The Koenig Family

Just another day

2009-03-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

This week has been busy. My hubby's bro and sister in law came into town for a few days. We had so much fun seeing them and having Uncle "B" rowdy up my boys right before bedtime. We all love them and had a great time having them here.

As most of you know, my mom is getting married. I am planning and decorating and am grateful to have a friend helping me. Last night we got so much done and I feel like I just finished a big report for school or something. Feels good to have it all down on paper--seeing how it turns out may be a different story. But I think it will be really nice.

Today during co-op for the boys, I took Abby for a quick shopping trip. I found her a cute dress for the wedding and found Carter a nice suit. I was SO excited to find them, only to get home and find out that the suite coat doesn't match the pants! I'm really hoping I can return it and get a good set. Carter tried it on and looked like G-Q smooth! I bought the boys matching ties, too. I really enjoy finding cute stuff for my kids, at real stores. By real stores, I mean most of my shopping for the kids is done at Once Upon a Child, garage sales, or hand-me-downs. Don't let me fool you though, I'm all about finding a good sale at a "real" store. End of the season sales are great :)

And now we're home. I'm enjoying the sound of Abby making noises at the flowers and rocks in a bowl I have on the table. She keeps making sounds, and then whispering to each item. Wonder what she is saying. She's probably explaining why her face is getting red for a moment and then quickly back to normal color--then back to red. Thank goodness those rocks and flowers can't smell, because I know what she's doing. I'm off to get the diaper and wipes....

Say What?

2009-03-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

Today was a fun, interesting day. I took Abby to the eye doctor, which went well. Then I had arranged to have my mother-in-law watch the two littles, while I took Brandon to the Art Museum. I was a bit sceptical after what happened last week when I took the youngest two. I thought Brandon would love it, but wasn't for sure and I didn't want to have any bad memories resurface from last week. It was that bad.
Brandon and I had a great time learning and laughing together! We played in the kids area, did the Egypt Live Forever tour, and then went to look at the art displayed in the different rooms. Last week we didn't even make it through the Egypt tour--therefore nothing past that part. But it was a blessing in disguise. Let me explain.
As we enter the first room Brandon and I are looking at the art work on the walls. Brandon was very excited to see the hanging art, as one of his favorite movies is with a character that goes to an art museum. Now HE was actually at one looking at the artwork. When low and behold Brandon comes along a picture and says, "Hey mom, look at this one." It wasn't like an excited,"Hey mom, look at this one!" Is was more like an uncertain, "Hey mom, look at this one." I turn to see a picture of a nude women looking into a mirror that was really 3-D like. It was not the art I was expecting to see---or wanted to see!!! We had a good teaching moment about "art" and nudity. So I unintentionally introduced my 6 year old to porn today. So that was quite awkward. Then we leave that room and come across some sculptures. He was very interested in the sculptures.....until we came upon one he didn't understand. Why wouldn't my 6 year old not know what a naked torso of a man down to his private looked like! One that was missing arms and had only one half leg. I had to explain that one. He had a smirk when I said, "They do the nude stuff with the women and men." As soon as we walked away from that odd sculpture--we see a whole naked man sculpture. Come on!! So we would skip the rooms when we saw nudity. Brandon was pretty funny and when he looked in one he said, "Oh mom, you don't want to go into this one!" Crazy that even at 6 year old, they know somethings not right when people show their private parts. Next time I'll know to bring a blindfold :)
Other then that section, we had a total blast. I LOVE spending time with my family. It's really fun to want to hang out with your kids. And I feel so blessed to have them in my life. And Neal's alright too :)

Beautiful day!

2009-03-17T18:28:00.000-07:00

Today was beautiful! 70 degrees!!!--that's what I'm talkin 'bout. We went on a family bike ride tonight and it was SO fun. Except-Carter has to get out of training wheels--when he tries to go up hills the little wheels just spin and spin--he gets so frustrated and I feel so bad for him. For Brandon's upcoming birthday, I took him to get a new bike today. He LOVED that. He loved being able to take it for a test spin and that a friend was our salesman and taught Brandon all about the bike. Brandon has been on cloud 9 all day. (Just wait till his actual birthday--we'll see how excited he is then when we don't get him anything else.)

It's so refreshing to spend time outside and to see neighbors out in about.

Go Green!

2009-03-16T16:17:00.000-07:00

You're probably thinking this title entry is for St. Patty's Day, but it's not. I've been teaching the kidos about going green lately. Today we took a trip to one of the "Go Green" adventures in Groveport. We learned how to save the planet :) and then met a sweet frog-who freaked Abby out. I thought he was a cute little thang and the boys loved it. Then we went nature searching, hoping to catch a frog or two in our nets. No such luck-a bit too cold today. We had a great time. And--instead of seeing a nasty looking duck, geese, turkey(see other entry) we saw two beautiful swans!! They were friendly too-not like those annoying geese and ducks you see all over. In fact-I must be going through a bird phobia because I have been having dreams about the ugly geese around here lately. My last dream, I was running them all over with my car and was even hauling through ponds to destroy them--I'd say I have issues :)

Now Neal's pulling in with dinner and then we'll enjoy our FHE :) Can't wait. Talk to ya'll later. Hope everyone has a great week!

Go Buckeyes!

2009-03-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

Don't know if you had a chance to check out the Big 10 tournament games today--but OSU won:) YEAH!! (I love college b-ball) Neal took Brandon and they had a great time. I was jealous. Instead, I decided to take my 4 yr old and 2 yr old to an Art Museum. What in the world was I thinking?! The first half hour was cool, but then once we weren't in the kid section anymore, it was quite the adventure. There is nothing like taking your hands on learners, who touch everything and can't even sit through a 2 minute family prayer, to a museum. Ok-some can, but not mine. Talk about pulling my hair out. I went with 2 other sweet mothers and their obedient 4 yr olds. So-that made me feel like mother of the year when my kids are acting crazy and everyone else is enjoying spending the day with their kids. Oh well, we have good days and normal days. Today was a normal one :) ha!

After the museum, I decided that we were going to get some pizza and then watch the game at home. Great decision! I GPS'd where the nearest Pizza Hut was, drove all the way there in ghetto land to find out it wasn't there anymore! So I try another one--not there either. Not adding up to a relaxing afternoon of pizza and the game. So I finally drive to the one I know (semi-close to the house) The pizza turned out fabulous and I can't tell you how many pieces I indulged in--bring it on!! (my hubby hates Pizza Hut, so I get it whenever he's away) :)

So a close game, turned into a big W for the Buckeyes and I felt refreshed. Just what I needed. I was able to spend a great afternoon with my 2 littles and then guess what!!? My 4 year old asks if we can go back to the museum. WHAT!! I'll save that trip for dad.

Everyone stay healthy

2009-03-11T20:29:00.001-07:00

Today started with my oldest, Brandon, running a fever that started late last night. His temp was 103.8 under the arm! I talked to the doctor and he told me that he has seen a lot of virus going around. That you just need to do all you can to keep the fever down and ride it out. So if your little ones have a fever and no other symptoms, you may just have one of these viruses. Brandon's temp would spike, then go down, then spike. I'm not a doctor, but that's what mine said-so this might save you a unnecessary trip to the doctors office. (i had called and left a message for the dr. and then i decided to just make an appt.--right before I called to schedule the appt. my doctor called back) So many of you have had sick littles, or have been sick yourself. I hope you are feeling better. This one day nice, next day crappy weather doesn't help either. My healthy kids were dying to go out and play today. Just too cold. And we had two school activities planned today and we were all pretty bummed not to have been able to go. This staying inside stuff is awful! I REALLY hope Brandon feels better in the morning so we can go to co-op. We missed last week because Carter had this virus and both boys had croup--not going to co-op made both boys sad. So they (and me) are really hoping we can go tomorrow.

Alright--I'm going to bed after watching the depressing news.

Oh-BTW, I did post pictures of the ugly duck, geese, turkey bird I saw yesterday at the pond. It's on my fb page. Check it out--it is a site!!

Great days ahead

2009-03-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

Today was so beautiful! It was warm and very sunny--which means Spring is on it's way, right??? Not in Ohio! Tomorrow we are suppose to see a 40 degree difference then today's temp. Go figure. But I am holding on that we will see brighter days soon.

And for today--we enjoyed it! I took the kids to a near-by pond and we unloaded some old bread. We had a great time. Carter enjoyed chasing the geese and Brandon explored around the pond looking for the geese that weren't getting any. Abby threw bread and then would hang on to me like the ducks and geese might try her too. The geese swarmed us like we were celebrities or something. I mean, real red carpet treatment--wouldn't leave us alone.

After sharing bread with the ducks, we went on a nice walk and checked out the nature. Fun stuff. Then tonight--we grilled out. I LOVE the smell of the grill and having the window and doors open. I'm really looking forward to spring, I'm telling ya!

And--the best part of the day--I finally worked out!! I know--most of you do this and you are my heroes. It takes all that I have to get up early so I can work out. I actually did it today. Isn't it funny that once you work out you feel like 10 lbs lighter. Then once you eat your first cookie after the workout you feel 10 lbs heavier? I hope I feel good tomorrow and can get my tail out of bed. Sure would like to feel good again today.

Hope everyone is doing well. You are wonderful ladies. Thanks for welcoming back into the blog world.

Fun on Mondays

2009-03-09T17:40:00.000-07:00

I'm not a big fan of starting Mondays, but I love Monday nights!!! They are my favorite night of the week. It's the night of the week when the whole family is together-it's called Family Home Evening(FHE). When dad gets home, the fun starts. We let the phone go unanswered, the tv./electronics are off, and we are ready for some great times together. We pray, sing songs, have a nice spiritual lesson (which we take turns doing) and then of course snacks and games. I just have to say, there is NOTHING like having children teach you. Last week my sons, Brandon and Carter, team taught about blessings. Carter held up pictures, while Brandon taught us what was happening in the pictures. Brandon had picked out the pictures by himself. (We have a blue filing folder/book that has pictures and stories from the Scriptures.) I sat and watched and thought how pleased our Heavenly Father must be when tiny families meet together and share what life is really about, especially with so much "wrong" going on in the world. I am grateful for my family and love them so much.

Tonight we learned about Helamen's 2000 warriors and my hubby and the children all paid a nice tribute to me as a mom. (Maybe they felt they had to since the 2000 warriors mothers were the bomb!) It's so awesome hearing your kids say, "I want to share my testimony, that mom is the boss". hee hee :) just kidding.

We just finished making banana muffins for our snack. They smell wonderful and I'm so ready to stuff my cheeks. There goes the timer---peace out!!

Why am I awake?

2009-03-08T20:59:00.000-07:00

Hey friends! I'm awake and it's almost the next day--it's midnight baby:) I'm about to start howlin at the moon.

The fam is feeling better. Everyone stayed home from church--except me. I actually got to go and learn for once :) No kids to split up, no husband to wake up. It was very nice.

I made a dope dinner tonight-roast, mashed potatoes, corn, peas, and bread. The kids didn't eat so well, but Neal ate like a champ and that made me so happy. It's hard to eat when your sick and the kids haven't eaten well in a few days.

I've been spending most of the afternoon uploading pics to facebook. I'm posting a lot of old school photos when I use to work with the youth at church. It's fun. I really miss that calling!!!!!!!!!!!! I love working with the youth and they have the best leaders. Some of you are still their leaders and I am so jealous!! You have the best callings ever :)

So now that I've gone through a lot of pics, my eyes are all blurry. But--I have to pay tribute to the blog baby. I'm getting back into the groove. Tomorrow's task--change this boring background!! (thanks for the email Andrea.--I guess I won't have to add the racey backgrounds I ran into online :)...) Night all--I'm off to beddy booskie.

I'm back....

2009-03-07T15:11:00.000-08:00

Today started with me working my tail off by sterilizing everything in site. All the boys-Neal, Brandon and Carter are all sick. They all have fevers, aces, and the boys have croup. It's been pretty miserable around here, needless to say--lots of whining and mom getting cabin fever. I was thrilled to go to my friends baby shower today to get away. So after I washed everything in site and did all the Cinderella chores, I got everyone down for naps and then went to the shower. I enjoyed talking with friends and just being out of the house--(is that wrong? :) My friends urged me to get back into the blog world, so here's my attempt--(thanks Kelly and Amanda :0)

Here's a recap of what I've been doing since my last post in November of 2008!--

Let's see--does anyone remember the McDonald's commercial a few years back when they had all different types of people saying at the same time, while moving there head from side to side, "Get up, Go to work, Go home, Go to bed." They repeat it over and over in a monotone voice and then after a few times of saying that, they get excited and in the mist of saying the repeated phrase they say, "Go to McDonald's,"--"Go to bed."---Well that's about what I've been doing the past months and year. Groundhogs day :)

But I wouldn't have it any other way. I absolutely LOVE my life. I'm a stay at home mom, work part time with the handicap, homeschooling, WIFE!!! What more could I ask for?!

I truly feel blessed to have such a wonderful hubby and three lovely kids. I am thankful for all of you that read and comment on my blog and facebook. It is so nice to go through life with fun people like you. We can all vent, share, love, and be "us" together--thanks to all of you! So I'm back into the blog world--so watch for more posts to come. (and I will change my background as soon as Lisa or Kristin can show me how again :)

Pumpkin Fun

2008-11-08T19:32:00.000-08:00

So--do you carve the coolest pumpkins ever without the kids because they are extremely scared of knifes since Brandon's recent ER trip.......or paint the ugliest pumpkins with the kids?? See what we chose--or the kids chose:)---(BTW--I saw some REALLY cool carved pumpkins this year!!--Kristin) We had a lot of fun painting---Neal said mine was the worst--he said it looked like an elephant:) He's kind of right....I have pics of the boys painting, but to see my "master piece pumpkin" of a BAT (not an elephant)-look at the Halloween pics on the post below.

Halloween Fun

2008-11-08T18:32:00.000-08:00

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. I LOVE seeing all the costumes and enjoy the people passing out candy--it's just FUN! Or it's supposed to be--but my little Abby thought otherwise this year. She insisted on sitting in the stroller, threw her bag at me while yelling, and didn'twant anything to do with it.--not my child.....

We went out for about an hour and had a blast--(once Abby parked her sweet behind in the stroller)--she still wanted nothing to do with the cute cat bag--but she wanted everyone to put candy on her lap! Every time someone would give Carter a treat he'd come running to me, Llook mom, you love this!" or "This is my favorite!" Brandon just walked a head of us most of the time--we were pretty slow with Ms. Muffet who sat on her tuffet in the stroller. I think the boys enjoyed passing out candy more then they did floating around the neighborhood.

After trick or treat was over, we had our "fire" and roasted hot dogs and s'mores. It was a gorgeous night and we saw a shooting star!! It was awesome-it was the first time Brandon or my mom had seen one and it was so fitting because my mom had Brandon snuggled in her arms. I'm so mad that I had put the camera away--I would have loved to have had a picture of mom and B together while he was on her lap---oh well.

Miracles

2008-11-06T19:08:00.000-08:00

If you've ever heard someone say that, "miracles have ceased in our day," they are wrong. This past week I have been witnessing a miracle. Let me take you back to last Sat. morning at 4:30 AM.

The phone rang at 4:30 AM--anytime you hear the phone ring at that hour in the morning, I think you internally know immediately you're about to receive bad news. This call confirmed my fear. My mother in law was on the phone hysterical. She wanted to talk to Neal(my hubby). After hearing, the, "Oh no!" "Yes, what hospital? I'll be right there." I knew it was bad.

My husband's brother Collin, had taken a drug that sent him into cardiac arrest-stopped his heart and breathing. He had been with some friends the day before and took a drug. Another friend picked him up and took him to his brother's apt. Collin was acting very tired and went to sleep on the friends couch. After some time, the friend noticed Collin was breathing weird and then Collin made a weird sound. The friend, reached to feel a pulse-nothing. He called 911 and the operator talked him through CPR over the phone for 10 minutes until the squad arrived. His friend literally gave him the breath he needed to survive. The squad cut open his clothing and worked on him. They used the pads on him and restarted his heart.

They took him to St. Ann's hospital and tried to reach Neal's parents by cell phone. The cell phones were turned down and they didn't get the messages, and this is the exact message as I have listened to it over and over--"Hi Ms. Koenig. This is so-in-so from St. Ann's hospital. Your son Collin was brought in by squad and is in the ER. We are currently working on him. Please call us back at------" They worked on him for at least 3 hours. Neal's folks were finally called on the home phone at 4:15 AM.

We arrived at the hospital at 5:00 AM. (my mom lives a mile away and came rushing over to watch the littles.--grateful for family!!) When we entered the ICU room, we saw a motionless Collin, the hospital's Chaplin at the foot of the bed, and Neal's mom and dad in shock. I'll save you the details, but it was one of the worst sites and feelings I've ever had. Collin was on a breathing machine and was unresponsive. We stayed with him until the next shift of nurses came and they asked us to wait in the waiting room until they could brief the next shift of nurses. We waited in that waiting room for what seemed like forever. After an hour and a half, we were permitted back in to see him.

In the late morning-he opened his eyes to where we could see the white of the eyeball. Little by little as the morning became afternoon, we could see his eye-pupil.

In my church we believe in the power of blessings. We believe that a man can be ordained to have the priesthood(which is the authority to act in the name of God) and that through the power of the priesthood, a person can be healed according to their faith. Neal and my brother are both worthy holders of the priesthood and came to the hospital and gave Collin a blessing.

After the blessing, it was the first time I had a feeling of comfort and peace. In the blessing, Collin was told he would start recovering in the next few hours and over the next several days would make a full recovery. That he would be able to walk and talk again. I know that the Lord answers prayers and keeps his promises, as Collin started improving by leaps and bounds.

Within several days, Collin was doing all the things that a "normal" individual does. The nurses and doctors have told us repeatedly that this just doesn't happen. That this outcome doesn't happen. They said they have seen many cases like this and that he is very lucky to be alive.

I KNOW that God answers prayers. I know that he performs miracles everyday if we just take the time and look around. NOTHING is coincidental--He knows what we need to go through and when we need to. I certainly don't know everything, but I do know that He loves me, as He does you. I usually don't get all "religious" on my blog or fbook, but I can not, NOT share the peace, love, and comfort that comes only through a loving Heavenly Father. I would be so ungrateful and undeserving if I didn't share my thoughts. I know that miracles happen, as I am currently witnessing and living this miracle.

Collin is still in St. Ann's. He was moved from ICU a couple days ago and is in a "normal" room. He still has a long way to go on the road to recovery, as he needs to change a life style. I know with prayer and support all things are possible. Again, thanks to you all--your thoughts, prayers, and love mean more than you will ever know. Thank you and God bless!

Cosi

2008-10-29T18:31:00.001-07:00

Here goes--trying my hand at adding more than 5 photos at a time. Thanks Val and Kelly:) These were taken last week at Cosi. Cosi was having a cool NASA booth where you could touch a rock from the moon. "We've landed on the moon!" They said their are 7 rocks from the moon that are for people to view. That was pretty cool....The other photos were inside hanging out.

So why are my pictures so all over the place?? I'll get it one of these days, but for now I know how to post more than 5:)

Can you up this one?

2008-10-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but my kids(boys) always have to "up" what the other says. If you've seen the SNL skits with the girl who has done everything better then you etc., that's them. Today, was too much, so I have to share.

I'm listening to the boys and Brandon starts talking about a baptism he went to with his grandfather. No--he doesn't comment on how nice the baptism was, just all the refreshments he took in. He kept saying, "We had hot chocolate, cider, brownies, donuts, cookies...." Carter is drooling and says, "Well when you and dad went on that skiing trip, (which was like a year ago...)mom and I made cookies and she let me have 4!" Then Brandon yells, "mom...(relays everything Carter just said) and says, "is that true?" I don't remember!! Then they start again.....

They certainly didn't get this from me. Someday I hate to say, but I can just hear them now in the locker room---mine is bigger than yours. I know I'm horrible, but at this point, I've got to prepare me for no surprises.

For instance--today my son stops in the middle of our homeschool lesson and shares a show he watched last night. He continues to tell me all about the show daddy let him watch with him--Dirty Jobs. Have you seen it? Well last night was on castrating sheep. Let me tell you how disturbing it is having your 6 year old explain with motions how sheep "balls" as he called them(which I have NEVER heard him say) are cut off and then eaten for dinner. WHAT!! I stayed calm and said, "oh, how interesting. Is there anything else you want to tell me?" I'm really trying hard to keep the door of communication open while they are young, so later they can tell me whatever the locker room may bring. Or if they are still homeschooled, whatever the "bathroom" talk is......

2008-10-29T08:13:00.000-07:00

Trying to figure out how to post more then 5 photos for one post...here are more photos from Pigeon Roost..

A new found love...

2008-10-29T07:23:00.000-07:00

It's been way to long since I've blogged. We've been struck with the flu bug for the past week, but that's not the only reason. I've been introduced to a new love---facebook. What a cool thing we have. We can virtually type in anyone we know and reconnect if they are on the network. So amazing. If you haven't checked it out, you should-it's pretty dope.

I actually started fbook because my hubby had one and one night last week I came downstairs after a rough day and found an email asking Neal to confirm a friend request from fbook. The friend was someone from Argentina that I knew from my mission. She said she had been trying to find me. It made my day and I had no idea that fbook was world wide--I'm not all that up to date on the wireless world. So I decided that next day to start facebooking and it has been so fun to reconnect with old pals and current pals.

Also--a few other things I want to say...

I want to thank whomever "boo'd" us the other night. Scared my kidos to death when we got a knock at the door that night, but it was so sweet. Don't exactly know who it was, but thank you. Brandon came upstairs and said, "That was just so sweet of someone to do that to us." I agree. Little acts of kindness go a long way and are very appreciated--Especially since we haven't been out of the house for a few days, that was just a nice way to feel some "fresh cold air".

I'm going to try to post some pics we took from Pigeon Roost Farm. That place is da bomb if you haven't been there-check it out maybe Thursday or Friday this week--it should be nice weather wise. It's way fun for the kids and you. Suggestion--they have some places to sit, but when we go I take a lounge chair so I can take it to where ever the kids want to play. I play some and then read while they have a blast. It's nice....

Hope everyone is doing well. I'll try to be better and get a balance between my two new lovers--blogging and facebook. Oh real quick--here's a funny. Talking about new loves....I recently made a wedding video for a friends wedding. I was looking for good love songs and checked out itunes. You can hear a clip of any song and then buy it. Well I found this song that was cute about falling in love everyday. I thought, "that's too cute!" so I bought it. After buying it I was so excited to put it to the video--until I listened to it all the way. It's about a dude falling in love everywhere, everyday--like new loves--on the bus, in the grocery store...not really a good marriage video, huh?:)

Speaking of videos--if you are looking for a very inexpensive WONDERFUL gift for a family member or friend, I'd love to help you make a video. I know $ is tight for everyone these days, so I would be thrilled to help you create something--would be a nice Christmas present. If you're interested let me know. Have a great day all!

Boo at the zoo

2008-10-19T16:06:00.000-07:00

We can't get enough of the zoo! Guess we feel right at home.....went Thursday, then Friday. On

Friday we met up with some friends at the zoo for a night of Halloween fun.

Zoo Pals

2008-10-19T15:44:00.000-07:00

Thursday we went to the zoo and had a great time. We went with GLAD school and "we"moms let the animals loose. Check it out.....

  I'm still trying to figure out how to post pictures---obviously!! (Sorry it's so hard to follow the pics.)

Sunday Naps

2008-10-19T15:27:00.000-07:00

Ever since I was a wee tyke I have loved taking Sunday naps. I don't always get them, but when I do, it's heaven. So today we made it "family nap time"-which meant everyone was napping today. Well-that's what we planned anyway. After I got all warm in my covers, it started. All the fussing, the getting out of bed, the "I'm not tired" in melt down mode--(of COURSE you're not tired.) After some time, it was loud again. This time it sounded like the boys were letting off cannon balls. Neal gets up and the boys are jumping off the beds and getting all crazy together. Neal was so tired, (he ran a half-marathon not stopping once this morning)(and yes I know what you're thinking--I already did the preaching to him!) Neal exhausted tells the boys just to go downstairs. They eat this up and say, "Can we watch TV?" "Yes!" "OH, can we play Wii?" "YES!! I don't care what you do, just go downstairs." Well the boys did just that--they did what they wanted. A little while later I came downstairs to find food out and a friend over. Brandon comes in all happy and said, "Dad, told us we could do whatever we want, so Kaityln is over and we're playing Wii."

Still in tack without Alice

2008-10-16T23:26:00.000-07:00

Kids are the best!

I don't need an Alice "Brady" around, just a lot of alcohol. JUST KIDDING!! You know I don't drink....but if Coke was illegal, I'd be in trouble.

So my good friends children have left our nest. I really did enjoy them and would do it again in a heartbeat--just next time I'll have Neal build me a sound proof room off the back of the house for Abby and Ethan. Those two are the cutest little things, but ornery as anything. I described to Neal they have a love/hate relationship. One minute Abby is wiping off Ethan's face with a wipe and they are cracking up, and the next minute they are about to throw down over a toy. Too funny! I love the great age of 2.

And then there were 6

2008-10-14T08:12:00.000-07:00

Anyone know why the Brady Bunch is so unrealistic? Mike met Carrol when the kids weren't babies--Bobby and Cindy weren't even toddlers. So how did they make it work? I think it's because the kids were old enough to know if they acted out, Mike would take them in the den and give them the belt. Just kidding--I think it's because the kids were old enough to understand how to behave and they had Alice. Alice was like the "pretender". That cool lady could do anything. One minute she could be doing laundry, the next minute comforting the sad, the next minute chasing the dog, and still have the energy and the look to go to the meat market. I mean, how many 65 year old women can go walking into a meat market and get free meat without showing a little. You know what I'm talking about, she'd just say,"hi" to Sam and he'd melt. Could you imagine if we all had an Alice around how much time and money we would save? Let me get back on track to why I'm thinking about the Brady Bunch--It's almost been 24 hours since I've doubled in kid size. Yesterday my good friend went out of town for the night to watch an NFL football game with her hubby and in laws. She asked us if we could watch her kids for the night and my family has been so excited to have them. We couldn't believe the day finally arrived! I have the cupboards full, the books out, the costumes ready for play, cars, pack in plays, games, what else do you need? Let me tell you, I need an Alice. The two 2 year olds fight over everything and have had several melt downs. Actually here's another one-they are fighting over a play hairdryer. The girl wants it for her doll and the other for a gun. Gotta go comfort the melt downers.--I'm back, OK--I'm off again, they are yelling at each other. Here we go.... Having 6 kids under 6--where's Alice when you need her? And Breezi, when the fairy is done cleaning your pad, send her here--tell her to plan on staying a good week.:)

Update from read NOW post

2008-10-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

As some of you might have read, Neal's parents neighbor was shot the other day. We just got home from Neal's folk's house and here's the scoop.

When the man came through the garage, he saw the 2 girls and the mom in the house. He was wearing gloves, carrying a bag, and clip board with him. He told them, "This is going to take long." To save details, here's how it went down. The mom (Beth) told the girls to run and then Beth started fighting with the man. The man was 6.5", 320 lbs-big dude. Beth is a small women, but has the courage of a lion. She attacked him and they wrestled around-he shot her twice, once in the leg and on her side-missing major organs, thankfully. He went after the girls who had locked themselves in the bathroom-they have one of those bathrooms that the shower and sink are in one area, and then the toilet is in a little closet like--they went in the toilet room and climbed out the window. The man shot through the bathroom door shooting a bullet through the spa tub. He shot a total of 7 rounds-only hitting Beth two times. Get this though, Beth somehow got the gun turned around to his chest and tried to shoot him, but the gun jammed. Can you imagine? She was able to get out of the house and a neighbor ran into the house, and that's when the man escaped through the garage. The neighbor got the license plate and a good look at the man, and so did another neighbor.

On Thursday evening the police had been working on the investigation and ran his plates. They used a picture line up with several neighbors and Beth. They were all able to identify him right away. Then they asked the husband to look at some photos. They asked him if he knew any of the men. He pointed to the one and said that the man had previously worked for him. So clearly this wasn't random. The man was going to kidnap the wife and daughters and hold them hostage for money from the company--The man had all of his plans written down and had the materials with him when he broke into the house. The police used the plates and drivers license to locate the man. The man was from Indiana-and was there. The police located his cell number and traced it to where he was using it. They actually called the man and told him that they were charging him with attempted kidnapping and murder. The man then crashed his car and killed himself.

The family is all home and seems to be doing well. Last night they had a block get together and Beth was there and had support from everyone. Her daughters, 13 and 15, were out playing together, too. I saw her husband tonight and he seemed to be doing well. I'm so grateful this guy is done and doesn't have to be judged here...he'll get his "piece". Thankfully, Beth, Tad, and the girls have their "peace", too.

Confession

2008-10-11T19:05:00.001-07:00

I have a confession! I LOVE the smell of camp fires! Yes, I know all about Smokey the safety Bear, but when I smell wood burning on a fall night, I want to be there participating. Even more enjoyable is spending time talking and sky viewing with family and friends around the fire. Last Monday we bought a fire pit and have had a blast! Monday nights FHE was around the fire with our neighbors and of course s'mores. Tuesday night--night around the camp fire--s'mores. Wed. night, wanted to be out by the fire, but it rained all day:( (Thought about making a s'more in the microwave.) Thursday night-Neal wasn't home to start the fire:)--(yes, that's his thang.) Friday night-around the campfire with some friends-roasted hot dogs and had s'mores again. So my point in telling you all of this is not only to confess my love for camp fires and s'mores, but to see if any of you know how to make a low fat s'more!!-- At my rate I could be playing Santa at this years ward Christmas party. Ho Ho Ho!

Pigeon Roost Pictures

2008-10-11T19:02:00.000-07:00

Pigeon Roost Farm

2008-10-11T15:37:00.000-07:00

The other day, GLAD school and some other friends went to a Pigeon Roost Farm. It's a pumpkin patch with everything under the sun to do. We had a great time and it was a georgous day out. I don't know who had more fun, the kids or the moms. Here are a few pics.

Please Read NOW

2008-10-09T20:56:00.000-07:00

You might have seen on channel 10 news tonight about a shooting that happened today in Blacklick. This happened in a upscale neighborhood in broad day light. The shooting happened next door to Neal's parents house. NEXT DOOR! Neal's dad was on their screened in porch reading the newspaper when he heard some noise coming from next door. He first thought it was the teenage sisters getting into a fight, but then realized the noise was of terror. He ran through the house and out the front door to find his neighbor lying in the front yard sobbing and yelling, "He has taken my girls! I've been shot!" Neal's dad ran in and called 911. Apparently the family had their garage door open and a man came in through the garage and started shooting. The two children that were home escaped out of an upstairs window, but the women was fighting with the man downstairs and was shot. Another neighbor who was working in his yard heard the commotion and ran over to the women who made it out of her front door. The neighbor saw the man escaping behind a bush and saw him get into his jeep and speed off. The shooter didn't try to take anything and was obviously there to take a life.

The women had never seen the man before and they don't have any motives right now. It's just shocking to me and scary to know that it could have been my mother-in-law or any one of us for that matter. You just never know. So please--I know we've all heard the stories and have received the emails about being cautious and being aware of your surroundings--this is another reminder. I love you all and ask that we all pray for one another's families and safety. Thanks.

Tag games

2008-10-09T20:35:00.000-07:00

So I'm really not into the tag games...usually, but since I'm still a fresh chicken to the blog world, why not. (thanks Lora:) Here are the two tags I've got and be afraid, be very afraid, you could be chosen at the end...

Picture tag is played by going into the fourth folder of your pictures and pull out the fourth picture and then tell about it. This picture is of Abby in the hospital. She was born at Mt. Carmel East and I couldn't get enough of her. I kept her in my room most of the time. I love babies---hey now, don't get any ideas--I'm not....

One word answer tag is played by answering the below questions with one word answers only. Then you're supposed to pass it on to 7 people, but I don't know if I know 7 people up to doing it....just kidding.

Here are the questions: 

1. Where is your cell phone? charger

 2. Where is your significant other? bed 

3. Your hair color? greasy

 4. Your mother? sweet

 5. Your father? adorable

 6. Your favorite thing? Music

 7. Your dream last night? sleep?

 8. Your dream/goal? heaven

 9. The room you're in? office 

10. Your hobby? decorating

11. Your fear? murder

 12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? country

 13. Where were you last night? Home

 14. What you're not? Little

 15. One of your wish-list items? piano 

16. Where you grew up? OH-IO

 17. The last thing you did? TV

 18. What are you wearing? pajamas 

19. Your TV? off

 20. Your pet? none 

21. Your computer? mac

 22. Your mood? tired 

23. Missing someone? yes

 24. Your car? van

 25. Something you're not wearing? pants

26. Favorite store? TJ Maxx

 27. Your summer? FUN

28. Love someone? totally

29. Your favorite color? Red

 30. When is the last time you laughed? tonight 

31. Last time you cried? Today

Now my victims are Amy P., Kirstin L., Kelly O, Autumn R, Emilee S, Britney W., and Breezi K.

Charades

2008-10-09T01:28:00.000-07:00

Last night we had the pleasure of having some friends stay over from out of town. (Actually they both served missions in Germany with Neal, and then they got married and mover to the "OH-IO.") Actually they live in Athens, OH, but Jesse is in the military and is stationed in Kosovo, and Emily is still in Athens, but will be leaving for Ireland next week. They will be apart for 5 months and then Jesse is due back home and so is Emily. Jesse is on special leave for 10 days so he can interview for dental school. They have been traveling like mad the past few days, so we're happy we could see them for a night. Yesterday they were in AZ and today they go to Louisville, KY.

Anyway-last night my kids were so excited to have them here. They were bouncing off the walls. Jesse had the genius idea of playing charades with Brandon--no talking, but he could use props. So we would send him down to the basement(where we keep the toys) and then Brandon would come up being someone and we would have to guess who he was or what he was doing. Well, Carter saw how fun that was and joined in. Here's Carter's first charade. He comes up with a plate. He is moving it around all over, throws it like a Frisbee, acts like he's cooking. We're yelling out--"chef, cook, Frisbee, your making___,"and nothing. We couldn't figure it out--the whole time Carter is grinning ear to ear. We couldn't guess it and he starts going out of the room, and turns around and said, "I'm a PLATE!" It was really funny. How did we not get that he was a plate--he had it right in his hand! I love kids....Brandon's real whopper was when he came up with a racing helmet on his head and we guessed all the racing things we could and then he finally says, "I'm a hot wheel driver". So our race car driver, nascar driver, speed racer didn't count--it was a hot wheel driver! Never seen a hot wheel driver, but OK. Sometimes I think the kids just switch up what they are to keep us guessing and then they make up something right at the end.....or maybe I just stink at charades.

Letter Tag---R

2008-10-07T14:05:00.000-07:00

So my friend Kelly sent me a Letter Tag game which is fun. There's not much to it if you want to play along. You're given a letter and you name 10 things that begin with that letter, that you love. If you want to play, just put it in the comments and I'll send you a letter.

My letter is R--

1) Redeemer--My life is all about Him. I know that He lives and loves each one of us. I love learning about Him and His plan for me and my family.

2) Resting-I'm always down with taking a nap or just chillen!

3) Rock Band 2-I love music and love rocking out with my brother and hubby. Just wish the Wii or X-Box 360 would come out with some country instead of just rock. If it was country-I'd be rocking out every night so I guess not having it is a good thing...

4) Reading-I love to settle in with a good book and pencil to take notes. I love marking in my books and listening to either the spirit or my ridiculous conscience at times, then putting down my thoughts or highlighting material.

5) Rubbing-OK-get your mind out of the gutter--so mine can pass by. I mean that I love to have my arms tickied--you know when you have someone rub their fingernails over your arm. It totally relaxes me and calms me down. My sisters and I used to do that all the time growing up--and so did Amy!!:) I also love having my hair played with and my head rubbed.

6) Reuniting with family and friends-anytime I get to hang with family or friends I love it. I really enjoy reading blogs--that's my new fun "mom" minute.

7) Road trips-I LOVE road trips! Especially with my hubby. We have a blast together. He's my best friend and he makes me laugh my head off. Now that we have kids--I'm selective on the road trips I enjoy---:)but most of them are way fun. My kids are "cool.com."

8) Riding jet skis-This is one of my favorite things to do in the summer. I love going fast and feeling the wind in my hair and feeling water squirt up on me. I love to ride with Neal and the kids too. Such a blast!

9) Redecorating-I love to be creative. I enjoy seeing something that needs to be redone or remodeled and then getting my juices flowing to create and decorate. If any of you ever need suggestions-let me know and I'd love to help out.

10) Red--I LOVE the color red. It has always been my favorite color since I can remember. In fact, I remember being in first grade and painting a picture red and being so happy! I love red clothes, shoes, paint, jewelry--anything--except maybe red lipstick--too bold and I'm way to pail to pull that off.

Thanks Kelly--I had fun thinking of what I love that starts with the letter R.

Trip to the ER

2008-10-07T08:32:00.000-07:00

The typical day started. I was in the shower, had my normal interruptions by the kids about one thing or another. While I was bathing I thought about how I always tell Neal how I'm going to write a book called, "Interrupted Showers". I can't tell you the last time I showered without someone barging in or yelling through the door, or crying their head off about something so important--usually involving a toy. Well after one of those important interruptions I mentioned above, Carter came in again yelling, "Mom, I can touch the ceiling!" I said, "Oh yeah, how are you doing that?" He laughingly yells back, "Not telling!" and runs out slamming the door. A couple minutes later-I had just stepped out of the shower and Carter barges in yelling "Brandon cut his finger and is bleeding!" I'm thinking it's that typical "I need a band-aid even though I'm really not bleeding, but it's red, and it will feel oh so better with the band-aid." I tell him I'll be right there. I got a band-aid and headed down the hall. That's when I heard Brandon sobbing coming up the stairs-blood dripping all over. He had a deep cut and was bleeding everywhere. I took one look at it and knew we'd be going to get stitches. Brandon had decided to get out a pairing knife and when he took off the knife cover, it sliced him good. Brandon was nearly inconsolable as he was afraid he was going to "lose his finger. Or die". It was really sad. Neal came home and we were able to take Brandon to the ER. He got 3 stitches on his thumb and was a trooper dooper.

So as we are rolling up our street coming home from the ER, my neighbor is backing out of her driveway and hits Neal's car. I was joking and said,"she just hit your car"--as she is pulling back into her driveway. She gets out and I see her in the mirror running to my side of the car and she says, "I am soooo sorry. I just backed into Neal's car!" We walked over where she hit it and it was nothing really. In fact a couple months ago, someone else hit Neal's car in the exact same place, so all she did was define it and add some of her paint. No worries!

Conference Surprise

2008-10-07T08:23:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we were able to listen to General Conference at our home. While we were watching it, Carter came in yelling"Fire! There's a fire!" Carter is extremely afraid of fire and loud noises. Neal and a couple friends ran out to see what was going on. Sure enough there was a fire right behind our fence. Our neighbor diagonal behind us--(you got that:), he buried some ashes on the fence line. On the other side of the fence, our neighbor right behind us, had some dry plants/bushes and that's what caught on fire. The flames were a good 6 ft. tall. Our neighbors were able to get it out without calling the fire dept. But it was quite the excitement. The sad part is, is that Carter ran to our meeting place (the mailbox) as soon as he saw the smoke, but no-one came out. That's why he ran in to tell us to get out. Broke my heart. He did exactly what he should have done--he told the grown ups and hit up the meeting spot. I just can't imagine how he must have felt standing by the mailbox with everyone else inside.:(

Santa Maria

2008-10-05T06:54:00.000-07:00

Santa Maria Trip!

The other day for GLAD school we went to tour the Santa Maria. It was really cool--weather wise and tour wise. The children had a good time, especially Abby-check out her photo-that's how she was 95% of the time. The other kids really did enjoy it. Brandon said a prayer later that day and said, "I pray I'll never forget this day of going to the Santa Maria."

Apple picking

2008-10-03T06:32:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, we welcomed in my favorite season FALL-by going to pick apples. We had a great time. Abby was our official taster of apples, as she would take a bite of one, then another, and then throw that apple and try another. Brandon was serious about picking apples, and Carter just wanted to make sure he picked the most. Our good friends, the Hansen's came too which we really enjoyed. I tried a apple recipe that my friend shared with me and it turned out great. We all had a really good time, I'm just now not sure if I should have them out in a bowl for the kids. I keep finding half eaten apples all over the place!

Marathon

2008-10-02T15:09:00.000-07:00

My husband is my hero. He has been training just over a year now to run a marathon. He did it last weekend:) He ran 26.2 miles in Akron, Ohio. He did really well and I was glad to go and cheer him on. I was lounging in a chair on the side of the street, cheering on the runners, eating a donut. (just kidding about the donut) Brandon and Carter came down with Neal's parents and they got to see him 2 times during the race and loved that! Abby stayed the night with Grandpa Hamm and Grandma Tammy. We sure do love our "daddy" and I was so glad to see him at the finish line--I was so proud and even cried. And I have to add this---if you know me, I HATE sweat!!! After Neal would come home from his nightly runs, he wasn't even allowed on the couch or near me for that matter. Neal kept teasing me about hugging him at the end of the race and to my surprise, I did! Surprised? I was too.

Now he's trying to get me in the running spirit. My running consists of running to the store and other errands. Who knows, maybe I'll see if I can get a 5K sometime....

The following is a link to photos---www.runphotos. com. He ran the RoadrunnerAkronMarathon and to view them, you just need to type in our last name.

The Lion King

2008-09-27T18:09:00.000-07:00

Neal and I took Brandon to see the performance of The Lion King. He was on the edge of his seat the whole time trying to take it all in. OK--we were too. It was a really fun night. Before the performance we let him pick where he wanted to go out to eat. After a little redirecting from fast food and no persuasion on our part, he picked Outback Steakhouse. We had a great time together.

Finally a blogger--

2008-09-27T16:12:00.000-07:00

After some friends have encouraged me to start a blog, over a period of months, I'm FINALLY entering the world of blogging. I hope I know what I'm doing this time around--Kristen:)

I guess to get started, I'll share what we've been doing the month of September.

Kelly's best friend from high school (Scott Byington) was married on Sept. 13th in the Great American Ball Park. Brandon and I were in the wedding. We had a blast--with the exception of the rehearsal night when we found out that we had forgot to put the boys suitcase in the car. That was a mess! We had a half hour to get to the stadium for the rehearsal and so Neal ran to Macys to get t-shirts, underwear, socks, pants, and shoes--Can you say super dad?--Oh by the way, Macys doesn't sell kid shoes, so Brandon wore his crocks to the rehearsal and to the dinner that followed at a mansion. At least he had shoes, right? Thankfully Brandon's formal attire was in our hanging bag--could you imagine trying to get that one taken care of the day of the wedding!!! Here are some pictures of the wonderful wedding.