oh so thankful

In trying to promote an attitude of gratitude, we have made a thankful tree for the family to add thoughts to every day or so (as I remember and prompt).  The first things that the girls mention, Doc (McStuffins) and Belle.  We don't even watch Disney that often! More work, more prayer, more gratitude. Today's answers, Mommy, Betsy and God.  So much better.  Blessings.   

frog shirt

The other day, I was helping Mollie get dressed. She was adamant that I not choose the frog shirt.  I keep looking in the drawer, thinking the only frog things the girl owns are pajamas.  She continues to ask me not to select a frog shirt.  It finally dawns on me that she is talking about a turtle neck, when she says the frog shirts make her sick.  Blessings.

Dress up

At the Martin home we play dress up daily, even the bears get in on the act.

  We are pretty excited about trick or treat though.

 Dress up never gets old for my 2.  

Blessings

Know it all

The other day, Betsy announced that she knew everything in the whole wide world. We had a good laugh at that.   Then, Andy decided to ask a few questions. Starting with the presidents.  Who was the first president, Mollie answered, "George Washington." The second, I answer, "John Adams." Betsy who was third, Thomas.  Long pause. Betsy shouts, "the train."  We all cracked up.  It was quite amusing.  Blessings.

Podiatrist

Last week I was diagnosed with planter fasciitis and a bone spur in my left heel. No wonder I have been in so much pain while walking.  Now I'm on the hunt for some shoes called orthaheel. I bought some power step insoles and the podiatrist gave me a cortisone shot. Much relief. Hopefully with rest, stretching, icing, massage and ibruprophen, healing will come. Blessings.

Short update

It seems as if I am not able to get in a good flow of writing on the blog these. Days.  We went with the son light program for homeschooling Mollie this year and love it.  We are doing weekly library visits, spending time with friends and family, taking trips and loving each other.  We are contemplating adoption as a way to grow our family. We have only one house guest, three single young ladies from church just move out a week ago.  It was fun having their youthful exuberant selves here.  Our other guest will be leaving in a month or two. It already seems empty after having so many with us. 

Fantasy football was a bust.  I am still in the weight loss battle albeit slow. Mollie is learning to read and does great with the Bob books.  Betsy is learning her letters. Andy loves his job and we are looking forward to a smoky mountain vacation in a few weeks with his family.  Blessings

fantasy football

My cousin is setting up a fantasy football league for our family and a few friends.  I am going to play.  Eventually.  I am having major difficulty getting into my ESPN account, somehow deleted the original invite and the reminder e-mail, had to request a new password, and engage my cookies.  FF looking more like a nightmare.  Sure hope I win this thing.  Blessings.

Penny

Today, for the first time ever, Mollie requested to wear a jeans jumper.  She wanted to look like Penny from The Rescuers. Well, I must hand it to Walt Disney because he's gotten her to do something I never could. Blessings.

a day to myself

A friend invited the girls for an overnight visit. Andy and I agreed to let them go. They had a great time being with their friends and I had a great time being with myself.  Well, Andy and I did manage to squeeze in a couple of walks, an ice cream date and lunch out.  I also did some shopping, got a massage, read by the pool and relaxed at home for a bit before going to a meeting.  Amazing how much can be done in a days time.  Blessings.

Back to school

Today was the first day of preschool for Mollie and pre-pre for Betsy. We decided to go with the Sonlight cirriculum with additional workbooks from Rod & Staff.  Day 1 went without a hitch. I think we are going to love both programs.  Blessings.

Top 5 Savannah restaurants

We did get to eat at a few places on our trip. Savannah has lots of offerings. My top 5 for this trip were:
1. The 17 Hundred 90 - If you do get to go, the bacon wrapped scallops were wonderful.
2. The Olde Pink House - We ate at the bar because we didn't have a reservation, food and atmosphere were amazing.
3. Soho Cafe - We shared a Mom's meatloaf sandwich and a Mediterranean grilled panini.  We loved the fresh squeezed lemonade and Andy liked the raspberry spritzer. There were lots of prints and works of art to peruse while we waited to be seated.
4. The District Cafe - Hands down had the best squash bisque I have ever eaten.
5. Leopold's for ice cream.

Honorable mention: Coco's Sunset Grille on Tybee Island. We shared a steamed shrimp basket and the jerk chicken wrap.

I am getting hungry just remembering all of this good food. Blessings.

Amazing mouth

Mollie fell off of a swing on a weekend trip to Gatlinburg last week. It was quite a scary experience for all of us. She was swinging on her tummy then somehow managed to lose track of the swing and face planted in the dirt.  Her teeth bit deep into her bottom lip, thankfully not through it. In just over a week, the lip is all but healed.  I'm so thankful that she wasn't hurt any worse, that grandma was present and reassured Andy and myself that stitches aren't given for interior lip wounds, that auntie k was there with a water bottle, wipes and went for ice, uncle d was keeping all the kids happy, that uncle dr returned my call quickly and his mom (pediatric nurse) took Andy's call.  We are blessed with an amazing family.  Especially in an emergency. Blessings.

Anniversary in savannah

Andy and I spent our 7th anniversary in Savannah, Georgia.  We stayed at McMillan Inn, in the carriage house.  We had a great time exploring the city, riding the trolley, eating and shopping. My mom kept the kids, and from their chatter, I think they had a great time as well.  Blessings

Systems

Right now, I am getting things organized here at home. I am implementing systems for cleaning and a monthly menu. Soon we will add in pre-k cirriculum.  I love the things that are in place, but am always looking for ways to streamline as well.  Many of the ideas came from Pinterest and fly lady -FYI so you can find a fit for your family in the season you are in.  Blessings.

Happy 4th

It has rained here most of the day.
We were able to see some fireworks last night
with some friends. I also made the girls some
Special toast this morning. The cousins came today as well.
Overall it's been great. Hope yours was as well. Blessings.

Chore list

I always have a list of chores that I don't often get to for one reason or another. I decided to assign each a cash value and invite some of the young girls from church to complete the tasks they chose. It was a win win.  Now my house is cleaner and they have a few dollars to spend while they're on vacation. There are a few items left which I may or may not get to, but I don't think they would have done at all if they weren't on the list.  Blessings.

cinnamon almonds

One of my favorite snacks of late is cinnamon almonds from Trader Joe's. Yummy.  I've made seasoned nuts in the crock pot last year and they turned out pretty well, but these little gems are fast and easy and delicious.  Blessings.

planner

I am on the hunt for a planner for the next school year.  I feel as if it will help me be better organized in my "schooling" of the girls.  I would also like some room for menu planning and some personal notes.  Maybe it's too much to ask of one product. I have seen some very cute personal agendas that could work in a pinch, but they don't offer much room in the way of recording what we are doing for school. Any ideas would be appreciated. Blessings.

rest in peace

Today, a sweet friend will be laid to rest.  In a way, it will be a celebration.  A life well lived for others - given in service to her family, friends, and Lord.  Mrs. Minton will be missed by her family, but there is a peace that they all know and feel that their mom/grandma will be in heaven.  The suffering of this life has ended and her mind and body are now at peace.  There is also a comfort in that.  Praise the Lord for the example of a life lived out in completion to him. It truly is a glorious thing. Blessings.

Recital today

The girls did a recital today for friends and family at the end of ballet camp. It was very sweet. The ballet was based on the parable of the lost sheep.  All of the little girls were sheep and they were quite adorable. Blessings.

P.s.  I'm working on figuring out how to post pictures/videos from my phone. Not as easy as I thought. :/

Goodwill finds

Today, I stopped by Goodwill during my "alone" time.  I scored a few items including a vintage picnic basket, a sweet little tray and a Hollie Hobbie jewelry box.  I just love a good deal.  Blessings.

Butterfly girls

Today at ballet camp, the girls' faces were painted as butterflies.  They were beyond excited just to go to "camp."  Must say I'm loving it too.   Blessings.

errands

Sometimes, I think I am super woman I guess.  Today, while the girls were at ballet camp, I thought I would have time to run my errands.  All of them.  Big mistake.  I did not have time.  I was late for lunch with some friends, I was late to get my girls, I was frustrated with myself.  The girls waited with another mom from church, and they were fine. I did get to visit with my friend from out of state for a short amount of time, and see her sweet baby girl albeit briefly.  But, the errands are all done.  Blessings.

Ballet camp

Today, I dropped the girls off for a few hours at ballet camp.  They had a wonderful time. It's going to be a more challenging week for me than for them I think. They are working hard on learning a dance to be performed on Friday for family and friends. I am looking forward to that. They are also having a great time working on part of their costumes, playing, coloring and having a grand time. Me? I went to the store, put away groceries and cleaned the house.  Blessings.

Stitches

Last Friday, mollie came down on the edge of the pool, busting her chin open during her last swim lesson. Poor kid.  I debated on wether or not to take her to the doctor, but after a call to his office, decided to have her checked out.  So, we drive over to the urgent treatment center.  She got 3 stitches in her chin.  She had to have them for 5 days, which put a damper on our pool going.  She had the stitches removed Wednesday  and was swimming with her noodle today.  Loving every minute of pool time. I am so thankful that she continues to show no fear in the pool even after her accident-thought it might set her back, but it hasn't at all.  Blessings.

Production week

My apologies for not posting in a while, we have been pretty busy.  Mollie was in a ballet last Saturday and Sunday. So we had lots of extra practices and rehearsals. She did a great job. Se does not have an ounce of stage fright at all- for that I am very thankful.  She danced the part of a ribbon dancer at Ruth's wedding.  A ballet written by her teacher based on the Bible story.  It was a very moving performance.  Next week, she and Betsy are going to ballet "camp". They are beyond excited about that.
Blessings

Booster seats

Tonight, Andy and I purchased booster seats for the girls.  We have to split our time with them a couple nights this week because of ballet, so we decided to make the transition easier by getting new car seats.  We got a good deal on the boosters at kMart, so we went ahead with the purchase. The girls look so big in their new seats.  They were excited to get pink and purple covers with flowers nonetheless. Smiles all around!  Blessings.

swim lessons

Today, the girls started swim lessons at Transylvania University.  The have different teachers, so it's hard for me to keep an eye on each of them.  But, both girls had a great time and liked their teachers very much.  For that I am grateful.  We have to be members of our neighborhood pool, so the earlier they learn to swim the better. I like it too that the lessons are going to be daily (well, 3 days this week and 5 next).  I think this consistency will help them really hone their skills. Happy swimmers are the best.  Blessings.

Graduation-JWW

Well, my nephew graduated last week.  I am proud of him. It's always an exciting time to know that a chapter of life is closed and a new chapter is waiting to be written. So long high school, hello college, work, manhood, marriage and children (though not too soon).   The years of boyhood have slipped by and now the years of training and love will bloom into the man you will become. Day by day, decision by decision, they all count to make you the person you will be.  Jackson, know you are loved.  Blessings.

Friday's wedding

I went to the sweetest wedding Friday night. The bride, who is from a divorced home, never really had a relationship with her birth father, but she has a great relationship with her step-dad as well as her grandfather.  Her grandfather walked her down the aisle and handed her to her step-dad who was the one who "gave her away."
I also found it moving that they served communion to the wedding party and guests. 
The reception was fun as well.  Pies instead of cake, bags of popcorn and a self-serve candy bar. 
I wish the Blankenships all the best.
Blessings.

Date night

Last night, Andy and I want on our weekly date.  We ate Mediterranean, went for a walk at the arboretum and then shopped at trader Joe's.   One of the best dates for me in a while. Blessings.

Mother's Day

It was so nice to get to spend the weekend with my mom and grandma.  For me, the celebration started on Thursday evening, when Andy and the girls brought home a hanging basket of flowers.  Then we went to my folks for the weekend.  I find it to be restful,  I doubt my mom does since we create extra work for her, but I know she loves it when we visit.  My grandma joined us for a few hours on Saturday and Sunday for church, we all got flowers, but Mamaw won the bunch for having the most kids (7).   It was good to treat Mom and Mamaw to lunch out on Sunday, even though the wait was long. The kids and Andy had some coffee, a t-shirt, hand towels and some cards for me when we got home.  Such a great weekend. Blessings.

Top 5 rainy day activities for the girls

I don't mind spring rains too much, but it does put a damper on our ability to get outside and play.  Though the girls love to splash around in puddles and dance under their umbrellas when there is no thunder.  Indoors though I have some ideas that we mostly do on rainy days, but they would be fine for anytime.
1. A picnic lunch. With or without a video, the girls love it when we eat on a blanket in the living room floor.
2. Puzzles, cards and board games.
3. Play-doh and finger painting.  We rarely get this stuff out, but the girls really enjoy it when we do.
4. Bike riding in the garage.  I back the van to the driveway and let them burn off some steam.
5. Chores - nothing like setting them free with a dust rag, Shaklee window or all purpose cleaner to get the smears off windows, walls and floors.

Hope you get an idea or two of how to spend a wet afternoon with your kiddos.  Blessings

Nana

Happy birthday to Nana, Andy's grandmother.  She is such a lovely woman.  Generous, kind, helpful, pleasant.  We are blessed to know her.  I am hopeful that we will get to see her soon.  It is always a pleasure. The girls love our visits as do we.  Blessings.

Unicorns

Tonight, Betsy was perusing a kids book.  She was very excited to find a story about a princess inside.  She was naming some things in the book: castle, princess, angry man (a wizard) and pony-corn (unicorn).  I love this girl.  Blessings.

Top 5 flowers

In honor of May Day, I thought I'd share my top flower picks.
Roses, daffodils, lilies, violets and wild flowers.   Blessings and happy May Day

cold crock pot

I was a little scared this afternoon, when I checked on the crock pot meal I had assembled.  The crock pot was cold.  Chicken wrapped with bacon still half frozen.  Good thing I checked on it, I rarely do.  There was plenty of time to transfer this yumminess to a couple of baking dishes and have it done in time for supper.  I tried the crock pot again, and it warmed up. My best guess is that I had it between settings.  Oh my, it was enough to give me a good scare.  I sure use it a lot. I told Andy that if it is broken, scratch everything off the Mother's Day list, I just need a crock pot.  :)  Blessings. 

5 favorite bath items

1. Aveda energizing body wash-it is invigorating especially on rainy days.  I certainly needed it this morning.
2. Mary Kay Time Wise.
3. Redken fresh curls - New formula <3
4. Yes to carrots eye cream
5. Nivea body lotion has a great scent.

Blessings

weight watchers

Well, I joined weight watchers yesterday.  Andy has been doing the on-line program for the past month and a half and is down 20 lbs.  so I thought I would give it a try as well.  I actually have done it in the past and was quite successful with it. I am excited about it. The only downside is I get half the amount of "points" as Andy which is challenging for me.  I am also more used to going to the meetings, so we shall see how the on-line side works out.  I am glad to be doing it with Andy.  Blessings.

dandelions

I have been on a mission to weed the dandelions from the yard.  If I'd known it was going to be this much work, I'd have not taken on the challenge.  It seems as if there are more weeds to pull each day.  I have a weeder that looks like a prong on a stick, so it is quite labor intensive.  The girls play barefoot in the front yard, so I don't want to use pesticides.  It is supposed to storm today, so I doubt I'll get a chance to work in the yard this afternoon.  I'll just have more to do tomorrow once the yard is "watered."   Blessings.

weekend fun

My folks nabbed a kiddie 4 wheeler and a motorized jeep for just a few dollars.  I think it's the best money they've spent in a while based on the smiles. We had a great time with my family over the weekend doing all kinds of things together.  Andy also got to be in the woods a little, hunting for a turkey, but he was unsuccessful - this trip.  Blessings.

Donna

My aunt Donna called yesterday and said that she is in complete remission from this most recent bout with cancer.  Hooray for answered prayers. Blessings

cousin time

Last week we had Andy's younger sisters and their families in for a visit.  It was so much fun.  We went to Trader Joe's, Smash burger, the mall, Joseph Beth, Chick fil a, the park, and Gattitown.  We also had a lot of play time at home - biking and blowing bubbles, playing dolls and games. It was a different having the families here through the week, but such a nice experience.  Everyone had a great time.  I know that the girls are having cousin withdrawal this week. While watching a video of our TN cousins, Betsy shouted at the computer, "I love you."  We sure do!  Blessings.

Silly heads

The girls have really enjoyed playing around on the iPad and think these pictures are hilarious. I do too. Hope you find them just as fun. Blessings. 

my breath

Betsy was running around the court a couple of times today. On her second trip around, she started to cry.  I went to meet her, she said, "Mommy, I lost my breath."  She is too funny.  Blessings.

what the girls are saying

Here are some Mollie-isms and Betsyisms that I've heard of late. 

Mollie:
Is that a deal (trying to get something from me or change a plan.)
Queen Mother (to me as she is playing princess.)

Betsy:
Cover me in  (wanting to be tucked in and covered up at bedtime)
My love you
Him have he dog  (We definitely need to work on pronouns with her.)

Blessings

George Buttrick quote

Prayer is not a substitute for work, thinking, watching, suffering, or giving; prayer is a support for all other efforts.  Geo. Buttrick

Blessings

Turning the corner

Betsy continues to cough a little at night, but it isn't disrupting her sleep.  Yay.  Se is also doing amazingly well with going in the potty.  We have gone from me sitting with her for half an hour to her not even wanting me in the bathroom.  Furthermore, she is initiating her trips to the bathroom.  I am so pleased, and she is proud of herself. Blessings.

Throat drops

Betsy has been coughing for the past couple of nights.  The cough medicine wasn't seeming to help her at all, so I decided to give her a pectin drop to ease her cough.  It worked, and she was able to get back to sleep and stay asleep, thankfully.  However, this morning I was regretting my decision because the lozenge was matted in her hair. What a mess.  Well, the girls enjoyed a morning bath before we started our busy day. Blessings.

Rainbow

This morning, Mollie asked Betsy if purple was her favorite color.  Betsy replied, "my like a rainbow."
Blessings.

Baby chicks

We have some friends who are raising chickens. We went a couple of weeks ago to see the little puff ball babies and back again today. I think the girls were pretty impressed at how much they'd grown. Today, the chicks had a combination of down and feathers and were quite a bit larger overall. I was glad that we also got to see the "big" chickens outside. The girls didn't express any fear of the roosters or the hens and would have chased them around the lot for a while. Maybe next time we will get to see an egg in the nest, they'd love that too.  Blessings.

Potty woes- potty whoas

Betsy is having a hard time with going #2 on the potty.  I know she has an awareness of her bodily functions, because she calls for a pull-up each day.   For the past two days, I have been spending close to an hour in the bathroom coaxing her to go and reassuring her that she can do this.  She is a stubborn little thing and won't go for days at a time.  I gave her a suppository today and had a little success, knowing that she should go more based on the amounts she'd passed in the past couple of days.  After dinner, she complained of her tummy hurting.  I said maybe she should try again.  Well, while I ran a bath for the girls, she pushed out a major amount. Then, we laughed and cheered and called daddy.  I am feeling quite proud of my little girl this evening.  She conquered her fear.  Now, I'm praying for continued success-daily success. Blessings.

Living free

The retreat was wonderful. It was so good being with friends who are like sisters.  Some of the main take always for me from this year's retreat were: women have an inordinate desire for men because of the curse in Genesis,  whatever we to should be to the glory of God, else it is bondage,  and God gives us all things to enjoy, but don't get caught up in living to those things.  There is a real freedom that comes when I don't look to Andy for affirmation of myself, but can find my wholeness  in Jesus. I'm sure it is freeing for him as well if I am confident in The Lord and not looking to him to fill a need that he wasn't designed to fill.  It was a refreshing look at the women in the book of John and see Jesus' interactions with them from the Samaritan woman, the adulteress, Mary (Martha's sister) to the women at the crucifixion. He knew them, forgave them, didn't condemn them and loved them.  Quite arevolutionary for women to be treated in that day as well as now! Blessings.

Retreat

I am leaving for a retreat this weekend. The women in my church go away once a year for a time of fellowship and teaching. I am really looking forward to reconnecting with some friends.  We always have a good time. Blessings.

Mamaw and Peyton

Today is a special day in our family.  Both my grandma and niece celebrate their birthdays.  Yay for birthdays.  It is a good reminder to celebrate special people in our lives. Here is a little ode to each of them.  Blessings.

Jesus-loving
Understanding
Loving
Incredible
Adorable



Positive
Endearing
Youthful
Tough
Optimistic
Nice

100 Days of School

The girls and I have done 100 days of "school."  Today, we are celebrating with a snack of 100 pieces and a Strawberry Shortcake movie.  Ahh, living the life.  The girls are having a blast.  Blessings.

Mary Kay

Today, I am getting a facial courtesy of a Mary Kay consultant.  I love their products especially the time wise line.  I am looking forward to relaxing while the kids watch a video and dinner is in the crock pot.  Blessings.

Brown beans

The girls have been playing Little House on the Prairie this morning.  I have a big bowl of brown beans for them to use in play.  They have been making tea, brown sugar loaves, brown bread and beans of course.  They are having a grand time.  I am as well, just listening to them. Blessings.

trained doggie

While I was driving to pick up my friend yesterday, I noticed a lady holding a bag under her dog as he squatted to collect his business.  It was a most interesting sight for sure.  I don't know how long it took her to train him, but neither seemed to mind the accomplishment.  We are still working on potty training here.  I figured if Betsy is calling for a pull up, then she is ready to go in the toilet.  Let's pray this phase goes well.  Blessings.

20 Q's Betsy - 3

1. How old are you? 3
2. Who is your best friend? Tia Nancy
3. What is your favorite thing to do? Play horsey
4. What is your favorite color? Red and Pink
5. What is your favorite food and drink? Smoothies and Sprite and Ssausage biscuits
6. What do you like to do with your family? Play horsey
7. What is your favorite toy? Cinderella
8. What do you want to do when you grow up? Ballet dancer
9. What makes you happy? Monkeys
10. What makes you sad? Getting too muddy
11. What is your favorite show to watch? Cinderella
12. What is your favorite book? Narnia
13. What do you love to learn about? Monkeys
14. What was the best part of your birthday? Monkeys
15. Where do you like to go? The cabin (Smoky Mtns.)
16. What are you really good at? Being sneaky
17. What is your favorite treat? Chocolate
18. What do you think about before going to sleep? My blankie - Stinky Bear
19. What is your favorite animal? Lion
20. What is your favorite song? Jesus Loves Me

Love

I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's day. If you don't have a "love" take time to be a good friend to someone today. Know that you are loved, and known, and desired by one who sacrificed all to know you. 
Blessings.

Valentine's date

Andy and I went out last night for our Valentine's date.  What's super nice is the girls had a date too with his parents.  They went to Cracker Barrel and then to Build A Bear.  The girls had a wonderful time.  I had a good time with Andy as well.  We ate at Giuseppe's and went for a drive.  To make the day even nicer, Andy brought home flowers for me and the girls.  All his girls are feeling very loved these days. Blessings.

Missed ballet lesson

Today, we sat in traffic for 46 min or so on the way to Mollie's ballet lesson.  The church is only 15 min. From our house and the lesson is 30 min. The girls were good sports about being in the van that long. I did find them each a lollipop and we played lots of "I spy." I would have turned back, but the girls were being babysat near the church, so we had to just wait it out.  The teacher was very kind about things and the weather was perfect. Not a complete waste of time being with my girls. Blessings.

Trader Joe's shopping list

After trying several items at TJ's here are a few things that I continue to buy every time I go.

Dried mangoes
Nut mixes
Vanilla almond granola
Yogurt
Eggs
Milk
Cheese
Pancetta
Multi-grain crackers
Green juice
Spiced Cider (seasonal)
Chopped veggies (8 veggies all chopped up, saves me tons of time)
Cookie butter
Chocolate chips
Granola bars
Olive oil


I want to try the turkey meatballs, pizza, ice cream and some other frozen entrees but I am generally running another errand or two, so I've not gotten to explore in the freezer section as much as I'd like. 

What do you get at TJ's?
The girls love looking for the horse Lexi, so they can get a lollipop at the end of the trip as well. 
Blessings.
Jessica

goodwill

Today, I took the girls shopping at Goodwill.  They each found a couple of books and CD's.  I found a DVD set for them as well.  Overall, it was a good way to spend an hour or so and just a little money for a big reward.  Blessings.

Catherine Marshall quote

Recently I've been learning that life comes down to this: God is in everything. Regardless of what difficulties I am experiencing at the moment, or what things aren't as I would like them to be, I look at the circumstances and say, "Lord, what are you trying to teach me?"

Facebook hacked

I was so tired yesterday afternoon, that I thought I would doze on the couch while the girls watched Daniel tiger on the PBS app on the iPad.  After the video was done, they (I suspect mollie) opened the Facebook app and proceeded to type in a bunch of gobbledie-gook.  An hour or so later I get a text from my best friend, saying my status was hysterical,  I hadn't been on Facebook since the morning and I rarely write anything hysterical (as you probably could guess).   Well, it was pretty funny.  I guess I need to sleep when the girls are in their bed or put in a DVD and not trust them with my iPad unsupervised. Lesson learned, lol.  The best part, was at the end where they typed .j  
Blessings!

the purist

Oma made pancakes for all of us on Sunday morning.  She made plain, blueberry, and chocolate chip.  Opa said, "I like the plain ones, because I am a purist."  Mollie countered, "I like the chocolate chips one because I am a sweetest."  Needless to say, we all cracked up.  Blessings.

Betsy Boy

Betsy came to me after breakfast and announced, "My a boy with a mustache and beard."  Her face was covered in her chocolatey oatmeal.  She is quite a card.  Blessings.

pull ups

I have stopped putting Betsy in pull ups this week.  Oh my, we have had 3 accidents in 4 nights.  She had been waking up dry.  I guess she is not quite ready for the transition, even though I certainly am.  Oh well, I guess a pull up or two a day is more cost effective than a load of laundry.  She is also not going #2 on the potty either.  I guess we will go back in pull ups for bed and nap for a few more weeks and try again.  I remember potty training with Mollie was a challenge as well.  Blessings

Natural Bridge

Today was such a nice day.  Andy decided that we should go hiking.  We got a snack lunch ready and loaded the van for Red River Gorge.  We enjoyed the hike and the fabulous views.  Hope you were able to do something fun this weekend as well.  Blessings.

the natural bridge

fat man's squeeze

dad and Mollie

view from the top

mom and Betsy

You would think I would know how to rotate pictures on here, but if they don't do it automatically I don't stand a chance.  :)  Maybe I will learn how to do that this year. Maybe.

insight

Our internet connection is very spotty today. We are supposed to have someone come out to the house tomorrow to check it.  Hopefully, they will get here before lunch, but I'm not holding my breath.  When Andy called the service desk this morning, they kept offering to sell him upgrades and other services.  He was a little frustrated that they keep giving sales pitches on a technical call.  My guess is they make a lot of sales doing it, or they would stop.  I miss the fast internet.  Maybe we will have it back tomorrow.  Blessings.

Easy Bake

The girls love the Easy Bake App on the Ipad. I must say it is a pretty cute app and a good way for them to spend time taking turns making pretend cookies, cakes, cake pops, cupcakes and even pizzas.  Best of all the treats are calorie free. Blessings.

Left ear, right ear

Last night, Mollie woke up complaining about her left ear hurting.  What a night, both Andy and I were up several times with the girls. After a trip to the doctor, she is back on antibiotics.  Thankfully, our evening is free tonight. Hoping for a nap today and an early bedtime tonight.  Blessings.

Ear infection

Poor Betsy has an ear infection. I finally figured it out Sunday night when she tried to put her water bottle in her ear. Poor thing. She had a fever on Friday missing church, then she developed a cough on Saturday.  She complained of her nose hurting (it was irritated from blowing it so much). When asked what hurt though, she would point to her cheek.  Looking back, I am thinking she may have had an ear infection even then with the pain radiating to her face. I took her to the doctor on Monday and started on antibiotics. Thankfully, she seems much better. Hope you and your family are healthy this new year. Blessings.

the Sabbath

I was reading an article about the Sabbath yesterday. In thinking over my life, I realize that I don't take a Sabbath rest really. I think in this year, I will try to rest more.  There really is no reason the I can't grocery shop or run my errands on Saturday night or sometime else during the week. The article was challenging as well as encouraging.  Hope you find some way to include a Sabbath rest in your life this year.  Blessings.


Hit the Pause Button  - Here is a link to the article.  Happy 2013!

clean house

Well, today I've managed to sweep, do laundry, wash the bathroom rugs, and clean the refrigerator.  By no means am I done cleaning the house, but I've got a good start for the new year.  I also have a Bible reading plan that I've started and I was able to exercise with my friend this morning.  Hope you are off to a good start on your resolutions as well.  Blessings.