Three's Company

Stationery card

2012-01-17T23:10:00.001-05:00

Petite Potentate Pink Birthday Invitation

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Christmas with the Stovers

2011-12-25T21:33:00.000-05:00

Merry CHRISTmas! Today, we celebrated with my side of the family. Katie and Sai drove up from Charlotte to spend some time with us. We missed Andy (currently deployed to Qatar), but it was still a fun time together.

Family Photo

Jacob loves this book

Mr. Sai plays with Emmaline's new puppets

Bangles from India (Ellie likes to call them "shingles")

Fraggles

Little House on the Prairie books

Who doesn't need more Legos?!

Happy Birthday, Dad!

Our Christmas (Eve)

2011-12-24T21:07:00.000-05:00

After an awesome Christmas Eve service at church and dinner at Burger King with both sides of our family (hey, it was the only place open!), we headed back to our house to do Christmas with the kids. Nathan has to work on Christmas Day, and we didn't think the kids would want to wait until he got home to open their presents.

Emmaline with her gifts

Ellie's loot

Jacob's pile

Hello Kitty Legos

A new Nerf gun

Emmaline loves to play kitchen, so this was perfect for her

Nathan got a video he had been wanting

New running shoes for my new passion

Christmas Eve with the Curleys

2011-12-24T20:04:00.000-05:00

We have 5 Christmas celebrations this year. Today, we spent the afternoon with Nathan's extended family at his Aunt Karen's house. It is super crowded with lots of cousins, aunts, uncles, and other family members. And, it is a great time of conversation, teasing, and fun! Nathan had to work, so he wasn't able to come until the end, but he was able to get in some visiting before we had to leave to head to the Christmas Eve service at church.

Jacob with his gift from Grandma & Papaw Curley

Ellie loves her new puppy

Emmaline got a kitty

Lemon Thyme Bread

2011-12-23T17:58:00.001-05:00

Every year at Christmas, I make some type of edible treat to pass out to friends and family. I've done hot chocolate mixes, cookie mixes, and this year, I made Lemon Thyme Bread, using a recipe I got from the November issue of Taste of Home Magazine. My kitchen smelled so good when this was baking.

Lemon Thyme Bread

1/2 c. butter, softened

3/4 c. sugar

1 egg

1/2 c. buttermilk

1/2 c. sour cream

1 3/4 c. flour

2 Tbsp. minced fresh thyme

1 Tbsp. grated lemon peel

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/4 tsp. salt

Powdered sugar

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg. Combine the flour, thyme, lemon peel, baking soda, and salt; add to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk mixture, beating well after each addition.

Transfer to a greased 8x4 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. Cool completely; sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Yield: 1 loaf (12 slices)

For Lemon-Thyme Mini Loaves:

Use 3 greased 5 3/4x3 inch loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

For Lemon-Thyme Muffins (or Mini Muffins):

Make batter as directed; fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups (or mini muffin cups) two-thirds full. Bake at 400 degrees for 16-20 minutes (or for mini muffins, bake for 10-12 minutes) or until a toothpick comes out clean. If desired, top with your favorite frosting

Yield: 1 dozen muffins or 4 dozen mini muffins

Lemon-Thyme Icing: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 c. powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp. minced fresh thyme and 3-4 tsp. lemon juice, as needed, to achieve a drizzling consistency.

Yield: 2 Tbsp. icing

Peanut Butter Fudge

2011-12-23T17:37:00.001-05:00

Here's another of my Mom's great recipes. This is really simple and tastes so much better than anything you'll buy at a store. You'll have about 2 lbs. of fudge and I usually get 36 pieces out of an 8X8 pan. Do not double this recipe or the fudge will be runny.

Peanut Butter Fudge

Ingredients

2 c. sugar

1/4 c. light corn syrup

1/2 c. milk

1/4 tsp. salt

2 Tbsp. butter

1 tsp. vanilla

1 c. peanut butter

1/2 c. chopped peanuts (optional)

Instructions

Combine sugar, corn syrup, milk, and salt in medium saucepan.

Cook over low heat, stir constantly, until sugar dissolves.

Cover pan for 1 min. to allow steam to dissolve sugar on side of pan.

Uncover pan; cook without stirring to 236 degrees.

Remove from heat. Add butter

Add vanilla, peanut butter, and nuts.

Beat until thickened and loses its high gloss.

Turn immediately into a buttered 8x8x2" pan.

When completely cool, cut into squares.

This can be stored for 2-3 weeks in a tightly covered container with wax paper between the layers,

so the fudge won't stick together.

Buckeyes

2011-12-23T17:25:00.001-05:00

You can't live in Ohio and not have a recipe for these tasty treats. A recipe makes 125-150 buckeyes, depending on the size.

Buckeyes

Peanut Butter Balls:

1 lb. melted butter

2 lb. peanut butter

3 lb. powdered sugar

Directions:

Mix above ingredients and roll into balls the size of buckeyes (about 1 Tbsp.).

Refrigerate for about 2 hours.

Chocolate Coating:

24 oz. chocolate chips

1/3 bar paraffin

Directions:

Mix chocolate chips and paraffin in a double boiler until melted. Don't add too much paraffin or the chocolate will be too runny to coat the peanut butter balls.

Dip the refrigerated balls into the chocolate mixture with a toothpick.

Place on wax paper and refrigerate.

Peppermint Fudge Cookies

2011-12-22T16:31:00.001-05:00

I found this recipe a couple of years ago, though I can't remember where it is from. These taste just like the thin mint cookies that the Girl Scouts sell.

Peppermint Fudge Cookie

3/4 c. packed brown sugar

3/4 c. granulated sugar

1/2 c. butter, softened

1/2 c. shortening

1 tsp. vanilla

2 eggs

2 oz. unsweetened baking chocolate, melted and cooled

2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 pkg. Andes creme de menthe chocolate mint chips

1 1/2 c. semisweet chocolate chips

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, beat brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, shortening, vanilla, and eggs with electric mixer on medium high until smooth.

Beat in melted chocolate.

On low speed, beat in flour and baking soda until well-blended.

Reserve 1 c. of the mint chips. Stir in remaining mints and the chocolate chips into dough.

On ungreased cookie sheets, drop dough by tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart.

Baking 10 minutes or until centers of cookies no longer look moist (do not overbake).

Immediately sprinkle with reserved mint chips.

Cool one minute; remove from cookie sheets to cooling racks.

Makes about 6 dozen.

Melting Dreams

2011-12-22T16:18:00.000-05:00

I've had several people on facebook ask for recipes that I'm using this Christmas, so I thought I would post them here for everyone.

These shortbread cookies are one of my favorites. I think my mom found this recipe in the local newspaper several decades ago and it has become one of our Christmas food traditions. They really do melt in your mouth, hence the name, "Melting Dreams". One recipe only makes about 2 dozen cookies, so I always make at least a triple batch.

Melting Dreams (Shortbreads)

1 1/4 c. flour

1/4 c. corn starch

1/2 c. powdered sugar

3/4 c. butter (you must use salted butter for the right taste)

Mix dry ingredients together.

Cut in butter w/ pastry blender and then use your hands (The warmth of your hands helps blend the butter thoroughly, though if the butter is soft enough, I've discovered that my kitchen aid mixer does just as well.)

Shape dough into a large ball.

Use 1 Tbsp. of dough and roll into a ball.

Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Make a crisscross pattern on top of each cookie with a fork.

Bake at 300 degrees for 20 minutes or until bottoms are light brown. Do not let the tops brown, or the cookies will be too done.

Enjoy!

Daddy's Christmas Present

2011-12-22T15:36:00.002-05:00

Nathan has been wanting some sort of backyard fire pit type thing for quite some time. He went on a call this week for work and the person at the call was selling her chiminea. So, Nathan bought his own Christmas present. It's not all he's getting, but I could get used to him doing the shopping! And, this way I know he's getting something he really wants!

Christmas Outfits

2011-12-18T15:49:00.000-05:00

Nathan's Mom bought the kids' Christmas outfits this year. I wasn't too keen on the pink color of the girls' dresses at first, because it isn't the traditional Christmas red or green. They grew on me though because the girls' love their fancy dresses and they look absolutely adorable. Jacob is getting to be pretty handsome, as well...when did my baby boy get so big?

Gabrielle

Sisters

Emmaline

Jacob

Love them so much!

2011 Christmas Ornaments

2011-12-16T21:00:00.000-05:00

Our Family Ornament

Ellie loves wearing her robe and slippers around the house.

Jacob got his first skateboard this year.

Emmaline has been working really hard on potty training.

The Best Christmas Present Ever

2011-12-11T23:00:00.000-05:00

All 3 of the kids participated in the Christmas program at church tonight. Emmaline sang with the preschoolers and did a great job. She can't sing most of the words, but she know the motions that go with the songs better than most of the kids. She really stole the show and made everyone clap after each song they sang.

Jacob and Ellie both had parts in the older kids' program. Ellie sang a solo and was an angel in the nativity scene at the end of the show. Jacob played a Wise guy, sang a solo, and was a wise man in the nativity scene. Everyone did so well and we were really proud of them.

These shows bring back so many great memories from when I was growing up in the same church and singing in programs on the same stage. My friend, Emily, and I had solos and various speaking parts in every program from kindergarten through junior high. I'm hoping the kids will have as many fond memories of these programs as I do!

Love them so much!

Emmaline clapping after one of their songs

Ellie singing her solo

Jacob during his solo

Time for cookies

Ellie and Emma

Nathan and Jacob

Co-op Craft Day

2011-12-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

Instead of the regular homeschool co-op schedule, the kids had a craft day. They colored pictures, made ornaments, and had a great time with their friends. After crafts, we enjoyed a carry-in lunch with the other families. Lots of yummy food and lots of laughs equals a perfect day!

Emmaline made an ornament with Mommy's help

Jacob made one too

And so did Ellie

Coloring a picture

Lunch time

Silly faces

Friends: Elijah, Elliot, Ellie & Emma

Jacob's Thank You Notes

2011-12-01T22:36:00.001-05:00

5x7 Folded Card

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Thankful and Then Some!

2011-11-24T22:36:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving! We spent the day with both sides of the family at my parents' house. It was so nice having only one place to celebrate today and not having to drive to multiple locations. This was the first year we tried this and it went swimmingly. The kids had a blast spending the day with both sets of grandparents and Mema. Katie came up from Charlotte for the weekend as well.

So thankful for my sweet family

Turkey, dressing, sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, green beans, and other yummy things to eat

Time to eat

Dessert

Getting pedicures from Aunt Katie

Jen's Thankful 30

2011-11-24T00:09:00.000-05:00

On facebook, several friends listed something each day that they were thankful for. I didn't get around to doing a daily list, so I thought I'd just list my 30 things here instead.

Jen's Thankful 30:

1. the ability to stay home with our children

2. being able to homeschool, even on the bad days

3. Usborne books - I love the freedom this job brings!

4. our cozy old home, even though something always needs fixing

5. our dog, Paige - the sweetest canine ever. She is so great with the kids

6. 2 reliable vehicles - Nathan's is 15 years old and mine is 10, but they keep plugging along

7. that we've never had to pay for a baby sitter - I love having both sets of our parents close by

8. our homeschool co-op - a great chance to socialize the kids (& myself!)

9. good neighbors

10. that Emmaline's heart surgery isn't until next summer - plenty of time for God to heal the hole

11. Netflix - so many shows, so little time!

12. our church - i don't know how people get through life w/o a church family to support them

13. friends from childhood and beyond

14. facebook - i love keeping in touch with friends and family that are near and far, including my brother in Qatar

15. that God's ways are not my ways, and that they are ALWAYS better than what I had planned

16. Jacob - He tries my patience, makes me laugh, and is such a good big brother for his sisters.

17. Gabrielle - Sneaky & sweet rolled into one. She loves to read, just like her Momma.

18. Emmaline - Hard-working, loveable, strong-willed, and a friend to everyone she meets.

19. running - a new found hobby that keeps me healthy for my family

20. hubby's reliable job - he loves what he does and is a good provider for our family

21. Aegis Martial Arts - a place where Nathan and the kids can train for free

22. Katie - my younger sister - I hate that she lives 8 hours away, but love that we stay connected through weekly phone calls and text messaging

23. books - I love to read and don't know what I would do w/o a book or magazine to help settle my mind each night before bed

24. the laptop - makes work, editing pictures, and blogging so much easier than our old desk top

25. Mrs. Kristen - Emmaline's new speech therapist this year - she has helped Emmy make so much progress with her communication skills

26. that my unexplained lung/breathing issues cleared up - it was awful not being able to breathe w/o coughing and wheezing for 3 months. I don't take regular breathing for granted anymore!

27. freedoms allowed in the USA that are banned in other countries, like speech and worship

28. date night - every Thursday, I look forward to this time to reconnect with hubby sans kiddos

29. monthly moms' night out with our Down syndrome group - they get me!

30. Nathan - part of my life for 29 years, my husband for 13...I truly can't imagine life w/o my best friend

Chuck E. Cheese

2011-11-23T21:33:00.000-05:00

We met some friends at Chuck E. Cheese today. It's not my favorite place to go, but the kids love it, so we decided to endure it. Since it is the day before Thanksgiving, we figured it would be completely crowded, but it was just the opposite. The kids had plenty of time to spend all of their tokens and redeem their tickets and we could see where they were at at any given time since it wasn't packed. It actually turned out to be a fun time for everyone, especially since I got to visit with Becky and Erin while our kids played. A big thanks goes out to hubby for coming with us and keeping track of the kiddos so I had to time chat with my friends!

Do you think Emmy likes the giant mouse?!

Ellie and Chuck E.

Cheese

Is it just me, or is my baby looking a little too grown up?!

Noah and Ellie play a game of Air Hockey

Riding in a car

The Boys: Collin, Noah, and Jacob

Operation Christmas Child

2011-11-18T20:42:00.001-05:00

Today we packed boxes for Operation Christmas Child. I took the kids with me to Dollar Tree this year to pick out the items they wanted to put in each box. Let me just say that their eyes were much bigger than the boxes we were filling. Oh well, it was fun watching them pick out the things they thought the boy and girl would like to get in their boxes. They chose: notepads, markers, toothbrushes, flashlights, tissues, tic-tac-toe, puzzles, and so many other fun things. I loved seeing their generosity (even though Nathan and I are footing the bill). We're trying really hard to teach them that it is more important to give than to get at Christmas, and I think they are finally at the age where they get it.

Birthday Lunch at Red Robin

2011-11-07T23:19:00.003-05:00

For Jacob's actual birthday, we went to the mall to spend some of the gift cards he got and then we ate lunch at Red Robin. He loves to eat there, but his one stipulation was that they NOT sing to him for his birthday. He did, however, want the sundae.

My Boys

Em playing Aunt Katie's ipod touch

Me, Katie, and Mom

Andy and Alora

Ellie trying to escape from Uncle Andy's hug

Yay! A sundae and no singing!

Andy didn't mind the singing though!

I was really impressed with Red Robin today. Once they found out that Andy was deploying tonight and would miss out on their Veteran's Day special on Friday, they gave him his meal for free. It was a nice gesture to show they appreciated his service to our country!

Andy Turns 26 (a few days early)!

2011-11-06T23:54:00.003-05:00

My brother, Andy, turns 26 on Saturday, but since he deploys to Qatar tomorrow and won't be here for his actual birthday, we celebrated tonight at my parents' house. Mom made the family favorite, chicken pot pie, and then Andy's favorite cheesecake for dessert. Present time was fun, as well. We finished the evening off by watching episodes of Psych, one of our favorite t.v. shows.

Katie decorated for the party with monkey stuff, which has to do with Andy's nickname

The Kids Table: Emmaline, Jacob, Colton, and Ellie

Ellie and Papaw

Yay!

Monkey Cheesecake

Happy Birthday, Uncle Andy!

Jacob's 9th Birthday Party - Part Deux

2011-11-05T23:30:00.003-04:00

The partying continued in the evening with our family party. We ate pizza, veggies, taco dip, and other yummy stuff. Then Jacob opened lots of presents. He is totally obsessed with camouflage and all things war-related, so many of the gifts revolved around that theme. After that, we ate cake and ice cream and then played with the toys Jacob got. It was a fun time celebrating Jacob Clarence. I still can't believe he is 9 years old!

A present for Jacob, Ellie, and Emmaline

The Green Machine

Emmaline enjoying her cake and ice cream

Jacob and Daddy

Me and my sweet boy...where did 9 years go?

Jacob's 9th Birthday Party - Part 1

2011-11-05T21:25:00.002-04:00

At the beginning of the year, Nathan and some friends opened an Indonesian martial arts school. He teaches there two nights a week and Jacob and Ellie get to train there for free. It is definitely a win/win situation for our family because Nathan gets to do something he loves while the kids can get rid of some of their extra energy.

When we asked Jacob what he wanted to do for his birthday party, his immediate response was to have a party at Aegis. The school had never done anything like this before, but they were willing to give it a go. Nathan and Kim did an excellent job instructing the kids during the party. We could tell that everyone had a great time and they probably will sleep really well tonight.

During the party, the kids did an obstacle course, learned some martial arts moves, and played "roller ball tag".

I love this picture...you can almost hear his laughter!

It's not a party without food. We had veggies, cheeseballs, Gatorade, and of course, cupcakes and ice cream.

Time for presents

Here He Goes Again

2011-11-03T10:50:00.008-04:00

Andy is getting deployed again, so I'll be updating his blog as he sends us information. He leaves for Qatar on Monday, November 7th and will return to the states sometime in May 2012. Please keep him in your prayers while he is gone.

Trick or Treat!

2011-10-31T23:22:00.004-04:00

Yay for kids all decked out in adorable costumes! We did our traditional soup dinner before heading out to collect candy. Both sets of our parents came over, as did my brother, Andy, and Nathan's grandma. It was just the right amount of coolness to make trick-or-treating fun. Afterwards, the kids came in to sort their candy and enjoy a nice cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows. How did your evening turn out?

Enjoying chili and potato soup

Jacob with his pumpkin

Emmaline with hers

And, here's Ellie

Getting candy from Mr. Tod

And from Ms. Cathy

Grandma, Emmaline, and Mimi

Happy Halloween!

Carving Pumpkins

2011-10-30T22:09:00.003-04:00

This has to be one of my least favorite parts of Halloween. I would be completely happy just having a few nice pumpkins sitting on the front porch, sans the carved faces. I hate the way pumpkin goop feels and the way it dries on my skin and makes me itch. However, because I love my children, I will indulge them in this yearly tradition because it makes them happy.

Clearly, this is NOT my child, as I hate the feel of pumpkin guts!

Emmaline does it my way with a spoon

Jacob thought it was fun to wear it on his hand as a giant fist

Jacob's "Angry Bird" pumpkin

Emmaline's "Green Pig"

Ellie went the traditional route

AWANA Trunk or Treat

2011-10-26T21:29:00.004-04:00

The kids had truck or treat at AWANA tonight. It was fun dressing up and collecting LOTS of candy. And, it was a good trial run for the real thing next week. Normally, this event is held outside, but due to the impending rain, they opted to move it indoors. The kids loved roaming the church halls with their friends as they filled their bags with sugary goodness.

Haz-mat Suit Jacob

Pumpkin Fairy Gabrielle

Pumpkin Fairy Emmaline

Getting candy from Papaw

Checking out his loot

So many choices!

Emmy was more interested in this dog, than in her candy

Cubbies Parent's Night

2011-10-19T22:12:00.003-04:00

It was Parent's Night at AWANA for Emmaline's Cubbies group, so I went and spent the evening with her. It was fun to see her in action!

Game Time

Coloring

Eating a snack

I really enjoyed the evening, but this part really got to me. Since it was Parent's Night, they had cookies for the kids and parents to enjoy during snack time. The leaders told the kids that if they wanted another cookie, they should ask for one. When Emmy finished her cookie, she signed "cookie", but no one paid attention to her, so while everyone else got another cookie, she did not. I know this wasn't intentional, but it still made me sad that she was overlooked.

(Edited to add: Since this night, I've talked with her Cubbies leaders and we've made a few changes to help Emmaline get the most out of AWANA. She now has a buddy (a teenager from the church) that sticks with her the entire evening and pays attention to her to make sure that she doesn't get overlooked when she does sign something. I am so appreciative of their willingness to include and modify things for Emmaline to make her feel part of the group.)

Reading a story with Mrs. Cathy

5x7 Folded Card

2011-06-29T22:47:00.001-04:00

Thanks Much Blush Thank You 5x7 folded card

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Another Shutterfly Deal

2010-12-17T09:31:00.001-05:00

I just ordered the Buddy Walk thank you cards yesterday, but I am using them to send to people that supported Emmaline and our family in the 2010 Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome in September (yes, I'm a little behind). For posting this project, I'll be receiving a $25 Shutterfly gift card that I plan to use towards Emmaline's 4th birthday invitations (still can't believe my baby will be 4 in February!). If you are a blogger and are interested in earning this great deal, clickHERE for more details. A big thank you toEmily for letting me know about this!

Buddy Walk Thank You Notes

2010-12-17T09:19:00.005-05:00

Classic Without Edge Party 5x7 folded card

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I Love Getting Mail at Christmas!

2010-12-15T12:11:00.005-05:00

I {big red puffy heart} Christmas cards! We got our first ones last week and the kids are enjoying looking at all of the pictures of their friends.

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past 10 years, you've probably used, or a least heard of, Shutterfly. I love using this website to print our digital pictures, but they also have really amazing card and gift ideas. This year they are offering 50 FREE cards to anyone willing to blog about their holiday deal. Details can be found HERE.

They have a lot of great Christmas card options to choose from this year. My favorite can be found HERE. I love it for the following reasons:

1. You can personalize it with your family initial.

2. It lets you use multiple photos of your munchkins, pets, loved ones, etc.

3. "Merry Christmas" - I despise cards that are politically correct and say "Happy Holidays". If not for the birth of Jesus, there would be no event to celebrate, so every year when you receive our Christmas card, it will proudly proclaim "Merry Christmas" as a reminder of the One who makes life possible.

4. It's RED!

If that card choice doesn't strike your fancy, click HERE to see all of Shutterfly's other card options that come in just about every color scheme and theme imaginable. We've used this site for birthday party invitations, birth announcements, and thank you notes, so there is sure to be something that will fit with whatever you have in mind.

They do more than just cards though! I was up WAY too late last night finishing calendars for Christmas gifts for some relatives (who shall remain nameless as they read this blog and I don't want to ruin the surprise!). Calendars are a super easy gift to make online. You just choose your pictures and then arrange them however you like for each month of the year (or they will arrange them for you, but I like to do my own!). There are tons of different backgrounds to choose from and you can even personalize birthdays, anniversaries, and other important dates. Even better...they save the dates in your account, so when you go back at a different time of year to make another calendar, you don't have to re-enter the information. With a few clicks of the mouse, they will automatically fill in the dates for you! While I like the traditional-size calendars, this desk calendar is quickly becoming a new favorite in my book. Right now, their calendars are "Buy one, get one 50% off", so don't let this deal pass you by if you have a few people left to buy for this Christmas.

So, check out the great holiday collection at Shutterfly, and then come back here and leave a comment with your favorite card or gift idea. I'd love to hear what you come up with!

All Dressed Up

2010-12-11T22:34:00.000-05:00

It isn't often that Nathan and I get dressed up to go out, so we were excited to put on fancy clothes to attend a wedding today. It was for my friend, Jessica, whom I sell Usborne books with. The wedding was so sweet and the reception was a lot of fun. We even ate salad out of martini glasses. On a side note, when we got married 12 years ago, someone gave us a set of martini glasses that we have never used since we don't drink. I can't wait to put salad in them! There was also a fun area at the reception that had dress-up clothes and a disposable camera. We had fun with this, as evidenced below!

UsBuddies: Jana, Me, Sherry (our supervisor...her daughter is the one that got married today), Billie, and Janine

UsBuddies, take 2

Todd (Janine's husband) and Nathan

SNOW!

2010-12-05T22:28:00.001-05:00

We got our first taste of snow and it's not even officially winter yet! It was only a couple of inches, but the kids were so exited to play in it after church today.

Jacob's snow suit makes me laugh! It is the same one that I wore when I was younger and I hated it because it wasn't girly enough for me. I'm glad that my parents hung on to it though because it is perfect for Jacob!

Ellie thinks it is funny to pretend to throw a snowball at me whenever I take her picture!

It's a Very Veggie Christmas!

2010-12-04T22:18:00.002-05:00

Today was Very Veggie Christmas at church. Basically, parents drop their kids off at church and can enjoy several hours of kid-free shopping or whatever they want. While the kids are at church, they watch a Veggie Tales movie, play games, sing songs, make a craft, and eat lunch. It's a great community out-reach and our kids have an absolute blast hanging out with their friends. Mom and I help run the registration area and then organize the kids' papers and crafts so they are ready to picked up when parents arrive. There's also lots of down time volunteering in that area, so I get to follow the kids around church to take pictures.

Jacob

Playing games in the auditorium

Run, Run, as Fast as You Can

Ellie gets ready to make a craft

Emmaline throws Bob the Tomato into the tub

Cake on a Stick

2010-11-27T10:06:00.000-05:00

I did a book party for my friend, Jenny, and as I was leaving, she gave me some leftover treats for the kids from her daughter's birthday party. The party was Veggie Tales-themed and the treats could not have been cuter. They were almost too cute to eat, but the kids took care of that pretty quickly!

At the party, I met her friend, LuAnne, who makes these amazing creations. You should really check out Lulee's Lollies and see what she has to offer. She does weddings, birthdays, baby showers, corporate parties, and can design pretty much anything you want.

Jacob with Larry the Cucumber

Emmaline enjoys a Pea

Ellie and Bob the Tomato

Happy Turkey Day!

2010-11-25T21:54:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving! We have so much to be thankful for...today, it is family and food! I'm thankful that we live close enough to celebrate with our families (both sets of parents live within a couple of miles of our home). I'm thankful for the food God provides for us to enjoy on this day (and for a husband that works hard to earn the money to purchase said food). I'm thankful for a warm home to celebrate this day. I'm also thankful for a mom who loves to cook for her family!

Sai and Katie

The Dinner Table

The Kids' Table

Emmaline snuggled in for a post-meal nap with Mimi

Sai turns 30!

2010-11-24T21:44:00.000-05:00

Today, Katie's boyfriend, Sai, turned 30! He lives in North Carolina, but flew up to spend Thanksgiving with her. After she picked him up at the airport, she brought him back to Mom and Dad's house for a surprise party. He went to college in Massachusetts, so he is a big Boston Celtics fan. Katie ran with that theme which was evidenced in the mints, cake, posters, and balloons. We had a fun time celebrating a really great guy!

Emmaline gives Sai a birthday hug

He had never played "Pin the Tail on the Donkey" before (apparently, it's not popular in India...who knew?!), so guess what we did for a party game?!

I'm back!

2010-11-21T16:12:00.003-05:00

It has been forever since I've updated the blog. The break was nice, but I'm glad to be back because I've missed sharing what our family has been up to. So, hang on to your hats as I write about happenings this fall and then try to catch up from the rest of the year. If you're on my e-mail list, you'll be receiving posts in a crazy order, but hopefully, it will be worth your while. It's good to be back!

Literacy for a Lifetime

2010-11-21T09:10:00.000-05:00

I completed my first Literacy for a Lifetime program this month! Basically, LFL is a 50% grant-matching program offered by Usborne Books & More. A company or group of people donates any amount of money (minimum of $200) and then Usborne will give that amount plus 50% more in books to the organization of their choice. The organization can also choose up to 50% more in books from our Spanish-match list to make the most of the donation.

I really fell in love with what the program can provide when I went to Usborne's national convention in Tulsa, OK in July. I mentioned a little about it on Facebook and was contacted almost immediately by someone from church. Her company supports a charter school here in Dayton, and she wanted to have a fundraising luncheon to earn money to get books for the school. At the fundraiser, they raised $600! Because the school opted to take advantage of the Spanish-match titles in addition to the regular donation, they received $1200 worth of brand-new books for their school. The boxes pictured above hold those precious books and the principal was absolutely thrilled when I dropped them off this week.

If your company likes to support your local community, or if you and a group of friends would like to make a donation to a preschool, daycare, or other organization, please contact me via my website.

Another Tournament

2010-11-20T21:25:00.002-05:00

Jacob and Nathan competed in another martial arts tournament. Jacob did sport karate and Nathan did a weapon and non-weapon form. They both did really well and I was so proud of them!

Jacob didn't win anything, but we can see lots of improvement in his skill. His biggest battle is with boredom. He is so excited and pumped up when we first get there, but after all the waiting, he is so bored and tired. I'm guessing this will change as he gets older and matures, but I know he would do so much better if he could compete as soon as he got in there.

Nathan doing his weapons form

2nd and 3rd place medals

They had extra medals, so the tournament director gave Jacob one. We told him it was for having a good attitude. He always has a smile on his face and doesn't get discouraged if he loses.

Potato Soup Recipe

2010-11-20T16:56:00.000-05:00

My mom came up with this yummy recipe for potato soup. Several people have asked the it, so I'm sharing it now. If you want to make this a vegetarian dish (which I often do), leave out the bacon pieces and saute the veggies in a little olive oil and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. This is great on a cold, snowy day with apple slices and bread. Enjoy!

6 slices of bacon, cut in 1/2" pieces

1 med. onion, finely chopped

3/4 c. celery, finely chopped

1/2 c. grated carrot

2-10 1/2 oz. cans chicken broth

2 c. water

5 large potatoes, diced

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. white pepper

1/2 tsp. dill weed

1/2 c. flour

3 c. milk

1 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese

Fry bacon pieces until crisp. Remove, drain on paper towel.

Add onion, celery, and carrot, saute in bacon drippings until tender.

Add broth, water, potatoes, salt, pepper, and dill weed.

Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat. Simmer 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Whisk flour into milk and add to soup while stirring.

Cover and continue cooking on simmer for 30 minutes.

Stir occasionally. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Before serving, add 1 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese.

Stir well until cheese melts.

Garnish with reserved bacon pieces.

A Very Important Phone Call

2010-11-19T16:54:00.001-05:00

Operation Christmas Child

2010-11-14T21:29:00.000-05:00

Today we took our shoe boxes to church for Operation Christmas Child. We've been doing this for several years now, but this is the first year that the kids took an active roll in the buying and filling of said boxes. It's hard for our kids to imagine life without Christmas or presents, so this was a good opportunity to explain life in different parts of the world. God has been a part of their life since they were born, but some kids have never heard about Jesus or the importance of his birth. I'm so thankful for little projects like this that help our family focus on the true meaning of Christmas.

Another Andy, Another Birthday

2010-11-13T21:22:00.000-05:00

This time it is my nephew, Andy, and he turned 17 today. He is quite the soccer star, so of course the party was soccer-themed. We ate the best grilled pork chops and cheesy potatoes before the cake and presents. Andy has to be one of the most appreciative kids that I know. He was so polite, thanking each person after he opened their gift to him and then giving them a big hug. As an added bonus, my sister from California, Angel, was in town, so we got to visit with her during the party.

2 Thumbs-up for his soccer cupcakes

As you can tell by this sweet face, they were good!

Andy turns 25!

2010-11-12T21:11:00.001-05:00

November is a busy month for birthdays in our family. Tonight we celebrated my little brother, Andy, who turned 25. We dined on Joe's Pizza and then ate his traditional birthday cheesecake made by Mom.

My sister, Dee, brought a fun game that we tried out tonight called "Find It". It is supposed to be for my nephew, Colton, but the adults monopolized the game trying to find all the hidden objects. Whoever invented this is a genius because it is fun, self-contained, and will occupy kids for a long time as they try to finish the list. I will definitely be looking for these for Jacob and Ellie for Christmas this year.

Ah, the long-awaited season 4 of Psych, the funniest show on tv

The Birthday Boy and his cheesecake

The kids didn't want cheesecake (crazy, I know!), so they opted for ice cream sundaes instead.

Emmaline loved hers!

Magic Castle - Jacob's 8th Birthday

2010-11-07T21:05:00.000-05:00

This was supposed to be a family outing, but I ended up getting sick with an awful sore throat after Jacob's party last night. Emmaline stayed home with me, but Nathan took Jacob and Ellie to Magic Castle this afternoon to enjoy his official birthday day. They had a good time together and brought home Fazoli's for dinner...Momma always feels better when she doesn't have to cook!

Ellie shows off her age

Enjoying a birthday icee

Jacob's 8th Birthday Party...

2010-11-06T21:33:00.001-04:00

My Jakey-boy turns 8 tomorrow! Not sure where the time went, because it seems like just yesterday (or at least a couple of weeks ago!) that we brought him home from the hospital. He is all boy and chose "camouflage" as his party theme. He had a party with friends this afternoon and then a family party at dinner time.

Playing "Pin the Tank"

Gabriel, Chuckie, and Jacob

Noah and Collin

Mackenzie, Ellie, and Mikayla

Jacob planned the menu: Subway sandwiches, veggies, egg rolls, deviled eggs, meatballs, hummus w/ pita chips, and grapes. He did a good job covering all the food groups.

Jacob loves his new books.

These are both books that I sell with Usborne. Have I mentioned how great our books are?!

Aunt Katie and Mr. Sai

Me and the Birthday Boy

Jenny's Baby Shower

2010-11-03T21:50:00.002-04:00

Tonight we celebrated my friend, Jenny, and the upcoming arrival of her third baby (and first boy!), Connor Abraham. I reserved the meeting room at a local Panera and lots of friends from church came. We enjoyed yummy soup, salad, and sandwiches, and then ate Mom's apple cider cake while Jenny opened presents. I can't wait to meet the little guy in a few short weeks!Apple Cider Cake with real whipped cream

I love little boy clothes!

Almost makes me want to have another one...not quite, but almost!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T22:22:00.003-04:00

Tonight was Halloween, so we did the traditional soup dinner before the kids headed out for Trick-or-Treat. Both sets of our parents and Nathan's grandma joined us for the occasion. The kids wore the same costumes that they did to AWANA, but the girls decided to trade dresses. For Ellie, the highlight was getting her princess make-up done by Aunt Katie.

Jacob

Ellie, all made-up

Emmy Kate

Family Photo

Katie sorted the candy for us

Outflow

2010-10-31T16:33:00.002-04:00

Recently, our church has been studying the book, Outflow: Outward-Focused Living in a Self-Focused World. Basically, it compares life to a fountain. When you are filled with the Holy Spirit, you can't help but have God flow into other areas of your life, namely, your family, your community, and then the world.

This Sunday, instead of regular church, we did a service project with Lifeline Christian Mission. The project consisted of filling food bags that would then be shipped to Haiti. It amazed me that one bag consisted of 6 meals and during both church services today, we were able to fill thousands of bags. Today was such a small gesture on our part, but I'm praying that it will go a long way in showing God's love to the people of Haiti.Ellie added the chicken stock powderKaiya added the vegetables

Jacob added the soy and then the bag was topped off with rice

Pumpkin Carving

2010-10-28T23:10:00.000-04:00

Today was pumpkin-carving day. This is one of my least favorite parts of fall...I hate the sticky, gooey pumpkin guts that stick to your arms and make you itch. However, since I love my children, I suck it up for their sake. Jacob and Ellie had fun drawing out their designs before we started the actual carving. Thankfully, they didn't want anything elaborate!

Ellie draws her pumpkin design

Jacob scoops out the pumpkin guts

Ellie with her princess pumpkin complete with heart eyes, nose and lips

Emmaline imitates her pumpkin

Jacob and Daddy came up with this cool design

Dermabond = Not for finger wounds...

2010-10-27T23:03:00.000-04:00

Poor Jacob! We took the bandages and splint off last night, per the ER doctor's instructions and did not like what we saw. The Dermabond did not hold on one side and his finger was red, puffy, and swollen. This morning we took him to the pediatrician to get her opinion and she was not happy. Apparently, you aren't supposed to use Dermabond on things that move (i.e., FINGERS!), and it is too late to stitch the wound closed now. Jacob was starting to get an infection due to the open wound, so he is now on antibiotics. We also have to keep his finger wrapped and splinted for at least another week, in hopes that the steri-strips will help the wound close. We put a complaint into the hospital for the improper treatment Jacob received in the ER and someone called us back within an hour. Who knows what will happen, but I feel sorry for Jacob who can't participate in martial arts and other activites because of his injury.

AWANA Trunk-or-Treat

2010-10-27T22:39:00.000-04:00

Tonight the kids had Trunk-or-Treat at AWANA. Conveniently, their costumes all went together this year. Jacob was a templar knight and Ellie and Emmaline were princesses.

Princess Emmaline

Knight Jacob

Princess GabrielleIt didn't take Emmaline long to get the hang of things

Parting Shots...

2010-10-24T20:38:00.000-04:00

We always try to take a few family shots in the beautiful fall foliage. Jacob's finger injury cut this sitting short, but we still got a few pictures worth sharing.Sai and Katie

I love the fall colors behind Ellie

Jacob in a tree

Cowan Lake 2010 - the Playground

2010-10-24T17:44:00.002-04:00

Today starts the beginning of our annual fall trip to Cowan Lake. This year we have two cabins, so we can spread out more and not have everyone and everything crammed into one small space. Each day I'll be posting pics. from favorite things while we do or see while we are there. Today we celebrate the playground and the joy the kids find while playing there.Ellie can swing so high now that it makes me nervous

That's one way to go down the slide

The girls tried holding hands while they went down

Ellie has turned into quite the poser for pictures

ER Visit

2010-10-23T20:30:00.000-04:00

Jacob is fairly careful with his knives and we haven't had to deal with any injuries to this point. Today, however, was a different story. While we were out walking, he was wittling a stick and didn't pay attention to what he was doing. Instead of cutting the stick, he sliced his left index finger leaving a 1" wound. He and Nathan spent 5 hours in the ER in Wilmington this evening waiting to have his finger treated. We've been through the stitches routine twice before with him, so we prepared he for what would inevitably be coming. For some reason though, the doctor decided to use Dermabond (glue for your skin) instead of stitching. We'll see how this holds up. In addition to the Dermabond, he has to keep his finger splinted and wrapped until we go see the pediatrician next week. Thankfully, it wasn't as bad as it could have been and he was still able to enjoy an ice cream sundae when he got back to the cabin.

Walk-About

2010-10-23T19:22:00.000-04:00

The weather was absolutely beautiful while we were at the cabin. It was a bit chilly in the mornings, but then it would warm up enough that you wouldn't need a coat in the afternoon. We had fun walking to the lake, watching the blue heron and turkey vultures fly about, and looking at all of the fall colors that abounded in the trees.

On the beach with my hubby

Sai and Katie in the woods

Papaw and Emmaline

Emmy loved playing in the sand

Sai and Jacob skipping rocks

In a Cabin in the Woods

2010-10-22T18:36:00.001-04:00

We've been renting a cabin at Cowan Lake for as long as I can remember. This is the first year we had two cabins and it worked out well. Our cabin became known as the party cabin and we spent the evenings (after the kids were in bed) "discussing", playing games, and having a great time.

Playing dominos with Daddy

Snuggles with Emmy

Sai learned to play "Peanut"...a must in our family!

The girls in matching Buzz Lightyear jammies...both pairs belonged to Jacob at one time or another

Have you ever seen "The Office" episode where Michael and Jan host a dinner party and he brags about how he installed his flat-screen tv by himself? This tiny tv (quite a down-size from the one that was there last year and the only one in the cabin!) reminded me of his!

For the love of S'mores

2010-10-21T17:58:00.004-04:00

It's not a trip to the cabin if you don't make s'mores. We've experimented making s'mores in various ways. My favorite is pictured above: a perfectly-toasted pair of marshmallows sandwiched between two fudge-stripe cookies. Who wouldn't love this chocolate-covered smile?!Katie worked the assembly line

Jacob used his knife to help cut sticks for the fire
Sai, Katie's boyfriend, roasts marshmallows for his first-ever s'more experience
Mom likes her flame-kissedEllie sports a marshmallow moustache

Happy Sweetest Day!

2010-10-16T17:29:00.001-04:00

What better way to celebrate Sweetest Day than with books?! Of course our kids get Usborne Books, the best children's books around. Check them out on my website. We always have great hostess specials, so if you'd like to get some friends together and earn books for FREE, let me know. I'd love to do a party for you!

Zoo Trip

2010-10-15T21:18:00.000-04:00

It was a beautiful fall day, so we took the kids to the zoo. Due to heavy traffic on the way to Cincinnati, we only got to spend a couple of hours there. But that is the beauty of having a pass...we spend as much or as little time as we want during each visit and don't feel like we are out anything. After the zoo, we met my sister, Katie, for dinner at Dewey's pizza. It's tradition that we meet her at Dewey's any time we come to Cincinnati and I'm going to miss that when she moves to Charlotte, NC in January. Dinner was followed up by dropping Jacob and Ellie at Aunt Katie's house for a sleepover. They love spending the night with her and I love having some alone time with Emmaline that doesn't consist of doctor or therapy visits.Standing with flamingoes

The Mexican Wolves are usually sleeping when we visit, but today, they were running and playing together. It was neat to watch how similar they are to our dog at home.

Sea Lions soaking up the fall sunshine

Catch me if you can!

Flour and Fruit

2010-10-12T16:49:00.000-04:00

Every fall, we head to Cowan Lake to spend time with family. One of our staple breakfasts is Buckwheat Pancakes made using my Grandpa Jacob's recipe on a 100-yr.+ iron griddle. After several failed attempts at getting buckwheat flour from Clifton Mill, Mom decided we should take a road trip to Bear Creek Mill. It was a beautiful fall drive as we headed into the country. We took a tour of the mill, got the flour for our upcoming trip, and then headed to Brumbaugh Farm. Nothing says fall like apples, so we bought a bushel of Cortland apples to make applesauce, some cider to drink, and some apple fritters for a snack before we headed home. It was a fun and yummy fall day!Grinding flour with a mortar and pestle

Ellie loved this cast-iron mouse

Emmaline in the woods

Last Garden Harvest

2010-10-11T16:45:00.000-04:00

We harvested our garden for the last time today. Square-foot gardening has been a fun learning experience for the whole family. The tomatoes were a huge success (literally!). I'm already trying to figure out what we should plant next year. Definitely more green beans...so yummy straight from the garden! What would you suggest we try?

Happy Birthday, Sophia!

2010-10-10T16:35:00.000-04:00

Ellie's friend (and daughter of my UBAM buddy, Janine), Sophia, celebrated her fifth birthday today. It was Care Bear themed from the face painting (safer than tummy painting!) to the cupcake craft and cake. They even played musical clouds!Ellie made a cupcake magnet

The birthday girl makes a wish

Musical clouds

Playing Littlest Pet Shop with Wesley

Mr. Toad

2010-10-09T16:23:00.001-04:00

Nathan and Jacob found a toad at the school where they practice martial arts. Of course, they had to bring him home for the girls to see. The kids had fun watching him hop through our yard and then we let him go in the back flower bed.

A Shooting We Will Go...

2010-10-07T16:15:00.001-04:00

Today Jacob went with his daddy and Papaw Kevin to the shooting range. It was his first visit and he was so excited. With Nathan's profession, it is a necessity that our kids know gun safety, so I was glad that they had this fun opportunity.Hanging his target

Jacob and Papaw line up their shots

He had so much fun!

Usborne Regionals

2010-02-06T23:31:00.000-05:00

Janine and I made a very harried trip to Kentucky today to attend our first Usborne Regional Convention. It wouldn't have been a bad drive except that we got 6 inches of snow last night. We could not be deterred though, so we left extra early and took our time. It was a little scary when a lady spun out on the highway right in front of us, but amazingly, she slid around and behind our car, so we continued on our merry way without incident.

The hotel where convention was being held was like stepping back in time. It's called "The Drawbridge Inn" and was decorated with armor, weapons, and other things from the Renaissance time period. The convention was really great. We got to meet some new people, and learned a few things to help us grow our businesses. After convention, we went to dinner at Montgomery Inn with our supervisor, Sherry, and her daughter, Jessica. My sister, Katie, who lives in Cincy and my brother Andy, and his fiance, drove across the river to eat with us too.

To help deter grafitti in the bathrooms at the hotel where convention was held, they had chalkboards hung on the wall of each stall. Janine left me a note in the bottom corner.

Here Fishy, Fishy!

2010-02-03T23:53:00.001-05:00

We took the kids to the Newport Aquarium today. It is nice to go in February because the kids get in for free with a paying adult. We met our friends, Todd and Janine, there, along with their kiddos, Sophia and Wesley. The kids had a blast exploring and the adults had some good conversation as well. Our visits to Newport are always topped off with pizza from Dewey's. My sister, Katie, met us, since she works just across the river in Cincinnati. My brother, Andy, is stationed at a base in Blue Ash, so he drove down to meet us as well. We had to send Nathan out to the parking lot to meet him because Andy rarely has cash on him and didn't have money to pay for parking. It was a most memorable day!
Jacob touching a shark Nathan feeding the birds Jacob and Wesley swimming with the jellyfish Nathan and Todd show the kids how to play "Frogger" Ellie Jacob Alligator Touching horseshoe crabs and other sea creatures

Watching them make our pizza at Dewey's

Emma's 6th Birthday

2010-01-30T20:54:00.000-05:00

Ellie's friend, Emma, turned 6 this week. She had a Strawberry Shortcake birthday party that was lots of fun for all the little girls that came. They played "Pin the Tail on Pupcake", ate some yummy cake, and watched Emma open lots of presents.

Ellie

Chatting with Kaiya

Ellie and the birthday girl, Emma

AWANA

2010-01-27T20:41:00.003-05:00

Jacob really loves going to AWANA each Wednesday. This month had several activites. First, Nathan and I joined him for Parents' Night. It was nice to see what he does every week. We also played the same games that he does. It was pretty funny to see all of us 30-something parents on our hands and knees doing the "Sparky Crawl".

Jacob also participated in crazy shoe night. Daddy helped him with his shoes made of bubble wrap and cardboard. Of, course, they couldn't stop at just making a pair of boots, so they also made a vest and hat, complete with bubble wrap serpent. Needless to say, Jacob was voted as having the best outfit in his group.

Being a flagbearer

Jacob was so excited to be picked as a flag bearer when we were there for parents' night.

Jacob's Crazy Costume

Chore Charts

2010-01-24T11:43:00.000-05:00

I should probably have started this a long time ago, but better late than never! Chore charts now grace the side of our china cabinet. Each child has their own list of things to accomplish every day. I also made one (out of cardstock, contact paper, and velcro dots) that has weekly rotating jobs.

Air Force Museum

2010-01-21T23:30:00.001-05:00

There's no better way to spend a dreary winter day than at the National Museum of the USAF. We had a great time there looking at the different planes and the best part...it's FREE!

Jacob

Ellie

EmmalinePilot and Co-pilot

This is what I get when I ask them to smile!

Where's Emmaline?

2010-01-16T23:48:00.000-05:00

Last PACE Visit

2010-01-12T22:23:00.001-05:00

Since Emmaline was a couple of months old, she has been involved with PACE, a program offered by our county to kids with developmental delays. We were blessed to have two wonderful instructors and many therapists. Macey worked with us for 10 months and then we have been with Joyce for over two years. Today was her last official visit with Emmaline. Once she turns 3 (next month!), she will be phased into the preschool program of our public school system. It's kind of sad saying goodbye to someone who has worked with your child for a consistent period of time, but it is also a good thing because it means that Emmaline is making progress and is ready for the next set of milestones. Preschool here we come!

Playing with foam

Practicing taking turns

Can you believe I will be 3 next month?! Mommy is in denial!

See you later!

2010-01-10T10:04:00.002-05:00

Granddaddy passed away this morning. I no longer have any of my grandparents living, but he always treated me like his own grandchild though we weren't related by blood. Granddaddy was very influential in the lives of my husband and myself...we even gave Jacob the middle name of Clarence to honor him. He was a very godly man who will be greatly missed. It's comforting to know that this isn't "goodbye", just "see you later".

S-N-O-W!

2010-01-08T09:49:00.001-05:00

The past two days, we have gotten a lot of snow. It has been exciting for the kids to get some days off school (yes, even though we homeschool, we do observe snowdays!), and I love hearing their laughter as they sled down our driveway.

Jacob helped shovel the driveway

Mommy and her oldest two kiddos

Look, ma! No hands!

Tubing with Mimi

I love how Jacob is trying to catch snowflakes on his tongue while sledding

New Year's Eve

2010-01-01T09:32:00.002-05:00

To ring in the new year, we celebrated with my sister by watching movies and eating lots of yummy food. After the kids went to bed, Katie and I took turns falling asleep on the couch until it was time to watch the ball drop in Time Square. When did midnight get to be so late?!

The kids wore their "I love NY" shirts to mark the occasion

Yummy english muffin pizzas and homemade salsa (compliments of my new food processor)

Peppermint Ice Cream Sundaes

Happy New Year

More Presents

2009-12-29T23:31:00.002-05:00

Tonight we got together to open presents from my sister, Dee, and her family. The kids got games, so we spent time playing those. Katie just got back from New York City, so she had little treats for everyone to open as well.

Emmaline models my new scarf from Katie

Dad shows off his mad scarf-tying skills

Jacob worked a puzzle with Mimi

Playing "Candy Land"

Transformers Jenga, anyone?

17 years and counting!

2009-12-27T23:17:00.001-05:00

We met our friends from high school for Christmas dinner tonight at Brio. Afterward, we braved a snow storm and drove to Mark's parent's house for dessert. Nathan's parents kept the kids overnight for us, so it was nice to visit and not worry about getting home.

This is our 17th year to get together, which is nice since we don't usually see each other during the year. Pictured above are: Chris and Becky McCaskey, Me and Nathan, Melissa and Aaron Harlow, and Bethany and Mark Scheffler. I've known Becky and Nathan since kindergarten, Melissa since 5th grade, and Mark since 4th grade. I love that I'm still friends with people that I grew up with. Life has taken us in different directions, but we always pick up where we left off when we do meet up. This next year should be our 15-yr. high school reunion, so maybe I'll get to see them twice next year!

What a Way to End Christmas!

2009-12-25T23:12:00.001-05:00

Jacob lost another tooth just before bedtime tonight. I've lost count on what number this one is. As if he didn't open enough presents today, I guess he's planning on getting a gift from the tooth fairy tonight too!

Christmas with the Stovers

2009-12-25T22:56:00.000-05:00

We spent the remainder of Christmas Day celebrating with my family. For dinner, we ate ham, cheesy potatoes, crescent rolls, veggies, and lots of dessert. Then, we opened presents. The kids were hilarious as they opened clothes, books, games, puzzles, and lots of art supplies. The older two even got excited about spending the giftcards they got. We also celebrated my dad's birthday.

Who can resist this beautiful face?!

One of several drawing books Jacob got

Ellie got another "Fancy Nancy" to add to her collection

Emmaline got a cool drawing pad that makes music and increases tempo while she draws

Katie and I break in her "Office Clue" game. It is very funny, though it would have been more challenging with more people!

Christmas Morning

2009-12-25T12:38:00.002-05:00

We spent a relaxing morning celebrating Christmas at home. The kids opened presents and then we ate a yummy breakfast of monkey bread and fresh pineapple.

Jacob got a double-barrel nerf shotgun

These santa lanterns from Dollar Tree were a big hit with all 3 kiddos

Emmaline tries out her new McDonald play food

Yummy Monkey Bread

Presents from Auntie Angel and Family

2009-12-24T22:26:00.004-05:00

The kids love Christmas Eve because they get to open presents from Auntie Angel (my oldest sister) and her family who live in California. She never fails to disappoint with her gift choices.

Emmaline got a double stroller, high chair, and playpen for her dolls

Ellie got the Polly Pocket Roller Coaster Resort

And a car so that her dolls can drive to the resort

Jacob got the Ben10 Alien Creation Chamber

And a Ben10 r/c car

Ellie surprised me with a picture she made me for Christmas. She had been hiding it in her school desk so I wouldn't find it. It melted my heart that she made it for me without prompting from anyone else.

Christmas Eve with the Curley Clan

2009-12-24T22:17:00.002-05:00

We always celebrate Christmas Eve with Nathan's extended family. There are lots to yummy things to eat, silly gifts to open, and lots of laughs shared.

Ellie got several of these sets

Emmaline can't wait for Daddy to get it out of the box

She loves her new ponies

Jacob got some Transformers

And a Ben10Bionicle...he loves Ben10 and we'd never seen it before!

Christmas with the Curleys

2009-12-23T21:59:00.003-05:00

This week will be known as "The Week of Christmases". We celebrated Christmas with Nathan's family today. Our gift to his parents and grandparents was a photo album of all the festivities surrounding Granddaddy's 90th birthday this past July. Granddaddy hasn't been feeling well the past month or so, so he was very appreciative of the book.

Every year at Christmas, I have a meltdown at some point because I get overwhelmed with trying to find places for all the kids' new toys. I've promised that I won't do that this year, so today is the first test of that.

Emmaline got a tent and sleeping bag

Jacob loves his new secret agent LegosEllie's favorite gift was a Furreal kitty that moves and meows

The cookie tray I took to share

3 Wise Men & a Baby

2009-12-13T21:35:00.000-05:00

Tonight was the Kids' Christmas Program at church. Ellie and Emmaline sang with the "Heartshaper Capers" Choir before the program started. Emmaline stole the show dancing to all the songs while she was onstage. I have come to realize that it is impossible to get good pictures during programs at church. Someone is always going to be in the way and people will move your stuff even if you save seats. That being said, the program was cute and the kids really enjoyed themselves.

Catch her if you can...Emmaline would not slow down to pose for a picture!

Jacob

Gabrielle

Singing with her friends

Jacob has unfortunately inherited my coordination, but he did his best on all the motions

Emmy watches the program from Papaw's lap

Apparently, Jacob should have taken a nap before the program.
He yawned throughout the whole thing!

At the end of the program, Mrs. Cathy gave each child a Christmas card to dismiss them from the stage. Jacob waited patiently and was the last name called.

Enjoying cookies at the reception

Ellie looks ready to fall asleep after the long day

Grandma's Christmas Party at Work

2009-12-05T21:27:00.002-05:00

Today, Nathan's parents took the kids to a Christmas party where his mom works. It's a yearly tradition and they always have a good time. They visit with Santa, decorate cookies, listen to music, and make crafts. The afternoon is topped off with lunch out somewhere...this year it was at Burger King. I was volunteering at a church activity, so I met them for lunch afterward and they had lots of stories to tell.

Making crafts

Ellie refused to sit with Santa, so she hid behind Papaw instead

Jacob and Emmaline with Santa

Sleepover with Grandma and Papaw

2009-11-26T21:15:00.000-05:00

I'm headed to a craft show tomorrow with my mom and sister (a yearly tradition) and Nathan will be sleeping since he has to work tomorrow night, so his parents offered to keep the kids for us overnight.

Jacob played with remote-controlled cars and various robots

The girls discovered a fun game of running and jumping on their pillows.
Emmaline can't quite jump yet, so she would just run and fall.

Ellie catches some air

3 Kids + 1 Air Mattress = Good Times

Thanksgiving with the Stovers

2009-11-26T21:02:00.000-05:00

We enjoyed a late lunch with my family today to celebrate Thanksgiving. It included the usual fare of turkey, dressing, Blarney stone salad, green beans, mashed potatoes, rolls, and of course, pumpkin and pecan pie.

Andy, Dad, Katie, Nathan, and Mom, the preparer of the yummy feast

My younger sister and brother

Jacob obviously inherited his love of monopoly from his Daddy and is becoming quite good at it. He beat Nathan today and they weren't even playing the Junior version!

Heading for Home

2009-11-22T17:38:00.001-05:00

After the vans were packed, we took a few last pics. on the picnic table outside. It was only after we got home that we realized the picnic table was on a hill. Oops!

Aunt Katie and the kids

Mimi, Papaw, and the kids

They love each other...really!

Last Morning Walk

2009-11-22T17:33:00.002-05:00

Before we packed up to head home, the kids took one final morning walk with my parents.

By the Lake

2009-11-21T17:25:00.000-05:00

Fall Pics. by the Amphitheater

2009-11-21T17:06:00.001-05:00

Near the lake is an old stone amphitheater where they used to show movies and have bonfires. We decided to used it as the backdrop for some family pictures.

Emmy in a tree

Jacob

Gabrielle

The Big Kids

Mom and her 3

Nathan and Me

Katie and Jacob

Hiking

2009-11-20T16:57:00.002-05:00

We were able to go hiking several times while at the lake. Jacob took full advantage of his new rubber boots (Pam, are those "Wellies" in England?) and hiked in the lake too! We saw lots of animals tracks, a few different bugs, and lots of fallen leaves.

Andy and Alora

On the bridge

Let's play a game of "Where's my husband?"
There's no way you could talk me into doing that!

Peek-a-Boo!

At the Playground

2009-11-19T16:49:00.002-05:00

Although it was a little chilly, we were still able to play outside on the playgrounds several times

S'mores

2009-11-19T16:36:00.002-05:00

We made s'mores several times while we were at the cabin. The wood was a little wet, so it took some coaxing to get a fire started (as observed in the picture above!). The kids loved roasting their own marshmallows and then assembling it into a stack of yummy goodness. Our new favorite is using Keebler Fudgestripe Cookies instead of the graham crackers and chocolate...trust me, if you liked the original s'mores, you'll love this new update!

I love this picture of Mom and Emmaline waiting for the fire to get started

Finally time to roast!

Yummy!

What happens to kids after several s'mores!

Cowan Lake - End of Day 1

2009-11-18T21:29:00.002-05:00

Even though it was wet and chilly, we went for a walk in the dark. Since most people are at work/school during the week, the park is almost deserted. It's nice having the place to ourselves.You can't take a walk without bringing proper hydration

And don't forget to bring your flashlight!

Cowan Lake - Mom's Birthday

2009-11-18T21:10:00.000-05:00

Mom's birthday was on the 16th, so we celebrated when everyone was together at the cabin at Cowan Lake. Katie brought a yummy red velvet cake and there were balloons everywhere. Mom had a good time opening her presents and laughing at the kids draped in streamers.

If you don't have party hats, try streamers.
You might resemble Marley from "A Christmas Carol", but at least you'll be festive!

Jacob wanted to look like an Indian

Ellie helped blow up the balloonsEmmaline loved playing with them

Andy Turns 16!

2009-11-15T20:28:00.002-05:00

My nephew, Andy, turned 16 this week and we celebrated today. His birthday is easy to remember because he was born the night Nathan and I had our first date in high school.

My sister, Dee, and Andy

The Kids' Table

Enjoying cake and ice cream