The Nichols Crew

woo-hoo...new camera

2010-10-14T14:42:00.002-05:00

I got a new camera this week, along with new software...so, hopefully I will be able to blog more often! Pictures and updates to come! :)

gotta get in gear...

2010-02-25T09:41:00.000-06:00

It's been so easy lately just to down load pictures to Face Book and comment there...I forget...(or maybe I'm just being lazy) somehow I manage to go months and months before putting pictures on here. I don't blog about my little people or the fur kids...but then I think, I wasn't great at scrapbooking either. For such a talkative person, I can't figure out what to put to paper or in the virutal world. I love working with my hands, I love to create....and yet, with this I struggle. So, kudos to all you mommies that brighten my day with your beautiful blogs. I have nothing new to report or share. We are blessed enough right now to be living the same ole' same ole'. Hopefully soon I will be doing cakes again, and maybe that will help tap into my creative brain...and then, maybe just maybe I will have some pictures to share. Until then....

I always seem to be playing catchup...

2010-01-03T16:50:00.003-06:00

we added a new fur kid to the family...Newman! He's a 4lb. little hunk of attitude, who captured our hearts. We love cuddling with him, like a warm bag of beans when he is sleeping...and he showed the Wonderdog who's the boss. He is a good addition to the family, keeping us all busy.

We had a wonderful Christmas (as you can see on FB...I'd put pics on here of Christmas and New Year's day but am having some download problems). I can't believe Christmas break is almost over. We got so many things accomplished during the break, got to spend some quality time together as a family, and we actually got some much needed rest. I can't think of a better way to end the year. Even though 2009 had it's share of up's and down's, it was filled with blessings durning all those times. I look forward to the great rollercoaster of 2010...the Nichols Crew never has a dull moment....I've come to appreciate that. I pray the New Year brings blessings and joy to all! Hopefully I'll be able to get more pictures on here soon!

another crafty day...

2009-12-14T20:09:00.004-06:00

I had fun recycling Jenna's jeans today. Both pairs had holes in the knees. The first one is just a plain ruffle from some scrap material. The second is more tulle scraps from my tutu makin' days. I think both turned out pretty cute.

We like her multi-colored tights with this one...makes it funky. We even threw together a piece of the leg and scrap ribbons into a little purse.

This weekend I hope to make some korker hair ribbons. Then, maybe by next weekend we'll have enough Caprisun's consumed I can recycle those into a little purse. Hmmmm...gotta think what we are gonna make next!

Just in case you didn't see my tutu's...here's a couple of my favorites. I think next time though I will make them a little less poofy!

little hands...

2009-12-13T20:40:00.007-06:00

We had a fun Sunday afternoon...building a gingerbread house kit!

I think Jenna may have eaten more candies than she actually put on the house!

I think they did a really good job decorating!

Yea! All done!

We made Jenna's class some tiny snowmen...

and for the boys, we made each of their teachers a bigger snowman!

We even made our own bags to wrap them up!

We did a few more crafts. Micheal's has some cute foam ones. We loved this little snowglobe.

This is also for Jenna's class, it was her homework this week. I laid down the hot glue, she put on the glitter and other cute stuff.

and Jacob enjoyed making a glitter picture.

yum, cookies...

2009-12-07T17:18:00.002-06:00

We thought it would be fun to make cookies today...

Kinda like playing with playdough. Josh and Jenna did a great job rolling the dough into balls...

then, mashing the dough with a sugar dipped cup...

and finally...making little faces!

We like all the little happy faces...

hard work sure tastes fun!!!

cool weather fun...

2009-12-06T11:46:00.004-06:00

Yippeee....I finished Jenna's Christmas Stocking!

We went to see the Runaway Snowman with Parents as Teachers on Friday. I love going to the Children's Theater. Added bonus, our friend Gabby thought ahead and brought goldfish crackers!

They had such cute props, perfect for picture taking

We really enjoy the company of our friends!

Grandma sent Jenna a new outfit! She loves all the Disney Princess'

Growing Cooks and making snowmen...

2009-12-02T12:23:00.005-06:00

Usually on Wednesdays we go to Discovery Lab in the morning. But today (this happens once a month) P.A.T. has a Growing Cooks class.

The kids get to measure out all their ingredients.

Then they take everything back to their table and mix things up. Today we are making Apple Cinnamon Chex Mix! It smells yummy!

After they get finished with their creation, the kids get to clean up their dishes and help prep for the next class.

Then we get to listen to a story and eat our yummy treat. She did a great job...it was yummy! We can't wait to make more at home for her brothers!

After Growing Cooks, we spent the morning with our friends making snowmen. Here's our finished art work! We think they turned out pretty cute! I can't wait for the glue to dry so we can hang them up on the front door.
~Everybody worked hard...Jennas favorite is the glitter~

~ Lexi liked the buttons and the snow~

~Drew just liked working on all of it~

food, family, and fun...

2009-12-01T18:18:00.010-06:00

Daddy was having some relaxing quiet time before bed...

That is until the whole gang followed him...

Then wrestle Mania broke out!

Josh and Jenna are enjoying a Fun with Food Playdo set...Josh was being a "cooker".

We all are enjoying this lovely Spring, oops I mean December weather...

not sure if she's trying to take flight, or just having fun running...either way it's pretty cute in a tutu!

Josh was just doing some posin'

Don't you just love getting new coats??? I have to wonder though...what would a three year old need with a cell phone pocket and an i-pod pocket???

Not a clue what's goin' on here?

Again...not sure what he's thinkin'...he's one creative and silly kid!

She is such a silly goofball!

Her brothers are so proud....turning into a gameboy junkie already!

She loves playing dress-up!

Jenna and I like to take walks in the morning after the boys go to school...her favorite is Color Park (it's Riggs in Haysville. She calls it that because all the equipment is different colors!)

We haven't gotten together for Thanksgiving in a few years. It was so nice getting together. I think in all the excitement I missed out on getting more pictures. That's okay, there is always Christmas.

All the Gameboys!

Little Davynn enjoying some sweet potatoes...mmmmm, my favorite too!

Canaan!

I can't believe this fella is getting so big!

One of our family traditions is putting up our Christmas trees the day after Thanksgiving. Hopefully next weekend we'll get the outdoor decorations finished!

This is our kid tree downstairs. They have so many ornaments now, it keeps them busy, and they don't mess with my ornaments upstairs! :)

We had such fun...drinking hot chocolate, listening to Christmas music and working together...it looks so pretty. We love turning the lights off and enjoying the glow from the tree.

Our helpers...they sure come in handy!

not his favorite job...but it's the only one...he's just happy he doesn't have to help me with my picky decorating!

I didn't put out was much stuff this year. I'm happy with my few snow people and Aaron has gotten me started with the Willow Tree Nativity...

The stockings are another tradition that I carried on after my grandma. She hand-stitched ones for my sisters and I when we were little. Aaron's was my first (I think it's ugly, but he loves it and won't let me fix/change it!) Then I made one for the boys!

This is Jenna's stocking...this is day two! I can't wait to get it finished!

Day one....

catching up again...

2009-11-09T14:21:00.002-06:00

well, the last few weeks/months my computer has been giving me some issues with down loading pictures...I really did want to update sooner. Since most everyone has Facebook, I will spare ya'll the same old pictures, and will try to be better at blogging in the future.

The boys have been doing really well in school so far. Jake had been struggling in reading and math last year. But, at conferences we found out Jake has been moved to an advanced math class and his reading level is almost 6th grade (he's in 4th)! It's kinda funny, last year I would get notes from the teacher that Jake was always busy visiting (hmmmm, wonder where he gets that from?). Now, I get notes that he's quiet with his nose stuck in a book. I told him he needs to pay attention, but even the teacher said if that's his only "problem", it's not a "bad" one to have! Now Josh is the one struggling a bit with reading . They had to put him in a tutoring program, which he really enjoys. I can see progress already...he is working so hard! His teacher says he's a polite and helpful little boy, and loves having him in class. I'm so proud of both of them. It's just so amazing watching them learn and grow.

Jenna has been having fun with P.A.T. We have been going to playgroups, and just recently started going to a (Pre)Pre-K class. She loves playing with all the other kids and learning new things. Ms. Joelle came for a home visit last week and said Jenna was right on track...smart little gal. She has an incredible vocabulary and good language skills, however she was a bit concerned about her articulation. We have gone for some further testing, and Jenna qualified for Pre-K classes. We haven't found out yet where she will be placed.

That's going to be a bit tough for me...it was one thing for Joshy to start school, but Jenna too! WOW! What am I going to do with myself? Granted it's only half days for both, and Jenna will only be going 2-3 days a week. But, that's my last baby!!! I'm happy they are going to be able to help her out and I'm so grateful that my kids are getting a good education. I had heard so many bad things about Haysville, and who knows that may become an issue again when they are older. For now though....we are very impressed!

Last, but not least...Wonderdog has finally gotten his pins out, his little leg is healed. It has been a LONG 9 weeks. He is a whole different pup now that he can run and jump again!

Needless to say, my little crew keeps me quiet busy most days....I wouldn't have it any other way!

just catching up...

2009-09-10T11:39:00.011-05:00

We love going to the park...I'm sure Cocoa will be happy when he gets the pins out of his leg. I have to keep him restrained most the time so he doesn't hurt himself.

My smart kid...he had dirty feet, so he gave them a little bath. And, he didn't leave a mess=a happy mommy!

I think everyone was enjoying playing on the swingset!

Jacob and Devan are together ALL the time. I'm so happy he has found such a wonderful friend!

Aaron was trying to come up with a stategy to beat me at dominos...yeah right, not tonight baby!

While potty training, we allowed Josh to go outdoors...he still tries to get away with it (I promise, only in OUR yard!)

I love cuddlin' with my babies!

Blah!

I adore this little fella...he's just so cute!

We thought these were so pretty. The yellow against the blue sky...Soooo Summertime! I loved the depth of field too...ahhhhh

I wish these were in my yard!

Super Hero's!

Super Star!

Super Sweet!

10 years ago...

2009-08-06T07:37:00.000-05:00

My sweet boy Jacob was born 10 years ago today...

He is such a fun kid...full of laughs!

Here's a handful of pictures from over the years!

He's got a great personality...

A wonderful big brother...

Such a smart kid...

He has such a great imagination!

Love that smile!!!

sometimes, he can be so serious...

I can't believe how quickly the time has passed. Jake you are an amazing boy. You have taught me so much over the years...I know I'm a better person because of you. I know we will have our ups and downs...the one thing that will never change, is how much I LOVE YOU! I'm proud of you son...I can't wait to see what the future holds and watch you grow into a man!

random stuff...

2009-06-30T13:03:00.007-05:00

June was fairly quiet...

My camera has been not wanting to cooperate, so this is all we have to show for our first month of summer break...

Now you see me...

now you don't...

we love our puppy!

I attempted to trim Jenna's bangs....won't do that again!

we love his little face...he is such a silly little dog!

just cuddlin' with her brother...

lil' miss dirt face...

she earned this much needed bath!

we all love cuddling with the wonderdog...

he is such a baby!

I just thought they looked cute sitting together

fun, sun and some other stuff...

2009-05-28T15:22:00.007-05:00

it was such a pretty day out...we decided to play at the park. We were happy to find the fountians were on too!

it was a little cool at first...

but, the shirts soon came off...
Jenna wanted to be like her big brothers...

Cocoa was enjoying the sun...

Jenna had enough for one day...

I thought this was cute with the two of them sitting together...
They started off cuddling...

and both ended up napping...

I just think he's a handsome boy

I love her messy face...

and the windblown look

UV beads, silliness, naptime, and more Cocoa...

2009-05-17T13:47:00.007-05:00

we made UV bead bracelets today...this is inside, they are still white
outside...they change color

Miss Cool!

new outfit from Aunt Sheri

being silly

"my" gameboy!

She was relaxing watching t.v. and I thought this was so cute!

I was having a little nap with the snuggle puppy

close-up!

I was in the shower and he was relaxing in this basket...the basket is the size of a shoe box, so you can tell how little he is...funny fella!

Cocoa the Wonderdog...

2009-05-13T13:04:00.005-05:00

It's funny, he's only been with us for 3 days and he has already made such an impact on us. I still miss Teddy so much, and Cocoa can never replace him...but he sure is making a great addition to our family. He has been through so much too. This is his 5th home in less than 2 months (and he's only 3 months old). His journey began in North Dakota, he traveled to Missouri, and now he resides in Kansas. His first owners said he was vicious and should be put down. My cousin rescued him, but since she already has her hands full she asked her mom to take him. He then went to my aunt, since she travels A LOT she felt he would be better with us. So, he stayed with my mom until we could go get him. He was a bit nervous and grumpy the first day, but is adjusting really well. Jake says he should be called Loco though, because all the crazy stuff he does.

He doesn't like going outside by himself yet.
He LOVES to cuddle, and loves chew toys. He also loves car rides, he rests on my lap or shoulders when we drive.

he likes resting in the sun.

he's probably thinkin...okay, leave me alone already! (We had a good time at PetSmart and the park this morning...I think I wore him out!)

Hello Cocoa!

2009-05-11T16:10:00.002-05:00

Well, we picked up our puppy yesterday. The drive to Missouri was beautiful. Aaron and I haven't had much time lately, so it was such a blessing to be "stuck" in the car together and getting the time to talk and just be together. We had such a great visit with my mom, grandma and my aunts. I only wish we could have stayed longer, but since it was just a "day" trip we had to keep our visit to just a few hours. Cocoa was REALLY nervous at first, but he is adjusting to us just fine. It's been so long since I've had a puppy...man, he is crazy! But, oh so CUTE!!! I hope to have a working camera soon to share pictures of this little fella. Considering what he's been through, he's a really good puppy! We are his 5th home in less than two months, and we found out today at the vet he's only about 3 months old. I still miss Teddy so much, but I have to tell ya, I really am falling in love with Cocoa. Thank you so much to everyone for all your kind words last week....

goodbye Teddy...

2009-05-07T14:43:00.002-05:00

It's with a heavy heart that I write this...

We had to say goodbye to our dog Teddy today. He was our "kid" before I could have kids and later he was more like a patient furry brother. Teddy has been such a loyal friend over the years, we just can't imagine our lives with out him. 15 years is such a long time...

Even though my heart is totally breaking...God has opened the doors for us to love again. I didn't think I would ever want another pet, let alone so soon...we have been asked to take in a puppy. I know the timing seems quick, but I'm sure there is a purpose. We welcome our new friend this weekend. We love you Teddy. Thank you for loving us!

Josh and Jenna's birthday

2009-05-05T06:44:00.001-05:00

miss fancy pants...

a.k.a. Mr T (with all that bling!)

isn't that sweet??? Having a tea party with his sister!
Yeah!

opening their presents...

Cupcake cakes I threw together at work...since their birthdays are only a week apart, (and we were keeping it simple this year) we decided to do the celebrating all at once.

Joshy's Day!

2009-05-03T06:06:00.002-05:00

This little fella has given me a run for my money since day one. I was sick up until about a month before I had him. I had gestational diabetes with Josh. And, since I had a c-section the first time, I didn't know what real labor was like. (I always felt denied the whole "labor and delivery" experience with Jake. I never got one contraction...went in for an emergency c-section.) But, boy oh boy...did Josh ever make up for that! My water broke at 2am. The contractions started pretty quick, and got pretty intense right away. 15 hours later I was finally able to push. Poor little guys head was kinda turned, so it took another 2 hours of pushing. Tada!!! Thanks to his large and turned head, I got to spend 2 more hours in stirrups getting stitched back together. WHEW!!!!

Joshua made his debut at 8:50 pm. He weighed 8 lbs 10.4 ozs, 20 1/4 inches long.

He's always been such a clown

and, he's always made such funny faces!

Amy is giving Josh his first haircut! He didn't like it, but she did a great job! :)

This is Joshy's 2nd birthday. We didn't do a lot for his first, he had been terribly sick.

His favorite place to be...on my shoulders!

He loves playing his toy guitar.

3rd birthday!

4th birthday

Today...He has grown into such a nice little boy!

for your viewing pleasure...the many faces of Joshua. This ended up being our favorite photo shoot. Not at the time mind you, but when we got home and viewed the disc. Some of the faces he made still make us laugh...what a funny kid!
This one is my favorite!!!

Joshua at times can be a challenge, but I think that's because he and I are so much a like. He has a sweet heart and a strong mind. I know he will be a great man some day! I love you sweet boy! Happy Birthday!

Jenna's Day!

2009-04-24T05:29:00.000-05:00

I had been in labor for several days and didn't realize it was true labor since Jenna was not due for several more weeks. I thought I was just having braxton hicks. I went to the hospital at 4am just to get checked, sure enough I was in active labor and they were going to keep me. I was a little sad she was coming early. Since she was to be my last baby, I wanted to be pregnant and enjoy it a little longer. On the other hand, after everything we had been through, I was glad it was almost over and she was safe. It turned out to be an exciting day! We had terrible storms, we even got to listen to tornado sirens while I was pushing!

Jenna arrived 5 weeks early...at 10:11 am. She weighed 7 lbs 2.8 oz, 19 inches long

What a sweet baby!

She had a little stay in NICU for a little less than a week...we were so ready to go home!

Her brothers adore her!

She's always been daddy's little girl! This is one of my favorite pictures of all times...I LOVED catching the milk dripping out of her mouth! Too funny!

Her first birthday

her second birthday

my girly-girl! haha

after her first haircut

today!

Jenna, you have been such a blessing. You don't know about your special journey, about everything you went through....God has blessed you so much already! I can't wait to share it with you some day. You are wonderful my little peanut.

my birthday...

2009-04-22T06:20:00.000-05:00

36 years ago. WOW!!!

big hair days! I did graduate in 1991 after all.one of my senior pictures...

and this is one of the most recent pics I have. (Before I chopped off my hair...sometimes I really miss long hair!)

I must be getting old, because a young friend told me I was O.G. the other day. I smiled and said okay (the whole while I had no clue what O.G. was...so I smiled and said thanks, I figured it was good)! While at lunch with Sheri Friday, I found out what O.G. is...and it is good!

So far, it's turning out to be a pretty good birthday!

a matter of perspective...

2009-04-15T13:06:00.003-05:00

Just last September Dirt mountian seemed SOOOO big, and the kids so little...

Since then Aaron has been moving dirt mountain (now affectionately known as dirt hill) is now small and the kids seem so big...

Or, maybe they really did grow.

On that note, in just 2 weeks my last baby will be leaving the toddler nursery at church and going to kids church. WOW!!! When did that happen???

Easter fun...

2009-04-14T15:18:00.006-05:00

Since we were going to be short on time we opened our Easter baskets the night before, I had to work after church Sunday.

Before we left for church.

Jenna is the only one that wanted to get pictures taken.

Finally got the crew to cooperate a little bit.

After church, we squeezed in some time to color eggs. Things were a bit crazy this year...but still fun.
Tada!

And, then of course due to the weather, we had our egg hunt in the house.

Mommy according to Jake

2009-04-10T17:52:00.000-05:00

What a wise kid...

1. What is something Mommy always says to you? "would you please listen ."

2. What makes Mommy happy?"a clean house."

3. What makes Mommy sad? "when I don't clean up or listen."

4. How does Mommy make you laugh? "when you tell jokes."

5. What was Mommy like as a child? "I don't know, I wasn't there."

6. How old is Mommy? "35"

7. How tall is Mommy? "not a clue"

8. What is Mommy's favorite thing to do? "I know it's not chores."

9. What does Mommy do when you're not around? "I don't know, I'm not here."

10. If your Mommy becomes famous, what will it be for? "art"

11. What is Mommy really good at? "making cakes and icing them"

12. What is Mommy not very good at? "being patient" (oh haha)

13. What does Mommy do for a job? "you work at Dillons in the pastry area."

14. What is Mommy's favorite food? "ummmm....I don't know"

15. What makes Mommy proud of you? "when I don't pull a stick at school, and when I do stuff without you asking."

16. What do you and Mommy do together? "you like to take me places."

17. How are you and Mommy the same? "we have brown hair and glasses."

18. How are you and Mommy different? "I'm nine and you are 35." (again with the age...)

19. How do you know Mommy loves you? "I just know."

20. What does Mommy like most about your Daddy? "I don't know."

21. Where is Mommy's favorite place to be? "with us."

thanks again Joy...this was fun!

my funny boy!

2009-04-10T14:48:00.005-05:00

Joshy and I were looking at pictures this afternoon and came across some of him as a baby. He looks at me and says, "Wow, I sure was young when I was little!" I inquired to what he is now since he was "young" then. His reply, he's a BIG boy. OHHHH! Funny kid!

See, he was "young"!

Mommy according to Josh

2009-04-09T17:34:00.007-05:00

yeah, Josh sat down with me and gave some great answers...what a smart kid (or should I say smarty pants!)

1. What is something Mommy always says to you? "Be good."

2. What makes Mommy happy?"when we are good"

3. What makes Mommy sad? "when we are not good"

4. How does Mommy make you laugh? "funny stuff"

5. What was Mommy like as a child? "I don't know, I wasn't there" (that's a pretty smart answer)

6. How old is Mommy? "I don't bemember"

7. How tall is Mommy? "I can't tell cause you are taller than me"

8. What is Mommy's favorite thing to do? "play with me"

9. What does Mommy do when you're not around? "whatever you want cause we are not here"

10. If your Mommy becomes famous, what will it be for? "I don't know"

11. What is Mommy really good at? "making cakes and cupcakes"

12. What is Mommy not very good at? "i don't bemember"

13. What does Mommy do for a job? "you work at the store and make cakes"

14. What is Mommy's favorite food? "food you eat" hmmm....

15. What makes Mommy proud of you? "being nice"

16. What do you and Mommy do together? "play games"

17. How are you and Mommy the same? "we are family"

18. How are you and Mommy different? "we are not the same...you are a girl I'm a boy, and I am young and you are old"

19. How do you know Mommy loves you? "you say so"

20. What does Mommy like most about your Daddy? "he's a boy"

21. Where is Mommy's favorite place to be? "with us"

Mommy according to Jenna

2009-04-08T12:33:00.001-05:00

I loved reading Joy's interviews with her boys, and decided to borrow the idea and ask my kids...so far Jenna is the only one interested, here's her answers!

1. What is something Mommy always says to you? "I don't rember."

2. What makes Mommy happy?"us make you happy"

3. What makes Mommy sad? "us make you sad"

4. How does Mommy make you laugh? "when you are funny"

5. What was Mommy like as a child? "I don't know, you are growed"

6. How old is Mommy? "5"

7. How tall is Mommy? "5 too"

8. What is Mommy's favorite thing to do? "cupcakes"

9. What does Mommy do when you're not around? "I don't rember"

10. If your Mommy becomes famous, what will it be for? I don't rember that either.

11. What is Mommy really good at? "making cakes"

12. What is Mommy not very good at? "i don't know"

13. What does Mommy do for a job? "you go to work" ahhh, But what do I do there? "makes cakes and cupcakes"

14. What is Mommy's favorite food? "crabby patty's" (I do love cheeseburgers)

15. What makes Mommy proud of you? "being nice"

16. What do you and Mommy do together? "play games"

17. How are you and Mommy the same? "we not, you not a kid"

18. How are you and Mommy different? "you are not little like us"

19. How do you know Mommy loves you? "you cuddle us"

20. What does Mommy like most about your Daddy? "lots stuff"

21. Where is Mommy's favorite place to be? "home"

the great snow...

2009-04-06T13:27:00.003-05:00

I'm slow lately at getting pictures on here. Jake took these for me last weekend while I was at work. I'm glad he did, because by the time I got home all the excitement (and ice and snow) was almost all gone.

Jenna enjoyed staying warm and just watching.

Daddy hard at work

I think the ice looks pretty, I don't think the trees appreciated it very much though...

all the kids thought the icicles were pretty cool

our back steps are in there somewhere???

the limbs were touching the ground...they are normally about 4 feet higher

I got to take these when I got home. Daddy had cleared away quiet a bit (and it was already melting). I had fun watching the kids play.

making a little snow man

maybe I'm just weird...

2009-03-27T10:12:00.003-05:00

But, I LOVE the excitement of the possibility of bad weather. I don't mean I want anyone to be hurt or anything to be damaged, but I really love crazy weather. It's exciting when the sirens blare, and the skies get dark. I love watching the wind and rain howling outside...the lightning flashes, the thunder booms...WOO-Hoo! Maybe it's just being a Kansan??? Maybe it was having a goofy dad who chased the storms (we have some great footage of one, huh Sheri! hehehe). Jake is bummed since it's happening on a weekend which means no snow day...but, they are jazzed at the thought of snow ball fights and sledding. Yep they must be weird too. Well, no matter how weird we are...I hope everyone stays safe, dry and warm. Even if you don't like crazy weather, I hope blessings find you all today!

change is coming...

2009-03-22T17:39:00.003-05:00

well, things have been really hectic here at home...to put it mildly, things have not been going well....so, I gave notice at work. I'm not quitting entirely, just going to work on Saturdays. I think the change will be good. I'm also going to try to pursue doing more cakes from home...so, we'll see how things go! :)

whew...what a week!

2009-03-21T19:01:00.009-05:00

Sheri thought it would be fun to go get mom and have her be here for Brayden's 13th birthday party. This is the first BIG birthday/get together we have had in awhile. It was Great!

I can't believe their baby is 13!!!

video game junkies

one of those goofy self shots...

Grandma was so happy to be here...the kids loved it too!

just having fun...

doesn't she look pretty?

oh yeah, that's classy!

awwweeee!!!

as with tradition, the birthday kid gets the first bite! (he liked his dragon)

he enjoyed his cake!

she looks like a baby doll!

Happy 13th Birthday Brayden...you are turning into such a wonderful young man. I'm so proud of you!!!

While mom was here, we took a drive to Winfield. I'm sure this might seem weird to some people that I'm taking photos of my kids in a cemetary...I just think it's sweet the way they "talk" to him.

Jenna was sniffing all the fake flowers, that cracked me up...

then, they take their laps...

it was a nice quiet drive home after all that running.

Jenna had a fashion show for Grandma!

This was last night...the kids saying goodbye. It's hard to believe it was 6 months ago since mom was here last...and we won't get to see her again til Novemeber.

I wanted to get some pics with The Trotters this morning before we left, but sadly they are sick.

We played outside when we got home from our little road trip. What a beautiful day. My chalk monsters!

and the bubble Queen!

my kiddos, and some new things I learned and made...

2009-03-12T18:40:00.003-05:00

dress-up time

I LOVE hand-me-downs!!!

my foo-foo case!

my "cheese" cake and mice! I thought this was cute.

I had fun making the rooster too! I think making cupcake critters really is my favorite thing to do!

I went to Central and Rock this morning, Laurie showed me a different way to make flowers. She is awesome!

and, she shared with me more cupcake critters. This one is the coolest.

just some cute stuff...

2009-03-01T13:13:00.002-06:00

I love it when the play and pretend together...

nothing beats playing in the dirt with cars...

gotta love tutu's...

my day off...

2009-02-28T13:23:00.004-06:00

We made Jonas a cupcake cake this morning...I was out of some colors and other supplies, but with a little improvising it still turned out okay. Jonas loved it!

Silly kiddos!

It was tasty and Fun!

After seeing our cousins...we had fun chillin' at home. Ahhh, what a nice day!

keepin' it real, finally...

2009-02-26T12:42:00.007-06:00

1. The Fridge 2. Closet/Drawer

3. Kitchen Sink

this wouldn't have been in here, but I hadn't gotten around to unloading...

I made some cupcakes, so mostly this is from that mess...otherwise, all the chores are done! :)

and, beds are all made!!! YEAH!!!

4. Toilet

Mostly clean, and yippee my lid is down too. However, some sweet child took all the TP off the roll and left it for me to find!

5. Favorite shoes

I love slip-on shoes, but hands down flip flops are my fav.

6.Favorite room

toss up between living room and...

yep, the kitchen!

7. What the kids are doing

8.Laundry

done!!!

9. self-portrait

10. Dream Vacation

I can't wait...

to be a full-time stay at home mom again!

and,

woo-hoo (sad but awesome), my last baby is potty training!

It's the simple things!

I'm passing on the challenge to all willing to keep it real!

woo-hoo...

2009-02-20T14:23:00.004-06:00

I have off tomorrow...my first Saturday off since December. I think I'm going to sleep in! And then, spend some much needed time with Aaron and the kiddos! Now if only I could get a Sunday off! :)

Here's some more cakes from this week. I'd like to think that I continue to improve.

I just need to Practice, Practice, Practice!

For Sheri (Kiernan's 10th Birthday) I love doing the cupcake cakes...EASY!!!

And, the Ladybug caked finished! Woo-hoo!

catching up...

2009-02-18T09:17:00.002-06:00

Happy Belated Valentines Day!!! It's been kinda hectic around here the last few days. I am looking SOOOO forward to Spring Break!

Aaron sent these to me at work. It was such a nice surprise.
The kids got me this little basket, and these are all the cards we got. Thanks Grandma!

We didn't get the kids candy, instead the boys got a little lego set and Jenna got a mini My Little pony. They love building legos!

Not sure where the pony got off to.

Oh ya! What a great look. I think I may just have to go this color! NOT!

Poor Teddy had to wear the wig too! Can you tell, he really likes the attention!

They were having a dance off!

Jenna loves her dress up stuff!

My friend Tiff asked if I could throw together some cupcakes Friday morning that looked like a lipstick. This is what I came up with. I think tt turned out cute. All the little girls just loved it!

some new stuff...

2009-02-11T13:30:00.005-06:00

I did these fondant babies for my co-worker (she is making the cake herself but didn't know how to make the fondant stuff). I hope she gives me a picture of the final product.
another angle, without the blankie

these are also going to go on the cake.

Another co-worker liked the idea so much, she asked Deidra and I to make her one too.

This is going on top of Annette's cake next week. I'll post that one when it's all done.

This was for Canaan last week. Sheri likes cupcakes and the mini cake, so I threw this together .

My friend Marsha liked Coopers monkey so much, she asked if there was something I could do with Chrissy's build-a-bear monkey. I wasn't happy with how this turned out...but they liked it so that's what matters most.

Most everyone has already seen Cooper's monkey.

and cakes...I was pretty happy with how this turned out. Of course it wouldn't be me if I didn't point out the flaws...so, for once I'll just be quiet.

this cake, and the mini was for Dawn's daughter.

Of course it wouldn't be a blog if I didn't end with Jenna. I just love when I get her into tights and these little boots!

and, silly grins with pig-tails! :)

kinda exciting!

2009-02-06T12:42:00.002-06:00

Well, this isn't earth shattering news...but I am employee of the month! :) I thought that was pretty cool! The corporate peeps were also in, and are very happy with what I'm doing with the pastry case. Word has it, that soon I may be training others! Whew!!! That part is kinda scary! So, that's all...just wanted to share!

in training...

2009-01-27T09:21:00.007-06:00

I must have been going through cake making/decorating withdrawls while I was stuck home last week. I decided we needed to make cupcakes. I only had to show the kids once how to roll them in the jimmies. Josh did amazingly well...very gentle, his turned out great...just like moms. Jenna on the other hand used the mash and roll method. Effective, just not as "pretty" to look at. However, I am happy to report that they ALL tasted just fine.

Jake said the "bag thingy" is tough to use, but it sure tastes good...

Tada!

Jenna's fashion cracks me up...check out the shoes!

it's been an interesting week...

2009-01-22T19:03:00.003-06:00

Well, if the ankle injury wasn't enough...Jenna has been sick for over a week now. We all had some kind of head and chest thing last week...I thought her yuck butt was just part of that. But, when she started getting worse, (and after Aaron went grocery shopping and was not able to get her favorite crackers) I started to get worried. I thought maybe I was just being paranoid, but I called my Dr. and requested that they check her for salmonella. They called today, she tested positive. We think she is on the mend...we'll just have to keep an eye on her. Talk about scary!!!

cakes, cakes, cakes...

2009-01-21T22:59:00.010-06:00

I just wanted to say thanks to everyone for showing such interest in my cakes. I have only been doing this for about two years, so really I feel like such an infant in the decorating world...I know I have SOOOO much more to learn. These are from the last two years...I hope to have some newer pictures to share in the next few weeks. Thanks for looking and for all the great encouragement!

This was my VERY first cake...long before any classes! HAHA

My first cupcake cake, before I started classes...just free hand

also prior to classes

had just started classes, and was learning how to use certain decorating tips and how to make borders and flowers

After learning how to do pattern transfers

I practiced transfers a lot...

then we started a trend...mini cakes for the birthday person

More mini cakes

mini cake that matches the big cake

or, cupcakes that match

one of my first fondant class cakes

fondant cake final

fondant roses and basket weave

just playing with fondant, making characters

more characters and matching mini cake

my first barbie cake with matching cupcakes

lately, we have been doing a mini cake for the birthday boy or girl, and matching cupcakes...easier to hand out at parties!

and, last but not least...these are my most FAVORITE ever...they turned out better than I expected.

guess what I did last night...

2009-01-21T16:55:00.002-06:00

Okay, this picture is kinda gross...That is my right ankle. It's not a great picture, but can you see how little my piggies are? I just had to share!

I had just gotten to work, was walking through the parking lot, and I just stepped down wrong or something. I decided it didn't feel toooooo bad, so I decided to go ahead and work. By the time I got home, I could no longer move my ankle or even stand. I went to the Dr. this morning. I tore 2 ligaments in my ankle. I'll be off work til Saturday. Note to self...next time something makes an icky popping noise and hurts....go home!

work, work, work!

2009-01-18T20:59:00.004-06:00

Helen and I worked on this cake yesterday and today... it was for a little girls 1st birthday.

Some of the goof-balls I work with...

The Foo-Foo Case
Bride and Groom Strawberries...

I got some fun ideas for cupcakes (thanks to the book Hello Cupcake! and other resources)...

I loved the little yorkies, so I had to do a few of those....

hehehe, cute!

yep, more cupcakes!

The T.V. Dinner cupcakes really cracked everyone up!

what we've been up too...

2009-01-15T09:40:00.005-06:00

Jenna, just being Jenna...funny girl!

I decided to attempt to make my dad's scrapple on New Years. This was something he did after every holiday to use up left-over turkey or ham. Sheri was sweet and emailed me the recipe. I thought it would be fun to remember him this way, and carry on the tradition...but, it only made me sad. It just wasn't as much fun making it and eating it by myself. (Aaron was sweet and tried it, though he used to call it Crapple.) Maybe next year the Trotter's and the Nichols' can get together and try the old recipe again.

Pretty easy to make...basically cornmeal and a few other ingredients...

It is supposed to set up over night, and then you slice it and fry it...(I know, it looks gross...but it really is yuummmmyyy!!!)

Final product with syrup...Gotta have the syrup. It wasn't as good as dad's, but not bad for my first try!

While Aaron was off work (and the weather was decent), he decided to work on Dirt Mountian/Mud Pit. They reduced the dirt to Dirt Hill. Woo-hoo. Another weekend and maybe another truck load of dirt, and I'll have a normal back yard to mow! YEAH!!!

Working hard...

One little shovel full at a time...

and, just more of Jenna being Jenna...gotta love her style!

Oh, and work has gotten interesting. Besides the hours sucking, and all the drama working with women...it's not tooooo bad. I have been moved to the foo-foo case. So, I get to play with "gourmet" desserts now, dressing up some and creating some of my own pasteries. Some of the stuff I have been getting to do is pretty cool. I need to take my camera and start getting some pictures. We made the cutest "bride and groom" chocolate covered strawberries the other day!

odds and ends...

2008-12-30T17:34:00.003-06:00

I was trying to capture Jenna's green beard...you can't see it very well, but her eyes just looked so pretty in this picture! (maybe it's the green, it helped accent her eyes! HA)

Jake got his new glasses today...

the weather was nice, so we worked on moving dirt mountian...

Jenna Bug!

Yesterday was soooo pretty too, so we went to the zoo!

I'm really liking my haircut...so easy to deal with!

Christmas...

2008-12-30T17:17:00.005-06:00

Jenna loves her pony from Grandma Dee

Riding her pony

Here's a few pictures from Christmas morning...

Playing with the new toys...

Jake with his Funkeys

Christmas Eve...

2008-12-25T23:13:00.002-06:00

Just makin' cookies...my little helpers did great!

something different...

2008-12-18T12:43:00.003-06:00

Well, I got a wild hair (pardon the pun) and decided it was time for a change. Some of you might know that my hair was close to the middle of my back a few weeks ago. I decided to give it a little chop and take it back to the tops of my shoulders. Well....yesterday, I needed more change and whacked it off. Got rid of the grey today too!!! I have had long hair long enough that it's kinda wierd with out it now. I keep trying to pull it out of my coat or shirts and trying to run a brush through it like there's more. So, anyways change is good...and much QUICKER to dry and style. Whatcha think???

Join the Christmas Tour!

2008-12-13T16:31:00.018-06:00

My friends Angie and Joy started this tour on their blogs. What a fun idea...I too love this time of year, the celebration of the birth of Jesus, the music, the food, the beautiful lights and decorations, being with family and friends...all of it!

I'm having trouble getting Mr. Linky to cooperate...(and it's getting late), so I'll have to work on this later. For now, I hope you enjoy our decorations.

Let's get started outside!

My dad LOVED putting up Christmas lights, I think that was his favorite part of the holiday! I inherited his deer and trees this year (along with a few dozen strands of lights!) They make a lovely addition to our new home.

Our Snow People

My friend Nellma made me this sweet wreath

I love glazed pottery and snowmen...so these little fellas JUST had to come home with me!

Our tree used to be very traditional, ALL red and green ornaments. But, the last few years I started collecting unique ornaments. I really love unpacking them every year...each has a story! Here are a few of my favorites...

~My sister Cate hand-painted this one~

~My glass and wire cardinal, it's artsy~

~I just thought this one was too cute!~

I just liked this one!

~ All of my kiddos "1st" ornaments~

This was on my parents 1st tree as a couple. This is the only one left!

Jake and I made these. There is a set of five, one to represent each of us. They are recycled from ornaments from Aaron's moms last tree.

my collection of snowmen

Our hand-made stockings. My grandma made mine, and I have continued the tradition. Jenna's is still in the works. I hope to have hers done by next year.

I love Willow Tree figures. Aaron's gift to me last year was the start of this collection.

My dad's fishing santa

The kids tree downstairs. They get a new ornament each year. I think this is their favorite part, looking at the ones from year past, and getting to decorate their tree, "their" own way!

Well, that's it for this year! I hope you enjoyed the tour!

let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...

2008-12-09T21:16:00.004-06:00

He had enough of the cold for today!

Ahhhhh!!! Time for some hot chocolate!

They were having such a fun time!!!

We worked on snowmen yesterday...just in time!!!

busy, busy, busy...

2008-11-29T12:37:00.007-06:00

The kids after getting stuffed!

This was the very first Thanksgiving we made the WHOLE meal by ourselves (I should have taken a picture of the spread...), we usually just have to make a few sides for potluck. It went pretty well, different...but good. It was sad without mom and dad this year, and not getting together as a family. So, yeah, it was okay...I know next year will be even better! :)

After dinner, we got the decorations up!

And, Aaron got my dad's deer set up...that too was sadder than I imagined...he would have liked what we did with them. Hopefully we will get lights up on the house next weekend.

Josh LOVES being batman daily...I thought it was so cute when he passed out from all the hero saving activities the other day!

Got Mr. Freeze another sweater, the other one was too small. He doesn't seem to mind being dressed up!

Woo-hoo, we got a new bed (our other was getting REALLY old).

just hanging out on the new bed...we ALL like it...SOOOOO comfy! And, it's a king size, so now we can get more bodies into it more comfortably!!!

We slept so awesome last night!

Jenna got a big girl bed too!!!

Can you tell she likes it???

Work has been kinda crazy...more hours than I expected...but, it's okay. I get more figured out everyday, and I'm learning lots. So, besides a few negative things, it's mostly going well. I'm thankful for everything this year...even all the TOUGH lessons! We have learned and grown so much...and blessed more than we deserve.

some fun stuff...

2008-11-21T11:05:00.002-06:00

Before and after in my kitchen...

Jenna's room...

I love Uppercase living! I can't wait to get the one up in the living room (and get MORE for the rest of the house!!) Too fun!

Had to get Mr. Freeze a little sweater!

just more silly Jenna...it's supposed to be a necklace, but looks more like something out of the 80's! You go Jenna!!!

enjoying the weather, and some other stuff...

2008-11-17T10:08:00.000-06:00

Aaron gave Teddy a hair cut, now he doesn't look like a wooly mammoth!

I just love when they play together!

hmmm....not sure what he's thinking here

just being a silly girl

Nice daddy...getting miss sticky paws cleaned up!

I think this must be the start of a new fashion trend!

whew!

2008-11-11T10:08:00.021-06:00

I love these boots and tights!

Who needs toys, when you have a giant leaf pile to play in...

I'm glad I took a picture of my pretty tree when I did...
not so pretty after all that crazy wind!

More of nature girl!

having fun...

2008-11-03T19:43:00.006-06:00

I love Autumn

This was our tree just yesterday...I was wondering if it was ever really going to change colors, or just stay mostly green. Most of the trees in the neighborhood have turned and started to lose leaves...

and then today...woo-hoo, it's really pretty!

Jake realized he likes climbing trees

and they all realized how much fun it is to play in the leaves

aahhhh, if only they were like this ALL the time :)

I love this shirt

she loves this hair...

They are pretty cool kids!

well...

2008-11-03T12:38:00.002-06:00

I start a different new job on Saturday. I really loved Target! But, another option became available (that pays more and is closer, with the same hours). So...I'm going to be a cake decorator at Dillons. I'm sure it will be exciting!

our night...

2008-11-01T10:18:00.006-05:00

Glittery Fairy

Batman #1

Batman #2

I kept trying to get Jake to smile. He said, "I'm batman...I don't smile!" So, here is Mr Serious!

My Batmen and Fairy

Chloe "Goin' to the Hop".

I love the poodle skirt. Annette made all the costumes herself...she's just too crafty!

Joe "Luke Skywalker"

Keegan "Rodeo Clown"

Blake "The Joker"

Jenna enjoying tea with Chrissy...

Chloe and Emma

We played a few games...

~pass the hot pumpkin~
I need to plan better next year, I almost forgot about the games. I think we were just all so excited to be hangin out and trick-or-treating. At one point, I think the kids were having more fun handing out candy to the trick-or-treaters.

~Pin the nose on the pumpkin~

Almost the whole gang. I didn't take the picture early enough. Sorry...Josef, Chrissy, and Jesse are missing. And my kids took their costumes off already. Overall I think it was a good party, everyone had fun. Next time, I need to get the adults in the pictures (and in costume)!

Red Day!

2008-10-30T08:42:00.005-05:00

He loves his soccer jersey, so that's what he chose to wear for "red" day!

Something interesting Jake learned this week and he shared this morning...Did you know that toads ONLY hop when they are frightened? I inquired what they do the rest of the time...they drag/walk to get around. Huh! See, you do learn something new everyday...I had no idea!

Josh with his vampire bat "Sentz". When grandma bought the bat, we asked Josh what he wanted to name him and he said sense (or cents)??? So, since we aren't sure what he's saying exactly we went with Sentz as the spelling.

Getting all Fancy!

Oh, and...I cut my hair. It was almost to the middle of my back. I just wanted a little change. :)

Camo Day!

2008-10-29T09:53:00.006-05:00

You won't "see me" using drugs!

Jake was excited, he got to be on the JOA (Jaguars on the Air) this morning to show some of his antique coins. He went to school a half hour early to be recorded and the segment airs shortly after. hhmmmmm....I thought he was shy???

Jake's class has been studying money. That's when he got the idea of sharing our coins. We think it's kinda neat how old some of the coins are...

a couple are from 1893 & 1909.

~I talked to Ms. Hollenbeck (the principal) after school and she said Jake did great. A little nervous in front of the camera...but still great! How cool! I only wish I could have seen it!~

The PTO sponsored hair painting today too. Black and Silver, very cool! It should be fun to wash out tonight.

p.s. work went really well last night. I think it's going to be a lot of fun once I get through training. Everyone was soooo nice! And, everyone at home survived without mommy! Whew!!! :)

my last morning as a SAHM...

2008-10-28T09:48:00.000-05:00

After getting Jake off to school I zipped home and got our chores done. Dinner is in the works and I have Aaron's and Jake's lunches packed for tomorrow. I am hoping that we can get off to a good start and get down some routines. It still seems weird that I'm not going to be with the kids all the time...it will all be good though! I know God has much in store for us! :)

since chores were done, I printed off some sheets for us to decorate

Tada!

Then, we celebrated with "wally-pops"!

Red Ribbon Week

2008-10-28T08:52:00.001-05:00

for those who don't know what Red Ribbon Week is...it teaches kids about drug awareness. Each day has a theme. Monday was a western theme, but Jake was home sick so we missed it. He was excited about getting back to school today. (I'm just glad everyone is feeling better!)

Today was "Inside Out", don't let drug's turn you inside out!

We got this T-shirt from our friend Blake, we think it's really cool because it's messed up. It must have been a printing error or something. His shirt IS inside out, you can see the image...it should be on the other side. Cool, huh???

favorite things...

2008-10-28T08:42:00.000-05:00

we LOVE slippers...

just being a silly girl...

all boy...Joshy's bed is home to a bat and frog...

Jake's bed is wild kingdom...all sorts of friends. Not sure where he sleeps exactly, but these guys are all cozy.

We enjoy puzzles too! This is Jenna's first.

Josh was cruzin' right through these.

a little bit of this, a little bit of that...

2008-10-25T16:57:00.000-05:00

New sun glasses

yep, he's really not going to like me someday taking pictures like these! (couldn't help myself...)Hehehehe
We got new tennis shoes yesterday, Joshy loved them so much that was the first thing he put on this morning. I'm glad he finally decided to put on clothes too!

He seems to grow bigger each day! Where did my little boy go???

Posers!

Tada, new shoes! (and I got my clothes on!)

New shoes too! She looks soooo big girl!

During lunch Jenna decided to smear her shake in her hair...Nice! It did become quite stiff, maybe we can use this as hair gel next time we run out.

Guess What???

2008-10-22T16:02:00.000-05:00

I got a J O B today...I was at home feeling kinda icky, and sorry for myself...Sheri called me and told me about a cake decorating job. I hopped in the shower, cruised on over, filled out the ap, followed by a 1st interview, then a second interview...and wa-lah! They offered me a job! WOW!!!! I start next Tuesday!

just for fun...

2008-10-21T07:10:00.000-05:00

Aaron and Heather

1:: What are your middle names?Carroll and Lynne

2:: How long have you been together?17 years, married 15

3:: Do you have any children together?yep, 2 boys-Jake 9yrs old and Josh 4 yrs old, 1 girl-Jenna 2yrs old

4:: What about pets?1 dog

5:: Did you go to the same school?no, he's five years older than me

6:: Are you from the same hometown?yes

7:: Do you live in the same town now?yep

8:: Who is the smartest?depends on what we're talking about...I think we can hold our own

9:: Who is the most sensitive?probably me

10:: Where is the first place you went to eat as a couple?Willie C's

11:: Do you wear matching clothes?only on accident every once in awhile

12:: Where is the furthest you have traveled as a couple?Texas

13:: Who has the best group of friends?he'd say me (he doesn't think he has any friends)

14:: Who has the craziest ex[es]?neither

15:: Who has the worst temper?he would say me

16:: Who does the cooking?Heather mostly

17:: Who's more social?probably Heather

18:: Who is the neat freak?yup, Heather again

19:: Who is the most affectionate?both of us

20:: Who is the most stubborn?probably pretty equal there

21:: Who hogs the bed?probably Aaron (or the kids when they sneak in)

22:: Who wakes up earlier?Aaron

23:: Where was your first date?Willie C's then we went to the park

24:: Who said "I Love You" first?Aaron (but I always say I was thinking it first)

25:: How did you spend your 1st year anniversary?ummmm...I don't remember.Probably dinner and a movie

26:: Who has the bigger family?Aaron kinda, we don't see them much though

27:: Do you give/get flowers often?not like I used to

28:: How do you spend the holidays?it's just us now

29:: Do you think you will ever get married?not again, been there done that!

30:: Are things good now?Yep! We have had tough moments, but it's made our relationship stronger...he's my best friend. It will only get better each year! ;0)

what a game...

2008-10-19T16:28:00.001-05:00

We went to The Thunder's opening game vs. Oklahoma last night...

Aaron was so sweet to stay home with Josh and Jenna (he doesn't like hockey...what is wrong with that guy???)

Cristina, Jake, Blake, and me...

Brit and Kinsey

We had a blast...even though they lost.

on the road again...

2008-10-18T14:27:00.000-05:00

We left for Cherokee at 7am this morning...mom came back to Wichita for a visit. It's crazy how fast the last two weeks flew by.
The goofy travelers!

After we dropped mom off, Jake and I stopped by to see Big Brutus.

In the scoop!

~At the controls~

I love the scenery on the way! and I love cows... and old red barns...
and the long winding roads!

It was a beautiful day and a good drive...but, I'm glad to be home!

when you least expect it...

2008-10-16T09:45:00.000-05:00

The Lord blessed me recently with the gift of insight. Over the years I was always so jealous of my sister's relationship with my dad. He always treated her like a princess, buying her things, being so cute and gentle. And me...well, I thought he was kinda tough on me. Then the other day when I was driving, and thinking about all these things, the Lord laid upon my heart that I had gotten the best gift of all...Dad's time. I think most of the time he really thought of me as a son, and that's what he raised me to be. I didn't have tea parties or play dress up, instead I learned how to work hard and get dirty. For example, he took me to Topeka on the weekends one summer to help his friend rebuild a house. I spent that summer chucking sheet rock and boards out a window into a dumpster. In the mornings before going to work we would sit out by the pond and fish. We didn't really talk about anything, just sit...and just enjoy the company. Another summer I worked in Eldorado with Dad wiring a house. I pulled wire and hung electrical boxes. It was hard work. But ya know, I really didn't mind...I actually liked it. He even told me one day that I had worked harder than most men he worked with. I didn't realize until recently what a compliment that was. Besides working, we camped, fished, I learned how to fix things, mow, split wood, change tires, how to properly throw a football, etc. There was even this time in Jr. High when a boy grabbed my rear, and I turned around and punched him in the eye. (BTW that boy and I became terrific friends, I really wasn't some kind of boy hating meaner). However, my dad LOVED telling that story...over the years it even became somewhat of a tall tale. Instead of just a black eye...I knocked that boy out. He loved anything rough and tough. I have to admit, to this day I still love watching anything from John Wayne to Steven Segall. Give me a good ole' spaghetti western with Clint Eastwood anyday!

Thank you Lord for showing me that even though I wasn't a princess I was loved and I did make my dad proud. Thank you for giving me the gift of time! Thank you for giving me strength (that I didn't even know I had) to help get us through our darkest time. My heart still aches, and I miss dad so much! It's comforting to know though...I will see him again someday.

I just want to add that my mom is just a special. She has taught me many things too. This isn't about just me really, the entire family is still struggling with his passing. I have just been thinking so much of him lately. I can't believe he's been gone almost one year. Anyways, I just wanted to share what I have learned.

In years past...

2008-10-14T08:56:00.001-05:00

we would to go to Prairie Pines to pick out pumpkins. Sadly though, this year they have limited hours. It was becoming a tradition to take the kids pictures in front of the big measuring stick so we could compare their growth over the years. (Thanks Dawn...it was her great idea!) I hope we get out there in the next week or two to continue the tradition. If not, maybe we can start a new tradition going to Bergman's! :)

Going to the corn maze...

2008-10-12T10:06:00.000-05:00

We went to Bergman's , our first maze ever!

Riding out to the field...

Navigating the 16 acre maze was fun. We originally thought about doing the maze in the dark. We are so glad we didn't. It was tough enough for us in day light with a map...maybe when the kids get bigger we'll be brave enough to go after dark.

We won some tickets to play carnival games...all we had to do was find the signs in the maze and answer trivia questions.

The kids each picked out a pumpkin they could carry. That's always our favorite part...picking out a pumpkin to paint!

Jenna dropped as soon as we walked through the door!

a little something...

2008-10-09T08:06:00.001-05:00

This is an email I got this morning...I thought it was a cute and had to share!

I hired a plumber to help me restore an old farmhouse, and after he had just finished a rough first day on the job, a flat tire made him lose an hour of work, his electric drill quit, and his ancient one ton truck refused to start. While I drove him home, he sat in stony silence. On arriving, he invited me in to meet his family. As we walked toward the front door, he paused briefly at a small tree, touching the tips of the branches with both hands. When opening the door he underwent an amazing transformation. His face was wreathed in smiles and he hugged his two small children and gave his wife a kiss. Afterward he walked me to the car. We passed the tree and my curiosity got the better of me. I asked him about what I had seen him do earlier. 'Oh, that's my trouble tree,' he replied. 'I know I can't help having troubles on the job, but one thing's for sure, those troubles don't belong in the house with my wife and the children. So I just hang them up on the tree every night when I come home and ask God to take care of them. Then in the morning I pick them up again. Funny thing is,' he smiled, 'when I come out in the morning to pick 'em up, there aren't nearly as many as I remember hanging up the night before.'

what a nice surprise...

2008-10-03T19:21:00.001-05:00

Sheri brought baby Davynn to see us. As you can see...my kids LOVE babies!

She thought Davynn was a dolly...

...until she moved! Jenna thought she was pretty cool!

"awwee, mom...can we have another one"???

After seeing them with Davynn, makes me wish I could...they were all soooo cute together!

hehehe, sucking her little thumb!

Jake wanted to keep her to himself!

Joshy said,"awe, it's cute!" I said, "it's a baby, her name is Davynn!"

"oh, ya...I knew that!"

"Okay, I have had enough of these kids! Where is my mommy!!!"

It's funny...Jenna seems so little to me...

until she held that little baby! Wow! All of a sudden she looked so big!

at the park...

2008-10-02T11:47:00.000-05:00

Jake has been doing really well in school this year . Woo-hoo, he got all A's this semester. He's an A and B student normally, so we are excited to see this report card. Anyways, he was out of school today, and we decided to take in the nice weather and go to the park.

Josh and Jenna LOVE the sand and water tables...

Just hanging out

Tada...

(of course, we had to take the tutu with us!)

Working hard....

at the zoo...

2008-10-02T10:20:00.000-05:00

I'm a little behind on getting pictures on here. We went to the Zoo Monday with my friend Dawn, her son Austen and her daycare kids. We had such a nice day.
This is Dawn! Jenna felt the need to be a monkey!
This is Austen! Jenna could not stop hugging that boy!

All my kids love frogs! That is always the highlight of our zoo trips.

Isn't he cute!

Okay, so they are not cuddly...but he sure is cute! He was picking up these tiny leaves with his claws and having a little snack. Doesn't it look like he's smiling. (sorry the shots are fuzzy...the windows had such a bad glare!)

The Whole Gang!

can't remember what I did...but she was not happy. Not having a princess moment...OR is she!

The Layer's of Jake!

2008-10-01T08:35:00.000-05:00

Serious
Silly

Fearless
Hero
Patriotic

Big Brother!

Pet Lover

Monkey

Student

Dare devil

Lego maniac

and a friend!

a little something for today...

2008-09-30T13:16:00.000-05:00

Sheri (33) and Saidra's (7) birthdays are today...I wanted to surprise them with a little something. I made them each a mini cake and then cupcakes for the rest of the Trotter crew.

This is my first attempt with making fondant butterflies. I love decorating mini cakes, they are so quick and easy. I haven't done basket weave in awhile either. But, over all I think they turned out pretty.

Joshy's World

2008-09-29T10:47:00.000-05:00

His Many Jobs

Working with Daddy-has on his safety glassesExcavating-has his shovel

Being a daddy-feeding and changing baby

His Many Disguises

ARMY MAN

BATMAN

ALIEN

CHEF

SPY

His Keen Fashion Sense

Great hair, and smile

Check out the foot wear...

Groovy Shades...

the latest in fashion trends...capes!

and what great head gear!

Finally, daily life

Bike riding...
sock puppets...
Shaving in the tub...
and...a potty break (I'm sure this will lead to my demise one day)!

coming soon...all about Jacob!

just for fun...

2008-09-27T21:51:00.000-05:00

The many looks of Jenna

The Princess Collection

This one is my favorite...note the finger in the nose pose!

Hat and fashion collection

Diva

GI Jane

Chef Jenna

Nature Girl

and finally, hair-styles

I styled, she re-styled

again...styled, re-styled

Her own fab fixin's

Coming soon...the many moods of Joshy!