Haki zote zimehifadhiwa

Moving day...

2009-03-16T23:20:00.004+03:00

Although this blog has served us well...it is time to move to our new place...

visit us at : Our New Place

p.s. there won't be posts for a couple of days because blogger thinks I am a computer trying to start a new blog...so until we are approved, enjoy the posts I did get to transfer from my recipe blog "send me good food".

Birthday Celebrations...

2009-03-03T00:50:00.005+03:00

The birthday partying started the Saturday before my birthday when we met Grandma and Grandpa as well as Julie and Stan for dinner at Red Lobster. (Julie's birthday was that day) It was a good time with family...and great food!

On my birthday Doug took me out to dinner at a mexican restaurant in town...if I could remember the name I would tell you. It was sooo good, we were stuffed! Then they brought a birthday dessert...it was yummy too!

Me and Doug at my birthday dinner...

The day after my birthday, I had to go to Portland for my three month eye check up, so we made an afternoon of it and went out for dinner AGAIN! We ate at fundruckers and got a yummy lemon merange pie... After dinner we went shopping at Washington Square mall and enjoyed walking the mall together...(the camera batery died at fudruckers so we didn't get that many pictures)

Doug gave me a gift certificate to get my nails done...they were running a special for a 'spa' pedicure that day...so I went for it. I have always been a bit nervous about pedicures but now I am definately a fan...here is the work of art...

New dog and new house...

2009-02-28T03:24:00.003+03:00

So here are a couple of pictures to begin the vast updating that I need to do. Here is our new puppy, Dallas. He is a Husky/Malamute and should grow to be about 75-80 pounds. He has already learned how to 'shake' for me and is doing a pretty good job about going to the potty outside....most of the time.

He LOVES the snow...

Here is a picture of part of our driveway. I walk here everyday with the dogs...I thought it was especially pretty with the snow.

Many of you saw a picture of our house covered in snow...well, all the snow melted last week so I got a 'spring' picture. Now we have another layer of snow...but just so you all can get a better idea of what we are living in all thawed out.

Our front door and porch...waiting for visitors!!!

More pictures to come of my birthday celebrations and our house 'updating' that has been going on!

Happy Birthday to me...

2009-02-24T00:58:00.002+03:00

SO, I just finished posting my birthday blog and blogger deleted it. SOOOO...to sum up. Pictures will be on their way soon as we will be back online SOON!
We are excited to share picts of our new house...and the changes we have made on our living room walls.
Also, our new puppy, Dallas, is really excited to be posted on ciberspace as well!
More to come soon!

my stagnant blog

2009-01-24T01:19:00.002+03:00

I am sorry about the lack of bloggage happening here. We don't have internet at home and don't plan to get it back until after we move...so, no promises about getting back into the swing of thing soon!
We got back from Canada and have been going going going since we got home! Doug has been busy at work...thanks to the many homes that have flood damage from the recent downpour that wouldn't stop. I have been busy packing the house in hopes that our ever impending move will happen sooner than it probably will.
We did take a break the other night and went out to one of our favorite places, Freddy's Just for the Halibut...SOOOO good! We don't get out much anymore so it was a special treat and a great way to celebrate out 8th monthiversary!
Well, my updates seem boring without pictures but alas, I have no control over this unfortunate circumstance! I hope all you internets are doing well and updating better than I am!

Oh Canada...

2009-01-04T00:23:00.014+03:00

Happy New Year from British Columbia!!!

The last few days have been packed with fun...and good food! Starting Wednesday night, after Doug got off work we drove north and got to Canada in time to ring in the new year!

Once the new year celebrating settled down, we had Christmas! We got lots of fun gifts:
Doug's fun new jacket...

I got my Christmas pajamas..

For the first day of 2009 we enjoyed a wonderful meal at Taste of Punjab'...

On Friday, we got up and set to the town. We took the Sky Train:

And the Sea Bus:

We saw the sites and enjoyed a great meal at the Spaghetti Factory:

This clock is powered by steam...

back to the library...

2008-12-30T23:24:00.002+03:00

So...soon we will be moving...although we have been saying that for a while now. Really, we are going to move...soon. In the process we have disconnected our home phone and our Internet...so I get to go to the lovely Longview library to meet all my internety needs. All that to say...you won't be seeing many posts on here for a while...like maybe a month, or so. Most definitely not any posts with pictures...because they frown on me sticking foreign electronics into there precious computers. Understandable.
Side note: It is kind of a pain to use the computers here, you have to sign up ahead of time and can only use them for a hour each day...this is fine for me but I am glad I am not trying to write a paper or something really important!!!
On a more newsy note, we are going to Canada tomorrow. We are really going this time...because it is just supposed to rain for the rest of this week(and next week, and probably the next)...not snow. I am packing in anticipation.
Well, I think I have had just about as much as I can stand in terms of the Longview public...and the Longview Public Library.
So, see you on the next post!

Happy New Year!!

Christmas fun!!!

2008-12-25T20:38:00.002+03:00

Merry Christmas...

2008-12-24T23:11:00.006+03:00

Pretty much any plans we made for Christmas this year have been changed because of the snow...we have enjoyed it though!

Merry Christmas to everyone...we wish we could see you all to celebrate together!

More snow fun...

2008-12-21T06:15:00.009+03:00

We like to take pictures of our feet...you know in the sand at the beach, in the water at the creek...and in the snow...

Today we had to get out to run a couple of errands...while we were out we went to the mall and Doug gave me an early Christmas present...new snow/hiking boots!!!

So to break them in...we went for a walk for a couple hours...the lake was so pretty:

Here we are all bundled up:

Doug made a snow angel:

and he played on the playground:

and stuck his tongue on the frozen gate:

Here are a couple pictures of the island all lit up at the lake:

Our new house...

2008-12-20T09:45:00.001+03:00

Soon we will be moving...to this house...we are really excited.

Walkin' in a winter wonderland...

2008-12-18T04:18:00.010+03:00

Doug and I enjoyed the snow today...we went for a couple long walks around our neighborhood...

Here is Doug right outside our house:

Here is one of me:

We walked down the alley with Turbo and Jasmine...they love the snow!
Turbo:

Jasmine:

Us:

We walked down to the lake:

Doug with a nice snowball:

Just one more of us in front of the house...

Little baby Dougie...

2008-12-16T01:55:00.004+03:00

Over Thanksgiving I asked Doug's sister if she had any baby pictures of Doug...so we all had fun looking through pictures of their family from years ago... Here are some of Doug as a little guy:

This one was taken when he was just five months old with his mom:

Here he is at nine months old with his mom:

To be fair...here are a couple of me as a baby:

It's Christmas time...

2008-12-13T03:19:00.011+03:00

'tis the season for lights and colors...here are some of our decorations around our house!!

First of all....our coffee table, which is acting as our tree this year...

Our stockings...

Our outdoor lights on the house... it turned out a bit dark in the picture...guess you all will have to come see it for yourself...:)

Here is a closer picture of the doorway...

So, for this evening, before everything gets going for the holidays...I am watching The Princess Bride...Doug and the cat are...sleeping...

and the dog is participating quite well too...

Cool Dog video...

2008-12-06T23:09:00.002+03:00

I have watched this like four times...so cool! Check it out HERE!

turbo vs the computer

2008-12-03T03:00:00.001+03:00

see this cute cat...

see why i'm mad...

A new tradition...

2008-11-30T06:18:00.007+03:00

Doug and I were talking about finding a "new tradition" to start for us to do each year at Christmas time. While we were perusing the many stores on Black Friday, Doug had a great idea. We like the little Christmas towns with the post offices, restaurants, houses, etc...sooo our new tradition is....

drum roll please...

Each year we will get a new building for 'our town', and each time the building we get will represent something that we did or that happened that year. This year we got married...and although we were not married in a chapel...we got the "Faith Chapel". Here is a picture with more light so you can see the details better...

Also, we got a clock tower to represent the beginning of our time together as a family. It is a little hard to see in the darker pictures, but it is there.
Here are some more views...

Just one more...

Enjoy your traditions of the season!

I need Africa...

2008-11-25T08:47:00.002+03:00

I follow this blog...and this is a great post about visiting Africa and getting 'it' under your skin. For anyone thinking that they may or may not ever want to go on a mission trip overseas...read this post...you might just have to make sure you visit there too.

Ladies and Gentlemen...we'll be back in a few weeks...

2008-11-24T10:06:00.003+03:00

So, about the previous post. Yah, he sure was cute...but turns out, a little clueless. Jasmine has a different boyfriend now...who knows what he is doing (ahem), she will see him again on Tuesday.:)

This week is Thanksgiving...which is wonderful because of the food, and for the fans...the football. Well, at least the American sense of the word. Let me just say to everyone out there...DVR just might be a marriage saver. It took Doug approximately 30-45 minutes to watch a three hour game today...HALLELUJAH!!!
Right, back to Thanksgiving. We get to do it twice, noon is at my aunt and uncle's..and after that we will be headed out of town to Doug's sisters house. This will be our first holiday shared with extended fam...so we are excited, I think.

Tuesday of this week, however starts our ever approaching foster parenting training hours...not sure if I am supposed to put both 'ing's in there but you get it. Our training hours will restart the next week with our Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings and then the next week that same schedule as well as a FULL Saturday session. From there it is doctor visits, records, paperwork, fingerprinting, more classes, paperwork, CPR training, BBP training, paperwork, and then a home inspection..which is going to happen after we move of course. And after we find a fridge and washer and dryer, and redo the kitchen and bedroom floor, and the living room walls...and a few other touch ups...:) We are hoping by February or so...

Wow, this is a wordy post...I'll quit now.

Jasmine got a boyfriend...

2008-11-19T02:08:00.003+03:00

More things that make me happy...

2008-11-15T04:13:00.002+03:00

1. Stuff that's on sale, and then on sale again, and also 50% off
2. honey-combs
3. the litter box in the shed (not in the house)
4. scrap booking supplies
5. tacos (that is not swahili)
6. coupons
7. febreze AIR effects (rocky springs and cool)...I actually smile when I spray it...which evidently was a limited edition scent because it is now nowhere to be found, my 9.7 ounces is kapeesh
8. clean floors
9. my stash of sharpie pens
10. fridge magnets
11. Christmas shopping (pre-season)
12. surprises...when I know about them
13. the knowledge that each and every DMV will eventually pass away
14. mileage checks
15. 20/20 vision...yah, waking up, looking at the clock and seeing more than a red blur...it's GREAT!
16. handwritten letters
17. Hallmark stores
18. Doug

We're moving...

2008-11-13T01:56:00.003+03:00

Because we think it is just so much fun and a great way to organize and reorganize our belongings...we have decided to move. Ya right! Some friends of ours that we go to church with happen to be moving out of their house into one that is more suitable for their family's needs...and have offered us their 'old' house to us. We are VERY excited about it because:
a. it is waaaaay less rent to pay each month
b. it is out of town
c. it is out of town
d. it is bigger than our current house
e. it is nicer than our current house
f. it is waaaaaaay less rent each month
g. it is out of town
h. we really love the house
i. there are trees

did i mention that it is way less rent each month and that it is out of town?
'Cuz it is.

Pictures to come...most likely we will be moving at the end of December...so after Christmas, whoever wants to help load up some stuffage...comeonover!!!

A book, part two

2008-11-10T23:24:00.002+03:00

Above is the link to my first published book..."If it takes my whole life...I'll live again." This is something I have been working on for a few years and just never thought it would really get published. Recently, I decided to put the time into getting the book 'out there' so here it is!
p.s. evidently the spell check on this computer is bugged soooo...there is a misspelling in the book, see if you can find it as fast as I did!

A book...

2008-11-08T08:00:00.002+03:00

Here is a chance for you to support us and independent publishing...click the lulu symbol below. (The top half of the book cover is white...so try to look past the website design flaw)

Life is different there...

2008-11-07T10:14:00.002+03:00

I thought this was a great video...and a great song too...it is funny when I come across videos like these, I miss the good old days. Videos and people that remind me of the many many children like them and pictures taken like these...that I have experienced. I makes me miss always having a baby to hold during church..even if they did pee on me, always having someone touch my hair and giggle, shaking hands with EVERYONE, nyama choma, and all those great things that as a kid...I thought were normal for everyone. But now I just miss. Someone asked me the age old question the other day..."what was it like growing up as a missionary kid oversees?" To this day I am not sure how people expect me to answer that! I told her it was just normal for me, that I love that I had the experiences that I did, that I miss it, and that she should make her kids travel too...that she should definitely travel as well! I wish for everyone that they get to see, touch, taste and absolutely smell...Africa.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSdP6PqsbJY

Give Away...

2008-11-04T01:24:00.003+03:00

So, I entered a free giveaway and part of the participation requirement is to post about it on my blog...so here goes...go here To Walk on Fertile Ground for some more info!!! (and to possibly become the winner!)

In other news, I now have 20/20 vision and improving...will find out just how great my vision is in three weeks at my next check up. I am seeing the world through no glasses/contacts and am loving it. Things are much clearer than they ever have been...lasiks is great! If anyone wants to get there eyes fixed and they live in the Portland or surrounding areas I would definitely recommend LasikPlus They are great and the doctor was awesome...and qualified..that's always a plus! (if you are considering it, let me know so I can be listed as a referral...'cause they will give me money for referring people to them)

Also, a newish ministry has begun at our church that we have had the opportunity to serve in. The name of it is, Come Unto Me Ministries and we are focusing on ministering to orphans and foster kids. Right now we are focusing on kids in our area but we are hoping that soon we can reach out overseas as well. Our project at the moment is a fun one...that YOU might like to be part of! We are collecting personal items (toothbrushes, notebooks, throw blankets, socks, etc) for kids and teens and putting these things together in bags. This is to give to foster kids who are bounced around from home to home...to have something of their own to take with them wherever they go. Many people feel that they do not have time to go and purchase these items so they have provided funds to help us go and get the things that the kids need...if you want to be part of this, drop me a comment and I will get in touch with you!

Well, I think that's just about it!
Pictures to come from our harvest carnival!!!

Who can pray?

2008-10-30T06:02:00.003+03:00

For the last few weeks at church we have been going through a series on prayer each Wednesday night. Last week the pastor touched on a topic, and I had some concerns, but tonight, he expressed a pretty clear opinion that I am not sure what I think about.
Last week, he was speaking on sin in our lives and how we need to confess sin before we pray about anything else. In fact, if we do not confess our sins first, then God will not listen to our other prayers. hmmm... while I believe that confession of sins is important, will God turn a deaf ear if we pray in the wrong order?
Tonight, he was talking about praying without ceasing. He asked the question, "Who can pray?" We all answered, "Everyone". To that he said, "The Bible is clear that God does not hear the prayers of unbelievers but yes, ALL believers should pray." Huh?
So, does God hear the prayers of unbelievers? Is there scripture to back up this idea?

Jackos...

2008-10-26T03:01:00.008+03:00

So, when Dad and Mom visited we all went out the the pumpkin patch and got some great pumpkins!!! I didn't have my camera for that event but believe me, it was super fun. I did however capture the exciting carving party in digital memory...it is a good thing too because last night we got home and two of our pumpkins were gone...sad. BUT we still have the two big huge ones...which we haven't carved yet...

Lightening pictures...

2008-10-24T04:20:00.007+03:00

We had an impressive lightening storm here in Longview a couple of months ago and I am just now getting around to uploading the pictures that Doug took...in the middle of the night...and kept coming in and waking me up to show me...enjoy...

Happy Birthday Bria!!!

2008-10-10T05:12:00.006+03:00

Bria turns six today...

Camping at Yale Lake

2008-10-08T01:52:00.013+03:00

The latest youth group trip we went on was closeby! We had great weather, a fun group of kids and some beautiful views...enjoy...

Mt. St Helens...

Ape Cave Survivors...

You can see the top of the mountain here...also Doug after an insanely long hike through the Ape caves...

Doug jumping off the dock...

Just chillin'...

Mitch and Jasmine...

Doug heading out with the Kayak...

Out on the water...

Random things that make me happy...

2008-10-02T23:23:00.003+03:00

1. Fall...I think it is coming soon(although not as pretty here as it was in TN)
2. Sleeping late.
3. The Office
4. clean sheets
5. coke zero and ice, with a cookie...or two.
6. road trips with my husband
7. James Taylor
8. babies
9. good food, especially when I try a new recipe and it turns out!
10. rainy days when I don't have to go outside
11. taking great pictures
12. Jon and Kate Plus 8
13. Christmas music, loud.
14. coffee with half and half
15. lunch with a friend
16. family

Doug's Birthday fun...

2008-09-23T06:25:00.013+03:00

For Doug's birthday we planned a big weekend. We went up to Puyallup on Friday after work and had fun at the hotel pool. Because we drove up Friday night we were able to relax some Saturday morning before the fair. We got to the fair at about 11:30 Saturday and got to see all the animals and ride some rides...and of course had some yummy fair food. Later that afternoon we had some family and friends join us...so Doug got to ride a scary ride with his brother...This ride goes up 20 stories high...and REALLY fast...then back down...REALLY fast...
Later that evening we went to the concert...first up was Steven Curtis Chapman: He did such a great job, he really shared his heart and all that his family has been going through the last few months...we loved it!!! Next was Michael W. Smith...it was a lot of fun because most of his songs were ones we knew well...

From the beach...

2008-09-18T23:58:00.009+03:00

We took a trip to go camping a few weekends ago...we found some great places to relax and enjoy the ocean! This first picture is what we saw on our hike up to Cape Dissapointment.

Here we are inside a huge tree...

The lighthouse...

Beautiful beach...

Family news...

2008-09-10T23:39:00.001+03:00

Check out Kara's blog for the cutest boys ever announcing our newest family exitement!!!

Firsts...

2008-09-02T04:46:00.002+03:00

There's a first time for everything. Lately I have been struck by how many 'firsts' I have been having. I guess when I watch babies and toddlers start to learn and do new things it is always fun and exciting to watch them take their first step and hear their first words. Not much attention is given to our grown up firsts! Here are some of my firsts from the last few months!

I got married.
I registered for stuff at Target...and got some of it!
I picked out china...ok, dishes.
I bought men's underwear. (not for myself!)
I spent time on an Indian reservation.
I helped build a fence.
I turned down a management position at work.
I got a cat.
I cleaned out a litter box.
I rode a roller coaster that went upside-down...(first and last)
I visited Cape Disapointment.
I cut Doug's hair.

I am sure there are many more...it's fun to point some out though!

faces of the cat

2008-08-27T07:23:00.002+03:00

We really wanted a cat with personality...and boy did we get it!

Carl's Jr

2008-08-26T03:39:00.002+03:00

So, I realized that I am yet to post an update about our trip to Nevada. I really don't have the time to post it all at the moment...but I am sure to soon. So, for the big event on the way home...I'll let the picture speak for itself...

Hello kitty...

2008-08-19T05:24:00.002+03:00

Doug and I are having fun playing with our new kitten...enjoy a few pictures of him.

We're Back!!

2008-08-16T05:10:00.003+03:00

So, with high hopes of posting pictures of our trip to Owyhee, I started trying to post a lovely slide show and the works. However, the computer has been doing nothing that I want it to...soooo I will be trying to post soon...or maybe later. For pictures of the trip...I will be posting a link...but until then. We are home and looking forward to a somewhat quiet weekend full of fun fence building and a short shift at Curves.
Enjoying the heat,
H and D

the grill, the fixin's and china

2008-07-29T06:21:00.006+03:00

First of all: A grill update...

It works...

Also...the fixin's...

And the china...after looking and looking for 'the' dishes we were going to get...I finally found some that we like. I had seen these at Pier1 before and liked them however, today, they were on sale. So, for a great price and also pretty nice looking...we now have dishes!

Grillin'...

2008-07-27T08:23:00.012+03:00

Doug got his early birthday present from Mom and Dad this week...so our saturday evening was packed with excitement.

Here he is getting it put together...

I helped...

Here it is!!!
Now...where are my grillin' boots?

House Pictures below...

2008-07-23T03:01:00.003+03:00

Hello there...for those of you interested in seeing our humble abode...for some reason my house picture post ended up under my previous post about the reception. So, don't miss out...just scroll down and there is a post hiding down there with a slide show of the house! Sorry that one of the pictures is sideways...I am too lazy to go back and fix it. Enjoy! Disclaimer: We did not choose the paint in the kitchen and the bathroom!

More Reception Fun!

2008-07-19T06:05:00.001+03:00

House pictures!!!

2008-07-19T05:31:00.003+03:00

More reception pictures!!!

2008-07-18T00:58:00.002+03:00

Reception Pictures!!!

2008-07-18T00:26:00.002+03:00

So, I started with decorations...more to come!!!

It's been a long, long time...

2008-07-15T03:10:00.003+03:00

Ok so, I think this stretch of no-bloggage has lasted longer than any other! It's not my fault though...blogging requires internet...which I have not had. So, it is the internet's fault. At any rate, I am going to try to do better...since we are supposed to have internet starting Thursday. When that happens I will post a bunch of new pictures because lots of things have been going on.
1. Honeymoon...we have some great pictures from the beach...and our favorite restaurant there, which is really why we like it there so much.
2. We moved...pictures of the new house are soon to come. The owner came today and finally finished painting the exterior of the house..wahoo!!
3. We had family in town...the 4th was a fun one this year...and although we didn't get pictures, we watched the best fireworks show ever from our rooftop.
4. We had our wedding reception...LOTS of pictures will be provided for this update!
5. We have some favorite chillin' spots here in the great northwest that we would love to brag about via blog...and now that we have a digi camera...we will be posting mob pictures of the beautiful state we live in!
6. Youth group craziness. We are teaching the 10th and 11th grade sunday school...very fun. And have had the pleasure of getting to be part of many youth events over the last couple months...again, pictures to follow.
SOoooooo, if anyone still reads this very neglected blog...it is about to get a lot more interesting then it has been for the last few months!!! Promise!!

Married!!!!

2008-05-21T22:48:00.009+03:00

Hello Friends and Family,
Many of you may know now that Doug and I were engaged on May 13th. We followed through with that decision on May 18th. Our wedding was exactly how we both wanted it, intimate and beautiful! After church on Sunday we were able to go, get married, then come back and celebrate with a few of our church family that evening. We had such a wonderful day and are enjoying a few days of relaxing before we have to get back to the daily grind.
Enjoy the wedding pictures!!
Much love,
Doug and Heidi McClure

Engaged!!!

2008-05-18T10:30:00.002+03:00

So, as some of you know from the before mentioned gentleman pictured in my previous post, I have been in a relationship with Doug for the last three months. We met each other at church when I first moved to Washington in our sunday school class. After some time of 'hanging out' off and on, we started in on a great big project at our church, finishing the building of the preschool wing at our new facility. During that time, we had the opportunity to get to know each other a little better and begun spending a lot more time together. Once the preschool wing was finished and we suddenly had free time again, we found ourselves spending all of that free time with each other. As you can tell, this whole thing snuck up on us both...and what a pleasant surprise it has been!
Over the last month, we have been talking and praying about what is next for 'us'. Seeking direction for our relationship and for what we are supposed to be doing to serve God with our lives. Since we are both in a place where we are starting new 'career' paths, we are totally open to whatever God has for us and wherever God has for us. So, the clearity of the whole deal was a challenge since we were asking and seeking about two very big decisions!
May 13th, it was a nice warm(ish) evening and we had been sitting out on the porch talking for some odd hours. When we stood up to go inside, he gave me a hug and asked me 'the' question. And of course, I said YES!!!
(sorry no pictures, as for a mishap at the ocean the digital camera is in digital heaven now...are there such things as engagement gifts???!?!)

My lack of bloggage...

2008-05-07T05:21:00.005+03:00

So...for those of you who are tired of looking at the elk...here is why I haven't been blogging much...

I will try really hard to do better...:)

(By the way, his name is Doug.)

Washington wildlife...

2008-03-11T22:24:00.004+03:00

So, this weekend Tom and Glenda were away for the beach retreat at church...so I got my own retreat at their house. On Saturday and part of Sunday I had Payton and Kendall there to entertain me...then the elk came to visit too. We had fun watching them from the window, then from the deck. The girls were great about being quiet but Jasmine thought she would scare them away with her barking...they didn't go far though because they were still in the yard five hours later! I thought they were pretty cool...and definately blogworthy...so enjoy the picts!

Excuse me, is that my right lung your sitting on?

2008-03-04T02:27:00.002+03:00

So, I have been really sick. The meanest cough ever, high fevers, chills, aches...augh! Lucky for me, I work for my cousin who was very understanding when I informed her of my sickly state. That, and I keep her kids...so it didn't take her long to decide that she was staying home from work to take care of them while I got better! I think I slept through pretty much everything this past week. I couldn't even stay up late enough to watch American Idol...now if that isn't sick, I don't know what is!
Once I started to feel on the mend, I took myself out for a movie...thanks to Mom and Dad's birthday contribution! I went and saw Fool's Gold...because the commercials look so great, and because there are two pretty great people playing leading roles in the movie, and because it was rated PG-13...good clean fun, I thought! Well, it is a good movie overall... the perfect chick flick to get my spirits up really. However, I was embarrassed for the families that had brought their kids to this movie! There are definately some moments in the movie that those kids don't need to be seeing...yet how would the parents have known? The movie was PG-13, supposed to be fairly safe right? I guess not anymore.
Ok well, I am done with my soap box for today...and the baby is stirring in the other room...

Happy Birthday to me...

2008-02-24T05:52:00.005+03:00

Today I turned 25 years old! Last night the celebrations began at Red Lobster with my Grandma and Grandpa from my mom's side, and my aunt and uncle. My aunt's birthday is just two days before mine, so it was a duo celebration! After dinner, I went to Target to spend my gift card from Letha...and found a really great coat on sale! Today, Grandma had a bunch of people from the family come over for cake and ice cream...would you look at all those candles...it's a wonder the fire alarm didn't go off!

A good time was had by all...and this is how very excited Jasmine was about the ordeal...

Pictures of my trip to Canada...

2008-02-23T09:17:00.001+03:00

He will not rest...

2008-02-23T07:51:00.002+03:00

I go back and forth with what music I like the best and listen to every time I am in the car. Right now it is "Please don't make us sing this song" a collection of various artists singing alt-folk/pop songs based on the Psalms. My very favorite is one by Christena Graves called He Will Not Rest. This song is taken from Psalm 121, a song of ascents, which 'they' say means that there is reference to a procession in which worshipers marched to Jerusalem and sang the psalms as they marched...here are the lyrics.

When I look up

To the vast sides of the mountain

I know that my Creator

Will send the help I need

He will hold me

Firmly in the place I need to be

Never let his eyes leave me for a moment

He will not rest

He will not let me go

He will not rest

He will not let me go

When I look up

To the vast sides of the mountain

We know that our Creator

Will send the help we need

He will hold us

Firmly in the place we need to be

Never let His eyes leave us for a moment

He will not rest

He will not let us go

He will not rest

He will not let us go

The Lord keeps you so close

that his shadow is cooling shade to you

He'll keep your soul safe

From the first breath

to the last breath that you breathe

He will not rest

He will not let us go

He will not rest

He will not let us go

Meme...

2008-02-22T07:22:00.004+03:00

Ok so, still not sure why these are called memes but Hannah tagged me so I am to think of six quirky things about myself...which is a hard thing because there are a LOT of quirky things about me so narrowing it down might prove to be impossible.

1. I can't stand doing the same thing every day. Whatever the opposite of 'scheduled' is...that is me. In my life, I have had some years where I was forced to do the same thing, at the same time, every single day...it was H- E- "double hockey sticks" ifyanowhatimean! For the last few years I have been a nanny for a number of families...that profession (besides being evidently inescapable) is quite flexible, therefore I love it!

2. I don't finish things. I do try...but I don't. It's not that I can't, it is just that I don't. Sometimes I start a book, I love it but I don't finish it. Other times I start sewing something...pants, dresses, cross stitch pretties...all never finished. Even college...now there's the kicker...you guessed it...not finished!

3. I LOVE my dog. It is really too bad, the way I love my dog. Growing up my family had a little dog named Princess just like my current dog, Jasmine. Same type of dog, same coloring, same same same...and oh so perfect perfect perfect. During the years that I was without this dog (I realize that I have moved to the place of talking as if they are the same dog)...I dreamed of the dog. I wished for the dog, I had other dogs...none of them were THIS dog. I didn't just want this dog, I LONGED for this dog. Hey, you asked for quirks.

4. Evidently I have inherited something from my dad that no one should have to inherit. Ok, let me explain...in my memories as a kid, MANY of them are marked by dad. Often...and I really do mean often, dad got hurt. I remember dad hitting his head at a church in Kenya, I remember blood, I remember barbed wire, I remember wondering if he was going to pass out right there on the ground. Then there was the time he lost his glasses in the Indian Ocean, and when he 'might have sprained his ankle' for the fiftieth time. The one I think I have the strongest memories of is when he walked on a cement slab that was covering the sewer in Kisumu...and it fell in...and HE fell in. The many helpful pastors that came to help very lovingly laughed and told him it would take a fork lift to get him out of there...he was sure his leg was broken...I was sure he was covered in cockroaches. So...back to me. I have on a few occasions recently found myself in some similar predicaments. Last week, for example, I took a good long tumble down the stairs where I am living...it hurt me...it really hurt my dog. Just this Wednesday, I was at my aunt and uncle's house cleaning. I headed to the laundry room and as I stepped down onto the stairs...they fell in...and I fell in. I am happy to report that there were no cockroaches...but I did have a fleeting though..."I am dad, my leg is broken, I am dad." I did not break my leg...it is just bruised.

5. Sometimes I talk too fast. I am not sure where this came from but people tell me quite often, that I am talking too fast. What? I don't think I am talking too fast...but this is what they tell me.

6. I like moving. I love the change, the unpredictability of events, and the fun of figuring out a new place. Even if it is just across town, it is still fun. You get to put all your stuff out in new places in a new house, or apartment, or room. I love driving around with no idea of where I am or how to get home...but figuring it out anyway. I like to be in a place where nobody knows my name...now if that were entirely true it would seem like I am hiding. Fact is, there are people here who know my name...just not as many as the place I left. I also like having the excuse, "oh, I am sorry, I had no idea that was a one way street, officer, I am new in town..."...no that has never happened, I am just saying..if it ever did...:)

Ok here is who I am tagging... Mel, Janie, Glenna, Pookie, and Dad (or Mom, whichever will do it)

Here are the rules.
(1) Link to the person that tagged you.
(2) Post the rules on your blog.
(3) Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself.
(4) Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs.
(5) Let each random person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their website.

a few more picts...

2008-02-19T08:04:00.001+03:00

Surrey...

2008-02-19T07:37:00.003+03:00

So, I got my car late Saturday, talked to dad that night, headed for Canada early Sunday morning. I left Longview at six and got to their house at around eleven...pretty great! For lunch we went for Indian food...sooooo good! At lunch, I got to meet their friends, Ameen and Zapita. After that we headed for the Sky Train....which is called the sky train for a reason...here is a picture of one of the parts we "flew" on...

After the Sky Train we took the Sea Train across the water to North Vancouver. It was neat to see the city, walk around and enjoy a coffee in the Quoy in North Vancouver. Sometime I will come back and remember my camera when we go because the market is really fun there!

Today, we went to a great big mall then after picking up Jasmine from the house...headed for the beach. We walked for a while and out onto a peir...then went to another beach because the first one didn't allow dogs. When we got there we walked some more with Jasmine and got some good pictures...I will post some of those later. It is really neat because you look out over the water and can see the snow covered mountains past that...it is a beautiful view!

Facebook...

2008-02-15T11:29:00.001+03:00

I love facebook, it is my connection to the rest of the world. I keep up with old high school friends, make new friends, and even play games there. My profile is something that I get comments from people a lot. This is what it says:

"My profile picture is of my dog, not me. I live in Longview, for now. I like bananas and milk for breakfast. I enjoy my lunch break at work because I sit outside in the sun. I love listening to random music. My parents live in Canada. I want to visit them. I don't have a gym membership. I work out, sometimes. I want to travel more. My favorite flower is the Gerbera Daisy. I don't have a college degree. I am a member at Christ Community Church and I have been attending First Baptist church since I moved. I appreciate the little things in life. Most of my friends do too. I like coffee. I also like tea. I don't like it when people say Chai Tea, it's repetitive. I like the beach, I didn't used to. I've eaten at Pizza Hut in three different countries. I love pizza. I eat Mexican a lot. I grew up in Kenya, I miss living there. My house number is 2104 but I am 24, almost 25. My old p.o. box number is 2064. I love sleep. I am not a verizon wireless customer. I have life insurance. My car is silver, it is missing. I love Jesus."

If you don't have a facebook account...you should.

Tour of Lake Sacajawea

2008-02-13T00:32:00.001+03:00

I like to take Jasmine for walks are out local lake, Lake Sacajawea. Today I remembered my camera and took some pictures!

Jasmine and Princess...

2008-02-03T02:41:00.000+03:00

Ok so I have become one of those people. You know those people who have a dog and they act like it is a child...I didn't mean to, it has all happened on accident. But I feel like every other post I put on my blog lately has had Jasmine in it. In reality, I do know that she is a dog...not a child. But she is my buddy, my little partner in crime for now. So in all the change in my life at the moment I have her to take pictures of..so bear with me, I will make some friends soon. The video above is all taken by my cousin Anna and my other cousin Jackson put the video together...enjoy!

Congrats to me...

2008-02-02T07:42:00.000+03:00

So, I have been working on my certificate of achievement from airlinecareer.com to impress the airlines that I want to work for as a flight attendant. And I finished it today! Yeah!!! It is amazing what you can get done when you don't have a job!

Here is my Certificate!!!

Jasmine and her new best friend...

2008-01-31T23:26:00.000+03:00

Well, yesterday I wasn't ever able to post the pictures of Jasmine and Mattie...we will see how it goes today...

Here are Jasmine and Mattie posing together...

Mattie and Jasmine playing with toys...Jasmine loved this toy of Mattie's but she could hardly even walk with it because it was way too big for her.

Here is their favorite game. Jasmine would stand up like this at Mattie's face and Mattie would push her off...sometimes Jasmine would end up in a roll on the floor but she loved it!

Just chillin'

I just had to add this picture...Jasmine can run so fast! (Mattie is hiding behind the dinning room chairs). Last night I had been playing with Jasmine and all of the sudden she started running, like you can see below, all around the house. Grandma just laughed and said, 'it's like she is a wind up toy!"...that explains it well.

The last few days..

2008-01-31T03:14:00.001+03:00

For the last few days I have been staying at my aunt and uncle's house in town. Jasmine loved it because their dog enjoyed her and they got to play together alot...see pictures below. I spent lots of time studying (I feel like I am in college again) flight attendant stuff. And watching the snow fall...also see picture below.

Jasmine does not like going out in the snow...

This is out in the back yard under the deck...

Here is the deck that looks out over a really pretty view...which you can't see because of the fog.Well...blogger tells me that I have to get off so more pictures to come!!!

Pray...

2008-01-25T10:31:00.000+03:00

Please be praying for this family in their loss... News feed

Here is a link to a recent interview they held with their adoption agency.

Family Pictures...

2008-01-22T22:41:00.001+03:00

While all of my family was in Jackson over Christmas, we got a chance to have some family pictures taken... I just got a few of them today!

Here are my awesome parents...And here are my parents, me and my three sisters...Kara, me, Letha, Hannah.Here are mom and dad, otherwise known as , Umma and Babu...with the grandkids...Wesley, Isaiah, Bria, Tirza and Sahara...Here is the whole clan...

A baby shower...

2008-01-22T06:39:00.000+03:00

On saturday I got to go to my cousin, Leah's baby shower for her newest little girl. Here are some pictures of the event! Here is little Maleah...

Here she is with her grandma...my aunt Julie.

And here is her momma, my cousin Leah with her big sister Gracie...

Getting to know Longview...

2008-01-21T02:53:00.001+03:00

Well, I spent most of Friday getting to know the town of Longview, Washington. Since my car is still in Jackson, Tennessee, it wasn't much help to me. So, I got to know the bus system around here. I have to say that it is much nicer than the one I left in Jackson! Here is a picture of what my view is like from the bus stop...

That is Ocean Beach Highway...we didn't have any roads with names like that in Jackson...we were landlocked. notice the sky in the picture...that's right, you can't see it. That is what it has looked like since I got here. I think I will be missing the sun really soon! Here is Jasmine waiting patiently in her carrier...

She likes being in her carrier when she chooses to go in there on her own...but when I make her go in there she worries. Since she spent an entire day on Wednesday in there, I don't blame her.

Well, that's all for now...a post about my cousin's baby shower is coming soon.

My new room...

2008-01-18T02:09:00.000+03:00

I got into Longview last night so I have been working on getting settle in at my Grandma's house. I will be staying here for a while until I get figured out where I will be working and living...here are some pictures of my new living space.

Here is my bed...

And here is the view from my window beside my bed...I have organized and cleaned stuff up since I took this picture, so imagine it without the suitcase and stuff all over the floor...

Family

2008-01-18T01:51:00.000+03:00

Well, this is a bit late in coming but for the last few weeks everyone in my family was together in Jackson, TN. We had a good time with everyone together for Christmas...those pictures are on my computer that I had to leave in Jackson so maybe someday I'll post those. For now, some random shots and some catfish cabin pictures will have to do.
Here are Sahara, Bria and Tirza after getting their faces painted...it looks like Bria already washed hers off.

Bria at Catfish Cabin...Kara made Indian food for everyone...yum!Tirza loves my new boots...All the kids watching a movie...I guess Tirza was busy with something else when I took this picture.Wesley is serious about watching tv...We take up a big table at Catfish Cabin...it is SO good!
Isaiah and his fake grin...

Sahara

2008-01-11T03:55:00.001+03:00

My niece Sahara, who is seven...gave me this note tonight:

Way behind...

2008-01-06T08:40:00.001+03:00

Woh, I cannot believe how long it has been since I posted. I have been staying busy with ALL of my family being here in town. My parents came, then Kara and David, Wesley and Isaiah came the day before Christmas Eve...so since then we have been kicking family time into high gear. More to come later...lots of pictures...for now, I am off to bed!

Stefi, M.

2007-12-16T19:03:00.000+03:00

My college friend Stefi graduated with her Masters degree yesterday and I was able to watch her walk across the stage and move her tassel over to the right...here are some fun pictures!!!
Video of Stefi walking...

One of our first college roommates...Amanda graduated with her bachelors!!!

After grad we went to Olive Garden to celebrate...we had a great lunch, thanks to BJ. Then stayed for dessert and coffee...good times!!

Christmas Cookies...

2007-12-16T18:48:00.000+03:00

So, this happened a couple weeks ago but I haven't had a chance to post the pictures. I kept my nieces and we decorated Christmas cookies galore...there really aren't words to describe our fun...so check out the picts!

Sahara's green tongue

Tirza just wanted to eat the

frosting...understandable...

Bria's pretty cookies...

"Yay! My Poon!"

Serious business.
Sahara didn't understand how the

frosting got in her hair...

What's up...

2007-12-12T08:20:00.000+03:00

Hi there friends. I am spending a few days in Paducah loving on the Brady boys...there are three now. Isaac was born three weeks ago today! :) Here are some pictures of the boys! (The one up top is William cheesing in his top hat.)

This one is William being a present...

Here is Jack waiting for his pop tart... (William is in the background dressed up like a duck.)

Isaac...

Me and Isaac... (this is how I would spend every day of my life if I could choose)

...(and nights)...this one is one of Isaac in the middle of the night. He was done sleeping for a while so we had a photo shoot of him wide awake...

My nieces...and Anna

2007-12-02T02:16:00.000+03:00

This morning Sahara had a piano recital. She did such a good job, we all were proud of her 30 second debut. Before she played there were a bunch of other kids who sang and some who played the piano, while I waited for Sahara's turn I was thinking. As I sat there, Bria my five year old niece was on my lap wiggling and doing her best to contain her boredom. I could feel her heart beating and she was breathing...and at times yawning loudly and all I could think of was Anna. Her aunt doesn't get to sit through a long recital with her on her lap anymore. I am so blessed, my family is so blessed, we have healthy, warm, breathing children to hold and kiss goodnight. I can't even begin to imagine the ache that must be settled in the hearts of everyone of Anna's family. Let's not forget to continue to pray for her family as they begin a year of newness without her there with them. As they celebrate Christmas, watch spring come, then summer, her birthday, mealtimes, bedtimes and miss her.

This evening I am sitting in the living room with my three nieces. We are watching Mulan...and the cute dog who is sleeping. A few minutes ago Sahara said,
"Heidi, did you hear that Anna died?".
I said yes and that I had gone to her memorial.
She said, "ya I knew that. I am sad that she died. She was only five."
Here is where Bria pipped in..."But she has a new body now, so she is, she feels better even." Sahara's response, "woh, really?! A whole new body!"
Bria, "Ya, everybody gets one when they die and go to heaven! Heidi, did they bury her yet?" Me, "yes, they buried her before the memorial on Thursday morning."
Both of the girls..."oh".
Sahara, "So, when they buried her, they put her in a box right?"
Me, "yes."
Sahara, "Her whole body? Like her head too?"
Me, "Yes her whole body."
Bria, "But that is her old body though...not her new heaven one."
Sahara, "ooooh! well, even though she is really happy in heaven. It is still sad to me that she is died."
Bria, "ya me too."
Me, "me too."

In memory...

2007-12-01T01:30:00.000+03:00

I just got back into Jackson from my trip to OKC, OK for Anna's memorial. There aren't really words to begin to explain what it is like to experience what I have over the last few days. On the drive there I thought a lot about words that I could share of comfort, of hope, just something. I didn't want to fumble over my words when I got there...so I spent most of the 8 1/2 hour drive thinking on what I could say. At the end of it, I came up with nothing. What can you say to a grieving family who just lost their five year old? Do words really exist that would be worth saying to a mother who just lost her baby? No, there really aren't. When I got there I found that it didn't matter. After spending some time with Anna's family, I realized why I was there. To listen and to just be there...it didn't matter what I said or didn't say. Anna's grandmother told me about Anna, showed me pictures, told me more stories about Anna. It was a sweet sweet time. It was good to be able to hear about Anna's life, about funny things she said; to share in the wonderful memories of her life.

There was more of this Thursday morning at her celebration service. A couple of people shared about Anna and how they were effected by her. One of the ladies shared great stories about Anna. At the end of the service they played a video of Anna singing in front of the church then another video of Anna singing and dancing to Bullfrogs and Butterflies...and as she flapped her arms out like a butterfly I read the front of the program that said, "Fly to Jesus...and live." Anna did fly to Jesus and she is alive. And like her daddy said during the service, speaking on how she must be so happy and being able to have fun, doing things that her earthly body could never do..."even if she had a choice, she wouldn't come back here."

"You are our Lord.

We never forget you.

We honor family and friends.

Bless our food.

Bless our spaghetti

When it is time to go to heaven,

we will be ready.

You are our God."

(said by Anna July, 2007)

Anna.

2007-11-25T22:43:00.001+03:00

Sunday, November 25, 2007 2:51 AM CST

Anna traded in her broken down "earth-suit" for her glorious new body at 1:25am. After listening to the song "Fly To Jesus," we told her to fly to Him and she did--in my arms with her daddy holding us close. We ushered her into her heavenly Father's arms. She must feel so free now. Her hurt is gone, ours remains. We will miss her so.

Anna...

2007-11-25T00:21:00.001+03:00

Saturday, November 24, 2007 1:10 PM CST

"Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble...or (are) threatened with death?...No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loves us. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from his love. Death can't, and life can't...Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow....can't keep God's love away." (Romans 8:35,37,38)

"For we are not our own masters when we live or when we die. While we live, we live to please the Lord. And when we die, we go to be with the Lord. So in life and death, we belong to the Lord." (Romans 14:7-8)

Anna has been mostly unconscious since yesterday afternoon. Her body seems to finally be shutting down. We have reached a milestone of sorts. She has been sick for 2 years and 9 months and she was 2 years and 9 months old when she was diagnosed.

We covet your prayers as we walk through these waters.

A Sonic run...

2007-11-21T04:03:00.000+03:00

Well readers,
I would post but my niece Sahara just came asking if we could go to Sonic to get a drink...can't pass that one up.
Later...
Enjoying the little things with the little people in my life,
Heidi

73 degrees...

2007-11-18T00:24:00.000+03:00

So, it's November the 17th and I just want to let everyone know that I have been driving around today with my windows rolled down...what a beautiful fall day...in the middle of November!

Anna...

2007-11-11T23:09:00.000+03:00

Keep Praying...

This is part of the latest post from Anna's mom:

"Yesterday Anna slept most of the time. I was grieving the loss of her smile, her voice, the way she makes us laugh. She was still here, but those things were missing yesterday. Thank you to friends who came over this weekend who brought joy and laughter to our home."

Visit her website at http://www.caringbridge.org/ok/annajane/

THE JACKET....

2007-11-08T01:48:00.000+03:00

Here it is...the jacket I have been waiting for all my life...well maybe just the last month or so. At any rate, I found THE jacket, the soft on the inside, water resistant on the outside, not too fitted, not too loose jacket that keeps me toasty warm.
My search began when I decided to move to the chilly northwest...and now that the weather has cooled here in the south down to a freezing (53 degrees today) really terribly cold temperatures...my knees and back have started aching every time I even think about walking outdoors so I decided today would be the day. I walked in and out of many stores before I broke down and proceeded to check out the isles of overpriced Gander Mountain that has recently moved in to Jackson. Before I knew it I had on this wonderful jacket, it made me warm, it felt just right, I didn't want to take it off...but I had to, you know to pay for it like a grown adult. Being the investor that I am, I had thought about this purchase in advance and had given myself a good one hundred dollars to spend on THE PERFECT JACKET...given that I found it. And ladies and gentlemen...I did it. I held to my budget...I just had to add that in to make myself feel better:) So, here is a picture of the jacket...although it isn't THE jacket as mine is brown on the outside and purple on the inside but of course there is no picture that exactly matches online for me to copy and paste for you all to see...sooo you will just have to see the real thing in person. But for now, a taste... THE Sheer Bliss II Jacket (in Bark not white, imagine it!)

Kids love...

2007-10-30T04:41:00.000+03:00

I am spending a couple of days in Paducah visiting a friend and her two small boys. Tonight, Jack (the oldest who will be four next month) said to me...

"you are NOT leaving tomorrow, you live here!" Kids sure do have a way of making me feel loved.

Here is what Jack was like when we first because friends...

My teeth...

2007-10-27T23:17:00.000+03:00

In case anyone was wondering about my dental status. I lived through the experience at the dentist's office...yes it was terrible. I can't seem to convince them that MY MOUTH WON'T OPEN ANY WIDER!!! Anyhow, in the end my teeth are in great shape...no cavities, nice gums all that...BUT I grind my teeth. They gave me some name for it that I promptly forgot and in the end I had to make impressions of my teeth. Now I have a handy little night guard that I wear and it protects my teeth...or rather my ligaments...from getting irritated from my night grinding. Evidently it wasn't actually my teeth that were hurting, it was my ligaments. Good times...and I am not going back to that office...well probably ever again.
Till next time...

Just two more...

2007-10-20T08:29:00.001+03:00

With Sahara...sweet friends

Adoption Announcement!!!

2007-10-20T08:17:00.000+03:00

Today my family welcomed a new member into the crew! Introducing Princess Jasmine (Jasmine)....

It is hard to tell how small she is from this picture in the grass...but she is really tiny.

Here are some more pictures of her first afternoon with the girls...

Kisses for Tirza...

My tooth hurts...

2007-10-18T20:06:00.000+03:00

Alright folks, this is it. I finally broke down today and called the dentist. After months of avoiding ice and ANYTHING sticky...like, and this is the worst part, caramel. That is one of my favorite things to eat friends and to have to avoid it for such an extended period of time has started to take its toll on me. Soooo...I have an appointment for Tuesday at 8:00. I scheduled it for the earliest time of the day so that I will be able to spend the least amount of time at the dentist as possible...I HATE going to the dentist. More to come...

Ma ma ma ma Mazda!!!

2007-10-10T05:19:00.000+03:00

So the other day I made a real big grown up decision...well, a decision anyway. I have been looking into trading my old car in for a while now but had yet to find a place that would take anything reasonable for it. Something about a blue book and old cars loose their value...those car salesmen don't know what they are talking about! Anyhow, I finally ran across a friendly young man who treated me like a person (as opposed to a woman in a car lot) who wanted to help..and I am sure make a sale but let's focus on the good people! I looked into some of his vehicles and then before I test drove anything talked cash...he was a little confused as to why I wanted ALL the money info BEFORE I even test drove any cars but he humoured me and pulled up all the figures on FOUR different vehicles that I was sort of interested in. After that, I was down to two...so I drove those. One of them was a jeep and was no fun to drive, and the other one was my Mazda Tribute. Let me say for the record, I have never been one to go for an SUV but I am thinking about a trip across the country soon, and well in the end, the thing will sell easier when I am ready to get rid of it.
In the end I got way more for my Chevy Prizm than it is worth...how that happened I have no idea. And thanks to Mom and Dad I used ALL of what came from Mr. Prizm to pay for down payments and another huge chunk off the price of MR. Tribute. I drove away with a much lighter pocket and a much bigger car. (For those of you who are finding out about my newest big purchase here on my blog...so sorry, I have been busy making the bucks so I can make my payments!!!!) ( p.s. mom and dad, my insurance DOES cover me even when I am in Canada...shout out for Nationwide!)

Check out the inside...

My parents are amazing...

2007-10-01T23:07:00.000+03:00

Just in case any one thought I didn't have the genes to be awesome...here is how cool my parents are. These are pictures from their blog (yes their blog, I am not sure if he has had a chance to put them on HIS MYSPACE page), from their last trip . That is my mom on the zip line... P.S. if anyone can tell me how to get rid of this underlining I would appreciate it!

Some things are tough...

2007-09-26T06:20:00.000+03:00

Gary Thomas in his book, "Sacred Marriage"
"Because we have hope for eternity, we do not become nearsighted demanding short-term ease that would short-circuit long-term gain. Our demands for comfort and ease show us what we truly value. It is the definitive demonstration of whether we are living for God's kingdom and service or for our own comfort and reputation."

Hmmm...I've been thinking. When it comes down to it, life is really hard. It makes me tired. It makes me sad. I have a number of friends that are going through divorces, are split up, and some who are dealing with the consequences of nasty divorces from their past. It is discouraging. Something that God set up for us as Christians to display in a right manner is being destroyed by 'Christians' every day. The picture of marriage is set up as an example to show us (and to display to unbelievers) how Christ loves His Church. How will the world ever look at Christians and see that we are different if we won't live our lives differently then they do?!?!
Marriage and divorce is just one example of the many ways that Christians have a chance to show the world that we can be different and are called to be different...but yet we are failing miserably at. How will I deal when I am faced with suffering? Will I react in anger and selfishness? Or will I turn to God and let Him provide me with His peace and perserverance?

This all started because of my thoughts on how things can be hard. Really, when I get to thinking about it. I can always find something that is hard, something that makes me sad, something that I could cry myself to sleep over. But that is because I am living on this earth, that is full of sin...this is the closest I will ever be to experiencing Hell. I guess what I am trying to say is just to follow up on my last post. I am SO SO SO blessed. I sat on the back porch of a dear friend this evening, listening to stories from her life, hearing her pray, watching her shed tears for pain that wasn't even her pain to bear; then hearing her say to me, "It doesn't matter what happens in your life Heidi, just stay focused on Jesus, just keep your focus on Him." She wasn't promising me that I am going to have an easy road for the rest of my life...she was telling me to keep my focus on Christ despite all the other stuff that will try to get in the way.

So I end with this. I am even more blessed today then I was yesterday. How privilaged I am to have a godly woman sit next to me and push me closer to Christ. For the rest of my life, when things get hard and the world's sadness presses in...I only hope that her words(as well as so many other's) will come back to me and encourage me enough to get through another hard day. To remind me of how gracious God has been in givng me so much in my life. So much good that I could have never dreamed up or imagined.

Heaps of blessing on you all...

How privileged...

2007-09-25T06:19:00.000+03:00

I have been thinking recently on how privileged I am. My first thought actually used the word 'lucky' but being that I don't believe in luck I needed to change it to privileged. The thing is, there are SO many things in my life that are more wonderful than I have words to express. My family is amazing, loving, full of little people that are full of energy and sweetness! I have the best family ever...having said that I realize that my family just so happens to be the best family for me...maybe not for everyone but I love them just the same. My parents are incredible, they have given their lives to missions and I, in return, have already had the chance to experience a unique and full life. Not to mention they are generous and loving and godly and fun and so cool and well I will move on as I risk becoming ridiculous. My sisters are spread all around the world right now but for Christmas this year MY ENTIRE family will be together. I think I speak for the whole family when I say, we are SO SO SO excited! Family time is fun time. We play games, we make fun of each other, we remember funny things about when we were together last...we just have a really good time. The kind of good time that you can't have with anybody but your siblings and parents and nieces and nephews.
I could go on and on because I am also blessed with an amazing church family and great friends all around me...but for now I will sign off. I hope all you (I am sure millions) readers can take from this post something great...appreciate your family, spend time with them when you can...MAKE time for them. And as the great James Taylor sang...Shower the People you love with love!

I need to go to Japan...

2007-09-21T06:05:00.000+03:00

Another fun conversation with the kids...

Nikki informed me today that she needed to take a trip to Japan. I asked her why and she went on to explain that she could get pearls there...real ones, from the water. I said that going to Japan for some pearls was a great idea but to keep in mind that she could get pearls from other places too. For example, I have pearls that my parents got me when they visited my sister in India. In fact, I said, if you want I could get them to bring back some pearls when they come to visit and that could be your Christmas present from me. She said that is a wonderful idea and thanks for saving me a trip to Japan!
I asked Taylor if he wanted anything from India, he said no. I asked him, was he sure? He said, well, an arrow head would be nice. (Umm...hello!?!?) So embarking into a lesson on the difference between the American Indians and Indian people who are actually in India was a fun and thought provoking conversation for all of us.

So what you're saying is...

2007-09-20T04:22:00.001+03:00

This is a conversation I had with Nikki and Taylor today...

Taylor: Eli walked by me at school today and flicked me.
Me: What did you do?
Taylor: Nothing, I don't know!
Nikki: Eli and Taylor had a fight yesterday.
Me: Oh? What was it about?
Nikki: Alex (Eli's older brother) made Taylor mad by riding his bike then throwing it on the ground. So Taylor called him a name, then Eli called Taylor a name and they pushed each other. I don't think they are really friends any more.
Taylor: I don't see why Eli got so mad at me. I didn't say anything mean to him!
Me: Well, brothers stick up for their brothers usually over their friends.
Nikki: Ya, Taylor. If my friend was mean to you I would take your side.
Taylor: So what you're saying is, deep deep deep down I really love Nikki even though I tell her I hate her a lot?
Me and Nikki: Yep.

Anna is home...

2007-09-10T06:30:00.000+03:00

Anna is home from another long stay at the hospital...please please please keep praying!

Saturday, September 8, 2007 5:39 PM CDT

Last night was terrible. Anna was moaning and gagging off and on all night so none of us got any sleep. This morning I pulled the NG tube myself since it seemed to be the source of her agony. (The home health nurse was going to come and do it, but Anna chose me instead. She has more faith in me than I do in myself.) She has been a lot more talkative today and has stopped throwing up. She is trying to eat, but so far it's not much. Her eyes are bigger than her stomach so she asks for everything (mexican stack, pizza, macaroni and cheese, wheat thins, cheez whiz, chocolate covered cherries, carrots and ranch dressing.......just to name a few we've heard today). Pray that she will be able to eat and we won't have to consider replacing the tube. Pray that she will not get dehydrated. Pray that she will be able to sleep tonight.
Love,
Marlo

Hat tips...

2007-08-30T16:28:00.000+03:00

So, I was perusing some blogs that I often visit this morning when I came across a video posted by a friend that I had actually sent that very video to. But in her explanation before the video starts she says... "I ran across this video on YouTube..." It is funny because, I am glad she liked the video enough to use it...I am glad she posted the video...I am wondering why she skipped mentioning me.
Isn't that interesting! All my life I have groaned and avoid at any costs chapel services that are labled, "Awards Chapel" or any event concerning grown professionals dressing up like clowns and marching through the isles of the sancuary with the organ blairing some prestigious song for all to hear. I never have cared that some people enjoy staying at the same job they don't enjoy for 10, 15 or 25 years. I never wished I was the one standing on the stage recieving the piece of paper that says something I already know. I always wondered what in the world do those people do with those papers? Do they really save them? Because I just think that is dumb. Ok so before I digress any farther...my point.
I never thought recognition was all that important. I don't expect to be recognized for the things I do. That isn't why I do them. But maybe deep down I do...hmmm

More on Anna...

2007-08-29T02:48:00.000+03:00

Anna's Dad updated this afternoon...

Tuesday, August 28, 2007 1:58 PM CDT

Friends and Family,We finished the scope this morning and are awaiting the results of the tests they will run on the specimens. We will begin to get a better picture of what is going on over the next 24-72 hours. Anna isn't in any pain right now but breathing is very difficult. They are starting some medications this afternoon. We hope and pray that these medications will have their intended effect.
Ps. 41 says that: "The LORD will sustain him on his sickbed and restore him from his bed of illness." That's our prayer for Anna today - that the Lord would sustain her and restore her, yet again, from this bed of illness.
Thanks for praying.

Waiting for that miracle,
Richard

2007-08-25T05:39:00.000+03:00

I haven't posted an update on Anna in a while. Keep praying.

Here is her mom's latest post (as of 08/24/07):

Yesterday was hard and scary. But God was faithful and sent people to be with me off and on throughout the day so I wouldn't feel alone. Anna's temp got up to 103, but this morning she feels cool. (She's still asleep.) I had my bag packed for the hospital last night, but her counts came back above 500 and the doctor told us that we were doing all we could for her at home--so we stayed. Thank you for praying for us. Thank you for Shelley, Kay, Arlene, and Jennifer who came to visit. Thank you for Big Sky bread which is all Anna has eaten in 24 hours (including a piece at 3am). Thank you for my wonderful husband who holds me together when I am falling apart. Thank you for the doctor who didn't make us go to the hospital. Thank you for the home health nurse who came to draw the labs. Thank you for the chance to walk by the lake this morning. Thank you that my kids love school. Thank you for Sittie and Pop babysitting tonight. Wow! Once I get started being thankful it's hard to stop! Lord, give me a grateful heart today and cast out this spirit of fear that does NOT come from you. Amen,Marlo

My life is lacking tragedy...I hope I can be as thankful as this mom who has a dying child.

I affect people...

2007-08-24T05:33:00.000+03:00

Lately I have been having to make some really hard decisions. Thinking about a possible move, that means a new living situation, a new job...new everything. This is something that I have always kind of enjoyed. Moving is fun for me. All the 'newness' of it. But at this point in my life, moving is not only a huge hassle-it is affecting a whole lot of people. I have found it particularly unsettling this time around maybe because I actually care but also I think that it just is affecting more people then any of my various moves have before. I am starting to ramble so I will get to my point.
The things I do affect people. The things you do affect people...probably more than we realize. It has become more and more apparent to me how actions I take and words that I say become important moments in other peoples' lives. In fear of boasting, I will leave out the amazing life altering words I have spoken to the multitudes but I will share this. I have made it a habit of having my devotional time at a coffee shop here in town. It is just noisy enough but not too loud, so it is just right for thinking. And the occasional person saying random things when they come in is fun too...and sometimes thought provoking....woh rambling again. Anyhow, the other day I was asking Nikki if she had been spending any time reading the Bible. She looked at me funny, shrugged and walked into the other room. I thought about letting it go but then decided to pursue. I followed her and asked her what the shrug meant (although I was a teen just recently I have already forgotten the language). She said, 'why are you always asking me if I have been reading my Bible? You never read it." OUCH! I realized that I haven't been setting a good example and that, although my time 'alone' in the word is good and I am not giving that up...I need to be reading the Bible with an audience too.

I am just sharing to make my point... what we do, or I guess in this case, sometimes what we don't do, effects people.