A little bit of Amber

18 Months+18 fun facts about Evie

2011-03-30T16:12:00.000-07:00

Some people are just born awesome and this is what those people are like when they are toddlers...

18. For a toddler Evie sure has some hitch in her giddy up! She can run fast to keep up with the bigger kids. Its so cute to watch her do her waddle run.

17. She can sleep for hours! She has been know to stay in bed for 15 hours straight. Doc says we can enjoy it while it lasts :)

16. Evie is EXTREMELY persistent and demanding. When she wants something she will bark up every tree she comes across until she gets it. I am hoping she will channel that persistence in the right direction as she grows. Maybe be a hell, fire and brimstone evangelist...HA

15. She is highly motivated by food. When she realizes I am about give her a snack she does a cute little happy dance saying "yay! yay! yay!" before she sits on the floor to be handed her snack. I am thinking she got that floor sitting thing from the nursery at grace.

14. She loves to give kisses! She'll come at you with her lips puckered saying "mmmmmmmmmuah!" One time while we were waiting to be seated at a restaurant she was giving all of us kisses and when she was done with us she went for the hostess.

13. Evie also knows how to give bear hugs. Daddy taught her to growl when giving a big hug :)

12. She is talking a ton and it is uber cute. Her most often said words are woa, uh oh, no, mine, pretty, cookie, papa, mama, yay, up, pease, hi, ya, bye bye, ni night and so much more. If she's in the mood you can get her to repeat almost anything you say. (scary)

11. When she sings along to the ABC's she says I I I I I I I, I I I I I I I I I, but at least she stays on melody.

10. Speaking of singing....Evie loves to sing! Its so cute when we are riding in the car and all of us get real quiet so we can listen to her pretty little songs as she stares out the window.

9. Evie likes to get jiggy with it! Just like her mama she can get down and loves to do so. If she hears a rhythm she starts a movin'.

8. Evie only has 2 teeth and no signs of anymore coming soon. All of our kids got teeth late but Evie is setting a new record! Most kids her age already have a mouthful. Dentist says this means she'll probably lose her teeth way late too. Maybe 12 year molers by 20???

7. Point a camera at her and she'll smile real big and say CHEEEEEEEESE!

6. She knows the animal sounds for dog, cat and elephant! Elephant is especially cute cause she uses her arm as the trunk. Though I don't think she actually knows what an elephant is yet...

5. Evie has some bad habits too. Like screaming at the top of her lungs over and over again to get what she wants or taking a big sip from her cup only to spit it all over the place. She also has been known to throw food or rub it in her hair. Her worst habit by far though is smacking people in the face. We are all born sinners...

4. She loves to take showers!!! When someone turns the shower on Evie is usually running to the bathroom so she can get in to. She does not mind the water running over her face at all. In fact she thinks its fun to have the water splash all over her face. Which reminds me of #3...

3. Evie absolutely LOVES it when someone (usually brother) sprays her face with the water bottle. Its the weirdest thing to me but she will get mad and scream when the water bottle is empty or if we refuse to spray her. She resorts to spraying herself in the face if no one will but as you can imagine, Gus is usually happy to accommodate her.

2. RANCH DRESSING!!! Evie will gladly dip, double dip, triple dip, quadruple dip ANYTHING in ranch. When she gets married I am pretty sure she will have a ranch fountain at her wedding.

1. Clint and I often shake are heads at how darn cute she is and how much her presents in our family is such a joy and blessing to all of us. We are so thankful God gave us Evelyn Louise as our bonus baby!

Here's that pucker I was telling you about...irresistible!

1000 Gifts: 332-348

2011-03-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

~332 Gus saying "I'll do anything you want, mom, cause I love you."
~333 My dad showing up to drop off dinner for us out of the blue
~334 A quick date with hubby
~335 Crystal teaching the girls in our coop. She is amazing :)
~336 Another quiet Friday night at home
~337 Pancakes!
~338 Another night of fun, food, wine and fellowship with the Bayleys
~339 How well our families connect is truly a gift!
~340 The prayer of Saint Francis
~341 For such an amazing and supportive sisterhood at school
~342 A trip to Micheals to plan and pick out crafts with my girls
~343 Acting like a total goof ball
~344 More pretty flowers from Hubby (he's so sweet)
~345 Asian food
~346 Heather's creativity
~347 The opportunity to plan and perform skits with my bff!
~348 That I have buddies coming with me to the Christian education conference this year

That's all for now folks!

The Prayer of Saint Francis

2011-03-08T11:19:00.000-08:00

I will be posting my gifts in a bit but wanted to share this real quick while I had a minute.

This prayer has really been speaking to me lately!

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.

Where there is hatred, let me sow love.

Where there is injury, pardon.

Where there is doubt, faith.

Where there is despair, hope.

Where there is darkness, light.

Where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master,

grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console;

to be understood, as to understand;

to be loved, as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive.

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.

Amen.

1000 Gifts: 298-331

2011-03-01T13:46:00.000-08:00

I found my missing paper that had my gifts from when I didn't had my notes book so some of these are pretty old again but lots new too :)

~298 My sista's
~299 Lamentations 3:24
~300 Childrens bubble gum flavored fever reducer
~301 Clints support
~302 Planning the summer and the anticipation of some really fun trips
~303 Hubby cheering me up
~304 I-pods
~305 White boards
~306 Teaching Lilly science (I wasn't looking forwardto doing this but have been pleasantly surprised how fun it is)
~307 The coolest online teaching resource ever!
~308 Anticipation for girls camp (obviously old)
~309 The completion of the Mitchell family chore matrix (will post soon)
~310 The kids good attitude about doing it
~311 All Recipes.com
~312 My dad helping to pay for gymnastics
~313 Pretty flowers from my hubby
~314 Listening to Lilly hum worship songs
~315 The sunshine
~316 Kids playing outside
~317 A yummy sandwich
~318 My awesome SLP advisor
~319 My newish vegi steamer
~320 Taking a couple weeks off couponing
~321 How often Gus says "I yuv you, mom"
~322 How Drew makes up fun games to motivate the little kids to clean up
~323 Income tax return
~324 New bath towels
~325 Evie asking me to dance with her
~326 Watching Evie spin herself dizzy
~327 A whole weekend with not even one commitment
~328 Proverbs 30:7-9 thanks Heather
~329 Inexpensive projects that make life a little easier
~330 That I have a hubby who is happy to do those projects
~331 8 months of laundry detergent for less than $10

1000 Gifts: 227-297 FINALLY!

2011-02-22T15:20:00.000-08:00

I was SO disappointed when I couldn't find my cute little notebook I've been writing each one of my gifts in. After a few days of it missing I finally decided I better start a new and temporary list on a separate piece of paper hoping eventually it would turn up. Finally, it did!!! I found it in the bottom of the diaper bag of all places. I can't believe I didn't think to look there. Of course though, now that I am sitting down to blog my gifts I can't find my temporary list...uhg! Thankfully I didn't number any of those so I can just add them in when it turns up.

~227 That working out feels so good
~228 Chapstick
~229 Coupons that come in the mail for FREE items (thank you Safeway)
~230 Craigslist
~231 the beauty of the snow capped mountains when the sun hits them
~232 Miracles! (both big and small)
~233 Long chats with Clint
~234 My in-laws
~235 Hitting all the green lights
~236 The nice childcare workers at my Y
~237 workout with Drew
~238 Hearing praiseworthy news from a dear friend
~239 Waking up to a surprise from my kids to include breakfast and a sweet card listing 8 reasons they love me. Reasons below :)
~240 You are a good cook
~241 You are fun
~242 You are helpful
~243 You let us help you cook
~244 You take us to church
~245 You take me to soccer
~246 You take me to gymnastics
~247 You let me play wii and watch movies
~248 You teach us about God
~249 You give me num num (this was from evie)
~250 A friend calling to check on and encourage me through my struggle
~251 Christian radio
~252 Doctors available on Saturdays
~253 That Clint is so protective of me
~254 A family hike
~255 The beach
~256 Kids curiosity
~257 Drew's responsablity
~258 Finally having time to catch up with a dear friend
~259 The anticipation of doing some fun pre-school stuff with gus and sam
~260 Date night with my man
~261 His kisses
~262 Feeling and acting like teenagers again
~263 Dinner at my dads house
~264 Hanging out with my big icks
~265 Reading an amazing book!!!
~266 Amy Bayley lending it to me
~267 The way he looks at me :)
~268 Blue Moon on tap
~269 FINDING MY NOTEBOOK!!!
~270 An amazing weekend at Lakeside Bible Camp
~271 How serving turns back to a blessing
~272 For all the godly directors and leaders at girls camp. Some amazing women!
~273 Singing, dancing and having fun while praising God
~274 Hearing the gospel in such a simple way
~275 Watching my girls have the time of their lives
~276 Getting to know their friends better
~277 That God has blessed my girls with good Christian friends
~278 Hearing young hearts pray
~279 Special time with Kaitlyn
~280 Seeing her shine!
~281 For a husband who is willing to hold down the fort
~282 How beautiful LBC is when the sun is shining on the lake
~283 Clint texting a pic of Evie that melted my heart
~284 Drew's honesty
~285 Awesome conversations with Drew
~286 Lilly asking questions
~287 my new eating plan
~288 feeling God go before me
~289 hanging out with my dumpster diving, deal seeking buddy
~290 Evie's jibber jabber
~291 My new haircut
~292 For Tanya who wouldn't tale any $ for it. She's too sweet!
~293 Raw almonds
~294 Improv comedy night with friends
~295 The way Evie said Katie at Heathers yesterday. It was SO cute!!!
~296 Mandie and Brandon visiting Grace
~297 Self checkouts

30 days of blogging: Day 2

2011-02-01T23:14:00.000-08:00

The meaning behind my blog name-

A Little Bit of Amber

Well this one is easy. My name is Amber and on this blog I share a little bit about myself. Simple as that :)

1000 Gifts: Stay tuned

2011-02-01T20:11:00.000-08:00

Arrrg! Now that I have a minute to put my gifts down I can't seem to find my handy little note book I've been keeping them in. I am hoping when the girls get home one of them will know where it might be. None the less I wanted to say that me not doing it yet is not a reflection of my heart. I have many gifts and would love to share the with you. Last week me not posting my gifts was a reflection of my heart though. It was just a bad week for me...

But stay tuned! Hopefully I will find my note book and post my gifts soon :)

30 days of blogging: Day 1

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

Recent picture and 15 interesting facts about myself. I want to be sure and use the word "interesting" very loosely...facts I can promise but no guarantee they are interesting.

Her I am!!! I would have really preferred to have picked a fabulous picture of myself self (if one exists) but rather I chose to just use the most recent picture I had taken. This was taken on Friday on a hike I went on with the family. If anything, this picture does show my personality a little :) Of course except for the fact that I'm on a hike. Which will lead me right into my first fact!

1) I really am not a big fan of hiking. Though I wish to be and have committed to doing more this year.
2) I love the taste of cold corn straight out of the can
3) I can't wait to be a grandma one day! Seriously, I think about it often.
4) I have very flexible ears and fold them up before I lay my head on the pillow to keep my ear nice and warm.
5) I like to dip pizza rolls in ketchup
6) I would gladly live where it never snows, rarely rains and is almost always sunny.
7) If I could live in anytime period it would be the late 1800's.
8) I love bags! It is a weak spot for me when shopping. I'd go for a new bag over new shoes.
9) I did not become a reader until my late 20's, in fact I hated reading, until I fell in love with the book Redeeming Love.
10) I would LOVE to run an orphanage one day.
11) My favorite wild animal is a giraffe and I got to feed one once right out of the palm of my hand.
12) Teaching my kids to read stresses me out and feels like a lot of pressure. It is the one thing I wish someone else could teach them.
13) When I was 5 or 6 I climbed 30 feet up in a tree and about gave my mom a heart attack the first time she saw me. I loved to climb so much my Uncle called me monkey woman and when he built his first house it had very high ceilings in the living room with a brick fireplace going all the way up. They were going to have staggered bricks sticking out like little ledges all the way up and decided against it for fear I would climb it when I to visit every summer.
14) I flew half way across the country by myself at 9 years old.
15) When I was back in the mid-west visiting my uncle there was a really bad thunder storm and I was really scared cause I was alone at his house. To conquer my fear I went out side with an umbrella and stood in the middle of the cul de sac. Praise God I was not struck down by lighting. (I think that's more stupid then interesting)

30 days of blogging!

2011-01-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

I saw this idea on Kelly's blog, who saw it on Bridget's blog, who saw it on some guy name Ryans blog. I didn't look to see who Ryan got it from but who really cares, it just sounds like fun! I have no intention of doing this everyday for 30 days in a row, but I will commit to doing all 30. I love to blog but don't always know what to blog about so this is a fun way to blog about new things. Join me if you like :)

day 1- recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
day 2- the meaning behind your blog name
day 3- a picture of you as a child
day 4- a habit that you wish you didn’t have
day 5- a picture of somewhere you've been
day 6- favorite super hero and why
day 7- a picture of someone/something that has had the biggest impact on you
day 8- short term goals for this month and why
day 9- something you're proud of in the past few days
day 10- songs you listen to when you are happy, sad, bored, hyped, mad
day 11- write a bucket list of things you want to do before you die
day 12- write a poem to someone you love
day 13- your 5 favorite books and why
day 14- a picture of you and your family
day 15- put your ipod on shuffle: first 10 songs that play
day 16- a picture of yourself
day 17- someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
day 18- plans/dreams/goals you have
day 19- write about a sweet memory from your past
day 20- write a letter to someone
day 21-a picture of something that makes you happy
day 22- what makes you different from everyone else
day 23- something you crave a lot
day 24- post your favorite quote or verse of scripture and why
day 25- what I would find in your bag
day 26- list 10 things that you are thankful for
day 27- my day job verses my passion
day 28- cruise a thesaurus and pick out 10 words you like the sound of
day 29 - favorite tv shows and why you like them
day 30 - movies you can watch again and again.

My Lord of the Rings review and why I hate the flesh

2011-01-27T09:03:00.000-08:00

After years of hearing all the hype and our pastor being brought to tears at the pulpit while talking about the movie one day, Clint and I decided it was time to finally watch it.

Overall, I have to say its not my kind of movie. I enjoyed the first one quite a bit and really liked finding the ways the characters and story line could relate to the gospel. Frodo was seemingly just an ordinary simple young man and yet, he was chosen to save the world. After the first one ended I looked forward to seeing the second. While watching the second one it was hard not to cover my face with the blanket. The battle scenes were horrible and there was far to many of them. Those nasty creatures coming out of their birth sacks was over the top gross and scary. Clint on the other hand thought it was great how well they depicted evil. I guess evil just really makes me uncomfortable. I experienced much of the same on the 3rd movie but as Frodo was using everything he had to bring the ring up the mountain I was filled with hope. I was waiting for him to over throw evil and toss the ring into the fire. But he didn't! He put it on instead!!! WHAT!?! I thought this was going to be a story of redemption!?! I thought Frodo was going to save the world. Yes, the ring eventually made its way into the fire and the world was saved, but not by Frodos doing. I was very disappointed in that.

After the movie Clint explained to me that its about the battle with flesh until the very end. Okay, so now I get it, but I don't like it! In fact I hate it! Not the movie, but the flesh.

As I shared in my last post I have food issues. For me, this is a battle between my sinful desires (the flesh) and the Spirit. My friend Crystal shared in this amazing teaching on gluttony that she woke up every morning for a time and the Holy Spirit was making her food choices for her. Oh, how I longed to experience that for myself. And finally, one day it happened! After repenting of my sin and daily, hourly, sometimes minute by minute seeking the help He has given me, the Holy Spirit as been making my food choices too! I praise God! It actually felt easy to choose good healthy food and to not go back for seconds. It was all credit to the Holy Spirits work in me. For 13 days the Spirit was winning the battle!!!

Then day 14,15 and 16 came. Those 3 days were not the same as the previous 13. When I woke up yesterday (day 16) I new I had been in a funk for a couple days. No, I hadn't binge eaten or anything but I knew my heart and attitude weren't in the right place, so I had to pause and reflect. What I saw was that I started to lean on my own strength. Kind of like Frodo did when he took off up the mountain with out Sam. Just like Frodo, my own strength is not enough. Frodo came all that way and surely he should be able to make it a little ways on his own, right? NO! But that is the thinking I realize I all to often have.

So day 16 when I realize all this... rather then turning to the Spirit to guide me, I wallowed in my mistake. I knew I needed pray, but I didn't. I knew I needed my sista's to be praying for me and that all I would need to do is send a simple text, but I didn't. So what did I do? I ate. I want to hate myself for yesterday. I want to wallow in my self loathing pit and probably end up eating some more, but I can't. Why? Because I am loved! I am chosen! I am accepted! I am adopted! I am forgiven! I am blessed and I am redeemed!!! Like one of my favorite songs by Mary Mary says "I know He didn't bring me this far just to leave me."

Just like Frodo, I often think I can do it on my own. Just like Frodo, I can't. Just like Frodo needs Sam all the way to the bitter end, I need the Holy Spirit until my end on this earth.

Tell the truth Tuesday:The ugly and beautiful truth

2011-01-18T16:38:00.000-08:00

The UGLY truth: ...and I mean ugly. I have food issues. I eat for pleasure. I eat for comfort. I eat from boredom. I eat from stress. I eat often. I eat a lot. Worst of all, I eat instead of sitting at the feet of my sweet Jesus. My body is a product of my food issues. I am overweight the the point of being considered obese. I am at higher risk for things like cancer, heart disease and diabetes because of my weight. I feel fat. I look fat. I don't like feeling this way. I don't like looking this way. Most of all, I don't like food sitting on the thrown of my heart in place of my sweet Jesus.

Phil 3:18-19

For many of whom I have often told you and now even tell you with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, and their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things.

1st Cor 6:20

For you were bought with a price. So glorify God with your body.

The BEAUTIFUL truth:God so gently revealed this sin to me and has already begun an amazing work in me. He has brought me to true repentance and through the Holy Spirit day by day, meal by meal, I am able to make better, healthier, God glorifying choices. To Him be the glory!

2nd Cor 12:9

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Psalm 73:26

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Gal 5:16

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

Heb 12:1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

1st Peter 5:6-10

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

1000 Gifts: 173-226

2011-01-17T15:43:00.000-08:00

~173 That Carrie was willing to part with an amazing book so I could read it
~174 This book Made to Crave
~175 That God knew many of his people would struggle with food issues and so he weaved wisdom on this topic all over in scripture
~176 Scripture that are implanted on my heart forvever
~177 I know this is a repeat but, God's constant provision for what we need
~178 Learning the difference between need and want
~179 Another repeat but, my hardworking hubby
~180 Ferry boats
~181 Quiet time
~182 Drew's artwork
~183 School being cancled
~184 ...which made for an awesome day of school at home
~185 watercolors
~186 Patternables
~187 Listening to Lilly read
~188 The smell of bread baking
~189 preschool workbooks
~190 American girl history
~191 Being able to share my sons silly antics via FB
~192 Evie being such a good sleeper
~193 Sex (me too, me too!)
~194 Getting most of the classes we requested
~195 The anticipation of our new and better schedule
~196 Lilly's amazing and generous coaches
~197 Sharing $5 footlongs
~198 The way Evie dances when she realizes I'm about to give her a snack
~199 Clint wrestling with the kids
~200 Lilly's journal entries
~201 Colored pencils
~202 That I have money for gas and a car to put it in
~203 Working out with friends
~204 His grace
~205 The most amazing sisters in Christ in the whole world
~206 Accountability
~207 Hard boiled eggs
~208 Broccoli
~209 Kids playing independently (and not fighting)
~210 My community group
~211 Feeling God's strength
~212 My lap top
~213 Checking things of my to-do list
~214 That my rec room turns into a dance club in a moments notice
~215 For God's help in parenting
~216 Hummus
~217 Cardio
~218 Rice cooker
~219 Organic options (me too, Abbey)
~220 Clint in charge of the schedule (= balance)
~221 5 boys in my Sunday school class (yay for Thomas!)
~222 Creativity in the kitchen
~223 A laid back relaxing weekend full of family time (see # 220)
~224 Holy Spirit
~225 Garlic
~226 Finding 90% off nativity scenes!

Works for me Wednesday: Double Batch

2011-01-12T11:28:00.000-08:00

Last week I noticed that canned Chili was on sale at QFC for $1 a can. I thought to myself that's a pretty good price, and I'm sure that would work out nice for Clint to take for lunch on the days I don't have enough leftovers to send for him. Then I thought some more. Hmmmmm, I bet it would be cheaper, healthier and yummier if I just made a double batch of chili myself. I could use all those glass jars I save that I knew would come in handy to freeze some and Clint could grab that and heat it up at work.

So I double batch of chili I made! We ate it for dinner on Friday topped with chips, cheese and sourcream and it was uber yummy! This is what I had left over-

5 individual size jars for Clint to take to work

2 larger jars for me to use for a couple lunches at home for the the kids and me

1 bowl with enough chili for Clint to eat for lunch over the weekend and for the Chili dogs we ate for dinner on Sunday night.

And to make this even sweeter I didn't have to go to the grocery store at all cause I had everything I needed for a double batch of chili in my back stock!!!

Taste and see that the Lord is good

2011-01-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

Psalm 34

I will bless the Lord at all times;
his praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul makes its boast in the Lord;
let the humble hear and be glad.
Oh, magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt his name together!

I sought the Lord, and he answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to him are radiant,
and their faces shall never be ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him
and saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear him, and delivers them.

Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!
Oh, fear the Lord, you his saints,
for those who fear him have no lack!
The young lions suffer want and hunger;
but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

Come, O children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
What man is there who desires life
and loves many days, that he may see good?
Keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from speaking deceit.

Turn away from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.

The eyes of the Lord are toward the righteous
and his ears toward their cry.
The face of the Lord is against those who do evil,
to cut off the memory of them from the earth.
When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears
and delivers them out of all their troubles.
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted
and saves the crushed in spirit.

Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
but the Lord delivers him out of them all.
He keeps all his bones;
not one of them is broken.
Affliction will slay the wicked,
and those who hate the righteous will be condemned.
The Lord redeems the life of his servants;
none of those who take refuge in him will be condemned.

1000 Gifts: 148-172

2011-01-10T18:48:00.000-08:00

~148 A fun time ironing with friends
~149 The awesome community of amazing Godly women at EHK-12
~150 The wisdom spoken to me on an area of struggle
~151 I have to admit that part of me is very thankful to be back at the daily grind (just part)
~152 Double deals
~153 Free cleaning products
~154 Hot tea
~155 The fun Drew is having in musical theater
~156 Friends that aren't afraid to ask for help
~157 Cool classes
~158 Someone else making dinner
~159 Evie's pucker
~160 Seeing Drew on stage looking like the cutest little person Ireland ever saw :)
~161 Shilea Corey
~162 That we can be assured that God opens and closes the womb
~163 A night out with the ladies
~164 My uber cozy bed ( I heart Temperpedic)
~165 Pretty flowers
~166 Not just chit chatting but taking the time to go to heart
~167 A relaxing Sunday afternoon
~168 New pots and pans (FINALLY!)
~169 The fact that Drew has been wearing her little person hat all day
~170 Psalm 34
~171 Fleece sheets
~172 2 Cor 3:18
~173 Finding balance in areas that have been very unbalance

1000 Gifts: 101-147

2011-01-03T17:59:00.000-08:00

~101 Extra counter space
~102 Sour Patch kids
~103 Taking a stroll down memory lane
~104 That God has blesses us with 4 Kids
~105 How well my kids know how to do chores
~106 My backstock
~107 A smooth glass of red wine
~108 Glass bowls
~109 The smell of a cake baking
~110 Watching more and more items I don't need leaving my house
~111 Re-purposed leftovers
~112 That Clint forgives me after I've been less then kind =/
~113 Photographs that bring back a 1000 memories and emotions
~114 Making progress
~115 Having all the kids jump in bed with me and having a laughing good time!
~116 Waking up to snow
~117 How bright snow makes the world
~118 Fried rice
~119 Watching 4 tweens have a super fun girly time
~120 Having fun with them too
~121 Feeling like a "cool mom" cuz they wanted me to hang out with them
~122 Digital cameras
~123 The way the morning sun makes the snow and ice sparkle
~124 That God has blessed Drew with awesome friends
~125 Shopping with a buddy
~126 Matching jeggings (lol)
~127 Gus reffering to his english muffin as a wheel
~128 Finding the perfect present for Drew
~129 total at the register being less then expected
~130 Lunch out with the fam ro celebrate Drew
~131Friends we are very thankful for + delish food + good wine + fun games = a great New Year"s Eve!
~132 Hubby and the kids taking care of me and each other while I had a bad migraine
~133 For thoughtful friends who send kind words
~134 That my headache finally ended
~135 Clint doing the dishes
~136 A phone chat with my mom that reminded me of better times with her
~137 Seeing Drew turn into an amazing young lady
~138 Evie sitting content and playing with her toys
~139 P.B and J
~140 An entire day at home
~141 Movie night
~142 The innocent and curious ?'s of my Sunday school class
~143 An afternoon spent with my Mom
~144 Hubby coming home with good news
~145 That working hard DOES pay off
~146 Having a radio in my car again
~147 Mr and Mrs Wilson

1000 Gifts: 21-100

2010-12-27T21:17:00.000-08:00

I have really been loving this! My hope was to combat my discontentment by choosing to see all of the many gifts that are before me on a daily basis. So, rather then sitting down on Monday to catalog all of the gifts, I have kept a cute little journal with me to jot down gifts as they arise. At times when I was feeling discontetended about something, I forced myself to look for a gift. And what do ya know...I always found one! The funnest part about this whole list is that each and every one has a story behind it. Feel free to ask me sometime :)

~21Modern medicine (Excedrin Migraine)
~22 My husbands sweet smell
~23 Gus' peanut butter sandwich dance
~24 Drew caring for Evie
~25 Spiral bound journals
~26 How much my nutcracker soldiers remind me of my grandparents
~27 A fun day at my in-laws
~28 Making treats with family and friends
~29 Carbonation
~30 Finding the perfect person to pass our baby stuff to
~31 Clean and organized kids bedrooms
~32 To be doing 1000 gifts alongside friends
~33 Forgiveness
~34 Tender moments between siblings
~35 A never changing God
~36 Gods constant faithfulness
~37 Sleeping in late
~38 Waking up to Gus saying "can I snuggle wit choo?"
~39 Evie's awesome morning hair do's
~40 That Clint is not afraid to BBQ in the winter
~41 Sweet neighbor ladies
~42Swagbucks (= free $)
~43 Almond extract
~44 Clean running water at my finger tips
~45 Nana's homemade hot cocoa mix
~46 Crock-pot cooking
~47 My digital picture frame and all the pics in it
~48 Q-tips
~49 Sweet text messages from Clint
~50 My Kitchen Aid
~51 Drew's helpfulness
~52 Good phone chats w/ Heather
~53 A clean kitchen sink
~54 Satan's lies being exposed
~55 And for Gods truths that replace those lies
~56 Friends that aren't afraid to speak truth into my life
~57 Netflix
~58 Hand-me-downs
~59 Reliable vehicles
~60 Our cozy home
~61Listening to the kids laugh and giggle while singing Christmas songs and decorating cookies
~62 For my fun marriage
~63 Josh Turners music
~64 My goofy extended family
~65 Dancing
~66 Clint's silliness
~67 Over hearing Clint and the kids pray and a late night chat prompted by ?'s where he shared about the true meaning of Christmas and the gift that God gave us
~68 Celebrating Jesus' b-day
~69 P.J's after a long day
~70 Saturday morning family breakfast
~71 Old traditions
~72 New ones
~73 Kids excitement and joy over simple gifts
~74 My dishwasher
~75 For a 2nd wind after feeling all pooped out
~76 Cheesecake
~77 A morning walk/run with my girls
~78 Jeremiah 50:33
~79 Lamentations 3:23
~80 psalm 103:22
~81 After Christmas sales
~82 Lilly's sweet little desire to be a healthy and fit person ( I can learn a lot from her)
~83 Empty laundry hampers
~84 Not waiting until New years to make changes God has called me to
~85 Going to the Mall by myself
~86 2 new bras ( you have no idea how bad I needed them)
~87 Mitchell Family Christmas
~88 Clint's Dad sharing his heart and the true meaning of Christmas
~89 Boardgames
~90 Gift cards
~91 laughter
~92 Special time with just me and my #3 and #4
~93 Cousins
~94 New cooking and baking items
~95 Watching Evie perfect her forks skills with pancakes
~96 Fuzzy posters (they keep kids happy while I get stuff done)
~97 Lilly's sweet, careful, playfulness with her new doll
~98 Drew's creativity
~99 Watching Lilly and Gus play make believe together
~100 Looking to God to help me make order out of chaos

I'm in! 1000 Gifts

2010-12-20T22:36:00.000-08:00

In an effort to battle discontentment and focus on the MANY blessing my loving God bestows upon me, I have decided to join my dear friend Carrie and the Gratitude Community in cataloging 1000 gifts. I am praying for a change of perspective in the daily doings of my beautiful, challenging, exciting, messy, God given, unique and ordinary life.

~1 For my husbands patients and willingness to help me through each struggle

~2 Grilled cheese on homemade bread

~3 Clutter free rooms

~4 Being able to donate items to those in need

~5 Creative ginger bread house designers

~6 That my girls love wrapping presents

~7 Text messaging

~8 For this Blog post and the brother in Christ who shared in with me

~9 Matthew 6:33

~10 Christmas cards

~11 Friends you can always be yourself with

~12 Prayer

~13 Coupon Connections NW

~14 Relaxing music

~15 A long conversation with my Dad

~16 2 weeks off from school

~17 That my kids love Gummy Vites

~18 Quiet moments with God

~19 Family Photos

~20 Extra time with my BFF these last few days

Stepping on the scale

2010-10-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Long time no blog! I have a million excuses but I will spare you... More importantly I have some exciting news to share!

My husband and I (along with our community group) are starting a discipleship program called the Story Formed Life. My dear friend Heather took this class a couple years ago and I have been wanting to take it ever since. Last week we had some what of a information/Q & A time with our leader. After the meeting I am even more excited but also a bit anxious.

The way this particular discipleship class is set up is over a course of 10 weeks we will look at different portions of Gods story from the bible. We will start with the basic foundational truths of our faith and then look at how we ought to then live according to those truths. (Please correct me fellow disciple-shippers if I am explaining this wrong) The following is a break down of the 10 weeks-

creation

fall

gospel

lordship

sonship

spirit led life

disciplined life

being the church

kingdom

recreation

I am so excited to go back to the basics and hopefully gain a better understanding of these foundational truths. I am also very anxious though... Each week after we have spent time reading, meditating, praying and discussing the scriptures for the week we will have the opportunity to rate how much we truly believe it on a scale of 1-10. (stepping on the scale) I think it would be easy to say "Of course I believe God created the Heavens and the earth" and "of course I believe that me and everyone else on this planet are made in His image. The bible says so!" but if I take a good hard look at how I look at myself sometimes and others....can I really give my self a 10? Probably not.

I am praying for a humble and teachable heart this week and that God would show me my unbelief so that I can grow closer to him and stronger in faith.

When my friend Heather did this course she blogged about her journey each week and it was such a blessing for me to see her heart be challenged and changed each week. My hope is that I too will catalog my journey via this blog along the way.

30 Day Challenge: Friday Updates

2010-08-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

Hi 30 day Challengers!!! Its been awhile since we have shared our updates. I look forward to hearing how its going for you...I hope better than me :)

My current challenge ended a few days ago and it did not end well. Long story short I failed miserable in every area of my challenge since my last update. In addition to my lack of discipline, I have had a house full of the stomach flu to include a trip to the ER and a broken washing machine. Ad it all up and what do you get? No challenges being met...uhg.

But I choose to look at this as a small blip on the radar, and I am going to move forward with my chin up and get ready for a new 30 day challenge!!! That is what I love so much about the 30 Day Challenge... every 30 days we get a new start at challenging ourselves to make changes in our lives to better glorify our loving and gracious God!!!

Change for the challenge
I want to be sure to let all challengers know of an upcoming change for the 30 day challenge. I have decided to do Monday updates in place of Friday updates. I have decided to do this because I personally always love to start my challenges at the beginning of the week and it bugged me to update mid-week in a challenge. I hope the Monday updates will work better for you too!

Please let me know if you have any suggestions to make the 30 day Challenge better :)

PS- I am still hoping to get a button soon. Thanks for your patience.

Is Jesus Enough?

2010-08-12T23:30:00.000-07:00

As followers of Christ we must continue to be moldable. As God moves in our hearts we are transformed (if we let it happen). God is so patient with me. He always molds me so slowly and so carefully. Often I don't even realize its going on. Then I have the blessing of looking back and seeing how my heart has been changed. Sometimes it is clear to me where he is taking me with the change he has brought about in my life. At other times I am perplexed to see which direction a change will take me. I must be patient and wait for Him to reveal things to me as he sees fit. I will admit its tough waiting at times.

Last week in Scott's sermon he talked about our need to be loved by others, how it is an idle and that Jesus should be enough for us. I LOVED what he was saying!!! Yes, it was convicting as I am human and definitely want the love and approval of others. Though the good news is it caused me to look back. To look back and see the change God had done in my heart. Is Jesus enough for me? YES! YES HE IS! Do I always feel that way? NO, of course not. But slowly and carefully he continues to mold me and I AM GETTING THERE!

The time line-
10 years ago- I didn't know Christ at all. I was empty and dissatisfied.

5 years ago- I had been a believer for about 3 years. Jesus was my savior! Though I still looked to others for love and approval. I filled every quiet moment with relationships, noise or busyness.

3 years ago- I loved Jesus, I loved his people and I loved being with them and serving them even if that was at my own families loss.

2 years ago- The change had begun. The conviction of my sin was burning in my heart. God was leading me home. Home, to better serve the husband and children he blessed me with. Home, where I could sit at his feet and be quiet and listen. I wrote This Post about this very change 2 years ago and what a blessing it was to be able to go back and read it!(one of the biggest reasons I am back to blogging)

I want to share with you a comment a dear friend left on that post that blessed me then and again today when I reread it.

As God shapes, molds and changes you through this new season fix your eyes on Him. I know that God is using this time to bring a different dynamic to your relationship with Him. I'm excited to see what these winds of change will result in. Remember that discipleship is difficult....truly denying ourselves and giving our lives to Christ is a narrow road.....but we need to do this to become more like Christ...we cannot gain a resurrected life without dying. I'm praying for you sista!! -Carrie Stannert

Wow! Do you think she had any idea the wisdom she was dishing out?!?! I'm thinking those words just might need to be hanging somewhere I can read them everyday!

Back to the time line...

Today- I love Jesus more then I ever have! He is more real to me then he ever has been! While I do still struggle at times...ultimately I know He is who fills my cup. Today I know my place and I know where he wants me to be. I am so blessed to be at home loving and serving my family. I am blessed with a great community of believers of whom I feel I have healthy and balance relationships with. Don't get me wrong, I do still struggle at times with the pull to be everywhere with everyone... So I could love them and they could love me! Sounds good right? Wrong! I have learned that community and relationships within the body are an absolute must. But not when I allow them to cause my role as wife and mom, or more importantly sitting at Jesus' feet to suffer. A careful balancing act I will continue to walk prayerfully.

And because we are keeping it real... I struggle with all the mudane duties as wife and mother. Trust me, just because I know God has called me to do this doesn't me I'm always pleasant and joyful while doing it = / This Post over at Stay At Home Missionary's site is amazing. A must read!!!

love

30 Day Challenge: Friday Updates (sorry it's late)

2010-08-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

So sorry this is late my fellow 30 Day Challengers. I got home from a camping trip yesterday and just had SO much to do with no time to blog. I am excited to hear how the challenge has been going for you this week.

Days13-19 (Wow, only 11 days left already!)

Challenge 1:Time in Gods Word
At the beginning of my week I had some great time in the word. I spent a lot of time in 1 Peter and got some great verses that I will cling to during a struggle I am having right now. I am so thankful for God's word! He gives me comfort through it so often. The last couple days I have not read at all. I forgot to take a bible camping...LAME, is all I can say about that.

Challenge 2: Exercise
So far this week I got in 3 yoga, 1 run and 1 good walk. I plan to do another run today, hopefully a long one. This Mama needs the stress release right now. I was so hoping to get a run in along the beach while I was camping but taking my 4 kids and leaving my hubby at home for this trip...well you get the picture. No time for Mama to run. The trip was great though! I will post pics later today.

Challenge 3: Eating Healthy
This one is still going pretty good although I did drink a some soda and have more than my share of peanut butter cups while camping =/. Over all though I can't wait to share more about the changes my family is making. We are making some big changes in the way we eat! Basically changing to buy more organic products, more fruits, vegs, beans and rice, less meat and dairy, buying only pasture fed meat and doing our best to buy local. A lot of reasons behind this and I look forward to sharing with you how I intend on doing this the most frugal way possible.

Challenge 4: Organization
Did get anything done on this this week because I have been to busy packing, camping and now unpacking. I have 11 days to get it done and I intend on doing just that!

love

30 Day Challenge: Friday Updates

2010-07-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I hope you all have had a good week meeting your challenges! I look forward to reading about them. No matter where you are in the challenge...maybe you are half way, just starting or thinking through what your challenge should be, we would LOVE an update from you. :)

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
Yowsers! I actually missed a couple days last weekend and I can honestly say I have no excuse other then laziness and lack of discipline. The rest of the days have been good. I have been mediating on some verses regarding strength from God so I have been reading scripture surrounding these verses.

I can do everything through him who gives me strength

Phil 4:13

For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 12:10

May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

Colossians 1:11-12

Challenge 2: Exercise

So far this week I have my 2 days of yoga in and 1 run in. Thankfully I still have through Sunday to meet get 1 more run in!

Challenge 3: Eating healthy

So far so good again. I think I was a little short on my water one day but other then that I am doing good. It really hasn't been that tough other then craving a soda when I was at a wedding in 95 degree weather last weekend...but I was able to resist.

Challenge 4: Organization
Yahooooo! I got a lot done on this challenge this week. I cleaned the room I keep all our homeschool stuff in and went through and organized all our books. I am super excited to start making my scope and sequence for the year!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-28T20:50:00.000-07:00

Works for me Wednesday

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

I've been saving plastic containers and glass jars for some time now just knowing I will find a purpose for them. Here is what I've come up with so far.

These containers hold sesame seeds, rice and mixed nuts I bought in the bulk foods section and my pancake mix that comes in a box. I use a sharpie to write any directions I may need for the product on the lid. This is a great way to reuse, reduce, recycle and it keeps your food fresh!

Do you save old containers? If so share with us how you use them!

Pssssst Abbey...share with us your post on the paint jars you did a while back. :)
Pssssst Amber...share with us your post on your drinking glasses. :)

Cowboy and Cowgirl

2010-07-26T18:57:00.000-07:00

Howdy y'all!!! If these two ain't the cutest little twirps on the west side of the Rocky Mountains, I don't know a cow from a chicken. Sweet nibblets, I love these two!!!

My middle two have always been quite a pair. Like any siblings they have their fair share of fights but for the most part Lilly and Gus are like two pee's in a pod. They always have fun playing together and can do it for hours. Today they decided to dress up like a couple of cowboys. They are planning on washing the car while pretending it's their horse.

A little bit about my cowgirl: She's sweet and feisty all at the same time. She rises early with the birds and is like a ray of sunshine in our family. She loves attention and has very little patients. Like her big sister, fashion is a must. She loves to wear black because she says "all the girls who dress nice wear black." She would wear high heels everyday if we let her.

A little bit about my cowboy: This little guy is an all around boy! Though he has traded some of is rough and tumble spark for some sweet and sensitiveness. He gets his feelings hurt very easy but is (usually) quick to forgive. He is also very good about apologizing all on his own to his mama when he has been disrespectful. Up early with the birds he is NOT! Gus would sleep until lunch if I let him.

These kicks were made for running

2010-07-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Theirs a first time for everything right? Well at least a first time for running shoes... These are my nifty new kicks and I am uber excited about them!!! I was running in my 10 year old sketcher sports. They were meant to look sporty, not be used for sport. Thanks to a gift card from my fabulous friends the Lockwoods, I am running in comfort.

As much as I love having new kicks...I can't wait until these suckers are beat up. Cause that will mean I am a running machine. These kicks are gonna be with me as I better my best many times. As I shed the pounds. As I gain self confidence. As I converse with God. As I run a race or two, or three. As I am undone from what I've become.

I am so Thankful for my new kicks!

30 Day Challenge: Friday Updates

2010-07-23T09:53:00.000-07:00

Days 1-4

Since it is still the am I have not done any of my challenges yet today so I will just be updating Mon-Thurs today.

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
Well I have met this challenge everyday so far but the first 3 days it was just enough to get my minimum and I was not putting much into, if ya know what I mean. Yesterday I read a couple chapters in Genesis. I ended with the 10 commandments. It is good to be reminded of the law God gave his people before the time of Jesus. I do want to share what I read on Tuesday night. I was laying in bed when I realized I hadn't met this challenge so I jumped out of bed, opened the bible and this is what I landed on. Note: This is the second time I've landed on this scripture when I've done it this way.

Though the fig tree should not blossom,

nor fruit be on the vines,

the produce of the olive fail

and the field yields no food,

the flock be cut off from the fold

and there be no herd in the stalls,

yet I will rejoice in the Lord;

I will take joy in the God of my salvation.

God, the Lord, is my strength;

he makes my feet like the deer's;

he makes me tread on my high places.

Habakkuk 3:17-19

To me this verse like many other verses speaks to leaning on God, our strength and our joy when we are struggling or things just aren't going as we had planned. I have remembered that he is my strength but forgot the part about him being my joy too. When I have been at my weakest and I felt like I can't go on, I have looked to God to give me the strength to keep going forward. But I have gone forward without joy. I can't help but think about what that has done for my witness to those around me...bleh! It is normal for us to not always feel joy, especially when things are not going our way. But we must remember to look to God to give us joy! He is our joy and our strength!!!

Challenge 2: Exercise

Seriously exercise is now just a part of my life. It takes little effort for me to make the time to do it because I LOVE IT!!! (I only wish that will happen with my bible reading) I am only 4 days in and I have already met my goal of running twice and doing yoga twice. I have also done toning exercises for my abs and arms in addition. Today is supposed to be a rest day but I think I will do some more toning exercises. They are all low impact so my joints will still be getting a rest. (I think)

Challenge 3: Eating Healthy

So far so good! I have stuck to all the rules with the exception of 1. Rule # 5. No eating after 8pm. I feel I will need to modify this rule because I sometimes run in the evening and I don't get done until after 8pm and I need to eat a little something (usually a banana) after I run. So the modification to the rule will be No junk food or high fat foods after 8pm. Fruits and veggies will be okay.

Much to my liking I have lost 2 lbs since Monday. While this challenge is about eating healthier not losing wait I need to lose some weight (for health reasons). I need to lose about 20lbs but would like to lose about 40lbs. But hitting that hard will come at a later challenge. For now I am just trying to change some really bad habits.

Challenge 4: Organization

Let me just say boy did my hubby hit the nail on the head with this one! I haven't done a thing for this challenge yet...I'm glad I still have 25 more days to meet it. Trust me, I've thought a ton about what i need to do. Now I just need to do it.

So how is your challenge going??? No matter where you're at in the challenge or how it is going, please give us an update by linking a post below :)

love,

Testing/30 Day Challenge

2010-07-21T12:55:00.000-07:00

Just want to check and see if my link system will work before our 30 Day Challenge updates on Friday :)

Feel free to link a post to what you are doing for your current challenge.

30 day Challenge: Round 2

2010-07-18T22:23:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been a nice break from having a challenge to meet but I am excited to get back in it! Here are the challenges I am taking on over the next 30 Days.

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
I have decided to continue this challenge because I don't feel it has become habit enough for me. Same rules apply as last time.

Challenge 2: Exercise
These rules have changed. As much as I love running I know that I need to incorporate other forms of exercise in order to be completely physically fit. I have been working a lot on my endurance but really need to work on my strength and flexibility. So My new challenge will be to run 2 times a week and do yoga 2 times a week. I am going to try to do some cross training 1 day and rest 2 days in addition to this but that will not be part of my challenge.

Challenge 3: Eating Healthier
After being challenged by my dear friend Kaitlyn on what the definition of a diet really is and discussing things over with my husband I have decided against a drastic change and/or a crash diet. Here are the areas I will be focusing on or the rules if you will.
1. Drink more water
2. Eat smaller portions
3. Choose healthy snacks between meals
4. No Soda
5. No eating after 8pm (I will give myself grace on this if it is a special night but no more then once a week)
6. No seconds on desserts

Disclaimer: These are the rules I am starting with on this challenge. I will not remove any of these rules but depending on how it goes I might ad to them as I see needed.

Challenge 4: Organization
I was gonna go a lot more ambitious on this challenge but thankfully my Husband is here to bring me back down to earth and not bite off more then I can chew. So for this challenge I am giving myself the next 30 days to organize all our home school stuff (books, art and office supplies, ect.) and make my curriculum plan and schedule for the school year.

I do want to share one more change I am making to the challenges this time around. I have decided I will give my challenge updates on Friday only (unless I have something I really need to share). I hope the rest of you who are participating will share with us how your challenge is going on Fridays also. I plan to have a link option available so you can ad your update to my post and we can all share, encourage and inspire each other on our 30 Day Challenge journeys.

I am also super exited to share that my hubby has decided to take on his own 30 day challenge too!!! He will not be blogging about his challenge but said that I can share them with all my readers. So here they are

Clint's Challenge 1: Keep the lawn green and plush for the next 30 days

Clint's Challenge 2: No shaving for 30 days. ( I told him with this challenge that means no ____ for 30 days either. LOL)

Okay, so those are not really his challenges...but he did think they would be good ones! I will share his real challenges with ya next time :)

Happy Challenging yourself!!!

30 day Challenge: DAY 30!!!!!!

2010-07-15T22:49:00.000-07:00

I DID IT!!!!!!!!!

I am shouting it from the roof top!!! Can you hear me?!?!

30 days of reading Gods word EVERYDAY and 30 days of exercising EVERYDAY!!! Not on my own strength but through the power of Christ I have been changed. I praise God for the work He has done in me through this challenge. Like I said before, I had no idea doing this would impact my life as much as it has.

Rather then giving you the specific on how I met my challenges today I will share a little bit on how each challenged has changed me.

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word

Over the last 30 days God has spoken to me through His word. He has given me wisdom on how to deal with being sinned against and how to deal with my own sin. He has shown me sin I did not know I had. He has taught me more about what it really means to fear Him. He has guided me on how to be a better wife and mother. He has blessed me with stories from when the world first began and comforted me by the grace he has extended to so many before me. He has blessed me through His word.

Challenge 2: Exercise

When I started this challenge is was all about physical health. Little did I know it was going to impact my spiritual health more then anything else. My time exercising has turned out to be a great time for me to meet with God. Time to talk with Him and a time to listen. God has shown me how to worship and glorify Him through caring for the body He not only created, but created just for me. Exercise has also been a huge stress reliever for me and it feels SO good to do something for myself and by myself. As a homeschooling mom of four I NEED that time. I have also learned that my body can do things I never thought it could do and that I can preserver through the tough spots and continue to challenge myself. I am so excited for what lye's ahead!

Stay tuned cause I will start back up with another challenge next week and my BFF is working on a button that you will be able to grab for your blog to show that you are a 30 Day Challenger (and maybe some 30 day challenge completion awards too).

If you haven't taken a 30 Day Challenge yet now is the time to join us!

And we can all feel like this together

Beautiful Blogger Awards

2010-07-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Rachel over at Saved By Grace just gave me an award!

WOW Rachel! Thank you! You are to sweet. Rachel is my friend, a fellow homeschooling mom and my sister in Christ. I met her at Grace a few years ago. Rachel is creative, helpful and honest and I love all those things about her.

Here are the rules:

1) Add a link and note of thanks to the person giving the award
2) Pass the award on to the bloggers whose blogs you love (15 tops)
3) Share 7 things about yourself

I have decided to take a different approach to the Beautiful Bloggers Awards. I know a couple bloggers who I used to LOVE reading their blogs. Both of these bloggers use to fill there blogs with beautiful pictures and cute stories of there kids. They also blogged about their journeys with Christ be it a praise or a struggle. They shared theirs hearts, families, joys and sorrows with us through their blogs. I do so miss these ladies blogs and I hope they will share with us again soon.

Carrie at Day by Day in Grace
Amber at Under Construction

7 things about me

1) As a teen I drove a pink VW convertible (every girls dream) and I vow to one day drive one again.
2) I have never played a team sport in my entire life ( I don't like balls being thrown at me :))
3) When I was a baby I crawled out of the house while my parents were busy painting. I went up our street, crossed a busy street in Edmonds, went up another block and down a another street where a lady found me playing in her yard. I was wearing a t-shirt and had a poppy diaper. Meanwhile my parents had called the police and were frantically looking for me. My mom said that when she picked me up at the police station I was having the time of my life making all the policemen laugh.
4) I am really good at stuffing away my feelings. I think its because my childhood and teen years were so rough and it was my way of survival. Sometimes it's a blessing and other times it feels like a curse.
5) I never found out what we were having with any of our pregnancies but got exactly the sex I wanted with each one.
6) I seriously cannot wait to be a grandma. It seems like so much fun!!! If my kids don't get married and have kids until later in life it will feel like a punishment to me. LOL!
7) My favorite color had always been pink (any shade) but for my wedding I chose lavender in honor of my grandma who passed away that year.

30 day Challenge: Day 29

2010-07-15T07:40:00.000-07:00

This one will be short sweet! Or maybe just short...

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
Read Exodus 17

Challenge 2: Exercise
Did Yoga and some leg work

30 day Challenge: Days 26-28

2010-07-13T22:01:00.000-07:00

ONLY 2 MORE DAYS!!!!! I can't believe how fast its gone by and how much progress I have made. When I started this almost a month ago I had no idea what God had in store for me.

I am totally waffling on what to do for my next challenge but I better hurry up and decide. I know for sure I want to do some sort of food challenge. I'm just not sure what. Maybe y'all can offer your opinions and advice to help me decide (or confuse me even more). Here are the different avenues I am thinking and praying through-

Weight Watchers Points

Positives-I know it works if I stick with it cause it has in the past. I am experienced with it so I am not trying to figure out something new. It allows me to eat some of the foods others diets don't in a healthy moderation.

Negatives-Counting points is A LOT of work. I hate writing down what I eat.

Weight Watchers Core

Positive- Only eating healthy foods. No counting or writing down.

Negatives- Could be easy for me to over eat. (not good even if it is healthy foods) Going without quite a bit of food I am use to eating.

Counting Calories

Positives-Can eat all foods but forced to make healthy choices since my calorie intake will be low. A little less work than counting points but not much.

Negatives-Like points, counting calories is work.

No "crash diet" just make healthy choices

Positives-Probably the healthiest option. The best option for long term change.No counting and calculating.

Negatives- I NEED BOUNDARIES!!! This might be too easy for me to cheat.

Any helpful thoughts, advice or ideas you have for me would be greatly appreciated!!!

Now back to what this post was supposed to be about...

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word

Over the last couple of days I read a little bit in Hebrews, The whole book of Songs of Solomon and I am now back reading in Exodus. I am going to stick in Exodus until I finish it. I do so love reading the stories I often teach about in Sunday School. Its nice to get the adult version of it :)

Challenge 2: Exercise

I found these great 10 Minute Solution videos on Netflix instant. They each have 5 10 minute segments focusing on different parts of the body. What I like about these is you can do as much or as little as you have time for. I also like them cause I need to work on strength and flexibility, not just endurance (Thanks Abbey!) On Sunday I was able to squeeze in 4 10 minute segments. (Thighs, arms, abs and buns) On Monday I just did 2 segments. (cardio to warm up the muscles and then I did power stretching). Today I kicked butt though!!! I bettered my best and did 2.5 miles. 2 of which I ran!!! Whoooo hooooo! It felt good :)I cannot believe I am saying this but...

I (heart) EXERCISE!!!

What I've Become

2010-07-11T11:33:00.001-07:00

Over the last ten years I have become...

A glutton

Obese

A sluggard

Plagued with self doubt and self indulgence

My own worst enemy

As I look at those labels I have given myself all of the lies I have told myself over the years run through my mind as if they are on one of those electronic reader boards. "its not a big deal if you have another helping, food is for you to enjoy", "you are what you eat, a pile of crap", " you're to fat to workout", "you're fine just the way you are, why change", "you're not lazy, you just have other priorities", "you have no self control and no will power", "you are weak", "you'll never change so why even try",

While running on the trail when I was camping I would listen to my I-Pod on Shuffle. At one point this song came on and as I listened to the chorus I knew exactly why God brought me to running. He brought me to running because of what I've become.

Turn me around pick me up

Undo what I've become

Bring me back to the place

Of forgiveness and grace

I need you, need your help

I can't do this myself

You're the only one who can undo

What I've become

As I listened to the words I knew that God had begun a great work in me. Through the running he is showing me that I do have strength, will power and self control. He has shown me that through Him I can do all things!!! Yes, even running!!! He is showing me that it is important to take care of myself, how to care about myself and how to do it in a way that is glorifying to him. He is showing me that he will undo what I've become.

Over the years I have tried to change, only to fail. I CANNOT do it on my strength alone. I cry out to God the words of the song, "I need you, need your help. I can't do this myself." And there He is with a loving and gentle hand. He was there all along, patiently waiting for me to reach up from the pit and ask for his help.

For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 1:6

NASB

30 day Challenge: Days 23-25

2010-07-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

WOW! I can't believe I am already almost done. This is awesome! I am already thinking about what I will do for my next challenge. Here are a few of my ideas.

Eat no more than X amount of calories per day

Read a book aloud to one of my Children everyday

Not eat any food after 8pm

Exercise 4 days a week

Spend 20 minutes organizing/going through stuff in my house everyday

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word

I have finished Proverbs! My friend Rachel is reading it too and she posted a bit about the verses like (paraphrasing here) Better to live in a dry desert or have rotten bones then to live with a quarrelsome wife. Proverbs is the book of wisdom and their are quite a few verses saying this same thing so I think I better pay attention! I often justify my behavior based on my husbands. Titus 2 talks about how we should be as Godly wives and Mothers (loving, respectful, kind...) and at NO point does it say IF...

If he is in a good mood

If he completed the "honey do" list

If he is unselfish

If he makes good decisions

If he is loving to you

We need to love and respect our husbands because God has commanded us to regardless of their behavior. Just like our husbands we will have to answer to God for our own actions. I can't help but imagine a conversation with God when I stand before him one day.

God: Amber, why were you disrespectful and unloving to your husband when...

Me: God, didn't you see how selfish he was being when he was 1/2 hour late getting home from golfing? The kids were fighting and I had dinner ready! I needed him there on time!

God: You're kidding me! How could I miss that? What a selfish jerk he is!!! You poor thing. Here is 10 jewels for your crown cause you've had to endure so much.

Ya, that's how it will be right? But that sure is how I act sometimes. Ya feel me sisters???

Challenge 2: Exercise

Well on Thursday I was able to run over a mile. Friday I could have and should have got my exercise done in the am cause I had a busy day ahead but my discipline failed me. So when I got home at 1:20 am and was completely exhausted I did push ups, sit ups and leg exercises and then put my I-pod on and danced to get my 20 minutes in. I do not intend on letting that happen again cause it sucked!!! Saturday I coordinated a wedding all day. My plan was to get 20minutes of cardio on the dance floor baby! I did get in about 20 minutes of dancing but it was not consecutive cause I had responsibilities to attend too. However I was on my feet running around (other than using the potty 3 times) for 10 1/2 hours straight. My legs were killing me when I got home. After running over a mile and not being sore I believe I had more of a workout yesterday then any day in my challenges so far. And it was so much fun!

How it all began

2010-07-09T00:03:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share with you all how I went from doing 20 minutes on the Wii to running 1.5 miles. First of all I wasn't planning on it for sure. I wanted to challenge myself to do something good for my health. They say exercise is good for the heart and since my Grandmother died of heart disease at 63 I know it is something I need to be careful of. In the long run I do not feel I need to workout everyday, but since it is not something I am use to fitting into my life, I wanted to be diligent about it at first and get myself to the place where I actually craved it. (I always heard people say that but had never experienced that before...in fact I hated working out!)

So I started out doing the Wii and I liked it. I am not sure if it's because I am in a different place in my life (4 kids and homeschooling) or what, but I immediately noticed the release of stress I got from just 20 minutes of exercise. I never felt that way after exercising before. It also helped me to feel good about myself. The down side of the Wii most of the time was having my kids right there with me. So it wasn't a break. Then one weekend while away at the homeschool conference I got the opportunity to work out with my uber inspirational friend Carrie for a whole hour. A whole hour! No kids around. Just Carrie, me and a couple treadmills. It was awesome and I felt SO GOOD. So rather then the Wii I did my best to make it work for me to go to the YMCA. Checked the kids into childcare and I fell in love with the elliptical.

Family vacation time rolled around and there is no YMCA at my campgrounds so I knew I had to figure out something different. When I arrived my camping buddy Kayla told me about this great trail that her and her sister went **wogging on earlier that morning. I thought "perfect, now I know how I will get my exercise (and a break) and I hate running but I could probably wog.

So that evening off I set on the trail. Just like Kayla suggested I walked up the trail a little over a 1/2 mile and when I turned to go back I started to jog. I figured I would just do a bit and see how it goes. Much to my amazement I ran not just back to where the trail began but back to my campsite!!! I was SHOCKED and it wasn't as horrific as I thought running could be. The next day I went a little bit further and the next day a little further.

I am now running almost everyday. Some days are tougher then others and I don't always love every moment of it but God is doing a work on me. But that's for another post that is already in the works.

So that's how it all began. I leave you with the words of a famous runner whom I felt a bit like I could relate with since I never really planned on running. (can you guess who he is?)

That day, for no particular reason, I decided to go for a little run. So I ran to the end of the road, and when I got there, I thought maybe I'd run to the end of town. And when I got there, I thought maybe I'd just run across Greenbow County. And I figured since I run this far, maybe I'd just run across the great state of Alabama. And that's what I did I ran clear across Alabama. For no particular reason, I just kept on going. I ran clear to the ocean. And when I got there, I figured since I'd gone this far, I might as well turn around, just keep on going. When I got to another ocean, I figured since I've gone this far, I might as well just turn back, keep right on going.

** Wogging: Walking and jogging

30 day Challenge: Days 12-22

2010-07-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

So sorry it has been so long since I've updated. Vacation and then playing catch up with everything else once I got back home so no time to blog :) I am happy to say that even though I've been busy I have still been able to meet my challenges every day!!!

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
All but a couple days I have read at least a couple chapters (mostly proverbs) and the other days I did the minimum by squeezing in a paragraph or two. I am still very much enjoying Proverbs. I could easily pluck out a couple verses from each chapter and paste them a round my house as constant reminders. Hopefully soon I'll squeeze in the time to share some of my favorites with you.

Challenge 2: Exercise
I am praising God for the work he has done in me in this area!!! This really deserves a whole post of its own and it will get it. Just as soon as I find the time to write it. For now I'll just say that I have far exeded my own expextations of myself on this challenge and I am now running almost everyday. WHAT? ME RUNNING?!?!? I know, I am just as shocked as you are. Never tell God what you can't do cause he is liable to show you different :) My longest run with out stopping so far is 1.5 miles. For me that is a huge victory. God is my strength!

I hope to write more later but for now LOST on Netflix is calling my name.

How is your Challenge going? Its never to late to start :)

30 day Challenge:Days 10 and 11

2010-06-26T21:42:00.000-07:00

Whooey! What a busy couple of days I have had. Tomorrow will be another one, but after that...VACATION HERE I COME!!! I have to say that I am 11 days in and feeling super about it. For me, this is a big accomplishment. I am typically not a person who tries very hard and I easily give up if things are tough or don't fit into my life easily. God has really given me victory this year in quite a few of my bad habits and I have to shout praises to him for it. He is growing and shaping me as he conforms me to be more like Christ.

Thank you, thank you, thank you God for showing me the areas of my life that I need to be challenged in and for giving me the dedication and strength to walk in the direction you are guiding me.

I love you!

In all your ways acknowledge him,

and he will make your path straight.

Proverbs 3:6

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
Yesterday and today I spent some time in Ephesians. I love Ephesians! For me it is a feel good book. I just love being reminded through the Word how God lavishes his love on me. I am Chosen, adopted, forgiven, redeemed and blessed!

Confession-last night I actually went to bed without doing this challenge! I laid there for a couple minutes before I realized it. So I hopped out of bed and did my reading. Whew! That was a close one.

Challenged 2: Exercise
After running around like a mad women yesterday I finally found the time to get on the Wii and do 20 minutes of exercise. I would have much rather gone to the gym but time did not allow it. Today after yet another busy day at 8:30 I put on my kicks and headed out the door to speed walk the neighborhood. I've got a great hill in the back of my neighborhood so I huffed it up and down that thing a few times and it felt great! I have been pleasantly surprised with exercise turning out to be a great stress reliever for me. It also has given me more opportunity to spend time thinking and praying. Today on my walk God revealed to me a big thing that I have been holding onto and reminded me that Jesus will carry my burdens and that I need to give it to him. God is so faithful!

Updates over the next week-
Since I will be out of town it will be a bit tough to blog. I am hoping to try but no promises :) If I am unable to update you while I am gone a will fill ya in when I get back.

I want to hear how the rest of you are doing. I hope God is using your challenge to grow and shape you and that you are be blessed though it. Please leave a comment or do a post and share with us.

30 day Challenge: Day 9

2010-06-24T21:37:00.000-07:00

Sweet! I can't believe its already day 9! Just about a 1/3 of the way through.

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
Read Proverbs again today. I read chapters 12 and 13. The verse I would like to share with you is

Proverbs 13:24

Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but whoever loves him is diligent to discipline him.

I know that seems like kind of a weird one to share but I have a good reason. Drew was sitting next to me while I was doing my reading and I decided to share that verse with her. It started a short, but good conversation on how discipline is not fun but necessary because God requires us to do it.

Challenge 2: Exercise

I didn't think I was going to get the the gym today but I did!!! 1 hour a cardio split between the elliptical and the treadmill and I feel great! I heart the elliptical.

How is your challenge going?

Homemade ice cream fun!

2010-06-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

My Aunt found a fun and simple recipe for homemade ice cream from Family Fun Magazine so yesterday we gave it a shot! The kids had fun and more importantly, the ice cream was yummers. At first bite the taste was so familiar to me. I knew I had had this ice cream before but I couldn't figure out when or where. Then last night while my brain was thinking instead of sleeping (grrrrrrr) it came to me. I had it when I was a kid!!! You see my grandma bought me a Barbie ice cream maker and this ice cream tasted exactly the same. Nothing like doing something for my kids that brings back memories of my childhood. Things are always better the second time around!

So here is the directions for this super fun and WAY better then that stuff "they" call ice cream that comes in a carton :)

Forget endlessly cranking the handle of an ice-cream maker. After combining the ingredients, each guest can simply shake up his or her own pouch of soft serve--and it's done in just 5 minutes.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup half and half
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup salt (The bigger the granules, the better. Kosher or rock salt works best, but table salt is fine.)

Ice cubes (enough to fill each gallon-size bag about half full)
1 pint-size ziplock bag
1 gallon-size ziplock bag

Instructions

Combine the sugar, half and half, and vanilla extract in the pint-size bag and seal it tightly.
Place the salt and ice in the gallon-size bag, then place the sealed smaller bag inside as well. Seal the larger bag. Now shake the bags until the mixture hardens (about 5 minutes). Feel the small bag to determine when it's done.
Take the smaller bag out of the larger one, add mix-ins, and eat the ice cream right out of the bag. Easy cleanup too! Serves 1.

My additional tips-
1.The rock salt makes the ice really cold so you may want to offer gloves to the little ones. 2.We had made a few batches right away and a few batches after the ice had melted a bit and it seemed to work the second time so I would recommend making up the ice bags first and letting them sit a bit while you make the ice cream bag.
3. We double bagged our pint size bags just in case.

30 Day Challenge: Day 8

2010-06-23T22:35:00.000-07:00

Want to take a 30 Day Challenge with me? Click here for more details.

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word

I am loving Proverbs! There are way to many gold nuggets in each chapter to take them all in. I read 10 again today and read 11 too. I had a hard time choosing a verse to share with you but I finally settled on this one.

Proverbs 11:24

One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.

Hmmmmmmmm... If your anything like me you have suffered want. This verse was very convicting to me and left me with lots to think about.

Challenge 2: Exercise

Today I went to the YMCA and took the Cardio Step Class. Woooooey, did I feel like a fool! It was a tough work out and a lot of fun but man am I ever uncoordinated. That guy moved so fast and was all over the place. Up and down and all around. After class I asked him how many times does one usually need to take the class before having an idea about what the heck I'm doing? He said I'm gonna need to give it about 8 classes. So 7 more before I decided whether or not Step is for me. I am hoping it is. I like it better then Zumba cause I don't have to shake my boobs or rump :) I do have to ad though that I dislike working out in front of all those mirrors!!! Is anybody with me??? I feel much thinner on a treadmill where I cannot see myself :) Not sure what my workout plans are for tomorrow cause it will be a busy day. I would love to make it to the gym but might have to settle for a walk around the track.

Toodles,

30 Day Challenge: Day 7

2010-06-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

Whoooo hoooo 1 week in!!! This will be quick cause I'm posting yesterdays stats and I'm about to head out the door for the gym to work on todays :)

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
I read Proverbs 30. Always good reminders in this gem!!!

Challenge 2: Exercise
I did 35 minutes on the elliptical and another 23 minutes on the treadmill. (did I spell that right?)

Off to the Y :)

30 Day Challenge: Days 5 and 6

2010-06-21T20:54:00.000-07:00

6 days in!!! Whoot whoot! I am SO glad I decided to do this. I am already thinking about what I might do for another 30 day challenge once I finish this one. I was also thinking today that I would LOVE to have a little get together once we are all finished with our first 30 days. What do ya say Abbey, Kaitlyn, Heather, Rachel, and Carrie?!?!

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
Well I must admit yesterday and today I was just getting through with this challenge. Yesterday I read Proverbs 9 and today Proverbs 10. Proverbs 10 was REALLY good but I was not in the mood to dig deep so I am planning on rereading it again and in a couple different versions too.

Challenge 2: Exercise
I can honestly say that exercising everyday feels GREAT! Today was the first day I didn't exercise first thing when I woke up and I was craving it all day. I could have just got on the Wii but I was craving more. First I better start with yesterday though. In the morning I felt like it was time to do some arm exercises so I can work on getting rid of my "bingo arms".Ha! So I did push ups and various arm exercises with light weights (soup cans) and I also did sit ups and leg exercises. Did it all for 20 minutes. Today the whole fam went over to the MHS track. Clint and I walked while the kids played. I have no idea how many laps or how long but it was definitely longer then my required 20. We walked at a very fast pace and it was a good work out. It felt great! I was so glad hubby joined me and the kids had fun. You can't beat fresh air either :)

30 Day Challenge: Day 4

2010-06-19T14:52:00.000-07:00

Day 4 has been my BEST day on the challenge yet!!!

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
On the way to the convention from the hotel I read aloud in the car with Clint Chapters 4-8 of Proverbs. I am loving Proverbs! Who couldn't use some wisdom right? It is challenging me to seek first the wisdom God has for me rather then trying to figure it all out on my own. Gods wisdom is amazing, powerful, truthful and so much more!!! Maybe later this eve I'll do a little more reading in Exodus.

Challenge 2: Exercise

I had an absolute BLAST working out today!!! I got up just after 6am and headed down to the hotel gym where I found Carrie on the treadmill. I hopped on the one right next to hear and a chatting and walking we went. I was only planning on doing 30 minutes but the conversation was so good I didn't get off the treadmill for over an hour! The workout felt great and time with my dear friend Carrie was a huge blessing! I am now a total fan of having a workout buddy cause the time flies. I hope I get the chance to workout with her again soon.

How is the 30 Day Challenge going for you? It's never to late to join us! :)

30 Day Challenge: Day 3

2010-06-18T17:36:00.000-07:00

Well I thought that day 3 would be the hardest because I am down in Puyallup at the WHO convention, but I completed both my challenges by 9am!

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
On the way to the convention I read the 1st 3 chapters in Proverbs. It was nice because I read it out loud So Clint can listen too.

Challenge 2: Exercise
I got up at 6am and did 21 minutes on the WII.

Well I better go cause we are off to go have dinner with our awesome friends Carrie and Kyle :)

30 Day Challenge: Day 2

2010-06-17T10:21:00.000-07:00

Not sure what the 30 Day Challenge is? Click here (I would love for you to join me)

Challenge 1: Time in Gods Word
I am beginning to think God is trying to teach me something about Fearing Him. I pray I can learn it. Today I read Exodus 5,6 and 7. I'll admit I skimmed the section in 6 recording Moses and Aaron genealogy. =/ I also felt lead to read Proverbs because I am needing some wisdom. I read the 1st chapter. The verse I would like to share is

Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Challenge 2: Exercise

I did the fit again today. I did the advanced step a couple times and then the hula hoop a couple times. Man is that hula hooping a good calorie burner! Now I just need to get better at catching the hoops tossed at me. After the 22 minutes I got on the fit I went ahead and did 100 sit ups.

Its not to late to start the 30 Day Challenge!!! I hope you decide to join us :)

30 Day Challenge: Day 1

2010-06-16T21:06:00.000-07:00

Not sure what the 30 Day Challenge is? Click here

To be expected my first day on the challenge went great! I think day 3 will pose to be a challenging one...but I'll worry about that then. Here is how day 1 went.

Challenge #1: Time in Gods Word
I read the first 4 chapters in Exodus. You see, at the beginning of the year I decided I wanted to read the Bible cover to cover throughout the year. Needless to say I only got through Genesis. So today I picked up where I left off. (note:I have read the Bible more, just not in order)

What I enjoyed most about what I read today was the part about the midwives. Exodus 1:17 But the midwives feared God and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but let let the male children live. Basically because the Israelites had increased in number so much the Pharaoh wanted the midwives to kill all the boys born to Hebrew woman. But because they feared God rather than men, they didn't. It challenges me to think about what I would do or not do if I was truly fearing God rather than man.

Challenge #2: Exercise
Today I got 22 minutes of exercise on the WII Fit. I did 2 sets of basic step aerobics and 1 advanced. Then i did 2 short runs and 1 long run. I got my heart rate uo and was breathing heavy during the long run. Overall it wasn't to hard and felt good. I'll probably do something similar tomorrow unless I can fit the gym in.

30 Day Challenge

2010-06-16T14:16:00.000-07:00

For Who: Anyone willing to join me...YOU :)

What: Whatever you would like to challenge yourself to do or not do for 30 days

How it works: Pick your challenge, decide when you will start, post/comment about it or let someone know who can encourage you or help keep you accountable throughout your 30 days. Or keep it between you and God is good too. And GO FOR IT!!!!

The History: Clint and I recently watched "Super Size Me". You know that movie where the guy ate McDonalds and only McDonalds for 30 days straight. Well Clint and I decided to do our own 30 day Challenge. We decided to NOT eat ANY fast food for 30 days. We classified fast food as anything that had a drive through. Anyways, WE DID IT and it wasn't hard at all.

So as I have recently been challenged about taking better care of my body and also feeling like I need more time in the Word I decided to take on 2 30 Day Challenges.

My 30 Day Challenge #1

I am going to crack open the bible and read everyday from God's Word. Some days it will be a little and some days a lot. No matter what, I will be cataloging it on this blog.

My rules for this challenge are...

1) This reading must take place in the bible. That bible could be in my hand, online or on my phone.

My kids story bibles, verses read on FB, text messages, or scattered around my house will not count.

2) I must read a minimum of one paragraph (I hope I will do more but not committing)

My 30 Day Challenge #2
I am going to get at least 20 minutes of exercise everyday. Some days I will go to the gym, others day I might just walk in my neighborhood or do the WII Fit. Just like the other challenge no matter what, I will catalog it on this blog.
My Rules for this challenge are...
1) The exercise must be purposeful. I cannot stroll Target for 20 minutes looking for a gift and call it exercise. But I can purposefully play tag with my kids in order to get 20 minutes of exercise.
2) I must be elevating my heart rate. You may call this rule a no brainer but I can easily be a cheater and take a leisurely stroll without much effort so I must give myself parameters.

Will you take the 30 Day Challenge with me??? It can be anything. I hope you decide to join me. I look forward to hearing about how you will challenge yourself.

Testing

2010-06-16T12:55:00.000-07:00

Testing out this cute new signature thing. Click on it if you wanna get one too :)

Welcome to the blogging world

2010-06-15T21:44:00.000-07:00

My sweet Drew has started a blog. She is one creative cat so I can't wait to see what she'll do with it.

I am sure it will include funny stories of her days and feature some of her art and school work.

She would LOVE for you to check it out but we have made her blog private so just comment or email me if you would like to be invited to follow her.

2010-06-15T21:25:00.000-07:00

Loving (and having way too much fun with) the new blog designs

Feeling blessed to have an amazing homeschooling community

Thankful my hubby loves me so much and has been expressing it so often

Happy to take a break from school for the rest of the month

Being challenge on taking better care of my self

Thinking and praying through what that might look like

Wondering if the girls will get into the classes I registered them for

Glad it has rains often enough for my garden

Realizing I need to be better at using sunscreen (ya happy Heather?) =)

Needing more time in Gods word

Ecstatic that Lilly is loving gymnastics team

Praising God for bringing Drew some new friends

Looking forward to all the summer activities I have planned

Hoping I can fit it all in

Wishing my Dad wasn't so busy so we could hang out more

Watching the LOST series with hubby and loving it

Needing to get off the computer and go make his lunch

Goodbye =)

Weekend Review (enjoying the sun while it lasts)

2010-06-15T20:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend we tried to make the most a the sunny days.

Activities included...

A Car Show

A little Didly Bo

Playing in the backyard!!!

Do you think maybe we need a bigger pool???

And of course a little yard work

"Don't take my picture lady"

And I can't forget FREE Groceries!

Everything in this picture was... ABSOLUTELY FREE!!! And those juice boxes you see...ya, there is 60 more not pictured that I got all for FREE too! Oh, did I mention it was all FREE?!?! (I'm just having fun now) But seriously, its all FREE. Okay, I'll shut up now.

Those are all my highlights from the weekend but I had some low lights to...Like turning into a lobster!!! Not good. Did you know sunscreen starts loosing its potency after about a year? I didn't, but I sure do now.

How was your weekend? Did you get out and enjoy the Sunshine?

Wishful Wednesday

2010-06-09T07:55:00.001-07:00

Thoughts on 30

2010-06-08T14:03:00.000-07:00

Definition: 30(thirty) is the natural number following 29 and preceding 31.

Thoughts on 30: I am pleasantly surprised to say I LOVE 30! When I turned 29 I was depressed at the thought of being in my last year of the 20's. But the closer 30 got the better it looked. I couldn't help but think of all the amazing things I have to look forward to in my 30's!

Clint and I will celebrate 10 years of marriage!! (w/ a trip to Mexico I will add. Thanks Dad)

Our first child will not only graduate high school but also enter her 20's. (that's a shocker)

We will have 2 teenage girls and a teenage boy before my 30's are up!!! (help us Lord)

2 kids driving

I will likely get to ditch the mini van. (though I do love it)

Another trip to Disneyland

I will change my LAST DIAPER!!!! (at least of my own children =/)

I am sure their are so many more amazing things to come that I haven't even thought of but the thing I look forward to the most is something a dear friend once said. She said that her relationship w/ Christ got better then ever in her 30's. More steady, consistent, deeper and richer. I only pray I will be able to say the same thing a few years form now.

Quotes on 30: At 30 we finally know a little something about how life works but the sparks of youth are still flying. -some designer guy named Tyler

The thirties are great--old enough to know better, but young enough to do it anyway!-Sharon Clifton

Last but not least, the quote that has spoke to me the most making the transition from my 20's to my 30's

Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter.-Mark Twain

A letter to my 20's

2010-05-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

To my dearest 20’s,

We have been together for a long time. 10 years in fact! We’ve had a lot of good times haven’t we? As I think about you I realize that you brought me some of the most amazing and memorable experiences I will have throughout my entire life time! It is you who has shaped so much of what my life will for hold for all the years to come. I am forever grateful for you. Yes, we have had a few bad times. Things I don’t like to even think about. But we made it through didn’t we. You and me made a great team. But now it is time to say goodbye. I will miss you 20’s. But I will never forget you as you live on in my heart forever.
Love,
Amber

Ps- Just so we never forget what we had together, I have made us a list of some of our amazing memories.
In my 20’s I…
Married the man of my dreams
Met and fell in-love with Jesus
Gave birth to 3 of my 4 beautiful children
Purchased my first house
Had 8 different Jobs
Discovered that I love to teach kids
Grew a whole shoe size and added plenty of junk to the trunk
Made so many wonderful friends (the kind I will have 4-ever)
Started homeschooling
Became a scrapbooker, couponer, and a blogger
Took my 2nd and best trip to Disneyland
Did the YMCA in front of thousands of crazy stampers
Said a last goodbye to both my Grandmas and my Papa
Had an article written about me in the news paper
Lived out my Pop Star fantasy on the karaoke stage
Visited Florida, Utah, Louisiana, Illinois & Mexico for the first time
Spent over 2 years being pregnant
Bought a Mini Van (even though I swore I never would) and I LOVE it!
Had countless different hairstyles

Just a little math

2010-05-11T07:37:00.000-07:00

lilly's gymnastic show + family and friends over for treats + birthday parties and fiestas + sleep overs + sunny weather + snuggling on the couch until falling asleep with gus (my fave part) + playing games with my girls + working in the garden + hanging out with my aunt and cousin + thoughtful and handmade gifts from my kiddos + church + brunch with ma and pa + relaxing and laying in the sun + a walk with my family + banana split + long chats with hubby
=
a happy, proud and thankful mama

Happy 1/2 Birthday Evie!!!

2010-03-11T08:26:00.000-08:00

6 months already! Yes, I can believe how fast time flies. It seems like just yesterday I was changing my tweens diapers!

Evie is hitting the miles stones fast. (with the exception of sleeping through the night) She loves to chow down on food, rolls all over the place, has great hand eye coordination (she can find her binky, put it in her mouth and flip it over if it's upside down) and this past week she started sitting up and drinking from a cup. I am really excited about her sitting up cause she would much rather play on the floor then in one of the zillion baby contraptions we have and sitting up will make it much more enjoyable for her (I hope). She laughs and chatters but really loves to growl. When we were in the hospital Clint started doing a low growl to get her to stop crying so I blame him for having a growling baby :)

As you can see her hair on top has grown a ton and she is now a pigtail girl...SO CUTE! But the hair on her sides has been falling out. A few of us have come up with our own ideas of what it looks like...Clint: She looks like a Tom Boy! (he loves it)
Heather: It looks like old lady hair that is thinning.
Mom: It looks like a dollar store barbie dolls hair. (If you've ever bought a barbie from the dollar store you know what I am talking about)

Whatever you decide it looks like, we think she's the cutest baby ever :)

This next pic features another one of her fabulous hair styles.
This is the "pigtails aftermath" doo. Doesn't she just melt your heart?

Happy 1/2 Birthday Evie girl!!!
We love you little lady.

January Totals

2010-02-04T20:24:00.000-08:00

Aaaaaaah, don't we all just love sticking to a budget??? Clint and I have set a monthly budget of $400 for groceries and toiletries which I think is pretty darn good for a family of six. What is included in our budget?

Any and all food items

Any and all beauty products

All over the counter meds

I buy allergy meds for both Clint and Drew plus a constant supply of heartburn meds for Clint. (yes, I know he needs to go see a Dr but that will have to wait until we get insurance in May.)

All paper products such as tp, paper towels, napkins, plates...

All baby products INCLUDING DIAPERS

Basically all consumable items in our house with the exception of school supplies.

(I DO count couponing supplies in our budget though)

Well I am happy to say that in January we were under budget!!!!

Total spent: $ 355.41

Total Saved: $680.68

Of that $680.68, $335 was from coupons alone!

Let me just say that I LOVE coupons!!!

What am I going to do with my extra $45 you ask???

Well buy some groceries for my sister who is a single Mom of course!

Lately

2010-02-01T22:01:00.000-08:00

Been feeling like this

Not really sure why??? Went to bed on Friday an extrovert and woke up on Saturday an introvert. Had lots of time to myself this weekend and LOVED it!!! And would quite honestly be home more then any where else in the world right now.
Home sweet home :) hmmmmmmmm

Flashback Friday

2010-01-22T11:59:00.001-08:00

Drew and A.J. (2003)

Weekend Review

2010-01-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

All and all it was a good weekend at the Mitchell house. The girls and I had made some treats for Clint to take to work on Friday and from what I hear they were a hit! I was pretty excited about that since I had come up with the idea all on my own. I took those Snyder's pretzel nibblers, (free from couponing) rolled them in melted chocolate and then sprinkled them with crushed peanuts. Since it was my creation I got to name them.

What do ya think of my Lincoln logs?
Clint got home from work early on Friday and then we went to community group. It was a great night at group. The women and men broke off from one another and the women discussed the first chapter in Feminine Appeal. We had a great discussion that lead to a very intimate and honest time of sharing. Definitely a time of bonding and a time of mentoring one another. It sounded like the men had a great time too. We are blessed with an amazing group!!

The Herald newspaper had offered Amber and I tickets to the Silvertips Hockey game and since she was busy Clint and I had a date night. The game was fun and FREE and it was awesome to spend some time with my hunk of burning love!

Speaking of my hunk of burning love... I am so thankful for him! Here he is on Sunday evening in the dark and rain outside fixing something. He is such a hard worker and pretty darn handy to have around. I am also so thankful for the wisdom and guidance he gives me. I would be running around like a basket case 99% of the time (as apposed to my current 50%) if I didn't have him to help me balance and prioritize the things in our lives that will most honor our loving God.

Sunday night my sweet Evie had her first taste of mush. She quite liked it I must say! I was hoping it would extend the amount of sleep I would get but it did not prove to be the case. Maybe tonight...

She immediately grabbed the spoon out of my hand and was wanting to hold it in her mouth. SO CUTE!

Today we ran some errands and I was able to get a coat I had my eye on for quite sometime now at a fraction of the price!!! Sometimes it really does pay to wait. Then we cashed in one of our gift cards for a yummy lunch at Red Robin. I LOVE Red Robin!!! Clint and I split our meals cause everything looked so good and we couldn't decide what to get.

Well I better sign off now as the Family move night is about to start without me...

One-way

2010-01-15T09:26:00.000-08:00

So often I find myself driving down a one-way street in my relationship with God. I am heading in His direction and sending much His way, yet so often I forget to stop and listen and see what He might have for me. Relationships must go both ways. Otherwise there is not really much of a relationship at all. I need to remind myself to slow down and stop at the station to fill up on his word. I need to take every rest stop I see along the way and quiet my heart to listen to what he has for me while resting in Him.

Lord, I thank you for forgiveness of my selfish ways. I want to drink your word daily. I want to crave it and need it like it is the air that I breathe. Help me to be obedient to your call.

2010-01-14T13:19:00.000-08:00

My life is but a weaving

Between my God and me

I do not choose the colors

Yet He worketh steadily

Of times He weaveth sorrow

and I in foolish pride

forget He sees the upper

and I the underside

Not until the loom is silent

and the shuttles cease to fly

will God unfold the canvas

and explain the reasons why

The dark threads are as needed

in the skillful weavers hands

as the threads of gold and silver

in the pattern He has planned

Title and Author-Unknown

Baby Girl

2010-01-12T19:36:00.000-08:00

4 months ALREADY?!?!

Time does fly when you're havin' fun! Evie is just a sweet baby and we love her to pieces. In the last 4 months she-

practically doubled in size

smiles all the time

coos and chatters (sometimes in her bed at 3am)

chews on her fingers while drooling all over

rolls and rolls back to front and front to back like our very own little steam roller

likes to bat at, grab and chew on toys

loves her siblings and soaks up all the attention they give her

Even if it means putting up with this

My buddy and me

2010-01-02T12:40:00.001-08:00

Yesterday my buddy, Gus and I had some special time together. With 4 kids it is not very often I get to spend time with them individually, so I very much treasure the time when it comes. He picked our first activity which was a game of hide and seek.

See how good at hiding he is. (so cute)

Before going to the pet store to check out all the cool animals...

mom decided her buddy needed a treat!

My buddy and me had so much fun! I just love that little guy. He is so sweet and so much fun to be with. I look forward to the next time we can hang out, just my buddy and me.

Decades Diner

2010-01-01T16:24:00.000-08:00

The dining experience at Decades Diner is like no other. The atmosphere is fabulous, the service top notch and the food, well the food is a mystery! Just take a look at the menu...

Do you have any idea what Round Moo or Coop Cakes are?!?! Or what about Thin square or Purple Sparkle?!?! You might just be surprised at what turns up on your plate.

The dining experience!

The after party!

The out takes!

"Love for my homies!"

2009-12-31T08:27:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's what she always says. Along with "peace out" and "sup". She is one cool kid fo shizzle!!! Clint and I are so proud of this girl... she's creative, fun and clever. She loves animals, wearing bright colors and playing WII. She is learning sign language from Amanda and Kaitlyn but can't wait to take a class for it next fall at EHRC. She love to eat Grandpa's steaks, Nana's mash potato's and gravy and eats popcorn almost everyday. She still likes to wrestle with her dad and being like her mom. She is not a morning person. She is a night owl. She hates milk or any kind of juice and only drinks water or coke. Oh wait, she likes chocolate milk shakes too! Her favorite restaurants are Red Robin and Susumos Japanese Steak House. She loves going to our community group and often can't hardly wait for Friday nights to come. She plays soccer and likes to ice skate. She has 2 frogs named Diamond and Pearl. She hates to brush her hair but loves to accessorize. She often helps me cook and take care of her siblings. She would rather empty the dishwasher then load it. When she grows up she wants to run an animal shelter. I could go on and on but I'm off to a birthday breakfast with my little lady.

December 31st 1999

8lbs 3ozs and 22 inches

8:22 am

The BEST gift ever!!!

2009-12-29T08:34:00.000-08:00

This year hubby gets extra points for cluing in on the the wants and needs of his lady! His gift for me this Christmas was a maid!!! Not indefinitely, but for 2 separate times. Clint's logic behind this was that now with his new job he finally gets paid vacation, so he thought I should get my own version of that too. The funny thing is that he was pretty self conscious about giving this to me. On Christmas eve he asked me if he could tell me what he wanted to get me cause he wasn't sure... I was like "Are you kidding me? This is the BEST GIFT EVER!!!" I told him he could get this for me every year for the rest of our lives! I cannot wait to cash this gift in. I'm hoping to do it early January and then maybe again in the spring (and you know what I will be asking for in may for my birthday and Moms day) . Of course the house has to be picked up first but he says they will scrub the floors, bathrooms, windows...even my base board!

I'm so excited and I just can't hide it! I'm about to lose control and I think I like it! OH yeah!

This post deserves a song, but not that one cause the video is totally inappropriate.

Click on THIS and do the happy dance with me :)

The Atonement Christmas

2009-12-28T23:00:00.001-08:00

When we arrived at my Mom’s house I think we were all a little unsure how it was going to go. It had been years for Clint and I and the first time for our children to spend a holiday with her. We sat and visited for a while and it was nice and relaxing. Then while the enchiladas were in the oven she let the kids open their gifts. She was absolutely over the moon at the kid’s joy. My Mom has never really had much money and when she did she never did anything good with it so it made her feel real good to be able to treat the kids to some nice gifts. I was pretty surprised how well she did picking gifts out for them when she doesn’t really know any of them that well. She had gotten Gus these really cool wooden blocks and he used all 150 of them to make village on her living room floor. It was clear to me she had Lilly figured out when she opened a very fancy dress and fancy hair bows. And my little artist Drew was excited to get some Blendy Pens! We gave my Mom a framed family picture and she was thrilled. She even had Clint hang it up for her before we left.
After gift opening we had a yummy dinner followed by a pogo stick jumping competition in her kitchen. My Mom and Willie (her boyfriend since I was 12) had a kick watching all of us. Clint and I smoked the kids on the pogo stick!!! Well, Clint smoked me too. We could tell that my Mom, though having a great time, was getting a bit tired and the kids were about ready to get going to so we took a photo of all the grand kids with them (- Cameron) and said our goodbyes.
It was a real nice time and I know we all hope to be able to do it again. My Mom has called me 3 times since then telling what a wonderful time she had and how special it was to her.

I do believe for my Mom this was her atonement Christmas.

Spoiled Rotten Kids

2009-12-28T22:06:00.001-08:00

Gifts, gifts and more gifts!!! I guess there are far worse problems to have. Thankfully I am proud to say I don’t have the problem of spoiled rotten children, despite all of their Grandparents efforts to spoil them rotten. LOL!
Clint and I were just blown away by how appreciative the kids were and how quick to say thank you they were. No matter what the gift, Drew lit up like a Christmas tree and expressed her thanks. She is a super example to the little critters watching her closely. Just a few pick of the festivities…

There's some of that appreciation I was telling you about!

Evie got some cute bows for that pretty hair of hers!

Don't you just love when they are this surprised? (digital camera)

First reaction to the train table!
They're even excited for a gift they new they were getting!

Finally she won't have to beg Drew to use her DS!

WARNING!!! WARNING!!! These next pictures might shock you…

Proceed without judgment please.

This is what 1400 square feet, 2 adults, 4 children and 3 sets of grandparents will do to your house at Christmas time.

The living room with the rug rats playing WII rather then cleaning...

The playroom...I believe it had a floor a couple days ago???

and just where will we eat dinner now?

It's far worse then you can tell from this picture.

once again this picture does not do justice to how bad it really is.

I would have taken pics of our room and Drew and Evie's room but they both had people sleeping in them.

Don't worry, I am working on this mess. Hopefully will post "after" pictures soon (ish).

Twas the day after Christmas...

2009-12-26T09:17:00.001-08:00

...and all through the house, not a creature was stirring, except Mom and Evie.

Aaaaaah, the day after Christmas. A day when I typically rip the tree and decorations down with a vengeance and look about our cozy little home in utter despair wondering how in the heck am I gonna find a place for all this stuff. But this year I will wait until tomorrow to start that process cause we have another Christmas party to attend today. Believe it or not my Mom is hosting a little party today for my sister and I's family. (is I's a word???Help Abbey, help!) I have already titled this event and future blog post "The Atonement Christmas" I can't remember the last time my Mom attended a family holiday function let alone hosted one! Oh wait, I actually do remember the last one she attended. It was our first Christmas in this house and the year Clint proposed to me. And as I ponder that year while writing it was the same year both of my Grandmas past away. That was a crazy year for our family. (Alert, alert...3rd creature officially stirring. Good morning Lilly) Anyways, back to what I was saying. She has bought presents for the kids and is making dinner. She has been calling me like 3 times a day giving me updates on everything she she is doing. It's been a long time since she has seemed this excited and I am happy for her. However, I will not count my chickens until they are hatched. Historically it is like my Mom to suddenly become very ill or even drop of the face of the earth the day before an event. So we will see. I haven't even told the kids about it and I don't plan on it until I hear from her this morning. If it happens they will be pleasantly surprised. But if things in my Moms world suddenly change, my children will be shieled from the pain of disappointment. A disappointment I have endured far to many times in my life.

And I am now laughing at myself because when I decided to go ahead and blog again this morning I was not planning on talking about that at all. I was going to share about our Christmas celebrations...

I'm back. You didn't know I left did ya? I just went to the bedroom to awake my husband by smacking his foot and saying "hey, wheres the camera?" "grunting and throat clearing sounds followed by- I left it at my parents." Boo hoo, because I was gonna show you some pics of my absolutely adorable children. But we will have to wait. Besides Evie is getting fussy and as I see it is now 10 O'clock I better go stir the remaining creatures myself.

Until next time...

An oldy but a goody! "I AM"

2009-12-23T22:09:00.000-08:00

Remember this one ladies...

I am: blogging for the 2nd time in one day
I think: we need more Christ and less presents for Christmas
I know: I have bad spelling and grammar
I want: to have a relaxing day with no kids whining or bickering
I have: to plan my lesson for Sunday still
I wish: our loan modification would go through
I miss: my Grandparents
I feel: tired and sad
I hear: my loud computer fan
I smell: nothing
I regret: yelling at my kids
I love: peace and quiet
I always: miss my kids when they are gone
I am not: done wrapping presents
I believe: everyone should dance like no ones watching
I fear: many of my family members will never now Christ
I cry: not nearly as often as I want to (tough girl)
I don't always: eat breakfast
I fight: the urge to curse at bad drivers on the road
I never: return my books to the library on time
I listen: for Evie to wake up
I need: a personal assistant, maid, chef...
I am happy: that my husband loves his new job

If you are reading this then you are next! Copy and paste to your blog with your own answers.

A Gus"ism" and a whole lot more...

2009-12-23T14:30:00.000-08:00

This cute little guy has us cracking up multiple times a day. So far today this is how he has entertained us with his words...

Last night Lilly hung up an 8x10 picture of Gus in their room. He was so excited! So today Drew was in his room and he points it out to her and says " That's me! Mommy says "That's my handsome guy"." So cute! I do say that ALL the time to him. Happy to know he's listening.

Then later when I was in the shower Drew comes in and tells me about this conversation...

(as Lilly is pouring his water cup into the sink in her effort to clean up) Gus- "hey, that's my water yilwy (Lilly). Don't throw that away. That's diculous (ridiculous) !" Ha! He was so proud of what he said cause of his sisters reactions he had to come and tell me all about it too. "I said diculous mom. I said Yilwy, that's diculous!" I have to say that I know he got that word from me and it doesn't sound like that nice of a word when I hear my 3 year old say it. Live and learn...

Now for a whole lot more...

On online socializing-I know I said this last time I posted but man do I miss blogging. I am guilty of online social network swapping! First myspace, then blogger and now facebook. While I do not miss myspace in any shape or form I do really miss blogger. I like blogging way more then facebook because you get the whole story, not just a snip it. But facebook wins out on the quick and convenient factor.

On posts that should have been- I really actually blog all the time...its just in my head. I title them and everything. Like SAVING LIKE MAD-funny stories of being a coupon queen, or My TOP FIVE-Top 5 things I love about my five favorite people, or THE BIG TOE SAYS TO THE LITTLE TOE- Good and ugly stories of relationships in the body of Christ. Not to mention the countless homeschooling posts I have thought of doing.

On being so busy I can barely breath sometimes- Whew...I'm actually already about an hour and a half into this post so far. Partly because I'm a slow typer but mostly because I've had to stop to nurse the baby, take a phone call, check a post on craigslist, discipline Gus, light a fire under the girls butts to get their chores done, rethink dinner since my meat didn't thaw (still don't know what I'm gonna cook) call my hubby, and go to the ladies room.

I have much more to write but its almost time for the man to get home so I better just sign off and save my thoughts for the middle of the night when I can post with no interruptions. Ha! As if I don't get interrupted in the middle of the night...

Evelyn's first month

2009-10-13T21:11:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying every minute with our sweet baby girl. She has been the perfect blessing to complete our family. She loves to eat sleep and poop... but most recently she loves to smile. Big sisters love helping mom take care of her and big brother Gus wants to be sure he gets a good look at her eyes at least a couple times a day. God has blessed us immeasurably and we are truly thankful. Here are a few photos from her first month.

(smiling at mama)

PS- It has been FOREVER since I've blogged. I have missed it a ton... I hope you will be seeing more of me on here.

Feeling word Friday

2009-08-07T10:22:00.000-07:00

Tired...

This weeks shopping

2009-08-05T22:17:00.000-07:00

Total spent= $42.21

Total saved= $234.19

84 items = $o.50 an item

That's some ROCKIN' GOOD shopping if ya ask me!!!

It feels so great to stock up on toiletry items that we use everyday.

and just in case you want a list of items...

1 Vaseline lotion, 8 Sauve Body washes, 14 Sauve kids shampoos, 12 boxes Q-tips, 2 Dove deodorants, 2 All detergents, 2 Chinet paper plate packages, 4 Bic pen packages, 6 boxes Hershey brownie mix, 2 Honey nut Cheerios, 2 Cookie crisps, 2 boxes fruit snacks, 4 Best foods Mayo's, 2 packages Pillsbury pre-made cookie dough, 2 boxes micro popcorn, 1 individual box of Teddy Grahams (for my shopping mates), 1 mini Ben n' Jerry's ice cream (for the baby, of course!), 1 box of juice boxes, 2 bags tortilla chips, 2 Artisan garlic breads, 1 Gallon milk, 1 bunch of cilantro, 1 lime, 3 avocados, 3 apples, 3 bananas

Happenings and thoughts

2009-08-04T13:56:00.000-07:00

Sleeping in*Enjoying pancakes the girls made for breakfast (yummy)*So happy to have Drew home*Reading Feminine Appeal for the 2nd time (a MUST read)*Nesting*Doing puzzles and pattern blocks*Playing catch*Paying bills (yuk! Feels good to have it done though)*Watching a movie with my hottie*A bit of couponing (its WAY too hard to pass up a good deal)*Visiting with a friend*Washing baby clothes (their SO cute)*Packing for the hospital*Long chats with Clint*Snuggling with the kids*Imagining what this next one will be like... A boy? A girl? When will he/she come?*Planning and packing for our last family vacation as 5*Happy for cooler temps*Thinking about Grace Women's Ministry stuff*Thankful for an awesome husband*Experiencing much joy and discomfort from baby's movements*Wishing they would invent a laundry folding machine*Missing sleeping on my tummy*Surprise! Simple and sweet date w/ Hubby that he arranged*Staying up late to blog

Happy Birthday Carrie!!!

2009-07-20T09:48:00.000-07:00

She listens and encourages me, my dear sweet friend.
She is patient and smart, my consultant and editor.
She prays for me and speaks truth, my sister in Christ.

I know she'll probably hate this picture but I LOVE it because...

and I can always make her laugh.

I love you Carrie, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

The way to Gus' heart

2009-07-14T16:11:00.000-07:00

Gus: (screaming and crying) I need more ice cream!!!
Mom: No Gus, you already had one and can't have anymore.
Gus: (still screaming and crying) Nooooooooo, I need more.
Mom: I'm sorry Gus but you ate your ice cream.
Gus: No I didn't, I dropped it, waaaaaaaaaaaaa!
Mom: Well Gus I didn't know you dropped it. I thought you ate it. Mama will get you more.
Gus: oooooookaaaaaaaaaaaaaay.
Mom: (hands Gus his ice cream)
Gus: (happy as a clam) I like you Mama!!!

Flashback Friday: "Birth" days past

2009-07-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe will be doing this again in just a matter weeks!!!

Gus and Sam's first photo together.

This next time around I'll be the one holding the baby for the first photo opp!!!

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

Still going strong...

Q and A

2009-07-06T21:43:00.000-07:00

Question:What does $9 get you when you're a

crazy coupon lady?!?!

Answer:

1 dozen eggs

4 boxes of Kotex panty liners

6 1pt bottles of Nestle Nesquick chocolate milk

and

9lbs of Jennie O ground turkey!!!

(thanks Red for the tip off on the turkey)

Celebrating Independence!!!

2009-07-05T21:39:00.000-07:00

And I'm not just talking about the 4th of July kind, all though we did a lot of that this weekend in Chelan. Just a few of those highlights for ya...

...and when it's all said and done, they are exhausted.

We Mitchell's are also celebrating another kind of Independence this weekend. The kind of independence you get when you are NO LONGER CHANGING DIAPERS!!!! That's right folks, I'm just as shocked as you are but it is for real. Gus became a potty trained man this weekend. How I'm not really sure...I'm mean, who gets potty trained while on vacation??? No sticker chart? No candy rewards?

Here's the story if your like me and you want all the details...

Well, this summer, between backyard water play and vacations my kids have been spending a lot of time in their swim suits. I have not been putting swim diapers on Gus but rather letting him make a mess of himself a few times. While we were camping for a week in June he decided he didn't like to potty on himself while in a swim suit and kept asking me to take him to the potty. After a couple long and unsuccessful trips in a row I just told him to pee in the grass at our campsite the next time he asked me. So down I pulled his pants and peeing in the grass is exactly what he did. I of course cheered him on cause to me, it was a step in the right direction. So since then he has been peeing in the grass in our backyard but only when he is wearing his swim suit. (sorry if you think that's grose but it worked for me) On Friday we started off our holiday vaca with a trip to the water park. I thought I better put a swim diaper on Gus cause I didn't think the water park would appreciate my son peeing on their grass. But he refused. So I told him he better tell me if he had to go potty and sure enough he did. He used the toilets all day at the water park with NO accidents. You're probably thinking sure, I bet you just didn't realize he was just peeing in the water... But that is not the case! He would be standing in water up to his belly and then tell me he had to go potty so off we would go. Clint and I decide it was best to go to the store and buy him some big boy underpants because he was even beyond pull ups at this point. So the whole rest of the weekend we made it to the bathroom every time but once. In his defence I had just woken him up from falling asleep in the car and he was super tired and grumpy and while we were walking to the park he had an accident. Poor guy. But he recovered very well with a fresh pair of underoos and shorts. Oh ya, and for those of you who are wondering...the answer is YES. He's using the toilet for #2 too!

So we are all very proud of our big boy Gus!!! I am so thankful to get this small break from diapers and the budget will be happy to only have one in diapers. Permitting this sticks of course. I am all to aware of that fact that this could change but I'll do my best to keep the momentum going.

WOW! Who knew I could make such a lengthy post about going potty?

PS-Moms out their who have or are struggling with potty training your 1st...Take heart cause my first was a lot tougher then the 2nd and 3rd. Big sisters and brother are a huge help in potty training their younger siblings.

Have I lost my faith in her?

2009-07-01T17:15:00.000-07:00

America the beautiful

Land of the free and home of the brave.

A nation that was founded under the term "In God we trust"

yet...

A nation where abortion is not only accepted, it's encouraged

A nation that wants to take Christ out of Christmas

A nation who's public school system wants to educate my 4th grader on sex, birth control and homo sexuality

I could go on and on...

Sorry to be so unpatriotic so close to America's 233rd birthday. I guess sometimes the values of this country just get me down.

Heavenly Father, in you I do trust, and when all the faith I have in my country is gone, I will still have peace, because I can continue to put my faith in you.

Today was a good day...

2009-06-16T22:16:00.000-07:00

...in the couponing world!!!

I got ALL this for...

FREE!!!!

That's...

6 Peanut butters

8 chocolate/strawberry milks (2 not pictured cause we already drank them)

3 boxes of bandaids

2 bags of cat food

5 travel size packs of flushable wipes

2 deodorants

1 $5 target gift card

I love couponing!!!

ooo,ooo I almost forgot...

2009-06-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

...this Mitchell memory

Yep, that's MUD!!! I was working in the garden in the backyard and the girls discovered they could make mud out of the dirt... "Mom is it okay if we play in this?"

It was fun to watch for sure, but we will save this activity for the few and far between. It took 3 washes to get these clothes clean and you can imagine what my shower looked like afterwards.

Mitchell May Memories

2009-06-08T14:20:00.000-07:00

May was a great month with lots a fun in the sun! We made the most of it with...

Trips to the park

Camping

Some good old fashion putt putt golf

and WILD WAVES!!!

Update from last post: God has answered our prayers and Drew is back on the Panthers soccer team! WHOOOO HOOOOO!

Will I ever forgive myself?

2009-05-30T09:20:00.000-07:00

Drew has been a Panther soccer player for the last 2 years. Soccer has brought so much joy to Drew and she happens to be quite good at it too... We love her team cause the girls are great, a mixture from her old school and from Seaview. Her coaches are the best in the league and all the parents are so nice. We have enjoyed getting to know and developing relationships with them over the last couple of years.

Well May is the time to sign them up again. Returning players can sign up from May 6th-May 27th and on May 29th the doors open for any new players to the league. Typically there is a big line up real early in the morning to get new players on the team of the parents choosing.

So yesterday morning I checked my email like I usually do. Their was an email from Drew's coach about the uniforms. As soon as I opened the email it hit me right in the pit of my stomach. I FORGOT TO SIGN DREW UP!!!!!! I quickly scrambled to check the date and was crushed to realize that the time to guarantee her spot on the Panthers had passed. After scrambling for a few minutes Drew and Clint were out the door to go get in line to hopefully sign her up on the Panthers again. I kept telling myself "This has to work out!". Well, it didn't. Drew called me about 1/2 later and said "I didn't get on the team" My thoughts were "NO, this can't be true!" Then I actually said to her "You're lying." (I know, pretty terrible to say to my 9 year old) So after drilling her to find out whether or not she was pulling my leg she explained how it all went down and how she's now on another team with a girl she used to go to school with.

I felt absolutely terrible and had to talk to Clint to see from his perspective how she was handling the whole thing. Lets just say she took it a lot better then her Mom who was in a mess of tears at this point. Clint kept reminding me that God is in control and maybe this new team is where she is supposed to be. I'm trying to keep my faith in that but still feel terrible that this happened do to my forgetfulness and procrastination. I really felt like the worst mother in the world. I especially feel this cause now that we are homeschooling it is supposed to be a huge priority to keep the relationships the kids have with their friends from public school and this soccer team was a HUGE way for us to do that.

At this point Drew is fine with the change but will gladly take a spot on the Panthers if one opens up. Her coach is seeing what he can do to get her back but I'm not sure if that will happen. I'm am trying really hard to forgive myself and trust that God will have Drew on the team where she is supposed to be. I'm also taking this as a lesson learned... Right after I got off the phone with Drew and Clint I drove straight to the rec center to sign Lilly up for a class and as soon as I got home I signed Drew up for summer camp at LBC. (2 things I had been meaning to do along with signing up for soccer)

I am very thankful that my sweet Drew has forgiven me...

I'M PUMPED!!!

2009-05-18T21:49:00.000-07:00

The words of my wild two year old...

When we were working in the garden on Friday Gus got super excited at one point and was running up and down the garden walkway jumping and spinning and then he stopped and looked at me and exclaimed in a loud growling voice "I'M PUMPED!!!" It was so cute I had to run right in the house and take a pick of him before his mood changed so I could remember it forever.

Speaking of being pumped...

I'm pumped the garden is finished!

I'm also pumped about my latest trip to the grocery store!

All this cost $24.15 Total savings of $83.52

I'm also pumped we are going camping this weekend!!! But you'll have to wait until next week for those picks.

Huge savings again on trip # 2

2009-05-12T12:29:00.000-07:00

I'll be the first to admit this couponing thing can be addicting...but at least it's good for my family! This morning when I woke up I decided the deals are just to good to pass up and one more trip would be worth it. I got all this...

For $7.19

My total savings was $60.26

Sara commented on my last post and had a great questions that I figure I'll just answer here in case anyone else is wondering. Her question was- Do you find that your buying stuff you normally wouldn't?

The answer to that is not at all. I actually pass up a lot of great deals because its on things I wouldn't normally buy. However the sure amount of what I buy is not something I have normally done but the couponing thing is all about stocking up. Some of you might be thinking why in the world do you need 6 mayo's, 6 BBQ sauces, 6 boxes of crackers or 10 packs of hot dogs?!?! Well my family uses all those things and I'm not gonna have to buy any of them for MONTHS. We typically don't use a ton of BBQ sauce but this summer at our Birthday Bash we will be BBQing chicken for about 100 people and all those sauces that I paid $0.00 for will really come in handy. As for all the hot dogs, we will make use of those on our camping trips and summer BBQ plans.

The other thing you might be thinking is what about all the other stuff you use like dairy, meat and produce? Don't worry people we are not living off crackers and cereal. I am just showing the stuff I bought from one store this week. Here are a some of the other deals I got this week.

FREE Milk and eggs from Food Emporium (no purchase necessary)
FREE Strawberries from Safeway (w/ $10 purchase) I bought some of there great produce and pasta deals to reach $10
Awesome deals on Apples (.68lb), Bananas (.59lb), Salad (.50 a bag), pineapple (1.98 each) and so much more at Fred Meyer's.

As for meat, we already have a pretty good stock of that so I haven't been purchasing even the really great deals but Amber Red has got some awesome deals on meat and will hopefully post about it soon.

So ladies, don't be afraid of the couponing world. It is time consuming, but well worth it!!!

Check out the two blogs listed HERE on Amber red's blog.

Sara- to answer your other question about living on the island... you really need to have access to most of the major grocery stores to go full bore but you can still get the most bang for your buck by couponing and deal seeking at your own local grocery store.

$$$ Money Saving MADDNESS!!!

2009-05-11T22:12:00.000-07:00

I have joined the world of the crazy couponers and I am SOOOOOO happy I did. (special thanks to Amber Red for getting me hooked and showing me the ropes) I just got home from Albertsons and I got ALL this...

...for only $11.59

( 4 Kraft Mayo's, 2 boxes Wheat thins, 3 boxes Ritz crackers, 4 BBQ sauces, 4 packs of hot dogs, 10 yogurts, 2 velveeta mac and cheeses, 2 boxes pasta salad, 2 salad dressings, and 1 four pack of fresh baked cinamon rolls)

I was SHOCKED...the guy in line behind me was SHOCKED...I came home and my Husband was SHOCKED...and extremely proud of me too! It feels absolutely awesome to save my family so much money. I have been watching the adds and couponing for a couple of weeks and I can honestly say I have cut our grocery budget in 1/2 AT LEAST. (it will take a bit more time of doing this to know the exact savings for sure) Here is the break down of my Albertsons saving in case you are curious.

Albertsons preferred card savings = $35.44 (all you have to do is look at the weekly store adds)

Albertsons coupons savings = $13.73 (all you have to do is clip the coupons in the weekly store adds)

Manufacture coupon savings = $20.50 (clipping from sunday paper and printing off online)

Total Savings = $69.67 (+ they gave me a $2 off coupon for my next trip)

Here is a further break down of what I paid for each item

Kraft Mayo= $.25 each

Wheat thins = $.99 each

Ritz= $.88 each

Hot dogs= $.14 1/2 each

BBQ sauce = -$.30 (Believe it or not they paid me to take these home)

Yogurt= $.29 each

Pasta salad = $.70 each

Salad dressing = -$.31 each (yep, they paid me to take these home too)

Velveeta mac and cheese= $.70 each

Cinamon rolls= $.99

PS- Even if you don't want to clip coupons... Fred Meyer's is having a rockin' good sale this week that is worth the trip. HUGE savings on Butter, Cheese, TP and much more. No coupon needed!!! You can pick up the store add at the front of the store.

The wise words of Drew

2009-05-07T10:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Lilly was being disobedient and Clint was in the other room having a chat with her about it. Drew and I were listening to the whole thing and she turned to me and said.

"You know this wouldn't be happening if Adam and Eve hadn't ate that apple. It's the truth!"

Women's retreat or BUST!!!

2009-04-24T08:37:00.001-07:00

To my sister's who can't make it...

YOU WILL BE SOOOOO INCREDIBLY MISSED.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-04-15T13:51:00.000-07:00

Water Babies

2009-04-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

Last night Heather and I took our pregnant bellies to the pool for a water aerobics class. It was alot of fun and a great workout...accompanied by a few laughs of course. The best part was when we realized that everyone including the teacher were in a circle and Heather and I were both smack dab in the center of the circle. (we didn't notice at first cuz we were just trying to watch the instructor) Oops, nobody told us where to stand. It was a little embarrassing but we decided to go with it. After all we are comfortable being the center of attention together :)

Seriously though, it really was a good workout and we can't wait to go back. We are hoping it will get us in great shape to go through labor and delivery and I think it will be a double benefit for me as it was definitely a stress release...which this homeschooling mom can really use right now!

Bottoms up water babies!

Can you tell which legs are mine? Te-he :)

Soaking up the sun

2009-04-06T21:54:00.000-07:00

A day at the park

ice cream

running through the sprinkler in the backyard

planning and prepping for our veggie garden

getting some color on my legs

ahh, I hope this lasts...

Catch up post

2009-04-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

Its been awhile since I've posted about whats going on in the Mitchell home, so here goes...

getting started on the nesting process (slowly)

17 weeks today

talking about baby names

Celebrating Grams 94 years w/ a surprise party

spending lots of time w/ Clints parents

Hot date with Hubs in the 72' Chev

completely overhauling the family budget

working on a loan modification

Cooking w/ the kids

planning this summers vacations

Scrapbooking w/ great friends

watching Clean House and wishing they'd come my way

Building 3 room forts

HOMESCHOOLING!!!

Homeschooling has been going great! We are of course getting our reading, writing and math in but also have been learning about Pocahontas and Van Gough. I'll share some of Drew's art soon.

1 little, 2 little, 3 little Indians...

and after all that...

In the jungle, the mighty jungle the lion sleeps tonight

This girl ROCKS!!!

2009-03-20T09:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my dear friend Amber, whom I am so thankful for.

I LOVE you girl!

Today I'm feeling like...

2009-03-18T15:38:00.000-07:00

I am typically content w/ our house. However with another baby on the way and every room in this house completely busting at the seams...I'm starting to go crazy!!! I NEED THE CLEAN SWEEP TEAM TO RESCUE ME!