JUST LOVIN' OUR LIFE

A little catch up

2009-03-06T11:37:00.030-05:00

From 2009_02_03

Some fun things I did while it was cold outside. Just click above:)

I tried to make some faux roman shades out of a $12 panel I got at Target.

From 2009_02_23

Jenna mastering her bigger bike, Sammy turns 11. Building snowmen all in this album below:)

From 2009_02_06

The newest member to our extended family. Ally's dream~meet, Copper he will be 1yr in a couple weeks!

From 2009_02_28

Oh..by the way we did celebrate Christmas:)

2009-02-03T18:17:00.029-05:00

I'm going to attempt a quick update of what's been going on the last couple months. I know I'm very behind. So there will be no editing of photos you just get what there is. We are enjoying the snow and we are getting more right now! Hope everyone is getting a good start on 2009! P.S.hang with me, this is a long post! Jenna turned 6 on 1-30-09 but that is at the end of this wonderfully long post:) As always click on the photo to view the album, do I really need to tell you that?:)

Getting ready for Christmas:)

From 2009-02-03

Christmas with Stephanie:) Due to my friends being so spread out over the globe our schedules were not the same. Steph and I met at P.F.Chang's for our Christmas! All four of us girl's would have loved to be together but.....that's life as they say.

From 2008_12_22

Christmas Eve~We have since even before my time celebrated Christmas Eve at my "PaPaw and MeMaw" Hatfields house. We usually have at least 40 people there and needless to say we have so much fun! I love my family and have made so many precious memories with them. My papaw went to heaven in 1992.This year was a hard Christmas Eve, my grandma had to move to a nursing home in Dec. she fell and broke her hip. She had hip surgery and still has not recuperated. She is suffering from very bad dementia and it makes me very sad. Brian and I and the kids went and spent some time with her before we had our annual Hatfield Christmas. Randy my cousin invited all of us to his home and although I missed having grandma there SO MUCH, we were all glad to be together.

From 2008_12_24

Christmas Day

From 2008_12_25

Matthew is finally here:) It was just the day after Christmas but we miss him!

From 2008_12_26

Christmas at my Mom and Dad's house.

From 2008_12_31

Back at Brian's mom and dads to have Christmas with Leanna his sister and family:)

From 2009_01_01

WHEW!!!!!That's all of that:) No wonder I was so tired after Christmas.
My silly girl! I don't remember what this is about but the pic is too funny!

From 2009_01_15

Jacob started basketball season and is loving it! His team has won 3out of 4:) My special niece Lindsesy turned 3:) Her birthday pictures are in this album as well.

From 2009_01_17

We got SNOW! Very FUN! Very Beautiful!

From 2009_01_29

On 1-30-03 we received a very special gift, our baby girl, and our lives will never be the same! "My" Jenna turned 6 she is growing up so fast! We love her life and it has made ours more fun. So this is a Happy Birthday post to our sweet, beautiful, silly girl! We would have so many less smiles without her! We love you Jenna!

From Jenna's 6

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-06T21:09:00.006-05:00

Will I ever have time to blog Christmas 2008? Not looking very promising. Happy New Year anyway:)

From 2009_01_01

WHERE IS JENNA????

OH...here she is, now Matthew is almost gone...I give up:) We were bringing in the New Year.

From 2009_01_01

Merry Christmas from our hearts to yours

2008-12-24T13:05:00.006-05:00

We wish you His presence as we celebrate His birth. Merry Christmas!!

From 2008_12_23

A couple more pix if you click From 2008_12_14

EVERYBODY NEEDS AN ELF!!!

2008-12-12T16:10:00.003-05:00

MY LITTLE ELF

From 2008_12_09

2008-12-12T15:26:00.004-05:00

Look At More Pictures in this album From 2008_12_06

What a beautiful day for a Christmas Horse Parade. A little cold.....brrrr.... Not a great time for your camera battery to die......grrrr....so you can see some pretty horse and carriages at Tamra C. blog. It was such a pretty parade and the snow was beautiful. Our day finished off going to G.B.S for the Christmas production. It was so good and put me more in the Christmas spirit. Hope your days are merry and bright!!

2008-12-12T14:59:00.003-05:00

click for a couple more pix From 2008_12_04

GNO this month was really special because our friend Deanna was in the US. We went to Don Pablos at Rookwood and got caught up oh yeah we ate too. Then we HAD to go shopping:) We celebrated Christmas and De's birthday. I had such a good and relaxing time. Time spent with friends is time well spent! Of course we had to call Stephanie and talk, we missed her:( Living in different time zones and countries can really make it hard to schedule GNO but, we consider our times together BIG blessings:)

'Tis the Season

2008-12-01T23:33:00.005-05:00

My kids are ready, Jacob loves getting ready for Christmas the most. He can not wait to get out the tree and start decorating, he is my driving force:) So we have begun, the tree I absolutely dread putting up, but the other little decorating I enjoy. So here we go off to a busy holiday season.

Click on pic for more From tis the season

GIVE THANKS

2008-12-01T22:56:00.005-05:00

Giving thanks is not very hard to do. Our blessings are numberless!!! We give thanks with a grateful heart.
I have had another first in my life, I wonder when they stop? This time it was preparing Thanksgiving dinner for my wonderful family at my house. With the help of Brian,(the world's most wonderful husband) I cooked my first 24lb. turkey. Now that wasn't all that easy wrestling the big bird but, we did it! It was scrumptious!!! There were 11 of us and so much food left over. I'll just say we have had all the turkey leftovers we can handle:) My mom and sister helped so much and I'll have to say it was all easy.
Thank you God for our family and friends!

click for a couple more pix From 2008_11_27

Cutest, Sweetest, Most Cuddly Girl!

2008-11-15T21:44:00.003-05:00

Thats all I have to say and Aubrey is 5 months today:)

Click on Pic for a couple more From 2008_10_30

Always Runnin' Behind

2008-11-03T16:21:00.014-05:00

I am convinced that this is the MOST hectic segment of time in my lifetime thus far!!!! Who knows when it will end so I though I would take a few moments to blog. Hang in there with me, it's going to be a long post:)
Last week was a very busy week!! Lots of fun moments were had. Here is the rundown:
1. Revival~Tues.-Sun. missed one night.
2. My very wonderful friend from Idaho was here!
3. Worked in Jenna's classroom.
4. I had a birthday.
5. Halloween
6. Halloween Parade and party at Jenna's school.
7. Jacob's football game.
So, it doesn't look as busy as it felt but you know all the stuff that goes in between whew.....I'm just glad this week is supposed to be slow.

A long awaited GNO we shopped for a bit and went to one of our favorite places, PFChang's, for our first GNO with Stephanie in town. Food was great but, being together was the BEST!! We missed Deanna so much!!

From 2008_10_23

Stephanie and Miss Madeline came over and we went to Skyline for supper and to Graeter's for dessert:) We had so much fun!! Madeline is absolutely adorable! She is so dramatic and talkative, she kept us entertained (wonder where these characteristics come from???) So glad you could spend time with us, we already miss you!!

Graeter's Yummy!!!! Click on pic for moreFrom New Folder (2)

I turned 34 on Oct.29. I can't believe how time goes so fast. I seriously feel like I just graduated from High school sometimes. My hubby and kids bought me the latest book from one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to read it.

I went out with the girls on my birthday, to one of another of our favorite restaurants, The Cheesecake Factory~YUMMY~Dulce De Leche was my cheesecake of choice:) Janie had my other fave, White Raspberry Truffle~thanks for sharing Janie;) The girls bought me some really cool baskets for a "project" I'm working on....I'll blog about that later.

From 2008_10_29

can you say YUMMY!!!! From 2008_10_29

De we tried to call you and it wouldn't go through? Its not the same without you. Miss you!!!From New Folder (2)

My kids love to carve pumpkins. So we fit that in one morning before school.

click on pic to see the rest From 2008_10_29

Halloween was a very fun day! I had to get a little creative with Jacob's costume but it turned out great and he loved it! We had a crew come over for trick or treating, the kids are eating their "spoils" right this minute. We were running against the clock because we had revival service at 7pm. We(16 people) loaded into a mini van near the end our trick or treating, talk about a load!!! The doors were open with people hanging out:) We made it to church.

click on pic above to view album From 2008_10_30

Jenna's school has a little costume parade it was cute. I helped out at the party in her classroom. I love being in her classroom!! We had a great time.

click on pic above for the album From 2008_10_31

So thats it for a while. Have a great week!

HAPPY FALL

2008-10-14T18:58:00.009-05:00

The wordless blog:)

From 2008_09_02

click on pix to view more

Watch out World Here She comes and there ain't no stopping her

2008-08-30T00:49:00.012-05:00

Well my baby girl has grown up in it seems like 2 weeks or so and is now in KINDERGARTEN!!!! This house is still in a little shock seeing our baby girl very independently heading off for school!!
Let me fill you in a little. Jacob has been home schooled for the last 2 years and we are Homeschooling this year too, 4th grade. As Brian and I were praying about Jenna's schooling we just weren't sure what to do. Jenna had informed us that she wanted a real bus, a real teacher and a real school building. Now our children are exact opposites!! In a nutshell we felt it would be fine to try our excellent school district out. Just for Jenna that is. So on August 28, our baby became a kindergartner.
We very confidently arrived to school for the 1st day, mommy and Jacob hung around for a few minutes to make sure she was comfortable. She was a little quite and so I asked her if she wanted me to stay longer or go on home. She said "I'm ready for you to leave now" What ??? Thats it!! No hugs, no kisses. Just a very sweet smile and we were on our way. The nerves in my stomach immediately began to churn and continued until she was back safe with me. She loved it by the way and said she couldn't way till tomorrow to ride the bus. Tomorrow has now come and gone and yes she loved the bus too! I can't tell you how proud I am of this little independent girl of mine, WOW she really likes it!!!! I'm so excited to see her learn. Gotta love her she is a go getter~but she will always be my baby girl.

2008_08_29

Click for larger pix:)

The lovely days of flip~flop summer

2008-08-29T23:18:00.008-05:00

Summer is a wonderful time of the year~ ice cream, late nights, not much of a schedule, swimming, sunning, and flip flops:)

Sadly most of that is coming quickly to end. Our family usually takes a vacation in the summer, but, this year we didn't. I thought it might make summer feel a little longer however, it just kept on flying by.

Some of my favorite things this summer I mentioned above. Being with my kids and husband is my favorite thing to do and I feel so blessed to have them! They are the people that I live for. Sometime I wish I could just wrap us up in a cocoon just be their for awhile, away from the crazy world we live in, I know......I can't do that. There have been days over the summer where it has just been me and my people as I like to call them. The longer I live the more I learn that precious gifts need lots of love and attention. I consider my marriage to Brian a precious gift, I consider our children absolutely precious gifts!! So, this summer I think we have been able to just chill around home, make quick fun decisions and just be what we are a family enjoying our summer. My children are growing up to quickly and I only have precious little time to try and teach how to live. That immediately puts the spotlight on my ways. I am trying to search myself hoping to find good things to share that will help my little people in life. You know that is what they are doing right??? They are just watching what we do because if they love us they want to be like us...Wow! That is a big job!!!! It is one that I can not FAIL in.

That was maybe a little deep, but its been a little deep around here lately

I said goodbye to a best friend this summer and to be real honest I'm not handling it all that well. There are a whole lot of things you can come by easily but, becoming best friends with someone is something some people never find. I was so blessed to have found three friends De was first about 15 years ago, then came Janie a few years later and then last but not least Stephanie.
We ALL hit it off so well and thus our GNOs. We carried those years through uninterrupted until we said good bye to our De~ in 2007 OK I think I just need to get a good cry out so hang on.......I miss De she is living her happy life in Ireland and doing quite fine. But I was so blessed to have her a half hour away and know that we could count on one another, cause thats what best friends do.
That was last year:
This is this year: My bestfriend Stephanie ~she now lives in Idaho, had to move and I'm still not ready for it even though its done. We were there for each other she taught me things about myself and best of all she loved me just for who I was, just me. I know she cares about me still and we talk or text very frequently. She was just one blessing that God gave to me because he knew she would be a good friend for me. I don't know when it will get less upsetting that she is gone but once again God gave me a friend:) one that I can count on even though the miles are far.
Now I still have my Janie(thank you God) I just couldn't take another move we are getting together next week yep just us 2. I really hope our futures remain at least in the same vicinity. OK this may be more info than you want to know but that's what was on my mind. Feels good to get a little cry out every once in a while.

My sister moved too. This was a happy move for me, she's just 1.6 miles down the road:) YEaH!!

So, I think I'll keep wearing my flip flops a little longer and see what the next week or so of summer brings.

Way behind on bloggin but up to date in life:)

2008-05-17T15:10:00.019-05:00

Well let's just say life is very busy and the blogging has taken the back seat. Obviously............I hear Ya:)

So much has gone on since my last post. We are trying to finish school. Jacob and I are both VERY much ready to quit for the summer, just a couple more weeks. We are not positive what we are doing for the next school year, Jenna starts kindergarten. We are leaning very much towards home school. My Jenna is so social and would just love being in a classroom and so it makes our decision a little more difficult. Pray,pray,pray:)

Jacob is halfway into the season of soccer, he loves it and if I say so myself he is doing a great job!! His team is undefeated so far! Today was a close call though.

2008_04_19

Brian's job changes like the wind but, we are very glad he still has it! They have let some people go and are offering packages to those close to retiring.

We have had some nice beautiful days of spring. We worked in the yard and prettied up the landscape. I found a great nursery to buy my flowers. We took out some shrubs under the front window that I did not like and put in some Boxwoods, it will look better when they are a little bigger:)

2008_05_17

Mother's day came and went without any pictures:( I did enjoy being off of kitchen duty and my landscaping was a wonderful gift. I love being a mom!

GNO overnight was an absolutely wonderful time!!! I'm ready for another. Deanna was in from the UK and we saw her as much as we could. Saying "goodbye" doesn't get easier:( I miss her very much!! We stayed at the Embassy Suites in Covington, KY. We ate at the Buckhead Grill, (my first time) it was good. Graeter's of course is delicious:) Then we just hang out at the hotel and gabbed and such:) Love my friends! I just can't imagine not having this wonderful blessing in my life, love you guys!! OH! I almost forgot our great finds at the Gap outlet, had to get some shopping in:)

2008_05_03

My niece Emily went to her Junior prom. We (my sis and me) had so much fun helping her get ready. She looked beautiful! I can't believe how the years fly by. She is my very 1st niece and I have enjoyed watching her grow up. We are good friends:) Love you Emmy!

2008_05_03emmys prom

HAPPY SPRING:0)

2008-04-10T20:59:00.006-05:00

click on pic for more:)My Pictures

Finally took the kids to get their pics updated. I think it is a very stressful thing to do............hence the explanation of very behind portraits! Glad its done:) Jenna informed us at the studio that she didn't know how to smile...now you know how much fun that was:(

Lets Go Fly A Kite!!

2008-04-08T21:03:00.013-05:00

Our family enjoyed spending the afternoon with Shane, Tamra and kids at a local Kite Fest last Saturday. The weather was a little chilly and OHHHH the mud!!!! I'm talking ewwy, gushy, sloshy MUD!!! But we had a great time, the kids made their own kites and had a fun time flying them. There were a lot of neat kites and some really cool kite flyers (is this a word?) There were synchronized kite teams of four flying to music. Really cool, but hard to put into words to make you picture it.
Jenna and Bryson were too cute!! They are so fun to watch:) The picture quality is lacking in these photos, don't know why?

2008_04_05

My kids have really enjoyed this super nice weather. Of course they now are very interested in flying kites and have a lot of fun! Have you ever tried to capture your child and the kite they're flying in a photo? Not too easy:)

2008_04_07

Finally A Party!!!

2008-03-31T11:51:00.006-05:00

We celebrated Jacob's birthday:) I don't think I would have been able to wait when I was his age, but he wanted Matthew to be here. So....almost 3 weeks later we had his party. Wow did he fly through those gifts!! And the $$:) Thank you to the whole family for coming, just can't do it without you:)

2008-03-31

Beautiful Day!

2008-03-26T21:06:00.004-05:00

We had a gorgeous day today! Jacob, Sammy and Jenna were enjoying the lovely day outside and I was doing some housework. While passing through the living room I caught a glimpse of something that immediately brought these words to my lips "I can't deal with this!!!" This is what I saw. Thankfully Brian was home to bring a little calm or I don't know what I would have done to these 9 and 10year old boys just enjoying the outdoors:)
So what would you do? By the way this was Jacob's idea.

2008_03_26

2008-03-25T21:18:00.011-05:00

Everything is going pretty good here in the Snelling household. Brian is recovering from his surgery last Thur. and so things have slowed down around here. We are really enjoying him being home with us. Hopefully he will be feeling well enough to enjoy some of his time off work very soon! He is scheduled off until April 24.
Easter Sunday was a very blessed day at church and with my family for dinner. Of course the kids love to color and hunt eggs and the candy that goes with Easter.
Jacob is not on spring break this week because Matthew will be here to spend his spring break with us this coming weekend. Jacob's cousins are on spring break so we have been doing school quickly so Sammy can stay overnight a couple of nights:) Jenna of course wants to know when her spring break is:)
I guess we just don't have much going on around here, not much to post. Have a happy week:)

I'm Guilty

2008-03-11T13:45:00.006-05:00

I was telling some friends last night that I feel sooooooo...guilty for not having posted about Jacob's birthday. I can't believe the bad feeling I have from not having this done:( So here it goes...
JACOB IS NINE!!!!! March 8, 1999 Brian and I received a special gift, one that has changed our lives. Our precious baby boy was born! That feeling of holding this wonderful little bundle of human life that God allowed you to create is one I will Never forget. And now 9 years later he still has a grip on our hearts:)
Happy Birthday Jacob (posted 3 days late:( We love you and are very proud of you!
Jacob wanted to wait to have a birthday celebration until his big brother could be here. I can definitely tell he's getting older, he has to wait until March 29 for his party:) We took him to Cracker Barrel, his choice, and he did get to have a gift. I just couldn't stand waiting till the end of March to at least recognize his special day!
Now I need to say I love digital cameras!!!!! I was trying to go through albums and boxes of pics to find a picture for each birthday. What a pain! I like the click of a button to view pics. I'm really upset that I can't find his 4yr pic. or party pictures:(
So here is a little walk through Jacob's life.

2008_03_06

click on pic to view album

How can I post for thee? Let me count the ways:)

2008-03-07T15:48:00.005-05:00

We have had a lot going on around here, I just haven't had the blogging spirit. So.....I feel it a little today so I better do it:)

First of all we had a wonderful answer to prayer! Brian was offered on Mon-Wed 12hr position. It has almost been a year since he had to take the Thur-Sat 12hr position. Weekends are definitely family times and this shift has totally made his outlook on life(or the lack thereof) depressing. He doesn't know his start date, but just knowing he is going to change has made him relax a little. Thank you GOD!

Miss Jenna lost her first tooth after MUCH DRAMA!!!

2008-03-07

Sammy turned double digits! Wow the big 10:)

2008_02_06

The GNO celebrated Stephanie's birthday! We had a great day, it was on Sat. and we were all free for several hours, amazing! We ate yummy Johny Carino's then shopped, and shopped, and shopped some more! We had to fit Starbuck's in there:) Very bad pictures, but I kind of captured the moment:)

2008_03_01

I definetly didn't cut these fresh from my flower garden!

2008-03-07T15:27:00.002-05:00

Oh the beauty of spring flowers, they make me anxious for the season to come! I do like snow, I guess thats good because its just piling up:) Maybe fresh flowers next month.

My Beautiful Sister Had A Birthday

2008-03-05T23:48:00.010-05:00

It comes every year March 5 and she get 1 year older:)

First, you'll know what I'm talkin' about if you have a sister, someone to talk to, someone to laugh with, someone to cry with. Believe me we have done all of the afore mentioned and I wouldn't trade it for anything. Sisters in my opinion are one of God's best blessings! Now about 20 years ago we didn't appreciate what being a sister was, but we are now well up to date on our appreciativeness(is this a word?). To a sister you can just be exactly who you are no covers, no facades....just you. Thanks sis for being a great sister! Jenn had some tough blows last year but, she is hanging in there. I'm so proud of her, she has started school to become a nurse and she has not 1 but 2 teenage daughters and a 10 yr old boy, that's a lot if you ask me but she is hanging in there.......GO SIS!!!! So this is a Happy Birthday to you Jenn, I hope this next year brings joy! I love you, Nella

Jenna's Party

2008-02-04T15:41:00.000-05:00

Jenna had a great party, she loves sharing it with her family! She kept wondering why she was 5 and still hadn't had a party? She ended up calling it her "birthday week", I thought that was pretty cute:)
So I decided it would be fun to make her a really cute cake.......fun is NOT the word I would call this now that it's done but, she really liked it. I don't know if I see more cakes in my future or not:) I'm so glad she has cousins it makes it so FUN! I took a little walk down birthday lane 1yr....now!

click on the pics to view album

2008_02_01

5 years of smilin'

2008-01-31T00:24:00.000-05:00

Yes she has gone an dunnit~turned 5 that is! Happy Birthday to my precious baby girl! What was life without out her? I'm feeling much more rested than I did five years ago today:) However, the tears I shed that day have had some sniffles sharing in with them today, something about 5 just makes me sad! I'm so glad she is growing and learning just like she should, BUT, I am still a little emotional about what this 5 year milestone brings. If you have been there and done that you know what I'm talking about I won't bore you with the details. Anyways Happy Birthday Jenna, I love you! Now I'm back to life, who is that yelling for me? Yep, that's "her" sigh....... I'm so glad she still needs me:)

2008_01_30

I'm not liking this!!!

2008-01-25T16:57:00.000-05:00

This is my BABY:( For some reason I ABSOLUTELY am not ready for this. I know I should have seen in coming I mean ~ I've had almost 5years to prepare myself for this. She is just doing too many big girl things. I just want to hold her and hug her and never let that baby go! I love my "Jenna baby" as I have affectionately called her, I'm just wondering when she grew up so FAST!!!

2008_01_12

I just CAN"T

2008-01-10T23:33:00.000-05:00

For some reason the creative blogging (or not so creative blogging) juices are just not here, maybe later? I am keeping up on everyone else:)

Merry Christmas from our house to yours

2007-12-21T17:46:00.000-05:00

We had a very fun time enjoying our family Christmas traditions! We go to the Duke Energy Christmas Train display and the Krohn's Conservatory and outdoor Nativity. This year we added Don Pablos in Newport:)

I hope your Christmas is filled with JOY as we celebrate the birthday of our King!!!

2007_12_19

2007_12_16

I think this is my blog???

2007-12-19T11:54:00.000-05:00

Where have I been? Chasing my tail!!!! We have been so busy! I really need to do just a quick update of our lives.
Christmas time is so exciting! My kids just love it! I have everything except 3 gifts bought. The gifts are wrapped and under the tree.
Since my last post Jacob has started playing basketball. He absolutely loves it and is doing quite well! We have practices every Tuesday evening. His team is the Upward Musketeers. Upward is an awesome group! His cousin Sammy is on his team, that makes it extra fun! These pics are from his first practice.

2007_11_27

My mother-in-law, Gloria, celebrated her birthday): The family met a Brio's Italian Restaurant. Her hubby bought her a very pretty watch! We had a great meal and enjoyed being together.

2007_11_29

We put up our tree of course, I had trouble getting a good pic in the dark. I love real trees! The kids enjoyed decorating.

Anna had her 9th birthday! We celebrated at her house. Pics are in the Christmas tree album.

2007_11_30

We went the Lebanon Horse Christmas parade, it is so beautiful, unfortunately, none of my pictures turned out. It was after dark and all the carriages and horses are lit and decorated for Christmas. They have the parade in the morning too and you can see the horses better, but the night parade is very pretty. My sisters family and our family went together. It was very cold so our seating arrangement was helpful:)

2007_12_01

I hosted our annual GNO Christmas. We were so glad Deanna was home from Ireland, we had an exceptionally great time catching up. Without fail I end my time with my wonderful friends having a wonderful memory and a very full stomach:)! Deanna had my name for our gift exchange, she gave me a beautiful candle light from Europe! I need to take a picture of it with the candles burning so you can see it.

2007_12_03

The kids loved the snow! They played outside almost 3 hours without stopping! Daddy was with them, which made it fun!

2007_12_05

The children had there Christmas program Sunday, they did a great job! Jenna was an angel for the first part and turned into a really cool sheep! Jacob and Nate joined in on the cool surfin' sheep!

2007_12_16

Whew!!! What a quick update! Our family is now off to enjoy some wonderful family Christmas traditions. Hopefully a post will follow soon!

Merry Christmas to all of you! Don't forget to make some wonderful memories! Thank you Jesus for this season!

Caution! If you don't like to smile, go away:)

2007-11-28T00:04:00.000-05:00

Before you read this you must know that, Yes, I am trying to raise my daughter to be a lady:) There are a couple things going against me, her two big brothers! Secondly, we loved the Statue of Liberty and it signifies the wonderful liberty of our great nation. With those disclaimers in mind.......
We were on our way into New York and trying to catch a glimpse of Lady Liberty. Jenna, in the backseat of the van proclaims: "Did you know that the Statue of Liberty wears panties.....and she has a wedgee?" I could not believe it, much laughter burst from everyone:) What makes her mind work? I don't know, but I love her!!! Many Smiles:):):)

Home Safe and Sound!

2007-11-25T15:43:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!
We made it home last night around 8:00pm. We had such a wonderful time. The kids really enjoyed themselves and we had a great time with Jerry and Gloria! This is only our second vacation with them but we travel very well together and enjoy each other's company very much! Thanks for the invite!
Let's just say we were PACKED as we headed out Friday night. We stopped in Somerset, PA, and spent the night. We headed for Wildwood, NJ, Sat. and made it safely. Wildwood is definitely not "Wild" in the winter, we started to refer to it as a ghost town. There were only a few businesses open. We did go to the beach but, froze and quickly left! They shut down for winter almost completely. We spent a relaxing day on Sunday.
Monday morning we head for New York City. We made it there FINALLY around 1:30 I think. We had a GPS that was very confused and left us feeling very confused but, after crossing the same bridge a couple times and going in circles we finally made it to our hotel "Belleclaire"
I can not put into words what the bustling New York City is. We absolutely loved the experience!!!! If you haven't gone you should go. From the traffic to the subway, the sights to the people, the lights to the sounds, we definitely got the feeling of what life is in the BIG City:) We could have spent several more days there to do all we wanted, however we did not leave unsatisfied! ( I took a lot of pictures I'll post them below, I just do not feel the pictures can do all that we saw justice but I was able to capture some good moments.)
Thanksgiving day took us to a town near Atlantic City, NJ. We ate at a lovely restaurant called Sophia. The meal was very yummy!
Friday took us to Philadelphia, PA. This was a very fun day too! I loved the history in this city. We took a carriage ride and learned a lot of historical facts, it was very chilly!
Now we are home and its time to get ready for Christmas! Busy, Busy, Busy!!!!!

2007_11_24

Check In

2007-11-14T22:08:00.000-05:00

Two weeks have gone by and no blogging! We have actually had a couple weeks that have been low-key, which I needed!!!
However we are going to change our pace here shortly. We are going to New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia for a week and we leave Friday. Jerry and Gloria invited us to join them and we are so glad we can go! I hope to have many fun pictures to share.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Here are a couple pics I was looking at, might add some interest to this blog:)

2006_06_09

Candy, Candy, Candy!!!!

2007-11-01T19:05:00.001-05:00

Tuesday night turned out to be trick or treat in our neighborhood? Don't understand that but, off we went and there is way to much sugar in our house!!! The boys finished the neighborhood but Jenna wore out.
We carved some pumkins yesterday and had a lot of fun!

2007_10_31

Fall Party!!

2007-10-29T21:53:00.001-05:00

We had a Fall Party!!! The kids had a great time last Saturday evening! It all started with some really cute costumes, then games, then some painting pumpkins, then some food, then some
RAIN:(((

Thanks to everybody who brought food and treats! I love the kids having fun, like they say "Enjoy it now, they grow up too fast"

2007_10_27

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MATTHEW

2007-10-29T20:40:00.000-05:00

"Raising a son can be a real roller-coaster ride.......the ups, the downs, the fun, the excitement, the close calls, the thrills and chills, and just like a roller-coaster ride.....it goes by WAY too FAST!" Where did the time go? October 26, 1995.........2007. Matthew has grown up so fast, he is such a joy to us, we are very Proud of him! I hope we never forget all the phases of his life! A very cute, happy baby boy, to a wonderful 12 year old. We love you Matthew, Happy Birthday! He became a little richer:) over the weekend but, a little poorer today:( He used his fortune to buy his Lasi Mini Baja aka~remote control car

2007_10_28

Beauty & Fun!

2007-10-20T16:22:00.000-05:00

What a beautiful day and perfect weather we had for our annual Kid's Church camp out! Big thanks to the Miller's for opening their home and property for our great enjoyment!
We got a little chilly but all in all it was a great night. We have great sleeping bags so just the nose got cold, I just snuggled down deeper:)
Now our tent was somehow missing its rain flap (not happy) so we had to do some riggin' of our own, needless to say, as you will see in the pictures it was not real pretty.LOL Someone tagged it Kondemd, I know this is the incorrect way to spell this, so don't fear:)
The kids look so forward to this event-they have so much fun!
A little nap was had by all this afternoon:)

Kid's church campout 2007

2007-10-17T23:24:00.000-05:00

HAPPY FALL ~My most wonderful time of the year! I was born in October and have loved the season ever since!
Brian and I took the kids to buy some pumpkins today at a little farm close to home. It was so very fun and a beautiful day to pick our pumpkins! I took some pictures of course.:) They were very fun to take, hope I don't bore you, YAAAAAWN.......night night

2007_10_17

FUN, FUN, FUN!!!!

2007-10-16T13:51:00.000-05:00

There is no way to describe the fun we had in Gatlinburg:) Let me begin with the day of departure first:
We left our kids at Granpa&Me maw Snelling's Thursday around 12:30pm, that was quite hard for Brian and I. We have only left Jenna one night in her life, so we were nervous! Jacob was not feeling well so it was a little hard on this mommy to leave:(

We arrived in Gatlinburg around 6pm. Our cabin was awesome, HUGE! We shared a bunk room with Bradley, Lisa, Paul and Sara. We stayed up late every night of course!! There were 24 of us and plenty of room.
We checked out some blogs while we were there:) Ebay was visited also:)

Friday we started out with devotions and a very yummy breakfast at the Pancake Pantry. Then.......an 11 MILE bike ride in Cades Cove, I must mention this was not a flat trail. It was a challenge at times but I did it! Brian's bike broke down around mile 2, we were not happy about that. He hitched a few rides back to the rental office.
We enjoyed eating together at No Way Jose's Fri. night, then walking around downtown Gatlinburg. Some of the guys and gals played Laser tag. To bed late again...

Saturday we had devotions then breakfast(at Bob Evan's not our first choice). The girls hit the outlet malls while the guys took a helicopter ride and raced the go carts.
8 of us went horseback riding around 4pm, this was definitely a highlight in my trip, the weather was beautiful and it was very peaceful, except for the little power struggle between Smokey(my horse) and Thelma (Stephanie's horse).
We then headed to Texas Roadhouse for supper and then to the Comedy Barn for some good laughs! I must add that the Comedy Barn is interested in good clean family comedy! Then we quickly headed
to Gatlinburg for some last minute shopping! Up late again......

Sunday came quite quickly and we all straggled out towards home and most of all my KIDS!! We missed them terribly!
Now those are just some highlights, a lot of laughter, games, hottub, some practical jokes and much, much, more fun added in gave us a very wonderful weekend with some of our closest friends! Thanks guys for all the fun, can't tell you what it means to have friends that are Christians and headed toward the same Goal! Lots of love to you:) Hope you enjoy the pictures.

Gatlinburg Trip 2007

Now to my wonderful in~laws, THANK YOU SO MUCH for keeping my kids, I never worried that they weren't taken care of! You guys are the best!! Aunt La La, thanks for all your help too! My kids had a wonderful fun packed weekend!
Thanks Jenn and kids for putting up with Doodle and watching the house. Doodle kisses are sent your way, whether you want them or not:)

By the way Jacob is still sick with an ear infection and asthma. We are making it though.
Have a great week!

I did it!!

2007-10-07T20:13:00.000-05:00

Too much time messing with this, but I did get it! Thanks Tamra for the tip:0) Oh, by the way I'm talking about my blogskin:)

Best Yet!

2007-10-06T10:11:00.000-05:00

Well I must say we celebrated our Anniversary in top-notch style. NOT! Jacob is sick, so- Brian and I had a yummy pizza from Hunter's Pizzeria down the road:) I did however get some beautiful roses and a very perfect card from my hubby! This Anniversary celebration will definitely not go down as the most grand, but we enjoyed it:)

2007_10_05

Yesterday I had some down time and I took a walk down memory lane in my pictures. I love doing that, I do miss my little ones, they are growing up way too FAST! But don't worry this is not creating a desire for a new one:) Hope you enjoy the pics!

2006_05_14

Happy Anniversary!!

2007-10-05T14:56:00.000-05:00

October 5, 1996

2007_10_05

I'd do it all over again:) My how time flies! I must say the last 11 years have been a wonderful journey! My husband has surely made it all worthwhile! I can honestly say no one could find a better MAN! I love you sooo......much honey! In those last eleven years we have had two lovely children, moved 3 times, had 3 dogs, went through several cars:( Had many vacations and had absolutely no SPATS:) Ha Ha you know us better than that! Thank God for His help in our lives, I'm so thankful to be blessed with a good marriage. I can't wait to see what the next 11 years bring!

sorry about grainy pics, thats what you get you take pic of pics:)

Tagged!

2007-09-25T16:43:00.000-05:00

I thought I might have time to play tag:) Aren't you all surprised I'm alive!

7 things about me:

1. love to shop!
2. love to decorate
3.working in the yard is my therapy!
4.I love to read, some call it a fantasy world:) this reading things is only done late at night when everyone is finally quiet!
5.I hate to travel! I'm fine when I reach my destination but, I hate the transportation part ~ car, boat, or airplane YUCK!
6. I love to sleep in~most of my friends know this
7.I love the ocean! I experience the most relaxation EVER when I'm at the ocean.
I think I'll tag.......Melodie Sankey, Stephanie P, Janie E, Martha Going, Leanna Pitcher, Sarah Fry, Rebekah B Have fun:)

Days Gone By

2007-09-06T19:16:00.000-05:00

I think I have rushed the change of seasons a bit:) I cleaned out the flower beds and planted some pretty mums! These pretty mums are experiencing some pretty HOT temperatures! I am sooooooo...ready for Fall.

I'm not usually into all the "new" fads and toys but.....my kids have entered the Webkinz world. I actually think it is pretty cute and it is giving them some fun:) Jacob's new pup on the block is, "Gunner" the bulldog and Jenna loves her poodle cutely named, "PinkiePie"

2007_09_01

School is keeping us quite busy and the last week pasted in a blur.

We did get to spend some time with family this week due to Oscar Johnson entering his heavenly home. He was a dear friend of the Snelling's.

2007_09_05

Labor Day was very different than usual. Brian took a little bit of time to go fly one of his remote control airplanes. We flew it at the church.He loves this hobby but has no time to enjoy it, so this was fun! He tried to help me and the kids fly, but it was not too successful:) Later we went to the mall and had supper with family, it was a different way to spend the holiday but, we had fun!

2007_09_03

A very HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the girl who made me an aunt 17 years ago! I don't know where all the years have gone. She has made me smile many times, I love you Emmy!

2007_09_02

SCHOOL

2007-08-30T20:05:00.000-05:00

Time is one thing I wish you could stop, well, just every once in a while. Summer vacation has ended and school is here! As a result my blogging time has greatly suffered!

Jacob home schooled last year and it went very well! This year (3rd grade) we decided to try DVDs. We started on Monday. I must say this is definitely a change of pace! I think:) when he is in the groove of things it will actually be a good thing. It is a longer day, he is not the only "student" just to name two of the changes we are dealing with. Time will tell and we are going to give it our best! I will add that you can try it for 30 days and if you are not satisfied you can get a full refund. Don't get me wrong we can give it our best shot!! Jacob has said he likes it better. My how the struggles of education can boggle our mind. HELP!!!!.........................

2007_08_27

We had a weekend VBS at our church (last weekend). Jesus to the Rescue! I think it was a success! Check out the great FUN!

2007_08_26

I just want to share a little bit about the most wonderful thing in my life! Bear with me:)

Jesus my dearest friend would be that most wonderful "thing" in my life! I take a lot of time sharing other things and this has been on my mind so I want to share this too!

First of all I am so far from a theologian as you will read. I just have a relationship with Jesus and He teaches me like a child. I am learning very slowly since many years ago when this relationship started out. He is so patient with me. I don't know why He loves me so much, I don't know where I would be without Him! He has been especially close lately and I am so thankful. He knows ME! I don't have to tell Him where I am, He already knows. I don't have to share my heart, He already knows. I don't have to worry if He thinks I'm weak, He already knows that He is my strength. I don't have to wait for Him to listen, He is already there! I don't have to wonder if He loves me in spite of my faults, He already showed His love to me on Calvary! I don't have to worry about the future, He holds it. In fact He knew all along how much I would need Him and He gave me His word to lean on. These are just a very,very few of the blessings I receive in this relationship! I give Him my all and receive so much more in return! I have peace in a very unpeaceful world! I am only beginning to understand the great responsibility that is mine to share this wonderful "thing" with others. Why not share?

Have a wonderful week:)

Fun, Fun, Fun

2007-08-22T11:59:00.000-05:00

Hang on! I think this might turn out to be a very long ride! I have a lot to share!
Yesterday we set off to have a great day! Brian took the day off and it really felt like vacation to us.
We decided to spend a few hours at Newport Aquarium. I love a good deal and the Aquarium is almost finishing up its deal for the summer; buy 1 adult ticket and get up to 2 kids in free!!! So, the kids were free:) The special starts at 4:30 pm and the Aquarium closes at 7pm. We had plenty of time.
We had so much fun, I love saltwater fish and sharks. Watching them is very relaxing to me. There is one part of the Shark Fest that wasn't very relaxing to Jenna. You step into a little hallway sort of, and you look like you are in a cage. There is a huge screen! The little movie starts and you are just viewing the video.....then....the sharks start crashing into the screen, mouths wide open, lots of big, sharp teeth and the floor beneath you starts to shake! Jenna started screaming bloody murder!!!! It was a bit to realistic for my 4 yr old. I might add it made me a little jumpy:) I quickly left the room and took about 5 minutes to calm her down. She did not look forward to the shark tunnel:( By the time we left she and the rest of us had all petted some small sharks. I think she had recovered however; she has mentioned that she never wants to see that shark movie again!

Before we went to the Aquarium we walked around Newport on the Levy. The purple people bridge was fun for the kids. They love to watch the boats and imagine seeing fish in the river.

We then went to Brian and Matthew's favorite restaurant-Don Pablo's on the river. We had some very yummy food and then headed home. It just so happens that The Cone is kind of on the way home8) The Cone is in West Chester and it has yummy ice cream. I thought it was a great way to end a great DAY!
click on pic to view album

Day at Newport

Last Thursday the kids and I went to see our friends, Betsy, Wyatt and Maggie. I started baby sitting Wyatt when he was a baby and then Maggie came along. I of course had Jacob when I started babysitting and then Jenna came along. We have gone through quite a lot with then. We really turned into family and we had so much fun spending the day with them8) The kids are great fun and there was never a dull moment!
click on pic to view album

2007_08_16Wyatt&Maggies House

Last Monday (Aug.13) I got to spend the evening with my friends! Deanna was in the states for a wedding. We went to Abuelo's for supper and spent a few hours catching up with each others lives while having Starbucks(yummy:). You might get tired of reading this but......I love my friends, they are such an awesome blessing in my life! We were spoiled to get to see De so soon:) Love and miss ya De!
click on pic to view album

2007_08_13

Last Sat. our church has a annual "Rolling Picnic" It is an part of our outreach program. We went to about 5 communities and had hot dogs, chips, fruit snacks, Popsicle's and water to share with the community. We take a couple trailers loaded with grills, picnic table and all the other supplies. There were about 60 of us I think, it was very organized by Kris W. and Rebecca M. We were able to make some new contacts and also reunite with other children who have not attended church for a while. We invited the children to come to our VBS this weekend.
It was a long day but so worth it! I hope this event was able to reach those that are looking for peace in their lives. I am so glad that we have the answer to those who are searching for something to satisfy. My prayer is that those children will come to VBS and learn that Jesus loves THEM! Not only did it minister to those we don't know, it was very much a blessing to reach out, Thank You Jesus for the blessing!
click on pic to view album

rollingpicnic

We start school on Monday, I have all the material, I hope we like the DVD's. It is the A Beka Curriculum DVD program. Last year I did the teaching and it went really well, I just decided we would try this out because next year I will have two students and I don't think I'm up for that challenge, we will see. We have 30 days to try it and if it doesn't work out we will switch back to mommy being teacher:) Matthew is also doing this same program and starts on Monday too.

I think I have rattled on sufficiently! I've had a break because today is Daddy Do List(Brian took another day off)

Daddy lets go fishing
Daddy lets go swimming
Daddy lets go drive Jacob's R/C Mini T
Daddy lets go to Bass Pro Shop..................

What an awesome Dad!!!! Love you honey:)

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Playing Catch UP

2007-08-11T15:42:00.000-05:00

Hi Friends! How is your Summer? Ours is very HOT!!! We are doing our best to enjoy it. Just about 2 weeks before school starts, I find myself dreading it as much as I did when I was a kid!

Once again my blog is suffering neglect. I'll try to catch up.
We have had a lot going on with church functions and believe it or not the camera has not been busy, too hot to take pictures!
My big accomplishment this week~shelves in the basement! I'm so excited about them! My wonderful father~in~law offered to build them for me! I of course couldn't turn down the offer. Thanks Jerry, it was a big job but, we did it! We tackled the job on Thursday about noon and were finished by 6pm or so. Because Jerry has a bad shoulder I had to do some pretty heavy lifting, oh how I wish someone had taken pictures! I'm very happy with the shelves, the kids like them too! All the kids toys fit and I still have a shelf I can fill! (top shelf baskets are empty) I love organization:)

2007_08_11

Do your children like to go in places they just aren't supposed to go???

2007_08_09

I'm going to blame this on Papaw Snelling! I don't know maybe its a good idea:)

We are spending Sat. evening at Brian's parents house with his family and cousin Going's. We have a lot of fun with them so I'm looking forward to it!

Have a great weekend!

Where Has Everyone Been? Oh! I'm the one missing:0(

2007-08-02T12:02:00.000-05:00

This is going to be a very jumbled blog! Life has been way too BUSY! I'll give you a little update on my last few weeks.
Brian has been working 75 hour weeks...we are all trying to adjust to this, pray for us its kinda hard! Thankfully its not supposed to be long term.
I have also been babysitting quite a bit! So more work on every ones part has turned out to be little crazy!
These are few highlights since my last post: These are not in order.

Jenna ran away! She wanted to see her older cousin Emily. Emily was at the pool that is at the entrance of our subdivision. I told Jenna "no, Mommy is busy and I can not take you there now." About 10 minutes later.....Jenna was "missing" my sister got in the car to find her and I started looking. I just happened to look across the many vacant lots and my eyes fell on a little girl at the pool parking lot. This little girl fit Jenna's description perfectly! Needless to say there were some much needed disciplinary actions and lectures! She could only say "I had to see Emily!" By the way she road her bike on the road, I still have the feeling of fear!
We got a swing set/club house! Daran my nephew Sam's dad built it for him several years back. Sammy had to move to a new apartment and couldn't take it with him:( My sister Jenn really wanted us to have it! Brian with the help of his Dad and Paul, Small Paul and Randy moved it here last week! I pressure washed it and stained it, UGGG:( Then we put some new play equipment on it. We love it Thanks Aunt Jenn and Sammy!
Jacob finally saved enough $$$$ to buy a Mini T electric car! We were very proud of his patience! He saved from Bday and his chore allowance.
Brian and Jacob went to the Dayton Air Show, that ended early due to a tragedy. They had a very good time while they were there!
We had a very fun play day with Lindsey my niece and her mommy Leanna! Lindsey gave all of us some good laughs:)

pics of all of it in album

2007_07_25

Well I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying your summer, it is too quickly passing!

~Come on in~

2007-07-19T12:01:00.000-05:00

I know a lot of my friends love to decorate! It is one of my favorite things to do! I think I got it from my mom:) I always keep my eye out for little things to add to my place, its fun! Anyway, my friend Janie has encouraged me to give you a tour of my home. I think Janie needs to take a turn now:) I think its fun to look at other peoples style and ideas so, if your up to it please share! So...here it goes. My captions will let you know where you are:)

click on pic below to view all

2007_07_19House tour

Time flies when your havin FUN!!!

2007-07-15T19:59:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it has been EIGHT DAYS since I have blogged! This summer is just flying by and I'm trying to enjoy it to its fullest and forget about minor responsibilities(cleaning, ironing and yucky things like that). We just had a fabulous weekend visiting with Marc, Melodie, Jordan, Cameron and Logan Sankey. Not technically a whole weekend but we shoved as much as we could into about one and a half days! I'm so glad they could come visit, we miss them terribly and loved the little time we had together:)
Saturday afternoon I had the boys come over so they could have some good ole fun with their buddies. Nate, Sammy, Bryson and Anna came over too so they had a great time!! I wanted Marc and Melodie to get some relaxing "adult" time with Shane and Tamra, I think everyone enjoyed their day, I know I did:) I sure don't know what I would do with eight kids all the time! I know people do it:)
We went to Shane and Tamra's Sat evening and had a blast! Thanks for having us Tamra:) You'll see in the pictures that Marc has missed his Middletown food, so he got right fixed up:) We had Donatos pizza and of course some delicious dessert from Tamra. She can make desserts like no body's business:) We had so much fun!
After church Sunday morning we had dinner at my in~laws house. I think there were 26 of us there. Once again the food was delicious! Thank you Jerry and Gloria for having us all over. Making memories with loved ones makes me happy:)
Then we had to say goodbye, that never gets any easier:( Marc and Melodie we are so glad you stopped by! We love you and of course our love and prayers go with you. I do know that God is Good and He is Using your family to bring more souls to Him. That what it is all about! Thank you so much for your example.
I hope all my fellow bloggers are doing well and I can't wait to catch up! Have a great week!
Melodie I didn't get a pic of you and me GRRR......:(
Check out Tamra and Leanna's blogs for some more good pics:)
Click on pic below for more

2007_07_15

Friday

2007-07-07T11:25:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we had to take Matthew back to MI. It is always very hard for us! When he is gone there is a very empty space in our home and our hearts. We had so much fun while he was here and he was here for a month so that was a very good thing. He was here for all of our major summer plans which we were very happy about. We just want him here all the time!
We went to play putt-putt golf on Thursday and took him to his favorite restaurant El Rancho Grande. Of course I have a few photos to share:) Have a great weekend!
click on pic below for more

2007_07_05

Cute!!!

2007-07-05T13:39:00.000-05:00

I came home Monday night after shopping and my kids said " Mom we have a surprise for you!" It made me Smile. Here is what they had to show me.
click on pic for more

a New Doo

The boys had taken a lot of time doing this, they were so proud! I wish she would let me take time on her hair and smile too..Oh well brothers are just more fun.

Check out my July 4th post:)

July 4, 2007*******

2007-07-05T13:16:00.000-05:00

Hope every ones 4th was a great one!
We had a wonderful day yesterday with family and friends!
I didn't know if the weather was going to cooperate but...it was OK. Very hot and humid but it cooled down in the late evening.
Thanks to you guys for bringing food, it was all yummy. You will have to look at the pictures, we had a very pretty and yummy flag cake, thanks to Michele. My Hubby grilled hamburgers and hot dogs for an hour and a half. Thanks sweety!
Corn hole was a success thanks to Bradley, Brian and Lisa for getting the boards and corn bags done:)
The kids had a great time riding bikes, riding the mini bike, uncle Bradley's' 4 wheeler, doing fireworks and just playing together.
There were definitely moments when I felt like a redneck, our back yard is still trying to grow so.....we were in the front yard and driveway having our fun! I love my friends and family and was so glad to make some more memories with them.
Check out the pics.

2007_07_04

Outdoor Wedding

2007-06-30T21:01:00.000-05:00

Today Mark Wells and Sarah Renner were married. It was a beautiful outdoor wedding. The weather was gorgeous! They are a very sweet couple that go to our church, I'm so happy for them. Congratulations Mark and Sarah!
I had never been to an outdoor wedding and I just loved it. You'll see in the pictures how beautiful it was. It was at Marks' parents home. It was a very sweet and romantic event! I know weddings are supposed be:)
The kids really enjoyed this kind of wedding. Cows to watch places to run and a golf cart too!
Brian had to work his regular Sat. shift but he came to the wedding late, he was there for the part he enjoys anyway:)
I think I'm on a blog marathon, this probably means next week I won't blog at all.
Have a wonderful Sunday and get some rest. I think we all need it!

click on pic for more 2007_06_30

Freedom's Call Tattoo 2007

2007-06-30T13:17:00.001-05:00

Freedom's Call

click on picture above for more

We had a very fun time last night! We went to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base for a 60 year celebration of the Air Force. There were a lot of fly overs from fighter jets,stealth bomber, to older military aircraft. It was perfect weather too. The Tops in Blue were there to perform and the Air force Band. It was all so awesome! The evening ended with an awesome display of fireworks! The music played with the fireworks was excellent. I love being with a lot of people who are Proud to be Americans, the atmosphere was filled with so many emotions and we were all very glad to be there. I love America. Try this sight if you want more info: http://www.wpafb.af.mil/tattoo/index.asp Have a GREAT WEEKEND!

Busy,Busy,Busy...

2007-06-28T21:05:00.000-05:00

I'm Back! At long last I have a moment to sit down. What a very busy time it is. Most everyone knows that I was only home for 3 days after vacation and then headed out to Church camp. We had a very good time at camp. I can't believe that I didn't take ONE picture. It was so nice to spend time with friends and family. My favorite thing at camp is being in the tabernacle and hearing everyone sing together. I was so blessed to share in His Presence. We also had a great camp fire Sat. night. Thanks to my friends who did take pictures!

On a sadder note, (bittersweet I should say) I had to say Goodbye to one of my very best friends last night. Deanna is leaving on Friday to go to Ireland with her hubby Mark. They are taking an associate pastorate close to his home stompin grounds. We had our "Girls night out" last night, we made new memories and just enjoyed being together. We went to Newport, Kentucky which surprisingly we have never done. We at a Brio's Italian Grille and had Cold Stone Creamery for dessert. Deanna is an incredible friend who has always been their for me. I know God will use her in Ireland, her absence from us is definitely Ireland's' gain. My love and prayers go with them as they embark on this new journey. I'm so glad we do get to see her in August, that made saying our goodbye a little easier. I love ya DE!

GNO

~HOME SWEET HOME~

2007-06-16T18:11:00.000-05:00

We are home! You know that feeling? You had so much fun, but home is definetly sweet! I can not say how much we enjoyed our vacation, it was fabulous! Just getting away from the normal ongoing pressures of life. We had a very exciting time, the boys loved fishing and finding shark teeth. Jenna loved the water. I loved the sand, sun and relaxing. I read 3 books! Brian enjoyed relaxing and of course we all love the pool and ocean! The boys caught several lizards, a toad and a frog. We kept them in an aquarium while we were there, they begged and pleaded to bring them home but, I didn't give in. I guess I'm a mean mom:) I love getting to be with my parents, sister, nieces and nephew, going to Florida is a annual thing for us. We graciously and not so graciously put up with each other for a week and make wonderful memories! Thanks guys for all the fun!

Brian turned 37 on June 15 and of course I reminded him how lucky I am that he is mine! And that I'm younger:) I love my husband he is the best!

I forgot to mention the little friend in our room in FL. I thought it was a cricket. You'll see it was not a cricket in fact,in my pix.

I took 380 pix, I'll not bore you with them all. Hope you enjoy! I have to go unpack I catch up with your blogs later, I missed blogging

Ok just 165 pics that's not too many??
click on pic to view more

2007_06_16

Ocean&Sun Here We Come!!

2007-06-06T23:59:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends! Well... I'm very behind on the blogging thing and don't have time now:( We are heading out for our family vacation to Indian Rock,FL. We are so excited and can't wait to get there!!! We should leave around 8am tomorrow. We will get there on Sat. and be home June 16.

My friend Janie had her baby! He is adorable!! He and Janie are doing wonderful! I'm so glad you are here Isaac! Thank the Lord for his arrival into the world. I'll let Janie share her exciting details:)
I am attaching several pictures. Just read the captions to know what they are about!
Have a Great week!

2007_06_06

Click on the pic to view album

GNO

2007-05-30T21:59:00.000-05:00

We call it GNO(girls night out) We love it and we can't live without it! It all started about 8 years ago. Me, Janie Eisenhart, Stephanie Phillips and Deanna Mander (Wolf). We have missed only a few of these monthly GNO in the last 8 years. All kinds of thoughts go through my mind when I think about our friendships, we know each other through and through, we can laugh, cry, pray, shop and love each other. We are all alike in some ways and very different in others. Our friendships means more to me than anyone will ever know. I can't live without you girls! Thank you so much for being my friends! You've helped me through many things that life has brought my way. I love you all and am so glad to share this very crazy thing called "life" with you!

We are trying to prepare ourselves for Deannas' move to Ireland, its not so easy. Tears or words can't show how much we'll miss you"De". Deanna is such a wonderful, giving person. She will touch lives in Ireland! I love you Deanna!

We went to one of our favorite restaurants today PF Changs Yum,Yum!!
I just thought I would share some pics from past and present. Enjoy!
Click on pic for more:)

My Pictures

Made Me Think

2007-05-30T21:11:00.000-05:00

I worked on Memorial Day in the evening. I met a couple that I can't get off my mind. The man was wearing a T-shirt with a picture of a Marine on it. Below the picture was the quote "Never let them forget"I asked him if it was his son. He said "yes, we lost him in January" he and his wife were both crying as they talked. I told them how much I appreciated the sacrifice and that I would pray for them. I was very at loss for words. How can you comfort that kind of pain. I just needed that extra reminder in my day. I can do a small part and keep our service men and women in my prayers, and their families that are at home too. His picture is an image in my mind that I hope will always remain. Lil Billy was his name, he was only 20, he gave his life to help secure me and my family. Thank You Billy may we never forget!
click on pic below for more

MEMORIAL DAY 2007

2007-05-28T11:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Memorial Day! Thanks to all those who serve to keep our country safe. We share freedom today because of those who made the choice to defend USA. My thoughts are with those who are missing their families who are serving/or have lost their lives for our freedom.
click on pic below for more

2007_05_28

We started our day with a parade. We met up with the Lopers, Brewers and Walkers. The kids really enjoyed it! Now we are at Memaw and Papaw Snellings and are just spending the day here! I have to work at 4:45pm:( We are going to eat and play games. We are going to play croquet, I haven't played that in while(sounds fun). Hope you all enjoy your holiday.

Fun was had by all!

2007-05-21T15:32:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Hope everyone had a great weekend!
I must say I am proud of my endeavor to be a Cub Scout Mom. We arrived at camp around 1:30 Saturday afternoon. We picked a site and put out the tent. The kids were raring to go to the lake, so off we went. I would like to mention my wardrobe of a long jean skirt and slip on tennis shoes. I thought this to be sufficient. The only spot I knew of to get down to the creek was about a 4ft bank, I kept going,... just a little mud. We had some fun skipping rocks mostly just throwing rocks, then......Jenna says "I have to go potty right now!! I can't wait" I did not pack extra clothes for her(mistake #3 or maybe #4). So we tried to take care of the situation and well, everything got wet BUT the ground. So....off with the wet clothes, socks(mine too). I was laughing thankfully.
I wanted a few cute pictures, while trying I managed to fall into the water LOL but did save the camera:) Then I had to climb back up the 4ft drop off, lets just say I'm glad no one was taking pics of that.
Jacob had a great time racing his boat. My mommy spirit and Jenna were cheering him on. He won quite a few races Yea!!! Jenna loved the monkey bars. I was hoping no one would notice the boys boxer briefs she was wearing(I did pack extra for Jacob?) We had a great time, I was very glad I took him. I did get to photo a not so fun slithering snake off a trail. Brian got there around 7:30pm. They had the special ceremony where the scouts change rank and received their awards. Jenna and I were very ready to go at about 8:30pm. We came straight home and jumped in the jacuzzi! The boys slept very well and got home around 9:45 Sunday morning in time to fly around and get ready for church.

2007_05_19
Click on pic above for more

Jenna has a really good friend at church. His name is Bryson Craycraft and you just never know what they are up to. I thought this was one of their cute moments!!
2007_05_20

click on pic for more

CUB SCOUT DAY!!

2007-05-19T10:47:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone! Today is a very important day for Jacob, he is crossing over. That means he is no longer going to be a wolf cub but a bear cub. I have never taken him to and event but today was Brian first Saturday in his new schedule. So I'm stepping up here and taking the dare:) The van is packed for camping we are getting ready to leave. Jacob built a little boat and he will be competing in the Rain Gutter Regatta. Wish me luck and maybe a prayer!! Have a Great Saturday. And yes the camera is going so there will be pictures soon. I should add that Brian will be there around7:30 tonight. I just don't think I could be brave enough to camp by myself too.

2007-05-17T13:10:00.000-05:00

OK..... Life has got to slow down a bit, I have no time to blog, Help!!!! So much is going on. This week Brian starts a new shift (that he did not want) at his workplace of almost 20 year. He now will be working every Thur, Fri,Sat from 6am to 6:30pm. We are definetly going to have to adjust to this. I'm not always sure how God works but, I do know that he loves our family very much and we can rest in his plans.

I have really enjoyed homeschooling Jacob this year. I am very ready for it to end too!! He has done a great job and I am very proud of him. We will be done by May 30. Yea!!!

2007_05_09

click on pics for more

For those of you interested ~we finished our landscaping in the front. The rock border is rocks from our back yard being tilled and I found some others on other construction sites. It was more work than I thought it would be but, I like it. The rocks were covered in clay and mud. We actually have grass growing in the back yard too:) Let me know if your think we need some steps from the back patio doors? LOL

2007_05_11

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My kids have been enjoying the nice weather. I love them to play outside. Sammy came over to join in the fun!! He is a great cousin. Notice one picture where Jenna is reading Well.. that is her Bible I guess she decided her devotions were more important. Thats my girl!!

2007_05_11

I am almost caught up! Just wanted to share a couple pictures of some very important people in my life. I have many more precious people, but that is for another blog. Have a great week!!

2007_05_12

2007-05-14T14:21:00.000-05:00

Hope all you Mom bloggers had a very Happy MOTHERS day

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I had a very wonderful Mother's day! We went to church and Honered our new "Mother of the Year" I had my family over for Dinner and my husband and nieces cleaned up! That was the best part. Thank you guys! You don't realize how important your Mother is until you become one your self! I am so blessed to have a MOM that has always loved and taken care of me!! I know the big job it is to raise kids and she did a wonderful job & survived!! Thanks mom, I love you!

We honored Diana Beatty as our "Mother of the Year" at church. I grew up with Diana and her family, she I know so deserves being honered. She has shown Jesus to me in her life and I know His grace is sufficient just by wathching her live!

I also have a Great MoM~in~law, she raised my husband very well and we love her very much! She is always there for us, Thank you Gloria for being a loving Mother to Brian! I love you!

2007_05_13

2007-05-07T14:48:00.001-05:00

What a beautiful day!!We have been working really hard around here. We moved into our house the summer of 2006. With everything that needed done at one time we just decided to let the outside wait. Finally we have
turned into work horses and got some things done. I can't wait to see the results.

lansdcaping

Most of you know that we went to Salamanca, Mexico a few weeks ago. We had a wonderful time being with our very good friends! We had alot of catching up to do! It was very awesome to be there. I just wanted to share a few of my pics with you. You may have already viewed these, but you know I'm just getting started:)

2007_04_27

2007-05-05T18:05:00.000-05:00

OK......I GIVE
I can't take the pressure anymore!! I'm giving in. I just love looking at blogs, but me blogging myself, NO WAY!!!! Then it hit me a couple days ago, I HAVE TO DO IT!!! So... here we are I'll give it a go:) If I can keep up and make things interesting I'll see success. Our life is very interesting to us, but to you??? Time will tell. Just 3 pics. This took awhile, I've got a lot to learn. Enjoy!!!

Me and My Honey

The reason I'm called MOM:) I'm so lucky!!