Play-time at preschool

my little "snow angel"

Victoria's preschool had a morning where it was outside play.  Colson and I were able to enjoy the morning with her!  It was so cute watching all the little 3 year olds follow Colson around and want him to play with them; he enjoyed it too!

Victoria and Colson

time to change up the color too. . . .

if you know me you know that BLACK is my favorite color! crazy!  yet I can't seem to stay away from it! I don't mean for it to be "dark" or "gothic", I just LOVE black and hey, my new picture matches the color scheme! PERFECT!

Change: The process of becoming different,

Whew. . . its been a long week trying to get back into the swing of life after the Holidays.  Both Den and I have been exhausted, and I think its even been apparent in the four kids that are now the only ones home with us.  That sure seems rather strange too! So many changes and for us, they seem to come all at once, never quite getting one change under your belt you get several, trying to figure out how to adjust to them, finding a new "normal" for a much smaller household.  I'm targeting to change my "inner soul", getting myself where I need to be in my personal walk with Christ (if thats in line with Him the rest will follow).  One of my greatest accomplishments has been reading the Bible through in 90 DAYS.  When I first started I honestly couldn't believe it could be done but as I neared the finish line I realized it was, indeed, possible.  What an undertaking as the reading took a full hour each day.  It did, however, take me 98 days, due to the fact that I had a 3 year old encroaching on my early morning (4am) reading time for an entire week which set me behind.  I got a bit stressed over it as my last week also feel the week of Christmas, but then I felt the Holy Spirit whisper that it didn't matter I was a wee (thank you, Nichola, my Irish friend for that sweet little word) bit behind; just keep reading, which I did and completed!  Honestly I miss that hour and am asking God to show me what I can pursue so I don't loose what I've gained.  I'm adopting the song by Third Day  FOLLOW ME THERE  as my theme for the year.

FIRST

As I was searching through the applications on my YOUVERSION Bible I came across this message and watched it on my phone (love that droid).  What a way to start the New Year choosing

• the FIRST of the day:      SEEK GOD
• the FIRST of the week:   WORSHIP GOD
• the FIRST of the month:  TITHE
• the FIRST of the year:     FAST

A few quotes from the sermon:
     "if you want what you had, continue to do what you did!"

     "if you fail to plan, you plan to fail!"

What kind of year was last year, for you, spiritually?

• Spiritually Apathetic
• Spiritually Inconsistant
• Spiritually Consumed

I know which one I was and what I'm aiming for!

Check out an amazing sermon here:Putting God FIRST

books I'm reading. . . .

. . .along with the books I'm reading for classes I'm working my way through a few others.  I started the book, above, before Christmas and had hoped to finish it during break.  We were so busy that I literally had no spare time to read.  Its on my "finish" list this week. I received Sarah Palin's book, "America By Heart" from my son for Christmas.  I just LOVE that lady!  I downloaded "Made to Crave" to my KINDLE.  I will keep you abreast of what I'm gleaning from each book as I finish them.  What are you reading for 2011?

Lots of excitement going on in our home this week!  Brennan missed the last two days of school due to the "dreaded flu"; the Christmas Holiday officially started yesterday at 2:30pm (schools out); manboy #1, Brad and his family are here from Fort Benning; manboy #4, Branden and his wife Katie, fly in tomorrow, Christmas Eve, from Colorado; we celebrate Christmas; Tuesday manboy #2, David and his wife Casey, come in from North Carolina; Thursday, very late, manboy #3, Daniel and his wife Elizabeth, come in from North Dakota; we have a wedding rehearsal on New Years Eve morning; rehearsal luncheon; then Christmas with the entire "Lutz tribe," all 21 of us! we celebrate New Years Eve, the guys are heading out to go bowling for a "wee bachelor party" and New Years Day will dawn bright and early for wedding prep with the wedding at 4pm.  Nothing like an action-packed two weeks, which I know will zip-by all too quickly!

Jacqueline helped me make a meal menu for the next ten days, and yesterday Brett and I braved the crowds at Sams and Krogers to grocery shop!  just a few minor items I need to pick-up throughout the week, mainly fresh produce so we are pretty good to go.  Today my kids want to make frosted sugar cookies!  its one of those treats that we all LOVE but I dread for the HUGE mess!

Colson, Tori and Jacqueline are hoping to get in some outdoor fun with Wilson and Walker today.  We got a fresh dusting of snow yesterday so its gorgeous outside!

Merry Christmas to you all and may His light shine brightly in your lives throughout the New Year! Blessings from our home to yours. . . .

oh Victoria. . . .

One of Den's great aunts passed away last week and we are headed over to the west side of the state for the funeral today.  We are taking Colson and Victoria with us! Colson was not happy about it one bit; he says he will get nightmares if he sees a dead body! Victoria, on the other hand, can't stop talking about the "dead body"! I finally told her that she needed to not talk about it in front of Colson because it really scares him (they kinda creep me out too) and she says, "I'm not scared, its just a dead body!"

just relax. . . . .

This morning, after I dropped Victoria off at preschool, I drove to the other side of town to drop-off some jewelry to a friend.  Upon merging on the highway I checked my fuel gauge and was pretty certain I had enough fuel to go the distance and back again.  Once I exited the highway, across town, my warning "low fuel" light came on.  Thinking I had plenty of gas to get to my destination before I stopped to refuel I continued on.  As I was leaving my friends I noticed the needle was almost below the orange (out of fuel) line and became nervous.  While at a red light I dug through my purse looking for our debit card only to realize I, more than likely, left it in my coat pocket the night before.  I had no cash, no change, nothing.  I called my son and told him my quandry and he assured me I would have enough fuel to make it home.  I made my way to the highway and proceeded to go home, all the while I kept asking God, "please let me make it to XXXXX Road, please let me make it to XXXXX Road.  As I passed each exit ramp, my left leg continued to nervously bounce, harder!  I just kept asking God to just let me make it to my exit, of course when I did exit there was a red light, again I'm asking God to help me make it through so I don't block the intersection.  Once on the main road into our little city, I called my son and told him I was almost home.  He says, "see mom you just gotta relax and listen to me."  My leg eased up from its out-of-control bouncing, and I found myself relaxing, loosening the death-grip on the steering wheel, and even sighing,  as I pulled down our street.  I could hear God speaking in that still soft voice, "my child choose to relax in me and I will see you through".  So much like life, we get nervous, uptight, anxious, irritated, angry when we find ourselves at the end of our rope, out of options, hanging by a thread yet God is there ready and waiting to answer our pleas our cries.

a "Victoria-ism. . . . ."

this morning, as I was reading my Bible, Victoria is snuggling me.  She turns around,  faces me, planting a sweet kiss on my face, then she gets even closer to my face, at which point I'm thinking she's gonna say, "I love you, mommy," but instead she says, "I've got a wedgie. . . ."  Hilarious!

a Thanksgiving day to remember. . .

We had a G-R-E-A-T day of thankful celebration.  Dinner was easy-peasy! Huh uh! nope no turkey for this family. . . .another time, another story! We enjoyed honey glazed ham, and simple fixings.  I didn't bake any desserts; purchased them from Sam's Club! and it was the best dinner ever! We played many rounds of Ping Pong; I never did win one game, came close. . .Den, Ben and Emily were Ping Pong Champs (a big hearty "thank you" to the Wrobel's for blessing us with that gift).  I love that my family, especially the manboys, never get to old for hide-n-seek.  We have a 3000 sq. ft home and 11 of us hid in every nook and cranny, in pitch blackness.  It was a whole lotta fun, until it was my turn for the seeking, well actually Jacqueline's but she didn't want to go it alone so I volunteered to accompany her, then it turned into a three-some with Victoria.  We inched our way throughout the house, with Victoria saying the whole time, clinging to both of us, "I'm scared, I'm scared, almost to the point of tears."  It was so sad, so much so that Ben and Bryan both gave up their hiding spots to come and comfort her.  I just love how these manboy's, no matter how old, still enjoy simple games, and with their family.  We must have played 8 rounds of hide-n-seek!  Truly a wonderful day.  The house is back in order now, the laundry is humming away, the kids are all tucked into bed, one manboy is upstairs watching a moving in his room, several are in the living room watching a movie with their dad and I'm headed up to finish reading book #1. It was truly a thankful day to remember. . . . .

a nice break. . . .from the routine. . . .

So excited to have 6 whole days of freedom from classes.  I went to the Library yesterday to check out a few books for my Children's Lit Class and found myself checking out three books to read over the Thanksgiving Holiday.  I started one, briefly, yesterday before my manboys came home from college.  Once they were home I got a bit side-tracked enjoying them, getting their laundry sorted/going and then it was off to karate. After Karate Bryan and Emily took all the kids, to her house, hot-tubbing and then dinner.  Den and I enjoyed a few RARE moments with each other; we ran to Krogers, went to Rite-Aid, picked-up perscription's (2 manboys are sick) and then onto Panda King for some yummy dinner (we live such an exciting lifestyle)!  I stayed up way past my "normal" bedtime doing laundry, and never got a chance to pick-up my new read! Today I'm hoping to dig into it!

look who I found on my camera this morning. . . . .

couldn't help myself and post these pictures in the order he took them! love this kid, never a dull day around here either. . . .on those days when you just don't feel like laughing or smiling he has the ability to make them both happen!

Wherever you are. . . .

I read the most amazing book yesterday, in Sam's Club, of all places.  My kids and I were browsing through the Children's Christmas Books when I came across it.  The name captured my attention, so I opened and read it, found myself in tears.  Beautiful! Heart-wrenching! a must have! it's on my Christmas list!

It's been awhile, I know! I've stopped in here several times, throughout the week, but haven't taken the time to pen anything, nor have I wanted too! (don't ya' just love bold honesty?)  We are living completely by "faith" these days in many areas.  Very humbling, and even painful.  There are days when I feel close to God and know He's going to take care of us; there are days when I crumble and fall apart wondering if He will really do what He says He will do! Today is one of those days. . . . .enough said!

just follow. . . . .

I've been doing a Bible reading program, "read the Bible through in 90 days go here".  It was tough at first, but I've really been blessed by what I've read lately and just can't seem to get enough of the scripture.  I usually get up at 4:30am to begin my daily readings, as it takes almost an hour to read.   God has used so many of His stories to encourage me; causing my heart and mind to stay steady and firm in Him; His truths; His love; His arms. If God can see the Israelites through the wilderness for 40 years He can certainly see our family through some "wilderness" experiences as well!  You should try it.    

a constant reminder

we are borrowing a van from our church for a few days, which is a HUGE blessing, however the van only has one slider and its not automatic.  This morning after Jacqueline got into the van she couldn't get the door closed; Brennan got out and helped her with it.  Once at the Junior High, she still had trouble with the door, and once again Brennan got out and opened it for her.  She said very grouchy, "I hate these doors, I just want our van back!" As Brennan was, again, closing the door he hollers out to Jacqueline, as she is walking away, "be slow to anger. . . ." Brennan's little phrase resonated in my heart today and was a great reminder that God is requiring of me "patience"  in all areas of my life.

eeww.......gross

last night as we were eating Colson ran into the kitchen to get something and came back and said, "mom, there's a huge hairball in the sink!" of which I replied, "oh gross we're trying to eat here," and I'm thinking to myself, "well there really can't be a hair ball in the sink, we don't have cats!" My curiosity got the best of me so I went into the kitchen to check out the "huge hair ball" in the sink!  I looked in and there was a used-up SOS pad all scrunched into some what of a ball! Too funny! after I told him what it was he said, "well it looks like a huge hairball to me!" Yup your right son, it sure does! I just love the thoughts of kids. . . .

AdOrAbLe . . . . . . .

We took a walk in the field behind our house yesterday; the day was simply too gorgeous to sit inside.  We always follow the path along the back side of this property, the lighting for pictures is perfect and I happened to see this old thing sitting by the pond! perfect picture setting!*

*(this was taken with my new cell phone!)

I received an email, this morning, from a good friend of mine (a former student in our youth ministry days) who is now serving as a missionary, along with her family, in a foreign country.  I always enjoy getting their ministry updates and today's was, not only a blessing but a piercing to my heart.  I find myself grumbling many days over the inconveniences of life; waiting in a line, being placed on hold, a slow driver, etc, you get the picture, right? typical frustrations that can irritate, causing my focus to be completely off kilter.  My friend was sharing a story about the frustrations they face in a tough country and how they played out in her life; she is after all human like we are; yet God chose to use that frustration to bring His word home to her.  Here is a short exert of what she shared about a frustrating and long experience of waiting in a line, with her husband and 6 young children:

"Often things that in America would be quick and simple are unnecessarily difficult and frustrating here. And this applies to many aspects of life here.  After our registration experience I asked God to forgive me and told Him that I simply cannot represent Him well when I am in situations like that. I had lost any platform from which to share the gospel due to my anger and impatience. Often situations in which we mingle with the people provide opportunities for witnessing, but on this day I would have died of embarrassment had I been asked by any of the others in line, “Why are you here in this country anyway?” “Oh, well, uh, I am here to share with you how Christ can change your life”. I know that that is indeed true—I cannot represent Him well. God has to
empower me through His Holy Spirit at ALL times to live and to respond rightly—when I am in a foreign
registration line, on the bus being yelled at by a rude person (another fun experience), or in our home as we
deal with just the ordinary frustrations of life. Will you please pray for our family that we will be enabled by His power to be a shining example of Jesus’ love, even in those situations that are a special challenge to us?"

How often do I find myself looking just like the world? how often do my actions reflect those of Christ in situations that are unpleasant? I was humbled and convicted, by this story, because I tend to take the wrong path so quickly and not look for the ways God can use me, even in the frustrating and irritating circumstances.  I pray God can continue to show me the areas that need some good deep-cleaning in my life and my soul, no matter how painful or embarrassing!

my own personal assistant. . . .

Every Monday/Wednesday/Friday I do an intense cardio Kickboxing workout with a few of my friends from church.  Of course I take the kids with me; Colson is pretty on-task with his reading and Tori plays for part of the time but the last 15 minutes of my workout, when we are on the mats, she usually comes and sits by me.  Today was just too precious not to share! As I was doing an ab workout she says to me, "mommy do you want some paper towel for your forehead?" I answered, "sure sweetie," and she promptly got up and came back with a piece of paper towel.  As I was working out she leans down and says, "mommy do you want me to wipe your face?" oh my gosh, be still my heart! she sat there for almost 15 minutes wiping my brow.  It was just so precious and tender and I thought, to myself, what a blessing and a gift she was; a real source of encouragement to me to, "keep working hard" so I can take better care of her and the rest of my children, physically and emotionally!

a Colson. . .ism. . . .

as I was sorting laundry in the laundry room, Colson was sitting outside the door playing.  He says, "mom how did you learn how to do laundry?" and I tell him that I learned when I was a little girl, to which he responds,"they had 'washers' when you were little?" I laugh and tell him that we did and then I ask him what he thought we used and he says, "I thought you used one of those things that hangs on the wall at Scotties!" of which he is referring to a "washboard"!

Day 2 . . . .comedy of errors!

we head out of Omaha into Lincoln and enjoy all the traffic that is heading our way for the U of Nebraska football game (made us wish we were heading to an MSU game).  As we drove further into Nebraska, with the sun baking down on us I became more and more tired.  I finally called Den, saying we need to stop, and he said that we would stop in Ogalla (OO LA LA, as Tori says) and find a place to eat lunch (which was almost 30 more miles).  I was really dragging and Den kept me on the phone talking to him.  We finally arrived and drove around looking for a good picnic sight.  We ended up at the middle school eating on their outside picnic tables.  Den told me to eat and head to the car and rest and he would take the kids to one of the local parks for awhile to get them some exercise.  He loaded the kids in the van and I went and proceeded to sit in Katie's car (remember its packed to the ceiling with stuff, all kinds of stuff).  As I settled in the drivers seat to rest, I rolled the windows down (it was blazing HOT).  It wasn't long and I heard a beater of a vehicle turn down the street, I turned my head and opened my eyes to see a grubby old man driving a junker slowly slink by me, staring at me the entire time.  After he passed I sat up and watched him in the side mirror.  He pulled along side the street just beyond me and sat there.  I decided that I would find myself another resting spot, so I started the car and off I drove; round and round this little city, several times trying to find one place I could park Katie's car with a little bit of shade. NOTHING! as I went around the block, several times (even once going the wrong way on a one-way), I passed the same policeman in his vehicle.  I decided to just park in the local City Market parking lot.  I pulled in, parked the car, and leaned my head back.  Of course the sun was beating in, so I started the car, once again and decided to sit the opposite direction, as I turned to look I see the police man has finally left, so I backed out and when I turned to look straight ahead he was on the other side of the street from me (the City Market is in between two one-way streets).  I pull around, parking the vehicle and trying to not freak out.  I look over and this policeman is staring straight at me.  I'm thinking, GREAT! my ID is in my purse in OUR van, I'm driving an older vehicle, packed to the ceiling with "stuff" and it has PA plates on it.  I really did try and relax but every time I opened my eyes the officer was staring at me.  I finally called Den and said, "Where are you?" and he said, "have you rested at all?" and then I proceed to tell him the story and finally out of panic say, "if you don't hurry up and come back here I think I'm going to be hauled off to jail and you're going to be bailing me out!"  He said, "I'm on my way!" and literally he was there within minutes! What a HUGE relief! of course the kids got a good laugh.  Then as we were heading out of town he decides that we need to go back as gas was cheaper in town than by the highway. So back we head; get gas at this little dive of a station and Brennan realizes that he left his pocket knife at the park.  Den leaves me and the kids, in the van, and heads back to the park, with Brennan, in Katie's packed out car, with PA license plates.  I was so worried he was going to get pulled over, especially when they saw a man and a boy in the vehicle this time.  Thankfully they made it back (without the knife, of which Brennan found beside the seat in the van) safe and sound! We finally headed out, without any rest, but happy to be out of that city and headed into Colorado!  I prayed the whole way that God would give me the strength to drive the next, so I thought, 300 miles into Denver.  We weren't on the highway for 20 minutes when I saw a sign reading, DENVER 198! YES! I knew then and there that I could make that drive.  We laughed over the escapade in OO LA LA and sang our way into Denver!  I actually drove over those Rockies on my own, it was very liberating to know that I "did it" and Colson, bless his heart, said, "mom, just keep your eyes focused on the driver in front of you, don't look at the scenery. . . if there's no car in front just look at the road. . . ." and that's exactly what I did and it worked! Brennan, Colson and I had a great time driving over those mountains.  We prayed, we sang and we thoroughly enjoyed each others company.  I was even able to comfort Colson as he got a little scared of the drop-offs at times!  Life is an adventure, and I'm sure glad I'm enjoying it with my family!

Day 1. . . comedy of errors

Den and I drove two cars and took our four youngest children to Colorado, two weeks ago.  Riding 24 hours is tough enough but driving 24 hours is extremely tough.  I stressed about it several days before we left.  The first 12 hours of our trip was pretty uneventful, we actually made it too Omaha without any incidents; just a little rain at the tail end of the day.  However we "Pricelined" a hotel, and Den called me when the reservation was set to let me know.  He said he was a bit worried about where it was because it was a foreign man on the phone and he couldn't understand a word he said.  I said that I bet when we get to the hotel he is sitting behind a window of bars where he slides our key under a window of bullet proof glass.  We had a good laugh, that is until we pulled into the parking lot!  what could we do? We knew we were in trouble when there were signs everywhere that said, "not responsible for anything taken from your vehilcles,"  we dug out our all of our bags, our computers, anything of value and hauled it into our room.  Of course there was no elevator, the hotel was supposed to have non-smoking rooms but honestly you could cut the smoke with a knife the moment you walked through the door; we wound our way down several halls, almost like a maze; and up the stairs and found our room. To say I was exhausted was an understatement, as well as the kids.  We all showered and crawled into our respective beds.  Den said he was going to go gas up the vehicles, and just as I was getting ready to nod off he called and asked where the cash was, of course in the room and so was his wallet! once he returned I told him that I didn't think I was going to be able to make it in the room, (since I was pregnant with Tori I got a little gift of pregnancy induced asthma, which flares up still from time to time) I was already feeling my throat constricting due to the cigarette smoke!  Brennan and Colson have asthma and Brennan wasn't able to breath very well either! We both knew we couldn't walk out at midnight and try and locate another hotel and that we wouldn't get our money back so we were kind of "stuck".  Den and I were worried about all the "things" left in both cars.  My daughter-in-laws car was packed to the ceiling full of her stuff as was the trunk and our van! We both prayed that God would protect our things and woke up early.  I took the kids down for breakfast which non of us really wanted to eat; tatoos, smokers, toothless-wonders were seated around us.  We pretty much ate and ran! and watch your step going out the door too, the doorway sat a bit sideways, and the floor was on a slant!  Thankfully our things were untouched in the night (I did ask Den if he wouldn't mind moving our vehicles closer to the door where there was a bit of a street light) and we laughed our way into the cars!  we made a pitstop at a gas station for some coffee for me and some soda for Den and we were off for another day of 12 hour driving. . . . .stay tuned for. . . .day 2. . . comedy of errors!

nursing my BRUISED ego. . . .

We came home this afternoon from E. Lansing, after picking up Blake from MSU for the weekend, and I decided to bake my family some chocolate chip cookies.  I purchased two packages that were ready to go, just adding butter and eggs.  I pulled the first batch out of the oven to cool and put another pan in.  I called Tori and Colson into the kitchen to see if they wanted a cookie.  Tori gladly took hers and when Colson came in, I handed him his on a napkin.  He says, "what are these?" and I say, "they are chocolate chip cookies."  He says, "well they don't look like it" of which I cut him off because I knew he was going to say that they didn't look like the "GREAT" chocolate chip cookies his sister-in-law, Katie, made last week in Colorado.  I told him that I'm not the best baker, that frankly I'm really no good at it, but I do try from time to time.  He just looked at me and said, "thanks." (gotta love honesty) Ouch! I know I'm bad but when the kids start saying it I realize just how bad  BAD is. . . . .wonder where I can take a few baking lessons???

a week felt like forever!

while we were in Colorado we had very limited access to computers, and now I am trying to play "catch-up" with my college classes, facebook and the blog! WHEW I sure missed a lot of stuff this past week but we had such a wonderful time with our kids and married kids! Lots of memories were made! so much to share yet I need to get my week in order before I can sit down and pen my thoughts!

a Colson-ism. . . .

as we were traveling west yesterday, I was talking to Den, via cell (he was driving the other vehicle), about  our drive and the things that had bothered me thus far.  After I ended our conversation Colson piped up and said, "Mom, I think God is helping you face all your fears on this trip!"  and I said, "I sure have a lot of fears to face, son," and Colson said, "mom, we all have a lot of fears."  Thanks buddy! I appreciated his comment!

This is how I view my life these days, getting one thing going, starting on another then running back to keep the first thing going! WHEW! its exhausting!.  I'm trying to home school a 3rd grader, teach a preschooler; tackle 12 credit hours of college study; manage our home; and wishing somewhere in it all Den and I had 2 minutes together.  I'm longing for that usual "fall school routine" to kick in, when life becomes less of a juggling act!

We are 5 days away from the start of the new school year and I'm completely and utterly overwhelmed.  We decided at the beginning of the summer to home school Jacqueline (7th grade) and Colson (3rd grade) this fall.  I'm now at the point of second guessing myself on this decision.   I know its right, I know its what we are supposed to do, and I'm wondering how its all gonna come into play.  Not only do the kids start school on Tuesday, but my classes start the same day.  I decided, last spring, when I scheduled my classes to take on 12 credits this semester; I'm wondering how its all gonna "play out".  I'm not going to drop any classes nor am I going to "back out" on home schooling either, but I sure am out of my comfort zone with all of this.  I've spent most of last week and part of this week perusing the internet for curriculum, and have realized that it isn't cheap, even used curriculum.  I'm on curriculum overload right now. . . .what should I buy? what will work? what sight offers the best prices, etc. (I know I'm way late in organizing their "stuff" but I also took spring/summer classes!)  On top of all this Jacqueline is now in the Youth Group at church, which she has been so excited to move into; yet since Den is a former youth pastor, we are having a hard time letting her go, not because she isn't ready but the culture today is so very different where girls are concerned.  Jacqueline is a beautiful young girl who is just starting the process of puberty; she still thinks like a little girl (and I'm all for that) and many of her friends are way beyond her when it comes to clothing, make-up, boys, music, and sex.  Den and I had a great conversation about it this morning and we ended in prayer, together, for her.  Its been extremely tough letting someone else pastor our junior hi/high school kids, and not be critical about it.  I came to the conclusion, this morning, as I was looking at yet another home school sight that I am not allowing God to control my days, my time, or my thoughts and that its going to take a lot of me-and-Him time to accomplish what He has put in my heart to do.  With only have 4 children home now, which seems totally strange and weird, my work load for our home has been cut in half, so that should help, now its time for me to access what other "stuff" needs to be pushed aside to accomplish training up my children. . . .

 My daughter-in-law, Amanda, shared this song with me this morning! Perfect for today and the days ahead! Thanks Amanda, I love you!
click here

its that time of year again. . . .

The van is loaded down, all packed and ready to head out tomorrow morning.  We are taking Brett back to Spring Arbor University for his Sophomore year.  I can't believe how fast this summer has gone and how quickly I am brought to tears over the fact that my boys are growing up and leaving home.  I've always known it was part of the journey; yet it just came way too fast.  We will come home tomorrow to load up the van again and Saturday, late morning, head to Michigan State University, to unpack Blake for his freshman year of college.  I've talked a lot about riding the emotional roller coaster. . . off I go again.

this, that and everything else!

It's hard to believe that the end of summer is approaching.  Yet we've had such an amazing summer! My kids would attest to that as well.  My summer class will be over next week, so I'm in the final stages of finishing up all the necessary papers, and am anxious for a two week break before I start with a full load in September.  I'm homeschooling Jacqueline and Colson, this fall, and have been perusing the internet for curriculum.  I think I've landed on what we will be using and am anxious to order it and get their school year set. Victoria will be in preschool (at home) and I found a cute little program for her at SAMS Club.  Saturday is Branden and Katie's open house.  We are excited to see them, Ben,Dave, Casey, Daniel and Elizabeth.  On Sunday we are celebrating Jacqueline and Colson's baptism of which Daniel will be doing the honors and then 3 of the boys birthdays.  Brad, Amanda and the boys were home last week as her sweet grandma stepped into glory.  We were able to spend some time with them and the kids, as always, had a blast with Wilson and Walker.  Our air conditioning still isn't fixed.  There have been a few days that were absolutely TOUGH, yet from what I've heard everyone's bill for July almost tripled, so. . . . .I'm very thankful our air was broke.  Not quite sure how we would have handled a bill like that! Thank you God, for sparing us and for blessing us!  It's finally cooler at night, WHEW!  our pint-size pool blew out last week; was hilarious and you should have seen how big the kids eyes were when it happened.  We laughed so hard!  I found a pool (Craigs list) and Brennan, bless his heart, bought it, paid only $60 for it and had no clue how big it was, 16x45! a definite "God thing".  I've worked out, 3x a week, all summer and am LOVING it!  I'm very anxious, sometimes over-anxious for God to open a door for us, somewhere.  It's hard not to get frustrated and question God! I had coffee with a young mom who was in our youth ministry in Lansing, on Monday! What a gift it was to spend time with her and to catch-up on her life! what an encouragement she was too, as her husband was without employment for four years! Thank you Bethany! love ya girl!!  Next week begins the emotional rollercoaster ride as Sunday, Monday and Tuesday the married children will be heading back to NC, ND and CO; Friday Brett will be heading back to SAU and Saturday Blake will be heading to MSU! Ben just moved into a new house in EL and will be a senior at MSU.  Thankfully Bryan will be here for a few more weeks, and then. . . . .there will be only 4 children left in the Lutz home! it will seem very strange too, especially since we will have 2 girls and 2 boys! crazy after all those boys! Ok I'm gonna stop now, tears are already welling in my eyes. . . . .enjoy your last few lazy hazy days of summer! I know I'm gonna treasure every single day thats left!

One Man,

One Woman,

12 Children,

4 Daughter-in-laws,

2 Grandsons,

32 years of marriage,

~~PRICELESS~~

VBS stories

Tonight as we were driving home from VBS Colson asks his dad about demons and if we can have them in us and his dad says, "no son demons can't be in Christians." and then Victoria chimes in, "see I told you so!" Like she really knew what she was talking about.  Colson then goes on to ask more questions about demons, of which I lean over and say to Den lets "nix' the demon talk.  Last night was a three ring circus with the unsub and Smeagle. . . .thankfully Den answered his questions and that was the end of it, at least I hope so.  Once again the two are sleeping together, I guess they feel there is safety in numbers!

night. . .brings. . .fright

we have an "unsub" (unknown subject) in our area that seems to be terrorizing people and has eluded the police.  Our younger children have been hearing about this man and tonight (because they are overly tired and stayed up too late) they were literally bawling and freaking out.  It seemed that no amount of cajoling them would get their tears and fears to cease.  At first I'm sympathic but as they continue to drone on I get irritated.  Mean of me huh?  Den steps in and tries to comfort them as well with no amount of success and then he says, "Colson do you remember Smeagol?" Of course Colson starts bawling. . . .oh my gosh we have a mess here!  I send the kids upstairs to bed and follow them up.  Colson is bawling on his bed and says, "why did dad have to bring up Smeagol? I totally forgot about how scared I was of him until he said that!" then he begs me to stay and lay with him until he goes to sleep.  I proceed to pray with him and walk out of his bedroom listening to his loud wails and walk down the hall to find Jacqueline locking up her windows like it was Fort Knox.  She also begs me to stay and sleep with her and after we prayed together and I walk out she is almost right behind me, begging me to let Colson sleep with her.  Oh my goodness it was a three-ring circus getting these two to bed.  I consented and let Colson sleep with her, of which they were both absolutely grateful!  Those two can tease, bug and irritate each other yet be the best of friends in a crisis! Love it! all is quiet now, Praise the Lord. . . .but I'm sure one of them will either be on the floor beside our bed or in our bed at some point in the night. . . .why does night bring fright????

tonight as I was talking to my daughter-in-law Casey, on the phone, she asked if she could orchestrate a family prayer time later in the evening.  Of course I told her she would be more than welcome to do so and she did just that.  It was no small feat getting us all together. . . .you see we have four married children living in 4 different states other than ourselves.  Thankfully we are blessed with some amazing technology so that we were able to have everyone on the phone or computer at the same time.  Ben and Bryan were in E.Lansing; Den, me, our kids, Brad, Amanda and the boys were in our living room; Daniel and Elizabeth were in North Dakota, Dave and Casey in North Carolina, Branden and Katie were in Colorado and Brett was at Spring Hill Camp.  It took some doing but we were all together to share in a time of prayer.  I love how my kids come together when there's a crisis, a need, whatever. . . .they band together and support each other.  I've prayed most of my boy's lives that they would become each others best friends, and tonight was proof that God has brought it about. . . .it doesn't matter how mad one of them gets with another, or how differently we each may live, we love each other unconditionally. . . . .just as God loves us unconditionally.  We may not have much, by the world's standards, but we've got an amazing family and we are so thankful God blessed us with these children and grand children. . . . .

a Victoria-ism. . . .

we left town this morning and headed over to the west side of the state for a funeral.  Den's uncle passed away mid-week.  Most of the kids were fine with going but Colson and Brennan were pretty adamant about not attending the funeral.  Brennan said he still has bad memories from when he attended his great-grandmas funeral.  So while all this conversation is going on Tori is sitting and listening, not saying much other than, "how much longer 'till we're at the funeral?"  After we arrive and sit down, Tori says, loudly, "where is the dead body at?" we try real hard not to laugh, it is supposed to be rather a somber tone, but there were a few snickers by the older boys (of course not me!!) as we try and explain to her about where his body is, which by the way we couldn't quite figure out ourselves.  There was no body, there was no mention of a body, nor were there ashes!  I guess it was a "memorial" and not a "funeral".

Mr. & Mrs. Branden Lutz

Branden and Katie

We used to see this view from our living room when we lived in Boulder!

"The Happy Couple" with Den and I

Beaver Creek

We took a whirl wind (3 days) trip to the beautiful Colorado Rockies.  We were able to witness our son getting married as well as see a few of our "favorite" sights.

some fantastic artwork drawn straight from the hand of God. . .

in spite of some unbelievable humid days we have some unbelievable cloud formations!  and just like winter, here in mid-Michigan, we get bypassed for all the good thunder/lightening storms. . . .again we are the Bermuda Triangle of Michigan. . . .they go north. . . .they go south. . . .but they never hit here!  but we just couldn't pass up an opportunity to "ooh and ahh" over what God gave us tonight!

its a girls day out!

later this morning Jacqueline and I are headed out for a few hours, just the two of us! I can't remember the last time we were able to enjoy some mom/daughter time (she wants to see a movie).  I'm excited. . . I think she is too. . . .and I know we are both looking forward to it! I love that girl so much and can't believe she will be in junior high this fall! Seems like just yesterday she was Victoria's age!  I'm glad she still wants to do "stuff" with her mom!  (I think we will be extremely happy to sit inside of a cold theater for a few hours too)

so sweet. . . .

as Victoria was in the bathtub this morning she was playing and she says, "Mom, I'm thinking about. . . . .Bwad, Manda, Wilson and Wakhur and how much I wuv them. . . ."  Every now and then she just has to say share how much she loves her siblings, and she doesn't miss a single one of them either, she names them all even in her prayers, sometimes she even says them twice!

lake versus ocean

Thursday morning we decided to head over to one of our favorite family spots, "Gun Lake."  The weather forcast was to be hot and muggy, perfect for beach fun.  We loaded up the van and headed over.  Arriving at Gun Lake the sky was overcast but the air was warm as was the water.  In a manner of minutes we were all in the water playing.  Though the sun peaked out on occasion we all preferred it to be overcast; it wasn't blazing hot, nor did we have to squint.  Den readied the grill and cooked us up some fine burgers and hot dogs, then it was off  for more water fun.  We practically had the beach to ourselves, at least one end.  Colson and I had fun writing words in the sand as well as a family sand castle building contest (I think Brennan and I won!) and then the dark clouds started rolling in.  It wasn't long and we decided to head for home before the sky opened up and let loose.  We didn't get too far from the beach before we saw evidence of rain and as we got closer to home we drove through a torrential downpour; flooded roads, ditches, branches and limbs down!  We found half of our area without power, of course all the main stops, "Krogers, Rite-Aid, Walgreens, RED BOX (a real bummer)".  We were hoping we would be without power (crazy I know) as the kids thought it would be fun to experience it! Of course Den was happy our home wasn't affected (with not so fond memories of bailing out the sump-pump for hours on end).  Once home we quickly unloaded the "stuff" and made it inside before the clouds let loose their fury! Once showered and the laundry (literally) pitched down the basement stairs (of which it stayed until Friday morning) we all decided that the OCEAN was by far better than Gun Lake.  The OCEAN isn't dirty, the sand is clean and we hardly had any in our suits; however Gun Lake is dirty, you bring an entire sandbox home  in your swimsuits, and it smells of fish! so now after a vacation to the ocean my family is HOOKED and already planning our next vist! LOVE IT!

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We can't seem to get our "vacation" out of our heads! We had such a great time and it had been quite some years since we had taken one, 12 to be exact, so we are still talking about the amazing time we had.  I previously shared about our time at Dave and Casey's and the beach so now its time to share our time with our ARMY family at Fort Benning.  We arrived at Brad and Amanda's on July 4th!  We had anticipated going to fireworks later that evening but the kids were enjoying each other so much that none of us had the heart to pull them away from their play.  We never mentioned the fireworks, they never mentioned the fireworks and it was quite all right with all of us!  Just being with our kids, on an ARMY base, was good enough.  Late Monday morning we all went to the National Infantry Museum (if you ever have the chance to visit Fort Benning/Columbus area, make sure you go here ).  Sobering! no other words for it!

After the museum we were given a tour of the base, two vehicles, two tour guides and ended the back at our kids home for pizza.  After lunch we all donned our suits and headed over to one of the many pools on base.  Of course it was HOT and the pool was refreshing and the kids LOVED it (they never tire of water and swimming).  We went back to Brad's, the kids chilled watching a movie and we visited more! Dinner then outside for 'smores.  The kids had a blast with each other and all too soon it was bedtime and packing-up to leave the next morning.  I'm with Victoria. . . .I hate goodbyes! they get harder and more painful each time we go through them, and poor little Wilson struggles with them too, even Walker shed some tears.  Honestly you never realize just how much you miss someone until you see them!  What a gift it was to spend this time with our children, a vacation full of life-long memories!

a Jacqueline-ism. . .

The other day, while riding in the van we told the kids we were heading out to Colorado in a few weeks for a wedding.  Jacqueline quickly responded (with all enthusiasm and smiles), "geez. . . .this is the best summer of our entire lives. . . .North Carolina. . . . .Georgia. . . . . Colorado. . . .we're going all over the country on vacation!"  I have to agree with her, it is pretty stinkin' sweet! I said, "since we'll be visiting most of our children that live out of state we need to head out to Dan and Elizabeth's, in North Dakota, for Labor Day Weekend!"  of which she heartily agreed! I mentioned it to Den. . . .I'm working on him. . . . .I sure hope he agrees! and then, "yes it will be the best summer of our entire lives. . . . because we got to spend it with all of our children!"

vacation. . . .

 Dave, Casey, Colson, Jacqueline and Victoria

at Sunset Beach

It been years since our family has had a "REAL" vacation.  Usually when we go somewhere everyone else is on vacation but me.  You know what I'm talking about, right? if your a camping family you know exactly what I'm talking about!! well this time it was a vacation for me too! Oh I still had to prepare meals and such but my sweet daughter-in-law Casey worked along side of me.  What a gift that girl is! not just because she works but because she's like an extra set of arms that knows exactly what to do and when to do it, without prompting.  Dave and Casey treated us all to a vacation at the ocean.  We stayed in a resort; outdoor/indoor pool/hot tubs, workout room; plus were only 5 minutes from the shore!  It was FABULOUS and RELAXING!  Of course it wouldn't be a "Lutz" vacation without mishaps! thankfully we are learning to not let them stress us out and to roll with the punches!

the Infantry Museum at Fort Benning

Victoria and Walker

ready. . .set.. . .lets roll!

Drill Sargent Lutz 

Walker, Victoria, Colson and Wilson

4 little army dudes!

America. . .land of the free. . .BECAUSE of the "BRAVE"

One never realizes how blessed we are to live in a free country nor do we realize just how much our Military men and women sacrifice for us to remain this way.  Monday evening our son, Daniel, called his dad and gave us some very heartbreaking news.  One of their close friends son had died in Afghanistan earlier that morning.  He was with the family minutes after the Chaplain delivered the painful news.  We immediately prayed for the Cooper family as well as Daniel and Elizabeth that God would grant grace to both of them as they walk through this darkened valley.   Here we all were, on a military installation in the south, enjoying time with our soldier son and his family and another family miles away was grieving the loss of their firstborn son; a young man who would have turned 20 next week; home in August; married in October.  Time and time again I've heard of men and women who have sacrificed their lives, near and far, saying prayers for the family as they deal with the loss but never really feeling the "pain" of their loss until Monday night.  Daniel (a youth pastor in a small town in ND) and his wife will be watching the Coopers four remaining children as they fly to Delaware to bring their son's body home.  The Cooper family; Dave, Heather, Dawson (16), Twila (13), Gabby (5) and Carlie (3), would covet your prayers as they face and deal with the loss of their son and brother, Keenan.

an ocean respite. . .

We have been enjoying ourselves at Sunset Beach, North Carolina!  It was a wonderful gift from our son and daughter-in-law.  Our accomodations are amazing! family time has been awesome (except we do miss our manboys who aren't able to be here with us).  Tomorrow we head back to Dave and Casey's home then we head out to our ARMY son's at Fort Benning!  I have to say that this little surprise vacation has been just what Den and I have needed.  The stress of life has, at times, pulled us almost under, almost suffocating us.  What a blessing it was for Dave to call and invite us down and I'm sure we totally surprised them when we said "yes".

Happy 4th of July and remember to thank a service man or woman for their sacrifice in keeping our country safe and free........

a Colson-ism. . . .

yesterday Tammy, our Pastors wife, stopped by with a gift card for Victoria; a little something to cheer her up!  She was asking Victoria what she thought she might buy at Toys R Us when Colson piped in, "she could always use that money to purchase an eye patch!" Tammy and I had a good laugh and I couldn't pass up an opportunity to share my 8 year old's humor!

exhaustion has set in. . . .

We had an amazing end to our school year! The weather was perfect (if you like it hot, which I do) and we had family from out of town come for Blake's open house.  Our ARMY family was here for a week; Colson and Victoria were thrilled to play with Wilson and Walker all week, however Colson was bummed that he still had to go to school two of those days, but was a happy camper when his big brother came to school and checked him out early on his last day! I don't think he ever stopped smiling either!!  Bryan drove in from Colorado late Tuesday; my in-laws came Thursday, as did Katie (Branden's fiance) and Kirby (a family friend) both came in separately from PA; and on Friday Dan and Elizabeth flew in.  Our home was, literally, bursting at the seems with people and it was such a fun time.  We had awesome weather, lots of laughter, chaos (always) and in the mix of throwing a graduation party for Blake my daughter-in-laws hosted a surprise bridal shower for Katie.  We had a houseful, 32+ people, for the afternoon then we all made our way back to church for Blake's open house.  Blake did a great job greeting everyone, and Den and I were deeply touched by the out-pouring of love shown to him by family, friends and our church family.  So many hands helped with the clean-up and we were home and enjoying a houseful again! all too soon the weekend was over, one by one our family left! As always it was a bit of a let-down but so thankful that each one staggered their departures which helped us not "crash and burn". . . . but now exhaustion has set in and we are just letting it run its course and enjoying some much needed downtime (before cable is shut-off for the summer!).

oh the fun they've had. . . .

We have really enjoyed our ARMY family this week! the kids have loved playing together and there's nothing that compares to the sounds of their laughter and chatter! We had such a beautiful evening last night, perfect outdoor weather, no mosquitos and the kids played outside until late evening!  It was so cute watching them all running around, jumping on the trampoline, swinging and playing in the sandbox!  Whats even more cute is to hear my little 4 year old grandson talking to his Aunt Victoria!  Brad has always encouraged the boys to call his siblings aunt and uncle! Just too adorable hearing Walker saying Aunt Victoria! or Wilson saying Uncle Colson! These memories will last a lifetime. . . .and will be forever imprinted on our children's hearts (mine too).  They are at a prime age to remember and enjoy!

summer fun!

Walker, Colson, Wilson and Victoria enjoying their ice cream cones!

word is getting out. . . .

check out this link! DIPSAO is on the move!T-Shirt Company Fighting Water Shortage

one aunt, one uncle, two nephews = lots of fun!

Wilson and Colson playing their Gameboys

Walker, Victoria and Wilson chillin' on the trampoline

very special family

Today we headed south to see my dad's side of the family.  I was excited to see my Aunt Enid and Uncle Russ from Texas.  Its been at least 28 years since I last saw them so it was awesome to connect today.  We enjoyed laughter and my manboys LOVED Uncle Russ' stories from his Army and Vietnam days.  He shared several of his coveted coins that he was given! What an amazing man, who was blessed to live through a very tough war! Den and Branden chatted about him for quite a while on the trip home.  You never realize just how much you miss your family until you see them!  This Shakespeare phrase, "parting is such sweet sorrow. . . ." rings so true!

waiting. . . . . . .

. . . . . waiting on God can be so hard!  I know His plans are the best, yet waiting for Him to make a move pushes my "anxious" button.  Some days I feel as if I'm just going through the motions, trying not to feel, to think, to look ahead; then other days I succumb to the deceiver and become overwhelmed!  It's definitely hard to take life "one day at a time" and not look at next week, next month, or next or fall!  yet I'm realizing that the only way I can be successful, in my walk with God, is to do it day by day.  Deal with today, live today. . . . .don't borrow trouble from tomorrow! so I working hard to Seize the Day

it's started. . . .

Today the open house circuit began!  In the next few weeks we will be busy traveling from one open house to another!  I have to say I love this time of year, though I'm not happy I'm loosing another child to adulthood, it is however, a special time in these kids lives and it's a joy to be among the guests of these seniors my son has been friends with most of his school life.  I was talking to my friend today as we sat at her son's open house and said that it just seems like yesterday our boys were in 2nd grade together; in a blink of an eye we are staring down a new journey, a new path, these children will embark on.  I'm excited, yet saddened, at how our lives, too, will change.  It was so cute today, Jonah (the graduate) asked where our "bus" was as we climbed out of our van.  He hadn't realized that we no longer need the "15 passenger" van to get our family from point A to point B.  I overheard Blake tell him that we downsized to the mini van now! another era passed!  It will be strangely weird to have only 4 children home next fall; with equal numbers, 2 boys, 2 girls! The first time ever! I'm excited for my son yet a part of my heart breaks over the changes this will mean, no only for his dad and I, but for his younger siblings.  Don't get me wrong I LOVE change; I like to move my furniture around, change paint colors on our walls, etc, but changing up our family is just plain "tough".  It's all a part of God's plan, I know that, and realize that, but what He didn't let me in on was how much it hurts to "let go".  As with everything else in my life right now, I'm just going to take it "one day at a time" and "seize the day!"

the passage of time. . .

Today is Blake's last day of high school; he's been counting down the days! He graduates with high honors but chose not to go to his honor ceremony.  Sometimes its hard to understand these "manboys" and why attending something like "honors night" isn't a big deal to them.  I remember mine so vividly, the deep feeling of accomplishment, as I received my awards.   I have to say I'm a little bit disappointed, but it was ultimately his decision.  I guess I see it a bit differently, from a parents perspective.  You watch your baby grow through so many stages; some are tough, some are exciting, some bring you to your knees, yet when they reach the end of their senior year you stand in "awe" of how swiftly those years flew by.  Seems like just yesterday he was in the 6th grade, in a blink of an eye, here we are facing his last day of high school and Sunday his graduation.  Honestly I think the awards ceremony is as much for the parents as it is for the seniors graduating.  He didn't walk this journey alone, we walked along side him, encouraged him, helped him and prayed for him every step of the way! and we will continue to do so as he blazes a new trail into adulthood.

it's official. . . .

Branden and Katie are engaged! Our family will grow, in size, later this summer!  We are so excited and extremely blessed to have Katie become a member of our family.  I'm so thankful Branden chose to "wait on the Lord' and allow God to bless him with the young woman He knew would be a perfect fit for him.  Their love for, not only for each other, but especially for the Lord continues to encourage me to pray for my children and their future spouses.

We had such a beautiful week and weekend, the weather couldn't have been more perfect.  Saturday we took the kids and went to our favorite beach!  What a fun day we had and the kids had a blast playing in the sand and water!  Yesterday everyone was tired after church so we pretty much just hung-out and later went to our neighbors to swim.  Today has been catch-up day.  Thunderstorms are looming; Brett is headed to a camp to work for the summer; and I'm trying to get everything in order for the rest of the school year; Blake's graduation party and kids that are coming in from out of state!  Lots to do, lots of excitement and counting down the days until "School's Out For SUMMER!"

a hot spring day

"cotton candy"

our "Cherokee Maiden"

two adorable girls!

Mr. Tough-Guy

pool fun!

Two little cutie-pies playing in the pool

a Victoria-ism . . . .

at lunch today I was talking about our Cottonwood Trees and all the stuff that they are letting go and Victoria said, "oh look at all that cotton candy!" Oh I just love a 3 year old's perspective! and I had to admit it did look like cotton candy too! it won't be long and our grass will look like its covered in snow! Yesterday the trees were just letting small snow-like flakes of cotton go; today the trees have clumps of that fluffy stuff and its like a cotton snow-storm in May!

a new female, soon to be added, in the Lutz tribe!

It's been absolutely gorgeous here this week, unbelievable weather for mid-Michigan! I've been remiss in taking pictures, honestly it never even crossed my mind, how bad is that?  I guess there's so much on my mind these days that picture taking seemed to take the back burner!

Branden's girlfriend, Katie, has been here since Sunday! I feel so bad for both of them as he has had to work longer hours and his time spent with her hasn't been what they both probably anticipated yet Den said it's reality, it's life! He wasn't being harsh but was just stating a simple fact!  I've enjoyed my time with Katie, she's adorable and will fit nicely into this crazy, chaotic family!  I'm sure this hasn't been the best vacation for her spending time with her boyfriends mom and siblings! and the kids can't quite get enough of her either! Victoria thinks she flew here for her; her personal playmate!

What I think I enjoy the very most about Katie is her deep walk with the Lord and how she continues to pursue Him, even above her relationship with my son! She's been an amazingly good influence on Branden and has really pushed him to figure out life, helping him have something to work towards! I love how they are careful with their "alone" time! I'm just so extremely happy that my son waited for God to bring the "perfect" mate into his life, someone who will compliment him, encourage him and care for him the way God intended it to be! and I'm excited to have another young woman in my life, someone who will continue to push me to be a better mother-in-law and hopefully friend.

It's a continual struggle to remember to pray for the future mates of my sons and daughters! yet when I see how God can unbelievably bless them, beyond their wildest dreams, its awesome!  It encourages me to "keep on keeping on" in my prayer life!

BIG or little. . . .God answers!

For the past several months I've been taking alot of "things" to the throne of Grace, some big some little, yet they all are important to me.  Each morning as I take my children to school (two separate trips/two separate buildings) I pass a friends house that's for sale.  I met this special friend at my ladies Bible Study, and as we moved from one study to another she became more debilitated (she has MS) and this past spring I heard that she was now hospitalized in another city, thus the selling of their home.  I've been praying 8 times a day, as I pass their home, that God would sell it quickly.  You see we live in an area hard-hit by the downslide of the economy and its truly a miracle when a home sells.  One afternoon, last week, as I drove by their house for the 6th or 7th time I noticed a "SOLD" sign! I almost cried as I sang out my praise of Thanksgiving to God for answering my plea for this family!  AWESOME!

Since last fall I've been praying that somehow someway we could get a grill, our "big daddy of all grills" just plain wore-out last fall and we just didn't have any extra $$ to purchase another one so I began to pray (we usually grill year round) and ask God to give us one, used or new, it didn't matter to me.  Last Wednesday Tori and I were biking downtown to the sandbox park (thats what she calls it) for a picnic lunch and as I passed by a home an older gentleman was pulling a gas grill out to the road for the trash.  I quickly asked him if there was anything wrong with it and he responded that it was fine, he had just gotten a new one; I then asked if he would mind if I took it and he promptly pulled it into his yard.  I called Den and within minutes he and Brett came and loaded it into the van!  I can't tell you how excited I was to get this grill and how much we've used it since we brought it home!

Praise God from whom all Blessings Flow!!!

When God responds its a HUGE encouragement, to me, to keep on praying, seeking and asking!

Bad Tooth Fairy, Bad!

Yesterday as I was cleaning off my desk I can across this little piece of paper folded-up.  I unfolded it and found this cute little note from Colson to the Tooth fairy!  I couldn't help but snap a picture of it, and then feel horrible that its been a week and he is still waiting for the Tooth fairy to come! Bad Bad Tooth fairy! It's so hard to remember after he goes to sleep and when I do remember its early morning and I run the risk of "getting caught".  So tonight I'm going to try and put his surprise in his Tooth Fairy pocket (special little Tooth Fairy Teddy Bear).

a gorgeous Saturday morning. . .

It seems like it's been days since we've seen the sun around here.  Thursday it literally peeked out for 5 seconds and yesterday we had sunshine the entire day!  I don't know about anyone else but my body needs sunshine to thrive! After almost 10 sunless days I had no energy and no desire to do anything (that's not a good thing around here either).  Before I picked my kids up from school on Thursday I drove myself to the tanning spa and took a 20 minute sunbath! I can't even begin to tell you what that did for my mental health as well as my inner soul!  I walked out of there with a spring in my step, ready to take on the chores, duties I had previously let go!  and today the sun is shining in all its beautiful yellow glory with blue skies.  Oh it feels so good to wake-up to something other than complete grayness! I know we need the rain but it will take days before our yard is dry enough to walk on without squishing!  I am enjoying the sounds of my son mowing, the birds chirping, Tori's 3 year old chatter, the dishwasher humming and Colson playing! Its all music to my ears!!

now I know why Master Rick said, "go home and take a nice warm bath!" yet I just sluffed it off, but should have done what I was told! I feel muscles I've never felt before and am so sore; but honestly I LOVE this! can't wait until Tuesday!!

what a workout. . . . .

We have a Karate Instructor, that goes to our church, who just started a 45 minute workout class.  Tonight was the first night I was able to go and I'm like a wet noodle.  Every part of my body is limp! It was an amazing, exhilarating class and I'm excited to go again next Tuesday.  I think I'm going to need a 4-day break to re-cooperate!  I've always wanted to take a boxing class but the cost is outrageous and Master Rick, the instructor, donates all his time.  I think thats all I'm going to say I can't hardly make my fingers move. . . . .

special gifts from special hands. . . .

My little 2nd grader, Colson, is so excited about Mothers Day! For the past few days, at dinner, he's shared about each of the gifts he is giving me on Sunday (I'm pretty sure he will present them after school today because he just can't wait!). It's adorable listening to him try and not give the gifts away yet each time he shares a bit more information about them. The first night he says, "I made you a coupon book for Mother's Day today!" I said to him, isn't this supposed to be a surprise and he says, "it is, I didn't tell you what I put on each coupon!" The next night he says, "we wrapped our coupon books today," and last night he says, "your gonna love the second gift, mom, so much, that you'll want to frame it!" We all laughed and he just smiled! I can't wait to get those precious handmade gifts because I know they were made with his precious little boy hands and with a heart full of love for me!

And, by the way, Jacqueline gave me a flower in a hand-painted pot for Mother's Day last year and I've kept it alive for a whole year! It's almost died a few times, from over-watering and frostbite, but it's still alive (a bit scrawny, but alive!). She's so proud that I've kept it this long and I'm so proud I've kept it alive!

~~Happy~~Mother's~~Day~~

rub-a-dub-dub. . . . .

It was an amazingly beautiful day here yesterday, with sunshine and 80's temps! When the kids got home from school they immediately got on their swimsuits and went outside! They usually hook-up the sprinkler under the trampoline but today they decided to enjoy a little "tub" time! I couldn't help myself and took this cute little photo! My oldest son sent me a message on FB saying it was "redneck hot tubbing"! Gotta love it and I sure love them!!