gracefamily

In 3 days!

2011-03-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

In three days it will spring!! Now, I know that living in Michigan, that spring doesn't mean no more snow--if fact, it's tradition to get a huge snow storm during spring break! However, the weather has been super nice the past few days. The kids have played outside, and Aliza even asked if we could put up the pool!

I am so sick of everyone being sick! We've had three sickes with Strep Throat, two sickes with the stomach flu and I've had a cold that has lasted almost two weeks! I'm done with this sick business!

I've got the itch for a vacation, but trying so hard not to book anything! We'd really like to stay home and do some home repairs, improvements, instead. Like a new garage door, new windows in the girls room, new counter tops and tile in the kitchen. We'd really like to put a high, wooden fence up in the backyard, but that will probably wait.

So, in three days winter will be over and it will be spring! :)

7 Years Ago...

2011-03-06T16:42:00.001-08:00

Seven years ago at 10:52 AM after 13 hours of labor our life changed forever. Little Aliza Anne was born! She was everything we wanted and more! The past seven years have flown by. She has started school, sports and now can read (above her grade level!). I think she looks like her Daddy and has my attitude!

Happy 5th Birthday Ellie Jeanne!

2011-03-02T05:14:00.000-08:00

Five years ago we were blessed with our second daughter! She was beautiful. A little 8 pound 3 ounce girl with 11 fingers and a skin tree in her nose. If all labor and deliveries could be like hers we'd have a school bus full. Labor was only 3 hours long and we barley made it to the hospital before she made her appearance. We have very few photos of her birth because it was just so fast. Her extra finger and skin tree were removed when she was one month old. It was a very traumatic day for both her and I. Ellie has always been the easy and fun child. She loves trying everything and is so creative! I found a photo of my Grandma Brantner holding Ellie as an newborn. It's a very special photo to me- she looks so happy and healthy and it makes me miss her so much more. Today we'll celebrate Ellie's birthday with "the good macaroni and cheese" with steak and garlic bread! Just for Ellie.

i am their mama

2011-02-24T12:14:00.001-08:00

i wanted to share this layout and journaling (i still get tears in my eyes remembering this adventure):

"i wanted randy to take this photo before i boarded the airplane for my trip to missouri. i was so nervous that something would happen and would never have that last photo with my kiddos. thankfully, the flights were awesome and i was able to come home to lots of hugs and kisses from these wonderful kids. photo may 2010)

Our Five Year Home-versary

2011-02-10T05:51:00.000-08:00

Wow! It's really been five years since we moved into our home?! It seems that days fly by in a hurry and before long here we are celebrating our five year birthday in our first home.

I remember the extremely long search for a home like it was yesterday--something I never want to do agian. It took us over a year to find a home that was perfect for our growing (and I mean growing because Ellie was cooking in the oven) family. We saw hundreds, if not thousands of houses. Some of them Aliza and I didn't even go in there were so awful and run-down. Other houses, we pulled in the driveway and backed right back out. We found some houses that we really liked, and so did everyone else. Everyone else with more money that we had and could offer more. They got the house. Then, here is was. On a quiet street tucked away in Sparta. It was like finding gold in Alaska. Our dream home. It was the only house that we walked into and it felt like home, the only home that Aliza came in and you could tell that she was comfortable in. She loved the front windows and looking out them. She loved the hallway to run up and down. It was home. But, there was a problem. At the same time we put in a offer, way below the asking price, someone else had put in an offer at the asking price. We were devastated. I remember just crying for the entire day. I was 39 weeks pregnant and an emotional basket case! Then, a couple weeks later we got a phone call from our Realtor, the other offer fell through and he was coming over right now to get another offer approved by us. It was like the dark, grey, heavy cloud had been lifted off our shoulders and we were going to have our home to bring our baby home to. After a couple days of counter-offers it was ours!

It was crazy couple weeks after we signed papers and got the keys! At the time I remember that everything looked great, but looking back and then at today we've done so much! We painted all the ways, put in new flooring and new lights around the house. Then we moved in. Four days later our second little bean was born.

I can remember one housewarming gift that still makes me happy. We were working on painting one afternoon when the doorbell rang. It was my brother, who was attending Western Michigan University at the time. Aliza was so happy to see her Uncle Cory. But, Uncle Cory didn't come empty handed. In the back of his little 2-door Jetta were five large boxes of Huggies for Ellie and a Dora backpack for Aliza. I was taken back, and still am, at his generosity. He was a college kid, a college boy and for him to think of us was thoughtful beyond words.

We've done a lot to and in our home in the past five years. New paint colors, new babies, a new swingset in the backyard, but something remains that same. Our love for each other as a family. This was were we were meant to raise our family, this home tucked away on a quiet street in Sparta.

Winter Blah

2011-02-07T07:41:00.001-08:00

We had an official blizzard last week with two snow days! Even GRCC was closed! We went stir crazy sitting inside the house for four days straight! The only thing about snow days that excite me are sleeping in, but that rarely happens anymore. The kids hate being home, no friends to play with, nothing new to learn, no special classes. And frankly, I use the time they are at school to get my own school work done. So, now they all go back to school today and we are overjoyed! Aliza jumped out of the van and ran inside to see her friends and to have breakfast!

This is time of winter that I hate! Spring is so close, but we have mountains of snow everywhere! The sun is shining, but it's not the warm, humid sun that we crave. We are talking about what we want to plant in the garden this summer. I'd like to plant some green peppers, carrots, beans, watermelon, cucumbers and pumpkins. We'll see how many of those get planted, but the kids eat fresh veggies like they are chocolate candy bars. The swimming pool is going to a must again this summer and with Randy's new job, he'll be home every night to enjoy it with us!

The girls are all signed up for t-ball. They will have the best coach in town-their daddy! I'm sad that I will have to miss the first four practices because of Spanish class. Trust me, I'd rather be at t-ball practice than this Spanish class. :)

This is the Stuff

2011-02-01T11:50:00.000-08:00

This song, "This is the Stuff" sung by Francesca Battitelli is amazing! The lyrics are so true. I wish I could trust more and just let things happen. I feel like I always need to have control over everything--money, the kids, schoolwork, randy's job. One of my biggest goals as a Christian is to let go and let God lead the way for myself, the kids, our marriage, our life path.

Listen to the song here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqqdA8LHN7I

I lost my keys in the great unknown

And call me please
Cause I can't find my phone

(CHORUS)
This is the stuff
That drives me crazy
This is the stuff
That's getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I'm blessed
This is the stuff
That gets under my skin
But I've gotta trust
You know exactly what Your doing
Might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

45 in a 35
Sirens and fines
While I'm running behind

(CHORUS)

To break me of impatience
Conquer my frustrations
I've got a new appreciation
It's not the end of the world...

This is the stuff
That drives me crazy
This is the stuff
Someone save me
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I'm blessed
This is the stuff
That gets under my skin
But I've gotta trust
You know exactly what Your doing
Might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use

Ellie's View

2011-01-24T07:55:00.000-08:00

So the other day we were driving home from preschool playgroup and Ellie asked me a question. She is full of questions so nothing really should surprise me!

Ellie: "Where do you get your money, Mama?"

Me: (laughing) "Daddy goes to work to earn money."

Ellie: "Oh, well, when I grow up and have babies, I'm going to make my kids dad go to work so I can have money to buy markers!"

Another Week

2011-01-16T18:54:00.001-08:00

So, here we go again! We are ready to start another week on the school and work routine. After a weekend filled with Aliza being sick we are happy to send her back to school tomorrow.

I have spent most the day organizing some scrappy stuff! I never realize how much stuff I have until I start to reorganizing it and have to make room for new stuff. I ended the day off by working on Aliza's year two of her Daisy Girl Scout album. It amazes me how much she has grown in a year.

The girls only have three days of school this week. What shall we do with a four day weekend?! I hope they are all healthy and we can enjoy them.

Best of 2010

2011-01-12T07:14:00.000-08:00

I sometimes feel that no one gets to see my layouts. I am very quick to put them into a protector and album because of the kids (I have had several past experiences with them coloring or cutting them if I leave them on my table). So, I thought I'd share my 12 favorites of 2010 (one from each month).

-December: What a fun layout to make! I loved using the chipboard letters to make the background around the photos. To add more spunk I wrote a word that started with the same letter on each one. Plus, I used some Stampin' Up! stamps to top everything off! And really, who could not smile at those two kiddos being civil to each other!-

-November: This was one of three two page layouts I did the entire year! I usually don't like the way they turn out. This one makes me happy! Really happy. I have such beautiful children to photograph. The photos and paper all really worked together well. I go back to this page a lot just to smile.-

-October: What I loved about this layout was the wonderful fall colors. It was so simple to put together and looked amazing be the end. I love the action photos of Aliza swinging on the playground during the mild fall weather.-

-September: I can remember how happy this layout made me feel! It must be the pink. I was just fun to make, and the buttons on the stem on the flower really make it a girly-girl layout.-

-August: This layout was super fun to make. I used my Cricut to make the rose for the corner and cursive title. The dollies on the sides really make the layout feel romantic. Plus, the musical itself at Hollywood Studies was purely AMAZING!-

-July: This was the first year we had a big pool in the backyard. The kids played in it for hours every night! What I love about this layout is that all three kids are looking at the camera and smiling, but also the Thickers title again. I think the Stickles on the letters really add some drama to the title!-

-June: I love this layout! I love the glitter, especially the Thickers title! Second, it brings back such good, fun memories of Randy and my trip to DisneyWorld.-

-I did this layout in May even though the photos were taken in December. Aliza and her Girl Scout troop went to Camp Harvest in Newaygo for an afternoon of sledding and hot chocolate. What I love about this layout is that I did the background with felt and mounted everything on the felt. It looks really cool in person.-

-This layout is from April. I treated the kids to a Mcdonalds dinner and then we ate it in the backyard on the picnic table.-

-March: We found Ellie sleeping her bedroom floor with a marker still in her hand. She is even creative in her sleep!-

-This layout is from February, but the photos were from fall 2009. Three is such perfect number for everything! I love the hounds tooth background paper on this layout. It makes it feel like home and love all at the same time.-

-January: This is my favorite layout of the entire year. First of all I love Aliza and her smile. Second, with everything being in black and white makes everything feel so soft and nothing over powers another thing. I thought is was super fun to journal (write) right on the photo!-

So there you have it! Hope you enjoy them! :-)

2011

2011-01-01T13:16:00.000-08:00

So here we are--into another year already. It seems we can't stop time, no matter how hard we try. Although, some days I wish I could speed up to bedtime.

So check this out! I submitted a layout to acherryontop.com for a monthly challenge and they asked if they could change it into a digital template. Of course, I was honored and said yes. I can't wait to see what the talented ladies over there do with it. Here is the link, go check it out!: http://www.acherryontop.com/shop/digital/new/45/9008971

Santa Claus

2010-12-22T06:51:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago I got a letter in the mail saying that someone had nominated our kids/family to be part of the Santa Cops program. We were blessed with $300 in gifts for the kids-both needs and wants! They got toys, games, blankets, clothes, and books!

We took the kids to Santa. The girls had no problem and could have talked to him all day, Gavin however would not go near him. Even Mrs. Claus loved our girls.

The girls had their Holiday parties at school! I enjoyed every minute spent with them celebrating this wonderful season. They are now on Christmas break for two weeks.

I finished my first semester back to school with a 3.85 grade point! I sure hope I can do that well next semester.

Christmas is in just a few days. How lucky we are to have a home to celebrate it in and three wonderful, healthy children to spend it with.

Holiday Clips

2010-12-14T17:54:00.001-08:00

Found these movie clips through other people and thought I'd share:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ye39mgcHC3E

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXh7JR9oKVE

December Goodness

2010-12-14T07:07:00.000-08:00

So it's been awhile. I know. Been busy with the holiday season fast approaching in just over a week. We had our first snow and first snow day within a week of each other and that meant the kiddos home all day without anything to do!

Randy started his job. So far, so good. Even getting overtime.

Gavin had his surgery last week. Last week is such a blur to the two of us. The surgery itself went really well. The tubes were placed into his ear canal and then his adenoids were taken out. The doctor said they were extremely enlarged. We are praying that this takes care of his asthma related symptoms when he gets sick. Afterwards, we went home and everything started out okay. But, then the middle of the week Gavin spiked a fever and didn't want to do anything--didn't want to eat and didn't even want to swallow anything. Mainly wanted to cuddly with me. I called the doctor on Friday and we came to the conclusion that he had gotten an infection at the removal site in the back of his throat. He prescribed a much stronger antibiotic and within an hour of the first dose Gavin was wanting to play with his trucks and cars. I hope we never have to go through all that again!

Today Ellie has a holiday concert at school! Her first experience of a group performance. I'm sure that she'll do great--Ellie was born for the stage!

A few weeks ago Aliza and I, along with her Girl Scout Troop, visited the new Helen Devos Children's Hospital. It was amazing!! State of the art, everything! Touring the hospital, really made me aware of how lucky I am to have three beautiful and healthy children/babies.

So for me--exam week! I took one a few weeks ago and have my last one for this semester on Wednesday (tomorrow) night. Next semester I'm taking Spanish 101 and Child Development 105 (Foundations of Early Childhood). Feels good to be back to getting things done.

We have a few surprises coming up for the kiddos! One on Saturday and one on Sunday. I'll share photos afterwards.

Here are some photos of Ellie and Gavin playing in the first snowfall of the year on December 1, 2010. They had a blast. The only reason we went inside was that Ellie had to get ready for school or they would have stayed outside all afternoon! They are my snow babies.

Fun Times!

2010-11-29T11:19:00.000-08:00

To start- a bit of happy news! Randy got a job and starts December 6th. Only problem is that that morning Gavin has surgery. Thankfully I have a great support system and my parents are going to be helping me out that morning!

This week, with Girl Scouts, we are going to Fredrick Meijer Garden and the new Helen Devos Children's Hospital! We are so excited to see the Christmas trees from around the world and see our artwork (that we make that spring) displayed at the hospital!

Conferences were last week for the girls. Ellie is doing really well. She is very mature and likes to draw and dress-up. BIG SURPRISE!!! Aliza has a reading level of 23--an average first grader has a reading level of 6! BIG SURPRISE!!! Overall, they are both doing amazing!

As for myself, I have my finial history test today and three more weeks of CD230 at GRCC. Then it's three weeks of vacation and back again the first week of January.

Took a walk down to the park today with my honey-pot Gavin. We are enjoying this late autumn sunshine and semi-warm temps. By the end of the week, we'll have an inch or so of snow. Gavin sure enjoys being outside and running around screaming! Sure can't do that in the house! :-)

My Digital Studio

2010-11-23T12:29:00.000-08:00

I'll always love my paper scrapbooking supplies, but with all the new technology advances digital scrapbooking is becoming a huge trend! So Stampin' Up! is having a contest and will be giving away My Digital Studio for free to four lucky people. Here are my reasons why I would love to win:

1. Randy is laid-off so we have extremely limited funds for me to spend on scrapbooking products

2. I can not sell something to my customers that I myself have not tried out

3. I am a computer nerd

4. I am attending college to earn an Associates degree in Paraprofessional education

5. I have three kids that demand a lot of time and it would be wonderful to work on my scrapbooking on the computer while they play in the living room

6. I love every Stampin' Up! product they have

7. I never win anything!

Interviews

2010-11-23T06:18:00.000-08:00

It seems to the biggest part of our life right now, when the next interview is. Randy was laid off in September with his position eliminated. We both started with a high hope, belief, that he would find job quickly and still would be able to provide for our family. But, now after a half-dozen interviews we (mostly I) find ourselves wondering were our calling really is. He has had three first round interviews, one second round interview, and two phone interviews and still nothing, no job offers. It gets harder to sleep everyday as the bank account gets smaller and almost nothing left.

I also used to have daycare kiddos. However, things have changed and no longer have any. I find myself depressed that I can't help provide for the family either. I really can't go get a job with kids still being home. A minimum wage job doesn't do anything but pay for daycare, so what is the worth of working.

So, any of you out there that believe in the power of prayer, we really could spare some extra prayers right now. Just to able to make it through day-by-day and to find a job for Randy.

This is my fair warning for all of you that will be around me for the upcoming holidays --->beware i am not in a giving, jolly, holiday mood!

Happy Birthday Gavin!

2010-11-12T05:45:00.000-08:00

Gavin turned 3 on Monday! We had a fun time celebrating with chips n cheese and rice crispy treats. His favorite meal! Sunday we are having a Mickey Mouse themed birthday party for him!

November

2010-11-03T14:04:00.001-07:00

As I sit here at school and wait for class to start, I wonder what this month as in store for us. Last month we had Halloween and every thing that goes along with that, but more than that we were forced to look at the hard truth that Randy had to find a new job. As I went from website to website trying to find anything he could apply for I saw that the jobs were few and far between. Everyone is fighting for the same job. We pray that he can find a new job and quick.

October is also a bad month for us, in general, year after year. Randy has his birthday and along with that comes along with buying plate tabs for BOTH vans. We surely were not thinking when we put both vans in his name. And somehow that's always $200 is never have and struggle to come up with at the very last minute! Such as life, I guess.

So November is supposed to be a month to be thankful. I have to keep telling myself that things will change and look at my three beautiful and wonderful children that I have. They make me smile and laugh everyday, and even though I want, NEED, them to sleep in their own beds at night I love them anyways! Forever and always.

Thanksgiving is in just a few weeks and I am so excited to spend a whole week with my kids- no school, no homework, no extra kiddos, no extra running around, just us! I want to do Thanksgiving crafts with them and eat lots of their leftover Halloween candy (which is bags full).

Christmas is just around the corner too! Glad to say, that we skipped bills one week and just went and bought gifts. We have two items left and we are done! Amazing! Even more amazing, is the amount we spent-drumroll please........$190. Including stockings!! I think that is the best we have ever done!

So for today, we wait to hear news on Randy's job prospects and take it one day at a time.

Halloween Photos

2010-11-01T11:36:00.000-07:00

So, the intention was for everyone to be either Minnie Mouse or Mickey Mouse, but Gavin wanted nothing to do with his MM costume. Instead, he wanted to wear Spiderman. No amount of bribing was helping, so I just gave in! This was the first year that we've actually ventured out into the neighborhood and do serious trick-or-treating. Normally, we've just taken them to the grandparents house and the halloween parade. But, the kids asked over and over so we decided to see how it went. They came home with bags and bags of loot! Aliza's handles to her bag broke because it was so full!! Memories, sweet memories!

Happy Halloween

2010-10-31T12:22:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween to all the little goblins and witches tonight! We're going to the parade in Sparta and then trunk or treat at one of the local churches. We went to Pine Ridge Bible Camp last night for a night of fun family events. There was trick or treating at the cabins, and a tractor ride. Plus, donuts and cider. The kids had a blast!!

P.S. Gavin has another ear infection. Tomorrow I'll be calling the ENT doctor for another tube to be placed into his left ear.

Fall Time

2010-10-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that the all the leaves have pretty much fallen off the trees. What was a beautiful array of colors, is now blah!

Soccer season 2010 is finally done! Starting this week the kiddos will go to the library for Tale Time every Tuesday evening. Gavin is even old enough to go this year!

Halloween is in just a few day--I can't post photos until then- blame my OCD. ;-)

No luck for Randy on the job hunt. I thought we were getting somewhere last week when he had three interviews, but no job offer from any of them.

Mid-terms went great! 88% on my history 250 test and 93% on my Child Development 230 test. I signed up for winter 2011 classes and I have an online class (CD 105: Foundations of Early Childhood) and a Spanish 101 class at Rockford High school.

More of Gavin's 3 Year Photos

2010-10-19T09:03:00.000-07:00

Just when it couldn't get better today--it does!! Here are some more photos of Gavin's 3 year photo shoot! He's such a handsome young man that I couldn't help but keep taking photos! You sure can tell that I am a proud Mama that loves her little to death. I can't imagine life without him, even though most days he makes life extremely difficult!!

Punches Fall Photos

2010-10-19T07:39:00.001-07:00

So, these kids are pretty special to me--they are mine!! I think taking photos of my own children is the hardest because they think they can get away with more silly faces and have an attitude. Regardless, we all had great time together!! Aliza: 6 year old. Ellie: 4 years old. Gavin: 2 years old.

Brisbin Family Photos

2010-10-19T06:12:00.000-07:00

It was a pleasure to photograph this family! They have three kids that are full of energy and have a great sense of adventure. There is a lot of love in this family!

Almost 3

2010-10-10T11:44:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that Gavin is almost three! He is turning into such a little boy, not even a toddler anymore. Here is his birthday photo:

School and Soccer

2010-09-25T17:27:00.001-07:00

Wow! Can you believe that we've been in school for almost a month already?! It's great now that we've found ourselves in a routine and the kids have adjusted well.

Aliza has found that having breakfast and hot lunch is great! She took cold lunch the first day, but since then she has had hot lunch. Sometimes she will get the featured food item most days she gets the ham and cheese sandwich or crust-less peanut butter and jelly! She always has her chocolate milk too! Her soccer team is doing great! They are improving every practice and game and I can not wait for her to score her first goal. She plays on an all girl team/league this year and has a light purple uniform (perhaps her favorite part of playing).

Ellie had her first full week of school last week and can not wait to go back. She loves her teachers and riding the bus is great for her. Her favorite part of the classroom, is the kitchen area with three play phones. I imagine most of her day is spent over in that play area, talking. I can not wait to see her progress in the year with learning. Her soccer team is so cute to watch play. They spend just as much time falling down as they do running after the ball. Ellie has no fear or reservation to after the ball and take it away from the opposing team. That's my girl!

Gavin is going to be starting a once a month preschool/playgroup plus a teacher will come to the house to help Gavin with his speech. He is excited to "be going to school" too! I can't believe he'll be three in November!! My baby is growing up and becoming a boy! He loves when the girls are at school and he gets to Mama's only kid at home. He finds he get extremely spoiled. This is the first time that he has been the only one home for an extended period of time. I'll take any minute with him as I can.

My school is going great! I had my first exam last week in American History and received a hard earned 83%. In just three weeks, I'll be having mid-terms already and signing up for next terms classes. Next weekend, my co-leader and I are taking an all day CPR/First-aid class for Girl Scouts that also counts as credit for my degree at GRCC.

Randy was laid off, again! We pray for not long as the savings account is shot after the major van fix, the unexpected trip to Missouri and new van tires. All unexpected expenses that costs a ton of money.

Here are a few photos of the girls first day of school and the soccer season. Enjoy and God Bless.

Winner :)

2010-09-19T09:58:00.000-07:00

here is our winner: Janet said: Awesome RAK! I just became a follower! I love your blog design.

email your address: carepunches@charter.net

Random Act of Kindness

2010-09-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting a long to enough stuff to do this! There are several ribbons, different shapes and colors of chipboard, bling flower-swirls, stickers, rub-ons, 6x6 pages, Stampin' Up! stamps and much much more. Please leave become a follower AND leave a comment. Open to UNITED STATES residents only. I will choose a random winner on September 18th 2010. Have a great labor day week.

Changes

2010-09-01T13:51:00.000-07:00

I am writing this post from school. EEK! I have my one night class at GRCC.

We met with Aliza's teacher this afternoon. She is so excited that her Girl Scout friend is sitting right next to her! Their other friend is sitting behind them. They will have a great year.

Gavin had his specail education evaluation this morning. We have our review meeting in one week. It will be interesting to how we proceed. He did well on some questions and games, but others didn't go well at all. At one point, he told the two teachers to stop and go home!! Poor boy!!

Ellie had soccer last night. She did so well!! Even kicked the ball right into the goal. Her team is all four and five year olds, so she fits right in.

Randy goes back to second shift tomorrow. Boo! But, it's okay, I kinda like putting the kids to bed by myself. Kinda selfish in that way!

So the big change happens on Tuesday. Aliza starts school all day! I really don't know what I'll do without her during the day!! She's been my little helper since Ellie was born. I know she'll do great. Soon enough, all the kids will go all day and I'll be left to get a "real" job!

First Grade

2010-08-27T06:55:00.001-07:00

Aliza has Mrs. Smith for her first grade teacher! She is so excited that there are some Girl Scout friends in her class, along with the neighbor boy (who is her boyfriend!). *tears from mama*

It's Started

2010-08-26T14:32:00.000-07:00

The school season has started!! I started one of my two classes today online. Looks like a lot of work, but it'll give me something to do while the girls are at school. My other class at GRCC starts next Wednesday evening.

Tomorrow we'll go to Ridgeview and find out who Aliza has for a teacher. Meet the teacher night is next Wednesday for her. Last night we looked at the hot lunch menu and she picked out ten days that she wants hot lunch.

Ellie starts school on September 16th--she even gets to ride the bus. Her teachers come to visit her at the house on the 10th. And meet the teacher night for her is on the 14th.

Gavin has an appointment with a speech therapist and social worker next Wednesday. They will evaluating him for ECSE classes. We are praying that he'll be able to go at least two days a week. Or praying that they think it's not bad enough and he'll catch up later.

So many changes at our house for the next few weeks, I'll need a vacation after this is all over with :)

Whew!

2010-08-19T15:01:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy this past week planning the 2010-2011 Girl Scout year!! We have a jammed packed year and I learned so much from last year!! I can't wait to go on these new journeys with the girls, I know that they'll have fun. (and I will to0!).

Only 10 more days and I start school! Excited, nervous, scared, and hopeful all in one emotion. Next week we find out Aliza's teacher and the following week we get to meet her teacher. Ellie will start a week after Aliza. We are still unsure about Gavin. Should be finding out soon.

Randy has been working first this week. Which is such a odd change and blessing. I love having dinners with our family and having him home at bedtime! Sadly, this never lasts and he'll be forced back on second shift soon.

Soccer season starts next week! Both girls will be playing, on different team, but the the same field. I sure hope that their practices are not on Wednesday nights (I have class). It would be really nice if there were on the same night and time!! I know Ellie will enjoy getting out with other kids and running off her extra energy.

Aliza's ear is healing up well. I still can't believe that she got something stuck in there and had to have it removed. Leave it to my kids!! After her hole closes up and she wants to get a new one, I thought I would get another hole in my ear at the same time. She is doing an excellent job keeping her scar clean and medicated lotion on it.

It was extremely hot for a few weeks and now has cooled off a bit. We had to take the pool down because we couldn't get the chemical levels balanced, even after several tried to shock the pool and dumping gallons of chemicals in it every day. It started to grow a layer of algae on the bottom and that was the last stray-it had to come down. The kids were sad, but we told them we'd keep it for next summer and that pleased them enough. They still have all their other toys to play with in the backyard.

Gavin has learned how to ride his bike fast. I can't even keep up with him on the sidewalk. If only he can learn to word stop and it's meaning!! Thankfully, I make him (and all the kids) wear helmets!

Off to get some dinner and feed some hungry children. Cheeseburgers and sweet potato French fries with homegrown cucumbers.

Chicago

2010-08-15T16:29:00.000-07:00

On Saturday August 14 we ventured to Chicago! We drove to Michigan City and boarded the South Shore Line electric rail system. It was a two hour journey from there to our stop in Chicago. The kids were fascinated by the train. Gavin called out "All Aboard!" every time we stopped to pick up more passengers. The whole train looked at him, every time too! The girls enjoyed watching out the window at the new building and houses. After we got off the train we went to Shedd's Aquarium. There was so much for the kids to look at, touch and play on. Aliza got to dress up like a penguin, Ellie touched a live star fish and Gavin played in a boat! We saw clown fish, (aka Nemo), a 83 year old Longneck fish, an electric eel that lit up lights when it gave out a charge, and, of course, pink fish! The favorite animal of the day were the dolphins. We didn't see the show, but where able to see the dolphins swim around in their tank. Gavin thought it was so cool that they were doing tricks, he actually cried when we left the view area. Aliza bought a dolphin mood neckless, Ellie bought a dolphin trainer play set and Gavin got a dolphin helicopter. After we had toured the aquarium we played outside in the shady grassy area. The kids were able to run off some energy before we headed back to the train and head home. Gavin was so tired that he fell asleep on the train ride home. The girls both fell asleep in the van once we were on the expressway. This was a day that no one will forget, so many firsts; The kids and Randy's first time on a train, the aquarium and Chicago. I am sure that we will go back when the kids are older too! (I have lots more photos on my facebook profile)

Digi Scrapping

2010-08-12T15:38:00.001-07:00

Have you ever tried digital scrapbooking? I'm not ready, by any means, to turn in my scissors for this but it is fun. I created this layout by products made with Bella Gypsy's "Smelly Ogre and Mayhem" kits. I also used a Bella Gypsy template.

The journaling reads: "this picture of gavin (18months),taken at pizza planet, makes me smile. he was such a trooper with everything. he had a smile on his face the entire vacation. it is images like this that i remember forever."

Take a peek and let me know what you think.

$268.75

2010-08-12T11:47:00.000-07:00

What could you buy with $268.75? Toys, scrapbook supplies, clothes, a new purse? What would I spend that money on--two college books! Yup, just two-no more or no less! Oh boy, are we in trouble!

Airplanes

2010-08-02T07:48:00.000-07:00

I don't know why, but I love watching airplanes. Some people like cars, I like airplanes. At the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, they have a picnic area/park next to the runway. I mean just a few yards from the runway. We've been there several times this summer and I've forgot my camera or we've just stopped in after going to the mall. I finally remembered it when we went on Saturday. We took one of the kids friends along. We packed a picnic lunch, let the kids bring toys and Randy and I sat there in chairs watching planes land and take off for three hours! The best part is that besides the gas we use to go down there, it is all free and in a safe neighborhood! The only bad part of going there, is that it makes me want to go on vacation again!

Wilson.Alverson Wedding

2010-08-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

July 30, 2010. I was honored to take wedding photos for an amazing couple, Joy and Calvin! They were married in a very private and romantic church tucked away in the country up north. After the wedding, they met more family and friends in Howard City to celebrate their special day. Here a few sneak peek photos:

Ella is one year old!

2010-07-23T15:02:00.000-07:00

Ella's parents (Katie and Brent) are a friend on the family. I can remember going camping with Katie all the way through elementary school!! Last summer I took photos when Ella was still in her mama's belly. It was only fitting that I was able to do her one year photos. Although she was a bit grumpy from the heat and humidity along with it being close to bedtime, she was a joy to work with! I took them at the Rockford Dam. I can't wait to work with Ella and her family more!

Schumacher Girls

2010-07-23T14:58:00.000-07:00

I had the great privilege to photograph a girl scout family whose oldest is my/Aliza's Daisy troop. Their are three beautiful girls who are extremely photogenic. So glad to work with them!

Summer Storms

2010-07-23T14:49:00.001-07:00

It's been a crazy few weeks with nasty thunderstorms! We even had to run downstairs to the basement in the middle of the night after being woken up by the tornado sirens!! Not a cool feeling at all with young kids. It's the dead middle of the summer and it's time for the kids to go back to school. Although they enjoy the swimming pool and staying up to wait for daddy to get home from work, their boredom levels are at an all time high. Last week was Town and Country Days in Sparta. It's the week during the summer that the kids look forward to all year long. The carnival was in town along with parades, craft shows and kids games. It's also the one week during the summer that the kids fall asleep before bedtime! Aliza's girl scout troop was in the parade! What an exciting day for everyone. Gavin had strep throat last weekend and we found out the the tube in his left ear is already falling out--it's only been six weeks! Ellie has almost mastered riding a bike with no training wheels!! She's such a brave girl with no limits. I have my first Stampin' Up! workshop this weekend at my home. And tomorrow Randy and celebrate our sixth anniversary!! I can't believe how amazing these six years have been; we had three children, we bought a home, we bought a new vehicle, we have two children in school, we have been to Disneyworld twice, Randy and the kids flew on a airplane for the first time, I started a success photography business, we've been blessed with a great church family, and we are raising our children with a firm belief in God. We are truly blessed and loved.

Big News!!

2010-06-30T13:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay. So it's a little late. But, I am now a Stampin' Up! demonstrator!!! My goal is one workshop every quarter (every three months). I am so excited. Here are a couple of cards created with Stampin' Up! product. We are enjoying every mintue together this summer and our new pool! And more exciting news: Ellie got into the Great Readiness Preschool program at school! She'll ride the bus and the program is free of cost. :)

National Scrapbooking Weekend

2010-04-30T12:39:00.000-07:00

It's here!!! National Scrapbooking Weekend is my favorite weekend out of the whole year. I'll be cropping it up at acherryontop.com. Hope to be posting some of my creations soon.

Another Layout

2010-04-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

Here is another layout I uploaded at ACOT. I used tires off Gavin's matchbox cars (he bites them off and then gives them to me).

Upcoming Events

2010-04-08T11:16:00.000-07:00

I thought I would give you all a list of everything we have coming up! T-ball practice starts next week (that is a twice a week event). Then we have Tale Time at the Sparta Library every week for the girls. We also have Science night coming up, a field trip to the Children's Museum with Ellie and her preschool class. We have the Mesick band concert (it will the the only time that all of May nephews and niece play together). We also have opening day t-ball game and parade followed by Aliza's spring concert. Then on May 10 Randy and I fly out to Florida to hopefully relax and enjoy the sunshine and warm weather!! :-)

Another Long Gap

2010-04-08T11:04:00.000-07:00

I just keep forgetting about this really. I have no other excuse than that. The weather has been going back and forth between beautiful and miserable. Cold one day and record breaking temps the next. It really just needs to be summer--when we can enjoy the kids being home from school, sleeping in, long evening and hot temperatures. We have been busy with everything. School functions, teaching Sunday school at church, baseball practices starting, delivering Girl Scout cookies and being with family. Randy's Grandma Roth is in Africa until June now. It was a 21 hour flight over the ocean and to South Africa. Only 32 days left until Randy and I are able to get away for a few days. I don't know who needs it more, me or him. Either way those four days are going to be filled with fun! Above are a few layouts I have finished in the last week. I promise is won't be another three week gap.

It's Been Awhile

2010-03-15T10:07:00.001-07:00

So, it's been awhile. I know, my bad. It just seems that life has gotten so busy, crazy and hectic. What have we been doing? Well, the biggest change is that Randy is now working second, which then leaves me with very little computer time after the kids go to bed. I am busy taking care of kids all day and I exhausted every night. The next thing, we are about to be overwhelmed with Girl Scout Cookies. Our troop total was 1044 boxes (87 cases). WOW! Of course, Aliza was top seller with 217 boxes. This past weekend we took a couple girls out for Community Cookie Booth Day. They did amazing!! Together they sold 145 boxes. Aliza was so proud of herself. And it seems that every time I turn around Gavin is getting into trouble. If feel on a toy the other day and now he has another huge scab under his eye. It goes well with the one above his eye. I imagine this summer camping with Gavin will be an ultimate challenge. Ellie is enjoying preschool. We applied for preschool for her next year. Say a pray that we can get into the free program. She is already excited about maybe riding the bus to school. Oh, some big news right here--->Randy and I are taking a four day trip to Walt Disney World. Yup, we are so excited! We will even get to fly out of Grand Rapids. The idea of spending four days alone with each other is, well....AMAZING! The weather here in West Michigan seems to be getting better, warmer and sunnier. But, no worries it will snow over spring break. It happens every year. Our spring break plans our to stay home and enjoy each other sleeping in!

Win Jeanne Marie Scrap's Store!!!

2010-02-26T05:58:00.001-08:00

Click on this link for more details!! HAVE FUN!! http://www.acherryontop.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=326&t=221810

Med-Center

2010-02-15T09:20:00.000-08:00

So, what a wild weekend we had. On Saturday we took Aliza to the med-center for ear infection and then Sunday Gavin ran head on into a table corner and cut his forehead. We thought he would need stitches, but thankfully he just needed a few layers of glue. (The picture doesn't do it justice on how bad it really was.) Now, neither visit was fun at all, but at least we have the insurance for the kids to use. Goal number one today, is NOT go to the med-center/hospital and/or doctor.

wedding weekend

2010-02-02T05:38:00.001-08:00

we spent last weekend over in jackson, michigan to watch eileen and ben get married. the kids had a blast wearing fancy clothes and eating at a fancy restaurant. it was so nice to spend so much time with family.

Cookie Time!!!

2010-01-23T16:45:00.000-08:00

Yup, you read right--->it is Girl Scout cookie time!!! Aliza is so excited, she wants to be top seller like she was with fall product. And of course she wants to sell 1000 boxes to get the Ipod. Not sure that will happen, but i know that she will do well. So far day one total is 61 boxes! Amazing how they all add up. I imagine that when they all come in for the whole troop our garage will be full of cookie boxes. A promise is a promise, here a couple of ice skating photos.

Toot! Toot!

2010-01-14T14:54:00.000-08:00

I did it!! I am the guest digi CT at acherryontop.com!!! I've been in their online community for just over a year now and love every minute of it. They are so kind with the love in the gallery and the message bored is what gets me through most days with the kids. :-)

Ice Skating

2010-01-11T07:37:00.000-08:00

This is the second year that we've had a local homemade ice skating rink here in town. Last year the kids weren't interested in it at all, but this year they've nagged up to go since it opened last month. So Saturday morning we went and bought used skated for the entire family. That was an adventure! Then in the afternoon we went for about an hour. The girls were a little timid at first, but by the time we left Aliza was very slowly skating on her own without a plastic walker. Gavin never needed one to start. He just went! We went again on Sunday and Ellie didn't want a walker then. By the time we left on Sunday all three kids were starting to get very comfortable on their skates. Now, Randy--I'm not sure if he'll ever get the hang of it. He never even had roller blades/skates as a kids so ice skates are something really new. I can remember have a pair of ice skates and skating with friends, at families houses and skating after the hockey games on Friday and Saturday nights. So, this was something very exciting to me that the kids were so thrilled to try this new thing. I will post pictures next time I download from the camera. :-)

Hey Dude and Hey Chick

2010-01-04T04:43:00.000-08:00

Just Jessa Designs released two new kits today!! Love them both!! Pick them up at ACOT.

Happy 2010!

2010-01-01T18:09:00.001-08:00

So we have a couple of goals for the year: one, pay off Gavins hospital bill from his birth and two, pay off the bathroom remodeling loan. Now, if one of those happens with Randy being laid off it will be a miracle! We stayed home last night just the five of us. It was fabulous to be home and healthy playing games with the kiddos. I made them all glasses with my Cricut and desgin studio. They loved them and it was free to make!! Today we spent the day at the mall trying to find clothes to wear to a wedding and a dance. (Aliza asked Randy to the daddy daughter dance on her birthday at school). That is exhausting--trying to find something for everyone on a limited budget. But, I think we did it. Now off to bed to recoupe.

So VERY VERY Sick!!!

2009-12-27T06:53:00.000-08:00

I want a complete redo on Christmas. I was sick all day with a high fever, chills, sore throat and ear pain. We weren't sure if the med center was open and our co-pay at the ER is outrageous we waited until the next morning. I'm so glad that I have a Mom and Dad that live close--they came and watched the kids so Randy could take me. And it's a good thing we went--positive for strep throat and double ear infection. Feeling a touch better today--I slept better last night, and the ears don't hurt as bad and it only hurts when I swallow. Glad this happened this week and not next when we don't have any insurance. I feel so bad through that I only took like ten pictures on Christmas morning. I usually take 100 or so. Pray that I have a speedy recovery.

Winter Blossoms

2009-12-21T08:49:00.000-08:00

Here's Just Jessa Designs new kit. It is amazing!!! Some exciting news came this morning--I've been accepted onto another creative team. This one is for Shawnery's Designs!! I can't wait to get started creating for her. In just a few mintues girls scouts will be here and we headed to Camp Harvest to sledding and play games. The girls will be earning one of their flower petal patches. I'm sure everyone will have a great time and will sleep good tonight.

It's been a few days and Christmas Wishes

2009-12-15T11:42:00.000-08:00

So if you haven't heard the news Randy's been laid off again. We've spent the last day filling out unemployment paper work and everything that goes along with it. It really stink! At least the kids have given their letters to Santa ;-). This past weekend we got our H1N1 vaccines and the kids got to see Santa come into town via train and visit the Elf Workshop where they got to pick out gifts for everyone in the family free of charge. Talk about happy--they were move than happy. They gave Grandma a glass jar, a basket, and a small tea kettle. They gave Papa a tie and a silver plate. I can't wait to see what is in my basket. I was accepted onto another Creative Team. This one is for Jeanne Marie Scraps. I'll some of her products coming up. Just Jessa Designs released a new kit yesterday. It's called Christmas Wishes.

Christmas Cheer

2009-12-12T16:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas Cheer: Just Jessa Designs

Blizzard Warning!

2009-12-09T07:38:00.000-08:00

So as of 1pm this afternoon we are under a blizzard warning for a couple days. Have I told anyone lately how much I dislike winter here in Michigan.?! Aliza didn't have school again today, and I'm not anticipating any for the rest of the week really. Gavin has a touch of the stomach flu, more of the bottom end than top...tis' the season for that. We went to Goodwill this past weekend of the search for some snowpants for myself and came home with these pajamas for Gavin instead. I think I can see his future.

Snow Day

2009-12-08T16:51:00.000-08:00

We had our first snow day last week. Aliza was very upset because Friday's are her favorite days at school. She has music class, gym class, book buddies and she gets to bring home all her work that she has done through out the week. But, going out to play in the backyard covered in snow helped wear off some extra energy. They loved it!!!! We even were able to take them sledding in Sparta behind the upper elementary school.

A Couple of New Layouts

2009-12-05T16:09:00.000-08:00

Been a busy lady the past few days. And the kids have SERIOUSLY enjoyed played outside for the first time this season. Gavin wasn't even scared of the deep snow, and it went up to his chest. Hoping that the next weeks fly by. Could use some prayer for Randy, as they cut his hours to NO overtime, and he's not certain how much longer he'll be working. Can't wait for church to tomorrow and some praise and worship with the youngsters in the Runway room.

Our Tree

2009-12-03T07:17:00.000-08:00

It's starting to snow--just flurries. The only good thing about this season is the Christmas tree in our living room. It represents so much. I get to pick up our family photos next year. I'll post when I get them :-)

Ellie Singing

2009-11-30T16:42:00.000-08:00

Here you go, laugh along with us! Ellie sings her ABC's with her turkey legs. Gavin and Aliza sing along in the background.

Randy's Deer

2009-11-29T16:51:00.000-08:00

So, he finally got one! We've got between 24 and 30 pound of venison in the freezer now! Randy was so happy!

A photo of the Kiddos :-)

2009-11-29T16:49:00.001-08:00

WELCOME!

2009-11-29T16:45:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had a super Thanksgiving weekend. I know we enjoyed time with all the family and the kiddos really enjoyed Uncle Jonathan visiting. So I've started this blog to help everyone stay in touch with each other. I want to be able to give updates with sports, school, Girl Scout events and add pictures. I even want to try to add some scrapbook pages here too with some links to GREAT designers. Any comments and suggestions are welcome. So have fun and enjoy.