SECOND SHOWING>>>>

Today at 6 p.m.

If you've never bought or sold a house you do not know what this means.

It is a HUGE deal. It means that someone was sort of impressed the first time they saw the house that they thought they should check it out, a SECOND time. It means that someone didn't come to see it JUST because they were curious... It usually also means they NEED to buy a house.

All things good, with a second showing.

Now, if only I could NOT get my hopes up... Come what may, and love it.

But if you're so inclined today, would you mind "Saying a little Prayer, for me?"

Thanks, YOU are a gem.

AngelFood Ministries

My friend Lori recommended this program to me a while back... we were moving and too busy to look into it. Well, I'm slowly getting more time, and well more broke, Thank You Obama..., o.k. so it is not ALL his fault, anyway, it's a great program, you do not have to meet an income requirement or be a part of any church.

I sent an email to a few people that I thought might be interested. If you want more info let me know!

Life with Four:

1. There's ALWAYS someone awake.
2. There's ALWAYS someone to feed.
3. Someone's laughing or crying ALWAYS.
4. I spend WAY TOO MUCH on things related to pee and pooh... Diapers, Wipes, Toilet Paper, and lysol.
5. I spend WAY TOO MUCH on food and drink that turns to pee and pooh.
6. No one else can ride in the van, and I'm thinking about putting on the side of it, Lucy's Day Care. Could I then get a tax write off for using it for a "business purpose"?
7. Please can someone ask me ONE MORE TIME... Are these all yours????
8. Blogging, emailing and phone calls, are few and far between.

I love it. My van prophecy was fulfilled. Long Story...no time, I've got four kiddos.

THE BIG FIVE. {and 300}

Miss Hallie is FIVE today. She is quite the girly girl, although she can take her brother, easily. She is starting ballet and tap this week, her birthday gift. OUCH to the wallet... who knew dance classes were so much? Bummer, she was afraid of the beam! We've collected all the bits and pieces of the money sent to us, and bought her gear, and her classes. I think she's going to love it! And I love it even more that we added ZERO toys this birthday. Hallie is such a great helper with Laila, she's more responsible than even Colson on this one. She L.O.V.E.S. holding Charlotte, and does her best to be the second "mom" to the little girls. Having multiple children gives you such insight to birth order... wishing her a happy day!

Side Note: THIS POST MARKS 300 POSTS, WOWSERS!!

We've been busy, have you?

Great Grandparents came to visit. No, Sonia, NOT twins, the baby boy is my nephew. Nice Try, you still owe me $100 bucks.



We celebrated two birthdays.



The Key Lime Pies were fantastic. Megan, I made this recipe, except I needed mini pies, so I just pressed the graham cracker crust into the bottoms of cupcake holders in the pan, baked them, and scooped the filling on top of the crust, and froze.



Colson followed the Savior's Example.




Charlotte Rose was blessed to be happy and helpful. Typical family photo. Hey Becca, could you cut 20 lbs from me, correct Hallie's face, by removing hands, etc... and also Colson needs a smile. Oh yeah, Laila is crying could you take those tears away, too. One more thing, Josh is NOT choking Laila, so could you remove that hand, too. Thanks.

Needless to say, I'm hoping for a calmer March, with A LOT more sleep.

The Big EIGHT.

Colson, the opposite of the caboose. The first born, the only son.

Spent his birthday at the Doctor's office, been home sick for FOUR days, with what? A cold was the diagnosis. I mean seriously? A fever for FOUR days?????? He's back to school tomorrow. He's taking in 20 key lime miniature pies for his class. Limes are his favorite food. And since I delivered a baby TWO WEEKS ago, and wanted to win the mother of the year award, I made them.

Happy Birthday Kiddo, to my favorite son.

The Moment You've Been Waiting For...

The Caboose Hours before she arrived:



The day after she was born, no I'm not going to do full on make up at the hospital, GET REAL!




One Week Later:

The Caboose's Arrival.

The Birth Story - Mainly for me, it's long, so no need to read! I just wanted to write it while I remembered most of it. I promise pictures are in the works...

Four. That was the most for me. I knew after the first one, I would not fulfill my childhood dream of having EIGHT children, just like my dearest friends the Zinn's, who practically raised me, and kept me out of trouble. I loved their crazy busy family, and their fun stories. Even the ones that weren't so fun like when they told poor Marnie she was adopted and created a pretend adoption certificate and taped it in her baby book. Nope, after that first round of childbirth, eight was NOT going to happen.



Slowly but surely we added each precious soul to our family. We planned, protected, and conceived pretty much when we wanted to. I know, a blessing in and of itself.



And then there was a trip to Utah. My nonchalant ways caught up with me this time. My cocky attitude toward all those women (including my sister) who tell me, it was a surprise, or I was using protection, was slammed into my face. I mean how do "ACCIDENTS" happen? Well I know how they happen. They just do. And the Caboose was on its way.



The pregnancy, although not perfect, I was puking, and the placenta was in the wrong place at first, went fairly well. The stress of our lives during this pregnancy was extraordinary. I was barely hanging on. I tried to endure, to think positive, to remember those who long for babies and can't have them, but for the life of me, I was not looking forward to the Caboose. I felt guilty and yucky and like a terrible mother for the feelings I was having. I knew I wanted another baby, but right NOW?????? I. DID. NOT.



However, there was no stopping this train, it was in motion, and the nine months had begun. We went through all the yucky stuff, and finally had decided to move to Charlottesville. The job was promising, and the town was nice. (I had only been here once) We planned the move on the Army's dollar, not particularly the best of timetables, but we already knew that. We found temporary shelter, and amidst all this 'planning' I told Josh, if we have a girl (which almost the entire pregnancy is what I thought I was having) we should name her Charlotte.



At 38 weeks, we pull up to my town home, the first I'd seen it. Nice Enough, time to settle in, temporarily. With Aunt Suzanne in tow, and 3 kiddos, we unpack the necessities, leave the rest, clean and scrub bathrooms, floors, carpets, etc. Set up home for the imminent arrival of the Caboose. There were a few false alarms, consistently irregular contractions, a trip to the O.B., a drive by the hospital, a hike, some house hunting, and definitely some penny pinching as the double doozy of a rent and a mortgage hits the checkbook. All while we waited for the Caboose.



I awoke February 10th to some painful contractions around 4:30 a.m. These were not unfamiliar as I've had several the previous days, but I kinda had a feeling about these... Josh came home from work around 6:20 a.m. and I said I would take care of Colson, you just hop into bed. (I did not mention the contractions) I KNEW if today was the day, he needed sleep. I got up showered, and went about my day. All day long I had sporadic contractions of various intensities. They were driving me CRAZY! I couldn't tell if they were for real. I told Suzanne, I think it might be today, but I was going to wait to tell Josh. He had a meeting at 5 p.m. that he couldn't miss. I had to make it until then.



I took Suzanne to Lowe's and then Whole Foods. We came home, had dinner, and sent Josh off to work. I finally mentioned I thought I was in labor. Before he left, I had him give me a blessing. It was amazing. He blessed me with peace, and strength, and he said "as we complete our family..." and from this point on I am not sure what he said. I felt like my sacrifice of bearing four children would be acceptable to the Lord. That our family was on it's way. That each spirit that was meant to be with us, had come. It was beautiful, spiritual, and uniting in a way that I can't describe.



Off he went to work, as I lingered at home "waiting" for something, anything to happen. I called family and warned them, and while talking to my sister had a serious contraction that said, time to go. I called Josh at work, and discovered he was already on his way home. This was about 7:30 p.m. We ended up arriving to the hospital around 9 p.m. I was only at a 4, and it felt like I had a LONG way to go after an entire day of contractions. I was exhausted and petrified, to be sure. Laila's birth was not FAR from my mind, and with only a tylenol to dull the pain, it was NOT FUN. I literally was shaking, I was so nervous. I knew I didn't want an epidural, but I also knew I didn't want to push a baby out. How was that going to work???



They suggested I get in the whirlpool tub. OH MY WONDERFUL. DUH. Why do they not have these in EVERY birthing room in America?? Josh leaned over when I was in, and said you finally got your tub. So true. I was in that tub from 10:30 p.m. till about 12:30 a.m. Josh said to me during this tub time, this is your last chance what do you think we're having, I said a boy. "Yeah, me too." was his response... When I finally got out, I was a whopping 6 cm. I was exhausted, and could NOT believe how little progress I had made. But, the tub had calmed my nerves. In my head, during contractions I would say; Come what may and Love it, with a slight smile on my face. It's true. It was purely psychological, but I had to smile through the contraction. It became my ritual. After the news of the not so far along cervix, the nurse began to tell me about a medication, that would help me relax between contractions. I kept thinking about it, and finally said yeah I think I want it. She put in an I.V. and administered some miracle drug, I felt almost right away. It just relaxed me. I still felt the contractions but was able to calm down between them. I told Josh to climb into bed with me and I laid on my right side, and he just held me, close and tight. For 45 minutes. I thought about the last time I would experience birth. I told him I loved him, and that he was the love of my life. In 9 years, I have never felt more intimate, than the quiet minutes we laid on the hospital bed, as every so often I would have a contraction. Here we were husband and wife, together for the miracle of birth, for the last time. We both knew it.



Soon, my water broke, I immediately had him call the nurse in, she checked me, I was at a 9, when the next contraction hit, she wanted to see how far down the baby came. Apparently it was close, and called in the doctor. THE VERY NEXT CONTRACTION sent the baby through the birth canal. With no break, a second contraction came, and out she came. I can remember Josh's words during the birth: "You're doing great. I can see the head, oh, it's out!" I delivered laying on my right side, they tried to get me to turn over, but I had no time, the bed was still up, and there was NO ONE FOR THE BABY in the room. Just my nurse and the doctor. She came out like a rocket, the nurse said, it took "a half a push". Poor Linda (my nurse) and the doctor had their hands full! I have to say, I DID NOT SWEAR!! Yeah for me. I screamed like a wild animal, and made sounds no woman or man should ever hear, but kept my language in check.



The nurse said, what is it??? The doctor asked, well dad what is it?? And I hear Josh say, IT'S A GIRL. My caboose, Charlotte, had arrived. I held her, and cried, sobbed actually. The nurse came over and was patting my shoulder, as I cried, "This is our last baby".



The other nurses finally arrived to take care of baby, and no one knew what time she was born. They had to go and look at my contraction sheet to find the time of birth. I guess the nurse and the doctor were too busy to check their watches. It was shockingly quick.



I feel so blessed to have four healthy children. I feel a love for Josh like never before. Just like he said in my blessing: Our family is complete. Heavenly Father has blessed us four times over. We owe Him, our very best, as He has given us His.

We're Home.

Charlotte and I just arrived home around lunch time, I'm off to take a nap. Thanks to you all for your sweet congrats. We're both doing great, and I'm looking forward to sharing the details including Photos - which might take awhile, as we can't find the cord to link the camera to the computer... the hazards of a move. We finally decided on a middle name - Charlotte Rose.

Thanks again, and an update shortly!

BTW - You know you have too many kids when....

it takes you 30 minutes to set up dentist appts, which they can't do all in the same day.

ANNOUNCING....

No, this is not Lucy blogging from the Hospital!
Her awesome little sister Becca here, to proudly announce that
Charlotte Heath was born at 1:36AM today, February 11th, 2009.
Sweet Charlotte weighs a total 7lbs 4oz.
Mom and baby are doing well.
Updates to come when the tired momma can get to it.

Congratulations Josh and Lucy and family!!!

No Baby, yet...

Still prego. and getting crabbier by the second.

My baby for not so long.

The imminent arrival of a baby is at hand. I am sure by the 28th of Feb. I will have baby number four. I've introduced a new baby to two siblings now, and both times, they were full grown kiddos, with super hero or princess underpants. This time my baby gets to meet my baby. So weird. I soon get to pack a diaper bag with TWO diaper sizes. Weird. Laila is what you might call a slow walker, so I get to CARRY two babies. Weird. I've arranged the kids rooms to accommodate TWO cribs. Double weird.

Welcome to the Ward.

Sunday - Day 1 - Sister introduces herself in the coat hallway, as i'm taking off my coat, yes that quickly. One sister hands me her name and phone number on a card, call anytime, she says. Meet several members.

Still Day 1 - Name added to the email list, received February Newsletter, and Sunday's Bulletin in an email.

Still Day 1 - Sister calls and asks if my kids can come play at her house this week, schedules align, make plans.

Day 2 - Drop off kiddos, while movers are unloading, go to pick up, offered dinner and FHE, Josh has to work can't do it, She sends me home with a frozen soup, and a loaf of fresh homemade bread. Seriously.

R.S. President calls to come visit.

AMAZING... Did I mention there are 220 sisters on their R.S. list? Oh, I'm already on the list that was given to me on Monday.

A little intimidating at how together this ward has it!! :) But I would be wrong to not mention the wonderful ladies from my last ward, who stepped it up and helped clean my house on the Friday before I left. A huge help! Thanks so much!

We made it.

We're in VA, our stuff arrives today... I meet my OB today, and our townhome is fine. It's wierd moving into a place I've never seen before! The bathrooms need updating BAD. But the space is going to work. And it's only for four months. I've had contractions on and off but nothing too regular. Josh is back at work. Soon I just know Normalcy will begin. Ha ha. My ward is HUMONGOUS. But I love it already. There's 3 nurseries, 13 kids in Hallie's class alone, and we're in a brand new stake center, that is beautiful. I think we're going to like it here.

by the way, I would like to thank my family and friends that participated in our fast this past weekend. We continue to hope and pray that our home will sell.

Till next time!

A quickie.

NO, not THAT kind... I'm 38 weeks prego give me a break!

1. We move like tomorrow.
2. I am ZERO cm dilated.
3. We have had ONE showing.
4. Obama passes law (I guess lifts a ban) to use my tax dollars to fund abortions internationally in his FIRST week of office. SO EXCITED about the next four years... If only I could spend an entire blogpost on B.O.!
5. I need new bras, do they sell them in cantaloupe sizes??
6. Totally did NOT call my father in law on his birthday, we are LAME...nevermind I set up my phone, you know my brain, to beep at me for important things like that, and STILL missed it.
7. My aunt is coming tomorrow to rescue me, thank goodness!
8. I'm mapquesting hospitals from here to VA, just in case.
9. No internet = No fun
10. If you file bankruptcy, do you pay the lawyer? Just curious. wink. wink.

I've missed you all!

Checking Out.

Well, Folks. It has come to that time. Josh tells me in six weeks this will all be over. What is all you might ask, here goes:

A move, A baby, A major house cleaning, A baptism, A blessing, Heartburn, and single parenthood.

AS I'm sure many of you would like to point out, My dad included, "I told you not to buy that house!", we know, we thought it was crazy at the time, however, we still do not regret it, as we prayed about the decision then, and have truly learned much from this housing purchase. And continue to do so, as it's not over yet!!

We are relocating to VA, about 4 hours from here, we are renting a townhome, for only 4 months. We are praying, hoping, fasting, and begging for your prayers, that we will be able to sell our home by this time. Money will be tight, a mortgage and a rent payment, add up to 50% of our income... but we solve a couple of problems by doing this, the Army moves us, and Josh is with me to help with baby, and our other 3 little ones. After the 4 months, if the home doesn't sell, we'll reevaluate our situation at that time...

In the meantime, we will not set up cable, or internet, or phone, which means blogging will happen sporadically, we have a new number, a cell phone!!, and we'll try and update when we can, especially with new baby's arrival. Thanks everybody, it's nice to know you care a little about our family, and even read my crabby prego posts.

Finding Joy in the Journey:
1. Thank the Lord above for a sense of humor, required at times like these.
2. we have 3 wonderful children, who currently deal with a hormonal, extremely stressed mother, and are living to tell about it.
3. We are so fortunate to have a vacation home, in Hanover, PA.
4. We have a job.
5. We have insurance. Does anyone know how much insurance covers an interstate birth??
6. I do not have to be here, when (like on Saturday) we have "pretend" showings. You know the kind where they call with an hour notice, and don't show up.
7. We are weeks away from completing our family. A bittersweet moment indeed. Josh insists it's a boy, I insist she's coming, my last girl. I have her named. If Josh is right I'm in some serious trouble. Make your guesses known! :)

Until next time, we're wishing you better luck than us!

Love ya!!

One Week From Today.

I get to go to my annual Scrap Weekend. This is my FOURTH year, and it's a favorite tradition. There are a few regulars, and each year there is a couple of newbies. We chat, and eat, and scrap, and sleep, and laugh, and cry, and our wells are filled.

There is something to be said for great friendships. I just read a book "A Bold Fresh Piece of Humanity" by Bill O'Reilly, and one of the things he talked about was friends that keep you grounded. His father told him, you'll be lucky if you make five good friends in a lifetime. If it wasn't for the military, I think he'd be right. But, thanks to years of moving, I've met the most amazing women. As I am about to move, once more, I am so greatful for my Fort Meade Friends, who I know, no matter where I go, I will get to see at least once a year.

Are you ready girls???? I am SO READY!!!!

Free Download for Money Help from Suze Orman

Because I'm feeling a bit guilty for my latest rant:

Anyone want a free book about an Action Plan for 2009? Download FOR FREE until Jan. 15th.

In my discouragement, I found THIS LESSON and the following quote:

“Stand fast, ye Saints of God, hold on a little while longer, and the storm of life will be past, and you will be rewarded by that God whose servants you are, and who will duly appreciate all your toils and afflictions for Christ’s sake and the Gospel’s. Your names will be handed down to posterity as Saints of God.”

Joseph Smith

Bailout Bull Sh!t.

I'm sorry, this is a family blog, but I'm about to scream my head off.

I do not claim to be an economist, a political analyst, or even somewhat "in the know" when it comes to the economy. I'm a stay at home mom, who cuts coupons, and shops the bargain aisles for clothes. I'm wearing the same winter coat I got my freshman year of college.

So. When I see a headline about Obama's new 800 Billion dollar mega bailout, after I already opposed BUSH's 750 Billion bailout, I want to start throwing things. The first bailout was supposedly to help the mortgage companies, and banks, and blah blah blah. Well, my home's value has dropped 25% in the last freaking year. What have I done? Paid my stupid mortgage on time, EVEN WHEN UNEMPLOYED. Where the heck is my bailout??? I talked to the mortgage company this was their offer - we could refinance your mortgage to a fixed rate of 6.0 for a small fee, blah blah blah.

SO then our realtor tells us what HE thinks we can get for our house, wait let me go vomit in a trash can, yeah not the best news. He suggests a short sale. Josh and I have considered this, looked into it as a possibility. Basically the lender "forgives" part of your mortgage. Great deal, except we need to show financial distress like not pay our mortgage for awhile. Isn't that a bit deceitful to not pay it even if you CAN afford it??

I mean who is screwed here. To me it sounds like the consumer who pays their bills on time, who happens to be in a TWENTY EIGHT percent tax bracket, who just wants to live in the same town as her disabled veteran husband.

Excuse me for being a bit frustrated with Obama's proposed spending plans. I hated Bush's plans, too. Throwing money at problems DOESN'T SOLVE THEM. ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU DON"T HAVE THE MONEY TO SPEND.

Josh and I recently looked at a home in a short sale situation in Charlottesville. We counted not one, not two, not three, but FOUR plasma screen t.v.'s, not to mention the latest washer and dryer on the market. I mean seriously??

Can someone tell me what happened to the America, I knew? Where dreams can come true, if you just work hard enough? Where is the integrity in this world?

I can't stand it that Americans are willing to just believe in "hope". We have real problems. And it starts in the home, not in the White House. Get a clue, Obama. More money, More problems. Stop the spending madness, it didn't help the first time, why in the world do you think it would help a second time?

If you read this far, you really do love me, and thanks for listening to a crabby 8 month prego mom, who happens to be a little stressed. I'm off to do Fit Mama (salsa dancing)

By the way, if you're looking for a home to buy, I know a great one that you could get for a steal.

Cheers, to livin' the American Dream!

Photo Downloads by the Dozen

Luke came to stay, and nap:















Praline French Toast with Pomegranite

















Turkeys out of Cocoa Kripies















Halloween, Bundled Up
















I took my camera to the voting booth. I really did.













For my anniversary: I got a cell phone. I haven't had one in SIX years. we got it because we are moving to a sublease for only 4 months and didn't want connectivity charges for cable, phone, internet, etc. It's like my brain I love it! Where did I put it?


I discoverd Snickerdoodles Bakery on New Year's Eve, this was Bec's Selection, I threw up mine the morning after.



Luke and Laila had a great time playing together, do you see her standing, it's like a miracle!


Christmas Cookie Creations




Santa rocked my Christmas with a Professional 600 Kitchenaid, where, with the right blade it could also mow the yard. I've done homemade pizza, cinnamon rolls, and Josh's Aunt Jennifer's Cheese ball.


I feel so much better now that you can at least SEE what I've been up to for the last couple months.

Because I can.

I'm still annoyed with the Colts Loss, With the McCain loss, and well some things annoy me.

Like Private School for the First Daughters, where tuition is almost 29,000 a year times two kids.

Barack what's wrong with the Public Schools?? Not good enough for you??

Lame Game

Adios to the Colts... I will miss Tony Dungy...

And now I'm off to root for Peyton's little brother, Eli. He's a favorite since he took out Brady last year... SAWEET.

Go Giants!

BTW, Josh is back with the computer so I should have some pics up soon!

Wild Card Saturday

I'm game, you game?

8 p.m. COLTS ROAD TO SUPER BOWL BEGINS.

11:30 p.m. COLTS BEAT CHARGERS

A New Year, A New Me

Josh and I started a tradition last year of writing down three (and only three) New Year's Resolutions, then sealing them with a kiss at midnight. Well we were apart for the New Year and haven't had a chance to talk it over, or kiss on it, for that matter. I do remember one in particular resolution to Be in the best shape ever for my 30th year. A month into my 30th year I was prego, and 2 months into it the doctor said no more running..., and so now I'm in the worst shape EVER!!

So I say DITTO, on last year's resolution, and I should work on the other two...

I think my New Year should start TODAY, because yesterday morning I was throwing up, and that's just not the best way to start the year.

I'm off to drink my 10-12 glasses of water my midwife wants me to drink, apparently I'm VERY dehydrated according to my blood work, and my salsa dancing(my favorite prego workout DVD, Fit Mama, so funny!), and thinking on my other two resolutions.

And finally, mourning the missing sister and her kids that had invaded my house this week.

Happy New Year, All.

Eyes in the back of my head.

A week ago:

Hallie: "Mom, how did you know I was doing that?"

Mom: "I have eyes in the back of my head!"

Hallie: "Do I have eyes in the back of my head?"

Mom: "Not yet, when you become a parent you get eyes in the back of your head."


Today, Hallie was standing behind me:

"Mom, I don't see eyes in the back of your head!"

Hallie and all other children out there, Trust Me, They're back there! :)

Tis the Season

My cards are mailed, FINALLY (the pictures got here yesterday), I sent a few packages, and overall, excited that our family gets to delay the holidays for an extra couple of days. Josh has to work the next four days... apparently terrorists don't celebrate Christmas, and so we will be saving our Christmas Celebration for his return. Instead, I'm thinking of taking the kiddos to a nearby retirement center, and entertain the guests with their craziness. We're also putting together care packages for some soldiers overseas, and Santa is forced to be delayed. I LOVE IT!! Other than Josh being gone, I love that Christmas day means, not a single gift unwrapped. Perfect.

Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas!

James, James, James.

Yes, an entire post dedicated to you.

Although, gambling is against MY religion, it was nice of you to share your thoughts on the Colts road to the Super Bowl. The black and gold will go down a second time, and it will be a close, but fantastic battle, in which we win. It's too bad YOU won't get to see it, as the playoffs take place on Sunday.

And one final note, I looked and looked for some Steelers Toilet Paper for my perfect stocking stuffer to myself, no such luck. I am going to figure out how to patent this idea, and make millions off "Steelers Stink" toilet paper.

We're In.

I missed the game, I scrolled through a million channels and could NOT find the game!!!! Oh well, the bed was calling me.

But the Colts have clinched the Wild Card, and are heading to the playoffs. Tony Dungy's last year, and it's going to be another SuperBowl. I know you all doubted me when I first said the Colts would win it, but it would be a harder fought fight.

I don't know why but some people seem to think I don't know everything, I really do. :)

One other side note, now that I found my midwife, Josh thinks we should move by Feb. 1st. My due date Feb. 15th., Due date for the Army to move us for free? Feb. 10th. Apparently he's lonely without us, isn't that sweet? MY LIFE IS CRAZY, SO MUCH FOR NORMAL BIRTHING EXPERIENCES!! I can see the headlines now:

WOMAN DELIVERS BABY IN FRONT OF GOD, FAMILY, AND I-295. Family's Son, dials 911, while 4 year old delivers baby. (she knows what to do after all those books she saw in the midwife's office) I have to laugh, or I'll cry... or scream.

Anyway, the COlTS are in, and maybe I'll get to watch the Super Bowl from my Hospital Room!

A visit to the Midwife

I know why I haven't "missed" the appointments all that much.

We got there early, she was quick, but then we had the hour glucose test, so after two hours of the hospital, the girls were READY to leave.

Hallie was playing with a birthing ball at the Midwife's office, Cheerios were spewn everywhere by Laila, Hallie kept wanting me to read these VERY GRAPHIC children's books about birth that had me scared, Laila fell out of the plastic chair and hit her head, 20 minutes later, a comment box in the lab was pulled down by the chain pen ON HER HEAD..., the plan number was missing from the insurance information, a snow, sleet storm came while we were there, and so I was afraid of an early dismissal for Colson, and to top it off I had to listen to Obama on fox news, about his Secretary of Education appointment, another Chicago guy. I think it's funny we have a president-elect that is so inexperienced the only people he knows are from Chicago (CHICAGO-Home to the most ethical on the planet!!). I couldn't even grumble because I know I was the only one in the room that likely didn't vote for the man. I mean where was Jeapardy, or The Price is RIght?

But for the update, we heard the heartbeat it sounded great, I am measuring a few days bigger than where I am, and I weigh as much as a cow, give me a few months, and I'll have the milk to prove it.

LOVED the midwife - and am truly excited!! I think I just might have the perfect birthing story, after FOUR tries.

I'm thrilled to have my sister take some maternity portraits while she is here, FOR FREE. Well, it my cost me some food...

I talked to a friend today, and I'm just relishing in these last few months of being pregnant, feeling the baby move, I told her this is it for me, I'm in no hurry, even though I'm a bit crabby and uncomfortable, I'm done after this. No more miraculous alien movements, it's exciting, and scary, a little sad, and well, emotional... No surprise there. But it's happening, and no turning back now. Here S/HE comes!!

Prenatal care, or lack thereof.

There's no denying the glorious roundness of my middle region (or back side for that matter), or the standard pack of tums that has now entered the car, diaper bag, and night stand. If these signs weren't enough perhaps it would be my effervescent personality shining through. I am in fact "with child". I'm sure I will be the lucky "Mary" at the beginning of the family's Christmas skit.

With child number four moms tend to get a little laid back. I mean can you seriously remember all of your children's firsts? Or can you even pay attention to details like what's in their mouth. Here's a recent pooh list for Laila (i.e. things we've discovered she's eaten) rubberband, epoxy sticker, sequins, and I believe there was a bit of tinfoil from a Hershey kiss wrapper. I know, who's responsible for her??? Oh is that me?? I think I just pray harder each time.

Needless to say, my prenatal care with number four, is shall we say, lacking. I've been to the doctor once, and had an ultrasound a second time (not at the same office). I was cleared of previa, and never went back! My sisters who get on my case over things like this say, How's your blood pressure, are you measuring normal, etc. Well I don't exactly know. All I do is pay attention to make sure baby has been moving. Fairly scientific, I know. After a few phone calls today, it's official, I found myself a midwife, about a half an hour away, and am thrilled. We share the same birthday, it was meant to be. She called me after a half hour, to find out my situation, I mean when does a doctor call you??? She gave me a brief lecture over my lack of care, but apologized for the only appt. she had this week, which is a half hour. She's like I know you want my time, but this is what I've got, and I'll meet with you for a little longer at my next appointment. Did she just apologize to me? She's already above the photographer.

Anyway, I told Ann, all I cared was that she would be there for me the last three hours of the pregnancy.

I'm getting a bit anxious, but excited, this little miracle is already full of surprises! So no more lectures, I'm on to every other week appts, if I have to...

Contest, anyone?

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Here we are, I'm Back!

1. I'm super busy with Christmas Cards, Christmas baking, Math homework, balancing my checkbook, and finding the perfect service opportunity for our family this Christmas Season.

2. We just watched the Christmas Devotional, which was fantastic, worth watching if you missed it!

3. Josh is still coming and going at random intervals, but we get to see him so much more, and although it's not ideal, it's working fine.

4. I am literally 60 days from delivery (approximately), the realty has just not sunk in, remember when I first wrote about it? I am still in shock, but in a much better kind of shock. We're going to be parents for the last time and it feels bittersweet. Please pray that Josh will be in town when the labor starts!

5. Our Christmas Pictures with the professional were highly disappointing, I refuse to mention her name once again, because this is the email I received when I expressed my disappointment:

I'm sorry that you're not more pleased with your photos, you are the first person who has ever expressed anything other than complete satisfaction to me. I understand that professional photos are a big splurge for everyone, that's why I include the digital negatives in my fee and don't charge extra for additional people, etc.
Certainly your husband was very uncomfortable and your kids needed a bit more encouragement and requests for cooperation than most (perhaps it was the morning after Halloween factor?!). Both of those things contributed to more posed, less candid shots.

Did said photographer just blame my husband and kids for the crappy shots?? I mean shouldn't a photographer notice a shoe? or a tag? or an awkward sitting man? or even a scarf twisted, or how about where the center of the picture is? OR how about a picture without one of the family members??? Just wondering...

Here are some of the results, they're not horrible, but with her unprofessional response, I hate them more!














So there you go. And one more thing THIS SISTER is coming to visit at Christmas, I am so Excited!!

I'll try to be on the ball, but you never know... it could be another month!! Thanks for everyone's concern/interest in my blog, you make me feel loved, and that my blog isn't the worst writing you've ever read! Take Care All!

Coming Soon...

A New Post.

Candy Cane Oreos Review.

Delicious.

Where were you at 4:04 a.m.?

Me, at JcPenny's replacing a Christmas tree I hauled to the curb a couple of weeks ago, when I thought I would be in Indiana for the Holidays. And in order to "save" money, which in fact a false tree TOTALLY does, I went to find the BEST bargain out there, which I did.

Now, I'm off to bed. Black Friday is totally overrated.

Pictures... noticably Absent.

Josh has taken over the laptop, which is SO MUCH easier to load pictures on, thus, you are getting post after post of no pictures. Sorry. The kids still grow, as do I. I'll try to update soon.

We're looking forward to a splendid turkey day, and are praying hard we can have a signed contract on this home by the end of January!

Simple Gratitude:

1. Husband
2. Children 1,2,3, and I just know I will one day be thankful for 4, too.
3. Testimony.
4. Friends.
5. Bleach.
6. Blogs.
7. Health.
8. Pomegranite Season.
9. Windows.
10. Sisters
11. Prayer
12. Renters without pets, and non-smokers.
13. Music
14. Photographs
15. VA loans.
16. MBA
17. Flowers/Gardens
18. Water
19. Holidays
20. Online shopping.
21. Scriptures - totally didn't mean to put these way down here, we actually do study them EVERY day.
22. The Office.
23. GPS
24. Trails.
25. Gum
26. Colts Football.
27. Scented candles
28. Sharp Knives
29. Coupons
30. American Flag
31. chapstick
32. I'll keep thinking... I'm just out of time!

The Colts are Back.

Finally something to cheer for!

The Christmas Letter...

I'd like to write goes something like this:

Family and Friends:

Year 9 at the Heath's began hopeful, cheerful, and exciting, as Josh returned from his Final Deployment, Alive.

We hurriedly decided to "RUN AWAY" to the beautiful beaches of South Florida, and take a much earned family vacation, where I found HONEYBELL'S (I first discovered them with my citrus obsession with Laila), the best fruit on the planet.

A friend in need called and said, please be with me while I have my baby, and my husband is gone! OF COURSE, I say. And proceed to have a GREAT week with lots of friends. Such a great week, I'm not so regular with the birth control pills... Enter the drum roll here, The Year Really Begins.

10 days without hubby, means SO EXCITED to see him. Not realizing, that not once(Colson), not twice(Hallie), but for the third time the "Lusty Month Of May", is a VERY productive one.



In June we discover the "surprise".

In the next couple of months Lucy loses her mind (and her faith in the American people), Josh loses two jobs, insurance is on again, off again, and to end the year, we land another job, 4 hours away, and are again apart.

We'd love to focus on the Christmas Season and generously pour out blessings among others, instead we've so humbly received from various sources. Thanks to all!

For some reason, sex and job loss, doesn't seem like the appropriate Christmas Letter. I guess I'll keep working on it.

Big Weekend Plans

Oops. I meant NO weekend plans. :)

We are showing the house today at noon, wish us luck.

Josh is applying at various jobs for Christmas help, with all his extra time, wish him luck.

Lucy is prego with three kids, and trying to survive, wish her luck.

So I guess this morning I will be cleaning, laundry, dusting, this is the benefit to renting/selling your home, it almost always looks good. And after that, who knows. I would L.O.V.E. to go to one of the various church bazaars/craft shows, but tackling 3kids at one of those places isn't all that appealing. But maybe I'll be brave. Have a great weekend!

P.S. STILL NO PICTURES!! I'll post when they come in, I promise!

Dow Storms Back

I would just like to point out that the day after the election and the days following the election, the dow dropped, even when Obama spoke with his economic posse behind him.

Bush, the president all disapprove of, speaks, and rallies the market. Interesting.

But what do I know, I'm an elementary teacher, who stays at home with a bunch of kiddos.

The Voice that comes and goes!

In my answer to a prayer, I reported I lost my voice, however, I did gain it back. Only to discover that the louder I yell, the quieter it becomes. Truly Masterful.

1. MY HOUSE - I do not know what to do with it?!?!?!

2. MY NEW TOWN - I'm longing for this place... :)

3. PARENT/TEACHER Conference - Tonight, bleh...

4. MY BABY BUMP - BIGGER AND BIGGER AND you get the picture.

5. MEMORIES BY MAUREEN - Where are the results from my photo shoot, I'm waiting ever so IMPATIENTLY!

Feeling pretty good.

Trimester three starts in like 4 days or something, and I'm feeling great! Wierd huh?

This morning, I SLEPT IN until 5:40 a.m., read the rest of The Christmas Box, cute story! Made a "HOT" Breakfast, Heart Healthy Banana Pancakes. Cleaned up after myself, walked Colson with Chunky Laila to the bus stop, paid the bills, (barely), and now catching up on blogs, emails, and other online obligations.

Don't hold your breath, this may only last 24 hours.

Or at least I'll be ready for a nap around 9 a.m. :)

The Minority.

My first experience being in the minority was in high school. I remember feeling incredibly out of place, with my standards so far from my peers. It was an awkward, uncomfortable feeling to stand alone because of my choices. Didn't enjoy it, but thankfully wasn't too ornery. At least that's what I'll put in writing. My dad reads this!!

I was a minority in this election. The majority picked a man I would never pick, I'm thinking WHERE'S HILARY??

But there is another issue I'm in the minority, as I read in the news yesterday. President Bush has the lowest approval rating of all time. So this means, I am in the smallest minority EVER!

But, in years to come, I have no doubt as Bush's presidency is examined he will go down in history as one seriously respectable president.

I will support him to the end, and will miss my sense of security I had with him in charge. To President Bush, my American President, I wish you a fond farewell. You've done your duty. And only God knows the burden you carried for 8 years.

And to Barack, I'm not one of the 71% of people that are hopeful. However, as long as you make true on your promises of keeping my taxes low, and getting the budget in check, and continue to keep America safe, I will be fine. But truth be told, I'll never be more involved in a campaign than in four years. May God keep you humble, honest, and doing the right thing for our country.

Inspiration.

Inspired by THIS TALK

Wanted to stop yelling so much at the kids, to be more respectful and patient with their demands. So I followed the counsel, and prayed as suggested.

Result: Lost My Voice Today.

Seriously.

New Habit.

Being further along in my pregnancy doesn't allow for a full night's rest anymore. I must potty. Well... I can no longer go back to sleep after my 4:00 a.m. or 4:30 a.m. trip, and have thus started accomplishing things at this insanely ridiculous hour. Yesterday, I cleaned tha bathroom at 4 a.m., this morning I was switching laundry at 5;30 a.m. This is one habit I have got to break. PLEASE HELP??!! I will say my house has never looked better!

I can't help it...

Remember I said one week. That will be next Wed.

A. Iran President for the first time in a long time sends a note to a President Elect - Obama - Congratulating him. I can see it now, Obama has said he would like a non-nuclear world... the conversation goes something like this.. Iran: "Great idea, Obama, you go first."

B. Hamas: Let's Chat.

It's not even Jan. 20th.

Although, the news of "what puppy goes to the White House" is also making headlines.

But as for me and my house, we decided to take a loss on our house. Looks like a XX,XXX dollar hit. (Hurts so Good, playing in the background) Although, we look at the upside as our realtor suggested we're young, we'll recover. AND, because I learned all about taxes in the last couple of months, you get to deduct $3500 a year in capital losses, and you also get to carry your loss over year after year until it's gone. Which will work out great for us with B.O.'s new tax plan. Sweet.

Also, my new motto... Come What May, and Love it. Thank you Elder Wirthlin.

These things bring me JOY today.

1. Josh Home.
2. Laundry washed with liquid softener, and then a dryer sheet, smells SO GOOD.
3. Laila tackling me on the floor.
4. Making Cocoa Krispie Treat Turkeys with my kiddos.
5. Josh's boss letting him hang at his house for a little while to help us get on our feet.
6. A great nap.
7. A lumpy moving Belly Region.
8. Our Home.
9. A priesthood holder willing and able to bless. (A special friend reminded me of this blessing today, I'm thinking of you and your son!)
10. Gasoline at $2.12
11. Only one more day without insurance.
12. QOTD: Watching some kid movie about a girl on an island, and was eating worms, I came in during the middle of it... Anyway, Hallie says: "I don't like to eat worms. They don't have an oven so they have to eat worms." Becca have you been eating worms?

Slowly but Surely coming out of my funk...

The Election has me down no doubt... I have trust issues I must confess, I do NOT trust this guy.

My step mom gave my dad one week to be grumpy, and I too, am attempting the challenge. :) So bear with me as I may not seem like myself... or maybe I am always pessimistic?!? I'll work on it.

What was great about yesterday, the freaking delicious homemade chocolate cake I made for Josh. I have a massive pan, so if you live close come get a chunk! I am NOT a cake person, I'd prefer a pie, or a cookie, but cake with frosting no thanks... BUT this cake was so moist so full of flavor it will cheer anyone suffering from the recent loss, which I am beginning to think is only me. Can I say my Colts are losing frequently, too? Dang November, bring on December!

Happy Birthday to Joshi!

One year ago we ALL took part in celebrating his birthday as he celebrated alone in the Marriott, that no longer exists in Pakistan...

So we are LOVING having him here, for his 31st.

Josh is such a great person. Few people get the opportunity to really get to know him, his quiet, reserved, humble nature is not easy to penetrate. Unless of coourse you are as obnoxious as me!!

Josh is a great husband, great dad, a veteran, an MBA, a priesthood holder, and a reading enthusiast. His son Colson loves all things daddy, and IS all things daddy. Laila's favorite parent by a mile is Josh. They have this special bond, which is pretty funny to watch, and Hallie is like me, so they're forced to get along!! :)

We love you dad, and have a great day!

BREAKING NEWS: DOW PLUNGES 486 POINTS.

As Andy from the office would say... "Nailed it."

Mourning for America.

A phrase my dad has coined for this election. He called it. I had hope, and was supposed to get a dinner when McCain won. I'm out of luck.

We shall see the true character of this man in the next four years.

In the meantime, my cash is going under my mattress, I'm on to building a bomb shelter, and to further my education as he cuts the U.S. defense budget, my husband will be out of work. Oh wait, I then can stand in line with all the other Americans with my hand out, that would be easier.

I'm mourning for America.

What a shame, I mean sham, that we would elect such a shady character. Truly Unbelievable.

I'm curious to see the stock markets reaction to this news... I doubt it's good.

Praying hard for the next four.

Nobama Noway

I'm seriously giving myself an ulcer over this election. I find it so disheartening that Americans are missing some KEY issues when it comes to this vote.

1. YOU HAVE TO CONSIDER HIS ASSOCIATIONS. A terrorist, a US hater, a PLO spokesperson and others have shaped his views, whether or not he agrees, he sympathizes. Name ONE inappropriate relationship from McCain. ONE.

2. YOU HAVE TO CONSIDER THE PROMISES. He's promised the world to the people that don't pay taxes. He can't deliver. It isn't right to TAKE from the rich and give to the poor. You can suggest it, encourage it, but don't FORCE anyone to do it, it breeds an ugly attitude. Aren't we a country that dreams big, if you want more money, dream bigger for yourself, and work harder, where is the pride in what you do, when you are handed something for nothing?

3. YOU HAVE TO CONSIDER HIS WORD. He was going to accept Public Financing, and then didn't. He also committed to be a senator for the state of Illinois. I looked up his record. He voted only 45.5% of the time. He didn't help the people of Illinois, by NOT doing the only thing required of him, to vote on legislation.

4. YOU HAVE TO CONSIDER HIS EXPERIENCE. He doesn't have any. Nothing, nowhere has he shown what he is capable of. We have nothing. Can I suggest a few people that have "quickly risen to power", o.k. I won't, but it's scary to thing about. How can we trust him? We have no idea who he is or what he stands for.

5. YOU HAVE TO CONSIDER HIS IDEAS ON FOREIGN POLICY. Diplomacy with terrorist nations?? I mean these bad guys are wanting him to be president. They're not cheering on McCain, because they're scared of him. No, they want Obama. That is scary.

I absolutely believe the worst case scenario in this election is Obama winning. He's scary and not trustworthy, and dangerous. McCain has his weaknesses no doubt, but at least we know COUNTRY FIRST.

Go Vote, Vote often, and if you're voting for Obama, get sick! Just kidding... I had to lighten the post a little... I am so hoping you're voting educated. Do your research, not on CNN or FOXNEWS. Look for their records, research!!

Close to Home

When you've sacrificed time, moeny, and more, for a country other than your own, your perspective changes. Do I like war? Do I want it to continue forever? No. Peace sounds good to me. However, I also understand that there wasn't a single priesthood member in either Afghanistan or Iraq before this war. That this group of people have no idea who Christ is, nor will they ever know if the gospel of Jesus Christ is forbidden, if they are not free. We were born to privilege, and with that comes specific obligations (a line from Ever AFter, thank you!) But it's true. why should America sit in our "bubble" of a perfect world, spoiled rotton, and do nothing? Yes, we are a freedom loving people, and don't we wish this same thing on others? Why shouldn't we promote democracy throughout the world? Were their mistakes made in Iraq, yes, I will never deny it. But I can hold my head high as I think about the sacrifice we've (josh) has made on behalf of those who have no rights. That he was a part of "spreading the gospel throughout the corners of the Earth" as it says in a personal blessing of his.

Poll Question...

I heard this question asked to a group of people on CNN:

Should uninformed people vote?

What do YOU think?

Country First?? Integrity in the White House??

There are other political leaders out there that I would rather see as president. But we have TWO choices. I just CANNOT see how Obama can lead, and lead well. Obama is about Obama, his cocky selfish ways are not what this country needs. We need someone who loves this country deeper than himself. Mistakes happen in every presidency. McCain will not be perfect, but I believe, he will always put the country first, as he has already done.

Editor's note: Campbell Brown anchors CNN's "Campbell Brown: No Bias, No Bull" at 8 p.m. ET Mondays through Fridays. She delivered this commentary during the "Cutting through the Bull" segment of Tuesday night's broadcast.


CNN's Campbell Brown complains about Barack Obama's switch on financing.

(CNN) -- You may have heard that Wednesday night Barack Obama will be on five different TV networks speaking directly to the American people.

He bought 30 minutes of airtime from the different networks, a very expensive purchase. But hey, he can afford it. Barack Obama is loaded, way more loaded than John McCain, way more loaded than any presidential candidate has ever been at this stage of the campaign.

Just to throw a number out: He has raised well over $600 million since the start of his campaign, close to what George Bush and John Kerry raised combined in 2004.

Without question, Obama has set the bar at new height with a truly staggering sum of cash. And that is why as we approach this November, it is worth reminding ourselves what Barack Obama said last November.

One year ago, he made a promise. He pledged to accept public financing and to work with the Republican nominee to ensure that they both operated within those limits.

Then it became clear to Sen. Obama and his campaign that he was going to be able to raise on his own far more cash than he would get with public financing. So Obama went back on his word.

He broke his promise and he explained it by arguing that the system is broken and that Republicans know how to work the system to their advantage. He argued he would need all that cash to fight the ruthless attacks of 527s, those independent groups like the Swift Boat Veterans. It's funny though, those attacks never really materialized.


'No bias, no bull'
Get the latest on the presidential race on "Campbell Brown: No Bias, No Bull"
8 ET Monday through Friday on CNN

see full schedule »
The Washington Post pointed out recently that the bad economy has meant a cash shortage among the 527s and that this election year they have been far less influential.

The courageous among Obama's own supporters concede this decision was really made for one reason, simply because it was to Obama's financial advantage.

On this issue today, former Sen. Bob Kerrey of Nebraska, an Obama supporter, writes in The New York Post, "a hypocrite is a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue -- who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings. And that, it seems to me, is what we are doing now."

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In Depth: Commentaries
Campbell Brown: No Bias, No Bull
For this last week, Sen. Obama will be rolling in dough. His commercials, his get-out-the-vote effort will, as the pundits have said, dwarf the McCain campaign's final push. But in fairness, you have to admit, he is getting there in part on a broken promise.

Ten on Tuesday: Copying my friend Emily's Edition...

1. QOTD: While preparing my children for the traditional trick or treat that is done in our town on random days like the Tuesday before Halloween, I was told while helping Hallie on the potty. "Wonder Woman never goes potty, I never see Wonder Woman going potty."

2. Josh and I implemented a new "diet" regimen eating more nutritiously, six small meals a day. Did I mention I've tossed an enormous amount of yummies into the trash to avoid temptation. Why did we take our kids trick or treating tonight?? Duh.

3. Headline on Yahoo News this morning: Housing Prices have Record drops... which explains why we went to WalMart to get FOR RENT signs, which were sold out. So now in America we can't sell our house, but you also aren't going to be able to rent it.

4. Thanks to no one for sharing the news about the Colts last night. I was SURE I would hear from a certain someone in CO. Yup they lost. I believe this means they don't even make the playoffs. Looks like I'm quickly turning into an Eli Manning fan.

5. I LOVE the smell of bleach, I know it's weird. But I just think sterile. With my new found love of cleaning with bleach water, I have several "white" polka dotted maternity shirts, right around the belly region.

6. Can I just say there is only five sleeps until my family photo shoot, with a famed photographer? I am seriously so excited, I can't wait.

7. I've been following the story of NieNie, on her sister CJane's blog, for a little while now, and a recent post about sisters made me LOVE my relationship with my sisters even more.

8. Thanks to my pregnancy, (which I continue to believe this child is going to make me crazy... the timing of it's precious arrival couldn't be worse), I am exploding in the chest region. I think my body is preparing to feed the small nation of New Zealand. Do they make bras in size Double Q?

9. Josh has spent a small fortune faxing documents at the local UPS store. I seriously would rather be spending that money on the NEWLY OPENED SONICS!!!!!!!

10. I seriously can't wait to move to our new town, for THIS reason alone.

I'm off.

To Watch the Colts, tonight....

I can't stay up, so will someone please share the good news with me in the morning?

Four Generations!

How lucky are we to have Josh's parents and grandparents come for a visit!! I was trying to come up with something fun to do... and of course in October, we just had to make some Jack-O-Lanterns.

I took a picture of all four generations carving pumpkins... SORRY COLSON, good hair genes are NOT in your future, unless Grandpa Blackman hooks you up!






And finally the results!

Parenting on the Move.

I'll get to this picture in a minute.

I want to start by saying I grew up moving. I moved 19 times in 20 years. My dad wasn't even active duty military at the time. We would have more kids, a better job, a divorce, a marriage, a college... all kinds of things kept us moving. I really don't know any thing else. The longest place I've ever lived is 3 1/2 years in Bloomington with Josh, in a 700 sq foot apartment, that we paid a whopping 410 a month for. Insane right? My van payment is more than that these days. It's probably bigger, too.

Most of you know, Josh and I are total opposites in almost everything, music, sports, personality. Common ground is the church, and our family. After my dating years had begun I began to realize I really wanted someone from a family that was stable, in more ways than one. This was important to me. I found Josh. His parents live in the same house they lived in when they got married. (technically it's twice as big, still same house) They've been married almost 30 years. Stability, Josh had it in spades.

Then he married me. Life began for him, this crazy moving, going everywhere kind of life. He's even lived in more places than me in the last 6 years. (7 states in 6 1/2 years) It's crazy.

Regularly, we've been the ones to leave, rarely the ones to be left. Recently my little Hallie's friend moved to Wyoming (her mother was a close friend to me), and this was Hallie's first good-bye to a friend. Colson's dealt with it a lot, but for some reason as I look at this picture of these little buddies, my heart ached for her. I realized she too knows what "loss" feels like. I was feeling terrible, I couldn't give my children what Josh had, the one house, the same friends, the constant. As I've thought more about it, is it really that bad?

I mean although my children haven't had one home they've had travels beyond anything I knew at their age, they've seen mountains, oceans, forests, corn fields, deserts, disneyland, monterey bay aquarium, tasted maryland blue crab, been to the top of Pike's peak, hiked the trails of Colorado Springs, enjoyed the breathtaking view of the Garden of the GOds, visited the battlefields of Gettysburg, explored this great nation's capital, including cherry blossoms, the White House, and war memorials, and monuments. They've been to Mount Vernon, orchards, and berry patches, flew in airplanes, explored corn mazes, and tasted ollalieberries... Seen Alcatraz, Pier 39, ridden a subway, and trolley, walked China Town, eaten chocolate crickets (BRANDEE!), explored a space museum in the middle of kansas, Rode a train through the giant redwood trees, walked the Naval academy, and have seen the following temples, Oakland, Washington D.C., Chicago, Denver, CO, Colombus, OH, Louisville Kentucky, Nauvoo, ILL, Palmyra, New York. They've walked the Sacred Grove, and been to the prison in which the great prophet Joseph Smith was martyred. They've taken their beloved father to the airport countless times with prayers in their hearts, prayers that were heard and answered. They're Seven and Four and One.

So I guess, I can stop worrying about what I'm not able to provide, and just do the best we can on the move.

Employed, Round Two

Well, I haven't fully confessed the extent of our situation the past month. But, we have definitely been out of work, and no pay was the scenario. Thank Heavens we were in this house before, and none of our bills have changed... so we could manage a little time off, due to the chunk of money Josh made in six weeks at the last place of employment. I haven't been COMPLETELY frugal, please note a previous post. But we've been trying to save for however long this scenario would be. We were really hoping Josh would get right back on the contract he was working on, just with a different company. But three weeks have passed, and still no word. We just don't have the luxury of time right now, and another opportunity presented itself.

It requires a move south, about 3 and half hours, if you want details, email I'll let you know where we are headed.

Josh begins work on Monday, as does insurance. Which means we spent no time without, or having to pay for Cobra. Another blessing.

We visited the ward this past weekend, at least one of them, and I think we're going to like it. They're redoing the ward boundaries next year because of a brand new stake center so we don't even have to worry about that when finding our next home.

I just can't believe I'll be moving a third time while pregnant. I guess I shouldn't be so surprised!! :)

Josh and I are excited about the possibility and we both feel like we can finally plant our feet.

We came back from our trip and discussed things like school for Colson, me and my pregnancy, along with what to do with our house, we decided we would just rent it, and do the best we could. We come home to find a message on our voicemail about someone interested in renting to own our property!! What great news. Who knows what will happen, but we're hopeful, and busy cleaning to show them the property tomorrow.

Although, we would never wish unemployment on anyone, we're thankful for the time we've had together, we truly have been spoiled hanging out together. And lets hope that's our only trial. Did I mention he'll have a ten minute commute?? That alone is wonderful!!

Anyway, that's the latest, and who knows when everything will happen, but we'll try and keep you posted as we find Joy in our Journey, in yet, another state!

A Late Contribution, But a good one!

Here you go!

Marie-Therese Gown GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

Marie-Therese Gown GIVEAWAY !!!!!!!

This is spreading in the blog world like wildfire... you MUST check it out!

Warped Sense of Frugality.

I pride myself in my recent adventures of the COUPON MOM. I have saved dollars and dollars on my grocery shopping, which I do almost every week, thus adding up to tens of dollars, perhaps hundreds.

I find myself saying NO NO NO to things like School Portraits for Colson. I mean, I have a freaking awesome camera why would I spend the twenty buckaroos, on the smallest package of portraits that may or may not turn out, just to be offered them again come spring. I mean why do we do this?? Can any of you recall a GOOD school picture?? All I remember is the lame plastic comb we got, and that I never got to stand on the bleachers for the class picture because I was always TOO short. Not to mention six years from now when I have FOUR children coming home with book orders, school picture requests, yearbooks, and fundraisers from the various schools. Enough, I must cut spending.

I am the lone American WITHOUT a cell phone.

Basic Cable.

Christmas lights, nope. No need to spend the money on that.

Preschool, forget it. Way too much money. And please do not even discuss with me the "need for socialization". Do you talk to your children? Do your children talk to other children, ta da! Socialization.

So here I am saving, scrimping, and trying to keep spending in our family under control. When I discover THE CUTEST GIRLY CLOTHES. Yes, I bought 2 dresses. Yes, we're technically unemployed. No I won't tell you which two, because then I know you would add it up, and realize that indeed all that money I've been "saving" is gone in 3.2 minutes of online shopping.

Figures.

PT for Laila

A while ago I wrote about parents who push and prod their children to the top - encouraging them to walk early, early, early. Well, I'm still not a fan of this theory, I do think you should allow the kids to do their thing. However, Laila, seems to seriously do her thing, and that's it. I decided to go against the Doctor's suggestion and get her evaluated. She does qualify for physical therapy. Not because she's not walking, but because her scoot doesn't count as crawling or creeping. So we now have the pleasure of a physical therapist coming into the home once a week to encourage the crawling and walking. We had her evaluated a week or so ago, and the very next day she pulled to a stand, two days later she's begun to crawl. So apparently Laila heard the rumors she was going to have to do some work, and decided to take matters into her own hands. Her PT lady came today for her first appointment, and I have to say, it was pretty fun to see Laila 'work'. I just love this little girl, her personality is so unique, and she brings this special spirit to our home. Each of my children are blessings to us in each of their unique ways. I do love being a mom, especially because of the specific four children I get to teach, train, and nurture.

BTW, job offer came through today, and we're looking forward to the possibility.