How the Lilies Grow

Celebrating Halloween?

2011-10-31T16:56:00.000-05:00

I have long been conflicted about celebrating Halloween. I grew up not participating in Halloween in any way. I am perfectly fine with that and do not feel like I missed out at all. It was rather easy, in fact. We lived in the country and so no one came knocking on our door anyhow. Now my family and I live in town and I find there are more aspects to consider about Halloween. We have neighbors that are going to come knocking on our door whether we have our light on or not, I realized when we first moved in. That year I wasn't prepared and had to give out candy bars to our new neighbors. :) oops! Though I don't like Halloween, I do love to give. (It's one of my favorite things about Christmas.) So even before we had kids, we decided that we would definitely turn on our light and hand out candy and be friendly. We needed the opportunity to see our neighbors more! Now that we have a child of our own, the questions only grow. This year we will be handing out candy and if O would like to dress up, she can. I always loved dressing up as a kid. Halloween or not, imagination and dressing up is always encouraged at our house!
I will always be opposed to the dark, sinful aspects of Halloween. And for now, we choose not to go trick or treating.
Do you trick or treat? Do your kids? Did you as a kid?

Here are a couple articles from Focus on the Family president Jim Daly I've read recently on the subject..

Halloween and Christianity
Halloween: Trick or Treat or Abstain?
He makes some very good observations and the comments are also quite interesting, good and entertaining. :)

Thursday Thoughts on Romans

2011-10-13T18:01:00.001-05:00

Today I started reading through Romans via a reading plan on my YouVersion Bible app. It's supposed to be a 8 day plan. I am sure I won't finish in that short of a time frame but I intend to do at least a chapter a day.
I've always loved the book of Romans. There are so many bold verses! Paul speaks so strongly about Christ and what being a Christian is all about. He doesn't mince words.. my kinda guy. :) I was blessed to study Romans at Bible college and it only deepened my convictions. And I haven't read entirely through this book since then.
After only the first day and the first two chapters, I am encouraged and convicted. Here are a couple verses that jumped out at me...

Romans 1:24-25 NKJV, especially verse 25.
Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves,
who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
I always have heard that line about worshipping the Creator rather than the creation and didn't know it was actually a verse.

Romans 2:29 NKJV
but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God.
Beautiful picture and such a convincing reminder.

Wow. I love how any time I read the Word, I'm moved and encouraged. What have you been reading and learning?

Feels like Football

2011-08-24T11:15:00.000-05:00

This week I saw this bus parked in the lot of my local Wal-mart. And then this chair in my grocery store. Looks like it's almost football season! It sure is going to be exciting this year... Since we're now in the Big Ten, the Penn State - Nebraska rivalry in our home is going to really heat up!
I am dying to buy one of these little camp chairs for O. Every since she learned to climb on our kitchen chairs, she has been climbing on EVERYTHING. Maybe a chair her size would be less dangerous. :) I've also been hunting for the perfect Husker tee for O. She's not quite ready for the 2T size but I'm so done with onesies. And I think this year she might get a PSU tee and Nebraska tee. Maybe I won't let her out of the house in Nittany Lion blue. O has been learning new words left and right. I can't wait to hear her say GO BIG RED!

Satisfying the Sweet Tooth

2011-08-23T11:52:00.000-05:00

We just finished these S'more bars. OOH YUMMY!

PA Cute-ness

2011-08-22T14:48:00.000-05:00

While we were in PA, we spent a day in Lititz. We stopped in a whole bunch of cute little shops including one called A Tea Affair. I love tea shops. Over the years, I've collected a few of my own tea sets. My Granny gave me a bunch of mini pink depression glass sets. And one of my favorites is from my mom. I don't remember why she went to MN without us but she always remembers to bring back souvenirs. I still love that she brings us gifts from her travels! So this particular time, she brought me the tinyest tea set I've ever seen. And I love the white and blue pattern. Blue is my favorite color. Now that O is getting older, I've started to think ahead to some of the gifts I might want to give her. This tea shop was so inspiring! Check out this adorable pink set in a basket. If O was a year or 2 older, I would've bought it on the spot! And their window display was beautiful. I loved the polka-dot set and the cake was a precious touch. It made me a little hungry. :)

We also stopped at The Teddy Bear Emporium. I love these types of toy shops! They have so many unique gifts. I often peruse Amazon looking for cute toys for O. I love all the Doug & Melissa stuff. It's so creative and I like that it's not made out of plastic. So when I go into a little toy store and find that they carry D&M, I'm thrilled. It's so hard to only see stuff online. But in spite of all the cute options, we had to pick one thing. O has been accumulating some coins, mostly from Easter, so we bought a pig! I love this pig!! It's soft and squishy! Now I don't have to worry about O breaking it.

Starbucks Outrageous Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

2011-08-17T08:57:00.001-05:00

Starbucks Outrageous Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups old fashioned oats (not quick cooking)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup dark raisin
1/4 cup golden raisin
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla
Topping (optional): 4 tablespoons dark raisins, 4 tablespoons golden raisins

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Blend oats, flour raisins, cranberries, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
Beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg, cinnamon, and vanilla; beat until combined. Gradually add oat mixture to butter mixture; beat until combined. Combine raisins for topping in separate bowl and set aside.
Drop dough by rounded tablespoons, 2 inches apart onto two lightly greased baking sheets. Place 1 mounded tsp of raisins on top of dough.
Bake about 12-16 minutes, until cookies are golden brown, but still soft. Cool on sheets before serving.

Notes: I don't do the topping because they usually burn on me and they're really not necessary because there are plenty of raisins and craisins in the cookies. Also, 1 batch makes 17 cookies when I use my pampered chef scoop. So I like to buy all the stuff and keep it on hand to make a small batch every once in awhile or double or triple it. Do not succumb to eating all the craisins after you make one batch! They're so good but expensive! :)
Oops I guess I haven't made it quite clear that I didn't come up with this recipe. I got it from my sister who probably found it online somewhere but I don't know where.
Hope you enjoy these cookies!

S'mores Cheescake Bars

2011-08-16T16:42:00.000-05:00

S'mores Cheesecake Bars
from Annie's Eats (who adapted from Sugar Plum)

Crust
1 cup graham cracker crumbs (from about 7 graham crackers)
1 tablespoon sugar
pinch of salt
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Cheesecake
4 oz bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
1/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
1/2 cup marshmallow cream
2 teaspoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs, at room temperature

Topping
1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
Milk chocolate chips, melted (optional)

To make the crust: Preheat oven to 350 F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil leaving an overhang on opposite sides to lift the bars out. Spray the lined pan with cooking spray. Stir the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, salt and melted butter together in a small bowl with a fork until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press the mixture in an even layer into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Transfer the pan to a wire rack while you prepare the filling. Reduce oven temperature to 325 F.

To make the filling: Put the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30 second bursts on 50% powder, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese, sour cream and marshmallow cream on medium-high speed until smooth, 1-2 minutes. Add the cocoa powder, vanilla extract and eggs to the bowl and beat until incorporated. Finally, beat in the melted chocolate. Give the batter a final stir with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is evenly combined. Pour the filling over the graham cracker crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set (does not jiggle when shaken gently). Transfer the pan to a wire rack and spread the mini marshmallows evenly over the cheesecake layer. Return the pan to the oven for about 2-3 minutes, or until the marshmallows just begin to melt into one another. Remove the pan to the wire rack and, using a kitchen torch, brown the tops of the marshmallows. Let the cheesecake cool to room temperature then drizzle with melted chocolate, if desired. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours before cutting into squares and serving.

I found this great recipe at Tracey's Culinary Adventures. This week I signed up to make dessert for Bible Study and since my birthday is also this week, I wanted to make something chocolate so I could enjoy the leftovers all week. So started hunting and found that August 10th is S'mores Day so I had a lot of marshmallow and chocolate treats to choose from. Amy Atlas did a fun s'mores day roundup and Tracey's cheesecake struck my fancy. But when I found I could make it in bar form, I was sold! They were easy to make, didn't require the traditional cheesecake water bath and are very tasty! I hope everyone else liked them as much as I did!

SSMT

2011-08-15T16:47:00.000-05:00

I find this verse to be a very good reminder. I ought to post it on a wall in my house... in BIG letters! How many days do I find myself saying dumb things that are better left unsaid? How many days do I let my selfishness and personal discomfort affect my mouth? I want to speak words of kindness to those I love. Words that build them up and strengthen our relationship.

Proverbs 31:26 NKJV
She opens her mouth with wisdom, And on her tongue is the law of kindness.

I pray that the Law of Kindness will be evident on my tongue and in my home.

August Ten

2011-08-10T23:25:00.002-05:00

So my ten has officially become a top ten list, not ten photos. I sure wish I had a better eye for photography. But, hey, I definitely know how to make lists. I am the list queen! I make lists during the day just so I can remember everything and then so I can mark things off. I feel more accomplished! :)
So today...
1. Going to the YMCA. We started the day off right with a trip to the Y for some PiYo. It makes me feel loose! Today O didn't want to leave. She was coloring. I guess I'm glad she no longer cries while I'm gone.
2. Groceries for the 3rd time. This week! Grr. The country girl in me does not like. I went Sunday and then again Monday to exchange my faulty hamburger. I bought 80/20 instead of 93/7 for ky meatballs. Oops, that would've been greasy. So today I was back for 3 more things.
3. Playtime. We spent a fun filled hour or so with the neighbors. They have toys, lots of them. O loves it. And today she got to Chase the bunny too.
4. Bunny chasing. O absolutely loves to chase the sweet bunny. Good thing Cutels is so good tempered. She just runs around searching for a safe hiding place. When she gets fed up she runs back to her cage for a break. Isn't Cutels such a cute name for a bunny!? It's "cute" and "ellls". Add bunny to the list of pets that O is going to beg daddy for someday.
5. Blueberries. O has been thoroughly enjoying freeze-dried blueberries. She won't touch fresh ones with a ten foot pole... purple food apparently isn't edible in her book. (Please forgive the awful blurry phone picture and smile at the blue lips.)
6. Baby meal. One of our friends just had a sweet baby girl so I prepared a meal for them today. My go to baby meal is meatballs. The other moms expect it. :) In a good way. But one of the other gals brought meatballs on Monday. We thought it would be ok for them to have it again cause they're a little different. But I didn't feel right about doing that. So with a quick (and 3rd) trip to the store I was set for Hamburger Pie (casserole) a la the yellow Mennonite cookbook. I wanted to keep a spoonful for myself!
7. Starbucks outrageous oatmeal raisin cookies. Yum. Recipe coming up later.
8. Good friends and good talks. I'm thankful for my Titus 2 'older' woman. A girl can really be encouraged by a listening ear!
9. Veggies! We are part of a CSA vegetable share. Hmm I'm say that wrong. But we do get a bag of fresh, local veggies every week. Yummy! We got lots of tomatoes this week. We also have sweet corn and beets coming out of our ears. I'm looking forward to enjoying whatever my chef comes up with this week.
10. Sweet corn. It is so in season right now. It's perfect! My ear for supper was so sweet and had nice big kernels. Yum! Thanks Dad! I think we should definitely visit my parents again, at least for the sweet corn. ;) I'm attempting to freeze a bunch so we can enjoy it this winter too.
Happy August 10th!

I Wish Wednesday

2011-08-03T16:06:00.001-05:00

I wish my baby was sleeping. We have a friend over today and H is sleeping soundly and my girl has been making herself heard for the last couple hours. I think it's time to completely drop the morning nap. We've be doing naptime from 10-11 and then 2-4. O just couldn't make it through the morning without a rest. But now she's really struggling with her afternoon naps.
Any tips on how to make the transition to one nap easier?
Honestly I think the transition might be harder for me than her! I enjoy being able to take a morning nap if I stayed up too late last night. And I usually get ready for the day during her morning nap as well. I'm either going to have to get up before her, which is rarely going to happen or learn to get ready faster with her around.

I wish it was 85 degrees everyday for the rest of the summer. Today is so beautiful! It's been so ridiculously hot that today I almost felt like I needed a jacket this morning. Even though summer is my favorite time of year, I do miss cooler evenings and mornings where you just want to pull on a cozy sweatshirt and a pair of jeans. But today was the perfect day to be outside! Yesterday the FedEx man delivered our new kiddie pool and today we broke it in! It was a hit and a great way to cool off. Between all 5 kids (my 2 for today plus the 3 neighbor kids), I had to wash out a bunch of grass but it was worth it. I'm happy to have a pool for the rest of the summer!
How have you been beating the heat this summer?

I do not wish for twins. Oh my goodness. Having two 1.5year olds today has shown me that I do not wish for twins. Ever. When I was a kid, I thought having a twin would be a blast. But now as a mother, I realize raising twins would make me pull my hair out after a couple days. To those mamas out there I know that have twins ...you are strong women! God must give extra patience to those moms and dads!

The Maverick's Bride

2011-08-01T17:11:00.001-05:00

I just finished reading The Maverick's Bride by Catherine Palmer. On our recent trip to PA, Grandma gave me a pile of easy reading, fluffy, romantic books. :) She knows I like to read. It was a pile of like 8 books and I read 2 of them while we were there. They must think I'm anti-social the way I buckle down and read every time we're there. This book took me less than a week at home. And if I had nothing to do, I could read one in a day. I enjoyed this one and the story was surprisingly well developed for a 272 page book. I even wished it was a little longer!

The Maverick's Bride is about Emma Pickering's desire to follow God's calling to be a nurse in East Africa in 1898 despite her father's disapproval, her needy younger sister and her heart's tug towards rugged, mysterious, American, cowboy, Adam King. Spoiler Alert: if you want to read this book and not know the details stop reading here. But seriously, you can guess how it turns out based on the cover picture and the back cover description. :)

What I loved most about this book was Emma's character. She was a woman with a calling from God to be a nurse. But in that day, she was expected to be a proper young lady whose only goal was to find a good husband. She was faced with the added pressure of keeping tabs on her flighty younger sister, Cissy and keeping them both out of their strict father's way. Their mother passed away when they were young girls and it turned their father into an unhappy man. Mr. Pickering was a British railroad man and they were all headed to East Africa to beat the Germans in a railroad race inland. Upon arrival, Cissy was broken hearted to be separated from Dirk, the German solider she fell in love with on the ship; they were bombarded with reports of lions attacking the railroad workers; and they crossed paths with Adam King. The railroad foreman Nicholas Bond, immediately informed Emma that Mr. King was a loose cannon with a bad reputation. And Mr. Bond also made it clear that he intended to please her father and marry her. But when Emma broke her father's rules to help a sick child, Adam was there to help. At the first railroad stop on their journey inland, Emma realized Mr. King was following her and she didn't want to admit her attraction to him. That night there was a lion attack and when Cissy disappeared because she thought she heard Dirk calling to her, Emma took off to find her in the wild Savannah. Thankfully Emma was rescued by a local tribe and Adam King. Mr. Pickering died unexpectedly because of all the chaos and Emma married Adam to access her sizable inheritance so she could continue searching for her sister.
The rest of the story is about Emma's struggle to find her sister, follow God's calling to be a nurse and fight her attraction to Adam. I don't think I have to tell you that it all turns out after a few twists and turns. If you're looking for a quick, enjoyable read try The Maverick's Bride! :) I recommend it.

August 1st SSMT

2011-08-01T16:20:00.000-05:00

I'm excited to be plugging through Proverbs 31!
Proverbs 31:25 NKJV
Strength and honor are her clothing; She shall rejoice in time to come.

This verse is encouraging to me right now! It's amazing how that often works out. The verse that I just happen to be focusing on speaks to me at this time of life. :) I love how God arranges that. This verse reminds me to be diligent in my day to day work at home because there is a reward coming.

Home on the Plains

2011-07-28T12:14:00.000-05:00

I was reminded this week of how much I love my home state and in particular the area around my hometown. As we sped down the interstate, I could see the horizon stretching for miles. The corn had all grown tall and I could see the patchwork of green fields all around. And this time of year many of the farmers are getting their field's sprayed for bugs so there we're crop dusters diving all over the place. I grew up only a few miles from a local airstrip and remember the planes flying over our house often. We loved watching them and waving! I always hoped they would see me and my siblings waving. :) And usually if they did, we got a little wave from the wings. Now that was a special day! Back to our recent drive... O was asleep in the backseat and I was a little sad that she missed seeing all the planes. There were crop dusters diving on both sides of the road. I could see the flashes of white and yellow flying through the air from miles away. As we drove closer I could see that one of the yellow planes was spraying right next to the interstate and he had to go right over the road when he turned around. I sure hoped that he would buzz us when we got close. It was our lucky day! We happened to just be passing by as he finished a pass and came whizzing right over the car!! Now I remember being told that we should never hope that the planes would go right over us because they could get chemicals on you. But I'm thinking that times have changed and hopefully they're better at turning off the spray when they're not over the corn.
I love watching the seasons change and the landscape grow in Nebraska. I love watching the corn pop up the turn the plains green in the spring. (Sorry allergy sufferers.) In the fall, I love seeing the haze from corn dust as I watch the big orange harvest moon come up. There's just something about this land that warms my heart.
Where is your favorite place?

The Park

2011-07-27T12:46:00.000-05:00

We've been spending as much time as possible outside this summer. We've made a few trips to the park. These pictures are from one of our first trips this spring. Since then O has fallen out of love with the swings. Seems like she doesn't like the swinging motion - it does feel like falling if you think about it. But I'm working on that... I hope she like to swing again later on. But O absolutely loves to slide!! We often play in the neighbor's backyard and the slide is her go to activity. Wheee!

July Ten

2011-07-18T16:07:00.002-05:00

So I completely forgot about 10 on 10 this month. And then I started this list and forgot about it. We went on vacation! :) Because I forgot I don't have any pictures but here are my 10 highlights of that day...
1. Church - While out of town I really missed my home church. I like the music style and the preaching style and there's just something about worshiping with the family of believers you're comfortable.
2. Vota lead worship
3. Visit from Grandpa and Grandma - I think we might have to come up with a new name for my parents because while we were in PA staying with J's grandparents (O's great grandparents), she learned how to say Grandpa (papa) and Grandma (mama). So she was a little confused today. I've been trying out Opa and Oma. It's different and german so it still fits with my family. But it still feels unfamiliar so we'll see!
4. Wilderness Lodge for lunch
5. AC - It was insanely hot on Sunday! And many of you know it still is a week later. I don't remember summer being this hot last year. Above or at 100 degrees all week is too much. O is very sad that I keep telling her we can't go outside during the afternoon.
6. Afternoon naps
7. Playtime with the neighbors
8. Hamburgers for supper - my hubby makes a mean hamburger. Yum!
Sorry I can't think of 2 more. Maybe I'll have 2 extra next month!
Perhaps I should just stick to lists. Top ten on the 10th!

Barley

2011-07-14T10:47:00.001-05:00

We had some amazing Barley Casserole this fall after Grandpa passed away. One of my mom's friends dropped it off. I'd never had barley casserole and was skeptical. But I tried it. And loved it!
I wasn't able to get the recipe from her so I asked my mom who said just to use one off the Internet like they had. So I hunted the google and tried this Mushroom and Barley Casserole recipe from My Recipes.com.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon stick margarine
1 (8-ounce) package presliced mushrooms
1 (3 1/2-ounce) package shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced
1 cup uncooked pearl barley
1 (1-ounce) envelope onion soup mix (such as Lipton Recipe Secrets)
4 cups water
Chopped chives (optional)
Preparation
Preheat oven to 350°.
Heat margarine in a medium nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; sauté 5 minutes or until tender. Set aside.
Combine barley, onion soup mix, and water in a 3-quart casserole, and stir in mushroom mixture. Cover and bake at 350° for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until liquid is almost absorbed. Garnish casserole with chives, if desired.

O helped me watch it cook. And she also unloaded the cabinets while we waited. :) Good kitchen help is hard to find!
It wasn't the best. Even though the ingredients seemed the same the flavor was really bland. We added soy sauce to make it take better. Soy sauce makes everything better, right? We sure thought so. And O agreed. She loved the barley casserole both times!
For the next go around, I made sure I got the exact one my family ate. My mom sent me theirs to try next time from Taste of Home.
Ingredients
1 cup medium pearl barley
1 small onion, chopped
1/4 cup butter
1-1/2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1 cup slivered almonds, toasted
1 envelope onion soup mix
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley or 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
3 to 3-1/2 cups chicken broth
Directions
In a small skillet, saute barley and onion in butter for 5 minutes or until onion is tender. Transfer to an ungreased 2-qt. baking dish. Stir in the mushrooms, almonds, soup mix and parsley. Add 3 cups broth.
Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 1-1/4 hours or until barley is tender, adding more broth if needed. Yield: 8-10 servings.

I hope it's better. :)

My Easter Cutie

2011-07-13T10:28:00.012-05:00

I'd been waiting to have O wear this adorable Easter outfit. It was a gift from our family shower from my Aunt and cousins. I knew it was the perfect Easter dress. I gave O her Saturday night bath so she'd be clean for church and she woke up with CRAZY HAIR!!

So the dress is pretty and the hair is hilarious! :) Nothing a little water won't fix. And a bow.

Somehow this happens pretty often to us. I've started blow drying just the top of her head if she gets a bath on Saturday night. I admit I want her to look extra cute on Sundays so I go the extra mile. And she doesn't mind the blow dryer to much. She'll just bury her head in my shoulder but has a big smile for me when I'm done. When I blow dry my hair, I often blow air at her when she comes to check on me. She giggles and giggles! Then she runs away and runs back with her face upturned for more. :) I love playing little games with her!

Pig Tails!

2011-07-12T11:59:00.001-05:00

Miss O's hair is getting just long enough for pigtails these days!

Though I'd share some of the cuteness.

Forever Sunshine

2011-07-12T08:11:00.001-05:00

Right now I'm enjoying a new shower gel fragrance from Bath & Body Works.

Forever Sunshine is a blend of apricot, peonies and pralines. I don't know if this is what sunshine smells like but I love it! I have to admit I almost look forward to this part of my shower knowing I get to smell this scent. :) I sure hope they have this shower gel again next summer. I usually fall in love with one of their seasonal flavors and then they discontinue it. Maybe I should stock up!
I do love summer. But when I think of summer smells something more like fresh cut grass comes to mind. I don't really want to smell like that. Or sunscreen and chlorine. Or bug spray. I love summer but summer smells aren't usually to nice. I'd better go smell the roses in front of my house to remind me of the good smells of summer.
What are your favorite scents? What smells remind you of summer?

Unknown Perfect Plan

2011-07-11T15:06:00.002-05:00

Our drive to PA was quite interesting, I'd say...
We left home at 8:30pm with plans to drive all night and arrive at supper time the next day. I wasn't sure O would actually sleep in the car as planned. But as we started down the road, she fell peacefully asleep. Thankfully.
Our first bump was when we stopped to switch drivers at about midnight. My eyes and buns can only take so much time in the driver's seat. O woke up very unhappy at the stop and under the glaring gas station lights. She didn't understand why she was awake and still in her car seat. After fussing and chattering for a couple hours, both she and I finally dozed off. Next thing I heard was a loud thump and felt a big bump!
What was that!? Did we crash? Are we crashing?!
We had hit a deer carcass in the middle of our lane. We were still moving but something was definitely dragging. Thump. Thump. Shiissh. Quiet. And then again thump. And we didn't know if it was part of the car or part of the deer. I admit I didn't really want to stop and look. Mangled deer is not on my 'to see' list at 3am. But we did stop at the nearest gas station to check out the damage...
We found the plastic undercarriage of our Passat dragging on the ground. So we bought some tie-downs and did our best to hold it up because we couldn't figure out how to just remove it. Two tie-downs later, we were heading east again. After about a mile something was dragging again. A quick stop on the shoulder revealed the problem was not fixed. Back to the previous exit to buy a couple more tie-downs.
Now my dad has a... habit, let's say, of spotting tie-downs on the roadside, or road, or intersection. And if he spots it and has a few extra minutes, he'll stop. Yes, stop on the road, and pick them up! Just a couple days before we left, I saw 3 -THREE! - tie-downs in the middle of a busy intersection and said, I bet Dad would've picked those up. And boy did I wish we had picked them up!
Then believe it or not, in the midst of all this stopping and going and discussing, O fell fast asleep and didn't stir. CRAZY! And wonderful really. She's such a trooper. I can't imagine how it would've felt to deal with the stress of patching the car and a screaming baby.
For the remaining 15 hours of our trip, we had to drive under about 70mph to avoid flapping noises. I guess that's one way to make sure you're following the speed limit. At one point during the night, I pulled out my phone and my home screen displayed this verse of the day...
A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. Psalm 16:9
Wow. Talk about coincidence? I think not! I still have no idea why it was part of God's plan that we hit this deer and spent 2 extra hours in Illinois and not flying down the interstate that morning. But I believe that He does use stoplights, phone calls, poopy diapers, detours and even deer to send us off the course we had planned and onto His time table on any given day. Someday I want to ask Him what He was helping me avoid with all these little detours.
Once we arrived, we called our local mechanic and asked if we needed to fix the damaged piece before we drove home. "Nope. It's just cosmetic." Thank goodness! We (J and Grandpa) promptly removed it and went on our merry way. I am so thankful that our run in with a deer was just a minor detour and not a major accident. I prayed the entire rest of the our trip there and the long trip back (especially through Iowa at night) that we wouldn't hit anymore deer. And we didn't even see another deer! Thank you Jesus for Your protecting hand and perfect plan!

SSMT

2011-07-01T08:47:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 31:23 NKJV
Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.

3 Year Blog-o-versary

2011-06-23T11:40:00.002-05:00

Today is the Anniversary of my little blog!

It's been 3 years since my first blog post. My first post was about God's goodness to me - and it still rings true! I have a wonderful little family. I love seeing my baby girl grow up each and every day. She's learning so many new things! As you can tell from most of my posts, she's my daily excitement. I usually post about her. :) I also have a wonderful husband. As the years pass, we grow closer and learn how to work together more. We have a beautiful house and wonderful neighbors. We have an amazing church family. I've been truly enjoying all the opportunities to serve and challenges to grow.

One of my first posts was fun facts about me. In honor of those first days here's an update about me...

I am: going to be 25 this year!

28. Oh boy, I think I'm beginning to feel a little old. Sometimes I actually forget my age. When I get the age question I usually think '25' and then 'oops. I'm definitely past that.' Maybe my internal age is stuck on 25! :)
I think: in funny directions.

I am still one of a kind. I've found that mind-reading is the hardest skill to learn in marriage. Seriously, I need that superpower!!
I know: that I am loved.

that I am still loved and even more! And that I have my own daughter, I have learned what it is to love my own child. It's amazing and scary to feel so strongly about a person!
I want: a kitty.

still a kitty. :) But I think I'll wait until O is old enough to ask. She has way more pull with Daddy!
I have: more blessings than I take stock of.

A wonderful life! I am so blessed to have a wonderful hubby and beautiful daughter.
I wish: I was more observant.

Well I'm still working on being observant but I think I'm improving! This seems to be a life long learning process. These days the one thing I really need more of is patience. Mommyhood required a lot of it!
I plan: to be an organized mover.

to enjoy the summer. O loves being outside and so we're going to soak up the sun!
I hate: it when people are rude or disrespectful.

I think this one stays the same. Rude-ness is annoying. It's not that hard to be a little gracious and remember 'if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all!'
I miss: the Tetons some days.

the freedom of life before kids (only some days). You know. Kids mean your schedule isn't yours, it's theirs. I miss having dates with my hubby!
I fear: big, fast spiders.

ugh. Still spiders!!! But family brings a whole new set of fears. I would hate to loose J or O. I love them so much! I constantly have to give them to God and remind myself that He loves them even more. And I know He loves me and will care for me thru any storm.
I feel: sleepy still.

optimistic.
I hear: birds.

happy baby-talk. I love this happy stage! Sometimes I wish O would stay little.
I smell: enchanted orchid soap.

a little funky. I go workout at the Y most mornings and it's a great time!
I crave: chocolate.

a date night. We plan way too few of these. Date nights are expensive! You pay for dinner and a babysitter plus a movie is $10 per person. Crazy. I also crave a mani and pedi day. Ahhh that sounds so relaxing. I haven't got that type of pampering since last summer.
I search: Google.

for wisdom. I am constantly look for ways to be a better homemaker, mom and wife.
I wonder: how I can better love my husband.

when Jesus will return. I'm not the type to see the end of the world around every corner. But the crazy weather, etc in the world these days has me wishing for His return more often than I used to.
I regret: being quick to speak.

not much, thankfully.
I love: J! Happy (very soon) Birthday!

my Lord, my life and my loves (J and O).
I hope: to be a mom.

in the Lord on a daily basis. He is my everything!
I ache: to have a hug.

when I hear about suffering mamas or babies. Motherhood makes my heart so much more tender.
I always: take too long in the bathroom.

hmm ALWAYS is a word I like to avoid. I always use words like always and never when I'm mad which I remember learning in pre-marriage counseling that you are NOT supposed to do. oops.
I am not: outgoing.
a morning person. O wakes me up between 7 and 7:30 everyday. I know that's not that early but my internal clock says it is!
I believe: God's word is truth. AMEN.
God's promises are true. He is on His throne at all times and He is coming again.
I dance: when I'm alone with Cher. :)
with O all the time! I love dance parties with her.
I sing: for fun.
because it puts a smile on my face. I especially treasure bedtime when I sing for O.
I cry: when I'm hurt.
because I'm a woman and I get emotional, just accept it.
I don’t always: run on time.
wash my hair. I'm really trying not to wash it every day because it's supposed to be better for it. But it's driving me a little crazy.
I fight: because I'm stubborn.
because I'm passionate about what I think, what I believe and who I love.
I write: for fun and to clear the brain.
as a release. It clears my mind and makes my thoughts clearer.
I never: want to move away from Nebraska.
say NEVER if I can help it. Life is so full of changes and most that I sure can't control.
I need: forgiveness for the grouch monster.
daily hugs from my baby!

Thanks for reading!

SSMT & my crazy week

2011-06-20T11:36:00.001-05:00

Oh oh, I'm a little late but I have had a busy week. So first off here's my verse...
Proverbs 31:21-22 (NKJV)
She is not afraid of snow for her household, For all her household is clothed with scarlet.
She makes tapestry for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
I'm still working though Proverbs 31. I am halfway through my year of memorization. It is definitely getting more challenging to keep on top of! Now that we're halfway through the year have you been able to keep on top of your New Year's resolutions?

So my last week has been crazy!!
First off O had surgery to repair her umbilical hernia on Wednesday. We were up at 4:30am to be at the hospital at 5:30 and surgery was at 7:30am. I'm telling you that was way to much hanging around. O was awake and didn't exactly just want to lay in bed waiting for her turn. Once she was in surgery, the waiting was the hardest part for me. It was so hard to watch her walk away with the nurse. She cried and reached over her shoulder to me. :( Thankfully we had friends join J and I in the waiting room. A long hour and half later, she was done. New belly button!! I cannot believe how fast she recovered. Kids are amazing! After 1 day, she was off Tylenol and by 2 days, she didn't even seem to remember or care she'd had surgery. I'm so glad to have this behind us.
Second I coordinated a wedding on Friday. And not just any wedding but the pastor's granddaughter. So I felt a little pressure to do well. I worried about the weather all week as I prepped all my notes. But it was beautiful! A beautiful evening for an outdoor wedding and everything went off without a hitch! Congrats to the Newlyweds!!
I hope you're having a busy and fun summer!

Father of the Year

2011-06-19T08:00:00.024-05:00

There are now 2 daddy's in my life - my Dad and my Husband, the father of our baby girl - that I love dearly. This spring the local radio station hosted a Father of the Year contest. I sent in a submission for my Dad...

I think of my Dad as Father of the Year every year!
When I was a child, he taught me life lessons. Whenever he was working outside, he always made me feel welcome. I knew he would encourage my help and teach me something new. I never felt in the way or shut out of his work space. I could watch him work on his motorcycles or latest carpentry project for hours, and he’d usually open a Dr. Pepper or homemade Root Beer for us to share. He always disciplined with a firm but loving hand. I constantly look back at his example as I parent my own daughter.
As I grew into a young women, he made me feel special. He made me feel beautiful. My Dad took time out of his busy schedule to take me on dates. We would go to Chances R and order mushrooms and dessert. It was our special thing! He often would compliment me before school or church, reminding me that I was beautiful in his eyes. During this time in my life, I quickly realized that his love towards me brought me confidence and security. This was the type of man I wanted to marry someday. When I didn’t get into the college I applied to, he sent me flowers though I was 13 hours away. I still look back fondly on those flowers. They meant a lot be me because, he understood how disappointed I was without me saying a word.
As an adult, my Dad encouraged me to independence and responsibility. He would spend time on the phone or late into the evening talking by the fire about my struggles. He always points me back the God’s Word as the place of truth and comfort. His most consistent word of advice for me was about Job. As a girl, I struggled with emotional moments of crisis and he would always turn me to the book of Job and remind me to look at what was true above what I felt. Just because Job didn’t feel like God was there, doesn’t mean He wasn’t. My Dad still greets me with a hug and a kiss every time I see him, though sometimes my baby girl gets the first one. And he still has a listening ear for me when I need advice.
The one thing that has meant the most to me is that he tells me how proud he is of me. He praises my godly choices and desire to continue on that path. It means everything to me, that my Dad is still pleased with me as I make decisions with my husband and regarding my family that I don’t discuss with him. I miss that season of closeness but I treasure our adult friendship and will never take for granted our close father-daughter relationship. Every girl needs a father like mine to point her to our Heavenly Father.

I wish I would've had the words to send in for my husband. But this being only the second year of him being a daddy to my sweet O, I wasn't sure how to say how I feel. J is a wonderful dad! I know O adores him. I love seeing that beautiful relationship develop. I know someday I'll understand how to tell my husband what a wonderful father he is to our family in the same way it's so easy to tell my Dad. I look forward to a lifetime of sweet moments!

Twist + Braid

2011-06-12T10:00:00.003-05:00

Here's my version of the Bohemian twist plus braid. I've found that my twists turn out much better than my french braids. Well some days. And since I couldn't figure out how to twist is down to the end and then anchor it, I braided the tail. :) I think it turned out cute!

Waterfall braid

2011-06-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

I am still attempting new hair styles. This is another from My Yellow Sandbox called the Waterfall Braid. It's so easy and pretty! I think I'll have to keep trying this one.

I'm enjoying playing around with new looks. Actually part of the reason I'm messing around so much is because I'm trying to wash my hair less. I've heard a million times that it's better to not wash your hair every day. And yes it'll be a little greasy but then your hair will catch on and stop producing so much oil. So I'm trying to shampoo it every other day. But I'm still waiting for it not to be so gross the 2nd day. I may have to give up on this one. I so cannot pull off the greased monster look!

Find the original look with tutorial at My Yellow Sandbox.

Ten

2011-06-10T15:05:00.015-05:00

Well my plan was to attempt the 10 on 10 project. The goal is to take 10 pictures on every hour on the 10th day of the month. Realistically I knew I would forget and my pictures wouldn't turn out good. So I'll share what I have. And along with my pictures, I'll share 10 highlights from the day!

1. Step class at the YMCA. Since we joined the Y in December, I've been trying all the classes out. I wasn't sure I had the coordination for Step but ended up loving it. I look forward to my Friday Step class. The teacher is so energetic and I look forward to seeing the 'regulars'.

2. Honey Bunches of Oats with Blueberries. Breakfast!! I was so hungry after my workout that I went a bit overboard. It was good! I'm not much of a cereal person. In fact, I prefer the kid's cereals like Cinnamon Toast Crunch. :) But J introduced me to my new favorite.

3. One of O's favorite things is reading books! Today she unloaded my diaper bag to find one.

4. When I was doing dishes today somebody was laying on my foot. :) I sure love my little helper! Sure she's a little under foot sometimes but over all I don't mind her sitting on my feet and trying to get her little hands into everything.

5. I just liked this picture. I was feeling artsy.

6. For some reason O has decided that naptime needs to be a solitary time. All of the stuff animals and blankets in her crib make a trip to the floor while she naps. Here they all are waiting to be welcomed back.

7. Oh man this was funny! O loves to unload our laundry baskets. Daddy only had a few things in his basket today so O tossed in her nuk. But when she reached down in to get it, her feet left the ground. She was stuck!! Oh I laughed! She was a little upset but I couldn't help laughing. :)

8. Date Night!! This was definitely the highlight of the day. The week even! I haven't enjoyed an evening out with my hubby for months.

9. Sorry for the unappetizing post dinner shot. But we went to Brix & Stones for supper and it was awesome. I always get the Guinness Braised Short Ribs. I feel bad always getting the same thing but they're so good. I just dug right in and didn't remember to take a picture until afterwards.

10. Super 8. We saw this movie and I was surprised. From the previews I had seen, I was sure it was just going to be another scary movie. And I do NOT do scary movies. AT ALL. It was intense in a good way and I enjoyed it. My hubby chooses movies I don't think I'll like way too often. But I usually change my mind. He has good taste.

So I enjoyed focusing on the highlights of the day and trying to capture some of those moments. I'm not a photographer so my pictures are nothing to write home about, but I hope this inspires you to remember the little blessings in your day!

ps. This post is dated on the 10th to reflect the date of the pictures and events.

New Duds!

2011-06-09T15:30:00.000-05:00

This month I went on a long overdue shopping trip. The Loft just opened in town and that was my first stop. Really it was the only place I needed to go. I love their stuff!! First off, they have that perfect blend of clothes for the young casual woman who doesn't want to look like a teenager or too matronly. And second, I am an x-small at the Loft. Seriously - an XS!!! That will sure make a girl feel good about trying on clothes. And the Loft always has great sales. So I ended up getting a few casual tops and some capris and a few days later this dress went on my bday list. My birthday's in August so I think it's soon enough to make a list!

How cute, right!? Well surprise! My mom got it for me the other day! Mom's are the best. And of course she said I can wear it now. :) I'm loving my new summer clothes!

Have you been shopping this summer? What's your fav place to shop?

Easter 2011 Take1

2011-06-09T10:53:00.001-05:00

Easter was a whole new experience this year! Last year we had babies, but this year we had toddlers. And they completely stole the show. We now have 4 little ones in our extended family on my mom's side. We long ago outgrew Easter Egg Hunts. Somewhere along the way we all grew up and now we're starting our own families.

This year we got together on Palm Sunday. First stop, the Dutch Kitchen. Oh Yum! They make the... 2nd best verenika. (My Granny make the best, of course.) But it was still very good. Next stop: the Nursing Home to visit Grandma. My Grandma has been in the Nursing Home since I was young. A few years ago, it got to the point where we can't bring her home to the gathering, so we all go visit her. The last few years, we hung out with Grandpa there too. This was the first Easter without Grandpa. I missed his presence. I could just tell someone was missing.

K (my cousin's very sweet girlfriend) brought in her adorable little puppy/dog. I think he's still sorta a puppy but he's not going to get very big anyhow. He was soo sweet and friendly!! O loves, Loves, LOVES puppies. So she and cousin H were all over him. They wanted all the hugs and kisses! It was so so cute! :) I think it's not going to be long before O is begging Daddy for a puppy. :) The girls were great entertainment. They really bring joy and lighten the atmosphere. Visiting a Nursing Home and seeing the suffering of your loved ones usually makes me feel a little sad.

Next we went back to the house and all the little ones had naps. Then it was time for the Hunt! For 3 little tykes we sure went all out. There were bright little eggs all over the yard. We had to get outside quickly before the rain came so cousin C and O dug right in. (We saved some for cousin H to hunt inside when she woke up.) O quickly caught on and loved putting her treasures in her bucket.

We wrapped up the day with a light supper and just hanging out and playing with the kids. It was so fun! I'm happy we have little kids in our family again. They're fun. :)

Like?

2011-06-08T11:39:00.002-05:00

Hi my faithful readers!

So I've been blogging on and off for almost 3 years (since June 23rd, 2008). Wow 3 years. That's crazy! At that point in my life, we were just buying our first house and sweet O was still just a twinkle in my eye. My posts have ranged from fun exciting news to opinions about life to mundane mommy ramblings.

I just want to say thank you to all my friends and family who continue to read my blog, even through the slow spots. If you've been enjoying my musing on life and motherhood, please FOLLOW me!! I love to know you're still reading. I'd also to hear from you. I realize that I don't always post a lot to comment on... so I'll work on that if you promise to comment once in a while. :)

So today my question for you is... What do you like reading about on my blog? And what do you think I need to share more about?

Outdoor Living

2011-06-07T16:44:00.001-05:00

When the weather started to get warm this spring, we headed outside! On this particular day we had a snack outdoors on the deck.

O is beginning to learn how to hold still and smile for the camera. So I get some of these adorable little grins captured!

Walk for Life

2011-06-03T12:27:00.001-05:00

The Lincoln Crisis Pregnancy Walk for Life is tomorrow!

I'm so excited to walk this year. In years past, I've wanted to participate but was usually gone or busy on the chosen weekend. So this year I put in on the calendar way early. I am finding that we're still busy this year and as I think ahead to tomorrow, I'm a little overwhelmed by the full day we have planned. But this is a very worthy cause. I think I can sacrifice some sleep. And it should be a beautiful day for a walk around the lake. So I think I might even get some exercise pushing 20+ pounds of stroller and my baby girl a couple miles.

I've always strongly believed in the sanctity of human life but since I've had my own baby girl the feeling has become personal. I absolutely 100% believe that O was a person from the moment of conception and it would have been murder for me to terminate my pregnancy at anytime. Each baby is a beautiful gift from God and should be treasured. This reality is something that is especially hard to accept when you're young and facing an unplanned pregnancy. The Center helps young couple make wise, Biblical choices about the future of their family.

If you want to walk or sponsor a walker, check out the details.

SSMT

2011-06-01T13:12:00.002-05:00

June 1st! I'm nearing the halfway mark on bi-weekly scripture memorization for the year. Beth posted a very encouraging note today. This particular paragraph jumped out at me...
Part of how we stand firm is to know Scripture, and not with swollen heads but swollen hearts. One of the verses in my quiet time this morning was Psalm 119:57 – “The LORD is my source of security. I have determined to follow Your instructions.” (The NET Bible) One thing is certain: we are finding out how little security this anguishing planet can offer us. “The LORD is the source of security.” Personal. National. Global. Universal. The Lord alone. And, so, like never before, we need to know His instructions…and follow them.
What a beautiful verse! I'm amazed at how a different translation can sometimes bring a verse alive in a new way. Knowing that God is my security gives me confidence and determination to follow Him, even though it's hard and I get discouraged far too often. Do you have a verse that brings you determination?

I'm still working on my goal to memorize Proverbs 31. Though I admit I'm not doing as well as when I started, I'm am sticking with it!! And when I do take the time to meditate on my verse, I am challenged to put into practice the ways of this godly woman. Here's my memory verse for the next 2 weeks..
Proverbs 31:19-20
She stretches out her hands to the distaff, And her hand holds the spindle.
She extends her hand to the poor, Yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.

I Wish Wednesday

2011-06-01T10:00:00.002-05:00

I WISH... I was at PiYo. Let's just say, this morning did not go as planned. J left early this morning, which is normal but O decided that meant she needed to be up too... at 6:45am. Daddy gave her a kiss and I gave her some books to keep her in bed until 7:30. Then began the struggle of breakfast. Apparently pancakes and nectarines weren't making her skirt fly up this morning. After a 1/2hr of sitting in her chair, she drank all her milk and threw her pancake on the floor. So I could a) clean her up and take her to the Y with basically no breakfast or b) sit and patiently help her eat. This good but slightly grouchy mama chose option b. PiYo is my favorite class each week so I'm bummed. I might have to just do what I remember here at home. I always feel so relaxed after this class!

I WISH... O would stay little forever some days. She's my little bookworm and I love reading to her.

I WISH... I had this Hartford Buffett in my dining room. Don't you just love dreaming about what you want in your house someday!? I do. We've only been in our house a few years, so we're still accumulating furniture. It can be expensive!! So we save for a while and then make a purchase. This baby is definitely on my list!

So this is my attempt at getting back into a blogging rhythm and bringing back I Wish Wednesdays. Here's my first IWW post and why I choose 'wish'. What do you wish for this week?

30 New Do's

2011-05-31T20:29:00.000-05:00

Just recently I ran across a great new blog at My Yellow Sandbox. The thing that really caught my eye is her new series '30 Do's in 30 Days'. Abby is doing a new hair do everyday for 30 days! Crazy awesome! She posts pictures and a video tutorial.

I was so happy when I ran across this! I've had my hair this long (about mid back) since I got married almost 6 years ago. I've changed up the layers and bangs a little but it's stayed pretty much the same. Now I'm not the type of girl to keep her hair the same for this long but my hubby LOVES it! So it stays. I threaten every now and then to chop it all off. When Katie Holmes first chopped hers a few years ago, I really wanted that bob. But new layers and a fresh color kept me long. So I only have a few go to hair do's - down, ponytail, straight, curly, bun and sometimes a french braid. Boring. I am so excited to start trying these new do's! Here's my first attempt at the braided messy bun.

Everyone warned me about those baby hairs. You know. The ones you get post pregnancy when all that nice thick hair from the prenatal vitamins falls out and then starts growing in again. So especially on humid days, I get this nice halo of fuzz. Also, I think my french braiding needs some practice. This is what her more professional job looked like...

I hope you pop over to My Yellow Sandbox and check out all the great do's!

Long Weekend Aftermath

2011-05-31T15:20:00.001-05:00

We had a great weekend! I love it when J gets an extra day off work. We get more family time. We have one more day to relax and not be thinking about the work week. We spent a fair amount of time outdoors. O wore her fair share of sunblock and got a few new bumps and bruises.

This one is from the neighbor's driveway. She was determined to push this little cart around and once she was headed downhill, she couldn't keep up. I can't believe she doesn't have a lump on her head from that tumble. Being a toddler looks like hard work! But in-spite of the tumble we had a great time getting to know our neighbors. This has been a new adventure for us. Being a country girl myself, inviting yourself to a neighbor's driveway 'party' is completely foreign. I always feel like we're intruding. I realize they're just hanging out with another neighbor but without an invite, I feel odd. But our neighbors have been very welcoming so we intend to keep trying to butt in! I must say that it's been extremely helpful to have a kid in this situation. Kids are a great ice breaker. I think I've talked to the neighbor kids more than their parents because they're fearless. They just ride their little bikes over and say 'hello' if you're outside.

Miss O also woke up with this moppet! The humidity is driving her curls wild. I love it. :) She also woke up a little grouchy today. I think she's missing her Daddy. I miss him too. It's nice to have a partner to help entertain and wrangle her. Thankfully the weather's beautiful so we'll be heading outside to have some fun this afternoon!

SSMT

2011-05-20T14:57:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 31:17-18 NKJV
She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms. She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her lamp does not go out by night.

I am sad because I'm falling behind. I'm still picking my verses every couple weeks but I haven't memorized them as well as when I started. And I know I need to move forward and be committed! The verses I have committed to memory are sticking with me. They pop into my head when I need an encouraging reminder.

How do you re-energize yourself when you've fallen behind on a personal commitment?
What verses stick with you?

Reading Tab

2011-05-20T12:53:00.000-05:00

After slowly updating my reading tab over the past weeks, I finally finished...

I like to read and often way too much! I can't tell you how often I stayed up till 2 am in high school because i just had to finish my book. I just couldn't put them down. If I was really desperate, I'd read the last couple pages and finish the book later. I still wanted to enjoy the story but knowing the ending brought me enough peace to sleep. Sadly I don't get to the library often enough. And when I do, I'm usually picking out books for Olivia. As a mother and housewife, my days of spending hours upon hours reading are few and far between. Now I do most of my ~~skimming~~ reading online via Google Reader. I usually find myself struggling to keep up with all the blogs I'm dying to read. Honestly I usually wait until I have a huge list of unread posts and then realize I need to clean house. But I end up with a nice core of favs!
Check out my core reading material right now or save it for a rainy day.

What do you enjoy reading these days? Blogs? Books? Tell me your favorites!

My not so Green Thumb

2011-05-19T18:32:00.000-05:00

I am killing house plants right and left this week! Eeek! Here I thought the warmer weather meant that finally my plants would get more sunlight and warmth. Instead... DEATH.

Plant #1... my Heartleaf Philodendron

And yes I had to research to find that name. Do you really know all the weird names of your plants?!?
Now this lovely plant has been dubbed one of the most common house plants and easy to grow. I think that means it's pretty hard to kill - it takes talent. I have this. After 5 years, it's down to one very sad stem and a couple leaves. I noticed about a month ago that it wasn't looking the best. So I went to my go to fixes: regular watering, extra light and miracle grow. It still went downhill. Then just the other day, I left it outside for the day. You know, fresh air. It's good for kids and plants. Well I accidentally left it outside over night and it just might have been that night recently when we had frost warnings. So I think it's officially over for my poor Philo. RIP.

Plant #2... Aloe Vera

Yep I knew this one. I'm not completely brain dead when it comes to my plants. This is actually my second go around on Aloe plants. I have received 2 batches from Granny. She has a green thumb! But I apparently didn't inherit it. I started it in a small pot and when it started to droop, I re-potted it into a larger pot with some new soil. I think it's been struggling ever since. But I blame the final death stroke on Olivia. Well sorta. This Aloe makes it's home on a nice bench in the sunlight in our kitchen. Sadly it's a the perfect height for Livi, so she's been pulling them out. I dug them back in and gave them a new home and some miracle grow. (It's my go to!) So I'm really hoping they'll still recover.

Plant #3... Christmas Cactus

I only know this one because I got it from my Granny and she has one that we compare notes on. Repetition will guarantee me remembering the name. This is my only plant that is thriving!! Yay! It doesn't get a many blooms as the picture but it is as full. I think we'll be ok until I have to re-pot it.

In the process of trying to help my poor plants, I ran across a new (to me) website. For your next plant emergency (or simple question) check out the Guide to Houseplants. Great advice and easy to find!

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T22:39:00.001-05:00

This morning I woke up excited like it was Christmas morning. I love Easter! I wish I was this excited for church every week.

I love this song! Whether Christmas or Easter or a Monday, this song pulls on my heart strings. I love most songs that mention the veil being torn. That moment is so personally important. It makes my heart fill with joy!

Jesus Messiah by Chris Tomlin

He became sin Who knew no sin That we might become His Righteousness. He humbled himself and carried the cross.
Love so amazing. Love so amazing.

Jesus Messiah, Name above all names
Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel
The rescue for sinners, The ransom from Heaven
Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.

His body the bread, His blood the wine, Broken and poured out all for love. The whole earth trembled And the veil was torn
Love so amazing. Love so amazing, yeah

Jesus Messiah, Name above all names
Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel
The rescue for sinners, The ransom from Heaven
Jesus Messiah, Lord of all

All our hope is in You. All our hope is in You. All the glory to You, God, The light of the world

Jesus Messiah, Name above all names
Blessed Redeemer, Emmanuel
The rescue for sinners, The ransom from Heaven
Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.

Amen! Praise You Jesus! I am so grateful and thankful for Your sacrifice. May we all be reminded of what we celebrate on Easter everyday.

Mirror Mirror

2011-04-15T12:24:00.002-05:00

I can't tell how many times I question the mirror...
"How do I look today?"
"Does this fit right?"
"Is this attractive?"
In fact when I have a real fashion dilemma I contact my mom and my sister.
I have trouble with new clothing or accessory trends. I look in the mirror and can't decide if I like the new look or not. I recently texted them a picture with options. I started with a plain blue tee and a short sleeve grey cardigan. I ended up adding a skinny black belt to perfect my outfit. Thanks Aud.:) If not for my fashionable family members I think I'd be stuck in a t-shirt rut.
I think the biggest question I sometimes forget to ask my mirror is...
"Is this God honoring? And does my appearance deserve as much time as I give it?"
Thankfully I have a good sense of modesty that my parents instilled in me, but I think all women struggle with vanity or image or body issues somedays. While I strive to be a beautiful reflect for my Savior on the outside as well as the inside, I strive to make sure the inside is still my priority.

SSMT

2011-04-15T12:17:00.001-05:00

Proverbs 31:13-14 NKJV

She seeks wool and flax,
And willingly works with her hands. She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar.

SSMT

2011-04-01T12:30:00.002-05:00

Today my verse is Proverbs 31:10-12 NKJV.
Who can find a virtuous wife?
For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
This chapter always encourages me or convicts me. So many of the verses are personal goals for my life. It's about time I start memorizing them!

Francine Rivers Contest

2011-03-28T16:23:00.000-05:00

Francine Rivers is one of my all time favorite authors. Her stories always keep me up all night to read the end and in the end they always pull on my heart strings.
Tyndale is doing in a giveway in her honor. Go to http://www.tyndale.com/blog/?p=1042 to enter! You have a chance to win her entire library of books! I think I or my family must own most of them but that's ok. :)

VBall Game 2010

2011-03-17T09:32:00.000-05:00

We made it to 1 volleyball game this year - the last one. I love going to Husker VB games! The atmosphere is like none other. And is also reminds me how tall and talented these girls really are. On TV it's easy for me to miss it. They all look the same height on TV. GO BIG RED!

SSMT

2011-03-17T09:29:00.000-05:00

This time I decided to memorize a verse that's already familiar to me. This is my favorite verse! But when I try to bring it to mind, I can't remember the exact words. And when I try to share it with someone else, I can never remember the reference. So now it'll be cemented in my memory!
Isaiah 26:3-4 NKJV
You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for in YAH, the Lord, is everlasting strength.

SSMT

2011-03-01T16:00:00.000-06:00

My verse for March 1st...
How can I repay the Lord for all His acts of kindness to me? I will celebrate my deliverance, and call on the name of the Lord.
Psalm 116:12-13 NET

This is such a blessing to me! I can't believe I'm 5 verses in and I'm sticking with it. I realize when I think about how I'm doing I need to praise God in my excitement rather than fall into the sin of pride. This is a joy and blessing to me! I'm excited about how this is growing my relationship with my Savior. I always thought I was bad at Scripture memorization. But I think I must be getting a little help. :)

How are your New Year's resolutions going? Did you make any new commitments in 2011 that you are excited about growing in? Is there something new that God has shown you already this year and you have the ability to see the lesson? I find that I usually can't see until later in the year. I get so busy and caught up. It seems like it takes the reminder of Christmas for me to bring the past year in focus.

Comfort Food

2011-02-28T11:37:00.000-06:00

This is what comfort food means to me...

Onion Gravy & Verenika

Zweiback & Ham

As Easter draws closer I'm getting excited to go to Granny's house again and have these foods. We have basically the same thing at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. And I like it that way!!

The table is always full, and I'm always stuffed. There's barely enough room for dessert!

SSMT

2011-02-01T12:23:00.000-06:00

I forgot to post it for the 15th of January...

Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, for in You do I trust; Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to You. Psalm 143:8

Today...

Daniel answered and said, 'Blessed be the name of God forever and ever. For wisdom and might are His. And He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings; He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. Daniel 2:20-21 NKJV

This is getting challenging but it's the good kind! Sorta like when you working out and you feel the burn but you push ahead. I know this is good exercise for my mind and heart!

Charlotte 2010

2011-01-21T11:40:00.002-06:00

We went to Charlotte again this past fall. J's video 'Beets' was picked as finalist. Though I was looking forward to it, it was my first trip away from O. She spent the weekend with Grandma and Grandpa and had a blast! And even though I missed her, it was so nice to have a weekend with my hubby. After awhile I began to feel just like O's mama and not like a wife or a woman. So it was a much needed weekend away! :)

We had a super fun and quite busy weekend...
NBA Basketball game - Charlotte, Bobcats vs Orlando, Magic. I'd never been to an NBA game so it was a fun experience. We saw Nelly (the rapper) and his girlfriend Ashanti there. And I was informed after the game that our friends saw Michael Jordan. Michael Jordan!! I'm not one to gush over celebrity but I might gush a little if I had seen MJ. :)
NFL Football Game - Charlotte, Panthers vs New Orleans, Saints. As always, it was fun! We had Ruth Chris food again. It was wonderful! I think we should serve BBQ pork sandwiches with slaw on them here too. It was a pretty chilly day so I wished I had brought more layers. The Panthers still aren't any good so the game was pretty well sewed up by halftime. I have to admit that I was going for the Saints. But I was nice and didn't cheer too loud. Only a big cheer for Shanle! I have to stand proud for my Huskers!
Dinner and a Movie. This was my favorite part of the trip. We hadn't been out in forever and I don't think we'd been to a movie since before O was born. We went to a modern Mexican restaurant that was really good. And in addition to great entrees, we had table side guacamole. I love guac! And theater we went to was fancy! You could bring good and drinks in the theater from the connected restaurant and bar. So the cushy chairs also had little side tables and cup holders. We saw the Social Network - good movie!
The Ethics Film Festival. Great food as always. And I always love seeing the centerpieces. They were colorful flowers this year. Sadly we didn't win but the video was highly complimented!
Safe Flights. I'm always thankful for safe and uneventful flights. Dramamine is my best friend.
Home safe to see our baby girl! And we had the joy of buying her first souvenir... Sir Purr. :) She liked him at first and then was a little scared and now she loves him again.

It was a great trip! And I'm looking forward to next year. ;) Hope we win!

Go Huskers

2011-01-14T10:41:00.003-06:00

The day after Thanksgiving, we watched the Colorado-Nebraska game at my parents house. It was nice and relaxing. We had mexi dip. Yum! Sadly O had outgrown her husker tee already. But since it was a 0-3month shirt that she wore until about 9months, I'd say that's perfectly ok. So O rocked the corn-cob hair clip. So cute!

If I remember correctly O napped during part of the game. And when she was up, she stole the show! I do like watching Husker football but I might like watching O more. :)

Even Daddy needed some O time!

Grandma and O had some cuddles and walked all over the living room. Grandpa and Olivia played with blocks and kept warm in front of the fire.

It was a great time! And we won! Each year, I wish I could go to this game. I love cold weather games. And something about it being a holiday weekend makes it more exciting. But this was our last year playing Colorado the day after Thanksgiving. I guess I missed my chance. Hopefully we'll have a Friday-after-Thanksgiving game with a Big10 team next year that will become a new exciting tradition.

The Simple Wife

2011-01-12T14:47:00.000-06:00

I don't know this woman but she's a fellow believer that needs our prayers! This wife and mother of 2 young children had a stoke and is having complications. Find out more at her site.

Happy 1st Birthday O-baby!

2011-01-11T08:44:00.002-06:00

Oh precious baby girl, this time last year you were still safe and warm in my tummy. I can't believe how fast this year has gone! And I can't imagine my life without you. You are one of the greatest blessings God has given me. At 10pm a year ago, you entered the world!

Now you're so big! You rarely hold still, even for a picture. Your happy faces and jumbled baby words and funny noises keep us laughing. You're such a joy! I love you little one! Happy Birthday!

9 months

2011-01-10T10:39:00.001-06:00

So this picture session was challenging because Olivia didn't want to hold still or not eat the paper! My little one is growing so fast. This was 3 short months ago!

SSMT

2011-01-09T15:52:00.000-06:00

I'm excited! I just committed to the Siesta Scripture Memory Team!
Today I caught up on my Google Reader. I read Beth's original surprise post and thought it sounded good but I couldn't do it. I don't have time. I'm bad at memorization. I'm too forgetful already, how could I add to my brain list! I would fail anyhow.
I read on. The directions seemed easy and she sounded so excited. Maybe I should at least try this. January 1st post... Day 1 SSMT... I missed it. Surely I was too late so why bother. But as I read down through the comments to see what verses the women were memorizing, I saw a bunch of women just posted yesterday! And then I remembered this encouragement from Beth's first post...
one of the things we prioritize and love to do around here is memorize Scripture. It is a huge part of calling the mind captive to Christ (2 Cor. 10:3-5) and most of us know from experience that our battles are won or lost in our MINDS. I have been actively memorizing Scripture as a primary Spiritual discipline since my early 30′s. I am thoroughly convinced that God used it to bring immeasurable healing to my mind, my memories, and my thought life. I tend toward obsessive thoughts and fears and unrelenting replays of bad memories and, when I fall away from actively hiding God’s Word in my heart, they come back with a vengeance. Anybody else? There are no words big enough to express the difference Scripture memory has made in my life. God also showed me along the way how much accountability and partnership can enhance the success of the discipline. (bold mine)
I know I need to make my mind captive to the Lord!! This new year has started out with me taking on a load of worry, particularly about Olivia. So my first verse is...
Isaiah 41:10 (NKJV)
Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’
So thank you Lord! Thank you for using Beth Moore's excitement and passion about scripture memorization to strike a chord in my heart and convince me to commit to memorizing Your Word this year. Here I come 2011!

O's First Christmas

2011-01-09T10:44:00.002-06:00

O's first Christmas! :) It was so fun!

We opened gifts with our little family on Christmas Eve before we went to church. O wasn't so sure how to open her gifts. She thought the paper was pretty though. And I realized that I need to buy cheaper or less fancy paper because what I used this year was really hard to tear! I firmly believe in tearing open gifts. I have family members who take forever opening their gifts because they don't want to tear the paper. I personally enjoy ripping off the paper. It makes me feel young! It expresses my excitement for finding out what the paper hides!

One of O's gifts this year was a Fisher Price Little People Nativity Set. She's still playing with it and loves it! I put all the people in the stable and she takes them all out. :) The little people are just the right size for her to enjoy! I think this is only my first of many Christmases and birthdays where I'll be extricating toys from complicated packaging. Every single piece was attached to the cardboard packaging by tape and at least one twist tie. Plus the whole thing was in a box! Goodness! I felt wasteful by the time I pulled it all apart and handled Livi the toys and ended up with a pile of trash next to me.

The biggest challenge this year was staying in budget! I actually bought a few gifts for J this year. And I wanted to buy much more for O than we did. I don't usually get anything for J because he's hard to buy for. I just tell him to buy himself something. I was so proud I thought of something this year. I even was able to keep part of it a surprise. I think staying in budget for O is going to be a challenge every year. But I know she doesn't really need that many toys. And she has enough clothes that she won't run out anytime soon and I don't have to do laundry every other day.

I'm thankful that God has gifted me with the ability to enjoy giving gifts. But I'm also thankful that He's given me a practical husband to keep me in line and remind me to be wise.

Lovin' the Cricut

2011-01-08T10:35:00.001-06:00

Last year I got a Cricut for Christmas and I still love it! I wish I had more time to use it. But all my creations so far have been successful! This is a card I designed for a wedding this past summer.

Moments

2011-01-06T21:00:00.005-06:00

These are some of my favorite J/O moments from our shoot. These along with many day to day memories, warm my heart. I love seeing my husband love on his daughter.

Baby Girl

2011-01-05T20:56:00.003-06:00

Aww. Who's chubby baby is this?! These are some shots from our 6 month shots for O. I can't believe how much she changed. I love these pictures and will cherish the memories of my chubby little baby girl.

SAC

2011-01-02T10:45:00.002-06:00

Late this summer we went to the SAC museum and had a great time! Bonus: great lighting for pictures!! And O was a in a great mood that day!

every 3 months

2011-01-01T10:54:00.003-06:00

About every 3 months O gets a new wardrobe! Each time I look ahead to the next size, I think 'that's huge! there's no way my baby will fit in that in a few short months!'. But some how she grows and they fit. :)

This was one my favorites this summer/fall!

Lazy Blogger

2010-12-30T20:28:00.000-06:00

Well I've been a lazy blogger. My last post was like a month ago. It has crossed my mind over the last few days that I should stay in touch with my blog, but what can I say, I'm busy.
Really? How can you be too busy to blog? I thought you stayed at home all day?
Well yes, I do stay home. And I love it! :) Livi and I keep busy keeping the house clean and playing. Am I too old to say I played today? And can I say that's an actual activity that takes time and effort and gets marked off my 'to do' list? Well, I do. And then there are the holidays. If ever I thought I was caught up on life, the holidays hit. I so love this time of year! It's busy but it's fun.
So all this rambling to say, my next few posts are going to be going back in time to catch up on past events and post some cute pictures of Olivia. I might get around to posting Christmas pictures someday soon. I hope so! We have some cute ones!

Christmas Cards

2010-12-15T10:10:00.036-06:00

Vintage Snowflakes Holiday

Get custom holiday cards online at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

I got to order Christmas cards this year! I've considered it in years past but really it's not fun until there's a precious little face to share. Maybe you'll have one in your mailbox. :) But if not, we still love you. Merry Christmas!

I look forward to getting the mail this time of year. I love looking through the pile of junk mail and seeing a hand addressed letter. I know it's something different. Something I actually want to open! I love seeing the cheerful faces of our friends smiling up at me when I open the envelope. Each year I try to think of new ways to display our cards and I keep them up as long as I can!

I hope you have a Christmas card in your mailbox this year, whether it's from us or other friends and family. Enjoy your warm Christmas wishes this year! Remember the joy we're really celebrating this time of year...
Isaiah 9:6-7
For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

Thankful!

2010-11-25T11:00:00.031-06:00

Most of all I'm thankful for family.
Justin and Olivia. I love them more every day and I look forward to growing even more attached to them over the years. Being a mom has really solidified this family connection for me. I love spending my days with them. I love watching our family grow together and make new traditions.
Dad. Mom. Alex. Audrey. This is my family. They're the best. I couldn't ask for a better family. They've shaped who I am today. I still love the traditions I'm part of. And I sometimes miss the traditions that I've outgrown.
All the rest. My extended family is much to large to list but I love them all dearly.

I'm thankful for the cross. This is what I'm really the most thankful for but thankful maybe doesn't cover it. I'm grateful. It's hard for me to even put this into words. All I can say is Thank you Jesus! Thank you for willingly dying on that cross for my sins and rising again to conquer death. And offering me the free gift of eternal life through your sacrifice. My life is nothing without You. You are the greatest Blessing of all.

Thankful... Day 1

2010-11-24T11:00:00.034-06:00

I'm thankful for heat! This has probably been the coldest this season. I think winter is officially here. So while Olivia and I recover from our colds, we've been staying indoors enjoying the warmth. I've been particularly sensitive to keeping our house warm because Olivia has sock issues. Every time she notices she has socks on, she attempts to pull them off. It's kinda cute actually. :) But I want to make sure her tootsies stay warm!

I'm thankful for Thanksgiving. I like fall - the beautiful colors, the football, the sweaters. And for me, it all culminates with Thanksgiving. I realize that it's a made up holiday. In other words, there is no significant event that we're celebrating. But I"m thankful to have a day set aside to be thankful for all the blessing in my life. I often don't remember to count my blessings on a daily basis. So this day specifically reminds me to do it! I also love how this is a day for family and food. I enjoy spending time with my family. I love all the yummy, comforting food! At our house the standard fare might be a little different than you're used to. Thanksgiving dinner at Granny's house usually consists of...
Ham. Because Grandpa doesn't like turkey. And ham is better anyhow.
Verenika. Fried, of course. These little pockets of dry curd cottage cheese are a traditional german mennonite food. And they always go with...
Onion Gravy. All the men rave about this at our gatherings.
Potatoes. We either have holiday potatoes, sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes, sometimes even an augratin. They're all good but I like Gran's sweet potatoes the best.
Mos. Growing up I always thought of Pluma Mos as the regular, but now we have Cherry Mos or Apple Mos too. Apple is my favorite. Mos. Hmm how to explain that one. It's a funny kind of soup. It's sweet. Pluma Mos has prunes and raisins in it. You'll just have to try it sometime.
Zwiebach. No meal is complete without these little sweet breads.
Of course there are other veggie sides that we enjoy and there's always dessert but these are the basics of our meal. Just writing about it is making me hungry!

Thankful... Day 2

2010-11-23T11:00:00.012-06:00

I'm thankful for my hubby, the great cook! For supper we had steak and butternut squash. I'm not sure what all he did to the squash but it was really good! And the steak... hmm he makes a good steak. He marinated it and cooked it to perfection and make a lovely sauce. He definitely has a gift and I"m happy to be on the receiving end. :)

I'm also thankful for my hubby in general. I am so blessed by his willingness to provide for our family. He goes to work every day and works hard so I can stay home with Olivia. He excels at his job. His employer speaks highly of him as do his co-workers. I'm so thankful to have a husband that provides so well for us.

Thankful... Day 3

2010-11-22T11:00:00.012-06:00

I'm thankful for sunshine! The last few days have been quite gloomy and I've been missing the sun. Today when I woke up and saw the sun was still hiding, I thought of one of my friends who especially misses the sun on gloomy days. She is headed to Texas today, where I'm sure she'll enjoy the sun as well as her grand-babies. :)

Thankful... Day 4

2010-11-21T11:00:00.010-06:00

I'm thankful for naps. Olivia has a stuffy nose and so she's having trouble with her nap today so I'm missing mine too! Sunday afternoons are made for napping. :)

I'm thankful for nursery at church. I was in nursery this morning and wow, we were busy. There were 6 infants and half of them were crying. And my baby wasn't even in there! I'm so thankful I don't have sextuplets. How overwehleming would that be!!

I'm also thankful for music. :) I love worshiping on Sunday mornings. I love turning on the radio and singing any time of day!

Thankful... Day 5

2010-11-20T11:00:00.040-06:00

I'm thankful for my phone! I probably spend too much time on the phone some days. But I enjoy that connection. I've always been more of a home-body, though now that I'm at home, I find myself craving outside connection every once in a while.

I'm especially thankful for clear nasal passages! Today Olivia has a nasty cold and is quite stuffed up. Thankfully she's still been able to sleep. But she hates having her nose cleaned. Justin had a cold a couple weeks ago and so Olivia started copying him by fake coughing. It was pretty funny! Sadly, now she really does have a cough. Colds are a part of life and at least they don't usually last too long. I hope Livi feels better by Thanksgiving because she's in line to get a bunch of hugs from family she hasn't seen for a while. :)

I'm thankful for Nebraska football! I may have already mentioned it but I love this time of year. I look forward to Saturdays game every week. In college I was in Wyoming and sadly didn't get the game most weeks. But my mom would either tape the game for me or record it off the radio. So by Tuesday or Wednesday I would get an audio tape or a VHS tape in the mail. I would excitedly take over the TV in the lodge or pop it in my tape player and start cheering. My roommate always told me I was crazy to be so excited because I already knew who won. But I couldn't help still cheering and yelling at every play. :) Now I have to admit that if the game isn't very exciting, I sometimes fall asleep. What can I say, I'm a mom now! Cool fall games are my favorite. I love pulling out my puffy red winter coat and bundling up. And I love squeezing into my seat at the stadium and feeling the warmth of so many excited fans. I love Nebraska football!

Thankful... Day 6

2010-11-19T11:00:00.013-06:00

I'm thankful for Fridays! Fridays are the days that Justin comes home in a great mood. We can relax and look forward to spending the weekend as a family. He doesn't have to think about work until Sunday night.

I'm thankful for my parent's generosity. I know that Grandma loves to get outfits for Olivia just because. But I am truly thankful that Olivia can be well clothed!

I'm thankful for warm water! :) I love taking warm showers this time of year when the house is particularly cold. Simple pleasures are the best!

Thankful... Day 7

2010-11-18T15:21:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving is next Thursday. But I've already been noticing Christmas decorations everywhere I look. The mall is covered in lights and swag. Downtown has up the 12 days of Christmas decor. My neighborhood entrance has their wreaths hung. And Christmas sales are already in full swing.
It makes me a little sad and mostly annoyed. What about Thanksgiving!?! I realize that Thanksgiving is about family and food and isn't commercialized as much so maybe that's why Christmas seems to come sooner each year. But I love Thanksgiving. I particularly love all the fall decorations. The colored leaves and vibrant colors are beautiful! Thanksgiving feels like the last hooray for enjoying fall. I also enjoying spending time with family. I enjoy this at every holiday but Thanksgiving in particular reminds me to be thankful for me. And Thanksgiving is about football for me! The day after Thanksgiving is always the the last Nebraska football game of the year. So this year, one way I'm specifically trying to enjoy this Thanksgiving season is to share what I"m thankful for in the next week.
Today I'm thankful for my wheels. I took our car in to get a few things fixed, including the breaks which have been setting off a beeping alarm whenever I turn right for weeks now. It was driving me crazy! So they gave me an old school ford Taurus to drive for the day. Wow, not even my Buick regal was this rickety. I am looking forward to having my Passat back at the end of the day!
I'm thankful for the words I get to enjoy spilling from O's lips. She has learned how to say mama and dada. And though I know she doesn't know she's calling my name, it's still a joy to hear. I love having conversations with her!

Trying to Christmas Shop

2010-11-18T14:39:00.000-06:00

I've started my Christmas shopping. But as I browse through the stores, I can't help but fall in love with stuff for myself!!

I always get in trouble at Aldo. What can be better than a store that sells purses and shoes? Nothing. Well maybe if they also gave away chocolate. So I went in looking for shoes for my hubby and totally fell in love with this purse and these adorable wedge boots...

But I held firm and stuck to the plan and my budget. But boy am I looking forward to Christmas. I know Christmas usually means new clothes for me. Each year I think I should consider being more practical with my wishlist. But that's no fun!

GO BIG RED

2010-10-30T08:47:00.001-05:00

There is no place like Nebraska
Dear old Nebraska U

Where the girls are the fairest
The boys are the squarest
Of any old place that I knew

There is no place like Nebraska
Where they're all true blue
We'll all stick together in all kinds of weather For dear old Nebraska U.

O has been quite patriotic this fall!

Ears

2010-10-28T10:59:00.001-05:00

With cold weather fast approaching, we've been bundling up! I think O might be a little over dressed some days, but at least she's not cold! Grandma bought O this jacket recently. And it's just the cutest thing! Olivia's pretty cute to begin with, but when you add little bear ears, she's irresistible!

Even Daddy loves O with ears! Olivia still saves the best laughs for Daddy. :) Here he was bouncing her on his shoulders while she watched in the mirror. Then she'd laugh and laugh!

I can't get tired of this happy face!

Sweet Rolls

2010-10-26T15:57:00.002-05:00

Nikki Moore of Nikki Moore's Photography recently took our family pictures. Here's just a few shoots.

I love all the little rolls she captured. This was close to 6 months. So now as we approach 10 months old, many of those rolls are disappearing.

Nikki also wrote a blog post about our session that highlights some of our best shots! And I will definitely be sharing more pictures from our session in coming posts.

Pictures Uploaded

2010-10-26T09:19:00.002-05:00

We finally uploaded our pictures so let the posting begin! :)

Glee Season 2: Bummer

2010-10-13T09:02:00.006-05:00

I started watching Glee last spring and enjoyed catching up on season 1 by watching reruns this summer. There were some elements that I didn't like but overall I wasn't offended by the show. I love the music! I've always been a girl who can enjoy a good musical. I loved watching The Sound of Music and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers growing up. So I've been looking forward to Season 2 and all the new music. My ipod has been working overtime as I enjoy the music of season 1.

Season 2 ... what a dissappointment!!
Musically: I always loved the ballads and songs about falling in love or out of love or having a broken heart that we heard a lot of last season. We were really able to enjoy Rachel's voice. I admit I do have a special place in my heart for Britney Spears since I grew up in the 90s but a whole gimmic episode is too much. I just don't think the musical selections have been as good this season.
Plot: So far there's no story. I don't care about any of the characters. Last year I wanted to see Rachel and Finn get together. And I looked forward to finding out how everything worked out with Quinn and her baby.
Morality: Not looking good. Cheesus Christ... As a christian I'm offended. I expect teasing. I expect them not to get it right. But this crossed a line. I felt mocked. Promoting homosexuality... I believe it's a choice and a wrong one. That doesn't mean I hate gay people. I just don't agree with their choices. And I don't have to watch a show that strongly promotes something I don't condone. Sexual promiscuity... It's shown as being ok and even expected and welcomed in high schoolers.

After last week I decided to give Glee one more week to win me back. Didn't happen. I'm offended and disappointed by their message. Perhaps I'll still listen to their musical numbers on itunes but I won't be watching every Tuesday night.

note: I wrote this post earlier than I posted it. Sorry if it sounds funny because I'm talking about the past in the present tense.

Living Hope

2010-10-13T09:01:00.000-05:00

These verses have been on my mind. We used them for Grandpa's memorial service.
1 Peter 1:3-9
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.

I'm thankful for friends who send me verses to remind me that they're praying for me and thinking of me. The Word of Truth is the best kind of encouragement!

Two Fine Men

2010-10-08T14:27:00.001-05:00

Randy Regier
Randall Regier, the son of Richard and Ardith (Peters) Regier, was born in Henderson, Nebraska on April 4, 1955 and passed away in Aurora, Nebraska on October 1, 2010, at the age of 55.
He graduated from Hampton High School and went on to attend Kearney College and the Prairie Bible Institute.
On November 15, 1975, he was united in marriage to JoAnnette Adams. Randy farmed in the Hampton area, and continued until his health prevented.
Randy attended the Evangelical Free Church. He enjoyed outdoor sports, especially racing his four wheelers.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents and sister, Diane.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, JoAnnette of Hampton; four children, Jovanna (Nick) Nemes of Seattle, Washington, Daisy Ann Regier of Seattle, Washington, Amber (Kris) Schaaf of Lincoln and James Regier of Omaha; three grandchildren, Abigail & Samuel Nemes and Harlow Schaaf; parents, Richard and Ardith Regier of Henderson; two sisters, LaVonne (Terry) Smith of Hampton and Sandra (Jess) Huebert of Aurora and brother-in-law, Jerry Young of York, and many other family members and friends.

Richard Regier
Richard Regier, age 84 of Henderson, NE, died Saturday, October 2, 2010 at Henderson. He was born October 29, 1925 to Cornelius C. and Anna (Penner) Regier at rural Henderson. Richard was a lifelong farmer and a member of the Bethesda Mennonite Church in Henderson. On August 10, 1951, Richard was united in marriage to Ardith Jane Peters at Henderson.
Richard is survived by his wife Ardith of Henderson; two daughters: LaVonne and her husband Terry Smith of Hampton, NE and Sandra and her husband Jess Huebert of Aurora, NE; grandchildren: Shelley Smith of San Diego, CA; Eric and his wife Robyn Smith and their daughter Skylar of Belmont, CA; Sheila Smith and fiancé Dee Riggs and their son Camden of Hampton; Marissa Young of Lincoln, NE; Travis Young of Goehner, NE; JoVanna and her husband Nick Nemes and their children Abigail and Samuel of Seattle, WA; Daisy Regier of Seattle; Amber and her husband Kris Schaaf and their daughter Harlow of Lincoln; James Regier of Omaha, NE; Laura and her husband Justin Millhouse and their daughter Olivia of Lincoln; Alex Huebert and Audrey Huebert of Aurora. Also surviving is brother Arthur Regier of Henderson, son-in-law Jerry Young of York, NE, and daughter-in-law JoAnnette Regier of Hampton. Preceding him in death were his parents, daughter Diane Young, son Randy Regier, and siblings: Chris Regier, Jake Regier, Annie Franz, and Harry Regier.

Romantic Fluff

2010-09-28T22:06:00.000-05:00

I have no problem owning up to the fact that I like reading fluffy romantic christian fiction books. I have less time to read them now than I did before Olivia and Justin entered my life. I also find I enjoy them less. But I think that's because I enjoy real life.

Often times romance books are just an escape. They're a way to enjoy someone else's experience of falling in love with the perfect guys. I especially enjoyed these books in high school as I dreamed of my own Prince Charming showing up one day in the not so distant future. I would way to often stay up until 2am reading. Once I started a good romance book, I had to finish it and usually on the same day! My mom and my friends, who also love these books would remind me that they're fiction and not real life. The man you marry will not be as handsome or as romantic as you imagine the hero of these books. Yes I know. And yes I do know in my mind that rationally this was true. But once I found my Knight in Shining Armor, I realized some of these ideas had found a place in my heart. As soon as I find myself reaching for a romance book because I want to escape the lack of romance in my own life, I put down the book or return it to the library. That's not how I want to use a good book. I want to enjoy the reality that God has blessed me with.

I've recently enjoyed reading Karen Kingsbury. Her books are a very easy read. I can usually guess the ending so I don't feel the pressure to stay up late to finish. (or read the ending.) Yes I do that. If I can't stay up late or stand the suspense, I read the ending. I still read the book! That just allows me to read it at a more sane pace. :) So recently I've been disappointed when I get into these books. I just read Even Now and Ever After. Both beautiful, romantic, predictable stories. But what sorely disappoints me is the way romance gets physical in these books. In Ever After Emily meets Justin and it's basically love at first sight. And then she lets him kiss her on the first date! And then it's kissing and tenderly holding each other at every other page from there on. Now I realize that in a world where romance rules and sexual temptation doesn't exist, this is every woman's dream. But that's not this world. I'm thinking of the middle school and high school girls that read these books along with the romantically starved housewife. Is this really the picture of romance they need to aspire to?! NO. I am so disappointed. I think Karen Kingsbury might be off my list of authors to hunt for new releases at the library. Knowing the reality that is this world and how that level of physical closeness actually leads to temptations, I can't read those books and enjoy it. I just can't. I don't want my daughter to think it's ok to kiss on the first date and have that much physical closeness in a dating relationship.
Do you read Karen Kingsbury? Do you love romance books?

The Sweater Dress

2010-09-17T12:19:00.001-05:00

I was recently treated to a shopping trip for my birthday in August. I don't go shopping too often anymore so it was quite exciting! Having a baby changes the way you decide what type of clothes you need. Everything needs to be available to be spit up on. And everything fits differently than it did before.
I tried on this sweater dress...

Now I'm not a sweater dress type of girl. I have curves and when I've tried on this type of outfit in the past, it's less than flattering. But I was surprised to find out, it looked great and I loved it! I never seem to start my Christmas list early enough but this year I know one thing is already on my list.
I did come home with a few things including this top and skirt and some cardigans. I love that cardigans are in style this year. It makes me feel like my wardrobe is more versatile since I can put a cardigan over my summer tops.

I got these wedges for my birthday from my lovely siblings! I realize that getting white shoes so close to labor day might be an issue. But I did get to wear them a few times and I'm looking forward to wearing them in spring! It's like knowing I get new shoes when the weather gets warm! :)

Wish you were here!

2010-09-17T12:05:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday mornings, I attend Bible Study. We're doing a Beth Moore study of Esther. I am so excited to go every week! And each week, I wish every woman I know could be there with me!

This week's study was focused on meanness. It was a surprising topic for Esther. I wasn't expecting it but it still rang true. The key points were...
It's tough being a woman in a mean world.
1. meanness always has a history.
2. meanness perceives a threat.
3. meanness catches like a virus.
4. meanness is curable.
I love how every week I am so encouraged and convicted! Each week I also think of all my sisters in Christ that aren't sitting with me and wish they were. I'm so excited about what I'm learning and I wish all my girlfriends were with me!

Stuffy & Runny

2010-09-16T19:34:00.001-05:00

I think I have cotton in my head. Yesterday both O and I woke up with colds. I haven't had a cold for a long time and this is O's first. I always wondered what it felt like to have a cold and kids. How does one manage taking care of your kids, well or sick when you're feeling under the weather? Let me tell you it's not fun. I'm thankful it's just a cold and not something worse that makes it harder to function. And I'm thankful that at 8 months this is only O's first bout of sickness! I'm sure most people are out enjoying the cooler weather we're having but I've been enjoying the cloudy days because it makes the house darker so we can rest better. :) I love rainy days for that reason too!

Remembering

2010-09-11T14:26:00.000-05:00

Where were you on September 11, 2001?
Sadly I often forget the horrible events that happened that year, when 9/11 comes around each year. But today even as I listen to the Nebraska football game, I'm reminded of that day. I'm reminded I need to be thankful for each day here. I need to remember our troops and the sacrifices they're making everyday because of that day.
In 2001 I was in Jackson Hole, Wyoming at Bible college. I wasn't quite awake yet when Jenny came into my room and said we'd better get up. Something happened and we needed to come over to Pastor Don's house and see. I got up and stumbled over in the pajamas. I sat there most of the morning just watching the coverage. I couldn't believe it. I couldn't look away. I was afraid. I wondering what this would do to the world I knew. What would change? I was 13 hours from home and immediately I wished I was with my family. If war ensued could I go home? No, if the fight spread across the nation, I would go home. I cried and prayed for anyone I could think of that was directly affected by this.
Thankfully class was cancelled for that day. I don't think I could've focused even a little.
Even today, as I remember, I can feel the emotion of that day bubble up again. I feel the fear and shock and sadness. And immediately my thoughts turn to prayers. I know that day still haunts the daily thoughts of many people in our nation. I'm looking forward to heaven. I'm looking forward to the day when sin doesn't destroy the world like that.

Chompers

2010-09-11T14:07:00.001-05:00

We've passed another milestone!

O got her first tooth! A couple weeks ago O started having a runny nose and a little bit of drool. I am not used to having a wet, sticky baby. It crossed my mind at that time, that she might be cutting a tooth. But I checked and didn't find anything. So I hoped she wasn't getting her first cold. By the end of that week, she was back to normal. On Labor Day, J got a good chomp on his finger, and we realized O had got her first tooth that week! :) Now O's been learning what that means to her. She's been a little grouchy and often cries out because she bit her tongue or finger. I'm sure she'll figure that out soon!
I noticed O's second tooth just today! I brushed her gums like normal this morning and decided to try and have a look at that one little tooth on the bottom. It's pretty hard to see. If I can get her mouth open, I then have to get her tongue out of the way. So this morning when I looked, I glimpsed 2 teeth! Boy was I surprised! They're just peeking through!
I'm so excited for my baby girl! This milestone reminds me how fast she's growing but it also brings me joy to see that growth. We're so blessed to have a healthy girl!

New Era in Football

2010-09-05T22:53:00.001-05:00

Well yesterday marked the first Nebraska football game of 2010. We had friends over and enjoyed mexi dip. Mexi dip is standard game food at our house! O dressed in red and white for the first time! Eventually I'll get pictures up of her in her 'my first Nebraska tee' and little white skirt.

But I have to admit, I hardly watched the first half and was still distracted during the second half. Crazy! I know. It's so unlike me! I love Nebraska football but, what can I say, I love O more. :) I spent the first half with her - watching, playing and entertaining. And I loved it! I hardly noticed I was missing the game. I put her to bed at half time and figured I would be able to enjoy the second half. But since we had company, I was still distracted. I kept listening for her because I knew the extra noise might cause some sleep issues but she slept right through our noise. :) She's such a good baby! So I do feel little bad that I paid so little attention to the game, but we played nobody and I had a good excuse. I still plan on enjoying Nebraska football but I now have a new priority during the game. O comes before football. I don't think that makes me a bad fan, it just makes me a good mom.

There have been so many things over the past almost 8 months that have changed. O takes priority over many things in my life, including myself a lot of the time. It's sometimes a hard adjustment, especially when it affect other people I love. But I am so thankful to have her. She's a blessing!
OK, I'm stopping. I could write post after post just gushing about her. I think I'm in love.

Building a Library

2010-08-25T11:36:00.002-05:00

Figuring out what books to get for O is a challenge! It's been a few years since I was that young. And really, I don't remember what kind of books I had at that age. I have vivid memories of what I read closer to Jr. High. I loved Sadie Rose and I plan on buying those books for O one day! I sure hope she loves to read like I do because I already have a list of books in mind for her library when she's older!
This month we participated in Baby Dedication at church and so we received the Big Picture Story Bible for O. I love it! I love that it not only has beautiful pictures but that it tells the Truth behind the Bible story not only the story itself. Right from the start it talks about how God relates to man and how sin affects Adam and Eve. It doesn't just focus on the story of them eating an apple. So I have really enjoyed reading this to O! This book is a great compliment to The Bible in Pictures for Little Eyes, which I read when I was a kid. It focuses on telling the stories in the Bible on a level that is interesting for little ones. And it has great pictures!
I look forward to researching new books, picking out old classics and getting tips from friends about what books will encourage the bookworm gene in O!

Peas

2010-08-12T12:16:00.001-05:00

Yep, it's peas. O had peas for supper and milk. By the end of our shoot, it all was too much! I think it's funny how Nikki just caught this moment before any of us had reacted. Perfect timing!

Earlier just as we started, O spit up on the couch and a little on her dress. So we did some diaper pictures first while I spot treated her dress and it dried. But by the end of the night, she had one more unexpected surprise for us! This time she covered both me and herself so pictures were over. :) Oh well. At least we had already got some good one! Taking pictures with a baby is sure an adventure.

We often have surprise spit up moments. O loves to eat and tends to gobble down anything in front of her. I don't think she understands that she's supposed to stop when she's full.

Look Closely

2010-08-10T16:11:00.001-05:00

Look close! Can you tell what's horridly wrong with this picture?

This was our last picture of the night.

First Family Vacation

2010-08-10T15:46:00.001-05:00

We went to PA earlier this year. We had one day to ourselves while we were there and deicded to go to Gettysburg. I like to think this is our first offical family vacation. I suppose the whole thing is our vacation but this was the only day we didn't do stuff with family.

I have fond memories of family vacations with my own family. We usually drove and so I remember all the bonding we were forced to do. But now I realize that the forced bonding probably helped form the close relationships I have with my immediate family. One of my favorite things was listening to mom read. She would always read to us in the car. I always get sick when I try to read but listening was all good. I specifically remember reading through the Laura Ingalls Wilder books on vacation. I will think of driving in the car every time I read By the Banks of Plum Creek.

I also remember getting a souvenir from most of the places we visited. We decided not to get something at Gettysburg since we know we'll be back. And really, I don't need an overpriced mug or coffee table book that says Gettysburg on it. I'm enjoying my fond memories and pictures this time around!

It was a warm day so O was a little flushed.

She didn't want to ride in the sling... When we first arrived, we sweated out our meal in the car. Then she survived lunch and half of a video presentation before she wanted out.

There were cannons in the video. I thought she'd just sleep right through. Oh well. At least she quickly recovered from the scare and was able to let us enjoy the walk through area.

This is the biggest civil war painting/mural ... or something like that. I can't remember the specifics. But it was very cool!

Most of the afternoon we drove around the battlefields...

The Wheatfield, The Peach Orchard,

Warfield Ridge,

Little Round Top, Big Round Top,

Pitzer Woods, Cemetery Hill,

McPherson Ridge, Oak Ridge... just to name a few of our stops. You really have to go someday. It's thought provoking to stand on ground where so many lost their lives. I was struck by the solemness of this place. I can't help but feel a little sad.

Of course we also snapped some cute pictures of O!

It was a long day and I don't think I can handle days like this very often. What can I say, I enjoy being at home and having O on a schedule. It makes life much easier! But I am looking forward to many more family vacation!

Prediction

2010-07-28T10:51:00.001-05:00

Over the weekend J predicted that O will start crawling in 2 weeks. So far...
She's been rolling around the room.
She gets either her head or bum off the ground in a crawling position.
She has made it up on all fours a couple times.
She swims a lot! She moves her arms and legs in the air while on her tummy.
She's able to push herself with her arms a few inches.
She has managed to explore all corners of her crib but I have no idea how.

We'll see but I'm thinking it'll take at least a month to get it all together. What do you think? (take my poll!) I think I'd better make sure my floors are clean and my house is baby proofed!

Photo Art

2010-07-28T10:35:00.012-05:00

I think these pictures are amazing! J captured some great shots of O. I don't really understand what people call art these days but I would consider this art. I love the colors and how her blue eyes pop!

I'm thankful J has photography skills so he can take beautiful pictures of our baby girl. I'm awful at taking pictures. Serious. Awful. I usually forget to take pictures all together. But when I do remember, I'm off centered and out of focus. These days I just take a whole bunch of pictures and hope that a few turn out good. :) Now I just need to edit.

We had some pictures taken of O at Sears at about 3 months. We knew we would only purchase a few poses. But when we saw all the pictures, it just killed me not to take them all home. I was sad to leave pictures of my baby there. I don't think I can take enough pictures of her! Olivia is always changing and growing so every shot is a precious memory. We recently had 6 month pictures taken and I can't wait to see the results! I'll share some funny stories from that evening in the near future (once I have pictures).

Graduated

2010-07-20T20:30:00.005-05:00

In May my sister graduated from college! Well not officially but she walked in May. So we drove to Ohio to take in the pomp & circumstance.

TThe gym was hot and very crowded. But O was a trooper! Everyone around us was distracted by her cuteness! :) She stayed in her car seat most of the time. And she drank a bottle during the speaker, who was the president of Chick-fil-a! Boy was I craving a chicken sandwich. Why aren't there Chick-fil-a's in Nebraska? I had to wait to try it until June when we drove through Denver, Colorado. And it was good!
Here's O with Grandpa after a full tummy and after the ceremony. As you can see we were all a little flushed from the heat.

Here's A with Mom and Dad. And A, college graduate, now able to earn the big bucks, cleaning Dad out! :)

O and I with the graduate.

6 Months!

2010-07-13T10:57:00.001-05:00

As of Sunday, July 11th, O is 6 months old! I can't hardly believe it. Just 6 short months ago she was just a helpless newborn. I'm so amazed at how she's grown and what she's learned.

Today we went to the pediatricians office for her check up. She weighs 17lbs and 1oz. She's 25 1/2 inches long (tall or maybe short). So she's right on track for her growth. And she's a little on the chubby side. Just how we like it! :) And then came the shots... why must they always poke her up. It makes me sad. Olivia was a trooper. She loves the first vaccine because it's a sweet drink. The first shot didn't even phase her. But the second one hurt! I just hate seeing her eyes tear up in pain like that. Thankfully she calmed right down when I picked her up. But she kept eyeing the nurse to make sure she wasn't coming back for more. It was also nice to confirm that Olivia is reaching all her milestones on target. She's sitting with help, grabbing large and small objects, and rolling over both directions.

I'm so thankful for a happy, healthy baby! Even when she's grouchy and tired and sometimes wakes up at 3am, I can't complain. I have the best job in the world. Thank you Jesus for blessing my life with the privilege of being O's mommy.

Monster in our Garage

2010-07-06T14:59:00.004-05:00

J got a new motorcycle recently. It's pretty cool looking. I grew up around motorcycles. Sunday afternoons were for riding! I learned to ride when I was young but didn't really fall in love with it. So I would tag along and make forts in the woods while Dad rode. We would often bring the bikes and extra clothes to church so we could make a fast transition.

My Dad has passed on a love of Ducati motorcycles to me. So when J expressed that he wanted to get a Ducati Monster someday, I was on board. I never imagined he'd find such a nice one with all the extra trimmings. I haven't actually got a ride yet. We'd need someone to watch Olivia because we can't just leave her locked in the house while we go for a cruise! :) And just to be safe we should probably have a will. You never know what will happen. Though I'm not afraid of motorcycles, I do worry about the other vehicles on the road. You have much less protection from everyone else. And they're all much bigger than you!

I'm looking forward to my first ride soon!!

O's First Dress

2010-07-03T10:30:00.003-05:00

This was O's first dress! These aren't the best pictures but it's all I have. This dress was the very first outfit I received for her. Grandma wanted to make sure she had her first cute dress and shoes to match. The newborn shoes are a little snug so she wears her little socks all the time.

I remember the first time I put this outfit on O. It was the first time we ventured out for church after she was born. I woke up extra early to get myself ready. I spent way too much time worrying about looking good because I didn't want anyone to think I really let myself go since having a baby. Silly me. I pulled out this sweet little pink dress and once it was on, Olivia was swimming in it! It's newborn size but was still huge! She also had tights to go with and they were very big and wrinkly. :) The biggest challenge was getting O and her dress to fit in her car seat. Daddy quickly informed me that this was ridiculous. Why does she have to wear this silly dress that makes it impossible to strap her in!? I informed him that it's cute and she has to look nice for church. And I wanted her to look special since this was the first time we were showing her off at church. He responded that she's cute in anything. :) Through the ice and snow, we finally made it to church about 20 minutes late. Our lateness had more to do with me than the weather. And of course everyone thought O looked adorable!

Now that she's outgrown this dress, I'm excited to move on to new cute outfits but a little sad. This means my baby is getting so big already! I'm amazed at how fast she grows!

Why I do love PA

2010-06-30T14:23:00.005-05:00

We went to PA the beginning of May to visit Justin's family again. And like always we had a great time! ...

1. I love the landscape in that area. The open gently rolling hills dotted with trees and farmhouses are so picturesque. I would love to have a Pennsylvania inspired home in Nebraska! These pictures are of the battlefields of Gettysburg but this really is what it looks like in the Lancaster area where we visited.

2. I love the food! Grandma Fisher makes the best food for us! - ham loaf with stewed tomatoes, crab legs, stuffing, the creamy-est mashed potatoes ever, ham salad sandwiches, potato rolls - I'd eat anything she makes! That must be a grandma thing because I feel the same way about Granny's food. Grandpa Fisher loves anything peanut butter and so do I. We enjoyed peanut butter ice cream and peanut butter donuts daily. Again, these are the best peanut butter donuts I've had in my life! We even had ice cream fresh from the cows. You could see the cows as you walked in. Of course we had more than one of Joe's steak sandwiches. And we brought home a box of pretzels right off the line.

3. I enjoy all the time we spend with Grandpa and Grandma Fisher. We are blessed to be able to stay with them. We drive all over the countryside talking and hearing stories. And almost every night we stay up late playing Hand & Foot. It's a very fun card game! We always play in teams and the boys usually beat Grandma Fisher and I. I think it's my fault because I'm still learning. And the guys are merciless!

4. This year I loved watching everyone get to know Olivia...

Here's Olivia with Aunt Donna, Uncle Scott & Aunt Robin, Uncle John, and Aunt Miki.

I was actually sad to leave this time. I'm usually the type who is happy to go home at the end of vacation. I really have fallen in love with Justin's grandparents and think of them as my own. I'm sad to say good bye for at least another year. But in spite of the 20 hour drive I'm looking forward to our next trip east!

Family

2010-06-29T14:48:00.001-05:00

I love it when we get to see our families! Here are some pictures from visits with Justin's family over the past couple months.

I love these pictures of Xander! He's so happy. And he just had big smiles and giggles for everyone! He especially had love for Uncle Justin who tickled his funny bone. We heard peals of laughter!

Here's Amy and I with Xander and Olivia. Xander is 2 weeks younger and has chubbier cheeks so he needed a little neck support. :) All babies need big chubby cheekies for their mommies to squeeze!

Here's Grandma Corey with her granddaughters ... Olivia and Briar.

And Xander and Olivia giving each other the stare down again with the help of Amy and Jesse. They weren't old enough to grab for each other just yet.

Family is such a blessing!

Our 2nd Father's Day

2010-06-24T14:41:00.002-05:00

We celebrated Father's Day while in Colorado this weekend. It was sort of our 2nd time. Last year a month before Father's Day, I learned we were expecting our first baby. I went to the store hoping to find a creative way to share the news with J. For once I was happy that stores like to get the jump on whatever holiday is looming in the future so they already had the Daddy cards out. So last year I gave J his first Father's Day card and told him how excited I was for him to be a Daddy! :)
This year I went a little cheesy and ordered him a photo mug from Snapfish. J's not so into those types of gifts. But I know he drinks coffee at work and he needs a way to show off his cute little girl!

I also love Father's Day because I'm reminded to let my dad know how much I love and appreciate him. Sometime I think he out does me though! This year I just called to tell him 'hi'. I don't usually buy him anything because more than anything, I know he just likes to know I love him. But he always ends up telling me how much he loves me. It feels like Daughter Day! :) I love hearing him tell me how he loves me and loves Father's Day because he's reminded of how I made him a father.

So HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to my Dad and my husband. I couldn't ask for a better dad for myself or my daughter!

Long awaited Nursery Finale

2010-06-07T17:36:00.001-05:00

I promised a picture of O's room months ago - about 6 months ago. In December my cousin L came over and painted a tree on the nursery wall based on a picture I found online. It turned out beautiful. I added stickers to complete the look.