The View from Baltic Drive

new layout!

2011-03-13T15:22:00.002-05:00

My sister's recent blogging has inspired me to rework my blog and try to make it more active again. I enjoyed it so much at one time, and it is a great way to share what is going on in my life!

repost from 2006..Pain doesn't kill

2011-02-23T10:17:00.004-06:00

I stole this blog post from myself...I wrote it almost 4 years ago. I was thinking about this book that I had read by Beth Moore. These quotes have stuck with me, and I have been thinking about them alot since Sully's death. I don't blog much anymore, Facebook makes communication soo easy that I get lazy about it. But sometimes, whether there are readers or not, I want to share what is going on in my life. As most of you know, our family has had a painful year so far. My sister's beautiful Sully went home to be Safe in the Arms on Jesus on January 11. We have been kind of shell shocked ever since. But I am thankful to say that God has been active and presently in charge of our lives and circumstances. I am so proud of my family, and how they have each reacted, held each other up, and pointed each other toward God. Especially my sister, she has dealt with this pain with such grace. These quotes from Beth Moore's book remind us that it is always good to have loved, even when we lose what we love.

Pain doesn't kill
I started reading "Feathers from My Nest" by Beth Moore. I love Beth Moore. I can always hear her southern accent speaking when I read her books, and it is soothing. I bought this book a few years ago when I attended a conference where she spoke. I am just starting it again, and I thought it would be a bit lighter that my last book. I guess not. I read this last night, when I was having a "painful moment." Thankfully, today hasn't been like that.

"I have learned that pain doesn't kill...I threw my hands over my heart and fought like a Trojan not to give way to it. God gently pulled my hands away and said, 'My child, go ahead and feel it. The pain will not kill you. It will be a reminder that you are very much alive, engaged, and that you loved with abandon. That was your primary assignment. Your present pain proved you did it.' It was at this moment God spoke a transforming truth into my life: The goal of life is not the absence of pain. It's the presence of glory. God's glory. And sometimes that comes most vividly with pain. Not only have I learned that pain doesn't kill; I have learned that I will never lose or be betrayed by the one thing with absolute power to destroy me-God Himself."

Christmas is coming!

2010-12-07T16:13:00.001-06:00

What a year! I sadly have little time for blogging. What with working, chasing a walking ~~running~~ toddler around, and homeschooling two very active 5th graders. I still check and participate in Facebook daily, though. Reese has now had her first birthday. It was a fun (large) celebration, and very bittersweet. My very last baby is not much of a baby anymore! The good news is that the big girls still love to cuddle with me and be babied, I am a very lucky mom! James has finished his training for the Danville Police Department and is now out on his own. He loves his job, and I couldn’t be happier for him. My sister got a call in September to come and get a two day old (yes, TWO DAYS OLD) and we have been loving on him ever since. She is doing great as a first time mom. He is a foster child, but we love him as if he was born right into our family. However, he IS a boy, and we don’t know anything about those! We don’t know if God has in store for him to be in our family for a few months, a few years, or forever, but we are all loving him just the same (except maybe Reese, she could be a tad jealous…or just kind of rough)!

God has been wonderfully good to us. I complain about soooo many little things, but I am truly thankful for all my blessings! Here is our Christmas card 2010…

Time for a new post...Doubt vs faith

2010-08-17T11:15:00.002-05:00

Since I haven't posted in 6 months..I think it is time! No cute kid pics right now..you can check out my facebook for that..my nearly 9 month old Reesie keeps me pretty busy, and blogging and sharing pics just hasn't been happening! This has been an eventful summer, and my Ladies Bible Study has been one of the high lights. Last week, we discussed what living with doubt about God's promises can do to your life. This week, we will be discussing the replacement for doubt, which is faith. We have been going through James McDonald's "Lord Change My Attitude." This has been a great book, and I am seeing gradual changes in my life along the way. I was very bothered by part of last week's chapter, and I openly shared with the group that I wasn't sure how I felt about what he was saying. It was clear to me that I didn't think I had a doubting problem..but I did.

I hate to be all over the place with this, but I have to back up a bit. Over 10 years ago, I was blessed with twins. Paige and Peyton were born very small and very early. However, they threatened throughout the pregnancy to be born too early for life, and then again too early for a normal life. God answered the fervent prayers for our family in a positive way. Now not everything went wonderful. They were in the hospital for 9 weeks, there were ups and downs, Paige was very sick and fragile for most of her first 2 months. But we brought them home, and they flourished! Even today, they are wonderful. We still have some physical and emotional scars, as well as a little asthma..but overall healthy (almost) 5th graders! They are a blessing to me and they are two of my best friends. I prayed..everybody prayed..and God gave me the desire of my heart.

When I was going through my divorce, I grew closer to God that ever before. I know that it isn't unusual to grow especially close to God during times of turmoil..that is probably the reason we HAVE turmoil! God took care of me..he took care of Paige and Peyton, but it didn't look at all like I expected it to. It has been hard to trust God, because I doubted that he wanted best for me, or for Paige and Peyton! But wait a minute..do I really know what is best for us? So arrogant, wanting to fix everything, make it peaceful for us all. While we as mothers wish to make things the easiest we can and what we think is best, that isn't necessarily what God has in mind for us. Earlier in the summer, our Bible study discussed thankfulness. I learned I need to be thankful for EVERY circumstance..not just the ones that seem to be a blessing. Nothing touches me (or my kids) without God's consent! So what does that say about worry in my life? I guess it is a waste of time.

I learned a verse this week that first thoroughly bothered me, because I didn't believe that God would protect me from harm.I wasn't sure if I could believe it..but then I read it again..
Isaiah 53:17 in NLT (try reading the whole chapter..click here to read it)
17 But in that coming day, no weapon turned against you will succeed. And everyone who tells lies in court will be brought to justice. These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the LORD; their vindication will come from me. I, the LORD, have spoken

So...this morning (if you are still with me) I was cleaning blood off of the carpet in Reese's room (as many know, she has spit up blood in the past, did it most of Sunday, and unfortunately, has been doing it a bit today)...and I was listening to the radio in her room. A segment of encouragement for moms came on that was sponsored by Hearts at Home. They were speaking of worrying about our kids..I can't ever remember the examples, just the verses about how God knows the number of hairs on our heads. Not a new verse to me at all, but in that moment, when I was lost in thought, worrying about my daughter, wondering what to do next about her health issue, I stopped and realized that I needed to try a little more faith and alot less worry, and God has been growing me in this area..sometimes using a 2X4 to my head!

Reese has had a scope, appropriate lab work..and she is SOOO happy and active right now, so it is time to relax, pray about right choices for managing her health, and enjoy my children a little! (of course, we start homeschooling next week..so I will have all kinds of new reasons to worry.) Please pray for Reese and her health, Paige and Peyton as they start 5th grade, at home again with me, James as he continues in the training of his new job, and for me!

10th Birthday bash

2010-02-17T14:53:00.001-06:00

Paige and Peyton celebrated almost 10 years since their birth with an ice skating party. Skating is one of their favorite activities, so 9 of their friends joined us at the rink last Saturday night. Aunt Jame caught everyone on camera!

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Reese…two months old!

2010-01-30T20:01:00.001-06:00

Reese rolled over last night..twice! She has failed to do it again today, despite lots of coaxing from her mother and sisters. She did, however, pose for some pictures to mark her two months of life with us..these are unedited, but here are my favorites!

Meet Paige and Peyton’s sister!

2009-11-23T17:59:00.001-06:00

Reese Madelynn Snyder was born at 9:51 am yesterday, Sunday, November 22. I will post more about her birth later, but I am including some pictures!

check out two full albums of pictures!

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In Honor of my beautiful former preemies..

2009-11-17T07:44:00.000-06:00

Fight For Preemies // Bloggers Unite

2009-11-17T07:35:00.001-06:00

Fight For Preemies // Bloggers Unite

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38 weeks!

2009-11-09T16:44:00.000-06:00

I will admit, I never thought I would post a 38 week picture. Right now, I sincerely hope I don't post one for 40! But I am confident that God would give grace for that too! I haven't been sleeping well. Last night I spent most of on the couch, and walking around the house. I had contractions for most of the night, they were every 3-6 minutes, but they weren't very strong all the time, and each one was less than a minute long. So hopefully I will get more rest tonight! I am still trying to homeschool the girls regularly up until the last possible minute. I need prayer to be a patient mom to my two fourth graders. They have been troopers, active troopers, but loving and understanding non-the-less. I have had huge support from all my family and my husband (even though HE slept all night..didn't even notice when I ran the shower at 2 am!)

Happy 37 weeks!

2009-11-02T21:58:00.002-06:00

Paige and Peyton climbed into bed with me this morning and it wasn't long until I heard Paige say..."Happy 37 weeks!" Never thought I would hear that. I am now officially full term, and we are all very anxiously awaiting the time for JJ to decide to be born. Very grateful....and feeling very ready.

Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T16:56:00.001-05:00

2009-10-29T08:38:00.001-05:00

praying for Stellen

2009-10-28T05:53:00.001-05:00

Baby Stellen is again very sick. Click here for the latest blog post.

36 weeks!

2009-10-26T21:50:00.001-05:00

headed to the doctor tomorrow….

The past week in review….

2009-10-26T21:45:00.001-05:00

The Body Walk

headed out to a Halloween birthday party

Steph 13 weeks, me almost 36..this angle was kind to me!

Betsy gave me a great shower!

pumpkin carving

finished pumpkins

Archie Andrews…and another Wimpy Kid

2009-10-23T11:03:00.001-05:00

I loved to read as a child. I read Nancy Drew, I read Trixie Beldon. I read Judy Blume books. I read pretty much every book in the Fairmount Public Library and the Jamaica Elementary Library. But I had a special love for Archie Comic books. My mom bought one for me at pretty much every grocery store we went to. I can remember getting one at the Catlin Grocery store on a regular basis. I somehow kept a decent number of the books that I had bought for me as a child. My dad gave me a tote a few years ago that I was astonished to find contained many of my Trixie Beldon’s, Nancy Drews, and my beloved Archie comics! I know there were many more, but even a few dozen of these well worn, well loved books were a treasure! I put them on the bookshelf that contained my other books about a year or so ago. I believe that this is how my daughter discovered them.

One of my daughters loves to draw, pain, create works of art. This is about the only time she is sitting still! Otherwise, she is moving around, playing, wiggling…and doesn’t care for reading one bit! If I read to her, I swear she isn’t paying any attention, but her listening skills are ~~surprisingly~~ good, and she has a good comprehension. She just ~~dislikes,~~ hates the reading herself! This was a blow for me, because this child is very much like me. I will protect her identity..lets just call her “Baby B.”

Now, the other child. From now on referred to as ‘Baby A” for no particular reason of course, is nothing like me (at least in looks and mannerisms.) Baby A has soo many of her dad’s looks and interests that it is a huge surprise that she would be a comic book reader. No offense intended, but her dad’s idea of a good read was an internet article on the latest Fighting Illini recruit!

But somehow, she likes to read..and I love it! Of course, I can’t talk her into Trixie, or Nancy..or the really GREAT books, but she is totally addicted to Archie Comics. Even I type, she is 2 feet from me, reading one of these books that is dated from the 1980’s! These books are all over my house and in the car. In fact, her sister has been known to hide them so that she will play with her in the car. This child misses lots of family car conversation because she is soo engrossed in her reading, and often wants to read them aloud to me.

Yesterday, we headed to Bismarck Grade school book fair so that the girls could pick out books that their Nana (the librarian) could choose for them for Christmas. We do this every year. Baby A chose “The Diary of the Wimpy Kid.” Now, the book fair had 4 of these books, so she bought the first one (her own money) and gave the names of the other 3 to Nana, who wrote them down. Now, this child finished that book (all 217 pages of it) by this morning! Last night, she was laughing out loud, and reading me sections of the book. You have no idea how much joy I get from watching my children enjoy anything..but a book…I just LOVE it! Of course, now we have to wait until Christmas to get the next few books…..

34 weeks

2009-10-12T19:08:00.000-05:00

This isn't exactly the usual pregnancy update picture..but today IS 34 weeks!

It is definitely autumn..pumpkin time!

2009-10-09T17:53:00.001-05:00

Lauren and Brookelyn are staying over tonight..so we decided it would be fun to decorate a pumpkin..like the big on that I carry around every day! Apparently I have no shame, because I have included some pictures, as well as a link to the progression of pictures as they were taken..I am off to shower very soon!

http://picasaweb.google.com/setrn92/PumpkinBellyShots?authkey=Gv1sRgCILCtZbdmv3LTA#

Happy Birthday James

2009-10-08T21:18:00.001-05:00

James took a vacation day to be off work on his birthday today. We had dinner at home and my parents, sister and James’s mother came over. So poor James ended up cooking his own birthday dinner! Earlier in the day, we had taken the girls to the dentist, then hit Walmart to buy what we needed for dinner. While we were there, Paige took the opportunity to purchase the wig you see in the picture below. She wore it all evening. She told us it “suits” her! Too bad that girl has no personality! Peyton showed Grandma Pat how to use the Wii Fit. I am a nice daughter-in-law, so I didn’t take any pictures of that!

Anyway, I was glad that James took the day so he could be here with us today. He has been a huge blessing for as long as I have known him, but no more than in the past few months when he has pretty much done EVERYTHING around our house to keep it going. I hope he had a good birthday, even if he claims he doesn’t want to celebrate birthdays anymore.

32 weeks..a few days late in posting

2009-09-30T16:46:00.001-05:00

link to pregnancy progression pictures

These pictures are getting a bit embarrassing to post! The bare

belly pic is NOT for the faint of heart, so you will have to scroll down a bit to see it! Click next to the picture above for a link to the progression of pregnancy pics. I have definitely gotten bigger..but so has JJ! We had an ultrasound yesterday, and she weighed in at approx 4 pounds 3 ounces. I am not posting any ultrasound pictures, because she wasn’t being cooperative! I couldn’t call her shy, because she was totally willing to show her..girl parts (that is the 3rd time, so I am thinking she is REALLY a girl…sorry daddy :) She is very low, head down and her face was pointed directly toward my back, so there was no opportunity to get any pictures of her face. I was kind of sad, but relieved when the sonographer gave up…it was kind of hurting all that pushing around. All the important stuff, like fluid levels and placenta looked really good. It was a very positive appointment and my doctor is very happy with how the pregnancy is progressing.

working on the floor…

2009-09-19T08:26:00.001-05:00

James and Dad have been working very hard all week on laying my new floor. After the old carpet came up, and the floor was freed of padding and staples, it was time to lay the wood floor. We chose a v-groove laminate wood floor, which I just LOVE and looks awesome in my house. Over 900 square feet of flooring in being replaced, so this has been a HUGE job, and I am just sitting around watching! I snapped a few pictures of work in progress. As of this writing, the kitchen is nearly done, and inhabitable. Not quite like the pics of Paige and Peyton attempting to get breakfast when the fridge and stove were pushed over against the cabinets! It is just after 8 am, and James’s grandmother has already cleaned out my entire fridge this morning, and is now headed to Walmart! I don’t know where that woman gets her energy, but it certainly explains alot about James!

Yay, finally some furniture again!

Lots and Lots going on around Baltic Drive!

2009-09-14T16:02:00.001-05:00

My living room has no flooring right now. I have posted a few pictures of the girls pulling up staples in the floor. James has prepared the floor, which my dad went to pick up and delivered today. The new flooring goes in staring tomorrow. I am very excited about that!

Oh, we also have a “houseguest.” Probably the quietest one we ever had…..this is Hunter.

I am not very excited about one thing tomorrow..that is my 3 hour glucose tolerance test. After 8:30 tonight, I am only allowed sips of water until my first blood draw at 8:30 am. Then NOTHING until 3 hours and 3 blood draws later. I get VERY nauseated when I go without eating, so pray for me. I am taking my laptop, they tell me that I can get on wifi at the office. But good news..I am now THIRTY WEEKS pregnant. I feel every single week (and all 21 pounds), but I am grateful to have completed this much time. Peyton took a picture of me today. Here it is.

Fourth Grade

2009-08-31T10:45:00.001-05:00

Peyton at her desk

Paige at her desk

We are starting our second week of school. Here are Paige

and Peyton hard at work cutting out a drawing of the skeletal system for their science class.

28 weeks...I think I grew!

2009-08-31T10:16:00.000-05:00

ALMOST 28 weeks!

2009-08-30T14:25:00.002-05:00

Today is significant for me and baby JJ because it marks the milestone for when my last pregnancy ended. Paige and Peyton were born at 27 weeks, 6 days, 23 hours, and 9 and 10 minutes respectively. Making it to this point, and most likely beyond, is huge for me, as well as a big answer to prayer. I would not say that this pregnancy hasn't been bumpy, but I am thrilled that I went to church, out to lunch with Paige, and that I am sitting at home on my own couch. I am not in the hospital, I am not on any medications to stop labor, and I am definitely NOT laying upside down. While there is no way to know what tommorrow or any day after it brings, getting past this point, and pretty much doing it at home, is NOT a luxury that I take for granted. I am still hoping and praying that I will seen 29 weeks, 30 weeks, etc..until a nice reasonable time for this new little girl to safely be born. But in the meantime, i am going to TRY not to complain about the uncomfortableness, nausea, insomnia and heartburn..(at least not TOO much) and enjoy this time of waiting as much as possible!

Spending the rainy morning with horses!

2009-08-19T11:44:00.001-05:00

Paige, Peyton and Freedom, Harry in the background

Freedom is a donkey that was born 9/11/01

James and Willy, a 27 yr old barrel racing horse

Paige, Peyton James and Willy

Peyton riding Willy

Paige climbed the fence to give Harry a pat.

Harry is a 25 yr old Fresion who has been in two Rose Bowl Parades and currently pulls an old carriage on the 4th of July that was used by President Lincoln

Paige on Harry, who hadn’t been saddled in a long time, Marilyn helping out. Paige said she would need a “parachute” to get down! Harry is a 17 hand horse (I guess that means he is tall!)

Peyton climbs the fence to given Harry some attention

We were invited to visit Marilyn, a dear friend of the Snyder family who lives with her horses (I think 7 of them) on a horse farm just minutes from Grandma Joyce. I enjoyed my third visit there, and the girls their second. They have been asking about going back ever since! Thanks Marilyn for the lesson on horses, horse shoeing and the care of the horses. It was a fun and educational experience!

24 week appt..update of JJ

2009-08-04T20:24:00.001-05:00

Paige was kind enough to take the picture for me yesterday. Every Monday marks the new week of pregnancy, and I wanted to capture 24 weeks. I took a quick look at the 20 week picture, and I was shocked at how much..rounder..I had become. Well, today, I went for my 24 week appt and found out that had something to do with the 9 pounds I gained this month! I guess laying around and not working does help you gain weight! My doctor was happy with the weight gain, this puts me at 13 total pounds over pre pregnancy weight. My cervical length ultrasound was extremely encouraging, and my doctor had plenty of positive things to say. The baby’s heart rate was great, and she is measuring the exact size she should be. I am going to start going in for check ups every two weeks now, my doctor wants to continue to monitor my cervical lengths closely, as well as perform a test called a fetal fibrinectin every two week. This test, when it is negative, gives a 99 % chance that labor WON’T begin for the next two weeks. If I were to have a positive chance, there aren’t such good odds. In the event that this test comes up positive, I will get a round of injected steroids (more needles, yuck) to hurry up lung development in the baby. But right now, everything looks great and she shows no signs of trying to escape! The sonographer took a quick look after the cervical ultrasound today, and JJ was giving us a great view to reaffirm that she is, indeed, a girl. James sighed, and resigned himself to again looking at pink bedding at Target. (Don’t let him fool you, he was picking out baby girl clothes left and right when we went rummage saling last weekend!)

Oh, and one last thing, this girl needs an official name..but our family can’t agree on one too well. James made a list of names from the baby name book that I bought. Each girl has a favorite from the list, and can’t stand the other girls favorite. I told them that I named them, and they would get to name their own kids, so maybe James should just name her on his own! He just smiled and raised an eyebrow at me. Peyton’s favorite is Makayla. Paige’s favorite is Abigail, and James is leaning toward Reese. (as a side note, Reese is my maiden name, and both girls think it is only a good boy name.) I honestly don’t know, but we need a good middle name that goes well with them. Suggestions????

update..

2009-07-30T14:42:00.002-05:00

The girls are gone today to "Answers in Genesis." Before my life got so limited I had planned to go along, so I was really bummed when that didn't happen. Mom and dad offered to keep them last night, so they got the job of taking them to the church before 6 am. Apparently, my parents enjoyed this, because the kids were so excited. It is fun to watch them grow, and as they mature, watch them enjoy all the new things that go along with that..like traveling 3 hours on a church van with their friends, something I remember fondly from my years in the youth group. At any rate, I have spent the day with my husband, and it has been a treat. He works 24 hr on and 48 hr off, and he is not due back to work until the morning. We are both well rested, and he got most of his "chores" done yesterday. We ran some errands, but it was just the two of us, and we have had a good day together. I do look forward to the girls arriving home tonight. I am sure they will be exhausted, but excited to talk about their day.

I am now almost 24 weeks into this pregnancy. I cannot lie and say that I have enjoyed being pregnant. While I have way more freedom with this baby than I did with the twins, there are some vast differences. The biggest being that the twins are here. I have responsibilities for them that make relaxation harder, and I am grateful that I am not totally house/bed bound. While James and the girls are a huge help (I cannot say enough about how much he has worked to keep everything going for the past few months), it is still difficult not to be busy with the girls' lives. Also, I was home and bedbound in January and February when I had Paige and Peyton. If you have to pick a time to be stuck on the couch or in the hospital, those would be the best months to miss out on the outside world. Not so much with July and August!

However, I am pleased that things are going so well. I am still receiving weekly progesterone injections, which James gladly administers. I went into the doctors office Monday because I had so much trouble with back pain and cramping on Sunday. I had a test (called a fetal fibrinectin) that basically tells you how likely you are to start labor within the next two week. This test, which did not exist 10 yrs ago, is a huge indicator or impending premature labor. Thankfully, I had a negative result, which is great news. I also had another ultrasound that measures the cervix. This number, which is about 2.4-2.5 cm, has not changed in the past 3 weeks, which is also great news. The previous month, it had dropped from 3.7 cm, which is what landed me off my feet in the first place! Even though it has been a big ego blow to me that I cannot go to my job (which I find pretty rewarding) and I am limited in what I can do around the house, I feel trememdously blessed to be carrying this baby. I have great benefits at work, so lots of sick time, I have a great family that cares and doesn't complain (ok, maybe the girls complain occasionally), and I know that I have lots of people that are praying for all 5 of us!

a reminder to pray..

2009-07-30T14:41:00.001-05:00

Cute pics of the girls..thanks Aunt Jamie!

2009-07-19T23:10:00.001-05:00

Jamie took Paige and Peyton to the zoo in Indy on Saturday. They spent some times in the gardens there and got some cute pictures of the girls. The also enjoyed Chuck E. Cheese before heading home.

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a good reminder…

2009-07-13T14:19:00.001-05:00

Philippians 4:6-8 (New Living Translation)

6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.

This is a passage that was used in church last night. It was used to convict me that, again, I am worrying AGAIN about things I cannot change…there is a MUCH better way…

Halfway there

2009-07-06T22:18:00.001-05:00

Halfway there! This morning, Paige did not surprise me when she said “Happy Twenty weeks!” We went to the Dr appt and were given the news after the sonographer patiently worked with an uncooperative baby (the big sisters were NOT so patient). Finally she announced that she didn’t see any boy parts, and that she was pretty sure that she saw girl parts..so girl it is! My doctor later confirmed this opinion.

Now back to the business of how we are keeping this unborn daughter on the inside longer! I am no longer strictly on bedrest..which is a HUGE blessing. I am able to do light activity now. I will say that after a big day of going to the doctor and out to eat, that I was pretty crampy and uncomfortable for over an hour this evening. This feeling went away with rest, but it reminded me to remember my limitations. My doctor is great! She is very optimistic, and realistic about what will work best to prolong this pregnancy as long as is necessary.

stats today: heart rate:152

approx length: 9 inches

approx weight: 14 ounces

mommy weights..well that is my secret, but I have only gained 5 pounds! (I know the picture at the top doesn’t look that way!)

Thank you all for praying for JJ (still no name..we are working on it) and please continue to pray for us!

19.5 weeks is not my best time…

2009-07-02T22:33:00.001-05:00

I am posting pictures of myself at 18 weeks pregnant. My short term goal is to make it until 2o weeks to post another picture..believe me, I have grown! That picture is due to be taken this coming Monday. Every Monday, Paige will say “Happy 19 weeks!” or whatever week we are on. I always smile because she always says it! My little cheerleader knows how important this is, and how special baby JJ is to all of us. Please pray for me for peace, rest, and that my nerves will be calmed. God is soo good, and I have not forgotten all He has done for me. I am very blessed to be able to sit in the hospital bed with my laptop and stay intune with the outside world. So check back often for my random ramblings. The nurse just gave me an ambien, this sleeping pill is the bomb! I am not even sure what I am typing! This is the deal. I was having some concerning symptoms this week, so I was asked to come into my ob’s office this afternoon. They did a special ultrasound that measures the length of the cervix. Mine had dropped from 3.7 to 2.7 and also showed some funneling. So the midwife sent to to the hospital for monitoring and bedrest for the weekend, until my regular doctor is back and can examine me to decide how aggressive the bedrest needs to be. So please pray for my nerves, pray that my baby stays put for at least another 14 weeks. It is going to be a rough time for our family, but it is such a loving and willing family, and God is in control..he still cares so much for us. Thanks Grammy and aunt Brittany for taking care of the twins. Thanks James for taking care of me. Also thank you to Charity, Stephanie and Amanda who came to visit, brought important items from home and gave me an hour or so of distraction when I needed it the most!

Our First Anniversary

2009-06-20T11:02:00.001-05:00

One year ago today James and I got married in Jamaica, here are a few of the pics from that day. I have to work today, and James had to work yesterday, so we made plans to have dinner this coming Tuesday evening to celebrate. So yesterday morning I got up, James had left for work at 5 am. I took the girls to swim practice, then we did their packing for their weekend with their dad. They spend the afternoon with their grandparents while I attended a meeting at work. After, I picked them up and headed for about an hour or so at the pool to beat the heat (ahead of the storms by an hour or so.) When I turned to get out of the pool, I looked up, and their stood James, with a long white box in his hand. Now James typically works 24 hour shifts, so I wasn’t expecting him until the next morning around 9 am. He had for me a box of a dozen long stem red roses, and dinner reservations at one of my favorite places! I was thrilled! (except I had planned to shop for him, and that was clearly out.) At home, we all enjoyed an ice cream cake, and he also surprised me with a certificate for a massage. He had gotten up at 5 am…and gone fishing! He had taken the day off without me knowing, so he had a day filled with activities..including the final sale of his house in Westville…..yeah..no more double house payments! I am a lucky and blessed wife…and just had to share it!

First Swim Meet of the Summer

2009-06-15T16:33:00.001-05:00

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“You and Me Go Fishing in the Dark” (or at least an overcast afternoon!)

2009-05-28T16:03:00.001-05:00

James decided to take the girls fishing today since I had a meeting at work. I figured that they wouldn’t be gone very long since I have a pretty good idea of the ~~James’s~~ the girls’ attention spans! Anyway, they were out there for quite awhile, so me and my camera went out and caught up with them. Thankfully I arrived before any fish were caught, and also thankfully, nobody got stuck with a hook (especially not me!)

CLASSIC Paige!!

Paige caught the first fish..she was ecstatic!

Peyton’s first fish..

second fish…

and finally the one that didn’t flop off the line!

planting flowers

2009-05-28T15:54:00.001-05:00

James has been off work since Sunday morning due to his “Kelly day” which gives him every 14th shift day off. So he is home for 5 straight days, and we spent lots of time outside. Sunday, after grilling out at moms, we went to buy flowers for planting.

First pictures of baby J.J. (NOT an official name!)

2009-05-15T14:18:00.001-05:00

James and I headed to my OB-gyn visit this morning. We had been anxiously awaiting our first ultrasound. Our baby (who is nameless, and no, we don’t know what we are having yet) has been nicknamed “JJ” by our children, which works out fine. JJ was very active for his/~~her~~ first pictures. The heart rate was 158 and lots of moving around was noticed. No wonder I am so queasy all the time! It is going to be crazy when I can start to feel that!

Please pray for us, all looks wonderful now, but on Monday, I go for a “cervical cerclage” which should decrease my likelihood of premature delivery. For anyone who has known me more than 9 years, you know that this was a BIG problem with my girls. Anyway, I will have spinal anesthesia and the cerclage will be placed Monday afternoon. I will have ultrasounds of the cervix every 4 weeks to make sure those stitches are doing what they are supposed to do! I will also start weekly progesterone injections at my next visit. James is looking forward to giving me those shots once a week, I think that is a bit wicked of him! He is easy to forgive, though, because he does all the cooking, most of the cleaning, and caters with no ~~little~~ complaining to my food cravings!

Helen Harness Connor Guyer 1917-2009

2009-05-10T08:18:00.001-05:00

Words heard as we were going to bed last night:

“Dear Jesus, help this night to be well, and that Gee Gee is in your arms…”

“Mommy, I think Gee Gee is talking to Abraham Lincoln!”

Peyton, Gee Gee, Paige (Good Friday, 2009)

Yesterday, my grandmother went home to be with the Lord. She was 91 years old. Thirteen days ago, I went to my parents house to get the girls. Gee Gee was a little agitated that day, not wanting to sit, and she needed to be watched more carefully that she wouldn’t fall. So the girls and I ended up staying there all day through Gee Gee’s bedtime. I helped her to bed along with my mom and sister that night, and that was the last time I ever saw her out of that bed. Two days later, mom called me and said Grandma wasnt well and they couldn’t get her up. The girls and I were headed for Chicago that day, so we went there early and spent time with Grandma, but she didn’t really wake up. I heard her talk once more the next day over the phone, but she was never really very alert after that. I spent as much time as possible last week at her house. We watched as she grew weaker. It wasn’t her wishes to be put in a hospital anymore, so we continued to take care of her at home. The bulk of this job going to my mother and my sister. Paige and Peyton were wonderful, they came and went. They did understand what was happening, and had times when they would cry. Yesterday, mom called me at work and told me that she was much worse. I left work and arrived at her house with about 30 minutes to say my goodbyes and to help the girls as they said theirs.

Grandma was saved, she had Jesus in her heart, so there isn’t any doubt where she is. We also know that she has said goodbye to many people that she loved over the past 50 years, and that she was very happy to see these people again. And with a new body that was no longer frail!

More later, off the church for the Mother’s Day services.

Some new pictures that Jamie took

2009-04-27T19:34:00.001-05:00

The Climb-The hannah Montana Movie

2009-04-15T12:23:00.002-05:00

The girls and I went to see Hannah Montana: The Movie Monday night, along with lots of other moms and their grade school aged daughters. I really enjoyed this movie. It was well acted and had lots of great music in it. Early in the movie, Miley Cyrus's character was told by a new friend that "Life was a climb, but the view was great." I didn't know that this was to become a major theme to the movie, but at that moment, I took a moment to remember that quote. After the movie, I saw an acquaintance in the lobby who, also a mom, had picked up on this quote. While these movies tend to deliberately leave out God at every turn, sometimes I can't help but see Him anyway! They are right, life is a VERY tough battle, race, climb. But it is SOO worth it! Not just for the beauty we can have in this short life, but also an opportunity to glorify God, to raise children to love Jesus, and to love the people around you. I put the lyrics to Miley Cyrus's song "The Climb" below. This is a pretty song, and while I disagree that what is on the other side is VERY important, and that we will fail without God climbing with us, I still feel that this song reminds us of the importance of making good choices along the way, and that life isn't meant to be an easy ride.

I can almost see it
That dream I'm dreaming but
There's a voice inside my head sayin,
You'll never reach it,
Every step I'm taking,
Every move I make feels
Lost with no direction
My faith is shaking but I
Got to keep trying
Got to keep my head held high

There's always going to be another mountain
I'm always going to want to make it move
Always going to be an uphill battle,
Sometimes I'm gonna to have to lose,
Ain't about how fast I get there,
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing,
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes they knock me down but
No I'm not breaking
I may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm going to remember most yeah
Just got to keep going
And I,
I got to be strong
[ Miley Cyrus Lyrics are found on www.songlyrics.com ]
Just keep pushing on, cause

There's always going to be another mountain
I'm always going to want to make it move
Always going to be an uphill battle,
Sometimes I'm gonna to have to lose,
Ain't about how fast I get there,
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

There's always going to be another mountain
I'm always going to want to make it move
Always going to be an uphill battle,
Sometimes you going to have to lose,
Ain't about how fast I get there,
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

Keep on moving
Keep climbing
Keep the faith baby
It's all about
It's all about
The climb
Keep the faith
Keep your faith

Whoa a oh oh

Easter dinner..a sneak preview..can you tell who is who?

2009-04-10T21:59:00.002-05:00

We had a great Easter Dinner at my house on Good Friday. When I have more time, I will post an album of the day, but for now..a couple of awesome pics of Jamie, Mom and the girls trying on Firefighter turnout gear...

Good Friday Easter Fun

2009-04-10T13:42:00.001-05:00

We painted Easter Eggs and had an Easter egg hunt….all pretty much compliments of James! The girls had a great time at their sleepover, especially decorating eggs! Click on the album below to see all the pictures from the day.

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Piano Recital Spring 2009

2009-04-10T11:08:00.001-05:00

The girls had their second piano recital last Saturday. Here are a few pictures of the program.

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Ok, finally a blog..get off my back!

2009-04-07T12:47:00.001-05:00

I know I haven't blogged in forever. I have some pictures of the girls from their latest piano recital that I haven't even gotten off the camera. Way out of character for me, but I just can't make myself sit down and work on it. Maybe later today. I just feel SO CRUMMY right now! As most people who know me know by now, i am expecting another baby in November, and I am going through the requisite first trimester nausea. I remember feeling sick 9 1/2 years ago when I was at this stage of pregnancy, but some of the other things I have ~~blocked~~ forgotten.

I have forgotten the incredible sense of smell, the massive increase of saliva, and the nasty taste in my mouth after eating or drinking anything! All of these pieces make the whole eating experience (typically one of my favorite) pretty lousy! One thing that has helped has been the book “The Girlfriends Guide to Pregnancy” I will add it to my bookshelf if anyone wants to read about it. It is very funny and down to earth in addressing some of the pregnancy crazy stuff!

Well, that’s enough for now. James just arrived bearing groceries, and a prescription for nausea medicine that I broke down and asked for this morning after a bad experience..that I won’t share here!

SPRING!

2009-03-19T08:23:00.001-05:00

We have enjoyed the nice weather this week by spending as much time as possible outside. Here are a few shots that have been taken in March. The days of cabin fever are nearly behind us, and I am SO thankful! This winter seemed longer than most for some reason.

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There will come a day!

2009-03-12T14:52:00.003-05:00

I am hearing this Jeremy Camp song on the radio as I get ready to take the girls and go to the church for Sue's visitation. I am posting the lyrics, which I had never before stopped to think about, because they give hope in all situations! I am SO sad for those of us left behind, particularly Sue's husband, children, and grandchildren, but I am SO glad for Sue that she is in heaven! I knew her well enough to know that she is already marveled by the "rest and the wonders anew!"

I try to hold on to this world with everything I have
But I feel the weight of what it brings, and the hurt that tries to grab
The many trials that seem to never end, His word declares this truth,
that we will enter in this rest with wonders anew

But I hold on to this hope and the promise that He brings
That there will be a place with no more suffering

(Chorus)
There will be a day with no more tears, no more pain, and no more fears
There will be a day when the burdens of this place, will be no more, we'll see Jesus face to face
But until that day, we'll hold on to you always

I know the journey seems so long
You feel you’re walking on your own
But there has never been a step
Where you’ve walked out all alone

(Chorus)

Troubled soul don’t lose your heart
Cause joy and peace he brings
And the beauty that’s in store
Outweighs the hurt of life’s sting

I can’t wait until that day where the very one I’ve lived for always will wipe away the sorrow that I’ve faced
To touch the scars that rescued me from a life of shame and misery this is why this is why I sing

Gretchen

2009-03-09T20:13:00.002-05:00

Gretchen wrote a beautiful post regarding her last few weeks with her mother, and I wanted to share it here because I was so touched by her sharing it with her readers. If you link over there are read it, please leave her a comment of encouragment! Click here to get there.

Update on Paige's mole!

2009-03-09T10:38:00.002-05:00

Paige's surgeon called me at work yesterday, on a Sunday. At first I thought he was calling about a patient, but the secretary told me he had asked for me by first and last name. So then I was a bit worried, why would this busy Surgeon call me personally on a Sunday afternoon? Anyway, Dr. Savage told me that he had been out of the office for a few weeks, and was spending the afternoon in his office working on paperwork. He had received Paige's pathology report from the lab in New York, and he called me at work to let me know that the reports came back absolutely and 100 % negative! I was very thrilled to know that they were able to exclude melenoma completely, I knew that it was a possibility that they wouldn't be able to. Paige's regular physician had attempted to "shave" the mole off in September, which had somehow causes the cells in the sample to appear different than they actually were. I am no chemist, so I don't know how this works, but apparently the mole is just a regular "congenital nevus" after all! I was also touched that Dr. Savage would hunt me down on a Sunday afternoon to keep me informed. He could have easily sent a letter, had his nurse call later this week, or even leave a message on my personal phone. This report is a huge blessing to us, and I appreciate all prayers for a good outcome for Paige!

Have camera, will travel: Baby A and Baby B are 9 years old!!

2009-03-05T10:30:00.000-06:00

Have camera, will travel: Baby A and Baby B are 9 years old!!

check out my sister's blog this morning.

New Bikes

2009-03-04T09:35:00.001-06:00

The day after Paige and Peyton's birthday, James and I took them shopping and let them pick out new bikes. Their bikes were getting VERY small for them, and they both requested new ones for their birthday. Peyton went right for the first one she looked at and rode it around us while we looked for one for Paige. Paige was having a hard time picking one out. She did end up with a bike that fit her personality, but it is a "bit" large yet! When the sun was out yesterday, despite the chilly weather, the girls tried the new bikes out in the driveway...I think they like them!

Happy birthday Poppa!

2009-03-02T13:07:00.000-06:00

I picked out a few of my favorite pictures of my dad. I love the close up of him in his sunglasses. This picture was taken in Canada, one of his favorite places to be. The most recent is a picture of him watching dishes while Ella watches him. I guess she was hoping he would start throwing snacks her way, he probably was when no one was looking! One of my all time favorites is of him with the girls at a swim meet in the summer of 07. This was such a difficult time for our family, and mom and dad were probably the most stable people in Paige and Peyton's lives. They are faithful to attend all the girls' events. It was always important to him that they didn't get too cold and that they had a warm dry towels for their early morning meets. Another is of him playing in the yard at my house with him in the summer of 2006. He was working on the pen in our yard to hold our puppy in. He was showing me his shoe, because somehow he had stepped in one of the dog's "presents." Thanks for all your help dad, and I hope you have a great time tonight at the steakhouse!

35...is the new 25...

2009-02-27T16:49:00.000-06:00

Happy birthday Charity! Sorry we can't get together to properly celebrate your birthday. Instead, I thought I would dig out an old picture of us and post it here. This picture was taken April 1990. That means that we were 16 and 15 years old..and we thought that we were sooo old..and that life was sooo hard! If only life was that hard now! Love you, friend..

Then and now...

2009-02-25T21:31:00.001-06:00

The last two days have been my typical February walk down memory lane. Today, my babies turned 9 years old..correction, not until 11:09 and 11:10 tonight! We had a terrific day, I will blog some more pictures of the day later. We went on a field trip with Aunt Brittany and Lauren and Brookelyn and enjoyed a girl's lunch out. No newborn pics blogged today, but I do have a few of them after coming home from the hospital. They were about 4 months old in the sleeping picture, 5 months old in the July 4th colors. I can't express how much these two girls are a gift from God. The girls are now on the home stretch finishing up third grade. We have homeschooled, learning together, for almost 4 years now. I think that I have learned as much as they have! Having them home, and being their "teacher" has been an extremely rewarding job. So, Happy Birthday Paige and Peyton!

click here for my 2006 post telling of the birth.

Happy Birthday Mr. Lincoln!

2009-02-13T15:10:00.001-06:00

We were in Springfield visiting James's grandmother over the celebration of President Lincoln's 200th birthday. The girls and I headed downtown to hear a word from the (former) president. (I say former because our current president also made an appearance in the state capitol yesterday) A church next door to the Lincoln home was opened up to hear the speaker. "Mr. Lincoln" read to the kids, impressed upon them (and their teachers and parents) how important it was for them to read and be read to. He told stories of his youth and also a few from the Bible. It was encouraging that in this setting, full of grade school students, that God's name was freely mentioned. Then came Hariett Tubman, who was portrayed quite interestingly by a woman who commanded attention. She told of her slave beginnings, and how she helped her fellow slaves and her family escape to freedom on the Underground Railroad. This speaker gave this one word as the most important thing "Freedom." I tend to agree, though I doubt in the way she meant it. As I sat there, I thought about how true it was, freedom is the most important thing, Freedom from the slavery of sin. My girls have been watching a video that tells the story of Pilgrims Progress, and for the first segment, they kept asking what Christian's "burden" was. They soon realized that the burden was sin. Christian was only able to lay down his burden when he gave it to the cross. In fact, this story had his burden literally fall of and roll into the tomb. In the same way, we can remember what Harriett Tubman had to say about the importance of Freedom, and how the most important freedom we have is the freedom we receive when our burden falls off at the cross.

Spitz Nevus..and other big words!

2009-02-11T09:14:00.004-06:00

Before the surgery in preop holding.

Paige and Jamie after the surgery, it only too about 15 minutes for the whole thing to be over! She was a little "freaked" when she woke up. She kept crying and saying "I am so confused" and "I don't know what happened." Poor baby, didn't like falling asleep to anesthesia.

We didn't stay at the hospital very long, so Paige was still VERY unsteady when we headed home! She came down to the car in the cute little wheelchair. She woke up soon after we got home and ate THREE cups of soup!

This all happened last Thursday..now for the latest on the mole. We were totally expecting this to be a common, congenital mole. This type is harmless, but needs to come off prior to adolescence, because it can become cancerous later. However, it the pathology report on the mole wasn't quite so simple. I have pasted an email that I sent out yesterday here:
Dr Savage called today to give me the pathology report on Paige’s mole. He spoke to the pathologist in Danville, as well as one in Champaign, who both agree that the mole is “probably” benign. The pathologist feel that the mole is most likely an “atypical melanocytic proliferation.” The problem with this diagnosis, is that it greatly resembles a melanoma, even though it is not even considered precancerous. Due to this difficulty to distinguish, the pathologist is sending the mole to a lab in New York for another opinion. We won’t hear their conclusions for several weeks. Dr. Savage spoke to both pathologists directly, and asked several questions, leading me to believe that he didn’t see this kind of thing too often, but I am not certain of that, I didn’t think to ask. I have googled these words for any information, and I did find some sites that were helpful in understanding the problem, but not particularly encouraging that we will get an absolute negative path report.

Words I googled:

Spitzoid nevus

Atypical melanocytic proliferation

The site that was most helpful:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15503312

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1059623-overview

I will pray that we will be able to get a definite 100% benign report from New York.
Sandy

February so far..

2009-02-11T09:08:00.004-06:00

Well, so far February has been pretty eventful around here. I am not seeing too much of my husband this month. He started his new job as a Firefighter/Paramedic at Bloomington Fire Dept. The first two weeks were Mon-Fri days, which wouldn't be too bad if it wasn't for the 1 1/2 hour each way commute! With all the evening activities going on right now, we are passing each other coming and going.

Friday Night Open Skate

2009-01-30T21:37:00.000-06:00

2009-01-30T21:36:00.000-06:00

2009-01-30T21:34:00.000-06:00

2009-01-30T21:33:00.000-06:00

ice skating!

2009-01-30T21:30:00.000-06:00

Wisconsin Dells

2009-01-15T23:42:00.004-06:00

We spent the last few days in the Wisconsin Dells (which really wasn't much colder than right here!) We stayed at a beatiful resort and spent most of our time in several indoor water parks. Here are a few pics from the trip.

2008-12-17T21:17:00.002-06:00

I have this nifty one year Bible that I got as a gift when I was in high school. It has been signed in the front with the year that myself and a few of my family members have used it. I think that I made it throught it once or twice, of course I know that I missed days, even weeks, here and there. I was recently introduced to a web site that gives several plans for reading throught the Bible in a year. I checked it out, and I am planning to try to read through the Bible in 2009 chronologically. This is a bit different than reading straight through, or even a little bit of the Old Testement, New Testement, Proverbs and Psalms each day (this is the plan of my old Bible.) There is a link next to each day that provides a site that I can read the passage, in the version of my choice, off the internet. Thanks to Uncle John for giving me the link to the site..Click here if you want to check it out.

The "Best" Christmas Pageant EVER!

2008-12-15T11:39:00.002-06:00

I have the recommend this book that is located on my bookshelf (at home, and on the blog..see the list to the left). I have been reading a chapter a night to the kids, and on Thursday night we were down to two chapters. The kids were going to stay over at my parents house on Thursday night, and then be gone with their dad all weekend, so I took the book with me to my parents' house on Thursday. It was my grandma's birthday, so we were having dinner. Late in the evening, my mom, sister, grandma and the girls and I were sitting in the kitchen and I offered to read the end of the book. My sister became positively giddy at the idea, stating that she loved that book. Amazingly my mother had never heard of it. I clearly remember one of my grade school teachers reading it out loud when I was a kid. So I read the last two chapter out loud. Now, I read aloud to the kids alot, but rarely to a group like that, so it was kinda strange, and I kept cracking up, because the book is hilarious, while I was reading. I had forgotten how touching the last chapter was, and how the chld that was narrating the book learned so much about the true meaning of Christmas. I would recommend picking up this book and reading it aloud to your family!

Go Tell it on the Mountain....

2008-12-15T11:23:00.000-06:00

last night was the Children's Christmas Program at the church. Calvary has a wonderful childrens department, with lots of kids there every Sunday and Wednesday. This fall, they have been working on memorizing the Biblical account of the Christmas story from Luke, as well as learning songs to sing. Paige and Peyton were down front in the middle, so very easy access for pictures! One either side of them are Steven and Lydia McCurdy. But the little guy on the other side of Lydia stole the show! That wasn't his actual spot to be standing, he should have been farther over with the other primary kids, but he was all over the stage! He danced around and even made a big bow to the crowd, all the while, trying to get the attention of his dad..believe me he had his dads attention (and everyone elses!)

Boys love...firetrucks!

2008-12-11T14:25:00.002-06:00

Boys love...firetrucks!

2008-12-11T14:09:00.003-06:00

I am babysitting Nathan today, so after picking him up from Thursday school, we stopped by the Fire Station. Nathan and the girls had a great time..of course, the biggest smile from playing in the truck came from...James!

Grandma (Tick Tock) Reese

2008-11-26T23:51:00.005-06:00

The past few years, there have been emails about this time of year with family memories passed around. I know it is alot of reading, but the following is a thread that was headed around that centered on the anniversary of the death of my grandmother, who I was too young to remember. However, my parents talk enough about her, that I feel that I knew her, and am more than a little jealous that I dont have any of their first hand memories.

November 21, Mom wrote:

Well, today is a day in history that will always be implanted in my mind and yours. My dear mother-in-law, June Wilcox Reese, passed away 32 years ago. In some ways, it seems like yesterday; while in most ways, it seems forever since we sat down at the kitchen and talked. I am sure that she was saved and is enjoying heaven at the feet of Jesus; what a comfort for all of us. Just wanted you to know that we remembered and our love for her is just as strong as then. Mike and Fran

and the replies came in from the family..Katy starts it..

Hey all... I was glad to get Frani's email about mother. I never even think of this day... not ever.. except when Kelly reminds me. It was such a gloomy time in my life that I choose to just not think about it I guess. I miss my mother very much. I miss the was she use to dance in the living room when she dusted, usually to the Honky Tonk records. I remember the red finger nail polish that she wore so often and the cracked thumb nail. (That was so cool) I remember the little white coffee cups with the black stripes around them. I remember when Johhny use to leave for school and I was still to young to go and how I'd go climb in bed with my mother and cuddle up with her in the early mornings. I remember vividly waking up in my room as a young teenager on Saturday mornings to the sound of the washer and dryer running and the smell of bacon. She was a special lady and I am thankful that I was reminded today to remember her. I have such fond memories of her and I cherish those in my heart. I certainly hope that we can all get together at Christmas. And I'll be sending out a Christmas letter about it very soon. Love you all, Katy

and Kelly wrote....

Ah Yes....November 21st, 1976. Every year it comes around and every year I relive that day and the days that followed in my mind. I am pretty big on death dates and such...

I can't say I really miss mom like Katy says. I don't really remember her much. But I do have strong feelings about her. That she was a good mom. Not perfect by any means so I don't have any illusions about that...just a good loving mom. I remember her smoking. Lots of coffee and her drinking Pepsi. Her running around before dad was due home from work, putting on her red lip stick and patting the shine off her nose. Letting me lick the bowl when she had made a chocolate cake. Her getting out her Singer sewing machine to make my Barbie an Indian outfit...beads and all.. Her ironing in the middle of the kitchen with her ironing board and using some kind of iron sticky stuff to fix a hem. Taping up my arm and putting it in a sling and telling me to go out and play after I had cut my wrist open by running it thru the back door window. Wanna see the scar? All the great birthday party's she had for me! Just the feeling that she could always make everything right. Know what I mean?

Steph..

I have to say that reading these posts has me full of mixed emotions. Of course I always love a "Reese" story. But to talk about Grandma leaves me with a big hole. We all have our ways of feeling robbed by her death...for me it is because I just know I would've loved her. I know I would have LIKED her. I think I would've laughed often and definitely picked her brain on topic after topic. Especially now that I am a mother.
I would ask her how she stayed sane! :)
Who knows why the Lord takes people home when He does...I know that He is sovereign and His plan is perfect but I know that my world is definitely a different place by not having her in it.
Thanks for the reminder Aunt Fran. Thanks for the memories Aunt Katie and Aunt Kelly. See you all at Christmas!
~Steph

me..

I am reading this a day late, but I guess that is ok. Thank you all for the descriptors of Grandma. It is kind of like reading a book, and I am pretty good at reading, and seeing the characters in my mind, so it was nice. Like Stephanie, I am very sorry I didnʼt know her better. I am equally sorry that my girls didnʼt know her.
Sandy

mom again..

It is a good thing to walk down that lane once in awhile. I always remember dates; sometimes that is a curse. But, nevertheless, we can remember her as a wonderful human being who loved life and family. When I met her, I never wanted to leave. From the very beginning it was that way and I am so thankful and privileged to care for her in her last days. God is good. F.

Jamie..

So, I remember Grandma Tic Toc sitting in the bathroom with Kelly and me while we played in the bathtub until the water went cold. I remember going with mom and her to Dr.s appointments and getting to drive by the boat house in Catlin on the way home. I'm not sure if it was because I liked to or she liked to. I remember her letting me play in the bottom drawer in the kitchen.I remember riding in the yellow van with everyone, but I don't know where we were going. Then I distinctly remember her standing from the couch and falling. I know this isn't a happy memory, but it is my most vivid. I also remember her letting me play on the bed in the dining room once it got to that point. Sorry, I know that's depressing, but that's what's in my head from 1976.
Jamie

curtsies?

2008-11-24T01:41:00.000-06:00

The kids were to "curtsy" after their piano pieces were playing today. Grammy accompanied both girls on a few pieces, so she got to perform their curtsy with them. Somehow, the small nearby Christmas tree got knocked over during their first attempt. It was definitely the biggest laugh of the program. Their second try went much smoother!

piano recital

2008-11-24T01:36:00.001-06:00

6 principles..

2008-11-21T10:06:00.005-06:00

In my ladies Bible Study on Wednesday night, we have been going through the book "The Power of a Positive Mom." The author, Karol Ladd, quotes Dr. James Dobson from his newsletter in March 1999 with the following list of key principles that we should instill in our children. This was extremely convicting to me, and I decided to share them here. I copied these directly from the online newletter. A link to the entire newsletter is here.
"But what does God value? We cannot substitute His system for ours unless we know what He has personally ordained. Fortunately, the Bible provides the key to His value system for humankind. It seems to be composed of six all-important principles:

devotion to God;

love for others;

respect for authority;

obedience to divine commandments;

self-discipline and self-control;

humbleness of spirit.

These six concepts are from the hand of the Creator, and they are absolutely valid and relevant for today. When applied to life, they encourage a child to SEEK out opportunities, rather than HIDE in lonely isolation. They lead not to despair, as do human values, but to emotional and physical health. Isn’t this what Isaiah meant when he wrote, "All thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children" (Isaiah 54:13 KJV)?

The healthy self-concept Christ taught, then, involves neither haughtiness nor self-loathing. It is one of humble reverence for God and every member of the human family. We are to see our fellow human beings as neither better nor worse than ourselves. Rather, we are to love them as ourselves, and that prescription puts the entire matter of self-worth into its proper perspective."

a few of Aunt Jame's newest pics of the girls

2008-11-16T02:07:00.000-06:00

2008-11-03T18:08:00.003-06:00

While in Springfield, we went to visit a friend of Grandma Joyce and Aunt Cheryl's. Her name is Marilyn and she has lots of beautiful horses and a donkey, born on 9/11/01 names Freedom. The girls had a great time.

my first new car..headed to Springfield

2008-11-03T16:47:00.001-06:00

I got my first new car last Friday. James and I bought a Ford Taurus X. It is a crossover SUV that is much more reliable and better gas milege than my old Expedition. We picked up the girls this morning and headed to Springfield to visit Grandma Joyce, and to help her prepare her house for winter..(they prepared, I socialized.)

Halloween....

2008-11-01T08:57:00.000-05:00

better late than never

2008-10-15T21:30:00.004-05:00

Jamie took pictures last week at James' 30th birthday dinner. Tonight, she emailed them to me, so I am passing them on. James wasn't too excited about his birthday, but we had a nice dinner anyway.

sleepover

2008-10-14T19:05:00.000-05:00

We had a great slumber party on Sunday night. Not much slumber, but a great party anyway! I pinch hitted as the "spa operator" on Monday afternoon. I gave pedicures, assisted with manicures, and with makeovers. The girls (and one boy) REALLY liked the foot bath. Most of the girls loved the foot massage with lotion that went along with it, except for a ticklish girl or two!

Slow Fade

2008-10-02T22:35:00.002-05:00

here is a link to another song by "Casting Crowns" that is in the movie Fireproof

Slow Fade
One of the songs featured in the movie is Slow Fade by Casting Crowns.

Taken from the album 'The Altar and the Door' the song warns how relationships aren't destroyed overnight, it's a slow process:

Be careful little eyes what you see
It's the second glance that ties your hands
As darkness pulls the strings
Be careful little feet where you go
For it's the little feet behind you that are sure to follow

It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
It's a slow fade, it's a slow fade

Be careful little ears what you hear
When flattery leads to compromise, the end is always near
Be careful little lips what you say
For empty words and promises lead broken hearts astray

It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day

The journey from your mind to your hands
Is shorter than you're thinking
Be careful if you think you stand
You just might be sinking

It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
Daddies never crumble in a day
Families never crumble in a day

Oh be careful little eyes what see
Oh be careful little eyes what you see
For the Father up above is looking down in love
Oh be careful little eyes what you see
Slow Fade by Casting Crowns

One of the songs from "Fireproof"

2008-10-02T22:13:00.001-05:00

click here for a great video of this song using clips from the movie on youtube
Love is Not a Fight
'Love is not a fight' by Warren Barfield is another of the featured songs in Fireproof. It is a beautiful song that drives home the true meaning and commitment of real love:

Love is not a place
To come and go as we please
It's a house we enter in
And then commit to never leave

So lock the door behind you
Throw away the key
We'll work it out together
Let it bring us to our knees

Love is a shelter
In a raging storm
Love is peace
In the middle of a war
And if we try to leave
May God send angels to guard the door
No, love is not a fight
But it's something worth fighting for

To some love is a word
That they can fall into.
But when they're falling out
Keeping their word is hard to do

Love is a shelter
In a raging storm
Love is peace
In the middle of a war
And if we try to leave
May God send angels to guard the door
No, love is not a fight
But it's something worth fighting for

Love will come to save us
If we'll only call
He will ask nothing from us
But demand we give our all

Love is a shelter
In a raging storm
Love is peace
In the middle of a war
And if we try to leave
May God send angels to guard the door
No, love is not a fight
But it's something worth fighting for

I will fight for you
Would you fight for me?
It's worth fighting for

Tuesday night.

2008-09-30T21:08:00.005-05:00

I had a great date night with my husband. I accidentally forgot my phone at home, and as soon as I got over the panic of not having one of my main addictions, we had a great time. We saw an early showing of "Fireproof." and I was pleasantly surprised. It is amazing that I have become so desensitized to the completely humanistic views that Hollywood portrays, even in very good films. These things were all missing in this movie, even though I looked for them. The first few minutes were filled with unrealisted dialogue that sounded cheesy. However, after awhile, either I got used to it, or the acting/dialogue improved. The movie turned out to be excellent. The movie has given me some very real emotional moments, however. No, mom, it doesn't have anything to do with James' chosen profession, he's a great person no matter what his job! It came from the level of importance God places on marriage. Most of you know that I am married for the second time. This doesn't mean that I take marriage lightly, quite the contrary. James and I had a very open discussion about what we thought about the movie, and "The Love Dare," that the movie "presribed" for the sick marriage.

I digress..however...I never ever ever wanted to be divorced. I believe in the sanctity of marriage, and I believe that marriage is a covenant. The couple in the movie were given a wonderful opportunity to have their marriage changed, and their lives changed, for the better and for God's glory. I told James that I thought that the movie had a great message, but that I felt that I did everything I could, but my marriage still ended. I have waited a few days to finish this post, because I wasn't sure how much I wanted to share about my feelings on this subject, but it was truly hard to watch the two people, seperately but in response to each other and to God, put down their offense toward each other, and end up with their "happily ever after." This Hollywood ending didn't happen in my life. Some my say that I have my "happily ever after" because I am remarried now to a man that shows me how much he loves me every day, and with whom I am completely in love. But just as a newborn, as much as you love them, can't take the place of a lost child, a happy marriage can't take away the pain of one that was lost.

Anyway, I loved the movie. James went to Walmart yesterday morning while the girls and I were doing school. I saw "The Love Dare" in one of the sacks and commented on him buying it. He said, I bought three. He has a few men in his life that he felt could benefit from it, and he bought them a copy. I was so blessed and touched by this. My husband has only had this role for the past 3 months, and he had no real role model for the kind of husband God wants men to be. However, he somehow manages to EVERYDAY, be exactly what I need in my life.

Fireproof

2008-09-26T15:56:00.003-05:00

click here to go the website and see the trailer for the movie. James and I are planning to see this movie next week. I am looking forward to seeing this, because, well..lets see...

The star is one of my middle school crushes, Kirk Cameron. Brittany had a great poster of him in her room. We never knew he would grow up to be a good Christian man back in his "Growing Pains" days.

Second, I think that movies with a positive spin on how hard work marriage is are a good thing. From everything I have read, this is a terrific movie about marriage Gods way..even after it has totally been messed up by us.

Third..I do kinda have a thing for firemen!

Actually, I am a sucker for really well done movies. I like action, thrillers, drama, comedy, romance, but I really like well done, well acted, well written movies. My only concern is that this movie could lack some of those qualities that constitute a "really good movie" for me. I will be coming back after I watch it to leave a "review." I remember when I watched "Facing the Giants." It had a great message, but the acting was a bit..hokie?? for lack of a better word.. so we will see, but I bet I like it..if only for the reason above!

waa, I miss summer!

2008-09-26T15:24:00.000-05:00

..oh well, at least it isn't cold yet! I think fall is very pretty, and I do love the colors, but I just love the summer! Motorcycle rides, days at the pool, shorts and tee shirts, and the smell of sunscreen.. Best of all, are tan lines of adorable children.. here is one of my favorite pics that showed where we hung out this summer, and a few of those adorable children!

2008-09-26T15:21:00.000-05:00

Granddad Steve came by today, I was doing him a little favor, and then he took the girls to lunch and out to run errands. School got started a bit late, but that is fine, there is always time for grandparents!

2008-09-26T15:19:00.000-05:00

kids and dogs continued. You would never know that Jackson hadn't lived with kids his whole life. He tolerated the girls laying all over him. Now if only Ella would always tolerate Jackson...

fun with Paige, Peyton, Ella and Jackson

2008-09-26T15:16:00.000-05:00

our dogs and kids, thankfully, have a terrific relationship. The girls often have the responsibility of feeding, watering and letting the dogs outside. They also love to play with them and show them lots of love. Jackson has just lived with us for three months, but I already can't imagine not having him with us (of course, I could do without all the fur that he sheds!)

End of the summer series..part 1

2008-09-18T22:56:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of the summer. These four girls have such a good time together, and just love spending time with one another. Brittany got this shot at the end of the summer "County Fair" at the FARM.

my mom...and a motorcycle??

2008-09-10T21:05:00.000-05:00

James bought the girls a pink motorcycle helmet yesterday, so today they each got a ride. I routinely give my mom a ride home from church on Wednesday nights, so tonight, she decided to hitch a ride on James's motorcycle.

Fran's actual blog address..

2008-07-16T12:30:00.002-05:00

apparently my mother has TWO blogs! I am going to have to head over there before church tonight to help her sort that out, but in the mean time, here is the link to the blog that she is currently using and adding to. Check it out, drop her a line, she would be THRILLED (doesn't take much with her :)

Name change pain

2008-07-15T10:16:00.003-05:00

Ok..after running around for the past few weeks and changing my name at different locations (I had no idea that there would be so many places!) I have given some serious thought to what to do about the address of this blog. (yes, I know that wasn't a sentence and I really don't care.) I realize that my blog has been easily "findable" at its current address for several years now. I also realize that I have made it easy for anyone to find me with both my last name and address in my titles (I know, not the brightest bulb in the box, am I??) I thought about starting a new blog with a link to the old one..kind of a giant archive, but my heart just isn't really in doing that right now. I am still living in my house, and can still clearly remember the day that I started "The View from Baltic Drive." And since the view from Baltic Drive is SOO great these days (unless you count the weeds in my flower bed), I just can't bear to part with it right now. SO, unless anyone has a better idea, I am open to suggestions, I am going to just leave the address the same..After all there are still a couple of wonderful, beautiful little Thornsbrough's that live here! Just didn't want anyone to think that this particular name change had escaped my attention! Oh, by the way, if you visit me at my place of employment, you will notice that there too, my name has not changed..the state is pretty picky..and that could take another month or even two!

Now my mom is in the game!

2008-07-15T10:06:00.002-05:00

Ok, it is becoming a family affair..but remember, I have had my blog for 2 1/2 years!! Here is a link to my mom's blog, encourage her as she transitions from avid reader and commenter to blogger!

Grammy of Twins <- click to check it out!

Have Camera, will Travel

2008-07-12T13:14:00.003-05:00

my sister is new to the blogging game, so I thought I would post a link to her new blog, "Have camera, will Travel." Which can be found at www.photographysmybagbaby.blogspot.com. She is currently posting some of her photography, which is a passion of hers. Check it out, and be sure and welcome her!

Have Camera, Will Travel

click on the link above to check it out!

MRSA

2008-07-10T09:35:00.002-05:00

Ok, MRSA is not the most lovely topic for a blog entry, but since I have been asked questions from MANY people about it over the last few days, I decided to do a little research for easy to read and easy to understand information on handling the threat of MRSA outside of a hospital setting. I see this infection virtually every ER shift that I work, so I am used to it, my friends who are mothers are NOT! So hope this helps.. check on the link below.

click here

This saying that I really love..

2008-07-08T21:21:00.001-05:00

More Comments and Myspace Layouts at pYzam.com

2008-06-26T14:52:00.000-05:00

click Jamaican pictures continued">here for a link to some more snapshots from our trip..I think I am about done sorting through trip pictures, unless there are some good ones on the camera yet!

2008-06-25T12:36:00.001-05:00

href="">here

We got married!!! Jamaica style....

2008-06-20T15:03:00.002-05:00

These are just a few of many snapshots of our beautiful Jamaican wedding. We met a newlywed couple from Chicago and they were nice enough to snap some pictures for us and did a nice job. We are looking forward to the professional pictures that we view tommorrow. I attempted a web album, but unfortunately it didn't post..so check back later, I may try to haul my laptop down to the lobby again if I have time. We are very busy. Soon we will be snorkeling, sight seeing, scuba diving, and climbing a waterfall. But mostly we are having a great time being together! We have scheduled a photo shoot tonight on the beach, and I am very excited about beach pics in my dress.

ankle bracelets and toenail polish

2008-06-18T01:03:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, someone gave the an idea that the girls could make me a bracelet or something to take on my trip. James and leave in less than 4 hours for the airport for our flight to Jamaica. We decided that a destination wedding that was just for the two of us was for the best. We are kinda eloping..which is cool, but everyone knows about it! Anyway, we have been very busy getting ready to leave, and making some changes involving putting two full lives and households together. Paige and Peyton have been great with the whole thing, but I bought all the stuff to make some "beachy" ankle bracelets that we could make. This got put off until just hours ago. Thankfully, Brittany, Lauran and Brookelyn were on hand to help out (I didnt do much at all, really). Thanks Brittany!! Anyway, all 4 girls and I got new anklets to wear out of it. The girls and I plan to wear ours while we are away, so that we can be reminded of how important they are to me, and to the new life we are starting! Mommy is going to miss you guys! Thanks for hanging in there with me through some rough times.

a day with the girls..at the nail salon

2008-06-18T00:56:00.000-05:00