Touchdowns and Tea Parties

Community of Faith

2011-02-13T23:39:00.000-08:00

Us conservatives really scoffed at Hillary Clinton when she talked about how it took a village to raise a child. We railed against those liberals who wouldn't take personal responsibility for their own children. No wonder the world was going nowhere good, and going there fast.

This past week, I have been truly blessed with some extra special time with ladies from my church. At the first get together, I was trying to explain this article...

http://www.crosswalk.com/parenting/11547965/

Basically, the article talks about parenting out of faith and not fear. It was a great conversation that really encouraged me.

Then last night, I got to tuck my son in to bed. We always pray with him. Everyday we pray for a different character quality using this list
http://lessonsthrulife.com/?p=211
When we got done praying my son got really concerned that a friend of his did not know Jesus. Wildcat just NEEDED to call his Sunday school teacher because she was just the right person to fix this situation. She talked to Wildcat and sure enough today, she made sure to investigate that situation. What a great lesson for Wildcat to learn. You can call on others in the body of Christ when you need help with your faith.

Today, after church a good percentage of our church went out to eat together. The men fellowshiped at one table, the teens at another, the kids at another, and the women at another. We got to pray for each other's needs. We laughed. We shared memories. And then tonight, I got to talk with Wildcat all about it and his interactions. We also discussed the lessons he had learned at church and how to apply those to daily life.

During all of this Kapooka and her friend were playing together. They were saying I love you to each other, helping each other up when they tripped, and sharing their toys (well most of the time). They were also discussing how most donkeys say eee-awwww, but the donkey in their sunday school lesson talked. All big stuff when you are 3.

All that to say, I am thankful for the chances my kids have to go to Sunday school and children's church. I am thankful for the workers that partner with me to teach my children. I am thankful that I am surrounded by like minded people that those programs are just a part of the spiritual training of my kids, but I am so thankful that they are a part. It might not take a village to raise Wildcat and Kapooka, but I sure couldn't do it without my church family.

Why I am Thankful For My Son's Public School

2011-02-11T22:52:00.000-08:00

First, dear friends, let me say that I have done it all on the school spectrum. I have homeschooled. I have sent my child to a private Christian school. I have attended a private, non-religious college, and now my child is attending a public school. I truly believe that children are a gift, and that to teach them God's commands is the most important task that we have. However, I don't belive God always asks us to choose one way to go about doing that. I think each child has different needs. I think even the same child can have different needs as they go through different stages of development.

Our current situation is such that a quality Christian school is not nearby. So we are left with the option to homeschool or public school. We prayed and we prayed. Over and over the answer has come back to send our Wildcat to school. It has been HARD. It has been a change. However, it is good. Why? Let me share?

1. He is a lot more conscious of his friend choices. We talk a lot about character qualities of being a good friend. This didn't happen before.
2. His heart is growing in having a burden for those that are lost. He is also seeing sin and disliking it. He is sharing the gospel, and inviting friends to church.
3. The adjustment to our new town has been the hardest on our son. The counselor at the school is a Christian. She prays with him, and is basically his security blanket. She even came to our church on a Wednesday night just to check on him.
4. The librarian at the school goes to our church, and takes him to school every day. She even feeds him donuts on Fridays. He knows he can talk to her too about any issue at school. She prays with him too.
5. He is learning, and reading, and doing things that I could not provide at home, at least not with a toddler around. Other moms probably could. I can't.
6. He is making friends in his new town. Here, it is such a small town if you don't go to the school you are really on the outside.
7. He is learning that Mom and Dad are great people to talk to about your troubles and your questions that come up during the day. He is also learning about the power of prayer when we pray through his day every night. However, he is also learning the value of a faith community. He is seeking out Christian role models to help him throughout his day.

So, all that to say, is tonight I am thankful for all the people that work hard to educate my son every day.

Kapooka's Birthday

2011-02-10T08:55:00.000-08:00

Kapooka's Princess Party. Kapooka with her Cousin H (who hung the moon in Pooka's eyes)

A fantastic cake delivered from Omaha. Thanks Uncle J and Aunt E!

This toy is great. It is like paper dolls, but wooden and magnetic. Both Wildcat and Kapooka loved having Grandma and Grandpa from the blue house here for the weekend.

The hit of the birthday. An indoor trampoline has been great with all the snow. Again, thanks Uncle J and Aunt E!

Some friends from church got Pooka her sock monkey. She loves it!

Birthday Pictures

2011-02-08T14:20:00.000-08:00

A movie and a MP3 player. He loves the MP3 player a lot.

Celebrating blowing out his double digit candles.

A fantastic cake ordered from the local bakery.

Wildcat's party was so easy. He wanted a cake from Renee's bakery, chips, and pop. He wanted plain paper plates and cups. We had his party at The One. It is a youth center in town that has Foosball, a pool table, air hockey, ping pong, and pinball. It happened to be really warm that day, so the boys even went over to the town square to try out Wildcat's soccer ball that he got as a present. All I had to do was stop any too rough horseplay and vacuum after everything was over.

I also got to snuggle Wildcat as he went to sleep on his birthday. That is our birthday tradition since I did that on the day of his birth. I am so glad he is my son.

Happy Birthday Bubba!

2011-02-07T19:56:00.000-08:00

Candlelight Service

2010-12-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

Wildcat and Kapooka ready to go to our candlelight service at church. They take my breath away!

She loves getting her picture taken. I think she is gorgeous!

What a sweetie pie!

Wichita Christmas

2010-12-20T12:11:00.000-08:00

Kapooka's Cousin H. Such a beautiful young lady.

Someone really liked their present from Aunt Kari. I LOVE Christmas, and giving presents, so this hug made my day!

Here is the present that earned the hug!

Cousin L, Cousin M, Kapooka, Cousin B. They all had a great time playing in the afternoon and then opening presents in the evening. It is a blessing to get to see all of them more.

Kapooka was really excited to get this handmade doll quilt and pillow set from Cousin H.

I have lots more pictures, and this is just a sampling. But it was a very jolly day!

Silver Dollar City Fun

2010-12-15T20:49:00.001-08:00

Who is that crazy, but stunningly handsome guy? We were really cold and a little slap happy by this time of the night.

Kapooka had no fear on any of the rides. She even wanted to ride the big scary ones. Thankfully, she wasn't tall enough, so she had to stick with the kiddie rides.

Wildcat and his friend were barely still all day. Since we went with a group from church, I was with the little kids most of the day. This is one of the few pictures I got of the "big" kids. They came to ride some rides with the little ones.

This is Kapooka and her friend Miss B. They rode this ride together all by themselves twice. They thought they were big girls.

We had a fantastic time. The lights were beautiful. The company was fantastic. We hope to do it again next year.

Wildcat Brag!

2010-11-17T13:12:00.000-08:00

He has earned over 100 AR points. We are really proud of him. That puts him as the #2 reader in the 4th grade and #6 in the whole school. At 100 points you earn the T-shirt. Way to go Wildcat!

On a skunk update, the van is almost completely odor free. If it is a really hot day and the van bakes in the sun a faint whiff can be caught. I still hate skunks!

I haven't taken pictures of the living room yet because the curtains are still on order from Lowes.

Life is continuing on with the usual routine. We love it!

Kapooka's Room

2010-11-06T15:16:00.001-07:00

Wildcat's Room

2010-11-06T15:11:00.001-07:00

I'm Back and I've Been Skunked!

2010-10-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

We've been in our new place, in our new town, in our new state for a little over a month. Things have finally settled down (and I unpacked the camera) that I hope to get back to blogging again. I will hopefully soon tell you all the wonderful things about our new life, and it is GREAT, but first I must ask you this. Why do these....

HATE ME!!!!

Seriously, I have a long history with skunks. Way back before wildcat was born I used to take my class on a campout to Mammoth Cave. My co-teacher and I got treed in my station wagon for hours by several of these bad boys in the middle of the night. Now, you may ask why were we up in the middle of the night? Tending a child that was so homesick that she threw up in the tent from her crying so hard. Again, why walking across the campsite? Her dad was sleeping with the boys 20 feet away. So, we dealth with hysterical pre-teen girl, cleaned up puke with no running water and only port-o-potties, delivered her to her father, and then got treed by skunks. All that to only have to get up early and have to hike for miles the next day.

I have long since given up camping. I was scarred for life. What can I say? Those memories were safely tucked away never to bother me again until last night.

Paul and Kapooka walk in from Wal-Mart and the SMELL fills the air. A skunk attacked the car with them in it. My poor van. My poor family! The stink washed off them just fine, but the van still reeks. Paul is going to try taking it to the car wash and use the undercarriage wash, and someone else has offered to let us use tomato juice and his power washer.

The skunks of the world have a vendetta I tell you!

101 Things About Our Family

2010-07-31T14:25:00.001-07:00

1. We own three cats and 1 dog.
2. The dog lets one of the cats clean her ears.
3. We were given a pool this summer, and the kids swim almost every day.
4. Kapooka and I like dill pickles, the rest of the family likes sweet pickles.
5. Wildcat would exist entirely on carbs, preferably cereal, if he could.
6. Kapooka eats almost anthing but does not like lettuce, asapargus, brocolli, or cauliflower.
7. Skye loves to eat fresh fruit.
8. Our living room now is painted the same color as our living room in KY. We loved the color that much.
9. I don't think our next living room will be this color. I am getting tired of it.
10. Kapooka and Wildcat have 1 tea party together every day.
11. Kapooka asks for girl time and to get her toes painted. She especially likes me to use the hairdryer on her toes to dry them.
12. Wildcat and Paul are counting down the days until football season.
13. When I won a trip to Disney, we all decided to pick an age and pretend to be kids. Wildcat picked the oldest age, so he enjoyed pretending to "boss" us around while we were there.
14. Wildcat, Paul, and I love grilled asaparagus.
15. Everyone in the family loves homegrown tomatoes. Paul only loves them if they are processed into salsa.
16. I am not allergic to the penicillin class of antibiotics, but am allergic to most others. Paul and the kids are allergic to the penicillin class but not any others.
17. We all love to read.
18. Wildcat is loving the Hardy Boys series right now.
19. Kapooka is loving her Goodnight Beach book right now.
20. We went to Dauphin Island, AL 2 weeks before the oil spill.
21. We took a friend from church with us.
22. That vacation was really fun and really relaxing. We laughed a lot as a family.
23. The best restaurant on the island was The Common Loon. Our whole family agreed on that!
24. When we went to Disney, we did 1 character meal. Skye liked the kids food and wildcat liked the expensive adult food.
25. Wildcat still loves expensive sea food, especially shrimp and salmon.
26. Wildcat only has 2 1/2 more inches to grown until he reaches 5 feet.
27. We have family movie night almost every weekend.
28. Both Wildcat and Kapook love to snuggle under soft blankets.
29. We love Flapjack Friday in our house!
30. Wildcat is learning to make scrambled eggs as good as his mom's.
31. Kapooka is saying more words every day. It is hilarious to hear her say "almost". It is her all purpose word.
32. Paul know more about OB procedures than most husbands. He can give progesterone shots, change IV bags, and do medication dosages.
33. We love our Kia Sedona.
34. Mosquitoes love Kapooka and I but pretty much leave Wildcat and Paul alone.
35. The kids got their Dad's complexion.
36. Kapooka worships her cousin Hannah.
37. Kapooka loves to go shopping.
38. She loves the grocery store for the free cookies.
39. She loves to look at pretty clothes at the mall and get good smelling lotion to try.
40. She is all girl.
41. That being said, she is very coordinated, and I think she will be a great athlete.
42. Wildcat wants to be a missionary and a football player.
43. Wildcat wants to re-decorate his room in a Colts/UK theme.
44. Kapooka wants to get a new house so she can have a room that is pink with Elmo curtains and she can sleep in "cousin Shelby's bed."
45. When my brother and his family moved to Memphis they gave us their daughter's old bed for Kapooka to use once she gets her own room.
46. The waiting and the transition has been hardest on Wildcat.
47. It is our prayer that Paul would have a job and Wildcat could get settled in towards the start of the school year.
48. Kapooka loves to take walks with Skye.
49. Wildcat loves rootbeer.
50. He thinks Mug rootbeer is the best.
51. After all these years, Paul has finally found a drink at Starbucks that he likes.
52. Kapooka loves chocolate milk.
53. She also like Capri sun pouches.
54. Kapooka likes me to talk to her about how I got my rings.
55. Kapooka likes to pack her purse to go on dates with her daddy.
56. Skye loves iced tea.
57. Skye loves iced tea more than chocolate.
58. I hate tea.
59. I love chocolate.
60. If you want to know more about Kari, you can see her 101 things about me on her Facebook page.
61. Skye and I disagree on what kind of cats are cute.
62. My son would love to have a rodent as a pet.
63. I am a pretty laid back mom, but I draw the line at rodents and reptiles.
64. Amphibians and fish are a possibility if you take care of them totally by yourself.
65. If you even mention a snake, it is grounds for being grounded.
66. My son and I both have clothing texture issues.
67. Paul loves clocks.
68. Paul and Wildcat built his bed together.
69. They forgot to paint part of the bed.
70. One weekend we re-did Skye's room while she was gone.
71. She screamed when she saw it. She liked it.
72. Our washing machine flooded several years ago.
73. We thought we would save money and have Paul re-attach the carpet because we were going to get new flooring soon.
74. We got pregnant with Kapooka and didn't get the flooring, so decided to wait until she was potty trained to get new flooring.
75. She is doing well with potty training.
76. We are probably moving soon.
77. The next owners will get a flooring allowance.
78. We like our neighbors a lot!
79. We think Holiday World is the best amusement park ever.
80. We went last summer to a retreat center called The King's Ranch. Everyone in the family loved it.
81. Skye and Wildcat make up songs and plays just for fun.
82. Skye has already finished her first college class.
83. Her second college class is how to use computers.
84. Wildcat and I both have a big space between our big toes and our next toe.
85. I rocked my kids in the rocking chair my mom rocked me in.
86. Paul and I got married at 21.
87. We look at 21 year olds now and think they are kids.
88. We were married for 5 years before we had Wildcat.
89. We were married 12 years before we had Kapooka.
90. That spread was not in our plan, but it is working really well.
91. Wildcat is a terrific big brother. He goes well above and beyond the call of duty. We are proud of him.
92. Kapooka plays the role of little sister well.
93. Kapooka loves babies.
94. Kapooka loves to look at pictures of herself as a baby.
95. Kapooka loves to play baby dolls with her cousin Shelby.
96. We may homeschool this fall if Paul does not have a job soon.
97. I would be a little more excited about that if we were using my favorite curriculum.
98. I am thankful that we can get the curriculum we will use for free, and it is the best decision for possibly transitioning back to traditional schooling later.
99. Kapooka is outgrowing all of her shorts.
100. Wildcat is an excellent quesadilla chef.
101. We are thankful for all that God has done and is doing for us.

The Call

2010-07-16T06:58:00.001-07:00

I remember distinctly when my husband was called to ministry. We weren't married then. We were just dating. It was a Sunday in a small, now defunct church in Grinnell, IA. The story is Paul's, but the confirmation of the call was supernatural.

So, after my blog post last night Paul called this morning. He was getting ready to work on his resume for the job we were excited about. It was for a job at an AG university. He checked the website and the job was no longer available. I feel a little disappointed, but a little bit resigned. I mostly feel like it was a clear answer. We've tried to see if we can bend the call to fit a different type of ministry...I wonder if sometime in the future God might bring some of those hopes to fruition, but for now...I don't think so. It is too much like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.

We can't get away from the call. I have a feeling that at least at this point in our lives the Lord wants us to be in ministry in a church. I can kick all I want (and I don't really want to), but Paul's calling is real and true and that is what the Lord wants. Now, the Lord will just have to open the right door to the right church (we did send 15 church resumes yesterday).

In kid news...

Kapooka is wearing a "pretty dress" today. She is doing this because Skye has on a dress. Skye has an interview for a job.

Wildcat has his last day of VBS. For the last 4 years he and Paul have a secret activity that they do before VBS. They went this morning and did it. I believe it involves football in a park and then pop from McDonalds at an obscenely early hour in the morning. However, it is a boy secret, and I'm not totally privileged to the details. I do know that they had to say goodbye to all of their favorite spots today, and they took pictures.

Thankful

2010-07-15T20:24:00.000-07:00

Last night as I was trying to go to sleep, I used an old trick of mine. I listed all of my blessings until I fell asleep. Since I have been battling insomnia, I created quite a long list. I woke up this morning feeling so refreshed. It was good to re-focus and thank God for all the good that He does and the good that He is.

I am also thankful for friends. Several have been over this week, and we've just had fun. Family are calling just to check in and encourage us. One friend sent me such a thoughtful e-mail that I am still digesting it before I write her back but it is helping me wrap my brain a little more productively around some of these transition issues. Another friend pointed out a position that Paul could apply for. I have to say...I would like most of the jobs that Paul has applied for, and probably even end up loving them (being a pastor's wife it is sort of my job too), but this one I am excited about the possibility. It is in a location that we had originally said "NO WAY" to, but it is intriguing enough and has so many positive options for our whole family that I think Paul is going to apply. Even if he doesn't get it, I feel fantastic that I am dreaming a little again, and I don't think I will be crushed.

I just think it is neat that the e-mail from my friend prepared me to even consider the job opportunity possibility from the other friend. The body of Christ is a marvelous thing.

Oh, and the family went swimming today before massive thunderstorms. I took a nap. The mosquitos are so bad that if I even step out the back door I get about 4 bites instantly and look like a chicken pox patient after about 15 minutes. Guess I'm just too sweet, and bug spray doesn't work in the pool. What a blessing that pool has been (again given by another member of the body of Christ). I like naps better than "gator" bites. That is what Kapooka calls mosquito bites.

Transition Time Ramblings...

2010-07-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Some days it is nice...we have a lot of family time. We get to play in the pool. We are re-connecting in a way that is fantastic.

Some days it is stressful... can we pay the bills? When will Paul get a job? What is the right kind of job? When or should we put the house on the market? Why am I not sleeping? How are the kids doing/adjusting?

Some days are just scary...will we be moved (if we are moving) before school starts? What is God calling us to? Is there a job out there that will provide for our needs without me working? What will life be like living away from my parents?

Other days are filled with more existential questions...have I been so caught up with life and ministry that I have forgotten the character and nature of God? Do I know that He is good? Do I trust Him and trust that He wants good for me? What do I need to learn? What bad habits have developed? What have a I learned? Why do I no longer dream big dreams but instead am just tired of scraping by and want to earn a living wage? How can I "do" ministry in that state?

Paul asked me if I could write my dream scenario of a new job for him, what would it look like? All I could come up with was being independently wealthy and living on a beach. Since that can't happen, I don't even know what I would like or want. That is a strange place to be for this gal who usually has a plan and then 3-4 back up plans for the future.

God is Good and so is my hubby

2010-07-06T21:26:00.001-07:00

So I was a little whiny in my last post. I guess I have been a little grumpy around the house too. I am an introvert and I live in a family of extroverts. Normally I could find some alone time somewhere, but since Kapooka shares our room and everyone is home for the summer, there is really nowhere for me to go. Paul in a kind way pointed out my grumpiness and "kicked" me out of the house for the afternoon. I asked if he had read the blog and he said no, but these were the things he asked for me to accomplish....

1. Get a girly magazine or take the book I was reading and sit at my favorite coffee store and get my favorite beverage.
2. He handed me a coupon for a haircut and told me to go get that done while I was out.
3. He even said I should go window shopping (I tried on some great summer skirts, and got the thrill of trying something new without spending anything right now).

When I got home he even gave me a foot rub (even better than a pedicure if you ask me).

If you look at my list from my previous post, almost all of my wants were taken care of.

Oh, and the job for Paul...nothing yet, but while I was out and about a dear friend just called to chat and check in and see how I was doing emotionally with the job search. That was the next best thing to getting the right job offer. It just encouraged me that the right job is coming, and I just need to wait on the Lord's timing.

Feeling really loved tonight!

Totally Self Focused Ramblings

2010-07-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

We have been on summer break for a month now. I have really enjoyed the trips to the park, the extra time with my son, seeing all of the kids play together, and many other family memories. Today however...well let's just say I am ready for a mommy grown up day. No one slept well last night and it shows in the grumpies today. So, I thought I would make a quick list of things that I would love to do/have.

1. A job for my husband and any potential move done.
2. A spa day...mainly a massage (which I've had before) and a pedicure (which I've never had but could use right now)
3. My favorite frozen coffee drink from Borders, a new book, a comfy chair, and 3 non-stop hours to read (without anyone saying mama, but yet I knew all of my precious little ones were safe and cared for).
4. A haircut and maybe a color (that is really a dream since I am allergic to most hair color). However the latest haircolor trend of "bronde" really appeals to me for summer. What I really want is my long hair back for summer so that I can pull it back in a curly pony tail.
5. A cute new summer dress to go with the new summer hair.

Ahhhh... that was a nice mental vacation. Now back to reality. Laundry calls.

A Reflection

2010-05-23T23:49:00.000-07:00

Skye graduated this weekend. I have spent a lot of time reflecting on how many prayers God has answered, and answered generously for that young woman. I am so incredibly thankful for all that He has done in her life. She's had to work hard to obey him too!

I am very tired and it is late, but I thought I would share a tool that I use to pray for my kids. Paul printed it out and had it framed for me many years ago. I have it in the hallway by the kids' rooms. That way, as I walk by, I look for the number corresponding to the day's date and pray for that virtue. I pray at other times too (like when I fold each child's laundry I pray for them, and bedtime prayers, and my own prayer time), but this is such a neat way to have a regular program of prayer, I thought I would share. So.... here it is...
From http://www.reviveourhearts.com/downloads/index.php?id=9479

31 Biblical Virtues to Pray for Your Children

by Bob Hostetler

1. Salvation—"Lord, let salvation spring up within my children, that they may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory." (Isa. 45:8; 2 Tim. 2:10)
2. Growth in Grace—"I pray that my children may grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." (2 Pet. 3:18)
3. Love—"Grant, Lord, that my children may learn to live a life of love, through the Spirit who dwells in them." (Gal. 5:25; Eph. 5:2)
4. Honesty and Integrity—"May integrity and honesty be their virtue and their protection." (Ps. 25:21)
5. Self-Control—"Father, help my children not to be like many others around them, but let them be alert and self-controlled in all they do." (1 Thess. 5:6)
6. Love for God's Word—"May my children grow to find Your Word more precious than much pure gold and sweeter than honey from the comb." (Ps. 19:10)
7. Justice—"God, help my children to love justice as You do and act justly in all they do." (Ps. 11:7; Mic. 6:8)
8. Mercy—"May my children always be merciful, just as their Father is merciful." (Luke 6:36)
9. Respect (for self, others, and authority)—"Father, grant that my children may show proper respect to everyone, as Your Word commands." (1 Pet. 2:17)
10. Biblical Self-Esteem—"Help my children develop a strong self-esteem that is rooted in the realization that they are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus." (Eph. 2:10)
11. Faithfulness—"Let love and faithfulness never leave my children, but bind these twin virtues around their necks and write them on the tablet of their hearts." (Prov. 3:3)
12. Courage—"May my children always be strong and courageous in their character and in their actions." (Deut. 31:6)
13. Purity—"Create in them a pure heart, O God, and let that purity of heart be shown in their actions." (Ps. 51:10)
14. Kindness—"Lord, may my children always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else." (1 Thess. 5:15)
15. Generosity—"Grant that my children may be generous and willing to share, and so lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age." (1 Tim. 6:18-19)
16. Peace-Loving—"Father, let my children make every effort to do what leads to peace." (Rom. 14:19)
17. Joy—"May my children be filled with the joy given by the Holy Spirit." (1 Thess. 1:6)
18. Perseverance—"Lord, teach my children perseverance in all they do, and help them especially to run with perseverance the race marked out for them." (Heb. 12:1)
19. Humility—"God, please cultivate in my children the ability to show true humility toward all." (Titus 3:2)
20. Compassion—"Lord, please clothe my children with the virtue of compassion." (Col. 3:12)
21. Responsibility—"Grant that my children may learn responsibility, for each one should carry his own load." (Gal. 6:5)
22. Contentment—"Father, teach my children the secret of being content in any and every situation, through Him who gives them strength." (Phil. 4:12-13)
23. Faith—"I pray that faith will find root and grow in my children's hearts, that by faith they may gain what has been promised to them." (Luke 17:5-6; Heb. 11:1-40)
24. A Servant's Heart—"God, please help my children develop servant's hearts, that they may serve wholeheartedly, as if they were serving the Lord, not men." (Eph. 6:7)

25. Hope—"May the God of hope grant that my children may overflow with hope and hopefulness by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Rom. 15:13)
26. Willingness and Ability to Work—"Teach my children, Lord, to value work and to work at it with all their heart, as working for the Lord and not for men." (Col. 3:23)
27. Passion for God—"Lord, please instill in my children a soul that 'followeth hard after thee,' one that clings passionately to You." (Ps. 63:8)
28. Self-Discipline—"Father, I pray that my children may acquire a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair." (Prov. 1:3)
29. Prayerfulness—"Grant, Lord, that my children's lives may be marked by prayerfulness, that they may learn to pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers." (1 Thess. 5:17)
30. Gratitude—"Help my children to live lives that are always overflowing with thankfulness and always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (Eph. 5:20; Col. 2:7)
31. A Heart for Missions—"Lord, please help my children to develop a desire to see Your glory declared among the nations, Your marvelous deeds among the peoples." (Ps. 96:3)

For another great prayer idea (that admittedly takes a little more time investment) check out...
http://www.granolamom4god.com/2010/05/what-bible-will-i-purchase.html

Strep Round # ???

2010-05-12T14:13:00.000-07:00

The kids have had strep so many times this winter and spring so many times that I have lost count.

Wildcat has it and is on antibiotics. Today Kapooka was diagnosed again with strep and a double ear infection.

I am tired from caring for ill children. It is my privilege to do so, I just hurt when they hurt. Kapooka isn't sleeping well either.

I'm not sleeping well with all of the other transition going on in our lives.

Paul has resigned from our church. I love the people dearly, but the church can no longer pay Paul. We've missed paychecks before and done so gladly but our budget just can't squeeze anymore. It is time to let someone else try and build this body of believers.

Since the church is 1/3 of our income we need to replace that. Paul is just exhausted in all areas. He is especially exhausted from being pulled in 2 directions all of the time. After much prayer, the Lord is leading us to seek 1 job for him that would better use all of his gifts and talents. This week he told his school he is resigning.

We are so thankful for both our church and school. We truly love the people and the opportunities. However, when it is time to move on, the Lord makes it clear. We are doing our best to follow His direction. I am doing my best (which is not very good) to trust that the Lord has a plan to provide for all of our financial needs as well as give Paul a job where the stress will be less and he can work on a team.

Oh, and did I mention my throat hurts but my supposed primary care physician won't accept me as a patient. The insurance company says that she is my doctor and I can't go anywhere else.

Oh and did I mention that while I was in the bathroom today Kapooka dumped laundry detergent all over clean laundry that she pulled from the dryer. In the process the detergent got all over her, the washer and the floor too? And yes, the detergent was up high, she is just a monkey. Next time I will have to do my business much more quickly if she leaves the room that I am in. Sigh...it has just been one of those days. At least I caught her before she put the first address label on the wall (she climbed to get those while I was getting the detergent somewhat cleaned up).

Skye's Banquet

2010-05-05T18:16:00.001-07:00

She got a new haircut the day of banquet. It is much shorter, but she really likes it. Her boyfriend brought the flowers for her.

Here they are...the lovely couple!

Kapooka got dressed up to get pictures taken with Nana too!

We loved the back of the dress! Pretty good for getting in on clearance at the end of last year. She was told over and over that she had the prettiest dress at the banquet (and the most modest too). My heart was really happy for my girl Skye.

Raising Girls

2010-05-05T18:14:00.000-07:00

I really loved Dr. Dobson's book Bringing Up Boys. I am ridiculously excited to read his newly released Raising Girls.

In the latest Focus on the Family magazine, they printed this article. I have not found one with which I agree more. Check it out!

http://www.thrivingfamily.com/Family/Media/2010/may/girl-power.aspx

Final Vacation Post

2010-05-03T22:39:00.000-07:00

The kids spent a lot of time looking like this during the week. They had wet hair, a little sun-color on their cheeks, and big smiles on their faces.

We stopped to take this picture as we left the island. We wouldn't mind coming back again!

When we went to the outlet mall, they had a great outdoor play area that included the typical slides and climbers. There was also a carousel, and this water area. Kapooka loved it, and Wildcat had a good time too. The older girls liked shopping. Paul was worn out from watching the young ones on the play area.

The Estuarium

2010-05-02T08:27:00.000-07:00

Kapooka loves this picture. She loves to say turtle!

Wildcat trying on an oldfashioned diving helmet!

The esturarium had an awesome touch and feel area. All of the kids enjoyed touching this whelk. They said it was soft.

The Estuarium had a nice quiet little area for kids Kapooka's age. The older kids got in on the act. Here they are pretending to drive a boat.

Dauphin Island is a barrier island, so it plays a pretty important environmental role. There is a lot of wildlife both birds and sea life. The estuarium is an aquarium on Dauphin Island that explains the island's unique role in the environment. Of course, the aquarium didn't talk about God's creation, but we talked with the kids about how neat it was that God had put the island where it was, sort of like a gatekeeper. Today, I have been praying for Dauphin Island. The oil spill is due to hit their shores today. This isn't a political post at all (because I am not sure if an occassional oil spill is just the price we have to pay, or if more should be done). The Alabama coast region has many employed in the oil industry as well as commercial fishing and tourism. All of those industries are suffering currently as well as God's natural world.

A couple of interesting facts we learned at the Estuarium....

1. An octupus' ink is toxic even to itself, so an octopus needs to swim away after it expels its ink.

2. There are small shells that are often found with holes in the top that look like they are ready to put on a necklace. There is one type of marine animal that has a sharp snout that drills that hole and eats what is inside the shell. God's creation is amazing!

Fort Morgan

2010-05-01T22:35:00.001-07:00

Paul worked some might computer mojo, so I am back in the blogging "business" with pictures. I really love that guy, and not just for his computer skills either!

One afternoon, Kapooka really needed a long nap since she hadn't napped for 3 days. I volunteered to stay at the condo and nap with her. Everyone else went to Fort Morgan. This fort was key in the Battle of Mobile Bay. They all had a really good time, but were glad a toddler wasn't along. She would have been bored.
Here you can see one of the cannons that looks out onto Mobile Bay. It was neat to see a fort right on the water. That was something I had never seen before. Later in the week, we all went to the aquarium, so I did get to see some of the outside of the fort. Aquarium pictures will be the next post.

On Wednesdays a blacksmith demonstrates his craft. Evidently it was fascinating to watch.

In all honestly, this particular sight was one of Wildcat's favorites on our whole trip. He still talks about the gigantic potty that the soldiers had to use at the fort. The tides came in twice a day to clean it out. All that is missing to make this picture complete is reading material.

I just love this picture! It is at the entrance of the fort.

Blogging Frustrations

2010-04-27T09:44:00.001-07:00

For close to a week now when I click on the upload pictures button in Blogger, nothing happens. We think this may be a mouse problem. Hopefully this weekend, Paul will get a chance to figure it out. Until then, posting will just have to wait.

Alligator Alley

2010-04-21T08:07:00.001-07:00

Alligator Alley is a place where alligators that are dangerous to humans or have been injured can go and live instead of being killed. The owners have built raised boardwalks through the swamps so visitors can safely observe and feed the alligators. The alligator food looks like big chunks of charcoal or dog food.

Near the entrance of Alligator Alley they have built a viewing station. The owners feed the alligators deer and pork several times a day. This is just one of several pictures we got of the alligators eating.

We thought even alligators like pillows?

The kids all got to hold or touch a year old alligator. The alligator had his mouth taped shut with electrical tape. Even at that age he/she had a lot of sharp teeth!

The kids were more brave than mama. No way was I going to touch an alligator. I had the willies the whole time we were there. However, we had a great time. None of us had seen an alligator before, and we got to see them as up close and personal as you would want to.

Water Fun

2010-04-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

The kids found this little and very fast crab when they were digging a deep hole on the beach.

This is Kapooka putting her toes in the ocean for the very first time. She wasn't too sure at first.

But, she got used to it quickly. She really enjoyed having Daddy take her out and she would kick the "wawa". The older kids really like swimming too. It turns out I didn't get a good picture of Wildcat in the ocean, but I love Skye's face here!

Kapooka spent close to an hour just sitting at the edge of the surf. She would just pick up handfuls of wet sand and throw them in the water. She would laugh when they would make a plopping sound. She would also laugh when a wave came up and got her. The older kids and Paul would go out and swim deeply or build sand castles while I did this with her. Sometimes, Wildcat and I looked for shells and built sandcastles while Daddy took Kapooka into the deep water. I thought the water was pretty cold. I went out chest deep once then just waded the rest of the time. Even then, it took me hours to warm up. I really just enjoyed being at the beach and looking at the water and playing with the kids on the WARM sand.

Next up...alligator pictures.

Playing in the Sand

2010-04-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

Dad was a good sport and got buried. All of the kids got in on the action. They even found a crab as they were digging the hole.

Notice how pleased Skye is to be taller than Paul.

Wildcat and his sandcastle!

Kapooka sitting in a little hole just like Daddy!

Easter

2010-04-15T08:57:00.000-07:00

My dad substitute taught a few days this year. He wanted to buy all of his girls a new Easter outfit. I love mine, and am going to wear it to Skye's open house too! Thanks Dad! My husband looks pretty sharp too.

The girls in their new Easter outfits. Wildcat, let's just be happy that his hair is combed. He is a 9 year old boy.

Kapooka, and I and Ma (Grandma) went to Build a Bear. This is Hoppy. Pooka loves Hoppy. Hoppy has bows that matched Kapooka's Easter dress. Hoppy was dressed for Easter too, so Hoppy had to come to church. Pooka was really pleased about all of that.

Kapooka in her new outfit. Notice the purse. She requested that Ma buy her that purse. Of course there was a white one too. She requested both, but Ma drew the line at one. The purse had chapstick and money for the offering. She was quite the little lady!

Right after church we went home and changed and started driving for vacation....those pictures will be up next!

Catching Up on Random Kapooka Cuteness

2010-04-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

We finally downloaded a bunch of pictures. YAY! This means I can get caught up on sharing through our blog! I thought I would start with just sharing some randome Kapooka cuteness. She loves to dress herself. Can you tell?

Bubba's shoes and bike helmet and the too small jacket!

Mama's lipstick!

We call her the Blue Lump!

Two Year Pictures

2010-02-15T14:15:00.000-08:00

Kapooka and her Bubba.

Bethany loved sitting on this couch. It was just her size!

Look at those eyes. They are beautiful!

She was playing hide and seek with her dog Spot. She thought it was great that she was wearing a dress with spots!

We have a picture from when she was one with these letters, so we thought we would continue the theme. What you can't really tell is that the dress is a 4T and is above her knees and starting to be short in the arms. She is our big girl at 37 1/2 inches and 37 pounds!

We've ordered real pictures, so hopefully family will be getting some in the mail in March, but since Christmas thank yous were written before New Years and are still sitting on the counter, we will see how the mailing out goes.

Go Colts

2010-02-08T06:17:00.000-08:00

While I am officialy in mourning over the Colts loss and really don't want to talk about it. I did want to share one of my friends' blogs. This is why I am such a big fan of this organization. I am sure other teams have similar impacts in their cities, but this is my hometown. I love my Colts!

http://www.themcgfamily.blogspot.com/

Wildcat's Birthday!

2010-02-03T21:30:00.000-08:00

Wildcat had a busy birthday weekend. He started by placing fourth in the area spelling bee. That was his goal, and we are really proud of him! Sunday was his birthday, and he got to have cake at home. He decided that he would like to skip a meal out, but go out for just cheesecake on a different day.

Tuesday, he found at that he gets to represent our school at the area speech meet. That night we had a light supper and headed to the Cheesecake Factory. We each got our own piece of cheesecake (a big splurge!). Wildcat was really happy that they put a candle in his.

Today, he woke up running a fever, so he got to come with Kapooka and I down to visit his grandparents. Kapooka got her haircut. The sides are FINALLY even with the back. She has been talking about cut and car for two days. She gets to sit in a pink car to get her hair cut (Grandpa and Grandma treat her to a Cookie Cutters haircut and then french fries after). Grandpa entertained Bethany and bought her a fake tomato for her play food while I bought new silk flowers for church. Grandma made yummy potato soup for lunch. Wildcat got to watch a movie and play lots of games with his grandparents. Grandpa took him to Halfprice Books to spend some birthday money. Wildcat read a lot the rest of the day.

Tomorrow is Kapooka's birthday, so we will fill you in on all her presents in her post. She has been practicing at blowing out candles though!

College Visits

2010-01-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

We have gone on two college visits with Skye.

First we went to Brown Mackie here in Indianapolis. They have an Occupational Therapy Assistant program that she is interested in. The school does one course at a time which is perfect for Skye. They also provide free tutoring and a mentor for the students that come straight from high school. I was very impressed with the support system. The class size is small and there is a lot of personal attention.

Second we went to visit the Masters Commission program in Lafayette, IN. The focus of this program is discipleship. Everyone was so hospitable. It was a great visit. They do a lot of hands on ministry, but don't overwork the young people. They take a lot of really neat trips. They also balance that out with academics. They have two houses that the students live in. I was really impressed with the life skills that the students learn, and it just looked like a lot of fun. There was a real team atmosphere. I kind of just want to have all of MC students over for dinner so I can see them again.

Anyway, you can be praying for Skye as she begins to fill out her applications and make her decisions.

Feet

2010-01-21T12:10:00.000-08:00

Kapooka's latest word is feet. She absoloutely can't stand if someone's feet are sticking out from under the covers. The other night Wildcat had gone to bed. All of a sudden we hear a cry of "feet, feet" coming from the back of the house. Paul goes running back to see what is wrong. All was right with the world once he tucked Wildcats feet back in. What a caring little sister. Wildcat didn't even wake up.

Missing: By Julie Andrews

2010-01-14T00:13:00.000-08:00

Julie Andrews and her daughter recently came out with a book of poems and lullabies that is just great. I have only seen and read excerpts, but I would love to have it. This poem really describes our last few days.

Missing: By Julie Andrews

I've lost my sense of humor
It fell into a well
It's full of dark self pity as far as I can tell.

I'm glared at by the children.
I'm yelled at by the boss.
And every little word I say makes everybody cross.

I'd run away and not come back if it would do some good.
But nobody would notice, so I don't think I should.

I miss my sense of humor. If by chance you see,
It peeking 'round the corner, please send it back to me.

Strep

2010-01-10T20:52:00.001-08:00

After missing 3 days of school last week, Wildcat was feeling better and fever free. On Saturday, he started running a fever in the evening. We took him to the doctor today, and he has strep. He has yucky medicine, but as he said, "I am almost 9, and never had strep before, so hopefully I won't get it again for at least another 9 years." I love that kid, and his ability to see the positive.

By the way, I am sparing you pictures of strep bacteria and yucky throats.

Wildcat has to stay home from school on Monday. We will see how he is doing on Tuesday. It looks like more Wii for him again!

For the Miller Side of the Family

2010-01-08T22:01:00.000-08:00

Paul's dad has a strong German background. Evidently, our daughter is channeling this the last couple of days. We got a Wii for Christmas. She likes to hold the Wii remote and yell Vii, Vii. She also likes to pretend to bowl when the older kids are bowling for real.

Kapooka also got a Wee Sing Cd for Christmas from her Miller grandparents. We have listened to it a lot. Last night we had a whole family dance party to Wee Sing. Everyone was laughing at everyone else doing the motions to the songs. Fun, Fun, Fun! (and not a bad workout either).

New Year's Resolution

2010-01-06T13:03:00.000-08:00

The big slide at the Children's Museum. Kapooka loved it!

This was as close as Kapooka would get to Santa.

Wildcat had a great time visiting with Santa.

I have just one resolution. It is to get back to keeping this blog updated much more regularly. I had planned to start on January 1st. However, I have been really sick since New Year's Eve. I just found out it is strep and will start the antibiotics tonight. I will give myself a pass for starting a few days late.

For now, above are a few pictures from our Christmas celebrations and season. We have a few we have not downloaded from actual Christmas Day and our candlelight service that I can share later.

Word Update

2009-10-09T09:28:00.001-07:00

Wildcat learned the difference and etymology of the words chilly and chili last night. Can you tell that we stayed in on a cold and wet fall evening and ate chili?

Kapooka is saying brrr, bowl, and uh-oh. It is fun to see her add new words every day!

ER Trip

2009-10-08T10:53:00.000-07:00

First the word update... gone, done, Elmo, and yuck are the newest words.

Last night through a series of unfortunate events Kapooka managed to get an ADHD capsule into her mouth. She said YUCK! and then started to wipe out her mouth with her hand. She obviously didn't ingest the whole thing, but got some. We cleaned her up (because the powder was all over and we didn't want any more to get into her), and called poison control. Poison control called ahead to the hospital to let them know we were coming because she needed to be observed. The medicine could have some very scary effects, and it would be best to be in a place that could help her if they started. Since I am sick, and someone needed to stay home with the other sleeping kids, I stayed home worrying and praying, and Paul took Kapooka in. I kept my cell phone close.

Kapooka was fine. She did not ingest enough to harm her, but everyone said that we did the right thing by taking her in. She had a great time at the hospital. She got to wash her hands, play with the light switch, talk to mom on the phone, put her doll outside the exam room door and play peekaboo, wave at all the nurses and the PA. I was thankful this was not scary for her. Of course they got to the hospital after midnight, so today she is rightfully a tired and fussy girl.

We are so thankful that God intervened and kept her safe.

2 Word Phrases

2009-10-07T07:51:00.001-07:00

Perhaps all of this blogging about words is inspiring Kapooka. Yesterday she used a two word phrase, twice.

She said
My dad (this included the new word of the day my/mine)
and
Dad go (said tearfully at bedtime)

Hooray for language development!

Wildcat is working on 3 column subtraction and is learning about Jamestown. Of course he has the usual spelling words and Bible verse too.

Skye had a big British Literature project. She got a better grade than she hoped for. She worked hard, and we are proud of her.

Paul is tired. I am sick.

That is all from here.

Misc. Updates

2009-10-06T09:15:00.000-07:00

Cough. Bethany says cough. I keep remembering that at 2am, but I don't want to get out of bed to write it down, and I forget it in the morning.

Today, Bethany patted her diaper before she went poo-poo. That means that she got to go poo-poo on the potty. We both celebrated!

Bethany also got a new baby doll last night. She loves playing with her other doll, but now we both have one to play with.

If you would like to see the latest addition here is the link (the review is a perfect description).
http://www.target.com/Circo-14-STARTER-BABY-DOLL/dp/B00298YYIU/ref=br_1_4?ie=UTF8&frombrowse=1&searchView=grid5&searchNodeID=1041578&node=1041578&searchRank=price&searchPage=1&searchSize=30&id=Circo%2014%20STARTER%20BABY%20DOLL

Words Part 3

2009-10-05T07:27:00.001-07:00

Kapooka also says

Go
More
She will quack like a duck
She says bee, bee (for beep, beep)
She pats her diaper when she wants a change.
According to Grandma she also does the monkey and lion sounds.

We are trying to keep a list of what Kapooka says and when to help with her speech evaluation at 2. We figured the blog was a great place.

Words Part 2

2009-10-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

We realized after posting that Kapooka also says...
Eye
Ball

However, she does not say eyeball. Her saying eye is best experienced in person. She does this while poking at the nearest eye.

Wildcat didn't learn any new words today. He is however considering his Halloween costume between football games.

Words

2009-10-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

Wildcat just learned what a cannibal is. This is a bad word to learn just before you go to sleep. However, after much reassurance that cannibals no longer exist and that when they did exist it was not in North America, he was finally able to fall asleep.

Kapooka now has the following words...
Mama
Dada
Nana- can be banana or sister
Ca-Car
Dog
Ca-Cat
Ow
Hi
Bye (said with a southern accent)
Hi-ya
Hut (while playing football)
Ma-milk
Maw-Grandma
Gaga-Grandpa
Ga-Glasses (either to wear or drink from)
She still signs more, please, and thank you

Real Life

2009-09-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

I have been slow on blogging...why...real life. Normally life goes on and is busy, but we have been in crisis mode. Church has had two major crises this week that both intimately involve our family. Late nights (which is usually my blogging time).

Paul did have a happy birthday. He got to eat an ice cream sandwich cake which is one of his favorites. He had asked for several kitchen gadgets and new polo shirts. I even found XLT in the pique polo that he likes (and on incredible sale). I was quite proud that we managed to carve out an hour of birthday celebration in the storm.

Even while typing this short post...had to deal with several texts. All that to say...short on blogs until we are through the crises.

Prayers Needed

2009-09-16T14:46:00.000-07:00

The junior high youth pastor at the school where our kids go is just a fantastic guy. I only know his wife through her blog, but I really resonate with a lot of what she writes. However, her family could really use prayers now. Her little brother has been fighting cancer for a long time, and is just having a really hard time right now. You can check out the following link for more information about JD...

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jdtaylor2/journal

PS I wasn't sure before what to think about Bob Sanders, but now I know for sure. He is a man of character (even if perhaps a bit fiery on the football field for my tastes).

Sweet Moments

2009-09-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

God has really allowed a lot of teaching moments this last week. Bethany has two boo-boo ow-ow's that she loves to show. We kiss them better, pray and ask Jesus to heal them, and sometimes put bandaids on them. If we forget to pray...she makes sure that we do.

She has also really been enjoying songs with actions, so we learned the B-I-B-L-E song. She has just loved it and asked to sing it again and again.

Finally, today, I was looking at this website for an unrelated reason. I came across this video.

http://www.indyvineyard.org/worship.html

As we watched (three times) each time Bethany would lift her hands and worship God. I would ask her if mama could worship too and she would say "OK". We sat on the computer chair with her on my lap worshiping the Lord. It brought tears to my eyes because it was such a sweet time.

No, No, No

2009-09-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

That seems to be the theme for the day.

Wildcat walked out this morning in his Peyton Manning jersey and sweat pants. I reminded him that it was chapel day. He came back out in a dress shirt and sweatpants, and asked if that was ok. No, no, no! He was a cutie though!

We can't find our camera. NO, NO, NO!

Kapooka has started to mimic us. She says " No, no, no" right before she does something she isn't supposed to do. It is kind of nice to have an early warning system!

I also made all kinds of doctors appointments for Skye. When she hears (especially about the fillings), I am sure she will be saying NO, NO, NO!

Oh well!

Teenagers

2009-09-08T18:41:00.000-07:00

I love mine. However, I think it is a bad sign that she has senioritis already. I think this could be a long year. Insert a big sigh here. That's all.

Animals

2009-09-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

Today we went to the zoo. We had tried to go see the Komodo dragons a few weeks agon, but it was a torrential downpour. The dragons leave on Monday, so Grandma and Grandpa were gracious enough to try again (they hold the membership). Anyway, we got to see the dragon. It was asleep, but very large. However, the rest of the visit was much more exciting. We got there early, and it was cool. The animals were very active. We got to see a Zebra eating and making all sorts of horse like noises. Kapooka would not let Grandma leave her side and would yell "MA" when Grandma would try to move away. Finally, we could wave bye-bye to the zebras.

Next we saw the giraffes. This was particularly special because the newest baby giraffe (2 weeks old) was out. We got to see the baby jump and run (nothing I had seen a giraffe do before) and drink from mama. The other giraffes were fairly active too.

Our next stop was the rhinos. Normally they look like big rocks that stink. However, they were up, walking and eating hay. One even walked halfway across the enclosure to get a drink right by us. He had a very large tongue.

The baboons were having a fight. Wildcat thought that was funny. The elephants were holding their trunks up in the air. We don't know why, but Kapooka and Grandma had to wave their arms like elephant trunks and make elephant sounds. Kapooka, plain as day said "Hi elephant", but of course only once, and wouldn't say it again.

We capped off the day by playing on the playground and riding the carousel. Both of those were a big hit with both of the kids. You can check out my dad's facebook page for some video of the carousel if you want.

To finish up our animal theme for the day. Tonight as we were reading a book, I pointed to a horse. I asked Kapooka what is that, and she made the horse sound. That is the first time she has made an animal sound without copying someone first.

One the Wildcat front, he got to go to a paint your own pottery place today. We seem to have misplaced our camera, but hopefully we can get some pictures of his complete piece. He had saved up reward points from this summer and then waited until our friend from church, Miss Harriet, could go with us. We had a lot of fun, and he did a great job!

Colds

2009-08-31T21:44:00.000-07:00

We all have them. We use a lot of Kleenex/Puffs. We drink a lot more fluids because our throats are soar. The house is loud at night because we are all snoring...loudly. Sounds like it could be a good children's book.

Tonight was the third grade back to school night. Wildcat had fun playing with his friends on the playground. Since Kapooka had come with me last year to do playground duty most of the kids knew her. Several of the girls played with her a lot tonight. That was really sweet.

Kapooka is perfecting the art of just sitting on the ground, kicking her feet, shaking her head, and shouting NO, NO, NO over and over when she doesn't want to do something. Wildcat is having to learn that we don't let her do this, and we deal with it firmly. He wants to distract her and love on her. He is such a sweetie. However, she can't get that positive attention by that behavior.

While at the playground, Paul is pretty sure that Kapooka said "slide". That would add to her words which are no, mama, dada, nana, grandma, more, dog, cat, and bye. She signs please, thank you, diaper change, phone, and tooth brush. She waves bye and throws kisses.

Allergic Reaction

2009-08-28T09:47:00.001-07:00

This is a slow blog week mostly because I had a severe allergic reaction to something I ate (tongue swelling, hives, etc). The hives are still around whenever the Benadryl wears off, so I am spending a lot of time slightly groggy. Today, the hives seems slower in returning (I can go 6-8 hours between Benadryl instead of 4). So...I don't really know much of what went on this week.

Bethany and I have enjoyed dancing to some new CDs we checked out from the library. We liked one so much I ordered it from Half.com, so we can listen to it in the car. It was Jessica Harper's Rhythm In My Shoes.

Jon has his first spelling test and Memory Verse quiz of third grade today. He should do great on both.

Paul is sick with a bad cold. That typically happens the first month of school for him, so we aren't too worried...actually not at all.

A pretty normal week around here.

First Haircut

2009-08-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

Today Grandma and I took Kapooka to Cookie Cutters to get her first haircut. We got to warm up and figure out that it wasn't a scary place by playing on the slide.

Next, Kapooka got to sit in a pink car. By this time she could tell something was up, so she asked to hold my hand.

Notice...still holding hands and the wary look at the beautician. However, she didn't every cry.

All done. We just trimmed everything up and started growing bangs. The bubbles were a big hit as was the free barrette that went in her hair. She enjoyed driving the car once it was all done.

PooPoo on the Potty

2009-08-21T09:34:00.000-07:00

We will spare you pictures for this one. Kapooka went poopoo on the potty for the first time today. We were both very excited. Her favorite part is handwashing after. She also likes to just sit on the potty and read books. Her face was so funny when the poop hit the potty. She looked at me like "Is that what is supposed to happen?" It wasn't long before she was clapping and saying "YAY!" with me.

That is about all I will say on the subject.

Vacation Metamora

2009-08-19T08:40:00.001-07:00

In Indiana before railroads were built, canals were built, to transport goods. One of the canal towns, Metamora, has been restored, and you can ride on a replica of a canal boat. Metamora was really close to where we were staying, so we went for a day. We had a great time riding the boat, poking in interesting shops, and eating at the Sidetrack Cafe (the owner/chef is an editor for Taste of Home Magazine. The food was GREAT!) You can see the Sidetrack Cafe menu here... http://www.metamoraindiana.com/Loc27.htm

We're getting ready to get on the boat, The Ben Franklin II. Back in canal times, it would not have had a roof. The shed on the back would have housed the extra set of mules.

This is an aquaduct. The canal used this as a bridge to cross a stream.

Now, horses are used to pull the boat. These were our horses.

The horses home....the barn, not the truck.

Vacation King's Island

2009-08-17T08:43:00.000-07:00

We spent a day at King's Island, an amusement park near Cincinnati Ohio. It was really fun. Skye, her friend who came, and I all really liked the new coaster called the Diamondback. Here is a link to a video if you want to watch...http://mobile.visitkingsisland.com/public/fun/videos/index.cfm

Wildcat and Kapooka on the Go Diego Go ride. They had a good time together.

Oops...I got these posted backwards. This is Skye and her friend in the slingshot (crazy teenagers. This is after they have launched. The picture below is getting ready to launch. Her friend offered to pay for my ticket to go. I told him that I had attained sanity in my old age.

Kapooka LOVED the carousel. She rode it 10 times. She spent most of her time looking up to see the mechanism that made the horses go up and down.

Happy Anniversary

2009-08-16T20:41:00.001-07:00

Today was my parents' 40th anniversary. We celebrated with a family dinner at Hollyhock Hill. The food was excellent, and the wait staff was very attentive. I would highly recommend this restaurant. Wildcat loved that he get 3 glasses of chocolate milk! You can check them out here...
http://www.hollyhockhill.com/

Here are the cousins all playing together. Grandpa got all of the girls a pink rose, so our cousin S is holding hers.

My sister in law Angela made these to die for cakes. The chocolate one was the best I had ever tasted. Daisies were the predominant flower at my parents wedding. My dad loves pineapple upside down cake. The cakes were so good, and there was so much we even shared with our waitress!

Kapooka with her flower. Grandpa had even wrapped the stem in florist tape to keep her safe. By the end of the meal, it was the floppiest rose ever, but she was a happy girl.

The anniversary couple. My mom is wearing the necklace my dad gave her as her wedding present. My dad is wearing his new watch (you can't see it) that my Mom gave him for an anniversary present. They just smiled the whole dinner, except for when we were eating the delicious food.

I pray that God will give them many more years and many more wonderful memories together and with the rest of their family. I love them very much.

Vacation Part 1

2009-08-15T21:23:00.000-07:00

We have been crazy busy since we got home from vacation. Now that school has started, I hope to get back to semi-regular updates again. Let's start with vacation. We spent a week here...
http://www.kingsranch.cc/
They no longer had llamas, but everything else is pretty much the same! We had a fantastic time. We stayed a whole week. One day we went to Metamora, and one day we went to King's Island (we'll update about that later), but most of the time was spent...

Hanging out together and laughing, reading or playing games. The kids liked to go on hikes through the 150 acres, or ride on the golf cart. Wildcat liked spending time in the loft of our cabin. Skye liked to spend a lot of time outdoors and see where she could get one bar on her cell phone (only one place in the whole ranch by the way), but it was a fun way to spend time.

Swimming. We swam a lot. All of us swam a lot. However, no pictures of Mom in a swimsuit are allowed to be posted on the internet. We have tons of cute pictures of the kids in the water, and we have some funny ones of Paul jumping off the diving board. However, he asked that those not be posted either. However, killing horseflies became a competition sport between Paul and Wildcat at the pool. Also, Kapooka loved to throw balls, floats, and shoes into the pool. Skye learned to dive.

Building fires was very popular as was roasting marshmallows and eating s'mores. Wildcat really enjoed tending the fire. Wildcat and Paul slept in a tent one night. Of course it rained. They ended up with 3 inches of water in the tent. Everything was soaked. They still had a good time though. I think they did give up pretty early in the morning and come back in the cabin and slept some more.

Mom, well I slept a lot (I had a migraine 4 out of the 6 days we were there BIG BUMMER). I got to read and swim, and I enjoyed staying in the cabin away from the bugs. We would love to go back again.

First Two Word Phrases

2009-07-22T16:07:00.000-07:00

"Hi Nana"

Today we picked up Skye from work. When Skye got in the car, Kapooka waved and said "Hi Nana". Nana is what Kapooka calls Skye. It was great. Skye sure had a huge smile. Skye took this picture with her phone. Taking pictures together is one of their favorite activities.

Later, we stopped for a snack. Wildcat had some fries. Kapooka said his name and then signed please. I think that counts as a two word phrase too! Of course, Wildcat was too engrossed in a book to hear.

New Toys

2009-07-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

Kapooka had outgrown most of her baby toys (rattles and batting toys). The speech therapist suggested some different toys and play would help stimulate speech. A lot of stores are having great clearance sales right now, so here are a few of our deals. This was simply because Kapooka loves the bath, and it was on super duper clearance.

This baby doll is one of Bethany's favorite. We probably play with it an hour a day. She loves to give the baby a bottle, hug the baby, and blanket the baby. The baby has helped her learn to say the word "eye". Go new toys!

This toy we got in excellent used condition. It looks almost brand new. We got this because it is a toy that Wildcat and Kapooka can play with together. They like to make the monsters "talk" to each other and they of course like to bowl. Bethany bowls by knocking them down with her hands. Wildcat does it the proper way.

This is just a girl version of a car, so we can make lots of neat sounds.

We love this toy. Bethany can make choices and is learning the words on and off.

A byproduct...mama is much less bored. I like new toys too!

Little Hands

2009-07-14T14:59:00.000-07:00

Last night Kapooka was having a terrible time settling down. Finally I lay down beside her. She rolled onto her tummy and tucked her little hand under my arm and wiggled her foot into my other hand. She went to sleep in just a few minutes. I started thinking about how nice it is to have a little one that can be comforted by touching a hand. I am truly blessed to be her mama.

Of course today her hands played in the dog water, stole her daddy's toothbrush and used it, played with her baby doll, dropped a pan on her toes, picked out books to read, banged the ground in frustration, reached to be picked up and signed please. Her little hands sure do a lot these days. Still, I am blessed to be her mama. Although, since she then put the dog water on her head and she smells funky, she gets a bath tonight.

Park Outing

2009-07-07T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today we met some friends from school at a local park. We had never been to a splash park before and did not know how wet you get, so we were woefully unprepared. However, we had so much fun. We definitely want to go again. It is free.

Above is just about 1/4 of the splash part without the water turned on. There were also two regular playgrounds on either side of the splash pad.

I was very impressed with the facility as well with the kids and parents that were there today. It was crowded, but everyone was polite and well behaved. The facilities were clean. There was even a day camp there (I don't know from where, or I would brag even more publically), but everyone was pleasant.

Wildcat had a good time playing with his friends. Since everything was so contained, I could just look for him every few minutes and give him a little freedom. Paul came with us, and he played with Kapooka. She just kept getting more brave and more brave in the water. She loved the regular playground too. We didn't have our camera.

If you would like to know more about this park...here you go...

http://www.fishers.in.us/department/division.asp?fDD=9-60&location=billericay

Kapooka

2009-07-05T21:48:00.000-07:00

Please ignore the people on the couch. However, check out Kapooka's hair. This is how it looks when she wakes up. She has this crazy curly hair in back, and we love it. Her sides are starting to get long, so she is losing the mullet look. I think in another couple of months it might be time for the first haircut just to even some things up and to possibly trim some bangs. I think she won't look like a baby anymore once that happens though, so I am in no rush.

I also noticed today that her eye color seems to be darkening a little. She still has blue eyes, but depending on the light and her mood, they can shift to more green. They also definitely have a brown rim around the pupil. They remind me a lot of her daddy's eyes.

The other think about Kapooka is that she loves her bath. She loves to splash. She loves to be washed. She loves getting her head massaged during a shampoo. She loves the tub letters. She loves dumping water from a cup. She does not love getting her hair rinsed. She loves to chew on a washcloth. She loves her boats. She would play in the bath for hours if we let her. Her older sister got a very modest, but very funny bath picture on her phone, so we will have to try and get it downloaded.

Speech Evaluation

2009-07-02T09:35:00.000-07:00

Kapooka had a speech evaluation today. We've had some concerns because she isn't picking up new words and has started to lose some words. The speech therapist and occupational therapist that came were really nice and very helpful. They are a little concerned about Kapooka's expressive language. However, they said that her receptive language is right on track and that cognitively "she is as sharp as a whip." That made me smile.

With the receptive language they think that she should catch up by the time she is two. They will re-evaluate her around the two year mark. If at that time she has not shown improvement or is still borderline, then they will begin therapy. They believe this is probably related to her prematurity and that in this area she just needs a little extra time to develop. However, if we have additional concerns or she loses additional skills before then, we will get an immediate re-evaluation.

We were also given some simple ideas to help her communicate now, and some fun games to play to help her develop the muscles and skills she will need to be able to speak. I am glad to have a few steps to work on with her. It makes me feel less helpless.

Getaway Picture Post 2

2009-07-01T20:12:00.001-07:00

Playing in the waves of very cold Lake Michigan.

Kapooka hated having dry sand stick to her, but she hated the cold water, so we built a battlement that protected her from the waves. She played quite contentedly.

We had a great time!

Kapooka loved the seagulls. She spent a lot of time pointing into the sky just like this.

Getaway Picture Post 1

2009-07-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

Wildcat on a sand dune.

What a goofy kid!

The College Football Hall of Fame. Kapooka tried to eat the football.

Wildcat couldn't push it up the hill, but he posed for a picture.

Go Huskers!

For Your Viewing Pleasure...

2009-06-30T19:14:00.000-07:00

This is a typical Kapooka slide. Isn't it fun?

Prayer

2009-06-27T07:17:00.001-07:00

Wildcat and I have been praying for my college friend's baby since before he was born (lots of pregnancy complications). The baby went home this week. Wildcat and I both teared up a little with joy. It led to a good talk about the power of persistant prayer, and how God was good even though baby JP still needs an apnea monitor and feeding tube. I am so happy for Pam and her husband. If you would like to see their story, here is a link to their blog.

http://orthodoxcatholicfamily.blogspot.com/

Bad Day

2009-06-24T16:51:00.000-07:00

for the mama. The kids were great. I am very proud of how tenderhearted and helpful Wildcat is becoming. Kapooka was so smiling and into snuggling today. Mama is on day 6 of a migraine. I am frustrated because I even went and got a shot yesterday.

We do have some cute video footage of Kapooka. It is my goal over the next week or two to figure out how to post that. Stay tuned!

A Great Summer Day

2009-06-17T16:50:00.000-07:00

Today we met with some of Wildcat's school friends at a local park. This park is one of our favorites. It has a water tower painted like a balloon and is close to railroad tracks. They have a nice swing area (Kapooka hated swinging). They also have some awesome wooden play structures. Lots of things to climb and bounce. There are tunnels and multiple slides. There is a boat to pretend to sail. We all had a good time, but it was really hot. At one point the sun was shining, but it was sprinkling. One of our friends (a kiddo) said that it couldn't rain because the sun was out, so it must be the sun crying. We were running late, so I didn't grab any pictures.

Today, Kapooka also had her enrollment for a speech evaluation. It was just paperwork, but we should hear by Friday as to when the actual assessment should be.

Tomorrow is swimming lessons and a trip to the library.

Orthodontist

2009-06-16T19:50:00.000-07:00

This is very similar to what Wildcat got installed in his mouth today at the orthodontist. It is a palatal expander. Basically it widens his mouth. We turn a key once a day for twelve days and it expands a bone in the roof of his mouth. The expansion doesn't hurt, but Wildcat is having a hard time talking. He got a milkshake right after the appointment. At supper, he wanted a sandwich, but just couldn't manage, so he tried mashed potatoes, but couldn't manage those either. He ended up eating chicken noodle soup through a straw. He was convinced that he would starve, but we assured him that he would adjust after a few days. Already by bedtime his speech was more clear, and he managed to eat an ice cream sandwich. I did feel sorry for the poor guy though.

Tonight he had swimming lessons, and did fine. However, for some reason when he floats on his back and kicks, he doesn't go anywhere. It was pretty funny to see him just kicking as hard as he could and staying in one place. He does just fine on his stomach, so I am not sure what the mechanism is that is failing. Hopefully we can get it figured out at the next lesson on Thursday.

Paul had his first day at the warehouse today. It was long, and mostly in the classroom, but he did get to drive a forklift. He was really excited about that. The company provides free gatorade (as well as coffee, and hot chocolate) from vending machines. When it is hot, bottles of water are brought to the line. Paul is already gathering many real world math problems to share with his students next year.

Mr. Toad

2009-06-15T18:59:00.000-07:00

We have lots of toads around our house. The kids love to catch the toads and keep them for a little while and then let them go. This was one of the recent captures. I like having the toads because they eat mosquitos. However, mommy does not touch toads.

Tomorrow is Paul's first day at work. The rest of us are having a busy day too. We have a friend coming over to scrapbook and then we are going out to lunch. Wildcat has an orthodontist appointment, and he has a swimming lesson. Paul cooked up a bunch of ground beef, so we will make quick Quesadillas for supper. I love that man! He also manned the grill tonight and made some of the best burgers I've had in a long time.

I have been trying to find a doll made out of natural materials that looks somewhat realistic for Kapooka. All the ones I am finding are very expensive. I wish I could sew! I am just not crazy about a plastic doll for her because a lot of things still go in her mouth, and I don't like the things that are in plastic. Oh, well, I will keep looking.

Rainbows

2009-06-12T08:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it rained. Actually it feels like it has rained for all of June (we are about 3 inches above average already). However, the sun came out after the rain, and there was a brilliant rainbow. These pictures don't do it justice, but it was really bright. It was a good time as a family to discuss God's promises. Included is a picture of Kapooka and Paul while we were rainbow watching.

(Pardon the power line...that was the brightest part of the rainbow)

Working Hard in the Summer Time

2009-06-11T18:46:00.001-07:00

Skye sometimes trades her chore of washing dishes for mowing the lawn (Paul does 4 days of dishes for every mow). Paul does get help from Kapooka with the dishes. She likes to stand on her slide and blow the soap bubbles. She also helps unload the silverware from the dishwasher. Of course, she will unload whether it is clean or dirty!

Skye is working hard at her summer camp. This week has been especially challenging. Paul just got hired for a temporary warehouse job. It pays well, and still gives him 2 days off a week.

Jon is working hard at his chores and "homeschool" activities. He is also taking swimming lessons.

I am a mom...I think that defines hard work. We are still having a lot of fun together though.

Championship Pictures

2009-06-11T18:42:00.001-07:00

I am so proud of Wildcat. He got several pulls, a point after, and a touchdown on Championship Day. Most of all he kept a great attitude and encouraged his teammates. He is so proud of his trophy. He shows it to anyone who comes to our house. Today a friend came over, and Wildcat waited outside in the rain to show the trophy first thing. I love that kid!

Summer Fun

2009-06-10T15:39:00.001-07:00

Today was a free chicken sandwich at Arby's, so we went there for lunch. Next it was off to Chuck E. Cheese. We all had a good time. Paul and I had a basketball contest. Wildcat and I had several ski ball contests and played air hockey. Wildcat also played several other games. Kapooka loved riding the rides that would move. She especially like the one that took pictures.

We then went to the library. We all go points for summer reading. Wildcat turned in some points for prizes, and I got some more books.

Paul got a job that will actually give him Mondays and Tuesdays off. We are starting to comtemplate what we would like to do with all of our free time.

I still can't figure out how to get the championship pictures off of my camera, but I will try to get to that soon!

Monday Thoughts

2009-06-01T12:23:00.000-07:00

Kapooka has a black eye from a fall over the weekend. She looks like she was in a bruising fight. Also, she tried a bite of a gherkin pickle today. Her mouth puckered. She shivered. She smiled and asked for more! She was pretty cute.

Wildcat went for his consult with an orthodontist today. Next week he gets an expander and braces on his front 4 teeth. This will last about a year. He will then need full braces again when all of his permanent teeth come in.

Kapooka First

2009-05-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

For the last 5 minutes Kapooka has been taking her shirt off and then putting it back on all by herself. Of course when it is half on and on your head like a hat is the funniest thing in the world to a 15 month old.

We also had a successful trip to the library today. We also went to Target and finished Father's Day shopping. Wildcat got a new bike helmet and swim goggles, so he is officially ready for summer now.

As I type, Kapooka is sitting down and trying to figure out how to get her shorts off. Since she is sitting on them, that doesn't work very well. I wonder how long this will entertain her?

For obvious reasons, there are no pictures of my disrobing girl.

Zoo Field Trip

2009-05-26T20:15:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, Wildcat's class went to the zoo. For the first time ever, I was able to chaperone. Look how tall Wildcat is in comparison (the other's are 3 of the shortest in the class, but still!).

We had a good time. It was sunny, but not too warm. Everybody got to see something they liked, but also had to miss out on something they wanted to see. They were well behaved enough that they earned their bribe---I mean treat.

Kapooka went too because my parents met her there, and they watched her while I watched the school kids. The kids in Jon's class were wild about her. They would come and pat her on the head, and she would pat their backs. Her reactions to the dolphins, the seals, and the giraffes were the best. It was neat to see her enjoying God's creation!

Recipe

2009-05-25T20:35:00.001-07:00

You know when you cook for a pitch-in and everyone says how good it is, but you can tell they are just being polite. That used to happen to me a lot. However, this has become one of those dishes where you can tell that people really like it (they ask for the recipe). It is so fast and easy. We make it at home in a skillet, but last time we made it in the crockpot and rice in the rice cooker.

What you need:

1 1/2 lbs frozen prepared meatballs
1/2 pkg. Frozen Tri-color peppers and onions
1 pkg (16 oz)Frozen Stir Fry vegetables (broccoli, carrots, whatever is in the mix)
1/2 cup apricot jam
1/2 cup KRAFT CATALINA Dressing
4 Tbsp. soy sauce

Make it:
COMBINE all ingredients in large skillet; cover.
COOK on medium-high heat 10 min. or until meatballs and vegetables are heated through, stirring occasionally.
SERVE over hot cooked rice or pasta, if desired.

I did find that in a skillet the meatballs if frozen take a lot longer than the veggies. It was closer to 20 minutes to get the meatballs heated. You can also add 1tsp of ground ginger and 1tsp of garlic powder if you want to fancy it up even more.

Skye's Birthday

2009-05-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

I am really slow with getting these pictures downloaded. Skye's birthday was almost a month ago. Here she is at the big 1-7 blowing out the infamous trick candles. You can see a couple starting to re-light. Notice the smile on her face that say...I can't believe they did this to me again. Also notice her super cute top. We make a good shopping team. This was a join purchase from where else...Kohl's.

Anyway, Skye has been 17 for a month now. She hopes to go to the BMV in two weeks and renew her permit. Hopefully she will start making a lot of progress on getting her license.

Anniversary

2009-05-15T22:13:00.001-07:00

Paul and my anniversary is this Sunday. Just in case you don't know, he is the tall guy in the Huskers jacket. He loves this jacket because it is Nebraska, but it also has a huge front pocket that he calls his marsupial pouch. Seriously, you could fit a small child in there, but he mostly squirrels away bits of paper and dry erase markers.

I digress...I have been married to this wonderful man for 13 years on Sunday. In honor of that, here are 13 good memories of our years together. Ok...make that 14 because I am starting with the wedding.

1996: Being the ultimate camp master on our honeymoon. Yes, he took me tent camping, but he cooked and scared the horses away that tried to trample our tent. We still laugh about hearing thoses horses right by our head.

1997: We moved to Kentucky. Our TV only picked up one station and only at night. It played Nightline all evening every evening. So, we played Yahtzee...hours and hours of Yahtzee. We laughed all the time, and still have our secret Yahtzee code from that time.

1998: Carpooling. We drove together to Lexington and then Paul would drop me off. I loved that hour in a car just the two of us every day. We just talked and talked.

1999: I had really rough time after our first miscarriage. Paul whisked me to Florida in a very spontaneous move. I will always remember that sitting on a beach praying with my husband probably saved my faith.

2000: Our first real vacation together. We went to Williamsburg. Paul pretended that our umbrella was his musket. Now we joke about being prepared for anything as long as you have a musket. He also knew that I had always wanted to walk on the beach in a flowy dress, so he bought me one before our trip.

2001: Our son was born. I remember that Paul would go cook at the neighbor's because the fumes made me so sick. That is true love.

2002: When Paul interviewed for our first church, he made sure that I got to define my roll. He made sure that the Church board was fine with the roll, or he wouldn't take the job. What an attentive husband.

2003: This is the year that holds the one and only time I could have really killed my husband. I got home from shopping and he had our 2 year old on the roof. I remained calm. He did not see the problem. However, this event brought about the quote that gets used a lot in our house. In fact, if our son doesn't hear it after he gets in trouble, he asks why we didn't say "And, what have you learned from this situation?" By the way, Paul still maintains it was perfectly safe because he was the one cleaning the gutters and Wildcat was higher than him.

2004: Paul was a Stay at Home Dad, so I could work my dream job at the Crisis Pregnancy Center. I am forever grateful that he held our family value of no daycare so close to his heart that he was willing to take on a non-traditional role. Also, he so kindly encouraged me to go for my dream.

2005: My migraines got really bad in this year. Paul would often bring me a Coke with ice while I was at work just to ease the pain.

2006: Paul is not a gifts person (I am). However, when we went on our anniversary trip to Florida, he had a gift for each day we were there with a letter expressing the symbolism of each gift as well as his love. This required a lot of forethought and planning. I felt so loved.

2007: Paul had to act as a single parent plus. I was so sick with my pregnancy I was on bedrest. He ran the household, took care of the kids, plus took care of me. He changed IV bags, wrangled with insurance, took me to the hospital, slept at the hospital, cleaned puke buckets and gave me an infinite number of miniscule servings of lemonade and mashed potatoes.

2008: Kapooka's birth happened so quickly that we both were in shock. Paul knew that I regretted not getting a belly shot while I was pregnant with Jonathan just before delivery. So in our bewildered and shocked state, Paul stopped the gurney on the way to the operating room and made everyone wait until he took a picture of me. He said "This is important to my wife so stop". Of course I was on the gurney already dressed for surgery, and you can't see much of my belly, but I loved that moment.

2009: Paul has been so encouraging to me this year as I transition back to being a Stay at Home mom. He has even been willing to talk about "girlie stuff" when I need to. I appreciate his support because so much of being a mom is unseen, but he makes sure to see and praise.

I love my hubby!

Echoes

2009-05-14T13:32:00.000-07:00

It is a gorgeous day here, so we have the windows open. Kapooka discovered echoes. She stands on a box by the open window on the side of the house. She then yells, and the house next to us bounces back the echo. Since it is quiet in the neighborhood during the afternoon, you can hear the echo quite well. She has been doing this for 20 minutes. So far her favorites are a pure scream, ma, dog, and ba.

Thunderstorms

2009-05-13T09:28:00.000-07:00

Today we are having a thunderstorm. Not a rough one, just some gentle spring thunder. The problem is Kapooka is terrified every time it thunders. We are talking crawl on top of my head terrified. I can deal with that. We are also dogsitting a 2 pound rat, I mean, dog. Belle, the dog, is very sweet. She is a min-pin, chihuahua mix. However, she is terrified of the thunder too and cries as loud as Kapooka. I can't hold both at the same time. I think it is going to be a noisy day.

About the dog sitting. It has been great this week. I really like Belle. She is still a puppy and very playful. Kapooka has spent most of this week playing with the dog. She still likes to read a few books with mom, but I have been temporarily replaced as playmate. Our dog, Fifi, is jealous because normally she is Kapooka's playmate. Fifi is so nervous with the new dog she is not eating unless Kapooka feeds her a piece at a time. That was good for 20 minutes entertainment this morning.

Later this week, I will try to take a picture of Belle with the kids.

Jinx

2009-05-07T21:42:00.001-07:00

I did it. I jinxed Kapooka. I blogged about how great she was sleeping, and then she didn't sleep last night or today. I take it all back.

The next few days are really busy. Wildcat and Kapooka are spending the evening with Grandma and Grandpa tomorrow. The rest of us are working at the school's auction. Kapooka has a check-up tomorrow too. Saturday is football and a birthday party for Wildcat. Skye is hanging out with a friend in the evening.

Speaking of Skye...she gave her very smelly cat a bath tonight. I have never seen such a miserable creature (the cat, not Skye). But, the cat did smell much better. I don't know what the cat got into today.

Naps

2009-05-05T22:24:00.000-07:00

Kapooka did not sleep last night. However, today she napped. This morning she nursed to sleep (that was nice because she is self-weaning, but she really wanted that closeness today). Then she tucked her little hands under my arms and sighed. She then just hunkered in. We napped for 3 hours just snuggled together.

She is such a busy girl these days that she doesn't snuggle too much anymore. This was a precious day to this mama's heart.

It is NOT the Swine Flu

2009-05-03T20:20:00.000-07:00

However, Skye and I both have a nasty bug. She is getting better. I am just starting. Let's just say it is like a stomach flu/strep throat feeling/cold symptoms all in one. YUCK! I have slept most of the weekend.

Bethany has thus, destroyed the house. These are the days of our lives. Paul is doing well and keeping everything together, but he just isn't the mom.

Molars!

2009-04-30T13:33:00.001-07:00

I will spare you a picture because it would be all drool! However, 3 molars are finally poking through on Kapooka. She seems to be in a little less pain now that they are part way through. They took forever!

I volunteered at school today and Wildcat's teacher complimented him on how kind and compassionate he was. She also praised his academic ability. It was nice to hear those things because he has been such a challenge at home lately. Sometimes it is good to get an outside perspective.

Toes, Toes, Toes!

2009-04-28T21:36:00.001-07:00

Wildcat was born in Kentucky. He loves to be a barefoot boy. We always tease him that it is his Kentucky heritage. The problem is Kapooka was born in Indiana. She hates socks and shoes even more than her brother. The reason....she adores her toes. We have many games that we play with toes. There is toes, toes, toes which involves just tickling the tops of her toes. There is get Mama's toes, get Dada's toes, get Bubba's toes, and get Nana's toes. There is tickle your own toes. There is point out the toes of the cat. And last but not least there is This Little Piggy.

Now that warm weather is here a wonderful new world has opened for Kapooka...SANDALS! We just got her a pair. She wore them last night for the first time. She would take a few steps then reach down and touch her toes and then laugh with delight. She actually kept the sandals on today while we were out and about for 3 hours, since the previous record was oh 3 minutes, I thought this was great.

Crazy Faces!

2009-04-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

Kapooka was making this face whenever we brought out the camera. She is very proud of her teeth!

Who me?

Wet dog look?

These are the kinds of shenanigans I live with every day. I LOVE IT!

Easter Pictures

2009-04-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

I love this picture. Kapooka was so happily playing, and this is a very normal expression for her.

Pigtails! I love them! I also adore the bows. I bought them on Etsy. It was my first bow purchase in about 6 months. It did however feed my addiction. I have entere Etsy rehab once again and am back on the bandwagon. However, Kapooka does have 2 cute summer sundresses that scream "I NEED A MATCHING BOW". We'll see if I can ignore the screaming.

I just want to eat her up. Those cheeks are so kissable. She looks like a little girl and not a baby. Sniff, Sniff!

Some Grandparent Fun!

2009-04-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

This is Kapooka and Grandpa in the Brick House at an Easter Egg Hunt. This is how they spend a lot of time...playing with Grandpa's hat. It is a hilarious game for a 14 month old.

Kapooka and Grandpa in the Blue House. She loves this dog, and she loved it that Grandpa made it bark. This is also hilarious to a 14 month old.

Grandma in the Blue House, Wildcat, and Kapooka. Footballs are very popular around here. If you ask Bethany to get a ball most likely she will pick a football (even though we have plenty of round balls). This is fitting since the Blue House is in Nebraska.

Time

2009-04-20T22:03:00.000-07:00

Over the last week I've had an epiphany. Somehow, I expected time to stop or slow down. Now, I know reasonably that wouldn't happen, but my emotions were expecting it. I don't know that I can adequately explain what I am feeling, but I suppose somewhere in my heart I was expecting Wildcat to be a little boy forever and my baby girl to stay a baby. I also think of myself as young and carefree.

I think that as I approach my 35th next month, I have realized that I am solidly in adulthood. My little boy is not so little, and my baby is a toddler. We reconnected with our college pastor, and I realized we are now the age that he was when we knew him. He and his wife were so together and adult like. I looked at them as mature. I don't feel mature. I feel like I just handle the daily responsibilities, but somewhere in there, I have become a thirty-something parent of 3.

So what am I to do. Well, I started by playing with Kapooka until she was falling over from laughing. When the weather warms up, I want to go on a bike ride with Wildcat. Tonight I went on a date to Dunkin' Donuts with my husband. Of course I did some very adult like things today like laundry, bills, counseling Wildcat about manner and loving others, changing diapers, and making financial decisions.

Well, enough about me. Here are two great pictures of my giant yet still so little in my heart boy. And, yes, those are pajama pants. I wasn't going to die on that hill that day.

Easter

2009-04-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

Easter is my favorite religious holiday. This year was not so fantastic. For the last 3 years running, one of the kids has had a total meltdown over their Easter basket. I think I may be done with trying to do something nice for them. Especially since last year's meltdown was about not having enough candy, and this year's was about having too much. This did not contribute to a worshipful attitude. Once we got to church, Kapooka was really fussy. She also escaped me and got really close to going up on the platform with daddy. That was EMBARRASSING!

The bright spots were...

1. The hymns. We don't sing many hymns, but I just LOVE Easter hymns.

2. Communion. I missed it, but Paul did a special service after the service for those of us dealing with children.

3. Kapooka looked adorable. The rest of the family cleaned up well too.

So Behind

2009-04-19T17:07:00.001-07:00

We have been so busy having fun the last few weeks, that I did not download all of the cool pictures I have taken of our fun. To start catching up, we will start with the big event from yesterday....Skye's formal banquet. She was so excited, nervous, and BEAUTIFUL! I don't have permission to post her "date's" picture, but he was a perfect gentlemen all evening (they went as friends). She had a wonderful night. I teared up when she got home and was still glowing. She is turning into such a beautiful (inside and out) young woman! Little sister kept getting her "pretties" (play jewelry) as Skye was getting dressed. We popped Kapooka into her Easter dress, so that the two girls could get some pictures together.

Pigtails and Piggies

2009-03-30T18:22:00.001-07:00

First time in pigtails. She looks so grown up.

Look at those bare piggies. Kapooka HATES socks and shoes. She pulls them off as soon as she can and then laughs and laughs. I am looking forward to sandals. As long as she can see her toes, she is ok. This is also our second try at pigtails. They were much more straight this time.

Speech Meet Courage

2009-03-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

This is Wildcat accepting his ribbon at speech meet. He had worked so hard, but it just didn't show in his performance this day. However, I was impressed that he got through it at all. Wildcat got sooooo scared that he had a total melt down and kept saying that he couldn't do it. In the end, he did it. He said his whole speech. Now it didn't have the volume, pace, or inflection that he had worked months on. However, it didn't matter to me. I was just so proud that he showed courage and followed through with his commitment.

His classmates were so kind. They told him that they knew he was scared, but he did a good job just to try. Everyone agreed that next year he would do better because he would know what to expect. I love my little guy!