Three From Above

Gunnar's 9th Birthday

2011-09-26T09:28:00.005-04:00

September 25th was Gunnar's 9th birthday, I can't believe he's 9!! Yesterday at church when holding my friends 1 week old I told Gunnar he was just that size 9 years ago about 5 1/2 pounds! It's hard to believe that now! We had a great weekend celebrating, Saturday night we went to my parents camper to celebrate my Dad's and Gunnars birthday. Gunnar received a magic kit which he has absolutely loved and has been showing everyone magic tricks since!

Then Sunday Kevin and I took him and 2 friends to Evansville to Walther's. They have indoor/outdoor putt putt, laser tag, arcade, & small jungle gym to climb around. The boys had a blast! I love hearing Gunnar and his friends interact! They say the funniest stuff sometimes! I'm very thankful he has such good friends!

Then home for pie with Kevin's parents. It was a busy busy weekend but loved spending time with all the family and so glad Gunnar enjoyed his special day!

Mid Life Crisis?!

2011-09-22T09:47:00.003-04:00

I sure hope Not! I would hate to think I'm mid life right now! But the title seemed so fitting for what I'm going through right now. Another title that would be fitting is "Empty Nest Syndrome!" Although I'm a nurse in profession I have been a stay at home Mom for four years now. I have done things since staying home, like babysitting both my nephews for their first year, working at the girls preschool, and cheer coaching, but nothing full time all day everyday. Now for the first time since I've been home I'm all alone all day since all three kids are in school. Don't get me wrong I have plenty to do all day to keep me busy and do enjoy many of the perks of having time to myself but it's also a little unnerving to spend sooo much time by yourself! Not sure if I can explain this well in writing but I feel unsettled for some reason. Like I need something to do. I am on the subbing list at my kids school and have done that twice in a classroom and once for the nurse but that's only 3 times in 6 weeks. To explain better 2 days ago in the matter of three hours I went from thinking I'd go back to school, have 2 more babies(because you cant just have one that's so far away from the youngest), to babysitting my friends newborn, to looking for a job outside the home. All those do not work out well because I do not like school, we are not wanting more children, if I babysit I get tied down and cant volunteer at the kids school or spend their school breaks with just them, and if I work outside the home that includes all Holiday breaks and summer that the kids would be home. So I feel a little lost in where my "place" is right now. I would love to go back to my old nursing job, but I'm not ready to give up the school breaks with the kids and being able to pick them up after school and doing the activities we do like drum lessons, soccer, & gymnastics. So you see just a little unsure of things right now. But on very positive note I'm in a amazing bible study by Beth Moore called Living Beyond Yourself. I truly feel this was meant to be at this season of my life and is exactly what I need. I feel the Lord is drawing me close and going to be telling me exactly where and what I'm supposed to be doing if I'd just sit down and listen and lean on Him instead of trying things my own way! With Him I have no worries I'll be led in the correct direction, my worry is I won't settle down long enough to listen because I'm Type A and need things to move quickly and unfortunately I'm a little impatient:( Probably the 2 things the Lord is working on me right now by putting me alone all day!! Ha! For my christian friends prayers are welcomed for this new season in our lives and for my stay at home moms I'm available for coffee/lunch dates lol!!!

Addendum: Directly after posting this I went and sat down and started my bible study and then not even a minute later the school called for me to work tomorrow. Hmmmm coincidence or is someone speaking to me?!!!!!

Survived Crazy Week!

2011-08-23T20:15:00.004-04:00

Wow what a week! Lots going on, I hit the milestone of putting all our kids in school, my SIL had major surgery, conducted Jr high cheer tryouts, first football game of the year, Varsity cheerleaders competed at State Fair, Gunnar had bball tryouts, and first jv football game, Gunnar had first tackle football practice! Lots of stressful things in that line up! My stomach has been in knots! Lots has went good in that crazy week. Shannons surgery was successful, her biopsy came back today, benign schwannoma. They did get it all so no follow up treatment needed!!PTL! Cheerleaders did great at football games and came in one point of placing top ten at State Fair. Gunnar loved his tackle football practice, but unfortunately didn't make travel bball team:( SO far kids are liking school, the girls like it much more than Gunnar though. I think he's to the age where it's more work instead of play at school and he isn't loving that!! Projects around the new house are up & going. Painting the family room, Kevin totally cleaned out our garage while I was at State Fair(good man!), we haven't parked 2 cars in there since we moved in! The kids and I pulled weeds like crazy tonight(if you look out your window Courtney you can see us again!) The weeds got out of control real fast, I was able to fill 2 big trash bags full tonight! After typing that it seems a little embarrassing! One thing bad on the list this week is Molly's injury:( I get a call from Kevin Saturday afternoon saying "Uh whatcha doin?" I said were about to take stage in few minutes whats up? "Well.....I think shes ok but Molly fell out of the tree and hit forehead first!" My heart sinks to my stomach, instant guilt for not being home when it happened, I can hear her crying in the background:( Then nurse mode takes over with the 100 questions of all her symptoms etc. She put ice on it and was fine but I couldn't get home fast enough to see for myself. She instantly had a purple/yellow forehead, then Monday came a left black eye and now Tues came a right black eye! Poor thing is looking worse every day! Although she has been perfectly fine with no trace of problems I still needed to hear my doctors nurse tell me it was fine! It doesn't matter that I'm a nurse it seems to exit the window when it comes to my own kids! Here's pic of Molly on day 3 of hitting her forehead(photo taken today day 3)

Back to School & Back to Blogging!

2011-08-17T08:50:00.003-04:00

Wow I can't believe it's been a year since I've blogged! A lot has happened! One major thing is yesterday all 3 of Jones kids entered school. Gunnar 3rd grade, Lily 2nd grade, & Molly Kindergarten. No more kiddos at home. It is such a weird feeling to hear no noises in the house. Molly was sooo excited to start school, she was counting down the hours. All three have great teachers this year so I'm looking forward to a great year. Since all 3 kids are in school I've been wondering what I should do about work. I'm really not ready to jump full time into nursing yet since I have the cheerleading in the evenings and the kids are in so many activities too/ So I've decided to do some subbing at the grade schools. That way I can keep the kids hours and schedule and still be working some. After volunteering in the school and working at the preschool I realized I enjoyed it so I'm going to give it a go see how it turns out! Speaking of cheerleading it starts full swing this week with our first football game this Friday night and with the Varsity squad competing at State Fair Saturday. Since the stage collapsed at the State Fair last Saturday they have moved our competition to the convention center downtown. The girls have worked all summer on this routine so I'm excited to see how they'll do!
Another major thing going on today is my sister-in-law is having surgery...again. Last November she had a mass removed from her right side that was diagnosed benign tissue. After not feeling better she seeked more opinions form different specialists, come to find out the surgeon did not take "the mass" out like he said he had. After a PET scan a couple months ago it did show uptake in the mass so they are thinking it is a low grade sarcoma. Today a team of specialists are going in to remove the mass so please stop and say a prayer for her and the doctors. She also has a blog that talks about this at www.fromthegrove.blogspot.com Her July 23rd post is her explaining the surgery and mass much better than I just did and asking to lift her up in prayer because this is a very difficult surgery since the mass is in a funny spot. Praying for and Love you Shannon!
Another major thing is WE MOVED!! We moved in April to a huge wonderful house!! It was Kevin's grandmas house that is next door to his parents. It's so much bigger than are other house. The kids all have their own room and more bathrooms it's great! The kids have been having trouble getting used to the size especially at night we hear a lot of "I'm scared". Still 3 months later it's this way so I'm hoping soon everyone is adjusted. I love the house the neighborhood, the neighbors, the location, just everything about it except how much updating the inside needs! All the walls but 1 room are white so it's like a blank canvas! All the doors and trim is that dark wood though and I'm not ready to tackle the project of changing all that to remodeling takes place waaayyyyy down the road, so I've been trying to match paint to the wood which has been difficult. I finally painted the living room last week and love love love it! I'm not near finished but already love the color and feels more like my home! Since this place was Kevin's grandmas it has been hard to make it feel like ours. A lot of the furniture is new to us also so with new house, new furniture it doesn't feel like home. I'm hoping now with the kids in school I can get walls painted & pictures hung and start making this feel like home!

2nd Annual Andrea Boes Memorial 5k, 10k, & Kids Fun Run

2010-07-28T09:49:00.002-04:00

2nd Annual Andrea Boes Memorial 5k/10k
Saturday, March 19, 2011
0.5 mile Kids’ Fun Run begins 8:30 am EST (emphasis on “FUN”, not competitive)
5k/10k Walk/Run begins 9:00 am EST (t-shirt for all participants)

Register at: www.andreaboesmemorial5k10k.com

Registration Fee through October 31, 2010
.5 mile Kids’ Fun Run $5 (t-shirt not included) or $12 (t-shirt included)
5k/10k Walk/Run $20

Registration Fee through February 28, 2011
.5 mile Kids’ Fun Run $7 (t-shirt not included) or $14 (t-shirt included)
5k/10k Walk/Run $25

Registration Fee through March 10, 2011
.5 mile Kids’ Fun Run $10 (t-shirt not included) or $17 (t-shirt included)
5k/10k Walk/Run $30

Registration Fee March 11 – March 19, 2011
.5 mile Kids’ Fun Run $12 (t-shirt not included) or $19 (t-shirt included)
5k/10k Walk/Run $35

Happy 11th Anniversary!

2010-07-16T09:39:00.004-04:00

July 17th is mine & Kevin's 11th anniversary! Although it seems forever ago helping my friends plan their weddings brings back so many details of our day. It's funny how so many things would change if we we're getting married today verse 11 years ago. Bridesmaids, colors, dresses, different church & pastor, so many things can change in 11 years! Obviously nothing can top our 10 year anniversary trip to New York, but we're still going to spend some quality time together this weekend camping!! My in laws bought a camper a couple months ago so we're taking it to McCormick's creek this weekend. We're going to do some hiking, fishing, and just relax! Happy 11th Anniversary Kevin, Love you!!
The song playing is "Don't wanna miss a thing" by Aerosmith, it's the song we danced to at our wedding for our first dance!

"Kevin & I in New York"

May 20th, 21st, 23rd

2010-06-10T10:44:00.008-04:00

May 20th
After 27 hours of laboring and then a c-section my wonderful SIL gave birth to my precious nephew Samuel!! He was born with a full head of soft black hair that I just love to pieces!! He is just so sweet I can't get enough of him! I hate that I only get to see him once a week so far since they live in Jasper, but hopefully we can work our schedule out to see them more. So much changes in one week with a newborn!! Here's some pics of mr. samuel!!

May 21st
Cheerleading Tryouts!! What seemed to be a great Friday night for tryouts turned disaster quickly! 4pm sharp we're ready to start tryouts and the principal come in and says everyone in the locker room because of a tornado warning. Sooo we spent the next HOUR in the locker room waiting out the storm. I was a little worried this wasn't a good start to my coaching days, but thankfully I had awesome judges that waited patiently till the storm blew over and we began tryouts immediately after the girls were allowed to exit the locker room. However I think the storm shook a few of them up for the tryouts but they still all did very well and I'm looking forward to a good season!

May 23rd
My best friend;s bridal shower took place on the back patio of my in laws house. Kristin's aunt, godmother, my MIL, and a family friend hosted the shower and they did an great job! It was extremely hot & muggy that day but it still turned out nice. I think it finally sank in that the wedding is fast approaching!!Only 6weeks away now!!

"The Bridal Party"

Exciting News!!

2010-04-17T08:45:00.002-04:00

So this past week something exciting has happened..... I'm the new WHS Cheerleading Coach!! I'm so super excited! I had so much fun being a cheerleader all through jr. high & high school. I know it's a huge commitment since it's through football & basketball season, but I hope it goes well. My girls are excited also! I think they'll have a lot of fun with this also! The position starts immediately as tryouts need to be conducted by the end of school! Nothing like diving right in! Yay Go Hatchets!!

Happy 6th Birthday

2010-04-03T12:16:00.006-04:00

Today is Miss Lily's 6th Birthday!! Just a a quick post to wish her the happiest of day & days to come! Getting ready to head out the door to the indoor waterpark at French Lick! I'll share pictures later! Happy Happy Birthday Lily!!!

Lily Marie 4-3-04

opening her favorite present "fashion glasses"!!!

My sweet dear friend....

2010-03-17T15:52:00.008-04:00

Today marks 365 days since I've heard your voice, your laughter, or saw that big beautiful smile. I feel a piece of my heart is missing with you gone. I have the comfort of knowing your very well taken care of & that all along God's plan was to use you to change many lives, including mine. Having you as a friend and going through your battle with you has forever enriched my life. When times get hard I think to myself "this is nothing like you went through", or when the kids are driving me crazy I think how you wouldn't give 1 hour to hold little man. You gave me a passion to want to help others. I've continued my promise to help find a cure and will never stop till one is found or I join you up there! I have the pleasure to see little man several times a week either at preschool or at my house. When I get into school & get hugs from him its a piece of you. Jeff is doing an amazing job, I know your proud of him. Everytime I see a daisy I think of you. Everytime I see a lot of the color pink I think of you. Everytime I hear "So What" I think of you. Everyone at the relay meetings bring your name up every month still remembering what a inspiration you were. You forever changed Relay for Life. And because of you so many more people are involved. This weekend we will celebrate you with a Memorial race. I know we always said "We want to be runners but hate to run!" Well as you know I took up running after you left last year. Somedays it was the only way to release my sadness, anger, & clear my mind. So we thought what better way to honor you than to put on a 5k/10k!! Thanks for all the registrants, I know your helping us out big time because we don't have a clue what we're doing!!
I will continue to keep all my promises I made and I dream about the day I see that smile again, and we can laugh and talk like we used to, but until then I hold you in my heart & see you in Ethans eyes. Enjoy it up there my friend you truly deserve it. With so much love..............

Memorial Race

2010-03-07T08:37:00.002-05:00

There's still time to get registered for the Andrea Boes Memorial Race set for March 20th at 9:30am Eastside Park, Washington, IN. We have lots of didn't people in the race: walkers, runners, preggos, mommies with strollers, kids, older adults! So don't think you'll be the "only one" in whatever your current situation is! It's going to be a good time for a great cause! The course goes around the Eastside of Washington & starts & finishes at the Eastside Park. You can register at www.andreaboesmemorial5k10k.com & theres same day registration if you decide to come last minute. Below in my last post is more details also. Hope to see you there! Thanks for your support!

Andrea Boes Memorial 5k & 10k

2010-02-17T19:22:00.003-05:00

As most of you know I lost one of my best friends last year,Andrea Boes. She lost her 3.5year battle with brain cancer on March 17th, 2009. As her wish she wanted us all to continue on with Relay for Life. It's an event that raises money for the American Cancer Society. Andrea started a team in 2006 "Team Andrea". As one of our fundraisers & in loving memory of her, Team Andrea is putting on a Memorial 5k & 10k.
If you would like to walk or run in one of the races please register at:
www.andreaboesmemorial5k10k.com
March 20th, 9:30am Eastside Park Washington
$20 pre registration thru Feb 28 (t-shirt guaranteed)
$23 registration march 1-10
$25 same day registration
Your support in honoring her & raising money for a cure would be greatly appreciated!

2010

2010-01-07T09:09:00.002-05:00

Well Monday was back to the school/work routine. I enjoyed my time off with the kids and Kevin even had some extra days off over the holidays which was nice. It was a busy break with all the parties, but lots of fun.
On a very exciting note we have opened & began service at our new church!! It's so nice & new! It's the new church that was just built on the corner of Troy Rd & the bypass(right next to the Legends). Dec 20th was our 1st service in there. It's been a long time coming since the old church was destroyed April 2006 by the tornado/straight line winds. Since then church has been held in this bldg on main street. So it's really nice to have space & a new place to worship! Feel free to come & check it out sometime. Service is 10am on Sundays!
Kevin's cousin & her husband & 3 kids came down for a couple days over New Years. They have 3 kids the same age as ours, so it's always a blast when we get together.
This Saturday all 3 kids start basketball. It will be Lily & Molly's 1st year, so it should be interesting!
Well with the new year comes lots of plans, ideas, wishes, & prayers. One thing Kevin & I have talked about for over a year was getting into camping. We would like to have a pop up camper so if anyone knows of someone selling one please let me know. Well I'm off to enjoy the "snowday" with the kids.
Best Wishes for 2010!!

Jones' goin Green!

2009-12-22T09:19:00.004-05:00

Well since I didn't get Christmas Cards out again this year I'm using the excuse were going green! A friend gave me that excuse, she said to say I was saving paper & stamps!!lol. I did make it farther than last year as I did get the kids picture taken this year, but I just never got around to get them printed. Here's a couple pics I took!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!
From: Kevin, Jenelle, Gunnar, Lily, & Molly

Toothfairy update!

2009-12-09T19:39:00.003-05:00

(Update to my previous post)
Well I'm happy to report the Toothfairy was let go with a warning only!! I spoke to Gunnar after school yesterday & there were no accounts of the truth being let out. He was convinced his new fan was to loud and it scared the Toothfairy away, and he wanted his old one back in his room. So I happily agreed to that concept & we switched his fan back. And wouldn't you know it the Toothfairy DID come last night!! She left a apology note explaining she came but was scared off from some "noises" (aka fan) in his room. She also explained she was leaving him extra money since he behaved so good when he found out she didn't come the first morning. So he earned a hefty $5 for 1 tooth!! Which won't happen again since this Toothfairy will not forget again!!!!

"Gunnar-missing 1 tooth on top & 1 on bottom!"

Toothfairy MIA

2009-12-08T12:30:00.002-05:00

Unfortunately the Toothfairy forgot our house last night:( It has just devastated me today. As I'm showering this morning and I get my hair soaped up it hits me TOOTHFAIRY! Oh no I think, I've totally forgotten. So I hurry through my shower throwing a prayer up to please let him sleep through the commotion of Molly up already & me in the shower (which he usually does). So dripping wet I grab some money and tiptoe in his room & reach under his pillow. And.....up he pops with his tooth clenched in his little hand. My heart breaks. He says "She never came" Oh my heart really breaks. I said did Molly get up in the night again? (Which she has EVERY night for months but NOT last night---go figure) He says "I don't know. I was awake a lot last night waiting." I said Well she wont come if your not asleep. He says "My fan was to loud & kept me awake" And that was that. The Toothfairy had failed him:( So the morning goes on routinely not another word said. I take the kids to school & Lily falls down the stairs & skins her knees up so I walk her in to bandage them up. And as I'm walking out Gunnars teacher asks me "Why didn't the toothfairy come?" I could bust in tears by now.I tell her I feel "this big" & she says everyone has heard about it already. Great-I've ruined my childs dreams & now maybe others. So now as the day goes on I anxiously wait to see if someone seeks the opportunity to tell Gunnar about the Toothfairy since she didn't come. I will be devastated if 2 weeks before Christmas things are revealed to him. I've read tons of stories online about the toothfairy not coming so I know by no means am I alone in this & some stories of why she didn't show are quite clever. I haven't decided what I'll say until I can feel him out about what was said at school. I'll keep you posted on whether the Toothfairy is fired or not! I'm hoping she just gets a verbal warning this time!

Happy 4th Birthday Molly

2009-11-17T14:01:00.009-05:00

Happy 4th Birthday Molly!! Molly celebrated her birthday Sunday with a Hannah Montana Birthday party! She had quite a crowd that showed up for her Sunday lunch party. She got lots of presents which she loved! Today we are heading to Eville for Gunnars final bball games so were going to go early and eat out for her birthday dinner. Her Aunt Shannon is in town & is going with us so that in itself is a great bday present!

"Molly 11-17-05"

"Molly's 1st Birthday"

"Molly's 2nd Birthday"

"Molly's 3rd Birthday"

"Molly's 4th Birthday"

"Molly's 4th bday-Getting The Hannah Montana movie!!"

"Molly Montana!!"

Noah's Xmas Card update

2009-11-15T20:06:00.001-05:00

Here is the latest from Noah's carepage.

Wow!! Thanks! Please STOP!!!!Posted Nov 13, 2009 1:03pmWow! The outpouring of love and concern for Noah is just amazing! Scott and I never in a million years thought that so many people would want to send Christmas cards to Noah. However, please note: We did already celebrate Christmas LAST Sunday -- November 8th. PLEASE STOP SENDING CARDS AND GIFTS!!!!Noah is very ill. He is not getting out of bed and it's time for Scott, our families, and I to concentrate on our son. His time is very short and he needs us.Scott and I would like to say thank you so much for the support and continued show of love. However, we are asking that everyone please stop sending cards and gifts.Also, everyone please post the stop order on Facebook and any other websites or organizations that you belong to. We need the peace right now.Thank you for your understanding in this request.

If you'd like to keep updated on Noah here is his carepage link:
https://www.carepages.com/carepages/NoahScottBiorkman/updates/2427545?client_code=chmkids&ipc=mcr

Oct/Nov Events

2009-11-11T08:43:00.019-05:00

The 2 older kids finished up soccer a couple weeks ago-finally. With all the rain outs it took forever to get caught up.

"Lily's Team"

"Lily & Ethan during the game"

"Gunnar in action!"

"Gunnar's Team"

Gunnar has been doing a travel basketball team for a couple months now. The games are in Evansville on Tuesday nights. Their team is pretty good, right now their undefeated with 2 games left next Tuesday! He has improved tons over this period & has had a lot of fun. Thanks to Logan & Libby Graber!!

"Gunnar's Travel Bball Team"

Halloween:
Here are a few pics from Halloween.

"Kids carving pumpkins"

"Lily the angel, Gunnar the pirate, & Molly the witch!"

"And Kevin the punk rocker!!"

"Gunnar super excited about Halloween candy!"

"Molly & Dominic at preschool"

"Me & Molly at her preschool party"

"Molly at preschool"

Saturday was my birthday so Friday night my friends had a get together for me. Here are my friends, the guys were to busy playing cards to pose!

Sunday my parents had a birthday lunch for me & Molly (her bday is the 17th) Here's a couple pics from then.

My cutest nephew ever!!

Baby & Engagement

2009-10-27T13:36:00.004-04:00

Did the title catch your eye? Well don't freak out, NOT my baby and obviously NOT my engagement!! LOL

My older brother Philip & his wife Jen are expecting their first child in May 2010!! I'm so excited! This will be either my 1st niece or 2nd nephew. They aren't finding out the sex so it will be a long wait to meet him or her in May!! My kids are just as excited to have another cousin also!!

"The Expecting Parents!"

2nd on the list our friends Nikki & Ben got engaged. It was a total surprise to everyone including Nikki because Ben didn't tell anyone but her parents. He surprised her on Oct 10th with a trip to Brown County & proposed there. Her ring is absolutely beautiful!! They plan to marry October 2010! I've been meaning to get pictures of them & the ring but kept forgetting so our canoe trip picture will have to do for now!

"The Engaged Couple"

We did it!

2009-10-14T19:45:00.012-04:00

We completed the Evansville Mini Marathon!! YAY! The weekend started with all of us & our families going to Evansville Saturday afternoon for some kid clothes shopping then taking the kids to Gattitown. Then the husbands took the kids home while the ladies met at Biaggi's for our pasta dinner before the race! It was me, Brooke, Lauren & Kristin. And as soon as we get to dinner Brooke dropped the bomb she wouldn't be running because she just found out she was pregnant. Although she had trained she had a little cramping through the week and didn't want to chance it. And Amber decided she was going to walk with her Mom in the race. So then there was 3! The 3 that trained nightly together for 14 weeks, me, Lauren & Danyelle. I can't say I was excited about this race at all. I had a done a mini before & thought it was pure torcher. I didn't train for it at all just did it & man was it rough. It took me 2hr47min! This time even though I trained I wasn't pumped to run this, it was so cold & I was really tired! But I didn't have any reason not to so I did it. Brooke & Kristin were my fan club. They popped in & out of the track on mile 3 & 6 which made it fun to be anticipating seeing people I knew. To my surprise the miles were just drifting by. My goal was just to run 4 straight miles & see what happened after that, but then I saw mile 8, 9, 10, 11 and I thought well I'm not stopping now. And I didn't, I ran the whole 13.1 miles nonstop!! Never in my dreams would I had imagined I would or could do that. My time was 2hr10min. 37 minutes better than my last mini. I have to say I was quite pleased! Here are some pics from the race.

All the runners/walkers from our group
rt 2 left:Ambers cousins boyfriend, Pam (Ambers Mom) Danyelle Niehaus, Amber Combs, Me, Lauren, Brooke Havill

Me around mile 3(still smiling with arms up!)

me around mile 6 (smiling but no arms up!)

Me & Lauren After 13.1 miles!!

My Fan Club!!

Showing off our shirts. 1 sleeve said Team Dirk for in memory of Ambers Dad, Pams husband, and the other sleeve said Team Andrea, in memory of our friend. Then on the front team Dirks motto "Don't ask for an easier life, ask to be a stronger person" And on the back is Andrea's quote to us when we ran our first mini in 2006 she said "See ya at the finish line!"

Calling all Cat Lovers!!!

2009-10-01T11:05:00.002-04:00

19 month old black cat available to good home! Male, neutered, totally declawed, all shots updated today! He's a great cat doesn't cause any trouble I'm just not a cat person. I tried for the kids but I just don't want a cat. So if anyone wants him or knows of someone that does please please please contact me. Thanks!

Birthday Party

2009-09-28T21:29:00.005-04:00

Wow what a busy weekend. Friday was Gunnar's birthday so after work Molly & I took treats up to his classroom to celebrate. After the cupcake ordeal last year on his bday we opted for fudge sickles this year. But after buying them I got worried there would be chocolate everywhere, but it turned out great with no messes! Then after school Gunnar had his 7 year well child check weighing in at 53 pounds. I'm sure he lost a bunch through the week being so sick. But his check up was good & lungs were cleared from the pneumonia. Friday night me & the kids went to the football game because Lily was doing cheers between the 1st & 2nd quarter with the cheerleaders as part 2 of her cheer clinic form the night before. She was all smiles:) Kevin had left early Friday morning on a golf trip so it was just me & the kids all weekend. Saturday soccer was cancelled so me & the kids went to Eville to pick up party supplies for Gunnars Star Wars Birthday Party, and even got Halloween costumes while we were there. Then after shopping we went & saw "Cloudy with a chance of meatballs" in 3D. It was cute & the kids loved the 3D & wearing the glasses! After we got home that evening we rented a movie & ordered pizza since it was raining out! Then Sunday was the big birthday party. We had the party at the park & family & friends came for dinner, cake & ice cream. Gunnar got lots of Star wars items so he was thrilled. It was a great party with great company. Still can't believe my boy is 7!!!!

Happy 7th Bday Gunnar!

2009-09-25T18:53:00.006-04:00

Today our only boy and oldest is 7 years old!! Typing that or saying that sounds so weird. I have a 7 year old! He had a doctors appointment this afternoon and everyone at the office couldn't believe how fast 7 years had gone. They all recalled the day I was standing there working when my water broke with him at 36 weeks. He is such a blessing to our family. He has big brown eyes that melt your heart, he has such a caring heart for others, he's sensitive, he's talkative, he likes to be entertained instead of self entertaining, he's very outgoing, makes friends easy, and polite. He has a heart for Jesus and is mastering the drums at age 7! He loves playing sports & watching the Colts play, and likes fishing with his Dad. He brings a smile to my face daily:)
His birthday party is set for Sunday, but as I always say you can't have a birthday without cake. So we did a little cake after dinner tonight!
Happy 7th Birthday Gunnar, I love you!

"Birthday Boy-#7"

"Making a Wish!"

"All 7 out in one blow!"

Good News

2009-09-21T10:43:00.003-04:00

So I talked to the doctors office this morning & they said the final reading on Gunnar's chest xray was normal. So I'm not sure quite what he has except it's not the flu because those tests were normal also. The doctor instructed to just continue on with the meds & breathing treatments & follow up with him at the end of the week as long as he progressively gets better. Which as of this morning we have made huge progress. He has eaten & wants to eat more, he has got up to do some things & is back to his talkative self. And he's fever free since last night! YAY. So hopefully after another day of rest today he'll be good to go. Thanks for all your prayers & get well wishes.

High to Low

2009-09-20T10:53:00.002-04:00

Thursday I left with my MIL to meet my SIL in St. Louis for The Joyce Meyer Women's Conference. Oh man was it powerful. The great speakers and the worship band Delirious. Wow it was amazing, my heart is forever changed. I will share more about what I learned in a later post when I've had more sleep to think! So after leaving on such a high I came home to Gunnar being sick. When I went into his bedroom & assessed him I knew something was wrong. So at 10:15pm last night I loaded him up & me & my SIL took him to Vincennes ER. He had a chest xray, bloodwork, & flu test. Diagnosis......pneumonia:( Man I went form such a high to such a low after watching them poke & pry on my little Gunnar. He did soooo good, he never cried when they took blood or gave him a shot, and he did especially well when they stuck the nasal swab all the way down his nasal cavity & back up twice. It was not pleasant to watch, but he was such a good patient. They rewarded him with a big red, white & blue popsicle:) Both Shannon & I commented how friendly & accommodating the ER staff at GSH was. After waiting on the results & waiting for a breathing machine being delivered to us(thanks Williams Bros that was sooo nice) we were off to home around 2:30am. Poor little guy spent the night getting sick, I think from the stuff breaking up from the breathing treatments but this morning he is a "little" and I mean "little" more perky. It just breaks your heart to see your child feel so horrible & there's nothing you can do. Thanks to my amazing SIL for going with me:) And thanks to my Mom, Kristin, & Nikki for helping out with the kiddos, so blessed to have such wonderful people in my life. And of course his Daddy that took good care of him all day:) Love all you guys!

Happy 30th Brooke!

2009-09-17T09:46:00.006-04:00

So Monday was my friend Brooke's 30th birthday, no I didn't just remember today I just haven't had time to post with pictures. There was a surprise party for her down in Evansville last Saturday night at her brother in laws house. She was shocked to see all her family & friends there. It was a fun time. Brooke & I played softball together in high school and have kept tabs with each other over the years since our families are friends. But over the past 3 years we have gotten closer. She's very determined as she is going to school now to be a teacher as she raises her 1yo son. She's funny, caring, compassionate, beautiful, & a wonderful friend. I'm so blessed to have her in my life! Happy 30th Brooke, love you!

"Brooke walking out to her "Surprise" Party!

"The Girls"

"Birthday Wishes!"

Job/House

2009-09-10T09:03:00.004-04:00

Well I started my part time job yesterday. It was defiantly different form nursing! But different in a good way. I love watching the kids interact together. My job is more the set up/tear down/clean up/organize side of things, which is great since I'm type A. So I think I'm going to like it! Then off to my volunteering at North library. Me & Molly checked books in & out and shelved the returned books. I wasn't sure how Molly was going to do for 2.5-3hrs but she did great. She helped carry the books around that I was putting back, and helped scanned the cards/books that were being checked out so she thought she was big stuff! Hopefully next week goes as smooth!
As far as any house changes there will be none at this time. We were approached a couple weeks ago by a family member that wanted to know if we were interested in her house, which is a beautiful house on a amazing lot, but after crunching numbers & the layout/space for our family we decided it wasn't the right time to be changing our living arrangements. So back to the 5 year plan! As I mentioned earlier we planned to be in the house were in now for 5 years then we would build and its been three years so far. we have maybe decided to keep our eye out for a lot so if anyone knows of some hot spots let me know! Thanks!

Molly goes to Preschool

2009-09-08T10:35:00.003-04:00

Well it's official, all 3 kids have started some sort of school! Molly started preschool today. She was so excited, it's all she's talked about since the other 2 started school a couple weeks ago. She just marched in put her backpack up and started playing. Paid no attention to whether I was staying or not she had things to do! I guess that way is better than her crying cause that would break my heart. I'm sure I'll see a lot of that tomorrow when I start my job at the preschool.

My Mom called to make sure I wasn't lost being by myself. I assured her I was going to be just fine for 3 hours alone! I actually started a women's bible study this morning which was really neat. It's a Beth Moore study "Breaking Free". I'm looking forward to it & meeting new people.
This weekend was so great, we had no definite plans and just hung out and did what we wanted. Saturday me & the girls went to Indy with Kevins Mom to visit his gma who had surgery last week & is in rehab recovering from that. My SIL Shannon met us in Indy from Chicago & came home to Washington for the weekend. So I was excited to spend time with her. Sunday we just sat out on the patio while the kids swam & that night watched a movie. Yesterday we all sat & had coffee & chatted, something we rarely get to do anymore but I love it!

New Job

2009-09-01T20:59:00.002-04:00

Well I have a new job. I am a assistant preschool teacher! I know a little far off from being a nurse right?! Well after talking to a friend that works at WC Cardinal Care I found out they were needing a assistant on MWF mornings for the preschool. Knowing how bored Molly is getting without her siblings I thought this might be good because she can go to Cardinal Care across the hall & play for 3hrs while I assist in the preschool class. So it's a win win situation! Molly gets out with other kids for a few hours & I make some extra money & get to do something a little different in my daily routine. I'm super excited, can't wait to see what the school year brings! So there's my job news for my previous post, no house news yet to share but hopefully soon I'm anxious to hear something!

Preschool, Wiggles, Cookout

2009-08-31T17:05:00.006-04:00

This week consisted of more painting-ugh! Monday we went to the Jr. High girls soccer game vs Jasper. My SIL is the head coach for the Jasper team & my brother was assisting her just for this game. The kids didn't make it the whole game so we left at half time:( Thursday we went to Molly's Preschool Open House! She finally feels included since her school is about to start. She's going a little stir crazy with her siblings here all day!

Molly finding her name on her locker!

Friday Me & Lauren took Molly & Dominic to see the Wiggles in Indy. It was a last minute thing so we we're rushed to get there(the worthington police dept would agree with that!LOL), but made it right on time. Molly wasn't into them as much as Gunnar & Lily was at her age, but then again she hasn't watched them like the older 2 did. But she still danced & had fun!

"The Wiggles"

Me & Molly at The Wiggles

Lauren & Dominic at The Wiggles

On our way home we went through Bloomington & picked up Lauren's niece in law & took her out for pizza. This was her 2nd day on IU campus as a freshman & she doesn't know anyone yet. (I would be so overwhelmed to be her!)
Saturday we went to Kaitlyn's soccer game in the morning them had a cookout with Lauren & Justin sat. evening. I kept my nephew overnight so my brother & Heidi could move.I miss seeing him everyday! Sunday was typical- church, playing outside & stuff around the house, and bible study.
Hoping for some good news this week re: job & house! More details when I know some!!

101:)

2009-08-25T15:18:00.005-04:00

No 101 is not a course that I'm taking it's my 101st Post!! I just happen to notice it when I logged in! Well to continue on from my previous post some decisions have been made & some new ones have developed, and some still lingering! I'm officially NOT taking any college courses. I just decided to step back search all options/schools & enjoy this time that God has blessed me with. I'm doing volunteering in the kids school library, I hope to join a women's bible study on 1 of the mornings Molly is at preschool. And I'm thinking & praying about starting something for our kids at church. Not sure what yet but with the new church being built I pray for new opportunities for our kids in the church. Although there's not many kids in our church right now, we seem to grow monthly. I'm always saying to people I wish our church had more to offer for the kids, and recently it hit me maybe I'm to start something. Who knows, that's still in the pray & see section!!!
Another pray & see has to do with my last post & living arrangement. A unforeseen opportunity has been brought to Kevin & I and I'm sooooooo excited!! Nothing is decided so I'm going to keep details on the mum till I know more. But just throw a little prayer up it goes through!!
As for dance, gymnastics, soccer, basketball,drum lessons we'll just have to wait & see if all is doable. Right now the plan is to try it but if it gets to crazy we're going to have to cut something. Meanwhile Me & Molly are enjoying our time together. Many Walmart trips, board games, trips to the park, & just hanging out. Probably onto the bathroom things I was wanting to do later this week!
This past weekend I did 2 things. 1. went canoing with my friends & 2. signed up to run the mini marathon in Evansville in October.
The canoing trip was a birthday trip for our friend Ben. A group of 10 of us went & what should have taken 5hrs took our group 7hrs!!! LOL Guess we weren't rowing as much as we thought we were! But we had SOOO much fun. I would recommend this for anyone to go even families. It's in Shoals through White river Outfitters. Michelle (Blewendoski) Roush & her husband run it & they were so accommodating & fun! They have a website you can check out: http://www.whiteriveroutfittersonline.com/

AS far as the mini marathon goes i wasn't going to do it, but by(forceful) persuasion by my running buddies I decided to join in on the torture! I did one Sept of 2006 with no training & survived so I figured since I'm training this time it has to be a little easier right???? LOL
Well since me & Molly are home all day if anyone wants to do playdates or lunch just give us a buzz!!

Changes & Decisions

2009-08-20T14:08:00.003-04:00

So it's the first week with 2 kids gone all week & me & Molly have been busy. Well atleast I have been! Some changes are going on at our house. When we bought this house we knew it was a transition house to save money & hopefully build in 5 years. Well we've been in it for 3 years & Im getting antsy! This house is sooooo small for our family sometimes I go crazy! So when that happens I try changing something to make it different to appease me for the time! The past 3 days I have painted the kids rooms. The girls went from yellow to light purple with new purple with white polka dot curtains. And Gunnars went from red to gray, with a sports/colts theme. I still want to decorate some more and add some shelves & storage but haven't found what I'm looking for yet. My to do list still involves the bathroom, living room, & kitchen, but I'll do it as time & energy allows.
As far as decisions I've been trying to decide if I was going to take some college course & do the LPN to RN transition program. Well I was all set to roll when they told me my Anatomy & Physiology 1 & 2 were outdated & had to be retaken. Since then my schedule has went crazy to the point where I'm about to say forget it. Then we've been trying to decide what activities the kids will participate in. They want to do it all, but not sure it all can be fit in to the schedule or budget! I told the girls they had to decide between gymnastics or dance well of course 1 picked gymnastics & 1 picked dance. AHHH! Now What?!! Decisions Decisions Decisions!

School's in Session!

2009-08-17T08:34:00.006-04:00

Well the 2 oldest kiddos are off to school. Lily started Kindergarten today and Gunnar is in the 1st grade! They were very excited to go! I bet after a couple early mornings that will wear off! Neither of them were nervous. Gunnar had a couple good budiies in his class & Lily knows her teacher plus my best friend is assisting in Lily's class today so she was at ease. Molly was the one upset because she didn't get to stay! Her preschool doesn't start till September, so she's home a whole month with Mom!!
Here's some pics form this morning!

Last week of summer break

2009-08-14T08:18:00.002-04:00

So it's been the week before the older two go back to school on Monday. We've been pretty laid back just during our routine things, swimming, gymnastics, bible study, drum lessons. Yesterday the kids went to daycare for the day & the daycare took them to the new waterpark which they loved! Gunnar was tall enough for the sldies so he was super happy! I went shopping at the Edinburgh outlet with Jessie. We had a good time. We shopped so much we didn't eat or drink till we hit the whole outlet!! Wed. night I went through the kids closets to see "what they needed". I thought I did really well yesterday, but when I got home Lily pointed out otherwise! I laid out what I got the kids and they were super excited but after a couple minutes Lily says "How come nobody got shirts?"!! I was like what?really? Sure enough I bought only pants, shorts & flip flops!! LOL no shirts for the kids! Must have got my purchases mixed with theirs becuase I looked in my bag & it was shirt central!!LOL Oh well guess that warrants another trip soon!!LOL
Last night after getting home I joined up with my running group for our run. Man I didn't do so well after walking all day & not drinking all day. I started getting a headache half way through & a blister on my heel(should have got those socks Jessie!), & when I took off my shoes I had a couple toes blleding. Not my best night for running. To polish off the night I devoured almost a whole bag of Funyons while watching tv when everyone was in bed. (Told you I can do that JD!!) So my whole run was a waste after that! Today is a day of rest & we'll jump in this weekend with a long run so hopefully that one will be better!
Tonight we have Kevin's cousin & her family coming from Indy. They have 3 kids the same age as ours so they all have a blast getting together. There's lots of fun, food, & noise all weekend!! It will be a good time!

End of Summer:(

2009-08-11T22:36:00.002-04:00

So like everyone else we have been squeezing in as much summer fun as we can these past couple weeks before school starts. The kids are actually ready to go back, they say! I'm sure once the newness wears off and the early mornings set in they will change their minds. They had fun picking out their backpacks & lunch boxes. It's kind of funny how we got them picked out. I didn't find anything here in town so I had them look online at Target figuring we would go there one day if they liked what they saw, which of course they wanted every one they saw online! But I ended up at Evansville without them one night & they were home with a sitter so I started txting her pictures of the backpacks & lunch boxes & they chose via txt pictures! LOL. My friend Kristin was with me in Target & you should have seen the strange looks we were getting for taking pictures of the backpacks with my phone! But it made for some laughs! Later this week I'm going school clothes shopping up in Edinburgh with Jessie, can't wait shopping with no kids, this could be dangerous! LOL We know who the Gunnar & Lily have for teachers. We're very happy about Lily's teacher, she's awesome it's the same one Gunnar had LOL (It's Jessie!!) With Gunnars selection I didn't know any of them so wasn't concerned either way but we have found out he will part from his best bud Reece:( They we're in pre-K & Kindergarten together but now have different 1st grade teachers. Molly won't start preschool till after Labor day so me & her will have lots of time together. It will defitnely be very weird with only one child at home. Well hopefully next week when they start school I'll have more time to keep up posting, but until then....

Memory Lane

2009-07-29T09:13:00.023-04:00

Per my SIL request to see pictures of the kiddos I went through & picked some out for the end of spring through summer till now. I picked ones I probably forgot to post about!

Kevin's 30th Birthday-what the kids picked out for him!LOL

KJ 30th

My nephew, Carter's 1st birthday

Kevin & I took a night in Louisville

The Girls Dance Recitals

Lily's preschool graduation

Gunnar & Lily playing soccer

Enjoying frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity Las Vegas

Papaw's Birthday

Holiday World with The Durnil's

Swimming this summer

More Swimming!

And more swimming!!

Getting ready for gymnastics

Gunnar & Jachob (2nd cousins) at Holiday World

Lily-Holiday World

Molly-Holiday World

Kevin & Gunnar on the Raven

Our Family!!

Summer Fun

2009-07-26T12:06:00.002-04:00

Well I can't believe summer is coming to an end so we're trying to get in all the fun we can until school starts! Monday we spent the day/evening swimming. Tues we had gymnastics, then Wednesday I went to Evansville with Kristin to browse wedding dresses & bridesmaid dresses. She has a couple beautiful dresses picked out but now comes the hard part in choosing which one! Thursday the kids & I took a impromptu trip to Holiday World. I decided rides only since it was just me and Splashin Safari can be crazy busy. I thought since it was a weekday it wouldn't be busy, but I was wrong! When we got home we ran up to the 4H livestock auction to see Kaitlyns sheep be sold. The kids had helped wash/groom the sheep while Kevin & I were in NY last Sunday. Friday we swam all day again, Jessie & Koen joined us for awhile so that was fun. Saturday I ran the 8K with Lauren in Montgomery. It was a muddy mess! We left soaked & muddy! It was tough since I hadn't ran forever & I wasn't in shape to run over 5 miles but we finished & weren't last so we met our 2 goals!LOL Then all day Saturday we had a pool party for Justin's birthday. So that was relaxing for the tired muscles! Today were taking it easy getting some house stuff done. Then this evening we're going to Prides Creek to my parents camper for both my sister-in-laws birthday celebrations. And who knows what the week holds!! Last couple of weeks of summer so gotta make em good!!

Anniversary trip-New York City!!

2009-07-20T12:17:00.013-04:00

Kevin & I went to New York this past weekend for our 10 year Anniversary. We had a amazing trip, most of which seems unbelievable! Our trip started Thursday morning we had to fly to Chicago 1st for a 2hr layover. Upon arriving there we noticed a flight leaving for New York right then. So we "ran" to the gate asking if we could get on, knowing the answer would Prob. be no since they already had final boarding call. but to our surprise they said sure, and next thing we knew is we were in the front seats of the plane leaving 2hrs earlier than we were supposed to! This is were our luck starts! Thursday night we took a dinner cruise along the Hudson river. It was great food & entertainment and the views of the city were amazing.

Before boarding our dinner cruise

Statue of Liberty picture taken from our boat
On the walk back to our hotel from the dinner cruise we saw President Obama being escorted through town. 10 police cars in front of him & 15 behind, wow!

Friday morning we had tickets to see the Toyota Summer concert at the Today show. We had to be there no later than 5:45am. ugh! The All American Rejects were performing. We supposedly had VIP passes but the lady moved us in the "radio contestant" winner line. Which they didn't have our names down either but the lady said she knew of us??? The next thing we know she tells 1 guy to take just me & Kevin and another guy to take the rest of the line. The guy takes us and puts us front & center of the stage!! We were like how cool, but wait it gets better. The AAR came out for a sound check at 6:30am and when they did the lead singer Tyson asked which couple was here celebrating their 10th anniversary. We raised our hand and he said that someone Twittered him that we'd be here?(which we still have no clue who it was) But he said later he was going to sing a special song just to us. Which he did. He sang right in front of us wishing us Happy Anniversary and telling us we were a cute couple. By then we were like what is going on?!! We are in the front row of the Today show & a major rock band knew we were there and wished us Happy Anniversary. Even people in the audience with us were shocked!

Tyson lead singer of All American Rejects
Then later when Matt Lauer & Natalie came to do the news they stood right in front of us several times. MAtt came up to us & shook our hands and wished us Happy Anniversary!

Natalie Morales!

Me & Matt Lauer

Later one of the NBC employees brought out Kevin & I a bag of goodies from the studio. We were still like what is going on here, how is all this happening!
After the Today show it was about 9:30am when we decided maybe we wanted to see if we could get Late Night with Jimmy Fallon standby tickets. They start handing them out at 9am so when we got there they were done but told us to check with the NBC gift shop. So we walked there and they called upstairs and said they had a couple left so we went upstairs and were given number 74 & 75 out of 100! Not good chances of getting in! After walking out of the bldg I happen to look over & there was Jimmy Fallon sitting in the passenger seat of the car.

"Jimmy Fallon"
We were told to check back at 3:30pm, which we did, then they said come back at 4:15pm which we did. At that time they had us line up 1-100 and said once the people with "real" tickets were seated they would let standby in starting with number 1 and so on. Remember we are 74 & 75. They had the line go upstairs and get back in line 1-100 when trying to figure out what order we were in a girl kept asking if there was a "couple" here in line. No one paying any attention to her I finally said "We're a couple" She then handed me 2 standby tickets that we #18 &19. And said that the couple in line had left to go to a concert and we could have those tickets! Once again we were like NO WAY!! So we moved up in line to #18 & 19, and the NBC worker came out and said "We're only taking in 1-25"!! OMG we made the cut with our new numbers!! We wouldn't have got in with 74 & 75. So on to see the Jimmy Fallon show! While waiting in that line the NBC worker comes and pulls Kevin & I out of that line and asks if we'd be willing to stand behind the band that was performing on the show and dance! We said sure! So we got to see the show and towards the end they took us on stage to stand behind the band "Dead Weather" (they were hard rock). After the show taping we went down to Times Square and looked around for awhile then back to our hotel.
Earlier that day we took a tour of the NBC studios and they took us to the top to view the city, Here is a picture of Central Park.

Central Park
Saturday we toured World Trade Center site, Wall St., Trinity Church(where National Treasure was filmed), The famous Bull, & shopped a little.

"The Famous Bull"
Then we took the subway to Chinatown. Which a interesting! Did some shopping there also!! We went back to Times Square later that night & saw West Side Story on Broadway. It was a very good show. After we got something to eat & headed back towards the hotel.(Times Square Sat nt was CRAZY!!)
Sunday we traveled home. It was such a amazing trip. I forgot to mention the 3 pieces of jewelry I received from my husband for our anniversary. I got a circle of diamonds-necklace, a aquamarine ring & necklace to match the ring. Very thoughtful. Thanks for a wonderful trip/anniversary & presents!!

The song playing is the song All American Rejects sang to us!! "Mona Lisa"

Birthday/Engagement!

2009-07-06T06:57:00.006-04:00

Wow what a weekend, lots to celebrate. Of course the obvious is our freedom & the 4th of July. But also I want to wish my SIL Shannon a very Happy Birthday-July 5th! I hope this year brings all you've been praying for! Love you lots!

Another celebration is the engagement of my best friend Kristin.!! Adam has been planning a surprise proposal for a several weeks. The four of us went golfing Sat. morning and she had now idea! On hole 5 we where all on the green ready to putt, Adam went 1st and made his putt, then Kristin went & made her long putt and when she went to get her ball out of the cup there was the jewelry box! She said "Why is there a jewelry box in there?" She still had no idea what was going on. I said "What?" She said "It's probably a snake!" Then Adam went over & picked it up led her to the side, got down on 1 knee and asked her to marry him! It was so sweet. She was totally shocked, and of course said YES!!! We then had a champagne toast right on the green! 2 years ago on the the 4th of July is when Adam & Kristin started talking, and Country Oaks was the 1st place they went together!
We had a celebration planned at my in laws to swim/cookout and clebrate all day with all our family & friends. It was a great celebration!

The Proposal!

"The Ring!"

Congratulations Adam & Kristin!!

Summer Fun

2009-06-30T08:49:00.005-04:00

So you'd think since I'm a stay at home Mom and it's summer I could keep this blog up but we are just so busy that I'm so tired by the time I sit down at the computer! Since my last post Kevin & I went to Puerto Vallarta for a wedding. We had a great time, the resort was beautiful. There was about 40ish people that flew down for the wedding so it was fun hanging out with all them during the day at the beach/pool.

The Reception

The Wedding Party

When we got back it was a busy week again. Lots of swimming, then on Tues gymnastics for the girls with a picnic after in the odon park with Abby & her kids and Tara & her girls. Then on Wed we went to Holiday World with Kelly & her 2 boys. It was hot but we managed and had a good time! Friday me, Krisitn, Lauren, Eryn, & Nikki went to Bloomington for the night to celebrate Lauren's birthday. We had such a good time. Then we literally lived in the pool sat, sun & Mon! Now were back to Tues again, getting ready to head to gymnastics! I have a couple things I'd like to accomplish this week. 1. I think I'm going to take just Gunnar back to Holiday World. He's bigger than the girls and likes to do the bigger rides & slides & we didn't get to do that last week since I had the younger 2 with me. Then maybe next week I'll take the girls by themselves. We'll see! 2. I want to get the girls room painted. The have new curtains to hang but I need to paint first, which I hate doing so we'll see how fast that one gets done!!
I'm having a Tastefully Simple party tonight at 6:30pm at 2404 Dogwood Dr. I would like to invite anyone to come and bring friends! My best friend Krisitn is the consultant so come help kick off her business!

The week

2009-06-15T09:06:00.003-04:00

Well it's officially summer and the kids are learning how to deal with each other all day! Since Gunnar was in all day school and Lily gone 3 afternoons a week it's been a adjustment to have all 3 at home all day. There's been a lot of arguing, but I think they're learning better to get along than not! Tuesday the girls started gymnastics at Odon. They love love love it! I was impressed with how much they did in the 1st lesson. They have some of their dance class girls in their class so that's exciting for them and me! (Gotta have adult conversations sometime!!) The rain has put a damper on summer fun. We did swim a couple times this week, but it was cloudy and a little chilly. Wednesday night me & my SIL attended my friend Kristins Tastefully Simple kick off party. She has become a consultant & this was her first show. The food is oh so yummy! If anyone would like to book a party let me know I'll set you up. If you don't know what it is your missing out. Tastefully Simple is a bunch of dips, seasonings, desserts, drinks, spices, & etc. Things are so easy to make, they usually only take 1-2 ingredients to mix & make. You have to try it!! Friday we drove Kevin to Indy airport so he could fly down to Miami to meet his cousin then help him drive back to Indiana by Sunday. Needless to say yesterday he was exhausted. We hit up Target in Indy which I love, wish I had more time to shop but the kids we're having some "moments" so we exited quickly. My SIL has been in town all week so we spent a lot of time with her this weekend. We grilled out Friday night while the kids swam. Then Saturday morning Kristin & I helped work the Rally for a Cure golf scramble. Saturday night more swimming & pizza with the in laws. Sunday I got to play 9 holes with my MIL & SIL, 1st time I've played this year. Can't wait to play again.--Last night I pulled a "Your a Redneck if.." , I drove my lawn mower from my house all the way to Kristins house across town!! It took about 30 minutes! But it made it there, mowed, and made it back(thankfully Adam drove it back, because I think I would still be vibrating this morning!) Now it's Monday and Kevin & I have 3 days till we go to Puerto Vallarta for a high school friends wedding- woo hoo!! Have a great week everyone.

Prayer request for Roger Shields family. He passed away from cancer on Saturday. He just found out he had it about 7 weeks ago. He was a husband, father, grandpa, & friend. Pray for his family & friends in their loss.

Vacation & Relay for Life

2009-06-09T14:11:00.004-04:00

I'll start my post the same as everyone-it's been a couple of busy weeks!! Last week Kevin & I went to Las Vegas with my brothers and their wives. We had a nice relaxing time. Spent a lot of time in the spa and at the pool. When I say spa I don't mean the treatments you have done, I couldn't afford that! LOL I mean a day pass for the fitness area and the "spa" which has hot tubs, steam rooms, lounge areas. I had never done that before, but my older brother always does so I thought I would try it. The first day we went to Bellagio. I went to the fitness center first where all the machines had personal tv's and headphones. So I started running watching the Today show. I was starting to get hot and winded when I look up and see this girl walking around handing out cold clothes to us. I was like wow this is awesome. I spent the rest of the morning in the jacuzzi tubs, steam room, and lounge area. The next day we went to Caesar's spa. OMG is all I can say. After I worked out they gave me the tour of the spa part & it had a amazing jacuzzi room with 4 body temp tubs, 1 hot hot tub with foam & a waterfall, and a cool down tub with a waterfall. They had these heated rock lounge chairs to lay in and rest. Then they had a herbal steam room, & sauna. Then when you were done with that they had a room you go in that's cold and snows on you to cool you down! It was the coolest thing ever! I can't even describe how cool it was!! Other than the spa's we layed by the pool a lot, shopped a bit and ate ate ate!!! It was a great trip till we hit Indy airport and they lost my luggage. I did get it the next day so all is well!
Relay for Life
When we got back I had one day to get ready for Relay for Life. It was a amazing weekend. Our team raised 17,200!! Way above and beyond any one's imagination. Obviously we won 1st place in raising funds. At closing ceremony they played a slide show of Andrea which was VERY emotional, and had such nice things to say about her. Jeff Boes presented the New Andrea Boes 24hr Spirit Award, which our team won so it was presented to Kristin & I. That was really hard. I know we made her proud, but it doesn't take away from missing her so much. We had a great turn out for Team Andrea as you can see below. Can't wait till next year!

To my Neighbor..

2009-05-27T15:30:00.002-04:00

If you've read my previous blog about my unexpected present that came in the mail from fellow bloggers than you'll know I thanked everyone but my awesome neighbor Brenda M!!! She to was in on the gift that was given to me, and I thank her very much! I also want to thank her and Matt for giving our Relay team a perfectly good washing machine to sell in our yard sell. It made some good money-thanks so much!

WOW

2009-05-22T08:49:00.004-04:00

I received a package in the mail a couple days ago that I wasn't expecting. And when I opened it up I saw a letter with a saying from Uppercase Living. I was like what in the world! The letter read as follows:
Jenelle,
We all just wanted you to know how much you mean to us. Even though some of us have never met you in person, we all have been praying for Andrea and you for quite some time! You are in our daily prayers, and we hope this little gift gives you the comfort of knowing she is always watching over you!
Love,
Your Blogging friends,
Leah R, Abbie T, Tera K, Brittany B, Jess G, Courtney O, Lauren B, & Ashyle F.

WOW is all I can say. What amazing sisters in Christ. It still amazes the compassion people have shown since Andrea's passing. I several times have thought, wow these people have such busy lives and still stop and reach a hand out to someone else. Whether in prayer, or uplifting messages, donating to our Relay team, gifts of remembrance, it just amazes me, and I'm so thankful. I have hung the Uppercase living on the overhead in my kitchen to where you see it when you walk in. It's a saying Andrea posted on her carepage in Jan. 2009. Here's a picture of it hanging in my kitchen.
"Always Look at Each Day as it Being the GREATEST Day to be Here"
Andrea Boes 1/09

To the ladies mentioned above:
You'll never know how much your support through this difficult time has meant. Every prayer and encouraging word has helped through one more day. Thank you so much for the gift. Everyday, several times a day I can look up at that and remember to do my best that day for her. Also thank you for your amazing support to Team Andrea. I know we are making her smile up there with our efforts to find a cure. God Bless all of you.
With much love and appreciation,
Jenelle

Silent Auction

2009-05-16T08:52:00.003-04:00

Ok this is my last diddy about the Hog Roast! Which is tonight 4-10pm 2095 N 100W(Edwardsport Rd) Everyone welcome, family event. But after setting up the silent auction I have to post about some items. There's so much to choose from.
New Motorcycle helmet from Hoeflings
Biaggi's Wine basket
2 $50 Biaggi's gift certificates
$200 Gift Cert. from Expression by Tina Photography
Spa baskets with full body massage gift cert.
Silver necklace says "promise"
Beautiful filled basket from Myers Flower Shop with $50 Gift Cert.
Coach Purse
Pampered Chef filled basket
Gas Grill
Country Oaks golf fees with Cart
Lonaberger Baskets
Office chair from Hudson's Office Supply $1180 value
Mi Pueblo Gift Cert.
ANd MUCH MUCH More.
Oh and a NEW Wii & Wii Fit Board will be raffled. Auction ends at 9pm, so come get your bids in. If you can't make it and want to bid call me I'll write your name down. LOL. Hope to see lots of faces there!!

Go TEAM ANDREA! "Pressing forward in Loving Memory of our friend, hero, and team captain, Andrea Boes"

Hog Roast- Relay for Life

2009-05-13T11:10:00.003-04:00

Team Andrea is hosting our 2nd annual Hog Roast May 16th 4-10pm. 2095 N 100W( 1 mile north of sports complex on the left). There is food & drinks, DJ, rock climbing wall, and Silent Auction(lots of great stuff). Bring your lawn chair and come out a have a great time for a great cause!!

Hectic

2009-05-08T08:29:00.003-04:00

Just like everyone else's post say it's been busy busy around here also. Between dance recitals & practice, baseball games & practice, & soccer games & practices, programs, bible study, & Relay for Life it's been hectic. Usually I don't mind hectic because I'm type A and like to be busy but when I can't keep up with housework and activities I get overwhelmed. I try and set 2 or 3 small goals a day instead of writing down everything I need to do which would be impossible in one day. Then if I get those 2 or 3 things done I had a good day. A lot of people have told me I need to learn to relax which I've worked really hard at over the past few months. But I tend to go from one extreme to another. I'm working on a happy medium. Over the past couple weeks I took the kids to their Dr. in Vincennes where I used to work. This past week they asked if I missed work. Which in a way I do, but now I couldn't imagine not being with my kids everyday. I never thought I would enjoy being a stay at home Mom. Not to say they don't drive me crazy some days, but I'm so glad I've been allowed this opportunity to be home with them. In the Fall we'll have 2 in all day school & 1 in preschool 2 mornings a week. That seems unbelievable to me on how fast it goes. Well enough babbling I better get busy on my 2 or 3 goals for the day!! LOL Have a good weekend.

Please Support Us

2009-05-04T10:14:00.004-04:00

Ok hang in there for one more month of me talking about Relay for Life!! As you all know this was VERY important to Andrea, my friend that died of cancer March 17th, 2009. Her last conversation with me was to promise her we would continue on with this and especially make this year huge. Our team is trying very hard this year to win 1st place in raising money in her honor. I ask that if you can give nay amount $5,$10 or whatever that would get us one step closer, and more importantly one step closer to finding a cure. Below is a link to my personal page where you can privately make a online donation. Please support our team if you can do that. Thanks for your support.
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09GL?px=2945747&pg=personal&fr_id=14294

Not getting the concept!

2009-05-01T11:11:00.004-04:00

So there's 2 things my girls cannot get the concept of. The 1st being closest to the number wins. I tried this several weeks ago when they were in the bath because neither of them wanted to get washed first, so I said OK closest to my number wins! Now ever since then they "play" this all the time even when there's nothing to be settled. They say pick a number between 1-100. So everyone chooses and THEN they decide what their number is. I keep telling them they need to decide before everyone else chooses. It's just not comprehended!
The other being hide & go seek. They count to 10 then yell "you ready"?! And the other says "yes"! Which obviously gives away where they are hiding! After going straight to find the hider they switch places. Then the new hider gets in the EXACT same spot the other just was! And they continue to switch back & forth hiding in the same place! And somehow it's fun!! I just don't get it!! And obviously they don't either!LOL
"My Girls!"

How lucky the are to have each other, as the song playing says they'll look back and remember these times of playing together!

from my heart...

2009-04-29T14:20:00.004-04:00

I've been finding it really hard to move on from the fact Andrea is gone. I'm sure I've run across a lot of people that read this and I smile and say I'm fine, but inside I'm dying. Lately my sadness has made me very impatient and grouchy. Ask my kids and family! I went to bed last night praying for the Lord to help me move on from this in a positive way. I know that I'm never gonna get over losing one of my best friends but I also know my family can't be punished for it either. This morning I tried to get back on track of the routine I was doing before she passed. I got up had my coffee and read my Bible. I read over a verse I found interesting. It was in 1Kings 3:9 I believe. It was King Solomon praying to God to show him how to lead his people. I too find myself saying that exact prayer. I want to turn this sadness into something good for the Lord. I know that's what he wants and that is what Andrea would want. I just don't know what it is I'm to do. I continued my morning with a walk with the girls and then we were outside till lunch working on the yard. When Kevin came home from lunch he brought me flowers. Daisy's of course, which are mine, Andrea's, & Kristin's favorite. My first words were "Glad I woke up and decided to be nice today!!" I'm so privileged to have someone who still tries to make me happy even though I haven't made him very happy lately. I'm going to continue to re channel this energy for the good and not evil, even if it's one day at a time. Just thought I would share, thanks for listening

Yard Sale

2009-04-23T13:37:00.002-04:00

Relay for Life TEAM ANDREA Yard Sale
Saturday April 25th 7:30am-12pm
1421 Brett Cabel Road Washington, IN
There's a stove, a dresser, a car seat, a microwave, baby clothes, toddler clothes, kid clothes, & adult clothes. And LOTS of misc.
ALL proceeds go to American Cancer Society!!

Weekend

2009-04-20T16:36:00.003-04:00

We had a great weekend. Friday evening the kids had their 1st soccer practice finally. Then 1st game on Saturday morning. The weather was so nice we were outside all Saturday till evening. We had a cookout with just the 5 of us with steak, chicken, shrimp, fresh pineapple, and loaded sweet potatoes. Then we watched Bolt the movie. I was babysitting my nephew for the night and he did really well. He went to bed at 9pm and didn't get up till 7:30am. So that gave Kevin and I a chance to watch Yes Man starring Jim Carrey, it was funny. Sunday me and the girls headed to Indy to see what we thought was Cinderella the musical, but it was a ballet not a musical. But with both the girls in ballet they loved it just the same. We enjoyed a nice dinner at Texas Roadhouse with Indy family.
On my way home I found out my Mom had been admitted to the hospital for chest pain. She's still there now waiting on one more test to come back, so far everything negative. So please say a prayer for her that all is normal. Thanks!

Busy Busy, but slowing down, Yea Right!!

2009-04-14T10:36:00.006-04:00

A lot has been going on this past week. Friday we had Kevin's 30th bday dinner. Lots of family came down from Indy, with my family, and some of our friends joined us a litle later. It was so much fun. I love when everyone gets together. And so do the kids with their 2nd cousins. When the adults went to dinner there was 12 kids at the my in-laws being watched by 2 sitters! Saturday the festivities kept rolling with Easter egg coloring and lots of good food!(Thanks Carolyn!) By 4:30pm on Saturday all out of town people had left so I took the kids home. I immediately gave them baths because I knew they would crash as soon as they sat down. And I was right, by 6pm they were all asleep on the couch and didn't wake up till 7:30am the next morning!!
Easter was busy like all the other Holidays. we went to church then had lunch at my in-laws. Me & the girls visited their great gma at the hospital. Then we went to Jasper for my family's Easter dinner. I love spending time with family & friends!
Now for the big news---I'm unemployed! Well obviously I've been a stay at home Mom for about 20 months but what I mean is I no longer watch my nephew daily. He started daycare Monday. It was always in the plan for him to do daycare around a year old for socialization and such. And a couple months ago I got overwhelmed with my kids and Andrea so they put him on a waiting list then and just now got in. It's only my second day without him and Ive been busy catching up on cleaning, laundry, etc so been too busy to realize much difference.
Just got back from signing Lily up for Kindergarten. She will go to north Elementary. I can't believe I'll have 2 in school all day and 1 in preschool 2 mornings a week. I'm looking forward to spending the summer with the kids. Lots of swimming to do and we have Holiday World passes so many trips there also! Can't wait!

The kids after their easter egg hunt Sunday morning

The kids coloring eggs at my in-laws with their 2nd cousins!

Kevin & Gunnar playin Guitar Hero. Kurt in the background "flipping the girls"-they love Uncle Kurt for this!!

Happy 30th Birthday Kevin!!

2009-04-05T16:39:00.006-04:00

Today is my husbands 30th birthday!! Last Saturday we had a friend birthday party for him and this Friday we'll have dinner with his family to celebrate. He is spending today in an airport/on a plane/in a car-fun stuff!! He has been in Las Vegas since Friday morning at a bachelor party and is in route home now. The kids sang him Happy Birthday and sent it via video message. It was really cute. We can't wait for him to get home!! We have some surprises! SHH!! Happy 30th Birthday Kevin- we love you!!

Happy 5th Bday LilyPie!!

2009-04-03T21:14:00.006-04:00

Today is Lily's 5th birthday-Happy Birthday Lily!! What a day! We started her celebration on Sunday at my parents house with dinner. Lily got to pick the menu which was tacos, corn, green beans, & chocolate cake. Then Thursday night we had dinner with Kevin's family which again Lily got to pick whatever she wanted. Which ended up being Chicken Nuggets, Fish Stix, Corn, Tacos, Pears, & chocolate cake. Oh my!! Well on her actual birthday today we went down to Evansville to go to Gattitown with Kristin & her daughter. Our friend Brooke & her son Cohen that live in Evansville met us there and Jeff & Ethan were doing some spring shopping so they met us there also. The kids had such a blast!! Then for the biggie...Lily got her ears pierced!! I know some of you are saying WHAT!! But she asked for them pierced a year ago and I told her if she still wanted them pierced on her 5th Bday she could get them. So for a year now she has said she was getting them on her 5th bday. She did so good. She hopped right up in the chair and never flinched or cried. You couldn't tell all day she just got them done. My Big Girl!! Happy 5th Birthday my LilyPie- I love you!!

Ethan, Molly, Gunnar, Kaitlyn, & Lily at Gattitown!

Here we go!

My girly girl, loving it!!

Unbelievable!!

2009-03-30T14:22:00.003-04:00

As most of you know our dear friend was taken away from us a couple weeks ago that we miss dearly. But even during this extreme sadness I still feel blessed. This blog is to the best friends ever. So I dedicate this blog to: Kevin, Kristin, Eryn, Lauren, Nikki, Brooke, Jeff, Adam, Clay, Justin, Ben. Most people throughout their lives may never be blessed with a good friend, but I am fortunate to say I have a amazing group of friends. These past few weeks have been so difficult and some things could have torn friendships apart due to stress, but these great friends have came together and stood by each others side NO MATTER WHAT the circumstances were. For that I am blessed & grateful. Not only do I have a couple good friends I have a group of amazing friends. Thanks guys, I love you!!

My Angel

2009-03-18T08:39:00.004-04:00

As most of you have heard our Lord has taken my sweet Andrea home. He came around 7pm last night. On Saturday Andrea said I don't want to see your tears but hear your laughter. Well it just so happens yesterday evening we we're all in the waiting room tired, sad, exhausted but decided to play Scattagories. As we started playing everyone at one time or another was involved and we we were all laughing for the first time in several days. At that point Andrea got what she wanted and decided it was time to go home. She heard the laughter she had been waiting for. Jeff & her parents/Step parents/mother-in-law were all by her bedside bidding her farewell. I can't imagine the glorious moment arriving to meet our Savior. I imagine a huge crowd cheering her on as she arrived saying "Well done, what a fight" We're proud of you" As so many of us here on earth are so very proud of her. All the trials she was faced with and she never gave up and stay determined till the end. I'm so proud to call her my friend. I miss her terribly already & it's so hard for the human heart to not wish for her here, but I know she is being well taken care of. I'm privileged to have such a angel looking over me. RIP Andrea- I love you so much.

"Always Look at Each Day as it Being the GREATEST Day to be Here!" Andrea Boes 01/09

A miracle did happen

2009-03-17T11:44:00.004-04:00

As most of you know Andrea is in her final hours/day of life here on earth. It has been so hard to let her go, but I also want her to be pain free. So many people have showed their support and I am very grateful for that. One comment in particular on her carepage really caught me. It said "If your waiting on a miracle it already happened 29 years ago" That is so true. God put her on this earth for a purpose and look how many lives she has changed. She has done more in 29 years than many will do their whole lives, and that itself is a miracle. Her bright smile cheers up your day, her determination gives you a boost to get through tough times, and her amazing strength has shown everyone what the Lord really does for his followers. I am so blessed and privleged to have a friend like her. Mine and my family will forever be blessed by the mark she left in our lives. Pray that she may go in peace.

My Hero

2009-03-15T00:13:00.002-04:00

As you may have heard the buzz my friend Andrea has yet another brain tumor at the base of her head. They will not be doing surgery do to where it lies(around the speech/cognitive skills area). Also the lesions in her neck/shoulder have grown since she was up at IU a few weeks ago. So the chemo pills aren't doing what they had hoped. On top of that she was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia last night. With all these things going on her respirations are decreased and she is having difficulty swallowing. At this point there is no cure, but only to keep her comfortable and awake to visit with family & friends. As always her spirits are great. She told everyone she doesn't want to see crying but only hearing laughter and talking about the good times. Oh and that she wants to have a huge Relay for Life this year. I thank you all for your prayers and ask that you still continue to pray for her and her family & friends. Thanks so much.

The Promise

2009-03-12T09:21:00.002-04:00

As previously stated the kids and I are in The Promise musical. And Kevin is doing music during the offertory/intermission. This is my first year being apart of it and I'm super excited. I have 2 small speaking parts and the the kids have some special parts also. Gunnar has a singing line and a speaking line, and the 2 girls have special dancing parts. It's been a lot of work but very rewarding. The kids and I have learned so much about our Lord and the events that took place back then. I urge you all to come see the show. It runs March 17, 18, 19, 20, at 7pm and March 21st at 3pm. Tickets are free but must have one to get in. If the tickets are all taken for these shows there is a crowd performance show this Sunday at 3pm(Antioch Church). It will be just like the actual performance nights and anyone is welcome to watch. There are real live animals like donkeys, camels, horses, & lambs. And of course there is so many talented singers. It will be a rewarding show to see. I hope to see you there!

P.S. As always please continue to pray for Andrea, she was admitted to IU yesterday to try and get some control on her pain. She's meeting with a pain specialist today to come up with a plan for home. Thanks.

Weekend in Indy

2009-03-09T08:22:00.002-04:00

We had a fun but busy weekend in Indy. Saturday after Promise practice we took off for Indy to stay at the Holiday Inn water park. We didn't get there till 8pm so we didn't have much time in the water. Once we were done we got a snack and went back to the room to watch a movie. After sitting there awhile I realized we moved up an hour, so what was 10pm just turned into 11pm!! Lights off quick!! We got up and spent a little more time in the water park before cleaning up and heading out. We had some time to spare so we visited with some cousins for awhile. Then had lunch at everyone's favorite Red Lobster! At 3pm we had tickets to see STOMP. Very talented people, very good show, although the girls really needed naps! After that we headed home. By the time we got home it was almost bed time for the kids but they weren't buying it since it was still daylight at 8pm! Their exhaustion finally won the argument! Hope everyone has a good week. Remember to keep Andrea in your prayers, she's been in a lot of pain lately. Thanks.

A Glimpse

2009-03-01T08:26:00.003-05:00

Saturday morning a got a glimpse of what it was like before I had kids. I woke up at 8am and figured the kids would be up any minute so I got up. I fixed some coffee and sat down and started reading. More than a hour went by and still no one awake. So I jumped in the shower and got completely ready for the day. Still no one awake! I was thinking wow this is so peaceful! Then Boom!! Reality hit. It's 10am and we have Promise practice at 11am and Gunnar has a bball game he needs to be ready for by 11am. No one was dressed, no one has eaten, and they had just woken up, which means they weren't in MOVE mode! So then it was back to normal running around like a maniac getting breakfast, finding clothes they approve of, finding shoes, brushing hair & teeth, AHHHH what happened, just a hour ago I was thinking how peaceful! But as everyone knows that's the life with little kids!! Oh well I got my "glimpse"!!

"My Sleepy Heads!!"

Hang in there this is long...!!

2009-02-26T08:45:00.005-05:00

Wow has a lot been going on. After many trips to Indy and back Andrea is home. She got home last night. As many of you know they have told her that her cancer has spread to different parts of her body. She is starting chemo pills this morning. More than ever though she determined to beat this! This morning I also got a reminder from God. As I came out to get my coffee and read the Bible, which I hadn't done for several days due to being off schedule, our Bible was laying right where I sit in the morning to read. Usually Kevin leaves it in the kitchen when he's done but today it was in the living room. (The Lord telling me to pick it up!!) I opened to where I had left off in Matthew and the next 4 chapters were about Jesus healing the sick & possessed. I just kept reading in amazement that this is what he wanted me to read today and to me it was a sign of Hope that he is the Healer! I have full faith in him and his healing powers no matter what the doctors say!(& as the song says- I will praise him in this storm!!)
This past weekend was very busy. The kids & I had promise practice Sat & Sun which is going better than I expected. I'll tell you more about that in a later post when it gets closer to showtime! Gunnar had bball games both Sat & Sun also.
Saturday night Kevin and I got away for dinner for so much needed alone time. With me gone so much lately he needed a break! We ate at BW3"s, yummy!!
Sunday was the busiest day of all. it was my Mom's birthday and I had talked my Dad, and 2 brothers & their wives to attending the church me & my Mom go to. I can't even explain how hard it is to get my Dad inside a church so this was HUGE!! After everyone showing up at church and surprising her after service we went to Mi Pueblo for her birthday lunch. Of course we had to do the whole silly singing with the big hat and ice cream ordeal! After that Promise practice, then my Mom wanted to play bingo for her birthday so me, my mom and SIL went to WC to play bingo. None of us won a single game, but still had fun. I noticed my throat getting sore during bingo but didn't think much about it. Then Sunday 2am I woke up with 102 fever, chills, sore throat, the whole bit like I had in Dec. that put me down for 3-4 days. I was crushed because i was due to go to Indy Tuesday to be with Andrea when she got her test results. After fighting it all Monday I ended up in the ER Monday night. I just couldn't be down for so many days again and the body aches & fever were relentless. My diagnosis was strep throat which I assumed I had in Dec. So they gave me a couple shots and off I was. But no quick fix, I was still down the whole next day barely able to move or function. And who was there to save the day? My wonderful Hubby!! He took off work to stay home with the girls and let me rest. He waited on me hand & foot. He went to White Steamer for me 2x that day. I know what your thinking I'm sick and want the Steamer? Here's why. When I get sick and haven't eaten for a couple days nothing sounds even remotely good. So usually the most random one thing pops in my mind & that's what I want and this time it happened to be a Steamer burger! The bad news is usually whatever I eat when I'm sick I wont eat again. Like the MCD fries & Jelly donut I had in Dec,haven't went near them since. Anyways back to my hubby. He has been so supportive with me taking off and being by Andrea's side whenever I need to go. He just jumps in and plays Mr.Mom. When I was sick he did the whole bit, dishes, picking up the house, transporting the kids, breakfast-lunch-dinner, you name it he did it. Well there still is that one thing he hasn't ventured into yet---the laundry! But I feel a breakthrough coming soon-right honey?!!! Well if your still reading (thanks!) I just want to thank everyone for all their prayers and support through a tough time. I can't imagine what the next few weeks will bring but I feel great knowing there are so many great people out there willing to do whatever they can to help and that the Lord is in control!!

Andrea

2009-02-21T20:39:00.005-05:00

I'm sorry for the delay on updating on Andrea. It's been a long week with all that's going on. Your more likely to always find a update on her carepage that I update every time I get news. The site is www.carepages.com but this is a direct link:
http://www.carepages.com/carepages/AndreaB
Andrea had surgery#7 Thursday to remove a bump on the back of her lower left head. It was cancer. They have also said they have now found a lesion in her shoulder that they believe to also be cancer and they are biopsying that on Monday. They also believe the cancer has spread to her spine, at least the cervical spine(neck). That's all they have films of at this time. She is scheduled for more spine and body scans on Monday. The spine is inoperable so most likely route will be chemotherapy and possible radiation. Nothing is set in stone yet as they wait to do the biopsy and scans, and from those results they will come up with course of action. As of now Andrea is still at IU Hospital in Indianapolis. She will be there at least till Monday for testing, but nobody knows after that. I'll let you know the results when they come in. Meanwhile please pray for her and her family. Thanks.

"The Boes" Lake Rudolph 10/2008
Andrea, Ethan,& Jeff

Prayers again Please

2009-02-17T13:28:00.002-05:00

I know many of you have never stopped praying for my friend Andrea but if you could send up a extra one today that would be great. Andrea was admitted to IU hospital yesterday because she was having increasingly worse pain in her head, neck & shoulder. She was scheduled to have a bump looked at on her head Wed. by her neurosurgeon but he instead told her to come up yesterday through ER. The pain is intense and they haven't found anything to stabilize it so they will be doing a spinal block sometime today. They believe the bump to be something going on with the nerves, whether it's a clump of nerves or a tumor in the nerves or something that didn't grow back right after a surgery. They are running lots of tests today and she is scheduled to have surgery Thursday to repair/remove the "bump" under her head. No time of the day has been set for that yet though. So if you have a extra minute please lift her up in prayer, thanks.

"Team Andrea"!!!

Wow.

2009-02-16T08:16:00.003-05:00

We we're out of town this weekend for a wedding but when we got home it was awesome to see all the posts for Baby Andon. How uplifting to see so many people supporting a family, some people like me who have never met them but pray for their healing. So excited to be part of God's family.
Like I said we had wedding in Indy this past Saturday and a surprise 30th bday party Friday night in Indy so we were busy. Friday we headed to Indy with 4 adults and 4 kids which sounds easy ratio but the 2 women were in the car with 4 kids while the 2 men were alone-go figure! We arrived in Westfield around 7ish just in time for the "surprise" for Kevin's cousin who was home from Florida. It was nice to see all the family and the kids love to play with their 2nd cousins. I think the kids out numbered the adults at the party!
Saturday the kids went home to my Mom's via my friend that came up with us so Kevin and I had all Saturday afternoon to do whatever, which was great. We tried to have lunch at The Cheesecake Factory (YUM!!) but it was Valentine's Day so you can only imagine the crowd! After finally finding a place to eat it took forever to get the food so by the time we were done it was time for the wedding. The wedding was short and nice and we were all back at the hotel lounge area to spend more time with all the family. Sunday morning we decided to attend church where a friend of ours works in Carmel since it was right up the road. It was a huge facility. They have 2 Saturday night services and 2 Sunday morning services which host about 3,000. And that doesn't accommodate everyone so they are building on to the sanctuary. They have a whole separate building for student ministries, which was unbelievable. It was quite different than the church Kevin and I attend with only 50ish people! It defiantly was a good weekend. Now back to routine, hope everyone has a great week.

Cabin Fever....AHHH

2009-02-05T06:44:00.002-05:00

There's no doubt in my mind if I wasn't so close with my family & friends I would move to warm year round climate! I've already told Kevin we will be one of those couples that migrates south or west for the winter!! I think snow is pretty but I hate the coldness and how it paralyzes your day of activities. Our house is just not big enough for these kids to get out their energy so they have been so hyper. It doesn't matter how many activities you do they just need to run run run!! Poor Lily hasn't been to school forever. She's in preschool and if there's a 2hr delay her classes are cancelled. Which has been about a month. Even little Molly seems affected having her siblings around all day. I think she likes not having to share me on the days the other 2 are at school and since they been home so much she isn't having it!! I wish our Puerta Vallarta vacation scheduled in June could be bumped up to Valentine's day!! Oh well can't a girl dream?!!!

"Fight For Andrea'" Bracelets

2009-02-03T13:51:00.002-05:00

Thank you all for your many prayers for Andrea. I know God hears us and wants nothing more than to heal his child.
Right now we are selling silicone bracelets that say Fight For Andrea. They are silver/gray representing brain cancer. We are selling them at $5 a piece and ALL proceeds got to her Relay for Life team (money goes to American Cancer Society). There's no one reading this blog that has not been affected by cancer somehow, I urge you to donate $5 to finding a cure. Plus when the bracelet is worn it is a daily reminder of her strength, a reminder to lift her up in prayer, and spreads the word about her fight and gets more people praying. If you would like one please let me know. I will deliver it or mail it you. Thanks so much.

Another week gone by..

2009-02-02T20:01:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it's been a week since my last post. I feel like I do it often but I must just be thinking about it! Glad to say the roads are clear and life is getting back to normal. A couple snow days ok, but 4 then the weekend, can you say cabin fever!! The kids played outside a lot which meant bundle 3 kids up- unbundle 3 kids, and then dry all the stuff-daily, fun for them exhausting for me! We had some friends over Saturday so it was nice to socialize again!! Then Sunday after church the girls and I went to Kevins bball game since it was a tourney game and your out if you lose. Well they won so they play again next week. Then just home with the fam to watch the Superbowl game, I didn't make it much past halftime. Not real interested if it's not the Colt's!! Not much to write about since we've been such home bodies lately, which is sooo not like us, we're usually always on the go. But I guess sometimes you have to slow down and take it easy! Hope everyone has a good week.

Let it Snow...

2009-01-27T14:49:00.003-05:00

Andrea is coming home today! It will be a long recovery but at least she can do it in the comfort of her own home. The hospital is no place to rest. It's unbelievable how loud the staff is knowing people don't feel well and are trying to recover.
Saturday night we went to visit the Wilson's and their new addition Leo. I just love that name -little Leo!! He was so tiny and precious! Big brother Dominic was overprotective if the kids wanted to get close to Leo, it was so cute.
Monday me and the kids attended the Jr high girls bball game. It was Washington vs Jasper. My older bro is the 8th grade coach. They had the same official as a couple weeks ago for a regular season game and he wasn't great then so needless to say lots of yelling occurred last night. My bro got a T- foul which was funny to watch. I guess that little sister came out in me that always snickered when he got in trouble!! Jasper won!
Today we enjoyed sleeping in and having a slow morning before we played in the snow. I was bummed the snow was so soft it wouldn't stick to make a snowman. I'm sure now that it's freezing rain out it would stick but I'm snowed out! Kids are out again tomorrow already for the snow so maybe tomorrow we'll make a snowman.
Shout out to my wonderful sister-in-law soaking up the rays in Cali-love you!!!

update

2009-01-26T17:09:00.002-05:00

Another update on Andrea. Sorry for those that check my site thinking I've been up to something or been somewhere exotic. Sorry hasn't happened. Although Kristin and I did figure with the hours we have on the road in the past 5 days we would be in southern Florida by now! But wouldn't want to be anywhere but by Andrea's side.
She is in the hospital again tonight due to a possible brain infection. Her scalp where the radiation and incision meet is red, swollen, and warm to touch so they are keeping her and giving her meds to treat that. HOPEFULLY maybe tomorrow she'll get to go home, but won't know till the doctor does his rounds.

Andrea Update

2009-01-23T11:12:00.005-05:00

Jan 25th Sunday
Andrea will stay in the hospital one more night. they want to get her pain more managed before she goes home.

Thank you all for your prayers and support for Andrea.
She had a painful night and morning. They've been trying many different meds and doses trying to get her pain level down from a 9 or 10 on a scale of 10. FINALLY around 10 this morning it was down to a 5!! They were going to clean her head up and try and get her up and walking this afternoon.

I cannot say enough times how amazing she is. Even a couple hours post op she was smiling and cracking jokes. If ever there's time a you feel down, exhausted, or irritated you have to do something you don't want to do please stop and thank the Lord your even able to do it and your not in her situation or many like her. One of the best parts yesterday was that the neurosurgeon say she could drive in a few weeks if she felt up to it! Andrea hasn't been able to drive since August(except those times she sneaked!!)This has been a real burden to her. She hasn't been able to take her son to school, or run to Walmart or the bank or whatever, she would always have to call for a ride. She also hasn't been able to pick anything up over 7lbs since August, which obviously includes her son. A lot of us take our daily activities of living for granted. But I challenge you today to stop and thank the Lord you can carry your laundry basket of clothes around because some cannot, or you can drive out to Walamrt and shop for your family. Or you can drive you child to basketball, dance class, school, to a friends house and the hundred other places they need to go. Please have a thankful heart for all the things God has allowed you to do today, because there are so MANY others that cannot do all these things.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."

Me, Kristin, & Andrea

Andrea's Surgery (#6)

2009-01-22T09:24:00.004-05:00

Update#3 (6:39pm)
Sorry for such a delay a computer was not available since my last update. The surgeon came and said he go the tumor it was golf ball size. Andrea did extremely well during surgery. Her recovery period this afternoon in ICU has been really rough because of the extreme pain. After many doses and different kind of meds finally around 3pm they found something that would at least let her rest a bit. She is conscious and talking or I should say whispering, she passes all her neuro exams with flying colors, so no side effects at this point. I left her at 4ish and she was resting, but managed to give me one of her smiles before I left. I can truly say she is a amazing strong determined woman!

Update#2 (10:55am)
The nurse said they were in the process of closing her up and the surgeon would be the next person out to speak to us with a report on how it went.

Update#1 (9:30am)
Andrea was taken back to surgery at 7:30 this morning we just got an update from the nurse saying they started surgery at 8:35am. The surgery could last 4-6 hours.

Last night 18 of us went out to eat at Jillians with Andrea, it was so nice to have that special time with her. Her son Ethan was there and after eating they all played games and everyone hung out talking. We then went back to the hotel and what started as a game with Ethan ended up being a "Handy Manny" memory game between Andrea, me, Kristin, and Brooke!! It's supposed to take 15 minutes but took us well over a half hour!! We place the blame on all the commotion in the hotel room! Thanks for all your prayers and support they mean so much.

Where to begin or end!

2009-01-20T19:39:00.004-05:00

So many days go by before I blog I forget what all has happened!! This past weekend was a relaxing and fun weekend. Friday we stayed in and watched a movie and got fat boys pizza. Saturday I took Lily to her 1st friend birthday party. It was a little boy from her preschool class. They "like" each other. He made(his Mom) her a little bracelet with her name on it for xmas. It was a superhero party so she dressed up as Superwoman! She had a good time. I stayed with her even though they live right up the road since she didn't know anyone but him. Then after the party we went bowling with are friends and their kids. It was disappointing to see none of us were as good at the bowling alley as we are on the Wii bowling!! Sunday I went to see Bride Wars with Kristin & Andrea. It was cute. The end made us all cry because it was talking about how if your really lucky in life you'll find someone that will always be by your side, more than likely it will be a true friend. With all going on with Andrea we have learned us 3 could defiantly count on each other anytime for anything. Monday was great to finally get a snow day with snow!! The kids went sledding with Kevin, I was inside to be ready to strip them down and warm them up with hot chocolate(plus I had Carter inside). Tomorrow I head to Indy to have the night before surgery dinner with Andrea and then to the hospital by 5:30am Thursday. Please keep her in your prayers this week. I'll keep you posted.
Oh and our friends Lauren & Justin are in labor right now with their 2nd child. We're anxiously waiting to hear if it's boy or girl because they didn't find out!!

15 minutes after posting this we got the txt-it's a Boy!! Welcome Leo Phillip Wilson!!

New Routine

2009-01-12T09:36:00.003-05:00

UPDATE: Andrea is having surgery Jan 22nd to remove the brain tumor. Prayers Prayers Prayers Please!!

So I've tried a few different morning routines and today I think I found one I like. It's only day one of it and only 9:40am But I think it's a fit. I'm hoping by typing it for everyone to read will hold me accountable. I got up at 6am and made coffee and got dressed. Then read the bible with prayer time. Then Carter came and the kids got up. I got all 4 of them fed and dressed and Gunnar to school at 8am. Then came back and did 15 min on the elliptical and some stretching/abs. Then laundry, threw dinner in the crock pot and the dishes. Now after typing this I'm going to shower. Not that every morning will go exactly like this but I like that I had time to read-(while it was quiet) and found time to workout, all else is negotiable! For the past few weeks I kept saying I would workout at night but when night came I was to tired so I think this will work better. Like I said it's day one so ask me in a couple weeks how it's going!!
Update on Andrea she sees her neurosurgeon today to see if he'll do surgery or not. If he doesn't do surgery she'll start 38 proton beam radiation treatments again in Bloomington on Jan 26th. She's been having terrible headaches, body aches, & nausea this weekend, not sure if it's a bug or the tumor but whatever it is please pray for her healing. thanks. I'll keep you posted.

Back to the routine

2009-01-09T08:14:00.002-05:00

So much happens during the day by the time I have time to post my brain is mush! It's been a rough week getting back into the swing of things, Gunnar didn't want to get up most mornings to go to school which starts the day off rough. Carter was back 4 days this week after only having him 1 day the week of xmas and 1 day the week of new years. Girls started back at dance last night which they were super excited about. Gunnar is excited to start bball this weekend. All other adults in my life went back to work, it was so nice having Kevin and other family off work during the day to hang out with.
Anyways, my friend Andrea saw her radiation doctor Wed and her oncologist Thurs, as of right now she is scheduled to start radiation on Jan. 26th, but she sees her neurosurgeon on Mon. to see if he wants to do surgery first. They have always done surgery first so this may be the first time they try radiation first. I'll keep you posted, meanwhile thanks for you prayers, they really uplift her. Hope everyones New Year is starting off good!

Prayers Please

2009-01-04T16:26:00.002-05:00

It saddens me to have to type this but I'm asking for prayers for my friend Andrea B. She has had another brain tumor form. Her negative MRI a few weeks ago did have a tiny spot which they thought was nothing but after a repeat MRI Dec 31st. they discovered a tumor behind her left eye on the frontal lobe. This is a new spot than the others. As of right now she is scheduled to start radiation again in Bloomington this Wed for 38 treatments. The radiation doctor is going to talk to her neurosurgeon tomorrow to see about surgery but they don't think they will go that route with this one. Please pray for healing and for energy to go to Bloomington everyday for treatments and then come home to care for her 3 year old. I will keep you posted on her progress. Thanks.

2008-12-30T14:17:00.002-05:00

We had a very busy weekend in Indy. We stayed at Kevin's cousin & husbands house where they have 3 kids the same ages as our 3. So there's a lot going on when we're all together. We got there on Saturday and stayed till Monday morning. Kevin went to the Colt's game on Sunday, I got to do a QUICK power shop to Plainfield Metropolis, only went into 2 stores:( Sunday we had Kevin's Mom's side Christmas, it was nice to see everyone that we don't see that often. Monday when we got home I took down all the Christmas stuff and organized what we got for Christmas, it took over 4 hours! I was so exhausted. I went to bed early, thankfully, because I got a call at 2:30am from my brother to come over and watch my nephew because he needed to take my SIL to the emergency room. She ended up having a kidney stone. Tonight we have Kevin's Grandma's husbands showing. He passed Sunday morning. Then the funeral tomorrow. Hope everyone has a fun safe New Years!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-26T17:22:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas, I know we did. I love spending time with all my family. We still have Kevin's extended family Christmas in Indy this weekend so still more celebration! YAY!

Be careful what you wish for...

2008-12-22T15:38:00.002-05:00

A lot of times I will look at my calendar to see what day is my next not get up and rush rush rush day is. Like the kids not going to school or Carter coming at 6:45am. Knowing that it was this Saturday I was super excited to chill all morning. Well I got my wish, I got to chill from Friday at 11:30am to 8am this morning. I have never been so sick my whole life. I had a fever of 102 that wouldn't break, and body aches like I had been ran over, and a headache that is still with me today, along with the sore throat. I started a antibiotic Friday night but it hadn't helped as fast as I would have liked. The kids were with the Grandparents ALL weekend. I didn't see them but a couple hours. Kevin was bouncing from his parents house where the kids were Sat. & Sun to our house to wait on me. He got out of bed at 10pm Friday night to go buy Tylenol once he felt how hot my skin was. My Mom brought me homemade chicken noodle soup Sunday-yummy! So as you can read I was well taken care of! I'm up and moving today, with 2 kids fighting off a GI bug now, hopefully it's a mild one and gone in a day. Hope everyone is steering clear of the bugs going around and have a great week celebrating our Lord's birth!

Blog Award

2008-12-18T07:54:00.002-05:00

SO there's blog awards floating around, I was nominated by sister-in-law Shannon her blog is fromthegrove and Jessica Gingerich our daughters are in dance class together, her blog is gingerichfamilyof4.
So, here are the rules to receiving this award:
1. You have to pass it on to 5 other fabulous bloggers in a post.
2. You have to list 5 of your fabulous addictions in the post.
3. You must copy and paste the rules and the instructions below in the post.Instructions: On your post of receiving this award, make sure you include the person that gave you the award and link it back to them.

I'm going to nominate...

Brooke- thelittlelovebug.blogspot.com " The Little Love Bug". I known Brooke since High School we played softball together. That was so much fun. Since then we have became closer friends through Andrea. She has the cutest little boy, check out her pics on her page.

Brenda-bmeredith.blogspot.com "The Meredith Happenings". Once again I've known Brenda since High School, we both worked at Mason's. But now since we have our own families we live across the street from each other. i love seeing her little blonde cuties out playing in the drive! And another cutie on the way!!

Brandi- theraineygirls.blogspot.com "The Rainey Girls" I met Brandi working on a Chrysalis in 2000. Since then we have done a Bible study together and our girls are in the same dance class. She's so down to earth and easy to talk to.

Chasity- matthews-madness.blogspot.com " Matthews Family". Chasity and I both have boys in kindergarten at the same school. She also is married to a guy my family camped with when I was younger.

Desiree- theknepps.blogspot.com "The Knepps" I met Desiree when I was teaching for Twin rivers Medical Careers. She was a student. it's fun to read her blog and see her with her own family now!!

Now for my 5 addictions.

1.The obvious I'm addicted to my kids, husband, friends, God, but I figure people already know that & want to know silly stuff.

2. "Hi my name is Jenelle and I'm a junk food junkie" I admit it. I love chips, cookies, candy, snack cakes, etc etc etc!! You name it I love it! I think there's a reason for it though. Since I've had kids I don't let them have much of it so I don't eat it in front of them so when they go to bed or are napping it's on!!

3. Cleaning. I'm obsessed with a clean house. No I don't like to clean but I love when things are straightened and nice and neat. (can you say OCD!!!)

4.Starbucks- It's a good thing we don't have one here or I'd be broke and jittery!!

5. Reality TV. I know this is a bad one but I can't help it. Survivor, Biggest Loser, The Hills, America's Next Top Model, Jon & Kate plus 8. It's so interesting to see so many different walks of life.

Love Christmas Season

2008-12-16T08:54:00.002-05:00

There's so many reasons I love Christmas. The obvious being able to celebrate freely the birth of my Lord. I love the coziness at night when the only lights on are the Christmas tree lights. I love being blessed enough to help other families. The thought that some child is having a great Christmas because of caring strangers is awesome. I love that people are off work and get to spend time together. Since being a stay at home Mom I really cherish adult interaction! I could go on and on about everything I love about Christmas but I think you get the point and probably love it for all the same reasons! On another great note my friend Andrea that finished her radiations treatments last Monday had a MRI done last Thursday and it was negative! No signs of any tumors!! So thankful for that. Last Monday the day she finished her treatments Kristin & I planned a surprise dinner at Mi Pueblo for her to celebrate. There was over 50 people that showed! It was awesome, she was so surprised and thankful for all the support. The hope now is no tumors grow back and she can move on with her life. Please continue to pray for that please. I hope everyone is having a happy and blessed Holiday Season and take time to really appreciate what it's all about and not get caught up in the hustle and bustle of shopping, wrapping, baking, etc. Happy Holidays!

The Weekend

2008-12-08T08:07:00.003-05:00

Friday night we attended the xmas parade. Gunnar got to ride in it on a fire truck since he won a drawing contest for Fire Safety Week. He was so excited!! Saturday I went to Indy with a group of ladies i used to work with at the doctors office. For the past 3 years we have attended a muscial. 2 years ago we went to Chicago and saw Wicked, last year Indy to see Mama Mia, and this year indy to see The Lion King. It was good. It amazes me everytime what talent there is out there. We were to do some shopping at Circl Center before 5the matinee but with the snow/rain Saturday morning it took us over 3 hours to get there from Vincennes which cut into shopping time. I was bummed because the mall was having some huge sales. Hopefully the sales are still going on tomorrow when I go to Evansville to shop. Sunday was a nice day at church then home to relax and watch the Colts!! I had a craving for nachos so I went to the store and made Kevin and I awesome homemade nachos! It was a very good weekend.
Today is my friend Andrea has her last radiaiton treatment today. it's number 38 today. I'm so happy she is done, this has been so time consuming and exhausting. Once again if you want to leave her a comment on her carepage please do so, all encouragement is great!
http://www.carepages.com/carepages/AndreaB

It's been awhile so it's long!!

2008-12-03T08:16:00.003-05:00

Time can get away so fast before I realize I haven't posted in awhile. We had a great Thanksgiving Day. We started at my Mom & Dad's house for lunch then to Kevin's parents for supper. It was nice to be with all our family and eat eat eat!! Yesterday was the first day we didn't eat leftovers!! I have sooo much to be thankful for- a hard working, loving, husband, and 3 sweet amazing children! Among that wonderful family and friends, that I couldn't begin to describe!
Other things going on my Dad had his tongue surgery Monday and it went really well. They felt this time they got all the cancer while doing the biopsy, so Monday they took off what they thought to be calcification's. He's at home recovering. Me and the kids visited him yesterday and brought mashed potatoes which he was excited about! On other news my friend Andrea is down to 4 radiation treatments to go!! I take her today which will be my last time taking her since she's done before my next day off. I super excited that she's almost done. Andrea has a Carepage if you want to read updates on her, see photos, or leave her a message, the link is: http://www.carepages.com/carepages/AndreaB I'm sure she would love to hear from you whether she knows you or not!
Last night I went to a Tastefully Simple party. It was a lot of fun. We got to sample a lot of the products which were very yummy!! They sell mixes to make dips, soups, desserts, spices etc. Usually you just add 1 or 2 ingredients and its done. That's my kind of cooking!! I ordered so much I got a free can of English Toffee Mocha mix which I;m enjoying right now, it's so delicious. It's just one scoop mix and hot water and it tastes so good. When I got home last night the house was spotless. I mean spotless! Dishwasher unloaded and reloaded, basement clean, kids room clean including under beds and closets. Didn't I tell you my husband was wonderful! It's nice to be able to get out with some girlfriends and come home and it not be a tornado. Kevin has a way to rally the kids up to clean for me and make it fun for them. So it was nice to get up this morning and not trip on something!!
Another great thing that happened this week was we got water pressure back!! I know that sounds so silly but you'd be amazed on how aggravating it is to not have pressure. We've not had pressure in our shower or kitchen for about 2 months and instead of calling someone we thought it would eventually get better. The city told us plenty of water was coming in so it wasn't that, so I was afraid to hear we had a leak. Well Saturday when the water finally was trickling out of the shower it was definite time to call someone. So Monday we found out the kitchen faucet and bathroom faucet/shower need replaced due to eroded valves. That was it, no leak! We waited 2 months to hear that! So instead of paying $60 an hour for a 3 hour job my hubby went out and picked out both units and installed them himself that night.(Told you he was great!!) I was so nervous, but he did it!! And now after 2 months I can wash the soap out of my hair!!! It took less than 3 minutes to fill the tub for the kids bath when it did take 20min! I can actually rinse dishes in the sink instead of having to scrub them! It's amazing what we take for granted, I feel so blessed in every direction even if it is just water pressure!! Hope this season is finding all of you blessed also, I know my neighbor is-Congratulations Brenda- Baby #3 on the way!!

Any Black Friday shoppers out there?

2008-11-25T07:55:00.004-05:00

I've never gotten up to do the early bird specials on Black Friday but was thinking MAYBE I was going to try Walmart this year, but I don't get! They say "the sale" starts at 5am but they don't close the store down? So when should you go to put your stuff in your cart? Do you go 4am and shop then checkout at 5am, or do they not put stuff out till 5am, which would seem impossible? I'm so confused! Anybody that has done this before or knows the scoop on Walmart Black Friday please give me details!!! Thanks!

Ok I got the scoop! The store does NOT close. The sale starts at 5am. The items on sale are wrapped in plastic until 5am. So you can't get to them till 5am. But people do make lines at some items. So anyone brave enough for it theres the scoop!!

My Dad

2008-11-20T09:22:00.003-05:00

I would like to ask for prayer requests for my Dad. He had a biopsy on his tongue last week and found out yesterday it was cancer. He was first diagnosed with this in 1997. Since then he has either had some of his tongue cut off or lasered about 7 times due to cancer. The last one was only a year and a half ago and they took quite a bit hoping to give him 5 years, obviously that didn't happen. He is scheduled to have surgery Dec. 1st. Please pray that it is a small spot and they can get it all without trouble. Also please pray that he can make the lifestyle changes he needs to make to stay healthy. Thanks. Here's a pic of my Dad & kids at his 58th Bday in September.

Happy Birthday Molly!!

2008-11-17T09:31:00.007-05:00

Molly is 3 years old today!!! I can't believe my youngest is three!! Although she was not a planned pregnancy she is by no means a "mistake" as some people say about there unplanned pregnancies. She came in God's perfect timing to hold this family together. And forever now I'll remember her as God's perfect gift at the perfect time. She has been the best little girl. She was a very good baby and now is a very very good little girl. We never went through the 'terrible two's" with her. She's always so sweet and loving, I just love her sooo much. I remember the day I had her. I was working at my doctors office and believe they had checked me that morning and I hardly was dilated so I went back to work. I was having contractions all day, especially in my back. The other nurse working with me kept saying your face is so red!! I kept working through it figuring being on my feet moving was only going to move things along faster. By the end of the day the contractions were consistent and my doctor checked me again and I was 4-5 by then. So they just sent me over to the hospital. I checked in and everything went pretty fast like the other 2 did. I had her later that night weighing in at 6-7, my biggest baby!! The other 2 were 5 something. I can't wait to see what God has in store for my Mollypie!! Happy Birthday Molly!

Calling it a pretty good day..

2008-11-13T21:17:00.002-05:00

For the past week or two I feel like no matter what I can't get caught up. Whether it's laundry, dishes, grocery shopping, cleaning house, paying bills, etc, etc... I can't catch up. I know a lot comes from having a baby around all day, but also 2 little girls that find it fun to play dress up in EVERY article of clothing they own plus their dress up clothes, and then leave them on their bedroom floor doesn't help. I can't tell what's "really dirty" or not by the end of the day. Today was no different. But I vowed to keep trucking. Carter arrived at 6:45am with a fever and snotty nose which meant no grocery trip this morning, or taking Gunnar to school, so my Mom took him. He got better as the day went on though. I did manage the dishes, 2loads of laundry, and the remaining laundry that needed put away, some bills, vacuuming. The kids rooms didn't get touched which means they were a mess. By the time I picked Gunnar up I was beat. Then he proceeds to tell me he was on red today for using markers when he wasn't supposed to. I was so mad instantly. I've been trying so hard to be patient with the kids but getting in trouble at school is not allowed. I didn't say anything to him and when I got home the note said he didn't raise his hand before talking and using the markers. I opted to just sit and think about the situation, which is soooo not me. I would usually have a blown a gasket by now. But later he asked to play xbox360 and I told him no tv, no video games for getting in trouble. he took the punishment well. But about 20 minutes later I get a phone call from the principle saying that he recived a note from Gunnars teacher stating he was a excellent student that did all his work and whatever he was asked to do. And that it isn't often kindergartner's push to do well like he does. I was so happy to hear the report. I felt we both we're being awarded by God for my change in response to his bad behavior. So there's the first good news of the day. Secondly, Lily did excellent at dance class-no meltdowns today! She danced through the whole class time without coming out crying or sitting down refusing to dance, like she's down the past 2 weeks. Regretting having to go to Walmart after 7pm I sucked it up and went. I went through the toy isle to browse to see if they had the one toy Lily really wants for xmas and if it was low on stock. It was so I got it. But while browsing I found the Barbie Diamond Castle carriage & horse on sale for $20. I was shocked because yesterday in Blooming ton it was $44.50. Molly is sooo in love with Barbie Diamond castle. I got her the movie & a dress up outfit for her bday this weekend and I know she's getting the actual Barbie's for xmas. So thirdly I got a HUGE steal on a xmas present-YAY. Last but defiantly not least when I got home the kids were in bed and when I went in to kiss them goodnight their rooms were spotless. OMG-SPOTLESS. Kevin had them clean their rooms when I was at the store. And he cleaned up the kitchen from dinner and took out the trash, and carried in all my groceries. What a wonderful husband! TY TY TY TY TY TY TY TY TY TY TY TY TY TY love you lots!! So all in all it was a pretty good day.....

6 months & 30 years!!!

2008-11-11T16:23:00.005-05:00

My nephew carter is 6 months old today!! He had his Well Child check yesterday and weighed in at 20lbs and 25 inches. Which means he has outgrown his pumpkin carseat and the bassinet part of the play pen. He can sit up fairly well and can "slowly" army crawl. I wasn't anticipating that I would have to baby proof our house again but since he's here 4 days a week and 11hours on those days I better get thinking about that. I'm slowly adjusting to having a baby around. It has been a lot more work than I ever imagined. Keeping up with my active 3 is a job itself so fitting carter into our daily schedule has been hard but we're making improvements!

Went to Evansville yesterday and surprised my friend Lindi for her 30th birthday. She thought I was coming down for dinner, but me and Liz showed up at 2pm and said "Get your shoes on!!" Then we took her to Head over Heelz Spa and then to Hacienda after. She was totally surprised I did stay for dinner at Jillians than home. Happy 30th Lindi!!

WOW- What a Birthday!!

2008-11-09T19:18:00.002-05:00

This by far is the best birthday I've ever had.Get cozy I have a lot to tell!! Obviously from earlier posts you read about the surprise party, but the fun didn't stop there. Thursday night before my birthday Krisitn & Andrea took me out to eat at Mi Pueblo. Then Friday was my actual birthday. I got soooo many birthday wishes on MySpace! I also received 2 bouquets of flowers. One from my brother Ryan, his wife Heidi, and my nephew Carter, and the other my friend Lindi from Evansville, she sent me 30 Daisies-my favorite! My Mom took me to lunch at Snack Shack. That night Kevin and I went to Applebee's to eat, we decide 2 hours on the road to Evansville for food was to tiring! Then we stopped by Maurice's and got me a pair of jeans. When we got home Kevin came around the corner with a ice cream cake with 3-0 candles singing Happy Birthday(the kids were at my Mom & Dads) We got to sleep in and then went to the post office to apply for our passports. That's right passports, we're going to Puerta Vallarta in June!! Whoo Hoo! Kevins long time friend Steven Hale is getting married there and Kevin is a groomsmen. We weren't going due to the price but his parents got us plane tickets for my birthday!! Saturday night my in-laws hosted dinner at their house. Kevin's aunt and grandma came down from Indy which meant a lot. Carolyn (my mil) had nice place settings out and hord'eurves and the whole nine yards! She even made a DVD of my life growing up with past pictures. Which if anyone has ever done it takes A LOT of time. Sunday was church then to my Mom's for a birthday lunch with my family. I got to have my favorite meal turkey a la king and a mayonnaise cake for dessert-yummy!! Then we played cards and watched the Colts. Now I'm home thinking back at how wonderful the weekend was. Soooo much food, presents, and great company. Thank you Kevin, Carolyn, and my Mom for a great birthday-love you all so much!!

Officially 30!!

2008-11-07T06:44:00.002-05:00

Well today's the day I head into the 30 club! Already its been a great celebration. I had a awesome surprise party last weekend and last night 2 of my best friends Andrea & Kristin took me to Mi Pueblo which is a birthday tradition for the 3 of us. I thought I was safe from the signing and huge hat since neither of them got up during the meal, but to my surprise again they told them before we sat down--thanks guys!! The morning has started off great, Kevin went and got me coffee and the milk we needed, the girls were up early early giving me hugs telling me Happy Birthday which is so sweet. The next few days consist of lots of eating, like I said I ate at Mi Pueblo last night, tonight Kevin and me are going out to eat, Sat. night my mother in law is making us dinner, and Sun my Mom is making my family lunch. then Monday we are driving down to Evansville for my friend Lindi's 30th for dinner. Whew that's a lot of food, and the best part I don't have to fix it or pay for it-Whopeeee!! Like I said in my last post I have the best friends and family. My sister-in-law Shannon posted the nicest blog about me today and my friend Kristin gave me a double frame with a pic of us to go in it and on the other side 30 reasons why I love my best friend Jenelle. It was her own 30 things not some premade thing. So nice of both them. Love you girls!! Well now it's off to a typical day, cleaning, laundry, Carter is here all day, even though I'm 30 my chores didn't change, I must have dreamed my birthday present was a maid-LOL!!! I guess I'll put that back on my Xmas list!!

Last day in my 20's!!!!!!

2008-11-05T17:52:00.004-05:00

So today is my last day to be in my 20's. I can't say it bothers me that much, especially since I don't feel or look 30. Or at least that's what I get told ALL the time. Most people think I'm babysitting when they're my kids! At my surprise party I had a tiara on that said 30 and a necklace that had 30 on it and when I got carded they thought I was 18, what??? All yesterday I was thinking of what I have accomplished in my 20's and here's some what I came up with:
I accepted Christ at age 21
I got married at 20 years old
I had Gunnar at age 23, I had Lily at 25, I had Molly at 27
I graduated nursing school and passed my nursing boards
I became a stay at home Mom
I got my first nephew at age 29!!
I watched both my brothers and my sister-in-law get married
I hiked the Grand Canyon top to bottom---Twice!!
I've traveled to Las Vegas several times, Miami, Destin, Orlando, panama city, Daytona Beach,Jacksonville,Ft.Lauderdale, Cancun, Myrtle Beach, Nashville, Chicago, pigeon forge, Canada, st. Louis, Scottsdale, western Caribbean cruise (ok you get it I love to travel!!!)
I've moved over 7 times in my 20's-ugh!!
I've been a soccer coach and know nothing about soccer!
I ran a mini marathon
I backed my Mom's van into my Mother-in-laws car--oh yes I did!!
I solemn skied (just a few weeks ago)
I bungee jumped
I voted in a historic election
Those are just some off the top of my head, I'm sure later today I'll think of something major I forgot, or if you can remember something I would love to hear it!!
When talking to my sister in law yesterday she put a new spin on it saying "Think of what you'll do in the next 10 years in your 30's. She said a lot of time will be at sporting events! Then I got to thinking of a couple things that I will do in my 30's and here's just a couple that struck me fast:
I will celebrate my 10 year wedding anniversary (7/2009!!)
I will have 2 kids in High School
When I'm 39 I will watch my son drive!!
I don't want to get to ahead of myself but those are just a couple biggies!! I look forward to all that is in store. At this point in my life I am so blessed with my own amazing husband & kids, a wonderful family and in-laws, and by far the greatest friends anyone could ask for, and most importantly I have Christ walking with me every step of the way. So I'm pretty certain the good times are still to come even though I'm 30(in 24 hours)!!

Surprise!!!

2008-11-02T20:14:00.006-05:00

Well I didn't think it could be done, but I guess I was proven wrong. Saturday night I was surprised by 15+ friends & family in Louisville for a surprise 30th birthday party. I can't believe so many people knew and I had NO clue. Me and my friends were originally going to celebrate my birthday on the 1st but then I was told my best friend Kristin had something that weekend, so instead we choose to attend Kevin's cousin Marks' birthday party in Louisville--or what I thought was mark's birthday! They said it was to be at the nearby casino which they've done before for their birthdays so I thought nothing of it. I have to admit the very first day Kevin asked if I wanted to go I was skeptical, because like I said it was originally my celebration day. But the thought quickly left my mind knowing that my friends would never throw me a party at a casino because I don't like to gamble. So off we went to Louisville me, Kevin and his brother Kurt. There was txt messages and phone calls exchanged throughout the ride, but once again never thought a thing. When we turned the corner to the hotel Natalie & Steve, and Mark were on the balcony waiving, once again no clue!We had to go up 3 flights of stairs to get to the room with Kevin and Kurt in front of me the whole time we get to the top and they act like they can't find the room, I'm like "It's right here, jeez!!" So I bust through the door and "SURPRISE!!" the room was filled with people! I started to cry I was so shocked!! After the shock wore off I watched a DVD my friend Eryn made for me of past pictures then to dinner then we went to a dueling piano bar. It was so much fun. Now that I look back and recall things it adds up. Like Friday when my friend Andrea asked me to go to Kohl's and help her pick out a outfit for a birthday party she was going to Saturday night of her husbands friend. She went behind me and bought what I told her was cute so I would have something to wear to my party-so sneaky!! My friends & family were there from Indy, Evansville, Jasper, & Washington. As I type this I still sit in shock! I'm usually the one making the plans and getting everyone together. I want to thank everyone who helped put this together which was a bit from everyone. But special thanks to Krisitn the mastermind behind it all, Kevin, Eryn, Natalie, and thanks to Mark for letting me steal your birthday!! Love you all!!

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-31T09:07:00.012-04:00

Happy Halloween!! October has been a fun month for us. We camped at Lake Rudolph and did their Halloween weekend then camped at Prides Creek on their Halloween weekend. My friends daughter had a fall birthday party with bobbing for apples, hayride, bonfire, pinata and etc. We've painted lots of pumpkins, trick or treated 3 times, 3 hayrides, it's been busy but fun!! Hope everyone else has a good and safe Halloween!!

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-29T10:51:00.010-04:00

Monday night we carved pumpkins. The kids are getting to the age where they want to do it themselves but aren't coordinated enough for carving knives. Gunnar did get to draw his and "mostly" cut his out. Lily & Molly had to pick a design online and trace the face. All in all they had fun so that's what counts!

Getting ready to start!

Gunnar

Lily

Kevin & Molly

Went to Sugar Grove

2008-10-27T08:36:00.007-04:00

This weekend we went up to Sugar Grove to visit Shannon & Chad. This was our first visit to their place since they moved there. We left at 6pm Friday and got there about 11:30pm. We only stopped one time for a break, which with a 2yo, 4yo, & 6yo was impressive. They were a hour behind us so when the kids wanted to get up at 7am there it was 8am at home. Shannon is such a hostess. She had tons of food and drink especially for the kids, and bought a good Housekeeping magazine with Jon & Kate plus 8 on the cover for me and a Rolling Stone for Kevin. Also in the bathroom was a Dove gift set. She's so thoughtful! Saturday morning Shannon fixed a big breakfast and we hung out catching up. Kevin went to Chad's work to view the golf course. That afternoon we went out to lunch and to a Fall Festival in one of the shopping plaza's. The kids decorated mini pumpkins, had funny balloons made by a guy in stilts, & had laffy taffy apples. Then while the kids went back to the apartment to rest Shannon and I did a little shopping. Sat evening Kevin and Chad were invited to the hockey game by one of Chad's members at the course. So they went downtown and got pampered with food & penthouse suite to watch the game. Meanwhile Shannon & I took the kids to see High School Musical 3. The kids loved it of course, just like they love #1 & #2. After the kids went to bed Shannon & I did some political polls online and discussed the election. It's nice to be able to talk to someone about the election without starting a debate! The guys got back really late due to downtown Chicago traffic, what should have been 45min took them 2 hours. Sunday we lounged around in the morning. Kevin & Shannon rehearsed a song they're doing in a couple weeks then a quick trip Target before we left. On the way home we stopped in Terre Haute and ate with Kurt at Outback-yummy!! We were home by 8pm, the kids got bathed and went straight to bed. Kevin & I followed shortly! It was a tiring but VERY fun weekend!

Day of Prayer Cont'd

2008-10-24T09:22:00.004-04:00

Just got on update on Sam, she was taken off the breathing machine last night, she is awake today and they have removed her cervical collar. Her lung has reinflated, but she is in extreme pain. Thanks for all your prayers already.

Day of Prayer

2008-10-24T08:50:00.003-04:00

Today I would like to put out a couple prayer requests. The first being a immediate request. Kevin's cousin Ryan who lives in Indy, his fiance was in a terrible car accident yesterday afternoon, they had to use the jaws of life to get her out. They believe she is out of immediate danger but she has a collapsed lung, broken pelvis, broken collar bone, and ruptured spleen. They share a baby girl together so please keep all of them in your prayers.
Second is for my friend Andrea. Nothing has changed she is still in process of her radiation treatments. I accompanied her yesterday and it just reminded what long exhausting days she has traveling to Bloomington everyday for treatments. Plus the high risk side effects the main now being seizures due to head swelling from the radiation. Please pray that those don't start and she can stay energized and these treatments destroy only what it was meant to destroy.
Thanks so much!

Feeling Better!!

2008-10-22T16:10:00.002-04:00

Thanks for everyones comments and stories of their own kiddos! It's good to hear everyone goes through the same or similar things! So far the rest of the week has went smooth and I think the lesson was learned, which was not to lie! So far the new schedule with my nephew has been good. It's made me get up and get ready for the day, which before I had trouble doing. It's nice to have the evenings free again, he now leaves at 5:30 instead of 7:30 or 8pm. And tomorrow is my first day since he only comes 4 days a week now. I'm going to Bloomington with my friend Andrea. I can't wait. We also made plans to take our first trip to Chicago to visit my sister in law and her husband since they moved in June. It's about an hour east of Chicago so it's about a 5 hour drive. Hopefully that will go smoothly with the kids! Hope everyone's week is going good!