The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

DECEMBER 22, 2008

Outside my window...snow, snow, and more snow. It is absolutely beautiful.

I am thinking...that the four seasons God has blessed us with are awesome. Spring, summer, fall, winter. He is divinely creative.

I am thankful for...a warm home filled with joyful people. We have two extra friends staying with us this week because of the snow and our house is one big, continuous party. It gets kinda hectic at times, but for the most part it is plain ol' fun.

From the learning rooms...School is on break but we have been enjoying some new Moody Science Classics. Very educational and informative. I highly recommend them to all.

From the kitchen...snacks and junk food. Yesterday was chocolate chips cookies. Today was queso and chocolate covered pretzels. Tomorrow will probably be sausage balls and beanie wienies.

I am wearing...comfy (ugly) pants, a burnt red t-shirt and a long sleeve denim shirt. My hair is up in a bun and my feet are bare.

I am creating...Christmas time memories with my family and friends.

I am going...to finish this post and go do some laundry.

I am reading...I tried to start a new book last night but I was so tired I couldn't focus on the words. Maybe tonight I will be a bit more successful...but then again...maybe not.

I am hoping...that Tim doesn't come down with a cold. He has the beginning symptoms but I do believe they will be gone quickly. Oh...the power of positive thinking.

I am hearing...the fire crackling and Cayla and Ms. Linda playing UPWORDS.

Around the house...Katie and Larah are playing in the playroom. Matthew and Lucas are playing the PS2. Ms. Linda and Cayla are playing a game. I am writing this post. Tim, Justin and Audrey are just coming in the back door from Fischers.

One of my favorite things...Christmas music and lights on the (real) tree.

A few plans for the rest of the week...hanging out at home, visiting with friends, enjoying my family.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

My Three Sons
This picture was taken a couple of years ago in Prineville, Oregon. J.P., Tim and the boys went camping and prairie dog hunting.
For more Daybooks, click here.

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I Love...

I have been given an award called the Honest Award. It was given to me by my fellow blogger and sister-in-Christ, Trudy of Trudy's Place. I have to write 10 honest things about myself and then pass this award onto 5 more honest bloggers. I am going to write about the things I love.

#1. I love being a wife and a mom. It brings me great joy to wake up every morning knowing I get to spend my days with the people I love the most. Both roles cause me to become more dependant on Christ and help me to see who I truly am. I thank God for allowing me to be at home with my family doing what I love. There are days of success and days of failure. But when I lay my head on my pillow at night, I rest assure knowing I am doing what God has called me to do.

#2. I love Puffs Plus facial tissue. I am not a picky product person...on most things. But I am when it comes to blowing my nose. Puffs Plus are my only tissue of choice. There are always other options...toilet paper, hankies, Kleenex, plain 'ol Puffs. But for me, it is only Puffs Plus. I keep an extra box under the bathroom sink so there is never a chance that I will be caught without my Puffs Plus.

#3. I love new socks and underwear...but think they are ridiculously overpriced.

#4. I love where we live. In our early years of marriage, Tim would explain to me this deep longing and desire he had to someday live and minister in the Northwest. I ignorantly dismissed his thoughts, never imaging God would call us away from the south. But in August of 2000 He did and now we live and breath this great Washingtonian air...and I have bloomed/am blooming where I have been planted.

#5. I love my sister. I consider us to be complete opposites, but we share a bond like no other. She is a beautiful person, inside and out. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't wish we lived right next door to each other. But she is 3000 miles away, blooming where she has been planted. Thank goodness for email, blogs, and phones. We know how to burn up the lines.

#6. I love wearing jeans and sweatshirts. There is nothing like an old pair of jeans with a big, comfy sweatshirt. Because of the snow and cold temperatures, that was my attire for church last Sunday. Might just happen again this Sunday.

#7. I love going out for breakfast. My favorite thing to order is a ham and egg omelet with hash browns and an English muffin topped with Strawberry Jam. This fine meal was meant to be enjoyed with a cup of hot, decaf coffee and a diet Pepsi. If this is how I get to start my day...I know it is going to be a fine one!!!

#8. I love the snow. Since I have started this post, I have left my warm, cozy computer chair several times to go gaze out my back window. The scene is absolutely breathtaking. Laying in bed this morning, I was reminded how Jesus' blood washes us white as snow. Isn't that utterly amazing and contagiously exciting?

#9. I love straws. Whether it be water, iced tea, diet Pepsi or a Starbucks, I love straws. The sad news is that I used my last one yesterday. What am I going to do?

#10. I love getting mail. Mail just for me. It is nice to know when I have been thought about and someone took the time from their busy schedule to show they care. A couple of weeks ago I received 12 pairs of earrings for the 12 Days of Christmas in the mail from a friend and this small gestured made me feel loved. So very loved.

Well there you have it. 10 honest things about what I love. Now for the 5 people I pick...

Amy at The Bullard Burrows

Patty at Peppermint Pattycakes

Alex at Alex's Blog

Christina at All That Blog

Sharon at In My Father's Garden

The Rules:

1. Post 10 honest things about yourself along with the award picture.

2. Tag at least 5 other honest bloggers that you know as well as me.

3. Have fun!

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More Snow Pics

December 18th, 2008

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Attention Fellow Bloggers

Help! Help! Help!

Knowledge Needed!!!

My wonderful and beautiful niece, Alex, needs your help.

Visit her blog here and see if you can be of assistance to her.

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Bragging On My Father

I received a compliment at church today and I write about it not to brag on myself, but to praise God for his many and mighty provisions. Larah and I were standing at the sink washing her hands, after about our 16th trip to the potty, when a kind lady stopped me. We made small talk and then she told me that she thought my children were always so nicely and neatly dressed. I thanked her for her kind words and went back to washing Larah's hands.

Later, as I was home resting in my bed...gotta get in that Sunday afternoon nap...I went back over our short conversation. I became instantly thankful to God for his wonderful way of taking care of our family. We are blessed with so many of His provisions and I hope to never take them for granted.

I would venture to say that 90% of my children's clothing comes from a small little thrift store in Morton...Jan's Thrift Store. It is not a beautiful building and it is not loaded with name brand, stylish clothing. But somehow I always manage to find great and inexpensive blessings. Most clothes are priced $.25-$.50. Some items are $1.00 and occasionally I might find something that costs $5.00.

We live on a single income and we don't have a lot of extra money. Because of the Lord's wisdom and guidance, He teaches and enables us to live frugally. I do believe God has blessed us abundantly, and continues to do so. I am so grateful for Jan's Thrift Store and that even though we can't buy brand new clothes, my children are dressed in a way that honors Him. He is so good to us!!!

Thank you Father for providing our needs. Thank you for Jan's Thrift Store.

To read how God has blessed others, go for a visit over at A Dusty Frame and take a glance at Works of God Weekend. You will be truly blessed and encouraged.

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Our First Snow

You'd better watch out...I might decide to throw this thing!
Hold on tight!
Headin' out to Fischers!

Katie, Lucas, Cayla and Larah~posing for a winter photo.

Cayla and Larah...so happy and beautiful.

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Impressive Initiative

I just went over to the kitchen sink to get me a drink of water. As I glanced up on the shelf above my sink, I noticed my pill box had been filled. (You know the kind that is marked with the days of the week for people like me who can't remember or not if they've taken them.) Cayla is the one who always fills it for me...when I ask her to. Today she must have noticed that it was getting empty. She took it upon herself to fill it...without my prompting. She doesn't know it, but she has brought a huge smile to my face. I am impressed. Very, very impressed.

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My Day with Katie

I had the pleasure of spending the majority of my day with my second daughter, 4-year old Katie Jane. We had a blast being together. We headed out about 10:30 this morning and arrived back home around 4:00. During our driving time, we sang songs, shared some Runts, talked about everything and anything, and just enjoyed each other's company. Our first destination was a visit to see our midwife. Katie sat on the bed beside me as we viewed her brother during a sonogram. She stepped on the scale to be weighed...a whole 43 pounds. She held my hand while Laura drew blood from my right arm. At that point, she declared she never wanted to be a mama. I explained that the needle didn't really hurt and that it was a small, small part of having a baby. She wasn't buying it, so I will save that conversation for future years. After Laura's, we went to Spiffy's for lunch, visited Jan's Thrift Store (where I purchased some real bargains) and did some grocery shopping at Morton's Country Market. She helped me drive the grocery cart (the kind built for kids) and learned what the colors red, yellow, and green mean. After all of our errands in Morton, we stopped for a short visit with our family friend, Ms. Jan. Katie was able to love on her little pooch, Honey Bun. Then it was time to come home. Being with Katie was wonderful. It's not very often that we get the one-on-one time that a mother and daughter need. I told her time and time again how much I enjoyed being with her and how thankful I am that God allows me to be her mother. She is such a blessing and today was a day I won't soon forget.

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Afternoon Delight

This morning I cooked down 3 pumpkins from our garden. I just finished making 2 loaves of bread that are now in the oven baking. Cayla, as I type this post, is making the two of us pumpkin smoothies. I thought I would share the recipe with those of you who like pumpkin. We found the recipe on FamilyFun.com. I am looking forward to this delicious treat made by my wonderful daughter.

1/2 cup canned pumpkin

3/4 cup milk or vanilla yogurt

1/4 tsp. cinnamon

1/8 tsp. nutmeg

2 tsp. brown sugar

4 ice cubes
Combine ingredients in blender and puree until smooth.

Yumscrumptious!!!

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The Simple Woman's Daybook

THE SIMPLE WOMAN'S DAYBOOK

FOR TODAY

December 8th, 2008

Outside my window...it is biting cold. There is a low cloud cover and I have heard rumors that we might get some snow soon. I think our household would jump for joy and have the need for a snow party.

I am thinking...that I have been one big grouch today. I need to wake up happier tomorrow or my family might just entertain the thought of throwing me out the backdoor. I will get happy...I will get happy...I will get happy.

I am thankful for...my family. They love me in spite of my moods.

From the learning rooms...a few more days until Christmas break. And boy howdy are we ready!!!

From the kitchen...came turkey, boiled potatoes and canned peaches for dinner. I haven't yet thought about tomorrow's breakfast. Maybe Oatmeal Cake...maybe French Breakfast Puffs...for sure something baked and hot.

I am wearing...once again...night clothes. I am sitting in bed, just as I did last Monday night.

I am creating...a new blog look and I'm lovin' it.

I am going...to put up Christmas decorations tomorrow with the help of my children. We found the Christmas CD's today so we will put on the tunes and decorate, decorate, decorate.

I am reading...not much these days. I have been correcting schoolwork. Does that count as reading?

I am hoping...that the movie FIREPROOF will be viewed by millions. Tim and I watched it yesterday with several friends from our church. Excellent movie. It hit on some hard marriage issues and presented the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I recommend it to every married couple.

I am hearing...Cayla and Lucas getting ready for bed. No Johnny Cash this week...my CD player broke. I am very sad because I have Christmas music that I would love to play right now.

Around the house...Justin and Matthew are hanging out together in the living room and all others are sleeping or are at least on their way.

One of my favorite things...is being pregnant and feeling the baby move. There is nothing like it in the world. I love being pregnant and I love the thought of new life. Only 99 more days til my due date. And as a side note...I think we may have decided on a name. I'll letcha know as soon as I get the okay from Tim.

A few plans for the rest of the week...

Tuesday~Christmas decorations, a trip to the library and taking Matthew to see Jayne. He needs to go see her in a bad way!!! Wednesday~midwife appointment and grocery shopping.

Thursday~not much happening. Friday~church prayer meeting at Kyle and Jodie's.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

This is not the picture I had intended to post. I must have hit the wrong button. But I like it and so it stays. Tim took this picture of a beautiful Washington sunset. He was probably on horse back when he took it...up in the high country. I believe that is Mt. Adams covered in snow.

To read more Daybooks, visit Peggy and others at The Simple Woman.

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I'm It

I have been tagged by my wonderful Sis-N-Law. So, here it goes!!! Bear with me...I'm not feeling very creative.

Two Names You Go By:
1. Babe
2. Mama

Things You Are Wearing Right Now:
1. Capris
2. Long sleeve shirt

Two Things You Want Very Badly At The Moment:
1. Popcorn
2. TUMS (This child of mine must have lots of hair)

Two people who you look up to:
1. Linda Russell
2. Dalene Pollman

Two things you did last night:
1. Visited with friends
2. Dishes

Two things you ate yesterday:
1. Bowl of cereal (helps keep me regular)
2. French Dip Sandwich

Two people you last talked to:
1. Tim
2. Myself (Do you ever do that?)

Two Things you're doing tomorrow:
1. Lunch with Lolanda (Except that I forgot to call her and RSVP...I'm planning on going, I hope she still is)
2. Christmas Party in Longview (I did remember to RSVP for this one)

Two longest car rides:
1. Texas to Washington
2. Our house to Laura's (our midwife). It's only about 6o miles, but at that very specific moment, it took FOREVER to get there.

Favorite Holidays:
1. Thanksgiving
2. Christmas

Favorite Vacations:
1. Camping (with the fam)
2. Moolack Shores (with Little Johnny Pollman and his lovely bride...and of course, Tim)
3. Anywhere with Amy

Last trip:
1. Bullard, Texas to visit my favorite sister and her family. Amy, did you know you are my favorite sister?

Two favorite beverages:
1. Diet Pepsi
2. Decaf coffee with Splenda and Half-n-Half

I'm sure I am to tag others, but it is 10:04 PM and I will think about that tomorrow. Good night and sweet dreams.

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Copper Clappers

A little humor...clean, good, funny humor by Jack Webb and Johnny Carson done back in 1968. It brought a smile to my face and a giggle to my heart. Thanks W.C. for passing this along.

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The Simple Woman's Daybook

THE SIMPLE WOMAN'S DAYBOOK

FOR TODAY

December 1, 2008

Outside my window...is a surrounding fog and a quiet, gentle rain.

I am thinking...that I married a fantastic man...the best. He loves the Lord with all of who he is and has his priorities set straight. He is a very active and involved father to our children. He makes me feel loved, secure and protected.

I am thankful for...days that can be spent with friends, a warm and happy home full of people who are glad to see me when I walk through the back door, and a bed to rest my weary body at the end of a long, but good day.

From the learning rooms...are busy and active kids. I do have to admit that it is hard to stay focused and motivated this time of year. It seems as though Christmas break should begin around Thanksgiving and end after the New Year. But I do know that is not a good idea and so we are trudging onward.

From the kitchen...are bags of groceries to be put up and remnants of paper airplanes scattered everywhere. The kids designed, decorated and destroyed an abundant amount of flying aircraft this evening. Imaginations are great when T.V. is not involved...even if it means cleaning up after them.

I am wearing...my night clothes. I am sitting in our bed as Ginger and Tim lay asleep beside me. I was ready for bed, but not quite ready for sleep. I am taking advantage of Tim's laptop being in our bedroom. I think I could get into the habit of this, but I don't know if that would be a good idea.

I am creating...a Christmas list for the kids. It's harder than I think it should be.

I am going...to find joy in serving my husband and children this week. They are treasures given to me by an awesome God.

I am reading...At Home in Mitford and The Rest of God. I don't have much time to read. Both books are excellent and I want to finish them. But unfortunately, it is going to take longer than I'd like.

I am hoping...that Larah continues to succeed at potty training. She is doing so good and I want her to keep up the good work. We have lots of parties in the bathroom celebrating her success. We dance and clap and eat M&M's. Pretty good stuff if you ask me.

I am hearing...the hum of our ceiling fan, Johnny Cash singing Cry, Cry, Cry, and Ginger and Tim breathing quietly as they sleep. I'm sure it won't be too much longer and one of them will be snoring.

Around the house...doors are locked, lights are out and all Walkers (except this one) are fast asleep. I'll be there shortly.

One of my favorite things...is knowing my boys still enjoy listening to Adventures in Odyssey as they fall asleep. I walked past their room tonight and heard something playing on their stereo. I asked them what it was and Adventures in Odyssey was their answer. I don't know why that makes me happy, but it does.

A few plans for the rest of the week...school, Christmas decorations, an overdue visit with a friend and a Christmas Party with my honey on Friday night.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

This picture is kind of blurry (it was taken with an ooVoo camera) but that's okay...their expressions are priceless.

For more Daybook readings, click here.

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A Quiet Sunday Morning

Larah and Katie have been overtaken with a cold. We were up and showered and ready for church when I decided it wouldn't be good to take my two snotty girls. I didn't want to spread their icky germs onto other kids and elderly people. The rest of the family is gone, but I opted for the three of us to stay home. We have a fire going (I had great help making it) and the house is cleaned up. Fernando is playing softly in the background and Katie Jane and Larah Mikal are playing in their room. They have made a fort, complete with neatly made pallets and a night light. Larah makes a trip to the kitchen about every five minutes for a new application of her Avon Princess lip gloss (and a quick nose wipe)...then she's off again to the fort. I miss worshipping with my church family, but I treasure quiet mornings like this.Sweet, sweet sisters!!!
This picture was taken this morning after they helped

me make the warm fire.
I hope that you and yours have a wonderful Sunday!

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Lust...A Slow Fade

A little while ago Tim wrote a great post on lust. Shortly after I read his post I came across this video. It seems to me that they go hand-in-hand. If you have the time, I encourage you to read this post and watch this video, listening carefully to the lyrics. Lust is just around the corner from each and every one of us. We must have an on-going, day-to-day, moment-to-moment active relationship with Jesus Christ to have the strength and power to turn from it.



"...but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death." James 1:14-15

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The First Thanksgiving Proclamation

The Continental Congress issued its first Thanksgiving Day proclamation for December 18, 1777. The purpose: "That at one Time and with one Voice, the good People may express the grateful Feelings of their Hearts, and consecrate themselves to the Service of their Divine Benefactor; and that, together with their sincere Acknowledgments and Offerings, they may join the penitent Confession of their manifold Sins, whereby they had forfeited every Favor; and their humble and earnest Supplication that it may please GOD through the Merits of JESUS CHRIST, mercifully to forgive and blot them out of Remembrance; That it may please him graciously to afford his Blessing on the Governments of these States respectively, and prosper the public Council of the whole."

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The Simple Woman's Daybook

THE SIMPLE WOMAN’S DAYBOOK
FOR TODAY

November 24, 2008

Outside my window...the temperature is a cool, crisp 46 degrees. Smoke is billowing out several neighborhood chimneys and the cold, white frost is slowly melting.

I am thinking...that my responsibility as a parent is overwhelming at times. I don't know how people can do it without the strength and comfort of Jesus Christ. He pulls me through those rough and trying moments.

From the learning rooms…so far today Lucas and Matthew are the only ones who have started their lessons. Matthew is working on his daily devotions and Lucas is doing math.

I am thankful for...laughing siblings.

From the kitchen...we had oatmeal for breakfast, made by my handsome husband, and I am planning on a bear potpie for dinner, made my handsome husband's lovely wife.

I am wearing...SOCKS 'cause it's cold, a denim long sleeve shirt and tan pants.

I am creating...this blog entry.

I am going...to Morton with Tim in just a few minutes. We need to go to the bank and to Ed's Morton NAPA. The part for our van is in. Hooray!!! Well hooray for me, not necessarily for Tim and the boys. They have the joy and pleasure of replacing our fuel pump.

I am reading...The Rest of God by Mark Buchanan and At Home in Mitford by Jan Karon.

I am hoping...that Tim will take me to lunch when we go to Morton. I love being out with him and Spiffy's is a great place to do that.

(Thanks for lunch, Babe. The food was great but the time

with you was most excellent...although it went too fast.)

I am hearing...Lucas and Katie chatting, the fire burning, and the hum of my computer.

Around the house...is the warmth of our wood stove. Larah is napping and the rest of the kids are busy...either with school work or play.

One of my favorite things...is Thanksgiving. It is my all-time favorite holiday!

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...I really don't have any plans other than school with the kids. I imagine Thursday will be a day of rest and relaxation.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

This is the "quarter" that Larah swallowed. We were relieved when it came out last night and doublely relieved when it was only a nickel. Thank you to all of you who prayed for her.

For more Simple Woman's Daybooks, visit Peggy and others at The Simple Woman.

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One Good Song with One Good Message

You're Gonna Miss This by Trace Adkins

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My Pottery Plate

Here is a picture of the plate that I painted with Amy when I was down in Texas. We had such a fun time. So fun the gal working there told us we were dorks. We took her statement as a compliment. I thought Tim and Richard were the only ones that thought that way, but now I know our dorkiness must shine everywhere we go.

PS. And for those of you wondering about Larah...no quarter yet!

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All Gone

Here was Larah's response when

I asked her where the quarter went.

And no, it hasn't passed yet.
Keep praying!

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Swallowing a Quarter

Last night, our dear, darling Larah (not quite 2 years old) decided that money needed to be part of her diet. She thought that swallowing a quarter would be interesting. She did not choke...it seemed to have gone down smoothly. We are hoping and praying for it to pass and to pass quickly. I was wondering if any of you have experienced such moments and if so, what did you do? Did it pass and if it did, how long did it take? I have done some research on the internet and found that it should pass, but may take up to a week. I don't really want to wait a week and I definitely don't look forward to an endoscopy! UGGGHHHH!!!!

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The Simple Woman's Daybook

THE SIMPLE WOMAN’S DAYBOOK
FOR TODAY
November 17, 2008

Outside My Window...it is dark and cold. The clouds are low so no stars can be seen.

I am thinking...how wonderful our home is. I love my home. Sure...I would love to replace the carpet and kitchen floors and do some touch up work here and there, but I love my home. It is a safe place full of laughter, life, and lunatics.

From the learning rooms…things are slow. We have been off for two weeks. One week because I was in Texas and the second week we were playing catch up on family time. Today we got back to the books but it was kind of hectic.

I am thankful for...Amy and Cari. They made my trip to Texas a pure delight. They both love the Lord, their families, and me. What more could I ask for?

From the kitchen...an invisible sign that reads CLOSED!

I am wearing...a short sleeve maternity shirt and capris. My hair is up in a clip. White ankle socks with no shoes.

I am creating...thank you notes and a grocery list for shopping on Wednesday.

I am going...to receive a very important UPS shipment on Friday. This shipment contains the pottery plate that I painted with Amy at Pottery Cafe in Tyler, Texas. I can't wait to see it. To see the pottery Amy painted, click here. She did awesome.

I am reading...At Home in Mitford authored by Jan Karon.

I am hoping...that our friends, Kyle and Jodie, don't move far from here. I want their house to sell, but not if it means they move away. That will be a sad day!

I am hearing...the dryer, Matthew singing, Lucas and Cayla talking, and the fire crackling.

Around the house...the younger girls are in bed...fast asleep. Matthew is reading. Justin is talking on the phone. Cayla is getting ready to shower. Lucas is getting ready for bed. Tim and Ginger have fallen fast asleep on our bed. I am sitting here at my desk writing this post.

One of my favorite things...is when I sit at my computer and Cayla brushes my hair. I love to have my hair brushed and played with and she is so kind to give me such devoted attention....as she is right this very moment.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...school with the kids, midwife appointment and grocery shopping Wednesday, deep cleaning at the church building on Thursday afternoon, friends are coming for dinner Friday night.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Larah was my little helper today. Did I say today...? She is my little helper everyday. This picture was taken while we were making pizza for lunch. She is so irresistibly cute.

For more Simple Woman's Daybooks, visit Peggy and others here.

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Thursday Thirteen

Here are thirteen sayings that I have read recently on T-shirts. I think my boys would like to own some of these.

1. Warning...Sometimes when I laugh....I pee

2. National Saracasm Society...Like We Need Your Help

3. I'm confused...wait maybe I'm not

4. SARACASM...Just one more service I provide

5. DANGER...Mouth operates faster than brain

6. Don't interupt me when I am talking to myself

7. Put on your big girl panties and deal with it

8. Warning...I have gas and I know how to use it

9. I tried being good but I got bored

10. I have multiple personalities and none of them like you

11. You don't have to be crazy to live here...we'll train you

12. I'm not stubborn...my way is just better

...and I saved the best for last...

13. My sister has the best sister in the world

For more TT, visit this site.

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Bullard's Beautiful Babes

Schilly, Schilly Schisters!

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Baby Boy Walker

Baby Boy Walker

@ 20 weeks

Facial profile with hand up by face.

Isn't he just so handsome?

Like father, like son!

His teeny, tiny foot.

Yesterday Tim and I spent an hour and ten minutes at the Steck Medical Clinic adoring our growing son. We smiled, we laughed, we cried. Well, I cried...I don't know about Tim. Tears of joy and happiness. (But also tears of remembrance.) Baby Boy Walker is alive and healthy. All measurements were right where they needed to be. We saw everything...eyes, nose, lips, tongue, ears, kidneys, stomach, brain, legs, arms (including muscles...and let me tell you, the boy's impressive), fingers, toes, and boy parts. Everything looked wonderful. I walked out of the office relieved and praising God for His goodness. I am growing more and more excited each passing day. I dream of the day he will be born and I will get to hold him in my arms. The thought of that day makes me tear up. But for now I am enjoying him daily growing inside of me and praying for the man that he will someday be.

Thank you, Father.

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A Must See

The Catholics have put together a great message!

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The Simple Woman's Daybook

The Simple Woman's Daybook

October 27, 2008

Outside My Window...It is dark and a cool 58.4 degrees. The fall leaves continue to drop as the gentle breezes blow.

I am thinking...that the T.V. is very loud. But that's okay because Tim has a friend over and they are watching a manly movie.

From the learning rooms…It was a great Monday. The kids had excellent attitudes and they all did their lessons well. Cayla is in the playroom finishing up her subjects. For typing today she wrote on her blog. You'll have to go check it out at Cayla's Creative Writings.

I am thankful for...my dinner date with Cayla. Monday night is Taco Nite at The Tall Timber here in Randle. We ate tacos, played Yahtzee and laughed. Just in case your wondering...I smoked her.

From the kitchen...I just made Tim chicken, onion and mushroom quesadillas. Other than that, the kitchen is closed (and clean) for the evening.

I am wearing...a maternity shirt and capris. No shoes and hair up in a ponytail.

I am creating...sight word flashcards for Lucas.

I am going...to Texas one week from today.

I am reading...Beautiful Boy...a father's journey through his son's addiction to meth.

I am hoping...for blue skies next Monday. I would love to fly from Portland and be able to see the beautiful Northwest from the airplane window.

I am hearing...the hum of the computer and the very LOUD T.V.

Around the house...Tim and his friend are watching a movie, Cayla is finishing up school, and Katie and Larah are fast asleep. All of the boys are gone for at least the next couple of hours.

One of my favorite things...is hearing Tim laugh.

A Few Plans For The Rest Of The Week...
It's a busy week here at the Walker home...
Tuesday...school, a library trip, and going to

friend's house for dinner and the making of apple cider.
Wednesday...school and Cayla has her first

piano lesson. She is so excited.
Thursday...school and Justin has a dentist appointment.
Also, we are going to Morton to get some more firewood. Yippee!!!
Friday...I have a 20-week ultrasound scheduled

at Steck Medical Clinic. After that

Tim and I are going shopping for my trip to Texas.

Here is picture thought I am sharing...

Ain't she just plain cute?

Hop on over to The Simple Woman for more Daybooks!

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Then Sings My Soul Saturday

This is one of the those catchy tunes that I can hear once and I continue to sing throughout the day. It is called You Never Let Go by Matt Redman. The words are very timely. I stuggle with living in fear of losing this baby. I know I don't need to and I am commanded to fear nothing (Isaiah 41:13). Every morning as I lay in bed, I place my hands on my belly. I surrender our baby to Him and ask for comfort and peace. But somedays I give in to worry and fear. Yesterday I recieved an email from a friend in Alaska. Her words were sincere and encouraging. As I watched this video and read the words to the song, I was reminded of the words she wrote to me. Here is a portion of her email:

I do have a suggestion to help you with your anxiety. Just pray and ask the Lord to help you stand against the fear of losing this baby. Ask Him to forgive you for any way you have taken the fear in as well as forgive yourself for being anxious or fearful. In the name of Jesus, cut off satan's power and authority in this area of fear and command it to go. Ask the Holy Spirit to heal the wounds that losing these babies has caused and ask Him to speak peace to your heart.

I praise God for His Word and for the people he places in my life. I thank Him for this dear friend and for her words of truth and love. I thank Him for the life growing inside me.

For more Then Sings My Soul Saturday, visit Amy and others here.

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Cayla the Entrepreneur

This picture has absolutely nothing to do with this post

...except that it is about Cayla.

Today Cayla amazed me. Not that she doesn't amaze me everyday, because...well, she is just simply amazing. But today was different. She was brave...she was bold...she was confident. Never at 11 would I have done what Cayla did today. And to her, it was no big deal. It was as natural as waking up in the morning. Tonight as I sit here, I continue to be amazed.

Back in the summer she started making bracelets out of yarn. She came up with the pattern herself and began selling them at our garage sale. She made all different colors and sizes. Some were plain and some were decorated with beads. She made over $30 selling her bracelets priced at just $2 a piece. She has been making them since then.

For the past couple of months she has wanted to take them to our local gift shop to sell. I have been putting her off and putting her off. For no reason other than it is so easy to say no. (One of my biggest downfalls.) She asked if I would take her last Friday so she could talk to the owner. I told her no because she didn't have her school work done. Being persistent, she then asked if I would take her this Friday. I agreed, as long as she had her school complete. This morning we called a sick day so no school was to be done or turned in.

Guess what Cayla asked me this afternoon? Yep! Would I take her to the store so she could talk with the owner. I finally said yes. I had no out. I had no reason to say no. I had to keep my word. Around 3:30, Cayla got her basket of bracelets and we headed to the gift shop. On the way there we talked about what she was going to say and how she needed to present herself. We talked about introducing herself, shaking hands, and thanking the kind lady for her time. Before getting out of the truck, I asked her if she was nervous and she shook her head and said with a bit of a questioning tone, "No, why would I be?"

As she exited the truck and walked toward the store with confidence and ease, I prayed for my daughter. I thanked God for working in and through her. I prayed for His strength to be her strength and for her confidence to come only from Him. I prayed for her protection as she was about to enter the business world.

She was in the store about 5 minutes when she came out with a smile on her face. The lady working in the gift shop complimented her bracelets and said she had done a fine job of making them. Although the owner of the store was gone for the week, Cayla was given a business card and was asked to come back soon. She was not discouraged. She was not sad. She accepted the news and made plans to come back next week. I suggested she write a letter to the owner, but I have a feeling she will want to go back in on Friday. She is determined to talk face-to-face with the owner.

Next Friday, I will not be saying no. I will be supporting my daughter, believing in her, and helping her to achieve a dream.

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Thursday Thirteen

We found out a few weeks ago that we are going to have a baby boy! So for today's Thursday Thirteen I have picked 13 boys names that I would consider naming our son. We already have Justin Todd, Matthew David, Lucas James, Emmett Christopher*, Thomas Ward and Micah John. We are blessed by Justin, Matthew and Lucas daily and one glorious day we will be joined together with Emmett, Thomas and Micah, who are with Jesus.

Here's my list:

1. Jacob
2. Timothy
3. Samuel
4. Isaiah
5. Wyatt
6. Aaron
7. Bradley
8. Zachary
9. Nicholas
10. Josiah
11. Sawyer
12. Jonah
13. Peter

There you have it. 13 boy names. I know that Tim will not agree with some of them, just as I don't agree with some of his. But we have a few more months to decide and I am confident that we will come up with one that satisfies us both. We will decide on his middle name after we have chosen his first name. Let me know what you think.

To read more TT's, visit here.

*Emmett Christopher died at 22 weeks in the womb. At the time of his death, we did not know if our baby was a boy or girl! I felt as though I was carrying a girl and so we named our precious one Emma Christine (after my sister). After an autopsy, we found out Emma was actually a boy and so we changed his name to Emmett Christopher. It was the closest name we could come up with to Emma Christine.

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Mirror, Mirror on the Wall

Shrek, Brad Pitt and Jennifer Lopez were all having lunch together. Shrek said, "I have always thought that I'm the strongest man in the world, but how can I be sure?" Brad Pitt said,
"I'm pretty sure I'm the hottest man alive but I've never had it confirmed." Jennifer Lopez agreed. "I'm told I'm the sexiest of them all, but sometimes I wonder." They all decided that the best way to find out if their beliefs were true was to approach the wicked Queen's mirror to confirm for them whether Shrek was the strongest, Brad Pitt was the hottest and Jennifer Lopez was the sexiest. They agreed to meet again the next day for lunch to discuss their findings. The next day Shrek walked up with a smile. "Well, it's true. The mirror told me that I am the strongest man in the world." Brad Pitt followed and boasted, "It is true, it has been confirmed that I am the hottest man alive!!" Jennifer Lopez walked in, head bent, tears in her eyes and asked, "Who the heck is Rebecca Walker????????????"

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Birds and Skeletons

My Lucas Boy

I had the awesome privilege of spending some one-on-one time with my Lucas Boy this afternoon. Our outing consisted of dropping off the co-op order at Kendra's, going to Bear Country Espresso and then on to Fischer's Market. While driving to Kendra's house, Lucas informed me of how mama birds feed their babies. He explained how the mama bird chews up the food and then sticks it in the baby bird's mouth. We conversed about it for a few minutes and concluded we were both very happy that we weren't birds. It doesn't sound very delicious to share A.B.C. food.

After Kendra's delivery was complete, we drove to the Bear Country Espresso. I owed a debt I had to pay...a long story. At the espresso, Lucas noticed a Halloween skeleton hanging from the building. He asked what it was and I explained it was a skeleton and it is what the bones look like inside our bodies. I explained the beauty of our skin, and once again we shared a moment of thankfulness. We were thankful for God's design of the skeleton and the wonderful covering he chose to give us. We had fun laughing at the thought of everyone going about their days with just a skeleton.

We eventually drove home, both of us glad we were able to spend some time together. It was awesome to be with only Lucas. It was wonderful to listen to him...to listen to the things he thinks about and to answer his curious questions. His mind is incredible.

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