I don't have a whole lot to post on here. The boys are starting school tomorrow so that will be fun!! They are actually excited about it. Until next time....

Reuben's 2nd. Birthday!!

2010-07-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

He was doing really good yesterday!
I love this expression
My guys! Their SO cute!

He sure enjoyed his cake and ice cream....so much he had some of mine too....I was thankful!

Good picture of these two!!

He put his new training pants on!!
New clothes !! They're really cute!
His balloon from Josh and Ang was his favorite present.....and the boys too!!

I just love holding her....she's such a sweetie!!!

Look at how she smiles for Mommy!!!

So, my baby boy turned 2 yesterday! I can't believe how fast the time flies . He is such a sweetie though......he keeps us smiling SO much. He was so cute at his party!!! He got M&M's from Mom and Dad, gummy bears and a sucker from Josh and Ang, potty training pants from Granddad and Grammie and some new clothes from Nana and Papa! He also got some money in the mail! Here's a few pictures from the party!! Oh, and he got some cars from Allen, Natasha, Fritz and Kate!

House Building- Trusses

2010-07-12T13:50:00.001-07:00

Upstairs....Jesse claimed this room
The next room will be my sewing room/ the guest room
My bathroom and bedroom
The office
Phil and his hilarious looks!!! They crack me up!
The trusses being delivered
I love this pic
The boys watching

The boys were downstairs

Phil finishing up some last minute stuff
The kids bathroom and the other bedroom....Jonny and Davy claimed that one!!
My hall closet

They had fun watching the crane put the trusses on top of the house!
Phil overseeing

The gable end of the house

They're up!!
Lance was SUCH a huge blessing...he helped out every day he could!
Josh was there as much as he could be! What a blessing family and friends are!!!
Bro. Dan Chace came and helped too one night!

Spaghetti at the land!!
So, I know there's a lot of pictures but it was so cool!!! The guys got the roof sheeted and tar papered last night and didn't get home until about three this morning. Then Lance and Phil still had to get up and get to work around six. They're gonna be tired tonight. I am going to go take some pictures of the roof soon!! HOpe you guys don't get too bored of my house project posts!!! I'm sure not!

House Building - Framing upstairs

2010-07-06T22:26:00.000-07:00

Friday......they were on lock down
Putting up the rim joist.
Steve Dutra....Phil's L.T. he came to help too!

The inside from the kitchen looking at the garage. The floor joist all on!

Monday- The two side walls up!

Tuesday- the boys playing down below!

Phil getting started on the wall behind him!

End of the day....well, when I left at least!
Smiling....what a miracle!
Eating their chili out of cups

The other two walls got set up!

Lance posed for me....he's so funny!

Garage end of the house!
Phil hard at work as usual!!

Well, there you go....a bunch of days in one post. I will try to keep up with pictures and posting. Hope you all have a good night. I am off to take a shower!!! YAY!!!

Sorry....

2010-07-06T14:45:00.001-07:00

I forgot that Allen was also there to help put up the walls.....and afterwards helped take us to victory in a volleyball game!!! :O)