A Fruitful Summer

This summer we went picking blueberries and raspberries, both are stockpiled in the freezer. We also grabbed a bunch of peaches at only 55 cents a pound, which are also in the freezer, it's my first attempts of "storing" fresh produce of any kind. Baby steps.




I looked at Laila, and sure enough, she was doing her own picking, I guess she got close enough to the berries...




Laila enjoying MORE fruits of our labors:



This is a picture of my basement for Bec, she had worked on the basement with me before, and has been dying to see the finished project months later. This may not look like much, but um... the basement walls and floors were HOT PINK, no joke.

This summer, thanks to Josh, has been one project after another. I still love home ownership, I swear!! :)



Josh had this great idea to "camp" in the backyard, oh the kids had such a blast. Somehow taking the laptop into the tent with them, and watching movies didn't quite seem like the camping I remember. But hey, it was free, and I slept great all by myself! :)



I've taken a four month hiatus from the scrapping world, and look who's back???


And I'm feeling like such a generous fool... How about a surprise treat for anyone who can guess why I am TOTALLY EXCITED for summer to be over, and for this Date!

The McCain Train.

O.k. Catch the phrase, it's rocking, better yet, get on the train.

I love THIS FRIEND, (MaryRuth), she totally says how it is, and her reasoning, it's her blog after all. So, ta da, you get to agree, or disagree, totally fine with me, but hey it's my opinion, my blog!

Why the McCain Train? - From a not so political Mom to be of 4.

1. POW - Have some respect.
2. Age - Does not ALWAYS mean wisdom. In this case, however, it does.
3. Josh's Employment is dependent on a President that cares about National Security.
4. Compare Resumes. Just do it.
5. PRO-LIFE.

And Finally, THE FAMILY. From John McCain's Website:

The family represents the foundation of Western Civilization and civil society and John McCain believes the institution of marriage is a union between one man and one woman. It is only this definition that sufficiently recognizes the vital and unique role played by mothers and fathers in the raising of children, and the role of the family in shaping, stabilizing, and strengthening communities and our nation.

And since I belong to THIS CHURCH, I have a duty to vote for and support those that agree with The Family Proclamation.

Quoted from the Proclamation:

The first commandment that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.

How about that to start?

If you're interested in learning more about him, or contribute to his campaign go HERE.

And the following is a video of his competition, should be an interesting race for the White House, I hope you participate in YOUR civil duty, you can also begin the process to register to vote directly from the McCain Website.

Updates

Josh officially starts August 19th. He's super excited, as are we. I'm going to have to get used to him NOT being here, again, how wierd is that?? (He'll be here in the evenings, but we've had a lot of Josh, for a lot of months! :))

Baby News Update:

I measured right on at the Dr. and so my official due date is Feb. 15. No we don't know what we're having, and no we won't find out - WE LOVE THE SURPRISE!!!!!!

We have a slight complication in that my placenta is currently covering my cervix, which may be TMI, sorry... but anyway, at this stage in the pregnancy we'll be hoping for it to move! At the ultrasound at 20 weeks, they will determine if the placenta has or has not moved, and then we'll know if it will be a real concern. There's a few things I can't do for the next six weeks, while we wait, but we feel good, and all should be fine!

We're enjoying time together... and life is good. we continue to thank Heavenly Father for his bounteous blessings.

Tis The Season...

Football Season of course - GO COLTS!!!!

1 9/7 CHICAGO BEARS 8:15 PM NBC
2 9/14 @ Minnesota Vikings 1:00 PM CBS
3 9/21 JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS 4:15 PM CBS
4 9/28 BYE - none
5 10/5 @ Houston Texans 1:00 PM CBS
6 10/12 BALTIMORE RAVENS 1:00 PM CBS
7 10/19 @ Green Bay Packers 4:15 PM CBS
8 10/27 @ Tennessee Titans 8:30 PM ESPN
9 11/2 NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS 8:15 PM NBC
10 11/9 @ Pittsburgh Steelers 4:15 PM CBS
11 11/16 HOUSTON TEXANS 1:00 PM CBS
12 11/23 @ San Diego Chargers 8:15 PM NBC
13 11/30 @ Cleveland Browns 1:00 PM CBS
14 12/7 CINCINNATI BENGALS 1:00 PM CBS
15 12/14 DETROIT LIONS 1:00 PM FOX
16 12/18 @ Jacksonville Jaguars 8:15 PM NFLN/WXIN/WTTV
17 12/28 TENNESSEE TITANS 1:00 PM CBS

The Military Wife

In church today we were honoring Heroines. And it came to me that so many of my heroines, or women I look up to, have been military wives. It's kind of like a secret organization that we only understand. Like a sorority in a way. Anyway, I just said a little about how military wives struggle and sacrifice so much, they do a lot on their own, and for some, they give their spouses. I talked about how they drag their multitudes of little ones to church alone, for years on end. And they don't get awards or promotions or recognition for these sacrifices. I said that as Josh and I were ending our military careers, these wives have been my strength and my family.

My last two close friends just left me alone in this ward, with only one other military wife (i've got one other dear friend in another ward close to me). I realized that these women I've come to rely on more than I knew were kind of gone, I was entering a new phase. And it is always bittersweet, to realize you're moving on. But can I say this since 99 percent of my readers are the very women I've talked about. You women are amazing. I love you just by watching your strength, and although I'm not one of you anymore, I admire you, just like I always have.

Swimwear Steal

You know I love a great bargain. Let's talk swimsuits for example. You know I could never do a Target swimsuit. Not because I'm snooty, but because seriously I need the support of a well made suit... the squeeze of a nice suit, is also a plus. I was walking by the swimwear section in Bon Tons, and casually looked for a new suit. With all the mismatched parts, and pieces of suits, I realized my chances were slim to none, to find my size, not to mention a modest number! Until, in the size six section, (a prego girl can dream, right?), I found a hidden size twelve, in this super cute number. Now it didn't have a strap, but I found it in a little baggy next to the tag, PERFECT. I went and tried it on... you mormons out there I'm sure understand that finding a swimsuit that looks good in the dressing room is a challenge, as you're trying to imagine it at the pool, but this one even looked good in the dressing room!! At the check out it only took a mere $36 buckaroos to take it home. that's right a Liz Claiborne $87 swimsuit, for a steal.

Now I just have to talk Josh into taking me to the beach. We were supposed to go to our new favorite destination, Jupiter Beach in February, but there's been a change of plans... (babies much) Anyway, I am sure I'll think of something either very soon, or after baby I suppose!! Happy Summer Clearance shopping!!

Laila's birthday Pics

I'm trying to choose which 2 pics for a layout, and my email to my sister kept kicking back to me, so this was my next idea - post them on my blog - and have her choose here - so Bec, which two??

Remember I'm finding Joy in my Journey??

While laying in bed this morning after losing my breakfast - which has become a common occurance, Josh found this great idea - it's a yak bag for on the go! Here's a photo demo:



Can you imagine opening what looks like a lunch pail and finding well an ABC lunch??

I guess someone's thought of everything. I find plastic shopping bags layered work best.

Anyway, it's the last baby, so I will smile my way through, a few extra trips to the toilet.

My official OB appt, was rescheduled for Aug. 6th, so maybe I'll get a due date then!

It's a Job and a miracle.

I think we can pretty much say, that yes, we have a job. Josh should begin in a couple of weeks. We are truly blessed. It's a phenomenal offer, we're pleased, the job is an EXCELLENT opportunity for Josh. You know I have no idea what he does, but he's excited, and I am too.

He'll be working in the DC area, which is a nightmare commute for right now. Doable, but as the housing market has taken a tumble. It kind of looks like we'll have to linger a little longer. :)

Either way, we have insurance to take care of baby and siblings, oh and mom and dad, too. Money to pay our student loans, and the most important thing the opportunity to do THIS FOR SOMEONE ELSE.

For those of you that have prayed, fasted, and even just in your mind had a hope for us, could you do one more thing for us? Pay forward some goodness, and see what happens to you.

things that make you go hmmm.

We did have a showing, they did want MORE privacy. boo. The realtor was very pleased with the property though, I guess that is good.

We were given an official offer for a job yesterday, they're sending the written contract early next week. We now know at least someone is willing to hire us. He He.
No, we got the offer yesterday, but we're still holding out for another job that we are kind of liking. Anyway, we should have SOMETHING by the 1st of August. Sigh.

Service worth Giving.

There's an amazing organization out there called Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep. A photography program for families that lose a little one as early as 25 weeks gestation to 12 months of age(around this time frame). I've known family, friends, and recently a few strangers that have lost a little one, and when I came across the site, I wished I was able to help. So how could I help? I can spread the word. If you know a professional photographer, or graphic artist (sometimes the pictures need delicate retouching), Have them come visit this site and see if they can help, you can also donate funds, to help the organization run. Visiting the website is an unbelievable experience. Maybe there's something you can do to help.

Thanks.

Updates

JOBThere's a job we're up for that progressed a little more today. It's a HUGE move, so we're curious to see if it's what we do, several more interviews this week. We're keeping our fingers crossed for a decision, soon.
HOUSE
We had a realtor call last night for a showing.... and we are DEFINITELY keeping our fingers crossed for this one. We've always said, once someone sees this house, they're going to love it, we just have to get them through the door!!
The showing is Wednesday, wish us more luck. We just don't fit here anymore. Even if we stayed in this area, with number four working we need a tad bigger.

Then I had to say Good-Bye to one of me bestest friends ever. I've had three friends leave me in a span of 2 weeks. Seriously. My life is so hard right now, and then to make matters worse my support systems are moving to Colorado, Georgia, and Arizona, I might as well go jump in a lake. We love the military. Why? Our amazing friends. Sonia, you left me the sweetest message, and I just couldn't call you back, I've been weepy all night. You know I love you, and we'll see you soon.

Did I mention that this is the friend that I decorated her pew for her birthday at church?? Only a few saw it, but it was so worth it. I know, don't be standing next to me during the Second Coming.

Anyway, as I was wallowing in self-pity today. A sweet sister from the ward called and asked if she could bring me dinner. After Colson announced in primary that I was pregnant a few more people took note, I guess. Anyway, she said she always promised to take care of women with morning sickness. Well, as I've yakked a bit this week, I welcomed it. She truly made me feel like Heavenly Father knew me, and my sorrows, as my dear friends are leaving. She probably has no idea the blessing it was to me, more than just the food, and the ginger ale!!, she truly was inspired. Thank you Tami!! She's not even military! See, there's great people everywhere!!

And finally I'm taking on Lori's challenge of reading the Book of Mormon in 30 days. I did it once in College, and it was in august, so it makes perfect sense. So, if I'm not blogging, it's because I'm reading. If you need a pick me up - give it a whirl, who knows the change it could have on you!

Again we thank you all for your prayers and support. We do feel them. I am sure that the job Heavenly Father wants Josh to do is being prepared specifically for him. We feel Satan working on us as we are struggling to keep our Faith in line. I had a friend inspire me today and I recalled a line from Josh's Patriarchal Blessing. I had forgotten about it, but needless to say, it lifted my spirits as I realized the Lord is truly clearing a pathway to Josh's important role, in his life's work. Now if only I can remember this when we're feeling discouraged!!

Anyway, we hope to have some "real" news soon.

Memories...

Ok... I'm a totally copy cat... I've seen this on a couple of my friends blogs and I thought it would be fun to play... (I even copied this line from my friend MaryRuth)

1. As a comment on my blog, leave a memory that you and I have together. It doesn't matter if you know me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see what memories people have of you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses.

I would love to hear what you guys remember about me! Remember keep it clean. I have fully repented of all transgressions!

Good Week!

Well, as life would have it, we've gone from a bum, scary, depressing week, to one great week. Several job interviews, a couple great prospects, some interest in the house, and we've got more work accomplished on the house, our basement is looking great! Nothing like a little prayer, and much more faith to get you in the right mindset! I read parts of Standing For Something by Gordon B. Hinckley - One paragraph later, and I was working with faith in mind!

"If there is any one thing that you and I need, to help us find success and fulfillment in this world, it is faith--that dynamic, powerful, marvelous element by which, as Paul declared, the very worlds were framed. I refer not to some ethereal concept but to a practical, pragmatic, working faith--the kind of faith that moves us to get on our knees and plead with the Lord for guidance, and then, having a measure of divine confidence, get on our feet and go to work to help bring the desired results to pass. Such faith is an asset beyond compare. Such faith is, when all is said and done, our only genuine and lasting hope."

I literally got up, knelt and prayed, and then went to work. Josh, too, is implementing this principle, and here we are, a week later, with a lot accomplished, truly believing all will work out.

So need a good read - Standing for Something - 10 neglected virtues that will heal our hearts and homes, give this one a whirl.

Baby Surprise.

Well as most of you have figured out baby number four is on its way.

Many of you have congratulated us, and commented on how brave I am. Well at first, I was thinking to myself, I'm not brave, I'm foolish. All I had done up to this point was, well, be irresponsible, and enjoy some fun with Josh, he he. No, really, I was NOT excited about this development. I was crying. I was screaming, I was frustrated, and well down right annoyed with myself. This is the truth, the raw emotions. We have no job, we have a mortgage, and now we have a pregnancy. What on earth! I truly could not understand what Heavenly Father wanted us to do. His plan for us is never the plan we have for ourselves. But, I finally this morning was able to come to the place where this baby is something truly to look forward to. He/She will complete our family, another blessing headed our way. What was the changing point for me? Well I tried to figure out my due date... it's February, I think I'm only 8 weeks - BUT, this is what's happening right now:

The crown to rump length of your baby is .56 - .8 inch now. So many things are changing in your baby every day now. If you could look at your baby closely, you'd see the tip of his nose and the eyelids developing, ears are forming as well. The heart and lungs are continuing to develop and now the bronchi (the tubes that lead to the the lungs from the trachea) are starting to branch out. Arms are growing longer and baby now has elbows!!! All this just 6 weeks after conception!!

When I read that the baby had eyelids, I couldn't believe it, after the fourth pregnancy I really should know this!

So here we go on another Heath adventure, aren't you on the edge of your seat to see what happens next? We sure are!!

I wish I had some news on the job front, well we kind of do, but we're not mentioning it quite yet. We'll just let you know when a job is confirmed! Thanks so much for those that have prayed and fasted for us. We truly feel the boost.

And thanks for all the well wishes for baby. I am finally grasping the idea!

Relaxation, Sort Of

Josh and I went a couple weekends ago, away to a Bed and Breakfast for a culinary weekend. I was so excited for my perfect gift. Many things were right with the weekend, the weather, no kids, but the place, sort of a letdown. No real planning on their part, I won't go into details. Anyway, I let her know that I was disappointed and she was sorry and blamed a million other people. Then we went through this email exchange, and I thought we had come to an agreement that was fair. Well last night Josh and I received a phone call from the Innkeeper. Full on yelling at Josh, about how we put a review in 10 different places online, and she's had all these cancelations, etc. It wasn't even us?!? She was CRAZY!! Have you ever heard of a business owner calling you at home after you checked out, and yell at you?? I mean really, it was unbelievable. Oh well, we did have a pretty nice time. We enjoyed an afternoon on a hammock, which was way cool, and stay away from the Hideaway Inn in Bucyrus, OH. Wowsers.

Oh and some of my buddies do a QotD - from their kids, how about this from Hallie:

"Mommy, I can turn ice into water! That's my SUPER POWER!"

One Year Ago Today.

I was still pregnant at this time a year ago but stuff had started happening. Anyway, Contractions had started, very sporadic, we went to church, I had a contraction in church during sacrament that brought tears to my eyes. I still bore my testimony about prayer! We skipped out a few minutes early, went for a walk with my neighbor Angel, definite ouchie contractions, but still not regular. I decided to go ahead and go to the hospital, we were closing on our house the next day so I just wanted to make sure we weren't having the baby. We definitely were. Linds came over took my kids for the evening, I think spent the night at our house. Arrived at the hospital about a quarter to six. I walked myself up, joked with the nurses, told them I was headed home, but to check me anyway. (I didn't even have Josh bring up the overnight bag) Um. I was at a five and I was staying. Things progressed quickly from there, from no regular contractions to, 2 and half hours later, A GIRL, had arrived. We were so sure it was a boy, what a fun surprise!!

Laila is my only o' natural baby. I had a tylenol for a headache when I first got there, but that was it. There was some screaming, no swearing if you can believe it! I did black out once from the pain, it was quick but, I still remember briefly losing consciousness. SCARY. Anyway, I knew I wanted to do it, just to be able to say I did it(plus my two sisters had both done it), and of course I truly thought my recovery would be better, as would the baby's. I was right. I felt like super woman after Laila arrived. I remember saying over and over again, I can't believe I just did that, I can't believe I just did that. Josh was amazing, truly present. Considering he was noticably absent the last time. We waited the longest for Laila, we were both there, and it was such a great experience. Believe it or not, natural is the plan next time, too.

It's been a crazy year, but Laila is our stress relief. She is THE PERFECT baby. So gentle, sweet, fun, we love her calming presence. We're a little concerned with her lack of mobility, however, we think she's just so laid back that she could care less! We'll be talking with our doctor next week.

Tonight it's a menu of mushy food she gets to enjoy, and her first birthday cake was free!! SCORE!! We love you miss Laila and hoping for many more!!

The pictures are from my blog, at each month milestone.
















1

Scrapbooking Supplies = Hair Bows

I read this blog all the time, she mentioned using her scrappy supplies for hair bows, and had to try it for Miss Laila, how cute is she? I'm hooked. Why did I wait until she's a YEAR to do the bows.




Also, who remembers THIS POST. Well No Joke this time. The timing is impeccable.

How about that for an update?

Perfect Procrastination

I should be doing laundry so I can pack. I should be mapquesting all my destinations, and there's a whole lot else I need to be getting done. Definitely NOT blogging, however, I am helping host my sisters baby shower in Indiana next week, and well, I HAD to have THIS centerpiece. Time and money were a factor so I made it myself. Then took some pics, and now I'm blogging about it. Lucy, GET TO WORK!! Anyway if you haven't discovered ETSY, you will now! Have a fun week, oh and get to work, you've been reading blogs for way too long! Oh did I mention today is Josh's LAST official day in the Army? SWEET.

No time for Pics this week!

Me from A to Z

Just for Fun!

A: attached or single. Attached.
B: best friend. Josh and well all the gals to the left of this post. Love all my "peeps" like Marianne would say!
C: Cake or pie. Jamie's Coconut Cake - Sara knows this one - and this is Sara WITHOUT an H.
D: Day of choice. No specific day of the week... Just a sunny one is good for me!
E: Essential item: money/cards/ID. it's the only thing in my "purse". Although recently I'm loving travel sized yummy smelling hand sanitizer.
F: Favorite color. Guess? And maybe a gift card to one of my favorite stores is on it's way! See It pays to read these goofy long entries!
G: Gummy bears or worms. CHOCOLATE COVERED GUMMY CINNAMON BEARS - Thanks for introducing us Brandee. I'll never forget them! :)
H: Hometown. Fort Wayne, Indiana
I: Indulgence. Running shoes. I just can't have cheap ones.
J: Jan or July. January in Hawaii, and July in D.C.
K: Kids. Yes. I've got them, love them, and I'll keep them.
L: Life is incomplete without...food.
M: marriage date. December 28, 1999
N: Number of siblings: 2 Sisters.
O: Oranges or apples. Honeybells' from Florida. The most perfect fruit on the planet. And yes I discovered them on the Q. and Yes, I paid an arm and a leg for them. SAWEET!
P: phobias or fears. Bugs, and fear of something happening to my kiddos.
Q: Quotes. "Most days I hate going to work, But Pretzel day, I like Pretzel Day." Name the show??
R: Reason to smile. Josh and his intelligent sense of humor. I love that I laugh SO MUCH and I only understand 75 percent of his humor. Think if I got it all? I would have to wear depends.
S: Season of Choice. FALL By far.
T: Tag. I'm limiting this to just three... nah, you're off the hook!
U: Unknown fact about me. I love to drink milk with ice in it. :)
V: Very favorite store. It's an online store. QVC. I know I'm a dork.
W: Worst habit. Swearing. It's true.
X: x-ray or ultrasound. huh? I've had ultrasounds way more often...
Y: your favorite food. Mexican
Z: Zodiac sign: Taurus, Barely.

Oh and the scoop, we made $75 WHOLE dollars at our yard sale, and showed our house to about 4 people and handed out ten fliers... Not too shabby. The sign is finally up outside and you can find us on Realtor.com. Things are moving. Till next week!

Oh where oh where have I been?

The last few weeks have been insanely busy, but also rewarding, here's the scoop:

Utah Trip:

Helped assisted my friend Brandee, with an unexpected c-section, while her hubby was gone to Afghanistan...

For those who have known me in the last 4 years, could understand how close to home this was for me. Dads should be there for the delivery, simple as that! Especially in situations like a 1st c-section!! I totally am wonderwoman, you should have seen me covered in the gear (mask, hat, suit, booties, etc.) from head to toe, with two cameras around my neck, instant messaging daddy, while trying to support Brandee all in the middle of surgery! Total Craziness. Although I do have to say the real wonderwoman is now taking care of three alone for the next ten months!

I did my best, but definitely not the same as if he were there. Brandee I hope you're feeling well, I'm not calling you because you should be sleeping NOT sending me care packages, you goof!

Here's pics of my sweet little "goddaughter" Jillian. The only reason I get to have one, is because I was baptized catholic as a baby, so I'm a mormon catholic, and get to have goddaughters. :)




Next, Friend Reunion, Fort Meade Style:

Spent Saturday and Sunday with my girls from Fort Meade, we had so much fun, chatting, scrapping, shopping, eating, beautifying, with no interruptions from kids or hubbies. Super crazy fun!!


Photographer: EMILY H.
Friend Reunion, Bloomington:

Visited with an old friend from when Josh and I were first married, B.C., I like to call it, Before Colson! She's been through a lot the past several years, but continues to amaze me with her strength and courage. By the way, she's working on being a Biology teacher, and she's single... SO.... PM me later, if you want details! He He, she's going to kill me! :)


Mount Tippenogas Temple Visit...


Sigh, what else can I say, I barely made a session, but spent the afternoon in the calmest, most peaceful place on earth. Pondering my life and big decisions, left feeling lightened, and with the knowledge that it was time to move on. SAY WHAT????

Leading me to what I've been doing for the last two weeks. Insanely working on preparing our house (more befores) for selling: Remember the Befores?? Well here are the afters:








AND Laila at ELEVEN months... Wowsers... Time Flies! While attempting her photo shoot, I thought I would try again to get the three together, no such luck. Their smiles were so fake, so I tried to get a real laugh and told them to pick their nose. Of course they were obedient then!! Goofy kiddos! :)





So, please don't take it personal if I haven't returned an email, made a phone call, or anything else. We have been swamped. I mean, why would I have a normal summer? Can you recall the last one? Oh my. Here we go again. Wish us luck! Hopefully I can be in touch a little more often.