Just a check up...

Again, the clock has continued to tick on and I haven't gotten here to update.

Jonathon is home and doing better. He is still having some issues but they are better than what it was.

Tim returned to work on Monday. I have very mixed feelings on this. I'll write my own post on that after this one.

I worked the ambulance a couple days. First night I had a run, second night-nothing!

I've been putting in as much time at the hospital as I can. I've had to cover for others as well since this is vacation time for them. To say I'm exhausted is an understatement.

The house is slowly getting on my nerves. I seem to be overwhelmed with clutter everywhere I look. I hate clutter! I cleaned out all the bathroom cabinets, the hall cabinet and requested all the clothing from the kids. I am eliminating 75% of their clothes and putting just enough back into their drawers to get them through a week. I am not joking when I say that they literally have enough clothes to dress a dozen children for at least a week. Does anyone else find this task daunting? Why is it that only the MOMS get to do it? *sigh* We are also doing their toys and everything else that is in the house.

The clincher? Everyone but DAD is willing to part with the excess. This is a huge issue between us. He won't even talk about it. All he will say is "don't hound me or we will not be friends. Just leave me alone." Why is it that he feels the need to have SO MUCH CLUTTER. I have others who helped us move the last time that will agree with me. They have even told him that if/when we move again, they will NOT move his stuff. The clutter and "treasures" he keeps is absurd! I am having serious issues with it all. I don't know how much longer I can look at all of the clutter that surrounds me. Suggestions anyone?

That's it in a nutshell. Hope you're all doing well.
-Becky

What a day!

What a beautiful day we had again. The weather was perfect. The kids were able to be a part of our hometown parade by riding their bikes in it. The two youngest rode with Daddy in the fire truck. I, unfortunately, slept during it since I had worked the night before.

The garden is sprouting up quite nicely. If everything grows that is planted, we are going to have a ton of veggies. I'm pretty excited to see what the summer will bring as we begin to harvest our gardens. Yes, that is gardens! We have three so far.

I am looking forward to this weekend. We are honoring my soon-to-be sister in law, Katie at a bridal shower. I'm very excited for both her and my brother. They are to be married in less than a month now (gasp) and I'm sure both of them are going to be stunning on the day they walk down the aisle. I can't wait to share photos of the blessed event!!

Other than that, not much is really going on. I have been pushing myself to stay on track with the weight loss journey. I have started adding in more exercise with the hope that things will begin to "tone" up in places that they are needed. Like, everywhere! I have retaken my measurements today but need to locate my original measurements. I know I have them somewhere. I'm curious to see how many inches have been lost. PLEASE let them have been lost and not gained! :) I'll share with you once I find them.

The kids are winding down on their school year. We have some big decisions to make regarding the kids and it isn't easy. I'm hoping for some more clarity as the weeks pass. I have a pretty strong suspicion that things will be changing on many aspects in our lives over the next several months. I guess everything will be fine in the end, right? Wait...scratch that. I know everything will be fine in the end. HE is in control, ultimately. HE will bring us to where we need to be.

I hope you all have a great week.
Much love,
-Me

~~Official~~

I'm just getting a chance to sit down and relax for a minute...or two. The past few days have been very busy and filled with studying for finals and preparing and planting our gardens.

Yesterday I worked in the garden all day and well into the evening. It felt really good. Not only did I burn a ton of calories and get a lot accomplished, I also felt a deep connection to my Grandpa. I just imagined him walking there beside me, working there in the garden right along with me. I have no doubt that he is enjoying his garden up in Heaven. His gardening tradition will now live on in each one of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

I also push mowed much of the side yard, raked until my arms felt like they were going to fall off, and prepared the rows in the garden for planting. I thought I had stayed well hydrated through it all but I must not have. I came inside and took a nice cold shower to cool off before eating dinner. I had a few glasses of water with dinner (spaghetti) and finished it off with some fresh strawberries...YUM!

And then, it hit.

I had a screaming migraine and no meds! I tried everything. I tried cool cloths, heat, tylenol, more water, resting in pitch black with no sound, hot towels wrapped around my head and even drew a bath of hot water and submerged my head in that. Unfortunately, nothing helped! Thankfully, I did make it to the bathroom in time for my dinner to come back up.

Just for the record, spaghetti and strawberries do NOT come back up very gracefully! There is just something not quite right when angel hair pasta is hanging out of your nostrils. Not to mention the fear it puts into your spouse when they walk in and see the toilet bowl is bright red. I had to assure him it wasn't blood.

Several times I thought about going to the hospital but I just couldn't bring myself to call an ambulance. My pulse was racing at 120-130 and my head felt like it was going to explode. After seven hours, I finally fell asleep. Thankfully, it was gone this morning when I woke up. Okay, so...around lunch time, when I woke up!

Today I worked out in the yard some more. I didn't over do it this time though. I made sure to make more frequent water breaks. I did get tomatos, onions, peppers, squash, and cucumbers in today though. We still have peas, watermelon, pumpkins, cantalope, sweet corn and a couple more things I can't remember now to plant.

We are still awaiting on our new additions to join our family. We are expecting again. Well, not WE...but our geese. We couldn't find White Wing a few weeks back. When we approached the pen, Pluto kept trying to nip at us. This was unusual for him. We opened the little hut we had built for them (that they had never used) and found White Wing sitting on a nest of six eggs! Over the next three days, she laid 3 more. So, we are expecting nine baby geese in the next week or so. We thought maybe Pluto was male and White Wing was female but couldn't be sure...and we were NOT going to sex them! I'll be sure to post a photo when they arrive!

In other news, I ask for your prayers for my wonderful sister-in-law as they try to figure out what is going on with her health. She has been in some tremendous pain and is hospitalized yet they are still searching for the reason. Please send up some prayers that she will recover quickly from the surgery, that they may find an answer, and that it may be fixed and put her on the road to recovery very soon!

I also ask for prayers for a dear friend and her newborn daughter. Please keep them in your thoughts as they are currently hospitalized and going through some testing. I know this is a difficult time for Mom and she could really use some good thoughts.

Last but not least, please think positive thoughts for a dear friend who is undergoing a procedure this week. Just keep thinking positive...positive....positive! :)

On an exciting note, I logged on tonight to find that I have officially been assigned my state EMT license! It's official! I'm legal! :) I am pretty excited about that! I do have a couple leads on some part time postions that I will be checking into.

As far as the weight loss, it's still progressing. The jeans I have on are on the verge of falling off. This is, of course, great news! I'm not weighing in for another few days but will update when I do. I also have my measurements so that I can keep track of inches lost vs weight lost. Sometimes the scales don't move but the way your clothes fit tell you that something is changing! I'm okay with that too.

Tonight we tried ground turkey in our chili. It wasn't too bad. I didn't get to add all of the things I wanted to because it was late, we needed a quick dinner and I forgot to purchase everything I wanted to add. It was a bit bland but it definately is much healthier than ground beef. It has a ton of protein and much less fat. That's a good thing!

I guess I will let you all get back to what you were doing before this. I've just kind of rambled on here. Hopefully I will have something a bit more interesting than this in the next few days.

Stay safe,
Becky

Time to reflect...

It's quiet here at work. The phones have been silent most of the night and I have even managed to read 140 pages of a new book.

I have had a lot of time on my hands, as you can see. I have spent this time to reflect on many things that have been stirring in my head. Do you ever get those moments? The ones that you can seem to drift off into thought for what seems like hours at a time? That is me. The only exception is that mine have been for days at a time.

As I had posted previously, Tim has received his last day to work. He will work one more week before he is laid off long term. At this time, they are estimating it to be approximately one year or longer. Of course, there is nothing that is written in stone. It is all a guessing game at this point but that is what his committee man told him.

In light of the upcoming layoff, I'm feeling pretty good. Perhaps it is because I now have my EMT class finished and am now searching for employment. Even a little extra cash will go a long way. I know that in time, all things will work out. This is just a way for us to be reminded of the many blessings we already have. A subtle reminder to not be greedy.

That reminds me... While shopping today with my oldest, I overheard a conversation between a father and a son. Apparently this child wanted more than one toy but only had $20 to use. The child was around 10-12 years old, I would guess. After several minutes of the mother arguing with this child, the father asked the boy to come to him, making sure to tell him he would not be mad. From the next aisle over, I heard the father explaining to his son how he shouldn't be greedy. He stressed that the child only had $20 to use for his toy(s) and no more. He reminded him of the necessary items that he needed, such as clothes, shoes and food. And then went on to tell him that he could choose something in the $20 price range or he could leave the store with nothing. In the end, I'm not sure what decision the child made. What I do know is that I was encouraged to hear this father talking with his son about not being greedy, especially during times like these.

Another event we witnessed today was a pretty horrific vehicle accident. Knowing that it occurred just moments ahead of us was all the more reason for us to count our blessings. My thoughts are with those involved, whoever they may be.

I'm gearing up to take my National Registry exam next week. I plan to take it mid week and celebrate on Friday! It will be a much needed celebration. Now if only I pass. :) *sigh*

I've started writing again. In my free time, well...when I have any to speak of, I write short stories. I haven't written any in a while because I was occuppied with other responsibilities; however, I have more time to devote to them now. And so, with new inspiration, I have started the writing process again.

In other news, I have also ventured out and have begun a weight loss program. Not a typical program like Weight Watchers, although I hear they are wonderful. This program is something my doctor and I discussed and have come to the conclusion to try. I can only hope for the results I desire. And so, with lots of hard work, willpower, determination and the yearning to gain a new figure...my quest has begun! ::: crossing fingers :::

My shift is up in about 40 minutes so I am going to see if I can go finish my book. Then tonight, when I return to work, I can start another one!

I hope you are all doing well and are enjoying this wonderful weather we are being blessed with (locally). Before long, it will be time to plant the garden! Yikes.

Have a great day,
Becky

Long time, no blog...

It's been a while since I last updated. I'm sorry. Every time I go to update, something else has my name on it that needs to be done. Such is life, I suppose.

Things here on the home front are well. The kids are in school still this week with spring break next week. They are adjusting nicely to Momma working and being gone a few (more) days a week. They are doing well in their studies with the exception of one of them. We're working with that child a bit harder and have asked for the school to get involved more as well. We hope for a good outcome.

Tim's laid off this week. We knew this was a layoff week as it was predetermined. The other layoff, we're not sure what will come of it. One week, he's told he's getting laid off. The next, he's told he may not be. We're just taking it a day at a time and will go from there. There's no sense in fretting over it. Right?

Classes are winding down here. That's a welcome relief. My EMT academy is complete on the 13th. I then have about another month after that for my three other college courses. At that time, I should hear something about the nursing application I turned in last month. We shall see. I'm not holding my breath. I'm still suffering from brain damage from doing that the last few times. :)

Work is going well. It's not as fast paced as I am used to being so that has taken some adjusting. It does give me the time to just "relax" and take in some peace. I've had the opportunity to do some good studying while there as well since it is so slow. That's helpful, especially with finals coming up and a few papers that will be due.

Other than that, nothing new is really going on here. Things are pretty much the same on a daily basis. Just go-go-go all the time. I'm sure everyone can relate.

On a side note, I'm really really really ready to have some warmer weather here...long term! I'm getting sick of this cold weather!

I'll touch base with you more this week. Off to do some more homework for now. :)

Good News!

This week has been filled with good news.

The kids are on the mend with the exception of Katelyn. Her sickness has passed but we think she may have a UTI. Poor baby girl!

I'm feeling much better as far as the strep. Now I just wish the GI issues would shape up or ship out! (no pun intended)

Jonathon learned the proper use for a whoopie cushion this weekend. Cute, yes. Thank goodness he's only three.

Next week is spring break for me with my college classes. I can use the break.

My EMT Academy is only a couple weeks away from being complete. It's hard to believe that the end is in sight already. I've really enjoyed this class.

I had a job interview on Tuesday. It went very well and I left there feeling very positive. Today, I received another phone call asking me to return tomorrow for a peer interview (with the coworkers). I'll be doing that tomorrow morning. I'm hoping it goes as well as the first two have gone.

I have an exciting opportunity that lies ahead of me. I'm going to discuss it tonight with a friend to get a better grasp on it and see which direction I should go. It's there for me to grab, I just have to take hold and move forward.

Today, I landed two tickets to Sylvia Browne here at the Soaring Eagle Casino. I know that some people are against what she does but I am a firm believer and truly am intrigued by her work. I have wanted to see her for quite some time. It just so happens that my birthday is the day before so these will be a birthday gift for me! :D I'm taking my mom with me. I can't wait!

The sun is shining, the weather is warming up, and the kids are outdoors cleaning up the yard and doing their chores. All is good here!

I'm about to start dinner and then head out for a while before I receive a phone call that could change things for us.

Until then, here is a conversation between Jacob, Austin and I. It's quite amusing...

Jake: Mom, why don't you ever have any money?

Me: What do you mean?

Jake: When Dad gives you money, you never have any left.

Me: Well, I use that money for the things like groceries and stuff we may need.

(Austin pipes in...)

Austin: Mom gets the NEEDS, not the wants.

Jake: Mom gets the wants though too.

Austin: No dad does!

Jake: No, Mom does!

Austin: No, Mom and Dad get the wants!

**We sure do kids...we sure do!***

Have a great day everyone!

Happy Saturday!

It's early Saturday morning, just past midnight in fact. The kids are all snuggled into bed, the company has left for the night and the puppies are trying to get comfortable in their new box. They are nearly 1 week old (in a few hours) and are already scooting around so much that they have begun to scoot right on over Momma and out onto the floor. We decided to use another box with taller sides (and a bit bigger) for the puppies and keep the other box next to it for Momma to go rest for a bit when she needs to. Could you imagine how exhausted she must be trying to feed those pups every two-three hours? I'm exhausted just watching her do it.

The puppies are growing so much. They are becoming cuter each and every day. We've been able to hold them with Momma getting protective or scared. She watches you cautiously but doesn't freak out. She's such a good Momma. There are a few of the pups that I have just fallen in love with. I don't even want to think about keeping them but I'm becoming more bonded each day. I know they are going to be large dogs but they are so darn cute!! I guess we will see over time how things progress. I'm starting to feel like my mom. She has a houseful of cats...I have dogs! EEKS.

Last night I had my rapid trauma assessment check off. I nailed it and couldn't have been more excited. I always have the jitters and fears of messing up but I suppose everyone has those. My patient was actually my oldest son. He had fallen from a ladder while hanging lights with his dad. I thought he was going to make me laugh but I was able to block out any of the snickers and funny faces he threw at me. Little Turkey!!

Beavis and Butthead I mean, Beuford and Bandit are doing great. They are seven weeks old and are slowly falling into the potty pattern. They know that when they get out of their pen, they go right to the yard to go potty. If we don't go immediately, they will pee on the floor. *sigh* They are getting to be playful with eachother and other people as well. Once they want to snuggle with you, they will curl up in your neck and sleep for quite a while. If only they'd stay little forever.

Jonathon, 2, is starting the potty training thing. Thanks Grandma Linda! He has shown great interest over the past week and has even been wearing training pants. His only problem is that he believes he HAS to have two pairs of underware on. Well, and the fact that he wants to wear Austin's underware too. :)

This morning, I went and took my Nursing Entrance Testing Exam. (NET) I think I did well but won't find out anything for another week. Next week sometime, I should be getting a letter in the mail regarding entrance. It will be a denial letter, an acceptance letter, or a conditional letter. The conditional letters are because we have pending grades from this semester that must be accounted for as well as any other transcripts and the NET scores. I'm praying that I at least get a conditional letter. Please pray for that, if you will. I know I won't get the acceptance letter yet. Once we hit closer to Christmas and the fall grades have been computed, then those that received a conditional letter will then get a denial letter or an acceptance letter. I'm hoping for acceptance. We shall see.

Other than that, nothing new going on. We've been so busy trying to get everything taken care of that we haven't had much R&R lately. I'm feeling quite exhausted and overwhelmed. I'm having the pain in my side and pain in my chest again along with this new lump at the base of my neck. I swear I'm falling apart!!

I'm off to get some rest. I want to really do some cleaning tomorrow around the house so i'll need my strength. I hope you guys have a great weekend.

Before I go....

We wish our Varsity Football Team a ton of luck as they go into the semifinals tomorrow! Go Hawks Go!! I can't wait!

Becky

Nearly November!!

Is it really almost the end of the month already? Which means, it's almost the beginning of November, putting us closer to Christmas with each passing day! *gulp*

Did I say Christmas?

I have heard a nasty little rumor that we may be getting some snow this week. I'm not so sure I like the idea of that. Yes, it is beautiful. I just don't like having my fingers and toes cold. I'm one of those people that can't just warm up after coming inside. Now if I go soak in the bath with lots of hot water, I'll start to thaw out.

Of course, along with it's beauty, snow also brings some fantastic photo opportunities. The kids love playing in the snow. They love building snowmen, forts and having the chance to whip a snowball or two at eachother. They enjoy sledding and would love to have a chance to go out snowmobiling some day.

Being that this winter we will be in a new house with new surroundings, the kids are already looking for new hills to sled down. We don't have much in the way of hills here but there are a few spots that it could be accomplished. Afterall, the smaller the hill, the less of a distance we have to walk to get back up to the top. That's the part that gets me in my old age.

Besides snow, we now have Halloween to look forward to this week. I love seeing all of the children dress up in the adorable little costumes. Some of them are super creative and others I refuse to allow my children to wear. I don't know if the kids have decided on what they want to dress up as this year. At least, they haven't voiced it. I find it odd, especially considering it's now five days away! Maybe we'll discuss it tomorrow after school.

Thanksgiving is just a month away. Oh, my mouth waters just thinking of all the yummy food. I am guessing that we will have Thanksgiving here at our house with our family and a few friends. We've been staying home more and more during the holidays rather than lugging the kids all over.

Christmas is quickly approaching as well. This year, I hope to have decent lists from the kids to give to the grandparents. Each year we are asked the same questions, "what do they need?" Truly, none of the need anything. They each are blessed with an overabundance of toys, heaping dressers full of clothes and surrounded by a family that loves them deeply. Now what they want is an entirely different story. I have two things in mind for Jacob (11) but other than that, I'm at a loss. The younger kids really won't be difficult. They are still in the "easy" stage. If you give the girls a baby doll or Jonathon a matchbox car, they're happy. Austin is starting to be a little more difficult to buy for. He's in that "in between age" where he's either too old for a certain toy or not quite old enough.

Does anyone have any suggestions on Christmas gifts for the kids? Keep in mind, they are not allowed to spend hours in front of the TV and only have a gamecube system that they have limited access to. We just don't feel that they need to be stuck in front of the TV. We would much rather see them using their imagination and being active.

I'm off to do some searching on the internet for some suggestions. I hope each of you had a great weekend. This was our final weekend of Football for the year. Jacob's team won this final game and he received an awesome trophy at the awards. I do have several pictures that I have promised to share but I haven't had the opportunity to do so just yet. They are coming... Promise!

Blessings,
-B

Quite tired

Today, I have spent the day and into the evening helping some friends who are moving. I finally came home tonight to cook dinner, shower the children, and put them to bed. Tim is still helping them!

Our highschool football team won our homecoming tonight!! We are headed to the playoffs in two weeks! Go Hawks!!!

Austin has his last football game of the season tomorrow. He'll have his award ceremony afterwards with a quick tailgate party following.

Jacob's last game, which is a scrimmage against the 4th/5th grade team, will be next weekend.

We will be done with Football until next year!!

I hope you're all having a fantastic weekend so far. I'm off to bed.

Blah Blah Blah

The weekend is whizzing by, as always. Today we had two football games for the boys. Both teams lost but put in a tremendous amount of effort. I have photos, of course, but haven't had time to download them yet. Perhaps I'll get to that tomorrow while we're setting off bug bombs in our house. *sigh*

Tonight, the kids are all tucked into bed, snoozing away. Jonathon, who didn't have a nap all day, is cuddled up next to me at the moment sleeping like a rock. He played hard today. Who would have guessed that rock chucking, dirt flinging, football kicking fun could be so much work! Maybe he'll sleep in tomorrow.

My mind is racing tonight. There's so much there that even sharing it here on the blog would be pointless right now. It's just a bunch of stuff that lacks any type of order whatsoever. Maybe once I sort it all out in my head, I'll be able to put it down into words a little easier.

Well, it appears that bedtime is quickly approaching since the hubby has finally made his way out of the chair and into the bedroom.

Have a great Sunday!!

Pathetic update :)

It's been another one of those weeks. I've been so busy doing things I need to have done that posting here has been on hold. Tonight, I actually have a few minutes to do somewhat of an lame update.

Last weekend, we headed north with another couple and enjoyed two nights sans kids. As nice as it was to have a break from the kids, it was good to get home and snuggle with them too. We filled our weekend with lots of fun things that left us all pretty tired this week. I don't know what it is about vacations that makes you even more tired when you return. This week, we have just been dragging.

This week I was on "vacation" from my EMT class. The instructor actually had vacation which left the students with a week off. It was a welcomed treat. I was able to get some good study time in for the tests I had this week (2 EMT, 1 NUR & 1 A&P). I also had some time to get the laundry all caught up and folded. Now if it would magically sort itself and put itself away, we'd be in business. Actually, 90% of it is put away. However, when all the laundry is 100% caught up, you begin to realize just how many clothes we all have (and could part with)! Maybe I'll do some sorting over the next few weeks.

Next week, I have an appointment to turn in my nursing program application. Please Please send up some prayers for me. I could really use some good news on it. I won't know anything until December, I believe. I hate waiting!! *sigh*

The kids had a good week at school. Jacob was able to return on Monday and has steadily been trying to keep up with his assignments. It's been a tough thing for him. He struggles but we're slowly gaining ground. He did bring home a progress report Thursday that made me extremely proud. He received an A- in MATH! It seriously brought tears to my eyes!! He even took it to his football coach who pulled him aside and gave him great praise.

Austin, Katelyn & Emilee really have nothing new to report. They are all doing well in class and having a good time with their friends. Emilee's teacher is expecting her first little bundle of joy next month. Emilee tells me almost every day that her teacher is only going to have one not five like me. :) Silly girl!

Jonathon has been super clingy this week. I suppose he has good reason to be. Afterall, we dropped him off at the sitters Friday and didn't return until Sunday. Now when I drop him off, he squeals, screams and cries. It tugs at my heart, for sure. If I could tuck him in my book bag and take him to class with me, I would. Unfortunately, it's just not an option so I must endure that heartbreaking few moments of leaving the sitters. She reassures me that he's just fine within a minute or two and he seems perfectly content when I pick him up. I'm sure it's just the thought process he has that his momma's going to leave him for good. :(

I'll continue this update tomorrow, hopefully. For now, I'm going to try to get this little night own into bed and asleep. We've been tormenting Daddy as he sleeps by playing a little football on our kind sized bed. :) Jonathon has had quite a few "SCORES" as he shouts!! Now he's making me turtle sit and his dad is teddy bear sitting (as he sleeps). He's being very very silly tonight.

Well update tomorrow after the football games. :)

Have a great day.

Is it almost Monday already?

What a whirlwind of a weekend, again. For once, I'm finally able to sit down and relax for a few minutes before beginning the bath and bed routine with the kids.

Friday evening was another night of just the kids and I. The hubby had a training meeting for the FD and some of the kids were feeling under the weather. Katelyn had a fever and Jacob had developed a rash across his mid-section. It's not weepy like poison ivy nor are there water blisters. It looks more like a heat rash with definite patchy raised bumps. Oh, and it itches, he says. He stayed the weekend at a friends house last weekend and through the week, both of the boys have developed the same thing. I've been treating with benadryl and told him if it wasn't better tomorrow, we'd go in. I'm assuming it's a viral issue but it could be something else, I suppose.

Saturday was an entire day of just the kids and I, again due to a FD training. We cleaned house and then went to play in the giant mud puddles outside. Not by choice, of course. Jacob had a football game (away) that we went to. What a mess! Those boys were covered from head to toe. Needless to say, I was exhausted after keeping the other four kids contained under ponchos, umbrellas and bleachers. There came a point where I realized Mother Nature was winning and I just had to accept that. In the end, our boys lost their game, even though they played their little hearts out. Once we were in the parking lot, I made a privacy area for Jacob to strip down and wrap in a towel for the ride home. I had to do the same with Jonathon who was a soaking wet noodle too.

After getting home, cleaned up and changed, we packed back up (with Daddy) and headed to Germ-in-Festation Chuck-e-Cheese for a birthday party. Our sweet niece turned FIVE! Happy Birthday, Paige. We arrived at where an adult needs several hard drinks where a kid can be a kid! We played, we celebrated and we left not a moment too soon. The kids had a blast, which is what's important. I, of course, have a ton of photos from the evening but no energy to get them ready and uploaded today. Perhaps this week I can find some time. Saturday night, we watched a few movies and finally drifted off to sleep after 2AM.

Sunday morning came early. I woke up to a ringing phone, headed off to a quilt show and lunch with the Birthday Girl and met the family at the football field for Austin's game (away). Once again, Mother Nature thought we all needed an extra long shower and completely soaked every referee, coach, player and spectator. We tried to keep as dry as possible but failed miserably. Again, I have many photos of this but they are not ready to be shared just yet. I promise, I'll get them soon.

We came home after the game was postponed. We were only half way through the first quarter with a tied score of 6. I'm not sure when the make up time will be. I was just thankful to be heading home to dry clothing.

UPDATE:

Wouldn't you know that as soon as I typed that last sentence, our phone rang to go help a friend. Once we all geared up with our mudders and wading pants, we headed out. As soon as I saw their yard, the memories of our flood washed over me. I remember not knowing whether I should scream, cry or laugh. It is an incredibly taxing situation to go through physically, emotionally and financially. We helped them do what could be done right now and will return as soon as more clean up is able to be made. I felt their frustration deep within my soul.

We are now home (obviously) and everyone is tucked into bed. I'm not far behind them either (for once). I hope to sleep in a bit tomorrow since the kids have the day off.

I'll post more tomorrow, I promise!! :)

Stepped out...

For a few days, that is. I've just been extremely busy with school, children, and illnesses. Hopefully, we'll be on the mend here soon and things will be back in order.

This weekend is filled with football games again. Hopefully the weather isn't too overwhelming tomorrow as they are calling for lots of rain!

I'm about to head off to bed but just wanted to check in and say "hi" to you all. I'll try to update tomorrow on:
*My recent doctors visit
*My long-awaited weekend away with the hubby
*Dusty the dog, who per the vet didn't have to be put down. (He's sleeping on the couch at the moment)
*The kids' new rides
*The hubby's new venture
*My new blog

And more...

Until next time,
-B

All in a days work...

The only sound I hear is the humming of a fan. The kids are all tucked in and sleeping and so is the hubby. I, on the other hand, am wide awake. I've made sure that the kids have their clothes, bags, shoes and paperwork ready for the morning. Every item has been labeled from backpacks to pencil boxes. I've written the family schedule up on our gigantic marker board (no, seriously, it is larger than your standard sized two door kitchen cupboards). I've written the posts I needed to for my precious daughter, which will post automatically tomorrow, as well as those for my niece and a dear friends birthday. I suppose I could finish reading some in my EMT book and study for an upcoming A&P exam. However, I find myself still sitting here in front of this screen. :)

Today was a busy, yet productive day. We had planned to go do something as a family but things just didn't turn out that way. I was able to sleep in a bit before heading out to the farm store. We picked up a few things to complete the pen for the quail, found an awesome bargain on a pair of American Eagle jeans ($1.90) and then stopped for a quick lunch. Afterwards, we headed home.

I was able to capture a few pretty interesting photos this afternoon of the kids and geese while Tim built the pen for the quail. Even though he's not happy with the imperfections he sees, I think he did a fine job! A bit later, I was able to get a nice chicken dinner cooked while he was still outside.

Tomorrow, the hustle and bustle begins as we kick off the first day of the school year! Oh boy!! Don't worry, I have the camera battery all ready to go! :)

Before I sign off, Kristi & Beth, I pray that you're all still safe and sound! We're thinking of you all.

Hugs everyone!

Gooooood Night!!

I'm finally checking out and heading to bed. It's only 3:30AM. Sleep has been impossible again and it's driving me crazy!! I did get some of my homework done tonight and even watched a movie (Miss Conception).

If I'm unable to check in over this holiday weekend (highly unlikely), I hope each of you are having a safe & fun weekend. Before I say goodnight, let me give a shout out to a few people (not excluding anyone in particular if you don't see your name up here)

Kristi, I'm thinking of ya'll down there as you await the storm. Stay safe, my friend.

Amenthree: Thank you for the kind words. I needed to hear them more than you know. It touched my heart deeply!

LaundryLady: I absolutely LOVE the "Bouncer" segments. Please do keep them going. They are very interesting to read.

Until next time, Night everyone!!

Oh, what a day!

Today has been a very busy day!! We started the morning by going to the house one final time. We had a load of outdoor items to retrieve. After that, we headed to a friends house where I'm still currently at! We've filled the day with sorting clothes, rearranging a bedroom and painting a dining/livingroom. It's been a productive day, which always makes it worth it.

The kids have been wonderful at keeping occupied and playing together nicely. That really helped make our day a little easier. They actually played so hard that the two of them that are the hardest to put to sleep are already sleeping. My older two boys are up playing a video game while Katelyn is playing a V-smile. Uh oh-spoke too soon. Jonathon just woke up!! Emilee is out helping his Aunt put together some furniture and Tim just left for another fire run.

Tomorrow is filled with more fun for the kids as we have a family reunion to attend after helping their Great Grandma move into her new home.

I'm hoping to get a little extra sleep tomorrow but I'm not sure where I'll fit that in. We shall see.

I hope everyone has had a great weekend thus far. Next week Tim starts his new hours at work and I am super excited about it.

Later!

TGIF!

Hope you all have a fantastic weekend. I'm off to prepare for a yard sale we're having Saturday.

Click on the horizontal bar of photo's at the top to view more from our day out. They are not all uploaded yet but some of them are.

Another busy day...

Today I was able to get many of the kids' clothes packed into boxes. I decided to just fold the clean laundry and put it into a box for each child. Once we get settled, we'll then put the clothes in their dressers and closets.

I was able to clean out three more of the kitchen cupboards and box up the contents. I even boxed some of the glassware as well. I don't see the need for it over the next week.

We've still got a few more loads of laundry to finish up and then we'll be set. I don't want to move with a pile of dirty laundry. No thanks! I'll have enough stuff to deal with.

We still have no definate date. Tim was calling tonight to see what day we could get inside. We are able to take things outside but we're not sure about the inside things. Pray for this weekend. The sooner, the better.

I am just about to crawl into bed. I've actually been good the last two nights. I even snuck in a nap today!!

Thanks for checking on us. We will check in with you all tomorrow.
Good night

Emotional Day

Ever had those days when the tears just sneak up on you and fall freely no matter where you are at or who you are talking to?

That was me today.

Hi, I'm Becky and today I'm an emotional basket case.

So....

To you, the sweet person who made it a point to ask me if I was okay, to let me know that you were thinking of me even though you didn't know what was going on yet, and to tell me that you would be there if I needed you...Thank you! Thank you for the hug, the support, the email this evening and for understanding that I just couldn't get the words to escape from my lips today.

To you, the one who made it a point to ask how things were going, even though you had a classroom of children around you, Thank you! Thank you for asking because it reminded me that there are those out there who really do care and will show us by speaking to us directly.

To you, the idiot who cut me off today when the light you had was clearly red but you still felt compelled to run through it anyways, even though I had a green arrow, Thank you for reminding me that I must keep my head clear and not lose focus. For if I had lost focus today, I would have been hit by your dumb butt.

To you, my dear friends who took the time to come over and hang out while I tried to avoid several meltdowns, Thank you. I appreciated it. Unfortunately, the emotions snuck up on me several times throughout the evening so please accept my apologies for needing to walk away every now and then to let the tears fall privately. I'm not one who can utter a word when I'm this emotional and crying already.

To you, the one who poured a little salt on some already painful open wounds, please let me remind you nicely that right now may not be the time to tell me about what others plan to do in the future. While I don't believe you intentionally said those things to hurt me, they did. Some things are better left unsaid.

To you, the one who I knew so long ago, I hope you're doing well. Do you know that there is not a day that goes by that I don't pass your picture and wish things were different? Oh how I wish pain, bitterness and anger never existed.

To you, the one who called to tell me you brought home the things I would be needing soon, Thank you. I will be out this weekend to pick them up.

To you, the one who has always said it wasn't personal and had no problems, it still feels that way. I wish it didn't.

To all of you, who continue to think about us, email us, call us, and check in with us instead of asking someone else what the lastest gossip is, Thank You. Thank you for coming to us directly and for offering and showing your support. It means so much to know that there are those out there that care and show it. Your actions will not be forgotten. You are very appreciated.

To you, my husband, who continues to pick me up when I am down, Thank You. Thank you for your encouragement tonight. Thank you for reminding me that everything will be okay. Thank you for walking beside me. I love you.

To You, Dear Lord, Please help me to remember that there is a reason for everything. My heart is heavy tonight with so many issues weighing it down. Please help me to release the anger, bitterness, and hurt I'm feeling. Please lift the anxiety, fear, and sadness that my heart is burdened with. Please help me to see what is worth mending and what is worth letting go, and doing just that. Tonight I feel broken, my shoulders loaded with burdens, my heart hurting. May I wake up tomorrow feeling more at peace than I do today.

Sending many blessings your way...

Goodnight

TGIF! Long week!

TGIF!

Another busy week indeed. Jonathon continued to get worse through the evening and as expected, ended up in the hospital the next day. After five attempts by three different people, a line placement was finally accomplished. Daddy wasn't able to stand there and endure the screams from Jonathon after the third attempt so he stepped out for a walk. I admit, it crushed my heart to hear him yelling, "No Momma, Stop!" And when that didn't work, he started yelling for his Daddy. He was so dry and hadn't urinated for 18 hours so he desperately needed the fluids. He also ended up with a breathing treatment. At first, he handled it like a trouper. That was short lived though. Wails soon followed. It still amazes me how much fight these little ones have, especially when they are so sick. I don't know who was more exhausted afterwards, him or me.

Since the weekend is here and Jonathon is feeling a little better, I'm hoping to get some cleaning and organization done. I'm not sure if it will happen or not though as I have a house full of rowdy children already this morning. I have managed to take Emilee and her friend outside to get photos with some of the flowers already this morning. Now I'm downloading them, hoping to beat the beeping camera indicating that my battery is dying. There's only 134 photos to transfer over. *Smile*

I'm also hoping to get a haircut sometime today too. We will see if that happens or not. If so, I'll share some photos.

Over the past month, I haven't posted many photos. I'll take a few minutes to do that this weekend. Hopefully they all go through without any problems. I just tried to add some photos and it wasn't working for me so we'll do it another time. I hope you all have an an enjoyable weekend. I'll check back soon.