Happy 1st Birthday!

So many babies...so little time.

I love, love, love my new swing!!!

Doggy!
We had a fabulous weekend. Grandma and Grandpa are on their way home, and we are recovering from a very busy weekend.

Savannah (and Grandma) had a very enjoyable birthday party.

Savannah can now say "Daddy" and finally..."Momma", and "uh-oh!"

She can sign: milk, eat, more, bye-bye, and her favorite..doggy. Oh! and she can blow kisses. So sweet. :)

Happy birthday baby girl.

Panic Mode.

Things have been so very busy around here.

I am a list person. I have lists for everything. (Jeremy calls this obsessive compulsive disorder...but I disagree) I have been working on these lists, to get ready for my parents arrival this Friday, 3 days left. I really do over-prepare for company. I don't even know why. This is the reason for the landscaping marathon I was on for the past 2 weeks, and tons of other projects. Like painting, new screens, carpet shampooing... I am so excited to see them. They visit Indiana once a year.

Savannah turns 1 next Wednesday. We are having a party for her (and my Mom, whom she shares a birthday with) on Monday, Memorial Day. So I am trying to prepare for that. I have an awesome cake picked out. I am praying I can pull it off, and make it myself. We are just having family (so far) for her party. I keep getting asked for gift ideas, and honestly, the child is in need of nothing. Literally nothing.

Oh! and Jeremy (hubby), and Jackson, and Austin leave for a Father-Son Retreat at

Camp Joy on Friday, complete with canoeing, fishing, archery, and paintball. They will return late Saturday night. They are so excited.

Did I mention Savannah turns 1 year old next week? :( I was packing away some of her infant clothes the other day...and couldn't figure out WHY am I crying??? And for some reason, I am having a really hard time parting with ANY of her clothes. I should box them all up and send them to my new niece...but I just can't. (And NO, I am absolutely NOT prego)

Some very dear friends of ours, The Peterson's will be moving home for the summer. I am so excited to see them!!! They will be here in time for our Mother Daughter Banquet at church, on May 31st. As rules have it, I will not be allowed to bring MY daughter. Only children ages 3+ are allowed to attend. Doesn't it stink when one rotten apple ruins the whole cart? (or however the saying goes) Anyway (sorry for the little rant) Oh well...that will make it even sweeter when Savannah is old enough to attend. And MY mother is planning on leaving May 30th. So I go alone.

A CONTEST!!!!!

Be sure to stop by Steph's blog, and enter the contest she has going on for FREE baby stuff from Mason & Matisse .

Happy Spring

For the past 2 weeks I have been cleaning out flower beds,

adding borders, planting a few new plants and laying mulch.

Above: small flower bed in side yard

Above: front flower bed

Above: herb garden on south side of the house, I need a lot of new plants on this end.
Side of potting shed.

So, I apologize to everyone because I have not answered emails, phone calls, etc.. I will probably get back to you...about November.

I'm off to play with the kids, you guessed it, outside.

Blogger ate my pictures, so I had to delete, and re-write this post.

Sorry for the 2 lost comments :)

Ron Paul For President

I don't usually like to post on politics... but I don't hesitate to tell you I am a registered Republican. I conservative republican. For the most part I think all politicians are on the same team. Republicans and Democrats alike. But NOT this guy. So, the next time you hear his name, you don't say "Who's Ron Paul??" Here is some info. This guy, hands down, in my not-so-humble opinion WON this debate.

Ron Paul is a pro-life (Libertarian) Republican Texas Congressman

Brief Overview of Congressman Paul’s Record

He has never voted to raise taxes.

He has never voted for an unbalanced budget.

He has never voted for a federal restriction on gun ownership.

He has never voted to raise congressional pay.

He has never taken a government-paid junket.

He has never voted to increase the power of the executive branch.
He voted against the Patriot Act.

He voted against regulating the Internet.

He voted against the Iraq war.

He does not participate in the lucrative congressional pension program.

He returns a portion of his annual congressional office budget to the U.S. treasury every year.

visit http://www.ronpaul2008.com/

May 04, 2007
Press Release
Ron Paul Wins MSNBC Debate Poll
Ron Paul steps into national spotlight
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 4, 2007
ARLINGTON, VA – Congressman Ron Paul finished first in the MSNBC poll following the GOP primary debate last night held at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California. Dr. Paul received 43 percent, beating the second-place finisher by five points, and crushing the rest of the field.
“Last night, Americans met Ron Paul and loved what they heard,” said Ron Paul 2008 campaign chairman Kent Snyder. “Dr. Paul’s message of freedom and limited government resonates with Republicans hungry for a return to their party’s core values.”
“Ron Paul is the only true conservative in the GOP race. Americans saw that last night,” continued Snyder. “The campaign looks forward to further debates and opportunities so even more Americans will discover Dr. Paul’s message of freedom, peace and prosperity.”

Ron Paul at the GOP debate

Ramblings...

I just haven't felt very "bloggy" lately. I feel like there is nothing going on here that is exciting enough to blog about. I really need a new look for my blog, just not interested in shelling out a whole lot of $$ for one, when the current one serves it's purpose just fine.

I am so thankful spring is here. We have been doing lots of yard work. Mowing (we have almost 2 acres), cleaning out flower beds, getting the vegetable garden ready. I still haven't planted anything yet. I'm waiting another couple weeks. I should have started peas and beans already, I just haven't.

Oh! We are getting milk goats!! I am excited beyond words. We are still working on the fence and other details, so it will probably be a couple weeks yet. I'm reading everything I can on the subject.

Savannah is 11 months old. She is finally starting to sign back to me. Yeah!! It is so sweet. She can sign: milk, eat, bye-bye, and dog. I am so proud. We are making some plans for her birthday party. She turns 1 on May 30th. Where does the time go?

I have started attending births again. (I am a student midwife) In April, I attended 3 in 5 days. Whew! That was a crazy week. I had agreed to attend 3 in the month of April, I didn't know they would all be in the same week. They were beautiful and amazing, just as I remembered. It was quiet the break-in period for Savannah and her new sitter, and her Daddy (whom had never actually stayed with him alone before) We all survived. I don't have any births this month. I do have a whole bunch of prenatals to attend, but I'm taking Savannah with me. My senior midwife is so gracious for allowing me to bring her along. I'm not sure yet what June will bring.

We are officially done with school for the summer. Well, sort of. Books are done, except for math. I plan to do math through the summer, so we don't have to waste so much time reviewing later on... And I plan to enroll Jackson and Austin in a summer reading program at the local library. I am already excited for next school year, I have all sorts of new books, and lessons planned. :)

The kids are already asking (40 times a day) if we can put the pool up. (Nothing too exciting, 4ft deep, 18ft. across inflatable kind) So that may happen this weekend. Who knows... I'm going to the Rensselaer Town-wide Yard Sale. Maybe the pool will be up when I get home? (hint, hint)

Okay, so that should catch you up on what is going on around here.

Happy Spring!

Wordless Wednesday

A Wise Woman Builds Her House

By: Debi Pearl

A wise woman doesn’t take anything for granted. She is thankful to be loved and seeks to make herself more lovely.
A wise woman doesn’t allow herself to be a liability but strives to be an asset to the marriage bond. She looks for ways to make, save, and use money wisely. Her husband knows he is a richer man because she is his wife.
A wise woman seeks to be a part of her husband’s life. His interest becomes her interest. She looks for ways to help him in every endeavor in which he is involved. When he needs a helping hand, it is her hand that is there first.
A wise woman knows that his peace of mind (and sometimes, wise understanding) is something she can give or take away by her observations and conversation concerning circumstances or people. She limits her conversation to the positive.
A wise woman sets a joyful mood in the household. She uses laughter, music and happy times to stir the children to a positive, joyful frame of mind. She knows this light-heartedness helps take stress off her husband.
A wise woman gauges her husband’s needs. She seeks to fulfill his desires before even he is aware of them. She never leaves him daydreaming outside the home. She supplies his every desire.
A wise woman understands that her husband’s need to be honored is not based on his performance but on his position. She learns quickly to defer with enthusiasm to his ideas or plans. She looks for ways to reverence him. She knows this is God’s will for her life.
A wise woman is not pitiful, puny, or whinny. She seeks to be confident, capable and thankful.
A wise woman does not dream of what “could have been.” She sees clearly that she is not God’s gift to men; thus she is blessed in her present circumstances. She learns to be content.
A wise woman never expects anyone to serve her; therefore she is never disappointed. She is ready to help—a giver. By her example her children learn to serve cheerfully and energetically.
A wise woman doesn’t attempt to instruct her husband through feigned questions. Her questions are sincere inquiries concerning his will.
A wise woman is always learning. She is open to change. She is ready to hear. She wants to know. She doesn’t cloud her mind with the foolish folly of entertainment. She uses her time wisely.

WW: Easter Pics

My 3 handsome little men

Crabby Patty. Beautiful new Easter dress, very crabby girl.

More Texas Pictures...

The day we went to the Alamo, it was pouring rain. Nobody seemed to care except for my MIL. Note the yellow rain poncho. :)

This is cousin Emily, Adrian just adores her.

Savannah really took to Jackie, Emily's momma.


Sea World show, Austin just had to be in the picture...

For the boys, this is what it was all about...the fishing. Left to right, Uncle Terry, Jackson, Austin, and Grandpa Doug.

The Truth About Vaccines.
Are you an open minded parent (or future parent), who loves your children, and sincerely wants to protect them?Then please, take 10 minutes out of your busy life and consider this:


I am not asking you to "do" anything...except RESEARCH it for yourself.

Sea World San Antonio

I thought this was beautiful...

The boys got to feed the dolphins, something they will never forget.

The kids favorite part of our trip to Texas was Sea World. I was a little disappointed that it was more of an amusement park, than a sea-creature-park. But, we still had fun, the weather was perfect!!

Fun: Texas Style

Texas was awesome.

The weather was perfect.

The kids had a blast.

Their cousins let them in on a little secret: 4 wheelers are a blast!!!

Chasing cattle in the pasture!

And there they go. My BABIES!!!! On 4 wheelers.

Hello All!

Just thought I'd drop ya'll a note, and tell you that we (the kids and I) are leaving for a 2 week vacation to Texas. We have a lot of fun stuff planned including Sea World San Antonio, The Alamo, lots of fishing for the boys, and several backyard-barbeque-family-get-togethers!!! The weather forcast says low 80"s while we're there. :)

I thought I'd leave you with some recent pictures of the munchkins.

When I get back, I fully expect SPRING to be here waiting for us.

See you soon!

Staci

Jackson doing chores. Doesn't he look excited?
Yes, Savannah is STANDING at her piano.

She will be walking in a matter of weeks.

Adrian and Sophie the Mexican Chihuahua

I LOVE SHOES!!!

although I'd rather be barefoot anytime.

Steph at Adventures in Babywearing has a photo tag going on right now.. she wants to see your favorite shoes. Right now, and 9 months out of the year, my favorite shoes are FLIP FLOPS! But when the snow flies...

it's knee high black , or brown boots for me. Be sure to go over to Adventures In Babywearing, and see her cute shoes :)

I am trying to decide if I should try some Crocs? My initial reaction was "those look like gardening shoes" BUT everyone seems to be wearing them EVERYWHERE? What do YOU think, do you wear CROCS? Should I try them??

Sorry I haven't been around much. SO much to do, so little time.

I have been promising everyone more pictures of the kids...so here are some new ones of Savannah. She is turning into such a little ham.

Oh! She's crawling. Everywhere. This has added a whole new dimension to my housework. Three messy boys, and one inside dog make it pretty challenging to keep the floor spotless. Then there is the mouse/mice that have decided to take up residence in my house. I have been setting traps, and vacuuming like a mad woman every day. AAHHHHH! I HATE MICE!!

Did I mention I am just a little ready for spring? I broke out my flip-flops when we went to Florida..and I am still wearing them :)

My apologies to everyone whose emails I have not returned, and Blogs I haven't read. I will try to get caught up soon.

Happy Thursday!

You know you are drinking too much coffee when...
You can "out-yip" your chihuahua.
There's more grounds than soil around your garden plants.
You make coffee ice cubes for your iced coffee.
You eat coffee jello (or coffee agar for coffee-lovin' vegetarians).(The above four are courtesy of Ruth Gagliano)
You haven't blinked since the last lunar eclipse.
All your kids are named "Joe."
You've built a miniature city out of little plastic stirrers.
You have a picture of your coffee mug on your coffee mug.
People get dizzy just watching you.
You sleep with your eyes open.
You have to watch videos in fast forward.
You don't get mad; you get steamed.
You don't tan; you roast.

Psalms 12:6 The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.
7 Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.

Jeremy has started a blog!

The Word For Today, Real Bible answers for sincere Bible questions.

If you have a minute, check it out!

More vacation pictures

Everyone seems to be recovering from the bug that went around. I'd like to post a few more vacation pictures from my recent trip to Florida.

Savannah and I took in some much need sunshine. It was about 85 degrees this particular day we went to the beach. Much warmer than Indiana!!!

This is Jacob (a friend of the family) burying Adrian in the sand.

Austin searching for seashells to bring home to Indiana.

Jeremy did some fishing after entertaining the kids.

The kids body surfing. The water was cold (I thought) but it didn't stop the kids.

My Sister Finally has a blog!

Take a moment and visit Kelli's blog, and give her some encouragment and tips on blogging! Not only is she my sister, but also my best friend. She lives in Denver, and I get to see her once or twice a year. I saw this picture, and thought of her. She loves bunnies, and has 2 in her apartment.

Photo Tag: Bump!!

Steph, has a photo tag going on, and has asked us to post pregnant belly pictures. I should have had these up yesterday, but Savannah has been really sick.

I couldn't find the one I was looking for...so these will have to do. This is in 1997, 7 months pregnant with Jackson. Jeremy was in the army at the time.

Oh yes! I used to be bleach blond. Jeremy was teasing me last night while we were looking at these, that I was an Anna Nicole Smith look alike (in the hair department anyway ;) )

Sick day.

Savannah has had "the crud" since we returned from Florida, the works: congestion, cough, fever, and vomiting. She has finally broken her fever, whew!

So, we are playing "hookey" from church today, to recooperate. It's so wierd being home without any boys (Jeremy took them to church, and will be gone most of the day). I have a nice, quiet house to snuggle with my sick baby. I was going to take a pic of her for my blog, but she looks way too pitiful, poor little thing. I've attached another Florida picture instead :)

Are You Coming?

Here's the deal. 5 minutes For Mom is hosting The Ultimate Blog party.

I am the hostess of this party. So come on in (to my blog), and look around!

I just returned from vacation, so be sure to check out my Florida pictures. Please be sure to say hello to the kids, they love parties. Want to learn a little more about me? My 100 post should fill you in.

Why am I doing this? Because I love FREE STUFF!! And I want to win prize #1, that's why!

More to come, this party is just getting started!!!

Virtual DNA

I found this at Adventures In Babywearing, head over there, to see Steph's.

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

More vacation memories...

We found our favorite restaurant, Flounders. When we lived in Pensacola it was our favorite beachside hang out.

We hung out with the locals. Notice Adrian staring at the statue trying to figure out if he is real or not.

Silly boys!!!

Two milestones..

While vacationing Savannah started to wave hello, and bye-bye. Not probably very excting to most people, but to a mommy, it's just amazing :) Yes, I find joy in the silly, little things.

She also had her first ever "sink bath". Which, turns out, she likes much better than her regular tubby!