Colemans....

My Heart skipped a beat...!!!

2012-02-14T10:53:00.000-08:00

Okay...I just kind of laughed at my title to this post because my heart did figuratively 'skip a beat' but I do have heart issues, which made me giggle at the title. Maybe I am the only one who laughed at it, but at least it gave me a few seconds of silliness. ANYWAY!! I LOVE these place mats! I had a lady order 17" square place mats because she loved my pot holders so much and the pot holders inspired her thought for the large place mats (something out of the 'norm'). SO, we communicated quite a bit about the place mats, I went and took 12 pictures of fabrics together (she knew she wanted the polka dot fabric and I just needed to find a fun coordinating fabric to go with it). Got the fabric combo nailed down and then she asked me to fold the fabric into a 17" square to give her an idea. I emailed her the picture and she returned the email with her new thoughts of a circle place mat, 17"! I must admit I was nervous about it! BUT...I searched my brain way back to high school and figured out how to make the circle place mats. With the square quilting inside it! Aren't they the coolest place mats EVER!?!? Anyway...I am sure you just may be seeing more of this design in my Etsy Shop!

*IF YOU WANT TO CUSTOMIZE AN ORDER OF PLACE MATS, LEAVE YOUR INFORMATION HERE ON THIS POST or 'CONVO' ME ON MY ETSY SHOP! (LINK TO RIGHT)

The WINNER is....

2012-02-11T06:11:00.000-08:00

BROOKE BARCIA!!! Congratulations, Brooke! I know you will enjoy your Lavender Rice Bag!!!

*Change two things in Tutorial below!

2012-02-07T09:21:00.000-08:00

I said to sew a 1/2" seam all the way around the pillow case. Change that to a 1/4" seam all the way around!!!

ALSO: cut the pillow front and the backing to 17" square instead of 16 1/2".

I couldn't figure out how to change it in the actual post without messing up the entire post. Thank you for your patience during my first tutorial!!! -Leah

Pillow Tutorial!!!

2012-02-07T08:32:00.000-08:00

FIRST:
I went on Ebay and found this 'Yoda-Master Jedi' Pillow front. It measured about 17 1/2" X 18" and I cut it down to 16 1/2" X 16 1/2"

NEXT:
I purchased 1/2 yard of black fabric (coordinates with front). *Be sure to wash both the black fabric and the pillow front before sewing to allow shrinking before sewing it together!!

THIRD:
Cut two pieces of the black fabric 16 1/2" wide. Fold over the top edge two times, 3" each fold. This should make each black piece, after the folds, about 16 1/2" X 11". Pin the folds down and sew a 1/4" seam at the top of the fold and the bottom of the fold (as pictured).

*Be sure that when you lay both backing pieces over the pillow front, that it lines up exactly with the pillow front. It will look as pictured above.

You will pin the right sides together and sew a 1/2" seam all the way around. *As pictured.

Snip the corners, being careful NOT to snip the seam you sewed. This helps make a pointy corner when turned inside right. After snipping corners, flip your pillow case inside right.

Now you can put your 'Yoda-Master Jedi' pillow case on your pillow!! *I purchased my pillow at Walmart, in the Sewing/Crafts section, for under $10!!

HAPPY SEWING!!!!

'I'm in love, I'm in love, I'm in love...'

2012-02-04T08:35:00.000-08:00

That is part of one of my favorite lines from one of my favorite movies: 'Elf'! You know...where Elf is spinning around talking about the girl in his life. Well..that's how I feel about these super cute PINK pot holders! Seriously! Won't they add the perfect cheerfulness to your kitchen!?!? I'd keep them for myself, but I would keep all of my creations! :) Go ahead: admit you love them, too!

Scroll down a few posts to ENTER TO WIN a FREE Lavender Rice Bag!

Coming Soon!

2012-02-02T17:01:00.000-08:00

I will be posting my very first tutorial on how to make a pillow cover! This particular one excites me beyond words because it is a 'Master Yoda - Jedi Master' pillow for Jake for Valentine's Day! I am anxiously awaiting February 14th to see the look on his handsome 5 year old face! I am quite certain he is going to freak out!!

Don't forget to scroll down a few posts and ENTER TO WIN a Lavender Rice Bag!!!!

FUN Pot Holders!

2012-02-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

This is for an order I have. I think they are sooo cute!!

FREE Giveaway!!!

2012-01-30T08:20:00.001-08:00

You read that right! I am going to have a drawing, for a Lavender Rice Bag, on Saturday February 11th!! This is how you enter the drawing:

Go to:
www.leahstreasurechest.etsy.com (link also in right sidebar) and browse my products. Decide what is your favorite item and then leave a comment about that item HERE in the COMMENT section with this post!

ALSO:
YOU MUST leave your email address. This will then let you know when I have added new posts to my blog. You can post that under 'FREE Giveaway' in the right sidebar.

PLEASE TELL YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY! THIS IS GOING TO HELP ME GET MY ETSY SHOP'S NAME OUT THERE!!!

You will LOVE the Lavender Rice Bag! You simply heat it in the microwave or freeze it in the freezer and then relax your aching muscles!

I LOVE IT!! Ragged Bib!!

2012-01-26T09:56:00.000-08:00

Seriously! I am so excited about my newest creation!! A ragged bib with 3 of the stars machine quilted. Some little baby is going to look super cute with this bib on!

An Afternoon Treat!

2012-01-26T07:46:00.001-08:00

We did something fun yesterday right when Jason got home from work! We went to the Village Inn and had Coffee and Pie! The kids had hot chocolate and pie. It was such a fun outing!!! It is the simple things in life!

My FIRST Table Runners!

2012-01-24T17:38:00.000-08:00

I am super excited about my very first table runners! The brown toned one is the very first, and the Spring colored one I finished up today! I LOVE the Spring one as those are some of my favorite colors AND my favorite Season! The Spring runner is featured on my Etsy Shop... link on right side bar.

My Sewing Station!! FUN times are created here!

2012-01-19T18:07:00.001-08:00

I know it isn't much to talk about now. But here it is in all it's glory! It will be fun to keep you 'posted' as it gets more organized and designed to the sewing station I envision. I can not even begin to explain how much I love my sewing station! I have had the funnest time creating! And, this is where my girls are learning to sew for the first time!

'The' afghan!

2012-01-19T17:56:00.000-08:00

Here is my beautiful afghan that I started over a year ago! The history of it is kind of funny because I had gone to the store and found a beautiful eggplant colored blanket that I wanted for our family room (as that is the colors in the room) but I figured I could crochet one for less expensive than the blanket. So, on to the yarn aisle I went. I found the yarn I wanted and made my first purchases. The next week I saw the exact blanket on sale for $5!!! Are you kidding me?!?! In the end, I paid twice as much as the original price of the blanket! Ha ha ha!! However, Jason LOVES to use the afghan because it is so heavy and warm! I don't think I have had an opportunity yet to use it. Which makes me smile that he loves it so much. As for the cost of it, I just tell Jason it's an heirloom to be passed down through the generations. :)

The First Lesson:

2012-01-18T18:25:00.000-08:00

Bailey had her first sewing machine lesson today! Let me tell you, that is NOT something I ever wanted to give. I just don't have patience for that. But, I did want to be the one to teach her, too. I want my girls to enjoy creating and sewing alongside me...or, maybe not so much right beside me as one of the girls can jabber the arms off an octopus...but near me. lol She really did do an amazing job! Sure, no fancy stitches. But, a straight stitch IS a fancy stitch to an 8 year old! She designed two pillows. One for Tayler and one for me. And, rightfully so, she is very proud of her work.

Tayler enjoyed handstitching a napkin for me. With a cute little button in the center. Both girls are really enjoying their creative side. And both girls think I am the most amazing seamstress in the whole wide world! I'll take that!! :)

Here's to happy stitches and much more creating!

LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU ARE WORKING ON! AND IF YOU HAVE A FAVORITE SITE YOU GO TO OFTEN FOR PATTERNS/IDEAS/INSPIRATION!

Featured on my ETSY shop (link to right)

2012-01-11T07:45:00.000-08:00

Citrus 'On The Go' Rag Bag - $20

It's COMING!!!

2012-01-08T12:01:00.001-08:00

I will be reopening my Etsy Shop THIS WEEK!!! So very excited to be creating and selling!!!

2012

2012-01-07T07:01:00.000-08:00

Well...2011 has ended and 2012 has begun! Seriously, where do the days, weeks, months, and years go??

Usually we make resolutions at the beginning of the year. Usually at the end of the year I am thinking about what resolutions I did not complete. So, I shortened my list this year and I think it is manageable.

When making goals you are not supposed to make 'broad' goals, such as 'I am going to run more'. They have to be specific, like 'I will run 3 days a week'. I tend to like the broad goal listing because then it has room for interpretation :) However, I did do it the right way... and NO, running is not on my list this year.

My list is short.

Goal #1) Sew more. Specifics: Sewing/making gifts for birthdays and other gift giving reasons

Goal #2) Read more. Specifics: I want to read more motivating books this year. So, I asked Jason's aunt Lorene for a list of her favorite books. I have already picked two of them up at the library. One of which is about getting started in running. Lol That made me laugh since that is not on my list. However, I am open to it. So, more specifically: Read 1 motivational book a month. (I know...1 isn't a lot, but hey...if I am also spending time sewing I need to make this 'doable'.) First book I started last night is 'A Fresh Brewed Life'. I am excited to read it.

Another GREAT book I have been reading (before the New Year started) is 'Stay Home, Stay Happy'. Wow! That is a very encouraging book on being and enjoying a Stay at Home life! I have been GREATLY uplifted by it and reminded that my role as Mom is way more important than me bringing home a paycheck (at times I think it would be nice to have a check to tell me how I am 'doing'). It really has been timely!

That's it. I said my list is short and I wasn't joking. :) Happy sewing and happy reading to you! I would LOVE to hear what some of your resolutions are for 2012! Please do share!!!

Lazy Sunday Afternoon...

2011-08-21T16:10:00.000-07:00

The girls and Jason went around our neighborhood and sold fundraising items. So proud of them. I de-cluttered! Yep...I LOVE IT! And, now I am making pancakes for supper. The kids will be excited to eat them since they can finally spread some sugar butter on them (I haven't made that in a long time). Plus, my kids are all getting baths, so they smell yumm! :)

Let's Talk About This:

2011-08-20T19:14:00.000-07:00

I want to know what (one of) your favorite spots in your home is and why?

One of my very favorite spots in my home is my front room. I painted it a gorgeous red color, have a fire place, and cozy chairs to sit in. The window looks to our front yard. I love to sip a hot cup of Chai in there with a good book in the Fall and Winter cuddled under my Grandma V.V.'s lap quilt.

Now your turn...

I L.O.V.E. this idea!

2011-08-20T12:43:00.000-07:00

We were at Disney Land eating at an All American BBQ (just like the 'Old Days'). They served us our drinks in Mason jars and a light bulb went off in my head! I have been in need of new drinking glasses for quite some time, but I was being very particular because: #1. I wanted to have a dozen and #2. I was tired of spending money on glasses that break. So, I went immediately to the store when we got home and found a case of 12 jars for under $12!! (That's less than a $1 a jar. lol) I am pretty stoked about my new drinking glasses, and won't feel so bad if one breaks. Oh, the fun straw you see there? 'Shop Sweet LuLu' (link to the right).

'The' table...

2011-08-19T18:07:00.000-07:00

Jason and I got this table last Summer after his Grandpa passed away. Or, I should say "I" got the table. I'm the one with the 'vision' where as he sees 'junk'. Lol The legs were wobbly, the body pretty beat up, but, hey! It's a FREE end table and we needed one. I knew what I wanted to do: sand it and paint it black. When I say 'paint' that usually means 'spray paint' because I am all about fast and not much mess. (unless you call the nice black outline in our garage 'mess', it was a very 'unmessy' event. lol) So, the BEFORE (above)... and...

Flying Geese

2011-08-18T19:16:00.001-07:00

I started a 'Flying Geese' quilt 7 years ago. I was pregnant with Tayler. I love every color I have in the quilt. It was my second quilt, first hard one, I have made. So, I decided to 'go all out' and hand quilt it. Needless to say, I am not done. Lol. Yep...nearly 7 years later I still look at it and know it will be beautiful, but the handquilting is tedious work! I was quilting some of it today and this was my thought:

"These geese need to land so I can stop quilting so many of them." lol

I will continue to work on it, but make no promises of when it will be complete.

Garden and Flowers

2011-08-12T18:53:00.001-07:00

When we moved to our home here in GVR, the second Summer in our house, I wanted a raised Garden in the back yard. It's not big, but I do love it! And I love my flowers that I have all around the yard. I can not wait to see how much they will have grown by next Spring/Summer. My 'Country Cottage' is coming together.

First off, I have learned that as much as I want to grow and utilize herbs, I don't. So, with having tried different herbs the past two summers, I have decided next Summer I will not grow them. I will keep my pumpkin patch, tomatoes (mmmmm... they are so tastey!), lettuce, radishes, carrots, onions, cilantro, and the chives that come back every year (I mainly don't use the chives, but I do enjoy the pretty flower that comes at the top in August).

Should I feel bad about the herbs? Nope. I admire those who do have herb gardens and utilize the herbs, but it's just not in me.

I have also learned that my Gerbera Daisy and Hydrangea need LOTS of water. I have learned that I need to water them both in the morning and in the night. This has greatly helped them perk up and make me smile. The Gerbera Daisy is strategically placed on our back step so I can see the pretty red Flowers every time I sit at the table and look out the door window.

I am SOOOO excited to see my peony bush blossom in the Spring/Summer next year! Yay!!!! And my lilacs.... the Spring flower will be so lovely to have in my kitchen!

OH...and by the way:

2011-08-07T17:41:00.000-07:00

Nutela spread on grahm crackers is sinfully delightful. period.

And...this is my plan for the week:

2011-08-07T17:38:00.000-07:00

Jason's gone this week. So, again...I come up with things to try and keep myself busy and motivated/excited for the week to come. This weeks' plans?? ORGANIZE AND DECLUTTER my storage room and Scrapbooking area! Wowzers! I am pumped to do this! Remember Organizing and Decluttering are NOT the same thing. Organizing is just rearranging the same junk you have. Decluttering is getting rid of junk you don't need! YIPEE!!! I plan to utilize the Orgjunkie.com tips as well (link to the right). So, if you have done any organizing/decluttering this Summer, comment on this post and let me know about it! I want tips and want to hear how you are coming along!

wow baby...

2011-07-29T21:13:00.000-07:00

holy cats!!! This Summer has been BUSY and FUN!! July found us going going going. We enjoyed our time in Rapid City, SD at the Stratton Reunion (Jason's Mom's side). The kids stayed with Grandpa/Grandma Coleman for that following week while Jason and I went to Las Vegas to celebrate our 10th Anniversary (a couple months early). We really had a great time there! Then, off to pick up the kids and then we (kids and I) went on to Miles City, MT to enjoy a great week with my sister (Stacy) and my 3 nephews. Matt was out of town all week, so us girls made a great time of it :) Then, at the end of that week, Jason came, Matt got home, and Phil, Ashley and girls came! Wow! Was that an awesome weekend or WHAT!!!!!! So much fun! So many great memories! And...man...I LOVE them! We had such great laughs and everything else! I wish we lived a lot lot closer. :) But, we captured lots of pictures and, of course: Cousin Pictures! That in itself is a major accomplishment. To get them all in one spot, reasonably happy, and looking AT the camera all at the same time! We did it!!! Can't wait to print and frame that one!!

Now we are home. Well...at least the kids and I are home. Getting ready for school to start. Where did this summer go? It has been wonderful! I wouldn't trade a minute of it...

Lemon Bread - A must try!!

2011-07-04T07:13:00.001-07:00

I discovered this recipe in a Cookbook I received for a wedding gift nearly 10 years ago. It is from Kay Carr...I watched her husband, Howard, while she went to her quilting group each week. Howard suffered from Alzheimer's. This is delicious!! A huge hit with my entire family!

1 c sugar
1/2 c shortening
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 c milk
1 1/2 c flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
grated lemon zest

Cream shortening and sugar. Add beaten eggs. Mix dry ingredients alternately with milk. Bake in well greased loaf pan for 1 hour at 350. Makes 2 small loaves.

*I decided to try it in one large loaf pan, but the bread fell in the middle. It could be because I did not use the 2 small loaf pans, or it could be our elevation difference. Either way, still YUM!

Disney Land

2011-06-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

Truly a Magical land that was above and beyond what I ever imagined. I am nearly speechless with how to describe Disney Land. Perfect. Magical. The Happiest Place on Earth is nothing short of the truth. We had an amazing time there and were sad to leave. It started out perfect on Friday morning with Breakfast with Chip and Dale and Critters. FUN FUN FUN!!! Princesses, Jedi Training, a heart attack on Splash Mountain, 1,000 rides on Big Thunder Railroad (us girls screamed our lungs out!), Cruella Devile, Jasmine, Pluto, Mickey, Minnie, Ariel, Tiana, Cinderella, Abraham Lincoln, Mary Poppins, Tinker Bell, Alice, Peter Pan (he even said 'Hi' to me!!), Tea Cup rides, Dumbo ride, not to forget the breathtaking fire works with Tinker Bell flying through the air and Dumbo also flying. Tears really came to my eyes as we discovered new creations of Disney around every corner. We really had the time of our lives...

Off to the Happiest Place on Earth!!

2011-06-09T11:43:00.000-07:00

Our destination is Disney Land!! Our flight lands in L.A. this evening and we wake up in Disney Land to enjoy breakfast with Chip and Dale!!! My oh my are we excited!!!

M.I.A.M.I

2011-06-03T10:10:00.000-07:00

Where do I begin?? Wow! Miami, Florida is such an amazing City with the Beach being our ultimate favorite destination! We flew to Orlando Thursday and drove from there to Miami. Found a delicious eatery (Flanigans) for our first sea food meal of our vacation. Friday we stayed in bed until we decided not to. Then off to get picnic food for our Beach lunches! YUM and FUN! We were at the Beach in Surf Side Friday and Saturday. After laying on the beach and swimming in the amazing ocean, we headed to Downtown Miami to Bay Side and ate on the water front (pictured). Two scrumptious evenings out there and one evening of the movies Friday night. All we can say is our vacation was truly a vacation in every sense of the word. It was a wonderful way to celebrate my 30th Birthday. We l.o.v.e Florida. Who knows... maybe one day that's where our address will be...

It's Official: I'M 30!!!

2011-05-23T19:03:00.000-07:00

Seriously SERIOUSLY excited about being 30!! Some of the highlights from my Birthday:

Jason always spoils me for my Birthday.
-Cracker Barrel for lunch on Sunday (since he had to fly out on my bday)
-Breakfast
-MIAMI!!!!
-Took me to an antique store because he knows I LOVE them!
-Qdoba date after kids were in bed Sunday night
*I do love this man :)

Lunch out to Olive Garden with girlfriends and kids :) FUN TIMES!!!

Birthday messages/phone calls

Girls having their swim class/teachers sing Happy Birthday to me :)

Cards from the kids (they made them themselves...super cute!)

Dad and Mom singing 'Happy Birthday' to me over the phone (I do LOVE that!)

planting Rose Bushes

...and more! It has been a wonderful day/weekend and I am thankful for each moment of it!

Company is Coming...

2011-05-19T15:32:00.001-07:00

Tonight Jason's cousin, Sasha, and his wife (Maria-Sylvia) are coming over for supper. They are in Colorado Springs (1 1/2 hours away) and are making a special trip to see us tonight. We are really looking forward to having them over and hearing about what they have been up to in their Missions Work. Having them over is a treat :)

Friday

2011-05-13T14:23:00.000-07:00

It's been raining cats and dogs here Wednesday and Thursday. Thankfully today is gorgeous and not a cloud in the sky...

I was able to go purchase my two rose Bushes for my Bday present. They are soooo very lovely! I can not wait to plant them!

I am also over half way done sewing rows together for my newest quilt. It is looking very lovely. I am anxious to see it complete.

Off to get ready for our 2nd Ronald McDonald House Supper...

delightfulness

2011-05-10T13:46:00.001-07:00

This week is filled with wonderful delights! It started off with Mother's Day on Sunday. What a gorgeous day (and weekend) it was! We worked in our yard and enjoyed watching Bailey play soccer. Her team is un-defeated!! Sunday was a lazy day. Church was first, of course, and then we just relaxed all afternoon.

This week Bailey has TWO plays!! The first is tonight. Her second grade class puts on a Bug Play. Bailey is a flower and has had her lines memorized for quite some time. The second play is Thursday night!! She is 'Pig #7" in the Pig Play. It's a 'trial' of the big bad wolf. She is excited and has done a great job memorizing her lines for that play as well.

Tayler has been attending 'Art' class after school on Thursday nights. Her artwork will be displayed for us to view this Thursday evening. We are anxious to see what our little artist has been up to.

Our Women's Bible Study ended last night. It was a really good study and I learned a LOT! I am super excited about our next study in the Fall. No idea what study God has us to do yet, but I know it will be great. I have been praying about asking one of my 'ministry team' members to co-teach the next study, asking God to prepare her for me asking her. I called her today and said, 'I would like you to pray about co-teaching with me for the next study.' Her reply, 'Yep! I've already been thinking about that.' We both were so excited about how God worked in us both at the same time and boy am I E.X.C.I.T.E.D.!!!!! I love how HE works!

Spring is in full swing here. The flowers are sprouting, some are blooming. My garden is half planted. The kids are enjoying playing outside as well as doing their Swim lessons twice a week. Jason's eager to work our yard into a perfect green lawn. I am happiest when the sun is shining and I can be outside amongst all the beauty. I do love to watch and see what God is going to be up to next...

Teachers and Supper

2011-05-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week and Hope Valley Church takes this seriously because our Church meets in High Point Academy.

I am in charge of the Teacher Appreciation Supper provided for 54 Teachers and Staff of HPA. Tonight is the Big supper and I am super pleased with all of the eager help from HVC.

I really love and appreciate that our Church 'gets' that life (and especially Christians) is about relationship. Loving others. And this supper is one area in which we can 'tell' the teachers and staff of High Point that we care about them and appreciate them.

Easter Cuties

2011-04-25T16:43:00.000-07:00

Here are my three Easter Cuties :) I can't believe how big they are getting!!

Highlights

2011-04-11T11:49:00.000-07:00

A few highlights for the past few weeks:

A trip to Miles City:
Always so much fun to travel there and stay with Matt, Stacy, and nephews. The week went way too fast, but I am so thankful for all the wonderful memories! Matt's breakfasts were delicious :) Hanging out with Stace during the day was always nice, funny, relaxing and more. So glad we were able to go to Wyatt's play!! Also enjoyed hanging with Caleb and Nolan.

Heather and Hannah:
Yep...my best friend came from Hawaii for a visit! So fun to have them here. Not so fun to say goodbye...

Soccer:
Bailey had her first week of practice last week and her first game this past Saturday. Her team won 4-0!!

New Pastor:
We are excited...actually, VERY excited, about our new Pastor. Bryan and Heather Brown will be with us for their first official Sunday as our Lead Pastor this Sunday (April 17th). It has been exciting to see how God moved and worked and we can't wait to see what He does in the future!

Next Up:
Next month I turn 30! Yay! I am looking forward to my birthday and the milestone. A trip to Miami also makes turning 30 adventurous!

Accidents...

2011-03-14T19:04:00.000-07:00

Tayler Tayler Tayler. She has always been more accident prone. But between Sunday and Monday, I'd say she's had her fill for a while...

Sunday afternoon she came running in the house because she slammed her finger in the van door. And, it's on her writing hand. She was nervous to go to school because it is hard for her to erase. :)

Monday Morning:
Tayler came crying to me in my room because she had stepped on a stick pin. Poor girl. A little pool of blood was on her foot so we got that all bandaged up. I asked if she had to pull the pin out, and yes, she did.

THEN:
at the park after school she came crying to me because she fell down the ladder, while climbing up the ladder, and hit her head hard.

I told her tonight she can not slam her finger, step on pins, or bang her head any more. She readily agreed. :)

WAHOO!!!

2011-03-05T18:36:00.001-08:00

I am so very very excited!! The girls have Spring Break this month, and we are headed to Miles City to see Matt, Stacy, Caleb, Nolan, and Wyatt!!! We are very excited to go hang out with them for a week!

YIPPEE!!!!!

FRIDAY!!

2011-02-25T08:24:00.000-08:00

Today is Friday! The whole week has been mostly gorgeous out. A bit chilly on Thursday, but nice enough, still, for the kids to enjoy the outdoors for a while. Today is frosty and cold. Apparently some snow is on the way. We really can't complain, though, as the Denver weather is pretty much 'perfect'...as Jason will tell you, 'Denver is the best place in the world!'

I have fresh bread ready for supper. Making Chicken Tetrazini for supper (and man... I can not wait to eat it!). And a Chocolate Chip Scone delivery this evening.

This weekend I plan to finish up the last little bit of painting in the kids very fun bathroom! And planning for my next painting experience...

Made me giggle

2011-02-21T14:35:00.000-08:00

Tayler: 'Ummmm...Mom...ummmm...I love you.'
Me: 'I love you, too, Tayler.'

...one minute later...

Tayler: 'Mom...I like you.'
Me: 'Oh, Tay...I like you, too!'

Makes Me S.M.I.L.E

2011-02-18T16:05:00.001-08:00

Today has been a lovely day. The weather has been nice enough for us to enjoy being outside. And, Jake had a friend (Adam) over this afternoon. Here are a few of my favorite things from today:

- Listening to Jake and Adam playing together
- Drinking my Vanilla Caramel Latte on my front patio
- Reading my favorite magazine: Country Living
- Watching Bailey and Tayler's imaginations
- Dreaming about Springtime and my planting ideas
- Knowing that Jason comes home after work today
- Playing frisbe with the kids
- Kevin picking Bailey up from school and bringing her home
- Making a HUGE batch of cinnamon roll dough and baking some and freezing two large
pans full of rolls
- The kids' bright yellow bathroom

I am blessed beyond words.

Growing up!!

2011-02-17T15:55:00.000-08:00

Well...Jake is registered and headed to Pre-School next Fall! I can NOT believe it! Seems like just yesterday he was born! And Bailey is joining an afterschool program of 'Drama' and Tayler is headed to 1st Grade AND thinking about joining an after school program of 'Art'. My word! The years go by so fast and when kids get into school the years go even faster!

Now...my cornbread is ready to come out of the oven and I am HUNGRY!

Oh, and my lovely husband comes home tonight. 5 weeks traveling is complete! Yay!!!

A favorite motto:

2011-02-15T14:30:00.000-08:00

Organizing is just rearraginging the junk you have. De-cluttering is getting rid of the junk you don't need. NOT the same thing!

I had a GREAT time de-cluttering today!

Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T18:00:00.000-08:00

Jason and I celebrated Valentine's Day this past Saturday. He's traveling this week and we decided to have our date at home. We ordered in Qdoba and some movies. It was so nice! Relaxing to be with him.

Today the girls had Valentine's Day parties in class. They had a LOT of fun :) And after we picked Bailey up from school we went to Chili's for supper. Then some ice cream for desert. And now baths and cartoons before they head to dream land.

I am so thankful for my wonderful husband and three cute children.

Women's Retreat!!

2011-02-08T11:37:00.001-08:00

Now that our very first Ronald McDonald's House Supper is over, I am focusing hard on our 1st Annual Women's Retreat to be held in September. It is so exciting to now have the retreat material and being able to look it over and plan. Today I have started pricing items for the retreat. Everything girls like to do and have to enjoy a weekend out together! It will be fun to get together with my Ministry Team to talk over the retreat and nail down more plans/ideas. Our women are extremely excited about our 1st ever retreat!! I love how God spoke to me about planning a retreat and I listened! I am excited to see what He is going to do and how 'Loving Well' is going to change lives!

...how it went...

2011-02-05T14:01:00.000-08:00

There were 10 of us women at the Ronald McDonald House to make and serve supper. We arrived at 4:30pm to start the preparations. We had such a great time making the food and visiting with each other. At 6pm the families started coming in for supper. One woman said 'This is the highlight of our week!' That was so sweet and so sad (to me). We were able to serve them 'buffet style' and then we made sure we went around refilling their drinks. Everyone was so appreciative of the meal. I know that our ladies really enjoyed the time we had together and serving others. And I know that the meal meant a lot to the families staying there. We are excited to return to the House and meet new families!

Ronald McDonald House!!!

2011-02-03T18:19:00.000-08:00

I am practically JUMPING out of my skin!!! Tomorrow night (Friday Febrary 4th) our Women's Ministry from Hope Valley Church is going to be making and serving supper for all the families at the Ronald McDonald House by the Children's Hospital!!! We are one excited group of women! I am extremely blessed to be working with all of these special ladies! I can not wait to see how we are used and to see who God will place in our lives from the RMHouse!! Wow!!! It will be so exciting to 'report back' to our church people on how it went! And to have another opportunity to serve them again!!

It's FREEZING out there!

2011-02-02T10:11:00.000-08:00

School has been closed for two days now. We enjoyed yesterday: baking a number of things for our freezer. And today was the day to brave the negative temps to go to Walmart. We made it there and back and are now thawing out :) I'm anxious to get baking again today. Something about cold weather makes me want to bake.

Maybe we'll venture out this afternoon to Village Inn for a treat. YUM!

These are a few of our Favorite things:

2011-01-31T18:05:00.001-08:00

- Pizza Sandwiches
- Grapefruit
- Avocados
- Kisses
- Clean laundry
- Friends
- playing games with family & friends
- reading
- hearing about our day
- learning facts at dinner table
- hugs
- Daddy's breakfasts (truly the BEST)
- Mountain High Yoghurt
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Leapfrog Leapster
- Denver Museum of Science and Nature
- Barr State Lake

The Land of Dragons...

2011-01-27T17:58:00.000-08:00

To make our walk up the long sidewalk, to pick Bailey up, a bit more interresting... we pretended the light poles were Dragons that needed to be killed, and that the little 'entrance' spots, for future roads, were rivers filled with alligators we needed to swim around. It was actually fun! The kids loved it and it made the walk go very quickly. Hmmmm...when we use our imaginations, anything is possible!

Busy day...

2011-01-26T18:35:00.000-08:00

This morning Jake and I ran around doing errands. Funny little Mister: he was pooped out! And ready for a nap. I'm thinking he is like his Momma as he needs naps in the afternoon like I do :)

Completed some more Christmas shopping, of which I'm so giggly that I get done early!!

Then, after naps...we walk the long walk to get Bailey from school. I refuse to sit in carpool for 30 minutes, so when it's nice out we walk it.

And...supper with girlfriends (and kids, of course). So fun to go out with my friends. Refreshing!

Now...off to watch a favorite of mine: 'Pride and Prejudice'. Jason got that for me for Christmas, along with the book. I'm enjoying reading it and now I am eager to start my movie night...

Monday Morning...

2011-01-24T08:21:00.001-08:00

Well...I am sitting here listening to the hamburger brown in the pan. I am much like my Dad...I can NOT stand browning hamburger and the smell of it is repulsive. But since we want to eat, we put up with it :)

It's been a Monday. You know: kids fighting after being awake for 2 minutes. Crying at the breakfast table...again. All the things that make me think to myself 'what did I think would be fun about being a Mom?' Then the moments when the kids are all done fighting/crying/arguing etc etc and they look at you with a big smile and say, 'Mom...you are the best'. The kisses and hugs as I send them off to class. Hearing them repeat me, 'What do we always ask you to do? Do your best, that's all we ask.' I love it.

Motherhood is not an easy road. Some days I want to go bury my head in the sand.

BUT...in the quiet moments I am gently reminded about all that He has given me. Not just 'gifts' in the form of a blond, brunette, and red head. Or the wonderful husband who shows me he loves me in little and BIG ways. But the tasks that God has entrusted to me. The Women's Ministry Leader has been such a HUGE excitement to me! Being able to ask Him what He wants our women to do to reach our community. Not just the women in our church...but the women that live near us. The women who may have never known His love, or have been turned off by those that say they 'love' them, but don't.

The newest ministry our women are doing is serving supper at the Ronald McDonald House!! How exciting this is to me. Since we stayed at a RMHouse when Bailey was born, I know first hand how the parents are feeling. We are sooo excited to make their supper, serve them, and just show them that we care and want to be there for them when they feel lost, uncertain, the ups and downs of children in the hospital!

GOD IS AMAZINGLY GOOD! It is humbling to know that He has entrusted me with His work!

The Big '30'!!!

2011-01-21T11:54:00.000-08:00

This is the year I turn 30!!! I must say that I am sooooo excited!!! I am not sure everyone is excited to turn 30, but I can hardly stand the excitement!!

My wonderful Jason is making it extra special...and to start off with, he is taking me to Miami! WAHOOO!!! We can NOT wait for that fun trip in May! And then, in June, he is planning a very fun party for my 30th! It's like a whole month of celebrating...which is totally exciting for me!

I am going to also make up a 'list' of things I want to do the year I am 30. I've started some ideas already...

Birthday Girl and other randomness...

2011-01-17T11:23:00.000-08:00

BIRTHDAY GIRL!!
Last week Tayler turned the big '06'!! She had a great day! It started by opening her Unicorn Pillow Pet on Wednesday night (since Daddy wasn't able to be here for her birthday breakfast and present opening). She has been waiting forEVER for her Pillow Pet :) Then, off to school and after Domino's Pizza for Lunch, she had her two friends come over for her Birthday Tea Party. She got her first very own tea cup and saucer for her birthday as well (pictured). Tayler had a delightful day and was completely worn out by the time her friends went home. Not even a phone call would perk her up. :)

VALENTINE'S CARDS!!
So, I was flipping through a magazine and discovered some cute Valentine's Day Cards that some women make each year and it got me to thinking: 'Hmmm...I am bored with going to the store and picking out a box of Valentine's Day Cards for the kids and that's it'. So, I went to a favorite store of mine, picked up some fun paper and cut the material out and the kids had so much fun making their own Valentine's Day Card Bookmarks to bring to school. I wasn't sure how they would like it, but I knew I was excited. Well...they LOVED it! They asked if we can do this every year and that it's so much funner than the box of cards. :) The other 'bonus' was that it kept them busy and crafty for their morning of their day off of school due to the Holiday. :)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

2011-01-13T08:05:00.000-08:00

Today is my sweet Tayler's 6th Birthday!!!!! It was a bitter cold day when she was born. So very thankful to have her in my life!!!

EXCITING!!

2011-01-09T13:31:00.000-08:00

Today Hope Valley Church met in our new building!!! Wow! Is it gorgeous or what!! God is so good and we are amazed and humbled by what He has given us.

The girls also start school there tomorrow! They are very excited to attend school in their new building with nice sized classrooms.

Today I am Thankful For:

2011-01-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

While I listen to my children arguing again, I am going to think of things I am thankful for instead of going crazy because of the arguing. Tho it is quite commical listening to 4 year old Jakers yelling at his sisters. Lol

- Jason being able to eat breakfast with us before heading off to work (the first of many Saturday work days during tax season)
- Sunshine
- Children that are healthy enough to argue. Lol Lol
- Dates after the kids go to bed. Can't wait for our date tonight: Cheesecake here we come!
- Our Church family. It really is a unique group of people in so many wonderful ways and one way is that we love each other like family and treat each other with respect
- Having the opportunity to plan some neat things for our church women this year!
- True friends

and the list goes on and on...

Thursday:

2011-01-06T08:22:00.001-08:00

I am still in my jammies. Which, for me, is a big deal. I have eggs boiling on the stove, hot tea waiting for me and then I am headed upstairs to do some studying.

This is the last week of Christmas Vacation. The kids have had a wonderful time. I must say that it is nice to not have a 'schedule' to stick by. But, at the same time, it will be nice to be on a schedule.

I am thankful for my children. I love it when they come up to me and say, 'Mommy, I love you!' or 'You are the best Mom in the whole world!' How sweet that is to my ears. I will love them forever...

I know...I know...

2011-01-05T15:40:00.001-08:00

I've been Christmas shopping! He he he! LOVE it!!

Some funny things:

2011-01-04T07:28:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple things that the kids have said or done that crack me up:

- Jake says he is going to marry his Mommy when he's older
- Jake also says he and Daddy are living together when he is older. They will have one boy.
- Bailey's not sure she wants to get married. She kind of thinks it is gross cuz you have to kiss and that's just gross!
- Tayler might marry Adam. But she'd rather live with Mommy.
- Bailey is going to live close to Mommy so we can do things together. She already has asked me to come help her paint. :)

Christmas Vacation:

2011-01-01T18:10:00.001-08:00

We have had such a wonderful vacation! Jason has had the whole week off from Thursday afternoon before Christmas Eve until Monday the 3rd. Some of the highlights we have enjoyed this week:

- sleeping in
- staying up late
- our own tour of historical homes in Denver
- tour of the Byers/Evens home downtown (built in the 1880's)
- Christmas Dinner with friends and games for 9 hours
- Us wives listening to our husbands sing George Straight on Christmas. (we laughed so much!)
- Jason planning our New Years Eve party (food/friends and everything!)
- Tour of Invesco Field

...and more! It has really been such a wonderful week! We are very thankful for all we have been able to do and all that God has given us!

My Book Reading this Christmas Vacation:

2010-12-22T18:29:00.000-08:00

Finally being able to get out of the house on Tuesday afternoon, we took advantage of the library. Bailey found this book for me and thought it was perfect since it had a Christmas tree on the cover. So, I took it home and I have been enjoying myself reading this! It is a lighthearted read and makes me giggle. So, this is what is on my 'enjoyment' list for this vacation.

'Tis the Simple Things...

2010-12-21T14:30:00.000-08:00

Like the kids getting to play with our neighbor, Emy! Made my day!! They haven't seen each other much due to school and different schedules. But, they are all on Christmas Vacation and so they enjoyed some good friend time in this afternoon. I enjoyed that AND...

laughing with my Mom on the phone because the second I get on the phone the kids start coming in. She got a huge laugh out of it all, too. AND...

I am feeling somewhat better today. Not a ton better, but enough to get to the store to get some items for Christmas dinner and now we are going to attempt going to the library. We are anxious for our New library to open up down the street!! Only a few months left before we can enjoy that!!

Sickies...go away!

2010-12-20T07:35:00.000-08:00

I thought by now we would be 100% better. It hasn't happened, though. Still none of us are feeling very good. Tayler's got a fever this morning. Praying we get all rested today and then wake up tomorrow ready to go do something! It is Christmas vacation, after all...

Christmas - Christ

2010-12-19T14:34:00.001-08:00

This Sunday at church was very very encouraging to me. Robert spoke this morning on the real meaning of Christmas. That we each have a personal story to share with others about how God works in us and lives in us. Then Kevin followed it up with how he desires for his children to know the real meaning of Christmas, not just the presents or the fun traditions...but to be forever affected by the REAL meaning. Which was so cool to me because that has been on my heart all season and even before the season: 'What can we (Jason and I) do so that our children don't just think of Christmas as presents/trees/lights/santa?'

I have yet to figure out a 'way' to go about it. Maybe there isn't necessarily a 'way'. However...I desire our kids to focus more on Him than on 'them'.

The message was a very cool 'God thing'. I LOVE how HE works!!!

Taking the step...

2010-12-17T07:37:00.000-08:00

So, today is the day. I've already taken the step of not being on facebook much, but now it's time to 'get rid of it'. With the exception of a few that I need to communicate with through it (church things).

Today is the girl's last day of school before Christmas. Then they go back and into their new school!! Today is their Christmas programs. BUT...we are all sick. So, no parties today. Just jammies and movies and naps. Coughing, medicine, and kleenex. Jason's been coughing his lungs out, I'm nursing body aches/headache/hurting eyes, Tay's got sore throat and nose issues, Bailey's got a fever and sore throat, and Jake is doing better but has a cough. Hmmm...lovely. :)

We are looking forward to the Christmas season and all that we will enjoy doing together as a family.

My, Oh My!!!

2010-12-08T08:37:00.000-08:00

I am in LOVE with my Kitchenaid Mixer!!! I love everything about it and can't wait to use it more!!!!

He he he he...

2010-11-18T11:23:00.000-08:00

I've been giggling about this for like a year now! I went to the Post Office today and shipped off the last of the Christmas Presents!!! What joy it was to tell my friend (whom I 'ran into' there) that I am DONE shopping and done shipping!!! Jason and I are sooo excited to just relax and enjoy the Season!! WAHOO!!

Brrrr...

2010-11-16T19:29:00.000-08:00

Today was a nice day until it was time to go pick Bailey up from school. Then we 'enjoyed' an ice storm. I was nervous driving to school. Thankfully by the time I arrived they had early release about 25 minutes early. Then we returned home, the storm let up and the kids enjoyed Hot Chocolate. It's their fun routine when everyone is home from school. :)

We are very much looking forward to Thanksgiving this year in WA with my family!! LEFSE here we come!! lol

Christmas shopping is complete and some of the gifts are wrapped. I plan to wrap the rest of them tomorrow or Thursday before we leave. I am excited to come home from Thanksgiving and D.E.C.O.R.A.T.E.!!!

2010-11-12T07:24:00.000-08:00

I do have a list to the right that lists something I am thankful for each day, but I must write a few more here as there are so many things I think about during the days:

* Jake has the love of Christmas music like me :) He turns it on every morning and snuggles on the couch under a blanket to listen. And he asks me to snuggle with him
* Jason works so hard and doesn't get a whole lot of sleep. I do not know how he does it, but I love him for it :)
* My baking business
* That tonight is movie night and we are all very excited!
* Hot drinks and fresh cookies as a snack after school in the afternoons
* My kitchen mirror with the wreath on it.
* Bailey's joyful spirit
* Tayler has a tender heart and is always encouraging
* My church family/friends

There will be more added, I am sure.

Winter Wonderland...

2010-11-09T20:41:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, during my very enjoyable nap time, it started to rain. And then I awoke and it turned into snow. I was not looking forward to winter at all, but I must admit that the snow put me in the Christmas mood! So, I turned on Christmas music, whipped up some sugar cookies, and the kids enjoyed fresh cookies and hot chocolate with whip cream after Bailey got home from school. We sang Carols on the way to and from school, as well. The kids kept saying, 'Mom...this is so much fun!!' What fun memories we made today!

On another (funny) note, Jason has requested I start calling him 'Pablo'. He's pretty sure he is Mexican and so 'Pablo' it is. I told him to grow himself a mustache... we'll see what becomes of that. Lol

Bwahahahahaha!!

2010-11-09T11:53:00.000-08:00

I am SOOOO EXCITED to say that I am D.O.N.E. Christmas shopping! Finished up today and am ready to wrap the gifts so when we leave for Thanksgiving it is complete and the gifts will have been shipped off before then (as I hate the Post Office crowd during December!) so I avoid the P.O.!!! WAHOOOO!!!!! And the Sunday after Thanksgiving we are going to put the tree up, presents under the tree and then GUESS WHAT!!! We will have a lovely/relaxing Christmas season and just enjoy looking at stores without wondering when I'll have time to go get gifts! I am going to do this again for next year!

Birthday Boy!

2010-11-06T20:12:00.001-07:00

Where has the time gone!! My baby boy is 4 years old! He had a wonderful Birthday. And then a Party today with his buddies. He is quite proud to be 4!! I love you, Mister Jakers!!

Miss Tayler with missing teeth!

2010-11-02T17:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T17:30:00.000-07:00

The girls are Fairies and Jake is/was a Dragon. He wore the outfit for some pics for me and then took it off. Silly boy. Kids had fun going up and down our block. Enough candy and now we are home waiting to pass out candy to Trick-or-Treaters that ring our bell. Fun Memories!

ps. The tiny pumpkin is Jakes. The one with the stem is Tayler's and then one with no stem is Bailey's. They are lit up. So cute!

...just what I needed...

2010-10-28T17:52:00.000-07:00

Well...this 4 week stretch of Jason traveling does take a toll on me sometimes. And this week is that week. We are on week 3....and a half. Bailey has strep (or so we assume, since she so delightfully would not allow the nice nurse to swab her throat). Anyway...she's been home two days this week and it's driving me NUTS! Yes, nuts! Let's be real here. It's not fun being 'stuck' at the house with a sick kids 2 days in a week. But, I am glad that she has meds now and will only get better. As for the 'not allowing the swabbing to be done' episode...that's a whole other topic....

So, tonight after supper I made Jake and Tayler get in their coats and head outside. And I headed outside as well...after I bundled up and made myself some delicious cider (sugar free, by the way). YUM! The kids gave me some giggles outside, the fresh air was delightful, texting with my man and my brother was enjoyable, and then I look up to find my friends on their bikes dropping by to say hello. Now THAT made my night! God knew that that is just what I needed...

Wow!

2010-10-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

Today I sent my sweet Tayler off on her very FIRST field trip! She and her kindergarten friends are headed to a Pumpkin Patch. Let me just say that Tayler was sooooooo EXCITED!!! She got home from school yesterday and said, 'I wish it was bed time so it was closer to the time to go on our field trip!' How cute! A few weeks ago when she was telling me about the upcoming event, she said that parents can come along. I said, 'I will go with, if you would like.' Thinking she would like that very much (since she's a Momma's girl through and through) she quickly responded with 'Ummm...no thanks.' Wow! Was I surprised! It didn't bother me, though. She is growing up and this is a way for her to be independent! I am very proud of her!

I completed writing our Christmas letter for this year! Yes. Done! Now Jason gets to proof read it and then I find some cute paper. And I have the pics for the Christmas letter ready to order. Yes. Done!

Finalizing some Christmas shopping this weekend! I am super excited about that!

Well...I hear humming or some noise upstairs. Bailey is home today as I believe she has strep. So, early naps today so we can be rested up for the Dr appointment just before 2pm. And off to pick up my dear Field Trip daughter at 3...

Fall/Christmas Boutiques

2010-10-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

I am getting very excited about the Fall and Christmas Boutiques coming up! The first one is on Saturday November 6th from 6pm-8pm. 'Goodies. It's a Mouth Treat!!' will be featured, along with crafts and jewelry by Jasmine. You can do some Christmas shopping along with getting goodies orders in for Thanksgiving and Chrsitmas, or just some treats for yourself!! Friday December 10th from 6pm-9pm is the second Boutique! MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!

Pumpkin Patch Fun

2010-10-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend Jason headed to South Dakota to go pheasant hunting with his Dad and brother in law (Jeremiah). So, his sister, Amanda, and Mom (Sheri) came here to visit. We went to Nick's Nursery for the Pumpkin Patch fun! We met friends there as well. We had a wonderful time! Picking out pumpkins, face painting, maze, jump houses, train ride and a picnic lunch. Us ladies purchased fire roasted chilli's. Amdanda and Sheri cleaned them off while I 'had' to hold baby Myah. he he! A great time had by all!

Ahhhh....

2010-10-21T14:33:00.000-07:00

I am very pleased that I was able to get all of our carpet shampooed today...except the bedrooms. So, three rooms left for tomorrow and I am feeling very excited about it!

Being Productive

2010-10-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

So, it is my goal to be COMPLETE with Christmas shopping before we go to Washington state for Thanksgiving. I am getting there!! I L.O.V.E. how good it feels to be getting it complete and how it will make me enjoy the Christmas season that much more!!

I am utilizing Ebay this year! I made my first purchase on it last week and am VERY excited about the item! (no! I am NOT telling you what it is!)

I also have started making my laundry days on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Yes, three days a week. Makes the clothes 'thing' so much nicer... clean clothes and not a laundry basket full of dirty clothes.

Well...off to get ready for Bible Study...

Saturday

2010-10-16T13:04:00.000-07:00

This morning my friend, Amanda, and I had a 'girls morning out'. We went to a few yard sales and then we went Downtown Denver! We stopped and got ourselves a Starbucks drink. YUM! And then walked the 16th Street Mall and Larimer Square (LOVE that spot)! It was so nice to go out...just us girls :)

Now we are getting things ready for Winter around here. Sprinklers blown out, tub thing fixed, and enjoying watching the kids play outside in the gorgeous weather!

Tonight: the park. Watch the kids roll down the hill. I love that.

All in all it has been a marvelous day. OH...and Jason made a delicious breakfast this morning. I love him!

He he he he he...

2010-10-15T11:49:00.000-07:00

I like to be secretive, so it's hard for me to decide if I want to post the new Fall pics of the kids or not? Make you squirm until you get a lovely envelope in the mail containing the pics. Well...maybe I'll post a few...

P.S. The picture at top cracks me up cuz I asked the girls to kiss Jake on his cheeks. Which totally flipped Jake out and, as you can see, Tayler is trying not to giggle and Bailey is tortuing him by saying 'Ooohhhhh..' CRACKS me UP!

Busy busy busy...

2010-10-13T11:52:00.000-07:00

This week has been the perfect Fall weather week. We planted a tree in our yard this past Saturday and the rain came on Sunday. Stopped Monday and rained Tuesday. It's been nice, cool Fall weather. I am anxious, however, for it to dry up enough for me to go landscape around our new tree. Boy, do I have a 'vision'! I hope it turns out as I picture it!

This morning I had an order for 3 dozen Milk Chocolate/Butterscotch Chip Cookies. That was very fun to bake! I made double the recipe so we could enjoy some of the cookies at home as well. Mmmmm... YUM!

I am very excited about my baking business! Word is getting around! I love to bake and I love to share the baking with others!

Jake made a tent this morning and then Tayler joined in the fun. I did get a cute picture of Jake poking his head out of it. (pictured above)

Well... that's it for now. We are ready for Jason to return on Friday night.

Fall

2010-10-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

Well... to say I didn't keep up with blogging is an understatement.

I've been busy on facebook and have decided to cut back on it a LOT. Why? I was spending too much time on it. And, I was going over in my brain what I heard from a Beth Moore Bible study our church ladies did over a year ago. Beth mentioned that there are so many ways to communicate with people now, but not really any meaningful relationships. I am all for facebook. I think it's a fun way to keep up etc. But, I just don't want to have my time consumed with it and not developing long lasting and deep relationships.

So, what am I doing instead to keep 'up to date'? We now have a coffee table journal. Where we can go and 'post' what we are up to, things the kids have said, etc. This way it lasts forever! We can go back years down the road and read what we wrote.

My conviction. No one else's. Just something I've been thinking about for over a year.

I took the CUTEST pics of Jake yesterday for the Fall pictures! CAN NOT wait to develop them! And...I need to get pics done of the girls. But, since they are now school age, it's not quite as easy to get them done. Hopefully Friday since it's a NO SCHOOL day.

Enjoy your FALL!

Keeping up with Blogging...I hope...I plan...

2010-05-24T11:52:00.000-07:00

I was just looking through a couple blogs and realized how much I miss reading peoples blog sites! The pics, the info. Just not the same on Facebook...though I do love facebook!

Right now it's sooooo windy out, I feel like I'm back in Nebraska. I do not like wind at all!

God has been faithful in lessons for me! He continually reveals to me my shortcomings, areas that are in need of some improvement. And, the hope I have for those areas to improve is that He will be faithful to help me do just that. Oh, how I despise 'messing up'. Though I'm trying to remind myself it's not a 'mistake' if you learn from it. I mean, yes...it's a mistake, but it could be more of a lesson to improve on! I have some verses on the fridge for me to memorize: 'How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: whin I awake, I am still with thee.' Psalm 139: 17-18

Those are my comfort and great reminders that though I may fail, His thoughts of me are precious!

Where has the time gone?

2010-02-12T20:01:00.001-08:00

Many things have happened since my last post. My brother and his wife have had their second beautiful daughter, Brooklyn Tayler Oyen. Yes, 'Tayler' is her middle name spelled just like our Tayler! Named after her!! How sweet is that!! Dad and Mom came to visit just over a week before they made their big move to Washington state. They have officially moved in their home today! With much appreciated help from their church family! Dad is improving in health, of which we are so thankful for! It was a bit scarey there for a while!! Tayler turned 5 and got her ears pierced and Bailey is really blooming in 1st grade!! Jake, he's such a boy! All boy for sure!! With such a funny streak!! He loves to joke around!! Hmmmm... I wonder where he gets that!! Bailey is no longer in gymnastics. She doesn't miss it at all! In fact, this morning she came to me and asked that if her and Tayler put on their leotards and played gymnastics if I would make her be in gymnastics again! I guess she really was ready to be done if she was worried I would put her back in it!! Cute kids!! My funnest times are watching the kids play and use their imaginations!! How sweet a time is that!! Hear them giggling and playing together and loving each other! I tell them all the time that we treat family better than anyone else! I sure pray they do for the rest of their lives!! Jason has been working long hard hours during this tax season. And on Saturday mornings. Though he gets to take one kid with him so that's been really fun for the kids!! I continue to do my "wife/Mom" thing. Some days wondering what on earth I actually am doing and other days knowing that being home with my kids is the most important thing I can do! I am able to bring them to/from school. Be there for them when they are sick. Surprise them with fun treats. Watch them grow. Wipe their tears. Share their excitement. Yes, I am living my dream from when I was a child! I am thankful for my role...

Christmas at the Coleman's

2009-12-08T19:15:00.000-08:00

I AM R.E.F.R.E.S.H.E.D!!!!!

2009-11-11T13:39:00.000-08:00

This may not sound too exciting to you, but it is very exciting to me! This past week Jason and I were in Florida for 'business' and 'pleasure'. We left Friday and returned today (Wednesday). God really used this time to refresh my heart! As my role as Wife and Mother. I haven't felt really 'refreshed' in so long that I forgot what it really feels like to be refreshed!! I am so thankful for the trip and God's reminders!!

We enjoyed the Ocean (I collected a number of Sea Shells and can't wait to show the kids!!), Daytona Beach and the Daytona 500 track!! St. Augustine and the oldest Fort!! Kennedy Space Center and Downtown Disney!! What a time it was!! My favorite stop? The Ocean. Collecting Shells. That was the first major 'refreshing' stop!!

I will post pics as I have time!! A Huge 'Thank You' to my Mom for watching the kids!! You are the Best, MOm!! I LOVE YOU!!

New Scentsy Holiday Warmers!!

2009-10-07T19:54:00.001-07:00

Sisters

2009-10-03T14:22:00.000-07:00

Our New Ride...

2009-09-19T19:50:00.000-07:00

Here is our new ride! We are excited about being able to get this van!

Leah and Amanda 5k

2009-09-12T12:19:00.001-07:00

My friend Amanda and I ran a 5k today! It was very cold before the race, but we warmed up after it started! It was great and our first one! We plan to do the 'Gobble Wobble' the end of November!!!

Labor Day

2009-09-07T18:44:00.000-07:00

This Labor Day was so nice! We had friends over this afternoon for BBQ and fun! We played baseball and ate burgers and beef brats. Great friends = Great Time!! (pictured are Yoichi and Tomo Mori...our Japanese Church Planters, Heather and Korey Buchanek...our Pastor and his wife, Jason and Leah...you know us :) ) And...not pictured were 9 kids running around having a grand time! So 15 people! Very Fun!

Fall

2009-09-07T08:50:00.000-07:00

We have started a tradition in the Fall where we take a Saturday to drive in the Mountains and enjoy all the changing colors! I can not wait to go this year on Saturday September 26th!! It truly is gorgeous in the Mountains!!

Bailey...Our 1st Grader!!

2009-08-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

Today is Bailey's first day of 1st Grade!! She is now attending 'High Point Acadamy' - A Public Charter School. We are very excited for her and to hear all about her day! Her Teacher is Miss Marray. They wear Uniforms to class. She packed her lunch (okay...I packed it, but she brought it!!) We can not believe she is in first grade!! WOW!! Can't wait to pick her up at 4pm to see how her day was!!

End of Summer...

2009-08-16T18:52:00.000-07:00

Well...this was our official 'end of Summer weekend'. Bailey starts school on Wednesday. The FIRST grade! She's been nervous about it all Summer, but we just keep telling her that, though the work will be harder than Kindergarten, we just want her to do her best. that her teacher, Mrs. Stager, is going to love her and she will help her as well! AND this past Saturday, after Gymnastics, her Coach told us that Bailey qualifies for the next level of Gymnastics, called the Mighty Mights! Pretty exciting as it's an 'invite only' group of 8 girls!! Starting the end of August she will enter that new group!

Tayler is headed to Pre-school on the 25th of August! We are excited about that! She does get nervous to leave her Mommy, so I am praying that after a few weeks she'll be running into class. She is excited as well, however, so that is fun to watch! She will go two mornings a week: Tuesday and Thursday.

Jake: hmmm...what a B.O.Y.!!!! All boy and TALK does he!! Non stop chatter! He is growing up so fast. He does turn 3 in November! WOW! Wher did that time go??? He loves horses and all things boy!

This Summer has been so wonderful! We've gone camping, trips to the 'Little Man's Ice Cream' downtown, day trips, swimming, trip to Montana, Family reunion in South Dakota and more! I do believe we accomplished all that we wanted to at the beginning of Summer!

We are really enjoying and excited about the new Church we are attending! We've made wonderful, lifetime friends there and can't wait to see what else God has in store for us and the Church! It was so exciting today to hear about the Church's Japanese plant starting here in Denver that we are a part of!! YIPPEE!! And all the other opportunities we have to serve Him!! God has Blessed and for that we are so thankful! We are forever thankful for His love. His Grace. His guidance.

Enjoy the final days/weeks of Summer!

Strawberry-Appricot Preserves. YUMMY!

2009-08-08T19:20:00.000-07:00

So, last week I finally got to make my preserves I've planned on making all Summer! YUMMY for sure! It's so fun to make things like this! I also made two breads: Vanilla Buttermilk Pound Cake and Zucchini bread. Tastey for sure! I am planning to make some Orange Marmalaid soon as well!

Olympian!!

2009-07-28T09:26:00.000-07:00

This is one of the pics of Bailey at her first Olympics on July 19th. There will be more pics to come...as soon as we get them downloaded. She had a great time and received a medal!!